McGregor Removals & Storage is based in Belfast, Northern Ireland and offer removals, storage, distribution and packing services, covering the whole of the UK and Ireland, focusing primarily on customer service, and in January 2025 have started an international shipping service. Fleet wise McGregor Removals & Storage operate a fleet of 9 vehicles and are not brand loyal in the slightest, and storage wise they have a 16,000 sqft warehouse.

Apart from the everyday challenge of removals, Steve’s challenges have been staff and recruitment, switching off and detaching when away from the workplace, and accepting that you cannot change bad attitude.

The one thing Steve would change from his moving past would have been to network earlier, which would have taken McGregor Removals & Storage further and faster.

Steve has several high points of being within the industry, becoming a member of BAR (British Association of Removers), moving Dame Kelly Holmes, and the excitement from Steve’s children, nieces and nephews when they see the vehicles on the road as the vehicles are named after them.

The one thing Steve would like to change within the industry is to have a more structured sales process.

The advice Steve would give himself just starting out within the industry again is to network earlier and do more homework on the industry.

In the next 5 years Steve wants to continue to grow the McGregor brand. Industry wise, Steve sees technology playing a big part.

Outside of the industry Steve spends time with his two daughters, the challenge of running, working out at the gym, and has recently bought a boat.

And as always, we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, well two, one involving a tip and the other a sex toy.

Enjoy!

Links to McGregor Removals & Storage:

• Website
• Twitter

Special Guest: Steve McGregor.

Andy is a former (BAR) Commercial Moving Group chairman, and today is still very much involved within the industry, being a BAR inspector, a QSS auditor, the lead judge in the (BAR) Commercial Mover of the Year competition, and a practicing business coach and consultant, under his company The Moving Shop.

Andy has had several challenges within the industry, a major warehouse fire in 1988 which totally destroyed everything the company had built, clearing the Commercial Union floors of the Baltic Exchange Building shortly after the Saint Mary Axe (London) bombing on April 10th, 1992 (where incidentally Andy and a crew were working an hour before the bomb went off!), and becoming an auditor for QSS.

The one thing Andy would like to change from his moving past is to have not grown by acquisition, which was a recommendation from his bank!

Andy has a couple of highpoints of being within the industry, firstly, winning Commercial Mover of the Year award at the same time as winning East London Growth Business of the Year, and secondly, becoming chairman of the (BAR) Commercial Moving Group, where during his tenure he introduced the quality standard for commercial moving (BS 8522).

The one thing Andy would like to change within the industry is to see it recognised as a profession, as it is in so many other countries.

The advice Andy would give himself just starting out within the industry again is network, by attending BAR area meetings, conferences & seminars, and getting involved.

In the next 5 years Andy hopes his days on the road are over, however he still wants to continue offering his coaching, as this can be provided remotely. Industry wise, Andy wants the solicitors and conveyancers to get their act into gear and sort out the completions (for the domestic market), and for the CMG (Commercial Moving Group, or soon to be WRG - Workplace Relocation Group) to be more recognised by FM’s (Facility Managers).

Outside of the industry Andy is a keen West Ham fan, he used to play golf and would like to take it up again. Andy has a passion for cooking, enjoys country walks and he together with his wife volunteer at the village community shop.

And as always, we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, in fact three, plus Andy tells a few during this episode too.

Enjoy!

Links to Andy:

• LinkedIn

Special Guest: Andy Carr.

Ed sold Peachtree Movers in 2000, and in that 24-year period Peachtree Movers completed nearly 50,000 local office moves. During Ed’s time at Peachtree Movers, he created several inventions, the Space Gobbler being one, an inflatable device that filled the available space within desk drawers, and the Spider Crane being another, a hoist that allowed wide lateral file cabinets to be moved without the need to remove the contents.

Today Ed teaches (and preaches) his 3-day office moving seminar, which if you don’t catch in person, you can now watch online.

One of Ed’s challenges within the industry is trying to get people to think outside of the box to differentiate themselves from the marketplace.

The one thing Ed would like to change from his moving past is to have taken the kind of training Ed provides the industry today, as he had no industry mentor to learn from so everything was self-taught from the school of hard knocks.

Ed’s highpoint of being within the industry was going out on moves and listening to the customer reactions and seeing the appreciation for making the service more user friendly.

The one thing Ed would like to change within the industry is to ensure that new contractor businesses (those that never render the actual service) are certified.

The advice Ed would give himself just starting out within the industry again is get training, differentiate himself, listen to the customer and focus on one specific sector.

In the next 5 years god willing Ed will not be room temperature, but continues to see himself advising, coaching, consulting and teaching. Industry wise, Ed see’s people returning to the office and therefore a higher demand for commercial moves as current empty buildings begin to fill again.

Outside of the industry Ed spends an hour a day at the gym, but Ed just loves to coach, train, teach and consult as business is his hobby.

And as always, we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, regarding a trip to the can.

Enjoy!

Links to IOMI:

• Website
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Twitter

Special Guest: Ed Katz.

Not only has Jacob worked in the family business, but he has also worked for Pickford’s (in their Anglo Pacific office) and Crown Relocations. Today, Jacob works for Reason Global, specialist insurance brokers within the Moving & Storing industry.

Jacob’s biggest challenge was being the boss’s son when he was younger where he had to work harder, faster, longer, than anyone else in order to gain respect from staff members. Jacob’s current challenge is combining his moving knowledge with insurance.

Jacob is reluctant to look back and change anything from his moving past, but if he had to it would be to have remained in the family business longer, to have obtained his HGV driving licence, and to have got involved with BAR and YMG (Young Movers Group) earlier.

Jacob has two highpoints of being within the industry, the first being at Reason Global, and the second running the London Sales Centre for Crown Relocations at the age of 25.

The one thing Jacob would like to change within the industry, apart from perception (as many previous guests have stated), is the balance of technology with in-person meetings.

The advice Jacob would give himself just starting out within the industry again is that everyone you meet can teach you something, so listen and learn from others.

In the next 5 years Jacob sees himself still at Reason Global and attending as many industry events as he can. Industry wise, Jacob sees a continual trend in smaller shipments, and a rise in the use of smaller vehicles, such as lo-loaders.

Outside of the industry Jacob enjoys chasing around after his young family, playing rugby, golf, and live sport in general, whether watching or playing.

And as always, we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, regarding a swimming pool, some absurd outfits and some quite surprised homeowners.

Enjoy!

Links to Reason Global:

• Website

Special Guest: Jacob Dolan.

Mark’s father’s haulage business branched into removals, firstly providing local moves in Kent and then progressed to specialising in Spain, forming Anglo Spanish where Mark learned his removals trade. During Thatcherism, moves to Spain dried up and coupled with his father’s health, Anglo Spanish closed. After a short spell (5 years) of owning and running a fishing tackle shop (his boyhood dream), Mark sold up, bought his first truck, and returned to removals, forming Anglo French (approximately November 1998), which specialised solely in France, where Mark even relocated himself too, for 5 years.

Mark’s biggest challenge has been staff and finds that the younger generation are insecure.

Mark would like to change two things from his moving past, being braver at times (should have brought his own warehouse), and to have spent more time enjoying some of the fantastic places he’s delivered too.

Mark’s highpoint of being within the industry is getting Anglo French (starting from nothing) to where it is today.

The one thing Mark would like to change within the industry is regulation, and does see it being part of our industry, but is still a long way off.

The advice Mark would give himself just starting out within the industry again is not to change the path he’s been down.

In the next 5 years, or sooner rather than later, Mark sees himself out of the industry as his exit plan comes to fruition. Industry wise, Mark sees a lack of experienced drivers and porters coming through being a concern, domination from the larger nationwide companies as they continue to purchase established family businesses, and key exchange will only improve as the current system cannot continue.

Outside of the industry Mark enjoys his carp fishing, and even competes in the British Carp Angling Championship. Mark also enjoys watching his beloved Liverpool FC and helps out with coaching at grass-route level for his daughter’s team.

And as always, we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, but not just one, three!

Enjoy!

Links to Anglo French:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter

Special Guest: Mark Brett.

Customized Moving is Larry’s consulting business which he started in 2023 and is based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Customized Moving provides consumer, corporate, and moving industry services. Larry also provides an online sales training course and has written the book on moving, called “Relocating – A Handbook for Moving Long-Distance” which is primarily aimed at the consumer.

Larry’s biggest challenge was to find and develop business, for 20+ years all of Larry’s calls were outgoing! Getting in front of clients is the challenge now as the entire sales cycle has shrunk, with the sales funnel shortened.

Larry wouldn’t change anything from his moving past, even though he has lost some big accounts he has always found that as one door closes another door opens.

Larry’s highpoint of being within the industry is sales, and therefore develop customers, which regardless of the size of the move, whether it be a multi-million-dollar account, or a small local move, still to this day gives Larry that hit of adrenaline and excitement.

The one thing Larry would like to change within the industry is to bring back professional consultative sales.

The advice Larry would give himself just starting out within the industry again is to hold the course as you will go through trials and tribulations, keep your integrity, and always build your own brand.

In the next 5 years Larry sees himself continuing on within this wonderful industry for as long as he can. Industry wise, Larry sees the industry changing dramatically on the sales end of things, especially the corporate side of the industry.

Outside of the industry Larry enjoys renovating his wife’s old house in Quebec, playing golf, and traveling.

And as always, we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, regarding a corporate contract with a major bank.

Enjoy!

Links to Customized Moving:

• Website
• LinkedIn
• Sales Training Course
• Book

Special Guest: Larry Kruger.

AMC Removals is based in Dublin but also has an office in San Miguel, Spain. AMC Removals covers all of Ireland and has 3 road-trains in Europe on a weekly basis, and also run 3 x 18 tonne drop bodies, 7/8 x low loaders and 2 x Pantechnicons. AMC Removals offer both containerised storage (approximately 1,000) and self-storage.

Aubrey has faced two challenges, firstly, finding that the moving industry is a closed shop, where newcomers are viewed suspiciously, and he can totally understand why, and secondly, it was very difficult to get good staff, so he now has policies and schemes in place to attract and assist them.

The one thing Aubrey would like to change from his moving past was to send his late father to industry related conferences where, as a playboy, he would have entertained and put AMC Removals on the map.

Aubrey’s highpoint of being within the industry is growing the business organically and becoming a high-end quality mover, where Aubrey has moved the likes of Lord Andrew Lloyd-Webber, and more recently undertaken a move which cost half a million!!!

The one thing Aubrey would like to change within the industry is having the industry as a whole wake-up to IT, and re-educate the crews, and even agents, to be more IT friendly.

The advice Aubrey would give himself just starting out within the industry again is that the raw materials to your business are your trucks, but the key raw materials are your staff, and you have to treat them as your greatest asset, as well as listen to them too.

In the next 5 years Aubrey sees himself as Auctioneer once again for the annual BAR Conference, and opening a wing in his detox centre for attendees! 😊 Industry wise, Aubrey sees huge changes, with IT playing a very important role, and reducing volumes, especially with furniture becoming more and more disposable.

Outside of the industry Aubrey has a huge impact on people’s lives. Thanks to being within the moving industry Aubrey ensures 500 homeless people are fed daily in Dublin, has over 200 people in social housing, and has 7 centres for helping people. In 2023 Aubrey was awarded the Trinity College Alumni Award for his contribution towards social impact, and this year was awarded the Red Cross Humanitarian of the Year, as well as the prestigious Lifetime Membership Award by the Royal Dublin Society!

And as always, we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, regarding Ireland’s Strictly Come Dancing.

Enjoy!

