World recycling record, 70 years of Alpla and clear words on regulation: Philipp Lehner, CEO of the Alpla Group, talks about innovation, responsibility and the future of plastic packaging - and why he warns Europe against over-regulation.
Just a few weeks ago, the Alpla Group made headlines together with Werner & Mertz: For the first time, 100 per cent recycled material from the Yellow Bag was successfully used in new packaging - a milestone for the circular economy. For CEO Philipp Lehner, this success is not only proof of technical feasibility, but also a signal to the industry.
„We have proven that even difficult plastics can be processed in a recyclable and quality-assured manner,“ says Lehner in an interview with Packaging People-Host Matthias Laux. „Now we have to regulate the commercial side - so that such products are competitive in the long term.“
In addition to this world record, the conversation also covers Alpla's 70th anniversary, the management culture, team spirit and values that have characterised the company for three generations. Talent development, customer centricity and the will to solve complex problems - Lehner considers these principles to be indispensable.
„You are only as strong as your team - promoting talent has been part of our DNA for 70 years. And we want to solve problems for our customers. This energises the company and is the key to long-term success.“
The CEO is critical of the political framework. His message is clear: Europe must stop „regulating itself to death“, otherwise we would lose competitiveness - also in the area of recycling. With the campaign Plastic is Fantastic Alpla therefore relies on fact-based dialogue with consumers instead of endless industry debates.
