The European Pallet Association (EPAL) celebrated its 35th anniversary with an international conference in Munich. The event brought together 320 guests from industry, trade, logistics, and associations to discuss the future of logistics.
Since its founding in 1991, EPAL has developed into a central player in pallet logistics. With almost two billion EPAL Euro pallets produced and over 670 million units in circulation, EPAL pallets are now an indispensable element in global supply chains. According to Jarek Maciążek, President of EPAL, the pallets can be found in every business and many private environments. This widespread distribution is a testament to the trust users place in the quality and reliability of EPAL products.
Challenges and opportunities of the logistics of tomorrow
The conference in Munich provided a platform to discuss the challenges in logistics that arise from digitalisation, automation and new regulatory requirements. Experts from industry and academia presented current developments influencing pallet logistics. The standardisation, quality assurance and reuse of EPAL pallets play a crucial role in the reliability and sustainability of transport logistics.
A strong network for the future
The success of EPAL is based on a global network of licensees and national associations committed to the quality and sustainability of EPAL pallets. Dirk Hoferer, also President of EPAL, emphasised that the brand has become an international symbol of quality. EPAL has expanded its presence in Asia and North America and is recognised as a role model for the circular economy, which has been confirmed by the EU Packaging Regulation.
With the choice of Munich as the venue for the anniversary conference, a circle is also closed for EPAL. The founding meeting of the European Pallet Association took place in Munich in early 1991. At the same time, the pallet pool was also established. Today, EPAL is active in more than 40 countries, most of which were represented in Munich.
Source: European Pallet Association
