On-site Visit to Nissan

Step inside one of the North East's most iconic businesses and see how a world-class operation performs at scale.

Since production began in 1986, Nissan has grown into the UK's largest car manufacturing plant, producing millions of vehicles and employing thousands of people across the region. Along the way, it has earned a reputation for quality, efficiency, innovation, and continuous improvement, establishing Sunderland as one of Europe's leading automotive manufacturing centres.

Join us as we explore behind-the-scenes of the Assembly Line and Vehicle Test Centre, and learn about the systems, culture, and ways of working that enable Nissan to maintain exceptionally high standards while continuing to evolve. From operational excellence and process improvement to innovation, investment, and people development.

The Conversation

During the visit, lessons will translate far beyond manufacturing:

How do high-performing organisations maintain quality and consistency at scale?
What role do systems, processes, and continuous improvement play in long-term success?
How do you engage and develop large teams in a fast-moving environment?
What can founder-led businesses learn from world-class operational environments?
How is Nissan continuing to invest, innovate, and prepare for the future?

What You'll Take Away

Alongside a rare insight into the make-up of the North East's biggest business, you'll have the chance to learn about the disciplines, processes, and approaches that help organisations perform and improve consistently over time.

Whether you lead a team of 10 or 1,000, this visit will provide a fresh perspective on creating quality, improving performance, and building a culture that never stops looking for ways to improve.

Important Information: This tour is not suitable for anyone with a heart pacemaker. Cameras, recording devices and mobile phones are not permitted during the tour. Visitors must wear long trousers, long-sleeved tops and enclosed, flat, sturdy shoes. All other safety equipment will be provided.

The Small Print
Due to limited capacity on-site visits are exclusively for entrepreneurial members of the Forum and no guests or substitutions are allowed.

Please be aware that your name, job title and company may be shared with our Forum partners and event attendees for event‑related purposes. Should you wish to remove yourself from any delegate lists please let us know.