THANOS
SUSTAINABLE
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
FIAT-IFTA 2024
CONVENTION IN KRAKOW
POLAND
STANDARDS
ARE ESSENTIAL
IN FUNERAL INDUSTRY
105
MAGAZINE
SPRING 2024
The World Organization of Funeral Operatives
Your World. Your Way. Your Expo.
BOLOGNA ITALY
2024
W W W . T A N E X P O . C O M
Organized by: BEXPO s.r.l. – Via Alfieri Maserati 20 – 40128 Bologna ITALY – Ph. +39 051 282611 - info@tanexpo.com
FOLLOW US
WELCOME
TO YOUR
LEVEL
SEE YOU THERE!
Dear colleagues and friends,
s we welcome the fresh blossoms of spring,
I am delighted to witness the growth of
FIAT-IFTA initiatives! Thanks to the collective
commitment of our members, new committees
dedicated to pivotal industry matters such as
education, standardization, embalming, and
sustainability are created!
The preparations for the September FIAT-IFTA
2024 Convention in Krakow, Poland are in full
swing! The enthusiasm surrounding this event is
palpable, and our first participants have already
secured their spots. With each passing day, the
number of our partners continues to expand,
underscoring the significance of this gathering.
I encourage all members not to delay joining us,
as the Early Bird offer ends on April 30. Don’t miss
your chance to join us in Krakow and contribute
to the enriching dialogue and global networking
opportunities that await. For further details and
registration, visit www.fiatifta2024.com .
I am also very happy to announce the second
edition of the supervised practical embalming
workshop in Barcelona scheduled for May
and organized by SORTEM in cooperation with
FIAT-IFTA and ALTIMA as part of the FIAT-IFTA’s
Global Education Program! As interest in this
workshop is very high, I warmly encourage
FIAT-IFTA members to submit inquiries and
applications promptly. More details can be
found on our website and in this issue of
THANOS magazine.
Shifting our focus to the main theme of this
issue,
regulations,
standards,
norms,
and
certifications in the funeral industry play a
crucial role in ensuring quality, ethics, and
sustainability within our profession. I invite
you to explore regulatory perspectives from
diverse countries, accompanied by illuminating
examples that inspire and inform. Additionally,
don’t miss the insightful article on navigating
industry changes with VUCA and BANI strategies.
As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape
of our industry, let us embrace the spirit of
collaboration,
innovation,
and
continuous
learning. Together, we can shape a future that
upholds the highest standards of excellence
while honouring the timeless traditions that
define our profession.
Wishing you an inspiring reading experience and
looking forward to meeting you all September
18-20, 2024 in Krakow, Poland at 17th FIAT-IFTA
Convention and 53rd FIAT-IFTA I.C.D. Annual
Meeting. I will be delighted to welcome you to
my home country and one of Poland’s most
beautiful cities.
Marek Cichewicz
FIAT-IFTA President
Marek Cichewicz
FIAT-IFTA President
THANOS MAGAZINE
THANOS magazine, the official magazine of FIAT-IFTA
Editor-in-Chief: Katarzyna Supa, e-mail: fiatifta-magazine@thanos.org
Editorial Office: FIAT-IFTA – The World Organization of Funeral Operatives,
Apolloweg 325, 8239DC, Lelystad – NL
Design & DTP: PRZECINEK.studio
All materials are copyrighted. Reprinting and use of materials require
permission from the FIAT-IFTA Office. Editors reserve the right to shorten texts
and change the titles of submitted materials. FIAT-IFTA Office is not liable
for the content of advertisements and promotional materials.
Feel invited to create the Thanos Magazine together with us and advertise your products and services: fiatifta-magazine@thanos.org
Photo by Sándor Kerekes for OTEI
PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE
THANOS MAGAZINE | No. 105 – SPRING 2024
New national member to
represent Romania
In January, Asociatia Serviciilor Funerare (A.S.F.)
became the FIAT-IFTA National Representative
for Romania. This was following approval from
the FIAT-IFTA board and the final confirmation
will take place during the FIAT-IFTA Convention
in Krakow. The Asociatia Serviciilor Funerare
was
established
upon
consent
of
20 authorized funeral service providers
who in February 2020 decided that
it was time for the funeral services
entrepreneurs
to
protect
their
industry, investments, employees,
and their own work by means of
this professional organization. Vision
of the association is based on two
ideas: compliance with the law and the
respect given to the families in distress.
The organization started its journey under
extremely difficult conditions caused by the
state of emergency due to COVID-19 which was
declared shortly after their first meeting. The
Asociatia Serviciilor Funerare was successfully
registered in the Register of Associations and
Foundations at the Registry of the Cluj-Napoca
Court House under number 1184/12A on June
26, 2020. The first General Assembly meeting
took place in Brasov. Today the A.S.F has more
than 50 members – authorized funeral service
providers, some with more than 30 years of
experience in the funeral industry. All associate
members of A.S.F. strictly comply with the
legislation in the field of funeral services, and they
all went through the authorization procedure
according to the provisions of the law. In other
words, compliance is placed above everything,
and it represents the basic condition for
accepting applications to become a
member of the Association.
The declared purpose of the
Asociatia Serviciilor Funerare is to
represent at a national level the
interests of its members providing
funeral services, to harmonize the
Romanian legislation countrywide
and to establish common funds to
achieve their objectives. The Romanian
association’s main goal is to raise the
standards and quality of the funeral services close
to or equal to European standards. To achieve
this, the A.S.F. is committed to formulating an
Ethical Code governing the operational practices
of funeral service companies. The intention is to
implement this Ethical Code as a comprehensive
Charter of Good Practices across the nation,
thereby fostering a culture of excellence in the
industry.
