INDUSTRY NEWS ARCHIEVE

January 2012 - Happy New Year and may it be a special Jubilee and Olympic year

Skills Council exciting  future. Skills for Logistics netted four million pounds of funding for the next two years and has great motivation for the year ahead.

IOC Fellow and Chief exec of the Council, Mick Jackson comments ‘It certainly is exciting times ahead.  Hot spots and bubbles, employer demand.  Local dev agency model fit – a really key part of our proposition which makes it ‘of its time’ as far as economic development is concerned – this more than anything has differentiated us and our ideas from the main body of SSCs’

Carl Lomas IOC chair reports on the December trade bodies meeting with the council at the Institute of Directors in London,  handouts and a very focused agenda with the skills council planned move to a Guild.  Job adverts for a variety of new senior roles in both the council and academy are in the January CILT Focus magazine . The trade bodies welcomed the new model, a regional hot spot sector focused model with employer driven demand . The skills academy is particularly examining Level one nvqs to open  the school door for recruitment to the stairway and logistics jobs

December 2011

Hot off the Press. A briefing update by Peter Hendy Transport for London

An Olympic Road Closures update was given to the Fellows of the IoC.

Sarah Bell Lead Traffic Commissioner also spoke of positive outcomes on the olympics.

Peter Hendy was appointed Commissioner in 2006, having previously served as TfL's managing director (MD) of Surface Transport. He was formerly deputy director UK Bus for FirstGroup and previously MD of CentreWest London Buses, managing it in London Transport (LT) ownership, leading it through a management and staff buyout with venture capital backing and a subsequent expansion. He started his transport career in 1975 as an LT Graduate Trainee. Peter was also Chair of the Commission for Integrated Transport from 2005 until 2010. He is 2011/12 President of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport.

December Tuesday 13th,   Institute of Couriers New Fellows Gowning hosted by IOC President Viscount Falkland the ceremony took place in the House of Lords. Fellows gowned are individuals recognised at the very top of their career path in the logistics industry.

2011 saw the very first ever second generation gown, Rob Scott of GLH London, the son of former Founding Fellow John Scott steps up and received his father's hood alongside Leon Gamble, Rush Couriers who's aunt Judy Benn of then Arrow Express was also a Founding Fellow.

The event takes place only once a year. Companies large and small, London and UK wide will all be present to see the gowning ceremony and a Christmas reception followed. Existing fellows welcomed the new gowns in a livery like ceremony. TNT, UK Mail, YODEL, DHL mark the big names, many London courier companies, Lewis Day, CitySprint, Prestige, Point to Point were there, UK regional companies from Swift in Liverpool to Speed in Manchester, Carmen livery represented by the Master, Paul Brooks chair of CILT in attendance, Mick Jackson of the Skills Council and the pro Vice Chancellor of Derby University who gave news of the new Foundation degrees in Logistics to be launched next year. This event was by invitation only.  

City Link announce Top Brass appointment. City Link have announced the appointment of Adele Henderson to the role of Operations Director at City Link. Adele is currently Operations Director of Parcelforce and has built a very succesfull career in a variety of roles within the Royal Mail Group over the past 20 years. She will join City Link in May 2012  

TfL Olympic Road Freight Management  Forum December 8th

TfL Commisioner Peter Hendy ‘You want information now to get working on, we will give it to you’.

Graham Inglis chief exec of DHL Supply Chain chaired the event, Geoff & Theo heading RHA & FTA present, CBI and a host of haulage freight and vehicle folk on the edge of their chairs for news of solutions. Peter Hendy, ‘we are moving into the operating stage, Black chariot is the govt code name, Games are the biggest thing in the UK, all my time is dedicated to this, we will try as hard as we can to get it right.’

Dan Evanson TfL spoke on Games time issues for freight. Key points, Time restrictions, unpredictable customer demand, parking out of hours for deliveries. ‘Clearly very few simple supply chains in London’ Hugh Basham for DHL replied with an industry view, ‘there will be cost challenges to servicing the games at night.’ Mark Bland for LOCOG came with news of 123 VCP (vehicle check points), ‘a consignment note will not get you access through security’  ‘We need to restrict spectators driving to the venues. There will be a ring of approximately 30 minutes walking time around the Olympic park. We need to keep local traffic moving. There will be controlled parking zones. 250 thousand homes will be inside the ring, pedestrian access will be maintained at all times.’

