For further information, please contact:

Jeannie Johnson
Reusable Pallet and
Container Coalition
202.554.7722

Industry Standards, Food Safety and
Environment to be Discussed at RPCC Annual Meeting

Washington -- May 6, 2001 -- The Reusable Pallet and Container Coalition (RPCC), a trade association of companies in the reusable packaging industry, will host its Annual Meeting here at the Westin Grand Hotel on June 28, 2001. The meeting will feature sessions on technology and taxation issues, two case studies and a keynote panel discussion on industry standards. Among the speakers participating in the meeting are John Clarke, Virginia Tech; Phil Boyle, Savi Technology; Ralph Walker, United States Postal Service; Roger Bernstein, American Plastic Council; Wayne Vandenboom, General Motors; Bruce Peterson, Wal*Mart; Tom Stenzel, UFFVA; Gary Clay, Excel Corp; Cynthia Forsch, Albertson's and Michael McCartney, QLM Consulting.

"The annual meeting focuses on the most current issues facing manufacturers, poolers, suppliers and customers of reusable pallets and containers. The program showcases companies who have successfully implemented returnable systems to lower costs, improve supply chain efficiencies, and meet or surpass environmental and business objectives," said Jim Dobell, President, Linpac Materials Handling and President of the RPCC.

"In addition to individual presentations from experts in the field, the meeting will highlight a panel discussion that will deal with today's key issues surrounding standard footprints, cross stacking, food safety, hygiene and labeling."

The Reusable Pallet and Container Coalition advocates the growth of reusable packaging systems in North America. It embraces this position because of the economic, environmental and safety benefits created by re-use. It advocates this growth through legislative and regulatory actions; strategic alliances; standards, guidelines, and best practices; education and public awareness.

Note: Complimentary registration to the RPCC Annual Meeting is available to accredited reporters and editors. Please contact Jeannie Johnson at 301.942.5139 for additional information.