CONAPSEF: a historic step in the transformation
of funeral services in Mexico
13th December, as a result of a vision aimed at
collaboratively and effectively responding to the
demands for changes from Mexican families
and consumers in the funeral industry sector,
a significant milestone has been achieved
by organizing and establishing the National
Commission for Prevision and Funeral Services
of the Confederation of National Chambers
of Commerce, Services, and Tourism of the
United
Mexican
States
(CONAPSEF).
This
entity brings together the leading providers and
companies in the country’s funeral pre-planning
services, funeral services, and cemetery sectors.
This noteworthy achievement in funeral services
in Mexico is collectively led by industry leaders
and addresses fundamental aspects such as
funeral
assistance,
pre-sales,
supply
chain,
international transfers, cemeteries, and service
provision. It pursues its purpose legally in the
category, maintaining a clear focus on protecting
families and their future peace of mind.
CONAPSEF is formally constituted as a legal
commission
within
the
Confederation
of
Chambers of Commerce of Mexico, ensuring
the functionality and recognition of the funeral
sector in the country’s business ecosystem.
This positions it as a crucial element of society,
emphasizing the importance of goals centred on
sustainable development, excellence, empathy,
and emotional management. These principles
are key pathways to place the funeral sector
where it belongs in the future, within Mexico’s
public health chain. Moreover, a core objective
will be the training of executives and personnel
in the sector, involving the best universities and
business schools.
4
No. 105 – SPRING 2024 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MEMBERS’ NEWS
This significant achievement for funeral services
in Mexico was celebrated at the “Constituent
Assembly” December 13, at 4:00 PM, at the
headquarters of CONCANACO SERVYTUR, located
at Balderas 144, Third floor, Centro, Cuauhtémoc,
06070. The event was attended by the President
of the Confederation, Engineer José Héctor
Tejeda Shaar, the Treasurer, Dr. Octavio de la
Torre Stéffano, and the CEOs of major Mexican
companies, a diverse group of prominent
individuals in funeral services worldwide via
video conference, as well as various personalities,
entrepreneurs,
presidents
of
international
associations, and colleagues from Mexico and
other countries.
Additionally, the appointments that will govern
the Commission were announced. As President
Mr. César Herrera Porcallo. In the position of First
Vice President, Mr. Raymundo Alemán Cuellar,
while Mr. Alberto Orvañanos Marín will serve as
Second Vice President. Mr. Marcos Manuel Castro
Ruiz will assume the role of General Secretary, and
Mr. Marco Antonio Morales Sotarriba will be the
Commission’s Administrator. Mr. Andrés Burzaco
Malo will represent the International Commission,
and Mr. Héctor Marcelino Flores Hidalgo will be
part of the Deontological Commission.
Also, CONAPSEF assumed representation of the
sector in FIAT-IFTA and appointed a commission
representative
to
standardize
operations
systematically, aligning with practices in other
countries.
Plaza de la Tecnología, 2 Nave 5 - 08223 Terrassa
T + 34 93 143 54 70 info@sortem.es - www.sortem.es
@sortemdelivery
The decision
to return to nature
MEMBERS’ NEWS
ADVERTISEMENT
Let’s welcome new members of FIAT-IFTA
We are happy to welcome 7 new members of our
organization! Since November 2023, we have been
joined by 1 National Member, 3 Active Members
and 3 Associate Members. Please welcome:
National Member:
• Asociatia Serviciilor Funerare from Romania
Active Members:
• Frigid Fluid Company from United States
• NOW DIGITAL AGENCY SRL from Romania
• Professional Embalmers Association of Ireland
Associate Members:
• Grupo Soluciones Andalucia from Spain
• Nepal Funeral Services PVT Ltd
• SFI – Soins Funéraires de l’Iroise from France
If you wish to expand your network to enhance
the global exposure of your services, apply for
FIAT-IFTA Membership by sending an e-mail at
info@thanos.org .
Halfway to Hades during
10th edition of NECROEXPO Fair
Necroexpo is the most prominent funeral
industry event in Poland organized by Targi
Kielce, FIAT-IFTA Associated Member and the
runner-up in the Polish exhibition and congress
industry’s rankings. The event brings together
producers, suppliers, and funeral industry
aficionados. It is the one-stop shop for home
and abroad business insiders. The jubilee, 10th
Necroexpo edition, is going to be held from 7 to
9 of June in Targi Kielce, Poland and present the
latest developments, technologies and trends, as
well as inspiring lectures and workshops given
by experts!
This funeral industry expo presents offers from
all corners of the world; its comprehensive
agenda and professional visitors also attract
foreign companies from the Netherlands, Italy,
Spain, Germany, Lithuania and Ukraine. – Targi
Kielce NECROEXPO attracts exhibitors offering
coffins, urns and hearses. Each exhibition is
accompanied by a Used Hearses Exchange, which
is very popular with visitors. Manufacturers and
distributors of cremation furnaces, embalming
agents, autopsy tools and equipment, flowers and
artificial bouquets are also present. – says Marcin
Musiał, Necroexpo Project Manager.
Necroexpo visitors represent domestic funeral
parlours, but numerous visitors represent
neighbouring countries. In June, the Kielce
exhibition and congress centre will host
cemetery managers, mortuary workers, and
flower shop owners. 2,500 active and modern
funeral homes operate in the Polish funeral
industry. 80% of Polish funeral companies join
the expo as customers and make the most of
the show offer.
The
upcoming
Polish
Necroexpo’s
agenda
is enhanced with numerous fringe events –
training sessions, presentations, shows and
workshops. – A gala awarding ceremony with
jubilee statuettes, a banquet with live music, an
evening barbecue party create business bonds. Each
Necroexpo exhibitor will receive a commemorative
photo album; see how the expo stands, and how
the products and people have changed since the
beginning. The album depicts Necroexpo’s 20 years
of history – adds Marcin Musiał.
