The British Travelgoods, Handbags and Accessories Association and The Giftware Association are delighted to announce that they are to merge their operations and members services with immediate effect. The BTAA and The Giftware Association will combine their day to day operations, whilst retaining their separate identities.

Originally known as the Saddlery, Harness and General Leathergoods Manufactures Association, The BTAA is celebrating its Centenary this year, and see this merger as an opportunity to enhance and expand its services to its members. The Association has a rich history of serving the Travel and Leathergoods industries and feel that in today’s diverse market the general interests of its members can be better served by sharing the experiences of the two organisations

The Giftware Association, having its own 71-year history, was set up to serve the Home and Giftware Industry in helping members save money, make money and realise their business goals. With new initiatives such as its ‘Meet the Buyer Events’, ‘The Gift of The Year’ competition, ‘The GA Yearbook ‘it has adapted into its changing environment to be an association fit for the future and is always looking for new services to benefit its members.

“We are incredibly excited to build on The BTAA’s amazing history and take it into the next era.” explains Sarah Ward, The CEO of The Giftware Association. “We are looking forward to offering the BTAA members more initiatives, and benefits that they can use to achieve their business goals, whilst also offering them the same great service that they are used to. This merger provides a great base for us to grow the association and bring both industries closer together”

Janette Faulkner, Chair of the BTAA said “We are very excited by this merger, and the opportunities which it affords us. We see it as a winwin for our members, who will keep the benefits of BTAA membership, plus the added services of our new innovative partner”.

The Giftware Association will continue to run the Fashion Accessory of the Year Awards, which will take place on the first day of Autumn Fair at the Fashion Talks stage at 1.30pm.

This will be a great opportunity for BTAA members to meet the Giftware Association team and fellow members for networking, drinks to find out more about the exciting plans for the future.

If you would like more information then please get in touch with a member of our team on 0121 237 1105.