SHARING the secrets of his company's success at a recent key forum was Prestwich businessman Mr Bernie Bowers.

He is managing director of Bury Old Road-based fast growing design, marketing and communications specialists Appleby Bowers.

He dispensed a keynote speech at a major vending industry forum.

Bernie, who has more than 25 years of experience, outlined the benefits of PR and marketing to members of the Automatic Vending Association's northern region at an hotel in Huddersfield.

His words of wisdom that highlighted the importance of presentation and perception impressed the 70-strong gathering which included many leading industry players.

Mr Bowers, explained: "As a company we have a wealth of expertise, particularly in the vending arena, from creating exciting machine fascia designs, marketing machine launches, producing company brochures as well as highly effective public relations activities.

"It was a real pleasure to share some of the secrets of our success with such a distinguished audience."

Jan Podsiadly, the Automatic Vending Association's communications manager, felt the speech had been well received.

He commented: "It was informative, interesting and extremely relevant to our current focus on public relations and how our members can help themselves to raise their company profiles."