At the 51st European Carton Manufacturers Association congress, over 200 industry leaders met in the beautiful Latvian capital Riga (20-21 September). This year’s congress theme was an excellent umbrella for the hot topics which are dominating the news – such as Brexit, Blockchain Technology, Cryptocurrencies and single use plastics. Other important topics such as the Circular Economy, Digital Transformation, Leadership and how to manage Change and Multi-Generational Differences were also discussed.
A shift in the role of cartons, allowing them to take a bigger market share in the packaging chain, is more tangible than ever. One of the objectives of the congress was to have everyone informed and prepared for the opportunities that the circular economy, renewability and overall sustainability can offer.
Times are changing fast and the world is transforming into a digital reality. The congress shared the available knowledge on the ongoing digital transformation, both in the supply chain (in various forms) and in terms of the possibilities of adding high tech physical and digital features to carton packaging. This is an area where cartons can again perform as the preferred choice of packaging. Delegates were told of innovation drivers and how technology will most likely affect and change the industry.
The vast changes on the technical side will be accompanied by a significant change in needs on the Human Resource side. Key for strong companies will be a highly attractive work environment for a future-proof human workforce, based on world-class team leadership, which stretches the involvement of various generations.
ECMA also presented a new association strategy for the years 2018 – 2021 where engagement of all members and industry partners is required. ECMA is constantly adapting to provide value for now and in the future for its members.
The prizes for the best cartons of the European Carton Excellence Award were awarded during the congress. Outstanding designs and functional solutions were honoured at a Gala event on 20 September – in the glamorous setting of the House of the Riga Latvian Society. More information about the winners and finalists is available at the ECMA and Pro Carton website.
