Businesses from across the county are urged to attend Visit County Durham’s (VCD) FREE Autumn Industry Conference – a special event that takes an in-depth look at the development of new mobile technologies which has created enormous opportunities, providing businesses with the ability to engage their customers anywhere at any time.

The conference, “My Phone is my Life – Marketing Practice in Response to Consumer Trends” takes place at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Durham, on Thursday 8th November between 12 noon and 4pm.

The event offers attendees the opportunity to hear from industry experts on the internet behaviour of visitors (national and international) and on the new technologies they favour.

With critical tools, tips and information they can implement immediately, businesses can leave the conference with clear ideas for how to better market their business to their customers.

The expert line-up of speakers will focus on new developments and the latest research and how businesses can benefit from these: James Kingnett, Head of Communications at Norma Foster Ltd., will explain the new internet behaviour of visitors; and Melanie Sensicle, Chief Executive of Visit County Durham, will discuss visitor behaviour in Durham, what visitors like and dislike, and what motivates them.

The event will begin with a welcome from VCD Chairman Ivor Stolliday and also includes a series of workshops aimed at explaining social media and online marketing to beginners, intermediate users, or those working specifically in events and the cultural sector.

Melanie Sensicle, Chief Executive of VCD, said: “Embracing and understanding how new technology can help businesses connect with potential customers and visitors has enormous potential to help Durham’s tourist economy grow. The Autumn Industry Conference is the perfect opportunity to find out more how this can benefit your business. I would urge anyone with an interest in maximising their business opportunities to attend this valuable event and be a part of driving the region forward.”

The Visit County Durham Autumn Industry Conference will be held between 12.00pm and 16.00pm on the 8th November 2012 at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Durham. Places are free but numbers are limited – to reserve a place please email business@visitcountydurham.org or call 03000 261 234.