We’ve been able to hold subscription rates at their same level for all categories of member for four years and for UK members for nine years. Costs rose during this period, but we were able to introduce efficiencies or obtain more competitive prices for key deliverables, so were able to avoid passing them on. However, we are now facing increases which we cannot absorb. The paper used to print 16mm Today and Bulletin is sourced in Continental Europe and paid for in Euros. A weaker Pound means that this costs more now than a year ago. Mail costs have also increased, driven to some extent by increased fuel costs, which UK residents have seen rise as the Pound has weakened. The membership rates which we’ve held for so long no longer cover the cost of fulfilling each subscription, so with regret the Board has decided to increase them.
The cost of each membership category rises by £1 from the previous rate as follows:
| Membership category | Rate |
|---|---|
| UK – Full | £18 |
| Family – Full | £19 |
| Junior | £9 |
| Overseas – North America | £28 |
| Overseas – Europe | £29 |
| Overseas – Rest of World | £30 |
These rates have been implemented in our web site and in Warners systems and apply from now for new subscriptions and renewals for the 2017/18 membership year. This change will be communicated to members who renew via Direct Debit in advance, per the Direct Debit terms. Members who renew online will be requested to renew at these rates via a streamlined renewal process in early February 2017. Any member who wishes to renew in advance of the normal invitation, which accompanies February SMT, may do so by contacting Warners on 01778 392016 (outside the UK: +44 1778 392016). Lines are open 8 am – 6pm Monday to Friday and 9am – 5pm on Saturdays and Bank Holidays (UK time), excluding Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
The Board feels that membership of the Association continues to be very competitively priced compared with other societies supporting garden railway scales. 16mm Today, at 76 pages per issue, compares very favourably on a per issue basis with commercial offerings covering the garden scales. The Board hopes that this small increase will not put members off renewing and that they will continue to view membership of the Association as good value for money.
Alan Regan, Chairman & Membership Secretary
That’s fine n very reasonable. Thanks for all your good work. Happy New Year to you n Yours – and to all at ‘headquarters’.
I think you’ve all done exceptionally well to keep costs down as much as you have. Such a minimal increase over such a long period is excellent. I only wish my gas/electric supplier could manage the same thing! :)
The Board under Alan’s Chairmanship has done well to keep the subs done but rising costs can not be ignored for ever.
Given the increase in costs this is a very modest increase.I cant imagine any member would not renew their subscription solely on the basis of a subscription increase.
I concur completely. I am amazed it has not risen before now!
I have been a member for around five years and this is the first increase that I recall. I for one would like to thank the board for all their efforts in this time and feel that this increase is a very modest one especially when compared to some other organisations.
At less than 2p a week I doubt any member will struggle to meet this. The pleasures I have with my local area group far outway any increases.
For what We get is worth every penny , so if the rates go up that’s fine the articles , the info ,and all the useful stuff ,and the local groups also the really great annual show ,it’s worth every penny.Adrian