Business & Professional Associations Industry Overview

Excerpt from Business & Professional Associations Report

Companies in this industry promote the business and professional interests of members. Major associations include the American Bar Association, the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the National Retail Federation, the US Chamber of Commerce (all based in the US), as well as the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, the European Association of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (Belgium), FoodDrinkEurope (Belgium), and the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association.

Competitive Landscape

Demand is driven by business expansion and job growth. The profitability of individual associations depends on the ability to expand dues-paying membership. Large associations have economies of scale in marketing. Small associations can appeal to businesses or professionals in niche industries or serve local markets.

Products, Operations & Technology

Major sources of revenue include membership dues (30 to 50 percent of revenues), convention and seminar fees (15 to 20 percent), publications (10 percent) and contributions. Associations may also generate revenue through merchandise sales and testing and examination services.