GXN Conference – Thank You & Next Steps
Dear Member,
Thank you to everyone who attended and participated in the 5th anniversary GXN Conference in Kitzbuehel. The fifth GXN conference was an outstanding success. From our energetic discussions, an exceptional sense of momentum and tangible joint initiatives demonstrated how GXN has evolved from a network into a platform helping shape the industry’s future. The thanks are extended not just for your attendance and participation, and for the enthusiasm and commitment you all showed to the GXN strategic initiatives we have developed together and are forwarding to shape the future. Beyond the thanks I wanted to summarise some of the key strategic initiatives we agreed during the conference and establish some next steps.
Market intelligence and global cooperation
The market data presented reached an unprecedented level of quality and depth, providing a solid basis for strategic debate. Support from members, delegates and major organizations and associations was especially significant, with a shared commitment to closer cooperation expressed through the Declaration. The desire to position the powerful contribution of the promo industry and share the research data to the global audience of buyers, decision-makers, agencies, and consumers was perceived as an important driver in shaping the future.
One Voice
A central theme was the One Voice Initiative. Following extensive debate, the Kitzbuehel Declaration was adopted on 9 October at 9:30 a.m. It is intended to provide a foundation for the industry’s collective, future-oriented development. A core ambition is to establish promotional products and tangible brand communication as a fully recognized marketing category. This requires clearer evidence of effectiveness, greater professionalization and stronger cooperation among international industry bodies and associations.
Research and certified sales education
We introduced a further initiative: with a research project with students at the University of Bath are planned to support the Declaration’s objectives – these discussions are already on-going. A programme to train and certify sales professionals and executives in Consultative Selling Practice with the Institute of Sales Professionals is also envisaged. Research-based evidence and professional education will help strengthen the industry’s position and help attract. And retain talent to the industry.
Next steps and outlook
Whilst we continue with vital strategic initiatives such as Women in Promo and the GXN Leadership podcasts, the next challenge is to turn our shared ambitions into action. This means translating the Declaration into concrete initiatives, develop research partnerships, build and launch the certification programme, and strengthen evidence of the impact of tangible media. I therefore ask for input: please forward your interest in becoming a podcast guest and, register your interest in the GXN Certificate in Consultative Selling Practice by emailing me on (Michael’s GXN email here).
Best regards,
Michael Freter
Chief Network Officer
NB: If you would like to register your interest to attend the 6th GXN conference in Istanbul in 2027 please reach out to Sylvia (Silvia’s GXN email).
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