40 years of technical knowledge and collaboration

by Ruaidrí MacDomhnaill, Regulatory Affairs Manager, Steel for Packaging Europe

For forty years, Steel for Packaging Europe (SfPE) has been known as the voice of Europe's steel packaging industry in Brussels and beyond. Less visible, but equally important, has been its role in bringing member companies together to tackle shared technical challenges, accelerate innovation and prepare the industry for the future.

One of the most significant examples is the development of a chromium-free passivation alternative (CFPA).

For decades, chromium-based passivation played an important role in the manufacture of tinplate. As European chemicals legislation evolved, the industry recognised the need to develop a safe, technically robust alternative that would meet future regulatory requirements without compromising performance.

Development was initially managed by the International Tin Association (ITA) but came under SfPE’s umbrella in 2017. Years of research, laboratory testing and extensive industrial trials culminated in a solution that has now been successfully tested across hundreds of packaging applications, providing the industry with a practical pathway towards chromium-free production.

However, CFPA represents just one chapter in a much broader technical legacy. Over the decades many other technical challenges have been addressed, some by my predecessors such as Jean-Pierre Taverne and Evelyne Frauman, whose contributions are recognised in the “40 Years, 40 People” anniversary campaign.

Their work, alongside many others, included building and expanding the Association's knowledge base and technical support capabilities, whilst championing the environmental credentials of steel for packaging and their application in packaging policy discussions.

SfPE has also played a vital role in supporting the industry on food contact compliance and evolving chemical regulations, including REACH requirements. By developing technical expertise and providing a trusted source of information for members and stakeholders, we help ensure that steel for packaging continues to meet the highest standards for safety, quality and sustainability.

Technical knowledge supports better packaging design. By contributing scientific evidence and technical expertise to EU discussions on packaging design, recyclability and product standards, the Association has helped create European policy frameworks such as the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) that recognise the circularity benefits of modern steel packaging.

As SfPE celebrates its 40th anniversary, its technical legacy is reflected in more sustainable production technologies, improved packaging performance and a shared commitment to continuous innovation.

Industry challenges may continue to evolve, but if the past 40 years have shown anything, it is that collaboration remains one of the industry's greatest strengths - and one that will continue to shape the future of steel for packaging.