Mike Penning MP new Transport Minister (tipped to be at the National Courier Awards) , has ordered a review of the two-part test which was introduced in April 2009 as a result of European regulations.  This follows r ecently released UK Government figures that show deaths of all road users dropped by 12%. More importantly for the motorcyclist, fatal and serious injury motorcycle casualties fell to 20,703, or put another way showed a fall of 4% in 2009 despite a 2% rise in bike traffic. Actual fatalities dropped from 493 to 472 and serious injuries fell from 5556 to 5350. So good news there followed by the announcement that the motorcycle test is to be reviewed following all the recent problems we have often highlighted through IOC and in Dispatch News reports.

2010 July

Courier industry shows big Government figures. Motorcycle support services, that includes couriers, leasing, publishing, insurance, and training contributes £940 million in Gross Added Value to the UK economy. An analysis of the hire and leasing sector suggests that this sector alone has an annual turnover of around £38 million, just over half of which is estimated to be GVA (£20 million). Another big sector is still the motorcycle courier industry which despite the internet, still has an annual turnover of almost £800 million, with added value of over half of that at £480 million providing employment for 20,000 people. It is also estimated to provide a tax contribution of almost £200 million and so it goes on.

Motorcycle Couriers in London Bus Lanes. More good news for London bike couriers at least with the announcement that London Mayor Boris Johnson has announced he will continue to allow motorcycles to use bus lanes for the time being. This follows an 18-month experiment that was carried out to see if a permanent arrangement would improve road safety. Various studies revealed that more than half of motorcyclists switched from riding on the outside of the road (filtering) to use the bus lanes thus increasing their safety. Despite the many objections that such a move would increase the risk of pedal cycle (already allowed to use them) collisions with motorcyclists, these fears have proved unfounded. Journeys times for motorcycles using bus lanes have been more than 10 per cent quicker than those not using bus lanes and 36 per cent quicker than cars!

2010 June

Ian Kerr update on the UK Motorcycle Shows Birmingham NEC Dates. The major NEC Bike Show covering all aspects of motorcycling will now run from Saturday November 27th through to Sunday December 5 th two days less than usual. The MCIA's annual event has also been renamed Carole Nash Motorcycle Live after its major sponsor. Apart from Harley Davidson, all major manufacturers will be exhibiting at this years show after last years when many major players like Honda were absent. A new layout will ensure that a major manufacturer’s stand is at every main entrance, to be seen by show-goers as they pass through to retail and inter-active areas of the show.

2010 May

Carl Lomas IoC Chairman safe after being plucked from the southern ocean by Britains Finest, the Royal Navy. Carl comments " being rescued by the Royal Navy was truely amazing and I am indebted to their actions and bravery. Gods luck in logistics to find a Warship within range. I am delighted to be back on terra ferma and looking forward to celebrating with the courier industry's finest in September at the National Courier Awards"

2010 April

Dispatch News Report for latest 'Courier Industry Icon' go to Dispatch News Link

GLH celebrates staff sucesses

John Scott FFIoC, recently honoured with the National Courier Awards 'Services to Industry' announced this years GLH Annual Staff Awards on 22nd April 2010. This is a time to say Thank you to all of the staff, fleet and those who work alongside the GLH team. An important event for the company to recognise those who are respected by their peers and clients. Individuals recognised for achieving standards of service to the company beyond the expected standard of their job requirements. Nominations will be put forward to the National Courier Awards.

2010 March

BBC Transport with Andrew Marr

Vicky Booth, Associate Producer is currently working on a BBC1 primetime documentary series presented by Andrew Marr called Megacities. The series is about how some of the biggest cities in the world operate in terms of transport They have filmed in Tokyo, Shanghai, Dhaka and Mexico City and will be filming in London in the last two weeks of March. Vicky has contacted the IoC to feature a motorcycle courier. She focused on the Annual Courier Awards and wished to feature one of the recent winners in the show. If an IoC member has a particularly special individual to hand for this year contact her at the office - 0207 239 1010 direct.

Skills for Logistics gets Lord Mandelson Gov OK.

The Government has announced the renewal of the licence to operate and fund Skills for Logistics, the sector skills council for the freight logistics and courier industry. The announcement follows a comprehensive review carried out by the National Audit Office.

Business, Innovation and Skills Secretary Lord Mandelson said: “Employers can be confident that Skills for Logistics has come through a rigorous assessment and will offer employers the highest quality service in meeting their skills needs.”

SfL Chief Executive Dr Mick Jackson FIoC says ‘We are obviously delighted by this major vote of confidence in our work. We operate in an industry which is absolutely vital for the health of the economy, it is crucial that we have a well trained and efficient workforce fit for the purpose of delivering the goods in the widest possible sense. We intend to continue the good work which has resulted in the renewal of our licence.’

Skills for Logistics has recently appointed Paul Brooks, Director of Unipart plc, as its new chairman in succession to Andrew Callaghan. Brooks said ’We are indebted to Andrew for seeing us through the first six years and now need to continue to promote our industry as an exciting and rewarding career option for school leavers, graduates and job changers. Skills for Logistics is well underway with that work and re-licensing allows us to continue with these endeavours.’

2010 February

General Election?

In an effort to make sure that motorcycling is not overlooked by a new government or legislated against all the various motorcycle groups have joined forces to make potential parliamentary candidates realise that motorcyclists are also voters. The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG), the British Motorcyclists Federation (BMF) who represent riders rights, have joined with the Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCIA) who represent the industry, to encourage motorcyclists to vote. The main 'Riders Are Voters' campaign will soon kick off and as part of this, motorcycle riders and businesses in the motorcycle industry including courier will be encouraged to contact local Parliamentary Candidates to ask for support for a motorcycling manifesto; 'Britain Needs Biking'. IOC are following the BMF and MAG lead.

New Motorcycle Tests

Somewhat ironic that at the same time this alliance was announced the proposals to improve skills and safety for new motorcycle riders were published by the UK government. The measures are contained in a consultation on the implementation of new European requirements which will come into force in 2013. The main aspects of the proposed changes, which may make getting a motorcycle licence harder, are that the current two categories of motorbike will be replaced with three A1 (up to 125cc), A2 (up to 35Kw) and A (above 35Kw) and new rules will be introduced for riders of larger bikes. Riders wanting to progress to larger categories of motorbikes will have to take additional training or a further test and there will be a rise in the minimum age from 21 to 24 for those wishing to start riding larger bikes without previous experience.

2010 January

More new Legislation Tyre rubber and battery recycling for vehicles.

Two new pieces of legislation come into force for the new decade that will affect the motorcycle industry. From January 2010, all new motorcycle tyres sold in the UK have to be made with clean, eco-friendly oil, which features low PAH (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons). This is due to the concerns about the level of pollutants previously discharged into the environment throughout the life of a tyre. As a result of this historic British tyre manufacturer Avon Tyres, who have been in business since 1885 and making motorcycle tyres since 1911, have announced they will be "utilising 'eco-friendly' or 'clean oil' in all its tyres from this year" (2010). The firm claim that they have already been doing this for some time as well as being better for the environment; the change has not affected many of their products, but has actually increased the grip of some tyres.

