The speaker line-up for the inaugural Corrugated Conference, which will take place from 19–22 May at Gran Via, Fira de Barcelona, has been announced.
The free-to-attend conference programme, organised by Fespa, is aimed at professionals working in corrugated applications. The event will offer insights into trends, challenges and developments across the sector, which is undergoing rapid digital, regulatory and technological change.
The programme will open on 19 May with a focus on the digital transformation of the industry. A roundtable session will feature experts from leading industry brands including HP, EFI, Koenig & Bauer and Kento discussing the continued evolution of print. Sessions will also include presentations from Stefan Liversidge, OT security product owner at OPSWAT, who will explore the growing importance of cybersecurity for production and supply chain resilience, and Christian Vionnet, product marketing director at Bobst, who will examine the future outlook for e-commerce.
The programme on 20 May will turn to operational development and workforce challenges within the sector. Speakers will include Thomas Orthax, CEO of Packitoo, who will discuss the role of artificial intelligence in supporting automation and digitalisation. Lorenzo de la Mora, CEO of Gran Via Brewery, and Javier Quesada, founder of Kento, will present a case study on packaging design and production technologies. Jo Stephenson of Young People In Print will address how the industry can attract and retain the next generation of talent, while David Preskett, vice president APAC and EMEA at Kongsberg, will discuss how evolving business needs are influencing the development of production technologies and shaping the global packaging market.
The final days of the conference will focus on sustainability and regulation. Dr Aaron Yeardley, science team co lead at Tunley Environmental, will discuss ESRS E5 and the circular economy in the context of changing regulations around raw materials. Evert Delbanco, head of global regulatory project management and group toxicologist at Flint Group, will explore developments in regulatory frameworks related to raw materials and closed-loop manufacturing. Ian Bates, regenerative packaging pioneer at NOA, will also discuss the future of the European corrugated market, with a focus on material innovation and scalable fibre solutions.
Nick Kirby, non-executive director at Zeus Packaging and FESPA’s Corrugated Ambassador, commented: “The Corrugated Conference will enable visitors to gain a broad understanding of how corrugated, print and signage can combine to unlock new revenue opportunities for businesses in both fields. Whether you want to explore technology-driven innovation or find out how you can respond to the ever-changing demands of the industry, Corrugated is a worthwhile event to attend.”
