THANOS
SEE YOU IN YOKOHAMA, JAPAN!
FUNERAL FINANCING
AROUND THE WORLD
THE IMPORTANCE
OF COFFIN STANDARDS
110
MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2025
The World Organization of Funeral Operatives
Greetings to
all members of FIAT-IFTA,
I hope all is well with everyone.
he National Funeral Directors Association in the
United States has released their survey called
Across Borders, Across Traditions: a Global Study of
Funeral Preferences. This survey is a worldwide survey
covering the areas of Africa, Asia, Central America,
Europe, North America and South America asking
questions to respondents who have had a funeral
experience in the last five years. Twenty countries
were involved in the study. The study took several
years to complete and was suggested by NFDA’s
Global Advisory Committee. I was privileged to be
able to assist in the data analysis along with others
from the countries studied. While I can’t give all the
information in this short article, I can give you a quick
summary.
The 2025 NFDA Global Study of Funeral
Preferences explores how funeral preferences vary
across regions while highlighting consistent themes in
funeral practices worldwide. The study underscores
the enduring importance of personalized funerals,
cultural traditions, and funeral directors’ roles in
supporting families.
General observations show that three out of
four respondents attended a funeral in the past five
years, but only half have planned one, showing
that funeral planning is still unfamiliar for many
consumers. Despite changing trends, funerals
remain highly valued, especially when they reflect
family wishes and are supported by high-quality
services. Overall, funeral directors are seen
positively, as professionals who guide families
through arrangements and offer valuable services.
Funeral Service Preferences indicate that while
cremation is becoming more common globally,
funerals with burials are seen as more helpful in the
grieving process. More than 96% of respondents found
funerals healing, with burial (63.4%) considered more
helpful than cremation (52.1%). There’s also strong
interest in eco-friendly funeral option, with 70%
of respondents expressing openness to sustainable
practices.
When selecting a funeral home, location is the
top priority for 44% of respondents, followed by
price (36%). Reputation also plays a important role,
especially in regions such as Hong Kong.
The 2025 NFDA Global Study of Funeral Preferences
highlights also notable regional trends. In Africa,
funerals hold deep meaning and funeral directors
are highly respected. In Asia, funeral directors
are seen as professional and essential, with
strong trust among Chinese consumers. Central
American consumers widely believe funerals are
important for honoring loved ones and show
high interest in green funerals. Europeans are
least likely to view funerals as crucial for healing.
In North America, funerals are seen as helpful for
grief, though fewer attendees feel personally
connected compared to other regions. In South
America, funeral directors are valued, and flowers
are the most significant part of services.
The full document is much more detailed and
is thirty-two pages long, with much more data and
precise numbers from each country. If you’d like the
full report, please contact Anna Bernfeld, NFDA Sr. VP
Member Relations at abernfeld@nfda.org .
William C. Wappner
FIAT-IFTA President
William C. Wappner
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 from the private resources of William C. Wappner
PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE
THANOS MAGAZINE | No. 110 – SUMMER 2025
FIAT-IFTA
ANNUAL MEETING 2025
IS COMING!
SEE YOU IN JUNE IN YOKOHAMA, JAPAN
4
No. 110 – SUMMER 2025 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MEMBERS’ NEWS
he 54th FIAT-IFTA International Council
of Direction (I.C.D.) Meeting will be
held from Monday, June 2 to Thursday,
June 5 at the renowned Yokohama Bay
Hotel Tokyu and Pacifico Yokohama,
Japan. This highly anticipated event
will bring together funeral professionals
from across the globe to explore the
latest industry trends, share expertise,
and foster meaningful international
connections within the funeral industry.
What makes this event truly special is the rare
opportunity to immerse yourself in Japan’s rich
and deeply rooted funeral traditions. Attendees
will not only engage in valuable professional
exchanges but also experience the exceptional
warmth of Japanese hospitality and the country’s
vibrant cultural heritage. Proudly hosted by the All
Japan Funeral Directors Co-Operation (ZENSOREN),
the respected national member of FIAT-IFTA, this
event promises to be both professionally enriching
and culturally unforgettable.
What is on the agenda?
The centrepiece of the event will, of course, be
the FIAT-IFTA International Council of Direction
meeting, where crucial decisions will shape the
future of the organization. Key agenda items
include proposed amendments to the Constitution
and the ongoing development of the Code of
Conduct.
Additionally, working sessions of five
committees will take place, continuing major
projects in the areas of Funeral Heritage, Global
Education, Sustainability and Development,
Embalming, and Coffin Standards.
