London is set to host the 2009 International Hardware Association congress next September.
The IHA, which has more than 40,000 member businesses in 16 countries, is hosting the conference in London for the first time since the early 1990s.

Speaker's details are still being finalised, but among them will be Steamer Trading md Ben Phillips and representatives from B&Q, Calorgas and Toolbank to name only a few.

IHA president, Chris Patterson, said: "This event will bring together key international figures to truly 'meet the world' where the world meets, in London, the most cosmopolitan city in the world.

"We are creating a fascinating programme of business, social and cultural events to reflect the global nature of the modern industry."

Hosted by the BHF Group, the retail trade association, the event will be one to remember as it will be celebrating 100 years of the congress.

The international gathering, which runs from September 18 to September 21, will bring together the leading figures in the hardware and housewares industry.

Locations for the congress will centre on some of the capital's most iconic settings including the Tower of London, Banqueting Hall in Whitehall, Hampton Court Palace and the Queen Elizabeth Conference Centre.

Delegates will be able to hear the latest developments on global marketing and development, the UK and European view on commerce, views from the big and small retailers and a history of the IHA.

For more details and to book a place, go to www.iha2009.com