MondayMar 03
TuesdayMar 04
WednesdayMar 05
Time in PT
Time
Event
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09:30 – 17:00
Pre-Conference Workshop: Surviving Europe's Regulatory Tsunami: An Interactive Workshop for the Pulp, Paper & Packaging Industry

Join us for a dynamic, hands-on workshop, tailored to 40-45 industry stakeholders across the supply chain. This intimate but high impact session will feature a mix of engaging presentations, roundtable discussions, interactive brainstorming sessions and open forums, all aimed at fostering collaboration and uncovering innovative approaches to compliance. Leave equipped with actionable insights and a comprehensive understanding of how to thrive amidst regulatory changes. Please note that attendance requires an additional fee.

09:30 – 09:35
Welcome & Introductions
09:35 – 09:40
Introduction & Morning Icebreaker
09:40 – 10:15
Presentation: EUDR – The True Impact on Market Dynamics and the Future of Trade

– What level of geo-localisation is required for tracing virgin fibre, especially in complex products like corrugated board? 

What data and reporting systems are necessary for EUDR compliance? 

How feasible is geo-localisation across global supply chains, and what strategies are companies using? 

What penalties could arise from non-compliance, and how will they impact businesses? 

What are the cost implications of implementing these compliance systems? 

The role of EPR in compliant reporting 

10:15 – 10:45
Unboxing the PPWR Regulation

This segment will cover the scope of regulatory requirements concerning packaging, including recyclability, recycled content, reuse, labelling, and packaging waste prevention. 

– Where have we come from, and where are we going with the PPWR?

Which paper grades might be pushed out of the market due to these policies? 

– How can companies conduct assessments of their products and their impacts? 

– How will different barrier segments of the market be affected?

10:45 – 11:15
Networking Break
11:15 – 11:45
How to Design Products for Recyclability – Design for Recycling Guidelines

– Overview of design for recycling guidelines  

– How efficiently can fibre based packaging materials be recycled 

– What are the considerations needed? 

 

11:45 – 12:15
Interactive task

Collaborate in groups to tackle a real-world industry challenge. You’ll be assigned a specific problem to solve, encouraging teamwork and innovative thinking. Develop a comprehensive solution and present your insights to the larger group, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and strategies. This session will enhance your understanding of industry dynamics.

11:45 – 12:15
Case Study: Rethinking Packaging: The Shift to Reusable Solutions

– How achievable are the PPWR targets, and what are the potential implications of these mandates? 

– A comparison of corrugated cardboard and plastic reusable crates: Pros and cons. 

– What costs are associated with implementing reusable packaging alternatives? 

– Assessing the environmental impact of storage and transportation for reusable solutions. 

13:15 – 14:45
Networking Lunch
14:15 – 14:20
Interactive Brainstorm: One-Word Reflection

In this engaging activity, participants will address two key questions regarding the European regulatory environment: 

– How would you describe your current sentiment towards the regulatory landscape? 

– What would it take to change your perspective on this? 

Each attendee will receive a piece of paper or a post-it note to write down their responses to these questions, encouraging concise reflections that will fuel a broader discussion. 

14:20 – 15:20
Roundtable Breakout

Join roundtable discussions with key leaders across the supply chain to explore the most pressing issues and debates surrounding the future of policy. Gain insights into how others are navigating current challenges to ensure compliance.

15:20 – 15:50
Networking Break
15:50 – 16:20
PPWR: Opportunity or Obstacle for Brands?

– Transforming challenges into brand innovation and transparency 

– Key cost considerations 

– The impact of changing consumer preferences 

– What do end-users expect from the supply chain?

16:20 – 16:50
European Green Deal: Let’s Be Realistic: What’s Next for the Industry?

Europe has a net zero target by 2050, and 55% of reduced emissions by 2030 – what does that mean for the forest products industry? 

– Europe’s net-zero by 2050 and 55% emissions reduction by 2030 goals—what do these mean for the forest products industry? 

– Key preparations for companies to meet targets 

– Impact on smaller players with limited resources 

– Projected costs of decarbonizing supply chains 

– Role of energy efficiency in achieving targets 

16:50 – 17:00
Closing Summary and Workshop Overview: Where does the industry go next?

– Key takeaways and insights covered  

– What are the collaborative strategies for ongoing compliance? 

