I'VE JUST READ with interest the story quoting Stewart Oades
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as saying it's the end for ownerdrivers (CM 21 September). Oh wouldn't the big firms like small operators to disappear into the woodwork so they can screw down the rates for drivers, customers and Uncle Tom Cobley and all.
found his comments bordering on arrogant.1 think he underestimates the small haulier; we will survive because we are usually more efficient, give a better service and we eare.We haven't got layers of management that have never driven a truck or do not know the problems anyone faces at the sharp end of the industry There are companies out there that pay a fair rate and value our services. I run a smal1,13-truck company and yes. I still drive. Ego into hubs and look at what goes on with these so-called efficient companies and come out wondering how they survive, as the workers and management don't appear to care one way or the other.
They don't know, as my drivers do. who controls the business and I suspect that they feel they are just little cogs in big wheels.
My drivers know that they are all valued as very important parts of my company; we are also able to use the feedback from our drivers to inform our customers how we can all improve the service.
I feel the smaller companies give a better service to the customer, who demands high service, and who does not mind paying more for this.
Mark Opel Mark Doel Transport Knapwell, Cambridge