Metal Packaging Europe Established

Two major metal packaging associations in Europe, Beverage Can Makers Europe (BCME) and European Metal Packaging (Empac), merged to form a new umbrella organization, Metal Packaging Europe. Together, the members of the new umbrella organization produce some 85 billion units every year for the beverage, food, health & beauty, household and industrial markets.

Formed in March, Metal Packaging Europe will comprise industry commissions focusing on topics common to all sectors, including communications, food contact packaging legislation and sustainability. There will also be specific market-focused commissions, led by member companies, for aerosol, beverage and general line. Gordon Shade, CEO of Empac and now of Metal Packaging Europe, commented, "With the creation of one dedicated organization, we will have even more punch above our industry weight and ensure the one voice of rigid metal packaging producers is heard better across Europe.”

This merger will combine the best of both former organizations, creating a more efficient and powerful organization. Based in Brussels, and with its current membership covering more than 450 manufacturing sites where over 65.000 people are employed, Metal Packaging Europe will represent the interests of all of its members.