Two industry bodies have become one this morning with the announcement the Association of Data Driven Advertising (ADMA) has acquired the Digital Industry Association of Australia (AIMIA) to support members of the digital advertising community.
Two months ago it was looking dire for AIMIA as the industry body shut its doors, with president Tim O’Neill conceding the current model the business had wasn’t sustainable. However now ADMA has stepped in to ensure all AIMIA’s members continue to be supported. “AIMIA has been an influential champion of the digital industry in Australia in its 23 year history, pioneering impactful education, awards and research initiatives that have helped nurture and develop talent in Australia,” said Steve Brennen, Chair of ADMA. “However, as industry association consolidation becomes inevitable in today’s rapidly evolving market, a larger organisation like ADMA is well placed to operate its activities more efficiently and provide additional value to members. It is also the right thing to do to ensure the digital industry in Australia continues to be supported.” “AIMIA is proud of its legacy and service to the digital industry in Australia but as the world of digital is now so entrenched across all areas of industry our agency-centric scope became unviable over the longer term,” said Tim O’Neill, AIMIA’s National President. “I am delighted that ADMA have stepped in to provide our membership base with continuity of support and services and believe that they are extremely well-placed to build upon our achievements and take AIMIA’s industry remit to the next level.” Jodie Sangster, CEO of ADMA, added “ADMA is unique in that we represent the full 360 degrees of Australia’s media, marketing and advertising ecosystem, providing advocacy and regulatory support for client-side organisations, agencies and suppliers across the industry. Consequently, ADMA and AIMIA already have a significant cross-over in membership and a strong digital education offer which means we will be able to provide value add membership services to AIMIA members from day one. Our team is looking forward to welcoming AIMIA members to the ADMA family.”