Activities

FPE's core activity is representing the European flexible packaging industry at a European level. This was  the reason why, in 1998, FPE (under the name Euroflex) was founded. At that time it was discovered that the interests of the European flexible packaging industry were not well protected or represented. Many issues were at stake which required the industry's direct input. Today this work is as important and vital as ever!

The main aim of FPE is to promote and protect the flexible packaging industry in Europe. Therefore it is (pro) actively involved in all relevant issues, providing clear information about the European flexible packaging industry, which allows the authorities to enact realistic and manageable legislation and also helps to prevent misconceptions about the industry.

As the recognised voice for the European flexible packaging industry, FPE is a constructive partner for the various European institutions (Commission, Parliament, Council of Europe, etc.); and FPE liaises and works closely with other relevant associations and industry representatives. As such FPE participates in the relevant EU working groups and committees.

With its straightforward, apt and timely contributions FPE has managed - even as one of the smaller associations involved - to build a strong position and reputation in a short time, all for the benefit of its members!

Links to the various associations and European institutes FPE is working with are available through the "Links" section.

The FPE representatives

tl_files/FPE/images/portrait_homan.jpg tl_files/FPE/images/portrait_blatix.jpg tl_files/FPE/images/portrait_glimm.jpg tl_files/FPE/images/portait_dixon.jpg
Jan Homan
FPE Chairman 		Gérard Blatrix
FPE Vice-Chairman 		Stefan Glimm
Executive Director   		John Dixon
Director
Regulatory Affairs

Main Lobby Issues

Food Contact Issues:

  • migration limits & compliance
  • multilayers
  • alternatives for testing: modelling, exposure, functional barrier
  • hygiene, GMP, traceability
  • various specific substances

Most relevant EU legislation:

  • Food Contact Materials Framework Regulation (No. 1935/2004)
  • Consolidated Plastics Food Contact Directive (2002/72/EC) and its amendments 
  • Directives restricting the use of certain epoxy derivates in food contact materials

Environment / H&S Issues:

  • process emissions
  • packaging waste: recycling, recovery, litter
  • REACH (EU Chemicals Policy): deselection, definitions, impact

Most relevant legislation

  • Solvents Emissions Directive (99/13/EC)
  • IPPC Directive (96/16/EC)
  • "Solvents BREF" (under construction)
  • Packaging & Packaging Waste Directive (94/62/EC amended by 2005/20/EC))
  • Proposal for REACH (under construction)