In a break from tradition the venue for the 2017 SAPICS Conference and Exhibition for Supply Chain Professionals has been selected as Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town. The change is in line with the conference theme of “Business Unusual”.
 
From 4-7 June 2017 professionals from procurement, mining, manufacturing, processing, packaging, and logistics are invited to discuss the latest trends and disruptions in supply chain management, and learn about updated best practice models from local and international experts.
 
“Conference registration fees for the 2017 conference will remain exactly as for 2016, and exhibition stand charges have been slightly reduced,” says Jenny Froome, general manager at SAPICS, a professional knowledge-based association that enables individuals and organisations to improve business performance.
 
“Supply chain professionals continue to face challenges and constraints brought about by swift changes and a persistently tough economic climate,” explains Froome. “For SAPICS to serve its industry best we had to rethink the entire conference structure as proof of accepting “Business Unusual” as the new normal.”
 
“The changes to the conference structure are intended to offer as many professionals as possible the opportunity to learn from some of the best in global business.”
 
The conference programme will be shorter than usual with no sessions on the Sunday afternoon with focus being given to an informal networking evening for attendees in preparation for the two days ahead. This addition to the programme was implemented because of feedback we received that supply chain professionals struggle to find time to network with peers outside of the office.  
 
The updated structure and shortened timeframe will not reduce the quality of speakers and session topics. Along with interactive conference sessions and practical workshops, attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in an extensive variety of site visits as part of the regular conference programme.
 
Another reason for the refreshed approach is to offer delegates maximum quality accommodation options at rates that were not possible at previous conference venues. This, combined with attending conference sessions in an impressive space with modern facilities, should leave those attending with renewed passion for their work, without breaking the bank.
 
Changes to the lighter side of the programme will see the traditional gala dinner replaced by a networking reception on the Monday night, with the Tuesday night available to sponsors and exhibitors to entertain their clients based on their own preference.
 
Discounted early-bird delegate registration fees will be available until 28 February 2017, after which standard and closing rates will be payable. Sponsors and exhibitors are also invited to contact the conference secretariat for more information on the updated options available.
 
Potential speakers that can address delegates on various topics related to the conference theme – “Business Unusual” – are invited to submit their details to the independent speaker selection committee by 15 January 2017 via www.sapics.org.za