In a statement released today, David Metcalfe, BJGF Federation President, announced: “I am delighted to report that the Board of the British Home Enhancement Trade Association (BHETA) has voted unanimously to join the BJGF.”
This news comes as a result of the BJGF Board taking a fresh look at the way new trade associations join the BJGF.
The new proposal, which has now received approval from BHETA, is different legally, financially and in spirit from anything previously suggested. Most importantly to BHETA, they will remain an autonomous trade association within the Federation.
One of BJGF’s objectives has been to encourage other appropriate Trade Associations to join the Federation and enlarging the Federation is also an important arm of current BJGF Board strategy. Today’s announcement from BHETA is a huge step forward in achieving these aims.
Some time ago, the BJGF Board consulted with its Federated Trade Association Chairmen and Chief Executives who agreed that a more neutral name would encourage new trade associations to join the Federation. With the announcement from BHETA, it seems, this is the right time to put a special resolution to BJGF Members to vote upon a change in name of the Federation. This is due to happen at the BJGF Annual General Meeting on 23 June 2011.
The enlarged Federation will comprise BHETA, the Giftware Association, British Jewellers’ Association, Surface Engineering Association, British Travelgoods and Accessories Association and the Jewellery Distributors Association. The intended new name of the BJGF Federation is to be the British Allied Trades Federation (Jewellery, Giftware, Home and Finishing) – BATF.
Changes to the Memorandum and Articles are being proposed to take into account the new proposal and name change. The BJGF Board is inviting its members to vote with their colleagues at the AGM to adopt the new Memorandum and Articles and change of name. The BJGF Board is confident that with this planned expansion will come greater strength and a louder voice when raising issues to Government and other regional, national and international influential bodies.
David Metcalfe, President of the BJGF Federation said: “I am of course delighted that two great trade institutions are coming together to the advantage of Members of each organisation. I look forward to working closely with our colleagues at BHETA to develop enhanced benefits for members in the exciting time ahead.”
