BTA celebrates 75 years with commemorative book and membership campaign

KANSAS CITY, MO-While the association -and the constituency it serves has changed considerably since it was founded in 1926, providing unparalleled service and support to independent business equipment dealers has remained the primary focus of what is today the Business Technology Association (BTA). The year 2001 marks the 75th anniversary of BTA, the industry's leading dealer organization.

Founded in January 1926 in Kansas City, MO; the association was originally called the National Typewriter and Office Machine Dealers Association (NTOMDA). In 1943, the name changed to the National Office Machine Dealers Association (NOMDA). Ultimately, in 1994, the name was changed to the Business Technology Association, to more accurately reflect the nature of the organization and its membership.

"Those of us who are members of the association can be grateful to its founding members for their initiative and vision," said BTA president Bruce Bro. "We are all benefactors of the association's rich and distinguished history. This year, as we celebrate BTAs 75th anniversary, we can be proud of being part of an organization that has stood the test of time as a champion of the dealer community."

As part of the celebration, BTA is currently producing a 75th anniversary commemorative book to be distributed to all members later in the year. The hardcover book features a comprehensive photo history of the association and the industry. It also includes congratulatory messages and advertisements from its corporate sponsors and words of congratulations from a number of dealer members.

In addition to the anniversary book, BTA has launched the "Member-Get-AMember Campaign" as part of the celebration. With the theme, "Share the BTA Advantage," the goal is to sign 500 new members during 2001. As an incentive, the association will pay $75 to any member who recruits a new member into the association.