Information and discussion

The European manufacturers’ umbrella DIY organisation is inviting delegates to the fourth Fediyma Forum on 13 and 14 September, to be held in Barcelona for the first time. The Spanish manufacturers’ association AFEB, which has been a member of Fediyma since it was founded in 2004, is responsible for organising the event. “Sharing knowledge to sustain profitable growth” is the theme of this year’s meeting, during which the latest study of consumer behaviour in 14 European countries will be presented (www.fediyma. com). Fediyma is taking a completely new line in terms of the conference organisation. Workshops are being planned to give participants the opportunity to contribute their own thoughts and arguments, instead of ideas being conveyed solely by a speaker addressing an audience from the front in plenary session. It is true that two or three short papers will be presented, but they will simply serve to introduce the keynote topic and provide a basis for the ensuing discussion, where delegates will be called upon to bring in their own ideas, thoughts and experiences. At the end the results of each of the separate workshops will be reported to the plenary session by one of the participants. The focus is not to be on the presentation of companies, which is why the organisers are doing without top names from the industry. The aim is rather for industry insiders with know-how on the operational side to work together with the delegates to define solutions for sustainable growth that are geared specifically to the sector. Offered to accompany the Forum is a supporting programme that is due to start on the eve of the conference: a store tour on the Wednesday afternoon will provide insights into the Spanish hardware and DIY trade, which is still characterised by traditional structures. The itinerary includes Servicio Estación, a DIY store in the heart of Barcelona, and the Spanish industry leader Leroy Merlin, as well as the smaller-format Aki channel, which also belongs to Groupe Adeo. Further stops are planned at Habitacle, the DIY line of Cadena 88, one of the biggest Spanish hardware trade organisations, and at Olivella Hardware/Bricofac. Bricofac is the DIY concept of Cofac, the hardware trade cooperative. Following the tour, the association is inviting participants to cocktails and dinner on the Wednesday evening that will put delegates in the mood to enjoy two days full of interest and allow them to do some networking in a relaxed atmosphere.
Download: