New Out of Home media body formed

"The four major companies have recognised the need for a strong industry representative body that comprises member companies which subscribe to the principles of a self-regulated and disciplined Out of Home industry," said Les Holley, the new General Manager of the Association.

David van der Knaap, CEO of Nail Outdoor, has been appointed Interim Chairman to oversee the first formative stage of the new association. "The major players in the Out of Home industry have recognized that it is incumbent upon them to play the role of facilitator in allowing a democratic and all-encompassing new body to be formed. A permanent committee has not yet been voted into position as it is the desire of the founding members to encourage as many Out of Home businesses as possible to participate in the electoral process. Interest in the body is strong from all spectrums of the Out of Home industry and once all potential participants are drawn together, the first permanent office bearers will be appointed by election," said Van der Knaap.

"We have taken cognisance of the failings of the previous industry representative bodies, dating back to the Transvaal Sign Manufacturers' Association and have ensured that an appropriate Constitution with the necessary disciplinary procedures in place has been constructed," said Holley. "We have also formulated a new Code of Practice which we believe will enjoy the support of the Out of Home industry and Advertising industry at large," he said.

"In a changing South Africa and given the dynamic positive change and market share growth that the Out of Home industry has experienced over the past 5 years, it is essential that the industry develop in line with the aspirations of the country and in a professional and responsible manner," said Van der Knaap. "I would not have accepted the role as Interim Chairman if I was not comfortable that Out of Home Media South Africa is appropriately constituted to achieve these objectives and that the intention of the founding members is to be as representative as possible of the Out of Home Media industry at large and to allow the industry to play its role in the development of new, emerging businesses," he said.