What's Happening?
Automate UK, a trade association for the processing and packaging machinery sectors, has collaborated with several European trade associations to establish EUROPAMA, the Processing & Packaging EU Federation. This federation aims to provide a unified voice
for the industry at the European level, focusing on key issues such as sustainability regulations, industrial competitiveness, and technological transformation. The founding members include VDMA from Germany, UCIMA from Italy, Evolis from France, AMEC from Spain, and Swissmem from Switzerland. EUROPAMA was launched at the Interpack 2026 event in Düsseldorf, Germany, and seeks to assist its members in navigating new regulations and supporting their own memberships.
Why It's Important?
The formation of EUROPAMA is significant as it represents a strategic effort to align industry leadership with EU policy priorities, particularly in the context of post-Brexit Europe. With Europe producing two-thirds of the world's processing and packaging machinery, the federation is well-positioned to influence policy and drive growth within the sector. For UK businesses, this collaboration ensures continued influence over regulations affecting European supply chains and exports, despite the UK's departure from the EU. The federation also aims to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange, which is crucial for maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global market.
What's Next?
EUROPAMA will provide its member organizations with access to a broad network of European counterparts, industry intelligence, and regulatory guidance. It will also offer opportunities to participate in trade events across Europe. As the federation begins its operations, it is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the processing and packaging machinery industry by addressing sustainability and technological challenges. The federation's efforts will likely focus on ensuring that its members can adapt to increasing regulations and sustainability requirements, thereby enhancing their competitiveness in the global marketplace.
