The British Stainless Steel Association (BSSA) exists to promote and develop the manufacture and use of stainless steel across the UK and Ireland. Based in Sheffield, the Association provides marketing support, technical advice, information, training and education in all aspects of stainless steel. Originally formed as an association of stainless steel fabricators, the BSSA has steadily increased the scope and range of activities over the years. Its strength lies in the breadth of its membership drawn from companies in all sectors of the industry and at all stages of the supply chain. It is representative of a broad cross-section of UK Industry: from larger multinational companies to smaller, family owned enterprises. Companies providing goods and services to the stainless steel industry supply chain may join as Affiliated Members. The primary objective of the BSSA is to encourage the use of stainless steel in manufacturing and construction. The active involvement of members is encouraged through participation in forums and working groups dedicated to areas of specific interest. The BSSA is itself a member of The International Stainless Steel Forum (ISSF), the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and Sheffield Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It also works closely with other partner organisations such as the Metals Forum and The Engineering Industry Forum, benefiting from their specialist knowledge and support, whilst representing the interests of the stainless steel industry to a wider forum.