Membership Benefits

Being a member of the GAI (as the only trade association representing architectural ironmongery) demonstrates your commitment to the industry. You can illustrate this by using;

• membership logo, provided electronically for use in marketing collateral and on your website
• annual membership certificate

Education Programme

No other programme offers such a broad knowledge and understanding of ironmongery, leading to the most recognised qualification in the industry.

• significantly reduced student fees for members
• incremental levels of annual study and examination spread over 3 years
• residential (or in-house) courses available to reinforce learning
• personal development packs for all students
• students gain automatic membership of the Institute of Architectural Ironmongers

GAI Website

A reliable point of reference, and guidance, for members, clients and the public including:

• access to password protected member only areas
• member company detail listing online
• back catalogue of all publications, downloadable in PDF
• calendar of upcoming events
• access to the constitution documents of the GAI
• discounted “Job Shop” rates to advertise your vacancies

Publications

The GAI is the key communicator for the industry producing:

• The Architectural Ironmongers Journal (AIJ) released quarterly containing industry news and technical information amongst others. (AIJ advertising rates significantly discounted for member companies)
• Technical Updates keep you up-to-date with the latest developments and important changes to standards.
• Guild News has the latest information for the GAI

Employment Advice

A specially commissioned consultancy providing advice and guidance on employment matters, including:

Performance issues – dealing with staff who are not doing their job properly; advising on procedure; drafting letters; advising on best practice

Absenteeism – advising on normal procedures and disciplinary implications, considering possible involvement of the Disability Discrimination Act
Rights relating to pregnancy and maternity

Redundancy - is function redundant; will selection be necessary between a number of staff; what selection criteria should be employed and how are those criteria applied; how to proceed procedurally

Family friendly rights – how to deal with paternity/adoption leave and requests for flexible work

Statutory procedures for discipline and grievance – how to avoid pitfalls
Other protected employees – on grounds of sexual orientation, religion or belief, part time or fixed term

Construction Products Association (CPA)

Our membership of the CPA enables GAI members to gain access to the wealth of information and market intelligence. www.constructionproducts.org.uk .  We are also members of the Fire Sector Federation.

Events and networking opportunities

On behalf of the membership the GAI stages a proud collection of flagship events, recognised by the industry, which congratulate achievement and provide excellent networking opportunities:

• Bi-annual Specification Awards Lunch (in association with RIBA)
• Annual Education Awards Lunch
• GAI AGM and Conference
• various seminars/workshops
• IAI AGM and Dinner/Dance
• IAI Branch meetings

Sponsorship Opportunities

As a member of GAI, there are a number of sponsorship opportunities to show your support and present your brand and products to potential clients.

Technical guidance and advice

A highly regarded consultancy and helpline service provided by Jacky Sinclair specifically for GAI members who need to understand standards and regulations

Construction Products Association

The CPA offer a range of services which our members can take full advantage of such as: