Graham Acreman, Chairman

As I begin my term as chairman of the Canadian Association of Movers, I look at the people who have preceded me in the position, and am truly appreciative of their efforts and contributions to our association and industry. They have addressed our members’ needs and have built an organization with firm foundations on which future chairmen, myself included, can continue to build the association that is representative of our membership.

Since taking office, I have heard the word “value” all around me – from my fellow movers, suppliers, van lines, government, consumers and all those who are stakeholders in the moving industry. How does one provide a Canadian mover with value through an association?

Up to now, the association has focused on intangible values, such as networking, lobbying and education; factors that have provided members with contacts across the country and internationally, made life a little easier in the regulatory environment and provided a new degree of professionalism for the moving consultant.

It is now time to attach tangible value to membership in CAM: value that members can measure in their ability to compete in a tough marketplace, and see both in improved relations with consumers and on their bottom line.

To that end, we are initiating value programs for movers, each of which addresses an area of profitability. By the time this directory is delivered to you, you should have news on the progress of each. A few examples are:

• A mover certification program in co-operation with Industry Canada
• A cost-reduction initiative for mover’s insurance
• Value-added purchasing programs
• Representation to government on taxation issues
• A compensation survey that’s more comprehensive than last year’s

As 2003 progresses, members of CAM will see opportunities to generate measurable benefits for themselves, their employees and their companies from their membership in CAM.

CAM is your association; help it work for you!