The Yokohama meeting will also feature inspiring
keynote lectures by internationally recognized
experts, including:
• Carl Becker, PhD., D.Psych., Kyoto University
School of Medicine, Japan
• Terumitsu Noiri, Funeral Director, Embalmer,
and Certified Public Accountant, licensed in both
the U.S. and Japan. a fourth-generation funeral
home owner
• Jackie Lymn Rose, Director and fourth generation
at A.W. Lymn The Family Funeral Service, UK
• Christine Reichelt Pepper, MBA, CAE, CEO of the
National Funeral Directors Association, United
States
• Nuria Capdevila Roig, Founder & CEO CIRCLE
Corporation, Spain
Participants can also explore the Funeral
Business Fair – a vibrant exhibition and
symposium designed for funeral and related
service providers. The Funeral Business Fair will
be held at PACIFICO Yokohama, Exhibition Halls
C and D (for the exhibition), and the Annex Hall
(for the symposium). More than 120 companies
will showcase services, systems, products, and
equipment essential for funeral homes, which
collectively conduct approximately 1.4 million
funerals annually. Attendees can expect to see the
latest industry products, high value-added services,
and innovative business systems designed to
reduce staff workload. More information about
the fair can be found at www.sogo-unicom.co.jp .
Participants will be able to use their pass for the
FIAT-IFTA Annual Meeting to enter the fair.
The FIAT-IFTA Annual Meeting 2025 will also offer
opportunities to connect in a more informal
setting and a chance to experience the unique
charm of Yokohama – a city where historical
architecture blends seamlessly with modern
urban landscapes. Delight in the rich flavours of
Japanese cuisine and immerse yourself in a place
where history meets the future, and tradition
coexists harmoniously with innovation.
Those seeking an enriching experience that
combines cultural exploration with the natural
beauty of Kanagawa and Hakone, will attend
a optional sightseeing program. Participants will
visit a funeral hall and crematorium in Hadano,
a city nestled in the lush natural surroundings
of western Kanagawa Prefecture. The tour will
also include a visit to the Kanai Sake Brewery,
where Japanese sake is made using pristine
water from the Tanzawa mountains, a stop at the
Hakone Shrine – a sacred spiritual site along the
shores of Lake Ashi – and a chance to take in the
breathtaking views of the majestic Mt. Fuji and
Lake Ashi.
We are sure that attending the meeting will
help FIAT-IFTA members to stay up to date with
global trends, regulatory updates, and innovative
practices. It will also foster collaboration between
different markets within the funeral industry,
which is essential in today’s interconnected world.
We are very much looking forward to welcoming
you to Yokohama!
READ MORE
THANOS MAGAZINE | No. 110 – SUMMER 2025
MEMBERS’ NEWS
PARTNERS AND SPONSORS OF THE EVENT:
ORGANISER:
2 June 2025, Monday
16:00-18:00
Guest Registration
The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu
18:30-20:30
Welcome Cocktail Reception
The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu, B2 Queens Grand Ballroom A
3 June 2025, Tuesday
08:30-18:00
Guest Registration
The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu
09:00-10:00
Heritage Committee Meeting
The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu – B1 Princess Room
10:00-11:00
Global Education Meeting
The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu – B1 Prince Room
11:00-12:00
Embalming Committee
The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu – B1 Princess Room
12:00-12:45
Lunch
The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu – B2 Ambassadors Ballroom Foyer
13:00-16:30
ICD Meeting (with Coffee Break)
The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu – B2 Ambassadors Ballroom
18:00-21:00
Gala Dinner
The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu, B2 Queens Grand Ballroom AB
4 June 2025, Wednesday
10:00-17:00
Funeral Business Fair
PACIFICO Yokohama, Exhibition Hall C, D / Annex Hall (Symposium)
10:00-14:00
Special Lectures
PACIFICO Yokohama, Exhibition Hall 2nd floor, Harbor Lounge B
10:00-10:50 Terumitsu Noiri, Japan – “A Journey from Tradition to Innovation: The Changing Landscape of Japanese Funerals"
10:50-11:40 Christine Reichelt Pepper, NFDA-USA – “Changing Consumer Preferences – a Generational Perspective on
Attitudes Toward Funeral Service“
11:40-12:40 PhD., D.Psych. Carl Becker, Japan – “Why Funerals Matter – and How to Help Mourners in Grief”
12:40-13:20 Jackie Lymn Rose, United Kingdom – “Funerals the English Way”
13:20-14:00 Nuria Capdevila Roig, Spain – “The Role of Cemeteries in Environmental Sustainability and the Fight Against Climate
Change: Insights from Spain”
15:00-16:00
Sustainability and Development Committee
PACIFICO Yokohama, Exhibition Hall 2nd floor, Room E26
16:00-17:00
Coffin Standards Committee
PACIFICO Yokohama, Exhibition Hall 2nd floor, Room E26
5 June 2025, Thursday
08:00-19:00
Optional Sightseeing Program
Visit to a Funeral Home and Crematorium with a Tour of the Surrounding Area of Kanagawa and Hakone
The most up-to-date agenda is available at www.zensoren.events
AGENDA
FIAT-IFTA ANNUAL MEETING 2025
YOKOHAMA, JAPAN
6
No. 110 – SUMMER 2025 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MEMBERS’ NEWS
Let’s welcome new members
of FIAT-IFTA
We are happy to welcome 7 new members of our organization! Since February 2025,
we have been joined by 2 Active Members and 5 Associate Members. Please welcome:
Active Members:
• Above International Transport Solutions from USA
• Joy-Mall Industrial (Shanghai) Co. Ltd. from China
Associate Members:
• Brandenberger Bestattungen from Switzerland
• DΙΜΟS ΝΙΚΟLΑΟS ΚΑΙ SIΑ ΕΕ from Greece
• Genelyn North America/Asia from Canada
• SHANGHAI BOHONG SHIPPING Co. Ltd. from China
• Tos Funerals Limited from Nigeria
If you wish to learn more about each member please visit www.thanos.org .
