June 17-20 (Friday-Monday), 2005 sees the 9th edition of Glass Processing Days (GPD) in Tampere, Finland. GPD is an independent forum dedicated to development of the global glass industry which has grown in successive editions, attracting 870 delegates in 2003. It is organised biennially and consists of the world's largest and leading international glass conference with practical case studies, several workshops, a glass products exhibition and an interesting social networking programme.

This conference's opening address will be delivered by Arthur Ulens, CEO of Glaverbel. After the plenary session, the conference splits into various sessions dedicated to the processing and use of architectural and automotive glass, which run concurrently. A new feature for this GPD is a day dedicated to coatings in architectural glass.

The unique concept of Glass Processing Days gives participants the benefit of current findings that affect the industry first hand, with ample opportunity for follow-up discussions and networking with lecturers and attendants. The highlighting of case studies covering business operations, products and processes is strongly in the focus of the upcoming conference.

The social networking activities at Glass Processing Days have also become solid part of the event. Several of the events take advantage of Finland's midnight sun, including the unforgettable farewell party.

The timing of this year's conference over a long weekend minimises the loss of job-time and maximises the opportunities for learning, problem solving, and networking.

A special conference discount offer is available to Glass Age readers: entry to GPD is 880e + 29e registration charge instead of the normal 930e + 29e (VAT 22% is included and refundable).

This fee includes admission to all sessions, conference bag and proceedings, lunches and tea/coffee on conference days, and all evening events with dinners and dinner drinks. The registration fee for accompanying people is 150e.

To take advantage of this fantastic offer, participants have to register through the GPD website service, www.gpd.fi Go to the registration page (www.tampereconference.fi/

gpd2005) and then to the registration form. In the row labelled ‘Person/ Organization who recommended attending GPD conference’ simply fill in ‘Glass Age special offer’.

This offer is valid until 31st March.