2019 was an important milestone for Eurobitume, as it marked 50 years since we were formed in 1969 to act as a central, unified voice for bitumen producers and marketers across Europe. Much has changed in the construction and infrastructure industries since then, but the importance of bitumen as a raw material has not and with the growing emphasis upon sustainability and environmental consciousness, bitumen has emerged as a valuable raw material for the 21st century and beyond.
We celebrated our 50-year anniversary with our industry friends, partners and many of our past Presidents during the Spring Meeting, which took place in Brussels in April.
From left to right (company at time of Presidency):
Christophe Jacquet (Total) – President in 2018;
Siobhan McKelvey (Nynas) – 2015 – 2018;
Carl Robertus (BP) – 2014;
Alberto Madella (API) – 2012;
Franck Haëttel (Total) – 2008 – 2010;
Knut Søraas (ExxonMobil) – 2003 ;
Philippe Dewez (BP) - 2003 – 2008
Also at the Spring Meeting, Asphalt Institute (AI) President Pete Grass (far left) and AI Chair (2019) Kat Crownover (2nd left) presented Eurobitume President Christophe Jacquet and Director General Siobhan McKelvey with a plaque to commemorate our 50-year anniversary and celebrate the close collaboration on topics of common interest between our two organisations. 2019 was also a special year for the Asphalt Institute, as they were celebrating their 100-year anniversary.
Professional moderator Katrina Sichel facilitated the Member’s Seminar on the first day of the Spring Meeting, which focused upon the key milestones and achievements during the 50 years of Eurobitume.
When members arrived for the Anniversary dinner in the evening, they passed through a balloon arch and had their photograph taken in front of special roll-up banners.
Eurobitume Past Presidents were recognised during the Anniversary dinner, when there was also a fun quiz which brought together the people at each table in their own teams.
