Midlands Removals & Storage Company Represents Region at House of Commons for 125th Anniversary of the British Association of Removers

14 Mar 2025

Published in: Member News

Burke Bros Moving Group proudly represented the Midlands at the House of Commons for the 125th anniversary of the British Association of Removers, highlighting the removals industry’s vital role in the UK economy, workforce development, and property market.

Burke Bros Moving Group was honoured to represent the Midlands at a prestigious Parliamentary reception held at the House of Commons, Westminster. The event marked the 125th anniversary of the British Association of Removers (BAR), celebrating the vital role of the removals and storage industry in the UK economy.

Managing Director Gary Burke and his wife Melanie attended the reception, engaging with key policymakers and industry leaders. Among those in attendance was Rushanara Ali, Under Secretary of State on Housing, who addressed the crucial link between the home buying and selling process and the removals industry. The evening was opened by Matt Turmaine MP, who welcomed guests and acknowledged the economic contributions of the sector. Ian Studd, Director General of BAR, provided an industry perspective, emphasising its international impact, workforce development, and the importance of sustainability.

The event saw the formal recognition of the newly launched Apprenticeship Standard and BAR Academy, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at attracting and training new talent in the removals and storage industry. Designed to offer structured career pathways, the Academy will support young professionals' growth and long-term success while addressing the sector’s skills gap in an increasingly competitive market. Open to all removals and storage businesses, the Academy is a testament to the industry’s commitment to professionalism, workforce sustainability and future-proofing its services.

Gary Burke, Managing Director of Burke Bros Moving Group said: “Having been members of the British Association of Removers for 40 years, we’re always proud to represent the Midlands at such events. The discussions with Parliamentarians and policymakers reinforced the critical role our industry plays in supporting the UK property market and the wider economy.”

As the evening concluded at 10:00 PM on the Terrace Pavilion, attendees left with a greater appreciation of the sector’s contributions. The BAR and its members remain dedicated to maintaining the highest industry standards, supporting economic growth and fostering a skilled and resilient workforce for the future.

Founded in 1900, the British Association of Removers (BAR) is the UK's oldest and primary trade association for the removals industry. Dedicated to promoting professional excellence, BAR sets high standards for its members, ensuring quality service for customers. Members undergo regular audits and adhere to a strict Code of Practice, providing peace of mind to individuals and businesses during relocations. Additionally, BAR offers an Advanced Payment Guarantee, protecting customers' prepayments in the unlikely event of a member company’s insolvency.

Image: Gary Burke, Managing Director of Burke Bros Moving Group with Rushanara Ali, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government 

Submitted by Charlotte from Burke Bros Moving Group
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