Beyond The Headlines
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News that Moves the Market
Cartus Parent Reports Relocation Growth
Anywhere Real Estate , the parent company of Cartus Relocation, reported new client wins and improved financial performance for the leading relocation management company in presenting their third quarter results.
In a webinar that accompanied the release of the financial report, the giant real estate brokerage business highlighted the improving fortunes of Cartus. “Our Cartus relocation business, which serves nearly one-third of the Fortune 100 companies, continues to grow with eight new clients and expanded services for over 70 clients in Q3, while also driving downstream revenue by providing high-quality leads to our agents and franchisees,” said Anywhere Chief Executive Officer, Ryan Schneider.
Chief Financial Officer, Charlotte Simonelli , echoed Schneider’s comments in providing the financial overview of the business in the quarter. “Anywhere Brands, which includes leads and relocation, operating EBITDA was $155 million, up $4 million versus the prior year due to higher revenue despite increased employee costs and negative currency effects in relocation. The business showed strong performance with 57% operating EBITDA margin,” she said. “We are proud of the strength and consistency of this business, delivering a high margin and recurring royalty stream,” she added.
In Anywhere’s first financial report since the announcement of the merger with Compass, which is expected to close in 2026, the company reported overall Q3 revenue of US$1.6 billion, up 6% versus the prior year, and Q3 operating EBITDA of $100 million, down $8 million versus prior year. Anywhere realized US$28 million in cost savings in the quarter and $67 million of cost savings year-to-date.
Hopes Rise for End of Shutdown
The shutdown of the United States government that has increasingly impacted the moving industry appears to be at an end.
USA Today reported that Senators approved a deal Monday night to end the nation's longest-ever government shutdown. The bill to re-open the government until January 30, 2026, will now move to the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, which is expected to pass the legislation.
As reported by IAM, members serving the government and military moving segments advised that shipment volumes were down in both the Department of Defense and General Services Administration segments, in addition to a reduced number of moves tendered by relocation management companies on behalf of federal agencies. In addition, as government departments operated on reduced staff numbers and some civilian agencies with only one person working, the normal turn-around time for payments was also being extended.
UK Tax Increases Will Lead to “a Great Q4” for Movers
Income tax rises in the upcoming British government's financial budget would force an increased number of Brits to consider a move abroad, according to IAMTrusted member John Mason International .
City AM reported that speculation around a rise in income tax in the country’s November Budget has gathered speed in recent weeks, but the Liverpool-headquartered moving company warned that a tax increase would “backfire” and result in an increase of people leaving the country. “The only thing raising income tax would achieve is a great Q4 for relocation companies like mine,” said John Mason Director, Simon Hood.
Between 2020 and 2024, John Mason International claims that they have seen an average 30 per cent year on year increase in exports, with customers leaving for the UAE, Qatar, and United States in particular. The company also reported a surge in young people looking to leave at an accelerated rate. General Manager, David Ozard, said that the demographic of customers has shifted. “A post-Covid mover is more likely to be an individual under 35…this is something we’ve always catered to but never at the rate we’re seeing in 2025.”
Suez Canal Sees Highest Month in Two Years
The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) has reported that October 2025 marked the highest monthly rate of vessels returning to the critical maritime artery in nearly two years.
SupplyChain247 reported that according to the SCA, 229 ships transited the canal last month, with the data showing that larger vessels are returning. In the period between July and October, 4,400 ships made the transit, a 10% increase compared to the same period last year. The authority said it is holding regular meetings with lines and inviting them to conduct trial voyages.
Of the major shipping lines, CMA CGM said that it plans to increase voyages in the coming months after sending two of its 17,000-TEU containerships through the canal under European Union naval escort. Hapag-Lloyd, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, Evergreen, and COSCO, have said that they are monitoring conditions and expect more traffic based upon regional stability. However, industry experts highlighted that the high cost of marine insurance remains a major barrier.
India Launches National Container Shipping Line
India’s Prime Minister has officially announced the country’s first national shipping line as it executes on plans to reduce its dependence on foreign carriers and increase control over its maritime trade.
Splash 24/7 reported that India’s leader, Narendra Modi, described the creation of the Bharat Container Shipping Line (BCSL) as a “new era of maritime confidence.” BCSL will begin with a fleet of 51 container vessels, supported by a US$6.9bn investment and operating under a public–private partnership. The new shipping line will firstly focus on regional routes across Asia, West Asia, and the Red Sea, before expanding globally.
The announcement came as part of India’s “Maritime India Vision 2047” initiative which in total covered 437 new vessels worth a US$26bn. Modi highlighted a range of initiatives, including nearly 60 oil and gas vessels and the launch of a “Green Tug Programme” involving 100 eco-friendly tugs and 11 dredgers.
