The Central Housing Investment Consortium (CHIC) has announced its sixth annual conference, sponsored by Worchester Bosch. It will be held at the Worchester Warriors Rugby Club stadium on Wednesday June 8.

The conference, which attracted over 230 visitors last year, has secured international business man Lord Digby Jones as its keynote speaker, where he is expected to give his support of innovation and cost saving in the public sector.

The ‘Buy Better, Build More’ conference & exhibition will under-line CHIC’s commitment to building efficiencies and improving the standards of the housing sector, in response to the Government’s drive for volume house-building.

CHIC, a consortium which separates the cost of labour and building material procurement, will offer those attending the chance to learn about its new build modular procurement offer, in response to Government concerns.

Four themes will dominate the 12 conference workshops: smart housing, lower costs, improved efficiency and quality services. A workshop will also be given on CHIC’s new legal service, which will launch June 7.

Guest speakers will discuss topical housing issues, including the potential effects of Brexit and how achieving efficiencies in management can directly lead to the building of more new homes. There will also be a ceremony for CHIC’s Trainee of the Year 2016.

“Our aim for this conference is to share CHIC’s vision – to measure value, not cost – with those who influence the social housing industry,” commented CHIC managing director, John Fisher, who will also be speaking at a workshop.

“In light of recent concerns and developments in the sector we will be delivering a conference packed with knowledgeable speakers and valuable workshops, with something to offer everyone working in our industry.

“Above all, we want to aid and encourage our members to ‘buy better and build more’, as well as show to non-members the substantial benefits of working with our consortium.” concluded John, who will also be speaking on housing assets and liabilities workshop.

CHIC was formed in 2010 as a not for profit organisation and currently has 39 consortium members nationwide. Since its inception it has saved members £18million on average in procurement costs.

The conference is free to attend and open to both members and non-members. If you would like to book tickets or an exhibition stand, please visit chicltd.co.uk