Dear industry colleagues,

In times like these we should think about the positive aspects of our business. The global economic crisis is affecting us all, and additionally we have our own internal uncertainties about how the 0.3 W/m2 legislation affects so-called old machines, which is still of concern in almost all EU countries.

But we can also point to some real positive momentum in our industry. The ESA, your European umbrella association for the tanning sector, has, in recent years, invested time and  money supporting research into the positive aspects of UV radiation.  And the health benefits of moderate sunbed use have been further confirmed.

This news must, however, be communicated to the general public. Nobody can do that on their own. In consequence I am calling on each of you to help in spreading the right information about sunbeds and tanning salons. Make sure that your customers understand! Only well-informed and fully-convinced customers will talk about the positive health aspects of sunbed use and so act as a multiplier in attracting new customers.

For this purpose the ESA has produced an information leaflet in 12 European languages, which you can download from our website free of charge. Printing the leaflet is very inexpensive, so please make use of this professional tool.

Another important concern for me is that you get involved with your own national associations. Become members! Your association needs to be strong if it is to be taken seriously - especially by public bodies.

It is important now that associations find a receptive ear. The ESA will become more involved, and will be on hand to support national associations. An example of what positive results such cooperation between associations and public bodies can achieve is to be found in The Netherlands where our member association SVZ has been strongly involved in the implementation of the 0.3 Watts rule and other regulations. Due to this success story SVZ is now regarded as an equal partner by the authorities.

I promise you now that we at the ESA will continue to be pro-active and committed to our ideals for the spread of objective and balanced information about the responsible use of sunbeds.

Let’s not wait until better times come along. Let’s take things into our own hands!

With sunny greetings,

Sincerely yours,

Christina Lorenz
ESA Chairperson