Links to AMC Removals & Storage:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• YouTube

Special Guest: Aubrey McCarthy.

Steve ran Nice Man Big Van for 16 years, before reluctantly giving it up in 2019 due to ill health, caused by stress. Today, Steve works part-time for Global Immigration Relocation Moving Spain, based in Madrid, where he is helping with networking their business and social media presence.

One of Steve’s challenges was trying to recruit reliable and trustworthy people.

Steve would like to change two things from his moving past, firstly, to have learned more about the HR side of the business, and secondly, to reach out more to help being offered (and to even ask for help) from individuals today.

Steve’s highpoints of being within the industry are achieving just under 900 verified Checkatrade reviews for Nice Man Big Van, as well as some of the people he got to move.

The main thing Steve would like to change within the industry is the key exchange, but also dealing with unreliable porters.

The advice Steve would give himself just starting out within the industry again is to vet staff better, and to remain at a small and manageable size.

In the next 5 years Steve hopes to see his website, worldwideporters.com take off and be turned into an app. Industry wise, Steve sees automation taking over in the forms of AI, robots and driverless vehicles.

Outside of the industry Steve enjoys cycling, but sold his bicycle before he relocated to Madrid, but he did keep and take his conga drums and electronic drumkit which he plays. Steve also enjoys magnet fishing with his wife.

And as always, we end Moving Matters with some funny moving stories, of a sexual nature.

Enjoy!

Links:

• Linkedin - Steve Sole
• Linkedin - Global Relocation
• Facebook - Worldwide Porters

Special Guest: Steve Sole.

John Burridge of Richardson Moving & Storage, discusses Wages.

Richard Webster of Tonks Removals, discusses Costings.

Tommy McNee of Guardian Moving & Storage, discusses Sales & Marketing.

And I throw in my own topic for discussion at the end, Associations.

Enjoy!

Links to previous podcast episodes:

• John Burridge
• Tommy McNee
• Richard Webster

Special Guests: John Burridge, Richard Webster, and Tommy McNee.

D. Durrant Removals & Storage was purchased by Jason in 2001, and together with his brother (Wayne) they also purchased their uncle’s company, Turners Removals 3 years ago. D. Durrant Removals & Storage are 95% domestic removals, with a full-time team of 15, running a variety of vehicles (but none more than 12 tonne these days), and house 400 containers across 3 warehouses.

Jason believes he’s been quite lucky over the years but one of his challenges was (and still is) trying to find that work/lifestyle balance.

Jason would like to change two things from his moving past, firstly, to have spent more time working on the business rather than in it, and secondly, to have invested into buying property rather than renting.

Jason’s highpoint of being within the industry is buying Turners Removals, not only because it was in the family before Jason was born, but he managed to secure the future of the company and gets to work alongside his brother.

The one thing Jason would like to change within the industry is that the average man on the street knew about the BAR (British Association of Removers) and it was therefore more recognised by the general public.

The advice Jason would give himself just starting out within the industry again is not to be so trusting and gullible, and to step back sometimes and take everything at face value.

In the next 5 years Jason would like to go part time and into semi-retirement (well in 3 years actually at the age of 55). Industry wise, Jason does believe that the BAR will get on top of the key release issue our industry is constantly plagued by.

Outside of the industry Jason has many a hobby, mainly around sports. Jason has 3 season tickets and can therefore often be found at football matches, he goes competition fishing with his brother and father, he has shares in a couple of greyhounds, and when time does permit, he can be found, military style, on the golf course.

And as always, we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story regarding Christmas.

Enjoy!

Links to D Durrant Removals & Storage:

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram

To support Jason and sponsor him aforementioned cycle journey from Munich to Pisa, raising funds for the RBA (Removers Benevolent Association) please click here to make a donation that will make a real difference to those in our wonderful industry.

Special Guest: Jason Hayes.

James was begrudgingly shuffled off to college followed by university (to study marketing), mainly by his mother, to gain a degree to fall back on should he not want to return to the family business, although the goal was always for James to return. But prior to James’s return to the family business, he went on to learn his removal foundation skills from White & Co initially and then GB Liners.

Peter Cooper Ltd was started in 1986 by James’s parents, and provide domestic (predominantly), European, international & commercial relocations, secure shredding, and storage, but also offer an antique restoration and repair side of the business too, as Peter (James’s father) was trained as an antique restorer. On the removals side James runs a full-time removal crew of 12, and 3 restorers on the antique side, operating a varied fleet of 11 vehicles.

James has overcome several challenges, in the early days it was being the boss’s son, but Covid was his biggest challenge.

The one thing James would change from his moving past is to have purchased land that became available on the industrial estate they currently reside, but the land and the build costs were just astronomical.

James’s highpoint of being within the industry are when the guys return from their jobs with a clean job ticket, and they and the customers are happy, then it’s a good day.

The one thing James would like to change within the industry is people’s perception of what our industry is about.

The advice James would give himself just starting out within the industry again is that you can never have to many friends within the industry, to ask questions, and to listen to the views of others no matter how different they may be to your own.

In the next 5 years James believes he will be doing exactly what he is doing now, enjoying life, and hopefully taking more holidays, but probably still complaining about all the things the industry normally complains about on a yearly basis. Industry wise, James doesn’t see any change as it slowly gets back to pre-Covid trends.

Outside of the industry James has a very long to-do list composed by Mrs C, regarding the new home they purchased 5 years ago that requires a lot of work, so DIY is his current escapism. Up until a year ago James played football on a weekly basis, and in his youth was a schoolboy player for Southampton FC.

And as always, we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story regarding an overnight in Hamburg, Germany.

Enjoy!

Links to Peter Cooper Ltd:

• Website
• Facebook

Special Guest: James Cooper.

Near & Far Removals are based in Nottingham and was started in 2003 by James’s parents, Martyn & Elaine Langridge. Near & Far offer domestic removals, packing, dismantling & re-erecting, house clearance/disposal, commercial relocation, crate hire and storage (using both self-storage units and shipping containers, as James doesn’t like the 250 cuft wooden storage containers).

James says that removals itself is a challenge he has had to overcome, especially key waits, which he goes on to have a little rant about. Other challenges include staff, which James enjoys and thrives upon, and tidiness, which includes vehicles & uniforms.

James wouldn’t change anything from his moving past as he believes it is a journey he is on.

James’s highpoints of being within the industry are working with different customers, different people, seeing different parts of the country and having a laugh on the job.

The one thing James would like to change within the industry is, surprise, surprise, completion days.

The advice James would give himself just starting out within the industry again is not to go over the top buying supplies, such as covers, as blankets are more than adequate.

In the next 5 years James wants to continuing making Near & Far the best they can be by continuing to provide the best service possible. Industry wise, James doesn’t see any changes apart from individuals themselves.

Outside of the industry James is clearly a keen footballer, he also enjoys golf, fishing, evenings at the spa and nights out on the town with his mates.

And as always, we end Moving Matters with two funny moving stories (as well as the oddest item James has moved), one regarding a photograph, and the other involving a chap called Jeremy.

Enjoy!

Links to Near & Far Removals:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram

Special Guest: James Langridge.

Today James owns Chelmsford Removals which he started 16 years ago and Move It Removals which he acquired in 2019. Both companies are 90% domestic removals & storage (460 x 250 cuft containers), with some commercial and trade work, running 12 vehicles and employing 35. And both are members of the BAR (British Association of Removers).

One of the challenges James had to overcome was not being able to afford to employ (let alone attract) the best removal guys when starting out, but today he couldn’t be prouder of those he employs.

The one thing James would change from his moving past is to have taken much greater care of his back, which James has ensured forms a big part of the training he delivers to his staff. From a business perspective James would have liked to have focused on storage much sooner.

James has several highpoints of being within the industry, consisting of, growing his own company much bigger than his Dad’s, getting his own warehouse in Chelmsford, joining the BAR, and acquiring Move It Removals.

The one thing James would like to change within the industry is a standardised system in which removal companies are recognised, separating those that are couriers at worst and man & van at best apart from professional removal companies.

The advice James would give himself just starting out within the industry again is to learn as much about business, the industry, and to get really good at your numbers.

In the next 5 years James would like to acquire another company as he’s gearing up for an acquisition hopefully in 2025 (either a competitor for a larger market share, or a business in a complementary area), and to buy his own warehouse. Industry wise James doesn’t seem much changing, however in 10 years maybe autonomous trucks and AI moving robots.

Outside of the industry James has a really good work life balance and enjoys a beer with his mates, a wine with his wife, and he also endures fitness challenges.

And as always, we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story regarding every mover’s necessity for the job, a cuppa.

Enjoy!

Links to Chelmsford Removals:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

Special Guest: James Tutton.

John Mason International Movers are based in Liverpool but do have a Southern operation in Hemel Hempstead. They are one of the largest shippers ex-UK Worldwide, and only offer international moving (deep sea and airfreight) and storage, working with partner agents from all over the world.

One of David’s challenges is that he comes from Bolton, but joking aside, it’s the work ethic and enjoyment of working within the industry that can clearly bring the personal rewards.

The one thing David would change from his moving past would have been to move off the vans and into management sooner to protect his health and body.

David has two highpoints of being within the industry, becoming General Manager of John Mason International Movers which came to David as a shock, and becoming Chairman of the MTC (Movers Trading Club).

The one thing David would like to change within the industry is the Ombudsman, which David believes is setup wrong as it’s sometimes used as a blackmail for clients to use against the remover.

The advice David would give himself, just starting out within the industry again, is to work hard, play hard, and to stay in the best hotels!

In the next 5 years David dreams of retirement, but realistically he enjoys work too much (even though he keeps checking his pension), so he still sees himself at John Mason International Movers. Industry wise David doesn’t know what the next 5 years holds as he believes it changes so much with challenge after challenge.

Outside of the industry David enjoys sport, watching more than playing (especially football at grassroots level) but he did pay Rugby Union in his younger days. David also enjoys reading, walking (due to his new hips!) and watching foreign subtitled TV.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, in fact two, one regarding falling asleep in a moving van, and the other regarding the use of a client’s clothing.

Enjoy!

Links to John Mason International Movers:

• Website
• Twitter
• Facebook
• Instagram

Special Guest: David Ozard.

Matt began in the industry delivering mahogany and new furniture on Saturday mornings from the tender age of 14 (circa 1993), for his father’s sideline, although Matt’s target in life was to become a barrister or journalist.

M&G Movers & Storers are based in the Midlands and turnover between £1-1.3m a year, £400k of that being from storage and the rest from domestic moving. M&G Movers & Storers USP is that they do not subcontract any work whatsoever, interact with other firms, or bring in any outsiders, and no employee is on less than a full 40-hour week annual basis.

Matt was previously heavily involved within the industry, but has been rather quiet in recent years, and explains why.

Matt has had several challenges, many of which were personal, and family rated, but still concerned the business, and is very lucky to have the support of his extremely suffering other half Donna.

Jokingly the one thing Matt would change from his moving past is to have never done it in the first place, however, if he hadn’t had then he probably wouldn’t had met Donna, his now wife. On a more serious note, Matt would have liked to have got a better education of the industry sooner.

Matt’s highpoint of being within the industry is his wife staying with him! Again, on a more serious note it’s the privilege that he has had to experience all ends of the industry, and also watching people develop skills in an industry that most people regard as unskilled and uneducated, and become a professional removalist. Another highlight is the money!

The one thing Matt would like to change within the industry is to bring the entire industry together and have one collective voice, which can then be used to be heard, in which Matt makes a strong case for, and for those within the industry to get educated and learn the system in which you operate within.

