If you own a company in the food and beverage packaging industry, you would do well to partner with beverage or food packaging associations to strengthen your business expertise and credibility. Industry organizations bring together professionals with similar goals and challenges. Members of industry organizations come from all company divisions, but all share the same objective of expanding their knowledge.

Becoming a member of the right organization opens the door to a wealth of expertise. You will be exposed to many networking opportunities, information and resources. Additionally, beverage or food packaging professional organizations may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and industry support. When looking for membership with a beverage or food packaging association, remember the following:

1. Make sure the association you're interested in is credible. Check the Better Business Bureau or other industry accreditations.

2. Most organizations charge fees for memberships, so make sure you’re getting your money’s worth before you pay.

3. Many food and beverage packaging professional organizations don’t stipulate membership for certification.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Become a member of accredited food or beverage packaging associations

Although many organizations offer information, tools and resources to non-members, you can benefit substantially from becoming a member. Membership opens the door to additional services, products and representation. Register as a business rather than as just an individual, if possible, so your employees can benefit from the membership.

I recommend: The Foodservice Packaging Institute offers a selection of membership options. The Food Packaging Division of the Institute of Food Technologists provides networking opportunities, industry recognition and support.

Join packaging or bottling associations that offer a full schedule of events and conferences

Events and conferences are a boon to any business. They give you an opportunity to network and share issues with industry peers. More importantly, they give your company exposure within the industry, and provide you an opportunity to further your relationships with other businesses. Try and pick organizations with nationally-recognized events.

I recommend: The National Association of Container Distributors and the Glass Packaging Institute both provide an events calendar for educational and networking opportunities.

Take advantage of certification opportunities provided by food or beverage packing groups

Progress stops for no one, and you need to advance as a professional by keeping your industry skills sharp and current. Take advantage of educational programs and tools to assist you and your employees in knowledge development and career advancement. Many organizations offer information on upcoming seminars, conferences, business development courses and other industry-related programs, in addition to industry certifications.

I recommend: The International Beverage Packing Association sponsors the Richard F. Heaney Memorial Scholarship Fund for students interested in industry advancement. The Institute of Packaging Professionals offers a selection of educational programs including web seminars and in-house packaging training.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're considering a food and beverage packaging organization for its online resources, look for one with an active forum where you can discuss issues with industry experts in real time.