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 .
Course on Transportation of Human Remains
by air with IATA certificate
IATA (International Air Transportation Association)
invites all FIAT-IFTA members to attend a course
on Transportation of Human Remains by air which
will be certified by IATA. FIAT-IFTA members can
get a 50% discount for this course!
IATA’s Compassionate Transportation course offers
a comprehensive guide to the airline acceptance
and transport of human remains. You will learn
the fundamental operational guidelines for
funeral operators, airlines, and freight forwarders,
focusing on the preparation, shipment, and
handling of this sensitive cargo. The course covers
regulatory and documentation requirements,
best practices for packaging and labelling,
coordination among involved parties, and special
considerations for international transport. By the
end of the course, you will be equipped to manage
the complexities of transporting human remains
with professionalism and care.
The live sessions of this virtual classroom course
will be delivered by a official IATA Instructor
on 3 September, 2025 (please register by
12 August). Each participant will receive the
most current IATA Compassionate Transportation
Manual (CTM) in e-book format.
Please follow the link below for further information:
Follow for more
There are limited spaces.
If you would like to take advantage of
the 50% discount, please send a e-mail to
info@thanos.org .
8
No. 110 – SUMMER 2025 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MEMBERS’ NEWS
Elisabeth Charrier Appointed
as Managing Director
of the French National
Funeral Federation
Elisabeth Charrier was appointed Managing
Director of the Fédération Nationale du Funéraire
(FNF) in June 2024, bringing with her over three
decades of leadership experience across strategic
sectors such as transport, energy, plastics for
construction, and now the funeral profession.
As specialist in institutional relations and public
affairs, she has built a career distinguished
by her ability to navigate complex regulatory
environments, develop stakeholder engagement
strategies, and lead professional organizations
through change and innovation.
Prior to joining FNF, Elisabeth served as Managing
Director for several professional unions within the
building plastics sector, where she coordinated
technical commissions, policy advocacy, and
industry-wide communications. Her earlier
tenure at the French National Federation of Road
Transport (FNTR) saw her managing national
projects related to digital transformation, energy
transition, urban logistics, and road safety,
while also acting as spokesperson and regional
coordinator.
Deeply committed to a field-driven approach,
Elisabeth places great value on maintaining close
dialogue with professionals in the sectors she
represents. She believes that effective union
action must be grounded in the realities
and experiences of those working on the
ground, and she actively fosters mechanisms
to ensure their voices shape collective
strategies and institutional engagement.
In her role at the FNF, she is dedicated
to raising the voice of the funeral
sector – a profession essential to the
smooth functioning of society yet often
underrecognized. She champions greater
professionalization within the industry to
ensure the highest standards of service for
grieving families, while also strengthening
the sector’s visibility and legitimacy in the
eyes of public authorities and the broader
public.
Elisabeth’s expertise is rooted in her
multidisciplinary approach, informed by
operational experience in both public and
private sectors, also including communication,
biotechnologies, and venture capital. She
holds a specialized Master’s in International
Management from ESSEC Business School.
As she steps into this new chapter with the FNF,
Elisabeth is committed to representing and
modernizing the funeral profession in France,
fostering dialogue with public authorities,
and supporting the federation’s members in
addressing the evolving societal, environmental,
and technological challenges of the sector.
Elisabeth Charrier
Managing Director of the FNF, France
MEMBERS’ NEWS
THANOS MAGAZINE | No. 110 – SUMMER 2025
ADVERTISEMENT
The FUNÉRAIRE D'OR
competition enhanced
to highlight sustainable
commitments
Following the success of its first edition
in 2023, the FUNÉRAIRE D’OR competition
will return at FUNÉRAIRE PARIS 2025, with the
launch of a new Sustainable Development Award
to recognise eco-friendly initiatives among the
trade exhibition’s exhibitors.
Co-organised by the CSNAF (The French Trade
Association for Funeral Art) and the FNF (French
National Funeral Federation), the competition
recognises exhibitors' innovations, products,
services, and expertise. The new Sustainable
Development Award complements the three
existing categories: Products, Services, and
Visitors’ choice. In line with commitments
announced earlier this year to make the
event more sustainable, FUNÉRAIRE
PARIS is strengthening its commitment
with the creation of this new award
category.