Regulations and enforcement, traffic Commissioner Sarah Bell ‘out of hours delivery in London, this is an opportunity, get it right and permanent out of hours London freight delivery will be the transport legacy of the games.’ FTA have worked hard on night delivery noise controls & trials. We need to get the code of practice out.’

Solutions. Ian Wainwright TfL Four Rs -Reduce, ReTime, ReRoute, Revise models. Is it that simple? Ian asked ‘How do we get information out?’ Hot spot congestion maps are on the web, a marvel of graphic display traffic planning, congestion prediction for every day of the games, check TfL web for Hot spots. Real time information still in the planning but will happen, (email alert via trade bodies such as IOC etc) 35 workshops set for the UK, if you have locations for delivery tell us. ‘Use the web portal at TfL’, we will continue to add to it.

Two hours of focus, what next? The forum meets in Feb 2012 to wrap up loose ends.

 

November 2011

LOGISTICS SECTOR SKILLS DEVELOPMENT -  £3.95 MILLION BOOST

Skills for Logistics (SfL) , the sector skills council for the logistics and wholesaling industries, will receive funding of £3,955,366 to provide support for employers during the period from April 2012 through to March 2014.

Announcing the decision Skills Minister John Hayes said that the investment, available through the Employer Investment Fund, would provide businesses with the power to build skills systems that would drive an increasingly dynamic economy.  Those sector skills councils which had successfully bid for funding, including Skills for Logistics, had demonstrated strong employer leadership on how best to address the skills issues constraining growth in the sector. 

Dr Mick Jackson, FIoC Chief Executive Officer of Skills for Logistics , said “Today’s announcement is good news for every operator in the logistics sector.  It clearly indicates that the Government recognises both the importance of logistics to the economy, and the vital role which skills development plays in improving business effectiveness”.

 

Carl Lomas IOC chairman takes a nostalgic tour of the NEC bike show. Motorcycle Live, NEC Birmingham Nov 19th to 27th 

Not been yet! then take an exclusive look around the show on the IOC stills gallery, fuel cell scooter to bike babes and military courier special, even a DHL kiosk to send the bargains home.

 Bargains at basement prices but not cheap to access. NEC bike show is not what it used to be, down to three halls, aisles wide as you like, nineteen pounds on the door to get in and eight pounds for the car park. Manufacturers in attendance, Honda Suzuki, Yamaha and Kawasaki, the whole affair has lost much of its glamour of a decade ago but the trade stands have gone full supermarket. J&S had a wall of helmets knocked down to fifty quid at end of the first Monday, that’s proper bargains, cheap none branded helmets on other stalls closed to a tenner, gloves, leathers and modern jackets railed three high. Room for the tots with get on a bike try and ride, a big arena to see six moto cross bikes in a dazzling aero show to dance in the sky over giant jumps. The NEC show is not what it used to be, shrunk in size for sure but the bargains are big and they are stacked high. IOC bagged you some snaps to take a look for yourself. Future vision lay in a fuel cell scooter, story to come. Bike Couriers attending this year’s Motorcycle Live should definitely schedule a stop at the Yamaha stand – Yamaha celebrating 50 years of Grand Prix road racing with a display of machinery representing five decades on the track. Since May 1961, Yamaha has won 36 riders’ world titles and scored over 450 Grand Prix victories. The display commemorated the milestones, from the very first world champion Phil Read, to 2010 MotoGP title winner Jorge Lorenzo. Remember the Yamaha XJ650? Courier middleweight bikes are making a return as manufactures go back to basics on their value naked ranges. A decade ago who would have believed Ducati would show stand half a display of ‘none racing’ nakeds. Got too many bargains then send home from within the hall DHL distribution kiosk, that’s door to door courier for you. IOC president Lord Falkland chuffed to see his favourite Moto Guzzi going retro back to its roots for some very traditional V-twins. Click Here check the photos out.

Newsflash 2011

Lewis Day Deal – City Sprint Addison Lee follows Lord Mayors Parade.

