The reasons for participation are manifold:

• The desire to establish a level playing field for all
• Help set standards that other competitors have to equal
• Facilitate trade and new market development
• Know about and influence product requirements
• Improve productivity and save money
• Get to know what other companies are doing in the field
• Benefit from the technical and professional interaction with others

You find many more reasons in the “What’s in it for you” section and statements from companies.