17:00 – 18:30
Sip and Connect: Welcome Drinks Reception in the Networking Lounge

Join us for an evening of exciting networking in the vibrant networking lounge. Enjoy a selection of refreshing drinks and light bights as you connect with old friends, meet new peers, and engage in meaningful conversations. This is the perfect opportunity to spark conversations, build relationships, and set the tone for an unforgettable conference.

19:00 – 22:00
Lisbon Uncorked: Wine Tasting & Gourmet Dining Experience

This unique opportunity includes an exquisite wine tasting and dinner in the heart of Lisbon, where you’ll be immersed in the rich flavours of Portugal’s renowned culinary and wine heritage.  

You’ll have the chance to savour a selection of local dishes featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients expertly paired with some of the finest wines from the region. Picture indulging in a crisp Vinho Verde, bold Touriga Nacional, and the renowned Douro Valley Port. 

This memorable gastronomic experience offers a perfect setting to network with peers, reconnect with old colleagues and engage with industry leaders.  

Spaces are limited so be sure to add this to your registration at checkout. 

06:30 – 07:30
5K – Run Club

Kickstart your day with an energizing 5K run through the scenic streets of Lisbon, led by our Run Club guide. A perfect way to clear your mind and get ready for the day ahead.

07:30 – 08:40
Breakfast Workshop: Driving AI & Automation During Challenging Times

Brought to you by Tietoevri

08:40 – 08:50
Welcome Remarks
08:50 – 09:15
Presentation: Opening Keynote – Europe’s Economic Evolution: Navigating the New Normal

As geopolitical tensions reshape the global landscape and a chasm widens between East and West, how will these shifts impact Europe’s economy? With inflation soaring and living costs on the rise, consumer spending is taking a hit. Join us as we explore the potential trajectory of Europe over the next five years: Can we bounce back from the pandemic? What strategies will drive recovery and growth? Discover the pathways forward in this dynamic and uncertain economic climate.

09:15 – 09:20
European CEO of the Year Award & Address
09:20 – 10:05
Executive Leaders Panel: Shaping Tomorrow’s Pulp, Paper, and Packaging Landscape

Join our esteemed panel of executive leaders, as they discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the sector in an evolving landscape. 

 – Staying Competitive: What strategies can executives implement to maintain a competitive edge amid rapid industry changes? 

Sustainability and Innovation: What advancements in sustainable practices and technologies are shaping the future of the sector? 

Overcapacity and Market Consolidation: What are the implications of overcapacity in the industry, and how can companies effectively navigate potential market consolidation? 

Geopolitical Headwinds: How are global political dynamics impacting the paper and packaging industry? 

Joachim Klein
José Soares de Pina
Joachim Klein

Joachim Klein

Managing Director

StepChange

José Soares de Pina

José Soares de Pina

Chief Executive Officer

Altri

10:05 – 10:30
Presentation: The Future of Sustainable Packaging – Consumer Brand Perspective

Join us for an enlightening session with a prominent voice from one of the industry’s leading consumer brands as they share insights on the evolving landscape of sustainable packaging. Explore the challenges and growth opportunities on the horizon, and learn how shifting consumer demands are shaping the future of the sector. Delve into potential hurdles that may arise and discover the strategies needed for the industry to adapt and thrive.

10:30 – 11:00
Networking Break
11:00 – 11:20
Presentation: Fastmarkets Focus | Macroeconomic Outlook

– Global economic drivers  

– Expected social, political, and economic headwinds  

– Inflation and recession drivers 

– Market trends & risks  

– Key drivers of growth and investment in the industry 

Lasse Sinikallas
Lasse Sinikallas

Lasse Sinikallas

Director of Macroeconomics

Fastmarkets

11:20 – 11:40
Presentation: Transport Cost Outlook : Warning Issued in Container Shipping

– Global shipping trends  

– Freight pricing  

– Shipping risks and opportunities  

– How might geopolitical tensions in the Middle East further affect shipping for the industry? 

Philip Damas
Philip Damas

Philip Damas

Managing Director, Founder & Head of Supply Chain Advisors

Drewry Shipping Consultants

11:40 – 12:25
Panel: Shifting Trade Flows: How will Changing Dynamics Impact Global Trade?

Join key global players as they share insights on trade flows, strategies to navigate shipping challenges, and the impact of rising costs on profit margins 

– How are geopolitical tensions reshaping global trade in forest products? 

– What challenges do shipping dynamics pose for industry trade flows? 

– Insights on growth opportunities in key regions: China, South America, North America, and Europe.

