FLEXO INSIGHT: Forward together

The recent series of political events in the Middle East combined with the weak economic recovery in Europe means that the flexo industry needs to come together more than ever before to share best practice.

The newly modernised EFIA is now ideally placed to act as a conduit to be able to disseminate information to members. Topics range from skills training to best practice and operational efficiency gains. The EFIA can also leverage its collective knowledge on waste management and through the WCPC to help with technical solutions for the membership.

History shows that, as EFTA, the organisation made many progressive steps forward for the flexo industry. The creation of FACE CDs, development of distance learning programmes, ISO colour standards and cooperation with the Welsh Centre for Printing and Coating have helped drive the flexo technology to enable it to compete head on with other print processes such as litho and gravure.

Future development

What will be the future direction of the new modernised EFIA?

EFIA wants to ensure that members are getting the best value for their subscriptions and are getting the most from their membership. EFIA is working hard to ensure that it is truly ‘adding value’ to the flexo industry in the UK.

The aim of the newly named European Flexographic Industry Association is to truly be the voice of ‘the membership’ to reflect the member’s individual needs and collectively as an industry. EFIA aims to promote the benefits of the flexographic process to the entire print and packaging workflow: from designers, to brand owners, to print managers and of course, our suppliers and converters.

EFIA is no longer purely a technical association. A new highly interactive website will be launched shortly to improve communication to the members. In addition, late in 2010, EFIA launched a maintenance survey to help encourage consistent and profitable production. This EFIA website feature has a feedback facility for the members and will enable them to see how each company completing the questionnaire compares with the industry best in class, within their own segment of the flexo industry.

EFIA is also working on Lean Manufacturing initiatives, Automation and Efficiency Improvement programmes, as well as beginning lobbying activities with the Government with respect to recycling programmes and a stance on carbon offset proposals. The association also plans over time to widen its agenda to include some softer issues that affect packaging such as sustainability.