John Newcomb, CEO of the BMF, has been elected as the first Treasurer of FEST, the European Federation of the Sanitary and Heating Wholesale Trade, which represents national trade associations and major merchant groups across Europe.

The new role underscores the growing size and influence of the pan-European trade body, which works closely with EU Institutions, technical bodies and other relevant statkeholders, and contributes to the development of standards and legislation affecting heating and plumbing products.

As Treasurer, Newcomb will also sit on FEST’s strategy-setting Presidium, adding trade association representation to the body. The three other Presidium members, FEST’s President, Vice President and Past President, represent major European merchant groups.

Commenting on his new role, John Newcomb said: “I am honoured to take up this new role with FEST.  The appointment not only recognises the importance of the Plumbing & Heating sector within BMF’s membership but also the work we are undertaking to promote the sustainability and decarbonisation of building materials, an area where many P&H manufacturers are leading the way.”