Organised by FEICA and held at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre, WAC 2026 welcomed manufacturers, raw material suppliers, distributors, academics, consultants and end users from around the world under the conference theme "Reinventing the Future". The programme featured plenary sessions, technical breakouts, market updates and an extensive expo showcasing developments from across the sector. 

For BASA, the London location offered a unique opportunity to demonstrate the strength of UK engagement within the international adhesives and sealants community. BASA was particularly well represented throughout the conference, with several current and former BASA leaders actively contributing to the programme.

BASA Chief Executive Officer, Lorna Williams BEM, delivered the UK regional update during the opening breakout session, presenting "Between Alignment and Autonomy: Navigating the UK Adhesives & Sealants Market in an Era of Regulatory Uncertainty." Drawing on BASA's extensive regulatory and market engagement, the presentation examined the challenges facing UK manufacturers as they navigate increasing regulatory divergence, evolving UK REACH requirements, global supply chain pressures and continuing economic uncertainty. The presentation highlighted the resilience of the UK adhesives and sealants sector whilst emphasising the need for regulatory clarity, competitiveness and practical solutions to support future growth. 

BASA's contribution extended well beyond the podium. Former BASA Chair Carol Merrin of Azelis, BASA Regulatory Affairs Officer Caroline Raine and BASA Business Development Consultant Martin Stimpson each played active roles in moderating conference sessions, helping to facilitate discussions between expert speakers and delegates from across the world. Their involvement reflected the high regard in which BASA and its representatives are held within the wider international adhesives and sealants community.

The conference opened with a keynote address from FEICA President Stuart Jenkinson, formerly BASA Vice-Chair and currently with H.B. Fuller. His presentation, "Reinventing the Future", set the tone for discussions throughout the event, exploring how the industry must continue to innovate and adapt in response to regulatory change, sustainability expectations, technological advancement and shifting market demands.

Across the three-day programme, delegates explored a wide range of topics including sustainability, circular economy initiatives, digitalisation, raw material developments, innovation in formulation technologies, market trends and evolving regulatory frameworks. The conference reinforced the increasingly global nature of the adhesives and sealants industry, with many discussions focusing on how regional developments can have far-reaching implications throughout international supply chains.

Alongside the conference sessions, the accompanying Expo provided an opportunity for delegates to meet suppliers, discover new technologies and discuss emerging market opportunities. A number of BASA member companies were represented among the exhibitors and attendees, demonstrating the strong presence of UK and Irish businesses within the global marketplace.

Networking remained an important feature of the event. BASA representatives attended a variety of FEICA-hosted activities, including the prestigious Members' Dinner at the House of Lords, where colleagues from across Europe, North America and Asia gathered to strengthen relationships and share perspectives on the future direction of the industry.

Perhaps most significantly, WAC 2026 highlighted the important role that BASA continues to play on the international stage. Whether through market insight, regulatory expertise, business development or conference leadership, BASA representatives were highly visible throughout the programme, demonstrating the Association's commitment to supporting both its members and the wider global adhesives and sealants community.

BASA would like to thank FEICA for organising another successful World Adhesive & Sealant Conference and Expo and to acknowledge all BASA members who participated, exhibited and contributed to discussions. Events such as WAC continue to provide an invaluable platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration and innovation as the industry works together to address future challenges and opportunities.

View highlights from the event in the gallery below.