Editorial Dan Squires
Managing Editor
dan@bigfurnituregroup.com 07531 854718 | 01223 298489
Advertising Nick Mizin
Sales Manager
nick@bigfurnituregroup.com 0207 096 1010
Publisher Stephen Smith
Production Juan Morante
GraphiC Design
www.bigfurnituregroup.com
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Print: Buxton Press
ISSN No: 2753-3387
Copyright © Big Furniture Group 2022 Issue No: 30
No part of this publication may be reproduced without the specific prior written consent of the publisher. Big Furniture Group Ltd accepts no responsibility for variations in colour reproduction and cannot be liable for the safe custody or return of any solicited or unsolicited material. We are committed to producing a true, factual, fair and unbiased publication through the editorial content within and takes appropriate measures to do so. Big Furniture Group Ltd reserves the right to edit any content other than advertisements, with the editor’s decision being final. All material submitted for inclusion in Big Furniture Group is done so entirely at the owner’s risk. Advertiser information is accepted in good faith and Big Furniture Group accepts no responsibility in in adverts appearing in the magazine, and do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s views. Contributors are advised to keep copies of all material submitted.
Dan Squires Managing Editor
Our cover star this month is Gallery Direct and they share a further insight into their SS25 Collection, a statement of their commitment to providing the complete lifestyle solution. We caught up with Kyoto as the brand explores the continued transformation of the sofabed, while Sherborne Upholstery talks about the year ahead following the successful launch of its new products.
We feature the latest updates from Adjust-A-Bed, GNG, Image Furnishings and Sofa Source, as well as new upholstery brand Avriio. Whitemeadow details the launch of its customer portal, while Reinforced Beds blueprints the specifications and benefits behind its products. Purecare reaffirms its health and wellbeing message and Harrison Spinks’ Chairman, Simon Spinks, reflects on being awarded an OBE in the King’s 2025 New Year’s Honours List in recognition of his contribution to the mattress and bed industry.
This month features a first look at the upcoming Furniture Components Expo, which takes place from 19th - 20th March in Telford, and includes JJ Smith’s latest advancements in its woodworking robotics range, as well as an insight into Fibre Components Ltd.
As for our regular features, Peter Harding, Managing Director at Fairway Furniture, takes our Big Interview and shares an insight into his role, how technology and sustainability is evolving the industry, and why eclectic chic remains very popular. Meanwhile, Retail Focus features Luxus Home and Garden, who share an insight into future plans, product category expansion and why sustainability is core to its concept. We also spoke with Mark Simmons in our latest Meet the Agent/Rep series, who talks about the day-to-day, supply chain challenges, online adaption and the benefit of digital tools.
Letter’s from China, Vietnam and America return, while Furniture And Choice reveal more industry trends. George Sinclair, Owner at retailer Nimbus Beds, features as our Bed Expert and talks about the importance of building a brand for the long term. To wrap things up, Furniture Sales Solutions shares some tips on how to avoid discounting at the point of sale in furniture retail.
That’s enough from me, so enjoy our latest magazine. Oh, and if you have any news you want to shout about or if you’re keen to get involved in our Retail Focus and Big Interview features, drop me an email on dan@bigfurnituregroup.com
We’d love to share your story.
and
and why
FOCUS
Home and Garden talks about future plans, product category expansion, why sustainability is core to its concept and an update on business performance.
Independent mattress retailer Mattress Online has announced the appointment of Hannah Shore as its new Head of Sleep Science.
In Hannah’s role she will have a touchpoint across the whole business, with suppliers and manufacturers, and also with Mattress Online’s wider partnerships, as well as being a figurehead of its collective aim to helping the UK get the best night’s sleep.
Commenting on the role, Hannah said: “After an incredible number of years working for Silentnight, I am moving on to a new challenge. At Silentnight I have had the privilege of working with some remarkable people who have gone above and beyond to support me in my career so far.
“I am starting 2025 by taking a fantastic opportunity! I am thrilled to announce my new role as ‘Head of Sleep Science’ at Mattress Online.
“I am incredibly passionate about improving sleep quality and I am eager to leverage my expertise to help Mattress Online further enhance its position as a leader in the sleep industry.
“A huge thank you to the entire Silentnight team for their support and invaluable experiences I have gained during my time there. I am super excited for this next chapter and can’t wait to get stuck in!
Steve Adams, CEO, added: “We’re delighted that Hannah has joined the team at Mattress Online. She brings with her a unique skill set that will help us build on our advice and service to customers.
“Hannah will add crucial value – with her product knowledge and scientific approach to our core offering of mattresses, and expanding accessories category, she will undoubtedly enhance
the customer buying experience. Hannah will also be a driving force of future product creation and listings.
“Our close relationship with Silentnight will only be strengthened by Hannah’s many years of experience with the brand and team there. Her role here at Mattress Online will also open up new opportunities for the many other fantastic suppliers and manufacturers we work with.
“Hannah will of course join our expanding panel of experts, alongside James Wilson, The Sleep Geek, and a soon to be announced additional member of the cohort.”
On February 25-28,2025, another edition of the MEBLE POLSKA, the Europe’s top furniture sourcing faire will be held in Poznan. The registration of visitors from Poland and abroad has just begun. The organisers expect furniture buyers from about 70 countries.
The Grupa MTP – the organizer of the event – has been using a dynamic ticket price list for the MEBLE POLSKA Fair for several years. Those who decide to register in advance will receive a ticket for free. “In this way, we want to encourage visitors to plan their stay and talks at the fair in advance. This allows the organizers and exhibitors to better prepare for the event,” explains MEBLE POLSKA Fair Director Józef Szyszka.
Visitor registration is enjoying a very high level of interest. Within just a few days of its launch, representatives of many large European buying groups and furniture store chains, as well as furniture wholesalers and online traders from other continents have registered in the system. – Among them are buyers from prospective markets for Polish furniture exports, such as the United States and India, which makes us very happy,” says Józef Szyszka.
The MEBLE POLSKA Trade Fair is the
world’s largest presentation of the Polish furniture industry’s offer. The exposition of the 2025 edition currently occupies 9 pavilions. More than 300 companies and brands from more than a dozen countries, including leading Polish manufacturers, will present their offer in February in Poznań. Rich expositions are being prepared by companies from Turkey and Ukraine.
In addition to regular exhibitors, there will also be a number of companies present in Poznan for the first time. The scope of the fair will include products from all price segments and furniture types: upholstered furniture, chest furniture made of furniture board and solid wood, and mattresses. Register at www.meblepolska.pl/
Mattress brand Nectar Sleep has reported an increase in turnover as losses narrowed.
According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023, total sales rose 1% to £13.6m from £13.4m in 2022. Pre-tax losses resulted at £276,000, narrowing from a loss of £1.4m year-on-year.
Stated within its report, the company said: “The gross margin percentage increased to 49.3% (2022: 47.9%) during the year, reflecting the decrease of material and freight costs.
“The company made an operating loss of £276,913, reflecting the focus on profitability. However, management continues to maintain a tight control of overheads as the business grows, notwithstanding the challenging cost of living conditions.
“The company expects further revenue growth in the current year, as the product offering continues to be expanded. The director anticipates challenges in the wider UK economy, as a result of inflationary pressures, supply chain and logistics issues, and more fragile consumer confidence.”
Beds and mattress manufacturer Vogue Beds has announced the appointment of Adrian Beer as its new agent for Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Adrian brings a wealth of experience in sales and a genuine passion for helping customers find products that meet their needs.
Commenting on his appointment, Bilkis Patel, Director at Vogue Beds, said: “I am excited to introduce Adrian Beer as the new Sales Agent for Vogue Beds Ltd, bringing our exceptional range of mattresses and beds into the Irish/ Northern Irish market.
“He is eager to build strong relationships with our partners and ensure you receive the best support and service possible.
“Vogue Beds is a family-owned business, celebrating 35 years with experience in crafting high-quality beds and mattresses designed to deliver the perfect night’s sleep. Our dedication to comfort, innovation, and customer satisfaction has made us a trusted name in the industry.
“Please feel free to reach out to Adrian directly at ALBfurnitureagencies@gmail. com or 00353 (0)879468402 to discuss how Vogue Beds can support your business.
“We look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence with Adrian leading our efforts in the Irish/Northern Irish market.
“Please do not hesitate to contact Vogue Beds directly for our latest brochure and offers, email either Adrian or contact us directly at sales@voguebeds.co.uk or 01455 841257.”
The National Bed Federation (NBF) has grown its membership base by over 7% in 2024, and now has a total of 86 members, including 54 of the UK’s leading bed manufacturers.
The growth of the membership against a generally challenging economic backdrop has been welcomed by executive director Tristine Hargreaves. “The addition of these new members, and retention of our existing manufacturer and supplier base, is a very positive foundation for our work in 2025 and underscores the value we have been working to deliver for the membership,” she said.
“We continue to maintain a focus on reducing the huge increase in ‘counterfeit’ mattress sellers that prey on cash-strapped consumers. They are trading in dangerous and often illegal products from websites, social media platforms and from the backs of vans across the UK, something we have seen skyrocket in recent years.”
“We have held workshops for our members, retailers and suppliers including ottoman bed safety and collaborated to find industry wide solutions to improving consumer understanding on how to use products safely.
“In addition, the progress we have made this year in driving the sustainability agenda is particularly important to the industry, and in 2024 we launched the first national database of mattress disposal locations to help educate consumers about their local options.
The NBF is the recognised trade association representing UK bed manufacturers and their suppliers. The 54 NBF manufacturers produce beds under more than 100 brands altogether, and collectively generate around 75% of the UK’s £2.3 billion bed industry revenue. The 32 supplier members provide components for mattress and bed manufacturing, including springs,
foams, fabrics, fibres and machinery.
The 123-year-old organisation’s membership include some of the largest, well-known mattress brands, as well as numerous family-owned SMEs, with many having been members for several decades or more.
Simon Williams, head of membership for the NBF, added: “As an association we may be over 100 years old but the focus of our work is squarely on the 21st century issues that affect the industry and consumers. Improving the amount of bed waste that is recycled is a cornerstone goal for us again in 2025, and tackling the plague of social media ads pushing products that do not meet UK trading standards is key to protecting consumers and manufacturers alike.”
The Cotswold Company, the digitallyled premium handcrafted furniture and homeware brand, has reported strong growth through the Christmas period.
According to its latest trading update for the nine weeks from 28 October to 29 December 2024, The Cotswold Company continued to materially outperform the broader home and furniture market during the important Christmas trading period, achieving year-on-year sales growth of 22% (+£3.6m) to £19.9m.
This strong performance, alongside achieving B Corp Certification, reflects the strengthening brand and product proposition and effective marketing initiatives driving increased online traffic, retail footfall across the Company’s 10 showrooms (2023: 8 showrooms), and growth in active customers (+20 y-o-y).
E-commerce sales were up 13% year on year, representing 77% of total sales in the period, while showroom sales rose 66% year on year (+35% LFL) supported by its new upholstery proposition and geo-targeted digital marketing.
Independently owned furniture retailer, Furniture Village, has announced the opening of its first ever Scottish store in Edinburgh’s Straiton Retail Park.
Furniture Village currently has 56 stores throughout England, with the new Scottish store taking its portfolio to a total of 57. The Edinburgh opening is the family-run retailer’s first venture into Scotland, with further Scottish stores planned to follow in 2025.
The new store, which officially opened on 20 December 2024, covers a total space of 25,780sqft and is set across two floors. The ground floor is a total of 13,670sqft with a mezzanine level of 12,110sqft.
Charlie Harrison, Managing Director at Furniture Village, said: “We are absolutely delighted to open the doors to our newest store and our first ever in Scotland. Straiton Retail Park is a popular shopping destination for furniture and homeware in Edinburgh and so it was the perfect choice for Furniture Village’s first store in Scotland. We are thrilled to introduce our beautiful and unique furniture and accessories for every room in the home, to Scottish customers for the very first time.
“This is an incredible milestone and achievement for the business and has been many months in the making. With several more Scottish stores in the pipeline for 2025, we are excited
to continue our geographic expansion and bring our fantastic furniture and accessories to even more customers throughout the UK.”
Featuring dedicated spaces from leading brands such as Tempur, Duresta, G Plan, Harrison Spinks and Hypnos, along with exclusive collections, innovative products, such as Smart Sofas, quick delivery lines and a lowest price guarantee.
Marquee Brands, the global brand accelerator and owner of 17 worldrenowned brands, has announced the strategic acquisition of Laura Ashley®, the legacy home, fashion and lifestyle brand, from Gordon Brothers.
Founded in 1953, Laura Ashley has become synonymous with timeless design, blending delicate florals, vintage-inspired motifs and exceptional craftsmanship across hundreds of products and categories.
The strategic acquisition retains Laura Ashley’s UK-based team and expands Marquee Brands’ global footprint with the opening of its first European headquarters in London.
Distributed in more than 80 countries through leading wholesalers, best-inclass digital marketplaces, and over 150 branded retail locations globally, the addition of Laura Ashley increases the retail value of Marquee Brands’ global portfolio to $4+ billion.
“Laura Ashley’s licensed business model and robust group of high-quality partners makes the brand a seamless addition to Marquee Brands. We are excited to harness the strong affinity for this iconic brand and drive expansion across new platforms and partnerships,” said Heath Golden, CEO of Marquee Brands.
“With the existing UK team in place, we are primed and ready to leverage Laura
Ashley’s seven-decade legacy to unlock its future potential as a full lifestyle brand innovating new products and categories, offering unique collaborations and engaging multi-generational audiences in key markets worldwide.”
“As a firm that actively invests in and revitalizes iconic brands like Laura Ashley, we acquired the British heritage brand out of insolvency in 2020 and built a flexible, scalable licensing business and a global e-commerce presence over the last four years,” said Tobias Nanda, Head of Brands at Gordon Brothers. “We could not be prouder of Laura Ashley’s growth under Carolyn D’Angelo’s leadership, the former President of Laura Ashley, and know the brand is in the right hands for continued global growth under Marquee Brands’ leadership.”
Swedish furniture retailer IKEA has secured an interim relief from the Delhi High Court over a trademark infringement.
IKEA filed the lawsuit against India’s IKEY Home Studio after claiming that consumers would mistakenly believe that IKEY is engaged in selling IKEA’s products due to wording found on its website, ikeyllp.com.
An IKEA investigator identified that IKEY’s website mentioned it “showcases a wide variety of products from renowned brands”.
The court has now ruled in favour of IKEA and has introduced an interim relief to IKEY, meaning the business must refrain from using ‘IKEY’, ‘IKEY Home Studio’, or any other mark that is deceptively similar to the IKEA trademark.
Furthermore, the court also ordered the company to suspend the domain name during the pendency of the case and to disclose the registrant details of the domain name. IKEY did not attend the hearing, with the case further listed for review on 9 May 2025.
Independent furniture and homewares retailer Greybear has announced the closure of its shop to focus online.
Situated on Bridge Street in York, the store closed for the final time last month, bringing an end to 10 years at the location. The business has been established for 13 years.
Holly Box, owner of Greybear, said that the business will keep an online presence, on a more flexible basis.
“With a heavy heart, I am closing the doors to Greybear,” she said. “It’s been such a tough decision to make, the shop has always been my happy place but with a second baby on the way I just can’t give the shop the time and effort it needs to make it thrive.
