Cabinet Maker 21st June 2019

DAN SQUIRES

CABINET-MAKER.CO.UK 01623 372 213 PUBLISHER Stewart Rickersey stewart@cabinet-maker.co.uk 01623 372218 EDITOR Dan Squires dan@cabinet-maker.co.uk 01623 372215 FEATURE WRITER Wayne Swiffin wayne@cabinet-maker.co.uk 01623 372215 SALES & SUBSCRIPTIONS Sharon Rickersey Operations & Sales Manager sharon@cabinet-maker.co.uk 01623 372213 Siobhan Foster subscriptions@cabinet-maker.co.uk 01623 372216 PRE-PRESS PRODUCTION Tim Morriss tim@cabinet-maker.co.uk 01623 372158 DIGITAL Jakub Krzyzanowski jakub@cabinet-maker.co.uk 01623 372157 Subscription prices Cover price for a single print copy £3.75 Published weekly; 48 issues per year Subscribe online at www.cabinet-maker.co.uk P&P extra. VAT will be charged where applicable. Refunds on prepaid subscriptions will only be provided at the publisher’s discretion.

Since we launched our apprenticeship awareness campaign earlier this year, there have been some very encouraging signs of how our industry is helping to bridge the skills gap. As the leading voice on this subject, it is even more pleasing to hear that our efforts are being recognised up and down the industry. But the hard work is only just beginning.

As we continue to shine a light on all industry topics, apprenticeships have become a much talked about area. This week it’s the turn of ercol to have its say and join the Apprenticeships Debate. And, I have to say, it makes for some interesting reading.

Recognising the fact that in recent years the furniture industry workforce has aged and has created a potential situation where their skills could be lost, ercol has continued to invest in training across its factory and has cemented this approach to produce a programme to cover the years ahead.

In fact, the opening line within the feature says it all. It is this foundation that has to be acknowledged across the board. Thankfully, I think it is and, as mentioned, it’s very pleasing to see the progress being made.

This week also features another People Behind The Products feature, which is another area that we have spearheaded within the industry — to highlight the people who make the furniture industry what it is. Pavilion Broadway took up the opportunity and opened the design door for us to meet Nicole

Clee. In another insightful background, she tells us about her favourite piece of furniture, why she loves the industry and her loyalty to Cabinet Maker as an avid reader.

From Broadway to beds, Breasley features its new partnership with Brook + Wilde as the business expands its bed-in-a-box brand offering. Furthermore, this week includes an in-depth look at new startup business CORKBRICK, which is planning to launch into the UK next year with its sustainable, Legoinspired modular furniture concept.

To round the issue off, we caught up with Chris Proctor, chief executive at Oneserve, who details what to do when machines break down, which can be a costly exercise if a business is under-prepared.

Reverting back to apprenticeships, I’m pleased to reveal that we have a lot more in the pipeline in the coming issues. I also want to take this opportunity to thank those who have been involved already and I encourage your business to get in touch and join the Apprenticeships Debate. What is your business doing on the subject?

Dan Squires Editor

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RETAIL MANUFACTURE DESIGN

at interior designer Nicole Clee, features in our Pavilion Broadway, series.

The Products People Behind

21st June 2019

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ON THE COVER BREASLEY LINKS UP WITH BROOK + WILDE

w www.breasley.co.uk 26 + Wilde | Page up with Brook Breasley links

We are Beds See the latest products, collections and innovations in the bed industry at the UK’s biggest and best bed show.

Register now:

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INSIDE THIS WEEK’S ISSUE

NEWS

06

FEATURES BRIDGING THE GAP

16

ercol explains the importance of apprenticeships and how the company is helping to bridge the skills gap.

MEET NICOLE

20

Nicole Clee, interior designer at Pavilion Broadway, features in our People Behind The Products series.

HEALTHY SPACES

24

ELITE TEAM

26

Breasley shares its latest news following a recent link-up with sleep brand Brook + Wilde.

LAST WORD

34

Chris Proctor, Oneserve chief executive, has the Last Word.

16

Miguel Reynolds Brandão, founder of CORKBRICK, explains the concept behind their brand as it targets its UK entry.

20

26

NEWS

NEWS IN BRIEF TURNOVER GROWTH

New chair

Neptune has reported another year of turnover growth as sales rose by 5.7% to £51.9m for the year ended 30th September, 2018. UK sales continued to drive performance, up by 5.2% to £45.8m, whilst sales from outside the UK also improved, up by 10.9% to £6.1m. Pre-tax profit resulted at £1.3m, down compared to its profit of £2m recorded last year.

Sustainable woods supplier Kebony has announced the appointment of Ingvild Huseby as its new chair.

Ingvild Huseby has 16 years’ experience, contributing to financial results through new business models and digitalisation. Ingvild joins Kebony at an exciting time following the recent appointment of Norman Willemsen as chief executive.

Save the date

NEW UK LEASE

Organisers of the Brussels Furniture Fair have issued a ‘save the date’ call ahead of its show later this year.

Taking place from 3rd to 6th November at the Brussels Expo, the team is working hard to create solid foundations for a ‘strong new edition’ of the fair this year.

Global flooring company Interface has secured new premises for its UK headquarters. Interface has taken 7,589sqft space on the tenth floor of the Colmore Building in Birmingham following the signing of a new lease. Lee Mellor, general manager of Interface, said that the new location in Birmingham made good ‘business sense’.

Record year

Business growth

Northumberland-based timber supplier A&J Scott has reported record turnover and profits during an ‘excellent’ year. According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 31st December, 2018, total sales rose 18% to £34.2m. Pre-tax profits almost tripled, up from £1.5m to £4.2m, with both top and bottom lines the highest ever recorded in the company’s history.

Bespoke furniture manufacturer JSM Furniture has reported a return to sales growth by 8.9% to £538,090 for the year ended 31st August 2018. Pre-tax profit reached £98,652, up by 7.6%, whilst year-end cash increased to £144,250, a mark up of 45%.

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Sales event organiser toasts landmark milestone Greenwood Retail Limited, Britain’s leading experts in organising high-profile sales events for quality independent retailers, has celebrated its 1,000th Greenwood sale. The specialist sales promotion company’s landmark event launched on 22nd May at independent bed retailer Jones & Tomlin, in Worthing.

Bernard Eaton (pictured above centre left), founder and managing director of Greenwood Retail, said: “When I first launched Greenwood Retail back in 2002 I wanted to create the most powerful and successful sales promotions for independent retailers, the likes of which had never been seen before. Now, almost 18 years on, we are delighted to have reached this substantial milestone and to have worked alongside so many talented people. It is fitting and most appropriate that our 1,000th event should happen while working for such a fine company of talented people as Jones & Tomlin.”

Working with quality retailers of furniture and furnishings, homewares, garden products, fashion, giftware and jewellery, the company said no other was more experienced in this market or better qualified to advise quality independent retailers about sales success than Greenwood.

