Business Leaders Forum
Exclusive forum to tackle sustainable supply chain and labour crisis
Attendance at the event, which was first held in 2007, is free, by invitation from Food Manufacture editor Rod Addy and open to senior business leaders within food and drink processors.
The forum, which is sponsored by Columbus, has been held almost every year for the past 15 years, with the exception of last year because of pandemic-related restrictions.
As an unparalleled networking opportunity, it has always attracted a mix of top bosses from major names such as Coca-Cola Europacific Enterprises, 2 Sisters Food Group and Greencore and managers of smaller businesses.
Impactful challenges
The summit lasts for just a morning, leaving the afternoon free to arrange meetings, and will take place at 30 Euston Square in central London, next to Euston Station. It takes the form of a debate under Chatham House rules on some of the most impactful challenges facing the industry, concluding with a buffet-style lunch, for those keen to catch up with their peers.
The morning will be split into two sessions (take a look at the programme below). The first will focus on supply chain resilience and will cover green procurement, energy efficiency, slashing pollution and managing soaring commodity costs.
The second half will concentrate on how businesses have the right skills to keep pace with the latest technology, industry 5.0, the impact of future trade deals and maintaining morale in uncertain times.
To enquire about being part of the debate, which is strictly limited to current managers and directors of food manufacturers, email ebq.nqql@jeoz.pbz
Business Leaders Forum at a glance
Date: 17 March
Venue: 30 Euston Square, London NW1 2FB
Agenda:
8.45am – 9.10am Registration and coffee
9.10am – 9.25am Welcome: Rod Addy
9.25am – 10.45am Discussion begins
Main subject: Supply chain resilience: Plan A-Z
Topics:
- Preparing for climate change
How can the industry manage the impact of climate change on raw material procurement?
- I just don’t have the energy
What can processors do to minimise the effects of soaring energy costs?
- Environment for change
What are the biggest challenges to reducing pollution across the supply chain?
- Margin for improvement
How can food and drink manufacturers protect margins and improve efficiency in a climate of increasing raw material costs?
10.45am – 11.00am Tea and coffee
11.00pm – 12.20pm Discussion continues
Main subject: The Skills Crisis
Topics:
- People power
How can the sector tap into future skills provision and adapt to the altered dynamics and rising costs of the new labour market?
- Industry 5.0
How is digitalisation benefiting food businesses and where is technology heading after industry 4.0?
- Trading places
How will future trade deals affect UK producers and the domestic market?
- Stress test
How can managers and employees work together to keep morale high in uncertain times?
12.20pm Closing remarks
12.30pm Buffet Lunch
2.00pm Close
