SMMT News

Net works for industry at e-Commerce seminar

13 February 2001 #SMMT News

Delegates at the first motor industry e-commerce seminar were

today encouraged to become pioneers in the use of e-commerce technology. More

than 150 seminar executives were told that e-commerce can benefit the whole

industry from vehicle manufacture through the supply chain, cutting costs, improving

productivity and reducing delivery times.

Held at the Coventry University Technology Centre, the theme

of ‘e-business in the Motor Industry’ was making use of technology to improve

business rather than for its own sake. Vehicle and component design, sourcing

and supply on-line were all examined, with partnership the key to the success

of e-commerce ventures. An open forum allowed manufacturers and suppliers to

debate the relevance of each issue as it was discussed.

The first joint SMMT/DTI e-business seminar sold out within

days. It comes soon after ministers were encouraged to promote motor manufacturing

in the UK. The Trade and Industry Select Committee report on manufacturing in

the UK published last week, called for closer ties between industry and government

with ministers told to take their lead from organisations like SMMT.

‘Partnership is key to promoting the industry’s strengths

and encouraging manufacturers to stay competitive’ said SMMT Chief Executive

Christopher Macgowan. ‘Today’s conference speakers have shown that there are

very real benefits from e-commerce and government support will encourage the

industry to remain at the cutting edge of vehicle design, manufacture and supply.’

ends.

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