As the NMBS All-Industry Conference 2026 approaches, the big reveal is that broadcaster and entrepreneur Jake Humphrey will be taking on the role of host.
Best known today for his work with The High Performance Podcast, which has over 100 million downloads, Jake has also had over 20 years as an award-winning TV presenter, hosting Formula One, football and huge shows for the BBC, Channel 4, ITV and BT Sport. He is a Sunday Times bestselling author, and an investor in several innovative and sustainable businesses, as well as fulfilling the role of Deputy Lieutenant of Norfolk.
With Jake at the helm, the conference is set to welcome hundreds of NMBS independent merchants and suppliers for a rich agenda of activities, practical sessions and networking from 11–14 June 2026.
Across the two-day business programme, the conference will explore key themes affecting the merchanting sector. These include digitalisation and AI, retrofit market opportunities and the importance of market adaptability.
Delegates will hear from business leaders offering real-world guidance on how to strengthen performance, tap into broader industry knowledge and drive innovation. Merchants and suppliers will also benefit from the NMBS’s celebrated ‘Meet the Merchant’ sessions, which help building materials suppliers to build personal relationships with new merchant contacts.
Balancing business with downtime
The conference will be held at the Meliá Villaitana, a premium resort on Spain’s Costa Blanca, providing a great backdrop for this year’s event. Delegates will have the chance to step away from the usual routine, recharge and have the kinds of conversations that just don’t happen over email.
Evening social events, group dinners and informal networking opportunities remain a core part of the NMBS Conference format, allowing plenty of time to catch up with familiar faces, make new connections and share ideas in a more laid-back setting.
Andy Hextall, commercial director at NMBS explained: “Our sector thrives on strong relationships, and this conference is one of the best places to forge them. Whether it’s catching up over coffee or exploring opportunities, the conversations that happen here have a lasting impact on the independent merchant community.”
The NMBS All-Industry Conference is open to NMBS members and suppliers. For more information or to register your place, visit the NMBS Conference website www.nmbs-conference.co.uk