Next up is new legislation, designed to ensure that all waste industrial and automotive batteries are recycled in the future, this also coming into effect on the 1st January 2010. In a nutshell what this means is that 'producers of industrial and automotive batteries will be required to arrange the collection, treatment and recycling of such batteries, free of charge, if requested by business end-users and final holders'. No doubt that potential cost will be built into the purchase price!

Bike Sales Figures

Despite an overall fall of 24.4% in UK sales in November compared to 2008, sales of naked bikes have again risen. The market statistics released by the Motor Cycle Industry Association, the governing body showed the number of bikes registered totalled 5,680, compared with 7,517 a year ago. Despite the declining weather conditions, large-capacity machines performed strongly, with Buell coming out on top.

2009 December

Recession

Vince Friery FIoC Swift Despatch has managed to expand 5% year on year, which whilst this is a slow down for him it actually feels like record growth when you consider the unprecedented challenging economic climate we are in. With such a broad client base Swift tend to consider themselves fairly recession proof but the past year has put everything to the test and with the exception of Government spending there is hardly a sector untouched by the downturn.

Carl Lomas takes a look at the NEC Bike show Birmingham, what no Honda? Thats recession but more of it is currency, European motorbikes doing well overseas while Japanese machines cost goes up against values of the pound. Have we ever seen so many zero interest deals but will they give them to couriers? Who would have believed Norton to return to the English bike market? Not quite courier machinery but you can't help thinking we are going to see a few of those machines in the controllers car park.

Postal Strike Opinion

'Local postal action is not having a major impact on the industry or businesses, but a National Strike certainly would' says Fellow Len Rainford FFIoC, Sameday UK 'Especially as we are approaching the Christmas period.' Fellows of the IoC have voiced their opinions about the problem the postal strikes cause both the public and commerical businesses. Delays due to the late delivery of mail, eg cheques arriving late can impact on cash flow but at the same time email invoicing has increased with the use of electronic transfere where possible.

Fellow Trevor Hoyle FIoC, FedEx comments 'In respective of the postal strike it appears the unions are prepared to commit commercial suicide, email is slowly killing letter post. The
post office needs to adapt rapidly and become competitive in order to survive'. Many comerical businesses will use a dual source and courier companies will actively support them through the strike. Although courier companies can offer a dedicated service the price is often restrictive,especially for the general public. Most of the majors like TNT DHL and Business Post now offer a bulk mail service at cheaper rates than Royal Mail but in the main they still feed into the Royal Mail system for the end delivery and a National Strike would have a major impact on this.

The result of Postal Strike action has and will continue to have a major impact on businesses and though overall the courier industry could benefit, which although bringing in much needed revenue, it is a sad situation for the national postal service.

What is your opinion? email: mail@ioc.uk.com

2009 November

Courier Clothing at NEC Bike Show 27th November to 6th December

Always the key shopping ground for winter courier clothing the UK's big event is steaming ahead and on track for a late November opening. (27th November - 6th December). Ian Kerr reports however, it is not without its worries with first Honda announcing it would not be attending and now Harley-Davidson and Buell UK having come to the decision not to exhibit either. Both major companies, who traditionally take some of the biggest exhibition space, cite the decision is a result of the increased focus on multi-location experiential programmes for consumers in 2009 which they see as more beneficial for the money spent!

2009 October

eCourier wins £400K grant from the Technology Strategy Board

Every eCourier’s position every ten seconds is stored in what they call a massive data warehouse. eCourier and their customers use this information daily to track couriers and to enable “Snail Trail” discoveries of past courier movements, but they also use it to try and improve Larry’s travel time predictions. eCourier have over 390 million positions stored so far! Now they have received government funding in the form of a £400K grant from the TSB to use this data to improve travel time forecasts and routes in London and for other applications.

 

DSA official guide to the new Competent Driver Certificate (CPC) The overnight, international and multi drop arm of the courier industry will be affected by these new rules for drivers. Every courier company should read this publication to properly comply with the new law. Driving Standards Agency (DSA) have published the book to provided essential preparation for the new Driver CPC.

If you are a fleet or transport manager you need a copy of Driver CPC - the Official DSA Guide for Professional Goods Vehicle Drivers (ISBN 9780115530012, £9.99).  This expert guide is written by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) - the government people who set the tests. This publication has been specifically designed to help LGV drivers prepare for their initial Driver CPC by focusing on the syllabus of the two new modules: Case Studies and the Practical Demonstration Test.  A guide to understanding a driver's work for CPC Modules 2 and 4, this DSA book provides essential preparation for the newly launched Driver CPC. This book complements The Official DSA Guide to Driving Goods Vehicles (ISBN 9780115528996, £17.50), which provides all of the detailed information required by drivers to obtain - and retain - their Driver CPC qualification.

2009 September

Bike Test Fiasco! Future couriers - numbers down. The new motorcycle riding test fiasco which started in April, has resulted in trainees suffering injuries whilst attempting the 'swerve test', calling for it to be banned. After a lot of protests from all sectors of the training and motorcycle industry the Government has finally launched an official inquiry!

Ian Kerr reports, its not the whole story. In some ways the bike test fiasco is not as important as the imposing restrictions on their way from Europe for the year 2013. Without getting too technical about all the various options, the changes could mean that learner riders may lose the right to ride unaccompanied and then have to go through various stages to get to ride a full bore sports bike. This would mean that they would need to find a qualified instructor each time they wanted to go for a ride until they passed their test, effectively killing the small bike market. If it becomes too difficult to get a licence people won't bother, potentially resulting in a big down turn in new bikers.

Bike Courier Saftey. Latest UK Government figures for road casualties in 2008 have recently been published, they show a very positive downtrend for motorcycle fatalities and injuries. (Department for Transport. Transport Statistics Bulletin: Road Casualties in Great Britain - Main Results 2008) This document is always a year behind, but shows that almost a hundred fewer motorcyclists were killed on Britain's roads in 2008 compared to the previous year. The official figures now show that over the same period motorcycle use has increased over 44 per cent, which put another way, mile-for-mile, motorcycling is becoming safer. This good news is backed up when looked at in percentage terms, 16% in the number of motorcycle fatalities is a greater reduction than for all road users. The Institute of Couriers believes that this welcome fall is a result of many organisations working together and recognising the vulnerability of motorcyclists as well as better rider training and safer machines.

2009 August

IoC President Viscount Falkland requests feelings on the Segway two wheeler.
I have been pushing the Dept of Transport to do something about the Segway. I would like to know whether the Courier Industry has any interest in the side by side two wheeler. Police and others would like to use it if and when it is legal to do so as in most other countries. Feedback through the IoC would be most appreciated. mail@ioc.uk.com

Alistair Cochrane FIoC , Director of Operations, TNT Express Services UK Fellow of the Institute of Couriers shares his thoughts on the industry.
The business-to-business express courier market is a barometer of the UK economy and, as the recession has bitten deeper, so the express sector has seen a substantial downturn in volumes and consequently in revenues. It is very much a case of the survival of the fittest, with more emphasis than ever before on delivering real value for money and a great customer experience. In shrinking domestic and international markets, the best run express companies will gain market share which will be the catalyst for the less efficient operators to go into decline. The inevitable outcome will be greater consolidation and the weakest players going out of business.