London Streets loaded with half a million extra folk to watch the Lord Mayors Show Saturday Nov 12, by Monday London streets were filled with news of the biggest same day company deal in recent history that will see Scrutton Street the hub of Same day London activities.Monday 14th November, Addison Lee entered into an agreement to acquire the Lewis Day Passenger Car operations and CitySprint entered into an agreement to acquire the Lewis Day Courier operations.                                

Lewis Day is one of the UK’s most successful passenger car and same day delivery courier firms, established in 2001, with 17 offices nationwide. Medical Services Limited is a major operator in same day medical logistics and patient transport. Looking back into the history books follows a trail of acquisitions, household courier names of old under one roof, Delta, Hornets, West One, Security Despatch and On yer Bike. Patrick Gallagher Chief Executive of CitySprint stands proud as he bridges the two company vans, now as one.

Lewis Day comment ‘We understand the importance of business continuity, so all customers can rest assured that the phased transition has been carefully designed so that the businesses integrate seamlessly. For the moment, it is business as usual. Customers can still contact us on the same phone numbers and can continue to book and track via this website by logging in to their Lewis Day accounts and accessing the booking, tracking and reporting pages as usual.’

CitySprint entered into an agreement to acquire Lewis Day’s UK courier operations, building on its position as the UK’s leading sameday courier and distribution network. The integration will take place over the coming months. As part of the deal, Addison Lee will acquire Lewis Day’s passenger car operations. Lewis Day is one of the UK’s most successful passenger car and same day delivery courier firms with an extensive fleet, 17 nationwide offices and tried and trusted international partners. The addition of Lewis Day’s courier fleet will support CitySprint’s growth as the UK’s largest SameDay logistics provider and it follows the integration of three regional businesses earlier in the year. CitySprint’s new combined operations will comprise over 2,000 couriers, 35 Service Centres, approximately 15,000 transactions per day.

Patrick Gallagher, Chief Executive of CitySprint commented: “Today’s acquisition is a major milestone in our strategy of adding further scale and reach to our national business. We will quickly integrate the new fleet into our existing operations and will be deploying our market leading technology such as real-time GPS tracking and online booking to enhance the service to clients.”

Justin Moore, new Fellow of the Institute of Couriers and Sales & marketing director of City sprint, London office, ‘The aim to complete both of these deals by 28th November and over the next few months the three firms will gradually be integrated to create the UK’s largest SameDay logistics company. This double acquisition is great news for CitySprint.  It supports our strategic objectives for growth and means that we will be able to meet our customers’ needs with even more efficiency and flexibility than we already do.  We will become a firm of over 2,000 couriers, capability to deliver over 15,000 packages per day.  With this capacity and reach, we will continue to delight our customers and exceed their expectations. I believe firmly that this move will be very positive for the business, so please join me in welcoming our new colleagues to the CitySprint family. The next few months will be an exciting time for us all.’

DHL have just announced that Michael O'Connell FIoC is to take over responsibility of the South West Area alongside his exstisting responsibilities of DHL Sameday Operations Midlands.

November 2011

Formation of Courier group for Road freight working party by IoC. November TfL Olympic roads meeting.

IOC Chair Carl Lomas met with Tfl to outline courier issues for the Olympic roads closures of 2012. Policy advisor to the IOC Leon Mannings with IOC fellows John Fitzpatrick TNT and Jeffrey Ritterband, Lewis day coordinated by IOC secretary Tracey Worth documented key issues: Coordination of the four key boroughs on the road closure route, The final mile delivery via UPS, Security and the anticipated traffic office control station. David Silvey for Tfl received the IOC guests for a full and frank discussion highlighting the key stakeholder needs of the courier business, ‘urgent and unexpected deliveries – same day – daytime and secure nature from banking to blood, courier smart-support for technology from cash machines to phone aerial nets – parking for deliveries on the route – LOCOG’

Formation of a new group of the Road freight Working party for ‘Courier & Express’ has its first meeting Monday 14 November at TfL offices London. The meeting chaired by Yetunde Adepeja has invites to C Rampley RHA, N Chapman FTA, UPS, David Morgan City Sprint and IOC fellow Steve Perkiss from Lewis Day. On-going route data and postcode awareness is set to be directed to courier fellows via IOC. The Legacy of the games must not fail to a logistics problem. IOC is committed to a solution result for information exchange to aid best possible logistics solutions.

