Corrugated cardboard is magical because it’s beautiful and recyclable, can be printed and converted in every possible way, can be coated to produce a barrier effect, is brand- and consumer-friendly, and is constantly evolving in terms of production, coating, and applications: the European association FEFCO protects and promotes this material. The FEFCO Technical Seminar, held in Rome from October 8th to 10th, offered an overview of regulations, advanced technologies such as AI and robotics, decarbonization, barrier coatings, recycling, digital twins, quality control, energy efficiency, and strategies to attract young people.
About 1,171 representatives from the corrugated cardboard industry and its suppliers attended this seminar, which celebrated the event’s 40th anniversary and 23rd edition, where they discussed the latest innovations, challenges, and regulatory developments shaping the future of the corrugated packaging sector. The event showcased the industry’s transition to smarter, more circular, and digital production.
In addition to in-depth presentations on these topics, some exhibitors presented their proposals in more detail. This is a trade fair conference, with a large exhibition area featuring over 120 exhibitors from 35 countries and 185 stands. We also highlight all the sponsors, starting with Fosber, gold sponsor, and Bobst, silver sponsor; no less important are bronze sponsors, Amtech, BHS, and SUN Automation Group; BW Papersystems, Canon, and C&D sponsored the event newsletters; the event app was sponsored by C&D, factory 360, Erhardt+Leimer, and OMP; and Valco Melton sponsored the gadget.
FEFCO director general Eleni Despotou said the 2025 Technical Seminar captured the spirit of renewal and collaboration that has characterized the industry for over four decades. “This edition reflects the progress our industry has made in embracing innovation and sustainability. Corrugated packaging is circular by nature, made from renewable materials. As the world changes, our industry continues to provide sustainable and competitive solutions for the European economy”, she said.
FEFCO president Nina Iversen added: “this Technical Seminar demonstrates the industry’s commitment to innovation and excellence. From regulation to recycling, from energy to artificial intelligence, our members are at the forefront to make packaging smarter, more resilient, and more sustainable”.
We’ll report on what we’ve heard and seen in future issues of Converter.
