ALFED hosts inaugural Members’ Day at Northamptonshire HQ

On Thursday 30^th April 2026, the Aluminium Federation (ALFED) successfully hosted its inaugural Members’ Day at the picturesque (and sunny!) Bragborough Hall Business Centre, set against the backdrop of the sunny Northamptonshire countryside. The event brought together members from across the UK aluminium sector for a day defined by insight, collaboration, and community spirit.

The morning programme set a strong tone, delivering valuable industry intelligence and forward-looking perspectives. ALFED CEO Nadine Bloxsome opened proceedings with a comprehensive year-to-date and outlook, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities facing the sector. This was followed by an engaging session on solar energy from Neil Stott of headline sponsor Mypower, who provided practical takeaways tailored specifically for UK manufacturers navigating the transition to more sustainable operations.

Delegates also benefited from expert guidance on trade and compliance, with Anna Doherty of The Chartered Institute of Export and International Trade offering key updates on regulatory developments, while CRU’s Alex Christopher delivered an in-depth analysis of emerging opportunities within Middle East markets, equipping attendees with actionable insights for international growth.

The afternoon continued with a series of spotlight sessions from RamBase, ARUN Technology, Avails Energy, George Bain, and Innoval Technology, each contributing specialist knowledge and sparking meaningful discussion among attendees. Running parallel to the spotlight sessions, were some interactive roundtable sessions hosted by Headline Sponsor Mypower and Lloyds Banking Group, who focused their session on explaining how they can support trade services within the UK manufacturing sector.

As the formal agenda concluded, the event transitioned into a relaxed and sociable atmosphere, with members enjoying lunch courtesy of local wood fired pizza company Laff’s Pizza, garden games, and informal networking. Highlights included friendly competition across swing ball, corn hole, and the ever-popular 3-dart challenge.

The darts crown was claimed by Dr. Amanda Spary of Nissan, who secured an outstanding winning score of 122, featuring a bullseye and treble 18. She was presented with two bottles of Penrhos gin (in aluminium bottles, of course!). A special commendation also goes to Emma Swann, Managing Director of BOAL Extrusion UK, who achieved second-place with an impressive score of 88.

This inaugural Members’ Day has been a fantastic demonstration of the strength, innovation, and collaboration within our industry. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see our members come together to share knowledge, build connections, and explore new opportunities. We’re committed to building on this momentum and continuing to deliver real value to our members in the months and years ahead.

ALFED CEO Nadine Bloxsome.

ALFED extends its sincere thanks to its sponsors; Headline sponsor Mypower, alongside exhibitor sponsors ARUN Technology Ltd, Avails Energy, and RamBase, as well as to all speakers and attendees who contributed to making the event such a success.

The inaugural ALFED Members’ Day marks the beginning of what promises to become a cornerstone event for the UK aluminium community, reinforcing the ALFED’s commitment to supporting its members through insight, connection, and collaboration, and building a stronger UK aluminium industry.

To find out more about upcoming ALFED events, please click here.

To find out more about ALFED, or to become a member, please visit www.alfed.org.uk.