The launch of Women of EUMEPS during CIRPLEX 2025 marked the beginning of a broader conversation within the industry. In the days following the launch, women from across the EPS value chain shared their impressions, emotions, and hopes for the future.
Below are selected testimonials from participants who attended the event, spoke at the panel, or followed the initiative online. Their voices underscore the importance of creating inclusive spaces — and the momentum that begins when those spaces are finally opened.
Nicki Hunt-Davison, British Plastics Federation
"The recent EUMEPS launch of Women of EUMEPS in Klagenfurt was well supported and well organised. I travelled from the UK to support this initiative and was pleased to see so much support from our industry women. I look forward to continuing my association with other female colleagues in the industry and hope that it will encourage more engagement from the future generations to become involved in the important work that we do."
Marta Grochowska, Yetico
"Participating in the CIRPLEX trade fair was an excellent opportunity for me to expand my knowledge of the latest achievements in plastic recycling. The event helped me gain a deeper understanding of the challenges the industry faces in terms of sustainable plastic waste management. Particularly valuable were the discussions on the use of recycled materials in the production of new products. As a representative of the EPS industry, I paid attention to solutions involving raw materials with recycled content as well as EPS products containing reclaimed material. In summary, CIRPLEX is an inspiring platform for exchanging experiences and ideas."
Celine Fleschurz, HIRSCH
"The first CIRPLEX in Klagenfurt was a complete success for hetech. It was a great pleasure for us to present our new compactor for EPS recycling solutions to the industry and to experience direct feedback. The interest and discussions showed how great the demand is for innovative, practical solutions in the recycling sector - and how important personal exchange remains.
Another special highlight was the WOMEN in the EPS Industry event organized by EUMEPS. For the first time, a space was created here in which the many strong women in our industry could network and exchange ideas in a targeted manner. The openness and spirit of this format created a real sense of togetherness - an enrichment that I hope has only just begun at CIRPLEX.
Many thanks to the EUMEPS team for the successful organisation."
Elin Sohlberg, BEWI Circular
"Last week, I had the opportunity to speak at the Cirplex Circular Plastics Summit in the beautiful Klagenfurt in Austria, on the topic of closing the loop with EPS fish boxes. It was a great platform to highlight the importance of circular solutions in Packing and how innovation in EPS recovery can make a real difference. Grateful to be a part of a conversion driving sustainable change in our industry."
Emanuela Gallo, EUMEPS
"I was honoured to be part of the Women in EPS initiative, celebrating leadership and impact in our industry. It was a privilege to have participated and contributed to the Cirplex Conference in Klagenfurt, where innovation and sustainability ideas in EPS stood out as a key focus. Events like these show that change happens when diverse voices come together with purpose and passion. I’m proud to be part of a growing network that values multi-dimensional talent and collaboration across borders.
Many thanks to the Business Frauen Center for creating space to amplify female voices in plastics and sustainability."
Michaela Andritsch, HIRSCH
"Participating in the first CIRPLEX 2025 was a truly inspiring experience. The conversations around circularity and value chain collaboration couldn’t be more timely. As part of the Women of EUMEPS campaign, I was especially proud to help shine a light on the many inspiring women working in the EPS industry. True progress comes from collaboration and there are great examples of success stories in our sector. Let’s make those role models more visible – together."
Ingrid Morin, EUMEPS
"The launch of Women of EUMEPS was a real success, and I could not be prouder of what we accomplished. I was genuinely moved to see some of our female colleagues interrupt their holidays to attend the launch and join the discussion — or even travel to the CIRPLEX Summit solely for our event.
It was also striking to witness people stopping at our stand simply to listen to the conversation. This clearly shows that we are addressing a real issue — and that the initiative truly resonates.
Moderating a discussion with two such impressive leaders and strategists as Agata and Verena was a personal milestone. Their words resonated deeply with the audience. They are living proof that, with the right skills and determination, anything is possible — and that the EPS sector is a great place to thrive."
Angela Fredericks, British Plastics Federation
"It was a pleasure to attend the Cirplex Exhibition, which showcased innovative solutions aimed at reducing plastic waste and advancing a circular economy for plastics. A key highlight was the launch of the EUMEPS Women in EPS initiative celebrating leadership and contributions of women in the Expanded Polystyrene industry. The launch featured a thought-provoking panel discussion and valuable networking opportunities. The exhibition overall encouraged meaningful collaboration across the UK and Europe. It was an insightful and energising experience for all committed to driving sustainable change in the plastics sector."