Targi Kielce cooperates with the most essential
funeral industry institutions in Poland: the
Polish Funeral Chamber Association, the Polish
Funeral Association, the Institute of the Funeral
and Cemetery Industry, the Consortium of
Funeral Exhibitors. Poland’s International Funeral
and Cemetery Fair is under the auspices and
recommended by the World Organization of Funeral
Operatives FIAT-IFTA whose representatives have
visited Necroexpo for many years.
More info at:
https://www.targikielce.pl/necroexpo
6
No. 105 – SPRING 2024 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MEMBERS’ NEWS
n 2024, the stunning Polish city of Krakow will host
the 17th FIAT-IFTA Convention and 53rd FIAT-IFTA
I.C.D. Annual Meeting. This significant gathering
taking place from 18th to 20th of September 2024
will be supported by the Polish Funeral Association,
which is the longest-operating Polish organization
in the funeral industry in Poland and national
member of FIAT-IFTA as well as the Institute of
Funeral and Cemetery Industries.
The meeting in the beautiful city of Krakow, Poland
will be a fantastic opportunity for international
business networking among the funeral industry
professionals, an occasion to engage in the exchange
of insights, to draw inspiration from conference
sessions, to explore the diverse offerings of
funeral product manufacturers and distributors as
well as services providers, and to forge enduring
business
relationships.
The
FIAT-IFTA
meeting
will
focus
on
the
organization’s
latest
developments,
intangible
funeral heritage, as well as an
education in embalming, coffin standardization
and sustainability in the funeral industry. When
attending the FIAT-IFTA 2024 Convention, you
will witness a very solemn moment – the passing
over of the FIAT-IFTA Presidential insignia and the
announcement of the new FIAT-IFTA Board. You
will also discover the history and monuments
of Krakow – a UNESCO-listed former royal capital
city, experience distinct flavours of Polish
cuisine and immerse yourself in the vibrant
culture of the Lesser Poland region (Małopolska).
The first overview of the program of events at
the FIAT-IFTA 2024 Convention is now available at
https://fiatifta2024.com/agenda .
READ MORE
THANOS MAGAZINE | No. 105 – SPRING 2024
LET’S MEET
FIAT-IFTA 2024
CONVENTION
JOIN US IN KRAKOW, POLAND
18-20 SEPTEMBER
Przemysław Czaja for Municipality of Kraków
Modern venue
The FIAT-IFTA 2024 Convention will take place
at the modern venue of CKF_13 Fabryczna
Conference Center! The elegant and modern
spaces of CKF_13 are part of the Fabryczna City
complex, one of the most prestigious locations
in Krakow in recent years. This complex is like a
city within a city! It’s situated within the restored
buildings of the 1930s-era Vodka Distillery, later
known as Destylernia Polmos. This place holds a
history that’s worth discovering!
Within the complex, you’ll find the modern four-
star Mercure Fabryczna City Hotel (the main
recommended hotel for convention participants),
as well as a residential area with all necessary
infrastructure.
There’s
also
a
gastronomic
passage with top culinary concepts (restaurants
featuring regional, Italian, Asian, and vegetarian
cuisine, a city brewery, a cocktail bar, and a
café). Additionally, there’s a modern multimedia
Vodka Factory Museum (you can visit it, but pre-
registration and additional payment is required).
You can also relax in the gym, pool and wellness
center. Fabryczna City complex is well connected
to the main railway station, Kraków-Balice
International Airport, and the Krakow Old Town.
More information about Fabryczna City
Official app
Download the official app –
be at the centre of events!
Participants of the meeting
will
have
access
to
an
extremely useful app full of
tools that will help them fully
enjoy their presence at the
FIAT-IFTA 2024 Convention
in Krakow. The app can be
downloaded free of charge
from Google Play and App
Store. It is available in Polish
and English. Login to the app will be provided
to the participant after his / her registration is
complete.
Registration
Don’t miss the Early bird offer – register
before
April
30
and
get
a
discount!
Registration deadline is August 31, 2024.
• Members: 800 EUR/person
(early bird fee: 700 EUR)
(without accommodation)
• Accompanying guests: 600 EUR/person
(early bird fee: 500 EUR)
(without accommodation)
• Optional Tourist Program
– Saturday (21.09.2024): 200 EUR
Payment for registration can be made by direct
bank transfer or by credit card.
All details concerning
the FIAT-IFTA 2024
Convention can be found at
www.fiatifta2024.com
8
No. 105 – SPRING 2024 | THANOS MAGAZINE
LET’S MEET
SPONSORS & PARTNERS
Media partners
revista
funeraria
RF
Please choose your tickets carefully, there are
5 variants to choose from (details are given
in the ticket description). Additional tourist
program is included in one of the variants!
Members and all professionals registration
includes access for conference and all FIAT-IFTA
meetings, event catering and invitation to the
Welcome Cocktail Reception, Gala Dinner, Farewell
Party, technical visit and sightseeing of Krakow old city
on 20th September 2024.
Accompanying
guest
registration
includes
invitation to the Welcome Cocktail Reception, Gala
Dinner, Farewell Party, technical visit and sightseeing of
Krakow old city on 20th September 2024. Conferences
and FIAT-IFTA meetings are not included.
Optional Tourist Program on 21st September 2024
includes visit WIELICZKA Salt Mine and AUSCHWITZ-
BIRKENAU Museum. Lunch is included.
About city of Krakow
Krakow is a magical, royal city. It used to be the
former capital city of Poland until 1596. Today, the
seat of Polish Kings stands more majestic than ever,
beckoning visitors from around the globe to witness
its timeless allure.