Founder Bernard already had a rich history in retail when he was inspired by headline-grabbing American sales. After researching the industry, and working with different consultants from the US and UK, he devised his own technique tailored especially for the British retail market. And it’s proven to be a winning formula.

He said: “We only work with quality retailers and all Greenwood sales events are designed to send a positive message about the reasons for the sale. For example, the store might be clearing stock to undertake a huge refurbishment or update their product offer. Even a closing down sale should be marketed in a way that clearly communicates the owner’s good reasons — for example, selling up so they can retire or change career.

“As a result, retailers can expect to generate from 30 to 100% of annual turnover in just 17 days of trade (depending on the type of event and other variable elements) – while maintaining commercial margins. We have even had some sales that have generated 100% of annual turnover in as little as five days.

“Greenwood Retail hosts around 50 to 60 sales events each year, and each one is meticulously planned for maximum impact and client ROI.” Adam Tomlin, managing director for Jones & Tomlin Ltd. Horsham, Chichester and Worthing, said: “Our third Greenwood sale has been another great success as well as being Greenwood’s 1000th sale.”

Bernard added: “Here’s to the next 1,000 sales events.”

w www.greenwoodretail.com

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DESIGN

Furniture brand appoints PR agency Luxury furniture brand De La Espada has appointed PR agency Camron PR. De La Espada works closely with a small number of designers, forming significant and enduring partnerships. These collaborations combine leading design with the highest calibre of European craftsmanship.

Founded in 1993 by Luis De Oliveira and Fatima De La Espada, the brand is based between Portugal, London and New York.

“Every person associated with De La Espada is a craftsman at heart, displaying the traits of independent thinking, respect for patient work, attention to detail, tenacity and perseverance that are at the heart of craftsmanship,” said Luis.

This June De La Espada will start a residency in Lisbon by taking over an apartment to showcase four iterations of ‘Let’s Pretend This Never Happened’, a performance that mixes furniture design, drama, sound and music, within an intimate setting.

This will be accompanied by a series of lectures with Hugo Macdonald and Morgwn Rimel.

w www.delaespada.com

MANUFACTURE

‘EXCITING NEW CHAPTER’ AS SALE OF FOAM SUPPLIER COMPLETES Foam, fibres and insulation business Pritex has been sold to Saint Gobain.

Saint Gobain High Performance Solutions UK Limited (Saint Gobain) has acquired 100% of the shareholding of Somersetbased Pritex, as well as the freehold for the main Pritex site, from Steinhoff International for an undisclosed sum.

Alan Chapman, managing director of Steinhoff UK Manufacturing Group, said the decision to sell the business was to find a new strategic partner that would support the next level of success and growth.

Saint-Gobain is one of the world’s TOP 100 industrial groups and a market leader in engineered, high-performance products with operations in 67 countries and global sales of EUR41.8 billion in 2018.

Gareth Jones, Pritex managing director, stated: “We’re entering an exciting new chapter in the history of Pritex and we see Saint-Gobain and Pritex as a perfect fit to enlarging the range of unique and high-performance solutions for our customers.”

The acquisition will allow the Mobility business unit of SaintGobain High Performance Solutions to expand its business model beyond automotive glazing and become a provider of solutions in the mobility market for comfort, safety and energy saving.

w www.pritex.co.uk

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MANUFACTURE

TURNAROUND CONTINUES TO MAKE PROGRESS AS SALES RISE DOUBLE-DIGIT Carpet manufacturer Axminster Carpets has reported further progress on its turnaround plan, as annual sales grow doubledigit.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 28th February 2018, annual sales rose 12% for the year and stood at £9.9m.

The accounts detailed a comparison against a 17-month period where turnover reached £14.3m.

Pre-tax losses narrowed from £2.9m to a loss of £993,136 over the same period.

Detailed within its report, the company said that the business is operating from a position of much improved stability since 2016 when it was acquired by H. Dawson and implemented the beginning of its turn-around plan.

In the current year, Axminster said it would continue to invest in the brand and further increase the pace of new product development and innovation.

The company added that it has a substantial order book moving forward and will deliver significant revenues during the coming year.

Furthermore, Axminster added that it intends to focus on driving growth in all markets, both in the UK and overseas.

w www.axminster-carpets.co.uk

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Debenhams rescue challenged by Sports Direct Debenhams Group has confirmed that applications to challenge its CVAs, which were successfully voted through by creditors on 9h May, have been received from parties including Sports Direct International plc.

Terry Duddy, Debenhams executive chairman, said: “We believe the challenges to the CVAs to be without merit and will vigorously defend them.

“Given the overwhelming support for the proposals from creditors, including over 80% of landlords, this is an unnecessary distraction as we implement our restructuring plans.”

A spokesperson for Celine UK NewCo 1 Ltd said: “We note the spurious challenges to Debenhams’ CVA proposals, which were approved by the vast majority of landlords and more than 90% of all creditors.

“We will move forward with our debt-restructuring process as expected. The CVA provides a platform to deliver a turnaround in the business for which the lending group has committed £200m of new funding and remains supportive.”

w www.debenhams.co.uk 21st June 2019 | 07

NEWS RETAIL

MANUFACTURE

ScS enhances customer experience Sofa and carpet retail specialist ScS has enhanced its customer experience by adopting Paragon’s fleXipod electronic proof of delivery (ePOD) software.

The solution has been implemented to support its two-man home delivery operation, which handles around 1,000 customer appointments each day.

By gaining real-time visibility and control of delivery processes, ScS has been able to achieve a more standardised on-site service and faster problem resolution.

Kelvin Bowes, regional distribution manager – Northern at ScS, said: “The delivery experience can make or break a retailer by quickly losing the goodwill of customers, so we have invested considerable time and resource into this area of the business. fleXipod has already made a significant contribution by enabling us to provide a consistent on-site customer experience, dynamically speed up our issue resolution procedures and gain increased visibility of our two-man operation.” fleXipod was initially launched at two distribution centres at the end of 2018, before being rolled out to the remaining nine ScS sites this year.

The retailer also plans for its third-party logistics partners to start using fleXipod during 2019 to ensure standard operating and reporting procedures, especially during peak operating periods in July and December when delivery volumes can increase considerably.

w www.scs.co.uk

MANUFACTURE

CONSULTANCY FIRM EXPANDS ADVISOR TEAM Jon Thelwell, former showrooms director of Jewson, is the latest industry professional to join the team at KBB and merchant service provider Acres Consultancy.

Jon will enhance the company’s expertise in the merchant sector in his role as recruitment and business consultant.

With 20 years’ experience within the KBB and builders’ merchant sectors, Jon currently offers consultancy services focusing on commercial strategy development for merchant and SME retailers.

Jon is also a member of the advisory board of the British Institute of KBB Installation, responsible for developing the organisation’s commercial strategy.

