Small fleets saviour
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• A trade association has been launched for ownerdrivers and small fleets.
The Transport User's Group hopes to recruit up to 4,000 members, but it says it needs only 400 to break even.
The Manchester-based TUG has been set up by two extransport managers, Robert Sutton and Paul Burn, who believe that "existing associations are not equipped to deal with the problems faced by the small operator".
Membership costs £60 a year. Services will include an annual transport and distribution guide listing members and what they offer, such as transshipment. "We want to make it easier for the owner-driver to go out and get on with his driving," says Sutton.
Also on offer is a bulk buying scheme which already covers diesel, tachograph analysis, mobile phones, office supplies, computers, custom products and printing facilities.
A telephone helpline gives members access to a database designed to solve logistics problems with a credit control service which allows members to check the credit worthiness of potential customers.
Members' views on key issues will be put to politicians in Westminster and Brussels; TUG says it is producing an "action plan" to help members get the most from the Single European Market. A quarterly bulletin will carry information on legal and general issues.
For £25 non-transport companies can join TUG for access to its database and discount schemes, Even if the group fails to reach its target membership quickly, Sutton is not worried: "We've budgeted for a loss in the first year," he says. Contact 061-866 8599.