Trade associations meet industry needs

By Jack Keough, EDITOR/ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER -- Industrial Distribution, 6/1/2000

After attending recent industry conventions, including the annual meeting of I.D.A. and ASMMA last month, it is readily apparent that distributor associations are closer to meeting their member needs than ever before. Take, for example, the new product training manuals published by I.D.A. in conjunction with this magazine. Several hundred have already been sold. Likewise, ASMMA has begun an excellent Value Added Partner program promoting the value of selling through distribution and the effectiveness of the channel.

The ASMMA/I.D.A. convention had an outstanding series of seminars and workshops, a technology showcase and a keynote address by former President George Bush. The meeting clearly showed the value of association membership. It's unfortunate that at least one publicly traded company in the industry has issued a directive cutting back its employee attendance at the convention activities. I believe that's a shortsighted decision.

Years ago, when I first started attending conventions, I, too, questioned these industry meetings. There were too many of them. It seemed the same speakers were recruited year after year, making the same presentations. The conference booth programs and the opportunity to network were the main reasons to attend. That's all changed today, as most associations have changed with the times.

Take a look at what some leading associations are doing. The Specialty Tools and Fasteners Distributors Assn., for example, offers outstanding programs with a strong list of consultants available to help members. They have a yearly product show and haven't increased dues since they began operation.

The Bearing Specialists Assn. has instituted a bearing certification program - the first of its kind. The Power Transmission Distributors Assn. has developed a "boot camp" on e-commerce.

The National Assn. of Hose & Accessories Distributors published hose assembly standards this year, doing the association and the industry a valuable service. The Fluid Power Distributors Assn. has begun, for the first time, an award promoting the use of technology.

These associations, like many others in the industry, are important to the growth and professionalism of all those involved in the distribution channel. To those who think there is no benefit in attending these meetings or serving as an officer, think again. You're missing a valuable opportunity to network, learn and grow your business.