Helmet choice evermore confusing: Ian Kerr reports on another controversy which has been highlighted regarding the UK Government's SHARP crash helmet testing scheme. Now with an acknowledged expert in the field, a Dr Nigel Mills of Birmingham University, having recently published a very critical review of the system and calling for it to be totally scrapped due to the many flaws in the evaluation system being used. Considering it was supposed to make the consumers life easier so bike couriers could see the true worth and protection level of the helmet, it has just complicated the matter even further with nobody knowing what to believe!

 

2009 July

Strike! Friday 17th

"Buisness as usual for the sameday courier industry, we will not let our clients down." says Carl Lomas MBE Chairman fo the Institute of Couriers. Postal Staff at Royal Mail will stage a 24 hour strike this Friday (July 17th), announced by the Communication Workers Union (CWU). The union states, the industrial action is in response to modernisation plans, which it claims will lead to job loss and reduced services.

Thousands of workers are preparing to take part in the strike UK wide. CWU deputy general secretary Dave Ward said the strike has been called because "pressure and stress is at breaking point" for Royal Mail employees. "We have renewed our offer of a three month no-strike deal to Royal Mail in return for meaningful talks over modernisation," he explained, adding that the organisation has not negotiated with staff over plans to introduce machinery or redesign deliveries.

During a recent meeting of the House of Commons business and enterprise committee, Business secretary Lord Mandelson stated that the CWU should "accept the need for change"

Keep service level up and costs down. Len Rainford sits for 2010 panel.

Len Rainford FFIoC, founding fellow of the IoC and boss of Sameday UK comments on the state of the logistics sector. ‘Business is up and down at the moment, but overall down on last year as most couriers seem to be, having talked to several. However there are signs that some sectors are picking up. There is a lot of uncertainty  and the biggest problem is cash flow with the biggest companies taking longer and longer to pay which has a knock on effect right down the line. We just have to keep going, keep the costs down and keep service levels up. Len Rainford returns to the panel of judges for the 2010 National Courier Awards and brings a true national view of the courier industry to the table which will choose the best of the best UK couriers for the decade year of the new millennia.

Summer conditions Pink in London.

Clifford Jordan FFIoC of Pink Express comments on economic courier conditions in London. ‘I think everybody in the central London market has seen a downturn, we've noticed our passenger car business particularly badly hit. The recent media stories concerning courier companies ripping off clients or offering 'joke prices' is doing our industry no favours to say the least. At Pink we are concentrating on running the business as efficiently as possible. Working hard on sales is the way forward.’

2009 June

National Courier Awards Judge announcement. Marc Chauveau FFIoC, Chairman of the National Courier Awards Judging Panel is delighted to announce the first judge for 2010 Mr Richard Howard FIoC. Richard is honoured to take the place of the late Judy Benn FFIoC who sadly was lost to us all in February 2009. Richard represents the APC network and has twenty years experience in the courier sameday, overnight and international industry. Marc comments "This coming year will test all courier companies, as a core industry to the supply of all other industries we will have to be at the top of our game. This brings out the best in all our staff and this will reflect in the high standard of nominations that the judges will have both the pleasure and difficult task of judging. I am pleased to welcome Richard to the judging panel". The full panel of judges will be announced in January 2010.

2009 May

The Budget-A Personal View. Andrew Bernard FFIoC, Chief Executive CitySprint

Now that the impact of the budget has become clearer after the Chancellor’s delivery, a number of points are becoming clear. The scale of the funding problem facing the UK is beyond anything seen in peacetime before. Having built a significant deficit during the good years, government finances are now being hit by a triple whammy of bank bailout costs, falling tax revenues and uncontrolled public spending. The country will eventually have to deal with a ballooning deficit through a combination of spending reduction and increased taxes. As a first step, the Government has decided to increase taxes on the highest paid. While this may seem fair to some, it will not by itself solve the UK’s problems. On the contrary, it may well make things worse if mobile, successful businesses choose to move, or keep their tax revenues and employment away from the UK.

For our sector, we have limited options to move away from the UK as we are dependent on the UK economy for our livelihoods and our business. Therefore the options to courier businesses are very limited. Just pay the taxes and hope it doesn’t get worse, but adjust your infrastructure to the current market trading levels as these are what we should get used to.

This budget is a huge disappointment to entrepreneurs and wealth creators who see their efforts wasted on a bloated State sector.

Practical wheels for the courier. Steady on Yamaha. Budget ink still wet in the red box and Yamaha bring talk of practical wheels for the bike courier. Road race replica R Us in days long lost from the time of the CX500, Kawasaki GT550 and RS250 Honda single that delivered the courier through the eighties. News in from Yamaha of a two fifty single, practical and economical. Institute Of Couriers have asked Ian Kerr for a true review but meanwhile here is what Yamaha says.

The YBR250 has been available in Europe before, however it’s only now, following on from customer demand, that Yamaha have decided to introduce it into their model line up for this year. Imported in limited numbers, this stylish single cylinder 250 four-stroke motorcycle is the perfect answer for those riders who like geared bikes, but also want to bridge the gap between a 125 and 600cc machinery. The YBR250 is economical, attracts low insurance premiums, is easy to ride and with its comtempory design, has a low seat height (805mm) too. This model will be available in silver or black and is in authorised Yamaha dealer’s showrooms now.

Expansion of SfL Board. Four new people have joined the Skills for Logistics, sector skills council for frieght logistics industries. SfL welcome such a varied industry experience to their board. Brigadier Alistair Deas of Defence College of Logistics, Perry Glading of Port of Tilbury, Andy Lawrence of David Maxim Haulage and D Maxim Logistics Ltd, and Kevin Mack of Company Moves Ltd all join the organisation rince Charles has spoken out

Back to the top

2009 April

Prince Charles Carbon Transport Talks from Rio de Janerio, Brazil. Prince Charles has spoken out to transport and business leaders in Brazil, saying that the world has only 100 months to act before the damage caused by global warming becomes irreversible.

Dr Mick Jackson, FIoC Chief Executive of SfL, comments “ The science is proven and cannot be denied. In the UK our whole way of life is necessarily serviced by deliveries made by commercial vehicles which, although operating efficiently and improving fast, we are still responsible for substantial pollution. Pollution which must be contained and reduced as we hopefully climb out of recession and, inevitably, increase vehicle mileage.

2009 March

New Driver Regulation The new legislation that has been in the coming for a long time is set to start 10th September 2009. Training of individuals that are in or wish to be in the courier industry started with the NVQ level 2 which was created by the courier industry for the courier industry. Courier Companies take a serious view of improving driving efficiency and this legislation will sit easily with their ethos. Many companies already chose to provide further on the job driver training and the new legislation will confirm what they are already doing.

The Driver CPC regulations come into force from 10th September 2009 and require drivers in possession of a vocational driving licence to undergo a minimum of 35 hours training over a five year period involving approved courses of a minimum of seven hours duration. For more details visit www.drivercpc.org.

