Shipping Savings Create Strong Appetite for Member Retention

12/12/2013 — Matt Nagel

PartnerShip recently wrote a case study on one of our association partners. The case study took a look at how we were able to help the association attract and retain members in a competitive and price-sensitive industry.

Association Overview

Established in 1952, this association is the preeminent not-for-profit business association to foster trade, commerce and interest in the $86 billion food industry. The association is an international organization composed of more than 3,000 member companies including domestic and foreign manufacturers, importers, distributors, brokers, retailers, restaurateurs, caterers and other food businesses.

Association Challenge

Retaining  existing and attracting new members is a challenge for any association today. Association leaders must identify and provide solutions to address members' actual, real-life, —they-do-this-for-a-living' needs. Shipping services are an example of something that most members can use as a competitive advantage and to improve their bottom line.

PartnerShip Solution

PartnerShip created, and manages today, a full service shipping program that gives association members access to significant savings on small package, LTL freight, and trade show shipments. These savings, and the PartnerShip customer service team, are designed to provide a low-cost, hassle-free shipping experience for all members.

PartnerShip Results

Overall, the shipping program has saved its members over $600,000 to date on shipping expenses, and members enrolled in and using this program are each saving an average of $1,200 annually. With association annual dues for a "Buyer-Retailer Network Membership" at $300, these  program savings more than cover the membership cost - which is a powerful tool for an association at membership renewal time.

PartnerShip was also named the official trade show shipping provider for the association's bi-yearly trade shows. The program helped exhibitors save 30% or more on hundreds of exhibit shipments moving to or from their show in the summer of 2013.

Click the left button below to download a PDF version of this case study, or click the right button below to start building a shipping program for your association today.