Dermot Kelly, who heads the controversial reorganisation of the Mercedes-Benz retail network in the UK, will speak at an Automotive Management conference on October 4.

Beyond Block Exemption – the debate continues will be staged at the International Convention Centre, Birmingham. The conference will consider the implications of the more liberal retail car market expected within Europe by the autumn of 2002.

Other speakers include Pendragon chief executive Trevor Finn and European Member of Parliament Malcolm Harbour. Andrew Tongue, of the International Car Distribution Programme, will be chairman.

The principle sponsor of the event is GE Capital Woodchester. Associate sponsors are Cap Network and BCA Europe.