About AMPA

What is AMPA?

AMPA - The Association for Merchandise Planning and Allocation is a not-for-profit international professional organization founded in 1995 to promote interaction and communication between retail practitioners. Its purpose is for the exchange of ideas and experiences about Merchandise Planning and Allocation including processes, organization, systems, methods, procedures and implementation. With 199 members representing 123 companies worldwide, AMPA is recognized as a source of support, solutions and networking using education, interaction and communication in the retail industry.

AMPA functions in a similar fashion to a software user group without ties to any specific vendor system. An elected Executive Committee and Executive Director in conjunction with member feedback facilitates the AMPA activities, programs and meetings. AMPA holds several meetings each year. The Annual AMPA Meeting and Luncheon is held at the Retail Systems annual trade show in the spring or early summer. AMPA has a booth at the expo. A smaller meeting is held every January either in New York City or on-line (virtual). Occasionally AMPA holds local meetings in various cities which are sponsored by member companies. The format of the meetings include guest speaker presentations and/or member discussion sessions (i.e. panel or roundtable) as well as a business meeting. Vendor sponsors participate is some AMPA meetings.

AMPA Mission Statement

AMPA’s mission is to set the standard as a recognized global leader and premier provider of Merchandise Planning and Allocation education and information for individuals and organizations in the retail industry. AMPA facilitates the exchange of ideas and information to support its membership and provides the means for professional growth. The AMPA organization will continue to grow and develop its membership to become a major trade association for Merchandise Planning and Allocation within the retail industry.

AMPA Objectives

	To inspire Merchandise Planning professionals and their organizations toward continued education as well as individual and organizational improvement.
	To build a base of knowledge and communication about Merchandise Planning and Allocation and provide easy and efficient access to that information.
	To provide a forum for the exchange of ideas and information about Merchandise Planning and Allocation.
	To be recognized as the leading source for Merchandise Planning and Allocation information.
	To provide organizations and individuals with certification of professional experience.
	To be recognized as a valuable resource that supports growth and continued professional development.
	To inspire Merchandise Planning and Allocation professionals toward continued education through the development of certification programs in planning and allocation
	To align with other organizations as appropriate to achieve AMPAs’ mission.

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