It is my privilege and pleasure to invite you to the 2012 trading standards and consumer affairs conference in Manchester.

Over the past few years conference has built a deserved reputation for being the leading event in the field of consumer affairs. It provides the perfect opportunity for professionals and organisations to come together to discuss issues that impact on all consumers and businesses operating in the UK. The mixture of plenary sessions, masterclasses, mini theatre sessions and exhibition enables frank discussion, learning, and information exchanges in a manner that suits the subject and audience.

This year, more than any other, it is vital that the profession comes together to understand our new operating landscape, so that we can share best practice and innovate at a time of challenge and financial constraint. Conference also provides the perfect platform to focus our attentions on the key issues of the day.

We should not forget the networking opportunities that conference offers and the chance for us to celebrate success. All in all conference is a must attend event for anyone involved in trading standards and I would urge you to book early.

Leon Livermore 
TSI Chairman