The award acknowledges the BWF’s efforts in developing and supporting its membership.
BWF membership had declined in 2010 but stabilised in 2011 following an overhaul of the organisation’s communications, website and membership application processes and investment in improved PR and marketing.
When chief executive Iain McIlwee joined at the start of 2012 he established a plan to bring in 100 new members a year.
In 2012 the BWF added 80 new full members; in 2013 it more than doubled that and also achieved a retention rate of 91% existing members.
In the first quarter of this year it recruited 57 new full members and 10 associates.
Mr McIlwee said the BWF had provided a voice and support to members through some challenging years.
"We now have an industry trade body that continues to grow in size and influence, and this will bring rewards to all our members," he said.
Linda Cavender, manager of the Trade Association Forum, described the BWF’s membership plan as a "text book approach".
"A successful campaign stemming an initial outflow of members was very well thought-out and implemented, and it is always good to see a trade association grow in such a way – a great result for BWF," she said.
The award was presented to BWF membership director Michael Lee and marketing and training manager Dave Campbell, at St George’s Hall in Liverpool to coincide with the International Festival for Business.
