United We Stand – Why Trade Associations Matter More Than Ever

ACA Industry Leaders Summit:  United We Stand – Why Trade Associations Matter More Than Ever

Join us for a look at how the UK’s chemical trade associations are working together like never before. Through the Alliance of Chemical Associations we’re influencing policy, shaping the UK Chemicals Strategy, and guiding members through a rapidly changing regulatory and trade landscape. This session will show why membership isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. If your business wants to stay compliant, competitive, and connected to the future of the industry, you’ll want to be in the room for this.

More Than Just a Membership: Why Trade Associations Matter More Than Ever in the Chemicals Sector

In a time of regulatory uncertainty, global competition, and shifting political landscapes, trade associations have become far more than networking hubs, we are strategic partners guiding the chemicals industry through complex change. We will highlight the active, collaborative role we play in shaping the future of the sector.

The UK chemicals industry is supported by a network of highly specialised, deeply collaborative trade bodies that work together to provide stability, insight, and influence where it matters most. This talk will shine a light on the Alliance of Chemical Associations (ACA), a unique coalition where individual associations (BAMA, BASA, BCA, BCF, BCGA, BPF, CBA, CIA, CTPA, IFRA, SIA, TSA, UKCPI and UKLA) come together to speak with one voice on behalf of the entire chemicals value chain on matters of common interest.

By working across multiple organisations, associations in the UK chemicals sector act as a powerful, unified voice, advising members, supporting compliance and sharing insights. Crucially, we’re a key interface between industry and government feeding directly into the development of the UK Chemicals Strategy and shaping conversations on future regulation, trade policy, and innovation.  and directly engaging with government on critical policy like the UK Chemicals Strategy. Our involvement isn’t just reactive; we’re proactively scoping future regulation, identifying risks and opportunities in international trade, and ensuring members are ready for what’s next.

Whether it’s through coordinated lobbying, sharing horizon-scanning intelligence, or supporting SMEs through regulatory transitions, our collective work is vital to maintaining a competitive and sustainable UK chemicals industry.

Membership of one or more of our associations means more than just a logo on a website, it means being part of a broader effort to safeguard the future of the sector. If you want to stay ahead of change, influence decisions, and be supported every step of the way, now’s the time to lean in, not drop out.

We’ll explore how this behind-the-scenes collaboration benefits companies of all sizes, and why ongoing membership isn’t just valuable, it’s essential. If your company wants to stay informed, compliant, competitive, and heard at the policy table, trade association membership is one investment you can’t afford to cut.

Confirmed Panellists:

• Tom Bowtell, CEO – British Coatings Federation
• Lorna Williams, CEO – British Adhesives & Sealants Association (BASA)
• Tim Doggett, CEO – Chemical Business Association  (CBA)
• Ellen Daniels, CEO – British Compressed Gases Association  (BCGA)