Following a unanimous Board decision on October 30, members of the British Home Enhancement Trade Association (BHETA) have been asked to vote on a proposal that will see their Association join forces with the British Jewellery, Giftware and Finishing Federation (BJGF) to form a new 'super federation'.
The purpose of the collaboration between the two Associations to form a new entity would be to enhance significantly the representation and lobbying it can offer members at regional, national and European levels. In addition, running costs would be reduced considerably by pooling secretariat resources, and both Associations have identified that there are financial benefits to be gained, both for members and for the Associations, of increased buying power for all commercial services including trade show activities.

David French, chief executive of BHETA commented, "Beyond its initial inception, it is intended to facilitate further growth of the new 'super federation' by attracting other trade organisations to become part of the new federation."

Each trade organisation involved would retain control of its own operations and maintain their own Board of directors, but would pool their financial assets to fund resources common to all.

"It is also intended that this initiative could help to balance the governmental lobbying power currently enjoyed by the UK's retailers via the British Retail Consortium, and help to address the current imbalance and disproportionate treatment that many supplier members of trade associations are experiencing," added Mr French.

BHETA members have received their voting packs and have until Thursday, December 11 to decide on whether the collaboration will go ahead. On that date David French and BJGF vice president David Metcalfe will host a briefing meeting at Brooke House to answer any questions from members about the proposal.

David French concluded, "With 2008 proving to be one of the most testing economic environments in the 50 years since our Association was formed, the BHETA Board is convinced that this initiative will create a strong and resilient super federation that will represent all our industries powerfully and decisively into the next decade and beyond.

"Whilst many other companies and organisations have faced down-sizing or even closure, we are making this move from a position of strength. This new super federation will be able to provide an even fuller and more comprehensive range of benefits and services to all its members."