IoC and IoD for Lord Mayors Show. Director General Simon Walker walking with Carl Lomas IOC Chair in the City Group of the IOD

Carl Lomas MBE, Director General (DG) of the Institute of Directors, Simon Walker & his wife, walked with the walkers of the City of London group of the IOD in a Dick Whittington adventure that was no pantomime. The Lord mayors message for 2011/2012 is ‘fit for the future’

IoC became part of 800 years of Royal history dating back to King John when they were alongside the Merecedes Axor and forty four foot flat bed in the nation’s greatest parade, IoC fellows with IoD members twirling black and white brollies in a sunshine extravaganza. Bowler Hats and transport for the wheels of commerce.

October 2011

Education Officer for IOD City of London. IOC Chairman Carl Lomas was elected to education officer (Oct 19) for the Institute of Directors IOD City of London branch. The IOC has seen a long relationship with the IOD not least the location of the Pall Mall offices for the National Courier Awards. As education officer Carl will focus conduits between City corporates and education both youth and adult. Carl with a clear focus in logistics will be highlighting transport and the supply chain logistics activities that drive the City of London. The new Skills Academy and a big government push to apprenticeships should see new emphasis on work focused qualifications in the transport sector. A date of particular note.   Derby University have a transport week to launch their footprint into logistics, a VIP invite day takes place Friday 10 th Feb 2012, new foundation degree material aimed at the courier sector will be showcased in what is clearly a transport hot spot of distributions hubs for middle England. Email mail@ioc.uk.com for your invite.

Defence Courier Service Northolt, Middlesex. Never have fellows of the IOC stood so proud as to recognise the morale boost of mail in such difficult environments as in the shadow of the ‘Letter from Home’ statue at the Army Postal and Defense Courier Services HQ, Northolt London.

Northolt British forces post office (BFPO) visit was an insight into the army delivery of mail. Guests of Lt Col Ian Stark, fellows of IOC were treated to an unprecedented insight of the operation that delivers forces mail and bags, both UK and world-wide, secure, top secret and even more secret. Northolt is the last operational air base of WWII, home of BFPO the statue of soldier and mail depicts ‘letter from home’ and was an appropriate spot for the photograph of fellows from TNT, Lewis Day, CitySprint & DHL.

Captain Sip Powers escorted the single site operation tour, much automation, APC depot delivery arrived as we stood there. The site responsible for surface mail, ships on the move and even submarines. Major Chris Violet commander of the Defense Courier Service at Northolt delivered a presentation of secure activities that ranged UK to World-wide. This was delivery service were there was no room for error. Talk of London issues, traffic & security, UK motorway networks, then theatres of war some delivery locations were outside of what fellows deemed possible as air routes were discussed.

Brigadier Deas MBE had organised the visit mindful of army redundancies and future job steps for Royal Logistics Corp (RLC), there was a clear consensus by the fellows of the close match between army and private sector. Training, skill set and ability of the RLC soldiers was a clear match to the private sector logistics industry. IOC will be working hard to facilitate CV match for individuals exiting logistics posts in the army to signpost them to relevant courier companies as miltary redundancies roll out.

The Institute of Couriers has significantly raised the profile of the courier industry in the eyes of H.M. Government – and opened new paths for consideration and consultations with Transport for London in the run up to the 2012 Olympic games.

 A formal question was put to HM Government last month in the House of Lords on behalf of the IOC. It asked what provisions will be considered to enable the Courier Industry to carry out their business ‘as normally as possible’. Lord Atlee responded for The Government by acknowledging that they were now aware of differences between the Courier Industry and the Freight Industry. The IOC were also assured that The Government’s interest in their concerns would continue and be encouraged in other bodies including Transport for London (TfL). Contact between the IOC and TfL was made this week and a date for the first meeting will be set soon. This initial meeting will enable the IOC to extend it's role in representing the interests of Couriers as a key stakeholder group in it’s own right, and to help refine plans for roads and logistics in the capital during the Olympics and beyond.

