Despite economic indicators it does not feel like we are out of the danger zone yet. The industrial sector remains challenging and tenants continue to prevaricate on decisions to take space unless the terms offered are too good to refuse. Predictions of “w” and “saw tooth” highs & lows prevail and there remains a wariness to talk of an upturn.
Thankfully, however, and at least for the time being our sector is in better shape than most and there have been some high level staff movements and some welcome new companies into the industry. I am also pleased to report that IAS membership has been steady despite the market.
IAS National and Regional committees work hard to deliver both educational and fun events for the membership and in 2010 we hope to add to the calendar the IAS/IPF seminar which follows the success of the inaugural event earlier in 2009. We also hope to reinstate the London BBQ in 2010 probably the years highest profile casualty from our social calendar and the IAS Awards will be again be a sole IAS production; who knows we may even see the return of an industry networking event, watch this space...
Lastly thank you to all those who have voiced their support for the IAS and sponsored our events this year, without such help these events simply wouldn’t happen. Thank you also to all the IAS Committee members around the country who give up their time for the Society at a moment in the market where the day job is even more demanding.
For my part having survived my first year as IAS Chairman relatively unscathed I am looking forward to building on the expertise and reach of the IAS as the market climbs out of recession.
Steve Williams
IAS CHAIRMAN