FROM TH E E D I TO R Resilience and recovery A lthough there were the occasional encouraging signs of recovery in the industry during the hard times of 2020, it wasnt until the nal weeks of the year that some real positivity began to return. This was helped, of course, by the uplifting news, as FIDI Focus went to press, that a COVID-19 vaccine could be available soon, and optimism specically from within the moving industry appeared to be increasing, too. Reports from conversations held at IAMs virtual convention suggest that, while there have indeed been casualties and broad regional differences in the impact of the pandemic, the business has proved to be far more robust, and in places its thriving. This isnt just about pent-up demand and the rebound in bookings as lockdowns in some regions have eased off, there are other reasons, too. As certain sectors have laid off staff, large numbers have been leaving employment hubs such as Dubai and Hong Kong and demand in these areas has been high. Meanwhile, some smaller and medium-sized movers say they have been approached by major corporations looking for quick solutions, specialised local knowledge that larger, less agile companies cant necessarily supply; giving them access to exciting new contracts. Finally, with the focus now rmly on efciency WW W. F I D I. O R G FF300 DecJan21 pp08-09 Ed.indd 9 and economy, many companies are realising they can cut costs by reducing the use of some mobility services, but there is one thing you cant strip out of a moving job: the move itself. This has implications for RMCs and other service providers. Its clear that people are continuing to move around the world not just in spite of the pandemic, because of it too and traditional movers are in a strong position. FIDI Focus has shown similar resilience and this, our 300th issue, marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, as we move to a quarterly schedule. We are also revamping our online content to reect the ongoing evolution of FIDIs Afliates. There is plenty of evidence of this diversity, with details of FIDIs now remote audits, its new Technology and Innovation Committee, industry respected PCGs and Academy rebrand, among recent developments. We also have news about FIDIs conference. With the original Osaka conference postponed and then cancelled, FIDI now plans an online event and in a bold but cautious move towards reintroducing inperson events a smaller gathering in Europe for later next year. Its a step that reects FIDIs faith in the recovery and resilience of the international moving industry. DOMINIC WEAVER 9 24/11/2020 10:45