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2009 February

Judy Benn Founding Fellow of the Institute of Couriers

Sad news of the death of one of the Institutes Founding Fellows. Judy Benn suffered a heart attack on Friday 13 th February and passed away. She was only 53 years of age and leaves behind her husband, Norman. She has worked for Richard Howard at Post Haste a good many years and will be sorely missed. Richard comments, ‘She was a true lady’.

Judy had courier industry in her blood, a well known figure in the National Courier Association and the APC network, herself a National Courier Award winner. In recent years she joined the panel of judges for the National Courier Awards. IOC Chairman Carl Lomas comments ‘The industry will miss her. Judy championed the courier on every occasion, as both a founding fellow and a judge of the National Courier Awards Judy was widely respected for quality and excellence at the very top of our industry.’

The funeral is for close friends and family. No flowers, donations to the British Heart foundation, contact Post Haste director Geoff Morland on: 0207 2942018.

Back to the top

2009 January - Happy New Year!

National Courier Awards 2010.

The date for the next industry awards has been set for Tuesday September 14th, 2010. The venue will be the Insitute of Directors, Pall Mall, London. Carl Lomas MBE Chairman of the IoC comments 'The IoC is proud to host the National Courier Awards but we are sensitive to the opinions of those professionals who work in the industry. Companies are being cautious and ensuring that all areas of the business are lean and cost efficient. Companies large and small want to apply their energies to the business in hand and the National Courier Awards will showcase the sucesses at the awards to be held in September 2010'.

For further details click on National Courier Awards. or further inquiry please email the secretary Tracey at: mail@ioc.uk.com

2008 December - Prime Minister Gordon Brown writes.

Royal Mail Hooper Report - Gordon Brown

I am writing to you about today's announcement of the Hooper Report on the future of the Royal Mail.

The universal service helps to bind us together as a country. It guarantees 28 million homes and businesses across the country mail deliveries six days a week, with one price goes anywhere. The Hooper report warns that the universal service is now under threat. The status quo is untenable. The choice we face is either downgrading the service as we manage decline or acting now to turn things round and secure the Royal Mail's future.

The threat to the Royal Mail and the universal service comes from the impact of changes in technology and consumer choice. In this country 60 billion text messages were sent last year, while we posted five million fewer letters than two years ago. This shift has cost Royal Mail an estimated £500 million in profits. That is five times the impact of business lost to other postal companies in the liberalised market. Making these other companies go away is not the answer to the Royal Mail succeeding.

We will fufil our manifesto commitment to "a publicly owned Royal Mail fully restored to good health, providing customers with an excellent service and its employees with rewarding employment". Bringing in a partner through a minority stake in the Royal Mail's postal business will help us to deliver that goal. It will bring the Royal Mail fresh investment, new opportunities to grow in Europe and internationally, and to offer new services. It will provide a fresh impetus to modernising the Royal Mail and securing the universal service.

Alongside a strategic partnership for the Royal Mail we will reform regulation to more effectively support the universal service. And we will help the Royal Mail tackle its ballooning pension fund deficit. This will not impact on Post Office counters in anyway.

I hope you will agree with me that this is the best way to save the Royal Mail and its universal service guarantee.

Yours Gordon Brown

 

2008 December

Courier credit crunch on tight margin runs.

Graeme Leach Chief Economist and Director of Policy at the IoD comments on the credit crunch. ‘After 15 years of economic growth the party is over. Across the whole economy companies are undoubtedly leaner and fitter this time around compared with the last recession. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t any significant savings to be made. Budget setting for 2009 is going to be a very tough process in order to squeeze out every possible cost saving’

The Institute of Directors made a fine venue for this year’s National Courier Awards and now its words ring very true of the economy. Cheap borrowing but tight margin deliveries are tough ground and lucrative long distance urgency is thin on the roads.

Fellows of the IoC agreed. Quentin Abel FIoC, Chairman of APC pointed out that ‘the journalists hype up the issues and make us all feel depressed rather than tackling the economy and getting on with business. Careful spending also allows for opportunities with the cost of borrowing down to 2%, borrowing has never been so good’

Birmingham Bike show.

An extract from Ian Kerr who reported the Bike show for IOC in Dispatch News. Celebrity round-the-world explorer Charley Boorman kept his profile high by testing out the Batman Batpod which was on display to perhaps give a glimpse of the future! The Hairy Bikers debuted their new custom machines that will feature in their TV series, in fact the place just buzzed with enthusiastic celebrities (if not any politicians) as well as brand new (to the UK) bikes looking to tempt the cash from your pockets.

It seems amazing that this is the 20 th year that the Motorcycle Show has been located at the Birmingham NEC complex. The days of dingy displays at Earls Court are long gone, as are most of the machines that once headlined show reports from London. On the first day World Superbike star Ruben Xaus dropped in to unveil the awesome new BMW S1000 RR Superbike project, while manufacturers Yamaha and Kawasaki launched new racing teams in British and World Superbikes respectively.  Harley-Davidson and KTM also announced new, one-make race championships.

2008 November

IoC Chairman Carl Lomas comments. 'Not one to be missed, Central London, top networking and a top topic. Fellows of the IoC should rally in force to take this oportunity to listen to Steve Norris and his views for transport to beat the credit crunch. It should be a great evening and in your diary.'

Steve Norris - London Logistics Development Event- Bang goes the fireworks, 5th November is your diary date for this key transport networking event in London organised by Skills for Logistics & Prevista.. Fellows and members of the IoC with a guest are invited free. IoC Vice President Steve Norris will lead the evenings discusion, speaking on key issues faced by those involved in the moving, handling and storing of goods within London. Steven Norris an eminent speaker for the transport industry and as a past transport minister he is well equiped to offer advice. His speeches always offer an enjoyable and broading approach to the subject.

Topics focused on will be # Specialist skills required to effectively operate within London by Transport for London. # Plans to develop the skills of London logistics buisnesses through a skills academy. # Train for Gain to help you acess funding to make your buisness more competitive. # Networking discussions canopes and complimentary drinks to follow.

Registration 5th November 2008 from 5:30 at 76 Portland Place London W1. Register your attendance by posting an email to ttgleads@prevista.co.uk Name, IoC Fellow, company, guest name and then turn up.

2008 October

Future Fuel Topic for CILT Speaker. The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport have a presentation on future fuel sources for transport use given by Paul Clarke of Pro Environment, creators of the Green-Car-Guide.com and Green Car Live. A challenging and interesting evening is promised for Thursday October 23 rd.   Lancashire County Hall, Fishergate Hill, Preston Lancshire is the venue. Time 18:00 for 18:30

DHL Development of Operational Managers. How DHL develop their operational managers will be a key section of the CILT Warehouse & Materials Handling Forum on 26 th November at the National Achieve Museum Kew, Surrey . The event will include a site tour of the museum and Presentations by David Butterfield on how DHL have developed (and are developing) their operational managers. David Butterfield is Head of Learning & Development DHL (Retail & Consumer)

Other address for the day will include Developing Strategies to Address the People Impact of TUPE Transfers Neil Chambers HR Director Kuhne & Nagel Drinks Logistics. Culture change within an automated environment – how the company “re-motivated and engaged the staff after moving to a new site. Simon Weedon Computer Centre. Managing and developing warehouse personnel Tom Cregan National Archive Museum. Performance Management Mike Dymond MILT

2008 September National Courier Awards

The event of the year was held on Tuesday 16th September. See National Courier Awards for the full report. Top brass photo, IAM CEO Seb Goldin, David Jamieson former Transport Minister, Mick Jackson CEO Skills for Logistics and IoC Chairman Carl Lomas MBE.

