LIF and BEAMA alliance

The Lighting Industry Federation (LIF) and British Electrotechnical and Allied Manufacturers' Association (BEAMA) are to forge a strategic partnership to work together on common areas such as standards and lobbying and increase the voice of their members.

The partnership, to be known as BEAMALIF, will see the support services of the two bodies combined to provide enhancements in both services and cost elements. Each body will retain its independent industry profile.

Stuart Carter, outgoing president of the LIF, said: "This is a really positive step forwards in the LIF's history. Our partnership with such a long established, highly regarded organisation as BEAMA is a natural progression for both parties.

"The venture makes us a more potent industry influence. Working together, we have much more collective punch than we would operating singly. In addition, BEAMA offers many beneficial services - successful initiatives for countering the threat of inferior quality counterfeit products; statistical and legal knowledge; lobbying influence; and ability with overseas missions and promotions."

LIF personnel will integrate with the BEAMA team at its headquarters in Westminster Tower, London.

Ernest Magog is to retire from his long-standing post as director of the LIF in October 2006. He will remain involved in industry activities in his role as chief executive of Lumicom. Magog's position at the LIF will be filled by Eddie Taylor, chief executive of Recolight.