MANA is charting a new path in 2025 and beyond. MANA is amicably parting ways with eight sister associations whose members receive access to MANA resources. The affected associations are: AIM/R, EFC-CEMRA, MEMA (HDMRC), HIRA, ISA, IHA, NMRA and PTRA.
MANA’s mission is to support independent manufacturers’ representatives and the manufacturers who choose to go to market through reps. We welcome all of the affected reps and agencies to re-join MANA as a full time member.
An article featured in the Agency Sales magazine (April 2005) discusses the strategic importance of dual association membership for independent sales representatives. It advocates for joining both horizontal and vertical associations to gain a well-rounded support network and access to various resources critical for professional growth and business success.
Horizontal associations like MANA offer a broad, overarching perspective and help reps develop business acumen, build general knowledge, and advocate for the profession on a large scale. MANA’s expansive reach allows reps to access information, tools, and networks that go beyond the scope of industry-specific associations.
Vertical associations focus deeply on the challenges and opportunities within a specific industry. For example, NEMRA provides targeted resources to electrical manufacturers’ reps, giving them tools and advocacy specifically related to their industry.
MANA encourages independent reps to consider dual association membership as an investment in the future of their agency, rather than just a cost, and to actively participate in both types of associations to maximize the benefits of belonging to these professional networks.