IPG addresses change at biennial conference

Plumbing and heating buying group the IPG held its biennial conference at the Mermaid Theatre in London on October 1, with the theme The Changing World of Business.

The conference focussed on facilitating the discussion of managing change while maintaining business as usual, with much emphasis placed on the underlying message that ‘we are stronger when we work together’.

The day’s programme saw members have a face-to-face catch up with suppliers in the exhibitor’s area, followed by an afternoon in the auditorium – where attendees listened to a roster of prominent speakers, all highlighting that there are a lot of opportunities for those willing to embrace change. They also learnt about plans of the group and were entertained by various ‘stronger together’ themed acts.

Flash mob dancers opened the “line-up” with a street dance to the song ‘This is The Greatest Show’.  Glenn Fisher, managing director of The IPG then gave a  speech, appealing to everyone to stand united, and work together. He said: “ Those businesses that succeed and thrive, are those agile enough to continue to adapt quickly, because it is in that very change where new opportunities arise. Our partnerships are in place to seize those opportunities together and help each other have more successful businesses. Because with your success comes our collective success and with our collective success the group will continue to grow stronger, together. ”

A Keynote address from international marketeer David Abbott inspired the audience to rethink their sales strategy by showcasing various techniques to help them optimise their pricing.

Key sponsors Bristan and Davant discussed the importance of Customer Service and British Manufacturing respectively.

The conference concluded with an evening dinner at the Leonardo Royal Hotel St Paul’s. Robin Beal, chairman and founder said: “As you know this event only happens once in 2 years, that’s once in 728 days. For 727 days we mostly get on with our daily lives, work hard and give ourselves little praise, so let’s be unapologetic about celebrating our successful partnerships on this special occasion and this evening we are going to top it off with an enjoyable meal, great networking and having some fun.”

A silent Auction was also held, with generous donations and bids, the group raised 9K for its charity partner Missing People #FindEveryChild.