The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association has confirmed some of the speakers for its forthcoming conference.
The third OATA Conference is due to take place on 13-14 November in Coventry and will include an impressive line-up of speakers who will be covering some of the most contentious issues currently being faced by the aquarium industry.
The broad spread of topics covered will include topical issues that are of relevance to everyone in the aquarium industry, from small retailers and fish farmers to larger wholesalers and manufacturers.
OATA told Practical Fishkeeping: "In just two days at the OATA Conference those who attend will be able to: Travel the world with Heiko Bleher, collecting fish in Ethiopia and Krgyzstan; Find out what the Defra Minister Ben Bradshaw meant when at the end of July he told the House of Commons that it was his "intention" to make KHV notifiable, and what this might mean to the ornamental fish industry; Find answers to the question 'Where in the world can I buy coldwater fish?' and how official concerns over biosecurity may decide the future shape of the industry; Learn something of the murky world of 'animal rights' groups.
"Hear from a vet what they can do for your business, especially as the rules on the use of veterinary medicines change; Hear about 'Fair Trade' from a representative of the Co-Op supermarket chain whose advertising highlights support for this concept; Find out why you can't just chuck away that electrical item anymore. What new rules will apply and to whom - consumer, retailer, wholesaler, manufacturer or importer?
"Hear views on where the industry and hobby goes from here, and how. What part could product design play in the future success of the industry; Understand more about fish welfare and how the impending changes in the law will impact your business; Enjoy the company of friends, colleagues and competitors alike and address the problems and issues you all face."
The Conference is being held at The Britannia Royal Court Hotel in Keresley, Coventry, on 13-14 November 2006. Day delegate rates start from 76.38. For full details on the OATA Conference, and to pre-book your place, download the PDF form here.