Exhibitors are able to submit their
applications until the end of September
2025. Early October, the jury will determine
the winners of the Products, Services and
Sustainable Development Awards, and will select
10 nominees (5 products and 5 services) for the
Visitors' Award. The nominees' entries will then
be submitted to a public vote among visitors
who have ordered their badge to enter the
trade exhibition. The prizes will be awarded at
a ceremony on the 1st day of the trade exhibition,
Wednesday November 19th.
More information at www.salon-funeraire.com
New Embalming Centre in Sagamihara, Japan
In December 2023, Funeral Support Services (FSS)
proudly unveiled its state-of the-art embalming
centre in Sagamihara, Japan. This new facility
is designed to cater to the needs of both local
Japanese customers and those requiring
repatriation services, providing professional
preparation of the deceased with the highest
standards of care and respect.
The centre, staffed by six skilled embalmers who
rotate to ensure continuous operations, is equipped
with cutting-edge technology. a top-of-the-line
water treatment system ensures clean and safe
processing of discarded liquids utilized during the
embalming process, while a advanced air filtration
system maintains a hygienic environment for both
staff and visitors. Additionally, the facility houses
a refrigeration unit with a capacity to store up to
12 bodies, offering peace of mind during handling
and storage.
The facility is designed with both function and comfort
in mind. It features a spacious business office for
administrative work, a dedicated embalming room,
and a specialized chemical storage room for safe
handling of embalming chemicals. a small family
visitation room provides a private, peaceful space
for loved ones to pay their respects. The centre also
includes a enclosed carport garage to accommodate
transportation vehicles securely along with ample
parking space.
This modern embalming centre marks a significant
step forward in ensuring that the highest standards
of care are met in both domestic and international
funeral service markets. With its advanced features
and professional staff, the Sagamihara embalming
centre plays a pivotal role for Funeral Support Services
(FSS) and their mission of offering comprehensive
services for a ever-expanding wide range of funeral-
related needs.
10
No. 110 – SUMMER 2025 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MEMBERS’ NEWS
DISCOVER BOLIVIA
PARQUE DE LAS MEMORIAS
– NEW NATIONAL FIAT-IFTA MEMBER
By Nicolás Andrade, CEO of Parque de las Memorias, Bolivia
I
am Nicolás Andrade, with over 15 years
in the funeral industry. For the past nine
years, I have served as CEO of Parque de las
Memorias, one of Bolivia’s leading private
cemetery and funeral service providers.
My focus has been on modernizing
funeral services while respecting cultural
traditions.
Beyond my role, I have contributed at a regional
and global level, serving two terms on the board of
ALPAR and collaborating on international research
for FIAT-IFTA. In Kyoto, Japan, I worked with the All
Japan Funeral Association and Koekisha Company
to analyse industry trends.
Before joining this sector, I worked as a consultant,
project manager, analyst, and operations manager in
various industries. My business degree from Mexico
provided me with strategic expertise, helping me
drive innovation while preserving Bolivia’s funeral
traditions.
12
No. 110 – SUMMER 2025 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MEMBERS’ NEWS
Bolivia’s funeral sector is relatively young, with
private cemeteries operating for only 37 years.
The industry continues evolving under cultural,
economic, and consumer influences.
Key characteristics include strong adherence to
Catholic and indigenous traditions, a preference
for traditional burials, and increasing demand for
personalized services. Key statistics:
• Cemetery Distribution: 60% public, 40% private.
• Funeral Home Distribution: 90% private,
10% social/public.
• Mortality Rate: 9 deaths per 1,000 people
annually.
• Cremation Rate: Historically 1%, now around
6% post-pandemic.
The industry faces three major challenges:
1. Regulatory Compliance: Adapting to evolving
laws while promoting clear, fair regulations.
2. Land Use Constraints: Expanding cremation
services to address cemetery space limitations.
3. Consumer Awareness: Educating families about
pre-need planning and cremation options.
Parque de las Memorias is a leading private
funeral provider, offering pre-need planning,
personalized memorialization, and modern
tribute halls for meaningful ceremonies. Our
highly trained team includes grief professionals
for emotional support, legal counsellors for
administrative guidance, and conscious food
catering for culturally appropriate services. We
have also expanded into pet memorialization.
Our pet membership program covers cremation
and offers lifetime benefits to support pet
owners. Through FIAT-IFTA, we gain access to
global expertise and collaboration, enhancing
Bolivia’s funeral industry with best practices.
As Bolivia evolves, so does its funeral industry.
Balancing tradition with modernization will
shape how Bolivians honour their loved ones
while adapting to new needs and expectations.