 

Sept 2011

HRH Anne Princess Royal opens new transport training office in Carlise. HRH Anne Princess Royal, Colonel of the Royal Logistics Corps and past master of the Livery of Carmen stamped approval big time on the UK wide transport training provider company System training

 Welcomed by Chief exec Robin Brown the Princess Royal opened the new Carlisle HQ of System Training under blue skys as local school children waved her in a vision of big focus to the new apprenticeship programs from warehouse through truck and logistics was show cased. IoC Chairman Carl Lomas was presented to HRH along with other guests from Tesco, Asda, Yodel, TNT, City Link, RHA and FTA.The Princess Royal was shown a brand new Stobart truck, famous for girls names it carried ‘Zara’ in honour of the Princess Royal's daughter. Neil Coles Warden of the Carmen greeted the Princes for the Carmen, Lt Colonel Paul Holder represented the Royal Logistics Corps, The Lord Lt and Lady cropper representing Cumbria, new classrooms were named after the northern Lakes. A tremendous success for a great team in transport supplying a future for the next generation.

Skills Council trade Body meeting at Portcullis House, Sept 14th

Skills Council invited Trade Bodies including the IOC to input thoughts on the steps for Sector Skills Council skills for Logistics to move to a Guild, a vision of BIZ minister John Hayes. A good turnout, RHA FTA, CILT, BIFA, Ports etc. There was a weighty interim report on all things transport education. Mention of levy and government intervention to police training delivery was aired. Louise Ellman Liverpool MP and secretary of the transport select committee hosted the event.‘Transport and its future is a topic of great importance.’ Dr Mick Jackson FIoC, Skills Council added support. ‘Only 9 per cent of employees in the sector are under 25.’ ‘We need 850 thousand new employees in the next five years.’ ‘Mike Penning transport minister has a huge empathy for transport, he is the first minister to hold HGV and motorbike licence in memory.’ John Hayes BIZ minister is another hugely motivated to education discussed ‘attracting recruits’ ‘developing staff’ ‘retaining staff’ A Guild should avoid a closed shop mentality, a bias against minority, not creating another layer for layers sake. A Guild should be sector driven, have a special element in terms of geography, support mentors and add esteem.

Tuesday 13th September 2011

National Courier Awards - Click on National Courier Awards in column on left for details Standing room only celebration of the best of the best courier industry a huge success TNT take three pieces of glass from Transport Minister Mike Penning.

Steady professionalism rose top of the agenda for judges at the 2011 National Courier Awards. Long service, quality provision, customer testimony were all milestone markers for judge decisions that will show some of the very best of the best for the fifteenth year of the Awards.

Gala dinner at the Institute of Directors in the presence of Transport Minister Mike Penning will again be signposted by postcodes for table numbers. Master Elect Carmen John Older with Brigadier Deas will be dishing out awards. University Pro Chancellor Liz Barnes and Greg Cejar Skills Academy will have news on latest Apprenticeships and employers.

A top winner is expected for the  legacy of former Transport Minister David Jamiesons Industry Safety award.  Nominations for the Contract category were particularly strong, Office as ever very strong and Afghanistan courier activities too secret to mention.

Tuesday evening, fifteenth year of the awards and should be one to remember.

Aug 2011

Government bid to cut motorcycle casualties Road Safety Minister Mike Penning key speaker at this years National Courier Awards has launched a new campaign aimed at getting drivers to think more about riders, especially at junctions, the site off most collisions. The safety message will be pushed through advertisements at petrol forecourts and on national radio.

According to The Department for Transport (DfT) says action is needed because 78% of serious bike accidents involve a crash with another vehicle and 67% of those collisions are at a junction. Most of the activity will take place through the existing THINK campaign as well as social media sites like Twitter.

 

Mike Penning MP Minister for Transport supports National Courier Awards.

Judges for the 2011 National Courier Awards met with the Minister for discussions of all things road. A keen motorcyclist Mike Penning has come from Dispatch Rider, Atlas Express to 'Dispatch Boxes' and clearly knows the difference between courier and freight.

