Over 200 members, guests and representatives from 49 partners convened at The Hilton, St George’s Park, Burton Upon Trent in early March for the Integra Business Solutions ‘Elevate Your Business’ National Conference 2024. The event was designed to ensure delegates departed with practical advice directly applicable to enhancing their businesses. With a stellar array of industry professionals and inspiring experts presenting, attendees received a wealth of reliable and actionable insights.
Opportunities are out there
Integra Business Solutions CEO Aidan McDonough opened the proceedings by commemorating his 30th anniversary with the organisation. He reflected on the evolution the dealer group has undergone and applauded members for adapting to ever-changing market demands.
McDonough emphasised the importance of sustainability, encouraging members to seize the opportunities to sell eco-friendly products and to work towards a net zero strategy. He also shed light on future trends, including the continuous momentum in M&A, the emerging influence of AI and the necessity for diversification into new categories to counteract the decline in traditional office products.
IDC Consulting Director Nathan Budd presented insights on the future of work, advocating for a digital-first infrastructure. He told the audience that although AI is the most dramatic change in the workplace, “providing a competitive advantage will only come from people, not machines”.
Taking the delegates further into the technology, Paddy Donnelly, Business Unit Leader at ECI Software Solutions, delved into how AI and managed content can enhance businesses. He also showcased the company’s new EvoX AI tool and advised members to partner with innovative vendors and leverage data analytics for decision-making.
Highlands Partner Gordon Christiansen reiterated that the future of B2B sales is hybrid, requiring a blend of digital and in-person techniques. He noted that although digital platforms are crucial, the essence of partnerships and collaboration in business cannot be understated: “Relationships aren’t dead. People buy from people they can relate to and trust.”
The afternoon’s supplier exhibition provided a platform for members to connect in person, explore sales strategies and preview forthcoming product launches with service providers, manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors. The Integra team were also on hand to talk about the group’s Green Initiative and i-merge service, among other things.
An audience with Ben Fogle
A highlight of the day was the chance to sit down with broadcaster and adventurer Ben Fogle, who shared a tale of a near-catastrophic experience when his oxygen tank exploded on entering the death zone of Mount Everest. Freeing the audience from this thrilling, suspense-driven session, he ended by encouraging everyone to “climb [their] Everest”.
Rounding off the day, delegates attended the Elevate Your Business black-tie gala dinner and awards ceremony, where the winners were announced against a backdrop of fine food and drink (see below). Elvis even made an appearance.
Elevate Your Business Award winners
- Account Manager of the Year: Darren Renshaw, VOW
- Manufacturer of the Year: Hamelin Brands
- Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year: JGBM
- Product of the Show: ACCO Brands: Pro V Light
- Alliance Member of the Year: Discounted Office Supplies
- Directory Member of the Year: Office Essentials
- Gold Member of the Year: Geoff Ball Office Supplies
