REHAU CEO Martin Hitchin Elected President of British Plastics Federation

REHAU's CEO, Martin Hitchin, has just been elected as the new President of the British Plastics Federation (BPF) in a unanimous decision. This took place during the trade body's Annual General Meeting on May 14, 2025, where he took over from Nigel Flowers of Sumitomo Demag, who held the position for two years.

With over thirty years of experience in manufacturing and construction, Martin is set to lead the UK’s oldest and largest plastics trade association.

BPF Director General Philip Law praised Nigel Flowers for his significant contributions, especially his efforts to boost productivity in the UK plastics industry.

“Nigel has been a strong supporter of the BPF and a fountain of knowledge, especially in the area of productivity, where he has done an outstanding job.” Law remarked. “His advice and insights have been very helpful to us, and I am also grateful for the time he has taken to chair several of our events in fields related to his expertise.”

Nigel Flowers expressed his thoughts on the transition:

“I have enjoyed my time as president of the BPF, but I happily welcome Martin Hitchin into the role. He has experience in several areas of plastic processing as well as a background working with windows, pipes, the automotive sector – and also for recyclers. His diverse background means he brings a wealth of knowledge that reflects the breadth of the BPF itself.”

Bringing Industry Insight to the Role

Martin Hitchin has been a part of REHAU since 1988 and took on the role of CEO in 2007. With an impressive 35 years of experience in the manufacturing and construction industries, he also holds the position of Vice Chair at the New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE)—an innovative engineering university located in Hereford.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to welcome Martin Hitchin as the new president of the British Plastics Federation,” said Law. “He has had a distinguished career and is an invaluable member of the BPF Council. I am sure that he will play a key role in ensuring the BPF continues to provide value to its members while supporting the wider industry.”

Strengthening BPF’s Industry Voice

Hitchin, who has been actively involved with the Federation for many years, recognized the vital role the BPF plays in bringing together the plastics supply chain and establishing industry priorities.

Newly elected BPF President Martin Hitchin states: “I have been involved with the BPF many years and am aware of the numerous strands of work it does to support our industry. Input from the BPF Council helps to shape priorities of the organisation and ensure they reflect the various requirements of the wider industry. I am honoured to have been voted in as president and look forward to working with the BPF to deliver more successes as we face the challenges ahead.”

The BPF is on a roll, expanding its membership and making a real impact! In 2024, they welcomed 54 new members, bringing the total to over 600 companies from all corners of the UK plastics supply chain. You can check out the 2024 Annual Review online, which highlights the Federation’s impressive work through its various specialist groups and committees.

The BPF’s AGM also provided key updates about the trade association and its activities. In 2024, it welcomed 54 new members, taking membership comfortably over 600 companies from across the entire UK plastics supply chain. The BPF’s 2024 Annual Review, outlining its activities for its many groups and committees in detail, is available to view or download online.