The EDWCA believes that the move will increase benefits for members and allow the two trade associations to share expertise, market knowledge and resources.
EDWCA chairman James Anderton said: “By partnering with the AVA it will mean that the EDWCA can better meet the needs of its members and offer wide reaching benefits that would not normally be available to our trade association even with our growing numbers. This is an exciting opportunity for the association to utilise a significantly larger support team offering wider expertise within a similar industry.
“The AVA will offer the fundamental strengths required to drive the association forward and meet its heightened goals. Whilst our markets do differ at the fringes, there is a nucleus of commonality that binds the future of the two associations together, focusing on industry standards. The associations have a common purpose, which enables us to demonstrate a single clear industry voice, making a more responsible, responsive and relevant trade organisation.
“With services under one roof we immediately gain the scale advantage that cannot be replicated by other similar trade associations and will therefore clearly benefit the members going forward.”
Jonathan Hilder, CEO of the AVA, welcomes the move: “There is clear synergy between the water and vending industries, with obvious mutual interests. We are delighted to welcome the EDWCA secretariat function within the organisation of the AVA and will happily share the specialist package of benefits available to its members and support them in running their businesses. Our members will benefit from this move, by sharing expertise and resources, creating more vibrant events and increasing our political presence.”
While the move of the EDWCA secretariat is a long-term strategy, the two associations have agreed to review the operational agreement in 12 months’ time.
In conclusion, James Anderton commented: “Moving the secretariat is a positive and proactive step that will secure a much stronger future offering for our members, improve communication and ensure that the EDWCA continues to represent a valuable and meaningful proposition.”
Source: EDWCA/AVA
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