German retail bodies to merge

The new association aims to establish stronger direct contact with decision-makers in the federal government.

The existing retail associations in Germany representing companies in the footwear (BDSE) apparel (BTE) and leathergoods (BLE) sectors have decided to merge to form the BTE Handelsverband Textil, Schuh, Lederwaren (Trade Association of Textile, Shoes and Leathergoods).

This amalgamation strategy is said to have been taken in order to bundle together the goals and tasks of the three branches – most of which are identical – and then to process them in a more efficient manner. The statement released to announce the merger explained that the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of having direct access to decision-makers in the federal government. Therefore, the merged association will reportedly work to establish stronger direct contacts with politicians, so that representation of the textile and fashion industries’ interests is boosted. This step will be taken in addition to and in accordance with the German Retail Federation (HDE), which has been conducting lobbying activities, and to which the three individual associations belong. The new organisation intends to open an office in the German capital Berlin.

Publishing Data

This article was originally published on page 3 of the April 2021 issue of SATRA Bulletin.

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