MOVERS & SHAKERS
PETE CLARK
The AFI’s man with a mission talks to us about the AFI, what it can do for those in the industry, and the future.
As CEO of the Association of Fencing Industries, Pete is in the process of turning the trade body into an ‘association for all rather than a club for the few’.
The 56-year-old, who used to run his own fencing contracting business, was appointed as AFI chief in October 2021.
Pete explained “The AFI used to be a club for some the biggest companies in the UK. That has changed and we are now inclusive of everyone within the fencing sector, be they contractors, manufacturers or distributors.
“We have a small team of three at the AFI with a couple of hundred members. That’s not enough if we are to achieve total industry recognition and representation.
“Having been the owner of a fencing business, I’m well aware of the many issues we face and that knowledge has helped to inform my role here at the AFI.
“We have many priorities and objectives, not least the need for fencing to be recognised as a standalone profession in all sectors.
The fencing industry has been put down as just hole diggers for far too long. The general perception is that anyone can do our jobs but the reality is that good fencing is a real skill across all disciplines and we have to celebrate and cherish that.
“Expanding our membership is another key aim so that we have a powerful voice in fencing, construction, agriculture and the domestic market.
“More specifically we want keep fencing out of the CITB levy, reducing costs to the industry.
“In addition our Certified Contractor Scheme gives end users the confidence of using recognised and legitimate contractors.
“We also need to represent all of the many training requirents and drive the sector schemes and standards across all fencing.
“Finally we are always seeking to engage with all bodies and Government departments by driving fencings interests across all specialist areas,” added Pete who is closely involved with Haywards Heath Rugby Union Club and used to play for the club as a loose head prop.
That gutsy, go forward, never say die, front row spirit is clearly standing him in good stead and helping him to deliver on what is a substantial list of aims.
Pete is very clear as to the benefits of AFI membership. He went on “If you want something changed, challenged or progressed in fencing we are the only body out there that can help. We are in your corner when it comes to tackling the aforementioned CITB levy and are constantly lobbying the Government for more money from agricultural grant schemes.
“We regularly help to update British Standards to reflect modern fencing and mediate, as and when required, in disputes by providing expert witnesses.
“There are other direct benefits like 4ppl off fuel, the provision of help documents like RAMS, discounts on new vehicles, CHAS and other items like legal advice.
“There are many good reasons for hard working fencing firms to join our family. We are in your corner fighting on the issues that directly affect your day-to-day operations. If you have a passion for fencing get in touch!
“The AFI has some great foundations with very philanthropic traditions. It boasts a long history from its founding organisations prior to me being involved with the best interest of fencing at the core of it. We just didn’t let many know it!
“Highways was covered prior to me joining but we now have a greater dialogue with all concerned.
“The launch of the AFI Awards, celebrating great works across all types of fencing, is already becoming a landmark in the calendar and we envisage that this event will only going from strength to strength.
“Fencing from railways, highways, security, industrial, domestic, agriculture, equine and forestry impacts on everyone in the UK. As such we are an industry that will always be in demand for good contractors, manufacturers and suppliers as everyone needs our industry. We just have to believe that we are a great industry but not be arrogant about it.
“The innovation that is coming into the industry from the manufacturing and supply trades offers a diversity of products that is only helping to fuel the range and quality of fencing. These components help to make our industry secure, efficient and I hope buoyant for many years.
“The future is bright and the AFI will continue to act in the best interests of everyone in fencing,” concluded Pete who is also working closely with the WPA to record failures of green and copper, water-based treatments.
For more details visit www.afiorg.uk
