MEMBERS of CEPI Cartonboard and Pro Carton have announced that they will merge into one strong association under the name Pro Carton, following a 12-month period of consultation.
The announcement was made at the association’s annual general meeting on 16 June 2023, with the final merger expected to take place mid-2024 after all legal procedures are successfully met.
The associations said that the merger will create a more ‘effective’ and ‘efficient’ group that has a ‘stronger’ voice throughout the carton industry. This will include several new working streams, each devoted to driving synergies, improving the associations’ representation and support it offers member organisations.
In addition to announcing the merger, Pro Carton announced its new board members, who will take their positions immediately: Andreas Birmoser, Stora Enso; Andreas Bo, Holmen Iggesund; Nick Dowling, Westrock; Nick Fox, Metsa Board; Thomas Kratochwill, MM Board & Paper; Kemal Ozkirim, Kartonsan; and Jean- Francois Roche, Graphic Packaging International
The two associations – before the final merger – will be strategically guided by the same team of board members.
Michele Bianchi CEO of RDM Group, producre in the recycled cartonboard business and the largest producer in Italy, France, the Netherlands, and in the Iberian Peninsula – will continue in the position of president for Pro Carton.
Neil Fox of Metsä Board will become vice president. Horst Bittermann will continue to lead the transformation and merger of the two associations in the role of general director. Winfried Mühling keeps responsibility as marketing and communications director.
Michele Bianchi, president of Pro Carton, commented, “This merger will create a stronger association that will ensure Pro Carton are prepared for the future of the European cartonboard and folding carton industry. With a stronger voice, cooperation across industry borders, and closer collaboration with ECMA, our union will deliver the support needed for the sustainable growth of our industry.”
