International Exhibition Logistics Associates (IELA), like many professional and trade associations, works toward creating professional standards, representing member interests and sharing information with the objective of enhancing the reputation and professionalism of its members. Unlike many trade associations, however, membership is limited to companies that meet strict criteria. Rock It Cargo’s recent acceptance as a member of IELA was more than the result of completing an application and writing a check. It represents a giant leap in credibility.
The 24-year old organization plays an important role in the global exhibition industry. The first official meeting of IELA members was held in 1983. The following year, founders decided on the name of the organization and registered the group in Geneva, Switzerland. In addition to providing performance standards for “contractors involved in the physical movement of material to and from an exhibition site,” the association acts as a formal liaison between its members and associated industries such as show organizers, exhibit designers and stand builders.
In order to be accepted for membership, IELA applicants are asked to submit the following information and documentation:
- List of owners and the percentage of ownership
- Amount of freight (tonnage) handled over the past two years
- Revenue for the past two years
- Primary contact persons
- List of official show appointments
- Financial statements for the past two years
- Letters of recommendation from two existing IELA members
- Membership fee
Based on its submissions, Rock It Cargo’s Fairs and Exhibitions department was granted membership on May 5, 2009.
Bill Langworthy, vice president and head of Rock It Cargo’s Fairs and Exhibitions division, spearheaded the effort to join IELA. "I am extremely excited and proud that we have been accepted and are now members of an organization which is dedicated to enhancing the professionalism of the transportation logistics and freight handling segments of the trade show and exhibition industry,” he says.
Being a member of IELA carries other benefits besides credibility with it. Membership could mean increased business opportunities as well as operational efficiencies. In addition to Rock-it Cargo’s existing network of agents and offices, it can now also rely on support from other IELA members that have been pre-qualified and meet the same standards of professionalism as Rock It Cargo. “We now can take [our] energy and experience to IELA to further its goals and strengths as an organization dedicated to our industry while, at the same time, taking advantage of the new relationships that will develop with its member’s located throughout the world," Langworthy adds.
For more information on the International Exhibition Logistics Associates, visit their Web site at www.iela.org.
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