At the end of May 2026 we celebrated the retirement of our Technical Director, Paul Kowalik; someone who has played a huge role in how BFS has shaped over the years.
Paul joined BFS at the age of just 29, in 1990, coming from a background as a professional club golfer and golf coach. Paul recalls the experience and sums up his first impressions as ‘Overwhelming!’. But what followed was nothing short of remarkable.
Starting from scratch, Paul went on to set up and run our light engineering department at the time, covering; grinding, CNC wire erosion and injection moulding…
He later established our blanket converting operation, famously spending a week in Germany learning the process from start to finish, and having an operation up and running by the following Monday! He was also closely involved in the successful relocation of our Roller division.
From an unconventional start to a career that’s truly gone the distance, Paul has always played the long game. He’s consistently embodied what BFS stands for and looks back favourably on its excellent customer-focus and the ability to always adapt and change direction when needed.
When asked what he would miss most, he says: “The relationships built over the years with suppliers, customers, and my colleagues”.
And what does he have planned for his retirement? Paul responds with,
“I’ll be spending more time playing golf and completing some DIY projects which is a real passion of mine… and embracing whatever the next chapter of my life throws at me.”
All at BFS, thank you Paul, for your commitment, leadership, and the legacy you’ll leave. You’ll be greatly missed, and we wish you every happiness for your retirement.