Paul Massey, Group CEO of AKW – the market leader in independent living solutions – has been appointed a full member to the management committee of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA), the leading independent forum for bathroom manufacturers trading in the UK.
The position comes following Paul’s previous experience as president of the Society of British Gas Industries and chairman of the Heating and Hotwater Industry Council.
As part of the role, Paul is keen to strengthen links with government ministers and shadow parties to assist in protecting jobs within the industry and encourage growth.
He commented: “I am delighted to have been appointed a board member of the BMA, helping to develop open and frank discussions on the issues and policies that affect those operating within the bathroom industry. It is important that there is a dedicated communication channel available for bathroom manufacturers, the government and consumers, to ensure an open dialogue on the issues affecting any of these parties takes place.
“One initiative I am keen to drive forward is lobbying for the return of ring fencing the disabled funding grant. It frustrates myself and many others within the industry who supply specialist bathroom products that this grant is free to be released to other areas of local government funding. It should be considered an essential grant, and ring fencing will help safeguard it. This move should be seen as a priority, and is a cause I feel particularly passionate about.
“I am also fully committed to supporting the development of Ecodesign products, especially in light of the new European Directive on energy saving which will come into effect on 1 January 2013. Reducing the environmental impact of products should be a key objective for all businesses, while consumers need to be aware of the showering products available which can deliver significant utility cost savings, at a time when everyone is eager to reduce water consumption.
“The appointment has already helped strengthen relationships between the technical and marketing teams at AKW and the BMA, and AKW’s position as the market leader in independent living solutions will help feed into any issues raised with the BMA on the subject of bathroom products meeting the needs of those with specialist requirements.”
