James Clark, BITA's secretary general

British Industrial Truck Association (BITA) has announced membership fees for 2009 will not increase for the second year in a row. The decision to freeze fees takes into account the current economic climate.

James Clark, secretary general of BITA, says the board believes this is a responsible position for a trade organisation to take in the current trading conditions. "It makes sense to be pragmatic in these times. Everyone is finding it tougher than in previous years and we want to be able to help our members where we can."

BITA is finding membership is holding strong, despite the economy slowing. "BITA has not lost any members," says Clark. "Our belief is that in times like this, the value of belonging to a strong and supportive trade association like BITA comes to the fore.

"We offer our members a variety of relevant benefits, which they value tremendously, such as the economic forecasting service and statistical information - the likes of which are not found elsewhere.

"It is these sorts of benefits that help members forecast and predict possible changes in the economy, which they will find increasingly useful during this recession."

According to Clark, BITA members have greeted the news of the freeze positively. "I have already received several calls from members who think the fee freeze is a commendable move and one which they appreciate," Clark says. "BITA wants to support its members in whatever way it can."