Wednesday 13 November ~ NEC Birmingham
(Masterclass Theatre - Euro Bus Expo 2024 - Halls 17-19)
*Further Speakers to be announced shortly*
Advantage or Artificial? - Embracing Intelligent Change
Everywhere we look, from adverts for mobile phones, to articles about writing articles, Artificial Intelligence is front and centre. While some are embracing the new opportunities, others are wary of the unknown unknowns. But it’s here to stay, so shouldn’t we take a little look at how big or small its beneficial contribution could be to us and our businesses? This session will answer some of the questions you’ve been unsure how to ask and offer a glimpse into how others may be gaining the advantage.
Speakers: Eric Alter - Marsh, Pete Ferguson, CEO - Prospective.
The Accessibility Challenge
The last five years have seen enormous change for the bus and coach sector on the accessibility front, with much more to come. Many operators have embraced the opportunity that change can bring, while others may be missing the chance to grow their businesses and change lives in the process. This session will not only review what operators are required to do but will go beyond the regulations and explore what can be done to attract new users and make buses & coaches happier modes of travel.
Speakers: Keith McNally - CPT (Chair), Jenny Tocknell - National Express, Chris Edwards-Thorne - Altro, Clare Walters - BUUK, Roland Eglington - Chalkwell.
Coach Tourism - Access all areas
From days out to historic centres and attractions, to grand tours across Europe, coach tourism provides access to a vast range of experiences loved by customers. How can we ensure that coaches are consistently welcomed and can access all areas, and overcome barriers to entry? Alongside highlighting a range of initiatives designed to offer practical support and solutions for operators, and seeking thoughts, ideas and feedback on those efforts, this session will also feature valuable insight and updates on changes to the European Travel Information and Authorisation System and EU Entry/Exit System, as well as Package Travel Regulations.
All Aboard – A workforce for a new era
A hot topic for the last couple of years, has recruitment now gone off the boil as an issue? Is industry still getting to grips with a changing labour market? Has the driver shortage gone away? Or have operators adopted new approaches? The panel will explore all of these questions through evidence, experience and taking a look at how the market is and should be changing.
Speakers: Martin Dean - Go-Ahead (Chair), Keith McNally - CPT, Louise Cheeseman -WiBC, Caolan Davey - C9, Kairon Flowers - Realise.
Open Forum – Ask the DVSA and Traffic Commissioner
Following a horizon scan on regulatory changes from the DVSA and an update from industry legal experts Backhouse Jones, the session will be opened as a forum for operators to ask questions and seek guidance. CPT members can submit questions in advance by emailing events@cpt-uk.org
Speakers: Marian Kitson - DVSA, Jonathan Backhouse - Backhouse Jones.
The Future of Coach – Are we there yet?
With new research highlighting the economic impact of the Coach Industry, against a backdrop of a gradual but tangible shifts in perceptions around its wider contribution to society, the panel will offer a glimpse into their visions of how the future may look for the coach market. From City-wide Coach strategies, to the sustainability agenda, the Coach itself and life as an operator.
Closing Remarks
Graham Vidler - Chief Executive, CPT
The definitive exhibition for coach and bus professionals and a must-visit for anyone in the industry.
Taking place 12-14 November 2024 at the NEC, Birmingham. To attend the CPT Operator Forum, register to attend Euro Bus Expo for free now at www.eurobusxpo.com
*Please note - sessions and timings are subject to change - please check back regularly or look out for CPT communications for updates*