As we gear up for the upcoming ITA Tanning World Expo in Nashville, LOOKING FIT sat down with the ITA’s Executive Director John Overstreet to discuss the association’s mission and how it is working for the good of the industry.
LOOKING FIT: Please define the ITA’s mission.
John Overstreet: ITA’s foremost mission is to serve as the industry’s first and last line of defense at the federal and state levels against those who would put unnecessary restrictions on the way our members run their businesses. Just as important, we work to strengthen and advance the industry through research and education efforts and by partnering with other organizations that share our goals.
LF: Explain the benefit to salon owners of becoming an ITA member.
JO: There are tangible and intangible benefits to being a part of the ITA. The tangible benefits include member rates at the Tanning World Expo, the right to vote in annual Board elections, receipt of quarterly newsletters, and regular e-mail updates on industry developments, legislative initiatives and public-policy issues.
The intangible benefit is supporting an organization that fights hard every day for you and the industry. Salons have the best membership cost at only $100 per salon store.
LF: What exciting things should attendees expect to see at this month’s ITA Tanning World Expo?
JO: Our goal this year is to enhance the value of the show for each attendee. Whether salon owners and operators plan to attend the educational conference or just walk the show floor, it’s an event and experience they won’t want to miss.
The expo ticket price includes Thursday night’s Welcoming Reception with open bar and plenty of good food; beer and wine during Friday evening’s show floor Happy Hour; and dancing and partying at Saturday night’s Club ITA.
Between the parties and fun, salons can attend an outstanding three-day educational conference and walk the show floor of the biggest indoor tanning trade show in the world. More than 150 companies will be on hand offering the newest and best products in the industry.
LF: What are the most pressing issues facing the indoor tanning industry and how is the ITA assisting in those areas?
JO: The industry is in a period of unprecedented attack right now. Because of all the exciting news in recent years about the many benefits of exposure to ultraviolet light and the healthful effects of vitamin D on the human body, the American Academy of Dermatology—backed by millions of dollars from the skincare industry—no longer is attacking the sun. Instead, it is turning its attention to the “evils” of indoor tanning.
From the state capitals to Capitol Hill and the FDA, both directly and through the media, their goal is to put this industry out of business. Our goal is to stop them. The ITA is fighting these attacks every step of the way through research, political outreach and working with the media.
LF: How can salon owners become more involved with the ITA and making a difference in the industry?
JO: Come to the ITA Tanning World Expo, join the ITA and get involved.
