The Trade Association Trade Association (TATA) has been created to represent the interests of trade and retail associations which do not currently enjoy representation.
Speaking about the new body, Chairman Richard Dingle said; "Trade and retail associations are an essential part of the commercial and industrial landscape, each of whom do essential work in representing the interests of their respective memberships. However, each association stands alone and vulnerable.
"There is also a great deal of discrepancy between associations in respect to how much they charge and how they operate. We are aware that some associations provide very good service and value for money to their members, but there are some which clearly do not and which seem to exist purely for their own sakes. These few bad eggs are tarnishing the reputation of the association industry.
"TATA will ensure that all of our member associations are regularly assessed for quality. We will also push for an industry-wide rate card to ensure that all associations charge realistic membership rates."
TATA has already attracted over 100 trade and retail bodies including; the National Association of Specialist Computer Retailers, the Timber Trade Federation and UK Warehousing Association. TATA has produced a monthly newsletter - Association Matters - and is in the process of organising its first annual event Assocex at Birminmgham's National Exhibition Centre. The event will incorporate the new TATAwards in which trade associations will be rewarded for outstanding innovation and service.
