The West Midlands has won a bid to host a global conference for professionals in the ceramics industry.
The 12th International Ceramics Congress will take place in July 2028 at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham and is expected to bring together more than 600 of the world's top researchers and manufacturers who specialise in ceramics.
The impact of the four-day event is anticipated to be worth more than £1 million for the region's economy, according to the West Midlands Growth Company.
The conference, whose previous events have taken place in cities in Germany, Brazil and Canada among others, will allow attendees to share ideas and visions for ceramics and glass materials.
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It will provide experts with the opportunity to present the latest research and technology progress in the field of ceramics.
The event was secured by the Birmingham and West Midlands Convention Bureau, part of the West Midlands Growth Company, and its conference ambassador Jon Binner.
Mr Binner is a professor of ceramic science and engineering in the school of metallurgy and materials at University of Birmingham.
The bureau supported Prof Binner and also worked with the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining to secure a suitable venue and accommodation, suggest social programme options and compose the bid document.
Steve Knight, senior business tourism manager at the West Midlands Growth Company, said: "Securing the 12th International Ceramics Congress in Birmingham is a fantastic result and we look forward to hosting hundreds of global ceramics professionals to our young, friendly and accessible destination in four years' time.
"This conference win is an example of the unique collaboration which exists across the West Midlands' business events industry. This success is a testament to great teamwork and will provide a significant boost to the region's economy."
Prof Binner added: "It is a great honour to have been invited to organise this conference which is a tremendously thrilling opportunity to bring the world's top researchers and manufacturers to the º£½ÇÊÓƵ and the West Midlands in particular.
"The timing of the event will also tie in very nicely with the £18.27 million Strength in Places funding to the Midlands Industrial Ceramics Group.
"This research and development programme will have just finished and so delegates can learn all about the exciting outcomes."