The advice Matt would give himself just starting out within the industry again is, apart from keeping his mouth shut, to understand the gravity of what you are getting into.

In the next 5 years Matt hopes to have caught up with growing the revenue of the company that he should have done in the past 5 years or have left the industry. Industry wise, what happens with the efforts of a mandated key release time and/or atomic settlement and how the industry reacts to it, and also what happens next economically.

Outside of the industry Matt enjoys motor racing in which he participates, time with his wife and children (which should have come first, but Matt has petrol flowing through his veins!) and reading.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story regarding a survey, and Matt provides an interesting story about witness relocation.

Enjoy!

Links to M&G Movers & Storers:

• Website

Special Guest: Matt Faizey.

Martell’s are a family owned and run company, and have been trading mainly in retail since 1917, starting as a pram and bedstead shop in the Elephant & Castle, London. Martell’s have a department store in East Grinstead, own several properties which they rent within the private sector, and commercial premises for storage and office space. On the moving side they cover all of the usual removal services, running a mixed fleet of 6 vehicles, employing 15 fulltime staff and offer self-storage as well as containerised storage (using the 250 cuft steel containers).

One of Ed’s biggest challenges is staff, not only finding new staff but also current staff are less inclined to want to spend days and nights away from homes, and some are not even interested in overtime. Ed has even had to incentivise bonus schemes for some of the staff to do nights away.

Ed doesn’t have anything major that he would change from his moving past, although he has learned some hard lessons along the way.

Ed’s highpoints of being within the industry are; professionally, being the Chairman of the BAR National Group Council, which gives Ed a seat on the BAR Board, and personally, the jobs Ed has quoted and moved, one in particular to the Cayman Islands.

Ed would like to change a couple of things within the industry, one being more regulation for the 3.5 tonne sector and the other being the house purchase process, two controversial topics indeed!

The advice Ed would give himself just starting out within the industry again is to embrace every opportunity presented.

In the next 5 years Ed hopes to still be at Martell’s looking after operations, and to still be involved with the BAR. Industry wise, the electric vehicle rollout is coming but Ed doesn’t think as an industry (and as a nation) we are ready for it.

Outside of the industry Ed likes to travel, spend quality time with the family, cooking and enjoys go-karting.

And as always we end Moving Matters with not one but three funny moving stories; a move to Portugal with Ed’s now wife, a TV cameo debut, and a bit of removal banter.

Enjoy!

Links to Martells:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram

Special Guest: Edward Kessell.

GB Liners have 11 branches, run approximately 100 vehicles, employ in-excess of 250, and offer self-storage, containerised storage, document storage, and provide local, nationwide, European, and international removals for the domestic and corporate markets – and this year celebrate 100 years since the start of the family business.

One of Dan’s biggest challenges was when Sophie, Dan’s wife, was diagnosed with Leukaemia in 2013, at a time where Dan was given an opportunity to move from the vans to the estimating and sales side of the business, and Dan will always be grateful to GB Liners for their continued support during Sophie’s treatment.

The one thing Dan would change from his moving past is to ask more questions, question a lot more things, and not to be so worried about the unknown.

Dan has had several highpoints of being within the industry so far, the development he’s had within GB Liners and the industry and what he’s achieved, becoming part of the BAR Young Movers Group, and being elected as the youngest DED (Directly Elected Director) of BAR, which we discuss in more detail.

The one thing Dan would like to change within the industry is have a mentorship program.

The advice Dan would give himself just starting out within the industry again is to listen to the advice and the criticism, to never stop learning, and getting the balance right.

Dan is very happy with what he is doing at the moment but feels that he should probably get his head up (rather than down) and answer that question for himself, so we will just have to see how the next 5 years pans out for Dan. Industry wise, Dan does see a change in trucks, but maybe hydrogen over electric?

We discuss getting new blood into the industry and Dan asks the question of whether it’s more of an issue retaining rather than getting new blood?

Outside of the industry Dan is ruled by his children, he enjoys being busy with family life, and loves to get away when the opportunity arises.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, regarding a Friday night in Cologne.

Enjoy!

Links to GB Liners:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• Linkedin

Special Guest: Daniel Braddock.

Derek maintains that having a side line to removals, such shop deliveries, is a necessity to help with the quiet times within the moving industry. In 2015/16 Derek was running 15 vehicles and an average of 22 staff, today, Intransit Removals & Storage run 10 vehicles (5 x vans, 1 x 7.5 tonne, 2 x 12 tonne, 2 x 18 tonne), with a crew of 7, and are primarily domestic removers and storers, offering mainly containerised storage (approximately 130) but they do have shipping containers too.

One of Derek’s biggest business challenges was being taken to court by a trade association in 2014, which Derek and his legal team (Backhouse Jones) won. However, Derek’s biggest personal challenge was to come shortly after this on April 6th (2014), a motocross accident, where Derek was revived twice, and not only did he break his spine but suffered brain damage too! – Derek was given a 10% chance of walking and only a 3% chance of survival!

Derek wouldn’t change anything from his moving past as he’s quite pleased and proud with what he’s achieved.

Derek’s highpoint of being within the industry is the current staff and vehicles that he has, and a ‘reasonable’ highpoint was being accepted into the British Association of Removers and is a regular attendee of the Western Area meetings.

The one thing Derek would like to change within the industry is how everything is current so last minute and would like customers to contact removers well in advance of their actual removal day.

Apart from don’t, the advice Derek would give himself just starting out within the industry again is to not give up, as it's not just about moving the contents of someone’s home.

In the next 5 years Derek believes the industry will continue to be a struggle for another 12 months yet, but then it will kick back in.

Outside of the industry, despite being a workaholic and since his horrific accident, Derek has undertaken a healthy lifestyle and become a gym freak, attending the gym 3-4 times a week. He also enjoys watching motorsport on TV and spending time with his family.

And sadly, we don’t end Moving Matters with a funny moving story as Derek didn’t have one to tell.

Enjoy!

Links to Intransit Removals & Storage:

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram

Special Guest: Derek Milner.

Rod founded It’s Your Move Ilkley in 2007, which provides mainly domestic moving, storage and packing services, local and national (although they do International too using forwarding agents), running 2 HGV’s, 4 low loaders, a panel van, and 7 members of staff.

It’s Your Move Ilkley have been members of Move Assured for the last 3 years but is hoping to join the British Association of Removers imminently.

Rod’s biggest challenges were learning to grow the business and become a professional company, and becoming VAT registered (in 2013) where he had to compete with local non-VAT registered movers.

The one thing Rod would like to change from his moving past is to learn the industry quicker.

Rod hopes his highpoint of being within the industry is still to come (even at the age of 63!) but believes joining the BAR will be one. Covid, or rather the Stamp Duty Holiday was a highpoint (the golden age of removals).

The one thing Rod would like to change within the industry is the conveyancing system which Rod says is outdated and disjointed. Rod would also like to see the VAT threshold lowered.

The advice Rod would give himself just starting out within the industry again is to do it 20 years earlier!

In the next 5 years Rod hopes to be doing a little bit less, delegating a little bit more, and It’s Your Move Ilkley to continue being successful. Industry wise Rod sees no major changes, he doesn’t believe in legislation for the 3.5 tonners, or that electric vehicles will make too much of an impact.

Outside of the industry Rod follows football, sponsoring his local team Guiseley, but his passion lies with Manchester United. Rod also loves traveling, music and attending concerts, Rod is a big Bruce Springsteen fan!

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, regarding Mrs Mad.

Enjoy!

Links to It's Your Move Ilkley:

• Website
• Facebook

Special Guest: Rod Hepworth.

Martin discusses what a Brand Ambassador is, it’s not just your logo, it’s what you do and the way you do things.

Pickfords is the de facto brand recognition of the industry (for those 35 and older, states Martin), and they move anything, anywhere, anytime. Pickfords have approximately 50 branches (46 warehouse units) throughout the UK, where they took on an additional 15 branches/warehouse units last year and are looking to put more dots on the map as they return (once again) to the local markets, where back in the hay day Pickfords had approximately 175 locations within the UK with a fleet of 6-700 vehicles!

Martin is the current Chairman of the BAR Commercial Moving Group (which has 50 members). However, his tenure finishes in May when Robert Poyner of Crown Workspace takes over the role.

Martin’s biggest challenge is working within an industry that is very tyre kicking focused, but also managing the relationship between the technical and sales parts, as Martin likes to look at things from the customers perspective. A challenge for Pickfords is that it has an aging workforce, but they do run a pro-active apprenticeship program for a variety of roles within the business.

Martin wouldn’t change anything from his moving past as he feels incredibly lucky to have joined Pickfords at a time (2003-2006) where he was able to soak up as much knowledge and experience as possible from some great people working there.

Martin’s highpoint of being within the industry was winning the contract to move NATO’s headquarters in Brussels in 2016/17, where 2/2.5 years was spent on the project management alone, and the physical move consisted of 4,200 staff, 19km of secret archives, 200 safes and 2,700 crate movements, into a building of 254,000 square metres! Martin even convinced NATO to make a film of the entire moving process, something you can see yourself on the Pickfords TV YouTube channel here.

The one thing Martin would like to change within the industry is how customers try to commoditise our industry, by doing a group walk around on commercial moves.

The advice Martin would give himself just starting out within the industry again is to soak up as much knowledge and experience as you can.

In the next 5 years Martin hopes to still be at Pickfords doing what he does today as he absolutely loves it. Industry wise, he does see people moving back to working in office environments again, albeit different to pre-pandemic days, and the man and van industry scares Martin where the consumer does not see the value or expertise of getting a professional mover.

Outside of the industry Martin loves great food, great drink, travelling, meeting people, and loves to live life.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, regarding a defibrillator.

Enjoy!

Links to Pickfords:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

Special Guest: Martin Budd.

Today, White Rose Removals are based in Leeds and share office and warehouse space with GB Liners. White Rose Removals primarily undertake domestic moving and packing services as well as storage, and commercial relocations (passing European and International work to GB Liners), running 3 x HVG (soon to be 4), 5 x 3.5 tonne (including Paul’s battered old sprinter!) and have a manual labour force of 6-7 full timers and several self-employed.

Paul see’s every day as a challenge, but his main one was the teething pains of growing a business.

The one thing Paul would like to change from his moving past is getting his pricing right, which he should have done years ago by having confidence not only in himself but his business too.

Paul has two highpoints of being within the industry, firstly becoming a member of the BAR (British Association of Removers), and secondly the recent stamp duty holiday. Paul also claims another highpoint is every time he gets a new truck, which he names after a woman in his life, although the sprinter remains unnamed!

The one thing Paul would like to change within the industry is to legislate it, making it more professional and therefore giving it more respect.

The advice Paul would give himself just starting out within the industry again is to professionalise everything from the start, and to not be afraid to charge more money.

In the next 5 years Paul hopes to expand the business further, but he would also like to address his and Hannah’s (wife) work life balance, taking more of a backseat within the business. Industry wise Paul believes it will be very similar to what it is today and remain very cutthroat.

Outside of the industry Paul is a massive Leeds United Football fan, something his dad introduced him to as a child, and is a home and away season ticket holder. Paul (and Hannah) loves a trip to Tenerife (every 2-3 months), and spending time with his wife and children.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, regarding an email of complaint.

Enjoy!

Links to White Rose Removals:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter

Special Guest: Paul Taylor.

After building up Hambleton’s, Phil’s parents decided to retire in 2002, and Phil consequently sold Hambleton’s in 2004 to North West Removals after it became too much for Phil (as one person) to run. At the time of selling Hambleton’s ran 6 trucks and housed approximately 500 containers in a 10,000 sqft warehouse.