Parque de las Memorias
www.parquedelasmemorias.com
Contact us: nandrade@parquedelasmemorias.com
MEMBERS’ NEWS
ADVERTISEMENT
THE IMPORTANCE OF
COFFIN STANDARDS
IN THE FUNERAL INDUSTRY
THE IMPORTANCE OF
COFFIN STANDARDS
IN THE FUNERAL INDUSTRY
By FIAT-IFTA Coffin Standard Committee
The funeral industry plays a crucial role in honouring
the deceased with dignity, and a significant part
of this involves the coffins chosen by families for
their loved ones. Coffin standards are essential for
ensuring environmental sustainability, compliance
with evolving regulations, safety during handling,
and maintaining high levels of quality and design. As
regulatory frameworks such as the European Union
Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and crematorium
guidelines become more stringent, adherence to
these standards is increasingly important for funeral
service providers and manufacturers alike.
One of the most pressing concerns regarding
coffins is their environmental impact.
Many coffins are made from wood and other
biodegradable materials, but unsustainable
sourcing can contribute to deforestation and
environmental degradation. The EUDR (European
Union Deforestation Regulation), which came into
effect to combat deforestation, directly affects the
coffin industry by requiring manufacturers to prove
that the timber used in their products is legally
sourced and does not contribute to deforestation.
This regulation mandates that funeral industry
suppliers maintain full traceability of the wood they
use, ensuring it comes from sustainable sources
even if the coffins are not produced in the EU. As
a result, coffin manufacturers must increasingly
14
No. 110 – SUMMER 2025 | THANOS MAGAZINE
COMMITTEE NEWS
turn to certified wood (such as FSC or PEFC-certified
materials) and consider alternative materials.
Beyond deforestation concerns, the funeral industry
also faces pressure to reduce the environmental
footprint of cremation. Traditional wooden coffins
with metal fittings or synthetic coatings can release
harmful pollutants when incinerated. Crematoriums
across Europe and in many other parts of the
World are enforcing stricter emission controls,
prompting a shift towards low-emission, eco-
friendly coffins. These coffins avoid toxic varnishes,
plastic components, and synthetic glues, helping to
minimize the environmental impact of cremation.
Coffin standards are also crucial for ensuring
the safety of funeral workers who handle and
transport them. Poorly constructed or substandard
coffins can pose risks such as breakage, structural
failure, or difficulty in carrying. Standards ensure
that coffins are built to withstand the weight of the
deceased, reducing the risk of accidents during
funerals or cremation procedures. For instance,
coffins must meet strength requirements to endure
transport and burial procedures without risk of
collapse.
By enforcing quality control measures, industry
standards help protect workers and ensure
a dignified process for grieving families.
High-quality coffins undergo rigorous testing
to ensure they can support the weight of the
deceased while being resistant to external
elements like humidity or soil pressure in burials.
Standardized joinery, reinforced structures, and
durable finishes prevent structural failure, ensuring
a secure final resting place. Sharp edges on coffins
can for instance pose safety risks during handling
to funeral personnel and the family if they are
carrying the coffin.
Two key areas of concern in terms of safety have
become increasingly relevant. First, the growing
prevalence of obesity presents challenges related
to the total handling weight of coffins with the
body inside. This not only affects the ease and
safety of lifting and transportation but also puts
strain on the structural integrity of the coffin itself,
increasing the risk of breakage under excessive
load. It is noteworthy that the average human
body weight has increased by approximately 1.5
kg per decade over the past several decades. In
most Western countries, this increase is even more
pronounced, compounding the challenges for coffin
manufacturers and funeral service providers alike.
Second, there is a growing concern over infection
risks, especially when lower-cost coffins fail to
contain bodily fluids adequately. These shortcomings
can pose serious health hazards for those involved
in handling funerals.
While functionality and sustainability are vital, coffin
quality and design also matter significantly to
families and the funeral industry. Many individuals
seek coffins that reflect personal values, cultural
traditions, or indeed the life of the person that has
passed away. Standardized manufacturing processes
help ensure that coffins meet these demands while
maintaining safety and environmental compliance.
Many manufacturers now offer customization
options – from biodegradable caskets for green
burials to ornately carved wooden coffins for
traditional funerals – while adhering to strict quality
guidelines.
Nevertheless, many concerns have materialised
within the industry as the pursuit of different
options to maximise profits means families
are left with coffins that do not meet minimum
standards, putting staff at funeral homes at risk and
contributing to degradation of the environment; in
particular with the usage of unsustainable forests
or chemicals that are harmful for the environment,
especially during the cremation process.
As regulations evolve and consumer preferences
shift towards sustainability and high-quality
products, adherence to coffin standards will
remain essential. Funeral service providers and
manufacturers must stay informed and proactive
in meeting these requirements, ensuring that their
products are both compliant and respectful to the
deceased and their families.
We therefore urge professionals and stakeholders
in the industry to join our FIAT-IFTA Coffin Standards
Committee and collaborate on setting improved,
future-proof standards that ensure safety, dignity,
and sustainability, thus cooperating to the
improvement to Funeral Servies worldwide. If you
would like to participate in our committee, please
contact us at info@thanos.org
Members of the Coffin Standard Committee:
• Antonio Marinho – Brazil,
• Frank Ripka – Germany,
• Janet McGee – United States,
• Jorge Morales – Spain,
• Karoly Balogh – Hungary,
• Thiago Bignotto – Brazil,
• Emerson De Luca – FIAT-IFTA office.
