Allan Buchan Sets Up a ‘National Skip Hire Association’

In the very first issue of “The Skip” in June 2005, we published an article asking “Is it time for a Trade Association?”. We then held a meeting at Manchester Airport in December 2005 where about 25 companies were represented to discuss the “idea” of a skip hire association.
As the publisher of this magazine and the organiser of the meeting, it fell to me to chair this meeting. Following the meeting, I gave deep thought to the idea of setting up and running a national trade association for the skip hire industry because I believe there are issues that really need addressing. I decided, in the end, that I am not the man for that job – I simply do not have the time or the abilities to run a trade association.
Online Skip Permit Petition
This has not stopped us at “The Skip” trying very hard to get issues pushed forward. For example, skip permits is obviously a big issue, which is why we set up an online petition at www.theskip.net. The problem is, there were simply not enough responses from you, the industry, to justify taking it any further (i.e. to government). It is frustrating for me and for you (if you got involved), but you can only lead a horse to water….

Your Voice
I have made it clear time and again that “The Skip” is here for all of you – it is your “voice” because the potential of a magazine that reflects the views of its readers has a lot of power because it is already speaking in the voice of the media. This is why I have been on TV, radio, local and national newspapers as an unofficial spokesman for the skip hire industry. I have also made it clear that we would support any efforts from within the industry to form an association – I personally felt that 25-30 companies does not make a “national” association, but if other felt they could make this work, then our magazine would support them all the way.
We really do try to make “The Skip” reflect what you, our readers want. For a trade magazine, we have been phenomenally successful, despite what some individuals have had to say on our letters page this month. (By the way – we love criticism, neigh, need criticism as well as support; so please do keep telling us what you think about stuff).
National Skip Hire Association
So, it is with great interest that we announce the formation of a “National Skip Hire Association” this month. http://www.nsha-uk.co.uk/
This Association is being created by Mr Allan Buchan. To my shame, I have not had time to speak with Allan before this issue has gone to press so I truthfully can tell you nothing about the man personally. But, as promised, I said we would support the efforts of anyone trying to do anything to help the industry. This is why we are publishing Allan’s press release below and including an insert in the magazine for anyone interested in joining Allan’s organisation.
I wish Allan and everyone who joins him the very best of luck, and hope to get to know you personally soon. I also ask that you keep us informed of progress so we can tell the other readers about any progress or success stories. Now, here’s his press release:
“At Last, The National Skip Hire Association has now been formed to provide a uality driven service to members and give a voice to the industry.
The aim of the NSHA is to raise the profile of it’s members, lobby Government both local and central on issues that affect the industry.
At the present time there is no coordination in respect of licence fees, one council will charge £3.00 while another will charge £30.00 – this is unfair and needs to be addressed. Other issues to be highlighted include un-licensed rogue traders.
The NSHA will take up these and any other issues with the relevant authorities.
In this issue of, “The Skip” you will find a membership application form, please complete the form and post back to the NSHA to register your interest.
Once your application is received your company will be invited into membership and will be afforded the many benefits that come with it – these include a free website with contact details, if members have their own website a link will be created from the NSHA site to theirs.
Vehicle stickers will also be provided to members showing the NSHA logo and a membership certificate will be supplied to be displayed in offices along with a Code of Practice.
Once membership has reached sufficient numbers regional offices will be set up and each regional office will have a Chairman and a Committee (these will be made up from members).
Meetings will be held at regular intervals and guest speakers relevant to the interests of members will be invited to attend.”