Andy Hextall, Commercial Director at NMBS, reveals details of the 2020 NMBS All-Industry Conference and what delegates can expect from their visit to Sorrento.
Plans are coming together for the NMBS All-Industry Conference, which will see merchants and suppliers from across the industry unite once more to discuss topical issues affecting the entire sector.
The event is always a popular one in the industry calendar, combining a riveting business-focused programme with a series of social and networking activities where delegates can make new contacts and renew old friendships.
An inspiring host
Hosting the 2020 Conference is broadcaster David Meade, whose attendance is being sponsored by boiler manufacturer Worcester Bosch. David first attended the 2018 NMBS Conference as a keynote speaker, where he inspired the audience with his ability to use behavioural traits to tell what people were thinking.
David is a keynote speaker, broadcaster and entertainer who has been inspiring audiences internationally for more than 15 years. He teaches them how to use simple, cutting-edge scientific research on leadership, performance, persuasion and influence, mindset and motivation to improve the way people think and act every day.
His speech at the 2018 conference left delegates feeling energised, inspired and empowered to apply these skills to their own businesses to help teams work more efficiently and effectively.
For 2020, David will bring his boundless energy and insight to the role of host of the All-Industry Conference, inspiring delegates throughout the two-day business programme.
Andy said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming David Meade back to the Conference as this year’s host. He was a hit with everyone in 2018 and we can’t wait to enjoy his enthusiasm and inspirational ideas once again.”
The theme for this year’s Conference is, appropriately, 2020 Vision, and the programme of speakers will give delegates the chance to reflect on their business, and their successes and challenges over recent months. The programme of speakers is currently being finalised, and the full line-up will be announced over the coming months. But one thing is certain – the programme will give delegates new ideas, tools and resources they can apply to their daily lives, returning to the UK energised and ready to take their business and careers to the next level.
With Makita as a headline sponsor, the Conference will cover issues affecting the industry, including technology, people, productivity, e-trading, and innovation.
The social side of Sorrento
The NMBS All-Industry Conference is not all business, however, and plenty of time is being set aside to allow delegates to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the Amalfi Coast.
Thursday 18th June will be the main activity day for the Conference, with four options available for those who wish to explore the local area. All social activities are being sponsored by VELUX, Polypipe and Knauf Insulation.
The first available activity is a day trip to the nearby island of Capri, where attendees will be taken on a taxi tour of the island, accompanied by local guides. After a delicious lunch on the island, guests will have time at their leisure to shop, explore the area further or simply relax for the afternoon before returning to the hotel.
Alternatively, delegates can choose to see the sights on a mountain bike tour of the Sorrento Peninsula. By following the hill path, bikers can enjoy striking views of the Bay of Naples and Salerno, before making a pit stop at a country farm to sample local delicacies. This 4-5-hour tour covers a distance of 10km, and is suitable for both novice and expert bikers.
Those who prefer walking to cycling can go on a guided hiking tour along the Amalfi Coast. The ‘Sentiero degli Dei’, known as ‘The Path of the Gods’, links the tiny hilltop town of Agerola with Nocelle, where guests can enjoy stunning views over the beautiful Italian scenery
Any delegate with a need for speed can, instead, choose to take a drive along the winding Amalfi cliff-top road, which is said to be one of the most spectacular roads in Europe. Drivers will head to Positano, a village perched on the mountainside and overlooking the sea, where they will have time to explore the traditional cobbled streets. Then they will drive to Amalfi for a three-course lunch, before having leisure time to explore the area for the afternoon.
The jewel in the crown of the Conference’s social activities is a tour of the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, which delegates can join in Saturday 20th June after the close of the business programme. Delegates will be able to visit the city and discover how people lived in ancient Italy, seeing the elaborately decorated walls, mosaics and paintings for themselves. They can also learn more about the infamous events of 79AD, when the city was engulfed by lava following the eruption of nearby Mount Vesuvius.
All social activities are subject to availability and are on a first-come, first-served basis.
Sponsorship packages have now completely sold out for the Conference, with just a few spaces left for delegates who wish to join their industry colleagues for an inspiring programme.
Andy added: “We are still putting the finishing touches to the line-up of speakers, but we know that delegates won’t be disappointed. With an unprecedented choice of social activities and some internationally-renowned speakers to be announced, this really is shaping up to be our best All-Industry Conference yet.”
More information about the NMBS Conference and the activities can be found online at www.nmbs-conference.co.uk.
