Owner-drivers unite in protest
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• More than 400 UK owneroperators are preparing to join forces in a protest against rates and conditions this autumn.
"We are going to show the customer that we can be a solid bunch," says Loughborough-based haulier Mike Pickering, who is co-ordinating the campaign.
Supporters are deciding what form of action the protest will take; possibilities are a national truck stoppage; road or port blockades, or a protest convoy.
Already four centres have been established, in Preston, Loughborough, Thetford and Dover, to co-ordinate the response of local owner-drivers. A publicity drive will include a leaflet and poster blitz at ports and tnickstops and a stand at CM's Truckfest.
Pickering wants to see the move develop into a cooperative of owner-drivers, allowing each operator to deal direct with his customers, cutting out the middle man. "It's the only way we can get rates upped," he says. "We have no pulling power on our own."
Rob McHugh of Owner Operators UK says he is supporting the drive and has discussed ideas with Pickering. But he is not optimistic: "It's been proven that ownerdrivers simply will not work together. You've got to get thc customer to co-operate," he says, pointing out that owneroperators are competing against "switched-on businessmen, some of whom, frankly, are crooks."
Pickering is looking for support from owner-drivers all over the country and stresses that costs incurred will be shared between those taking part.
For details contact: (0509) 231262.