“It’s been an amazing 13 years, and I want to take this opportunity to thank all our wonderful customers, and of course my unbelievable staff, for their support over the years.
“Since putting the sale on we’ve had the busiest days in Greybear history! Thank you to everyone who has messaged me, popped in to say their well wishes and expressed such kind words about the shop.”
Flooring retailer Tapi Carpets & Floors has partnered with the Scottish Association of Landlords to provide a comprehensive flooring service for its members.
Tapi’s extensive product collections, exceptional service levels and National store network appealed to SAL. Through their membership platform, landlords are provided with an exclusive discount on Tapi’s flooring products, in addition to any in store discounts.
Working directly with the landlords at every stage of the process. Tapi can provide an end-to-end flooring service, working within a budget to choose a flooring style to suit their properties and tastes, as well as co-ordinating delivery and fitting.
With consumer budgets under pressure with increased utility bills, landlords recognise the many benefits that new flooring provides for their tenants. Not only adding additional comfort and visual appeal, it also provides insulation to help keep heating costs and noise levels down, elevating the homes that landlords can offer their tenants.
Alex Rogers, head of partnerships at Tapi, said: “This is an important partnership for Tapi. As the largest flooring retailer in the UK, it is a great opportunity for us to bring the Tapi experience to even more customers and work with landlords across Scotland. We look forward to demonstrating our extensive product and service offering to a new audience and continuing to improve even more homes.’’
SAL is the largest and only dedicated national organisation that represents landlords and letting agents throughout Scotland. Supporting and representing their member’s interests with resources and assistance as well as delivering lobbying and campaigning work.
Online homeware retailer Inside Story has announced the opening of its first ever physical store at Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent.
The 1,827sqft store officially opened on 6 December and is located on the Lower Guildhall, next to HUGO.
The store showcases a variety of products from cushions and candles to linens and decorative accessories, as well as other furnishings.
“We are so excited to announce the opening of our flagship store in Bluewater Shopping Centre,” the company said. “We are Inside Story and this is our first collection of hand-crafted, contemporary, and stylish homeware and gifting. Come with us and let us take you to a place. A place filled with colour, joy and creativity.”
Luxury bed and mattress maker, Vispring, has arrived in Australia with the opening of its prestigious new flagship showroom. Located in Melbourne’s exclusive Armadale district, the new showroom is based at 1227 High Street, Armadale, and showcases Vispring’s collection of bespoke beds and mattresses.
December 2024 saw 122 new furniture and carpet retailer incorporations on Companies House, while new manufacturer registrations represented 93. According to the latest new company listings data for December 2024 via Companies House, furniture retail and lighting incorporations stood at 94, while carpet and floor coverings retail filings resulted at 28. View the full story here: https://www. bigfurnituregroup.com/over-400-newfurnishing-businesses-registered-indecember-2024/
Heritage brand, Brintons Carpets, is proud to announce that it has been awarded His Majesty The King’s Royal Warrant in the latest review of Warrant Holders. This prestigious recognition reflects Brintons’ unwavering commitment to excellence, sustainability, and its heritage of crafting the finest Axminster carpets.
Ulster Carpets has been granted a Royal Warrant by His Majesty the King. Described as a unique mark of recognition, this is the second Royal Warrant bestowed on the familyowned manufacturer of luxury carpets for the home and hospitality sectors.
Bed retailer Bensons for Beds has
announced a new 360 campaign by full-service communications agency krow Group, unveiling the brand’s refreshed positioning. The campaign – which marks the first project by krow Group since being appointed as the lead creative agency in July – highlights Bensons for Beds updated focus on its obsession with a good night’s sleep.
Specialist seating manufacturer Primacare Group Ltd has been sold to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). This transition allowed the shareholders to realise the value of the business while creating a lasting legacy by transferring ownership to its employees via the trust. The sale ensures the continued growth of the company’s “exceptional customer service and culture”.
Hardwood furniture retailer Oak Furnitureland has opened a new showroom in North Shields as part of plans to drive growth and expand its showroom portfolio across the UK. Through detailed geo and demographical modelling, North Shields was identified as a key location with substantial potential for new Oak Furnitureland customers. The new 17,000 sq ft showroom, located in the Silverlink Retail Park in North Tyneside.
Mattress supplier SleepSoul has announced the launch of its new online FurnitureBrochure. The platform highlights the latest product offering from SleepSoul and provides an essential tool for both area managers and retailers to easily access the featured ranges. See it here: https://www.bigfurnituregroup. com/furniturebrochure/
Independent furniture and beds retailer FL Caswell and Kettering Bedding Centre has announced plans to close due to retirement. The retailer, which has been established since 1926 and is based on Montagu Street in Kettering, plans to close for the final time during March this year.
Furniture retailer Anglia Home Furnishings Ltd, trading as Fabb Furniture, has reported a decline in sales as losses widened. According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 31 March 2024, total sales fell 17.2% to £34.9m from £42.2m in 2023. Pre-tax losses resulted at £3.5m, widening from a loss of £1.7m recorded in the previous year.
Luxury Spanish kitchen, living room and furniture brand eba has opened a flagship store on Wigmore Street in London. Covering a total of 2,300sqft spread over two floors, this showroom offers our clients an immersive experience in the world of high-quality interior design.
SHEPEL’, the multi-brand design studio and custom furniture manufacturer, has announced the appointment of Iain O’Mahony as Chief Operating Officer. Alexander Shepel, Co-Founder of SHEPEL’ states, “We are delighted for Iain O’Mahony to join the SHEPEL’ team as Chief Operating Officer. Iain brings with him decades of experience that will be crucial for the strategic growth of SHEPEL’. As our brand continues to expand in the UK and globally, we are thoroughly excited for this next chapter.”
We are excited to share that we’re expanding our presence in the UK by teaming up with our fantastic new partner, LIVHOME. Our beds can now be found at LIVHOME, Aintree Shopping Park, Ormskirk Rd, Liverpool.
Elphicks has had an amazing 2024! Here are some of our highlights. New Shop Frontage - Creating an amazing look for not only the store but also Huntingdon. Jonathan Taking Over Elphicks - Jonathan has become the 5th Generation Elphick. New brands and a brand new van.
A look at what’s been going on over social media channels. Share your news with us and email
dan@bigfurnituregroup.com
A little reminder to all of our followers that we’re here to help you with your foam and fibre needs. At Peak Converters we pride ourselves on producing high quality foam and fibre products for a wide variety of industries.
We’re experiencing a very snowy day in Macclesfield today and our store is looking like a winter postcard.
Selfridges x ferm LIVING. We’re pleased to unveil an exclusive pop-up store at Selfridges, London’s most iconic department store. For a limited time, visit the Lower Ground to shop ferm LIVING’s thoughtfully designed accessories that merge Scandinavian craftsmanship with timeless appeal.
Applications are now open for our highly praised Young Professional Industry Experience (YPIE) programme! This immersive three-week journey runs from 2nd June to 4th July 2025, alternating weeks, and offers young professionals in the furniture and furnishings industry a chance to explore the full spectrum of the trade - from materials and design to marketing, sales, and customer service. Plus, it’s an incredible opportunity to connect with senior industry leaders and peers. Want more details or keen to host a half-day visit for our participants? Email Taylor at taylor@furnituremakers.org.uk
Managing Director at Fairway Furniture, shares an insight into his role, how technology and sustainability is evolving the industry, and why eclectic chic remains very popular.
family business in 1995. Sensibly my father insisted that I do a further qualification that would both be a backup and better help me manage my way through life in retail, so I spent the next five years qualifying as a chartered certified accountant.
Let’s start with you. Can you share a bit about yourself and your background?
Growing up in and around a family business, retail has always been part of my life. I’m one of three children and we grew up in the small market town of Tavistock on the south west edge of Dartmoor. Going through my education I watched as my father took our generational family business in a fresh direction and was always fascinated by the world of business.
Following my A-Levels, I studied at Reading University for an undergraduate degree in Regional Science. This economics and geography focused degree offered a solid foundation for a life in retail, with its focus on how businesses located stores and sought out the best catchment areas through economic and statistical modelling. Having failed to get onto a graduate training scheme, I chose to join the
I’m currently the Managing Director of Fairway Furniture. I assumed this role in 2007 when my father stepped down and became chairman, after having carried out various other roles within the business in the proceeding 12 years. My key responsibilitiesalongside overseeing a collegiate approach among my fellow directors and our fantastic senior management team – focus around the overall direction of the company, shaping and planning the marketing, driving technology systems implementation, usage and development, as well as working on our ‘net zero’ sustainability target. I also ensure that our shareholders, all who are family but none who are involved in the business, are kept up to date with the company’s progress, so they feel part of the company’s progress.
The sheer breadth and diversity of the work that I do within the business means that no two days are the same. This incredible variety - allied to the seemingly never ending challenges that those running an independent business within the UK economy facecertainly make for an interesting and fulfilling job. It is always rewarding to see the work you do bear fruit, whether that be a happy and engaged workforce, satisfied customers or recognition from outside the business of the work that it does within and in support of the local community.
I am usually getting up by 6am, whether that is to get my teenage children up for school or to head into the office. I’m not a gym person, preferring a light breakfast and then to get started while my mind is fresh and alert. Typically, I’m in the office by 7:15am and getting on with my day.
Despite being the 6th generation to work in our family business, I never felt compelled to follow the path of my forebears. However, having always been fascinated by retail, when I completed my studies moving into the family business, either then or after working for someone else first as my father had done, was a logical next step. Had the business been in some other retail area then the same would probably have been true –I didn’t choose furniture; it chose me pretty much by default!
After a childhood growing up within the independent furniture sector, followed by a career within it, I’m not short of people within the industry whose influence and encouragement has led me to admire them greatly. Watching my father take our longestablished single store family furniture business from a city centre site to a 4-store multiple out-of-town leading furniture specialist was inspirational, as he could see the way that retail was changing within the UK. If we had not changed, we would very quickly not have had a business.
Peter Harrison and more recently Charlie Harrison at Furniture Village have done incredible work, taking a modest family business to a genuine UK wide player within a relatively short timeframe, while remaining an exemplar of retail standards and the ethos of a family business with their setting up of an employee benefit trust. In the independent sector, I have the pleasure of being among so many great retailers, such as Paul Glasswell (Glasswells) and James Barker (Barker & Stonehouse), who have developed their businesses fantastically, constantly renewing and developing their brands to match the changing landscape of furniture retail.
When I completed my accountancy qualifications after 5 years of study while working full time, I felt a great sense of personal achievement. It was not an area I had any experience in before starting my studies, but the grounding it gave me across a wide range of business and finance areas has been vital to my role as I have navigated the business through just a few challenging periods since then!
During my time in the business, we have twice won the Associated Independent Stores (AIS) ‘Member of the Year’ award, and in 2012 won ‘Family Business of the Year’ as chosen by our regional press. Perhaps the most proud moment however was when the company reached the milestone of 150 years trading in 2006. We organised a gala dinner for everyone working for the company, as well as inviting former employees and representatives from key suppliers and trade associations who had been part of that journey.
What is your favourite item of furniture you own and why?
When my wife and I ‘blended’ our families and were fortunate enough to be able to build a new home together, we took the chance to start afresh and change much of our furniture. One of the items we chose was a beautiful large oak dining table with brushed chrome legs, made by Qualita. It is the centre-piece of our kitchen/diner and allows us to host plenty of people at the heart of our home. Everyone who visits comments on it and 5 years later, it still looks as good as new.
What do you think is trending within the industry at present?
Eclectic chic remains very popular, with consumers looking to curate their homes more than ever. Gone are the days when simply replacing the sofa group or the dining table would do, with plenty now looking to carefully style a whole room. There are also some hints of a move towards
I am a hot air balloon pilot, having qualified back in 2007 ”
art-deco styling, especially in cabinet furniture which has seen a particularly challenging few years since the pandemic.
Within upholstery the desire for comfort is as strong as ever, but we are seeing plenty of interest in more lifestyle designs, which while comfortable are as much about ‘the look’. In terms of colourways, browns, deep greens and rusts are popular, linked with an increased sustainability awareness that means people feel more of a subconscious attachment to nature.
The furniture industry still remains behind many others in its use of technology to improve the customer journey and get products into homes faster. That is changing though and some suppliers are actively working to shorten the product cycle. Helping customers visualise products in their homes is vital to a connected retail experience, but we’re not there yet.
Alongside this, sustainability is now a major focus for customers and I believe manufacturers need to do more to address this. There is of course however that vital balance between products that last and ensuring retailers such as ourselves can survive extended replacement cycles in a market where price remains a key consumer consideration!
After a busy 2024 with a major refurbishment of our flagship store, 2025 will be one of consolidation for us, while looking ahead to 2026 and beyond as an opportunity to review growth plans. The UK economy is very fragile and with the budget’s business tax rises coming into effect from April, I am expecting a private sector recession. The impact of this will be to squeeze disposable income and further depress consumer confidence.
Spending time with our children is important, be that watching them play sport, attending live music, watching our beloved Plymouth Argyle or walking on beautiful nearby Dartmoor. My wife and I are also trying to walk the entire South West Coast Path, however it may take some time at our current rate…
I am a hot air balloon pilot, having qualified back in 2007, and among plenty of balloon adventures since then, I have even taken a balloon to Nepal, within a few miles of Mount Everest.
My wife keeps telling me that I’d have been a brilliant engineer, as I love to take things to bits to find out why they don’t work, then repair them so they do. Personally, I’ve always loved aviation and space, so being an airline pilot or an astronaut would I’m sure have been great fun.
A hallway table with drawers. People can put things on me and know I’ll be there when they need them. Plus, in the drawers, there is plenty of fascinating but totally useless information that I’ve accumulated over the years.
Gallery Direct’s SS25 Collection is a statement of their commitment to providing the complete lifestyle solution and continues to set the standard for the industry. With over 850 new products launched in January, including 100 new furniture lines and their largest new range of wall décor to date, it is a collection not to be missed.
What makes Gallery Direct truly stand out is their unique approach to delivering the entire lifestyle solution. Beyond simply offering beautiful products, they provide customers with curated collections that inspire and empower them to create cohesive interior (and exterior) schemes. Their innovative merchandising ideas and commitment to operational excellence ensure that their trade partners receive not only outstanding products but also the tools and support to present and deliver these solutions seamlessly.
Peter Delaney, Sales Director at Gallery Direct, shared his excitement following recent engagements with key trade partners: “It’s incredibly rewarding to see our partners realise just how much Gallery can offer - from statement furniture pieces to the finishing touches that complete the look. They’re excited to have a supplier who can provide the complete package, and they’ve expressed how much they value the high level of customer service we deliver. Knowing that we can offer a seamless, headache-free delivery process makes all the difference to them, especially when they’re looking for reliable, end-to-end solutions that enhance their own businesses.”
The SS25 Collection exemplifies this, offering customers the ability to furnish entire spaces with complementary furniture, wall décor, accessories, textiles and lighting, all designed to work harmoniously together.
