Associations

An association is usually a group of people that come together to share their knowledge and interests in a certain field. These associations can be governmental or voluntary organisations. Most businesses have to register with an association that governs their category of business in order to be accredited. Associations provide businesses with valuable information.

There are associations that service the medical industry, the construction industry and the motor industry which are just a few among the many different industries in the country. Some associations are known as societies, institutes, organisations, councils or federations.  They can provide you with all the regulations and procedures in a specific field of business.

These groups ensure that high standards are maintained within all industries. Companies that do not follow good business practices can be discredited by the association controlling that industry. As a consumer, you can contact these associations if you require information about a certain industry or you need to report bad business practices.

Consult Yellow Pages for a list of associations. You will find associations for almost every industry in South Africa.