Principal director at Acres Consultancy, Simon Acres said: “Jon is passionate about the industry and has been employed by some of the sector’s leading players. He has initiated and led change in each organisation, creating new business opportunities, strengthening customer relationships and sharing market knowledge.

FIRA NAMES LATEST ‘CERTIFIED’ FURNITURE MAKER Westbridge Furniture Design, which manufactures more than 10,000 pieces of upholstery a week, has been confirmed as the latest Certified Company under the Furniture Industry Research Association’s Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture.

Three of Westbridge’s UK production sites were assessed during an audit process which the organisation underwent as part of its route to Certified Company status.

The sites supply some of the largest retailers, including Marks & Spencer, John Lewis Partnership, Next Home, key retail park groups and independent retailers.

The audit was centred around ensuring Westbridge has suitable processes and procedures in place to demonstrate due diligence compliance with the UK’s Furniture & Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations (FFFSR).

Anthony Pydiah, senior quality and technical manager, at Westbridge Furniture Design, said: “I’m delighted that we have earned this certification of our control systems.

“It is a reflection of the knowledge and great commitment of our team, coupled with the support of our suppliers, who together ensure that our processes are robust, withstand scrutiny and ultimately protect consumer safety.”

Phil Reynolds, COO of the Furniture Industry Research Association, said: “It’s great to welcome Westbridge Furniture Designs to the Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture.

“They are a key manufacturer within the industry and their processes and procedures are central to protecting consumer safety.

“When put into context that Westbridge carries more than 1,200 fabrics and leathers, you get a real sense of the size of their operation. Their customers can now be sure that through this Certified Company status Westbridge is demonstrating due diligence and taking all necessary steps to comply with the FFFSR.”

“He is a valuable addition to our expanding team of experienced industry professionals that will help us service our growing, diverse and high-profile client base.”

Full details on the Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture are available from www.fira.co.uk/ compliance and the addition of Westbridge now brings the number of Certified Companies into double figures.

w www.acresconsultancyltd.co.uk

w www.westbridgefurniture.com

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DESIGN

Long-standing independent eyes relocation

Business launches funding drive

Independent furniture retailer House of Reeves has confirmed that it intends to stay in Croydon, despite its current site being up for redevelopment.

According to plans by developers Skillcrown, around 32 new homes have been proposed at the site of House of Reeves’ Church Street location.

The business said it is in early discussions with developers over the plans and, if they go ahead, has pledged to stay in the town, where it has been established for more than 150 years.

House of Reeves has earmarked a site for redevelopment that used to house one of its other stores before a fire completely gutted the premises back in 2011.

The company, which has been in the Reeves family for five generations since 1867, said that is exploring other options to relocate and that it continues to be profitable.

Dudley-based bedding company Easy-Fit has announced the launch of its new fundraising campaign in a bid to raise £100,000.

Launched through Crowdcube, Easy-Fit said that the new funds would enable the business to expand.

Easy-Fit, which currently sells its products online in the UK, the US, Asia and Europe, has already raised almost £22,000 of its target from 17 investors at the time of publication.

In a statement on Crowdtube, Easy-Fit said: “Easy-Fit Duvet Covers have a unique design with registered rights in Europe and a US patent. All four sides of the duvet cover can be opened to allow easy access when fitting your duvet inside your duvet cover. This new concept of bed making is easier to use than any other duvet covers currently on sale across stores and is currently available online at easyfitbedding.com, Amazon and Fruugo.

The full application is expected to be submitted to the council in around four months.

“The Easy-Fit duvet cover has been designed to take the hassle out of bed making and make it a simple and quick procedure to change a duvet cover. It simplifies bed making for people of all ages and also aids bed making for people with disabilities.”

w www.houseofreeves.com

The crowdfunding campaign runs until the beginning of July.

w www.easyfitbedding.com

Visit us during The Bed Show 2019 Stand G1

We support your dreams Latexco envisions a world where people can dream and enjoy a happy, active and healthy life.

We believe that our innovative bedding solutions can help bring this world one step closer, as a good night’s sleep is essential to live that happy, healthy life.

www.latexco.com

NEWS RETAIL

MANUFACTURE

TIMBER FIRM’S DONATION TO BOOST CONSTRUCTION SKILLS Huthwaite-based SR Timber has donated a range of timber products totalling more than £6,000 in value to its local college in a bid to support the next generation of construction workers and roofing contractors in Nottinghamshire.

John Lewis introduces debut American red oak furniture Sussex-based furniture design business Marque Furniture has announced a new partnership with John Lewis & Partners.

The link-up has seen the launch of Dovetail, a new collection made from American red oak, designed by Ben Fowler of Marque Furniture.

The move from John Lewis to launch a range in American red oak marks a shift away from Europe’s preference to other woods.

David Barrett, buyer for John Lewis and Partners, explained: “When it comes to buying wooden furniture, consumers in the UK are very particular about which timber they want to live with in their homes. This means we are always on the hunt for different or interesting timber species to include in our furniture range.

“Red oak is a great alternative to American white oak, which has probably been the most widely used timber of the past 10 years.

It’s a beautiful and sustainable member of the American oak family and we are sure it will delight our customers.”

David Venables, European director of the American Hardwood Export Council, added: “We helped John Lewis & Partners by supplying them with our research on American red oak, all of which explained its sustainability credentials and versatility. And in Ben Fowler we have a devoted, talented fan of the material so it was a perfect opportunity to help with this beautiful collection.”

Ben Fowler, who has produced ranges for other well-known brands, including Marks & Spencer and Ercol, said: “We’re delighted to have designed John Lewis’s first range in American red oak. I’m a huge fan of this timber: it’s easy to work with, consistent and an increasingly sustainable and beautiful alternative to white oak.

“It’s loved in America, where it adorns the interiors of J class yachts and Manhattan apartments alike! I’m certain the Brits will fall in love with it too.”

Dovetail will comprise an adaptable collection of cabinets and chests of drawers in three sizes, alongside a sideboard.

Developed to mix and match with different door options, the range provides many combinations of storage from a small range of furniture.

The company — which is a leading importer of timber products and the UK’s largest importer of roofing batten, including its flagship Premium Gold — made the donation to Vision West Nottinghamshire College’s Construction Centre in Kirkby-inAshfield.

Nearly 200 students will benefit as a direct result of the donation of batten and panels, which the college estimates will keep them in raw materials for at least two years.

Students from the college, which offers full-time courses and apprenticeships, visited SR Timber’s HQ to collect the materials, and they were able to fill four transit vans.

Andrew Whyley, programme area leader for carpentry and joinery at the college, was delighted when SR Timber’s Trading Manager Mark Parkes got in touch to make the donation.

“We have more than 120 learners at different stages of the fouryear training and another 70 apprentices, so, as you can image, we go through a lot of materials – which is why the donation from SR Timber is so gratefully received,” said Andrew. “Usually, local firms generously donate offcuts and other scrap, but in this case it feels like Christmas has come early.