– Emerging market growth and where the future may take the sector? 

12:25 – 12:40
Presentation: Fastmarkets Focus | Global Pulp Market Outlook

– Projected growth forecast  

– How will market pulp availability shape industry dynamics? 

– What are the implications of overcapacity on the market? 

– Demand trends for 2025 and beyond – will we see a return to pre-pandemic “norms”? 

Patrick Cavanagh
Patrick Cavanagh

Patrick Cavanagh

Senior Economist

Fastmarkets

12:40 – 13:00
Presentation: Europe’s Softwood Fibre Crisis: What are we going to do?

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent ban on Russian wood imports have created a softwood fibre shortage across Europe. This session will explore how companies can navigate these challenges through innovation, despite regulatory pressures and the increasing demand for pulp in energy production. 

– Balancing supply and demand  

– Cost implications of the wood fibre shortage? 

– Can hardwood replace softwood fibres? 

– Optimizing fibre mixes for product needs 

– Can growth regions like Latin America step in to supply Europe? 

13:00 – 14:00
Networking Lunch
14:00 – 14:15
Presentation: Fastmarkets Focus: Powering the Future of Mill Decarbonisation

– What kind of energy strategies do European pulp and paper mills currently have? 

– How are the mills performing in terms of Scope 1 and Scope 2 fossil CO2 emissions? 

– Who are the energy cost winners and losers in the post-crisis reality? 

– How does the future look for electricity and natural gas costs? 

Ville Henttonen
Ville Henttonen

Ville Henttonen

Director EMEA Mill Intelligence

Fastmarkets

14:15 – 15:00
Panel: Driving Towards a Sustainable Industry: How Will the Supply Chain Meet Decarbonisation Targets?

Decarbonisation is now a central focus under the European Green Deal, in this session industry leaders will share their evolving strategies to meet these sustainability goals.
How will the European pulp and paper industry decarbonise to meet 2030 and 2050 targets? 

– How about the value chain, for example suppliers, converters, and end-users? 

– How is the industry tapping into energy investments for a greener future? 

– What roles do renewable energy sources such as biomass, wind, and solar play in driving sustainability? 

– What are the challenges with the industries key energy inputs and outputs? 

– Are there any untapped but sustainable energy solutions waiting to be explored? 

Ville Henttonen
Sarah Price
Ville Henttonen

Ville Henttonen

Director EMEA Mill Intelligence

Fastmarkets

Sarah Price

Sarah Price

Head of Sustainability

Sappi

15:00 – 15:20
Presentation: The Carbon Boom: How Will Growth in Carbon Markets Impact Forest Products?

– How is the rapid expansion of carbon credit markets reshaping the forest products industry? 

– Impact of increased demand for forest carbon credits on fibre availability 

– Balancing sustainability: Can carbon markets and forest product industries co-exist? 

– How are companies preparing for shifts in wood supply as carbon credits become a key driver of forest management decisions? 

– What future trends should stakeholders watch for as carbon markets grow and environmental regulations tighten? 

 

15:20 – 15:40
Networking Break
15:40 – 16:05
Fireside Chat: The Efficiency Revolution: How can Machines Keep up with Changing Market Demands and Profitability?

– How can players ensure they’re investing in the most efficient, reliable machines for long-term profitability? 

– What are the technical considerations and challenges when converting machines to meet changing market needs? 

– The impact of declining graphic paper demand and overcapacity in packaging – how is this affecting machine operations and efficiency

– Adapting machine operations to keep up with the rapid pace of e-commerce and the need for faster logistics 

– What are the key factors to consider before converting machines to handle new grades and maximize operational efficiency? 

16:05 – 16:25
Presentation: Spotlight on Portugal: The Rise in Eucalyptus Pulp

– Market growth for BEKP 

– Rising demand for sustainable pulp solutions  

– Portugal’s key role in industry growth  

– Overcoming NIMBYism around forest fire concerns  

16:25 – 16:45
Presentation: Plastic Substitution: Is Molded Fibre the Answer We’ve All Been Looking For?

– Rising demand for molded fibre packaging solutions 

– Strategies for scaling production while minimizing costs 

– Balancing packaging performance and functionality compared to single-use plastics 

– The role of molded fibre in shaping the future of the packaging industry 

– Emerging innovative technologies driving advancements in molded fibre packaging

Natasha Valeeva
Natasha Valeeva

Natasha Valeeva

Analyst – Supply Chain, Food & Agribusiness

Rabobank

16:45 – 17:30
Panel: Packaging Innovation: Reimagining Packaging Design for a Sustainable Future

– The rise in materials to replace plastics – molded fibre etc 

– What new packaging substrates are on the horizon? 

