Europe’s business products sector is challenged like it’s never been challenged before. This is true from an economic, political as well as industry-specific perspective.
As such, it’s vital for leaders to step outside the constraints of running their day-to-day operations and into a place where they can listen, learn and talk about the wider picture. And then create a pathway to implement change and safeguard the future relevance and success of their organisations.
All of this is the remit of the OPI European Forum – to educate and inform in a highly collaborative yet confidential manner. Chatham House rules, as always, apply to all that’s said and done at this senior-level conference and networking occasion, ensuring open debate and discussion.
This year’s event will be held from 22-24 May, right in the heart of Europe, at the historic Pestana Amsterdam Riverside hotel in the Netherlands.
Setting the scene
There is plenty to discuss after what turned out to be an enormously difficult 2022 for many. As has become tradition at OPI forums, the scene will be set by a panel of industry hard hitters who will give their views of the market.
This year, the panel aptly depicts just how diverse our industry currently is in terms of product and company scope. Panellists include Schäfer Shop’s Christian Langvad, SC Johnson Professional’s Lee Mellor, RS Group’s Christian Horn, RAJA Office’s Alain Josse and ACCO Brands EMEA’s Cezary Mońko.
The variety of speakers also illustrates the wide-ranging issues – and opportunities – we need to address. Reckitt’s Jonathan Weiss, for example, will highlight the continued importance of hygiene in a post-COVID world. ES Tech Group’s Paddy Donnelly elaborates on the need for a ‘beautiful’ and ‘seamless’ e-commerce experience in order to guarantee both sales and customer satisfaction. Gordon Christiansen from Highlands, meanwhile, takes it a step further – from e-commerce to ‘everywhere commerce’ and how to do it.
Delegates will hear from external experts about topics that so acutely affect them
Addressing concerns
In addition, over the course of two days, delegates will hear from external experts about topics that so acutely affect them. Inflation and price increases are omnipresent these days, for instance, and deeply concerning.
James Brown and Juriaan Deumer from Simon-Kucher & Partners will bring their insights gained from different verticals, giving examples of how this difficult component of a business can be managed.
The issue of ‘intelligent pricing’ – especially in the transparent online world – will be covered by Skuuudle’s Andrew Senior (read Final Word for more information on pricing intelligence).
Zooming in
Aside from panel and plenary presentations, several of the themes at the European Forum will be explored in more detail in deep-dive roundtable sessions. Here, delegates can really hone in on the specifics, ask questions and discuss with their peers in smaller, more focused groups.
A highlight of every OPI forum is the chance to network with peers. Many a deal that’s occurred in our space began with an informal chat over a cup of coffee or glass of wine. Don’t miss the opportunity!
For more information about the OPI European Forum, the full agenda and details of how to book, please visit opi.net/ef2023
