British Marine Digital Autumn Expo hailed as a success
THE British Marine Digital Autumn Expo 2020 closed on November 12 after freshly energising the UK industry with three days of learning and networking.
In a year when meeting in person has been difficult, 404 participants from across the industry and the United Kingdom came together online to collectively reflect on the past year, discuss current challenges and prepare for future opportunities.
A line-up of 33 expert speakers, including special guests from the Maritime & Coastguard Agency, the Canal & River Trust and the Motorsport Industry Association, presented at 16 webinars and networking sessions covering a wide range of hot topics.
British Marine president Ian Cooke said there had been a great discussion around new boating participation, from paddle boards up and the importance of basic training to encourage long-term engagement.
Confirming that the industry understands the importance of preserving the marine environment that they work in, the Alternative Propulsion session attracted a large audience and sparked much debate. To assist members as well as their customers with minimising impact on the environment, attendees were updated on existing and emerging technologies to promote sustainable operations.
The Apprenticeship session, which was geared towards helping employers understand the current programmes available, was well attended. Members recognise that the success of their business is built around their workforce, and during this session many were pleased to receive advice and support best suited to their requirements.
One of the most successful elements of the Expo proved to be the morning networking sessions bringing a buzz each day along with calls for a continuation of the sessions in the future. Creating the opportunity to connect with people from all sectors of the industry whose paths would not usually cross, discussions ranged from the environment and participation to Brexit preparation and overseas trade and more.
Ben Taylor, director at Taylor Digital and host of the Expo’s morning networking sessions, commented: “The online format improved accessibility and lowered the expense for members to access the value of networking that arises from British Marine events. Members had group discussions in breakout rooms of four to six people who they may or may not already know.
“We saw an array of businesses from marinas and boat builders to insurance professionals and technology advisors – all together in one virtual space!”
Lesley Robinson, British Marine CEO, added: “I am delighted by the success of our first ever digital British Marine Expo and the positive reception we have received from the industry towards the format.
“The feedback from the networking sessions was overwhelmingly encouraging. Certainly, there is a consensus to continue these in a similar format on a monthly basis and British Marine will be exploring the possibilities.”
Nigel Stevens of Shire Cruisers commented: “British Marine has put a lot of effort into the Expo, and it has come together very well. The enforced networking was more fun than expected, and I met some very interesting people I otherwise wouldn’t have. The sessions I attended, including the Alternative Propulsion workshop, were well organised.”
Paula Syred of Fox Narrowboats added: “Today’s Insurance session was thought provoking and gave a great insight to what could happen if something goes wrong, particularly if subcontractors and boat owners have access to the boat at the same time.
“My advice would be for all marina managers, boat hire operators and company owners to re-watch this webinar when it becomes available online.”