The British Worldwide Freight Affiliation (BIFA) marked a triumphant return to large-scale conferencing with its Nationwide Convention 2025, held lately at The Slate, College of Warwick – the primary such occasion in almost 20 years.
Bringing collectively logistics professionals from throughout the UK, the two-day occasion delivered a packed agenda of professional panels, crucial business updates, and unparalleled networking alternatives beneath the theme “Ignite At present. Speed up Tomorrow.”
Trade Points, Insightful Dialogue
BIFA Director Basic Steve Parker hailed the convention as “a powerful success,” noting the occasion’s skill to unite members and stakeholders to collectively tackle the way forward for freight forwarding and logistics. “There was a improbable environment all through. It was nice to see so many members and supporters of our business in a single room, discussing the place we’re at present and the place we’re heading,” mentioned Parker. “This was an actual alternative to attach, collaborate, and put together for the longer term.”
Day one explored key sectors together with airfreight, oceanfreight, sustainability, customs, and authorized developments, whereas day two tackled digital challenges with a concentrate on cybersecurity and information safety.
A standout session, “What Does Trump Imply for Commerce?”, delivered well timed insights from a commerce professional lately again from Washington, D.C.
Attendees additionally obtained an unique preview of BIFA’s up to date Commonplace Buying and selling Situations, forward of their official launch later this yr.
Exhibition Zone and Trade Innovation
The headline sponsor of the occasion was CNS, with ASM and RM Boulanger as gold and silver sponsors, respectively.
An exhibition zone showcased progressive services from BIFA’s affiliate member firms, sparking dialogue and collaboration throughout the freight and logistics provide chain. Exhibitors included Axe, Conex, Freightcover and MCP plc.
Memorable Moments and Key Voices
The gala dinner featured an inspiring keynote from Olympian and broadcaster Kriss Akabusi MBE. His energetic storytelling and motivational message left an enduring impression on delegates.
The convention additionally welcomed MP Stella Creasy, who addressed the evolving UK-EU relationship. Her candid remarks known as on the freight business to change into extra proactive in making its voice heard by policymakers – a problem BIFA is dedicated to assembly.
Wanting Forward
Parker concluded: “Whether or not they have been ‘despatched to Coventry’, or travelled there of their very own accord, all attendees have been united of their reward of the two-day occasion.
“They agreed that this convention wasn’t nearly data – it was about transformation. Whereas we have been happy with the occasion, we all know we are able to construct on it and hope to see much more members at our subsequent nationwide convention.”