Short-listers laden with Champaign Chairmen of the judges Marc Chauveau provided the bubbles. Billed the courier event of the year companies large and small, national, London and network booked up, 200 seats sold out. The National Courier Awards for 2008 gala celebration dinner at the Institute of Directors, Pall Mall. Key sponsors, Skills for Logistics, Ears Communications, UK Mail, IAM Fleet and TNT Sameday Express.

Tracey Worth co-ordinated nominations and chairman of the judges Marc Chauveau held the meeting of the panel early September in the presence of Steve Norris former transport minister and Vice President of the Institute. Decisions and discussion covered most of the day for a run of short-listers that drew the highest quality seen in the history of the awards. Lunch was an opportunity for the top brass to take on thoughts from Steve Norris that covered transport, green issues & push bikes, congestion and business needs for same day transport.

2008 September Judges for 2008 select the Best of the Best in the Sameday Industry

Twenty one short-listers will be laden with Champaign Billed the courier event of the year companies large and small, national, London and network have booked up for an evening to remember. The National Courier Awards for 2008 gala celebration dinner will be at the Institute of Directors, Pall Mall.London. Tracey Worth co-ordinated nominations and chairman of the judges Marc Cheauveux held the meeting of the panel on Tuesday September 9 th in the presence of Steve Norris former transport minister and Vice President of the Institute.

Decisions and discussion covered most of the day for a run of short-listers that drew the highest quality seen in the history of the awards. Lunch was an opportunity for the top brass to take on thoughts from Steve Norris that covered transport, green issues & push bikes, congestion and business needs for same day transport. There was no easy answer to find the winners who remain a secret until the evening, Don’t miss the results, 2008

The 2008 Short-listers

Two wheel – Gabriel Alves-Dias / TNT, Will Hepworth / Connections, John Powell / Post Haste, Agni Tokaraz / Pink Express, Pablo Valverde/e-couriers. Four Wheel – Colin Foster / Comet Couriers, Boris Atanasov / Pink Express, Philip Connolly / Point to Point, Mel Gabitas / MPC Excell, Harry Holland / TNT, Anthony Rudder / e-courier. Contract – Shane Barclay / Pink Express, Raymond Beer / TNT, David Green / Post Haste, Paul Johnson / DHL. Office – Mark Davies / Swift Liverpool, Ros Grinham / Prestige, Jooshna Khan / e-couriers, Lee Lloyd / MPC Excel, Jean Lowe / Pink Express, Kenny Muir / DHL. Services to the industry and the Safety Award are top secret until the evening. See you there.

Back to the top

2008 September Diary Date!

New End of Year Date for 2008 National Courier Awards.Unlucky for some and lucky for others the thirteenth year of the awards ceremony will stay in London, the 2008 date is set for Tuesday 16th September 2008 for an Autumn bash recognising the very best of the best in the same day courier industry. The event will be held at the Institute of Directors Pal Mall, main sponsor is transport sector skills council Skills for Logistics. See National Courier Awards

2008 July

New Leadership for Reuter Brookes. The long standing individually owned courier company Reuter Brookes of London W1, previously of Jambusters and Gough Wallace; is now in the hands of Mach 1's Jeremy Thompson. Previous owner of Reuter Brookes and DA Chairman John Lister FIoC has taken the opportunity to go onto pastures new retiring from his post along with some of the staff who have taken the opportunity for early retirement. Amalgamation of Mach 1's other courier companies including last years gain of A to Z couriers; has yet to be confirmed as the company contiues to run under the Reuter Brookes name.

Dispatch News reports Renault's fight back. Hot off the press is Ian Kerr's assessment of this new 21st Century Van. Boasting modern expressive styling to beat any of it's rivals. Dispatch News flyers sent to all members with the full report.

2008 NEWS FLASH

Request for HELP! The Institute of Professional Chauffeurs and Drivers (IPCD) are conducting a survey with the Road Haulage Association (RHA) on the consumption of Fuel used by the Industry. If any courier company can supply their fuel consumption figures to the institute they would greatly appreciate the information. Email jon@iopdc.com for further information

2008 April

The announcement of the National Courier Awards Sponsors. The Director of Skills for Logistics, Mick Jackson was pleased to announce at the House of Lords this years venue for the awards. Skills for Logistics have taken the role of main supporter and are delighted to support the Institute of Couriers at this prestigious and largest gathering of the industry people. Three Year Deal! Director of Ears Plc, Dee Barrett-Davies is delighted to announce a three year support deal contining their long relationship with the National Courier Awards. The awards are in their 13th Year and Ears Plc have been a supporter for the last eight years. Bob Black of TNT Sameday Specialist Services have been a long time supporter of the National Courier Awards and again this year show their dedication to acknowledging professional excellence by supporting the event. New supporters to the event are UK Mail Specialist Services (previously known as UK Today). David Williamson Managing Director heralds a new era of support to the industry's finest recognition of those individuals who work within the sameday industry. David is delighted to support the National Courier Awards as he believes that the event shows the industry at its best.

Dispatch News showcase the VW Caddy. Ian Kerr rider and writer of all things on wheels gave the IoC a review of the new VW Caddy. If you would like a copy email mail@ioc.uk.com The news item brings the new vehicle to the interests of all courier company's as it's shape to weight ratio brings new possibilities to delivering those large or odd shape boxes.

2008 March 7th. House of Lords Reception - Gowning of New Fellows

2008 House of Lords fellows gowning. The House of Lords was awash with the colour of IOC gowns for a fabulous gala ceremony to recognise individuals respected at the top of their industry. A cd of the event was sent to all Fellows in the days following the gowning.

Two former transport ministers took new IOC roles. Steve Norris and David Jamieson became vice presidents of the IOC, with President Lord Falkland at the head this brings unparalleled recognition for the same day courier industry. Steve Norris (Conservative) and David Jamieson (Labour) took on their roles at the fellows gowning ceremony with gowns finished in fur but not ermine. David Jamieson had detailed thoughts on transport and couriers to share with fellows of the Institute of Couriers in a heart felt delivery speech.

New fellows gowned on the evening included operations director of Skills for Logistics Mick Jackson. Steve Purkiss of Reuter Brooks, a National Courier Award winner steped up alongside Mark Davies of Swift Despatch Liverpool with almost a decades service to the National Courier Association. Neil Michaeloudis head of Finance at GLH was gowned, Am Pall of CitySprint Fleet and Specialist Services responsible for Quality Management amongst other roles, Greg Hoy of Excel Couriers, Mike McCartney of Road Runners Swindon also on the excutive committee of the National Courier Association all took the robes. Director of Lewis Day Joe Sheehan responsible for Medical Services both having received recommendation for their work within the company and industry. Steve Deverson Director of Sales, DHL and Steve Hemmingway of Point to Point join them in dedicated quality service to the industry.