With the Minister Mike Penning (centre front) Lord Falkland, Tracey Worth and Ian Mutch. Judges for this year are led by Richard Howard FIoC Rush Couriers, Chairman of the judging panel, Mick Davies Ears Communications, Chris Hodder BMF, David Brown Prestige Couriers, Neil Michaeloudis FIoC GLH, Len Rainford FFIoC Sameday UK, Jeffrey Ritterband FFIoC Lewis Day Transport, Justin Moore CitySprint, Greg Hoy FIoC Excel Couriers and Carl Lomas MBE FIoC.

London Logisitics Army showcase October 12th, 2011 Brigadier Alistair Deas has organised a very special showcase visit to the Defence Courier Service (DCS) London operation center at Northolt West London. Major Chris Violet (Officer Commanding DCS) has confirmed October 12, a diary date not be missed, a small number of Fellows of the Institute of Couriers will be guests of Major Violet for an insight into the Army postal systems based out of its London operations unit. For further information on the visit email Tracey mail@ioc.uk.com

July 2011

The Academy for Logistics will provide for the first time a unique sector led, One Stop Shop Service for logistics employers who require support with training and skills development. The One Stop Shop can be accessed through a national telephone number, by e-mail, and from the Autumn through a dedicated website and team of Skills Hub Managers.  National Skills Academy for Logistics has been developed by Skills for Logistics the Sector Skills Council for the Freight Logistics Sector and has the support of small, medium sized and large employers backing the proposal. Sector Trade Associations RHA, FTA including the Institute of Couriers have been involved in the development of the Business Plan as have many colleges,  work based learning providers and universities.

Confirmation of the funding means that the National Skills Academy for Logistics can begin to license suitable providers during the summer so that employers can access training by Autumn 2011. There will be a formal launch in October 2011 and services will come on stream during the Autumn and will build up through the first year.

The Board will be supported by four area based Skills Hub Advisory Boards which will bring additional employer, Trade Association, Provider and Stakeholder expertise into the governance of the National Skills Academy for Logistics. Carl Lomas will be standing from Institute of Couriers.

The Head Office of the National Skills Academy for Logistics will be in Milton Keynes this will include working to deliver existing and new qualifications and Apprenticeship frameworks, including the generic Logistics Apprenticeship and support the development of a United Kingdom Modern Logistics Guild.

Employers who would like to become a Skills Academy member, or find out more about its services should contact: info@logistics.nsacademy.co.uk

June 28th, 2011

Olympic Games 2012: Courier Industry question:

See Lord Falkland's Question House of Lord's for full report on the debate

To ask Her Majesty's Government what arrangements they are considering to allow the courier industry to operate as normally as possible during the traffic arrangements for the 2012 Olympics.

Viscount Falkland: My Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question standing in my name on the Order Paper. In so doing, I declare my interest as president of the Institute of Couriers.

Earl Attlee: My Lords, arrangements for couriers and traffic regulation during the Games are the devolved responsibility of Transport for London, but the Department for Transport is taking a keen interest in this area to ensure that the UK and London keep moving next summer.

Viscount Falkland: My Lords, I thank the noble Earl for an encouraging reply-more encouraging, I might say, than the courier industry has received thus far from the Olympic delivery committee. Might the Government be able to persuade the Olympic delivery committee, which is in charge of the arrangements, that the courier industry is not the freight industry, which seems to be its only concern? The courier industry's service is used and relied on by most of commerce and by other organisations. It offers a valued service of 24-hour or same-day delivery. If that is not available during the Olympic Games, many businesses may suffer.

Earl Attlee: My Lords, yesterday I had a meeting with officials from TfL in order better to understand its plans for helping to deliver a successful Olympics and Paralympics. TfL's structured programme of consultation with the larger trade associations began some time ago. It is not my role to tell TfL what to do, as it is the competent authority. However, I did mention the desirability of allowing all responsible trade associations to be able to engage with TfL, including the Institute of Couriers and the Despatch Association. I also said that the courier industry is slightly different from the freight industry, a point which the officials well understood.

Opening Extract of Viscount Falkland’s question to the House, 28 th June 2011

June 2011

2012 Olympic and Questions are asked.

Viscount Falkland IoC President will be asking a question in the House of Lords to ask Her Majesty's Government what 'steps or arrangements' they are considering to allow the Courier Industry to operate as normally as possible during the traffic arrangements for the 2012 Olympics.

