Rogers tells of nine point survival plan
Page 6
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
MAKE DO AND MEND is the theme of a nine-point survival plan which Road Haulage Association national chairman Ken Rogers is urging all operators to accept.
He has told members to take a close look at all vehicle maintenance procedures, pressing them to repair parts wherever possible rather than buy new parts, and he says that the output of all drivers, fitters and clerical staff should be looked at closely. Overtime payments should be avoided where possible, and staff shed where practicable.
Operators should keep a very close watch on all administrative costs, and he sees merits in Save It campaigns on the use of 'phones, telex, light and power.
Accountants should be called in to improve business viability and make the most of improvements in the rate of depreciation.
They should also insist on getting the maximum disounts for fuel, tyres and other supplies, changing suppliers to get the best terms, and they should seek rating reassessment wherever they can.
Mr Rogers wants his members to extend their own credit as far as possible, but to insist on rapid settlement of their own accounts. They should monitor their cash flow and bank accounts on a daily basis, and make maximum use of RHA membership services.
Mr Rogers has accompanied his initiative with the strong recommendation that hauliers should challenge all price increases imposed by their suppliers. He has advised in particular that they seek the best possible deals on diesel oil.
And his monetarist approach extends to a reminder that operators should limit wage settlements to ensure their sur vival. He wants them to make drivers fully aware of the state of their companies, and of the level of wages which they can afford.
"The drivers' understanding of all the circumstances is essential if they are to have any influence on the future wage negotiations,' said Mr Rogers.
He has repeated his predecessor John Silbermann's advice to members that they should reduce the size of their fleets where necessary and seek immediate refunds on excise duty for lorries which are laid up.