Biggest names in Packaging gather in the South of France for the Packaging Summit 2011

Aug. 12, 2011 - PRLog -- This is not a design, marketing or materials conference. The Packaging Summit is a platform designed to discuss key strategic challenges from across the packaging value chain and long term strategies for success. Interesting and engaging presentations from high calibre speakers, expert insight and data from Pira’s market reports and unrivalled networking opportunities makes this conference a must attend event for all those serious about the business of packaging.

The conference opens with a session focused on strategic planning for the future. Delegates will hear from Morgan Stanley about the macro-economic trends affecting the packaging industry and packaging expert Nick Mockett on M&A in the packaging sector, followed by insights from leading packaging converters DS Smith and RPC.  To round the session off, Pira International will present forecasts for packaging markets in the next 3 years plus there will be the chance for all attendees to debate various scenarios that are predicted for the industry in the Big Packaging Debate led by this high profile panel of speakers.

The afternoon session splits into two tracks, each focusing on the current developments and future challenges in the material markets plastics and paperboard.  A highlight of this session comes at the end of the proceedings in the form of a panel debate, featuring Pira Members as guest panellists, including Heinz and Associated British Foods, and allowing for open debate about future scenarios in this sub-sector.

A plenary presentation from Simon Smith, Senior Consultant at Pira International assessing brand strength and the consumer value chain opens proceedings on Day 2, followed by two more break out sessions on end use markets.  Presentations from brand owners Britvic, Henkel and Procter & Gamble and consumer products retailer Boots make up the highlights of the break out discussions.

The closing plenary, chaired by Graham Moore, Strategic Consultant at Pira, begins with a perspective on sustainability from another leading packaging converter, Amcor, followed by a session new for 2011 focused on BRIC packaging markets.  This session incorporates an insightful review of the BRIC region as a whole by Pira International’s Head of Market Research to inform delegates of the drivers and challenges of operating in these markets, following by perspectives from key people active in each of the region’s packaging industries.  To close the conference a special guest keynote speaker and Pira’s Packaging Thought Leader 2011 will be unveiled.  This special guest keynote address will be chosen by Pira’s members as the most influential thought leader in the European Packaging Industry

The comprehensive 2 day programme will be complimented by a networking drinks reception on the evening of Day 1 where all delegates and speakers are invited to network, socialise and reflect on the day’s proceedings.

For more information on the Pira Packaging Summit contact Natalie Findlay on +44 1372 802104, natalie.findlay@pira-international.com or visit www.pirapacksummit.com