The shortlisted organisations for this award demonstrate how member-led organisations can deliver growth, champion high standards, and influence positive change across industries. From advancing training and sustainability to policy advocacy and sector collaboration, each shows the value of collective leadership and the important role associations play in shaping their professions.
Association for Specialist Fire Protection
The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has played a pivotal role in raising standards across the built environment through its focus on passive fire protection. As it approaches its 50th anniversary, ASFP has expanded training, launched new resources, and invested in its first dedicated Office and Academy. It has strengthened influence with government and industry bodies, while engaging the next generation through student memberships and young leaders’ initiatives.
With growing membership, wide use of its technical guidance, and a strong emphasis on competence, ASFP continues to enhance professional practice and public safety across the sector.
Builders Merchants Federation
The Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) represents over 1,000 members across the building materials supply chain, supporting businesses with training, sustainability initiatives, and professional pathways. In recent years, membership has grown to record levels, underpinned by strong retention and engagement. BMF has invested in skills development, launching a major careers programme and pledging thousands of new apprenticeship opportunities. It has also advanced sustainability through research, guidance, and collaboration.
From product data standardisation to inclusion campaigns, BMF has worked to ensure its members can adapt to sector challenges, while championing the role of merchants and suppliers in the wider economy.
Freelancer and Contractor Services Association
The Freelancer and Contractor Services Association (FCSA) represents the UK’s professional freelance sector, focusing on compliance, ethical practice, and innovation. It has launched initiatives such as the Diligence Hub, a platform streamlining due diligence processes, and veriPAYE, promoting payroll transparency for contractors. Alongside setting rigorous accreditation standards, FCSA provides thought leadership and advocacy, ensuring members’ voices are heard in government and across the industry.
These initiatives have delivered measurable time savings, increased trust, and enhanced professionalism across the freelance supply chain. With high member satisfaction and retention, FCSA continues to strengthen the sector through innovation and standards.
National Residential Landlords Association
The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) supports over 110,000 landlords with resources, advice, and representation, making it the UK’s largest membership body in the private rented sector. It has expanded membership significantly since 2020, while maintaining strong engagement and delivering new services such as compliance software and portfolio management tools. NRLA provides a trusted voice in national debates, lobbying government on key housing legislation and securing practical policy changes for landlords.
Alongside campaigning, it has delivered thousands of training completions, expanded events nationwide, and maintained robust financial health—ensuring it can continue supporting landlords and promoting responsible renting.
Professional Publishers Association
The Professional Publishers Association (PPA) represents more than 250 publishers, from consumer magazines to digital-first content businesses. Over the past three years, it has transformed into a future-focused trade body, with new steering committees, stronger policy influence, and growing membership. Campaigns such as Make It Fair have placed members’ voices at the centre of national debate on AI and copyright, while initiatives like the Action Net Zero Pathway and Next Gen Board drive sustainability and inclusion.
With new partnerships, commercial collaboration, and accessible guidance on complex issues, the PPA continues to champion its members and strengthen the publishing sector.
Railway Industry Association
The Railway Industry Association (RIA) has represented the UK rail supply industry for 150 years, and in 2024 it delivered record growth and influence. Membership reached over 400 organisations, while publications such as the Net Zero Rail Plan and the Manifesto for Rail shaped national policy discussion. RIA modernised its brand and website, completed its Nations and Regions Network, and delivered more than 100 events for members.
With a strong presence in government and media, and a focus on sustainability, innovation, and industry excellence, RIA continues to provide leadership and value for its members and the wider rail sector.
The organisations shortlisted for Best Trade Association, Body or Union highlight the breadth of impact associations can have—supporting members, shaping policy, and driving sector-wide progress. Their achievements underline the value of collective action, and how associations can represent their industries with authority, ambition, and purpose.
The Memcom Excellence Awards Ceremony will take place on Thursday 25 September at the Royal Lancaster London.
Tickets are now available book now to celebrate with us in style.