THANOS MAGAZINE | No. 110 – SUMMER 2025
15
COMMITTEE NEWS
FUNERAL
FINANCING
AROUND THE WORLD
By Juan Rodríguez, CEO Grupo Gayosso, Mexico
Funeral costs can be a significant financial burden for
families. Different countries have developed various
ways to help cover these expenses, ranging from
government assistance to private insurance plans.
Below, I explore how funerals are financed worldwide,
the pros and cons of different methods, and how
families can manage costs while ensuring a meaningful
service.
How Are Funerals Financed in Different
Countries?
Funeral financing varies greatly by country. In some
nations, the government provides financial support,
while in others, families must rely on private savings
or insurance. In countries like the UK and France, low-
income families can apply for a funeral allowance
from the government, which covers part of the
costs. Similarly, some Nordic countries provide state-
funded funeral services. In the US and many European
countries, people often purchase funeral insurance
or pre-paid funeral plans to ensure their families are
not burdened with sudden expenses. In some cultures,
communities come together to cover funeral costs.
This is common in parts of Africa, Latin America, and
Asia, where funeral expenses are shared through
donations or religious funds. In many parts of the world,
including large portions of Asia and Africa, families pay
directly out of pocket for funeral services without
government or insurance support, which can lead
to financial hardship.
Funeral Allowance vs. Funeral Insurance:
Which is Better?
Both options have advantages and disadvantages.
Funeral allowance provides help for those in need,
reduces inequality, and ensures everyone can afford
a dignified burial. On the other hand limited coverage
may not fully cover funeral costs, leading to additional
expenses for families. Funeral insurance ensures full
coverage and gives families peace of mind by preparing
in advance but can be expensive, and some policies
may have hidden fees or restrictions. Overall, funeral
insurance is better for those who want to plan
ahead, while a funeral allowance is essential for
supporting lower-income families.
Many funeral companies prefer pre-paid plans and
insurance, as these guarantee payment. However,
families often find these solutions expensive or
complicated. In places where only a funeral allowance
exists, the funds are often insufficient. This suggests
that a mix of government support and private insurance
might be the most balanced approach.
Reducing Funeral Costs Without Losing
Meaning
Reducing funeral costs without losing meaning is
possible through several thoughtful approaches. One
effective method is pre-planning, where purchasing
a funeral plan in advance helps lock in current prices
and alleviates financial pressure on loved ones later.
Opting for simpler services is another way to reduce
expenses – cremation, for instance, is typically more
affordable than burial, and avoiding unnecessary extras
can further lower the cost. In many cultures, families
also receive support from their communities through
collective contributions or crowdfunding, which
can ease the financial burden. Additionally charitable
organizations may offer financial assistance or
provide access to low-cost funeral services, ensuring
that families can honor their loved ones meaningfully
without facing overwhelming expenses.
Ultimately, while funeral costs can be high, proper
planning and support systems can help ease the
financial burden while still providing a meaningful
farewell for loved ones.
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THANOS MAGAZINE | No. 110 – SUMMER 2025
17
In Greece, funeral financing remains a sensitive
and often challenging topic. Traditionally,
families have borne the full cost of funeral
services upfront, relying either on personal
savings or informal community support. The
state offers a modest funeral allowance through
the national insurance fund (EFKA), but this is
usually reimbursed after the funeral and is
often insufficient to cover total expenses. As
a result, many families experience additional
stress during a already difficult time.
In my view, the funeral allowance system – while
well-intentioned – falls short in addressing the
real financial needs of grieving families. Its
delayed reimbursement model and relatively
low amount make it unreliable as a primary
funding source. In contrast, funeral insurance,
if structured transparently and affordably, offers
a more proactive solution. It allows individuals to
plan ahead, easing the emotional and financial
burden on their loved ones when the time comes.
However, uptake of funeral insurance in Greece
is still limited. This is largely due to cultural
hesitation, lack of awareness, and insufficient
promotion from the financial sector. I believe
that wider public education and collaboration
between funeral professionals and insurers
could foster more trust and participation in such
schemes.
From the perspective of funeral directors, the
current system also poses difficulties. Many of us
are placed in the awkward position of balancing
compassion with the reality of delayed payments.
Cash flow becomes a pressing issue, especially
for small or family-run firms. a more streamlined
and immediate funding mechanism – like pre-
approved insurance or direct-to-provider
reimbursement – would help ensure that funeral
professionals can continue offering high-quality,
dignified services without financial strain.
As we look to the future, I also believe it’s
important to encourage sustainable funeral
choices that are both meaningful and cost-
effective. Eco-friendly options such as natural
burials, biodegradable coffins, and simplified
ceremonies can significantly reduce costs while
respecting the environment. These should not be
seen as “lesser” alternatives, but as thoughtful
expressions of care – for both the deceased and
the planet.