“What we are most thrilled about is the quality of what has been supplied, as this means our learners can gain invaluable experience working with the calibre of raw materials that they will use in their chosen careers in different parts of the construction industry.

“We have roofing rigs so that learners can work with the batten, and the panels supplied can be used to construct soffits and fascias. The panels can also be used to make kitchen units, cabinets, flooring and skirting.”

As a former roofing contractor who gained skills and experience in slating and tiling working in his father’s business, SR Timber’s trading director, Shaun Revill, has been vocal in his support of initiatives that encourage the development and skills of the next generation of roofing and construction workers.

“Since we moved to Huthwaite, we’ve reached out on a number of fronts to become an active member and responsible supporter of our community in North Nottinghamshire, such as sponsoring a local football team and organising a charity fundraising event,” he said.

“We’ve built links with Vision West Nottinghamshire College’s Construction Centre because they are championing the muchneeded construction skills that this country needs moving forward, and we wanted to help by making a donation of materials.

Dovetail will be available in John Lewis & Partners stores from August.

“It’s our pleasure to be able to give batten and panels so that students can work with the quality of materials that they will use when they complete their courses and start working in all the different sectors of the construction industry.”

w www.johnlewis.com

w www.sr-timber.co.uk

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DESIGN

New retail park given green light

Swiss furniture business launches special expo

A new retail park in Gloucester has been approved that will feature discount homewares retailer B&M Homestore as an anchor business.

Gloucester city councillors have given the green light to proposals for a new 47,000sqft retail and leisure scheme to be occupied by a B&M Home Store with Garden Centre and Pure Gym at Kingsway.

Developer Robert Hitchins Ltd is bringing the two national brands to the three-acre brownfield site in Newhaven Road, Quedgeley. There will also be 205 parking spaces.

Michael Plimmer, senior development manager for Robert Hitchins Ltd, said: “We’re delighted to have won the backing of councillors. These proposals will not only regenerate a derelict site that has been empty for more than a decade, it will also bring more retail and leisure facilities to people in Kingsway and more choice.”

Mark Buxton, planning consultant from RPS, acting on behalf of Robert Hitchins Ltd, told the council’s planning committee that 87% of people who attended the public consultation in July 2018 were in favour of the scheme.

“The development will bring 60 local jobs and economic investment to Kingsway from companies which are offering long-term commitment to the area,” he said.

w www.bmstores.co.uk

MANUFACTURE

FIRA INTERNATIONAL CONTINUES EXPANSION The expansion programme at UKAS-accredited test house, FIRA International, has reached another milestone with the installation of nine new structural testing machines.

Designed by the experts at FIRA International, the new equipment provides significant additional capacity to meet increasing demand. These versatile machines are specifically designed to be able test the strength and durability of all types of furniture products.

Additionally a Swivel test machine built specifically for testing to American ANSI BIFMA standards has been installed.

Speaking on the recent expansion, Howard James, operations manager at FIRA International, said: “The new machines we have in operation are all from further investment from our parent company, Element Materials Technology. The expansion programme is helping us meet the needs of our customers by having the latest adaptable kit that gives us more flexibility in testing more customised products.

“The expansion programme is ongoing, with the installation of a new seating testing machine under way and further upgrades planned throughout 2019.”

Previous expansion completed by FIRA International included the doubling of its UKAS-accredited flammability laboratory, which opened at the end of 2018.

w www.fira.co.uk

Swiss-based office furniture company Vitra has announced the launch of its special installation under its collaboration with Virgil Abloh.

The TWENTYTHIRTYFIVE exhibition, which launched on 12th June in the Fire Station on the Vitra Campus in Basel, features the emerging generation.

According to Virgil Abloh, this generation is interested in a wide range of topics and does not regard art, architecture, music and fashion as separate disciplines, but finds pleasure in linking them together.

Eckart Maise, chief design officer at Vitra, also felt that the design of an object by Virgil Abloh should be preceded by a conceptual discourse.

At the same time, three products developed by Virgil have also launched in a limited edition as an exhibition spin-off.

They will be on display until the end of July before travelling in autumn to the newly-opened Vitra showroom in New York.

w www.vitra.com

NEWS RETAIL

MANUFACTURE

SAFETY CHECKS FAILURE LEADS TO FINE Kitchen worktop supplier Grantech Limited has been fined after failing to carry out safety checks.

Mold Magistrates’ Court heard how Grantech Limited did not have regular statutory examinations carried out on lifting equipment and failed to carry out repairs when defects were found.

Kitchen retailer opens 79th store Kitchen furniture retailer Wren Kitchens has officially opened its new showroom in Tamworth.

Te new 10,000sqft showroom is situated at Tamworth’s Ventura Retail Park and has created 23 new jobs for the area, as well as becoming Wren’s 79th store.

Wren has invested over £1m into the showroom, which features a large range of samples, design books and inspirational mood boards, as well as Apple iMac computers to assist in the design of any kitchen.

To launch the showroom, the Mayor Councillor of Tamworth, Richard Kingstone, officially cut the ribbon. Attendees saw kitchens in full 3D using virtual reality headsets and tested the latest smart kitchen technology, including Alexa and Google Home Hub to control kitchen lighting and appliances.

Wren has appointed Peter O’Meara as its Tamworth showroom manager, who has relocated from the nearby Merry Hill showroom.

Commenting on the launch, Peter said: “It has taken three months to completely transform the building (which used to be occupied by Poundstretcher) and the substantial amount we’ve invested demonstrates our commitment to the local area.”

w www.wrenkitchens.com

MANUFACTURE

MANUFACTURER APPOINTS NEW SALES AGENT Furniture manufacturer Heritage Furniture has announced the appointment of Tony Di Vito as its new sales agent.

Covering the Midlands region, Tony has been in the furniture industry for more than 30 years as sales director for various upholstery companies, and in 2014 became a sales agent covering the East and West Midlands.

Commenting on his appointment, Heritage said: “Tony has gathered a vast amount of knowledge and experience during this time. He will be a great support to our customers, sharing both the passion and value Heritage brings to retailers. We all at Heritage wish him every commercial success and are delighted to have him on board.”

Following an inspection on 18th June, 2018, by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) at the site in Buckley, it was discovered that the examinations were not carried out at the required six monthly intervals, and when they were carried out the same faults were reported, as the company was not taking action to effect the repairs.

Grantech Limited pleaded guilty to breaching health and safety regulations and was fined £30,000 and told to pay costs of £4,906.

HSE inspector Mhairi Duffy said: “This prosecution could so easily have been avoided by simply carrying out correct control measures and safe working practices. HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those who fall below the required standards.”

w www.hse.gov.uk

RETAIL

Furniture retailer told to clarify savings claims Independent furniture retailer Furniture Village has been told to clarify savings claims after an advert was deemed misleading.

