A recommendation to merge the Industrial Distribution Assn. and the Industrial Supply Manufacturers Assn. into one group makes sense, and should be approved by members of the two associations in an upcoming vote.

The new organization, which has yet to be named, would have one membership category for both manufacturers and distributors. Manufacturers' representatives would become associate members, and service providers would be affiliate members.

The decision to merge the two associations is long overdue and will benefit both groups and the industry. We've seen the peaks and valleys of the relationship between I.D.A. and ISMA, and this merger would hopefully result in a more unified voice for the distribution industry. I.D.A. and ISMA leaders should be praised for taking this important step. Eventually, they hope the merger will lead to one yearly, national MROP event, which will be attended by manufacturers and distributors from other trade associations, as well as members of the industry's buying and marketing groups.

Frankly, the idea has merit. A major distribution event attended by professionals from a number of product areas would bring new business opportunities to members of both groups.

But this new association has other hurdles to overcome. First, the association and its new executive director, who has yet to be selected, needs to focus on attracting new members and retaining current ones. Consolidation has taken its toll on I.D.A., as well as many other trade associations, and the problem is only going to get worse.

As we pointed out last month (What have you done for me lately, p. 53), trade associations serve a valuable purpose in the distribution channel. They provide education opportunities, networking, product training, and discount programs for purchasing products. These are the points that must be stressed to new and prospective members.

Such benefits aren't necessarily expensive. Dues for the Specialty Tools and Fasteners Distributors Assn., for example, have not been raised since the group's inception in 1977.

We wish this proposed association the best as it works toward helping its membership—and the industry—in the years ahead.

jkeough@reedbusiness.com