Over the last few months the CAMRA BC Executive has been discussing how the nature of the organisation has changed from a small group in Victoria to a thousand members all over the province actively engaged craft beer advocacy, education and promotion. We could not have done this without the support of wonderful corporate partners. I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of the society to thank them for their investment in our growth through their Membership.
In recent years CAMRA BC has increased its profile as political advocate on behalf of the consumer and as you may have seen much of this work is now paying dividend. Our future promises to continue on that path working with government and industry to protect and build consumer rights and keep craft-beer on the agenda.
We have reached a point where it is necessary to differentiate clearly our mandate as consumer advocates. To that end, to avoid any appearance of conflict with that mandate, CAMRA BC has decided to phase out the Corporate Membership category beginning January 31, 2014. Their current period of membership will continue but we won’t be renewing or taking on any more supporters from now on.
This in no way reflects negatively on our attitude towards the craft brewing industry or our valued community partners but rather it is the next logical step for growth in our relationship. We will continue to positively, actively engage the community in a relationship based on mutual respect and love of craft beer.
This really isn’t a big change for our individual members or the corporate supporters; CAMRA BC will continue to support craft beer, events and establishments in the same way via our website, social media and bi-weekly newsletter. And please be assured that your member benefits (offered at the discretion of the respective managements) will continue.
Thank you again to all our community supporters for your help, we could not have come this far without it.
If you have questions please contact Sammie Gough, our Community Liaison or myself.
Adam Chatburn,
President, CAMRA BC – Vancouver Branch
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