Set against the tropical backdrop of the award-winning Banyan Tree Phuket resort, the event fostered Barry Plant’s close-knit culture while immersing attendees in Thailand’s vibrant culture.
The program struck the perfect balance between professional development, cultural experiences and valuable time to reconnect as a network.
“It’s one of my favourite events on the calendar,” Barry Plant CEO Lisa Pennell said.
“Our conference is a chance to bring all our leaders together – to celebrate success, learn from each other, and strategise on how we can continue to grow the Barry Plant network into the best real estate franchise it can be. If I had to describe the week in one word, it would be unity.”
The experience began with delegates settling into the resort’s tranquil lagoons and private villas before gathering in the evening for a welcome dinner.
The conference officially commenced the following day with leadership sessions focused on growth, innovation and shared success.
This was a conference for big ideas, exemplified by one of the program’s highlights – a fireside chat between Lisa Pennell and Barry Plant Eastern Group Managing Director Spiro Drossos.
Far from a self-congratulatory exchange, their conversation was raw, candid, thought-provoking and challenging.
They explored the contrasting dynamics of running a franchised office versus leading the franchisor, while showcasing the leadership strengths required in both roles.
“The discussion with Spiro was incredibly rewarding for us both, and eye-opening for our leaders,” Lisa said.
“The key learning was that running a franchised office is very different to running the franchisor, but neither is more important than the other.”
“One cannot exist without the other – they must work symbiotically to thrive. We all want the same thing, to be the best, and the way to achieve that is by working as closely as possible to drive the network forward together,” explained Lisa.
“It was incredibly rewarding to come together as a network in a vibrant cultural setting like Thailand, where we could openly share ideas and strategies, and learn from one another,” Spiro said.
“The fireside chat with Lisa was a perfect example of that openness, giving us the chance to ask questions that don’t always surface in the day-to-day operations between franchisor and franchisee.
“I know many in the network who attended and took a great deal away from the session.”
With the professional development program wrapping up on Tuesday evening, big ideas were replaced by big pants.
Delegates were gifted traditional Thai elephant pants to wear to the highly anticipated Gala Dinner at The Blue Elephant.
While some were hesitant at first, more accustomed to tailored suits and elegant dresses than flowing, elephant-emblazoned trousers, the pants quickly became a symbol of unity and community.
By the time dinner was served, every guest had embraced the tradition, proudly dressed in Thai attire and joined together for an evening of celebration, connection and entertainment.
This year’s conference also placed a strong emphasis on inclusivity.
Directors have always been encouraged to bring their families, but this time every event was designed with them in mind.
Rather than hosting children’s activities in separate areas, dedicated spaces were set up nearby so families could remain connected.
While leaders attended sessions, partners and children enjoyed a tailored program that included kids’ clubs, nature adventures, Thai cooking classes, ziplining and spa treatments. Children’s zones at each event further reinforced the family-friendly atmosphere.
The remainder of the week showcased Thailand’s beauty and culture. Attendees cruised through the limestone cliffs of Phang-Nga Bay, snorkelled at the Phi Phi Islands, embarked on a cultural tour of the historic Phuket Old Town, toured on ATVs, played golf and visited the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary.
The conference wrapped up in true Barry Plant style with a lively Full Moon Party on the Angsana Hotel beach, where delegates were again asked to step out of their comfort zones and light up the dancefloor in fluorescent singlets.
Some were initially unsure about the bold attire, but by the time the music started every attendee had their singlet on – or tied proudly around their head – and embraced the high-energy spirit of the night. The atmosphere was so electric it even drew curious tourists hoping to join the Barry Plant celebrations.
Among the guests was RealEstate.com Industry Partnerships Manager, Sam Nokes, who praised the group’s culture.
“What was evident to me was the connection between the offices. They’re a close group, but also so welcoming,” Sam said.
“This is such a strength of the group and something to be immensely proud of. The plan is very clear.”
Reflecting on the week, he added: “The elephant pants are probably the most comfortable pair of pants I own – what an addition to the wardrobe!”
From the warm welcome to the heartfelt farewells, the 2025 Barry Plant Leadership Conference was a resounding success.
It brought leaders together to learn, recharge and connect – all within the stunning surrounds of one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating destinations.
Many delegates extended their stay to continue exploring Thailand, returning home with not only cherished memories but also renewed energy and inspiration to lead.
