5 April 2005

John Monks takes over as BCA re-brands to BPIF Cartons

The British Carton Association (BCA) is being re-launched as BPIF Cartons, with a new management structure. BPIF Cartons will concentrate on providing leadership within the industry and business support services to carton makers. A new position of President, will be filled by John Monks, ex-Group Chief Executive of M.Y. Holdings Plc, who will be a figure-head for the sector and represent the group in Europe at ECMA (European Carton Manufacturers Association) as well as providing stronger links to the whole packaging industry. John has 48 years experience in the Industry and was responsible for developing M.Y. into the 2nd largest U.K. carton maker and the 5th largest in Europe, as well as extensive experience in other material sectors and international organisations. He is also a director of the Packaging Federation. The name change of the organisation reflects the importance carton converters place on being part of the BPIF and accessing its services. Regarding the Management Structure changes, John Monks commented: "Fresh management will provide stronger, more strategic leadership to an industry sector currently facing enormous local competitive pressures as well as threats from Eastern Europe and beyond. I am delighted to be asked to take on this role which will enable me to make a positive contribution to the carton industry as a whole and promote the industry's place in the international packaging market". BPIF Cartons will continue to work in close collaboration with Pro Carton (the body that promotes European CartonBoard Manufacture and Conversion) to tackle some of the major challenges facing the carton industry. Pro Carton will concentrate on the promotion of the benefits and use of cartons, public affairs and environmental matters; joint projects will include a combined Carton Conference in 2006 and lobbying activity in collaboration with the Packaging Federation. Mark Kerridge, Managing Director of Benson Box Ltd. succeeds current BCA Chairman Dominic Walsh, who said, "a recent survey highlighted the desire for a more vibrant representative body, together with a need to both improve competitiveness and bring realism. The revitalised BPIF Cartons, under the presidency of John Monks and the Chairmanship of Mark Kerridge will provide our industry with dynamic leadership that is respected, and I am confident will deliver real benefits for members." Mike Hopkins will continue as Executive Director for the BPIF, and Neal Whipp will serve both BPIF Cartons and Pro Carton as Project Manager responsible for member liaison.