Since selling Hambleton’s Phil has remained within the moving industry, where he has worked for Pickfords (for a 12-month period, under incoming BAR President Mike Andrews), Anglo Pacific (for 7 years, until he was made redundant) and finally GB Liners, where he has spent his past 12 years, before retiring at the end of February 2023.

Phil has overcome several challenges during his time within the industry, transitioning from owner to employee being one, staff was another (from the point of view of questioning his industry experience and background), and learning new IT systems within each employer.

The one thing Phil would change from his moving past is selling Hambleton’s, where a last minute change of circumstances meant he could have continued running the business.

Phil has a couple of highpoints of being within the industry, the first is being awarded the Michael Gerson Medal for the best essay in the BAR Higher Certificate of Removals Management, and the second being the recognition of industry peer Robert Bartup after being asked to take on 2 of the GB Liner branches.

The one thing Phil would like to change within the industry is completion times, citing there needs to be time between exchange and completion to allow people to arrange their removals.

The advice Phil would give himself just starting out within the industry again is to seek out experienced people and pick their brains, and to join an association, such as the BAR.

In the next 5 years Phil doesn’t see much change within the industry, although he does see technology playing a bigger role. Phil doesn’t see electric trucks playing a major role within the industry due to their restrictions on distance, but he does see them playing more of a local role.

Outside of the industry Phil enjoys walking, he’s massively into sports, enjoys dining out and he’s joined a gym (but doesn’t go a lot).

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, regarding a survey that ended up in the master bedroom, only to discover another room.

Enjoy!

Special Guest: Phil Hambleton.

Britannia Bennetts run 4 HGV’s, 4 low-loaders, have a 20,000 sqft warehouse with 350 containers and 130 self-storage rooms. We discover what lead Judith (and Alan) into the self-storage industry as Malvern Self-Storage, which was led by customer demand in choice.

Judith’s challenge is being female in a male dominated industry, although this has changed as there are a lot more women in key roles today than when Judith started 25 years ago.

The one thing Judith would like to change from her moving past is to have more confidence in the business decisions she and Alan made in their early days in business together.

And I ask Judith if she thinks females make better surveyors.

Judith has several highpoints of being within the industry, meeting Alan is obviously the biggest, but also was joining A C Bennett Removals and turning it from sole trader into a limited company where she became a 50% shareholder, signing on the land for their current warehouse, joining Britannia Movers International and being invited onto the board, and finally, having her 2 eldest children join the family business as second generation.

Enjoy!

Links to Britannia Bennetts of Malvern:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter

Special Guest: Judith Bennett.

In 1992/3 Graham’s good friend Ian Wright started Removal Services Scotland, a company Graham joined from the offset, and in 2017 Graham and his colleague Greg McMullan took over ownership.

Removal Services Scotland is your traditional domestic and commercial removal company with its own container storage facility. Removal Services Scotland also provide European removals, which since Brexit has become more complicated, bureaucratic, time consuming and costly, but they are getting better prices due to fewer companies providing this service.

Graham has faced many challenges in his removal career, especially in the last 5 years since becoming a company owner but moving from a long-standing employee to company owner has been his biggest.

The one thing Graham would like to change from his moving past is to have become a company owner sooner, something that seemed so daunting during his early years within the industry.

Graham has a couple of highpoints of being within the industry, his early days at Pickfords being one, and taking ownership of Removal Services Scotland, and more recently Guardian Moving & Storage, being the other.

The one thing Graham would like to change within the industry is to accelerate the transition from diesel to electric/bio-fuel trucks as the opportunity is very limited at the current time.

The advice Graham would give himself just starting out in the industry again is not to be put off having a go at running your own business.

In the next 5 years Graham wants to continue to push and develop both Removal Services Scotland and Guardian Moving & Storage, and to ensure that there is an easy transition if and when Graham’s wife says he has to stop! Industry wise Graham hopes more people join the industry, skilled or unskilled, by showing them the possibilities that exist within our industry.

Outside of the industry Graham enjoys running and is part of a local club, he is a season ticket holder at Glasgow Rangers FC and loves his holidays, with Italy being his favourite destination.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, two in fact, one regarding a new suit and the other a shipping container prank.

Enjoy!

Links to Removal Services Scotland:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter

Special Guest: Graham Byers.

Tommy was due to go to Sterling University, to become an accountant or an actuary, however, from the age of 15 he was working the summer holidays for his Dad, earning £161.40 for a 45 hour week, a wage he soon got used to, and therefore ended up telling his Dad that he no longer wanted to go to university but wanted to work instead.

Guardian Moving & Storage are based between West Lothian and Edinburgh, and they provide mainly domestic and commercial relocation services, facilitate overseas relocation, provide containerised and self-storage as well as archive storage services.

Tommy has faced new challenges since becoming part owner of Guardian Moving & Storage as he’s since become HR, agony aunt, operator, salesman, etc., where so many more people have become reliant on him. However, his biggest challenge was experienced at a very young age, where he lost his father to a heart attack during a commercial move, and thus having to facilitate with the paperwork that followed, as well as taking over his father’s company.

Tommy would not change anything from his moving past and explains why, even with an old analogy.

Tommy’s most recent highpoint is becoming part owner of Guardian Moving & Storage, another is becoming part of the council of the BAR Young Movers Group.

Tommy goes on to inform us of the BAR Young Movers Group annual conference, which takes place in Cambridge as this episode airs, and we discuss how to become a member and the costs involved.

The one thing Tommy would like to change within the industry is to have a course on how to build/run a business, as described in episode 17 by Danny Pollard. Tommy also states that unlike many previous podcast guests he is against regulation, and I challenge him as to why, in which he builds an extremely good argument.

The advice Tommy would give himself just starting out in the industry again is to ask questions and seek answers quicker.

In the next 5 years Tommy doesn’t think the industry will change that much, although we are being quickly pushed into a more sustainable way of doing things. Personally, Tommy sees more of the same, growing, learning, and asking questions. I ask Tommy if he sees any changes in the selling side of the industry to which again, he has very strong views on.

Outside of the industry Tommy enjoys family time with his wife and 3 children, and he also runs his own fitness, nutrition, health, and wellbeing company.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, regarding porters getting a fright.

Enjoy!

Links to Guardian Moving & Storage:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• Linkedin

Special Guest: Tommy McNee.

Britannia Movers International is a co-operative of likeminded business owner/managers who all trade under the same brand and are shareholders within Britannia. Britannia consists of approximately 35 companies in 40 depots around the UK, 2 in South Africa and 1 in Spain. Britannia provide imports, exports, UK corporate, UK international and military relocations.

Mark explains that Britannia are looking for new members, specifically in Scotland, Cumbria, Coventry, Reading and Maidenhead, to name a few areas. Membership requirements are that 2 vehicles are liveried at the start of the relationship, BAR membership (or an intention to join) and BSEN12522.

Mark has had several challenges in his 19 years, the main ones being the financial side of Britannia when he first joined (as a temp), finding a warehouse to purchase or land to build a warehouse upon having spent 13 years in Croydon, and more recently the pandemic.

The one thing Mark would like to change from his moving past would have been to possibly find the time and/or the reason to go out on surveys and removals.

Mark’s highpoint of being within the industry is becoming Managing Director, a position he has held for 11 years now and is probably the longest serving, and also putting his mark on the annual Britannia Conferences, by taking them to places members wouldn’t have necessarily gone on their own accord.

Mark would like to change two things within the industry, the first being the conveyancing system, and the second being to move away from the noisy, smelly, diesel vehicles and onto electric (or any alternative fuel).

The advice Mark would give himself just starting out in the industry is to enjoy it, because life would be really dull if every day was exactly the same, but every day in our industry brings different challenges to rise to.

In the next 5 years Mark would see himself 5 years closer to retirement, and that Britannia has a succession plan for as and when Mark decides to call it a day. Industry wise Mark does think we could go through a downturn in business in the next couple of years with talk of recession and costs continuing to rise.

Outside of the industry Mark enjoys walking and reading, especially the Jack Reacher novels (by Lee Child) and a bit of Jeffrey Archer, and Mark plays occasional (due to lack of opportunity) golf.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, or not in Mark’s case as he admits to never actually moved house.

Enjoy!

Links to Britannia Movers International plc:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

Special Guest: Mark Tresler.

The original company was started in 1960 by Neil’s grandfather, as Matt Purdie & Sons, a coal merchant but he quickly began to see opportunities in moving and storage, where Matt Jnr (Neil’s uncle) and Archie (Neil’s father) became directors. In 2015 Matt Purdie & Sons was subject to a takeover and is now known as Purdie Worldwide Removals & Storage.

Purdie Worldwide Removals & Storage offer domestic, international, and commercial moves, as well as storage and self-storage. They currently run 26 vehicles, employ 46 staff, and have recently expanded into property maintenance and haulage.

Neil says every day brings its own challenges, growing up and working within the family business was and still is challenging, but his major challenge was in 2015 turning a paper-based office into an IT savvy office.

Neil doesn’t believe in having any regrets and that everything happens for a reason, so he has nothing that he would change from his moving past and has learned from every little mistake made.

Neil has many highpoints of being within the industry, but the main one is the people and classing many of them as friends, becoming Managing Director is a huge highpoint which allows Neil the chance to grow and change the business.

There is nothing in particular that Neil would change within the moving industry, but regulation for the 3.5 tonne market does need to be looked at which would help to make the industry be seen as a profession.

Neil’s advice to just starting out in the industry again is not taking anything for granted and time, enjoy the time that you are in this industry but do take time out for yourself and your family.

In the next 5 years Neil is in the process of having an 11,000 sqft unit with retail shops built on the land next door to their current location which they have been chasing for the best part of 20 years. Neil has recently started a haulage side to the business and is looking to expand upon this. Industry wise, Neil would like to see the industry achieve regulation.

Outside of the industry Neil is a big football supporter, his team being Hearts, and with his son now playing for the local team (which of course is sponsored by Purdie Worldwide Removals & Storage, as too is the local stadium), Neil helps throughout the week and at weekends with coaching sessions.

And as always we end Moving Matters with three, yes three funny moving stories, regarding a costly sat nav error, a McDonalds Drive-Thru and a burst zipper.

Enjoy!

Links to Purdie Worldwide Removals & Storage:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• Linkedin

Special Guest: Neil Purdie.

P. Fahey & Sons is based in Manchester and was started by Andrew’s grandfather some 65 years ago from a second-hand shop. However, legend would have it that, Andrew’s great, great, grandfather moved to Chicago in the 1890’s to work for Wells Fargo Transport.

Andrew’s biggest challenge is being enthusiastic to carry on doing what he’s doing!

Andrew didn’t have anything to change from his moving past but going forward he would like to change conveyancing.

Andrew’s highpoint of being within the industry is being able to do what he’s been able to do over the last couple of years regarding Covid, learning to adapt, keeping customers and staff safe, and having the lads step up to the challenge.

Apart from the conveyancing, Andrew would like to change the pay and conditions for the guys, and women of course.

Andrew’s advice to himself just starting out in the industry again is that it’s not all about money, it’s important and vital to what we do but it’s not about being the cheapest, or the most expensive.

In the next 5 years Andrew hopes to encourage the kids who have taken up roles within the company. Industry wise Andrew see’s more competition from the man & van type of operators who started up during the pandemic.

Outside of the industry Andrew spends his time with the kids and family, stating there’s nothing better than a Sunday roast and getting the family around.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story regarding Jock and his modus operandi!

Enjoy!

