FTA Europe formally established as umbrella organization for the European flexo industry

FTA Europe has taken shape through meetings of European flexo industry associations over the last 18 months, initiated by ATIF.

FTA Europe will have three major objectives: to encourage technical standardization and the dissemination of standards of practice across European borders; to develop a European curriculum and certificate for professionals operating in the European flexo industry; and support its member associations through joint European advocacy as well as collaboration in promotional activities (awards) and the development of a technical knowledge resource.

EFTA-Benelux is the association for companies – and their suppliers – of the flexo industry in the Dutch-speaking region of Belgium, The Netherlands and Luxembourg, while ATF represents the industry in France, ATIF in Italy, ATEF in Spain and EFIA represents the UK flexo market.

More immediate targets for FTA Europe in its first year are to develop a website, www.FTA-Europe.eu, expand its membership, establish a volunteer framework and develop an action plan for the next three years.

The inaugural FTA Europe general assembly took place on February 5 in Brussels, Belgium at the offices of Intergraf, the European federation for print and digital communication, and where FTA Europe will have its registered address.

At the general assembly, the founding members of the first FTA Europe board were elected.