2010 September

National Courier Awards at the Institute of Directors September 14th for a gala bash to celebrate the best of the best same day buisiness. Ears Plc goody bags will be awaiting you. Word is there will be a services to industry award winner for 2010 following in the foot steps of John Scott GLH and Jeffery Riterband Lewis Day. The Safety award has been hotly contested. Office team, contract, two and four wheels are all in there. Even a far away destination is set for a shortlisting. No one will have the answers outside of the panel of judges until the evening. It is the event you have to attend and must not miss. Large and small, national, regional and City, Association, network and independant, be amongst the courier event of 2010. Pink Express are putting their National Harley Davidson race bike on the stage alongside BSB Hawk Kawasaki super bike in its new Buildbase red paintwork. For last minute bookings call Tracey Worth 07976 263745 or email mail@ioc.uk.com

2010 August

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"

The National Vehicle Crime Conference for 2010

Experts get together to debate new efforts to tackle vehicle crime. The National Vehicle Crime Conference for 2010, 19th and 20th May at Jaguar Visitor Centre, Castle Bromwich will be a joint venture between IAATI UK and AVCIS and the theme is 'Tacking Vehicle Crime Together' Delegates at the two-day Conference will be given an insight into the latest technological developments to target vehicle crime, with sessions on roadside technology.  IAATI UK Branch President Dr Ken German believes the Conference offers an essential opportunity to share expertise and discuss current trends in tackling vehicle crime.  Vehicles are becoming more difficult to steal, but the thieves are adept change managers, making profit from cloning, staged accidents, identity theft and finance fraud.

It is recognised that 'traditional' vehicle crime, such as theft of or from vehicles is no longer regarded as a policing priority by most forces. However, the use of vehicles in acquisitive crimes, such as burglary, supporting serious and organised crime, and potential links to terrorist offences cannot be overlooked. For that reason the main thrust of AVCIS is to gather intelligence to tackle 'vehicle enabled crime. Work with the experts to keep courier vehicles safe, Visit the IAATI website at www.iaati.org.uk     

 

2010 April

Logistics Academy website launched

A dedicated new website has been launched to help employers and people working in the logistics sector to access advice and skills solutions through the Logistics Academy www.logisticsacademy.org The Logistics Academy has developed a national network of quality assured training providers that offer a complete and specialised service for the sector. The Academy delivers its services through a "hub and spoke" operation that employers can quickly access via the website or a dedicated telephone line 0844 892 0557.

Brooks is new Chairman at Skills for Logisitics

Paul Brooks, Sales Director at Unipart Logistics, has been appointed the new Chairman of the Sector Skills Council for the freight logistics industry, Skills for Logistics. Brooks succeeds Andrew Callaghan who had held the position since July 2003. David Morton from Menzies Distribution Ltd has been appointed Vice-Chairman.

Brooks said ‘I am delighted to be filling this role at such an exciting moment – the Government has just renewed Skills for Logistics licence to operate and as the economy recovers from recession, it is so important that our sector is able to attract and train the highest quality of new recruits as well as maximising the efficiency of our current workforce. I look forward to challenging both our sector and those who invest in it; logistics is the industry without which almost no other could work, to become world class in skill levels! We remain less well regarded by the public and our potential workforce, including school and university leavers than we should be and I am determined that we will make progress with this in the near future.’

A new management board has been appointed :- Paul Brooks, Chairman, David Morton, Deputy Chairman, Robert Bartup, Andrew Callaghan, Simon Colbourne, Perry Glading, Andy Lawrence, Robert Monks and Ron Webb .

2010 March

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 and Fellow of the Institute of Couriers Dr Mick Jackson 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.’

Triumph continues to Triumph

Ian Kerr comments on the British bike industry for the IoC. Despite the current economic gloom from around the world and the massive cost cutting exercises being implemented by all the major Japanese manufacturers, Triumph continues to post not only good results in terms of sales figures, but also encouraging financial results.The British manufacturer who had an impressive stand at the end of year NEC bike show, had by the end of October 2009, beaten sales figures for the whole of 2008. The re-born Hinckley based concern who first returned to production in 1991 is still privately owned by John Bloor and currently employs 1200 people.

Norton Delivers! Another fairly recently re-born manufacturer, the Norton Motorcycle Company, certainly kept its word by launching the new Norton 961 SE at the UK show at the end of November. But, they really stunned the show-goers with the launch of a Café Racer version and basic Sport version to go with. With the first deliveries going out at the beginning of December and full order books it looks like they are truly back and will become a major player once again in the British motorcycle industry.

