Ian H Bates
Pioneer, Speaker, and Author in Suffolk, England
Regenerative Packaging Pioneer | Author | Speaker
Bates is a UK-based innovator with over 25 years in fibre-based packaging, driving ‘eco-friendly’ revolutions from startups to global campaigns. He has founded multiple ventures, patented inventions like PortaBottle® and PortaDrink®, and led teams at companies now part of DS Smith Packaging and Smurfit WestRock, focusing on waste reduction, plastic alternatives, and supply chain optimisation.
Thought Leadership
As a speaker, author of the just-published “Mind Waves” and host of “The Y-Factor” podcast, Bates helps educate and inspire on regenerative and leadership challenges. He also collaborates with industry bodies like Two Sides to help combat greenwashing and promote evidence-based practices.
Entrepreneurial Visionary
From sales roles at Metsä Group (1986–1994) to founding BLU8 Consulting, Bates has advised/is advising clients including Two Sides, EMGE, Colombier, NOA, The Sherwood Group, M&S, PRET, Waitrose, and Diageo on market strategies, innovation, and compliance. Start-ups, like PortaBrands, pioneered patented plastic-free packaging solutions for food and hospitality, leading to successful acquisition.
Regenerative Design Advocate
Majored in chemistry, biology and mathematics he went on to study a degree in Marketing, Bates blends technical expertise (e.g., moulded fibre, cartonboard) with creative passions like writing, licensed drone piloting, skiing, and sketching. Currently freelancing, he seeks roles with organisations passionate about real-world regeneration and stakeholder collaboration.