The 2015 British Marine Federation (BMF) Marina Conference, sponsored by Walcon, took place on Wednesday 22 April in Southampton and attracted marina professionals from all over the UK and Europe.
The annual event began with a welcome from Mike Townshend CMM UK and European Chairman, in which he expressed his hopes that ‘new ideas and action’ would be imparted and everyone would leave ‘motivated’.
Highlights of the Conference included;
- Key-notes speaker Philip Hesketh’s inspiring session on persuasion and influence, focusing on ways in which marinas can enhance relationships with their customers and increase sales
- Alastair Clarke CMM’s, of Weymouth Marina, presentation of the “AMM course down-under – highlights from Sydney, Australia”.
- A field trip to BMF member, Berthon Boat Company where attendees were given a tour of the impressive facilities which include large boatbuilding facilities, a brokerage and a marina.
- The launch of the 2016 Marina of the Year Awards
In addition Udo Kleinitz, the BMF’s Head of Technical, was on hand to provide an expert update on technical issues for the marina sector and Sarah Dhanda, Senior Federation Director of the BMF, offered an insight into how Britain can further generate public enthusiasm for boating and watersports.
During the Conference’s Gala Dinner four newly awarded Certified Marina Managers (CMM) were presented; including Rupert Wagstaff CMM of Lymington Yacht Haven, Alistair Clarke CMM of Dean & Reddyhoff Weymouth Marina, Hollie Luff CMM of Premier Marina’s Port Solent Marina and Jonathan Walcroft CMM of MDL Shamrock Quay & Saxon Wharf Marina.
Simon Haigh of Quay Marinas commented on the Conference: “A lot of enthusiasm was demonstrated by the key players in the industry, and this was apparent to the delegates. With updates on targeted topics via presentations and workshops I left the Marina Conference feeling enthused and armed with new tips, ideas and contacts, ready to play a more effective part in the marine industry.”
The BMF’s Sarah Dhanda added: “The BMF Marina Conference was, as always, a fantastic event for Marina Managers and professionals. This yeas key note speaker really did get all the delegates fired up and the field trip was well received and the topical breakout sessions ensured that the conference remained relevant to all those attending.”
(Our thanks to the BMF for allowing us to reproduce their commentary).