One of the standout new ranges in the SS25 Collection is the Colonna living, dining, and bedroom collection. This stunning range showcases Gallery Direct’s ability to marry form and function. Crafted from mango wood with a soft washed finish, the Colonna pieces feature gently rounded edges and ribbed door and drawer fronts that add texture and tactility. The collection includes versatile pieces such as a console table that can double as a dressing table, offering flexibility to fit a variety of interiors. This range embodies the complete lifestyle solution by allowing customers to furnish multiple spaces with coordinating pieces.
Gallery Direct are able to rapidly expand their existing collections, transforming popular dining ranges into complete bedroom solutions to meet growing demand for cohesive, on-trend interiors. The latest range extensions for SS25 include their best-selling Artisan, Hatfield, Iowa, Madrid, and Vancouver ranges.
The SS25 Collection also expands Gallery Direct’s offering of upholstered bedsteads, with five new models added to their range. Available in both double and king sizes, these beds combine style and practicality. The Tadley bedstead for instance, includes an eye-catching printed fabric headboard, wooden slats for comfort and a large drawer at the end of the base for added storage, a practical statement in any bedroom.
Gallery Direct is redefining the way we think about living spaces by seamlessly uniting indoor and outdoor living through their innovative furniture collections. With the introduction of the Pedra, Pavia, and Rozzano ranges, Gallery Direct is offering customers versatile, design-led pieces that effortlessly transition from interiors to exteriors, bringing style and functionality to every corner of the home.
The Pedra Range is a bold statement in concrete furniture, featuring striking oval and round tables that are as elegant indoors as they are outdoors. With dual pedestal bases and smooth, polished finishes, these tables exude strength and sophistication while being built to withstand the elements. The Pedra collection transforms any environment into a contemporary masterpiece.
For those seeking versatile occasional tables, the Pavia and Rozzano ranges offer sleek and stylish options that work beautifully inside and out. The Pavia Range features concrete side and coffee tables available in glossy or matte grey finishes, perfect for adding a modern touch to any setting. Meanwhile, the Rozzano Range brings a softer, organic aesthetic with square-shaped designs and rounded edges, providing a refined balance of durability and elegance.
By bridging the gap between indoor and outdoor furniture, Gallery Direct empowers customers to create
cohesive, stylish living environments that flow effortlessly from home to garden.
James Hudson, Commercial Director at Gallery Direct, commented: “Our aim has always been to create furniture that not only looks stunning but also performs exceptionally well, no matter where it’s placed. By using materials like glass reinforced concrete, we ensure our pieces are built to last and withstand changing environments. This durability allows our customers to style their interiors and exteriors with confidence, knowing their furniture will maintain its beauty and functionality through all seasons.”
Gallery Direct’s SS25 Collection also includes their biggest launch of new wall décor, accessories, and textiles.
Gallery Direct has reintroduced their own exclusive art collection, featuring 50 striking designs that celebrate the beauty of nature and the power of abstract expression. Their collection showcases a variety of styles, from tranquil seascapes that evoke a sense of calm, to vibrant floral and fauna pieces bursting with energy, and thought-provoking abstract compositions that add depth and intrigue. Each piece has been meticulously crafted to elevate any space, whether it’s a minimalist living room, a cosy bedroom, or a dynamic office, offering a truly diverse range to suit every taste and inspire any audience.
It’s incredibly rewarding to see our partners realise just how much Gallery can offer - from statement furniture pieces to the finishing touches that complete the look.
In addition, Gallery Direct has unveiled a brand-new clock range, featuring their latest brand, Baker & Brown. Designed with both retailers and end consumers in mind, these stylish timepieces come in shelf-ready display packaging and are also fully dropship ready, providing a seamless solution for both in-store and online sales.
Gallery Direct has also built upon their successful faux plant collection and introduced an array of new florals, stems, succulents and trees, emphasising that it’s the finishing touches that truly bring a space to life. From lifelike greenery to elegant home décor accents, these carefully curated pieces are designed to add character, warmth, and a sense of completeness.
With a vast exhibition space spanning multiple stands in Halls 7 and 8, Gallery Direct will showcase a fantastic range of their products.
Gallery Direct’s complete SS25 collection is also available online, along with the support of Key Account Managers who can provide tailored advice.
To learn more, visit www.gallerydirect.co.uk or see them at SPRING FAIR, Halls 7 & 8, Stands 8F30-7A31, 7A30-B31, and 7B30-C31.
01795 439159 - sales@gallerydirect.co.uk
As living spaces become increasingly compact the demand for multifunctional furniture rises and the humble sofabed is undergoing a transformation.
Once considered a purely utilitarian piece of furniture for occasional use, sofabeds are now stepping into the spotlight as a stylish and functional solution for modern homes. Kyoto’s broad range of designs highlight how far sofabeds have come, offering versatility without compromising on aesthetics.
Today’s sofabeds are integral to modern everyday living, they’re no longer confined to guest rooms and have become the centrepiece of living spaces. Take Kyoto’s brand-new Cloud model, for example—a sleek and elegant sofa at first glance, it seamlessly transforms into a comfortable sleeping solution and has the added benefit of hidden storage.
This perfect blend of form and function caters to modern households, where flexibility and style are equally important. Kyoto’s approach to sofabeds reflects this changing narrative. By combining luxurious fabrics and quality manufacturing, Kyoto creates products that combine style and durability, not only meeting customer needs but aligning with the values of today’s consumers.
2025 marks a significant milestone for Kyoto as the company celebrates 30 years in the furniture industry. From its beginnings as a small futon manufacturer in Peterborough, Kyoto has grown into a leading name in the UK’s furniture market with their flagship sofabeds.
This anniversary is not just about looking back but also about embracing the future. Kyoto plans to expand its product range to include accent tables, dining sets, and cabinets, alongside new sofabed designs that seamlessly blend comfort and versatility.
Today’s sofabeds are integral to modern everyday living, they’re no longer confined to guest rooms and have become the centrepiece of living spaces. ”
The company is also investing in operational upgrades, with plans to enhance warehousing and customer engagement processes.
The celebration kicked off at the January Furniture Show at the NEC in Birmingham, where Kyoto’s exhibition featured a timeline wall showcasing its 30-year journey. The stand also debuted exciting new products, setting the tone for a year of innovation and growth.
With its commitment to multifunctionality, quality and customer-focused design, Kyoto is not just celebrating its history - it’s paving the way for the next 30 years of success.
www.kyoto.co.uk
Avriio has officially arrived to the UK market, making an unforgettable debut at the January Furniture Show (JFS) 2025.
As the newest and most exciting entrant in the UK upholstery market in years, Avriio has captivated retailers and design enthusiasts alike with its bold vision for the future of living spaces. From its sleek designs to its commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction, Avriio is setting a new standard in the industry.
At the heart of the brand lies a name inspired by the Greek word for “the future,” perfectly encapsulating Avriio’s forward-thinking approach. This philosophy shines through in every piece, blending timeless elegance with innovative design. Drawing inspiration from Mediterranean glamour, Californian ease, and the best of 1960s and 1970s aesthetics, Avriio’s collections evoke feelings of relaxation, warmth, and understated luxury. Light, neutral tones, soft surfaces, and gentle curves dominate the design language, creating harmonious living spaces that connect effortlessly to the natural world.
But Avriio isn’t just about style - it’s where luxury meets durability. Each piece is meticulously crafted with FSC-certified hardwood frames, high tensile pocket springs, and cuttingedge SpaceFibre technology, ensuring unparalleled support and comfort. Backed by its class leading warranty, Avriio sofas are built to last, offering consumers peace of mind with every purchase. These features, combined with an eco-conscious approach, highlight Avriio’s dedication to delivering lasting value without compromising on sustainability.
The launch at JFS was not just a showcase of furniture but a celebration of what Avriio represents: innovation, craftsmanship, and a vision for the future.
With 12 contemporary styles to choose from, Avriio’s collection caters to a variety of spaces and lifestyles. From bold statement pieces to versatile designs that seamlessly integrate into any décor, the brand offers boundless possibilities. Tactile, interchangeable fabrics with easy-clean properties further enhance the user experience, ensuring that each sofa is as practical as it is beautiful.
The launch at JFS was not just a showcase of furniture but a celebration of what Avriio represents: innovation, craftsmanship, and a vision for the future. With the backing of a strong UK supply chain, including a state-of-theart fulfilment centre and a white glove delivery service, Avriio is as committed to exceptional service as it is to superior products.
As retailers and consumers look to the future of home living, Avriio stands as a beacon of what’s possible—a seamless blend of style, comfort, and sustainability, ready to redefine modern living. The future of upholstery has arrived, and its name is Avriio.
Gary Broom, Sales, Marketing & Design Director at Sherborne Upholstery, talks about the year ahead following the successful launch of its new products.
Upholstered furniture manufacturer Sherborne Upholstery has reaffirmed its commitment to people and products as the business looks ahead to 2025 following a successful January Furniture Show.
During JFS, the Bradford-based company, which was crowned ‘Best Supplier for Customer Service’ in the Big Furniture Awards 2024, as voted by the industry, introduced a number of new products, as well as a new fabric too.
“Moving into 2025, Sherborne Upholstery are looking forwards to the challenges ahead and are confident our new launches will stand us in good stead for the coming year,” Gary said. “The addition of a head adjust on the powered and riser Comfi-sit range enhances the product to another level and gives our retailers more choice to tailor the furniture to their customer needs.
“The new stylish Leyburn suite features the head adjust feature on all powered recliners and risers, which suites it perfectly.”
Another great addition is the 2-seat lounger, as Gary continues: “The wider lounger version of the 2-seater in both fixed and recline was brought about from a conversation with one of our retailers. I’d like to think this is what they were wanting and I think it looks and sits great. I have a feeling it will be a real winner for us.”
Sherborne Upholstery, which has been a family run business for 95 years - working independently and funding itself through good and tough times, also launched an “exciting new fabric” this year too.
“Our exciting new fabric launch gives us a different look with a familiar feel,” Gary revealed. “We are always looking to elevate
our ranges and after our fantastic launch last year of the Valencia fabric, which couldn’t have gone any better, this new launch sits alongside it nicely.”
After what was a challenging year for the furniture trade during 2024, Gary says that Sherborne are well-equipped and ready to take on 2025. “The cost-of-living crisis has gripped nation but having successfully launched the Cloud Comfort action on all ranges and head adjust on the Roma range mid-way through the year, along with some cost initiatives to help our retailers through these tough times, this has helped us to keep looking forwards with optimism.”
One such challenge that continues to be a persistent theme across the furniture trade is the skills shortage. Sherborne has been proactive on this front, investing in both machinery and personnel over the last few years.
“There is still a lack of skills that are needed in the furniture trade,” continues Gary. “We have been training in-house for a while now to ensure we have the right skill sets moving forward. “The need to multi-skill is paramount which benefits the
company but ensures progress in people’s abilities and secures their futures.
“We have invested heavily in machinery in the past few years to keep us up to date with efficiencies and technology. More recently, people are our biggest investment, ensuring a younger, dynamic group are pushing through to enhance the future at Sherborne Upholstery.”
Moving into 2025, Sherborne Upholstery are looking forwards to the challenges ahead and are confident our new launches will stand us in good stead for the coming year. ”
Well-known and respected in the furniture industry, and renowned for comfort and quality at an affordable price, Sherborne aims to be the company retailers think of first when they are looking for a partner to work with to help their business flourish.
“This year has started encouragingly and we look forward to working with our customers,” Gary said.
Matthew Lock, Director of online retailer and supplier Luxus Home and Garden, talks about future plans, product category expansion, why sustainability is core to its concept and an update on business performance.
Meet Matthew
I’m the director and oversee daily operations with a focus on strategy and purchasing.
Recent investments?
We have recently launched in Europe and Australia and invested heavily into our IP and back-office systems. We have also been working on our indoor range of products, which will be in line with our current offering of high-quality, natural, sustainable products at a reasonable price.
Future plans?
We have lots of exciting things in the pipeline. We are making a move into the indoor furniture market, with our own designed and manufactured
indoor range of furniture in production, and we are also introducing some new products to our outdoor range.
We have an innovation for an outdoor table that has never been seen before that we are releasing shortly.
Other than this, we are planning to scale up our European arm, expanding the range in line with our UK offering, and cutting our current lead times by half, ensuring more growth.
We are also excited about our new foothold in Australia and have high hopes after the success of our early testing there. We have also been busy organising the official launch of our European site at a national trade show coming up shortly in Berlin, Germany.
What is your mission?
Our motto is Sustainability, Value and Quality. We are constantly evolving our product range to keep us at the forefront of the market and improving our systems to make us more efficient and give our customers the best experience possible.
Nestled in the tranquil Warwickshire countryside at the Heart of England, our strategic base enables us to seamlessly distribute our thoughtfully curated range of teak garden furniture across the globe, offering you an efficient and eco-conscious delivery experience.
At Luxus, sustainability isn’t just a concept – it’s our cornerstone. We are deeply committed to minimising our environmental impact and ensuring a greener future. From responsibly sourcing materials to eco-conscious design and manufacturing, every step is taken with the planet in mind. When you choose Luxus, you
choose furniture that not only enhances your outdoor space but also reflects our dedication to preserving the environment.
Luxus Home and Garden, which is based in Stratford-upon-Avon, began life at the kitchen table of my home, as a business selling sustainable high-quality teak outdoor furniture. After achieving huge success in 2020, business has continued to grow, and we have been working with Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub for support with international growth.
On sustainability, what is your business doing on this topic?
Sustainability is a key part of our business, all of the materials used in the production of our furniture are fully sustainable, with all wood carrying Flegt and Svlk certification.
We purchase our timber through the Trees4Trees foundation, which is a non-profit organisation, and each piece of timber harvested can be traced back to their part of the sustainable planation that they originated from.
As well as this, we have also created a website to process any returned or damaged furniture at a reduced price, ensuring that we minimise wastage, and any unsaleable furniture goes to a wood recycling centre for sustainable energy.
How has recent business been?
We have seen a huge increase in our sales. We feel that customers are looking for more quality than has been on offer previously, especially in our sector.
Since lockdown, there has been a huge increase in customers making their larger purchases online even though they do not get to touch and feel the
We are making a move into the indoor furniture market, with our own designed and manufactured indoor range of furniture in production, and we are also introducing some new products to our outdoor range.
products. Whilst it is extremely convenient, you really have to be wary of companies selling inferior products cheaply that will not last, and I think that customers are now becoming wiser to this. They see cheaper imitations online that look very similar, and are realising that it’s not the same, and will not stand the test of time.
At Luxus, our customers can be secure that what we are offering is a genuinely well-made product, at the right price, that is fully sustainable.
What would you change in the industry?
I would make it easier to trade with other markets. Although we have overcome all of the difficulties entailed, it has been a hard process, and was a lot easier pre-Brexit, but, overall, I think the industry is in good shape and we have experienced huge growth so we cannot complain.
What challenges do you currently face and how are you overcoming these?
We have faced challenges in cross-border trade and compliance generally, and scaling up to where we are. We have received some really invaluable support from Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub which has helped us to navigate the various challenges.
We’re really pleased with the growth of our business, but we know sales in UK and Europe as well as Australia will continue to grow, with our constant innovations, quality products, and focus on great customer service.
Do you have any staff you would like to pay special thanks or recognition to and why?
We would love to give some recognition to our despatch team as a whole as over the past year, they have rebuilt our systems and managed to half our lead times, while minimising our damages and making us much more efficient when it comes to stock control. The end result has been a massive increase in customer satisfaction. Well done to the team.
