Tom Reynolds, chief executive of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA), outlines the importance of building growth and how the annual Industry Conference will address this challenge.
Kickstarting economic growth and getting ‘Britain building again’ are 2 of several high-priority challenges our new Labour Government has taken to its core. Neither will be easy or immediate, and the raft of bills outlined in the King’s Speech means the Government has a lot planned for this Parliamentary session besides these 2 crucial topics.
This idea of ‘building growth’ economically and in housing and infrastructure has long been part of Labour’s manifesto promises. We decided at the BMA to make this the theme of our annual Industry Conference because of its significant importance to our sector and the UK, even though, at the time, we could only guess who would be in power at No.10.
As a highlight in the calendar, our conference promises to be an unmissable event for industry professionals. As we navigate a changed political landscape, this conference will focus on collectively fostering growth within our sector and taking advantage of reforms to the National Policy Planning Frameworks for housebuilding.
The conference will take place on 16th and 17th September at the Queen's Hotel in Leeds, and our first day is reserved only for our members. Three workshops will discuss using AI and digital innovation, growing a business, and the latest in PFAS legislation. After an insightful day, we’ll host a relaxed networking dinner with a 90s theme and a pub quiz.
Day 2 begins the conference programme, which features an impressive line-up of speakers. Jo Salter, a distinguished motivational speaker, will kick off the event with a session on 'The Growth Mindset', encouraging us to embrace innovation and proactive thinking. Following Jo, Mohammed Chaudhri, Experian’s ehief economist and director of market intelligence, will provide a critical analysis in his talk, 'The Economic Outlook', offering grounded perspectives on the potential for growth in the current economic climate and new political landscape.
A key highlight will be 'The Big Debate' – a panel discussion on what we can do to get Britain building and the role of bathroom manufacturers. This session will be a dynamic forum for industry leaders to discuss actionable strategies to boost housing development, emphasising the vital connection between robust housing growth and a thriving bathroom sector.
As the construction of new homes presents significant opportunities for our industry, this conference will be a vital platform for exploring how we can contribute to alleviating the housing crisis while driving innovation and collaboration across the supply chain.
Our final keynote speaker is Oliver Heath, an industry-recognised expert in biophilic design, sustainable architecture, and interior design. Oliver is renowned for creating human-centred spaces that enhance occupant wellbeing through a heightened connection to nature. His insights will be invaluable as we explore innovative and sustainable approaches to industry growth.
Of course, the day wouldn’t be complete without a networking drinks reception and 4-course gala dinner. In addition, our ‘Thirty under Thirty’ winners will receive their awards, and delegates can participate in a raffle and auction to aid our chosen charity, the Band of Builders.
As always, places can sell quickly, so it’s essential to book early on our website for what promises to be an insightful and inspiring event. Join us in Leeds to engage with industry peers, learn from leading experts, and explore strategies to overcome our nation's growth challenges.
