A united responsible voice, the South African National Consumer Union is a voluntary autonomous body that today represents millions of consumers. Its membership extends from the vitally important grass-roots support of leading women's organisations such as the various Women's Agricultural Unions, the National Council of Women of South Africa, through to influential bodies such as the DENOSA, the Association of Retired Persons and Pensioners, KONTAK, etc. Being an independent organisation, the Consumer Union speaks with authority on behalf of all consumers. Its opinions are sought by manufacturers, retailers, the agricultural sector, the SA Bureau of Standards and Government. It works in close co-operation with all the above where the interest of the consumer is concerned. Its policy has always been one of communication and consultation before confrontation. It aims to build up consumers' awareness of their rights, responsibilities and bargaining powers through education, information and protection.