The question needs to be asked. The Olypmic Delivery Committee to date have failed to recognize or inform the courier industry of the reality of the transport plans for the Olypmics.

Steven Norris Vice President IoC comments:

What Her Majectic's Government (HMG) and more importantly Transport for London (TfL) do know is that through all the hype surrounding the Olympics the business of London has to go on.  The courier industry are the veins and arteries of the commercial life of London.  It's the industry that allows deals to happen, money to flow, people to move.  That said, the courier industry is also a responsible industry so if restrictions do have to be imposed then the courier industry would like to be consulted on them and then once they are agreed the industry will of course respect them.

In a briefing with government IoC will be highlighting the issues the IoC, courier companies and related transport organisations are concerned about. The question in the house will be asked on July 28th, 2011

Westminster House of Commons Transport Skills Academy briefing.

In a busy run up week of transport lectures and briefings from TFL and even the mini cab boys, most tea and biscuit talk was about the last few days of logistics issues being showcased by TFL for the Olympic family London road closures. The whole week made for a very good attendance and that saw the CPC event at Westminster full. Meanwhile between the Wimbledon rainfall it was a four o’clock arrival for a busy House of Commons to the ‘Driver CPC training event in association with GIST’ on the Terrace of the House of Commons hosted by Liverpool MP Louise Ellman. About one hundred guests sat down theatre style, fairly crammed in, seating adorned with GIST goody bags for a take home training delight.

 

May 2011

John Scott FFIoC Founder and Chairman of GLH died 12th May 2011.

John's funeral will be held on Friday 3rd June at 14.00 hrs at St Judes Church, Central Square, London NW11

John Scott had dedicated his life to the courier industry, from early starts he never moved his offices from Finchley but through the years the company grew and Greater London Hire lived up to its name. John believed that a company was a family and he had a responsibility to all those who were in his fold of GLH. This sudden and tragic loss will have hit hard those who John considered his family.

John recieved the highest honour bestowed upon an individual in the courier industry when he recieved the 'Services to Industry' award at the National Courier Awards 2008 to a standing ovation.

IOC President Viscount Falkland comments, 'John Scott will be a great loss to the same day courier industry, he was a friend to many, a mentor and a champion of good preactice. He showed drive and determination to help and support others across the industry, both bike van and cab, his Services to Industry award was recognition of outstanding support to an industry'.

Condolences in from across the industry. Mike O'Connell DHL and Fellow of the IOC, 'Very sad news, a great loss to the industry'. Grant Cochrane TNT Divisional General manager TNT , 'Pass on our condolences from all at TNT'

Notices of condolences have been sent in from all over the Sameday Courier Industry.

John Fitzgerald FIoC General Manager Operations TNT UK Ltd, very sad news, met John years ago he left a positive impression on me back then, will be sadly missed.

Len Rainford FFIoC Sameday UK. A big loss to the industry and his family and friends. At least he went out celebrating.

Jeffrey Ritterband FFIoC Operations Director Lewis Day Transport plc. He will be sadly missed.

David Brown CEO Prestige Courier Services Ltd. What terrible news He will be sorely missed in the industry.

His lifetime of work saw John pioneer NVQ's qualifications for riders and drivers, safety on the road and the importance of quality of service. He was a Freeman of the City of London and made Liveryman of the Worshipfull company of Carmen at a ceremony with HRH Princess Anne.

John had been watching his beloved London Scottish rugby team on Saturday 7th May when they won to achieve promotion in the league, out celebrating on Saturday evening John suffered a cardic arrest, never regained consciousness and died at the Royal Free Hospital at noon 12th May 2011.

The funeral was held on Friday 3rd June at 14.00 hrs at St Judes Church, Central Square, London NW11

May 2011

Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) for bikes in Bus Lanes whilst Road Haulage Association push for trucks in Bus Lanes. Cross party group of MP’s hearing evidence about ways to improve road and traffic management were told by the Road Haulage Association (RHA) that HGV’s should use bus lanes. 