Overflowing
with
legends,
priceless
historical
architecture and art, as well as fabulous leisure and
entertainment options, Poland’s historical capital,
whose entire Old Town and historic centre and the
nearby Wieliczka Salt Mine has been a UNESCO
World Heritage Site since 1978, captivates and
enchants visitors at first sight. It’s really not hard
to see why. During the FIAT-IFTA 2024 Convention
you will have a chance to discover this stunning city!
More information about Krakow
About Poland
Poland is a fascinating country at the geographical,
cultural,
business
crossroads
of
Eastern
and
Western Europe. With a total area of 312,679 km²
(120,728 sq mi) it’s the ninth biggest country on the
continent. The Polish population is over 38,5 million
people. The capital city is Warsaw (around 2 million
inhabitants) standing on the longest Polish river, the
Vistula. The official language is Polish, and the Złoty
serves as the official currency, subdivided into 100
groszy.
Geographically, Poland is located in Central Europe,
bounded by the Baltic Sea to the north and two
mountain ranges to the south, the Sudetes and the
Carpathian Mountains.
Poland shares its borders with seven countries:
Germany to the west, the Czech Republic and
Slovakia to the south, Ukraine and Belarus to the east,
and Lithuania and the Kaliningrad Oblast (Russian
territory) to the north.
Historically Poland’s roots go back over 1,000 years.
Strategically located in the heart of Europe, have
been marked by periods of independence as well as
periods of domination by other countries. The country
was sorely tested during the Second World War.
After its end, it remained part of the Soviet bloc for
decades. A new era began when Poland became
an EU member in May 2004, five years after joining
NATO and 15 years after the end of communist rule.
Nowadays, Poland is considered one of the most
economically stable and fastest-growing countries in
the world and has a strong position on the map of
business-friendly places.
Make yourself known!
After you register,
don’t forget to download the
FIAT-IFTA Krakow 2024 app
and complete your profile in it!
THANOS MAGAZINE | No. 105 – SPRING 2024
LET’S MEET
Don’t miss the Early bird offer
– register before April 30 and get a discount!
Registration deadline is August 31, 2024
All details concerning the FIAT-IFTA 2024 Convention
can be found at www.fiatifta2024.com
REGISTRATION
he European Federation of Funeral
Services
(EFFS)
aims
to
provide
knowledge, tools and instruments for
their members in 29 countries across
Europe and worldwide, in order to assist
in implementing and upholding the
highest possible quality of services in the
funeral profession.
Almost 20 years ago, in the absence of common
European legislation for services in the funeral
sector, it became very apparent that a standard of
services was necessary and for that purpose, the
first European Norm (EN15017) was published in
2005. Several years later, in line with the changing
landscape in the funeral sector, it again became
quite apparent that an update was imminent
and following a three-year process, the current
EN15017 was published in 2019.
Today, many funeral professionals throughout
Europe voluntarily perform their services according
to the guidelines and standards set forth in the
EN15017. At the same time, continuing to increase
awareness of the EN15017 throughout Europe is
of the utmost importance to uphold the quality of
services provided in our sector.
The establishment of a European Norm (EN)
involves an extremely structured process overseen
by European standardization organizations, in the
case of the EN15017, by the European Committee
for Standardization (CEN) located in Brussels,
Belgium.
As a first step, a cooperation between the European
Federation of Funeral Services (EFFS), the Austrian
Standards Institute (ASI) and the European
Committee for Standardization (CEN) was put in
writing, immediately followed by the Technical
Committee Formation (see 4. below). The TC 448,
chaired by Anke Teraa, Executive Director of the
EFFS, comprised representatives from all across
Europe, i.e. 23 members from 12 countries. Once
the European Technical Committee was formed,
so-called national mirror committees were put
in place in all involved countries and all parties
worked hand-in-hand throughout each step of the
process.
How is a European Norm established? Here’s the
process.
1. Identification of Need: The process typically
begins with the identification of a need for a
new standard or the revision of an existing
one. This need can arise from technological
developments,
changes
in
regulations,
industry requirements, or requests from
stakeholders.
2. Proposal and Initiation: The proposal for a
new standard or revision is submitted to the
relevant standardization organization (CEN).
This proposal can come from various sources,
including
industry
associations,
national
standards bodies, regulatory authorities, and
other stakeholders.
3. Preparation of Work Programme: Once the
proposal is accepted, the standardization
organization develops a work programme
EUROPEAN
NORM 15017
A SOLID FOUNDATION FOR
PROVIDING FUNERAL SERVICES
WITH PROFESSIONALISM,
DIGNITY AND RESPECT
By Anke Teraa, Executive Director of European
Federation of Funeral Services (EFFS)
10
No. 105 – SPRING 2024 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MAIN TOPIC
outlining the scope, objectives, timeline, and
resources required for the standardization
project.
4. Technical
Committee
(TC)
Formation:
A technical committee is established to develop
the standard. This committee comprises
experts, stakeholders, and representatives
from relevant industries, organizations, and
other interested parties.
5. Drafting
Process:
The
drafting
process
involves the development of the standard’s
content, including technical specifications,
requirements, guidelines, and terminology.
The technical committee or working group
collaborates to review existing practices,
research, and technical developments to
inform the content of the standard.
6. Consultation
and
Consensus
Building:
Throughout the drafting process, there are
opportunities for public consultation and
stakeholder feedback. This helps ensure that
the standard reflects a consensus among
relevant parties and addresses the needs and
concerns of stakeholders.
7. Approval and Formal Vote: Once the draft
standard is finalized, it undergoes a formal
approval process. Members vote on the
adoption of the standard, considering factors
such as technical accuracy, relevance, and
consensus among stakeholders.
