EFTA-Benelux hosted a meeting for the representatives of the national flexo associations
As a result of a meeting attended by the national flexographic associations of Italy, Sweden, France, Poland, the UK and the Benelux, a new umbrella organisation named FTA Europe will be set up to forge a closer working relationship across borders.
The associations met in Brussels in late June to explore the possibilities of closer cooperation. The discussion identified two priorities: first vocational education, training and certification, and second standardisation and harmonisation.
It was agreed that there is a need to stimulate education and training and to develop initiatives to standardise and harmonise certain aspects of the flexographic process across Europe. Sharing of training materials and facilities, e-learning and the introduction of a European flexo certificate for operators are examples of what is going to be developed on a European level to support the industry and national associations.
The upcoming months will be used to further develop the new organisation and structure, to liaise with the boards of the national associations, as well as sending out a survey to identify the needs of the flexo printers in Europe and get a final agreement on the mission and objectives of FTA Europe.
Finally, FTA Europe is also in contact with the European Commission to position the flexographic industry in Europe and to make sure the interests of the industry are better represented and looked after at an early stage.
