Industry Event
IBA Golf Tournament K
nees were definitely out as temperatures soared during The IBA Golf Tournament, which took place at Mottram Hall Golf Course and Champneys Spa Resort this June. The real standout, however, was the community spirit on display. Here, Pam Hardman, IBA operations manager, shares some highlights from the day.
An open and inclusive, unique three-tier opportunity to network and have fun, the IBA Golf Tournament is for everyone, with participants ranging from ‘ready for a good laugh’ to ‘the relentless pursuit of golfing victory’. Events like this don’t just build relationships – they strengthen the IBA community, creating real connections between members and suppliers that go beyond the day itself. The Mark Huddlestone trophy was won by Dave Huggin of EDS and awarded by Steve Trafford of Aico. It was Dave’s third time at top spot, but that didn’t detract from the importance of this achievement or significance of receiving the trophy. “What a day at the IBA Golf Tournament.” Dave commented. “Great company, tropical weather, properly chilled Peroni, the Mark Huddlestone trophy and a fantastic prize. All in the same week I became a grandad for the first time. Living the dream.”
Alan Myers from Saxby Lighting won Suppliers 1st. Alan said: “It was great to catch up and see everyone again and be able to unwind in the relaxed friendly setting.”
More than a buying group
The IBA is an extension to an Independent Electrical Wholesaler’s business – existing to protect and elevate our specialist independent wholesalers
“The uglier a man’s legs are, the better he plays golf. It’s almost a law.” – HG Wells.
and their teams through a centralised employed communication hub built around 32 years of trust, fairness and community. Our collective buying power and better terms protects the spirit of our independent businesses.
Supplier support & shared experiences The tournament wouldn’t be what it was without the generous sponsorship of our valued Suppliers or personal contributions from our loyal members. We thank Phil Harbord of Harbro for again heading up the event, this year with Oliver Nicholas of Lightsave as his support. Phil said: “A great day, that saw everyone getting involved. We had the inclusion of David Edwards Trick Shot Show at the start and his hilarious video at the end. The Presentation Dinner is always good, never serious and we all have a laugh. The supplier sponsored
Dave Huggin of EDS
prizes this year were truly amazing and there were certainly plenty of happy people in the room. The venue was first class. Roll on next year, although this year will definitely be a hard act to follow!”
A community across generations Phil also took the opportunity to award Harry Greenwood of Greenwood Lighting with a special prize. Harry has been with the Group since the beginning and a constant at the tournament. Harry was present with his grandson, Jack Stokes, who has joined the Electrical Committee this year, so it is great to see the support for the Group extend through generations.
Member value in action
The tournament formed part of The IBA’s Quarterly Membership Conference which also provided a full day’s commercial focus on product education and supplier workshops. Members gained hands-on product insights and practical knowledge, with sessions covering renewables, regulation changes and upskilling in core areas. Our next conference will be held in September at Whittlebury Hall and is expected to include a charity Firewalk.
theiba.co.uk
ewnews.co.uk
August 2025 electrical wholesaler | 27
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