British Educational Suppliers Association (BESA)

The British Educational Suppliers Association (BESA) is the UK’s only trade association representing the full spectrum of educational suppliers. With a 90-year heritage, BESA champions the businesses that support learning and teaching across all educational settings.
BESA operates as a not-for-profit organisation and is governed by an Executive Council elected from among its members. Today, it represents nearly 400 UK-based companies, including manufacturers and distributors of educational equipment, classroom resources, furniture, ICT hardware, digital content, EdTech solutions, books, and specialist services for the education sector.

At the heart of BESA’s offer is its rigorous Code of Practice and membership process, which assure buyers of the highest standards in product quality and customer service. The Code is a badge of credibility and trust recognised by schools, governments and education providers across the UK and internationally.

BESA is an advocate for the sector, representing member interests in policy discussions, funding debates, and procurement reform. It regularly acts as a sounding board to government and publishes over 20 detailed market research reports each year - offering data-driven insight into everything from MAT procurement to ICT infrastructure in schools.

BESA also plays a key role in convening and growing the sector through targeted events and initiatives. These include:

• The EdTech Exchange – Europe’s largest network of EdTech founders and CEOs
• LendED – A free service helping schools trial EdTech products before committing
• The Launchpad Programme – Supporting over 60 start-ups on their growth journey
• International activities and support for trade events and missions
   

BESA has a rich history of shaping major education industry platforms. It founded the Bett Show in 1985, the Education Show in 1991, GESS Dubai in 2007, and co-founded the Education World Forum in 2011, now the largest gathering of education ministers in the world.

BESA provides members with a unique combination of market support, policy influence, sector insight and peer connection. It is committed to promoting innovation, safeguarding standards, and supporting its members to deliver better outcomes for learners and educators around the world.

To learn more about BESA or explore membership, please visit www.besa.org.uk or contact besa@besa.org.uk.