HousewaresLive.net and Housewares Magazine have announced the launch of the first all-industry conference for the housewares sector.
Sponsored by leading industry supplier Amefa, the conference promises a mix of compelling speakers and is open to all those involved within the housewares sector from homewares buyers for the national diy chains to hardware shops carrying a housewares offer.

The event is open to everyone involved in the business of housewares – whether retailer, wholesaler, supplier, distributor or manufacturer – and has the backing of the British Home Enhancement Trade Association.

The Housewares Conference, which takes place on April 1 2008 at London's Millennium Mayfair Hotel, will give the housewares market a forum in which ideas and strategies for better business relationships can be discussed, and where issues affecting the sector can be defined and solutions sought.

The event promises a mix of compelling speakers from all areas of the industry. Retailers from independent specialist chains to international housewares giants will be represented on the panel.

These include John Lewis buying director home Maureen Dunn, managing director of the Steamer Trading Cookshop chain, Ben Phillips, ceo of 60-plus US chain Sur La Table, Kathy Tierney, and md of Wrapit, the UK's largest gift list business, Pepita Diamand.

Along with market experts, commentators and analysts, the conference content provides the maximum possible appeal to the maximum possible audience.

BHETA housewares director Pam Plant said that BHETA was delighted to support the 'exciting new initiative'.

She said: "We really believe that this conference will be a key educational and interesting event and an absolute must for both leading suppliers and retailers".

And editor, Anthony Hawkswell, of sister publication DIY Week welcomed the addition of The Conference to the houseware's trade calendar.

He said: "This event will be finely tuned to the questions, challenges and aspirations that characterise today's housewares industry and, as such, represents an absolutely unmissable opportunity."