8. Ratification and Publication: If the draft
standard receives sufficient support and
meets the established criteria, it is ratified and
published as a European Norm (EN). The EN is
made publicly available and becomes part of
the European standardization system.
After a period of three years and several TC
448 meetings, where formal votes were cast
throughout the drafting and consensus process,
a last round of final approval and formal vote, as
well as a public inquiry as the very last step, the
final draft went to publication.
The EN15017 is adhered to on a voluntary basis
and takes precedence above any local norms.
(Note: A Norm be it European or national, at no
time takes precedence over the law). In selected
countries, adherence to the EN15017 has even
become a prerequisite for admission to national
associations or being recognised as a provider of
quality service. A certification process is in place
on a stand-alone basis in several countries and
as a next logical step, the EFFS will be working on
setting up a European-wide certification.
The EN15017 is a 54-page European Norm (EN) and
pertains specifically to our wide range of funeral
services, aiming to ensure a minimum level of
quality, transparency, and professionalism, hence
making adherence to the EN achievable for as many
countries and professionals as possible within
our sector. One of our main concerns during the
process leading up to publication in 2019 was to
ensure that regardless of varied quality practices,
some higher, some lower, that each and every
country could realistically adhere to a minimum.
Several countries voluntarily provide more than the
minimum and this is most certainly the direction
we very much like to see.
What scope does the EN15017 cover?
The EN15017 provides a broad framework for
standardising practices and meeting minimum
requirements in terms of quality, transparency,
and respect for cultural and religious diversity in
the following key sections. Each section provides
extensive details and guidelines under these main
categories:
• Education
• Advisory services
• Funeral facilities
• Transport of deceased persons or human
remains
• Care of the deceased
• Online services
• Quality management
(Note: the EN15017 can be purchased with
immediate download here )
Whilst setting forth quality standards for funeral
service providers, covering the afore-mentioned
key areas, the EN15017 helps to protect consumers
by adhering to clear guidelines. The EN15017 also
helps to promote transparency and accountability
in the funeral sector and at the same time
promotes consistency in funeral practices across
different countries and different cultures. All in
all a solid foundation for providing our services
to the bereaved with professionalism, dignity and
respect.
We therefore encourage and urge all funeral
professionals to adhere to the EN15017 and to
continue with their efforts to increase awareness
and recognition of the EN 15017 as a holistic
framework of guidelines for our profession.
www.effs.eu I teraa@effs.eu
THANOS MAGAZINE | No. 105 – SPRING 2024
11
MAIN TOPIC
he funeral profession in the UK is going
through
unprecedented
regulatory
and market change. Fresh from the
introduction
of
price
transparency
measures by the UK Government, through
the Competition and Markets Authority,
we are now seeing statutory regulation
and licensing introduced in Scotland by the
Scottish Government, through a recently
published Code of Practice.
The UK financial regulator, the Financial Conduct
Authority, has begun regulating pre-paid funeral
plans, while the funeral market is experiencing a shift
in consumer demands created by the cost of living
crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, including a rise
in demand for direct cremation. The inquiry into the
crimes of David Fuller is likely to bring further change.
With such a widely fragmented landscape, the
National Association of Funeral Directors, the UK’s
largest and most inclusive funeral sector trade body,
is perfectly placed to offer a broad and balanced
overview of the entire funerals market and suggest
a future direction of travel to ensure high standards
across the board.
Key to success is ensuring sector-wide quality
standards. The NAFD’s Code of Practice ensures
members achieve high standards and are quick to
respond if they fall short; however, there remains a
significant percentage of funeral firms that operate
without any kind of oversight. This creates an uneven
playing field, which adversely affects competition
and reputation, and where standards can suffer in
a potential “race to the bottom” where cost becomes
the key consideration.
Ultimately, we want to see all funeral homes in the
UK required to meet the same quality standards,
with clear and impactful sanctions applied should the
services provided not meet the expected standard,
including prevention from trading.
The benefits and limitations
of self-regulation
We believe that outcome-based regulatory models
create an open, fair, and accessible consumer
environment for standards, price, and service
transparency, and can generally be applied in
a resource efficient way, meeting standards
thresholds and reassuring the public without the
disproportionate impact on costs of service.
The NAFD’s Funeral Director Code, which all members
must abide by, is based on outcomes and governed
by broad principles of behaviour and activity, which
members must always consider when faced with
TOWARDS
CONSISTENT
OVERSIGHT OF
STANDARDS
IN THE UK FUNERALS MARKET
By Andrew Judd, Chief Executive Officer,
National Association of Funeral Directors, UK
Key to success is ensuring
sector-wide quality standards.
12
No. 105 – SPRING 2024 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MAIN TOPIC
an issue. Yet while the ultimate breach sanction is
removal from NAFD membership, the Association
cannot prevent a former member from continuing
to trade, regardless of the quality issues identified,
investigated, and upheld. This poses serious potential
consequences for the care of deceased people and
for bereaved consumers.
To protect deceased people and their bereaved loved
ones, there must be a common quality standard
applied to the sector as a whole, and we consider that
an outcomes based approach to quality, supported
by independent inspections, provides the flexibility
to ensure that all kinds of businesses can flourish
in any new regulatory environment, establish a level
playing field with regards to competition, and protect
consumer choice in the future.
The importance of continuous
professional development
Training and development is vital to quality of service,
and as the UK’s primary provider of education services
to the funeral sector, NAFD remains committed to the
provision of continuous professional development
(CPD) to the sector.
We would ultimately like to see a standard approach
to skills, as part of a wider UK quality assurance
framework, and for it to be mandatory for all funeral
professionals to engage in CPD at regular intervals.
