BETA Conference to inspire equestrian enterprise

Economic, legal and commercial challenges facing the equestrian industry will be addressed by a series of expert speakers at the 2009 British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) Conference at The Belfry on 12 October

The annual event attracts an audience of leading equestrian manufacturers, distributors and retailers and incorporates the trade association’s AGM, chaired by BETA president Jane Holderness Roddam.

“Since horse ownership tends to be a lifestyle choice, the equestrian trade overall is holding up in what are testing economic times,” said Claire Williams, executive director of BETA.

“The aim of our 2009 Conference is to encourage BETA member companies to flourish further so that they can continue to offer consumers a wide choice of products and good quality, reliable service. Eminent professionals from outside our own industry are ideally placed to provide fresh ideas and inspiration.”

Under the title ‘Survive and thrive: growing your business’, speakers include merchandising guru John Ryan, stores editor of Retail Week magazine and a former multi-national chain store buyer.

Chartered accountant and financial journalist Nigel Hastilow presents an eight-point plan for businesses to survive the economic downturn; while Ian Wright, senior fraud liaison manager with HSBC Merchant Services, speaks on avoiding costly commercial swindles.

Are employees friend or foe is the question employment lawyer Nick Sheppard will ask BETA Conference delegates before revealing a risk management strategy. Mark Davies from Business Link then exposes and explains how businesses can access the latest grants, advice and other opportunities.

The secrets of successful retailing will be revealed by Rosslyn Boggis of RB Equestrian and Jane Ker of Martinshouse Equestrian, both winners of 2009 BETA/SEIB Retailer of the Year Awards.

Primal Journey, a motivational presentation by polar expeditionist Tarka L’Herpiniere and former event rider and commercial model Katie-Jane Cooper, is set to fascinate BETA Conference delegates by translating survival techniques into business skills.

The pair recently completed a 4,500km trek along the Great Wall of China

and are about to embark on a 30,000km adventure from geographic pole to pole by means of walking, cycling and ocean rowing. 

The one-day 2009 BETA Conference includes lunch and good networking opportunities plus the chance to view a series of information stands. Delegate packages are available combining the BETA Conference preceded by dinner and an overnight stay at The Belfry, the famous West Midlands golfing and spa hotel. Substantial discounts are available to BETA Members.

For ticket applications, contact BETA on tel 01937 587062 or email info@beta-uk.org