ASSOCIATE MEMBER REGISTRATION AGREEMENT
SOUTH AFRICAN FURNITURE INITIATIVE (SAFI)
This Associate Member Registration Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into between the South African Furniture Initiative (SAFI) and the individual registering as an Associate Member (“Member”). By completing the registration process, the Member agrees to the following terms and conditions:
1. PURPOSE OF MEMBERSHIP
1.1. The South African Furniture Initiative (SAFI) is an industry-driven platform dedicated to supporting the growth, collaboration, and market expansion of the South African furniture sector.
1.2. Associate Membership is exclusively reserved for furniture sales professionals who are actively selling furniture or have a clear intent to do so.
1.3. Membership grants access to:
The SAFI Industry Catalogue, an extensive resource showcasing locally manufactured furniture by category and application.
The Full Members Directory, a database of over 700 manufacturers.
The Tender Bulletin, providing updates on industry-specific tenders and procurement opportunities.
The Employment Portal, listing job opportunities within the sector.
Industry News and Forums, facilitating professional discussions and knowledge sharing.
1.4. This membership is designed to enhance collaboration between manufacturers and sales professionals, enabling better market visibility and business development opportunities.
2. ELIGIBILITY & MEMBER RESPONSIBILITIES
2.1. Eligibility Criteria:
The Member must be an active furniture sales professional or demonstrate a clear intent to enter the furniture sales industry.
The Member must operate in a professional capacity, either independently or as part of a business focused on selling furniture.
SAFI reserves the right to verify the sales activity or intent of applicants before approving membership.
2.2. The Member agrees to use SAFI’s resources ethically and professionally, ensuring all interactions align with industry best practices.
2.3. The Member must maintain accurate business information for inclusion in SAFI’s dealer locator and relevant directories.
2.4. The Member shall not misrepresent their affiliation with SAFI or any manufacturer listed in the directory.
2.5. The Member is responsible for protecting login credentials and any privileged content accessed through the SAFI platform.
2.6. The Member is encouraged to actively participate in industry forums, discussions, and networking opportunities facilitated by SAFI.
3. USE OF THE SAFI INDUSTRY CATALOGUE
3.1. The SAFI Industry Catalogue is a fully operational platform providing categorised listings of locally manufactured furniture.
3.2. The Member is granted access to:
Product Listings, which include detailed specifications, supplier information, and application-based recommendations.
Manufacturer Contacts, enabling direct engagement with verified SAFI members.
Industry-Specific Sections, ensuring targeted product discovery based on commercial, residential, and specialised applications.
3.3. All catalogue materials, including images, product details, and manufacturer data, are for professional use only and may not be copied, distributed, or repurposed without SAFI’s written consent.
3.4. SAFI reserves the right to update and expand the catalogue based on industry trends, manufacturer contributions, and member feedback.
4. PROTECTION OF PRODUCT INFORMATION & PREVENTION OF REPLICATION
4.1. All brands, product information, images, and intellectual property remain the property of the respective manufacturer at all times. SAFI curates this information solely on behalf of the manufacturer.
4.2. Associate Members may not misrepresent products or product information in any way.
4.3. Product datasets, specifications, and brand materials will only be provided to authorised sales professionals who have an active account and standing agreement with the respective manufacturer.
4.4. Unauthorised use of product assets, including images, descriptions, technical specifications, and branding, is strictly prohibited.
4.5. Authorised use of these assets is permitted only in accordance with the respective manufacturer’s brand guidelines and policies.
4.6. Sales professionals may not use any product information, designs, or specifications with the intention of replicating or manufacturing the product through an alternative manufacturer.
4.7. If a product is sold based on the listed specifications and brand identity, the product must be manufactured by the respective manufacturer to ensure compliance with warranty, quality control, and brand integrity.
5. CODE OF CONDUCT
5.1. The Member shall engage in ethical and professional business practices, including fair negotiation, transparency, and respect for intellectual property rights.
5.2. The Member shall not engage in any conduct that may harm the reputation of SAFI, its manufacturers, or other Associate Members.
5.3. Any use of the SAFI platform for fraudulent, misleading, or unauthorised activities is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate termination of membership.
5.4. Communication with manufacturers, SAFI representatives, and other Associate Members must be conducted professionally and in alignment with SAFI’s mission to foster industry growth and collaboration.
6. ACCESS TO SAFI RESOURCES
6.1. Full Members Directory: Associate Members are granted access to a database of over 700 SAFI-registered manufacturers. This directory is provided for professional networking purposes and may not be misused for unsolicited marketing or bulk commercial communications.
6.2. Tender Bulletin: Members can access industry-specific tenders and procurement opportunities. SAFI does not guarantee contract awards but provides this as a resource to enhance business visibility.
6.3. Employment Portal: Members can stay updated on industry job openings and connect with hiring manufacturers. SAFI does not facilitate employment but provides the platform for industry connections.
6.4. Industry News and Forums: Members can participate in discussions, share insights, and stay informed on key developments within the furniture industry. The use of forums must remain professional, with no offensive or inappropriate content.
7. CONFIDENTIALITY & DATA PROTECTION
7.1. The Member acknowledges that certain information provided through the SAFI platform, including manufacturer details and product specifications, is proprietary and confidential.
7.2. The Member shall not disclose, share, or distribute confidential information obtained through the platform without express permission.
7.3. SAFI is committed to data protection and will use Member information only in accordance with its Privacy Policy, ensuring compliance with relevant data protection laws.
8. TERMINATION & MEMBERSHIP REVIEW
8.1. SAFI reserves the right to review and revoke Associate Membership if a Member is found to be in violation of this Agreement.
8.2. Membership may be suspended or terminated if the Member engages in conduct that contradicts the values, mission, or ethical standards of SAFI.
8.3. The Member may voluntarily terminate their membership at any time by notifying SAFI in writing.
8.4. SAFI reserves the right to update, expand, or restrict membership access based on industry needs and organisational policies.
9. GENERAL PROVISIONS
9.1. SAFI retains the right to amend this Agreement at its discretion. Members will be notified of any updates.
9.2. This Agreement does not create a partnership, joint venture, or employment relationship between SAFI and the Member.
9.3. Any disputes arising from this Agreement shall be resolved in accordance with South African law.
10. ACCEPTANCE OF TERMS
By completing the registration process and accessing the SAFI platform, the Member acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to abide by the terms of this Associate Member Registration Agreement.
