East Midlands Regional Report

The programme of events for the East Midlands Region of the IMS continues apace. The promise of good weather brought about a good turnout of both members and partners for the annual barbecue on 28^th June. Our host and hostess John and Julie Else once again excelled in providing hospitality. Food and drink of the highest quality once again matched the wit and repartee of members and the afternoon provided a great chance for everyone to unwind in a friendly atmosphere.

As usual it was business before pleasure and the Region Board held its second meeting of the 2009 season. The March meeting had confirmed the new Board membership and under the chairmanship of Malcolm Towle, the Treasurer John Else and Secretary John Davies gave updates on finances and membership. The greater vision for the institute was debated under the leadership of the Council Delegate, and both Geoff Mansfield and John Lucey inspired a sometimes passionate debate of the strategic future for our profession. Region members will recognise the familiar shape of the region’s future programme which was developed at the meeting:

September - Following the summer social, a business visit is planned to Rolls Royce in Derby on 15th. This will give a unique opportunity for members to see aero engine production from its raw materials to finished product.

November –The year end meeting will once again precede a Christmas social event. This will take place at the “Reindeer Business Park” at Long Bennington on 28th.

March 2010 – A visit to a high quality logistics facility is planned for spring. The visit to Boots Stores Service Centre will follow the region annual general meeting on 12th, and will give everyone a chance to witness at first hand how retail logistics has modernised to service the needs of the customer combined with lean resource demands.

Please feel free to contact our Region Secretary John Davies on 0115 928 4953 or e mail davies@bramcote.fsbusiness.co.uk for further details of any of our meetings.