Becks Removals Ltd

30th October 2024 The British Association of Removers (BAR) acknowledges disappointment over the lack of substantial support for the removals and storage sector in the Autumn Budget. Ian Studd, Director General of BAR, stated; "While we welcome the freeze on fuel duty and the continuation of the 5p per litre duty reduction, these measures alone fall short of addressing the broader challenges faced by our sector. He added; “The Chancellor’s decision to raise National Insurance for employers will increase financial strain on smaller businesses that are already contending with rising costs. This additional burden threatens the survival of compliant operators, making it harder for responsible companies to remain competitive in an industry facing growing challenges." BAR also criticises the absence of meaningful action on Stamp Duty reform, which could have boosted housing market transactions - a vital component of economic health and a significant driver of the removals and storage industry. “More ambition on Stamp Duty could have unlocked the housing market and bolstered the sector, which plays a crucial role in supporting and growing the economy,” said Ian. BAR is the trade association for the professional removals and storage sector and represents more than 400 specialist UK-based companies which between them complete almost 400,000 move contracts per annum turning over £1bn in revenue. In September, the Association published a Budget Manifesto, urging the Chancellor to take decisive action on pressing issues such as business rates, housing market reform, and support for regulated operators. These calls for support have been largely ignored, leaving the industry to navigate tough conditions with minimal backing. Ian concluded; “Despite these limited gestures, this Budget does not recognise the critical role that compliant and professional removals and storage businesses play in the housing market. Unregulated operators continue to undermine the sector by exploiting tax and VAT rules, while offering little to no consumer protection. Today’s Budget missed an opportunity to level the playing field, making it increasingly challenging for our members to compete and thrive.”