NAFD Education is currently in the development
phase of a new CPD platform ‘NAFD Inspire’, which
aims to make education more accessible by offering
bite sized chunks of learning through an online
learning management system.
Managing complaints from consumers
Part of our commitment to supporting members is
ensuring they properly address any concerns raised
about the services they provide. Although the majority
of funerals provided by NAFD members are completed
to the satisfaction of the client, there are occasions
when something does not go well, and help is needed
from an independent party to resolve the situation.
We provide NAFD Resolve, a complaints and arbitration
scheme, to members and consumers free of charge.
The scheme is designed to protect consumers by
providing a forum in which they can raise a complaint
against an NAFD member and seek redress while
avoiding confrontation. This service is fully funded by
the NAFD, with conciliation and adjudication services
provided by qualified professionals from the Centre
for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR).
Towards a consistent set of
standards in the UK
We would like to see the mandatory application of
high standards, so that all UK funeral businesses
are compelled to meet the same quality standard
already expected of NAFD members. Regulatory
measures should be inclusive and able to be met by
a wide variety of different business types and size;
the diversity of the sector is important and in our
experience benefits consumers greatly by enabling
provision of choice.
The public has the right to feel assured that their
deceased loved ones are safe and secure regardless
of where they are cared for. The current self-
regulatory approach leaves some businesses and
settings exempt from oversight, and so regardless
of the high standards achieved by those businesses
engaging with trade body regulation, a continuation
of the status quo is unlikely to offer reassurance to
consumers.
We expect standards demands, and with them
consumer expectations, to increase as the commercial
environment evolves, with new methods of disposal
and new patterns of consumer behaviour.
Much has been done and there is still much to come.
Ultimately, we would like to see all funeral businesses
in the UK required to meet the same requirements
as our members through mandatory, robust and
independent oversight of standards.
The NAFD’s Funeral Director
Code, which all members
must abide by, is based on
outcomes and governed by
broad principles of behaviour
and activity, which members
must always consider when
faced with an issue.
To protect deceased people
and their bereaved loved ones,
there must be a common
quality standard applied to the
sector as a whole.
THANOS MAGAZINE | No. 105 – SPRING 2024
13
MAIN TOPIC
STANDARDS
ARE ESSENTIAL
FOR PROFESSIONALISM
IN FUNERAL INDUSTRY
By Cristian Neagoe,
Anthony Assistance General Manager,
Romania
t the heart of the funeral industry lie
specific requirements that encapsulate
a profound dedication to professionalism,
unwavering regulatory compliance, and
the utmost respect in the handling of
the departed. These guidelines form an
indispensable framework, meticulously
designed to navigate the intricacies of post-
mortem care, ensuring that each decision
aligns with both regulatory standards and
the personalized preferences of grieving
families.
Anthony Assistance as an international deceased
repatriation provider and Anthony Funeral Home
as an national burial services provider, are always
following the national regulations and rules imposed
by Romanian laws and implementing international
standards, norms, and certifications related to
quality, management and environmental care. We
hold international certificates and operate according
to international standards ISO 9001, ISO 14001,
and ISO 45001, which brings numerous benefits.
ISO 9001 ensures quality management systems,
enhancing service quality and customer satisfaction.
ISO 14001 emphasizes environmental management,
promoting eco-friendly practices in the cremation
process. ISO 45001 focuses on occupational health
and safety, safeguarding staff and ensuring a secure
work environment during funeral processes. These
standards collectively demonstrate commitment
to excellence, environmental responsibility, and
employee well-being, enhancing overall operational
efficiency and trust among clients.
In general, funeral services in Romania are regulated
by the Ministry of Health. Regulations cover aspects
such as funeral home licensing, transportation,
embalming and cremation and are more or less
similar in other European countries.
In Romania funeral homes are required to obtain
licenses from the Ministry of Health to operate legally.
Funeral services may be provided only in authorized
premises that meet certain requirements such as, for
example, the size of the space for providing funeral
services is at least 40 square meters, with a reception
area for customers and space for displaying products
and minimum area of 18 square meters for providing
mortuary care activities. Provision of such services
in public health institutions is expressly prohibited,
except for spaces required for necessary formalities
in the event of a death within the institution.
Advertising by funeral service companies within
health institutions is strictly forbidden. However,
at the formalities office, an alphabetical list of
authorized funeral service providers, including their
addresses and contact numbers, may be displayed
for families of individuals who have passed away
within the respective institution. This measure
ensures transparency and facilitates access to
essential information for the bereaved during the
challenging process of making funeral arrangements.
Regulations may require funeral service providers to
disclose pricing information to ensure transparency
for families.
The embalming plays a mandatory role in a variety of
scenarios, each of which has been carefully designed
14
No. 105 – SPRING 2024 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MAIN TOPIC
to meet a variety of post-mortem care needs and
circumstances. In instances where the family opts for
a public viewing of the deceased, such as in chapels,
with an open casket, embalming is mandatory. It also
becomes an essential procedure when the deceased
needs to be transported to a location beyond 30
kilometers from the site of death. If the medical cause
of death necessitates embalming as a prophylactic
measure to reduce biological risk, the procedure
becomes obligatory. Embalming can also be initiated
at the explicit written request of the family.
Funeral vehicles, particularly hearses, are subject
to specific requirements and technical specifications
to ensure their appropriateness for the solemn
task they perform. These vehicles are meticulously
designed to meet stringent criteria, embodying a
blend of functionality and respect for the nature of
their purpose.
