Industry dynamics and trade association power: The shifting nature of business influence in UK aluminium

Abstract

This article examines industry dynamics and their influence on ­business-government relations through a study of the UK aluminium industry, focusing on the changing role of its leading trade association, the Aluminium Federation (ALFED). It explores how ALFED developed its capabilities and relations with executive and legislature over time, revealing how it changed its composition to reflect the changes in the industry that it represents, consequently affecting its wielding of influence and power. This is examined through specific episodes and what they reveal about gradual, as well as dramatic changes, in the organisation and business power and influence.