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

Show Time Results

The UK International Motorcycle Show, one of only two to run in Europe closed in early December with a final total of 110,974 visitors over the ten day period. This is a drop of 17% against last year's figures and reflects the general drop of 20% in overall registration figures.

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.

 

2009 November

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

While other major European motorcycle shows like Paris are being cancelled, the UK's big event still seems to be steaming ahead and on track for a late November opening. (27th November - 6th December). Always the key shopping ground for winter courier clothing. 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

Courier Company has won a ranking of 53 in the Sunday Times Microsoft Tech Track 100... recognising eCourier as one of the fastest-growing and most innovative technology companies in the country. Bucking the recession, eCourier have grown at 55% year on year since 2005. Sunday Times

DSA official guide to the new truck tests.

Driving Standards Agency (DSA) have published their book to provided essential preparation for the new Driver CPC. The overnight, international and multi drop arm of the courier industry are advised to read this publication to properly comply with the new law.

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

Mile for mile motorcycling gets ever safer. 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.

Despite the welcome news that the number is the lowest since 1996 (440), it still means 493 motorcyclists were killed in 2008. However, 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, where fatalities have fallen just 14 %. The actual number of riders killed or seriously injured is down 10%, while the total number of motorcycle casualties is 8% down on 2007 figures.

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.

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.

2009 August

Helmet choice evermore confusing:A myriad of bike helmets adorn most every bike dealers shelves and are stacked to the ceilings at every bike show. 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 bikers 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!

A Triumph! Best of British bucking the trend!

Triumph motorcycles (www.triumph.co.uk) has recently announced that it had a 19% rise in unit sales last year, with a 29% in turnover in the year until June 2008. The privately owned company does not have to publish all its financial figures unlike other manufacturers, but state they remain optimistic even in the current down turn in sales figures.

2009 July

Royal Mail Strike Action continues with the number of postal workers on strike tripling. The last of the 24-hour walkout in 20 Royal Mail Offices was followed by three days of action in London last week.

A further 450 delivery offices are being balloted by the Communications Workers Union. Up to 30,000 workers could walk out next month in an escalation of the dispute over job cuts and working practises.

Royal Mail strike Friday July 17th

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"

National Motorcycle Week

IoC President Viscount Falkland comments:
"I did not do the July motorcycle ride to work event as I am on the bike every day."

12th to 18th July. An important part of the event was Ride to Work day 15th July. Many motorcycle
and scooter riders around the UK highlighted the positive aspects of motorcycling alongside the day to day workers of the motorcycle courier industry.

In two years the number of commuters who said they would like to ride to work on a motorcycle or scooter has doubled. A survey revealed that 16 per cent of the public said they would like to be a  ‘commuter biker’ when asked what sort of motorcyclist they would like to be, compared to 8 per cent who chose this option in 2007.

One in eight commuters in Great Britain would consider switching to a powered two wheeler in order to avoid traffic. Bicycle commuters and tube travellers were the most willing to switch. Eighteen per cent of pedal cyclists and 20 per cent of underground users said that they would consider commuting by motorcycle or scooter to cut journey times and to avoid traffic and delays.

Staff at Yamaha Motor UK Ltd based in Weybridge, Surrey, supported the ride to work event, Simon Belton and Geoff Selvidge with other staff members joined the ever growing throng of two wheelers.

Skills sector in plain English

Skills for Logistics has issued a new 20-page publication describing the journeyso far reporting on the Sector Skills Council’s progress in its mission to encourage and support employers in the freight logistics and courier industry to gain competitive advantage by developing the skills of its workforce.

SfL Chief Executive Officer, IOC fellow, Dr Mick Jackson said “Whilst we know that past economic recessions have resulted in employers cutting back we firmly believe that even during these very difficult times it is important to invest in skills. Evidence from previous recessions shows the vulnerability of companies in the early months of revival following the sort of downturn which we are presently experiencing. In order to survive, logistics operators must ensure that they are ready to go when the moment comes and not be caught out by being short of appropriately skilled personnel.’’

Skills for Logistics new publication looks at its work with employers, learners, training suppliers and Government policies. Copies of the journey so far are available from www.skillsforlogistics.org/en/index/aboutus/  or call Skills for Logistics - 01908 313360.

2009 June

National Courier Awards Judge announcement

An early announcement of the first judge for the National Courier Awards 2010 is 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. The Chairman of the judging panel Marc Chauveau FFIoC comments "This coming year will test the courier industry, 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.

Skills for Logistics Board brings in a vast experience of industry knowledge through new board members. Skills for Logistics (SfL), the Sector Skills Council for the freight logistics industries, welcomes four new board members to represent the logistics sector on its Board of Directors. 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.

