Industry Networking Lunch 2026 at the Silverstone Museum – Now Sold Out!

The IWMA is delighted to confirm that the 2026 Industry Networking Lunch at the Silverstone Museum has officially sold out, with demand exceeding capacity and a waitlist now in place. Set within one of the UK’s most iconic venues, this year’s event has captured the imagination of members, reinforcing the growing appetite for high-quality, in-person networking experiences in distinctive and memorable locations.

Set within the legendary home of British motorsport, the Silverstone Museum offers a truly unique backdrop where innovation meets heritage. Attendees will enjoy a day of connection, conversation, and industry insight, complemented by a full museum tour. Lunch will be served overlooking part of the world-famous Formula One circuit and the brand-new Silverstone karting track, where many future racing stars will begin their careers. For dedicated motorsport fans, exclusive access to a viewing platform will provide even more impressive track views.

The lunch will feature two industry speakers, bringing together strategic market insight and lessons from elite performance environments.

Sebastian Sheppard is an engineering leader with extensive experience in Formula One, a former Engineering Manager at Alpine F1, and a former Royal Navy helicopter pilot. Drawing on real-world stories from both motorsport and military service, Sebastian will explore how data-driven decision-making, speed of execution and risk management in high-pressure environments can be applied to the wire and cable industry. His session will focus on how lessons learned in Formula One and the Royal Navy can help shape leadership, operational performance, and decision-making on the factory floor.

Attendees will also hear from Chi Lee, based in CRU’s London office, who will provide a market outlook for the wire and cable industry. Chi will highlight key global trends, shifting regional dynamics and the wider economic and political factors influencing the industry, offering delegates a forward-looking view of the challenges and opportunities ahead.

The popularity of this event builds on the momentum of previous IWMA Industry Networking Lunches held at distinctive venues, including the Concorde Conference Centre in the UK and Dr. Thompson’s Seifenfabrik in Germany. IWMA aims to set the benchmark for industry networking events by choosing locations that people genuinely remember, creating experiences that spark conversation long after the day itself. Great events stay with you. Another hotel ballroom rarely does.

With only 100 places available, demand for the 2026 lunch has been exceptional. Members who were unable to secure a ticket are encouraged to join the waitlist by contacting olivia@iwma.org.

We look forward to welcoming attendees to what promises to be an inspiring and memorable Industry Networking Lunch.