The Independent Steel Alliance (ISA) announced Wednesday the creation of a new steel purchasing cooperative serving member in the US and Canada. The ISA was created last year to increase the purchasing power of independently-owned rebar fabricators and to provide a means for these companies to cultivate stronger and mutually beneficial relations with their preferred suppliers.
The ISA said that its stated mission is to achieve measurable and significant financial returns by leveraging collective purchases for patronage rebates from suppliers; to achieve measurable cost savings on administrative programs through cooperative effort and to provide a forum for information exchange, technical resources and other assistance among cooperative members.
Upon launching the new purchasing cooperative on January 1, 2013, ISA members represent over $500 million in total volume purchases. Initial founding members cover all of the US and most of Canada. The ISA negotiates rebates from suppliers in a variety of programs, such as rebar, wire mesh, bar supports and related accessories. Additionally, other programs, including shared services, will be added in the coming months and years as the supply network expands.
The ISA added that its "Supplier Partners" are chosen for their demonstrated commitment to the independent fabricators as a group, expressed by rebates as well as other factors that add competitive and financial value to its members.