On the 24th of November I had the privilege to attend this year’s Service Dealer Conference held at the Double Tree Oxford Belfy Hotel in Oxfordshire.
The conference was split between a day of guest speakers and some practical workshops followed by an evening dinner at which this year’s Services Dealer Awards were presented. You can read about all the winners here.
 

Conference delegates 

The Conference itself began with a welcome from Service Dealer owner, Duncan Murray-Clarke, who set the agenda for the day. He spoke of how the aim of the conference is to be ever more relevant and above all support what our dealer network is trying to achieve. He also introduced a new innovation this year, of delegates joining in with polls and questions via the online Sildo system - something everyone could easily access via scanning a QR code on their phones.

Duncan went on to say, "It is clear that the battles and problems facing the industry have evolved from last year and you could argue that things are now actually that bit worse. Supply is still in disarray and manufacturers have pretty much all been struggling to keep some sort of consistent flow of products. This season, dealerships just didn’t have the inventory of stock to sell or even make some repairs - despite ordering last year."

Robin Horsfall 

So, in essence, it’s been a challenging year for many of our dealerships. However from my own experiences talking to many dealers throughout the year, they have coped exceptionally well and have adapted to these trying times, continuing to look after their customers.

The day’s programme of speakers included Robin Horsfall, former SAS soldier; Jeremy Gibbs, founder of Forces Farming; Heather Wildman from Saviour Associates and Stuart Goodison and Grace Nugent from DeLacy, a recruitment company.

Jeremy Gibbs, Forces Farming 

All were excellent speakers and motivators who enthralled the packed audience of dealership owners and employees. For a fuller account of the day, you can read my colleague, editor of Service Dealer, Steve Gibbs’ editorial.

The evening session was hosted by comedian Charlie Baker who announced the annual awards in between meal courses. We also managed to raise over £3000 with a raffle, with the money being donated to the Safe Fields Ukraine appeal that helps remove landmines from agriculture land in the Ukraine.
 

Keith Christian and Charlie Baker picking the winning raffle ticket for Ukraine landmine appeal 

As for the awards it was very pleasing to see my long-time friend and fellow rugby player, Keith Christian, winning the Outstanding Contribution award for his service to our industry . 
  

Duncan Murray Clark and Keith Christian 

It was a busy evening and many memories to cherish. Again, it was all about people. As I’ve always said, people drive our industry forward.

Thanks again to all the sponsors and the TAP team for putting on a wonderful conference. I’m already looking forwards to next year’s bash