Brigadier Alistair Deas comes from the Defence College of Logistics where all military personnel are trained in their specialist logistics field. Perry Glading’s career has centred around maritime logistics. He currently holds the post of Managing Director of the Port of Tilbury, he is also a senior member of the Management Committee of Port Skills and Safety, which is the lead body on safety and training matters in the UK port industry. Andy Lawrence is currently at the Corby based haulier, Maxim Logistics, he has a keen interest in developing the skills of his workforce and is an employer representative on the Steering Committee for the Logistics Academy East Midlands and Chairman of the UKWA Training Committee. Kevin Mack was appointed by Company Moves as Operations Manager in 2001. Four years later he became Operations Director for the commercial removals business. Kevin has developed an interest in continuous professional development and has been involved in creating industry specific qualifications through his involvement with the British Association of Removers.

2009 April

Prince Charles speaks to the world from Rio de Janerio, Brazil. Prince Charles has spoken out to business leaders in Brazil, saying that the world has only 100 months to act before the damage caused by global warming becomes irreversible. The Prince is personally concerned and expresses his beliefs that the issue must be taken very seriously.

Dr Mick Jackson, FIoC Chief Executive of SfL, comments “There can be no further doubt that, throughout the world, every opportunity must be taken to reduce carbon emissions. 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

IAATI National Vehicle Crime Conference Announced

Dr Elaine M Hardy, Director of IAATI (International Association of Auto Theft Investigators ) comments IAATI is a strategic player in the vehicle crime arena. Membership is made up of officers from law enforcement agencies, Motor Vehicle manufacturers, Car Insurance companies, Government officials and Private Investigators involved  and interested in reducing vehicle crime, increasing vehicle crime detections and detecting car thieves. IAATI UK hosts the National Vehicle Crime Conference, a two-day event attracting senior practitioners, opinion formers and a healthy cross section of key players from the motorcycle and road haulage industries.  The conference is held at the Stoneleigh Exhibition Centre, near Coventry, Warwickshire May 20/21 2009. Further details go to www.iaati.org.uk

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.

CILT Focus Truck Conference 26th February

In the last months of 2008, the Government has committed the UK to aggressive emissions reduction targets. The UK transport sector is a major emitter, and as a consequence of these climate change policy commitments, faces a renewed focus and requirements to reduce emissions. The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport CILT have organised a focused seminar for February 2009.
Titled ‘An Inconvenient Truck’. It will be 26th February 2009, Central London. Charetered Institute of Logistics and Transport present Saving Costs and Reducing Emissions. A one-day master class for the freight industry This conference provides the first opportunity to hear the conclusions of the CILT’s report into sustainable freight: ‘An Inconvenient Truck’ which argues that cost and CO2 emission reduction can go hand in hand. You can register at https://www.eventsforce.net/inconvenienttruck

Announcement of the date for the next National Courier Awards

The date for the next National Courier Awards has been set Tuesday 14th September 2010. The very sucessfull event was last held at the IoD, Pall Mall London and will return there. The very best individuals from companies large and small are represented in the largest industry gathering to recognise excellence of the courier industry. For further details click on National Courier Awards.

2009 January - Happy New Year

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’

2008 November

DHL Express Commits to Skills Development.

Words of support from Lord Young and Dr Mick Jackson FIoC for DHL. IoC and Skills for Logistics congratulates DHL Express on its commitment to continuous professional development for its UK workforce through the signing of the Skills Pledge and the implementation of SfL’s Professional Development Stairway within the organisation. In addition, DHL Courier James Ford has been named as the five millionth employee to be trained under the Skills Pledge initiative.

The Minister for Skills Lord Young, said:  “It’s great to see that businesses are really moving forward and giving their workforce the chance to prosper and get on. The Skills Pledge is really gaining impetus and the more organisations that get involved, the greater the chance our people, our companies and our communities will prosper against this tough economic backdrop.

IoC fellow Dr Mick Jackson FIoC , Chief Executive Officer, Skills for Logistics comments: “Skills development is vital for the future of the workforce and in ensuring that a business can remain competitive during times of economic difficulties. By signing the Pledge and committing to workforce development through the Professional Development Stairway DHL Express is highlighting the importance of skills development not only to their operation but to the logistics sector in general.”

Birmingham NEC Bike Show. The big biking event of the year is ready to kick into action 28th November until the 7th December. Just in time to buy your favourite christmas presents.

