Future of the high street to be discussed at Plymouth BID Conference

The future of the high street will be a key theme at the Plymouth Business Improvement District Conference due to be held on Thursday 3 April at Council House in Plymouth’s Civic Centre.  Plymouth City Centre Company and the Plymouth Chamber of Commerce are jointly hosting the event. 

The conference will include a keynote speech from Brandon Lewis MP, Minister for Local Government and High Streets and presentations from the Plymouth City Centre Company, Plymouth City Council, Destination Plymouth and BIDS Scotland. John Parmiter, Partner at Peter Brett Associates will be presenting on the future of the high street and how it is too important to leave unaided.

The conference will give businesses the opportunity to debate the big issue facing the city including Plymouth as a Destination, Proprietors and BIDs, Shaping the High Street, New Technologies and Loyalty to High Streets and Plymouth Wi-Fi on the High Street.

Doug Fletcher, Chairman Plymouth City Centre Company said: "We are extremely delighted that so many high profile speakers will be attending the BID conference. This is an ideal opportunity for businesses to influence the future of Plymouth City Centre.”

Suzi Cumberland, Events Manager for Plymouth Chamber of Commerce said: “Plymouth Chamber is pleased to be a part of this event, addressing the future of the high street and providing support for retail businesses in the city to share their views on major city issues. Plymouth Chamber is committed to supporting businesses by improving the conditions for living and working in Plymouth and the South West Peninsula and we hope to see many businesses at the conference on 3rd April to identify the key issues to be addressed as we move the city forward to reach its potential.”

The conference will include break-out sessions where attendees will have the chance to debate topics in small groups. All businesses which pay an annual levy to the Plymouth City Centre Company or are a member of Plymouth Chamber of Commerce will be entitled to a free ticket with a second priced at £30. Tickets are available for other organisations with prices ranging between £65 and £130.

Early bird booking is available until 25 March only. Registration can booked online.