Each funeral vehicle is adorned with distinctive
signs that signify its purpose and role in the funeral
procession. Furthermore, it must receive explicit
approval from the Romanian Car Registry for its
designated activity or possess a local transport
authorization issued by the City Hall, underscoring
the adherence to regulatory standards. Critical to
these specifications is the vehicle's registration
in Romania, with ownership vested in a licensed
funeral home. This criterion serves to maintain a
level of professionalism and accountability within
the industry, ensuring that funeral transportation is
carried out by authorized entities. The hearse must
provide a closed and discreet space, safeguarding
the dignity of the departed. The interior should
be devoid of external visibility, with surfaces that
are both washable and disinfectable, emphasizing
hygiene and cleanliness standards. The vehicle must
be equipped with a screen separating the operating
staff compartment from the cadaver compartment.
Cremation is allowed, and is governed by stringent
regulations designed to uphold environmental
and
health
standards.
These
regulations
encompass crucial aspects such as authorization,
documentation, environmental compliance, and
health and safety protocols. Cremation facilities
must obtain explicit authorization from the Ministry
of Health, ensuring meticulous adherence to both
health and environmental standards. Families or
legal representatives must provide the necessary
documentation
and
consent
for
cremation.
Moreover, environmental responsibility is a key
focus in the cremation regulations of Romania.
Cremation facilities are obligated to strictly comply
with environmental regulations, aiming to mitigate
any adverse impact the process might have on the
surroundings. The cremation process is subject
to rigorous health and safety standards. These
standards are in place not only to safeguard the well-
being of those involved in the process but also to
underscore the importance of treating the deceased
with the utmost respect and care. By upholding
these regulations, the country seeks to ensure that
cremations are conducted responsibly, respecting
both the deceased and the environment.
It is the responsibility of the funeral industry to
strive not only to meet rigorous standards, but also
to provide a compassionate and tailored approach,
providing a meaningful and respectful farewell for
the deceased and comfort for those left behind.
MAIN TOPIC
ADVERTISEMENT
LOOKING FOR
THE BEST
STANDARDS
CHALLENGES IN CROATIA’S
FUNERAL INDUSTRY
By Martin Legović, Funeral services
Silentium, Istria, Croatia
he funeral industry in Croatia is not fully
regulated, as the Funeral Services Act
only loosely regulates it. In the mentioned
law, which came into effect in 2015, the
occupation of “undertaker” was finally
introduced, which had not been the case
in Croatia until then.
Becoming a funeral director involves passing an exam
administered by the Croatian Chamber of Crafts,
without the requirement for prior work experience.
However, we would like to see the introduction of
training and experience requirements for the same,
rather than just relying on an exam as a prerequisite
for engaging in this profession. We believe this
approach is unfair to experienced undertakers with
extensive experience in funeral services.
Further, the funeral industry in Croatia faces
challenges due to unclear regulations, particularly
concerning
competition
from
municipal
companies, which arises from ambiguities in
both the Funeral Services Act and the Companies
Act. There is significant unfairness in the market,
as private entities invest in funeral vehicles,
equipment, refrigeration facilities, and more,
influencing
pricing
dynamics.
Meanwhile,
municipal companies receive funding from various
budgets and operate without pursuing profit,
thereby directly impacting prices by undercutting
private companies. However, in order to provide
better services, collaboration with international
organizations and colleagues from abroad enables
us to educate ourselves and implement standards
in our work. These collaborations help us to
improve the quality of services and ensures that
our community receives the best possible support
during times of loss and grief.
Regarding ISO standards in funeral services, they
are generally prescribed for all trades, not just
funeral services, which we also believe should
be clarified. This became apparent during the
coronavirus epidemic, where we, in agreement
with our colleagues, maintained professionalism
to the highest standard, prioritizing the utmost
health and safety of ourselves and our clients. As
for environmental standards in funeral services
in Croatia, they are not prescribed, but we have
found ways to align ourselves with international
counterparts and modernization efforts. Cremation
caskets are sourced from natural, eco-friendly
materials, as are cremation urns, which are
biodegradable.
In
conclusion,
we
strongly
advocate
for
comprehensive regulation of the funeral industry
in Croatia to ensure alignment with global
standards. It is imperative that we keep pace with
advancements and practices prevalent in funeral
services worldwide. Establishing clear guidelines
for training, experience, pricing mechanisms, and
environmental sustainability will not only enhance
professionalism within the industry but also ensure
that we meet the evolving needs and expectations
of our clients. By embracing modernization and
adhering to international best practices, we can
elevate the standards of funeral services in Croatia
and provide a more dignified and sustainable
experience for Families.
16
No. 105 – SPRING 2024 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MAIN TOPIC
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Peter Biemans, Owner/Founder of Funeral Products B.V., The Netherlands
Photo: Funeral Products press service
CSR CERTIFICATION
SUSTAINABLE ENTREPRENEURSHIP
IS ACCOMPLISHED WITH THE ENTIRE ORGANISATION
By Peter Biemans, Owner/Founder of Funeral Products B.V., The Netherlands
18
No. 105 – SPRING 2024 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MAIN TOPIC
ertification
is
not
exactly
a
catchy subject, making it all the
more
important
that
our
business
partners
understand
how
valuable
this certification is to them. Funeral
Products shows how certification makes
CSR ambitions and results visible and
concrete.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as a term
has different definitions, however, they are
always basically the same. As Funeral Products we
have chosen to adopt the definition of both CSR
Netherlands and the Social and Economic Council
(SEC): “Consciously focusing on value creation in the
elements People (humanity), Planet (environment)
and Profit (society) and thereby adding long-term
value to social prosperity.” This definition is the
basis of the Global Products Group’s CSR policy,
or how we deal with business processes that have
a social or environmental impact. The policy is
implemented and ensured through the “Deming
circle”. This quality circle gives us the tools to
operate with a focus on both results and continuous
improvement. This by means of the four activities:
Plan (Plan a change with improvement as a goal),
Do (Test the identified change on a small scale),
Check (Analyse the test results, what went right
and what went wrong) and Act (Adopt or release
the change permanently).
