The chance to meet senior directors of major European suppliers is a major draw to attending the event.

NMBS is proud to be supporting the 57th FEST Congress, attracting record numbers of UK merchants making it one of the largest country groups attending the two-day event from 22 to 24 September, in Lisbon.

The main theme for the business session, held in the Portuguese capital, is Transformation of the customer experience, focusing on how to win back business from the disruptors who gained market share during the pandemic.

Keynote speakers include Nancy Rademaker, delivering a session on ‘customer centricity’, and Pascal Coppens – an expert on China’s innovative trading methods.

Both speakers will outline what other industries, as well as other nations, are doing with new technologies such as AI. The business session will open with an inspirational leader from outside the plumbing and heating industry and include presentations from ex-Wolseley Marketing Director, David Moody, adding his own input on customer evolution and then becoming moderator during a panel discussion with leading industry figures.

Johan Stevens, current President of FEST, said: “With the paucity of face-to-face networking over the last couple of years, we are delighted that the FEST Congress will be one of the first to bring industry leaders together. I am delighted with the significant UK turnout and hope the delegates find the programme stimulating. It provides a wonderful opportunity to mix with peers from more than 12 other European countries.”

Sue Knight, Director General of FEST, said: “The turnout of key members of NMBS and IPG indicates how UK merchants are keen to find ways to develop their businesses in this most challenging trading environment.”

Chris Hayward, NMBS CEO, added: “The opportunity to meet and exchange ideas with other merchants in Europe is more important than ever and the chance to meet senior directors of major European suppliers is a major draw to attending the event."

For more information visit https://www.festcongress-lisbon.pt/#home