Dates Friday 18th September 2009 Morning Business Congress Afternoon Government Reception Exclusive Reception at the Tower of London followed by Thames Cruise Dinner Saturday 19th September 2009 Morning Business Congress Hampton Court Palace tour Sunday 20th September 2009 Morning Business Congress Exclusive Gala Banquet at the Banqueting House, Whitehall Monday 21st September 2009 Visit GLEE, NEC, Birmingham

Venues Queen Elizabeth Conference Centre One of the foremost conference centres on any continent. London Marriott Hotel County Hall A superb hotel in the very heart of London, facing the Houses of Parliament. Banqueting House, Whitehall Palace The magnificent 17th Century banqueting house of James I is an architectural and artistic marvel. The Congress will hold its Gala Dinner there at the close of the conference. Tower of London/Silver Sturgeon Delegates will be given an exclusive viewing at this most iconic of heritage centres, followed by an evening cruise on the River Thames.

The International Federation of Hardware and Housewares Associations (IHA) is a worldwide special interest group for professional organisations from specialist trade sectors including hardware, DIY and garden products, fittings, tools, electrical appliances, housewares, china, glassware, pet products, brushes and more. In 2009 it will reach its 100th year.

BHF Group, the organising body for the 2009 IHA Centenary Congress, represents independent retailers across the United Kingdom. Incorporating six specialist trade associations, BHF Group provides a wide range of business services and support for independent retailers and suppliers to the independent market alike, including buying, finance, publishing, cheque clearing, insurance, legal advice, training, networking events and conferences.

Having celebrated its own Centenary in 1999 the BHF Group is enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring together people of like interests from every continent.

London is the natural meeting point for the world’s business networks. A leading city in the world economy and a centre of international trade and finance. London's global trading means this is probably the most cosmopolitan city in the world. Home to the world's business language, it is estimated that over 300 languages are spoken.

Voted Europe’s best city for business by the European Cities Monitor for fifteen consecutive years, London is accessible for national and international delegates. Nowhere else in the world has such a fantastic combination of the old and the new, purpose built or unusual venues; London is one of the world’s most exciting cities.

London is the natural choice for the IHA Centenary Congress 2009.

BHF Group is honoured to be hosting this important event and is delighted to have been granted the privilege of patronage by HRH Princess Royal, with a confirmed appearance at the event by Princess Anne in person.