An in-store point of sale price promotion by Furniture Village, seen on 12th January, 2019, related to a divan set, including mattress and base, that was on offer at a special price.

A single complainant, who had hurried to purchase before the promotion ended on 20th January, but who saw that the price fell after that date to a cheaper amount, challenged whether the promotion had been administered fairly.

Responding to the complaint, Furniture Village explained the different sale prices, which included other offers, around different sale periods.

Following an investigation from the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), it considered that consumers would understand “Sale” to represent a saving against a genuine, established, usual selling price and “Introductory Offer” to refer to an introductory price that was lower than the intended standard price.

Due to the basis of the savings claim not being clear — as well as having no closing date on the offer — and because consumers were likely to believe they had to act more quickly than they needed to, the ASA concluded that the ad was likely to mislead.

Tony added: “‘I look forward to working with Heritage Furniture, they have great collections that stand out and a fantastic reputation in the industry.”

In a statement, the ASA said: “We told Furniture Village Ltd to ensure future ads made the basis of savings claims clear and did not suggest that consumers needed to act more quickly than was necessary to take advantage of an offer.”

w www.heritagefurnitureuk.com

w www.asa.org.uk

21st June 2019 | 12

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Flooring retailer donation Online flooring retailer Connection Retail has seen one of its stores donate flooring to a local council, marking its first anniversary in the town.

The business, which operates brands including Flooring Superstore.com, Connection Flooring, Direct Wood Flooring and Grass Direct, opened in Swindon’s Bridgemead Retail Park in February 2018 and to celebrate the milestone year, Flooring Superstore helped a local homeless family to begin furnishing its new property.

MANUFACTURE

BRITISH BUSINESSES TARGETED IN DUST INSPECTIONS Businesses across Great Britain are being targeted in a new series of inspections focusing on dust control by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Over the next few weeks, HSE is concentrating on industries such as construction, woodworking and food manufacturing, where occupational lung diseases, including in some cases occupational cancers, are more common.

In response to a request from the supported housing team at Swindon Borough Council, Flooring Superstore donated more than £500-worth of carpet and vinyl flooring.

Inspectors are visiting businesses across the country to see what measures have been put in place to protect workers’ lungs from the likes of asbestos, silica, wood and flour dust.

In a statement from the council, Karina West, from Support Housing, said: “Carpeting a property can be expensive and we therefore approached local flooring companies and were delighted when Flooring Superstore came forward with their amazing donation.

They will be looking for evidence of businesses and their workers knowing the risks, planning their work and using the right controls. Where necessary, HSE will use enforcement to make sure people are protected.

“The carpet and vinyl flooring they have provided will give one of our families a great start in their new home, and we would like to thank them for their support.

w www.flooringsuperstore.com

MANUFACTURE

MFS HIGHLIGHTS NEW INDUSTRY TALENT For the third year running MFS is providing a platform for talented students from Burnley College to show their handmade pieces at the show.

MFS 2019, which runs from 14th to 16th July at Manchester Central, is dedicated to supporting local furniture related courses.

On show will be chairs, screens, tables and writing desks, crafted by students on Vocational and Adult Learning courses, students studying for higher level HNC and HND qualifications on university courses at the college, and those studying for highly-skilled apprenticeships with Themis, the business training and apprenticeship arm of the college.

HSE’s chief medical officer, Professor David Fishwick, said: “Exposure to asbestos, silica, wood, flour and other dust can have life-changing consequences. Each year work-related lung diseases linked to past exposures are estimated to kill 12,000 workers across Great Britain. In many cases these diseases take a long time to develop after exposure, so the damage done may not be immediately obvious. Others, such as occupational asthma and acute silicosis, can occur more quickly.

“These conditions can and do have a significant impact on both the individuals affected and those closest to them, so it is imperative that workers take the necessary precautions to protect their lungs.”

Furniture maker Michael Northcroft has already been targeted by the HSE, stating that it must stop using brooms to clear dust and invest in a new industrial vacuum cleaner.

According to The Sun, the business said it plans to fight the order and continue with its practices. The HSE has imposed an hourly rate of £154 whilst the appeal takes place.

Michael added: “Using commercial vacuums means power cables will be running everywhere, no doubt causing a bigger risk than my little old broomstick ever poses. This is the sort of rot that makes companies move manufacturing abroad.”

w www.hse.gov.uk

Both full and part-time students attend the courses on offer, which include furniture design and make, production and upholstery, and apprenticeships in cabinet craft and upholstery.

Those showing their work this year range from 16 to 72 yearsold.

IKEA appoints EU CEO

David Lord, head of construction and future technologies at the college, which includes the successful School of Furniture, said: “The standard of woodwork and upholstery that will be on display is outstanding. Hours of dedicated work have gone into their creation of these stunning pieces of furniture which reflect the skill and passion of students and Themis Apprentices alike.”

Swedish furniture retailer IKEA has announced the appointment of Sara Del Fabbro as its new chief executive of IKEA South East Europe. Sara, who has been with IKEA for 20 years, replaces Stefan Vanoverbeke, who has moved on to pursue a new role within the company, having been appointed as Ingka Group’s global deputy retail operations manager.

The work from the students of Burnley College will be on display in the Main Hall on Stand A75.

Entrance to MFS is free and registration is live at:

The move will see Sara leave her post as deputy chief executive of IKEA Italy, a position she has held since 2017. IKEA South East Europe covers its businesses in Romania, Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia and Ukraine.

w www.manchesterfurnitureshow.com

w www.ikea.com

RETAIL

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NEWS RETAIL

John Lewis to integrate home improvement arm Department store retailer John Lewis & Partners has announced the integration of its home improvement services into the main business.

As part of its strategy to expand beyond shops and online into new and enhanced services, John Lewis & Partners plans to bring its two home improvement services businesses, Home Solutions and Opun, together as it progresses with its ambition to create a truly differentiated home improvement offer.

The plans are in line with John Lewis & Partners’ ambition to enhance its Home Services offer and extend into home improvement.

By creating a 21st century home improvement proposition in what is currently a fragmented sector, the company said customers would benefit from an end-to-end home improvement service, which includes inspiration, design, project management and execution.

Home Solutions allows customers to source and book trusted tradespeople for a range of home improvement services.

It currently operates within JLP Ventures, a team within the John Lewis Partnership that develops new customer propositions for John Lewis and Waitrose.

Home Solutions is steadily rolling out across the country and is about to expand its coverage to Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex and Kent in the coming weeks.

Opun, which manages large scale home improvement projects, was acquired by the John Lewis Partnership in June 2018 and has been operating as a wholly-owned subsidiary.

Since the acquisition, Opun has been focusing on refining its business model, strengthening its team and developing its service technology, while continuing to deliver high-quality home improvement projects.

The change will bring both businesses together within the services directorate of John Lewis & Partners, capitalising on the complementary capabilities in each.

