Wednesday 14 May
13:00 – 14:00	EPDA Board Lunch @ Radisson Blu Park Hotel, Roof Top Restaurant
13:30 – 17:30	Registration/ Help Desk Open
14:00 – 16:30	EPDA Board Meeting
14:00 – 16:30	Next Generation Programme
14:00 – 15:00	Sales Strategies Through History – From Sun Tzu’s (Sunzi) The Art of War to Modern B2B Sales in the Plastics Industry Christian Sundberg, Atolli OyMarko Koljonen, Aikolon Oy We will start exploring the evolution of sales and marketing strategies, starting with Sun Tzu’s The Art of War and its influence on competitive tactics. We will dive into modern sales strategies and uncover the key elements of B2B trade in the plastics industry. What different methods and chanels can you use to support sales? Is sales still a person-to-person process in today’s business world? Additionally, we will highlight the importance of the most crucial sales tool and discuss why the mental and physical well-being of sales professionals plays a vital role in achieving success. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and sharpen your sales approach!
15:00 – 15:30	Refreshment Break
15.30 – 16.30	Multigenerational Challenges -The Pros and Cons of Working in a Family Business Christian Sundberg, Atolli Oy Marko Koljonen, Aikolon Oy Working in a family business comes with unique opportunities and challenges. Whether you’re an employee or a family member, navigating the dynamics of a multigenerational company requires understanding and adaptability. In this discussion, we will explore the advantages and potential difficulties of working in a family-owned business. How can different generations collaborate effectively? What are the key success factors for balancing personal and professional relationships? Join us to gain valuable insights and practical strategies for thriving in a family business environment!
18:00-19:30 18:30-19:30	Welcome Drinks Reception @ Radisson Blu Park Hotel, Roof Top Bar sponsored by Işık Plastik For new members, non-members & first-time attendees For all EPDA delegates and partners
20:00 – 22:00	Optional Welcome Dinner @ Strofi Restaurant Optional paid extra for all EPDA delegates and partners.   Kick off your conference with a fantastic networking opportunity at Strofi, one of Athens’ finest restaurants, located in Athens old town. This iconic Greek eatery offers stunning views of the Acropolis and features a cozy, relaxed, and intimate atmosphere, perfect for enjoying traditional Mediterranean cuisine.
Thursday 15 May
08:30 – 17:00	Registration & Help Desk Open
08:30 – 09:00	Arrival Coffee & Manufacturer Showcase
09:00 – 09:05	Introduction Clare Forestier, Event Host
09:05 – 09:15	Opening Address & Welcome Miklós Fórizs, President, EPDA
09:15 – 10:15	The challenges of Europe’s new military Keynesianism in the shadow of US tariffs and Chinese surpluses. Yanis Varoufakis, Keynote Speaker
10:15 – 10:30	New Members in Spotlight
10:30 – 11:00	Coffee break & Manufacturer Showcase
11:00 – 11:45	Recent advances in circular plastics research Vincent Voet, Keynote Industry Speaker Discover the cutting-edge world of material science! Vincent Voet will introduce several topics that the circular plastics research group Hybritt is researching. One of these topics is vitrimers—a revolutionary class of plastics that combine the best properties of thermoplastics and thermosets. These innovative materials are switchable, allowing controlled processability and the potential for fully recyclable composites. While vitrimer applications are still in development, they hold the promise of a new generation of sustainable materials that could transform industries. Be part of the conversation shaping the future of plastics!
11:45 – 12:30	Crosslinking Connections Facilitated by Clare Forestier, Event Host Back by popular demand, this session is designed to make new connections and build relationships.
12:30 – 14:00	Networking Lunch Break
14:00-15:00 15:00-15:10	Plastics – facts for a better future!   Chris DeArmitt PhD FRSC FIMMM, Keynote Speaker Change over time (10 minutes)
15:10 – 16:00	Breakout Session – Discussion Groups Two discussion groups: choose the one you find the most relevant for you:
15:10 – 16:00	1) The Growing Presence of Asian Manufacturers Let’s discuss a critical and increasingly complex issue: the growing presence of Asian manufacturers in the European market, particularly as new U.S. regulations push them to seek alternative export destinations. This discussion group is about identifying the challenges and defining actionable steps we can take together to reinforce the resilience and sustainability of the European industry.
