The retail motor industry is going through a time of unprecedented change - particularly as we approach the review of Block Exemption in September 2002.

That review will undoubtedly reshape the landscape of retail motor distribution and aftersales, which will in turn bring new opportunities and threats for the industry. But there is currently widespread uncertainty as to what form those changes might take.

That is why Sewells Information & Research has organised a major conference on the subject, with the aim of helping motor dealers to plan for a successful future based on the latest thinking from the corridors of power in Brussels.

The conference - on Wednesday, March 28 at the National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham - will include presentations from senior figures on all sides of the industry, and will conclude with an action plan for confronting the challenges that the Block Exemption review is certain to bring.

Block Exemption-Threat or Opportunity?

GE is recognised throughout the world for its ability to manage change effectively. Our industry has seen unprecedented change over the last few years which will be accelerated by the review of Block Exemption.

Our growth is inherently linked to our ability to help our customers grow and our ability to understand and adapt to any changes which Block Exemption brings are a key part of this process. We are delighted to be working with Sewells in the delivery of what will be the authoritative voice of the industry in this debate.

Gerard Ryan
Managing Director
GE Capital Woodchester

Who should attend

  • Franchised dealers - independents and groups
  • Vehicle manufacturers - especially dealer development personnel
  • Suppliers to the industry

    How you will benefit from this meeting

  • Update on the latest thinking from Brussels and the UK government
  • Hear how some of the industry's leading players are preparing for the future
  • Help and advice on how best to prepare for the changes that Block Exemption may bring
  • The opportunity to network with industry colleagues
  • Lunch and refreshments served throughout the day

    The speakers

    Marc Greven, legal affairs advisor of ACEA, the European vehicle manufacturer's association, will give an update on the latest thinking from Brussels regarding Block Exemption.


  • Dr Stephan Pukas, case officer at the Office of Fair Trading, will give an update on the New Competition Act and Supply of New Cars Order.


  • Tod Evans, managing director of Peugeot Motor Company, will give a vehicle manufacturer's perspective on Block Exemption and the selective/exclusive distribution system.

  • Clive Sutton, chairman and chief executive of Clive Sutton Group, will give a motor retailer's perspective.

  • Phil Evans, senior policy advisor at the Consumers' Association, will represent the consumer view.

  • Kevin Turnbull, Autobytel.co.uk managing director, assesses the impact on dealers' dot.com operations.

  • David Evans, chief executive of the Retail Motor Industry Federation and President of CECRA, the European motor retailers' trade association, will present the dealer body's perspective.

  • William Tacon, Ernst & Young, will review the day's proceedings and draw up an action plan to help motor retailers and manufacturers confront the challenges that the review of Block Exemption will bring.



  • Schedule of presentations
    Ron Sewell will chair the proceedings and will lead a group discussion at the end of each session.

    Timetable
    08.30 Registration
    09.00 Introduction - Ron Sewell

    Session 1
    09.20 Sponsor's address
    09.30 Marc Greven
    10.00 Stephan Pukas
    10.30 Group discussion and questions from the floor
    11.00 Coffee break

    Session 2
    11.20 Sponsor's address
    11.30 Tod Evans
    12.00 Clive Sutton
    12.30 Phil Evans
    13.00 Group discussion and questions from the floor
    13.30 Lunch

    Session 3
    14.20 Sponsor's address
    14.30 Kevin Turnbull
    15.00 David Evans
    15.30 Ernst & Young
    16.00 Group discussion and questions from the floor
    16.30 Summary - Ron Sewell

    16.45 Close

    Everyone who attends this conference will also receive a report, shortly after the event, highlighting all the key points made during the day.

    If you would like to attend or have questions call Sue White on 01733 468272 or email her at sue.white@emap.com.

    Sponsored by