Packing Innovations & Empack organisers, Easyfairs, has today extended its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of former BCMPA CEO Rodney Steel.

The British Contract Manufacturers and Packers Association announced Steel’s passing early last week following a short illness.

A well-known figure across the contract manufacturing, packing and logistics sectors, Steel had successfully led the BCMPA for over two decades. Before 2003, Rodney was the Managing Director of a successful contract-filling company in the chemical industry.

Upon his retirement last June, a membership survey revealed that 89% of BCMPA's members were highly satisfied with the Association.

Steel helped the BCMPA and its membership consolidate its position during the turbulent pandemic years, with brand owners, retailers, manufacturers, and e-commerce companies all needing support.

Before that, Steel was fundamental in establishing the Contract Pack & Fulfilment Zone at the UK’s flagship packaging exhibition, Packaging Innovations.

Renan Joel, Divisional Director – UK & Global Packaging Portfolio at Easyfairs, said: "Rodney's vision and determination were central to the growth of the BCMPA and its membership into the collaborative force it is today. That also extended to hosting the Contract Pack & Fulfilment zone, where he fostered that same sense of community for more than a decade, as part of a long-standing relationship with Easyfairs.

"Unfortunately, it's only at times like this, that we truly appreciate how he shaped so much of what the show, and the Contract Pack & Fulfilment zone, stood for.

"As a crucial component – and I'd even go as far as saying Rodney was synonymous with the show – he will no doubt be in all our thoughts across the two days. And while his absence will be saddening to all of us, we'd encourage everyone to keep in mind that his positive impact will continue to be felt for many years to come."

Twenty-four of the BCMPA's 200-plus members are set to exhibit at the 19th Packaging Innovations & Empack at Birmingham's NEC on 21& 22 February, and organisers Easyfairs are encouraging all of those involved with the flagship show for the Contract Manufacturing, Packaging & Fulfilment industries, to raise a glass in memory of Rodney at the end of the opening day.