A new, more powerful trade association, PAFA (the Packaging and Films Association) will combine the interests of the former PIFA (the Packaging and Industrial Films Association) and FPA (Flexible Packaging Association) to represent the £2bn industry engaged in development and manufacture of films and the conversion of lightweight flexible packaging and rigid sheet.
Confirmation of the new association's structure comes shortly after the planned merger was announced. Reportedly representing some 80% of the UK flexibles sector, PAFA will look to ensure that members' interests are served in every aspect of their business operations, from energy and environmental regulation to “informing retail customers and consumers of flexible and rigid packaging's outstanding performance credentials”. It will also have a strong, expert representation in areas such as health and safety, technological advances and human resources issues.
David Tyson, former PIFA ceo, will be ceo, while Martin Unwin, director of the FPA for the past 21 years, will retire on June 30 but continue to support the association for the rest of the year. Barry Turner, md of Britton Group's security, retail and mailing businesses, will be chairman, and Printpack md David Read vice-chairman.
Tyson says: “This move recognises the need to change gear in the way the flexible packaging industry is represented in a highly competitive global trading environment. The continuous process of mergers and acquisitions resulting from globalisation of the industry have resulted in members of the two associations now sharing many common challenges which can be far better served by a single powerful voice. I urge every business in this sector to come on board and share the knowledge, influence, skills and business intelligence of our new association.”
PAFA will operate around a triple core group structure representing converters, thermoformers, film extruders and flexible packaging converters and printers. There will also be specialist groups covering health & safety; technical and environmental; human resources and retailer and packer filler communications.
Associate membership will aim to attract businesses such as machinery and raw material suppliers that support the flexible packaging industry.
