Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) regional events regularly attract hundreds of senior automotive delegates, from a wide range of companies including vehicle manufacturers, as well as global and local suppliers.
Many of these represent the light commercial vehicle, bus, coach and heavy goods vehicle sectors, with the UK having a strong presence in these areas.
The SMMT Regional Roadshows aim to provide an insight into the benefits that members enjoy and how the organisation can support individual businesses.
Meanwhile, Regional Networking events offer a platform for discussion on the opportunities and challenges for the automotive industry.
The events take place in different parts of the country each year, all aimed at strengthening the UK automotive supply chain and offering opportunities to boost business.
Regional Networking/Roadshow North, Ballymena – 30 January
On 30 January from midday until 2pm, the SMMT will hold its first Regional Networking/Roadshow event of the year, at the Wrightbus manufacturing facility in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.
This will provide a platform for discussion on the opportunities and challenges for the automotive industry in the region and is expected to attract delegates from a wide range of businesses including vehicle manufacturers and suppliers.
In addition, representatives from Wrightbus will provide an insight into the current landscape, and the issues that matter most to the supply chain such as transport decarbonisation.
Headquartered in Ballymena, the company first established itself as a reputable traditional vehicle bodybuilder before evolving into a pioneer of low-emission public service buses.
Now under the ownership of JCB heir, Jo Bamford, Wrightbus has combined its long-standing engineering heritage with technologies to position itself as a leading zero-emission bus manufacturer with a full range of next-generation battery electric, hydrogen fuel cell and low emission diesel buses, supported by a production capacity exceeding 1,200 vehicles per year.
This is a practical, commercially focused event for the automotive supply chain, which will also include a tour of the Wrightbus manufacturing facility, as well as networking over a light lunch.
It is free to attend and open to all SMMT members – limited to two per company.
Regional Networking Midlands, Hinckley – 12 February
The SMMT serves as a central hub for companies in the automotive sector to collaborate and influence policy.
Its members include a network of more than 800 companies ranging from global vehicle manufacturers (OEMs) to small and medium sized component suppliers, as well as trailer and aftermarket specialists.
The scope of interest of members also varies dramatically, ranging from direct, partial or indirect involvement in the manufacturing of vehicles and components, to design, engineering and distribution.
On 12 February from midday to 2pm, the DS Smith facility inHinckley, Leicestershirewill host another regional networking event.
DS Smith is an international paper company, as well as a global provider of sustainable fibre-based packaging, which is supported by recycling and papermaking operations.
As an expert in automotive packaging, the firm works with global automotive brands and major component suppliers.
This event is free to attend and open to all SMMT members – limited to two per company – and lunch is included.
Regional Networking South, Erith – 16 April
SMMT regional networking events are also designed to help firms to grow their businesses to become more profitable, competitive and sustainable, and aim to support innovation.
With suppliers, engineering firms, research institutions, logistics, freight and shipping specialists all depending on the automotive sector, a successful regional industry directly supports jobs across the UK and helps power the national economy given that many vehicles are built for export.
On 16 April from midday until 2pm, Regional Networking South will take place at the Würth UK site in Erith, Kent.
Würth, which is a specialist in the development, manufacture and sale of assembly and fastening materials, has been operating the UK for more than 50 years.
It is a core supplier to many workplaces, including automotive, cargo (heavy machinery & vehicles), metal (maintenance & fabrication), wood, as well as construction.
The event will provide a chance to meet people from across the industry and build new relationships with fellow members and SMMT staff over a networking lunch.
Again, this event is free to attend and open to all SMMT members – limited to two per company.
Regional Networking Midlands, Shefford – 12 May
Another event for the Midlands this year will take place at the RARUK Automation site in Shefford, Bedfordshire, between midday and 2pm on 12 May.
RARUK Automation is a leading UK supplier of advanced automation and robotic solutions, dedicated to helping manufacturers streamline operations, boost productivity, and achieve greater efficiency.
With the event held at RARUK, the event is expected to provide a particularly useful networking opportunity for members in the field of automation in logistics warehouses, as well as autonomous vehicles – all of which are reshaping the automotive industry.
While RARUK focuses on industrial, indoor autonomous robots, the broader UK sector is actively pursuing self-driving vehicles on public roads.
At the same time, the UK Government is implementing the Automated Vehicles Act 2024, aiming for safe deployment of autonomous vehicles on roads by 2027.
The event at RARUK is free to attend and open to all SMMT members – limited to two per company – and includes lunch.
Further networking opportunities
The Introduction to SMMT eventsare primarily aimed at members and associates who want a refresher about how to maximise their membership.
At these, experts from the SMMT share practical tips to help companies unlock the full value of everything the organisation offers – so they can network, expand and prosper.
Whether a company is a new member, a long-standing associate, or just curious about the benefits of joining, the seminars give practical tips and insider advice.
The events also provide an opportunity to meet people from across the industry and build new relationships with fellow members and SMMT staff with networking sessions following the seminars.
Events this year will take place at the SMMT offices in London on 24 February and 14 October.
