The BMF discusses one of the many benefits of participating in its Young Merchant Group, describing a recent ‘field trip’ to Mapei in Milan.
One way in which the BMF promotes personal development in an informal setting is through its Young Merchant Group, which anyone working in either a merchant or supplier organisation can apply to join. As well as two meetings a year in the UK, the group usually takes an annual trip overseas to find out more about a particular product area – and to make the most of the networking time afforded by a three day trip.
This year’s trip to Milan was hosted by the Mapei Group, in its 80th anniversary year, and showcased the supplier’s wide range of cement, coatings, paint and adhesive products and services. Across the globe, the company produces more than 5,000 products for the building industry.
The trip included a tour of the company’s showroom, its most advanced R&D facility and a vast production plant – one of 73 worldwide – that manufactures and ships over 4.5 million tons of product every year. At every stop the Young Merchants had an opportunity to speak to experts in a variety of product areas.
The group also visited Lake Como to see how Mapei’s specialist antique product range had been used in the restoration of the stunning Villa Del Balbianello, which featured in the James Bond film Casino Royale among others. Mapei also arranged for the group to visit one of Italy’s most progressive builders merchants to find out how the supply chain works in Italy, before taking some time off to see the sights of Milan.
Thanking Mapei for its hospitality throughout the weeked, John Newcomb, BMF CEO said: “The aim of th BMF Young Merchant Group is to develop knowledge, share experience and build relationships. Thanks to Mapei’s excellent organisation all three elements were accomplished over this fantastic weekend.”
To find out more about BMF Young Merchants or any aspect of BMF training, development and support contact James.Spillane@bmf.org.uk or on 02456 854980.
