Value for money
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• Brian Weatherley poses the question "why do so few operators join trade associations?" The plain fact is that many are prepared to moan about legislation but are unwilling to put their money where their mouths are. Lobbying is an expensive business — it has to be played today on a European as well as a domestic field. Our experience is that many companies turn to trade • I am nearly 17 years old and I am very keen to work in the haulage industry. I have been desperately trying to get on the Young Drivers Scheme for several months now, but it seems that with the recession no-one really wants to take on staff. All I want is a chance to show someone associations when they have a problem but are unwilling to pay the "insurance" premium in between even though it can be extremely good value for money; the average FTA membership fee is just over £150.
The article gave the impression that the FTA is only for the large operator — own account or hire and reward. This has not been the case for several years. Owner-drivers are very welcome in the FTA and their numbers in our ranks are growing. Furthermore, we have this year launched a new membership scheme for them where the fee can be as low as £75.
J Guttridge
Head of external affairs, PTA.
If the FTA feels that small operators are under a misapprehension as to the kind of haulier who belongs to the FTA then it obviously has some work to do to persuade them otherwise — Ed.
how eager I am to work in the transport industry.
So if there is anyone out there, preferably in the Nottingham area, who can help me or put me in touch with an interested company, please contact me via Commercial Motor. Matthew Collishaw Whitemoor, Notts.