Brigade champions safety innovation

FORS Annual Conference

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Brigade’s Front Radar System features dual-radar technology to meet UN Regulation 159

As the UK’s transport and logistics sector prepares for a future shaped by innovation, safety, and sustainability, FORS is set to host its landmark eighth Annual Conference on Thursday 23 October 2025 at Birmingham’s International Convention Centre.

This key industry event, attended by leaders and professionals across the commercial vehicle sector, officially welcomes Brigade Electronics as its Platinum headline sponsor; a partnership rooted in a shared commitment to shaping safer, smarter, more sustainable fleet operations.

The 2025 conference theme, ‘Future Focus: equipping fleets for tomorrow,’ puts the evolving needs of the industry at the forefront, with sessions touching on technological advances, regulatory updates, and best practice to prepare fleets for new challenges.

Brigade’s headline sponsorship signals a renewed focus on practical safety innovation in an era defined by rapid change.

Brigade Electronics – a longstanding partner in progress

A founding supporter of FORS, Brigade has long been synonymous with transport safety. Its ongoing collaboration with FORS demonstrates a mutual dedication to elevating operating standards. Emily Hardy, UK Marketing Manager at Brigade, reflects this sense of shared purpose, “The evolution of FORS and its recent Version 7 of the FORS Standard acknowledges the remarkable progress in our collision avoidance technology,” she says.

“We’re proud to offer solutions that not only meet, but exceed, mere compliance. Supporting the FORS Annual Conference is a fantastic opportunity to bring together operators who share a passion for progress and commitment to safer roads.”

And Brigade’s endorsement of FORS really is about more than compliance; it’s about empowering operators to navigate an increasingly complex landscape, where data, technology and people intersect. In an industry under pressure to do more with less, Brigade’s innovative spirit and technical expertise provides a valuable compass.

Showcasing tech to meet tomorrow’s demands

With Version 7 of the FORS Standard now in force, Brigade continues to play a pivotal role in helping operators adapt to a new regulatory environment. The latest standards, which align with both UN Regulation 151 and 159 as well as the UK’s Direct Vision Standard and EU benchmarks, expand expectations for fleet safety technology. Brigade stands ready to meet and exceed these expectations with a suite of hardware and software solutions designed for real-world challenges.

A standout among Brigade’s innovations at this year’s conference is Radar Predict, an AI-driven system that helps prevent collisions between HGVs and vulnerable road users. Radar Predict leverages advanced algorithms for real-time risk prediction, minimising false alerts and reducing driver overload. Brigade’s new Front Radar System, similarly, builds on dual-radar technology and offers a sweeping 180-degree detection at the front of vehicles, providing crucial visibility for drivers in congested urban settings.

Beyond collision avoidance, Brigade’s products seamlessly integrate with telematics giants such as Geotab and Webfleet. This enables fleet managers to access valuable analytics and video data, enhancing compliance and decision-making. In-cab monitoring systems also use sophisticated video analytics to detect signs of driver fatigue or distraction and provide real-time alerts.

Brigade’s commitment doesn’t end at producing cutting-edge products. The company’s Brigade Service Partner (BSP) network stretches nationwide, offering professional installation and support to ensure operators make the most of those emerging technologies while remaining compliant with new regulations.

Brigade at the 2024 FORS Annual Conference

Now well established as a highlight for learning and networking for the entire sector, this year's event features a fantastic line-up of speakers.

Keynote speakers for 2025 include Senior Traffic Commissioner Kevin Rooney, Ross Moorlock (CEO of Brake, the road safety charity), alongside expert panellists from Portland Analytics, DAF Trucks, Haulage Hub, Mates in Mind, Lanes Group, Logistics UK, Sopra Steria UK, Tarmac, Driving for Better Business, DEKRA, and former Traffic Commissioner Beverly Bell.

Their insights will help set the tone for vital conversations throughout the day about safety and risk management, professional development, and the growing importance of mental health and wellbeing in transport.

Lively panel sessions will feature a range of industry experts from Tarmac, Driving for Better Business, DEKRA, Portland Analytics, DAF Trucks, and Haulage Hub, among others. Each panel offers delegates the chance to discuss challenges and exchange ideas.

The exhibition hall remains a hub of energy, bringing together the latest solutions from FORS Affinity Partners and Champions, and providing a welcome opportunity for networking and partnership.

New for 2025: FORS Fleet Operator Awards

Reflecting the sector’s spirit of progress, 2025 introduces a special awards ceremony to be held for the first time, celebrating the achievements of FORS Accredited Operators across the FORS core principles of safety, efficiency and sustainability.

The inaugural FORS Fleet Operator Awards will spotlight outstanding achievements and innovative projects that set new benchmarks across the transport industry.

Brake CEO, Ross Morelock

Celebrating innovation and excellence

Senior Traffic Commissioner, Kevin Rooney

The awards, themed ‘Future Focus: Equipping Fleets for Tomorrow’, are sponsored by Ford, who will be exhibiting at the conference for the first time.
For more on our shortlisted operators visit the FORS operator awards webpage.

Register, and join the conversation

With registrations now open, the 2025 FORS Annual Conference promises to be a highlight for anyone invested in the future of fleet operations. Whether you are an established operator, a technology provider, or a newcomer to the sector, the event offers valuable insights and connections. To find out more and secure your place, visit the conference website.

FORS operator awards categories:

Safety - initiatives prioritising driver and road user safety.

Efficiency - operational innovations driving cost-effective fleet management.

Sustainability - efforts contributing to reduced environmental impact.

Congratulations to our shortlisted operators

Fox Brothers Ltd & Hurt Plant Hire Ltd for their AI dashcam safety programme.

PumpApp Ltd for its ‘Fuel Without Friction’ mobile refuelling service.

MSG Transport for their driver training and incident awareness.

AC Services Banbury for a comprehensive training matrix.

KeolisAmey Docklands for achieving a 100% electric fleet ahead of schedule.

First Mile for pioneering FORS-accredited cargo bike operations.

Wilson James for its Green Fleet initiative and electrification of its van fleet.