The RHA told the Transport Select Committee lorries in bus lanes would have no impact on the movement of passenger buses. RHA policy director Jack Semple 'We should look at a HGV as a freight bus. There is not any alternative, it is generally well loaded and is not a single occupancy vehicle'. Nick Brown Motorcycle Action Group, MAG 'motorcycles should be allowed in bus lanes instead of trucks, Bristol is a demonstration of bikes in bus lane success' 

There is no doubt that motorbikes in bus lanes has been a lengthy battle but would be a great advantage to the London bike courier. Bus lane road management routes re-directing traffic from many key junctions has increase urgent delivery route times by two fold in distance without calculating the additional congestion times. Trafalgar Square bus lanes a key example of West End City delivery time extensions.

April 2011

March 2011

By invitation, Carl Lomas MBE, Chairman of the Institute of Couriers will be attending the Lord Mayors Banquet at the Lord Mayors Mansion House, London on March 6th, 2011.Leaders of the Sameday Courier Industry have been invited to attend this annual function where business leaders from all over the city of London and throughout the UK meet, listen and discuss the issues at the heart of all commerce.

February 2011 Just Announced

John Griffin of Addison Lee will be giving a talk 'Cabs to Riches' at the IoD Pall Mall, London Monday 21st February 2011.The Central London Branch IoD are hosting the event. The event follows a number of talks by prominent London Business people and I am sure John Griffin will be one for the industry to enjoy. If you are interested in attending then please email Tracey mail@ioc.uk.com

2010 A Merry Christmas to all....

Christmas Reception and gowning for New Fellows at the House of Lords.

The ultimate event of the year for leaders in the Sameday Courier Industry met at the House of Lords, (whilst Students warmed themselves on the streets of Westminster) to witness five of the industries leaders gowned by Viscount Falkland President of the Institute of Couriers. Grant Cochrane FIoC and John Fitzgerald FIoC of TNT, Michael O'Connell FIoC of DHL, John Nolan FIoC of UK Mail and Brian Wheadon FIoC of Yodel. Bob Russett Master of the Worshipful Company of Carmen and former RHA Chairman spoke of the encouragement that the Fellows of the IoC gave to all in the industry. 'Fellows of the IoC lead, set the pace and make sure everyone is given the opportunity to keep up and that means improved standards of service and provision'. Former Lord Mayor of London Sir David Brewer was delighted to comment 'they (transport industry) are the link and an esstential foundation to all our businessess'. Norman Baker MP Under Secretary of State for Transport, speaker at the National Courier Awards passed his congratulations to the new Fellows. 'The IoC is key to innovation and promotion of all safety aspects within our industry and supports all those that aim to improve their skills and standards of service. Leaders of the industry are rightly recognised for the part they play.'

The full story and photos will follow later this week. Full digital photo cd will be sent out before Christmas to all Fellows.

2010 December Snow..

Snow news is good news!Can it really be a white christmas? The tally of roads closed grows as the snow has now taken grip of the country. From Scotland to West Yorkshire, the Midlands to Hertfordshire or from the South of London to the South East snow has covered the roads.

The couriers are still out there and making tracks all bar be it slowly. Mark Davies FIoC Swift Despatch 'Cold, frozen and dangerous but we are still moving. The north east seems to have a micro climate of its own but off the main road conditions are dangerous. It is worst than the last heavy snow fall of 1980-81 when we had four weeks of snow. We have had to cancel one or two of our long distance deliveries to Croydon and the south east but thats only with the clients agreement'

Many other Fellows of the IoC have agreed that conditions are 'Bad, Dreadful, Awful and Dire' taking the two wheelers off the road and using only vans. If you are in the middle of London you may not even realise that it is snowing but anything outside the greater London area is affected. Overnight trunkers have made it between depots but the local deliveries are hindered by Police road closures. 'Clients are being understanding as there is such a wide coverage of the weather conditions and even if its not outside their windows you can see it on the television'. Deliveries are still being collected but courier companies can not confirm if the delivery will be made until they arrive in the vincinity. 'It is a bit tuff but we are still going'

Mike Penning MP new Transport Minister 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

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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.

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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 - News in Brief.

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’

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.

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.

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.

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.

2007 - News in Brief

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's Leading the way. 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.

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.

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.

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.

2006 - News in Brief

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.

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.

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

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.

National Courier Awards Tuesday 20th June 2006. The 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.

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.

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

2005 - News in Brief

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.

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.

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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