MILWAUKEE, Wis. — The membership of the Equipment Manufacturers Institute and Construction Industry Manufacturers Association overwhelmingly approved the consolidation of the two industry trade groups. The new association will legally begin operation Jan. 1, 2002.

CIMA and EMI staffs are beginning to work on implementation of a new organization and administrative structure. The name for the new association is the Association of Equipment Manufacturers.

EMI membership covers the construction, industrial, and agricultural equipment sectors, along with related service suppliers. CIMA members are manufacturers of construction machines and related equipment, components, parts and supplies, and related services.

With the consolidation, membership will grow to nearly 800 companies, representing more than 200 product lines. The associations have a combined operating history of more than 190 years.

The associations say the consolidation will provide members with a stronger industry voice, enhanced international trade opportunities, more in-depth attention to technical issues, broader statistical services and increased educational, networking and market-trend benchmarking opportunities.

CIMA and EMI members in good standing as of Dec. 31 will become new members of the combined organization.