A Bright Future
Following a successful Merchandise World, leading British manufacturers gathered to discuss where the industry is heading, reports Mark Alderson
This year’s annual Briman conference focused on the rapidly changing face of promotional merchandise, sustainability goals, and all things UK manufactured.
The morning began with a lively industry-based conversation. This discussion focused on how British manufacturers could build on strategies to maximise the benefits of an increasingly popular, post-Covid trend, in buying local. All members reported an increase in project briefs requesting British made products, with end users increasingly looking for local solutions.
Workforce development
Ellie Greenwell from Quest, a BPMA service partner, delivered the first seminar of the day. Her presentation focused on best practice for hiring and galvanising the existing workforce. A number of top tips were shared, including tactics to incentivise and motivate staff while maximising output and prioritising personal development. Ideas to help upskill the workforce and increase productivity were particularly well received and are essential to ensure the longevity of British manufacturing.
Over lunch the members reflected on the significant successes of the previous day. The Briman aisle attracted an exciting selection of distributors.
“We had a fantastic day engaging with many of our top clients, educating them on our rapidly growing range of UK-made, real wood trophies,” said Simon Adam, managing director of WCM&A.
Tech talk
Gemini Blue was next in the hot seat with its MD, David Mallinder, returning for his second Briman conference. Following his first successful presentation in 2022 a number of Briman members engaged David’s services, with the aim of improving the efficiency of their ICT stacks. This year’s talk focused on ERP automation and the challenges associated with the bespoke nature of our industry.
The event ended with a thoroughly thought-provoking presentation aimed at helping businesses reach their net zero goals. This was delivered by Tim Davis of Project Rising who explained how the appeal of UK-made promotional products is set to grow as they carry a significantly reduced carbon footprint.
Jamie Gray, of Sow Easy said: “It was great to see validation of the carbon reduction measures we have implemented at our Slough based factory. For our ongoing development as a sustainable business, it is fundamental for us to be associated with like-minded UK manufacturers.”
The Briman group supports sixteen of the industry’s leading UK manufacturers. Members are committed to sharing best practice, driving innovation, improving standards, and share aggressive sustainability goals.
Mark Alderson is chairman of the Briman Group of British manufacturing promotional merchandise businesses
