International Brewing Convention 2010

IBC 2010, which is a combined Convention and Exhibition event, will take place at ‘Manchester Central’ from 18 to 20 October 2010. This venue is a clever coming together of the new (a state of the art convention auditorium) and the industrial past (a perfectly preserved Victorian railway station) which will house the exhibition.

The convention programme for IBC 2010 has been designed to enable delegates to debate and consider some of the key structural issues that are facing the global brewing industry in the short to medium term, and how the Industry should respond to ensure future prosperity. The theme of ‘Ahead of the Curve’ encapsulates the core objective of IBC 2010 to provide delegates with the key information that they need to prosper in a rapidly changing marketplace.

The programme will commence with two keynotes from industry senior executives who will share their thoughts about the current position of the brewing sector and the challenges and opportunities ahead. Jonathan Neame, CEO of the family brewers Shepherd Neame and Mark Hunter, CEO of Molson Coors UK will provide insights from their own different positions within the market.

Day one will continue with a number of papers that will explore what is probably the most challenging aspect for the future of the brewing industry – namely it’s relationship with consumers and also the role of alcohol in society.

The afternoon of day one will then provide an opportunity for delegates to attend the exhibition of over 100 suppliers from across the entire supply and value chain. The layout and ambience of the exhibition have been designed to maximise the opportunity for suppliers and brewers to meet, talk and network in a relaxed but professional environment.

The second day of the convention will include presentations on topics including environmental issues, sustainability, materials and innovation. The days programme will include a keynote presentation by Jonathan Porritt, founder and director of the Forum for the Future, and one of the worlds leading environmental campaigners

The last day of the convention will review topics including the ultimate in production refinement and the vital roles of people and leadership in the journey from good to great. The convention will close with a Keynote from Pete Coors, Chairman of Molson Coors Brewing and of MillerCoors

During the convention there will be a full social programme to provide further networking opportunities and informal business discussions. On the eve of the Convention there will be a Civic Welcome Reception hosted by the Lord Mayor of Manchester. Monday sees an early evening reception featuring Food and Beer matching within the Exhibition Hall and then delegates will be free to explore the pub and restaurant scene in the City Centre. The delegate welcome pack will include details of pubs within walking distance of the recommended city centre hotels. Tuesday evening will be free to take further advantage of the wide range of entertainment options that Manchester offers

On the last evening of the convention delegates will gather for a Gala Dinner that will be held in the Great Hall of the Town Hall – one of the most spectacular venues in Britain and a fitting venue for the closing event of IBC 2010.

For registration and further information visit www.ibcmanchester.org.