Andrew Gall, Head of Savings and Economics, Building Societies Association

The day will open with an economic outlook focused on consumer behaviour and the trends influencing household decision‑making. Deloitte will provide expert analysis on the behavioural drivers behind consumer confidence, as well as the forces shaping spending and consumption patterns. They will also deliver a market overview of the headwinds and tailwinds affecting the cash savings sector - from technological change to Targeted Support. 

In 2026, member expectations are rising fast, rate‑shopping is the norm, and the next generation of savers are choosing providers based on their digital experience. But can new propositions, from gamification to savings perks and open banking, help secure the next generation of savers? Our panellists will be sharing their ideas on how mutuals can strengthen their engagement with current and future savers.  

Tom Sharp, Digital Distribution Manager, Furness Building Society
Martyn Jenkins, Head of Business Solutions, Monmouthshire Building Society 
Janice Barber, Senior Manager - Digital Channels Savings & Mobile App, Yorkshire Building Society

Building societies Monmouthshire and Furness will be talking through onboarding journeys and their experiences deploying mobile apps to customers. The session will look at what the response has been to the apps from their respective members and lessons learned for future innovations. 

Sophie Dwyer, Senior Product Manager, West Brom Building Society
Ben Smith, Head of Commercial & Product Development, Newcastle Building Society
Ben Smith, Head of Financial Advice Proposition, Skipton Building Society

The FCA’s Targeted Support remedy creates a new regulatory framework bridging the gap between guidance and full financial advice. Building societies already offering financial advice will be sharing their experiences and whether the initiative complements or conflicts with cash savings.