2026 AGM Dortmund

May 27, 2026

ETIRA and The Recycler Live Bring the Industry Together in Dortmund

On 21 May 2026, ETIRA held its Annual Meeting during The Recycler Live & Trade Days in Dortmund, Germany, bringing together members and industry representatives from across Europe for discussions on the future of remanufacturing, compliance, sustainability, and circular economy policy.

With strong participation from across the membership, the event once again demonstrated the importance of face-to-face industry engagement at a time of significant regulatory and market change.

During the AGM, members reviewed and approved financial and statutory matters while also discussing ETIRA priorities and ongoing activities for the year ahead. As a member-driven organisation, the meeting provided an important opportunity for participants to contribute directly to the association’s direction and ongoing policy work.

Earlier in the day, ETIRA facilitated a private Industry Round Table bringing together approximately 35 delegates from across the sector. Discussions focused on how evolving remanufacturing business models align with new EU sustainability objectives and the growing recognition of remanufacturing as a strategic pillar of the circular economy.

Participants also examined the increasing impact of non-compliant imports and the continuing distortion of fair competition within the European market. Delegates exchanged views on how the industry can better respond to regulatory, environmental, and enforcement challenges while protecting high-quality European remanufacturing operations.

Additional discussions focused on upcoming EU Ecodesign Regulation measures,

broader circular economy policies, empties collection requirements, and the increasing digitalisation of collection and waste systems through DIWASS. Participants agreed that the future of cartridge remanufacturing in Europe remains closely linked to effective collection systems and the continued availability of reusable OEM cartridges.

ETIRA representatives also contributed to the show’s briefing programme through a series of presentations covering compliance developments, sustainability, market trends, and wider industry challenges.

Throughout the event, ETIRA maintained an open booth where members, partners, and visitors could meet, exchange views, and discuss current market developments directly with the association team.

ETIRA members were also strongly represented during The Recycler Annual

Awards presentation held during the evening networking reception. ETIRA members Altkin, Copyclic, Katun, KMP, and Integral were all recognised during the awards ceremony, reflecting the continued strength and innovation of the European remanufacturing sector.

The award for Remanufacturer of the Year was presented to Altkin following an extremely close public vote. Just eight votes behind was CM Printing GmbH, demonstrating the strong support both companies received across the industry.

The evening reception, kindly sponsored by ETIRA member SAPI, provided an excellent opportunity for delegates to continue discussions, strengthen business relationships, and celebrate industry achievements in an informal setting.

ETIRA extends its sincere thanks to the organisers of The Recycler Live & Trade Days, including Editor and Publisher of The Recycler, Stefanie Unland and David Connett of Connett & Unland GbR, as well as all sponsors, speakers, exhibitors, and participants who contributed to the success of the event.

As regulatory and market pressures continue to accelerate across Europe, ETIRA will continue supporting members through advocacy, compliance guidance, industry coordination, and the promotion of sustainable remanufacturing throughout the European market.