A BHETA-facilitated video conference credit crisis forum aimed at DIY suppliers proved a hit with leading brands in the sector. Not only was the meeting welcomed for its topical Covid-19 content, but the Zoom facilitation attracted key players beyond the level of face to face meetings, proving the popularity of the online format as both effective and time-efficient. This inaugural event took place as a video conference on Wednesday 8th April and delegates voted in favour of repeating the meeting once a fortnight, so the second meeting was held on 22nd April.The forum was open to credit control and finance professionals as well as managing directors and business owners from member companies working in the DIY sector. Hosted by Let’s Talk Credit, Experian and AON Credit Insurance Brokers the meeting included discussion of specific retail accounts’ payment terms, credit insurance and insolvency law as well as discussion as to how different companies are handling the impact of Covid-19.Delegates commented:“This was my first one and I found it useful and informative, especially because people spoke about actual experiences with big retailers.” Rustin’s“I would recommend to anyone involved in credit management in the DIY sector to join the forum and build on the knowledge sharing platform that has been built. The information we can share is invaluable in these challenging times.” Hayley Moore, Stanley Black & Decker“It was once again very insightful and helps us understand the big picture of what is happening in real time in the marketplace.” Alex Reihl, GPlants“A really useful and insightful meeting. I felt it helped me keep in touch with what others were experiencing and what is going on in the marketplace in general.” Steven White - QEPBHETA’s Chief Operating Officer, Will Jones added, “This event was a free ‘taster’ for DIY members – and a test for the format. Thanks to the delegate input and the practicality of the videoconferencing, we had a good exchange of views, experience and advice with useful content and a friendly atmosphere. In the current crisis, businesses need to try and work together more than ever. Even in better times, it can be hard to justify a half or full day meeting out of the office, but this format offered a practical way to share information that members described as “really useful, especially as the delegates were all trading with similar retailers.”To register interest in the next online event, or for further information, contact Nicola Adams at the BHETA Member Services Team on 07946 078566, or alternatively, email on na@bheta.co.uk