The Hungarian National Association of Painters, Decorators and Wallpaper Hangers (SZMTOI) has invited Painting and Decorating Association (PDA) Chief Executive, Neil Ogilvie, to become the Chief Patron of its 2026 Painter of the Year Competition and Awards.
The move strengthens the relationship between the two national trade bodies, after Neil who is also First Vice President of UNIEP, travelled to Budapest in March, as a special guest at the Painter of the Year awards ceremony.
He also attended Szakma Sztár, the ‘Professional Star Festival’ which includes a range of competitions for young people, including the WorldSkills Hungary National Selection Round and gave a presentation to organisations representing the interests of small businesses and professions including bakers, confectioners, painters and stonemasons.
Csaba Pintér, President of SZMTOI, said: “Your visit to Hungary back in March of this year, along with the tremendous support you have shown to the Hungarian painting and decorating profession really meant a great deal to us.
“We highly value the relationship and cooperation that has developed between us over the years, and we are proud of the strong connection that exists between our professional communities.
“Your patronage would send a strong message to Hungarian professionals that quality craftsmanship, dedication to the trade, and international cooperation continue to be highly valued throughout Europe.”
The Painter of the Year has become one of the most significant professional events in the Hungarian painting and decorating industry.
The aim of the competition is to recognise outstanding professional achievements, strengthen the prestige of the trade, inspire future generations and promote international professional cooperation.
Neil said: “It is a privilege to be invited to take on the honorary role of Chief Patron of the 2026 Painter of the Year competition and awards ceremony by the SZMTOI.
“These activities echo the work we do with competitions for apprentices and the Premier Trophy Awards, which fly the flag for excellence in painting and decorating and celebrate the skill and craft of the trade.
“Collaborating with partners across the UK and overseas is a vital part of raising the profile of professional painters and decorators, which is one of the key functions that the PDA undertakes on behalf of its members.”
To find out more about the PDA, or to apply for membership, visit: www.paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk
