Joining Us

Applications are invited from any local authority currently responsible for operating markets within its area. As the biggest and most influential markets organisation in the country, we can offer a range of services to enhance current market provision. Detailed below are some very good reasons why NABMA membership represents great value for money:

NABMA has represented the interests of local authorities for over 80 years.

It is vitally important that markets have a national voice and NABMA fulfils this requirement by representing its members at national level. Recently NABMA has taken a leading role in the rating review of markets and in respect of proposed legislation on unlawful trading.

NABMA provides advice

 NABMA has the resources to provide practical and specialist advice on all aspects of markets.

NABMA provides research and advisors

We can offer the best advice on market management and operation through our team of advisors and networking opportunities. We can also offer the best available legal advice on market law and trading matters. We have a range of guidance and policy documents that are based on best practice in the market industry. We have up-to-date research information on market trends and opportunities.

NABMA networking opportunities

NABMA offers unrivalled networking opportunities through its conferences, seminars and various forums. All issues relevant to markets are covered and members have a chance to see other markets and learn how new initiatives are being pursued.

NABMA provides training

NABMA provides training opportunities for Market Officers. Throughout the year a range of training courses for all levels of market staff are held in different parts of the country, together with an annual residential course which covers a range of market topics. NABMA is also working to secure an accreditation in market management that will be recognised throughout local government. We also support the Institute of Place Management which offers opportunities for senior market officers to gain an important qualification. NABMA has developed an excellent website which publicises market matters and also gives members the opportunity to promote their own events.

 

NABMA website and communication

NABMA’s website has received critical acclaim and it provides an important communication link with our members and anyone interested in market matters. In addition to providing the main voice of NABMA, our website also enables members to see what is happening in other markets and also gives members the opportunity of promoting their own events and/or advertising other matters relevant to their markets, including vacant posts.

NABMA promotes benchmarking between members

It is recognised that performance is an important part of local authority work and NABMA has established a benchmarking club to enable our members to compare their respective performance in key areas.

NABMA works closely with other organisations that have a keen interest in markets.

We have led the way in setting up the Markets Industry Forum which enables all leading market organisations to address major issues together.
Currently we are looking at a major research project that will develop a policy framework on markets and provide examples of good practice.

NABMA has direct access to Government, particularly through the All Party Parliamentary Group on Markets.

Under Ann Coffey, M.P., Secretary to the APPG, NABMA and other market organisations have gained increased recognition with Parliamentarians. We are looking to build on the success of our recent Parliamentary Reception when we launch the Policy Framework on Markets.

NABMA offers members help with consultancy and scrutiny of markets.

As part of NABMA membership an opportunity is provided for members to have external help with consultancy and scrutiny of markets. A half day consultancy and participation in a scrutiny review is provided free as part of the NABMA membership. Where a more detailed consultancy requirement is needed, NABMA has a number of approved consultants and can offer advice on what is most appropriate for a particular member.

NABMA has established strong links in Europe.

It is important that we have a better understanding of European legislation and insight into the wider market scene and NABMA is leading the work on these issues through the European Retail Group which has been established as part of the World Union of Wholesale Markets.

NABMA undertakes research on markets.

NABMA undertook the first major research of retail markets and is also leading the way with the development of a Policy Framework for markets. NABMA recognises that members need to be aware of trends affecting markets and also challenges and opportunities for the future.