In January 1999, a group of 13 suppliers in Belgium formed FEBIN, a unique organisation set up to confer with the retail sector and to contribute to a better market structure. FEBIN wanted to create a platform on which retailers and suppliers could consult with one another. This gave rise in March 1999 to the BDA - the Belgian Do-It-Yourself Association. Two months later, FEDIS/FEDOZ and FEBIN decided to work together under the BDA umbrella.

FEBIN: its structure FEBIN works with FEDOZ/FEDIS in the BDA to achieve a consensus between DIY retailers and suppliers with regard to common problems. FEBIN membership is open to those who are active in the retail and/or manufacturing sector. The intention is to achieve as balanced a composition of the Boards as possible to give each of the following product groups a say in joint decision-making: gardening; wood; construction; tools; plumbing; electrical; paint; decorating; adhesives; damp-proofing; and wood care.

FEBIN: its objectives

• Efficient communication
  More efficient communication with FEBIN members will be achieved by direct mail, info sessions and participation in work groups.
• Strong market representation
  The level of market representation will be strengthened by growing the membership. FEBIN continues to establish important contacts with existing members and with the market at large. Its own website is an important element in this strategy.
• Working groups
  Through the BDA, FEDIS/FEDOZ and FEBIN are currently dealing with a number of pertinent issues, including: logistical challenges; integration of Telediy; CRM and a BDA internet site.
• Market data
  The collection of market data creates a more accurate understanding of the DIY market. This includes an impartial data bank monitoring DIY turnover through suppliers’ figures, and the BDA‘s ground-breaking consumer research project - DIY Behaviour in Belgium.

FEBIN in the 21st century. There are many challenges ahead for FEBIN. The road towards European legislation must be charted carefully, and this can only be achieved via a strong lobbying body. The BDA platform is a unique achievement. Faced with the daily challenges of a changing market, suppliers now have the support of FEBIN, which exists to promote the interests of its members - because suppliers can influence the market far more than they realise.