Steve Norris commented, Tracey Worth co-ordinated the event expertly and thanked Lord Falkland on behalf of the guests.

In tradition of the IOC existing fellows formed a line orchestrated by IOC Chairman Carl Lomas MBE and then they all welcomed the newcomers, before guests, friends and family clapped them out of the Lords Terrace for formal photos.

Canapes follwed, drinks flowed and all had a tremendous evening to remember, Lights of the London Eye, Florence Nightingales hospital, St Thomas across the Thames, City Hall and moonlight for an industry recognition of individuals recognised at the top of their success.

For a press cd of photos please email mail@ioc.uk.com for further details.

2007 December

Fellows get free Highway Code. Sorry no christmas cards! This year for the members of the IoC they recieved a copy of the new updated Highway Code. The code has been reviewed for the first timein eight years, the most important change is the 'Merge' rule. On approach to the new arrow signs a motorist will have to give way in turn to the traffic on their right. This rule is used in other countries on the continent and in the Chanel Islands.

Courier Company recognised for Leadership. Research by the Institute of Transport Management (ITM) into the European courier industry revealed City Link to be performing better than its competitors in the excellent service it provides to customers. In a year when City Link has been nominated and won ITM UK Courier of the Year for commitment to customer service and now the European Courier Company of the Year for out performing its competitiors in the excellence service provided.

2007 November

Courier Company's Leading the way. This year has seen an upsurge of initiatives with both government and councils trying to show the public that they are going green or caring for the environment. In this years Transport for London (TfL) Greenfleet awards it was our courier industry that beat off stiff competition from the other two finalists, tesco.com and Green Tomatoes. Andrew Bernard FFIoC company CitySprint took part in the London private sector Capital Fleet of the Year Award and scooped top prize. The final element was to participate in a 30 mile trip across London in rush hour passing four check points. The aim to complete the run with the least carbon emissions. CitySprints courier not only did this in the fastest time but completed the the challenge using the least emissions. The courier was on the new Vectrix motorbike which was exhibited at last years National Courier Awards. The judges commented on the innovative way CitySprint had approached its environmental programme.

Creating a new courier service. New diverse initatives are always needed to continue raising levels of courier service. Fellow of the Institute of Couriers Martyn Wilson FFIoC has join Business Direct and taken on the responsibility of ParcelXchange on a global basis. This service is an expansion of the 'parts bank service' many courier company's provide. Business Direct's Chief Executive Paul Carvell FCILT commented that it was the 'intelligent box' system that set ParcelXchange apart. Connected through Business Post servers, fitted with bar code scanners and the engineer uses similar technology to that of ATM machines. Sucessful B2B trials have now lead to pilot trials in B2C areas.

2007 October

Post Strike. European post in the private sector with yellow, blue & white postboxes on the streets and vans logoed with FedEx, Chrono and Cronos, DeutschPost cash machines at the post office buildings leave UK in a different world. As the post strike grips Christmas comes early for same day deliveries. Urgent bikes are booming in London, Manchester and Leeds, Vans are staked full and packages are being loaded high in vans for tomorrow. Fellows of the IOC comment:-

Lewis Day, Jeffrey Riterband in London comments, ‘Demand for bikes rocketed, our policy is to service existing clients first and maintain quality in the core client base.’

John Lister of Reuter Brooks comments, ‘A welcome addition to turnover but its clearly a temporary blip, yet again it shows how the courier industry can step up to the mark & solve distribution problems’

Len Rainford of Sameday UK speaks ‘A positive increase in workload placed a weeks work into three days, major cities effected differently by the strike, national client base requested certainty of delivery over volume.’

2007 July

Top Brass on the move . With summer sunshine arriving a moment to take stock of top brass finds various fellows of the Institute of Couriers on the Move this year. Trevor Hoyle moves from FedEx to head up ANC. Martyn Wilson and John Miller move from UK Today to Business Direct. David Williamson moves from TNT to UK Today and Amtrak spearhead a management buyout Leaving Jonathon Smith moving to new ventures.

2007 June

National Courier Awards 2007 . President of the Institute of Couriers Lord Falkland to open the gala bash at the Tower Gorman Hotel on June 19th. Courier Companies large and small in attendance from DHL & TNT through London firms such as Lewis Day, Reuter Brooks and MPC. Twenty shortlisters made the first cut, ex Transport minister David Jamieson in attendance. Yamaha showcasing their city scooter with word of a courier insurance deal. HAwk Kawasaki BSB bikes on display as well as Pink Express national superstock machines. Green issues covered by Vectrix who will have one of their new electric motorbikes at the event. The gala event of the same day courier industry, more details under National Courier Awards on this site.

Bike event of the decade disc to IOC fellows . 130 mph laps of the Isle of Man for the 100th aniversary of the TT races found the seventy thousand island inhabitants double for a two week gala of road racing with back to back parties from the George Formby Shutelworth Snap and clasic runs throught to Honda Day in Peel and Ramsey being re-named Yamsey to celebrate an enourmous Yamaha party. Fellows and members of the Institute of couriers all bagged a free photo diary disc of the event and route maps of the thirty six mile circuit.

2007 Feb

Fellows new at the House of Lords . Founding Fellows of the IOC stood proud to form a welcome line to new fellows of the Institute of Couriers House of Lords reception in February 2007. President the Viscount Falkland spoke of proffesionalism and success before naming the new fellows for the year. Quentin Abel Chairman of APC, John Miller Ops Director of UK Today, Trevor Hoyle MD FedEx, Sue Teece Director of DHL Sameday and Alistair Cochrane TNT.

2006 Nov

Sameday Industry imput to Queens Speech. The Institute of Couriers is holding a briefing on November 8th for top brass to take on  board the excellent news that London road safety has improved. Prior to the writing of the Queens Speech the President of the IOC, Lord Falkland will meet with the leaders of the sameday industry to discuss and comment on latest London figures that show a fall in bike accidents and of the steps the industry has taken to support road safety of all users. Road safety a paramount issue in the same day industry, the news will be well recieved by courier companies in the Capital and across the UK.

2006 Oct

Bike Show in Birmingham IOC members and fellows got a photo cd of the Bike Show in Birmingham hot of the press. David Jamieson alongside Minister Dr Stephen Ladyman opened the show on Tuesday 26th October. Dispatch News for the event reported a fine front page photo of Tracey Worth with World Superbike star James Toseland. New for this year was a larger race padock supported by Arai and home to BSB teams including Hawk Kawasaki. Carl Lomas toured the show with Trevor Magnor BMF to find best courier bargains. Full leather suits at a stagaring one hundred pounds. There seemed to be a big turn away from leather to textiles. Opening evening of the show saw MCN host their awards bash at the National Motorcycle Show across the road from the NEC. Top bike went to the new fly by wire Yamaha YZ600 GP lookalike. Most practical bike went to Honda with the CB1000.