This year sees the return of world-famous Italian bike manufacturer Ducati, who will join a plethora of the biggest names in biking, ensuring that the Show really is the only place in the U.K to see all the latest bikes from the biggest names under one roof. The Show also promises to be the most interactive yet, with visitors able to try out many of the best bikes on off-road, road and race circuits. Children as young as five can even have a go at the unique ‘My First Honda Licence’ feature, and there will be mini-moto and go-kart tracks available too.

The Show also sees the return of the Thunderdome Games Arena, a live-action show with breathtaking stunts and high-adrenalin action, along with hundreds of retail stands showcasing all the best biking gear and accessories. Attending the event, stars of two wheels Charley Boorman, Niall Mackenzie and James Toseland alongside the greats of Carl Foggerty, Ron Haslam and John McGuinness means you will never fail to bump into one of them on any day. International Motorcycle and Scooter Show runs from 23rd November to 2nd December at the Birmingham NEC. www.motorcycleshow.co.uk

2008 November

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. 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.'

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 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

DHL in High Street deal with WH Smith DHL is set to gain a presence on almost every high street in the UK. DHL comments they will offer consumers an efficient and convenient way to send letters and parcels around the world and throughout the UK" . DHL has formed a new partnership with WH Smith that will provide customers with a way of sending letters, parcels and documents across Britain. Under the terms of the DHL WH Smith partnership agreement, customers will be able to pack and send parcels, documents and letters in stores for delivery by DHL couriers.

The global express delivery and logistics firm plans to roll out DHL Servicepoints to 400 WH Smith stores in UK high streets within weeks. UK retailer WH Smith attracts as many as one million customers per day to the high street stores involved.

RHA announces new Chief Executive. The Road Haulage Association is pleased to announce the appointment of Geoff Dunning as its new Chief Executive. He has been the RHA's Northern Regional Director since 1987, and brings with him more than thirty years of road haulage. Geoff Dunning comments "This is a wonderful opportunity albeit at an uncertain time. I shall ensure that the RHA continues to provide effective political and practical support to its members, during what is bound to be a difficult period. It is my intention to ensure that the RHA adds real value to the business of every single member and remains the Association of choice for all UK road transport operators".

Andy Boyle, RHA National Chairman, said " We believe Geoff can bring a new dynamic to the way that the RHA operates through this most challenging time." Geoff will take up his new position in the Spring of 2009, when the current Chief Executive and frequent visitor to the National Courier Awards, Roger King, retires.

2008 September

Courier celebrations at the National Courier Awards, IOD Pall Mall. Winners at the highest level, checkout National Courier Awards on this web site. Services to industry brought the house down when Jeffrey Ritterband presented John Scott GLH with his Sevices to Industry Award in a two hundred seat sold out gala dinner bash to recognise the very best of the best.

Giants of our industry celebrated lifes work

Chairmen of the judges Marc Chauveau provided bubbles for the 2008 short-listers of the National Courier Awards. The stage was set full for an evening to remember where two giants of the same day industry would walk the floor to a standing ovation.

Marc Cheauveux thanked the judges publicly, Carl Lomas set a rousing contest to names of courier companies and Tracey Worth called Dee Barrett-Davies to deliver certificates to the shortlisters of the 2008 awards. An evening to remember, custard and steam pudding before a desert of winners.

Master of the Carmen fully robed delivered glass for two and four wheels. Dr Mick Jackson presented Contract & Office. A special team price for decades of delivery to Liverpool’s Swift Dispatch. IAM Seb Golding presented the Safety Award to TNT. Former services to industry winner Jeffery Riterband was called to present a services award, a standing ovation saluted the recipient, John Scott GLH. David Jamieson wrapped up with the success story of road safety achieved way ahead of targets and the party celebrated into night. Billed the courier event of the year companies large and small, national, London and network booked up for the 200 seat sold out National Courier Awards. A 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.

The 2008 Winners see National Courier Awards on this site.

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.

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2008 August

Last days of summer for Amtrack . News of colapsing nationwiders saw trouble at Amtrack next day couriers, a variety of web site messages but the end was neigh. Shocking news of Leaman Brothers and Goldman Sachs followed in short succesion as fuel price bounced around one twenty a gallon for unleaded. Labour ministers stated times were hard and roads of summer in kids holiday time were very quiet. Double zone congestion chargers for London and Envirnmental truck signs on the road but many London firms found trade steadier as school holidays closed and buisiness returned to the City.

2008 July

Reuter Brookes Sold Out. The long standing individually owned courier company Reuter Brookes of London W1 of latter years Jambusters and Gough Wallace has been sold. Established from the early seventies and became a highly regarded London based individually owner courier company John Lister FIoC has sold the company to Mach 1 owner Jeremy Thompson. 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. John Lister, previous owner of Reuter Brookes and DA Chairman has retired from his post and taken the opportunity to go onto pastures new.

