VLS Welcomes New Chairman Nigel Bottom

The Verification of Lubricant Specifications (UK) Ltd (VLS) is delighted to welcome new Chairman Nigel Bottom, who succeeds Darren Frogson.

Nigel Bottom is the Group Managing Director of the Witham Group, a third‑generation, family‑owned lubricants and paints manufacturer with a century‑plus-long heritage, based in the City of Lincoln. He has led the business since 2005, steering its growth, diversification, and continued reputation for high‑quality lubricants, paints, and specialist products. Under his leadership, Witham Group has expanded its technical capabilities, strengthened its sustainability initiatives, and maintained its long‑standing Royal Warrant, first awarded in 1991.

Alongside his responsibilities at Witham Group, Nigel plays a prominent role in the UK lubricants industry. He has served as a Director and Vice-President of the United Kingdom Lubricants Association (UKLA) since 2005. He was President of the UKLA in 2012 – 2014 and has been an active Director of VLS since 2013. He is proud to be involved in VLS, the industry body responsible for independently assessing lubricant performance claims and ensuring compliance with technical standards.

Nigel is widely recognised for his deep industry knowledge, commercial leadership, and commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer service. His long-standing involvement across multiple industry bodies reflects his dedication to raising standards and supporting the continued development of the UK lubricants sector.

In his time as VLS Chair, Nigel is keen to champion an open and fair market that benefits all and maintain VLS’s track record in managing non-compliance.

VLS Company Secretary David Wright commented: “It has been a pleasure to work with Darren Frogson, and we thank him for his support for VLS in his time as Chair and his continuing support as a board member.

We look forward to working with Nigel and maintaining VLS’s work to ensure the continued confidence and trust of end users in the lubricant products they use. In an increasingly complex market, VLS's work to uphold standards and protect and educate end users is more important than ever.”