2006 Sept

Bike casualties in London down. Craig Carey-Clinch of the MCIA announced bike casualties in London are down for the period 2001-2004 by 13% in London's congestion charging zone. MCIA is calling for access to bus lanes as figures for safety improve. Carl Lomas of the IOC sees the improved biker safety of London as a direct reflection of the ten thousand bike couriers doing a better job in a safer manner. Ten years of training for bike couriers, level 2 NVQ qualifications in courier skills and ever better technology for communications and route finding have all helped. London safety record for two wheels is a credit to the bikers of London.

2006 Aug

Signpost Magazine for Courier Industry. The Institute of Couriers IOC is in the last stages of the launch of a new courier magazine, aimed at individuals working in the courier industry one of the key features is a profile on the founding fellows who launched the IOC, for the two wheel buffs theres some history on the CX500 and for the four wheel and overnighters a feature on logistics progress as well as a detailed report on the 2006 National Courier Awards.

2006 July

Training in Transport London Opens its doors. Whilst Camelot Courier Training stalled with an end to its starts last September the new venture will reprersent activities from two wheels to four, Wallace School of Trucks, Taxi Trade and Camelot have all had input to launch the new one stop shop. Check out the details at www.trainingintransport.com

2006 June

Carl Lomas gives Courier Training to  public domain. Carl Lomas speakingat the 2006 National Courier Awards anounced - 'The work I have so closely been involved in delivering training in courier skills has sadly come to an end.Changes in work based learning refocuses delivery of learning for the unemployed. This is not a message of sadness, over the last decade you have employ more than seventy percent of the candidates trained in courier skills. Whilst Camelot Courier Training stalls and takes a different direction the success will continue.I am about to place all the learning materials, the NVQ tutorials, lesson plans and delivery work into the public domain on the IOC web sites. Camelot may not deliver it but you will still have it. Individuals will all have the opportunity to access the training and the success will live on. It will live on in your hands and our industry will continue to grow in its professionalism. As time moves on everyone will access the NVQ learning material, it will no longer be just a step into the industry but a measure for those who aspire to it in the industry.Not just the unemployed but everyone.'

2006 June

National Courier Awards Tuesday 20th June 2006. T he 2006 event was a tremendous event celebrating the very best of the same day courier industry in the prescence of the Transport Minister Dr Stephen Ladyman. On the evening of Tuesday June 20th. Teams from British Superbike and National superstock brought top level two wheelers into the City of London. The bike paddock was indoors in the giant Port-a-tun room of the old Whitbread Brewery in Chiswell Street, City of London. Minister for Transport, Dr Stephen Ldyman delivered an industry focused speach finding growth, proffesionalism and quality in a skilled workforce. Carl Lomas MBE introduced the awards and welcomed VIPs, Ian Hethrington - Skills for Logistics, Trevor Magnor BMF, Ian Mutch MAG, David Jamieson MCIA, John Lister DA, Walter Gill livery of Carman and Malcom Linsky Taxi Trade Liverymaster.A giant Screen shone out above the stage to introduce the top guns of the industry for a three hundred person gala bash that will be the talk of the same day world for many moons to come. Winners of the 2006 National Courier Awards made the walk to recieve their hallowed glass under spotlights and to music as the mood of celebration recognised the excellence of proffesionalism they display. Marc Cheauvex of MPC organised champaign for every shortlisted candidate and TNT finished the evening with support for the afterdinner speaker. Event sponsorship from Camelot Training, Ears Radio and Proffesional IT gave a fantastic event that even updated the football scores as England played Sweeden in the World Cup. The 2006 winners are Two Wheels - John Coleman MPC, Paolo Guida TNT Sameday. Four Wheels - Mike Daniels UK Today, Steven Graham DHL, David Watkins MPC, Tony Worley City Sprint. Office - Laura Knight Lewis Day, Bobby Miles-Kingston Pink Express, Steve Purkis Reuter Brooks. Contract Peter Harris UK Today, Rosemary Smith TNT Sameday and Corporate Safety Award went to FedEx.Look at National Courier Awards for further information.

2006 April

Shows to see! Two shows coming up are always fun to visit and of course interesting to our service. 24th and 25th April at The Radisson SAS Stanstead Airport. This is the place to be seen as major company's visit to check out who might be able to offer the best Courier, logistics and distribution service for them. Both Supplier and Customer go so if you want to be there to be seen call 01920 444202 or email info@forumevents.co.uk for further information.

Vehicles Vehicles Vehicles! The only vehicle show that has everything you need to see about your fleet. The Commercial Vehicle show at the NEC Birmingham. 25 - 27th April 2006. This huge stage for all things four wheels will allow you the time to ask questions, get to know facts and talk to the right person about your needs. A good day out if you want to know about your fleet.

2006 March

SIGNPOST - Courier Magazine to be launched. Later this month the first edition of the Signpost magazine will be made available to everyone in the courier industry. All Founding Fellows will be distributing the magazine through their courier company's and the magazine will be available by post.

The very first and special edition will carry the profile of each of the Founding Fellows alongside the history, events and news stories of the industry. The inaugaration of the IoC will take pride of place and an application form is included for those who have not applied for membership yet.

To order your COPY email: www.ioc.uk.com with your NAME, ADDRESS, CONTACT TEL No, COURIER COMPANY AND ADDRESS or Call 0845 60 10 245. DON'T MISS OUT!!

 

LORD MAYOR David Brewer meets courier top brass at Mansion House. Couriers - Life Blood to City Business. Lord Mayor of London David Brewer has a keen interest in City of London Transport Issues. Founding Fellows in the frame for a frank and detailed discussion included , Andrew Bernard - CitySprint, Marc Chauveau - MPC, BOb Black - TNT, Tracey Worth and Carl Lomas.

The group chatted avout issues covering fleet management, congestion, parking,self employment and vehicle ownership. A Lunch followed as guests of both the Lord Mayor and the Institute of Directors. Opportunity to get a grip of the wider City of London issues, banking, international trading and legal services, friving finance and commerce were the key topics.

A contingent of guests were French, headed by the French Ambassador who pointed out how close London City firms had come to Paris with the Euro Tunnel. Clarity of communication was paramount and as ever it was the lot of the courier to facilitate the life blood of knowledge moving between different firms. No Couriers - No Business!

 

2006 February

National Courier Awards - Nomination and Bookings taken now. National Courier Awards will be held at the Brewery, Chiswell Street, London on Tuesday 20th June 2006. Discounts will be available for early bookings and deposits. The event will be the largest ever to be held by a transport industry and will host everyone from every area of the Sameday and Logistics company's. To see further details click on National Courier Awards.

