One of the dominant themes of the first few Forums has been that of manufacturers feeling the squeeze with legislation getting ever more complex and price competition intensifying. The twin directives of WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulation) and RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances Regulations) - two new Environmental Regulations about to be implemented into UK law - are likely to have a major impact on manufacturers.
As part of its strategy for the next 12 months, PLASA is going to focus more on lobbying activities to ensure its members' interests are fully represented. It is also looking into the possibility of conducting a survey of industry pay-scales to help members determine pay and conditions for their staff, as well as working on the development of a database of tender and contract information so that it can highlight business opportunities to members and, where relevant, facilitate site visits or meetings.
Through hosting the regular meetings, PLASA hopes to create an active network of manufacturers to advance this sector's industries. The meetings are backed by an online discussion forum so that all PLASA members worldwide have an opportunity to be part of the ongoing dialogue.
The announcement comes on the back of several major initiatives being developed by PLASA. The Association is currently piloting a new National Rigging Certificate, designed to give riggers across all sectors a recognised framework by which their expertise can be measured, as well as developing qualifications for the installation sector and undertaking a major restructure of its membership.
(Lee Baldock)
