The Sheet Plant Association (SPA) recently hosted its 111th Conference at the stunning Tewkesbury Park Hotel, drawing over 100 senior figures from across the UK corrugated packaging sector for a day of expert insights, practical updates, and collaborative discussion.
The event, held on Monday 2nd June, featured a compelling mix of keynote speaker, panel discussion, and breakout sessions focused on the future of the industry – from regulation and recruitment to innovation and investment.
Highlights from the Day
Extreme Keynote – Andy Torbet on Risk & Reward
The conference opened with a captivating keynote from adventurer and former bomb disposal officer Andy Torbet, who shared powerful lessons on performance under pressure, resilience, and calculated risk – energising the room with stories from deep-sea dives to high-altitude challenges.
Legislation in Focus – Andrew Large, CPI
Andrew Large, Director General of the Confederation of Paper Industries, provided essential clarity on rapidly evolving regulations including PPWR, EUDR, and EPR, equipping delegates to navigate future compliance and strategy.
UK Corrugated Market Outlook – Neil Osment, NOA Ltd
Renowned analyst Neil Osment returned with valuable data on 2025 market projections, giving SPA members insight into the key trends shaping demand and investment in corrugated packaging.
Business Buy & Sell Discussion Panel
One of the most highly anticipated sessions saw industry veterans David Pedley, David Orr, and Nick Kirby discuss real-life lessons from acquisitions and leadership succession. Their honesty and depth of experience sparked a lively audience Q&A.
Funding & Innovation – Dr Claire Flanagan
Dr Claire Flanagan of Kene | B Corp™ delivered a practical session on how SMEs can unlock grant funding to accelerate innovation, growth, and sustainability goals.
Future Talent – Andy Barnetson, CPI
With skills and recruitment high on the agenda, Andy Barnetson highlighted CPI’s national initiatives to engage younger generations and promote apprenticeship pathways into the sector.
VIP Site Visit Invitation
Shotton Mill General Manager Daniel Johnson invited SPA Members to an exclusive VIP site visit on Tuesday 30th September – the day after the SPA 112th Conference – offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at their operation.
Celebrating Excellence: SPA Supplier of the Year 2024
The Conference closed with recognition for supplier excellence across the industry. Winner: KM Software Systems Ltd Runners-Up: Springboard Safety Services and CorrBoard UK Ltd
