F. Ball has underlined the importance of its international markets by hosting its first ‘overseas distributor conference’ at the company’s Staffordshire manufacturing headquarters.
The two-day event was attended by 16 principals from a selection of the company’s international distributors and customers based in regions as diverse as Africa, The Middle East, Eastern and Western Europe, and The Caribbean.
As well as sending a positive message to its distributor partners about the importance of their position in serving international customers, the conference was designed to enhance delegates’ awareness of the sales and technical support offered by F. Ball and improve product knowledge through a series of practical product demonstrations.
Delegates were also afforded the opportunity to meet key personnel from different departments within F. Ball, including technical service, marketing, sales, accounts and operations. An in-depth tour of the Cheddleton manufacturing facilities and quality control laboratories enabled delegates to witness the state-of-the-art production and product testing operations that underpin the quality of F. Ball products.
The programme included a series of formal presentations, covering key aspects of the business including marketing, production and floorcovering manufacturer liaison.
F. Ball currently exports directly to over 40 countries worldwide, with other indirect exports via UK distributors. The company’s international business has grown tenfold since 2004.
Following an intensive first day, delegates were entertained in the evening with a trip to Uttoxeter Racecourse to enjoy horseracing, accompanied by a meal and music from former Spice Girl, Mel C.
George Agyemang from Kova Global Concepts Ltd of Ghana and Nigeria, one of the delegates who attended the conference, said: “The conference organised by F. Ball was a wonderful initiative and very worthwhile for us as distributors. Being able to meet so many people in the company helps you see how everything works and the level of back up we have as distributors. The technical presentations and demonstrations of F. Ball’s many products were invaluable in building our product knowledge.”
[Picture: overseas distributor delegates with representatives from F. Ball]