The 2025 Congress, celebrating the 65th anniversary of the European Carton Makers Association (ECMA), was successfully held in Istanbul on September 18-19 at the Le Meridien Etiler Hotel, returning to Turkey after a 16-year hiatus. Held under the theme “A Bright Future with Carton Packaging,” the congress outlined the sector's vision for growth, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and attracting young talent to the industry.

It was emphasized that ECMA represents 80% of the European carton packaging sector. While Turkey's share in this market is estimated to be around 10%, over 230 participants attended the congress in Istanbul. This figure was recorded as the highest attendance in ECMA's history.

ECMA General Manager Mike Turner emphasized that Turkey is the fastest-growing cardboard packaging market in Europe and expressed his excitement about returning to Istanbul. Turner said, “Turkey has almost the highest or second-highest growth rate in Europe and is very successful. We also recognize and greatly appreciate the new developments and innovations of cardboard packaging manufacturers in Turkey.”

ECMA President Jean-Francois Roche opened the conference, while Ahmet Gülüm, President of the Turkish National Olympic Committee, delivered the “Welcome to Istanbul” speech. Prof. Dr. Emre Alkin shared strategic insights on economic uncertainties and the climate crisis in his presentation titled “Managing the Storm in Difficult Times.”

Industry leaders participating in the CEO Roundtable discussed the impact of new regulations coming into force in Europe, the importance of environmentally friendly packaging, and technological transformation. Emerging trends such as artificial intelligence, robotic systems, and barrier technologies were highlighted. Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG David Schmedding, Alican Duran, Smurfit Westrock, BOBST Jean-Pascal Bobst, Metsä Board Esa Kaikkonen

The results of the ECMA – Pro Carton European Carton Packaging Excellence Awards and Young Designers Competition, held during the gala evening, were announced. Students from the Middle East Technical University (METU) Industrial Design Department won both the Young Designers jury award and the Student Video Competition public vote award, drawing Europe's attention. For many years, we have been encouraging students to participate in the Pro Carton Young Designers Competition through seminars organized with the Carton Packaging Manufacturers Association at universities across Turkey, conveying the opportunities this platform offers on an international scale. Today, seeing these efforts crowned with tangible success is a great source of pride for us. Bringing young talent into the industry further strengthens our excitement and belief in the future.