Sean Allam, partner and director, services, at John Lewis & Partners said: “Last year’s acquisition of Opun demonstrated our ambition in the home services market and today’s announcement marks a critical next step as we look to strengthen and grow our services business.

“Bringing the teams together is an exciting opportunity to work collaboratively, share knowledge and collectively learn in the fast-paced home improvement market and create opportunities for growth.”

Rod Brown, co-founder of Opun, said: “Joining the John Lewis Partnership has been an exciting move for Opun, especially now we are combining with Home Solutions.

“We know the two businesses stand for the same values — putting customers first and delivering a world-class service.

“We know there are great opportunities that exist in the home improvement market, so it’s exciting to be stepping into the next phase as one business.”

w www.johnlewis.com 21st June 2019 | 14

MANUFACTURE

SWEDISH FURNITURE GROUP PLOTS INTERNATIONAL EXPANSION Swedish furniture business Götessons has confirmed a new majority owner as it plans to accelerate international growth.

Accent Equity 2017 L.P. has acquired the shares from the investment company Connecting Capital and certain key employees.

Management and Johan Götesson, the son of founder Ola Götesson, will reinvest and continue to develop the group in close cooperation with Accent Equity.

Emil Johansson, chief executive of Götessons, said: “We are excited to have Accent Equity joining us on our journey.

“We feel confident that Accent Equity will provide the experience, support and resources we need to continue to grow our international presence and lead the scene with our innovative products. We look forward to a strong partnership and are really optimistic about increasing our growth pace.”

Niklas Sloutski, chief executive and partner at Accent Equity Partners AB, investment advisor to Accent Equity 2017 L.P., added: “We are very impressed by the strong growth development accomplished by Götessons’ management team, and are now eager to begin the partnership. It is especially encouraging to have a highly-motivated team joining Accent Equity as co-owners. We look very much forward to helping the group’s international expansion and to continue supporting Götessons’ successful product development.”

Götessons, headquartered in Ulricehamn, Sweden, was established in 1984. Götessons’ wide product range today includes desk and floor screens, lighting solutions, wall and ceiling absorbents, soft seating and workspace accessories. In 2018, the group had net sales of approximately SEK 300 million (£25.1m), having grown on average 18% per year since 2015.

w www.gotessons.com

RETAIL

Bedding business in administration The Yorkshire Linen Company has entered administration and has ceased to trade with immediate effect.

Francis Newton and Sarah Rayment, partners at BDO LLP, were appointed as joint administrators of The Towel Rail Limited, trading as Yorkshire Linen and Linen Warehouse, on 13th June.

The appointment follows the company’s previous Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA), which was only secured six months ago. Earlier this year, the company closed 12 stores from its 27 estate in an effort to reduce costs after its creditors approved a CVA. The company hasn’t made any progress and has now ceased to trade. In a short statement, administrators said: “The company has ceased to trade with immediate effect.”

w www.yorkshirelinen.com

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DESIGN

Tech specialist expands in China Flooring and furniture wood based technology specialist Välinge Innovation AB has expanded in China with a new support centre.

In addition to the existing sales office in Shanghai, Välinge now expands its presence with a support centre at Homag China Golden Field centre in Kunshan.

The support centre will include both furniture and flooring technology, such as Threespine® click furniture technology, Liteback® sustainable core technology and 5G® click flooring technology.

w www.valinge.se

BED MAKER RECOGNISED FOR SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES

MANUFACTURE

Royal warrant holder and bed maker Sleepeezee has continued to pledge its support to its sustainable approach.

Sleepeezee has announced that it is the first bed manufacturer to receive the Planet Mark accreditation, including the Cool Earth protection of an acre of rainforest that works alongside rainforest communities to halt deforestation and climate change.

This accolade recognises Sleepeezees’ commitment to its continuous approach to sustainability and responsible manufacturing as part of its wider Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities.

The company has also, for a third consecutive year, been recognised for its continuing improvements in its sustainable approach to business, following its annual audit by the Furniture Industry Sustainability Programme (FISP). Since becoming a member in April 2013, this accolade demonstrates Sleepeezee’s excellence in environmental responsibility.

Having been carbon neutral as an organisation since 2017, Sleepeezee is proud to say that no waste has gone to landfill since 2012. Since then it has further reduced its total waste output by almost 30% — equivalent to taking 326 cars off the road.

As well as operating as responsibly as possible, Sleepeezee ensures that all of the timber it uses is sourced sustainably within the European Union Timber Regulations (EUTR).

Steve Warren, chief operating officer at Sleepeezee, explained: “We are always looking for new and innovative ways to reduce our carbon footprint, with sustainability very much engrained into our philosophy.

“Recognising that sustainability doesn’t start and finish at the production stage, we are proud to also support global tree planting projects and donation initiatives. Since 2017, we have offset a total of 950 tonnes of CO2 within our factories.

“We have also planted 478 trees in schools local to our Kent factory (see photo above) and have supported projects in Indonesia and India that are focused on reducing the reliance on fossil fuels, as well as deforestation projects in the Amazon.”

w www.sleepeezee.com

STILL TIME TO ENTER THE HERMAN MILLER CUP The Furniture Makers’ Company’s annual five-a-side football tournament, the Herman Miller Cup, returns to Coventry this month — and there is still time for teams to sign up to try to topple two-time champions Whitemeadow Furniture.

Now in its seventh year, the five-a-side football tournament is sponsored this year by Herman Miller and supported by Cabinet Maker.

The event will take place at the Lucozade Powerleague Football Centre, Coventry on Sunday, 30th June. Kick-off is at 1pm and teams will be guaranteed a minimum of three matches before the elimination rounds.

Last year the Whitemeadow Wizards battled 15 teams in sweltering heat to take home the winners’ trophy for a second year running. They are returning to Coventry to try to continue their undefeated streak — but can your team stop them?

Andy Humphreys, regional director – UK and Ireland at Herman Miller, said: “At Herman Miller we are committed to making a Better World and we recognise our responsibility to inspire future generations to become stewards of humanity in our communities. Expanding on that foundation, we’ve teamed up with The Furniture Makers’ Company to support the welfare of those in our industry. We are delighted to sponsor the five-a-side tournament and will be dusting off our boots in an attempt to bring home the Herman Miller Cup! We look forward to seeing you all there — may the best team win!”

Dids Macdonald, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company, said: “The five-a-side football is open to all abilities and has become a fantastic team-building day or reward for employees across the furnishing industry. I would like to thank our new sponsor, Herman Miller, for making this fundraiser possible.”

The cost of entering a team of seven is £480 (including VAT) and a barbecue lunch is included.

To enter:

mevents@furnituremakers.org.uk or c 020 7256 5558.

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F E A T U R E |A P P R E N T I C E S H I P S D E B A T E / E R C O L

BRIDGING Gap the

Roy Graves, Operations Support at ercol, explains the importance of apprenticeships and what the company plans to do in an effort to help bridge the skills gap.

