ARP’s agenda and reformations in the Relocation Industry
In the intricate tapestry of the modern economy, certain industries often find themselves battling for recognition and understanding amidst regulatory frameworks that fail to encompass their nature accurately. The Employee Relocation industry is one such sector, grappling with systemic challenges that hinder its growth and efficiency.
To shed light on these issues and chart a course for progress, we spoke with Adrian Leach, Chairman of the Association of Relocation Professionals (ARP), a seasoned advocate for reform within the field.
As the well-known independent relocation company, HCR has consistently set high standards in the industry, providing seamless relocation services to numerous clients. Adrian Leach, as the owner, has been at the forefront of driving innovation and excellence within HCR. His dual role as Chairman of the ARP and head of HCR showcases his commitment to elevating the entire sector, ensuring that both HCR and the ARP gain the recognition they deserve.
Q: Adrian, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. Could you outline the current focal points for the ARP under your leadership?
Adrian Leach (AL): Certainly. At the forefront of our agenda, lies securing government recognition for the Employee Relocation industry as an entity distinct from traditional real estate operations.
Presently, we find ourselves misclassified under antiquated classifications, which obscure our unique function and subject us to regulatory burdens ill-suited to our operations.
Q: Could you elaborate on the specific challenges stemming from this misclassification?
AL: Absolutely. Firstly, we contend with being lumped together with estate agents, a categorisation that subjects us to regulations designed for a fundamentally different sector. For instance, compliance with the Estate Agents Act 1979 necessitates adherence to Money Laundering Regulations (MLR) and Regulation of Property Agents (RoPA), imposing redundant bureaucratic hurdles and associated costs on our operations.
Q: How is The ARP advocating for change in this regard?
AL: We're actively lobbying for our exclusion from MLR, akin to our European counterparts, to alleviate the burden of excessive registration fees and training requirements. Moreover, we're pushing for explicit exemptions from RoPA, safeguarding against the imposition of onerous estate agent qualifications on our professionals without due cause.
Q: Beyond regulatory challenges, what other issues are you addressing within the industry?
AL: One critical area is the Relocation Tax Allowance (RTA), which remains stagnant at £8,000 since its inception in 1993. This outdated limit fails to account for the comprehensive scope of modern relocation services, hindering both employers and employees alike.
Q: How does the ARP propose to modernise the RTA and enhance its efficacy?
AL: We advocate for an overhaul of the RTA to reflect the diverse array of relocation expenses incurred today, encompassing not just property-related costs but also essential services like home searches. By recalibrating this allowance to align with contemporary realities, we can facilitate smoother transitions for relocating individuals and bolster the efficiency of the industry as a whole.
Q: In addition to regulatory and financial reforms, what other objectives are on the ARP's agenda?
AL: Immigration emerges as a pressing concern, where we strive to differentiate between planned immigration for skilled labor and illegal entry, advocating for clearer distinctions in government policies and public discourse. Furthermore, we endeavour to position the UK as a beacon for global talent by fostering a welcoming environment and expanding relocation support services.
Q: Finally, what is your vision for the future of the ARP and the Employee Relocation industry?
AL: Our vision encompasses heightened recognition of the industry's pivotal role in facilitating global mobility and economic growth. By increasing ARP membership and amplifying our advocacy efforts, we aim to cultivate a more informed and supportive regulatory landscape, empowering both businesses and individuals to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
In conclusion, Adrian Leach's insights underscore the imperative of reform within the Employee Relocation industry, urging policymakers and stakeholders to recognise and address the unique challenges faced by this vital sector. As the ARP continues to champion its cause, the prospect of a more equitable and efficient relocation landscape beckons on the horizon.