Richard Hird is the UK Sales Director of Labotek GB, a UK-based provider of advanced material handling and ancillary equipment for the plastics industry. With nearly 40 years of experience across polymer processing, engineering, and commercial leadership, Richard has played a key role in strengthening Labotek’s UK presence and driving the adoption of energy efficient, sustainable technologies. Beginning his career as a lab technician at Cole Plastics (now Basell Polyolefins), Richard developed deep technical expertise that continues to underpin his consultative approach to customer support and system design. Richard also serves as President of the PMMDA, where he champions collaboration, skills & education, and the development of the UK plastics machinery sector.