Association I About Us

The VMM European Visual Marketing / Merchandising Association is the leading organisation for holistic retail experiences.

The VMM considers itself the industry association that represents the interest of the entire Visual Merchandising and Marketing sector.

Derived from the industry association for Visual Merchandisers with an apprenticeship background the VMM is primarily home for people that work hands-on in the field of Visual Marketing – irrespective what training background is basis for their engagement in this multi facetted profession. All types of Visual Merchandisers can become members of the VMM for an annual fee of 80-220 EUR (depending on professional status). For apprentices the membership is free of charge.

Furthermore, the industry association VMM is open to companies associated with Visual Marketing, and businesses that wish to be part of an expansive industry network. For 2,100 EUR annually, these companies can become part of the VMM as supporting members. Currently around 20 supporting members are associated with the VMM. Supporting members are typically companies with businesses closely linked to the Visual Merchandising world i.e., companies that employ VMs or hire Visual Merchandisers, but also companies, that offer services or products used in the Visual Marketing universe.

PARTNER OF the VMM Network

Additionally, there are partners to the VMM network. Partners are organizations i.e., associations, media, institutes, or educational institutions whose fields of activity are linked to the VMM and who can create synergies trough the exchange with the VMM and its members. Currently around 20 organisations are part of the VMM network. There are no formal criteria regarding a VMM partnership, and there are no obligations or fees for partners.

GOALS OF THE VMM

Firstly, the holistic purpose of the VMM is to link the heterogenous VM industry, consisting of many small and one-man businesses into one single powerful network, and to lend a discernible voice in the public debate. The individual VM might not be heard in the public discussion or find support for her or his individual issues, worries and needs, where the VMM with its numerous members has an important voice.

Secondly, the aim of the VMM association is to “link” its members in the true sense of the word, to create and maintain contact between members. Core purpose is therefore to offer a platform for the exchange of experiences and services. We continuously expand the business activities of the VMM, keeping an eye on the interests of our members. They currently include the following services:

– Online platform vmm.eu including job portal, academy, and expert directory

– Regular regional industry meetings, initiated by our regional ambassadors

– Contributing to the apprenticeship content for VMs

– Offering hands-on professional impulses for the Retail Design university course

– Career advice for interested trainees

– Awarding of the Sustainability Label for exceptionally sustainably designed retail

– Annual VMM conference as industry meeting including the award for best visual design of the year