– Exploring barrier technologies and substances  

– What are the bottlenecks for market entry? 

– Overcoming hurdles with innovation  

17:30 – 18:30
Champagne Roundtables

Join us for an exclusive Champagne Roundtables session, where you’ll engage in high-impact discussions shaping the future of the European industry value chain, while enjoying a glass of bubbly. These intimate roundtable sessions, led by industry leaders and experts, will provide attendees with the opportunity to gain deeper insights into the hottest topics affecting the industry while networking with peers.

 

1. Regulation – Is the EUDR a Roadblock or Roadmap? 

2. Molded Fibre What Does the Future Hold for Molded Fibre in Europe: Is It a Worthy Investment or Innovation Overload? 

3. Recycling – How Can the Industry Collaborate to Meet 2030 Recycling Targets Amidst Diverse European Regulations? 

4. AI & Automation – What Impact Can AI and Automation Have on Production Processes, and Where Are the Key Growth Opportunities?

5. Softwood vs Hardwood – Is it Feasible to Replace Softwood in the Face of Fiber Shortages and Supply Chain Challenges?  

6. Market consolidation – What Challenges and Opportunities Does Market Consolidation Present to the Industry? 

7. Mill Decarbonisation – How Can the Pulp and Paper Industry Achieve Its Decarbonisation Targets While Driving Innovation?

8. Graphic Paper Market – What Success Factors Will Shape the Future Amid Market Decline? 

17:30 – 19:30
Elevate Your Evening: Networking Drinks at the Panoramic Bar

Join us for an unforgettable evening of networking at the iconic Panoramic Bar. Sip on cocktails and indulge in delicious canapés while making new connections, and reconnecting with peers and old friends, all set against breathtaking views of Lisbon’s stunning skyline. This is your perfect opportunity to unwind, make new connections, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

07:30 – 08:40
Breakfast Workshop: Empowering Inclusivity and Gender Diversity Roundtable Discussion
08:40 – 08:45
Welcome Remarks
08:45 – 09:05
Keynote Presentation: Thriving After the Merger: Unlocking Success in a Transforming Industry

As the European industry undergoes significant transformations due to major mergers, what does the future hold? 

Join us for an engaging fireside chat that will explore the implications of these changes and uncover the opportunities that arise from them. Discover key strategies for thriving in changing times and learn how to stay at the forefront of industry developments while managing costs, enhancing sustainability, and fostering effective leadership. Hear firsthand insights from one of the industry’s most respected leaders as they share their experiences navigating these transformative changes

09:05 – 09:25
Presentation: Strategic Pathways: Adapting to Europe’s Regulatory Demands

With ambitious decarbonisation and deforestation targets to reach, the industry is on the brink of significant change. As we approach key milestones of 2030 and 2050, questions about the future abound. How can the industry effectively prepare for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead? 

– Understanding the Commission’s Goals: What are the reasons behind the European Commission’s ambitious climate targets, and how will they affect the industry? 

– Strategies for Compliance: How can companies successfully navigate new regulations and ensure they meet the required standards? 

– Regulatory Landscape Ahead: What emerging trends and potential regulatory shifts should the industry anticipate, and how can the industry proactively adapt to stay competitive? 

09:25 – 10:05
Panel: Surviving Europe’s Regulatory Tsunami – The Aftermath of the EUDR

– How can the industry collaborate to meet decarbonisation targets effectively? 

– What challenges will arise from the EUDR’s implementation following its one-year postponement, and what strategies and tactics are key players implementing to address them? 

– How can companies effectively prepare for compliance, and what features should the Commission’s new software include to support them? 

– What strategies and solutions are necessary for the industry to adapt to these regulatory changes? 

– What are the cost implications of striving for compliance, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises? 

– Cost impactive of striving towards compliance, and the impact on small companies?

10:05 – 10:25
Presentation: Fastmarkets Focus : Containerboard Outlook
Tero Eerikainen
Tero Eerikainen

Tero Eerikainen

Economist, European Packaging Papers

Fastmarkets

10:25 – 10:50
Fireside Chat: Containerboard Overcapacity: Unboxing Challenges Despite the Growth in Demand

Despite the growth in demand of e-commerce, the market faces huge issues with overcapacity. What does this mean for future production and the future of the industry? 

