Chris Maclean: What have trade organisations ever done for us?

18-Dec-2008 - Last updated on 13-Dec-2011 at 09:58 GMT

On my desk are two invitations; one from the Worshipful Company of Butchers inviting me to luncheon in the new year. The other from the British...

On my desk are two invitations; one from the Worshipful Company of Butchers inviting me to luncheon in the new year. The other from the British Institiute of Innkeepers inviting me to renew my subscription.

Both organisations aspire to represent their respective trade. Both strive to emphasise the integrity and professionalism that their body represents. These are laudable aims.

I don't believe at any time in our industry's history has there been a greater need for people to unify behind one voice. A voice that should represent the highest standards and the greatest integrity. Sadly the BII don't do it.

Throughout the trade press I see calls from people hoping that we can unite to protect ourselves from the relentless stream of legislation and petty intrusions that hinder our ability to deliver what we need to; to deliver to the communities we serve.

Yet everywhere I see division. Pubcos introducing Brulines, taking aggresive stances on rents; feisty and accusing statements by chairmen; licensees seemingly conspiring to buy out of tie, witholding rents and planning their revenge. Everywhere it is division. Pubco vs licensee, tied-trade vs free, on-trade vs off.

And above this all should be the BII. A voice supposedly representing innkeepers ~ which, frankly, is what we are.

So I am a little concerned when I discovered the BII has invited Tesco to be a member. Tesco, the cost-cutting enemy. What does that say about our role as innkeepers? It seems fairly contemptuous to me.

So I shall gratefully accept my invitation to luncheon with the Worshipful Company of Butchers; an ancient order with the professional integrity needed in a modern world.

But I will continue to ruminate over the invitation to renew my suscription of £95.45 to the BII until I am satisfied it can deliver what I believe it must. Otherwise I would rather join the Worshipful Company of Butchers for half the price, the letters M Inst M after my name and a rather nice luncheon in the new year.