HotSeat: Katherine White, Commercial Director at Plastribution

Plastribution, established in 1979, has become the UK’s leading distributor of plastic raw materials, supplying a diverse range of polyolefins, styrenics, masterbatches, sustainable materials, and engineering polymers. As the company prepares for an exciting new chapter, Katherine White, currently the Commercial Director, is set to assume the role of Managing Director in April 2025.

In this PlastikMedia HotSeat, Katherine reflects on her 29-year journey with Plastribution, discussing the challenges and successes she has experienced, and shares her insights on the future trends shaping the UK plastics industry.

What trends do you think will shape the future of UK plastics? How will Plastribution respond?

Sustainability will undoubtedly remain a key driver, with Plastribution broadening its range of products to ensure a sustainable option is available for every application. Additionally, we are committed to supporting our customers through training and on-site technical assistance.

The relocation of production sites from Europe to Asia and the US, coupled with the susceptibility of global supply chains to external shocks, highlights the growing importance of maintaining UK stockholding to ensure continuity and reliability.

How has Plastribution developed during your tenure?

When I joined Plastribution 29 years ago, we were a small distributor, often struggling to offer a comprehensive portfolio and navigate the volatility of supply chains and pricing. We didn’t have dedicated technical support and everyone had to pitch in to serve our customers.

Today, we are a full-service distributor with an extensive portfolio and a large team dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service.

What do you credit as the key to your success?

I’ve always been highly motivated to perform at my best as an individual and part of Plastribution. I’ve had the privilege of working with a fantastic group of talented people, all striving towards common goals while enjoying the journey.

Relationship building and collaboration have also been instrumental to my success.

What has been the greatest challenge in your career?

The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges, particularly in dealing with uncertainty and ensuring our employees were supported during such a difficult time.

What advice do you wish you’d had on entering the industry and does that differ from the advice you would give to an apprentice joining now?

It was challenging when I first joined the industry as a young woman. My advice to my younger self would have been to persevere and work to change perceptions within the industry.

For an apprentice joining today, I’d advise conducting independent research into the plastics sector. Don’t believe everything you read or hear about plastics – it’s a fantastic industry that can offer rewarding and fulfilling careers.

What hidden talents do you have?

None that immediately spring to mind! However, I have been taking French lessons and am now reasonably fluent – especially after a glass of wine!

Read more on Plastribution here.

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