Institute of Couriers - Founding Fellows gowned at the House of Lords. Viscount Falkland, president of the IOC gowned the founding fellows of the IOC at a ceremony in the House of Lords on the evening of 2nd February, two ex-transport ministers in attendance, Steve Norris and new MCIA boss David Jamieson. Top Brass from the RHA, BMF, MAG, AIRSO and many other key organisations were in attendance with almost two hundred guests. It was a landmark event to launch the founding fellows.More info on www.ioc.uk.com

The Big Boys are set to play with their toys!. Reported in all the logistics magazines and in house papers that everyone who is anyone is buying up everyone else. From the multi-national, even global companies who want to buy up 'Core' businesses it seems that consolidation is in for 2006. It isn't stopping at just the large companies the small and medium size companies are also trying to buy out or buy in new customer base, established services and bolt on turnover. The industry is all about change and the companies that work in it know only too well that the speed of that change makes or breaks you, so it isn't surprizing to read that the take over of Excel by Deutsche Post World Net was completed quickly.John Allan said "The transaction went smoothly and its good that it has gone through swiftly" This unit will now operate under the DHL Brand.

2005 November

November 29th Institute of Couriers Briefing. Leon Manning, immediate past chair of the BMF  briefed IOC members on a year of statistics and politics in transport on November 29th in the lecture room of London based Camelot Training. Leon holding a recent doctorate with a thesis on transport policy delivered a very interesting view of congestion, road space and journey times in London that directly effected the same day delivery industry in mileage and time related costs. Journey times, congestion zones, bus use and diesel pollution thoughts lead to the reality of extended timescales for cross city travell. The afternoon rounded up with seasonal mince pies and a hearty session of networking that was well received by all those in attendance

October 2005

CitySprint win the Top Award. Andrew Barnard, founing fellow of the IOC announced The Institute of Transport Management awarded CitySprint with the UK's Best Courier Network Award 2005. In awarding this acholade to CitySprint ITM said "ITM have an objective to find a company that offered unequivocal standards of customer service and overall professionalism and reliability. It was found that Citysprint distinguished itself in these areas"

MAG and BMF fight for motorcycling licensing proposals. IOC As a member of MAG and BMF they go to Brussels on our behalf to bring political pressure and attention to the new proposed but draconian laws regarding licensing. 'The regulations appear to be designed simply to discourtage people from taking to motorcycles' It is a crude means of reducing the gross number of motorcycle accidents. Trevor Baird MAG's director of public affairs said "If governments or non-democratic institutions wish to introduce these regulations they should produce evidence that ustify these proposals and not bring about unnecessary regulation"

September 2005

Logistics Links. Exhibition of all things Express! IOC fellows got a full briefing news sheet from IOC secretary Tracey Worth. Doncaster proudly presented the largest gathering of all things logistic on the 21st & 22nd September, over 120 suppliers of products, services and systems covering all facets of the logistics and express service will be there.

This unique one-stop shop by meeting face to face those who can improve and keep you updated with the latest in technology, cost analysis and innovative solutions to your problems. Register online at www.logisticslink.co.uk

July 2005

National Courier Awards Announce 2006 Date - Tuesday 20th June 2006
The Brewery, Chiswell Street, London EC1Y 4SD
Tracey Worth is pleased to announce that the venue for next year's awards has been secured. The NCAwards have enjoyed many different venues over the years and the Brewery will once again be a show stopper. Within the Porter Tun Room Formula One BSB Motorbikes will be the centre piece of the hall around which the evenings dinner and award ceremony will be held. Don't delay tables can be booked now! Contact Us

Institute of Couriers event - First day cover of Royal Mail’s Motorcycle Stamp collection - Tuesday 19 th July, at the Arts Club, Mayfair, London W1S - Under the watchful eye of some of the industry’s finest, the Master of the Worshipful Company of Carmen unveiled Royal Mail’s Motorcycle stamp collection to signify the opening of the Institute of Couriers’ first event. Featuring classic bikes such as a Norton, Triumph and BSA, the fine stamps are gloriously illustrated in detail. The Master then gave a short and generous speech, declaring his support for the Institute in its aim to recognise the skills and standards of the individual’s in the courier industry.

A drinks reception followed, which gave the IOC Fellows and their guests the opportunity to discuss the issues of the day within the courier industry. This and future events offer the opportunity for IOC members to discuss and pursue further the development of the industry and its needs. The IOC members’ individual experience and wealth of industry knowledge gave way for strong debate and positive discussion, enjoyed by all.

Charles Esdale, from Royal Mail, gave a fascinating speech centred on the stamps. He gave insight into the links between art and the motorcycle industry, stating why now was the right time to celebrate the motorcycle, with the growth of spirit surrounding the motorcycle and the industries that associate with it. He also talked about the bikes featured specifically, with Trevor Magner, BMF, offering technical detail. Charles himself was a real motorcycle lover, riding to the event on his BSA, and as Ian Mutch, MAG, said “they don’t make them like they used to”.

The early 1900's saw amazing growth in motorcycle development and manufacture in Britain. Hundreds of companies produced their own versions of these nippy machines, but only a few brands are now nationally recognised. The Motorcycles stamps picture the evolution of the motorbike in British history. From the 1914 Royal Enfield to the 1991 Norton F.1 each of the six bikes has been carefully illustrated by celebrated British artist Michael English.

The IOC and its members are delighted to have our iconic industry vehicles featured in such an honoured way. Use them with pride. The presentation packs of the stamps were given out to all on the day, kindly supported by Triumph motorcycles. The pack included information about all of the bikes written by M ick Duckworth, former editor of Motorcycle News.

Founding Fellows of the Institute attend annual Cartmarking event - The Corporation of the City of London has exercised its rights over carts and carriers since its inception, for transport is the lifeblood of commerce. Once a year, usually in later summer, Carmen bring their vehicles to be branded, or marked with a red hot iron on a wooden plate. This year, John Scott, Founding Fellow of the Institute of Couriers, entered a battery hire car to be marked in the ceremony. Also attending was the Institutes Chairman, Carl Lomas, and many others representing the courier industry.

Institute of Couriers joins BMF as a Gold Corporate Member - Members of the Institute of Couriers will now benefit from the Institute being a corporate member of the BMF. As well as political representation and lobbying on all motorcycle issues, the Institute will be able to provide VIP tickets to lucky competition winners to BMF events around the country, and build a stronger future for the Courier industry.

Master of the Worshipful company of Carmen to attend first IOC event - The Master of the Worshipful Company of Carmen has announced his intention to attend the first IOC event, held on 19th July in the West End of London. This first afternoon event is to commemorate the release of Royal Mail's Motorcycle stamp collection, and will serve as an introduction to the Institute and the Founding Fellows. For more information on this event, please see the members section.

IOC begins development of assessment and certification scheme- The Institute of Couriers is building the foundations of an exciting new scheme to offer different levels of courses, assessments and certificates to individuals in the Courier Industry to allow entry to the Institute. These courses will be offered in conjunction with Skills for Logistics in London or via a distance learning e-package to suit your needs. Courses will be designed for individuals, with the option of custom built packages for corporate members.

2005 June

Founding Fellows of the IOC - The names of the Founding Fellows of the IOC will be announced in February 2006 at the House of Lords opening gala for the institute. More news will follow shortly about this fantastic night.

Become a member of the IOC at the 2005 National Courier Awards - we are excited to announce that the IOC will accepting its first members at this years National Courier Awards. Membership will provide you with recognition for your industry qualifications, skills and experience, and will allow you to keep ahead of the competition with up-to-date industry insight and news.

 

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e: mail@ioc.uk.com