Most people in the grocery industry understand networking is one of the best ways to build contacts, but it is a skill that many younger managers and graduates have yet to perfect.

Later this month Leading Edge, the IGD's development and networking forum, is running what is expected to be its biggest Graduate & Business Placement event yet, to give grocery industry newcomers the tools to enjoy the networking experience.

"Lots of people don't want to admit they are not good networkers," says Shanna Ritchie, Leading Edge business development manager, "but anyone who has succeeded in business is likely to have an extensive array of contacts that they are in regular two-way communication with."

The event, for food and drink industry managers with up to two years' experience, and those on business placements, is being held on 19 June at London's Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre.

Would-be networkers will be able to mingle with more than 150 delegates, including head office staff, store managers and those working in manufacturing, from companies such as Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury's, 3663, Nestlé, Premier Foods, Kraft, PepsiCo and Masterfoods. Staff from research companies including TNS, Dunnhumby and Europanel are also attending.

The event kicks off with a networking masterclass led by professional coaches and will demonstrate to young managers how networking can make a massive impact on an individual's job, says Ritchie.

"By fostering networks across the industry, we can help individuals and companies work more effectively and efficiently," she says. "It is filling a gap in people's knowledge base - they really want to get involved."

It also aims to improve young managers' industry awareness and will feature presentations from IGD analysts.

These will include a session led by chief economist James Walton, who will outline the implications of major issues in the grocery industry, such as energy efficiency and the return of food price inflation.

Senior business analyst Gavin Rothwell will discuss the major trends and drivers in retailing, while senior supply chain analyst Darran Watkins will give a run-down of the key trends and developments affecting the supply chain.

"These will give people an overview of the industry and the bigger picture that they might not necessarily know much about," says Ritchie, adding that the presentations are aimed at a broad base of knowledge and skills so as not to overwhelm the audience. "They should find out about how these issues impact on their roles and then be able to talk about them confidently when they're back in the office."

As well as the conference, Leading Edge will be running a series of masterclasses across the country in July on personal branding, which Ritchie says aim to illustrate how people can best present themselves at meetings.

It is also calling for nominees to enter its annual Leading Light Award, which recognises an individual who has pioneered an initiative or project that has stretched, challenged and developed them into a potential industry leader of the future.

"Leading Edge is uniquely positioned to develop the skills, knowledge and networks of food and grocery professionals," says Ritchie.

"This is vital to the future prosperity of the food and grocery industry as it competes in attracting the best and brightest people to the increasingly dynamic and exciting opportunities offered."n