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Be in Touch with Us. Section avaliable in English only.GPN Wraps Up a Successful 2024 General Meeting in Södertälje, Sweden
The Global Passenger Network (GPN) recently concluded its highly successful 2024 General Meeting, held from November 13-16 in Södertälje, Sweden. Hosted by Scania, GPN’s strategic partner, the event marked the network’s 37th General Meeting and featured a rich agenda of activities, networking opportunities, and industry insights.
A Warm Welcome and Exciting Activities
Participants were warmly welcomed with a welcome cocktail on the opening evening, setting the stage for networking and collaboration. Over the following days, Scania offered attendees exclusive access to its facilities, including visits to the Scania Museum, battery factory, and demo center.
Highlights of the First Day
The first day began with a heartfelt welcome by Agnes Pastuszak, Chairman of GPN, who shared updates on the organization’s growth and future plans. A significant tradition of the meeting was upheld as GPN officially welcomed new members and partners into the network:
New Members
- Norway – JVB represented by Christian Hedlov Engh, CEO & Bjorn Skinnarland, Sales Manager
- Jordan – Saltus Travel presented by Louay Daoud, Co-founder
New Partners
- Eurocolven represented by Wilson Rubens Colussi, Managing Director & Mar Cuevas Project Management Marketing
- Value Group represented by Daniele Bocchieri, Co-CEO & Board Member & Federico Puddu, International Procurement Manager
This growth underscores GPN’s commitment to expanding its network and fostering collaboration.
Collaboration with Busworld 2025
A key announcement was the collaboration between GPN and Busworld 2025, with GPN serving as the primary source for topics, content, and speakers for the conference, “The Future of Coach”, to be held in October 2025. This milestone ensures coach operators will have a prominent platform to influence the future of the industry.
2024 Drivers Photo Competition
The evening featured a memorable Awards Ceremony for the 2024 Drivers Photo Competition, which celebrated the creativity and passion of GPN member drivers.
- 3rd Prize (€500): Alan Leht from Hansabuss | GPN Estonia (Sponsored by First Travel Solutions)
- 2nd Prize (€1,500): Gabor Vamos from Global Travel Hungary | GPN Hungary (Sponsored by WiiBus)
- 1st Prize (€3,000): Carmo Fernando from Frota Azul | GPN Portugal (Sponsored by Idrive)
Fernando’s generosity stood out as he donated his prize to support a colleague in need, embodying the spirit of unity within the GPN community.
Partners’ Marketplace
The second day began with the Partners Marketplace, a “speed dating” session where partners and coach operators explored new opportunities for collaboration.
Insights and Learning
Educational sessions followed, including:
- Lean Management: Presented by Bas Dubois, Managing Director Benelux at Volvo
- Crisis Management: Led by Laura Hadzik, Partner at JMW Solicitors LLP
Scania’s Sustainability Focus
Participants also visited Scania’s state-of-the-art battery factory, where sustainable modular batteries are produced, and the Demo Center, offering test drives of Scania vehicles, including buses, coaches, and trucks.
Looking Ahead
The meeting concluded with the announcement of the next General Meeting, scheduled for February 26-28, 2025, in New Delhi, India, hosted by Prasanna Purple | GPN India.
In her closing remarks, Agnes Pastuszak reflected on the record-breaking attendance and thanked Scania for their hospitality and all participants for their contributions. “This meeting is a unique opportunity for coach companies to share knowledge, create strong relationships, and expand their businesses,” she said.
GPN is now gearing up for an exciting 2025, looking forward to bringing even greater value to its members and partners!