Welcome to the first edition of our monthly blog, where I’ll keep you informed of all things CEA!
First and foremost, a Happy New Year to everyone! 2024 was a year of transformation for the CEA, and we are all excited about 2025. Get ready for new benefits, an innovative skills area on our website, the launch of a Young Professionals network, and much more.
By now, you should have received the 2024 Annual Review. I hope you found it as engaging as we did while creating it. If you haven't had a chance to check it out yet, you can download your copy here.
I’m thrilled to share that we’ve received a wealth of positive feedback from our members throughout 2024. Participation at our Members’ Forums has seen consistent growth, and I’m excited to announce that our first Forum of 2025 is scheduled for 19 March - details to follow soon. Keep an eye on our events calendar for the latest construction equipment industry events, trade shows and exhibitions.
The highlight of the year was undoubtedly the confirmation that we are among the finalists for Best Association Transformation at the 2025 Trade Association Awards. This nomination is a tremendous honour, and a testament to the hard work of the team throughout the past year. The winner will be revealed in February, but even being shortlisted is a great achievement. Please keep your fingers (and toes) crossed for us.
Most of you will receive your 2025 membership renewal invoices later this month. I’m pleased to confirm that there will be no inflationary increase in your fees this year. Once payment is processed, you will receive your revamped membership certificate – more updates below on a fresh new look and feel for the CEA.
December was packed with activity, including key meetings with Skills England, a long consultation in response to our Government’s green paper on the Industrial Strategy, and extensive collaboration regarding the Equipment Theft (Prevention) Act 2023. The change in government last summer has kept our policy and public affairs team, along with Dale on the technical side, working diligently on numerous consultations and calls for evidence. To help you stay informed, we’ve added a new section to our website where you can find all current lobbying and technical consultations. Check it out now.
I spent much of late last year traveling, and I was fortunate to speak at the Merlo Dealer’s Conference in late November. During my presentation on the economic outlook for the construction equipment industry, I was pleased to report that all indicators forecast a market upswing throughout 2025, with moderate single-figure growth on the horizon. Engaging with dealers also provided valuable insights into the challenges they face. A big thank you to Shaun and Helen for the invitation.
Following a productive face-to-face meeting with the HAE, we sent a joint letter from the HAE, CPA, and CEA to The Rt. Hon. Dame Diana Johnson DBE, MP, the Minister of State, regarding the drafting of secondary legislation for the Equipment Theft (Prevention) Act 2023. The response was very positive, with reassurance the legislation will be drafted with industry input. Additionally, we held further discussions with the CPA on various pressing issues. It’s crucial for us to work collaboratively to represent you, our members, as well as your customers and the wider community.
December also brought our first look at the designs for a new CEA logo and evolved brand identity, which was incredibly exciting. Beth, our Head of Marketing, has significantly strengthened our communications and brand image. A new logo and updated brand identity will mark a definitive new era for the CEA, and we can’t wait to share it with you soon.
Looking ahead, January is already shaping up to be busy. We have a National Manufacturing Skills Taskforce meeting on the calendar. Furthermore, we are collaborating with Plant Planet to publish a 2025 Feature Book looking at the year ahead for the construction equipment market.
Plans are in full swing for the UK Pavilion at Bauma in April, plus kick-off calls for the UK to host the CECE Congress in 2026. We’re also finalising details for the CEA Members’ Area at PlantWorx in September. If you haven’t booked your spot at PlantWorx yet, I encourage you to do so soon, as space is filling up quickly. We’re looking forward to welcoming as many CEA members as possible to this premier event.
As you can see, 2025 promises to be another vibrant and exciting year for the CEA, our members, and the industry at large. I am eager to represent you throughout the year and make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead.
Happy New Year and all the best for 2025!