EKIP plays a key role in promoting the profession’s quality and know-how, which it
actively encourages through:
- the monitoring of regulatory developments and the definition and revision of
standards
EKIP was behind the definition of European standards on hygiene and safety in
relation to bakery equipment, and also contributes to the work of the European
Committee for Standardisation.
EKIP works closely with CETIM (the French technical centre for mechanical
industries) in certification, and with LEMPA (the food equipment and product testing
laboratory), carrying out numerous studies and research projects as well as drawing
up technical guides for equipment.
- the development of export tools
EKIP produces and updates a number of market and export reports.
It hosts stands at international trade fairs and arranges showcases for French knowhow,
using its members’ equipment.
EKIP also organises conferences and symposiums aimed at an international
audience, both in France and in other countries.
It has active partnerships with UBIFRANCE (the French agency for international
business development) and l’ADEPTA (an organisation that promotes France’s
agricultural and agri-processing sectors internationally).
- its close relationship with distributors
EKIP works through UNIBP (the national union of bakery equipment installers) to
raise distributors’ awareness of the skills required.
- education
Training is notably organised through the FFE (the French association for export
training) created by EKIP, which brings together the nine leading bakery and
confectionery schools in France. The objective is to encourage training and
disseminate French baking expertise in France and internationally.
- effective communication tools
EKIP’s website helps to promote French bakery and confectionery equipment to a
wide audience in France and around the world, as well the business sector in
general.
- trade fairs
EKIP is the creator and owner of EUROPAIN, the international bakery,
confectionery and catering exhibition, which takes place every three years and
provides a strong impetus for the sector, as well as the National Bakery-
Confectionery Fair, a yearly event.