15:10 – 16:00	2) European Economics & Politics: Within uncertainty also lies opportunity Europe stands at a crossroads, navigating a period of profound transformation marked by economic strain, geopolitical shifts, and an accelerated push toward sustainability. Slowing growth, persistent inflation, and structural shifts tied to the green transition are reshaping the continent’s industrial foundations. Meanwhile, global factors—such as the ongoing war in Ukraine, evolving energy strategies, and uncertainty around the future of transatlantic relations—add further complexity to an already turbulent environment. Yet within this uncertainty also lies opportunity. Innovations in circularity, bio-based materials, and high-performance applications—particularly in sectors like defence and pharmaceuticals—offer new avenues for sustainable growth.
16:00 – 17:30	Free time
17:30 – 18:30	Cocktail Hour Join us for a refreshment in the Atlantis room before heading to the Gala Dinner.
19:00 – 23:00   Coaches @ 18:30	Gala Dinner @ Ble Pavilion sponsored by Mitsubishi Chemical Group Situated right by the water, this exquisite beachside venue features contemporary interiors with large windows that frame the views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Delegates will experience an unforgettable evening, dining under the stars of Athens while enjoying the refreshing sea breeze.
23:30 – 02:00	Rooftop Bar Afterparty End your night in style at St’Astra Rooftop Bar and enjoy the stunning illuminated skyline of Athens as the city buzzes below. The roof top bar will extend its opening hours until 2am.
Friday 16 May
08:30 – 09:00	Arrival Coffee & Manufacturer Showcase
09:00 – 09:30	EPDA AGM Chaired by Miklós Fórizs, President
09:30 – 10:30	Multigenerational Panel Discussion Christian Sundberg, Atolli Oy Jallel Grootbluemink, Industrial Plastics Europe BV Alar Künnapuu, Merrem Tööstusplast Ltd Sander Künnapuu, Merrem Tööstusplast Ltd In today’s rapidly changing world of work, navigating the dynamics between different generations within a company is both a challenge and a powerful opportunity. This panel delves into the complexities and rewards of working across generational lines—especially within family businesses, where tradition and innovation often meet head-on. How do generational mindsets differ when it comes to leadership, communication, and vision? What happens when it’s time to pass the torch—without losing trust or mutual respect along the way? And what kind of support does the next generation truly need to thrive, compared to what they’re receiving now? Join us for an open, honest, and inspiring conversation where experience meets fresh perspective—and discover how bridging generational gaps can unlock the full potential of your business.
10:30 – 11:00	Coffee Break & Manufacturer Showcase
11:00 – 11:45	Walking Debate   A mind-provoking debate about a wide range of topics concerning the association and our industry.
11:45 – 12:30	Action Groups   1 – How Can we Co-Operate and Demonstrate Sustainability? 2 – Let’s Make K Fair our Meeting Point! 3 – Brainstorm – Inviting New Members and Recycling Companies 4 – Tell Us Your Best Practice – We’ll Write an Article About It! 5 – Advocacy & Influence – Let’s Create a Voice 6 – Shaping our Training Programme Together
12:30	Closing Address by Miklós Fórizs
12:30 – 14:00	Networking Lunch Break
14:00 – 17:00	Optional Member & Partner Tour: Masterpieces of Athens Discover two of Athens’ most iconic landmarks on this historical and cultural tour: the Acropolis and the Panathenaic Stadium. Walk in the footsteps of ancient Greeks, marvel at breathtaking architecture, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history.
19:30 – 23:00	Optional Dinner @ Hermion Restaurant Tucked away from the busy streets, this traditional yet elegant taverna offers a peaceful dining experience with a beautiful courtyard garden that feels like a hidden oasis in the city.