The carton packaging industry is at a major turning point, driven by technological developments and a growing demand for sustainable solutions. Van Genechten Packaging (VGP) has just announced the arrival of Olaf Starken as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), a change in line with this dynamic. This appointment comes at a time when the company is strengthening its position in the European market, notably following the acquisition of the DOT2DOT group. Let's take a look at what's at stake in this appointment, and what it means for the graphic arts and printing sector.
Olaf Starken brings to VGP invaluable strategic development expertise gained at leading packaging companies. After five years at Stora Enso Packaging Material, where he held the position of Vice President Packaging Innovation, and seventeen years at PacProject, Starken has successfully led major business initiatives for multinational brands. His assumption of the role of CCO as of January 2025 aligns with VGP's drive to accelerate its international growth, while responding to new market needs in terms of sustainable innovation.
VGP's recent acquisition of the DOT2DOT group, a major player in the European premium packaging market, strengthens the company's international network and customer base. This acquisition, coupled with the arrival of Olaf Starken, marks a new phase in VGP's development strategy. The strengthening of its production capacities, with a focus on premium packaging, underlines the company's determination to position itself as a leader in the European market, while attracting new customers. Olaf Starken, with his experience of managing major international brands, will play a key role in this expansion. Read Van Genechten Packaging strengthens its European presence with the acquisition of Dot2Dot Group in Poland.
With a solid track record in managing complex projects at PacProject and Stora Enso, Starken has the skills needed to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing market. Today's carton packaging industry is facing increasing demands in terms of customization, logistics performance and sustainability integration. Under his leadership, VGP could explore new technological avenues, particularly in the automation and optimization of production processes.
As Europe's leading independent solid board producer, VGP relies on a robust industrial network with twelve converting plants, an extrusion site and a rigid box design center. This solid infrastructure is a considerable asset in meeting the expectations of demanding customers for premium packaging. Starken's ability to strengthen relationships with existing customers while developing new partnerships will be key to sustaining the company's growth.
