Following a series of planning meetings and discussions with a cross-section of key players from around the world, the theme and structure for the conference proceedings of next year’s International Bodyshop Industry Symposium - IBIS 2009 - which will be taking place 10-12 June at the InterContinental Hotel, Berlin are now taking shape. Under the headline theme "Platform for Sustainability" IBIS 2009 will focus on a number of fundamental challenges currently facing collision repair markets around the world.

Included amongst these will be the issue of re-skilling the labour force in order to meet the technological challenges created by successive generations of vehicle models, as well as the need to reposition the sector in order to more positively position the industry in the eyes of potential school leaver recruits, their parents and advisors. We will also be looking at some of the successful ways that different markets are already addressing this issue and identifying how these successful strategies can be applied in other countries.

Speaking recently, IBIS Conference Director David Lingham said “we recognise the core responsibility of IBIS to present a thought-provoking programme. Our aim is to provide a forum that addresses the unprecedented challenges currently placed by the collision repair market, and the global economy as a whole, in a pro-active, positive and practical manner. IBIS must create a global platform for sustainability".

Endorsing David Lingham’s comments, IBIS Chairman Chris Mann added ”the role of IBIS has never been more important. Over the years we have shown that the Symposium not only brings together some of the best, brightest and most informed industry minds from around the world but is a catalyst for practical action. This, perhaps, has been the key to the long-term loyalty of so many of our sponsors including: 3M, Audatex, AUTOonline, Car-O-Liner, Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Honda whilst I am also delighted to have "new blood" in the shape of: DuPont and EMM Automotive. From our conversations with these blue chip organisations we know their commitment to supporting and driving forward the collision repair sector, whilst their support of IBIS is indicative of their dedication to the industry as a whole. We could not put on an event of the scale and complexity of IBIS without their wholehearted support, and this is much appreciated by the whole IBIS team."

The cost of the IBIS 2009 Standard Delegate Package is AU$3,995. This includes two nights accommodation (Wednesday and Thursday); Delegate’s Welcome Dinner (Wednesday), International Dinner (Thursday); breakfasts, refreshments and lunches (Thursday and Friday); full Delegate Manual; IBIS 2009 Proceedings Report (supplied in CD format subsequent to the event).

We also offer a Partner's Package (based on shared accommodation with spouse or partner) at AU$1,295, which includes all of the above except attendance at the Symposium and the Symposium publications.

Please contact Michel Malik, Publisher, BodyShop News, via email at michel@bodyshopnews.net or call +61 2 9826 7777 as soon as possible for IBIS 2009 delegate booking information.