The timing of both events is just perfect as we ride the wave of Brand Licensing Europe, where we connected with so much of the POC Community and beyond, straight into the lead up to the POC Conference.
So buckle up, we’re going to be talking non-stop about the Conference now for the next 25 days (yes, only 25!). Can you tell we’re excited?
Every year, the speaker line-up gets better and better and this year is no different. The power of the voices in the room is truly unmatched, laying the proof right on the table that sustainability is simply good business practice, and can enable business and profit growth, as well as better transparency and visibility, better efficiency, and an all-round better business.
The agenda is live and sparkling on our website, where you can see for yourself who to expect at the day.
Yesterday, we announced the latest addition to our retail panel, Elle Walshe, head of sourcing and sustainability for Asda Non-Food, who will join H&M, Decathlonand The Works, who will together discuss how they are working to unlock circularity at scale across bricks and mortar and e-commerce.
(Above: Stuart Goldsmith)
We are also excited to welcome internationally award-winning climate comedian and speaker, Stuart Goldsmith, as the opening keynote for this year, who will present an engaging and thought-provoking look at the environmental realities shaping our future, why the direction of travel for business is changing and the opportunity industry has to be part of building a more resilient future – with his usual comedic edge.
It is the first time we have had a comedian at the Conference, no less to open it, and it feels like an apt way to start the day; talking about sustainability and climate change doesn’t have to be doom and gloom but it can be hopeful and exciting, which is the very purpose of the Conference. It shouldn’t be overwhelming or daunting but a natural progression and so much part of our normal that it can even become part of a comedic set!
And, as a weekend treat, a Friday Thoughts exclusive announcement (you heard it here first):
English designer, co-founder of Red of Dead, and TV icon, Wayne Hemingway MBE, will be speaking at the POC Conference.
Wayne will be joining the Girlguiding team to speak on Hemingway Design’s work to redesign their uniforms for a major rebrand and introduction of circularity to the garments.
As the design partner for the project, Hemingway Design collaborated with Girlguiding on its biggest uniform overhaul, led by the feedback of over 55,000 Girlguiding members, so many of whom highlighted sustainability as a key priority for their new uniforms.
Listen to what will undoubtedly be a fascinating discussion between Wayne Hemingway, and Michelle Marley and Beth Hancock from Girlguiding at the POC Conference on 11 November as well as so many other fantastic conversations.
Get your tickets here if you haven’t already – with just over three week (25 days!) left before the Conference, time is ticking to secure yours!
Kathryn and Team POC
