The event was a fitting tribute to the hard work and dedication of Partners and Suppliers over the past 12 months.

National Buying Group’s 2024 Conference at the renowned Celtic Manor Resort & ICC was a resounding success, bringing together Partners and Suppliers under the theme ‘Strengthening Our Community.’

Building on the strategy launched in 2023, NBG Partners and Suppliers celebrated the exceptional collaboration and camaraderie that make NBG stand out in the merchanting industry.

Over two action-packed days (18-19 November), NBG Partners and Suppliers had the opportunity to engage, and celebrate NBG’s unique approach to buying better through its commitment to community-building and business support. The Conference emphasised how NBG’s democratic ethos and close-knit partnerships position its Partners to outperform the wider market.

The Supplier Summit on day one of the Conference was opened by a first keynote speech from Managing Director, Mark Hughes, since joining NBG earlier this year. Through his welcoming speech, Hughes highlighted the areas the buying group continues to excel in as it looks to overcome the challenging headwinds faced by the industry over recent years.

The Supplier Summit welcome was followed by a compelling keynote from economic commentator Ed Conway, who gave the audience insights into the impact of some of industry’s most in-demand materials on the shifting economic landscape. Conway’s expert analysis underscores the power of NBG’s collaborative approach, equipping members with the strategies needed to thrive in challenging times.

A highlight of the event was the Expo on the second day, where Partners had the opportunity to explore Suppliers’ stands and discuss future opportunities, product innovations, and ways to strengthen their business relationships.  

The camaraderie continued at the gala dinner at Celtic Manor, where guests were treated to an evening of celebration, dining, and entertainment. As part of the festivities, awards were given to Suppliers and Partners that have gone above and beyond in their respective categories.

The Conference’s now traditional charity football match, along with a silent auction at the gala dinner, helped the Conference to raise more than £25,000 for the Rainy Day Trust, further highlighting NBG’s commitment to giving back to its community.

Hughes said: “The 2024 Conference has been a true celebration of our shared values. Moving into another year, the connections made and the momentum gained from this Conference will only strengthen NBG Partners’ ability to succeed.

“Our three pillars of Excellence in Buying, Supportive Community, and Enhanced Business Performance are shaping the way we work and we’re seeing them help NBG Partners and Suppliers do better, even with the significant challenges of the past 12 months. This has been another successful Conference and I’m excited for what lies ahead for our Partners and Suppliers alike.”