Why do you think customers choose your business?
We have some of the best quality furniture you can find, along with exclusive product innovations and services that are not offered elsewhere. This is coupled with fantastic customer support and fast delivery, which makes us stand out from the crowd.
www.luxushomeandgarden.com
Sofa Source reaffirmed its position as a leading supplier of innovative and high-quality soft cover upholstery across Ireland, the UK, and Europe at this year’s January Furniture Show.
The event provided a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with loyal customers, establish relationships with new prospects, and showcase the wide range and versatility of our 2025 collection, highlighting its adaptability and breadth for all who came to visit our stand.
Our new enhanced tech sofas were a highlight amongst attendees. These models deliver cutting-edge features that cater to modern lifestyles, such as power and manual options, wireless charging, and USB/USC ports.
Complementing these were our new Olympic value range, designed to hit the highest volume price points without compromising on quality or style.
Static sofas, sofabeds, and occasional chairs rounded out the collection, ensuring something for every taste and requirement. The ability to mix models and fabrics, thanks to our partnerships with strategic production facilities, drew particular interest from visitors seeking flexibility and customization.
Sofa Source’s reputation for reliability was a key talking point at JFS. Our in-house design, compliance, and quality control teams ensure seamless production and logistics from door to door, supported by dedicated sales teams in each territory. We are proud to offer both FOB and landed pricing, giving our customers flexibility and transparency.
Our new enhanced tech sofas were a highlight amongst attendees.
Our ambitious goal for 2025 is a 60-day dispatch commitment, which resonated strongly with attendees. For those seeking tailored solutions, our made-to-brief service received significant attention. With a minimum container commitment, this offering allows customers to bring their specific designs to life, backed by accurate and competitive costings.
Sofa Source’s container business has grown exponentially over the past five years, and our presence at JFS demonstrated how we continue to evolve. From high-profile destination stores to fit-out projects for landlords and developers, nothing in soft cover upholstery is outside our scope.
The energy and enthusiasm at JFS 2025 were palpable, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who visited us. The event was not just about showcasing products - it was a celebration of partnerships, innovation, and the shared vision of creating exceptional living spaces.
www.sofasource.com
The January Furniture Show (JFS) 2025 provided a fantastic platform for Image Furnishings to showcase our latest 2025 collection to an enthusiastic audience of retailers, industry professionals, and design enthusiasts.
Arga Sofa Bed
The event proved to be an incredible opportunity to reconnect with valued long-term customers while also forging exciting new relationships that will shape the future of our brand.
Our expansive stand at JFS became a hub of innovation and inspiration, displaying a selection of our new motion sofa models alongside our diverse collection of static sofas, sofabeds, occasional chairs, and beanbags. Whether it’s a cozy corner for relaxation or a statement piece for a living room, our collection had something for every taste and need. The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, affirming our commitment to quality, comfort, and cutting-edge design.
Our corner groups also generated significant buzz, expanding the options for customizable seating with or without tech features. Designed with flexibility in mind, these pieces cater to diverse living spaces while maintaining the highest standards of comfort and durability.
Every piece in our collection is thoughtfully curated by our talented in-house design team based in Roscommon. We take immense pride in ensuring that all our products meet and exceed local regulations while maintaining the hallmarks of quality and style that our customers expect.
The fabrics in our 2025 collection are a testament to our dedication to durability and style. On-trend and easy-care, these materials are available in a wide selection of colours to suit every décor palette, ensuring that our products complement any home aesthetic.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who visited us and are excited to build on the momentum of this extraordinary event. Here’s to another year of style, comfort, and collaboration!
Nora
This year, we were thrilled to introduce an extended range of tech sofas, equipped with features designed to elevate the modern living experience. From wireless phone charging and Bluetooth connectivity to cup holders and USB/USC charging ports, these pieces offer the perfect combination of luxury and functionality. Available in both manual and power recliner options, our tech sofas stole the spotlight as a true game-changer in home furnishings.
This year, we were thrilled to introduce an extended range of tech sofas, equipped with features designed to elevate the modern living experience.
As Whitemeadow continues to elevate its presence within the industry, they continue to put the support of their customers at the forefront of every step forward.
The British upholstery manufacturer has welcomed 2025 with a bang, returning to JFS with a standout collection and having undergone a complete digital transformation. “We’ve truly stepped up our digital game, and we’re incredibly proud to offer this alongside our renowned personal customer service,” said Daniel Oscroft, Sales & Marketing Director.
The Whitemeadow Customer Portal is a handy support tool brought to life with their independent customer base in mind. From tracking orders, ordering
fabric samples and downloading professional imagery, customers can find everything ‘Whitemeadow’ in one place. The progressive portal is a testament to Whitemeadow’s dedication to supporting their customers in as many avenues as possible.
“Within the first few days of launching, we’d successfully approved over 100 customer signups. The positive feedback has been overwhelming, there was a clear need for this as our platform has been so welcomed,” Elyssia Kravaris, Marketing Manager, said.
Since its new website launch, Whitemeadow showcased an impressive collection at JFS 2025 alongside a dedicated Marketing area. It gave their customers a chance to take a look around the portal, sign up and receive any on-hand support they needed in person.
“We’re conscious that business (and life) can be so fast-paced now, and it’s become the new normal to have instant access to everything at the touch of a button. We understand the importance of remaining agile, which is why we welcome digital advancements as we continue to move forward.
“The aim is to give our customers the tools to be adaptable, too. Whether you like to pick up the phone and speak to us, drop us an email or hit refresh on your order tracker on the store iPad – Whitemeadow is here to support you on every platform,” says Elyssia.
We’ve truly stepped up our digital game, and we’re incredibly proud to offer this alongside our renowned personal customer service.
Independent Whitemeadow customers can apply for access to the new portal at www.whitemeadow.com
British Furniture Association’s (BFA) pioneering component trade show is on track for success with a variety of new attractions in place for 2025.
Building on the success of its inaugural Furniture Component Expo, BFA has advanced plans for this year’s event, which takes place at Telford International Centre on the 19 and 20 March.
A first for the industry, the initial event - held in April last year - provided opportunities for delegates to explore products, network, gain industry insights and more.
The show was given a vote of approval by visitors, exhibitors and sponsors, who welcomed the one-stop-shop format, which allows manufacturers to review and purchase products across the whole furniture supply chain from leading suppliers.
Its success was reflected by the fact that Vita Group, BeA Group and Carpenter Limited all renewed sponsorship arrangements in the middle of 2024, ready for the 2025 event.
BFA MD Phil Spademan said: “We are really looking forward to the Furniture Component Expo 2025, which is gaining momentum as the industry event that is all about backing British furniture manufacturing. Once again, the event is made possible through the support of our headline sponsors Vita Group and BeA Group, along with registration sponsor Carpenter Limited, and we are grateful for their support again this year.
“They have recognised the value that the event brings to the sector as the first show of its kind in the UK, bringing specific focus to the supply side of the furniture industry and designed to meet the needs of large and small makers of furniture including beds, mattresses, cabinet and upholstery.”
Delegates heading to Telford will once again be able to browse product ranges and talk to suppliers as well as network and collaborate with colleagues.
There will also be the chance to attend a range of interesting industry discussions in the seminar theatre.
The seminar agenda is still being finalised but sessions on industry-critical topics including ESG, Intellectual Property, Technology, EU Policy and Regulations and health guidance are all confirmed, as well as the ‘Sit On This!’ podcast, hosted by Vicky Grubb and Ray Clarke.
This year, visitors can expect more attractions too, including Erdem Fabrics who will be running a competition, ‘Guess the Fabric Weight’ where delegates can visit their stand (number 9) to test their knowledge of fabric, examining the five samples on display and guess their weight (per metre) and composition.
The closest guess wins and each participant is allowed one entry per day, with the prize being a gift card worth £500 to spend on fabric, available both days of the exhibition.
Isaac Lord, stand 64, is also running a competition, ‘How Many Lamello Biscuits are in the Blum Legrabox Drawer?’, which will run over the two-day expo. The closest to the correct number will win a £250 Isaac Lord Voucher.
The venue for FCE, the Telford International Centre, was widely recognised by last year’s attendees and exhibitors for a range of features across the board.
This included transportation, with the location served by motorway and rail networks, as well as the ease of access for those moving exhibition materials in and out of the site.
This year there’s free, spacious parking right at the entrance of the exhibition hall, making it a seamless experience from door to door for delegates.
There’s also a choice of accommodation within the facility, with 400 hotel rooms either on-site or within a minute’s walk of the venue. There are a further 1,000 rooms within a 10 minute drive and 3,000 within a 20 minute drive.
And remember that BFA members will have free access to Club BFA, an exclusive lounge where refreshments will be available over the two days.
We
are really looking forward to the Furniture Component Expo 2025, which is gaining momentum as the industry event that is all about backing British furniture manufacturing.
”
There are still some opportunities to get involved and enquiries should be made now to avoid disappointment. All aspects of the furniture supply chain are welcome, including fabric suppliers, large or small machinery, kitchen and cabinet component manufacturers.
There are also some limited new sponsorship opportunities for companies to elevate their brand visibility and seminar slots to engage directly with a buying audience. All information about the Furniture Component Expo 2025 – including exhibiting and sponsorship - can be found on the event’s dedicated website, www.fcexpo.co.uk
To register, visit: https://shorturl.at/czT1y
Contrary to fears about robotics replacing human workers, Woodworking Robotics is designed to empower them. By taking over the “3 Ds” of manufacturing—Dirty, Dangerous, and Dull tasks—collaborative robots allow operators to focus on highervalue activities, increasing productivity while reducing risks.
At the Furniture Component Expo, held at Telford International Centre on 19 - 20 March (stand 14), JJ Smith will unveil game-changing robotics innovations for furniture production. They’ll also collaborate with BeA Group (stand 13), showcasing how advanced robotics paired with cutting-edge tooling can revolutionise workflows.
Robotic Assembly Systems
Automating fastening, stapling, and screwing of furniture components, these systems reduce repetitive strain injuries and enhance operational efficiency—ideal for furniture, sofa, and bed frame production.
Robot Conveyor Loading / Unloading
Discover how you can streamline furniture production operations by automating loading and unloading tasks on conveyor systems. Mounted on mobile bases, these robots can be redeployed easily to adapt to shifting production needs.
Robotic Sanding
Integrated with traditional sanding machines, this solution eliminates manual sanding of furniture components and panels, freeing workers for more strategic tasks while reducing repetitive strain risks.
Robotic Bandsaw
Designed for safety and precision, this automated solution processes small wooden parts using customisable hoppers, significantly boosting productivity with minimal human oversight.
Robotic Machine Tending
Collaborative robots can tend to any woodworking machine, helping to optimise production in any area. Bespoke assessments will be available at the expo to tailor solutions to individual furniture production needs.
Robotic T-Nut Insertion
Engineered for precision, this system consistently inserts T-nuts into timber components for up to an hour without reloading, regardless of project complexity.
Speak to our automation experts and discover how robotics can transform your woodworking processes with exciting demonstrations on stand 14 at the Furniture Component Expo on 19 – 20 March 2025.
At the Furniture Component Expo, JJ Smith will unveil game-changing robotics innovations for furniture production.
Emily Prime, Director at Fibre Components Ltd, shares an insight into the business ahead of the upcoming Furniture Components Expo next month.
Fibre Components Ltd is a privately owned, independent company with over 40 years’ experience in the board industry, with its team highly skilled and knowledgeable in all areas of board production and conversion.
“Due to the range of machinery that we have at our disposal, we can offer several converting services such as guillotining, platen press die cutting, stitching, riveting, creasing and bending,” Emily said.
“We are able to supply full sheets or cut down to your individual requirements. Bespoke tools can be made in house in order to manufacture parts as per your specifications / drawings. These parts can be used for arm cards, facings, corner protectors, washers and much more. With our guillotining capabilities, sheets can be cut down and also strips made to measure.”
Fibre Components Ltd stock a wide range of materials in many thicknesses, which includes Corrugated Board - in a variety of flutes, Greyboard, Fibreboard, Red Furniture Board, Electrically Conductive Fibreboard, Painted and Embossed Fibreboard, as well as DEF Standard Board.
“We have a material to suit every budget and requirement,” adds Emily, continuing: “Our design team can assist throughout the design and prototype process of solid boxes and trays too. We are able to produce your bespoke box by reinforcing boxes with steel rims, using a variety of handles, lids, locking clips, corner protectors, stacking corners and much more.”
Fibre Components Ltd is “proud” to be certified ISO 9001:2015, becoming compliant back in 2010. “This demonstrates our ambition as a company to have both quality and accountability at the forefront of all we do,” Emily said.
“All of our Corrugated Board, Fibreboard, Greyboard, Red Furniture Board and Shank board is Forestry Stewardship Council © certified too, providing you sustainability the Fibre Way.”
Fibre Components Ltd will be exhibiting at the Furniture Components Expo, which takes place from 19th - 20th March 2025 at the Telford International Centre. “We’re excited to showcase our services and products at the show,” Emily said. “Please come and see us.”
All of our Corrugated Board, Fibreboard, Greyboard, Red Furniture Board and Shank board is Forestry Stewardship Council © certified too, providing you sustainability the Fibre Way.
Whether it’s B2B or direct-to-consumer, online customers want to see as much of your product as possible. So why stop at still images? Video can be added easily to a photoshoot with the right studio. Will Lack, Director of Prodoto Photographic Studios, shares how he helps maximise shoots for brands wanting to make a bigger impact.
Demand to keep up with competition online means a large volume of content is necessary. Adding video onto a photography shoot is a cost-effective way to generate more content from your marketing budget.
89% of businesses use video as a marketing tool
84% of video marketers say video has directly increased sales 83% of consumers want to see more videos from brands in 2025 (wyzowl.com)
Video allows you to show all the selling points of your product in a few moments. We find video sequences that introduce products work well alongside still images on ecommerce websites.
Extra visual information in video helps customers learn more about your products. You can tell a story of quality, craftsmanship, style, comfort, and practicality.
Videos can bolster your social media efforts. The platforms promote video content to more potential customers, favouring its ability to capture and hold attention. Algorithms can be confusing, but one thing’s for sure, they like video!
Adding models to a shoot is another way to take your marketing to the next level. People connect with people, and introducing a relatable model can draw in your target demographic.
It’s easy for us to add video by shooting simultaneously with photography. This maximises studio time and the return on investment from a custom room set.
Prodoto has an exclusive introductory offer for Big Furniture Magazine readers who enquire in February.
One of our favourite video and photography projects involved a range of limited-edition furniture created by London Transport Museum for their online shop.
We built three room sets at our studios. Once each was propped with artwork and the distinctive furniture, we were ready for the shoot.
Combining video with photography was perfect for showing details of the iconic moquette patterns we all know and love from buses, trains, and tubes.
David Simpson from London Transport Museum’s Marketing & Design Team said: “We are so happy with the results and thoroughly recommend Prodoto’s services for those wanting a one stop shop for photography or videography projects.”
Prodoto has an exclusive introductory offer for Big Furniture Magazine readers who enquire in February. They’re offering to produce a free video alongside a photography project (terms and conditions apply).
