WOKINGHAM Positive Difference (WPD) begins 2026 with a session to help service-sector small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) understand what Industry 5.0 means for them in practice.
The group’s first talk of the year, titled The Next Economic Phase: What Industry 5.0 Means for SMEs, will explore how new technologies can be turned into real, usable business value.
The service economy is changing fast, says the group, and many businesses are unsure what to focus on next.
Dr Fabio Goncalves De Oliveira from the University of Reading, will help businesses understand how to navigate the next economic phase.
His January talk will explore how Industry 5.0 is changing the way technology should be adopted — with a stronger focus on people, adaptability, and informed decision-making.
Attendees will gain practical insight into how technology can improve customer experience, support better business decisions, and strengthen operational resilience, without requiring the scale or budgets of large organisations.
The session will cover:how emerging technologies can improve service delivery, customer experience, and everyday decision-making.
It will examine where AI and intelligent systems support people at work, rather than replace them.
And it will offer practical ways SMEs can start using new technology sensibly, without large budgets or technical expertise.
It will be especially relevant for people running, supporting or advising a service business, who want to stay ahead of what’s coming next, say the organisers.
The monthly event offers open networking, with a buffet breakfast of bacon rolls, pastries, and fresh fruit.
Sessions include talks, updates from the WPD team, local businesses, government, and community groups.
The event will take place in Wokingham Town Hall, on Friday, January 9, at 8am.
Entry costs £25, and booking is essential.
For information, visit: wokinghampositivedifference.co.uk
