Studd steps up to the BAR

17 July 2012

Ian Studd, Business Relocation Director of Harrow Green, was elected President at the British Association of Removers (BAR) AGM during its annual conference in May.

Studd thanked Reg Hackworthy, who was standing down as President after his two-year term of office, for his energy and commitment. During the 2012 Conference Studd gave an overview of the future shape of BAR membership criteria currently under review. Areas being considered include finance, good repute, insurance, premises, staff, vehicles, packaging, materials and equipment, administration and company structure and ownership. “Staff should be one of the leading criteria for membership,” he said. “It is an issue very dear to me, that we should be able to demonstrate the value we have invested in our people.”

Giving his first interview to R&S, the BAR magazine, Studd said there was a real desire across the industry for the BAR badge to have more influence on the people who buy services, and for that brand awareness to be incorporated into individual company marketing strategies. He also commented on the challenges of the current economic climate and the issue of ‘cowboy’ operators. “Membership of BAR and the continued improvements in criteria and standards are so important for the industry.”

Studd praised the development of removals-specific apprenticeships, an initiative the Association has driven: “I have enjoyed a career in this industry, and it is only through having structured training and development programmes that we can hope to encourage the next generation to see the removals industry as a career opportunity and not just as a ‘stop-gap’ job.”