AREA goes global

BELGIUM: AREA, the European air conditioning and refrigeration contractors’ body, is opening up its membership to non-European contractor groups.

The introduction of an International Observer class of membership is said to have come as a response to the significant worldwide interest in European legislative developments and the increase in competence of personnel who handle new refrigerants. 

“This provides a fantastic opportunity for non-European RACHP installer bodies around the world to benefit from the expertise and discussions within Europe through access to AREA,” the group said in a statement.

AREA currently represents the interests of 23 national members from 18 EU countries plus Norway and Turkey. The total membership represents more than 13,000 companies across Europe, employing some 110,000 people and with a turnover approaching €23bn.

In addition to recognition as a member of AREA, International members are promised early involvement in the development of AREA guidelines, good practice guides and training & certification documents. Membership will also offer the opportunity to liaise with fellow members and share best practices during the bi-annual general assembly meetings.