Simon Spinks, Chairman of Leeds-based luxury mattress and bed manufacturer Harrison Spinks, has been awarded an OBE in the King’s 2025 New Year’s Honours List in recognition of his contribution to the mattress and bed industry, dedicating a 35+ year career to creating sustainable, quality sleep for all.
Some 20 years ago, concerned with the environmental impact of mattress manufacturing, Simon focussed on ways to replace glues and foams that make mattresses almost impossible to recycle, meaning millions end in landfill each year. He created the finest wire gauge pocket springs available globally, reducing steel mass by up to 80% compared to traditional springs.
To date Simon holds 100 patents globally relating mainly to innovations in pocket spring and equipment design, delivering material and energy efficiencies of ~60% compared to traditional manufacturing methods.
Simon also invented the Microcoil, using his fine wire to create a small, glue-free pocket spring that sits at the top of the mattress. His innovative thinking has enabled other manufacturers to copy his ideas, again reducing reliance on foams globally, creating a new category within the mattress market.
In 2008, Simon acquired a farm to grow his own natural, sustainable and biodegradable mattress fillings.
To receive the award was a total surprise and an absolute honour. ”
Harrison Spinks is now one of the UK’s largest growers of industrial hemp, which is carbon negative with zero waste. It also offsets company Scope 1 & 2 emissions. As well as other responsibly sourced materials such as recycled cashmere, wool from his mattresses feature Traceable British Wool which was another industry first.
The company also weaves its own luxury mattress tick which, due to its high wool content, is naturally fire retardant, meaning no FR chemical treatments are used in their mattress production.
His personal drive and vision deliver real growth within a socio-economically diverse area of West Yorkshire, growing the family business from c50 employees to over 650, across three businesses.
Simon says: “To receive the award was a total surprise and an absolute honour. I have been very fortunate to have a career in an industry that I truly love and where I have been able to combine a number of passions including, luxury sustainable sleep and innovation in engineering. It could not have been possible without the support and contributions of my family, colleagues and peers past and present. I am thrilled and delighted.”
Simon was twice National Bed Federation President and is current Chair of their Sustainability Forum and under his guidance, the business has been awarded 8 Queen’s/King’s Awards for Enterprise, currently holding awards in Innovation, Sustainability and International Trade.
Fifth-generation luxury bedmaker, Harrison Spinks, has created 14 new handcrafted mattresses as part of its iconic Bed Tailor collection, which was first launched 30 years ago.
The new models feature a rich blend of luxurious, natural and responsibly sourced fillings, including the bedmaker’s own Yorkshire-grown hemp and flax alongside wool from traceable British farms in partnership with British Wool. Wool is hypoallergenic, antibacterial, moisture wicking and temperature regulating, creating a restful and comforting sleep environment.
Meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans in Yorkshire, the premium mattresses include uniquely designed, 100% recyclable, glue-free spring systems, including the brand’s advanced Cortec™ Quad Revolution® spring technology which delivers unrivalled body-contouring support and enhanced comfort.
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the range, a Limited Edition Pearl mattress has also been designed, which combines 30,000 springs with natural, responsibly sourced fillings, including peace silk and wool from rare breed and indigenous sheep raised on Cotswold farms.
The new models include:
• Seven seasonal turn models, featuring a wool side for maximum warmth during colder months, and a cotton side for warmer months. Both materials are known for being moisture-wicking and temperature regulating.
Seven turn free options that provide targeted support close to the single-sided sleeping surface and deep support at the mattress core, including two pillowtop models filled with the finest natural and sustainable materials for superior comfort.
• Four ortho options for enhanced lumbar support and a firmer sleep surface complete the collection, two being seasonal turn, and the other two being turn free.
• All mattresses are 100% foam-free, glue-free and fireretardant chemical treatment free, and encased in a luxury wool-rich ticking fabric which is naturally fire-retardant and woven on-site at the company’s Yorkshire factory.
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the range, a Limited Edition Pearl mattress has also been designed.
George Sinclair, Owner at retailer Nimbus Beds, talks about the importance of building a brand for the long term.
In an increasingly crowded and competitive market, the bed industry has evolved beyond simply offering products, it’s now about building trust and fostering long term relationships with customers. Strong branding has emerged as an important tool for bed companies seeking to differentiate themselves and secure customer loyalty.
Today’s consumers are more informed and discerning than ever. They demand clarity about what they’re purchasing, particularly when it comes to big ticket items like beds. Brands that emphasise transparency in their marketing, from material sourcing to manufacturing processes, are gaining a competitive edge. By openly sharing details about eco-friendly practices, product certifications, and quality assurance, companies build credibility and align with customer values.
Nothing builds trust quite like the recommendation of fellow consumers. Many bed companies are tapping into the power
of customer reviews and testimonials to strengthen their reputation. Online reviews, star ratings, and user generated content provide prospective buyers with the social proof they need to make confident decisions. Encouraging satisfied customers to share their experiences not only boosts credibility but also fosters community engagement.
Consistency is key in establishing a recognisable and trustworthy brand, especially online. Bed companies that maintain a unified voice, tone, and visual identity across all platforms & touchpoints. From social media to packaging, create a memorable impression. Consistent messaging ensures that customers know what to expect, reinforcing the brand’s reliability and professionalism.
Successful brands understand that they’re not just selling beds, they’re selling comfort, health, and a better night’s sleep. Storytelling allows companies to connect emotionally with their audience. By sharing their origin stories, mission statements, or customer success stories, brands can humanise their image and build meaningful relationships with consumers.
The digital age has opened new avenues for branding. Interactive websites, virtual mattress try-outs, and augmented reality apps are transforming the shopping experience. Social media platforms, too, play a vital role in shaping a brand’s image. By engaging directly with customers through comments, Q&A sessions, and behind-the-scenes content, companies can foster trust and loyalty in real-time.
In an industry where competition is fierce and consumer trust is paramount, branding is not just an option, it’s a necessity. By focusing on transparency, leveraging social proof, maintaining consistent messaging, and embracing digital tools, bed companies can secure their place in the hearts and minds of consumers. Ultimately, a strong brand is one that resonates with its audience and stands the test of time.
Consistency is key in establishing a recognisable and trustworthy brand, especially online. ”
Simon Morris, Marketing Director at Adjust-A-Bed, talks about the positive start to the year supported by its recent Trading Standards certification.
Bed manufacturer Adjust-A-Bed has had a positive start to the year following an outstanding 2024 for the business, which has experienced consistent growth since its inception only four years ago.
Reaffirming its ongoing development, Adjust-A-Bed recently announced that it has been awarded “Buy with Confidence” certification by Trading Standards. The recognition sees the business become the only adjustable bed manufacturer in the UK to hold Trading Standards approval.
Commenting on the achievement, Ehtesham Nasir, Managing Director, and Simon Morris, Marketing Director at Adjust-ABed, said: “We are delighted with this award. Further credit to the team who have worked incredibly diligently over the past months to gain this latest success for the company.
“With Trading Standards approval on our entire portfolio of products, retailers can feel assured that Adjust-A-Bed are going from strength to strength with integrity and confidence.”
Initially Identifying a gap in the market, creating a clear vision of how and where to take the brand, and then successfully implementing that vision is a testament to the highly skilled and experienced management team at Adjust-A-Bed.
“We’re so proud of what the company has achieved in such a short space of time, and to be considered the number one manufacturer of adjustable beds in the UK already is just fantastic – but we have a long way to go yet to reach the ultimate goals we set ourselves,” Simon added.
“The simple philosophy of manufacturing a high-quality product that gives our retailers excellent value for money and quick lead times has been the strength behind our success. With a significant investment in an outstanding new POS, tailor-made wall graphics created for each of our retailers, marketing, and a social media package already paying dividends, the near future looks even more successful.”
A significant development that now sets Adjust-A-Bed apart
With Trading Standards approval on our entire portfolio of products, retailers can feel assured that Adjust-A-Bed are going from strength to strength with integrity and confidence.
from its competitors is the introduction of Adjustable Bed Studios (images courtesy of Haskins and The Place for Homes) within its retail partner’s stores, which creates the opportunity for them to be seen as experts by the consumer in this vital sector of the bed market. “No longer does the consumer have to go into a store and see maybe one adjustable bed on display, but a clearly defined area that they spend time in ensuring they get the best adjustable bed for their needs, all backed up by the excellent branding of Adjust-A-bed and 5-year guarantee,” Simon said.
October last year proved a significant period in Adjust-A-Beds’ short history, with its members voting them Best British Supplier at the Minerva Group’s Autumn Furniture Show.
“Along with the launch of The Bespoke Collection - the Ultimate in Tailor-Made Bedroom luxury - we offer a new and unique offer for our retail partners that will allow them to create stunning in-store displays and offer their consumers the ultimate in-bed design,” Simon said.
“We’ve had a positive start to the year and everything is in place for Adjust-A-Bed to have a very successful 2025. We’re sure we’ll have many more new and exciting initiatives throughout next year, so watch this space.”
As a trusted brand in the foam mattress sector, Komfi is committed to driving innovation across its product range, designing mattresses that cater to the diverse needs of today’s consumers.
Over the past year, Komfi has expanded its product hierarchy, launching three new collections that complement its established lines. This evolution results in a comprehensive portfolio that suits different sleep preferences, needs, and budgets.
For those seeking the ultimate sleep experience, the Infinity collection is the pinnacle of luxury. These premium mattresses combine the cooling benefits of TrueGel with the breathability of TrueAir foam, ensuring adaptive support and comfort throughout the night. Zip and link options are also available across the Infinity collection, allowing mattresses to be configured which suit two different firmness preferences – a first for this this sector of the market.
In 2024, Komfi also introduced the GelMed collection, building on the success of its KomfiMed range. These hybrid mattresses, designed with advanced materials and technology, offer exceptional comfort and support. Both collections combine medically proven foam with cooling TrueGel and sustainable Ecofoam, while GelMed further enhances comfort with responsive pocket spring technology. Both collections provide superior spinal alignment, temperature regulation, and support, making them ideal for customers seeking improved sleep quality.
In response to increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly options, Komfi launched the Harmony collection, a range of carbon-neutral mattresses. Harmony mattresses are made with Ecofoam, derived from 100% recycled foam, and are finished with covers made from Seaqual™ fibre, using recycled marine plastic. This sustainable approach not only reduces the carbon footprint but also appeals to the growing number of customers looking to make environmentally responsible purchasing decisions.
For consumers looking for great value, the Unity collection offers exceptional comfort at an affordable price. These rolled mattresses are perfect for those seeking comfort and support at an affordable price point.
With this broad range of collections, Komfi ensures there’s something for everyone. Whether consumers are after affordability, sustainability, health-focused solutions, or luxury, Komfi’s comprehensive portfolio allows retailers to meet a variety of needs while delivering comfort and quality across all price points. With their UK manufacturing, short lead times, and convenient delivery options, Komfi offers flexibility to its customers. Retailers can benefit from not tying up capital in stock or shipping, and Komfi is always ready to work with them to find solutions that best suit their business.
www.gnggroup.co.uk
Award-winning US bedding brand Purecare talks about the importance of wellness and how retailers can adopt this movement to boost sales.
From award-winning products to informative blogs on sleep and wellbeing, Purecare is on a mission to improve the sleep and wellness of its customers. Having launched in the UK market back in January 2024, the brand has recently concluded another successfully January Furniture Show at Birmingham’s NEC.
Displaying its collection of mattress protectors, innovative pillows and bed sheets, Purecare also took the opportunity to highlight the importance of wellness within the home and how retailers can take advantage of this growing movement where mental health, sleep and general wellbeing are more important than ever. It’s a culture shift that Purecare’s products are a perfect fit for.
Quality and care are the foundation of our sleep essentials and by encouraging customers to enhance their own sleep wellness and experience, retailers will see the benefit too.
“With every fiber of our being - with every stitch of our fabric - we care about the wellbeing of everybody and every body,” says Johan Bosman, Senior Vice President of Global Business Development. “We start with the most premium materials and finesse each product with precision-fit™design features before finishing with outstanding quality control.
“From our award-winning aromatherapy-enhanced mattress protection, to supple sheets and patented pillows, our products are designed to take care of you.”
In fact, the UK has seen significant growth of its wellness market since the pandemic. In 2022, its wellness industry reached 131% of its pre-pandemic (2019) market value, ranking first globally, according to data from the Global Wellness Institute (GWI). The UK was also one of the two fastest-growing wellness markets since 2020, growing 19.4% annually, just behind Mexico at 25.2%.
The UK wellness market hit a record valuation of $170.5 billion (£138.7bn) in the pre-pandemic year of 2019, which has grown to $224 billion (£182bn) in 2022. “The UK has one of the world’s largest, most diverse, and resilient wellness economies. The British public are very sophisticated wellness consumers,” said Katherine Johnston, GWI senior researcher.
One area of wellness UK consumers are investing in is sleep. Before we dive into the products and benefits of Purecare’s solutions, Johan defines what sleep wellness actually means. “For some, sleep wellness simply means ensuring that we’re getting plenty of quality sleep each night. For others, it’s much more than that. For us, the definition falls somewhere in between.
“Sleep wellness includes things like assessing our unique sleep needs and setting realistic sleep goals, investing in high-quality bedding that helps us reach our sleep goals, and engaging in healthy lifestyle choices that contribute to better, whole-person health.
“It takes into account not only the things we must do to sleep well, but the things we must do to rise to the challenges of our days, too.
“Sleep has the power to restore your body and reset your mind, both of which are essential benefits that help you face the challenges of the day, every day. So, when thinking about sleep wellness, we invite you to think about it as a well-rounded experience.
“Yes, getting quality sleep is essential. But more than that, getting quality sleep isn’t nearly as cut-and-dry as it’s often thought to be. (This means that buying a set of run of the mill cotton sheets simply won’t do the trick.)
“Here’s the truth: The surfaces we sleep on, the environment we sleep in, the comfort essentials we choose, and the mindset we have when we’re gearing up to go to bed all contribute to our sleep experience, and they matter too.
“That’s what Sleep Wellness for us at Purecare is all about. More than anything, we care about you and your wellbeing. This is why we’re devoted to helping you build the foundation of better sleep with premium bedding made from responsive materials that provide you with a cleaner sleep environment while supporting your wellness goals and unique lifestyle day and night.”
Purecare’s award-winning OmniGuard Advance Mattress Protector is a prime example after being recognised with the Good Housekeeping Approved Award 2024. “The OmniGuard Advance 5-Sided Mattress Protector stands out for its exceptional protective features, creating a barrier against moisture, allergens, dust mites, mould, and mildew,” says Johan. “This comprehensive protection ensures a cleaner, healthier sleep environment, which is essential for maintaining a hygienic bedroom space. The mattress protector is designed to fit like a fitted sheet, making it compatible with both adjustable and standard bases, and accommodating various mattress depths.
“The five-sided protection of the OmniGuard Advance Mattress Protector offers unparalleled coverage, shielding not only the top but also the sides of your mattress from spills, stains, and allergens. This extensive safeguarding is particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers and those who prioritise maintaining a clean and comfortable sleeping environment. By extending the life of your mattress, this protector is a wise investment for any bedroom.”
The Good Housekeeping Institute’s rigorous testing process, known for its thoroughness, evaluated the OmniGuard Advance 5-Sided Mattress Protector across several key parameters, including durability, effectiveness, and ease of use. The protector excelled in repelling liquids, resisting allergens, and maintaining
its quality even after multiple washes. This recognition assures consumers that Purecare’s products not only meet but exceed industry standards, offering reliability and peace of mind.