MSC Achieves Seven Million TEU Capacity
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has become the first ever shipping line to achieve an overall fleet capacity of seven million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU).
gCaptain reported that according to figures from Alphaliner, the Swiss-headquartered shipping line made history with the delivery of two 16,000 TEU Neo-Panamax vessels, the MSC Salerno and the MSC Grace. The speed of growth by MSC is considered impressive after needing only 15 months to expand its fleet from six to seven million TEU. New vessels accounted for approximately 799,000 TEU slots through 68 containership deliveries.
MSC’s market share has now grown to 21.2%, outstripping Maersk in second place with 13.9% market share. The company overtook Maersk as the world’s leading liner operator in early 2022 and has continued to widen the margin as Maersk focuses on non-shipping related activities as part of its strategy to become an end-to-end logistics provider.
Maersk Responds to Falling Freight Rates
A.P. Moller-Maersk (Maersk) reported a 7% increase in third-quarter freight volumes as demand and action taken to control costs offset the fall in freight rates.
The Wall Street Journal reported that Maersk was helped by exports from East Asia despite the reduction in volumes to North America from China. It also highlighted that the Gemini Cooperation with Hapag-Lloyd is helping to drive efficiencies as the shipping lines pool their vessels to reduce costs and improve schedule reliability.
As average freight rates fell 31% across most shipping routes Haider Anjum, Senior Analyst at Denmark’s Jyske Bank, forecast that Maersk’s shipping business could become loss-making as soon as the fourth quarter. Anjum expects freight rates to reduce further when sailing resumes through the Red Sea, although Maersk still predicts that disruption in the region will continue for the remainder of the year.
News From Every Corner of the World
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Send your company news stories to mark.oakeshott@iamovers.org
Britannia Plans to Mix Heritage with New Technology
In one of his first interviews as Managing Director of Britannia Movers International Plc , Iain Adams stressed the need for the British moving network to embrace digital technology.
In an interview in The Mover, Adams, who was appointed to the leadership role on September 1, said that the ability to leverage the Britannia network, invest in technology, and recruit high-quality members will determine their continued success. With more than 37 offices across the UK, Adams recognized that the past few years have been turbulent for everyone. “Higher costs—energy, labor, vehicle maintenance, and packaging—have hit hard. But both Britannia and our members have taken steps to mitigate these pressures, particularly through property ownership. At a time when rents have been rising sharply, that control has been invaluable," he said.
For Adams, future success will depend upon the moving industry’s ability to adapt. "Those who proactively invest in digital tools, diversify their services, and build strong brands will thrive. Those that continue with 'business as usual' risk being squeezed by falling margins and unpredictable demand," he forecast. "By 2030, success will depend on our ability to blend Britannia's heritage of trust with digital agility. Customers will increasingly choose movers based on convenience, sustainability, and reliability—not just price. Those who deliver a seamless, transparent, and responsible experience will lead the way," he predicted.
SIRVA Appoints New Chief Legal Officer
Global relocation and moving services company, Sirva Worldwide, has announced the appointment of Lauren Aste as Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer.
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In a press release, Sirva said that London-based Aste will bring more than two decades of leadership in global legal and compliance to the company, having most recently served as Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer at CWT, a global business travel management company. Prior to her role at CWT, Aste was in private practice with international law firms Dechert LLP in London and Chadbourne & Parke LLP in New York.
“Lauren brings a unique set of legal, transactional and strategic skills to our general counsel role that will help us accomplish our strategic imperatives of speed, technology innovation, operational excellence, and exceptional customer service on a global scale,” said Carlyn Taylor, Chief Executive Officer at Sirva. “I expect Lauren to have a meaningful impact on our growth strategy and bring value to our clients, agents, employees and suppliers. Lauren’s global mindset will help support our international growth and will also strengthen our presence in the UK at an executive level,” she added.
One Moving Joins Forces on Relocation
Sao Paulo-headquartered IAMX Validated member, One Moving , has announced that the company has welcomed Unique Relocation to join them at their offices.
In a social media post, the Brazilian moving company said that the integration means that the company can offer complete solutions in global mobility. “This move means much more than a new space: it's about being closer, strengthening collaboration, and ensuring even more excellence in delivery for our customers,” said One Moving.
Keep Learning. Keep Growing.
Clients Making Moves
Kimberly-Clark to Buy Kenvue
American multinational consumer goods and personal care corporation, Kimberly-Clark, has announced that it has reached agreement to acquire Tylenol maker, Kenvue.
CNBC reported that the company, with offices and manufacturing facilities in 36 countries, said that the deal is valued at US $48.7 billion. The acquisition would be one of the largest on Wall Street this year and is expected to close in the second half of 2026. Kenvue itself operates and sells products in more than 165 countries, but details on where it has manufacturing facilities are not publicly listed.
