Another successful year is drawing to a close. Packaging Valley celebrated this recently at its annual Christmas party. The association is now entering its 13th year since its foundation. This time, there were two special features: Hans Bühler of Optima and co-founder of the cluster, as well as Kurt Engel, outgoing Managing Director, received honorary certificates from the current Chairman Bernd Hansen for their special achievements. Martin Buchwitz introduced himself as Kurt Engel’s successor.

Hans Bühler, CEO of Optima Packaging Group, was appointed Honorary Chairman. He was the driving force behind Packaging Valley and the first chairman until 2009. From the very beginning, he played an important role in marketing. The association quickly became known, and the number of founding members grew from 15 to over 40 companies.

The former Mayor of Gaildorf/Germany, Kurt Engel, also brought a large network with him when he took up the position of Managing Director in the founding year. Twelve years and many successful meetings later, it is time to say farewell and move to a well-deserved retirement. The progress of the cluster is due in a large part to his term in office, and so he will remain an honorary member of the association.

Martin Buchwitz succeeds Kurt Engel. He is a trained engineer and PR expert. He will continue the activities he has started and lead Packaging Valley into the future with new ideas.