The IAAF has unveiled the theme of this year’s conference: “How to survive and thrive – Now and in the future” and will include an exclusive talk on how 3D printing is billed as the “future of manufacturing.”
The conference takes place on December 17th at the ICC in Birmingham and aims to examine current issues from both the UK and Europe, highlight the key changes from both a technical and a market perspective and consider what opportunities there are for the future.
The following speakers are confirmed: Dr. Ben Wood – International Institute for Product and Service Innovation WMG, University of Warwick, Neil Pattemore – FIGIEFA, Steve Carter – eXponentia, Peter Golding – FleetCheck, Quentin Le Hetet – GiPA and, Peter Seagrott – Factor Sales.
The conference will include developments on the connected car and we will glimpse into the future with a realistic look at how far away the 3D printed car is, along with all its components.
The mainstream media have portrayed 3D printing as the future of manufacturing with suggestions that traditional processes will soon become obsolete. But what is the truth behind the hyperbole?
Conference delegates will hear from an industry leading expert, Dr Ben Wood who will offer a pragmatic view on this question with reference to the automotive industry, and the potential impact that 3D printing might have on the automotive parts manufacturing industry in future.
Wendy Williamson, IAAF chief executive, is excited about a very lively debate ahead. “The IAAF conference will come at a perfect time as it will allow the Federation to demonstrate the actions it is taking on a number of issues including opposing proposed plans to extend the MOT test frequency.
“The technology of vehicles for which independents provide parts and service for are not just evolving, but changing radically in terms of motive power, transmission, security and even driver involvement. The market players are changing their approaches and some of the technology is favouring our competitors, but the customer remains the same – or is the customer also changing? Can the Independent Aftermarket cope with this pace of change? The IAAF conference will again tackle the main issues and offer fresh perspectives.”
An overview of marketplace trends will also be presented and a look at the challenges being faced for the IAM through the growth in hybrids.
Finally, the conference will give its regular update on the latest legislation emerging in the EU and how this will impact us.
The theme aims to address all these issues and produce a lively debate for conference guests.
Leading British sports presenter John Inverdale will be the guest host and compère.
Demand for tickets to this event has been strong. Members and their guests are therefore being urged to book now to avoid disappointment. Tickets can be secured by telephoning the IAAF on 0121 748 4600.
