New EFTTA Board member calls for protection for innovators

One of the newest Board members at EFTTA – the body that represents the trade in Europe – has called for protection for trailblazing brands that are investing in innovation.

Moira Dal Pozzo, Product Manager at Italian-based award-winning OEM line maker, Plastools, was speaking after restrictions on the use of lead in fishing tackle took a step closer. Writing on LinkedIn, she said: “Protecting the environment is a goal we all share. But are we taking the right path?

“Developing alternative materials require significant investment in research, new tooling, testing and much more expensive raw materials. European manufacturers are ready to innovate, but will the market be protected?

“If European companies invest heavily to comply with the new regulations, while non-compliant products continue to enter the market from outside the EU – or are sold through uncontrolled channels – who will truly benefit?

“We risk penalising the very companies that innovate, manufacture in Europe, create jobs, pay taxes and follow the rules without achieving the environmental results we want.

“A successful transition must be sustainable in every sense – for the environment, the European industry and fair competition.

“At Plastools, we will continue investing in innovation and developing lead-free products. However, innovation can only thrive if the same rules apply to everyone. Sustainability must protect not only nature, but also the future of European manufacturing.”

Dal Pozzo, who joined the EFTTA Board alongside Jordi Hernández Aynes, CEO of Spanish-based Calico S.A., told Angling International: “I accepted the role because I genuinely believe in the value of working together. I have attended EFTTEX for many years not only as an exhibitor, but as someone who believes that our industry needs a strong European association capable of representing manufacturers, distributors and retailers with one united voice.

“No company can face today’s challenges alone. The fishing tackle industry is dealing with increasing regulations, environmental legislation, changing consumer expectations and strong international competition. The more businesses that support EFTTA, the stronger our collective voice becomes.

“EFTTA is about protecting our industry, sharing knowledge and creating opportunities for cooperation.”

Plastools has enjoyed a winning sequence at Angling International Live and EFTTEX in recent years and continued the run at Barcelona last month with a winner and runner-up spot in the Carp Feeder & Coarse category for its Super Sinking and Zero Memory Black & Cristal lines.

Dal Pozzo added: “Our next stop will be China Fish in Weihai this September. Plastools will be exhibiting and I would be delighted to welcome customers, industry friends and anyone interested in discovering our latest innovations. Whether you are already working with us or simply curious to learn more, please come and visit us. I look forward to meeting you in China.”

Main picture: Moira Dal Pozzo (right) is pictured receiving the award for Plastools’ Super Sinking line at EFTTEX this year.