This week, in the elegant setting of Campo Aníbal in El Puig, Valencia, we had the honor of participating in the Official Dinner of ITENE’s 30th anniversary, coinciding with the 24th IAPRI World Packaging Conference. This event not only commemorated three decades of advances and evolution in research and development, but also celebrated the fruitful collaboration between Logifruit and ITENE.
Logifruit and ITENE: Innovation and Sustainability
Since 2004, Logifruit has worked closely with ITENE, establishing a partnership that has been crucial for our development in terms of sustainability and efficiency. Over the years, we have carried out numerous joint projects that have allowed us to implement advanced technologies and innovative materials, always with a focus on reducing environmental impact and optimizing the supply chain.
One of the most significant achievements of our collaboration is obtaining the positive assessment from EFSA (European Food Safety Authority), certifying the safety and quality of our processes and materials. This recognition validates our commitment to excellence and food safety, highlighting the importance of our partnership with ITENE in achieving these goals.
Pedro Ballester, President and CEO of Logifruit, has played a crucial role in this collaboration. Throughout the cooperation between both organizations, he has held various positions at ITENE, first as a Board Member from 2004 to 2015 and then as President from March 2015 to March 2023. He currently serves again as a Board Member since 2023.
Tributes at ITENE's 30th Anniversary
During the evening, ITENE’s President, Marta Codoñer, and Managing Director, Javier Zabaleta, recognized several key personalities in the center’s history. Among the honorees were:
- Javier Zabaleta, Managing Director, for his leadership and vision in steering the center.
- Ramón Catalá, author of the feasibility study and design of ITENE, who currently serves as scientific advisor and honorary professor at the Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology-CSIC.
- Luis Oliazola, Ángel Sánchez, and Pedro Ballester, former presidents of ITENE, who played fundamental roles in the institute’s development and growth.
- CIPASI, Tecnicarton, and AGLOLAK, ITENE’s oldest partners, whose contributions have been essential to the institution’s success.
- Roland ten Klooster, President of IAPRI, in recognition of his leadership and contributions to the global packaging industry.
Additionally, the continued support of the Generalitat Valenciana for technological centers like ITENE was highlighted. Special recognition was given to Felipe Carrasco, Regional Secretary for Innovation, Trade, and Consumer Affairs, who concluded the event.
ITENE’s 30th anniversary celebration acknowledges its history and past achievements, while looking forward to a future full of promise. At Logifruit, we are excited about what lies ahead and committed to continuing our close collaboration with ITENE to explore new frontiers in sustainability and logistics innovation.