The conference includes a number of presentations by distinguished speakers. Among the subjects are; A history of innovation by Chris Merrell of Garmin; The GLA’s radionavigation activity by Dr Sally Basker of Trinity House; WEEE implementation and the perspective of a compliance scheme by Paul James of DHL; The opportunities and challenges we face from increased life expectancy by David Lamb of St James’s Place Capital Plc; Today’s communication for SAR in use by the RNLI by Peter Bradley, RNLI and The marine industry – some thoughts for the future presented by Rob Stevens, BMF.

Several BMEA committee members will also make presentations. Reg Suter and Julian Coleman from Boat Electronics will update delegates on the BMET Certification scheme, while Ian Lockyer from Icom UK will present the new BMEA website.

The day ends with a three-course buffet meal, followed by the presentation of two major awards. ‘The BMEA Waterside Dealer of the Year’ - voted for by manufacturers/dealers - will be presented by Richard Acland of Brookes and Gatehouse Ltd.

Manufacturers can also showcase their products to waterside dealers, who will decide on the best. The award for BMEA Product of the Year will be again presented by Peter Nash, editor of Boating Business.

The conference is open to all in the marine industry and is free for up to two delegates from BMEA member companies. Additional delegates, and non-BMEA members, will be charged £35 per person – to include entrance, presentations, coffee, lunch and dinner.

Anyone interested in attending should contact Tony Johns, secretary of the BMEA, by email; secretary@bmea.org