Editors comment Proud to be part of it Louise Parfitt on putting our best virtual foot forward Its Parkex month, and although we are disappointed that it wont be the busy, noisy, sociable event that we know and love, Brintex and the BPA have put together a brilliant, interactive digital offering, including the Parkex Hub knowledge-sharing sessions and exhibitor showcases (see pages 25-30). Its free, but if you can the BPA is asking you to support the teams fundraising walk to Parkex by making a donation to corporate charity Macmillan Cancer Support (see page 30). As well as organising and facilitating its flagship event, the BPA is busy on other projects. These include working with various organisations and government departments to look at the parking issues facing motorhome drivers to see if the sector can help provide a workable solution (see pages 20-21). Our lead feature (pages 14-16) continues and expands the conversations started on social media platforms about ensuring motorist choice, ease of use and security when it comes to payment methods. There is more to it, however; the data that can be gathered from payments is becoming important for effective traffic management plus, recent research shows some of the hidden costs of each method (pages 18-19). Support for members, particularly after some tough months, is at the heart of the BPA. Kroll and Lawline are hosting a webinar looking at navigating financial difficulties (see page 32). This month, Parking News starts a series of articles looking at queries around parking and VAT (see pages 36-37); and we discover more about procurement best practice and support that is available (pages 40-41). The Parking Podium also launches this month, giving members a chance to have their say on topics affecting the sector (see page 10). This issue is the final one in which Rebecca Harper, BPA membership engagement manager, was involved. Bex is moving to a fab new job in the sector, and the Parking News team would like to say a huge thank you to her for her support and wish her all the best for the future (see also page 43). Louise Parfitt editor@britishparking.co.uk TRANSFORMATION EXCELLENCE Structural Car Park Repair and Refurbishment Concrete repairs Electro chemical Deck waterproofing Anti carbonation coatings Signage, CCTV Testing & investigation Lighting schemes & design Movement joints T: 0845 8994444 E: enquiries@makers.biz W: www.makers.biz britishparking.co.uk 7 PN June 2021 pp06-07 Editors Comment.indd 7 21/05/2021 16:58