The ‘Shaping the Future’ National Conference marked a significant milestone for BLOC, as the group welcomed over 350 members and key partners at The Crowne Plaza, Stratford-upon-Avon, on 18^th June.

BLOC’s National Conference brought together the BLOC Community for a day dedicated to collaboration, innovation, and business growth.

As the first conference since the merger of Office Friendly and Integra, this event provided attendees with the opportunity to connect with peers, share ideas, and gain valuable insight from industry-focused sessions.

BLOC, MD Jeanette Caswell opened the conference giving an overview of the industry, and how BLOC is shaping the future for its members followed by bestselling author and professor of organisational behaviour, Damian Hughes, who shared practical lessons from elite performers in sport and business on building successful teams, leading change, and creating high-performance cultures.

The supplier exhibition was a key highlight enabling members to engage directly with industry experts from leading brands and explore new products, services, and opportunities to support future growth.

The conference concluded with an evening of celebrations, providing delegates with the opportunity to continue networking and strengthen relationships in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.

KEYNOTE SESSIONS

BLOC – Shaping the Future
Jeanette Caswell, Managing Director, BLOC Group

Opening the conference, Jeanette Caswell welcomed delegates and reflected on the organisation’s growth and development since the formation of the group.

Jeanette shared an update on BLOC’s continued progress, highlighting the expansion of the team to more than 30 colleagues and reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to supporting members through an increasingly challenging and evolving marketplace. She spoke about the strength of the BLOC community and the value of collaboration, partner engagement and shared opportunity in helping members achieve sustainable growth.

Delegates were given an overview of the wide range of support available through BLOC and outlined how these services are designed to help members strengthen their businesses, identify new opportunities and adapt to changing customer demands.

Highlighting key developments across the group and wider industry, Jeanette encouraged members to embrace innovation, take advantage of the resources available to them and continue working together to shape the future of the independent dealer channel.

Her presentation set the tone for the day ahead, centred on learning, collaboration and sharing ideas to support long-term business success.

Future-Focused High Performance
Damian Hughes, Guest Speaker

Guest speaker Damian Hughes delivered an engaging and thought-provoking session exploring the mindset and behaviours that drive high performance in both sport and business.

Drawing on lessons from elite performers and successful organisations, Damian challenged delegates to consider how they approach growth, change and ambition within their own businesses. He explored the difference between the ‘miracle question’ – focusing on an ideal future outcome – and the ‘exception question’, which encourages individuals and teams to identify what is already working well and build upon existing strengths.

A key theme throughout the presentation was the journey from aspiration to achievement. Using his ‘Stages of a Dream’ framework, Damian outlined the five phases of success: Dream, Leap, Fight, Climb and Arrive. He explained how every successful individual, team and organisation experience challenges and setbacks along the way, but those who remain focused on their goals and continue to adapt are best positioned to succeed.

Combining practical insights with real-world examples, Damian encouraged delegates to reflect on their own ambitions and consider how a strong culture, clear purpose and consistent behaviours can help drive long-term success.

Thank & Close
Aidan McDonough, Chairman, BLOC Group

Closing the morning keynote sessions, BLOC Group Chairman Aidan McDonough looked ahead to the rest of the day, encouraging delegates to make the most of the opportunities available through the supplier exhibition and business sessions.

Highlighting the value of connecting with supplier partners, like-minded businesses and the wider BLOC team, Aidan reinforced the importance of collaboration, relationship building and sharing ideas to support future growth and success.