The BVRLA’s annual dinner brought together 850 industry professionals at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel to outline priorities for the sector and celebrate key achievements. The event focused on helping the sector deliver decarbonisation, responding to regulatory scrutiny, and preparing for further change.
BVRLA chairperson Lakshmi Moorthy opened the evening, stating, “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.”
BVRLA chief executive Toby Poston, who took on the role earlier this year, reinforced the association’s commitment to supporting its members. “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 evening also celebrated individuals and organisations making a significant impact on the sector. Tim Bailey from ZIGUP received the Freddie Aldous Outstanding Contribution Award for his leadership and advocacy in the industry. Presenting the award, 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.”
The event also saw the presentation of the Industry Hero Awards, recognising individuals and teams nominated by industry peers:
- 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 for their commitment to raising industry standards and supporting the association’s growing programme.
Sponsors for the 2025 event included BYD, Close Brothers, Enterprise Mobility, Fleet Procure, Jaama, QV Systems, United Rental Group, Vehicle Rental Services, Zen Auto, and Zenith. The evening also raised over £4,500 for the charity Ben through donations.
