The Alliance of Independent Movers is due to launch in October, but has actually been accepting members since August.
The early ‘soft launch’ was to attract a group of members that would offer their own ideas, feedback and constructive criticism. A steering group made up of members, external consultants and AIM staff will help to ensure the Alliance stays focussed on member and consumer needs.
AIM has a clear set of criteria for membership and a Code of Practice for its members to adopt. Prospective members are assessed for suitability and if they don’t quite make it, AIM gives them a helping hand. Helping movers to meet the membership criteria is just the start of AIM’s commitment to improving the industry.
The founder of AIM, Scott Rust said, “I wanted to create a trade association that is guided by its members. I wanted it to be available to removals businesses of all sizes and offer support and advice on all aspects of running a modern business. I think we’ve achieved that.”
Among the services offered are those you would expect from a trade association, (business support, arbitration, sales leads, etc.) as well as help with Internet marketing and advice on best practice for online advertising.
“The list of benefits is constantly evolving – driven by members’ needs,” said Scott, “but the most important thing is to get our message to the public. It is clear from reading comments and blogs on social networks that the industry needs a trade association that markets to the public. If the public doesn’t know what the logo stands for, then in their eyes at least, it has no value.”
In addition to the member benefits and support, AIM will be marketing directly to the public. A team of Internet marketers and SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) specialists will be targeting the consumer directly. The goal is to make AIM a well known and respected brand, not just within the industry, but to the consumer as well.
The Alliance of Independent Movers will have a stand at the Movers & Storers Show on October 22nd and 23rd where you will be able to chat with Scott and other members of the team. Scott will also be interviewed at The Mover Conference, where you will have the chance to put your questions.
“Officially launching a new trade association to coincide with the first Mover Conference and the Movers & Storers Show seemed like the right thing to do,” said Scott adding, “It promises to be a big day for our industry.”
Photo: AIM founder Scott Rust