Ultimately, the goal should be to ensure that
every family, regardless of income, can access
a dignified farewell for their loved ones without
being overwhelmed by expenses. Whether
through improved insurance products, revised
public policy, or community-based funding
initiatives, we must continue innovating in this
space. As a industry, we owe it to the families we
serve to make funeral financing less of a burden
and more of a bridge toward healing.
At Grammenos International, we remain
committed to promoting transparency,
sustainability, and compassion in all aspects of
our work. We welcome dialogue with colleagues
across Europe to share ideas and improve
outcomes for all.
RETHINKING
FUNERAL
FINANCING
IN GREECE
By Loukas Grammenos,
Grammenos International, Greece
MAIN TOPIC
HOW ARE
FUNERALS
FINANCED
IN THE UK?
FSJ (Funeral Service Journal) interviewed Suzy
Middleton, CEO of SEIB Insurance Brokers
(part of the Benefact Group with a charitable
ownership model, a collection of specialist
financial services businesses).
With more than 40 years experience of assisting
the funeral profession itself, SEIB has a good
understanding of the sector’s hazards and
methods of financing. Suzy Middleton discusses
her experience of how funerals are paid for,
currently, in the UK, what is still available for
improvement and how the system could be
improved for families and funeral businesses.
FSJ: What are the main ways funerals are
financed in the UK today?
Suzy Middleton: The UK population uses multiple
methods to fund their funerals. The majority of
people use their personal savings together with
their estate to fund their funerals.
Prepaid funeral plans have gained popularity
as a new method of funeral funding. Through
prepaid funeral plans people can pay their funeral
expenses in advance either by a single payment
or through instalment payments to protect their
family from future financial burden. Funeral
insurance provides a alternative solution because
it pays out a single sum after death which assists
with funeral expenses.
The government provides financial assistance to
families who receive specific benefits to cover
specific funeral expenses.
Funeral directors provide financing plans that
enable families to distribute funeral costs across
multiple monthly payments when they need
extra time to manage expenses.
FSJ: How has the demand for funeral directors’
insurance evolved in the past decade, and
what’s driving that change?
S.M.: During the last ten years the UK witnessed
a major increase in funeral directors who entered
the sector because of the rising UK elderly
population and the absence of entry restrictions.
The funeral market has become more
competitive, yet we have witnessed significant
consolidation in the market alongside new
Scottish Government frameworks and CMA’s
review and FCA’s involvement with funeral plans.
The UK funeral industry is changing, and funeral
directors now need full insurance to guard
against possible risks and liabilities in their work.
FSJ: What are the biggest holes you notice in
funeral directors' insurance plans, and how
can they plug these gaps?
S.M.: Common gaps often include inadequate
insurance cover for specialised funeral vehicles,
18
No. 110 – SUMMER 2025 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MAIN TOPIC
insufficient business interruption cover and lack
of cyber insurance.
To avoid these gaps, funeral directors should work
closely with insurance brokers who specialise in
the funeral industry to tailor policies that address
their unique operational risks.
Regular policy reviews and updates are also
crucial to ensure comprehensive cover.
FSJ: How does SEIB help funeral directors
protect their businesses?
S.M.: As a trusted partner to funeral directors
across the UK for over 40 years. Our role is to
make sure their businesses are well-protected
allowing them to focus on what they do best.
We offer tailored insurance policies specifically
designed for the funeral profession. That
includes cover for funeral fleets, premises,
professional indemnity, public liability, and even
cyber insurance. We also help identify potential
risks that might not be obvious at first glance
like gaps in cover or areas of exposure as their
services evolve.
In my opinion, in a sector driven by change –
economic, regulatory, and social – the issue of
how funerals are paid for continues to be front
and centre. Financial planning and protection are
closely linked to helping families manage costs
and enabling funeral practitioners to address
risk. Industry expertise, proactive guidance, and
adaptable coverage serve as essential tools for
those who provide support to the bereaved on
a daily basis.
The UK population uses
multiple methods to fund
their funerals. The majority
of people use their personal
savings together with
their estate to fund their
funerals.
MAIN TOPIC
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DIGNITY
ON
A BUDGET
EXPLORING
THE TRUTH BEHIND
THE ‘PAUPER’S FUNERAL’
By Jackie Lymn Rose, Director and
fourth generation at A.W. Lymn
The Family Funeral Service, UK
It may seem odd to outsiders that, although Great
Britain includes England, Wales and Scotland there
are variations in law and practice in Scotland.
Therefore, this article specifically references
England and Wales.
In the past most funerals were funded out of the
estate of the deceased such costs being prioritised.
Of late we find that families live on “credit”, have
no life insurance and no savings, although, (cynic
that I am), they probably have the most modern
television and the mobile telephone!
“Pauper’s Funeral” is a term we hear in the media
as a emotive statement. There is no such thing and
is often used to describe a Public Health Funeral.
