Helping the sector deliver decarbonisation, responding to regulatory scrutiny, and preparing for further change were the three priorities presented to the sector as part of the BVRLA’s Annual Dinner this week.
Opening the event in front of 850 guests at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London, the BVRLA’s new Chairperson, Lakshmi Moorthy said: “We are at a pivotal moment in our industry. The transition to zero-emission fleets, our fast evolving legal and regulatory landscape, and the ever-changing expectations of our customers present both opportunities and challenges.
“It is a fact that topics such as the ZEV mandate and the recent motor commissions legal developments have posed unexpected challenges to us in recent times. If there is one thing I know about the sector, it’s that we are adaptable, innovative, and committed to delivering excellence for our customers and the UK’s road transport needs.”
Moorthy was followed by BVRLA Chief Executive, Toby Poston, who outlined his priorities for members having taken on the role earlier this year. He said: “Over the years we have been through a lot as an industry. The Credit Crunch, Brexit, terrorist attacks, the Covid pandemic and the Cost of Living Crisis. All that experience should be a guide for the future, but in today’s chaotic world it is increasingly hard to always see the way forward.
“Your association will be ready for change. We will maintain the resources, the relationships, and the resilience that ensure your voice is heard and your interests are protected.”
The event also saw the association recognise a handful of individuals and members that are leading the way for others to follow.
Tim Bailey from ZIGUP was named as the recipient of the Freddie Aldous Outstanding Contribution Award. The annual award recognises an individual leading the way in their support for the industry, alongside being a true advocate that is helping to drive the BVRLA and its members forward.
Presenting the award to Tim Bailey, BVRLA Chief Executive, Toby Poston said: “Tim is an awesome advocate for the rental sector. His huge experience and enthusiasm have been invaluable in driving so much of the work we do in support of our commercial vehicle and rental members.
“As chair of our Commercial Vehicle Committee, his passion and perspective helped to drive the formation of the Zero Emission Van Plan. This has included meeting with ministers, rallying the troops and delving into the detail.”
Other accolades presented on the night included the ever-popular Industry Hero Awards. Nominated by industry peers and colleagues, the awards recognise the outstanding efforts of individuals and teams that could otherwise go unnoticed. The three winners named on the night were:
- Business Builder award: Elizabeth Bates, Athlon UK
- Decarbonisation Driver award: Kim Phillips, U-Drive
- Service Specialists award: Monitoring, Support & Case Management Team, W4G Track Recovery
Octopus Electric Vehicles and United Rental Group were named as the BVRLA’s Learning & Development Achievers of the year, following their respective commitments to raising industry standards and supporting the association’s growing programme.
Sponsors for 2025 were BYD, Close Brothers, Enterprise Mobility, Fleet Procure, Jaama, QV Systems, United Rental Group, Vehicle Rental Services, Zen Auto, and Zenith. Donations were placed on the night in aid of Ben, raising over £4,500 to support the charity’s activities.
-ENDS-
A full gallery of photos from the night can be viewed in BVRLA's Flickr album. The BVRLA Annual Dinner will return on Wednesday 4 March 2026.
