New Style MRS Annual Conference

For those readers experiencing conference withdrawal symptoms as the summer season approaches, The Market Research Society in the UK has just unveiled radical new plans for its annual Conference, 'Research 2003'. This will take place between 19-21 March 2003 and will run at a new venue, the International Convention Centre in Birmingham.

The MRS has drawn up plans for next year's conference to be based on a range of new and varied formats. It will enjoy increased cross-disciplinary involvement and a host of different social activities. The central theme for next year's event has been set as 'the thought leadership: revolution'. A selection of high-profile speakers will tackle a range of critical themes on this subject. Alongside the formal presentations, and new for next year, will be a set of shorter, less formal seminars and interactive break out sessions. These should provide ample opportunity for discussion and debate.

Cross-disciplinary involvement will be key to next year's format as well. The event should go beyond the boundaries of the research industry alone, considering factors affecting the future of the entire marketing profession. As such, the conference should have wide appeal to marketing professionals from all disciplines.

Andy Dexter, Citigate DVL Smith and Chair of the Conference Programme Team, commented, 'What researchers do, in all its variants, lies at the very heart of marketing. From the raw material of information we generate great ideas, best practices and insights which influence brands, consumers and market opportunities. Next year's Conference will provide the ideal opportunity to seize the chance to entrench the position of research professionals amongst the thought leaders of the marketing world.'

Sally Ford-Hutchinson, Chair at the MRS, added, 'The Annual Conference of The MRS is the flagship event of the industry and Research 2003 promises to be more dynamic and thought-provoking than ever before. The new format and sessions - together with a highly topical theme - will undoubtedly provide the opportunity for debate and challenging discussion.'

The Market Research Society is currently calling for synopses and session plans (deadline for submissions is Friday, 6 September 2002). Those who are interested in making a contribution should contact Sophie Russell-Ross at the MRS.

All articles 2006-22 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas unless otherwise stated.