POPAI and A.R.E. merge to form new association

The Association for Retail Environments (A.R.E.), Hollywood, Fla., said it merged with Point of Purchase Advertising International (POPAI), Chicago, to form a combined association that will be rebranded in the coming months. The new association will provide expanded services, including research, education and networking, to approximately 2,000 member companies on six continents.

“By combining our memberships, we are creating a global association that will be positioned as the industry leader in retail environments and customer experience,” said Todd Dittman, chief operating officer, A.R.E.

A new combined board of directors was named, with members representing both organizations, A.R.E. said. The board will meet in November during the first joint Industry Summit at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation in Florida.

The new association will be headquartered in Chicago and will retain offices in Hollywood, Fla., A.R.E. stated.