The Best UK Trade Associations

Whether you’re looking to upskill, explore new marketing channels or connect with other tradespeople, joining a trade association is a great way to hit multiple nails on the head. Not sure which one to join? Here are the five best UK trade associations.

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Short on time? Skip ahead!

• 1. Why join a trade association?
• 2. The best trade associations in the UK
• 3. Join a UK trade association today

1. Why join a trade association? 

There are lots of reasons to consider joining a trade association:

• Connect with your local trade community - Trade associations can connect you with thousands of like-minded people so you can exchange ideas, access resources and increase your skill set.

• Stay informed about important industry changes - Compliance regulations change all the time. Trade associations know the latest industry rules so that you can adapt your business operations. 

• Refresh or develop your skillset - Customers want to work with tradespeople who stay at the top of their craft. A trade association will regularly notify you of upcoming training and other learning opportunities.
• Access new ways to market your trade business - Networking is an essential part of your job as a tradesperson. The more people you connect with, the more chances you have of securing new work. 

2. The best trade associations in the UK

The Trade Association Forum UK is an excellent resource with a directory for all UK associations. There are hundreds of options, and we’ve rounded up five of the best to save you time:

Best building association – Federation of Master Builders (FMB)

The FMB professionally vets all its members and only accepts the best in the trade. Once you become a Master Builder, you’ll be recognised as a top-quality builder that homeowners can trust. It’s a great way to boost your reputation, get more exposure and secure more work. 

Best HVAC association – The Institute of Refrigeration (IOR)

Supporting experts in refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pumps, the IOR prides itself on helping technicians grow their industry expertise with resources, training programmes and up-to-date information on industry news, standards and legislation. 

Best plumbing association – Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE)

The CIPHE is the professional body for the UK heating and plumbing industry. It’s been around since 1906 and offers support through training, free technical and legal helplines, and professional development. 

Best electrical association – Electrical Contractors Association (ECA)

With over 3500 members, the ECA is the leading association for the UK electrotechnical services industry. Membership will get you discounts on software tools and training, help promote your business and support you across the board in your job. 

Best gas association – The British Compressed Gases Association (BCGA)

BCGA ensures its members operate their businesses safely and efficiently. It offers technical support and advice, updates on industry news, and an opportunity to influence upcoming government regulations.

3. Join a UK trade association today

There are many ways to grow your trade business, and trade associations can be well worth the membership. You’ll get access to training and advice, updates on legislation and networking opportunities. If you want your business to grow, it also needs to be running at peak efficiency. Job management software like Tradify that streamlines admin processes will help you do just that.  

Want to experience the benefits of an organised business? Sign up for a 14-day free trial of Tradify. No credit card is required. No commitment. Or visit one of our live demo webinars to see Tradify in action.