Join API
The Association of Play Industries was formed in 1984 to ‘raise the bar’ of the play industry. Under the auspices of BSAIF now Federation of Sports and Play Associations (FSPA) the API was created with two main aims raise standards and provide a united voice.
Over the last 25 years, the API has grown from strength to strength. The API originally covered outdoor play equipment and surfacing manufacturers. It has expanded to incorporate indoor play and companies specialising in construction and installation. The Associate section was introduced in 2005.
The API now actively represents over 75 members, approximately 85% of the annual UK market demand of over c.£180 Million.
The API operates under the umbrella of the FSPA; the national trade body responsible for representing 17 Associations in the UK’s sport and play industries. The FSPA is the voice of the UK sports and play industries; ideally positioned at the heart of the sector and acting as the first point of contact for its associations and member companies. www.sportsandplay.com
A dedicated full-time administration reports to the API Executive Committee. The Executive comprises of representatives from different member companies, and consists of Chair, Vice Chair and eight Officers. All are elected by the membership at the Annual General Meeting. Working groups and Steering committees are formulated from the membership as necessary.
Politically impartial, the API aims to provide a united play-industry voice and continue to liaise closely with government and relevant national and international bodies including progressing positive two-way working with, for example Play England.
The API and its members play a crucial role within the play industry and we continue to rise to the challenges ahead.
Raising Standards
API is an open and inclusive organisation that welcomes applications for membership from any company actively involved within the industry. However, all applicants must meet the relevant Criteria for Membership and demonstrate that they have the necessary expertise, experience and professionalism.
API members are required to comply with the Association’s Professional Code of Conduct. The API has built its reputation on the quality of its members work. The API does have teeth – and has declined and expelled from membership, for failing to meet the standards required.
Working together through the various steering groups and committees, members separate themselves from commercial interests for the good of the industry, customer and suppliers. Representation from the API on various British Standards (BSI) committees ensures the membership continue to improve standard and quality of play facilities.
Information and Networking
API provides its members with regular email updates, ensuring that members are kept up-to-date with the wider industry, Government policy, news, Standard updates and any regulations which may affect the industry.
Members have the opportunity of networking at meetings arranged by the API, throughout the year.
Promoting Members
Along with many cost saving member benefits provided by API and FSPA, API members benefit from exposure to the marketplace through various tools and activities, including:
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API close liaison with key play related bodies and organisations
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API’s annual Directory of Members (circa 15,000)
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API/FSPA’s annual trade exhibition Playfair
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Dedicated website and members only section
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API’s partnership with play related media publications
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Participation at key play related events
The API website provides a wealth of useful information for anyone interested in play spaces and sourcing equipment and services. The website has developed into a well known and used information portal. Members benefit from their own member’s profile, which includes their companies information and contact details. The search facilities include members full contact details and link to their own site. Members have the facility to advertise their job vacancies and submit news stories for the Latest News section; this can be used to promote their products and highlight important projects in which they have been involved.
The API works consistently to develop new ways of promoting its members.
How to join
To request application forms for membership of API please send your company details, including a brief description of your business activities, to API at the following address or request an ' Request an Application Pack' .