“This Good Housekeeping Approved Award 2024is a testament to Purecare’s innovative approach and the superior performance of our products,” Johan said. “We are proud to add this honour to our growing list of accolades as we continue to deliver sleep solutions that prioritise health, comfort, and quality.”
Another product collection making waves within its portfolio is its three advanced cooling pillows, each designed to elevate the sleep experience. The pillows bring cutting-edge cooling technology to the forefront, raising the bar for sleep comfort.
“The Nano Memory Foam Pillow features Memory Foam Crumb and PureCool thermoregulating fabric, delivering optimal comfort and advanced temperature regulation,” Johan said. “The Groove Contouring Memory Foam Pillow is designed for front sleepers, offering adaptive support with a thinner core and strategic zoning.
“The Wave Pillow integrates dual layers of Gel Memory Foam and Memory Foam, providing targeted pressure relief for side and back sleepers. The cool-to-the-touch surface adds an extra layer of luxury, creating an unparalleled sleep experience.”
Furthermore, Purecare’s range of new luxury bed sheets, launched at last month’s JFS, are renowned for their perfect blend of softness, durability, and breathability, offering retailers an opportunity to enhance their offerings with premium sleep solutions.
“Through our innovative wellness-focused products, retailers can educate their customers on what it means to sleep with a Purecare product,” Johan said. “Quality and care are the foundation of our sleep essentials and by encouraging customers to enhance their own sleep wellness and experience, retailers will see the benefit too.”
Alongside these product innovations, Purecare celebrated outstanding achievements last year, as well as making a significant leap by joining the Minerva Buying Group as an approved supplier, further solidifying its position as a trusted partner for retailers. The brand also became the only official mattress protector supplier to the AIS Buying Group, in the Beds Category, enhancing its presence further.
“We’re excited for the year ahead following a fantastic breakthrough during 2024,” adds Johan. “We produce products with sleep wellness that comes from the heart and we’ll continue our development journey with wellbeing at the forefront of what we do.”
Mohammed Boota, Director at Windsor Bed Frames, talks about what was on show during last month’s January Furniture Show.
West Midlands-based bed frame manufacturer Windsor Bed Frames showcased its solid Pine and Oak bed frames during the January Furniture Show (JFS).
The business, which has been designing and manufacturing high quality bed frames and furniture for over two decades, introduced new models and finishes, as Mohammed explains: “During JFS, we promoted our quality hand made solid Pine and Oak bed frames that we manufacture here in the UK.
“There was also the introduction of our new oiled finishes offering vibrant colour options without the premium of paint costs, as well as the launch of new models in our range.”
Mohammed added that the past 12-months has been “challenging” but the business delivered a positive 2024, with
We are very passionate about providing the best for your business, so that you can supply the very finest solid wood furniture to your customers.
”its reputation being a key driver in its continued success. “2024 was a challenging year for the industry as a whole, but thankfully our name and reputation has helped us trade positively and get through this tough time.
“We are consistently investing in our machinery and skilled staff, and always looking forward with new designs and colour options. We take great pride in having a close relationship with our customer database and sales agents to help achieve this.”
The products produced by Windsor Bed Frames are hand made by its craftsman, as Mohammed continues: “Using the highest quality of raw materials our craftsman ensure that each piece of furniture blends seamlessly into all interiors and provides each room with that extra element of elegance.
“We are very passionate about providing the best for your business, so that you can supply the very finest solid wood furniture to your customers. This commitment to customer service is what sets us apart in today’s competitive market place.
“We know how important it is for you to get your orders on time, regardless wherever you are in the UK. We have our own fleet of dedicated delivery vehicles to ensure that you receive your orders on time and in perfect condition.”
Nick Forth, Director at Reinforced Beds, talks about the features, specifications and benefits behind its products following the launch of its wholesale operation at the recent January Furniture Show.
When it comes to beds, strength and durability are nonnegotiable. At Reinforced Beds, we don’t just sell beds; we engineer them to be the strongest on the market. Our exclusive specifications, from reinforced mesh bases to heavyduty steel frames and solid wooden slats, set a new standard in durability, style and affordability. Whether you’re looking for a sleek super king frame, a space-saving bunk bed, or a bespoke solution tailored to your needs, every design is built to last with meticulous attention to detail. It’s time to rethink what a bed can do…
Every product is special. Reinforced Beds have innovated their own product line to have features that allow them to market their products stronger than your traditional high street brands. All the team have been involved in the design process meaning that expert advice and recommendations are always a phone call (or email) away.
Where do metal beds tend to fall short? In most cases, it’s the base that takes the brunt of wear and tear. That’s why we’ve gone the extra mile to address this common weak point. All our metal bed frames now feature upgraded 4.0mm reinforced mesh bases—built to handle serious pressure without breaking a sweat. Sure, some might call it overkill, but we believe in going above and beyond for durability. That’s quality and peace of mind, reinforced.
Built to Last: Wooden Bed & Bunk Collection
Exciting times are ahead at Reinforced Beds! Just in time for show season, we’re thrilled to introduce our brand-new
range of wooden beds and bunks. We’ve expanded our unique product lineup to include these robust wooden designs, built to stand out from the crowd. What makes our wooden bunks different? This range feature up to 28mm slats for exceptional support and are crafted from Rubberwood. Unlike traditional softwoods, Rubberwood is free from knots, which are often the weak spots in wooden bed frames. The result? A stronger, more reliable bunk bed that’s built to last.
If we had to choose a flagship model, the Pentney Bunk Bed would take centre stage. It represents the pinnacle of our design and engineering expertise. While our range of bunk beds offers varying levels of reinforcement—like the Bircham with its tubular bars and the Anmer with its sturdy mesh base—the Pentney goes a step further. Crafted with an upgraded 2.0mm steel frame, it securely holds the reinforced mesh in place, ensuring exceptional durability. Assembly is a breeze, thanks to its one-piece end frames, reducing setup time significantly. Plus, we’ve prioritized comfort and safety by including flat steps on the reversible ladder, making every climb smoother and safer. The Pentney isn’t just a bunk bed; it’s the perfect combination of strength, style, and practicality.
We’re always looking for ways to enhance the strength and durability of our products while keeping them affordable. This year, we’re expanding our wooden bed collection to match the innovative solutions offered in our popular metal range. Exciting new additions, including a wooden quadruple bunk bed, high sleeper, and trundle bed, are on the way!
We’re always looking for ways to enhance the strength and durability of our products while keeping them affordable. ”
In addition, we’ve entered the wholesale market, kicking off at the January Furniture Show. Our new trade website, www.rbtrade.co.uk, is now live, offering tiered pricing and trade accounts. We’re excited to give our customers the chance to showcase these incredible, robust beds in their own showrooms. The strength and quality of our beds truly must be seen to be believed!
In the next instalment of our series of interviews with agents and reps across the furnishings industry, we spoke with
who talks about the day-to-day, supply chain challenges, online adaption and the benefit of digital tools.
I currently rep for Kaydian Beds, a leading provider of high-quality beds. We specialise in creating versatile and durable products for the retail, and residential markets. We offer a wide range of customisable options, including luxury upholstered ottoman beds that cater to various industries.
How long have you been an agent in the industry?
I’ve been in the B2B furniture industry for over 10 years now but 35 years in total. During this time, I’ve gained a wealth of experience in understanding market trends, building strong client relationships, and helping businesses find the best products to suit their needs.
What drew you into the life of an agent, and what’s the day-to-day like?
I’ve always had a passion for design and customer service, and the idea of working in an industry that allows me to combine these interests really appealed to me. My dayto-day is quite dynamic; it involves meeting with clients, managing accounts, providing product consultations, negotiating contracts, and working with our logistics and customer service teams to ensure smooth product delivery. I also spend time researching industry trends to better advise our clients and anticipate their future needs.
What is the best part of your role?
The best part of my role is building long-term relationships with clients and seeing them thrive with our products.
Whether it’s assisting a retailer with stocking our beds, or preparing our beds for a UK show, it’s fulfilling to know that I’m a part of their success. The feedback and appreciation I get from customers, knowing they trust Kaydian Beds, is incredibly rewarding.
is the most difficult?
The most difficult part of the role is managing the supply chain and dealing with unexpected delays or issues, especially in a globalised market. It can be a challenge to keep clients satisfied when there are logistical hiccups, but clear communication and proactive solutions are key to navigating these situations.
you have any particular highlights so far?
One of the standout highlights of my career was having the opportunity to represent Kaydian Beds at one of the largest UK bed and furniture trade shows. This event brought together industry leaders, suppliers, and buyers from all over the world, and it was an incredible experience to showcase our products to such a diverse audience. I have also travelled with Kaydian to Malaysia to the factories where our beds are produced – this was an incredible experience, which helped me to understand the whole journey of our beds and provide a deeper insight to our customers when selling them.
What challenges do you think currently face agents in the furnishing industry?
The furnishing industry is facing a few significant challenges right now, particularly around supply chain disruptions and rising material costs. These issues can affect timelines and margins. Additionally, there’s a growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products, which can be a challenge for companies to meet while maintaining cost-effectiveness, but our products are already packaged in recyclable materials. Lastly, the increasing trend towards online sales mean reps need to be adaptable and ready to offer virtual consultations and remote services.
What would you like to see change?
I’d like to see a more streamlined process for product customisation and ordering. While Kaydian Beds offers a lot of flexibility, simplifying the custom order process for both clients and suppliers would reduce delays and increase efficiency. Additionally, more widespread adoption of digital tools for catalogue browsing and virtual design consultations would be a huge help.
What would help agents more?
Agents could benefit from more comprehensive training on the technological tools available to manage customer relationships and sales processes. In a digital-first world, CRM systems, virtual design tools, and online product presentations are incredibly useful, and more in-depth training would help reps be more efficient and effective in serving clients, including a retailer being able to order directly.
What would you say to someone considering becoming an agent?
I’d advise them to be prepared for a fast-paced, dynamic environment where building strong relationships is key. This job isn’t just about selling products; it’s about providing value and solving problems for clients. The industry can be competitive, but with a passion for what you’re selling and a strong work ethic, there’s plenty of room for success. People buy from people, no matter how good the product may be, so being personable is key.
What is the most important attribute to have as an agent and why?
The most important attribute is empathy and being personable. Understanding your clients’ needs, preferences, and challenges allows you to offer the best solutions and build trust. Being able to put yourself in your client’s shoes is what separates a good rep from a great one, and it helps foster long-term business relationships.
Can you share something that irritates you the most as an agent?
One thing that can be frustrating is when clients don’t fully communicate their expectations upfront, which leads to
misunderstandings later on. This can result in delays or dissatisfaction. Clear, open communication is crucial to a smooth sales process, and I always strive to make sure everyone is on the same page from the start.
Can you share an insight into your plans for the year ahead?
For the coming year, Kaydian is focusing on expanding our Ottoman bed range, alongside a range of new sofas (container only). Additionally, I’m excited about developing deeper relationships with existing clients and helping them grow their businesses with Kaydian Beds’ new product lines. Also, as we are members of AIS, we recently launched an AIS only bed for their clients at the INDX Furniture show last month. We also showcased five of our new sofas at this event too, it was a great show for us.
What’s the next big thing you are seeing in the industry and why?
The next big thing I see is the increasing shift toward sustainable and eco-friendly products. As consumers and businesses alike become more environmentally conscious, the demand for sustainable materials and ethically sourced products is growing. Kaydian Beds is already exploring options to incorporate more sustainable materials into our range, and I think this will be a significant selling point in the near future.
If there is anything else you would like to add as a final thought, please do so here.
I think the most exciting thing about being in the B2B furniture industry is the opportunity to help shape spaces that people interact with daily—whether it’s a hotel room where someone rests after a long day, or a retail space that gives customers a great shopping experience. Furniture is not just functional; it creates an environment. That’s why I’m so passionate about what I do, and why I believe Kaydian Beds offers something truly special to businesses looking for quality, durability, and design.
People buy from people, no matter how good the product may be, so being personable is key.
marksimmons20@yahoo.co.uk
www.linkedin.com/in/mark-simmons-a3138571/
It’s showtime again, and by now you are probably working through inspirations and new potential suppliers met at the NEC.
Here in Vietnam, we’re also in the usual rush to get samples ready for the VIFA EXPO show, held this year from March 5-8. Allegedly the biggest VIFA show ever, it’s worth a visitI look forward to seeing many familiar and new faces.
This rush is all about samples - new designs to impress visitors. But sampling goes on year-round, a critical part of product development.
Perfect samples, done right on the first attempt, can significantly impact your product’s commercial performance. They can save substantial sums when launching a new product or moving production to a new supplier.
Henrik Pontoppidan, Director of S2U Design, talks about the cost of sampling in Vietnam and asks the question: Does sampling in Vietnam cost you more than you think? And how to fix it? 1 2 3 4 5 In Vietnam, I’ve noticed five recurring sampling challenges. Does this sound familiar?
The Inadequate Brief – Ambiguous or incomplete information – oftentimes just a picture of a competitor’s product, with a request to change some details to prevent IP issues. This leads factories to interpret the brief their way - rarely optimal or aligned with your vision. The result? A sample that lags behind competitors and wastes time and resources.
The Failing Sample – A sample fails inspection, wasting your trip to Vietnam and/or delaying your timeline as you deal with costly air shipments. Factories may cut corners because “it’s only a sample” - a frustrating scenario that sends you back to square one.
The Revealing Sample – The sample is fine, but on inspection, you spot better, cheaper ways to produce it. Now you must choose between meeting the deadline or starting over, when perhaps this could have been known from the beginning.
The Technical Spanner in the Works – A factory stalls for months before admitting it can’t handle your design’s technical challenges. You are back to square one having wasted a lot of time.
Sample Delays – There you are, with the cheque in your hand for deposit on the first order, and it seems the factory doesn’t allocate any time to your sample, constantly delaying.
All these problems are avoidable. I can help prevent them and empower your company to speed up the sampling process, and move ahead of your competition. If you experience these problems the solution is a phone call away. And solving them can make a substantial difference to your bottom line. Here’s how:
If you are a retailer or wholesaler, it is, of course, all about buying right. But when buying furniture from Vietnamese factories, to be consistently ahead of the competition there is a lot more to it than negotiation skills and spotting a good deal. The key to addressing the above problems is in the brief – and here I can fill in the blanks. A brief should be complete and leaving nothing to interpretation. A tip to bring you ahead of the majority of your competitors I strongly recommend that your brief contains the following as a minimum: Complete and professional 3D and 2D drawings (I create these for all projects I am involved in), annual volume, MOQ you are willing to accept, and target price. Sharing precise and complete technical data, if need be after an NDA is signed, sets you ahead of competitors, many of whom provide only pictures and vague ideas.
Moreover, providing a full unambiguous and clear brief earns factory respect, prioritizing your project while optimizing costs and quality.
By controlling the technical documentation and working closely with factories, I ensure samples meet expectations. I set deadlines a week before client visits, allowing time for pre-inspection and corrections - so no visit is wasted.
With thorough 3D modelling, I explore multiple production methods before sampling, selecting the best path upfront to avoid costly post-sample revelations.