21st June 2019 | 16

FOR FULL STORIES AND DAILY NEWS UPDATES: WWW.CABINET-MAKER.CO.UK

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L-R: Roy Graves - Operations Support, Brian Alman – Production Manager, Ryan Comley – Apprentice, Machine Section, Ian Peers – Production Director and Duncan McGrath-Simpson – Apprentice, Machine Section

Why are apprenticeships important?

The furniture industry has been built on apprentices. The term journeyman is directly linked to the idea of the apprentice honing his skill in the trade by journeying around manufacturers. The future of the furniture industry will come to rely on the apprentices we are training now. Technology has changed the face of furniture making so we need a new swathe of young people who are used to this technology and can make the best of the opportunities it gives rise to.

What do you think are the current views and perceptions of apprenticeships?

At ercol we have a good appreciation of the long-term benefits that apprenticeships can bring, so we are willing to give them the time and help that they need to fully develop their skills and achieve their qualifications.

What are your thoughts on the skills gap within the furniture industry?

In recent years the furniture industry workforce has aged, it has created a potential situation where their skills could be lost. With the opportunity apprenticeships create, we can reduce this skills gap and build for the future.

“IN RECENT YEARS THE FURNITURE

INDUSTRY WORKFORCE HAS AGED, IT HAS CREATED A POTENTIAL SITUATION WHERE THEIR SKILLS COULD BE LOST .”

What has impacted the skills gap?

In recent years there has been a raise in academic expectations for pupils at

secondary schools. Current pupils expect the opportunity to attend university or college and not to go straight into work. It is our industry, and those supporting these apprenticeships, who now have to push for the opportunity to be considered as a viable option for those leaving school.

What would you say are the benefits of apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships give the person real and solid skills that they can use throughout their working life. For the employer they gain someone who has the appropriate skills for their business. In addition, the skills learnt at college are modern and up to date, and can be passed from the apprentices to the current workforce.

Since the modern apprenticeships are relatively recent it is too early for us to say whether they stay or move on.

How many apprentices are currently on the books at ercol? And what positions are they?

At ercol we currently have five apprentices.

One in the maintenance section, two in machining and two in assembly and finishing sections. » 21st June 2019 | 17

F E A T U R E |A P P R E N T I C E S H I P S D E B A T E / E R C O L

ercol values apprenticeships as an important part of its business and strives to help bring through the next generation

How has the apprenticeship programme at ercol developed over the past few years?

We originally started to look at apprenticeships as a way of strengthening our maintenance department. When this proved successful, and along with the introduction of the apprentice levy, we developed a scheme for other areas of the factory. We are now confident that we can sustain a programme of apprentices over the next few years, which will rotate between departments.

Can you share any success stories?

Many people in senior positions at ercol, in production, design, purchasing and sales, have in the past completed an ercol apprenticeship after leaving school. The success and longevity of these apprentices’ careers shows the success of the ercol apprentice scheme and gives us a high target to aim for in the future.

Do you have a training partner?

ATG has now been taken over by Activate Learning. We originally had one apprentice studying at ATG; we developed a CNC engineering course with them, tailored to our industry. Activate Learning work with Rycotewood, with whom for many years we have had a working relationship. Rycotewood has also developed the training required for our assembler-finishing apprentices.

Having two different courses controlled by Activate Learning simplifies the process; as the schemes are becoming better known locally we are starting to receive requests for information on apprenticeships. For this year we already have three candidates’ requests on file and we are also going to take part in a careers day at Princes Risborough School, Buckinghamshire, to extend further into the community the benefits of an apprenticeship.

21st June 2019 | 18

Can you reveal any future plans ercol may have in how to grow its apprenticeship scheme further?

We will be reviewing our plan of two apprentices per year to see if this will resolve our long-term planned skills gap or if we need to increase the number. We will also be looking at schemes that are more bespoke, and to include mature apprentices. Although it is still early days for the modern scheme, the success we have is giving us confidence for its future.

We have also developed relationships with three local schools, and provide learning opportunities for pupils, by going into these schools and offering visits to our factory, with a view to long-term recruitment.

Princes Risborough School, the closest secondary school to ercol, located in the local town, is another ideal source for that recruitment.

Following a work experience programme, we have successfully recruited from Pebble Brook special education school in Aylesbury.

In addition, we recently undertook a project in partnership with Pebble Brook students, to redecorate and refurbish its sixth-form common room.

We are also supporting the Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers initiative of working with schools, to develop interest in furniture making. We have put a programme together and worked with students from John Hampden School, High Wycombe.

w www.ercol.com

Cabinet Maker is dedicated to supporting, encouraging and championing apprenticeships within the furnishing industry by working with businesses and organisations to continually highlight the importance of apprenticeships and the benefits they offer — not only to a business, but to the industry and future generations of furniture making.

Cabinet Maker welcomes your thoughts and also invites your business to share your story on your apprenticeship success so far and plans for the future — email editor Dan Squires at dan@cabinet-maker. co.uk or call 01623 372215 to contribute to the debate.

F U R N I T U R E

sales@iainjamesfurniture.co.uk

0115 9734481

www.iainjamesfurniture.co.uk

F E A T U R E |P E O P L E B E H I N D T H E P R O D U C T S / P A V I L I O N B R O A D W A Y

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Name... Nicole Clee Designer Job role... Interior Broadway Company... Pavilion

Meet Nicole In the latest in our series of features on the people working in the furniture and beds industry, Cabinet Maker meet interior designer Nicole Clee, from Pavilion Broadway, who shares an insight into her role and her life away from work.

Can you describe your current job role and responsibilities?

By trade, I am an interior designer at Pavilion Broadway, but I also work for FBI. And although you may be familiar with that initialism, it’s certainly very different to the one you are likely to recognise!

Interior design is my primary role at Pavilion Broadway, a family-run designer furniture and home accessory business with a rich Cotswold heritage. I have the privilege of designing the interiors of incredible homes across the Cotswolds, London and further afield. From concept to completion, I am responsible for overseeing all aspects of our interior design projects, from presentation of schemes and 3D plans to project management of trades, installation and styling.

I am also the point of contact for other designers in the UK who purchase from 21st June 2019 | 20

our distribution company, Furniture Brands International (or FBI, for short). This newlyformed trading arm of the company organises and coordinates the distribution of Jonathan Charles Furniture and Theodore Alexander’s Modern collections to the UK market. I am responsible for processing trade orders and liaising with our suppliers and shipping companies to ensure the process runs as smoothly as possible, from order to delivery.

How long have you been in your current role?

I started working at Pavilion Broadway in September 2015 and have been here for almost four years.

Can you give a brief background on yourself?

From an early age, I have had a passion for the arts and interior design. I studied fine art at art college, followed by three years at university studying interior and textile design.

After I graduated, I went to live and work in France, helping to renovate and transform an old stone barn into a stylish holiday cottage.

