The Direct Marketing Association has acquired the Internet Alliance, an Internet industry trade association. The acquisition reportedly combines the largest trade association representing the $1.4-trillion direct marketing industry and a leading organization for companies in the Internet industry.
“IA will be operated as an independent subsidiary of The DMA and it will continue to exhibit the flexibility and nimbleness representative of the Internet industry,” said DMA president Robert Wientzen, in a statement. “The DMA understands the importance of preserving IA’s Internet-based culture. Our efforts will enhance its opportunities without affecting its ability to represent the membership.”
The DMA and IA first worked together two years ago to develop the original Online Privacy Principles. Under the DMA, IA will continue and expand initiatives to promote consumer confidence, ensure consumer privacy, protect children, monitor content regulation, and support the growth of the Internet both in the U.S. and abroad.
Last year, The DMA acquired the Association for Interactive Media (AIM), which also operates as a subsidiary. With these two acquisitions, the DMA said it has become the largest organization committed to the development and growth of Internet marketing and electronic commerce.
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