Bathgate Silica Sand was delighted to attend the SAMSA Conference 2025, hosted by the Mineral Products Association at the elegant Stanbrook Abbey Hotel in Worcester. This annual event is a cornerstone in the mineral products calendar, bringing together professionals from across the quarrying industry to explore current challenges, celebrate progress, and shape the path ahead.
The conference began in style with a hugely interesting factory visit to the iconic Morgan Motor Company, where attendees had the rare opportunity to see the craftsmanship and innovation behind these world-renowned bespoke vehicles. It was an engaging and inspiring way to start the day.
Following the tour, delegates gathered at Stanbrook Abbey for a warm welcome and introduction from Nick Horsley, Director of SAMSA, who set the tone for a day filled with industry insight and forward-thinking discussion.
A series of expert-led presentations covered critical topics affecting the mineral products sector:
- Catherine Cullen (RSPB) delivered an insightful talk on restoration and biodiversity at quarry sites, showing how well-planned after-use can transform extraction sites into thriving wildlife habitats and contribute to the UK’s ecological goals.
- Florence Lumen (IMA Europe) Enlightened everyone with an update on procedures and news from Europe
- Michelle Lucas offered an inspiring session on embracing diversity in the industry, sparking conversation on creating more inclusive, equitable workplaces across all levels of quarrying and mineral extraction.
- Lisa Saunders (Lisa Saunders Consultancy) explored the skills gap and future pipeline of jobs in quarrying, highlighting the importance of investing in people, apprenticeships, and education to ensure a vibrant, capable future workforce.
- Jon Mallott (Springpod) explained the potential of digital work experience in building future talent
- Industry leaders Phillipa O’Leary from CEMEX and Chris McGee from Liebherr shared their vision for the future, including advances in technology, sustainability, and innovation shaping the next generation of mineral products and machinery.
The day concluded with a lively panel discussion, providing attendees with an opportunity to dive deeper into the themes of the day through open debate and audience questions.
The formal conference programme closed with a thought-provoking President’s speech from Richard Abraham (Mansfield Sand), reflecting on both the achievements and future challenges of the sector. This was followed by a Black Tie Dinner, where delegates networked and celebrated the day’s success in an elegant setting.
David Robinson, Managing Director at Bathgate Silica Sand enthused, ‘At Bathgate Silica Sand, we see conferences like this not only as a chance to stay informed and connected but also as an opportunity to reflect on our own practices and aspirations. From biodiversity and restoration to skills development and innovation, the SAMSA Conference 2025 reinforced many of the values we hold at the core of our business.’
We extend our thanks to Nick and his team at the Mineral Products Association and SAMSA for organising such a high-quality, thought-provoking event. We look forward to applying what we’ve learned as we continue to support a more sustainable, inclusive, and forward-looking quarrying industry.
Stay tuned to our News section for more updates on Bathgate’s involvement in industry events, sustainability initiatives, and more.