Section 46 of the Public Health (Control of Disease)
Act 1984 was introduced as a means to protect
public health. The local authority is duty bound to
cause the burial or cremation of a person dying
or found dead in their area, the criteria being that
the deceased had no personal assets or, if there
are family, they are unable or unwilling to fund
a funeral. a unwilling family may have severed ties
with the deceased during their life, my experience
suggests that lifestyle choices of the deceased were
contrary to those of their family. The assigned
Environmental Health Officer appointed by the
local authority will scrutinise the affairs of the
deceased before a decision to fund is reached.
Public Health funerals can be burial or cremation
mindful of the faith of the deceased and, excepting
the Funeral Director and the local authority, no one
would know the source of funding as a dignified,
traditional albeit simple funeral will be afforded.
The Funeral Director providing such a service will
be selected, by tender, for a fixed period.
Should it subsequently be discovered that the
deceased had funds the cost can be recovered up
to three years after the funeral.
When someone of limited income dies but is
not eligible for a Public Health Funeral their
representative (usually next of kin) will generally
take responsibility for the funeral and sign
a contract with the funeral provider. If that person
is in receipt of a means tested benefit or, in the
case of a spouse, eligible to receive such a benefit
of due to loss of income into the home, they can
within six months of the funeral date apply to
the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
for a funeral payment from the DWP Social Fund.
The maximum amount of such would be for any
essential third-party costs such as Cemetery
or Crematorium and up to £1,000.00 towards
any other aspect of the funeral costs. This will
undoubtedly leave a shortfall which, in the case
of our company, can be managed by a low interest
unsecured load subject, initially, to a affordability
check.
20
No. 110 – SUMMER 2025 | THANOS MAGAZINE
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More than 230 NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITORS
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PRE-NEED FUNERAL
ARRANGEMENTS
IN GERMANY
CONCEPTS AND FRAMEWORKS
By Dr. Simon J. Walter, Cultural Representative of the German Burial Culture
Foundation
Pre-need arrangements provide legal,
financial, and emotional clarity.
© BDB
22
No. 110 – SUMMER 2025 | THANOS MAGAZINE
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The topic of pre-need funeral arrangements
(‘Bestattungsvorsorge’) has gained substantial
relevance in Germany in recent years – not only for
individuals seeking to make self-determined choices
but also from a financial and social perspective.
Without planning, the expenses around a funeral
may come as a unexpected and overwhelming
burden for relatives. Pre-need arrangements alleviate
this burden and allow family and friends to focus on
their grief and saying farewell to their loved ones.
As umbrella organization for over 5.500 funeral
homes, the German Federal Association of Funeral
Directors (BDB) has long advocated for pre-need
arrangements as a key component of individual
precaution. Especially in the context of demographic
change, increasing numbers of single-person
households, and shifting family dynamics, pre-
need arrangements provide legal, financial, and
emotional clarity – for the benefit of both individuals
and their families.
But more than that, they are a cornerstone of
sustainable business development in the funeral
profession.
Available Options in Germany
In Germany, individuals usually choose between
two options:
• Funeral Expense Insurance
(‘Sterbegeldversicherung’)
An insurance allows individuals to save for their
funeral over time through regular monthly
payments. Policies are available without health
checks and can be concluded even at a later age. In
the event of death, the insured amount is paid out
promptly to the designated beneficiary – typically
a family member or funeral director. This model
offers flexibility and predictability, especially for
people with lower incomes or those in the early
stages of retirement planning.
• Escrow Account (‘Treuhandkonto’)
The Deutsche Bestattungsvorsorge Treuhand AG
(DBT), for example, offers a regulated and secure
method for setting aside funds in a dedicated
escrow account. Individuals can either make a one-
time payment or contribute in instalments. The
funds are earmarked exclusively for the planned
funeral and are protected against unauthorized
claims by third parties – even in cases of social
welfare support due to care dependency. In
a aging society with more and more fragmented
family structures, this aspect is key for everyone
who wants to ensure a burial according to their
personal wishes.
In cooperation with a selected funeral home,
all funeral preferences are documented and
financially secured through a escrow agreement.
This structure is especially valued for its legal
robustness, transparency, and the personalisation
it allows.
Funeral Directors are Key
to Pre-Need Planning
While insurance companies offer products related
to pre-need funeral arrangements, they often lack
the comprehensive expertise of qualified funeral
professionals. That is why every arrangement
should ideally be concluded directly with a funeral
director. The funeral home thus becomes
a intermediary between the people planning
their funeral and the bank or insurance company
providing the financial service.
Dr. Simon J. Walter,
Cultural Representative of the German
Burial Culture Foundation
© BDB
Digital infrastructure is poised
to become more and more
important in coming years,
as funeral homes in Germany
apply more digital procedures
and transfer administrative
tasks into specialized software
tools. Making pre-need
arrangements accessible
and manageable in the same
digital environment is one
of the main tasks for the
immediate future.
THANOS MAGAZINE | No. 110 – SUMMER 2025
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