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.
