Managers from across GSF Car Parts spent a day learning about the future of the business and the automotive aftermarket at the company’s 2022 National Conference.

More than 260 staff attended the event at the National Space Centre in Leicester. The theme of the event, ‘Beyond Tomorrow’, challenged staff to think about and debate the future of the automotive world.

A packed agenda was headlined by a keynote session from GSF Car Parts President and COO Mark Eburne and Managing Director Ian Herrett in the venue’s iconic Sir Patrick Moore Planetarium, the largest of its kind in the UK.

Together, Mark and Ian looked at the evolution of GSF and its rapid growth following its transition to one trading identity in November 2021, as well as ambitious plans for development and what the future might look like in an evolving industry.

GSF Car Parts Managing Director Ian Herrett said: “This was a fantastic event. It was brilliant to see so many of our managers enthused and excited about the journey we’re on as GSF Car Parts. The aim was to give our people an insight into what the future of the aftermarket could look like and how we plan to adapt to it.

“We wanted this event to be a conversation starter to get people thinking and we’ve encouraged our managers to carry on these discussions back in branch and with our customers, because the evolution of the aftermarket is something we believe people should feel excited about.”

Divisional Directors hosted interactive workshops with branch managers to source ideas and suggestions for challenges and opportunities, while supplier partners Comma, Delphi and MANN+HUMMEL also delivered quick-fire presentations on the future of their product sectors.

An immersive exhibition zone comprising 34 booths weaved through the National Space Centre’s museum area and allowed attendees to learn more about the 17 suppliers in attendance, as well as future projects from GSF’s specialist support teams.

Rounding out the day was futurist and broadcaster Tom Cheesewright, who shared his prediction for the future of the automotive industry, as well as some helpful tips for staff to stay adaptable to change, in another interactive workshop.

GSF Car Parts Communications and Engagement Manager Ben Hall added: “This year’s conference gave us an excellent opportunity to make use of the National Space Centre as a unique and fascinating venue that perfectly matched the theme of our event.

“The feedback we’ve had from staff about every element of the conference has been phenomenal and its success is testament to both the momentum of the business and the valuable support of our supplier partners who were instrumental to making this a truly memorable day for our people.”