Signature Travel Network is requiring all of its members to belong to ASTA, effective Jan. 1.
"Our industry needs a strong voice, which can only be achieved through active participation by all of its members," said Signature CEO Alex Sharpe. "Signature has taken a stand, one I hope others will follow in support of our trade organization."
ASTA said it is an unprecedented move.
In a news release announcing the new requirement, Signature praised ASTA’s work to monitor legislative proposals and the way it has stopped laws and regulations that would have increased agents’ costs.
"Signature believes ASTA members are best prepared to understand and adhere to the changing laws and landscape of our industry as well as identify and fight potential changes that negatively impact our business," said Sharpe.
ASTA CEO Zane Kerby said, "ASTA is grateful for and humbled by the leadership displayed through the Signature board of directors and Alex Sharpe. By mandating membership, they have essentially linked arms with ASTA in our efforts to promote and defend the agency community."
Signature has 195 member agencies with 442 retail locations throughout the U.S. and Canada.
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