ICFM Conference 2018: fleet decision-makers must adapt

Fleet decision-makers must adapt to emerging global challenges said ICFM chairman Paul Hollick during 2018’s ICFM Annual National Members’ Conference.

• Population growth

• Continued globalisation

• The Internet of Things

• Mobility-as-a-Service

• Congestion

• Pollution and air quality

• Scarcity of natural resources

• GDPR legislation

• Demonization of diesel

• Benefit-in-kind tax increases

• Ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs) and plug-in alternatives

• Changing behaviour across generations  

The event, held at Warwickshire’s British Motor Museum on March 20th, addressed an extensive list of significant issues causing a “massive state of flux” within the fleet industry. Some of the points discussed included:

Many were indications that the traditional vehicle ownership model is going to change, said Hollick.

“The future is approaching faster than we think,” Hollick added. “The time to act is now. The challenges faced by fleet managers are of a level the like of which we have not seen before. These are troubling, but also exciting times.

“The ICFM is incredibly well placed to support this changing climate - we will always adapt to ensure our members and students are the most equipped, most specialised and most informed from whatever area they come from.

“Skills will change. Manual tasks will cease to exist in their current form and our creative sides will come to the fore. The ICFM is ready. As a progressive organisation, we will adapt training courses to suit the future.”

The conference – attended by a record 250 fleet professionals – celebrated 25 years of the training organisation, with ICFM membership having grown 9% in the last 12 months to over 900 people. During the same period, demand for its Introductory Certificate in Car and LCV Fleet Management course grew by 400%, with individuals taking Certificate in Car and LCV Fleet Management and Diploma in Fleet Management courses also rising by 20%.

Hollick concluded: “The ICFM is strong and robust, our focus is always on supporting the industry with its significantly changing landscape. We will continue our work while demand and need is there. I’m pleased to report it has never been stronger.”