Above: Lord Brabazon of Tara, UKWA President

The relentless search for greater productivity and lower costs is a common goal throughout all sectors of industry.  And to reach those goals a partnership between technology and innovation is vitally important.  Over the decade and more that I have been President of UKWA, I have watched - from a short distance - the superb way that the logistics industry has responded to market needs, and to commercial opportunities.  Even at the smallest end of UKWA's membership, the positive way that we have embraced technology, and the inspiring way we have been proactive and imaginative in the services we offer, has ensured that we are now a significant and influential sector of industry.

UKWA is the only trade association for third party logistics, and has made many positive steps forward in the last few years.   "Warehouse" is established now as a valuable trade publication and has been recognised by the CBI's Trade Association Forum as Newsletter of the Year for 2004.  The website has been improved; membership is increasing at a time when the sector is consolidating.  These are very positive signs that the association is in good shape, and well equipped to meet the challenges of the market place.

I am very pleased also to note that steps are being taken to introduce a form of regular operational audit.  There is no doubt that transparency of professional standards is essential for the modern and ambitious enterprise, and it is right that the trade association takes a lead.

From my detached viewpoint, I am confident that UKWA will continue to discharge its responsibilities for protecting its members' interests, representing its views and encouraging higher professional standards.