Food Management Today is saddened to report the passing of Rodney Steel, former CEO of the British Contract Manufacturers and Packers Association (BCMPA).

Steel’s passing followed a short illness, and was announced by the BCMPA at the end of January.

A well-known figure across the contract manufacturing, packing and logistics sectors, Steel led the BCMPA since 2003 until his retirement in June 2023. Before 2003, Steel was the managing director of a contract-filling company in the chemical industry.

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

Steel was also fundamental in establishing the Contract Pack and Fulfilment Zone at UK packaging exhibition, Packaging Innovations. Renan Joel, divisional director – UK and 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 that it is today.”

Emma Verkaik, CEO of the BCMPA, paid tribute to Steel’s qualities and his 20-year term as leader of the BCMPA, saying: “We are all hugely saddened by this news and send our deepest sympathy to Rodney’s family and friends.

“Rodney was the driving force in building the BCMPA into the respected Trade Association it has become today. He will be deeply missed by myself, the BCMPA members and the industry at large.”