Choosing the right factory is key. Analysing factory expertise against sample requirements helps avoid predictable failures. Vietnamese persistence is admirable, but identifying limitations early saves months of frustration.
Delays nearly always hinges on low factory motivation (priority) in the midst of many different projects and clients. Address these common factory frustrations:
Inadequate Brief – Make your project straightforward with precise details. Don’t rely on the factory’s imagination.
Perception of Timewasting – Acknowledge that many samples never lead to orders. Show your commitment by staying engaged and persistent—politely but firmly.
Sample Cost Arguments – Factories often charge a nominal fee (2-3 times FOB price). Any factory will find refusal to pay for samples a point of contention and whether they make this known to you or not, you are back in the queue. Pay the – symbolic – sample cost promptly and with a smile and you have earned a brownie point. 1 2 3
Mastering the sampling process will give you a competitive edge, better products, and a smoother path to market success.
If you ever encounter any of the above problems during your sourcing from Vietnam, you are welcome to reach you. I will help you on many levels – and the sampling process is of course in the centre. We – and by extension you – control the technical documentation for your approval and manage the sampling process making your product portfolio excel.
Mastering the sampling process will give you a competitive edge, better products, and a smoother path to market success.
Paul Wray, Managing Director of Modern Outlook Furniture, reveals a new project in the outdoor furniture sector, as well as a look ahead to the CIFF Furniture Fair.
Welcoming the dawn of 2025, I’m excited to announce the commencement of a new and improved construction of an outdoor garden furniture factory that I’m honoured to be part of in China. Spanning an impressive 30,000 square meters, this state-of-theart facility is scheduled for completion by August this year. Once operational, it will have the capacity to manufacture approximately 3000 containers annually, aligning perfectly with the anticipated global surge in demand for outdoor furniture.
China businesses are fortunate to have a lot of support from their government especially in the northern regions where it’s less developed. The north of China has a more advantageous operating costs compared to the south making products at lower prices.
understanding of the UKFR legal requirements, in most cases this is not even tested, leaving it at risk to the end user but also to heavy fines and loss of product if stopped and tested at port of UK entry. A lot of foreign buyers can be put off working with factories that have western partners assuming the prices will be much higher. I can assure you the prices work out much lower when there are less production issues through having a QC team on the ground in the factory full time.
If you are considering a visit to China as a potential outdoor furniture buyer, we invite you to schedule a visit to our China showroom. Alternatively, for those located in the UK, please contact Ben Womack who has an extensive sample range available for viewing. Kindly register on www.bwomack.co.uk for further details.
The accompanying image depicts the staff living quarters, designed to provide a comfortable and convenient environment. Equipped with a restaurant on the lower level, all meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be catered for.
Having built up a relationship with the factory over the years working closely together on quality control systems and design, we are now honoured to be made official partners with shares in the factory. There are a lot of advantages of working with a factory with a British influence in them, the main one being we understand the high quality and legal standards needed for the UK market. My team being here on the ground overseeing the development and production stage is imperative to delivering a high quality product with full traceability from start to finish.
QC is for me one of the most important stages in the production of goods. A lot of freelance QC companies in China tend to visit the factory prior to the finished goods being loaded and usually only 5-10% of products actually checked and not having the full
UK retailers and wholesalers are in luck because they don’t have far to travel to view the great choice of garden furniture products because they were recently on show at the January Furniture Show with B Womack Furniture Ltd. The UK showroom will be opening this month and will be located in Doncaster.
As the Chinese New Year commences (28th of January), it is important to note that factories went into closure from mid-January and will be for almost a month. Following this period, production may experience delays as staff return to work from long distances. Therefore, we advise taking this into consideration when placing orders. The year 2025 in the Chinese zodiac is symbolized by the snake, representing wisdom, intuition, elegance, resilience, and mystery.
Looking ahead to March 2025, the CIFF Furniture Fair is scheduled from the 18th to the 21st, featuring Home Furniture, Home Decor, Home Textiles, and Outdoor Furniture. Subsequently, from the 28th to the 31st of March, the fair will include Office and Commercial Space exhibits. For any assistance during the event, please reach out to us at Modern Outlook Furniture (contact details provided below). On behalf of myself and the team, we extend our warm wishes for a Happy Chinese New Year, accompanied by blessings of good health, happiness, and prosperity for all.
Modern Outlook Furniture stands ready to support businesses of all sizes in their procurement endeavors from China, offering comprehensive Quality Control services to ensure successful project outcomes. Should you wish to explore how we can assist you in avoiding potential challenges and setbacks, please do not hesitate to contact us.
paulw@modernoutlook.cn www.linkedin.com/in/paul-wray-79403935/
Furniture imports during November 2024 increased on the same month last year while exports from the UK slightly declined.
A look at some notable data within the upholstery, mattresses, cabinet and carpets sub-categories.
Country
Upholstery Exports Year-on-Year
According to the latest UK trade data, analysed by Big Furniture Group, total imports of furniture into Britain valued £735.1m in November 2024, up 4.5% from £703.1m against the same month the previous year.
Imports from the EU registered a decline of 11.6% to £330.1m from £373.7m. Imports from Italy were down 7.3% to £67.8m, while Polish imports fell 24.8% to £60.8m. Imports from Germany were down 1% to £52.3m.
As for outside the EU, total imports rose 22.9% to a value of £404.9m from £329.4m. Chinese imports were up 29.8% to £287.3m, while Vietnam declined by 1.1% to £16.1m. Imports from Malaysia jumped 76% to £12.5m, the USA saw a decline of 17% to £18.9m and Turkish imports rose 8% to £13m.
Moving to exports, the total value of UK furniture leaving the country fell 0.7% to £201.9m from £203.4m year-onyear. In Europe, exports fell 16.9% to £91.2m from £109.8m. Exports to France decreased 20% to £26m, while German exports fell 25% to £11.9m. Irish exports were down 11.4% to £22.1m, while exports to Poland jumped 39% to £2.4m.
Outside the EU saw exports increase 18.2% to £110.7m from £93.6m. Exports to China were down 32.3% to £3.1m, while India rose 740% to £8.8m. Exports to the UAE rose 13.7% to £9.4m, while the USA increased 19.6% to £55.2m.
Mattress Imports Year-on-Year
Mattress
Get the free data
For the monthly data and all other annual changes across four main sectors of the market – including upholstery, mattresses, cabinet and carpets, download the full report of imports and exports by country and value at:
www.bigfurnituregroup.com/furniture-imports-rise-innovember-2024-exports-down/
Cabinet Exports
Carpet Imports Year-on-Year
In the next part of our ongoing sustainable series, independent furniture retailer Stokers and global furnishings retailer JYSK shares its respective latest sustainability progress.
Independent furniture retailer Stokers recently reported its latest trading update for the year ended 30 April 2024. Sales resulted at £61m, while pre-tax profit remained strong at £4.8m. Detailed within its report included an update on its sustainability progress with the business sharing energy savings and energy efficiency initiatives.
“The company recognises the importance of its environmental responsibilities, monitors its impact on the environment and designs and implements policies to reduce any damage that might be caused by the company’s activities,” Stokers said. “Such initiatives include the recycling of as much packaging material and other items as practically possible and reducing energy consumption, particularly within the stores.”
Stokers’ greenhouse gas emissions, reportable under the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) for the year were 1,041 tonnes CO2e and this compares to 1,176 tonnes CO2e for the previous year - a reduction of 135 tonnes CO2e. These include the emissions associated with electricity, natural gas consumption, and business travel in company and private vehicles by employees.
There was also a saving of 454,008 KWh (2022/23 159,343 KWh), which considering the overall increased store footprint, is evidence of the company’s commitment to reduce consumption. The company has been pro-active in the throughout both 2023/24 and 2022/23 reporting periods and set out some energy efficiency initiatives it has been undertaking. These include:
• LED fittings retrofit: “We have an ongoing plan to replace old fluorescent tubes with LED alternatives as they fail. Similarly, the directors we are also looking to install motion detectors to the lighting whenever practicable.”
• Solar PV installation: “The company continued the roll out of PV at its stores with the completion of a PV systems at Doorway to Value in January 2024. Further installations are confirmed for the coming year as the company continues to reduce its electricity consumption. The company achieved a 5% reduction this year in KWH used.”
• Delivery vehicle upgrade: “We are continuing to replace our older Euro 4 and 5 deliver vehicles with new Euro 6 vehicles and will continue to look at reducing the size and weight of our vehicles, giving greater mpg, where we can.”
“The company has always recognised the importance of minimising its impact upon the environment and has done and will continue to seek ways to reduce its carbon footprint,” Stokers added.
Such initiatives include the recycling of as much packaging material and other items as practically possible and reducing energy consumption, particularly within the stores.
During the last year, Danish furniture retailer JYSK set the strategic direction when it comes to sustainability and recently presented its new strategy, “A Great Offer for Generations”. Not only was this an important milestone for JYSK, but it was also the culmination of months of dedicated work from Sustainability Director Ditte Revsbæk Hansen and the sustainability team.
“We started last year by mapping all the impacts, risks and opportunities at JYSK, which was a big task, since we are an international retailer with many variables such as suppliers, products, stores and much more to account for,” says Ditte.
“Luckily, JYSK has a great foundation of working with compliance, certifications and diversity which helped us in reducing the strategy to five main areas that helps us in creating meaningful change.”
The five areas are Climate action, Responsible value chain, Trusted quality products, Attractive and inclusive workplace, as well as Data transparency.
“Many believe that sustainability is primarily focused on climate action, and that makes perfect sense to me, but as you can see from the new strategy and in our foundation, sustainability at JYSK is much more than climate action. We are covering the whole ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) spectrum with varying focus depending on the impacts shown in our analysis,” says Ditte.
Since December 2023, the department working with sustainability has grown to five colleagues in total (four fulltime colleagues and one student helper), due to high demand from various stakeholders and customers.
Even though the new sustainability strategy covers more than climate action, it is one of the biggest focus points for Ditte and her team’s work going forward.
“The combination of the new sustainability strategy and that JYSK’s climate targets were approved by Science Based Targets initiative has made it possible to give us a clear direction in our commitment to reducing our greenhouse gas emissions within our own operations and taking responsibility for the end-to-end emissions from the products we sell in our stores,” says Ditte.
”Many believe that sustainability is primarily focused on climate action, and that makes perfect sense to me, but as you can see from the new strategy and in our foundation, sustainability at JYSK is much more than climate action.
Amthal Karim – Head of Design at Furniture And Choice – shares her monthly overview of on-trend styles and interior looks currently inspiring furniture buyers.
There’s no doubt that the rise of social media has enhanced the average person’s knowledge of interior trends. Influencers have earned their follows by feeding a common desire for better design in our homes. As a new year begins to settle in, we believe that customers are beginning to demand more from their furniture.
Along with the introduction of curved silhouettes and high-quality materials, we’ve noticed an insistence for – well – just fancier furniture! Plain, boxy sofas with straight seams have made way for seating with detail, interest and something unique. Customers not only want to personalise their living space with colours and décor, but with exciting furniture too.
The most prevalent emerging pattern trend for 2025 is fluting. Vertical stitching on the side of a sofa or back of a dining chair refines the look and adds depth to the design. Combine this technique with fashionable upholstery such as velvet or two-tone chenille and you’ve created something visually interesting. What’s important here is that for every choice of upholstery a fluted sofa will look different, thus introducing personalisation and customers creating their own styles.
Different types of
Different types of geometric design are becoming prevalent across living and dining furniture. Hexagonal stitch on a dining chair adds drama and the contemporary bubble-shape sofa is made even more elaborate with wide stitch panels transforming the silhouette for modern appeal.
Alongside stitching, we’ve also noticed other types of detailing coming to the fore. Pleated fabric on beds, armchairs and sofas is becoming fashionable. Think thin, satin fabric pleats – much like plissé in the fashion world – adding opulence to a curved bed frame. Wide fabric box pleats offering a classic take – cosy yet beautifully decorated. And metal trims spotted accentuating a modern leather sofa for a statement finish.
The inspiration for furniture with intricate detailing has close connections with both quiet luxury and the Art Deco revival. The Art Deco movement was defined by lavish embellishment – geometric shapes and patterns were combined with bold colours to create statement sideboards, mirrors and coffee tables. The aim was to exude glamour and convey wealth and progress.
In the contemporary design world, pleating is being used to blur the lines of reality – buildings and products are envisaged in an ethereal effect – almost optical illusion. With 3d design evolving quickly, it seems retailers may need to embrace the concept of furniture with all the frills.
Yes, we’re excited about our investment plans for the coming year. Our focus remains firmly on three key areas that we believe create the most value: our people, our products, and our customer experience. We’re committed to ongoing staff development, continuing to bring innovative sleep solutions to our customers, and ensuring our showrooms provide the perfect environment for customers to find their ideal mattress. These strategic investments reflect our dedication to maintaining our position as a trusted local sleep retailer.
For 2025, E. W. Elphick & Sons LTD are investing in renewable energy, this is due to the predictability of costs with using renewable energy. Unlike fossil fuels, which are subject to price fluctuations, renewable energy sources offer a more stable pricing. This can also have a positive impact on our employee satisfaction and retention. We have found while recruiting that more people are now considering a company’s environmental impact when choosing where they would like to work. To start the year off we are currently having 35 solar panels installed. We are already looking at what our next green energy steps will be once the solar panels have been installed.
When it comes to investment strategy for 2025, one area stands out as particularly crucial: Digital Content Creation. While traditional investment channels remain important, we have a significant focus on developing high-quality content for social media and product videos. This shift reflects the evolving landscape of customer engagement and brand building. The key is viewing content creation not as a marketing cost, but as an investment. In today’s digital-first marketplace, this approach has become less of an option and more of a necessity for sustainable business growth.
In 2025 we are investing more in to our range, we are elevating it higher to get more bigger ticket sales. Thankfully in 2024 we managed to start dealing with two new suppliers that fit nicely with us and our business plan. It’s working well. We are also investing the most we have ever done in our colleagues; they have a large pay rise due in April along with several other new benefits & incentives. We made the decision to slightly lower staff numbers but give industry busting packages. They have to work a bit harder now but they are very happy. Also, we can now attract new good people whenever the times comes. Elevating colleagues too.
This coming year we’ll be investing in ongoing staff training and development, the opening of a new store, and our expertise offering to customers both online and in-store.
This month we’re asking retailers: Do you have any investment plans
We are redeveloping a new department in-store, which sees us create a larger gift shop area by knocking through into an old storage area. In the same space we will be introducing a new area selling bedding, ready mades, towels etc. We are also investing in a new roof for our older part of the building, which covers our whole flooring department and soft furnishings area. This is a large area and should cost us around £30,000. But it’s important for us as a quality and trusted furnishings store to keep our showroom in the best possible condition.
Yes, following a very positive sales return during 2024 The Bed Post will be investing during 2025. We continually work on the presentation of all our shops. Our second largest shop at Petts Wood has just been granted a new lease and will see a programme of investment throughout 2025 to enhance its overall look and appearance. Due to the great year we enjoyed in 2024, The Bed Post will be acquiring a new van to cope with the additional deliveries we now have to undertake. The marketing of our business can be a challenge, as it is for us all with the different medias all fluctuating in success. We have found that the direct mailing of The Bed Post leaflets continues to deliver good results and because of this we will be expanding our distribution with the target of attracting a wider audience.
