BPMA And Trade Only Extend Relationship

The British Promotional Merchandise Association (BPMA) and Trade Only Limited (UPIC: trade) have announced new developments in their relationship. BPMA has secured Trade Only as a patron of the organization, and the two have released a revision and extension of their existing cooperative agreement.

As a patron of BPMA, a trade association for the promotional products industry in the U.K., Trade Only is one of a group of suppliers, distributors and service providers that serve as ambassadors of BPMA and its education program.

“Our patronage recognizes our commitment to the promotional merchandise industry and is key to our continued support for the BPMA,” says Vicky Robinson, managing director of Trade Only. “We have been working closely with the BPMA now for several years. Their focus on end-user awareness and highlighting the benefits of promotional products to them is vital to the growth of the industry, and we are delighted to give them any support to focus on these key areas.”

Gordon Glenister, director general of BPMA, says: “We are very pleased that Trade Only, who is an important partner to BPMA, is also now a patron. They are a leading example of excellence within the promotional merchandise industry, and their work, commitment and strong ethical standards ensure that they are a much welcome addition to the group.”

BPMA and Trade Only have also reached an agreement that will add a BPMA Education Day prior to the annual Trade Only National Show for the next three years. The Education Day is part of a revamped and extended education offering by the BPMA. The day will include a keynote address as well as modules and seminars that can be taken by industry professionals on a stand-alone basis, and will also count toward BPMA education program qualifications.

Neal Beagles, BPMA chairman, says: “As I have said many times before, at the BPMA we believe that as our customers become more demanding and more discerning we need to equip our industry with the tools and knowledge to deal with them in a professional way. Education and training is key to this, and I am delighted that we will be able to really focus on this vital area.”

BPMA and Trade Only’s agreement extends an existing arrangement between the two organizations that was due to end after the 2013 Trade Only National Show.