In fact, there was a never-ending stream of issues, legislative and regulatory proposals which affected our industry. These required effective response. In addition it served to emphasise the need to continue to build up our relationships in the UK, Europe and internationally.

Keeping the members informed

But the starting point in all of this lies in keeping in close contact with our members. Throughout 2009, I have continued my programme of meetings with our members in order to discuss their needs and actions which they would like to see AMDEA undertake on their behalf.

We have also continued to provide information and a prompt response to members’ enquiries on a daily basis. In addition, we have continued to issue our regular newsletters and reports – dealing with matters on which AMDEA staff is currently working.

Our in-house briefing sessions have also proved to be popular. In 2009, we briefed our members on Safety and Standards, EU measures on Energy Using Products and the Energy Label. We also ran an update on the Briefing on EU Environmental Legislation first made in 2008. We intend to continue this much appreciated service throughout 2010.

Our revised and improved committee structure continues to work well. They have dealt with a wide range of specific issues which are important to our industry.

Industry alliances

We have continued to seek strategic allies in our efforts to promote the interests of the domestic appliances industry. Throughout 2009 we have met regularly with our colleagues in the gas and water industries, as well as with the Confederation of British Industry, retra  (the independent electrical retailers association), the British Retail Consortium and EST (The Energy Saving Trust).

At AMDEA we have continued to participate in consultations with the government.  During 2009 these consultations have included energy using products, market surveillance, batteries, and the UK implementation of the Waste Framework Directive. Work also continued on some old favourites, such as the WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Directive.

In 2009, we also continued our work on the Time to Change campaign to encourage the early replacement of older appliances by new more energy-efficient models. This year’s competition to find the oldest working fridge produced a 60 year old one! Our case study in the West Country highlighted the staggering savings made by a typical family who introduced a new fridge into their home. We will continue our discussions with the Treasury to try to persuade the British government to introduce an incentive scheme encouraging consumers to trade in their old domestic appliances.

So we look forward to building on our achievements in 2010 and beyond.

I believe that AMEDEA’s activities and campaigns in 2009 have helped to raise the profile and the image of the domestic appliances industry in the UK.

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