Canada Attempts to Stop Stellantis Move
The Canadian government is taking steps to halt plans by giant auto-manufacturer Stellantis to move production of its Jeep Compass model from a Toronto-area factory to Illinois.
The Wall Street Journal reported that Canadian Industry Minister Mélanie Joly said the government would serve Stellantis with a notice to start dispute-resolution proceedings, saying that it represented “a life-and-death moment for the country’s automotive sector,” which accounts for about 120,000 jobs. A spokeswoman for Stellantis said Canada remains an integral part of the company’s North American operations.
New Webinar: Inside IAM's New Strategic Plan: Shaping the Future of the Moving Industry
IAM has launched a bold new multi-year Strategic Plan to guide the Association and the industry into a new era of growth, credibility, and innovation.
Join IAM President Brian Limperopulos, CAE for an in-depth look at the plan’s core priorities, the data and member insights that shaped them, and the vision that will define IAM’s work in the years ahead.
This interactive session will reveal how IAM is positioning its members and the global moving industry for success, today and in the years ahead. Come and see how your Association is working for you.
Join us for one of two available time slots:
Behind the Badge
Every week, IAM goes behind the conference badge to learn some fun facts about some of the personalities that make up the IAM member community.
This week: Sofia Smith, CRP
Company: CMS Companies
- Texting or Talking? Texting. I like editing my wit before unleashing it!
- Favorite Day of the Week? Saturday. It's Friday's hangover and Sunday's rebellion!
- Favorite City? San Diego.
- Favorite Playlist? Scarf Season.
- Favorite Holiday? Halloween. Free candy and costumes.
- If you could travel back in time, what period would you choose? Ancient Egypt.
- Favorite Season? Fall. Sweaters, the air is crisp, and people finally stop pretending they love summer heat.
- Do You believe in fate? Absolutely.
- What’s for dinner tonight? Chicken and rice.
- How many hours of sleep do you need? 8 hours.
- What’s your favorite car? Anything German, but particularly Audi.
- Do you believe in love at first sight? Yes – if dessert is involved.
- Climb a mountain or jump from a plane? Jump from a plane and let gravity do the work.
- What is something you could eat for a week? Sushi.
- Would you go to a movie alone? Absolutely – you don’t have to share popcorn.
- For news: Paper or Digital? Digital.
- Favorite Band? Lord Huron and TS.
- A book that impacted your life? “Dare to Lead” by Brene Brown.
- What is your favorite drink? Extra dirty vodka martini.
- Favorite pastime or hobby? Alpine skiing, forever and always.
- You are forced to do karaoke – what song? “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen.
- What is the most boring thing ever? Endless meetings that could have been an email.
- What is the best advice you have received? "Want to be happy? Stop trying to be perfect."
Want to be part of the “Behind the Badge” Challenge?
Let other members get to know you better by completing this questionnaire.
IAM In Action
IAMTrusted: Turning Reputation into Revenue
In an industry where reputation and responsiveness move faster than contracts, trust isn’t just a value, it’s a competitive advantage.
While many companies market themselves as “trusted,” IAMTrusted is the only program that independently verifies it in real time—ethical, professional, and accountable at every step. The program turns proven integrity, verified performance, and transparent accountability into measurable business value.
It tells your peers, clients, and partners: we don’t just talk about trust — we prove it.
The Benefit to IAM Members
- Reduced Financial Risk: The IAM Issue Resolution System (IIRS) enforces accountability and promotes prompt payments.
- Financial Support: Enhanced debt recovery for invoices under $3,000 USD for IAMTrusted companies.
- Market Differentiation: Stand apart in bids and partnerships with a designation that’s earned, not claimed.
Benefits for Your Customers
When customers see the IAMTrusted logo, they feel the difference: a mover or supplier accountable to more than a contract—proven where it matters most—in every customer experience, through:
- Peace of Mind: Commitments are honored.
- Transparency: Issues are resolved quickly and openly.
- Confidence: Only movers meeting the industry’s highest principles can display the IAMTrusted badge.
Join IAMTrusted to strengthen your reputation, reduce financial risk, and win more business. For questions, contact trusted@iamovers.org.
The Opening Video That United us Around Purpose
The video that opened IAM President Brian Limperopulos’s State of the Association Address during the Annual Meeting & Expo did more than showcase moments, it captured the mission behind them. It reminded us that being a member of IAM means belonging to a network defined by ethical conduct, operational excellence, and trust built through accountability.
It’s a reflection of who we are: a global network of movers, suppliers, and partners united by credibility, integrity, and leadership in every move we make. Watch the story that set the tone for IAM’s year ahead—and see why being part of IAM means standing for something greater.
Upcoming Industry Events
Is your calendar up to date? See IAM's Events Calendar to stay abreast of the various conferences and industry meetings. Want to add an event? Contact IAM's Charles Stewart.