[ian]

I doubt its illegal, and exactly how business works. If a merchant decides to do closed group bidding (for a number of reasons) the networks help select the chosen few. Should they

a - go with affiliates with a good track record
b - go with the first few people to apply, who may or may not be any good

The network will go with option 'a' as its the path of least resistance, will make them look good in the eyes of the merchant, and get the job done quickly. If you want to break into the inner circle

- get to know the account managers
- do some good work in generics and make sure they know about it
- ask to be considered next time a group is being formed esp if its in the same industry. see point 1, get to know the account managers, its who you know!

I'm sure its the same in all industries. Take media advertising, if you had £10m to spend would you go for an unknown small ad agency, or with one of the big boys? The small agencies that break into the big time are the ones that make a name for themselves, so some good work with smaller accounts and work their way up.