ENCINO, Calif. -- The Video Software Dealers Association here ratified a new reduced-dues structure for its grocery members on the recommendation of the association's Grocers Council, said Mark Fisher, vice president, membership and strategic initiatives.
Under the new test structure, new supermarket members with 20 or more stores will pay a rate of $1,000. New members with 10 to 19 stores will pay $500. If the rate is successful at attracting new membership in the grocery segment, the reduced rate will be permanently adopted, Fisher said.
"With membership growth come more meaningful networking opportunities and strength on legislative issues," he said.
Members of the Grocers Council said they valued the forum the VSDA offered them, but its value would be enhanced by expanding membership and participation, he said.
"The council is self-directing. The first focus is membership growth. It may take the first year to meet that first objective. However, in the meantime discussions have already begun on high-definition formats, so that the supermarket channel can have its input."
The council is also developing an outreach program that will focus on the importance of belonging to the VSDA, Fisher said. Efforts will include support for the association's anti-piracy efforts and legislative agenda, participation in the council for networking opportunities [with full anti-trust compliance], and information on topics such as the evolution to high-definition DVD and portability. Discussions have also begun on electronic article surveillance, data synchronization and the Global Data Registry.
The next conference call of the Grocers Council on May 16 will continue its preliminary discussion of high-definition DVD and retailer needs, Fisher said.
The VSDA Grocers Council is a standing committee that consists of supermarkets in the video business. The council was formed in January to give grocers a forum to discuss industry issues specific to their channel.
