John Falder, Chairman of HMG Paints, was awarded the Coatings industry’s highest honour, the Silver Medal, at the British Coatings Federation Awards Dinner in Manchester on October 14th.

Instigated by Leslie Silver upon his retirement in 1980, the Silver Medal recognises those who provide outstanding service and an exceptional contribution to the industry’s growth and reputation.

John Falder has been actively involved in the industry and with the BCF for over 40 years, taking a leading role in developing several industry initiatives, such as the apprenticeship training scheme and Coatings Care, the industry’s health, safety, and environmental programme.

Through the years John has held several influential roles, most notably BCF President between 2014 and 2016. He has chaired the Industrial and Powder Coatings Council and the Vehicle Refinish Committee, as well as being a member of the General Purpose and Finance Committee.

Tom Bowtell, Chief Executive of the British Coatings Federation commented “John Falder exemplifies the commitment to the industry that the Silver Medal was developed to recognise. He has been a prominent figure in­­ the coatings industry and is a huge advocate of the BCF. We would like to thank John for his support and expertise throughout the years and congratulate him on this very much deserved accolade.”