Renault fight back after 10 years. 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.

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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. 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.

2008 March

BSB Motorbike Racing goes without ITV. This week ITV Bosses announced the end of it's live coverage of all BSB races. The television coverage gave good imagary and portral of the motorbiking industry as a whole. This loss of coverage clearly effects the teams racing but also the motorbike industry as a whole. The two wheel courier industry did no harm to have such positive motorcycle coverage on everyone's terestial TV.

National BikeSafe Event Sat 29th & Sun 30th March

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 went out to all Fellows in the days following the event.

Photo: Mick Jackson, Skills for Logistics announcing the National Courier Awards Venue

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 speach.

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, Treacey 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.

2008 February

National Bikesafe Event. Entry is entirely free! The event offers something fro the whole family including free rider skill assessments. Demo rides, Met Dogs, Horse and Helicopter support units and a variety of stands.

Chief Inspector Dave McLean from the Met Police Traffic Unit said "The National BikeSafe Event enables police forces across the country to promote BikeSafe, a scheme aimed at reducing bike collisions and rider casualties"

Metropolitan Police Training School (Peel Centre), Areodrome Road, Hendon, NW9 5JE see website www.BikeSafe-London.co.uk

2008 February

Fellows to join IoC. Highly commended individuals of the industry are set to join the line up for the gowning of new fellows at the House of Lords. Neil Michaeloudis head of Finance at GLH, Am Pall of CitySprint Fleet and Specialist Services responsible for Quality Management amongst other roles. Greg Hoy of Excel, Mike McCartney of Road Runners Swindon also on the excutive committee of the National Courier Association. 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.

Two former transport ministers to take new IOC roles. Steve Norris and David Jamieson are to become vice presidents of the IOC. With Lord Falkland at the head this brings unparalleled recognition for the same day courier industry. Steve Norris (Conservative) and David Jamieson (Labour) will take on their roles at the fellows gowning ceremony at the House of Lords on the evening of March 7th. New fellows to be gowned that evening include operations Director of Skills for Logistics Mick Jackson. Steve Purkiss of Reuter Brooks, a National Courier Award winner steps up alongside Mark Davies (Swift Despatch Liverpool) with almost a decades service to the National Courier Association. The evening is set to be a must not miss event. It has become tradition for existing fellows to form a line of welcome to the newcomers. For tickets to the event email: mail@ioc.uk.com

2007 December

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. CitySprint, the UK Courier Network 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

The Queens Birthday Honours List. Published Saturday 16th June 2007 included many a famous person. Richard Turner FTA (Freight Transport Association) Chairman bangs a big gong OBE for services to Transport.

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 May

MAG Motorbikes in Bus Lanes . Ian Mutch speaking for MAG welcomes the latest traffic advisory leaflet from the Government which supports bikes in bus lanes. The leaflet carries all the points MAG made about the advantages of safe and sustainable two wheelers in bus lanes. 'We have been banging this drum a long time and its good to see the government likes the sound we are making'

Lewis Day work for safer lanes . City of London based courier company Lewis Day and working with Islington council to highlight bus lanes and undertaking dangers in a push for cycle safety.

2007 April

Courier finished Parris Dakar rally in thirteenth spot . Paul Knight of CYC logistics fondly known as Milky and a long time industry figure from bike courier to controller completed the 2007 Pariss Dakar rally. Just to finish is a triumph but Milky went on to bag an excellent thirteenth position on his Yamaha XT bike.

2007 March

Citysprint Growth with aquisition of Burgundy Cars. The Citysprint Group aquired Burgundy Cars expanding its car fleet in Manchester, Heathrow and London. Growth figures on the year in excess of thirty per-cent quoted. Same day bike companies from the past including Delta, and Security Despatch are part of the group. Annual revenues for the group rise to seventy million. Andrew Bernard the Chief Executive and a founding fellow of the Institute of Couries comments 'This strengthens our passenger transport buisness and is an exciting step for us.'

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.

2007 Jan

Couriers go free to London Bike Show . For 2007 London got two bike shows. The origanal Mike Trimby Ally PAlly Bash moved under the MCN EMAP banner to London Excell in docklands and with Ally Pally clear Superbike Magazine stepped in with their own show. Sunshine and no snow at either crowds were big and bargains were galore. Superbike magazine organised free tickets to London Courier School Camelot TTL for NVQ trainee couriers to attend. Stunt shows and an aperance by Jamie Towsland went down well. A photo diary of bothe shows compiled for the Institute of Couriers was distributed to all fellows of the Institute.

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