Scottish Auctioneers Institute Names New President in Its Centenary Year
The Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland (IAAS) has appointed John Roberts, who has 43 years of experience, as president in its 100th year. He replaces Alan Hutcheon after a three-year term.
The Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland (IAAS), the body representing the country's local livestock marts, has named a new president as it marks 100 years since its formation. John Roberts takes over from Alan Hutcheon, who served for three years.
Roberts has 43 years of experience as an auctioneer and previously held the post of executive chair at United Auctions. As president, he will lead a council that represents the institute's corporate and individual members.
The role of livestock marts
Roberts said livestock marts remain central to the rural economy. In his words, they give farmers access to high-value markets and also act as an important social and business hub for their communities. He said policy and business must keep giving marts the chance to thrive, and that he was pleased to lead the council at this time.
History and recent work
The institute's stated aim is to protect and promote the place of marts in Scotland's agricultural sector, while advancing professional standards and qualifications. It was formed a century ago after livestock prices collapsed following the First World War. Under economic and political pressure, mart businesses sought closer co-operation and a collective voice to represent their interests and promote the auction system.
The IAAS says it has also played a part in handling the ongoing bluetongue outbreak, a livestock disease, by liaising with the Scottish Government, vets and other industry stakeholders to find pragmatic solutions. According to the institute, those efforts avoided consequences that would have affected marts and the businesses of their farming customers.
IAAS executive director Neil Wilson said Roberts has a very impressive background in the sector and broad experience of the challenges, operations and opportunities facing marts. He added that Roberts has been part of the institute for many years, understands the landscape it works in and what it wants to achieve for members, and that he looks forward to working with him.
