IN uncertain economic times, focus on purchasing and process efficiencies rises to the top of the corporate agenda, so Fleet News is organising an IT and e-commerce conference to guide fleet decision-makers through the opportunities presented by online trade.

The IT&e conference will take place at the end of this month, and provide practical cradle to grave solutions to the internet and e-commerce.

The event, sponsored by Audi and supported by Tusker Direct and GRS, will cut through the jargon and hype surrounding the web to deliver stage-by-stage advice and analysis on buying and leasing cars via the internet, managing fuel spend and service and maintenance online, and using the web to remarket used company cars and vans.

Speakers include Jeremy Martin, vehicle remarketing programme manager at Motability Finance, Janet Entwistle, general manager BT Fleet Partners, Mike Embleton, Audi corporate sales manager, Tom Stephenson, joint managing director of online leasing company Tusker Direct, Jason Francis, managing director of Car Fleet Control, Mike Pilkington, sales and marketing director of GRS, Rob Barr of BCA Europe, Mark Cowling, chief economist of CAP Network, and Christopher Macgowan, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

• The IT&e conference will take place at The Heritage Motor Museum, Gaydon, just off the M40 on January 29. Tickets cost £49 (+VAT) until January 18, and £70 (+VAT) thereafter. For details call 01733 468123 or email sandra.evitt@emap.com