After what was sometimes a hotly debated meeting about the issues effecting the position of whether the associations should merge or not, the results on the vote of the board resolution were a clear majority in favour of Promota not to merge with the BPMA. As it happens the vote was already decided prior to the meeting by the number of postal votes being received against the merger, and in total it appears only c. 25% of members actually voted, surely a disappointing figure for such an important decision. But of the 176 votes made 129 were against and 47 for. Sourcing City has made no secret of its preference to see one strong independent trade association, but after what seems like a very frustrating and long 2 years of failed negotiation, we must accept the result of the referendum now, and look forward to seeing the new board who outlined their independent vision, delivering on a list of potentially exciting promises.

In their full release attached, new Chairman David Webster says “This is the beginning of a new era for PROMOTA and our members. The board would like to express their thanks to members for their support, and for them being such an integral part of a landmark decision. The board is delighted with the outcome of the vote as we believe that this is the right decision for the good of PROMOTA, our members and the wider industry.

“We will now be working tirelessly to better highlight what PROMOTA stands for, and people should look out for a host of new initiatives.”

Published on: May 20th, 2010