Housewares Business-to-business magazine for housewares retailers and their suppliers
Two Amazon category leaders will feature as guest speakers at the next networking forum organised by BHETA (British Home Enhancement Trade Association).
Jeff Wemyss and Oliver Sawers will share information on how digital innovation is fuelling the online retail giant’s business and the opportunities this offers to existing and potential suppliers at the event, which takes place on April 21 at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry.
Their presentation will include an introduction to innovations which are particularly relevant for the housewares, small domestic appliances, home improvement and tools & garden power categories. There will also be a chance to network with the Amazon buying team.
Another speaker at the forum will be Decco chief operating officer Charlie Lacey, who will outline the opportunities that its seven UK-based distribution centres servicing High Street retailers and garden centres can provide.
Market research expert GfK will present updates for the key industry sectors and provide an insight into the progress being made by e-commerce. In addition, BHETA associate members (service providers) will be on hand to offer advice and support.
Finally, there will be a review of the ongoing issue of the exchange rate fluctuations and its impact on the cost of goods post-Brexit by Clive Daley of mdj2 Associates.
BHETA housewares sector director Will Jones commented: “With ecommerce continuing to make a significant impact on the retail landscape and further growth projected in the foreseeable future, UK consumer behaviour is at the forefront of this digital evolution – and Amazon are currently recognised as one of the leading e-tail platforms in the field. The whole agenda of the forum is equally current, however, so we are expecting a significant turnout.”
BHETA DIY and garden sector director Paul Grinsell echoed this view. “Once again we anticipate this BHETA Forum will be particularly popular,” he said, “hence our choice of the Ricoh Arena in Coventry as a venue. Previous experience has shown that larger venues really do contribute to creating a bigger industry event that affords even greater networking opportunities.”
The event will start at 10am with registration from 9.15am. Applications to attend should be made to Dawn Clarke of the member services team on dc@bheta.co.uk or 0121 237 1130.
