The BHA's 2001 annual report says the organisation now represents every publicly-quoted UK hotel company following increased membership.

The BHA says its higher profile and its 'persistent' advocacy of the industry's interests to government and in the media are playing a key part in increasing membership, which stands at over 30,000 establishments with nearly 500,000 employees.

Among the groups to have joined are Macdonald Hotels, Marston Hotels, Cendant and Citadines. Individual membership includes Le Manoir aux Quat' saisons and the Four Seasons Hotel, Canary Wharf.

Chief executive, Bob Cotton, says the greatest prize won was the £20m additional funding to finance the BTA's promotion overseas following the events of 2001, equalled by a further £20m match-funding from industry: 'This is an example of how a public/private partnership can work to the benefit of an industry.' Details: www.bha-online.org.uk