FORWARD-thinking Blackburn firms are being invited to find out more about one of the hottest buzzwords of the business world -- customer relationship management.

Leading expert professor Francis Buttle, Littlewoods Professor of Customer Relationship Management, will present a special lecture at the University of Central Lancashire, Preston, on how companies can gain the competitive edge over their rivals.

The presentation, organised by the Chartered Institute of Marketing and the Institute of Management, will explore the latest developments and techniques behind this innovative practice, aimed at helping companies retain customers and grow their businesses.

The workshop is just one of a selection of 'master classes' that deal with many strategic and motivational issues affecting all companies.

The class is January 30 at 6.30pm. To subscribe call Roger McCartney on 01539 721053.