OFA, ANLA Merger A Distant Possibility

OFA ANLA merger

OFA has established itself as an industry leader in technical and business development education, industry marketing and conducting a major international trade show. The American Nursery & Landscape Association (ANLA), meanwhile, has become a leader representing the industry before government, interpreting industry trends and providing its own education for business owners and senior management.

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Now, the two associations are bringing their strengths together in a joint venture that both sides say could one day result in a merger between OFA and ANLA.

“In several years, if both organizations see the joint venture as a value to our members and they can benefit from further collaboration to better serve them and the industry, both boards of directors already support the intention to form a new, single premier horticulture organization serving North America,” says Michael Geary, OFA’s CEO.

According to Geary, OFA’s next step is to integrate ANLA into its educational programs, including Short Course. OFA will also collaborate more closely with ANLA’s volunteers and its staff. Recent research conducted by OFA indicates both OFA and ANLA members want their industry association to be all encompassing. The research also indicates association members feel strongly that both OFA and ANLA should be embarking on a number of activities, including:

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• Attracting the next generation of industry professionals;
• Pursuing market development and promotion;
• Pursuing advocacy and legislative issues;
• Becoming more involved in regulatory issues;
• Exhibit more involvement in business management and technical product/education; and
• Conducting trade shows

“Working together means building on (our) differing strengths for the benefit of our members and the industry,” says Bob Lyons, ANLA president. “It means avoiding duplication and competition for industry resources and member participation.”

Learn more about the joint venture on GreenhouseGrower.com.

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