Customers know Funeral Products as a specialist
in meaningful memorial products, such as urns
and memorial jewellery. The company has
extended its collection further through the years,
offering digital solutions their FingerPrint system,
Webshop solution and smart configurators. All
specially tailored to help the funeral homes.
Our products and services come in different
shapes and materials, by craftsmen from various
parts of the world. Transparency and corporate
responsibility throughout the chain is fundamental
when operating globally. By obtaining the CSR
Performance Ladder certificate, we can now show
everyone that we know exactly where, what, and
how our beloved products are made, and most
importantly, under what conditions.
The CSR Performance Ladder is a certification
standard
that
objectively
demonstrates
the
performance of Corporate Social Responsibility.
The standard enables continuous development of
31 CSR themes through a management system and
in consultation with stakeholders. The certificate
solidifies sustainable developments and corporate
social responsibility. The 31 themes of the CSR
Performance Ladder are linked to the 17 well-
known Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Created on the basis of global input from both
organisations and citizens, these goals provide
a global compass for challenges such as poverty,
education, and the climate crisis.
The CSR Performance Ladder is inspired by
internationally accepted documents, such as
ISO 26000, ISO 9001:2015, AA1000 and the Global
Report Initiative (GRI). For example, an ISO 26000
has no management system, making it unsuitable
for certification. As a management system with
its requirements and certification standard, the
CSR Performance Ladder is indeed suitable and
serves as a certification for this kind of similar
standard. Through the CSR Performance Ladder
certificate, no doubt or discussion is needed
between the company and its business relations.
The certification provides insight and removes any
doubts or questions regarding CSR.
For Peter Biemans, owner and founder of Funeral
Products and parent company Global Products
Group, corporate social responsibility is in his
genes. Entrepreneurship has the power to bring
positive change forward, a philosophy which he
has implemented in all of his previous companies
and now followed by Funeral Products. From day
one we consciously considered our social role
within our company, both in the Netherlands and
elsewhere in the world. And sure, it is easy to claim
to be responsible as a company, but a sustainability
policy goes beyond separating waste, double-
sided printing and donating to charity. It is a way
of thinking and working that carries through to all
business processes and employees. A philosophy
that needs to be part of your company DNA to
have success. Afterall it is a team effort, in which
you need every member on board to make steps
forward. The recently obtained CSR certificate
makes that visible to our customers, stakeholders,
families and, above all, ourselves. We are extremely
proud of it.
While it goes without saying that certification is
about auditing processes, the commitment of our
employees is just as important. The awareness
that all links in a chain are interconnected and that
a positive change in one of those links affects all
subsequent ones has penetrated the capillaries
of our company through this certification process.
From the selection of raw materials in product
development and transportation of finished
products, to the selection of packaging materials.
The latter is an organization-wide quest for ever
THANOS MAGAZINE | No. 105 – SPRING 2024
19
MAIN TOPIC
Certification is a team effort. It is only possible
when the whole team/company is behind this
vision.
better alternatives, as is the ambition
CO2 reduction within deliveries and
being able to guarantee good working
conditions at our production sites.
In 2020, we started the Certification
project. The project team started
by setting up a management
system;
a
place
where
all
business processes, policies
and
procedures
are
documented and can be
viewed by everyone. An
important part of the
certification
process
were
conversations
with
our
stakeholders.
We included them in our
developments,
and
they
fed us with their knowledge,
experiences and insights about
both their own companies and
our organisations. Employees also
interacted with each other throughout
the process about how they themselves
view the organisation, what opportunities
they see and what actions can bring about
change in a typical workday. After all: it is a
company philosophy that needs to be carry out by
every member of the team, in every department.
With this as a basis, we went through the steps of
the CSR Performance Ladder. Funeral Products,
Atlantis Memorials and Funeral Projects, the
three companies of parent company Global
Products Group, were evaluated on 31 CSR
topics, ranging from child labour and corruption
to transportation and energy use. A practical
example is our collaboration with a supplier who
manufactures in India. There are often negative
associations attached to this country when
it comes to working conditions. This supplier
has signed a Code of Conduct, which allows us
to demonstrate that its employees do manage
their work responsibly. The 31 themes of the
Performance Ladder are linked to the globally
recognized 17 Sustainable Development Goals
of the United Nations (SDGs), and thus the
certification is also internationally recognized.
Thanks to the CSR Performance Ladder, we have
the tools to concretise and systematically manage
our sustainable developments, corporate social
responsibility, and related objectives.
The CSR Performance Ladder has five levels
of performance, and level 1 or 2 usually is the
stepping stone level. Because both we and our
partners already had several things well in place,
we were able to achieve a Level 3 certification
immediately
(Certificate
number:
C588645).
Which makes us extra proud. And we won’t stop
there, because within three years we want to get
to Level 4. After all, there is always room for more
or further improvement, also within the Global
Products Group. Our goals and achievements
can be seen in our new, annual CSR Annual
Report which can be found on our website:
https://globalproductsgroup.eu
Funeral Products’ customers will also benefit
from this certification. With the CSR certificate,
we
demonstrate
a
concrete
sustainable
policy, which has been audited by certification
agency DNV. The certificate makes our policies
transparent and removes pretty much all
possible doubts. Funeral Products’ customers
can be confident that their partnership is done
in a socially responsible manner, so they can
focus on what is so important to them: helping
bereaved families in their search for a lasting
and responsible remembrance item.
Photo: Funeral Products press service
20
No. 105 – SPRING 2024 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MAIN TOPIC