The IAAF Annual Conference is taking place in a Coronavirus-compliant virtual fashion on Thursday 3 December, with Sunday Times Economics Editor David Smith as keynote speaker, and a new Pride of the Aftermarket’ awards.

Other speakers from GIPA, FIGIEFA, Glen Callum Associates, PG Automotive, BEN and the IAAF will also be taking their place on the socially-distanced digital stage.

Smith, who has worked for The Sunday Times for more than 30 years and is an acclaimed published author of several financial books, will be discussing Brexit and its potential impact on distributors and suppliers ahead of the end of the transition period.

The free event will focus on the impact of COVID-19 and the upcoming implications on the aftermarket from Brexit, and will feature Q&A sessions concerning the automotive aftermarket in 2021. The impact that the pandemic has had on people and the  overall sector will also be discussed.

The conference also introduces a new element, the ‘Pride of the Aftermarket’ awards. IAAF members are being invited to nominate exceptional performances of companies and individuals during the COVID-19 crisis. All entries will be shortlisted by a judging panel comprised of a select group from board and council members. Categories include outstanding supplier, outstanding service member, outstanding distributor, outstanding individual and outstanding innovation, and will be voted on by IAAF members.

Commenting on the upcoming conference, IAAF Chief Executive Wendy Williamson, said: “Undoubtedly this year’s conference will look very different to previous years, however we have a comprehensive and in-depth agenda that covers all the major topics impacting the automotive aftermarket not to mention a fabulous keynote speaker in David Smith.

“The whole agenda is designed to be thought-provoking and challenging, giving our members a forum to discuss and consider the industry’s biggest challenges virtually; crucial after so many of us have been unable to meet with our peers for most of 2020.”

To register for the event or nominate a company or individual for a ‘Pride of the Aftermarket’ award, email anns@iaaf.co.uk or visit www.iaaf.co.uk/events/