Links to P. Fahey & Sons LLP:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram

Special Guest: Andrew Fahey.

Quickmove was originally started by Peter Monk in the early 70’s, where some twenty years later he joined Britannia Movers International. In 2017 Peter sold the business to a local self-storage company, who then sold the removal side of the business (which included Phillips Removals, a small local removal company that have been around since the 1860/70’s) to Jordan & his wife in 2020.

Jordan’s biggest challenge that he’s had to overcome in the industry is his youth. Other challenges are the line ‘that’s how it’s always been done’, and managing the risk of Covid, but having only been in the industry for 10 tender years he does expect challenges ahead.

The one thing Jordan would change from his moving past is to have spent more time on the vehicles. Jordan also wishes he had made the jump to owner sooner, and began studying earlier too, as he is currently studying for a Master’s Degree in Business & Leadership, where he hopes he can be a future industry leader.

One of Jordan’s highpoints was the undertaking of a move for a very prestigious school in Wiltshire that was once home to a Princess, which resulted in further recommendations.

Jordan believes to change only one thing within the industry is a disservice, therefore I happily gave him the opportunity to choose several, and he chose; being recognised as a trade, which is a long-term goal; legislation for the regulation of smaller vehicles; a push towards more young people taking on key roles within the industry; recruiting younger people into the industry; innovation of technology; sustainability; electric & driverless trucks; diversity.

And we discuss Jordan’s reality TV idea that we just need Channel 4 to buy into!

The biggest advice Jordan would give himself just starting out in the industry again is to not let any boundary stop you from pushing to achieve more.

In the next five years Jordan hopes to have grown the business and taken on a new site. He would also like to become a BAR DED (Directly Elected Director), and who knows, maybe BAR President?

Outside of the industry, when not working fulltime and studying for his Master’s Degree, Jordan’s life is completely determined by what his new born son wants to do.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story regarding a very naked lady!

Enjoy!

Links to Britannia Quickmove:

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram

Special Guest: Jordan Bignell.

Stranks Removals & Storage was started by David’s grandfather in Thornton Heath, Surrey, in 1941, who was an engineer by trade working in the bomb factory during the day and moving people from their bombed homes during the night. Today Stranks Removals & Storage are based in Ashford, Kent, having taken the decision several years ago to completely relocate themselves to a brand new area. They cover all aspects of removals, running 4 trucks, 5 vans, employ 17 staff and store 250 containers within their own 13,000 sqft warehouse.

David’s challenges have been varied, but an immense challenge was relocating the company from Thornton Heath to Ashford. Covid was and still is a massive challenge, and so too is accepting change.

David would like to change a few things from his moving past, not taking things personally, joining the BAR earlier, not to get too familiar with staff, and try to employ nonfamily members within the office.

One of David’s biggest highpoints was to see his son join the business and become a fourth-generation remover, his other highpoints include becoming chairman of the BAR Kent Area, and then becoming elected as a BAR DED (Directly Elected Director), something David has thoroughly enjoyed.

David would like the industry to be recognised, but he would also like to change the completion system as in its current state it is simply not fit for purpose anymore.

The advice David would give, firstly to his son who hasn’t long been in the industry himself is to always go that extra mile, and then to himself just starting out in the industry again is to ensure you make time for yourself outside of the industry.

In the next 5 years David sees himself hopefully only working 3-4 days a week, industry wise he does believe the completion system will change, emission zones and thus vehicles will play a big part within the industry, full packing (and unpacking) will become the norm as more and more people work from home, and we’ll continue to have problems with recruiting and keeping drivers.

Outside of the industry David is very active, competing in motorcycle trials (show jumping on motorcycles), playing golf, and enjoying the 8 acres of land that came with his own recent house move.

And as always with end Moving Matters with several short funny moving stories, involving moves in snow, a moustache, a man in a dress, and a dilemma over intimate photographs!

Enjoy!

Links to Stranks Removal & Storage:

• Website
• Facebook

Special Guest: David Strank.

Although Angus wasn’t born into the industry, he does believe he was born to be in this industry having spent most of his youth as an expat, relocating from country to country. In his 34 year career Angus has only worked for 3 companies, Hoults (2 years), Bishops Move (15 years) & Britannia Lanes (17 years currently).

Earlier than usual in the podcast, Angus tells us that his greatest point of being in the industry was convincing his bosses at the time (Bishops Move) that they should be represented at the BAR conference, which Angus then attended. And it was at the BAR conference at The Belfry that Angus met fellow conference attendee Ms Maria Lane, who in 2006 became Mrs Maria Russell, hence Angus’s move from Bishops Move to Britannia Lanes of Somerset & Bristol.

Britannia Lanes started back in 1974 by Sylvia and Mike Lane after they were left some warehouses. Today they operate from 3 locations, Chacewater, Exeter & Bridgwater, with an unmanned Self Store due to open in Falmouth very soon. Britannia Lanes offer containerised storage, self storage, van hire, international, european, commercial & domestic relocation, shredding, and records management.

Angus talks in depth about training and the training services he provides to the industry, and we discuss the general question of what is the return on investment? From this came one of my favourite sentences, “we move dreams and aspirations”.

Angus has faced the challenges of a recession, but he finds the constant changes in legislation one of his biggest challenges, especially when the small businesses (the mum and dad business) have to upgrade on a corporate scale.

Angus wouldn’t change anything from his moving past, stating what you go through builds the character for who you are.

Apart from the obvious highpoint (see above) another of Angus’s highpoint was being made a Directly Elected Director of the BAR, which he really enjoyed.

The one thing Angus would like to change within the industry is the pay and value of the operational staff, but we can only do this by making the public recognise just how highly skilled moving actually is.

Angus’s advice to just starting out in the industry is listen, understand, and then make your viewpoint.

In the next 5 years Angus would like to continue his focus on training, maybe semi-retire (but that’s too hopeful) but without leaving the industry. In the next 10 years (rather than the usual 5), Angus sees the industry becoming more eco-friendly, with hydrogen vehicles being the way to go. And that the millennials will affect the industry as they collect less, resulting in smaller moves.

Outside of the industry Angus enjoys cooking, loves travelling, is into his pyrotechnics and of course spending time with his wife.

And as always we end Moving Matters with 2 funny moving stories, the first involving “milk!” and the second involving a chap looking for employment.

Enjoy!

Links to Britannia Lanes:

• Website

Special Guest: Angus Russell.

We discover that Bennetts of Malvern Limited (prior to Britannia Bennetts of Malvern) started on 27th March, 1987 and today is ran by Alan and his wife of 24 years Judith where they operate 4 HGV’s, 4 low-loaders (2 of which are from the van-hire side of the business), 8 removal staff, 4 office staff and a 20,000 sqft warehouse (on a 2 acre site), where half houses 350 containers and the rest is 130 Self-Storage units, with a further 130 Self-Storage units being fitted in the new year.

We discuss what the deciding factor was with Alan joining Britannia Movers International, which Alan points out is a co-operative and not a franchise that everyone seems to think it is (including me).

We discover Alan’s challenges, the house purchase collapse in 1989, the 2008 financial crash, but the biggest one has been Covid.

We discuss that the one thing Alan would change from his moving past would be to have undertaken a business life coaching course from the beginning, which after 20 years he has self-taught from reading books and watching YouTube.

We discover that Alan’s highpoints of being in the industry include taking on Judith, who became Alan’s wife and business partner. Alan claims that she’s the executioner of his ideas (I may have to get Judith on to confirm or deny that claim!). Other highpoints include joining Britannia (where Alan has just been appointed to the board), joining BAR, buying his first truck, and of course seeing his staff develop.

We discuss what Alan would change within the moving industry, reducing the VAT threshold is one, and although Alan has no problems with 3.5 tonne vehicles, he would like to change the enforcement of them, and finally completion dates.

We discover that the advice Alan would give himself just starting out in the industry, apart from a business/life coaching course is to just treat people with respect.

We discuss what changes Alan sees in the next 5 years, in the industry Alan believes the days of the HGV truck is slowly and sadly fading away as we utilise low loaders more and more. Personally, Alan wants to retire at 60 and give something back to the community, for no money, maybe even provide some business life coaching.

We discover that outside of the industry Alan enjoys home life on his 5-acre sheep ranch, cycling, walking the dog on the Malvern Hills, however, he really enjoys trips in his most luxurious purchase, a Morgan sports car, bought of course with the permission of Judith.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story, regarding a trip to the Isle of Wight.

BONUS: Alan plays a game with me, the removal man’s slang, from when he started in the industry!

Enjoy!

Links to Britannia Bennetts of Malvern:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter

Special Guest: Alan Bennett.

We discover that the Pickfords management training scheme was a 3-year program and you learned everything to do with removals, from sweeping the yard, making the tea, answering the telephone and you spent a period of time doing removals, writing reports and making suggestions based upon your experiences.

We discuss that Paul has recently become a part owner of Squab Removals & Storage which is based in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire. Squab Removals & Storage are BAR members, hold 2 of the quality standards (BSEN12522 & BSEN14873), operate 9 vehicles, have a modern warehouse housing 900 containers, and are seen as the professional choice within the area they work in.

We discover that Paul is a strong believer in standards and has been involved in QSS (Quality Service Standards) for the past 6 years and Paul believes there is a very strong link between standards, quality, and profitability. Paul also thinks standards are a health check to a business and I question whether the standards need looking at again considering they have been around for quite some time now, unchanged.

We discuss that Squab Removals & Storage have their own training centre, which is a 3-bedroom purpose-built house within one of their warehouses, complete with household effects and the general challenges found when providing a moving service.

We discover that Paul has had lots of challenges over the years and the challenges are certainly different being your own boss and having your own business to working for somebody else. However, the challenge of educating customers has never changed and this still shocks Paul to this very day.

We discuss the one thing Paul would change from his moving past, but Paul thinks it’s always difficult to look back and much prefers looking forward to the future. Having recently become a company owner, later in life than most, he does wonder if passing up on an opportunity years ago to invest in his own company is a regret. Paul also believes that while you can always blame the past you have to learn from it too.

We discover Paul’s highlight of being in the industry and it’s the people, many of whom have become great friends, and the memories made that you will take with you as you go forward.

We discuss how we can get youngsters into our industry and Paul says people have to see it as a career and a profession in the UK, just like they do in America and other European countries.

We discover that the one thing Paul would like to change within the industry is for our industry to be seen as a profession (as previously discussed) and for customers to pay a proper value for what we do - Paul states when we sell ourselves short, the only people we are ever harming is ourselves, and it should not be a race to the bottom.

We discuss the advice Paul would give to himself just starting out in the industry, and it’s knowing and understanding the business as a whole, understand every element of what goes on within the business and understand your numbers (your true costs).

We discover that within the next 5 years Paul’s ambition is to grow the business and increase its footprint into 2-3 locations, so Squab Removals & Storage are on the acquisition hunt. As an industry the HGV shortage is going to be a challenge, so we need to put value not only in our drivers but also in our porters too, as they are our next drivers.

We discuss that outside of the industry Paul enjoys the countryside, either walking, cycling or driving in his sports car, and Paul is a fan of the egg chasing sport of rugby.

And as always we end Moving Matters with two funny moving stories, one involving the pecking order and the other involving lighting!

Enjoy!

Links to Squab Removals & Storage:

• Website
• Twitter
• Facebook
• Instagram

Special Guest: Paul Tracey.

We discover that BAR Services is a trading arm of BAR (British Association of Removers) and was setup in 1977 to be a bulk purchasing organisation after a successful study tour of America. Today BAR Services sell to BAR members, non-members, has branched out to supply the self-storage industry and more recently directly to the general public, via its website. BAR Services was and still remains a ‘not for profit’ organisation, where profits are shared amongst its BAR member customers.

