Launch of The Affiliate & Partner Marketing Association aims to raise standards in the industry.

The only collective voice for the affiliate and partner marketing industry, The Affiliate & Partner Marketing Association (The APMA) will focus on elevating the industry, promoting ongoing improvement and higher standards while championing the success of the marketing channel.

Announcing the launch at PI Live in London, Director and Founder of The APMA, Kevin Edwards said the trade body will, for the first time, represent all corners of the multi-billion pound industry, “affiliate and partner marketing are known for having an exceptional return on investment. According to the Internet Advertising Bureau, the channels grew by 30% in 2023 and almost all major brands use affiliate marketing as a central part of their acquisition strategies. Despite that, we lack a representative body to showcase its importance to the UK’s digital economy. We’re on a mission to change that in the coming years”.

Affiliate and partner marketing drive more than £20bn in retail sales and employ tens of thousands of people across businesses of all shapes and sizes and all sectors.

The APMA brings together a diverse range of members from across the industry, including publishers, networks, agencies, advertisers and tech partners.

More than 100 affiliate marketers were consulted to ensure the focus of The APMA in 2024 is representative of their needs. Planned projects include comprehensive training programmes, best practice and standards, a focus on the diversity of the channel and a major research initiative. Practical advice will also be offered on pivotal topics like tracking and measurement.

One of the 19 founding members is global affiliate and partner marketing platform CJ. Linda O’Connell, SVP, UK & IE, at CJ said “CJ is excited to be a part of The Affiliate & Partner Marketing Association (APMA) in the UK. This initiative is a game-changer for the affiliate marketing industry in the UK, and CJ is proud to contribute to its success by being a founding member. Having partnered with Affiliate and Performance Marketing Associations for years across the world, has allowed us to gain invaluable insights and experience in this industry. The APMA now presents a unique opportunity for us to collaborate, innovate, share and elevate the affiliate and partner marketing sector in the UK. With APMA, we will focus on raising standards, promoting best practices, and contributing to the growth of the industry.”

Members will have the opportunity to engage in unparalleled networking, knowledge-sharing and become part of a community that’s shaping the future of affiliate marketing. They will also gain access to exclusive content, member benefits and the chance to work collaboratively with like-minded companies.

There are multiple tiers of membership available to suit different businesses. Membership starts from £1,500 per annum for silver tier membership, discounted until 31st December 2023, rising to £1,999 per annum. For more information and to sign up as a member please visit www.theapma.co.uk.