The British Association of Removers (BAR) has marked its 125th anniversary in style with a reception on The Terrace of the Palace of Westminster on Tuesday, 4 March 2025.
The guests included the BAR staff, BAR members, suppliers to the industry and leaders of other international trade groups for the industry including Jesse van Sas from FIDI, Chris Mackley from OMNI, Thomas Juchum from EUROMOVERS and Bertil Durieux from FEDEMAC.
On arrival the guests walked through the 900-year-old Westminster Hall, the scene for many iconic events from British history and where Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and many of her royal ancestors, lay in state after their deaths. Their journey continued through the extraordinary Central Lobby, that separates the House of Commons from the House of Lords and carries statues depicting the kings and queens of England and Scotland since Edward I.
The host for the evening was Matt Turmaine MP, the member of parliament for Watford, where the BAR office is located. Rushanara Ali MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, also spoke at the event as did Ian Studd, Director General of BAR. Ian reflected on the BAR’s 125-year legacy, including its setting of standards and the new removals apprenticeship.
In his address, Matt Turmaine said: “BAR is a shining example of the professionalism, innovation and dedication that drive our local economies and contributes so much to national prosperity. Every home, business move, relocation or logistical solution provided by the industry represents a moment of trust placed in its hands.” He said the BAR had worked tirelessly for 125 years to uphold that trust by raising standards, advocating for its members and championing education and workforce development. He also took the opportunity of calling on his fellow members of parliament to provide its support to the BAR and the UK moving industry ...
Photo (left to right): Mike Andrews, BAR President; Ian Studd, BAR Director General; Rushanara Ali MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State; and Matt Turmaine MP, the member of parliament for Watford.