Trade body launches new associate membership scheme

TRADE body SELECT has announced the launch of a new associate membership scheme designed to give manufacturers and service providers the chance to become part of the electrical sector association.

Eight organisations have already signed up as founder members of the new scheme: Aico, Flexel, Linian, Luceco Group, Megger, simPRO, Tala Training, and Thorn Lighting.

Iain Mason, director of membership & communications at SELECT, said, “Associate member schemes are frequently used by modern trade associations to help develop a mutually complementary network of industry-specific partners. Designed to accommodate organisations who don’t meet the usual criteria of membership, our new scheme will give some of the industry’s biggest names the opportunity to ally themselves with an established and successful trade body.

“At the same time it will allows us trade to build stronger relationships with organisations that can offer relevant and useful services to our members.”

Mr Mason said the response to the new membership category has been ‘extremely positive’. He added, “We are delighted that so many well-respected industry names have already joined us and we look forward to welcoming many more in the weeks and months to come.”

The scheme is open to service providers, manufacturers and any other commercial organisations related to the electrical industry. They do not have to be UK-based and may have a European or international remit.

SELECT said the benefits include a logo and biography on a dedicated section of the SELECT website, networking and promotional opportunities, the chance to host webinars and events and the ability to promote goods and services via a wide range of member communications.

Associate members will also be eligible for preferential discounts on advertising, sponsorship and events, including the association’s Toolbox Talk roadshows, which are due to tour Scotland in May and June after a two-year absence.

Mr Mason added, “SELECT has always been a strong advocate of collaboration and cooperation within the construction sector and we believe this new initiative will allow members and associate members alike to enhance and expand their networks to everyone’s benefit.”