>So true, manufacturers go directly to the buying public. Whenever I 
>google for anything breastfeeding related I get at least 1, but more 
>often more payed google ads from AIM producers, the links mostly 
>navigate to such baby clubs and the like.
>But in the Netherlands HCPs are approached directly as well, most in 
>the well-baby clinics and the home-maternity care organisations


Yes, this happens in the UK as well. Manufacturers have 
'professionals clubs', award training grants and scholarships , they 
stage free conferences with lunches, and create personal contacts 
with HCPs.

This is very effective. There is a brand of formula on sale in the UK 
which has used these strategies very well - whenever a mother is 
debating whether to 'top up' or switch to formula from breastfeeding, 
and she tells me she has asked her midwife or HV what she should do, 
I know that 9 times out of 10 this brand will be described go her as 
being 'better than the others' and/or  'closer to breastmilk'.

Heather Welford Neil
NT bfc, tutor, UK

             ***********************************************

Archives: http://community.lsoft.com/archives/LACTNET.html
To reach list owners: [log in to unmask]
Mail all list management commands to: [log in to unmask]
COMMANDS:
1. To temporarily stop your subscription write in the body of an email: set lactnet nomail
2. To start it again: set lactnet mail
3. To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet
4. To get a comprehensive list of rules and directions: get lactnet welcome