We discuss why the price of cardboard has risen so much in recent times, and Miranda warns us that it’s about to rise once again!

We discover that the cost of plastic has also risen, albeit not as often but sadly in larger percentages, however, it is Miranda’s strategic goal to become more environmentally friendly with the product range.

We discuss that Miranda’s biggest challenge was taking on the mantle of running a successful business after the retirement of Tony Allen, and proving to the board of directors that she was the right candidate to take the business forward.

We discover that Miranda would not change a thing from her past as she has really enjoyed her working life within this wonderful industry, where she has made many good friends.

We discuss Miranda’s highpoint which was increasing the turnover of BAR Services to £6.2 million!

We discover that the one thing Miranda would change within the industry is to charge the right price for the service that is offered, and hopes that the industry does not revert back to a race to the bottom line anytime soon.

We discuss the advice that Miranda would give to herself just starting out in the industry again and it is to have a healthy liver! Miranda loves to network, and I personally will state she is one of the best I know at it!

We discover that in 5 years time Miranda will still be here as she really enjoys her job and the industry. Industry wise Miranda hopes the industry becomes more environmentally friendly.

We discuss that outside of the industry Miranda enjoys family time with her husband, two children and grandchildren, touring around the UK in their recently purchased campervan, and runs twice a week with her girlfriends.

And as always we end Moving Matters with two funny stories, one involving her first presentation and another regarding a bee keeper – although Miranda does have a little black book containing plenty of dirt on well-known industry folk – NOT!

Enjoy!

Links to BAR Services:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter

Special Guest: Miranda Hyder.

We discover that Richard Healey Removals was started by her father (Richard) in 1965, who was a painter and decorator working in London, returning home at weekends, but soon discovered he was making more money transporting goods back and forth in his van, and thus the foray into removals began!

We discuss that today, Richard Healey Removals provide predominantly domestic and commercial removals, some European & International moves, storage in a 120,000sqft warehouse and shredding, running 15 vehicles, employing approximately 32 staff and house just over 1,000 storage containers. And all of this is now managed by brother Richard, Georgina herself, and Barry (Operations Manager)!

We discover Richard Healey Removals are heavily involved in training and have their own training facility onsite, which is a BAR approved training school.

We discuss the challenges faced and the biggest one was losing a major contract 8/9 years ago that they had held for many years, leaving them with simply no business! Using their resources and having to start from scratch they built Richard Healey Removals into a ‘proper’ removal business.

We discover that Georgina wouldn’t change a thing from the past, losing the contract allowed the team to grow as a company into what it is today.

We discuss Georgina’s highpoints and its winning awards. Richard Healey Removals are past winners of the BAR Domestic Mover of the Year in 2015, in 2017 they won 2 awards for customer service at the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, and they are previous winners of Scotland’s Top Truck Training Operator at the Transport Awards, where Georgina was presented with the award by Anne, Princess Royal.

We discover that the one thing Georgina would like to change within the industry is keys, but also exchange and completion on the same day.

We discuss the advice that Georgina would give to herself just starting in the industry again and it would be to network, get to know other companies but also make yourself know to people, use the training resources available and join BAR either as a company or/and as an individual member.

We discover that in 5 years time Georgina hopes Richard Healey Removals continues along its current growth path but keeping everything manageable. Industry wise Georgina hopes the decent rates are here to stay as the current driver (and porter) shortage is pushing up wages.

And we discuss how we are going to have to do more to entice new blood into the industry, through many of the career paths available, just as Georgina did 6 years ago with Ryan & Ryan (yes, I know!).

We discover that outside of the industry Georgina likes to keep fit and reads for relaxation, but is mainly taxi for her two children (15 & 17), where he daughter does a lot of dancing and her son a lot of football.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story regarding the making of a promotional video.

Enjoy!

Links to Richard Healey Removals:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

Special Guest: Georgina Berry.

We discover that after 8/9 years Paul’s father had built the company into Fox The Mover building a couple of warehouses along the way. Paul joined the company working weekends and school holidays to fund his motorcycle habit and started fulltime at the age of 16, starting as a porter and in the garage, and at the young age of 18 through the RTITB (Road Transport Industry Training Board) gained his HGV licence. Before turning 20 Paul was shipped off to run the Cardiff branch (William Flay Removals) under the guidance of Stuart Fitton.

We discuss that when Roy took on the BAR Presidency in 1984, Paul (aged 23) was transferred to run the head office in Cwmbran, which consisted approximately of 8 trucks on removals and 8 trucks on distribution.

We discover that Roy, together with John Court, Mike Banks, Mike Devereux and a few others formed a co-operative called Britannia Movers International, which was based upon American Van Lines, but Roy left, amicably, in 1986. In 1987 The Pantechnicon (established 1830) was purchased but was an absolute disaster which nearly cost their own business.

We discuss that today Fox Group turnover approximately £10m, 40-50 trucks, 120 staff and 14 business units.

We discover Paul’s challenges have been the turmoil years after buying The Pantechnicon, the recession in 1992, the subprime mortgage crisis in 2007, and of course Covid.

We discuss that the one thing Paul would change from his past would be to get an education, however this is not a regret but merely an observation.

We discover Paul has several highpoints of being within the industry, BAR (which has been Paul’s university from an educational point of view), following in his father’s footsteps and taking up Presidency in 2004, eventually getting all the shares of the company and becoming the owner, and building new & refurbishing old premises.

We discuss the one thing Paul would change within the industry is yet again 3.5 tonne vans as it is a low entry into the industry, but that may be changing with European Union legislation insisting that vehicles over 2.5 tonne are registered on your operators licence.

We discover that the advice Paul would give to himself starting out in the industry again would be to work smarter not harder.

We discuss where Paul sees himself and the industry in the next 5 years, for himself he does not see himself retiring, even though his father retired at 60, and industry wise he does hope that 3.5 tonne regulation is enforced, but also believes it is up to the younger generation to be professional and develop their businesses, perhaps becoming better salesmen.

We discover that outside of the industry Paul does try to discipline himself and switch off, and is a frustrated sportsman participating in long distance running, cycling and triathlons! And living in a barn conversion with a couple of fields there is always something for Paul to be doing.

And as always we end Moving Matters with three funny moving stories, one involving a piano, one involving a bicycle during an institute study tour to Frankfurt, and one involving Mike Devereux and a minibar!

Enjoy!

Links to Fox Group (Moving & Storage) Ltd:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Linkedin

Special Guest: Paul Fox.

We discover that today’s company is Leatherbarrows (Britannia Leatherbarrows to be exact), which David and wife Diane bought from Aubrey Appleton in 1981 and was based in Hounslow, West London. David and Diane took the business into Pelican, but after some of the big players had decided to leave David was faced with either recruiting new Pelican members or offering themselves as a group to Britannia, which they did in 1987. In 1988 David was able to buy part of the family business, Trenchards, and took over Sketchley’s which virtually doubled the size of his business.

We discuss that David’s challenges were having no money at all when he and Diane bought Leatherbarrows, and 6 months after acquiring the business David was awarded a contract from a local department store who wanted to outsource their warehousing and deliveries, a contract David held for 39 years until the department store went into administration in 2019.

We discover that David would not change anything from his past because the traumatic experience of leaving the family business and buying Leatherbarrows gave David much better opportunity than he would have had.

We discuss David’s high points, of which there are many, but his biggest high point was in 1992 where he became BAR President for the year (as they were back in those days), the year when the borders came down in Europe. And the BAR Conference that David organised during his Presidency year which was held at Bournemouth International Centre (my first BAR conference where I exhibited as a supplier), which David was the Chairman of the Centre when it was built.

We discover that BAR Services did come from a study tour, the first BAR study tour of the USA and a consequent study tour of Europe where David, Derek Blatchford, Joe Luxford and others persuaded BAR to setup a study group to look at such things the industry and BAR could benefit from. In 1977 (corrected – not 1985) BAR Services was born as a co-operative/buying group and recruited Tony Allen to manage it. David was Chairman of BAR Services for 15 years, giving up the role when he became BAR President, but stayed on the board for 35 years!

We discuss BSEN12522 (something I was involved in being part of the original 6 companies to field trial it), and David has always been interested in standards. In 1992/3 after David’s Presidency, the French Removals Association had created a Quality Standard for Removals and had recommended it as a European Standard. 7 years on and David had completely rewritten it into what it is today.

We discover that QSS (Quality Service Standards), something David is very proud of, was formed because although FEDEMAC wanted to use outside companies to provide the assessments, the BAR, with David’s leadership, decided to use the talent of retired removers and train them to undertake the assessments. QSS is totally independent from BAR and non-BAR companies can apply to QSS for many of the ISO and BS Standards currently available.

We discuss that the one thing David would change within the industry is to make the BSEN12522 part of the BAR membership criteria. David would also like more regulation on the low weight vehicles (3.5 tonnes).

We discover that the advice David would give to himself just starting out again would be to follow your beliefs and do not be afraid to make yourself the odd one out.

We discuss that in the next 5 years David sees himself as just being there to provide guidance to his daughter and son-in-law who now run the business. We learn that David wanted to invest in demountable bodies as they offer more flexibility over rigids, similar to Richard Webster’s (Tonks Removals) comments in Episode 21. Industry wise David thinks removers need to be cleverer, recruit more youngsters and train them properly, and drivers have got to be self-taught.

We discover that David has over 300 model trucks that he has collected over the years! And I recite a story about my old boss, John McGinty (Alton Moves Group) who had models produced of his livery, to only discover an error on them!

We discuss that outside of the industry David has never lost his interest in local politics, and upon retirement from an employee of Leatherbarrows David was instrumental in successfully lobbying to drop the number of local councils in the Dorset area from 9 to 2.

And as always we end Moving Matters with not a funny, but a charming moving story with a repeat event that happened 25 years apart!

Enjoy!

Links to Britannia Leatherbarrows:

• Website
• Facebook
• Linkedin
• Twitter
• Instagram

Special Guest: David Trenchard.

We discover that after 18 months full time in Exeter, Mark was sent to Stockport for 4 weeks to manage John Bradshaw, which was jointly owned by Derek Blatchford and Burt Waddington. However, 4 weeks turned into 4 years and Mark returned to the Exeter depot after John Bradshaw was sold to Malcolm Halley, before moving to the Bristol depot for a couple of years.

We discuss that in Mark’s latter years of his time at Blatchpack Bristol, he got quite heavily involved in antique shipping to the States. Upon leaving Blatchpack in 1988, Mark started antique shipping for Mike Bell (based in Chicago), which he did for 6 years. In 1994 he expanded into antique shipping for others, and although Mark did not want to do removals, however a change in the antique marketplace (with 911, the advent of the Internet, and the aids virus), meant that in 2003 Mark ordered his first removal truck!

We discover that having had experience of the BAR during his early days at Blatchpack, Mark joined the BAR in 2003, and on his second BAR area meeting became National Councillor for the Western Area, which was the start of Mark’s interest in BAR matters.

We discuss that approximately 12 years ago Mark met the Morton family in Cyprus, and started a working relationship offering imports and exports, which now accounts for a third of Mark’s business.

We discover that Mark has had a few challenges, in the early days it was financial, in 2008/9 it was the recession, but the most difficult was an accident that involved a fatality. Mark’s current challenge is trying to find drivers!

We discuss the change Mark would make from his past, especially the early days, was to take a few more chances rather than being too conservative.

