The Funeral Suppliers’ Association maybe a new name to those in the funeral industry. It is, however, intrinsically linked to one with quite a history – the Funeral Furnishing Manufacturers’ Association (FFMA). Now, the importance of buying a coffin approved by the FFMA has been discussed in one of our previous blogs. The testing that this organisation undertakes is vital. High standards must be maintained to ensure that loved one’s are given the send-off that they deserve, and families aren’t left in the distressing position of having a coffin refused at a crematorium.
The Funeral Suppliers’ Association
During the past 12 months it has been great to see a significant increase in membership numbers at the FFMA. A wider range of businesses have seen the benefits of joining an organisation which has helped to shape government policy and strategy both during and after the pandemic.
As the organisation has grown and the range of business become more diverse, senior personnel at the FFMA felt that the name did not adequately reflect the diversity of its members. In May, the decision was taken (and unanimously ratified at a membership meeting) to change the name of the organisation to the Funeral Suppliers’ Association. A new logo has also been introduced. All key staff (such as Chief Executive Alun Tucker) remain in place. Testing protocols are as stringent as ever.
Still look out for the FFMA seal of approval
Now, the FFMA is very well known in the funeral industry (as you would expect of a business established back in 1939) so it may take a little while for the Funeral Suppliers’ Association name to resonate as strongly. To prevent confusion at crematoria, coffin manufacturers such as Musgrove Willows will continue to use the FFMA stamp and accreditation (the new logo is below). In short, the FFMA will continue, alongside the Funeral Suppliers’ Association, as a self-interest group for coffin manufacturers under which the Coffin Accreditation Programme will continue. Coffin manufacturers such as Musgrove Willows will become members of the Funeral Suppliers’ Association.
If you buy a funeral product endorsed under the Coffin Accreditation Programme, you can be sure that it has been rigorously tested and is fit for purpose. And while customers have peace of mind, organisations such as ours know that the Funeral Suppliers’ Association gives us another voice which is heard in important places.
Please make sure that any coffin that you buy carries the FFMA seal of approval. It really does make a difference.
