We are unlocking the power of trade associations
Trade associations are a vital part of the UK economy, representing their sector to the Government, driving standards and sharing best practice.
Since our formation in 1997, the Trade Association Forum has been the ‘association of associations’ – encouraging the development and sharing of best practice among UK trade associations and promoting the role of effective trade associations to government, industry and the wider public.
We exist to help our members learn from each other, sharing best practice and offering support across a range of the operational specialisms required to run a trade association.
Via events, publications, research and awards, we seek to drive the standards of our members and raise the profile of the outstanding contribution of trade associations to UK society as a whole. We work especially closely with the UK Government, and are supported by the Department for Business and Trade who also have a seat on our Board.
We were established in 1997, originally as part of the CBI (Confederation of British Industry), but since 2014 have been a standalone organisation funded by its member and partners. Our work is overseen by a Board of Directors consisting of trade association representatives.