An Industry Association Does Good
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There are some signs that the reportwon't make much difference to clients, but it's always likely that bad press will have a negative impact.
Luckily, someone has industry business owners' backs. A day afterthe report, theIndoor Tanning Association(ITA)posted afull-page adin theNew York Postin an effort to, according to the website, "fight back" against the media. A mock newspaper headline reads "Indoor Tanning put[sic] in Same Category as Sunshine." And below, in big, bold font, "Public Response: Duh." The ad goes on to explain that UV rays are the same, whether from the sun or a tanning bed, and overexposure is the real issue.
ITA reacted quickly and effectively against a potential PR disaster, showing that industryassociations can be extremely valuable to small-business and franchise owners. Of course, excepting the celebrated AAA membership, there's no guarantee you'll see your money put to work--which makes it just one more investment decision to make as an entrepreneur.
Is your trade association worth the membership dues you pay?Join thediscussion on E-Connect.