We discover Mark’s succession plan was going to be his son Adam taking over the business. However, due to a very serious accident to a family member Adam switched industries to ensure continuation of that family business. Due to this Mark decided to look into selling the business and was in discussion with one of the larger groups, and then Covid hit which scuppered everything, but coincidently at the time an approach was made by Paul Fox, and today Chudley Moving & Shipping is now part of The Fox Group.

We discuss Mark’s high point, and it is that he succeeded in business, the respect earned, and working with his family.

We discover that Mark is BAR President Elect (BAR President from June 2021), and hopes to continue the theme of BAR being there for its members, supporting the Director General (Ian Studd) and to be active on committees.

We discuss what Mark would like to change within the industry and it is regulation and 3.5 tonne vans having an affect on the professionalism of the industry.

We discover that Mark’s advice to a younger self would be to have more confidence, but on the whole he is pretty happy with what he has achieved.

We discuss that over the next 5 years Mark has his 2 years of BAR Presidency, he is not ready for full retirement and is looking forward to opportunities within The Fox Group. Industry wise, Mark does not see any change in regulation and therefore smaller movers will continue to dominate the industry, and he also sees more consolidation.

We discover that outside of the industry Mark never switches off, but does find time to visit his caravan in Cornwall in the Summer, enjoys cooking and restoration, which he learnt from his early days working with Mike Bell.

And as always we end Moving Matters with 3 funny moving stories including a European trip via Switzerland, and another involving radiator covers!

Enjoy!

Links to Chudley Moving & Shipping:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter

Special Guest: Mark Chudley.

We discover that Tonks Removals was formed by the Tonks family in Scarborough back in 1820 and today celebrates its 201st year in business. Tonks Removals was put up for sale in 1995 by then owner Nigel Tonks, and Richard (20) together with his brother James (22) purchased the business for the princely sum of £8,000, with the assets consisting of a Bedford truck, the goodwill, the equipment, and the storage, which had to be relocated from its existing old school depository.

We discuss that there are no set roles within Tonks Removals for Richard or James, however James is more on the trucks while Richard is more office based, but they both like to get away on jobs when they can.

We discover that the challenges Richard has had to overcome were the lack of money, as the industry is a high-cost industry but not a high margin one, and being taken seriously at such a young age, but the biggest challenge was learning how to run a business.

We discuss that even though Richard cannot change anything from his past, however, if he could it would be to realise what the actual costs are to operate your business, know your costs and stop subsidising others who waltz off with the profit!

We discover that Richard’s high point of being in the industry in terms of the business was purchasing land to build their own facility in Carnaby, a mere 8 years ago, and as a person it is having the respect of others which he has earned and worked for.

We discuss that Richard would change a few things within the industry but the main one being the public perception of our industry (again!), which has changed in recent months, but he can see it reverting in due course. And I raise the question of whether the general public’s perception is that it’s not seen as skilled labour (which of course it is!) and discuss this further with Richard.

We discover that Richard uses demountable bodies (19 at the time of recording), as well as fixed bodied truck, but the demountable bodies offer the convenience of access issues, short term storage and cost implications for replacement of trucks.

We discuss that the advice Richard would give to a younger self and it would be to know your costings and not to be afraid to market yourself at the better end of the market.

We discover that in the next 5 years Richard sees the niche corporate moving in and out of Europe getting smaller and smaller with company mergers and acquisitions, plus the realisation that people can successfully work remotely, but he sees no change in the domestic moving industry.

We discuss how imports and exports since Brexit has affected business and Richard states that it is getting easier as the guidance, systems and knowledge base improves, and it is better as a lot of movers have pulled out of the European market and therefore sees relocation prices rising.

We discover that Tonks Removals are not members of the BAR, and Richard explains his reasons for this, but he and James have discussed applying once again.

We discuss that outside of the industry Richard tends to sleep a lot! He has started doing a lot more walking with his wife, he is a keen motorsport fan due to his love for driving, and he is actively involved in the parish council.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a couple of funny moving stories, a potentially X-rated one involving the client, the crew and a hot-tub, one involving Richard and an obnoxious customer, and a couple of short tales involving digging up a dead cat, and a terminally ill dog.

Enjoy!

Links to Tonks Removals:

• Website
• Facebook

Special Guest: Richard Webster.

We discover that Robert is the progeny of another man who was in the removal industry, who’s father was also in the removal industry, making him not a 3rd generation removal man but a 3rd generation removal director.

We discover that GB Liners was formed by Robert’s Grandfather in Brighton back in 1923, and today GB Liners consists of 11 branches using the GB Liners brand and has approximately 100 vehicles and employs 250-300 staff across the group, which also includes 2 Self Storage businesses, Clark & Rose with 3 branches in Scotland, and surprisingly Unique Van Bodies, who build trucks for the removal industry. We also discover that Robert concentrates on doing the job right and being the most expensive mover in town, rather than doing it wrong and being the cheapest mover in town!

We discuss challenges, where Robert explains no money was the challenge in the early days, and that a fire nearly destroyed the business in 1990!

We discover that one thing Robert would change from his past was not working outside of the family business for a period, as he has always been an employer and never an employee.

We discuss some of Robert’s high points of being in the industry, consisting of some of the buildings and trucks he’s built, the Moving Up project that he did in the late 1990’s, his BAR Presidency and more recently being awarded BAR Honorary Life Membership. We also discuss how ‘Rebel’ Robert became involved in the BAR APG Scheme.

We discover that one thing Robert would change within the industry is for the industry to be proud of the service it provides and prouder of the price it charges for it, as the industry has a great tendency to underestimate its own value, skill, effort, and risk that it undertakes.

We discuss that the advice Robert would give to a young Robert, or Roberta, would be to find themselves a mentor or a series of mentors, and tap into their knowledge and experience, and not to be afraid to ask questions.

We discover that Robert is immortal, but in 5 years’ time he doesn’t want to be involved in the nitty gritty day to day stuff that comes along and will nudge other people into taking over those roles, however, he has a challenge to find people to take over the non operational type of issues. Robert does believe that the process of consolidation will continue and that customers will be stolen and sold back by the lead generation type people.

We discover that outside of the business Robert is a keen Hereford Football Club fan being a season ticket holder and club sponsor, he likes his holidays, and would also like to spend more time in the South of France, maybe purchase a second home there.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a couple of funny moving stories, both concerning victorious County Court appearances!

Enjoy!

Links to GB Liners:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• Linkedin

Special Guest: Robert Bartup.

We discover that Tony started with general cargo before realising there was very little money to be made, and switching to become a destination agent, handling household goods for the likes of Four Winds Middle East.

We discover The Eurogroup operate from 3 depots, with an additional 2 that are purely storage only, running approximately 40 vehicles, employ 44 staff, and that they do not provide domestic or commercial moves, they purely do household moves to and from Europe and Internationally.

We discuss Tony’s challenges, his biggest personal one being his dyslexia, while his biggest commercial challenge was being recognised within the industry for their corporate accounts, and discuss how Tony changed the tariff structure for unloading deepsea containers.

We discover that Tony wouldn’t change anything from his past but does highlight that in the early days he didn’t truly understand his costs, something he definitely does today!

We discuss Tony’s high point of being in the industry, and discover he has many; moving high profile celebrities, being chosen as the management company for one of the largest contracts in the UK, and that he was chosen to be a joint supplier for the drawdown of personnel out of Germany for the MOD back in 2015, moving 2,500 families over a 12 week period. But his real high point was being asked to become BAR President.

We discuss the Movers Trading Club, of which Tony is the current Chairman and discover what it provides to its membership and how to join such an illustrious group.

Being the immediate past President of the BAR, we discover just how much Tony enjoyed undertaking that role, yet found it challenging at times.

We discover that one thing Tony would change in the industry is regulation, but this time at a governmental level!

We discover that the advice he would give to a young Tony would be to know your costings and not to be a busy fool.

We discuss where Tony see’s the industry in 5 years, and on the shipping side he does think we’re in the biggest transition the industry has ever been in as shipments are decreasing in size as we live in a more disposable world and carry so much information in a digital rather than a physical form.

We discover that outside of the business Tony never truly switches off. However, he is a car fanatic and is currently rebuilding a 40 year old Suzuki Jeep, which he tracked down in Ibiza to then discover it was sold by his father’s dealership in the UK back in the day! Being a car fanatic Tony is an avid fan of F1 and loves off-road racing, something he may look to get back into.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny story regarding the shipment for a VIP of a really big blue chip company, a polaroid camera and a statue of Eros!

Enjoy!

Links to The Eurogroup:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Linkedin

Special Guest: Tony Tickner.

We discover what one thing my guests would change as a whole within the moving industry, with Michael discussing the general outside perspective for a trade in which he believes is a skilled trade (and I totally agree!), Mairead has a real dig at solicitors over exchange and completion dates, Tommy agrees with Mairead and provides an example on how it can effect the Working Time Directive as he believes the moving industry is always an afterthought, Alexandra covers the service being offered over the race to the bottom line and also agrees with Mairead, Calvin echo’s the comments already made and touches upon the professionalism of the moving industry, Ciaran would like to see some form of regulation, and Daniel reiterates public perception and would like the industry to work together a bit more.

When it comes to what advice this young bunch would give to a young mover just starting out in the moving industry, Michael suggests that you show initiative as there is so much room for development and progression within this industry, Mairead echo’s Michaels views and highly recommends that you get involved with the BAR Young Movers Group, Tommy recommends the invaluable networking, Alexandra reminds everyone that it’s not a weakness to ask questions, Calvin reiterates the advice already given and adds that if you are office based then hot desk to increase your own value within the company, Ciaran recommends training, lots of training, and Daniel suggests you surround yourself with the people that have the knowledge.

We discover where each of my guests see themselves and the industry in 5 years, where Michael believes his own future is in the hands of his Directors, and that the young movers can drive the industry forward, Mairead believes the industry will slow down for city movers as more and more people relocate to their ‘forever home’ in the countryside being as they are now able to work from home as a result of the recent pandemic, and she sees herself as maybe moving more into a surveying role, Tommy would like a Directors role within Guardian Moving & Storage and would like to become a voice for the industry, and he hopes a form of regulation comes about for the industry, Alexandra sees herself growing within her current role and expanding her knowledge, but doesn’t see any huge incoming changes to the industry, Calvin would have served his stint as Chairman of the BAR Young Movers Group as he moves into the role of Vice Chairman next year and sees more responsibility coming his way from the family business, in the industry he has noticed shipments are getting smaller and has seen a change in commercial relocation as more and more of us are now able to work from home, Ciaran is in the process of buying a warehouse to stand the business in good stead for the future, but isn’t too sure on the industry, and Daniel would like to still see himself as part of GB Liners and driving it forward and maintaining his involvement within the BAR.

And finally, we end with several funny moving stories, Michael didn’t have a funny story as they were far to incriminating, but he did recite a story that involved moving Professional Golfer Rory Mcllroy and how curiosity got the better of him, Mairead recites a packing job she was once on where she was tipped in Home Made Greek Halloumi Cheese, and the moment she took the DNA from a cup Rock Legend Liam Gallagher drank from while in attendance at their warehouse, Tommy recites a story where he and his crew pranked an apprentice by telling him he needed a passport to cross the border into England, Alexandra is far to young to have a moving story but does recite the history of Lanes, Calvin recites a story he had been told regarding a couple of PBO boxes coming from a bedroom making the sound of a battery powered toothbrush, and Calvin clears the company name regarding receipt of a damaged shipment for British Long Distance Runner Sir Mo Farah, just in case its mentioned on ‘I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!’, Ciaran recites a story regarding a foreman, the foreman’s wife and a snooker table, while on a removal, and Daniel recites a charming story regarding a large bronze garden statue of a lady, with a black mark on her thigh.

