BHF Group to host IHA Centenary Congress - London, 2009

Download Hi-Res Image

Meet the world

The UK's trade association for indepenedent hardware and housewares retailers, BHF Group, has announced its delight that The Priness Royal has agreed to become patron of the IHA Centenary Congress in 2009.

BHF Group Managing Director Alan Hawkins said: "We are honoured both to be hosting this important event and to have been granted the privilege of sponsorship by the Princess Royal, holding as it does the great prospect of an appearance in person. We will do everything we can to make a huge success of this congress and we call on IHA members around the world to spread the message, come to London in 2009 and Meet the World..."

The Group is planning a central London spectacular for IHA delegates from across the world, when it meets in September 2009 for the centanary of the international organisation. Business sessions in the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre will feature world-class speakers covering subjects including

• The development of world trade in the future
• The global environment and its impact on business
• Worldwide finance - global banking and global trade
• Manufacturing across different continents
• The UK Government view of world trade
• The European view of commerce
• An importer speaks
• From the factory to the shelf in the corner shop - the world in one small shop

Formal and social events will include exclusive access to the Tower of London and to the Crown Jewels, a lavish Gala Banquet at the historic Banqueting House, a visit to the world famous Hampton Court and a hosted visit to the premiere exhibition, GLEE. Delegates will, of course, have at their feet the cosmopolitan richness of London, at once a historic and leading-edge centre of world trade and business. Accomodation will include the iconic Marriott Hotel County Hall, facing the Houses of Parliament.

Further bulletins will be issued on the Congress website as the event draws near. IHA member organsiations are being encouraged to download material from the site to promote.