The AMDEA Conference ‘Excellence in the Home’ on 6 May at City, St George’s University of London is set to be a fascinating deep dive into the wider home appliance industry and how it is leading on supporting national agendas such as the circular economy, different communities and is providing skills and training for rewarding careers in the industry. Our fantastic expert speakers come from across the home appliance sector, academia and the charity sector. Each speaker will share ideas, discussion points and insights on the incredibly broad range of topics that the home appliance sector touches.
Our first session ‘Excellence by Design’ will feature:
- Chris George, Head of Trade Operations and Sustainability, Europe West, Electrolux and Chair of AMDEA will share his insights into how the home appliance sector is advancing sustainability through recycled materials, low-carbon logistics, and energy and water conservation.
- Professor Mark Miodownik, UCL Big Repair Project will discuss why designing home appliances for longevity, repairability, and reduced e-waste really matters and how policy can support the industries efforts.
- Dr Catherine Menon, University of Hertfordshire will be exploring the ethics, opportunities, safety and public perception of AI integration in home appliances.
In the second session ‘Powering Inclusion’ we will hear from:
- Adam Carter of Consumer Friend who will present ideas on how manufacturers can build consumer trust through transparent communication while navigating potential barriers and pitfalls.
- Sue Flowers, NEFF Brand Manager at BSH will discuss how home appliances can be designed for all, for inclusive use to overcome barriers to accessibility to empower people to live in their homes with independence.
- Steve Lineton, Managing Director of GAP Renew will explain the work his organisation is undertaking around appliance refurbishment, reuse, and extending product life cycles to support communities, charities and environmental goals.
The third and final session ‘Tomorrow’s Talent Today’ will comprise:
- Kevin Brown, CEO, Pacifica who will talk about the importance of attracting young talent to the home appliance service and repair sector – “Nobody grows up dreaming of fixing a washing machine!”.
- Gavin White, Founder of The AutoTech Group will share his experience from the automotive sector on how they are solving critical industry skills shortages.
- A TeenTech Alumni will speak from a young person’s perspective, sharing their journey of how they entered the technical workforce.
Finally we will hear from a keynote speaker (to be announced!) before delegates and speakers will be invited to join a networking drinks reception and hear who has won the inaugural AMDEA Awards!
AMDEA Members can book their tickets via the Members Portal, other guests are invited to contact info@amdea.org.uk for information on how to book.