We have had to invest in some new heating this year as our system was so old it was on the way out but luckily there was a 50% grant available for that. Due to the ongoing increases in what seems to be everything at the moment, any other investment we were planning for this year has sadly gone out of the window.
Having made a major seven-figure investment in our flagship store in 2024, this year will certainly be quieter. We have some small projects already scheduled for delivery, but these are primarily targeted to deliver operational savings, such as the final stage implementation of our renewable energy generation project. The October budget and its significant impact on the fixed cost base means many, like us, will no doubt be delaying further investment or looking at reducing the costs of essential projects that cannot be deferred.
As Mattressman continues to expand, we are investing in TV advertising. Having just gone live you can spot our professional advert on a variety of channels as well as other areas we intend to invest in this year such as YouTube and Social Media advertising. Our new production complements our rebrand perfectly and will help up on the journey to becoming a household name.
Yes, we’re investing in the final phase of a multimillionpound refurbishment at our flagship store in Llantrisant, just outside Cardiff, starting Spring 2025. This is an addition to the £4 million refurbishment that took place in phases 1&2 of this project and reflects our commitment to creating a modern, inspiring shopping destination for our customers.
Our primary focus for investment in the forthcoming year remains centred on our workforce, who constitute the most valuable asset within the organisation. Staff development is integral to our ethos, and we are proud to support team members engaged in courses ranging from Level 2 to Level 7. In terms of tangible assets, we have already undertaken significant improvements. We have revamped four displays, with a further two to done imminently. We are actively exploring avenues to enhance the business’s physical frontage, aiming to elevate its visual appeal and align it with the premium nature of our product portfolio. While our digital presence is currently limited to a brochure-style website, we recognise the importance of online visibility and will be allocating resources towards bolstering our SEO strategy. Finally, we remain committed to investing time and effort into community engagement.
Owing to the popularity of our award winning Lydford Painted collection, we are launching the range in all-over pale oak. Radiating sophisticated ambience with gently curved edges, rounded tops, sculptured plinths and a beautiful pale oak finish, the Lydford Oak is a true show stopper. Matching piece for piece with the painted collection, the Lydford Oak will carry our most popular and best-selling items, including our very impressive Quad Robe. www.devonshireliving.co.uk
The Climate Collection features three pocket counts, 1000 Pocket, 1500 Pocket & 2000 Pocket, with all the Pocket springs approved and certified by the Vegan Society ensuring no animal content is used in the manufacturing process. The Climate Collection is designed to be entirely recyclable too, contributing significantly to the reduction of mattresses that end up in landfills. www.climatemattress.co.uk
The Mabel chair by Cófra is designed by its European partners and combines signature style and comfort. Its clever design allows it to slide under the table, saving space while maintaining functionality. www.cofrafurniture.com
Inspired by nature’s beauty, Hooker Furnishings’ Modern Country collection blends vintage charm with contemporary design. Featuring warm, inviting handcrafted materials and natural textures, this versatile collection includes a curated mix of pieces that celebrate the timeless beauty of modern country living, bringing an elevated ambiance of comfort and tranquillity to interiors.
www.hookerfurnishings.com
Celebrity strives to continue creating and developing new products within the market whilst ensuring they keep up with the latest trends. We have launched the new Farndon range within our Riser Recliner Collection, which features contemporary styling and enhanced comfort, along with our original powered headrest and lumbar support options available in all three chair sizes. The Farndon features a two-tier fibre-filled supportive high back cushions and curved padded arm detail. This range is available in all Celebrity fabrics and is fitted as standard with our Mammoth Medical Grade™ Foam Seating Technology.
www.celebrity-furniture.co.uk
Couch & Co’s zero gravity, ergonomically designed, multi-functional Recliner Collection features the best-selling models that are part of its forward order programme. Couch & Co is a small but passionate, close-knit team with over 150 years’ experience in the UK furniture industry and has pooled its knowledge, experience and established networks to produce its exciting new ranges of furniture that are created with style and comfort at their core.
www.couchandco.uk
(Correct as of 17 January 2025)
The Company: Established in 1998, Indus Valley is a leading wholesale supplier of solid wood, ceramic, and reclaimed furniture, distributing throughout the UK. We are seeking motivated Sales Agent to join our team and represent our high-quality products in the South West region.
About Us: At Indus Valley, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional craftsmanship and sustainable furniture solutions to our clients. With over two decades of experience, we have built a trusted reputation within the industry.
The Role: As a Sales Agent, you will:
• Represent and promote our product range to clients across the South West.
• Build and maintain strong customer relationships.
• Identify and secure new business opportunities.
How to Apply: If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please send your CV to our Managing Director, Atul Joshi, at atul@indusvalley.co.uk.
Established in 1990 The Vogue Beds Group is one of the UK most innovative bed and mattress manufacturers. Supplying retailers, hotels along with manufacturing mattresses for some of the UK’s biggest brands. The Vogue Bed Group knows what it takes to create the perfect night’s sleep.
We’re looking for an agent to cover: East & Home Counties. You will be required to help develop and maintain a strong understanding of the product range offered by the Vogue Beds Group and to showcase these products to customers. To apply, email your CV to Director Bilkis Patel on bilkis.patel@voguebeds.co.uk
Vogue Beds Group has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Business Development Manager to work in pursuing and implementing sales strategies with emphasis on growing all areas of sales. This role would suit an experienced sales professional, university educated to develop and grow our sales ideally with relevant sector experience. You will receive dedicated support from a highly skilled management team giving you the best opportunity to support the aims of the business with the ability to grow by reputation. The job would be office based at our HQ in Barwell, Leicestershire. Email your CV to Bilkis at bilkis.patel@voguebeds.co.uk
Our Furniture Repair Technicians are at the heart of our company, our technicians are the face of our company at Emmiera Group. We are a company founded by technicians, built by technicians for technicians, nobody understands this industry like we do. We are looking for technician’s and upholsterers that have enthusiasm and a real passion for customer service. You will carry out repairs and produce an inspection liability report on the items of furniture with reported issues, both the quality of the repair and the quality of the report are to be completed to the highest standard with the end goal of keeping the furniture in the home and the customer satisfied and the client fully informed via the reporting. For more information, visit: www.bigfurnituregroup.com/emmiera-group-furniture-technician/
DNew Year, New start. Self Employed Field Sales Representative. Fantastic Commission & Benefits. Enthusiastic and target driven Field Sales Representative, you will attend enquiry appointments in the home and demonstrate our unique portable and furniture products. You can achieve a sizeable income which takes skill and dedication to achieve and we will give you all of the tools that you need to become successful very quickly. For more information, visit: www.bigfurnituregroup.com/adjustamatic-beds-field-sales-representative/
Are you looking to expand your team? Advertise your job with us. For more information, contact Nick on nick@bigfurnituregroup.com
For more jobs and further information, visit www.bigfurnituregroup.com/jobs
Emily Newgaard, Vice President & Editorial Director at Big Furniture Group USA, introduces MIDAS and asks the question: When is a Buying Group NOT a Buying Group?
The mattress retail industry is undergoing significant change, and the Mattress Industry Dealers Association (MIDAS), founded by retail veterans Greg Jent and Steven Houk, is leading the charge.
Designed to unite independent mattress retailers, MIDAS focuses on creating a collaborative community that prioritizes education, innovation, and mutual success. This unique group isn’t just about rebates and special pricing—it’s about building a network that empowers retailers to thrive together.
The MIDAS journey began in 2020, a pivotal year that brought significant changes across industries. What started as a simple Facebook group, the “Mattress Industry Network,” was created by friends from across the country. This group quickly grew into a vibrant community of mattress store owners. Their initial goal was modest yet profound: to provide a platform where retailers could ask questions, share insights, and learn from one another.
Over time, the group evolved beyond social media, transforming into a powerhouse of collaboration and support. As Greg Jent reflects, “I knew we needed something more, something better, than what we had been getting from traditional buying groups. When the last recession hit, it wasn’t 2% rebates that saved my stores. It was the people who had been in my shoes before and shared their knowledge with me.” This foundational spirit of shared knowledge and mutual support became the cornerstone of MIDAS.
By Mattress Store Owners, For Mattress Store Owners
Tony Campus, owner of Mattress on Demand, emphasized what sets MIDAS apart from other options: “They truly listen and are deeply invested in the success of independent retailers.”
MIDAS is a buying group that truly lives up to its tagline: by mattress store owners, for mattress store owners. It’s designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by independent retailers, ensuring their voices and experiences are at the center of every decision.
Steve Houk was recently asked what role MIDAS could play in the evolution of the mattress industry. He responded, “The mattress retail industry is evolving rapidly, embracing a true omni-channel experience—a seamless blend of online and in-store interactions. While ‘omni-channel’ may feel like a buzzword, it perfectly captures the direction the industry is heading. Our goal is to support retailers in navigating this transition by equipping them with the tools, strategies, and resources they need to succeed in this hybrid model. By fostering innovation and adaptability, we aim to help them thrive in a landscape where customers expect convenience, personalized service, and flexibility across all channels.”
Unlike other buying groups, MIDAS is uniquely positioned because it’s created by mattress store owners who understand the challenges of the industry firsthand. Their mission is clear: to empower independent retailers with the tools, education, and community they need to thrive. As Steve Houk states, “I believe that small business is the backbone of this country.”
Looking ahead, MIDAS plans to launch a digital training network for its members. This initiative will provide on-demand access to educational resources, best practices, and expert advice tailored to the needs of independent mattress retailers. By creating a comprehensive online training platform, MIDAS ensures that members can continuously grow and adapt to industry changes at their own pace.
At its heart, MIDAS is about fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support among mattress retailers. It’s not just a network; it’s a family of independent business owners who genuinely care about each other’s success. Whether it’s sharing a hard-earned lesson, offering advice during a tough time, or celebrating a milestone, the MIDAS community exemplifies what it means to lift each other up.
The core philosophy of MIDAS is to leverage the experience of successful retailers to mentor and educate newcomers. The goal? To ensure that store owners run their businesses effectively, rather than being overwhelmed by them. Through communication, resources, and networking opportunities, MIDAS equips members to navigate the complexities of the mattress industry.
The rise of bed-in-a-box mattresses presents independent mattress retailers with a unique opportunity to expand their reach and offerings. MIDAS is committed to helping its members see these products as a complement to their traditional business models rather than a threat. By providing training on effective marketing strategies, inventory integration, and customer engagement, MIDAS enables retailers to position bed-in-a-box options as a valuable part of their inventory.
Designed to unite independent mattress retailers, MIDAS focuses on creating a collaborative community that prioritizes education, innovation, and mutual success. ”
With online mattress sales growing from 19% to 52% since 2020, MIDAS provides members with the tools to embrace e-commerce strategies and meet the expectations of today’s digital-savvy customers. This approach not only enhances the shopping experience but also ensures the continued relevance and success of independent mattress stores in an evolving market.
“I feel like the industry has needed something like this for a long time and I’m glad someone finally took the initiative to create it. I’m excited about being a founding member,” shared Brandon Brewer of MidTenn Furniture in Murfreesboro, TN.
MIDAS is more than just a buying group; it’s a movement. With a mission to support small businesses—the backbone of America— this association is poised to make a lasting impact. Through collaboration, education, and a shared vision, MIDAS is helping independent mattress retailers not just survive but thrive in an ever-changing marketplace.
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www.bigfurnituregroup.com/big-news-usa/ www.midasamerica.org/
WORD Adam Hankinson
Adam Hankinson, Managing Director at Furniture Sales Solutions, talks about how to avoid discounting at the point of sale in furniture retail.
In the world of furniture retail, discounting at the point of sale can feel unavoidable. With customers making large, infrequent purchases — a sofa every 7 to 10 years, for example — it’s no surprise they often push for a better deal. Common questions like “What’s your best price?”, “How much for cash?”, or “I’m spending a lot; what can you do for me?” are all too familiar to sales teams. Unfortunately, the usual fallback — “Let me ask my manager…” — undermines the salesperson and your pricing policy, compromises the manager and weakens your negotiating stance with the customer- you’re almost always going to have to knock something off once your salesperson’s said this.
In this article, we’ll explore how to handle price challenges while protecting your margins and making your customers feel valued. But first, let’s look at the hidden impact of discounting and the real profitability of a furniture sale.
Understanding margins, volume, and profitability is crucial in furniture retail. For example, selling a sofa for £2,500 with a 2.5x markup on a £1,000 cost price might seem profitable, but after factoring in typical UK operating costs like rent, wages, taxes, and logistics, the net profit margin usually ranges between 3% and 6%. On a £2,500 sale, the £1,250 gross profit shrinks to just £150 net profit (6%) after expenses. A £250 discount doesn’t just reduce the sale price by 10%—it eliminates the entire £150 profit and requires the equivalent profit from another £2,000 in sales to recover. Now that we understand the true cost of discounting, let’s look at strategies to avoid giving away profit while still closing sales and building customer satisfaction.
Most retail furniture businesses are promotion-driven, with well-known independents and national groups constantly advertising discounts. Unfortunately, many salespeople become desensitised to the “full price” and treat the sale price as the norm. This mindset must change. Train your sales team to genuinely believe in the value of the promotional price. Teach them to highlight savings early in the conversation to tap into the customer’s emotional response to getting a good deal.
Example: As you greet or introduce a product, say: “Just to let you know, we’re running a fantastic promotion today — this sofa is reduced by £500, offering exceptional value!”
This primes the customer to appreciate the savings before they even think about negotiating further.
Tip 2: Handle Further Discount
When a customer asks for a further reduction, welcome the request with a smile — but reinforce the value they’re already getting.
Example Response: “Of course, I don’t mind you asking! But don’t forget — this sofa is already reduced by £500, which makes it an incredible buy. I’m sure you’ll agree!” (Smile and nod confidently.)
This approach acknowledges the question while reinforcing the existing deal, helping steer the conversation back to the product’s value.
Tip 3: Deflect “Best Price” Questions with Confidence
When asked, “What’s your best price?”, it’s tempting to offer a reduction. Instead,
acknowledge the question and redirect the conversation to focus on quality and selection.
Example Response: “Great question! I certainly don’t mind you asking. Here at [Store Name], we focus on quality over price — everything is built up to a quality, not down to a price. Which pieces are you considering?”
By shifting the focus to the product rather than the price, you maintain control of the conversation and keep the customer engaged in finding the right item.
Customers often assume paying cash warrants a discount, but in modern retail, the payment method has little impact on the cost structure. Handle these queries with positivity while reiterating the consistent value you offer.
Example Response: “That’s a great question, and I appreciate you asking! Here at [Store Name], we always offer our best price upfront, regardless of how you choose to pay. In fact, with today’s promotion, you’re already saving £500, making this sofa just £2,000!”
Reaffirming the saving while addressing the payment method helps the customer feel heard without sacrificing your margin.
Avoiding unnecessary discounting at the point of sale requires a shift in mindset, strong product knowledge, and confident communication. By focusing on value, highlighting existing promotions, and handling price challenges with poise, your team can close more sales while protecting profitability. Remember: Every discount comes directly off the bottom line, and maintaining margin is the key to a sustainable, successful business. Train your team to sell smarter — not cheaper.