Enjoy!

Links to the BAR Young Movers Group:

• Website
• Facebook

Special Guests: Alexandra Lane, Calvin Tickner, Ciaran Mullarkey, Daniel Braddock, Mairead Almandras, Michael Dunbar, and Tommy McNee.

We discover that Michael is 33 and works for McGimpsey’s in Belfast, Mairead is 29 and works for Britannia Sanderstead’s in Surrey, Tommy is 33 and works for Guardian Moving & Storage in Edinburgh, Alexandra (the baby of the group) is 22 and works for Britannia Lanes in Devon, Calvin is 28 and works for The Eurogroup, Ciaran is 38 (and not 28 as I mistakenly wrote down!), and works for George Pickersgill & Son and Daniel is 32 and works for GB Liners.

We discuss the BAR Young Movers Group as a whole and discover from Ciaran that the group networks and socialises together, and have previously sold out 3 educational events, held at remover locations in Birmingham, Cardiff and Brighton, with Belfast on the calendar for 2021.

We discover from Daniel that membership has just been launched, at the mere cost of £55 + VAT per year, and is available to BAR and non-BAR members, with non-BAR members requiring individual membership too at the cost of £100 + VAT per year. Being that it is a group for ‘young movers’, there is a cut-off age of 40. We discover from Calvin that there was a Young Movers Group in the past and how he set about resurrecting it.

When asked who has the aspirations to become the next BAR President, Ciaran threw Calvin’s name into the ring before both agreeing that Mr GB (Daniel) was first off.

We then delve into each council member and discover how they got started in the industry, discovering their previous roles as well as their current. We discover that 3 work within the family business, thus being Mairead, Alexandra and Calvin, and that Ciaran is a partner of George Pickersgills & Son. We discover that Calvin went to University in Nottingham, chosen purely on the ratio of women to men! And we discover that Dan is a 3rd generation remover.

We discover the personal challenges of each, Michael losing his driving licence, Mairead being sent to a Young Movers Conference in Budapest not knowing anyone, but it really helped with her confidence, Tommy not being taken seriously as a 22 year young project manager, as well as losing his father on a job, Alexandra has had no challenges as yet but there is the child of the boss syndrome that goes with the territory, as Mairead, Calvin and Ciaran also discuss, and Dan’s biggest challenge was moving from the operative side of the business to the office and into management.

We discus what each person would change from their moving past, even though they are all so young, and discover that most would not change anything, yet. Calvin regrets not starting out on the vans and holding back at conference due to nerves, Ciaran would have joined the BAR earlier and Dan would have joined GB Liners earlier.

And Calvin corrects me!! I had mistakenly taken down the age of one guest and Calvin just wanted to set the record straight, much to the dismay of Ciaran, who is actually 38 and not 28 as I had noted, and is therefore nearly no longer a young mover! 😊

Enjoy!

Links to the BAR Young Movers Group:

• Website
• Facebook

Special Guests: Alexandra Lane, Calvin Tickner, Ciaran Mullarkey, Daniel Braddock, Mairead Almandras, Michael Dunbar, and Tommy McNee.

We discover that Ian wanted to become a Geography Teacher, before trying to get into the Royal Navy as a Navigation Officer, but life on the vans soon took over and Ian became a second-generation remover, with his son Adam since becoming third-generation.

We discover that Ian is a really good packer, being both quick and efficient and how management training from White & Co. lead him to becoming an Estimator, Assistant Branch Manager at Forres in Scotland before returning to Plymouth to a become a Branch Manager himself.

We discuss that being made a Director of White & Co. at the mere age of 35 Ian relocated to Hertfordshire to run a newly opened branch in North London, while also managing branches in Jersey & Guernsey. And how in 2003 Ian moved to Head Office in Botley, Southampton to take over as Chief Executive Officer.

We discover that White & Co. PLC was founded by A.W. White in Portsmouth in 1871, working with the Royal Navy providing staff cartidge facilities in the dock yard, which then morphed into transportation and then removals. Today White & Co. have an impressive 19 branches, 210 vehicles and 460 staff, and are founder members of FIDI and OMNI.

We discuss how in Ian’s earlier years he had to overcome the challenge of being the boss’s son, and professionally how Ian is seemingly very impatient, which he has learned to curb a little.

We discover that becoming CEO of White & Co. was a personal high point for Ian, but also becoming the current BAR President was a pretty special occasion for him.

We discuss how the conveyancing situation is a major frustration, just one thing Ian would change within the industry, as well as it being unregulated.

We discuss archive storage, or records management to some, and discover that the digital age has not really affected business as the number of physical files currently being stored is the highest it’s ever been.

We discover that over the next 5 years Ian has no intention of retiring from his role as CEO of White & Co. At the end of his BAR Presidency (May 2021) Ian hopes to return to the Overseas Group Council. Ian predicts that the industry is going to make greater use of technology in the coming years, electric vehicles, perhaps even hydrogen, and there will be greater focus on shared facilities, operations, and resources.

Outside of the industry we discover Ian likes riding his motorcycle, fast, he enjoys watching rock bands at venues around the UK but also at a local Southampton venue, and that he has a passion for Cricket as the Rose Bowl is literally 500 metres from his home.

And as always we end Moving Matters with a couple of funny moving stories, one where Ian discovered that not all wood floats, and all White & Co. branch managers switch off now because we also learn how Ian came 2nd at a privateers track day, in his company car!

Enjoy!

Links to White & Co. PLC:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Linkedin

Special Guest: Ian Palmer.

We begin at Pickfords Heavy Haulage, where David started as Traffic Clark in Preston, taking every opportunity to use vehicles for back loading purposes to reduce dead time, albeit by pony express at the time!

At the young age of 20/21, David had progressed to Traffic Manager, and further promotions led David to the branches of Liverpool, Newcastle, Derby and Sheffield.

After 20 years David left Pickfords Heavy Haulage and joined a local heavy haulage and crane company back in Preston, but due to a lack of progression David applied for the role of Depo Manager at Giltspur Bullens Transport Services and joined in 1983.

When Giltspur Bullens were acquired by Pickfords, David left and took on the role to develop the office and commercial division of a company in Preston, Whittle Movers, in 1996. In only 2 years David was offered a directorship within the company and when he retired 12 years later the division had a turnover of £3m!

We discuss David’s high point within the moving industry, and not content with one he lists five!

We discover David’s long and distinguished roles and achievements within the British Association of Removers - Chairman of the Commercial Moving Group 1997/99, President in 2005/06, Honorary Life Member in 2008, just to name a few.

We discuss David’s time as a judge of CMotY (Commercial Mover of the Year), which David won while at Whittle Movers in 2003.

We discover that David, although retired for 12 years now, never switches off from the industry, and neither does he want to.

Outside of the industry we discover David enjoys golf, gardening, time with his wife, children and grandchildren, and of course his beloved Preston North End, where you will hear a wager placed by Nigel Shaw (guest on Episode 2) was accepted by David – So watch this space!

And we end Moving Matters with a couple of funny stories, one that made David more money and another involving a known character within the moving industry, synonymous for his card tricks and anticks.

Enjoy!

Special Guest: David Bunting.

We discover how a successful blind date in the early 80’s, led Ian to relocate to Norfolk, where he applied for a job with Abels and joined them as a driver.

We discuss how in Ian’s later years with Abels he became responsible for the output of the office and commercial moving, and how in the mid 90’s a takeover by Hays PLC seemingly made progression within the company less accessible.

We discover how in January 97, Ian joined Harrow Green, which was Ian’s biggest culture shock he has ever had in his entire life! Ian’s career with Harrow Green was incredibly successful and rewarding, starting as Sales Executive, becoming Sales Manager in 2002, heading up Exclusive Group which Harrow Green acquired, to joining the board of directors in 2006.

When asked what Ian would change from his moving past we discover that he would not change anything at all, however, if he could add to his past experiences it would be to have a peer group such as the BAR Young Movers Group where they learn and support each other as their careers develop.

We discover a few of Ian’s high points, becoming HGV Class One driver, gaining his International CPC Licence, and another, smashing his first year’s sales target of £860k of new business within 3-4!

We discuss Ian’s current role, Director General of the British Association of Removers, and what prompted him to apply for such a position.

We discover what the role of Director General entails, and how his time has been during the past 5 years.

Ian jumps onto his ‘soapbox’ when we discuss what one thing he would change within the moving industry, and he chooses only one even though he had the opportunity to answer as a Remover and Director General.

We also discuss where Ian see’s himself and the industry over the next 5 years.

Outside of the industry we discover Ian is a volunteer dog walker, helping wife Elaine with her business, spending time with his two daughters and their respective family, and how at the tail end of last year he convinced Mrs Studd that he bought a motorbike and became a born again biker for the third time.

And we end Moving Matters with four, yes four, funny moving stories, one of which is just a lovely story about Ian falling in love with a vision of loveliness, HRH Princess Diana.

Enjoy!

Links to British Association of Removers:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter

Link to BAR Young Movers Council National Three Peaks Challenge:

• Donate

Special Guest: Ian Studd.

We discuss how Covid procedures put in place are limiting the number of moves at the moment to 2-3 a day rather than 4-5 with hired assistance, as they look to keep themselves, their staff and their customers safe.

We also discover that their low point from the past would be the purchase of Turks of Lydd from their friend Andrew in March 2008, where due to bad advice and the biggest collapse of world banks later that year the newly acquired company was forced into liquidated less than 12 months from purchase.

We learn about Anthony’s Director role within QSS, Quality Service Standards, and discover just how much Anthony loves standards, and how later in life he would like to become an auditor himself - you heard it here first!

We discover that Karen would like solicitors to change the exchange process, making it more like Scotland, and how Anthony would enforce tighter regulation of the moving industry.

Outside of the moving industry we find that Karen enjoys spending time with her daughters, Anthony enjoys spending his time fishing and gardening and how together they both work alongside the Lions Club, when not cruising.

And we end Moving Matters with 3, yes 3 funny moving stories, which I am sure most removers will relate too.

Enjoy!

Links to D.C. Groves & Son:

• Website
• Facebook

Special Guest: Anthony & Karen Groves.

We discuss how a real low point in his career, a fatality in the workplace in 2004, gave him the strength and fight to turn Specialised Movers into what it is today, and how one of his many high points was being awarded the contract to move the Qatar National Library.

We also cover how he became Chairman of the Commercial Moving Group of The British Association of Removers, how Specialised Movers won the Commercial Mover of The Year in 2012 and how he has a bigger trophy cabinet than West Ham due to the award of merits throughout the office!

Outside of the moving industry we discover Nigel’s passion for Clay Pigeon Shooting and Cars.

And we end Moving Matters with a very funny moving story about a cat.

Enjoy!

Links to Specialised Movers:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter

Special Guest: Nigel Shaw.

How technology and bureaucracies are some of the challenges Gary has had to overcome, together we touch on the current pandemic and how that has affected business, and, how the 1968 Transport Act completely changed the moving industry.

We also cover how an opportunity arose that became the high point of Gary's time to date within the industry, becoming President of the British Association of Removers, and how he would do it again in a heartbeat.

Outside of the moving industry we discover Gary’s passion for Golf, Dogs & Basket Weaving!

And we end the very first episode of Moving Matters with two very funny moving stories.

Enjoy!

Links to D. Sully & Son:

• Website
• Facebook

Special Guest: Gary Wheadon.