Although it was early in my time at the NAS, at my first AGM as Director I made two key statements to our members: Firstly, I said that it was my vision for the NAS to be seen as a ‘best in class’ trade association; secondly, I added that to achieve that vision, the value of NAS membership must be greater than the cost. Those two statements have driven a lot of change at the NAS over the past 12 months, as they subsequently became commitments in our 2020 Vision.
Our focus on value perhaps couldn’t have come at a better time – as we enter a period of economic uncertainty driven by the effects of Coronavirus. In times like this, all businesses should be looking to cut unnecessary expenditure, and only spend where there is a clear return on investment. Membership of the NAS can help to achieve both – by making the most of the structured benefits package we offer.
Many companies in the sector will have a contract (or will be paying ad hoc) for credit checks, and advice covering Health & Safety, employment law, and contracts when it is needed. These are all included in NAS membership, along with opportunities to access preferential rates for business insurance, healthcare, fleet management, and industry publications. Our benefits also help you invest in your staff at reduced cost, through our network of Approved Training Providers. We also help with their welfare – providing discounted access to over 3,500 gyms, a 24/7 counselling helpline, or 7% off a daily coffee fix.
With membership starting from under £80 a month (depending on company turnover), by making the most of the NAS’ benefits, your company will save money. We are so confident in that statement that we have created an online calculator to demonstrate the savings NAS members can make. You will also be connected to a growing and increasingly engaged community of members.
This month we’ve added to our member benefits offer by including a Safety Schemes in Procurement (SSIP) assessment for shopfitting, fit-out, and interior contractors; introduced 10-20% discounts on Dell products (which can be easily accessed in our Members Area); and, launched a highly subsidised programme of training – where the NAS will cover 50% of the cost of eligible courses. We won’t stand still and will continue to add benefits where we feel they add value to our members.
It really is true to say that there’s never been a better time to join the UK’s dedicated professional association for shopfitters, fit-out and interior contractors.
