Based in Barcelona, the Packaging Cluster is a non-profit association established in 2012 by a collective of Catalan companies. The entity’s primary objective is to enhance the competitiveness of the packaging ecosystem by promoting market intelligence, networking, and impactful projects for the sector. The cluster represents the entire value chain of the packaging industry, from raw materials, machinery, and manufacturing to end-users. It functions as a catalyst for market intelligence by disseminating studies on sector trends, international market opportunities, and new technologies. The organization manages national and international R&D projects, fostering synergies and creating consortiums among companies and knowledge centers. Additionally, it provides ongoing professional training through postgraduate degrees, online accreditations, and custom in-company courses to enrich the entire value chain. As of 2023, the cluster comprised over 130 active members, including companies, knowledge centers, and other entities. The packaging sector in Catalonia includes over 700 companies, with a turnover of €12.908 billion. The Packaging Cluster holds several key certifications, including being part of the Catalonia Clusters program by ACCIÓ (the Agency for B2B Competitiveness), registration as an Innovative B2B Association (AEI) by the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism, and receiving the Gold Label for Cluster Management Excellence from the European Cluster Excellence Initiative (ECIS), which was renewed in 2023. Keywords: packaging industry, non-profit association, B2B competitiveness, market intelligence, R&D projects, professional training, networking, value chain, sustainability, circular economy, Catalonia, Barcelona, innovation management, internationalization, packaging solutions, B2B development, strategic alliances, industry collaboration, technological innovation, market trends
