Industry experts will lead several powerhouse panel sessions as part of the free workshops at the Drinks Industry Show, on from June 18-19 in Sydney.
Event Director David Paterson, of organiser Exhibitions & Trade Fairs, said, ÒWe’re absolutely thrilled that top experts in their fields will lead these workshops. It reflects the calibre of this year’s show, designed on industry feedback and requirements; it also means the depth of knowledge attendees can gain will be really valuable.Ó
He highlighted three workshops on offer on the show’s first day:
- Opportunities and challenges into Asia (primarily China)
- How industry associations support members and advocate for a sustainable industry
- Why an Independent Bars Association matters
Opportunities and challenges into Asia
This panel will be run by experts who design, brand, market and distribute products into Asia, focusing on China. On the panel will be Duncan Harris, MD of Limehouse Creative; Byron Matthews, Supply Manager for Oz Star; Jon Clark, Global Creative Director for Boldinc Brand Innovation; James Sykes, owner of Cleanthinking and Get Strategy Consulting; and Jeff Oliver, MD of brand and online media agency 3Dux.
The session will start with panellists’ general observations on the China market, and advice on testing the local market and how to approach it. Points covered through the panel will include Chinese consumer demographics; using Australia as a ÒbrandÓ in brand stories; the competition of local Chinese brands; the need for local partners or ambassadors in China; and the global trend of premiumisation.
Mr Paterson said, ÒTo get into the Chinese market producers need to start local and to start small Ð but they just need to start. This workshop is perfect for Australian businesses wanting to expand into this opportunity-filled market.Ó
Industry associations supporting members
ÒNot everyone may be aware of all the ways our industry associations support members, so this workshop is designed to dig more deeply and show attendees how associations do this, as well as how they advocate for a sustainable industry.Ó
The panel includes Michael Waters, Executive Director of the Liquor Store Association, NSW & ACT; Juliana Payne, CEO of the Restaurant & Catering Association; Anthony Trimarchi, Manager – Policy and Government of Clubs NSW; and John Green, Director of AHA NSW.
After an overview of the industry, attendees will learn about the peak bodies, the types of members and businesses they represent, and the financial worth these businesses contribute to the economy. Each body will also cover the services they deliver, their interaction with policy makers and future plans. Panellists will also talk about how they work together on common issues, such as the National Alcohol Strategy, with their involvement to date and next steps once the strategy has been implemented.
ÒThere’ll be plenty of question and answer time at the end of this session too,Ó Mr Paterson said, Òand because this is an expo focusing on the best drinks Australia has to offer, we’ll also be asking each of the panellists their favourite tipple!Ó
Why does an Independent Bars Association matter?
With the recent launch in NSW of the Independent Bars Association (IBA), this panel will discuss this associations matters and how the IBA can make a difference to businesses and encouraging participation in Sydney’s night-time economy.
Chaired by Andy Young, the editor of Australia’s leading trade journal for the liquor and hospitality industry, ÒThe ShoutÓ, the panel will feature IBA driving forces Michael Rodrigues, MD of Time Out Australia; Tim Philips-Johansson, owner of Bulletin Place and Dead Ringer; and Four Pillars Gin co-founder and President of the Australian Distillers Association, Stu Gregor.
Mr Paterson said, ÒAs well as this fantastic content, attendees can look forward to a full drinks service with Event Curator, Ben Davidson preparing a different drink in every session.Ó
ÒWith the interest so far, we’re expecting all the workshops to be at capacity again. There’s no need to book, but as it’s first come, first served, please come early to ensure your seat and make the most of these fantastic opportunities. Registration is free to this unique, trade-only event, so make sure you register now.Ó
More information about all the workshops is at: http://www.drinksindustryshow.com.au/workshops/
To register for the must-attend 2018 Drinks Industry Show and networking events, visit http://www.drinksindustryshow.com.au.
ÊThe Drinks Industry Show will be held from 18-19 June, 2018, at Dockside, overlooking Sydney’s Darling Harbour.