– How to navigate the overcapacity problem in the market? 

– Impact on demand for raw materials  

– How will market players stay competitive? 

– What is the true impact on industry investment and innovation? 

10:50 – 11:15
Networking Break
11:15 – 11:35
Presentation: Fastmarkets Focus: Global Recovered Paper Outlook

– Demand and supply dynamics 

– Two-year forecast for market trends and developments 

– Global consumption trends and evolving trade patterns amidst geopolitical uncertainty 

– Influence of China’s economic shifts on the recovered paper market 

– Geopolitical issues  

– Supply chain uncertainty

– Regulatory challenges, including EUDR, and the potential impact on recovered paper trade

Hannah Zhao
Hannah Zhao

Hannah Zhao

Director – Fibre

Fastmarkets

11:35 – 12:20
Panel: From Waste to Resource: Exploring Circular Recycling Solutions for 2025 and Beyond

2025 is a year for new regulations, increased demand for recyclable products, and recycled raw materials, join experts in recycling discuss the challenges, opportunities and trends within the European recycling market 

Exploring the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive: Opportunity for growth or barrier to progress?

– European recycling challenges: From collection rates to material limitations

– Design for Recycling Guidelines: Setting the standards for a sustainable future

– Innovations in recycling: Can we achieve 100% recyclability?

– Future directions: What’s next in the journey toward circularity?

12:20 – 12:40
Presentation: Consumer Trends Outlook– Rethinking Packaging

In this session, Pro Carton will unveil insights from a comprehensive survey of over 5,000 consumers across Europe, exploring their perspectives on sustainability and packaging. Join us as we dive into the key findings of the report, including:
Consumer sentiments and pain points 

– Consumer preferences in packaging 

– The impact of packaging on consumer purchasing decisions 

– The critical role of recycling in consumer habits 

Winfried Muehling
Winfried Muehling

Winfried Muehling

Marketing & Communications Director

Pro Carton

12:40 – 13:25
Panel: Consumer Brand Perspectives: The Future of Packaging

Join industry leading consumer brands to discuss the evolving packaging landscape from the end-user’s perspective  

 – Explore the evolution of e-commerce: Where has it been, and where is it headed? 

– How are fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs) adapting to shifting consumer preferences and demands? 

– What innovative plastic alternatives are emerging? 

– Cost vs. Sustainability: How are brands balancing these crucial factors? 

– Packaging innovations  

– Understanding the impact of regulations like the CRSD on future packaging decisions and innovations. 

13:25 – 14:25
Networking Lunch
14:25 – 14:45
Presentation: Fastmarkets Focus: Boxboard and Kraft Paper Outlook
Camila Jaramillo
Camila Jaramillo

Camila Jaramillo

Economist

Fastmarkets

14:45 – 15:05
Presentation: Fastmarkets Focus: Graphic Paper: The Path Forward

– Market Outlook & Projections: What does the future hold for graphic paper? 

– Industry Evolution: With graphic paper demand declining, where will the sector be in five years? 

– Newspaper & Magazine Trends: Exploring market share and growth potential in these segments. 

– Emerging Opportunities: Are there any types of graphic paper are gaining traction in the market? 

Alejandro Mata
Alejandro Mata

Alejandro Mata

Director – Europe, Graphic & Packaging Paper

Fastmarkets

15:05 – 15:50
Panel: The Paper Jam: Shifting Gears – What Lies Ahead for Europe’s Paper Industry?

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion as industry experts address key questions shaping the future of the paper sector amid challenges like declining consumption and digital transformation. 

– Graphic Paper’s Decline: What Lies Ahead? 

– Is digitalisation a lifeline or replacement for the sector? 

– What impact will overcapacity have on future production and market demand? 

– Important decisions: the role of advertising and purchasing decisions 

– How will companies stay competitive in an evolving landscape? 

– Where will innovation lead the industry next? 

Alejandro Mata
Alejandro Mata

Alejandro Mata

Director – Europe, Graphic & Packaging Paper

Fastmarkets

15:50 – 16:05
Presentation: Fastmarkets Focus: Tissue Market Outlook
Philipp Jaki
Philipp Jaki

Philipp Jaki

European Economist – Tissue

Fastmarkets

16:05 – 16:10
End of Conference