Confex celebrates conference success
The buying group held its annual conference earlier this month bringing together members, suppliers and key industry figures to focus on industry insight, networking and business strategy
The four-day event, held in Barcelona, provided the 95 delegates with an insightful and varied mix of presentations, one-to-one meetings and informal social events, all focussed on the event’s key themes of collaboration and business growth.
Confex CEO Tom Gittins shared the group’s ambitious plans as well as its growth trajectory and six strategic pillars. He also outlined how the group’s diverse membership represents more than 12% of the UK wholesale market, providing suppliers with a significant route to market.
“This year’s conference was incredible,” said Jess Douglas, chief operating officer. “The four days provided our members with an invaluable opportunity to network and collaborate with others, including more than 300 one-to-one meetings with suppliers which focussed on mutual growth and proved invaluable for both parties’ future planning.
“Our attendees really do make the most of the event in every sense and enable us to create a fantastic atmosphere for our truly unique buying group.”
As a result of the conference, suppliers reported significant wins. Martin Robinson, customer development manager, Nestle Professional UK and Ireland said: “During the conference, we secured more than £164,000 of orders, £24,000 of which was brand new business. We secured 20 new listings and opened two new wholesale accounts, with more in the pipeline. What a brilliant few days!”
Other delegates were quick to praise the event, including David Clutterbuck, AFH national sales controller, Unilever, who described the conference as a ‘fabulous experience from start to finish’, he said: “Attending the Confex conference in Barcelona was an incredibly rewarding experience as a supplier. The event provided outstanding networking opportunities and opened new doors for valuable business discussions with customers. The relaxed atmosphere allowed for meaningful conversations, where Confex showcased its growth strategy.”
Members agreed, including Rosie Labbett, supplier relationship manager, Woods Foodservice, who said: “The trip was very well organised, from the one-to-one meeting schedule to the social activities, including a fantastic meal on Saturday evening which provided a great atmosphere to connect with fellow attendees.”
Other members highlighted the opportunities to grow their businesses with new suppliers. Rupa Samani, director, Wow Box Me said: “We found the event very useful and collaborative, discussing new product launches and business strategies. Even with suppliers we don’t currently trade with, there are now opportunities for future collaboration.”
Ian Swales, wholesale manager, Freemans Event Partners agreed: “The opportunity to meet with so many suppliers and fellow members in such a short timeframe ensured the event was a success and full of energy throughout. We forged lots of new relationships and explored new opportunities for 2025.
“On a personal note, a highlight was the tour of the Sagrada Familia and the passion and knowledge of our guide really brought the tour to life.”
conference Confex David Clutterbuck Freemans Event Partners Jess Douglas Martin Robinson Nestle Professional Rosie Labbett Rupa Samani Tom Gittins Unilever Woods Foodservice Wow Box Me
