The 11th PETnology Europe took place, this time in Neuss near Duesseldorf and directly prior to Interpack. Attendees, exhibitors and speakers gave highest marks for quality and organisation of the event. Mostly appreciated, however, was the fact that the conference offers the possibility of top-level discussions among the participants.With the panel discussion PETnology GmbH not only succeeded in covering the PET markets in North America, Asia and Europe, but also managed to discuss strategies and future challenges around the PET packaging market. One of the most topical and interesting subjects within the PET industry was reviewed in detail: "Converter market challenges - today and in the future". Dr. Otto Appel (tecPET innovation) and Philip Tappenden (Soft Drinks International) led through the discussion, panel members were:
- Alpla: Günter Lehner, CEO Technics & Operations,>/li>
- Amcor PET Packaging: Kirby Losch, VP and GM, Diversified Products Division
- Husky: John Galt, President and CEO,
- Krones: Christoph Klenk, Member of the Executive Board,
- Nestlé Waters M&T: Klaus Hartwig, Head of PTC Water,
- Sidel: Paul Holderith, Group Executive Vice President,>li>
- Zhuhai Zhongfu: Ben Chan, Vice Chairman
The up-to-date conference programme for sessions and workshops again met the meanwhile established high-quality level. It covered the complete PET value chain and also considered the subject of alternative materials.
Over the years the exhibition part of the conference has become more and more popular. Following this trend PETnology succeeded in enlarging the exhibition, both with regard to the total space and the individual booth sizes. With more than 20 exhibitors from Materials, Additives, Machines, Recycling and Services covering an area of approx. 800 square meters the exhibition was the "Networking Hub" where attendees met during breaks and evening receptions.
Barbara Appel, managing director of PETnology GmbH: - We are very pleased with the positive development of the conference that has become an excellent meeting point for the industry. Many of our attendees told us that this is unique in Europe.
In total there were over 280 participants from more than 30 countries to discuss their views and ideas regarding technologies, markets and marketing.
PETnology Europe 2009 will take place in Cologne on March 9 and 10 in cooperation with Anuga Foodtec.