We dressed the rooms with interesting furniture and authentic linens, sourced from local French markets, ready for visiting guests. In 2011, I moved back to the UK and have been working as an interior designer for family-run businesses ever since.

What is the best thing about your role?

The variety! It is very rewarding working for a dynamic family-run business that continues to grow. There are many hats to wear and I get to work closely with each member of the company, so we are quite a tightly knit bunch.

What is the most challenging?

Occasionally it can be challenging to switch between the diverse ranges of roles that I have at Pavilion Broadway. But, on the flip side, that’s also what makes it so enjoyable.

FOR FULL STORIES AND DAILY NEWS UPDATES: WWW.CABINET-MAKER.CO.UK

Can you describe your typical working day?

No two days are ever really the same here. If I’m not heading off to visit a client first thing, I like to get into work early and read through my emails, dealing with any enquiries or orders. The majority of my days are spent in front of my computer, working on CAD designs in Vectorworks, pulling together images for interior schemes and drawing up customer quotes. On other days I will be out and about, visiting interior design clients or measuring up for floorplans, curtains and furnishings.

We house an extensive fabric and wallpaper library here at Pavilion Broadway so I can often be found in and amongst fabric books looking for the perfect textiles or wallpapers to bring an interior project together.

What would you say pulled you into wanting a career in the furnishing industry?

As an interior designer, finding the perfect furniture for a room can be tricky. You need to find pieces that fit into the space perfectly whilst making sure that you’ve considered all of the practical requirements — if this is where your client likes to sit whilst they skim through the newspaper and drink a cup of tea in the morning, have they got somewhere to rest their mug? Is the lighting angled correctly

and suited to the time of day?

Selecting the correct furniture is only the first part. Next, you need to ensure that all the furniture and components of the room are available within the allocated timeframe, making certain that all of the finishes complement one another in perfect harmony. Working for a retailer like Pavilion Broadway puts the greatest wealth of suppliers to choose from at my fingertips, making it much easier and efficient to find those perfect pieces for various clientele.

Can you share something that your co-workers may not know about you?

I once levitated… It was at a charity ball and the entertainment for the evening was provided by a pair of magicians. They asked for a volunteer and I offered myself, without really knowing what they wanted me for. I lay horizontally on the stage and levitated in the air before everyone’s eyes. To this day, I still have no idea how they did it! »

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“I ONCE LEVITATED! IT WAS AT A CHARITY BALL AND THE ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE EVENING WAS PROVIDED BY A PAIR OF MAGICIANS . I LAY HORIZONTALLY ON THE STAGE AND LEVITATED IN THE AIR...I STILL HAVE NO IDEA HOW THEY DID IT .”

Pavilion Broadway is expanding their flagship showroom 21st June 2019 | 21

F E A T U R E |P E O P L E B E H I N D T H E P R O D U C T S / P A V I L I O N B R O A D W A Y Pavilion Broadway has continued to grow

Nicole Clee

What are your favourite things in life?

My fiancée and I love to travel, particularly around France and Asia, but there are so many places we’ve yet to visit on our list! I also love baking (I make a mean passionfruit cake if I do say so myself), climbing and walks in the sunshine with my Sprocker Spaniel, Charlie.

What are your future ambitions?

This year, we are expanding our flagship showroom to showcase our new relationship with designer brands Theodore Alexander and Jonathan Charles Furniture. It’s going to be an amazing space to show off these beautiful furniture pieces and we anticipate that it will lead to more exciting interior design projects.

Just over 10 years ago, Pavilion Broadway was a newly-formed Cotswold business with a team of just three. Today, the team consists of more than 20 members and we have expanded the premises beyond our founding Cotswold village of Broadway. The business is constantly improving and regenerating, so 21st June 2019 | 22

it’s exhilarating to see what the future will hold.

Do you have any furnishing industry icons you admire?

I studied the work of Eileen Gray while I was at university and have been an admirer ever since. Her designs are still so relevant, and their influence can be seen in many of the products in our showroom today. My personal favourites are the E1027 table and the Bibendum Chair from the late 1920s.

Do you have any career highlights that spring to mind?

One of my proudest career highlights has to be when I worked on the interiors of a series of London Penthouse Apartments last year.

We were given the keys to the apartments once the building work was complete and handed them back to the clients once the furniture was in, the lights on, the beds made and the candles lit. We installed bespoke églomisé mirrored walls, handmade headboards, British-made Duresta sofas and Vispring beds. Selecting beautiful furniture pieces from both Jonathan Charles Furniture and Theodore Alexander, we dressed and decorated the Penthouse Apartments with fine quality faux flowers and artificial orchids, curated by our in-house specialist and floral designer, Jane.

What is your favourite piece of furniture you own? And why?

My fiancée and I bought our first house together last year and we are steadily

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Nicole started reading Cabinet Maker back in 2015

And finally, if you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

Enthusiastic, approachable and determined!

w www.pavilionbroadway.co.uk If you would like to feature your staff members in our People Behind The Products features, email editor Dan Squires at dan@cabinet-maker.co.uk or go to www. cabinet-maker.co.uk and follow the link at the bottom of the home page to fill in our questionnaire form.

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Can you predict any future trends that may emerge?

There are some spectacular, beautifullydecorated pieces of furniture on the market

Nicole loves attending furniture fairs

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As our everyday lives become increasingly hectic in an exciting but sometimes confusing world, we are seeking to transform our homes into a sanctuary in which we can rest, retreat and shut off from the complexities of modern life. I’ve noticed more and more of my clients looking to create a boutique hotel feel in their bedrooms so that they have somewhere to escape to at the end of a busy day.

If you weren’t working in the industry, what would you be doing?

I love delicious and nutritious food, so maybe running a deli or something foodie with my mum and sister — although, I really can’t imagine not working in the furniture and interior design industry.

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What industry trends are you seeing at the moment?

Did you know that Cabinet Maker has been established since 1880?

How long have you been reading the magazine?

I started reading Cabinet Maker in 2015 when I was working for a furniture making company in Hereford.

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What do you love about the furnishing industry?

Myself and my colleagues go to various furniture fairs each year, including The Furniture Show at the NEC, Maison Objet, High Point and Decorex. I love walking amongst the furniture at these shows as you really get to see the intricacies and delicate details of handcrafted furniture pieces up close. It is wonderful to see traditional and time-honoured skills being kept alive and celebrated by the industry.

at the moment and I believe we will see more products like this emerging over the coming year. The Fusion collection

by Jonathan Charles is an excellent example of this, the Chinoiserie-style pieces in particular are stunning with their intricate scenic depictions, etched entirely by hand.

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investing in pieces to create a space that we look forward to going home to at the end of the day. The very first item that we bought — and my personal favourite — is our Vispring bed. I had the opportunity to visit their factory in Plymouth last year and I was blown away by the amount of skill, time and effort that goes into creating each bed and mattress. A good night’s sleep is such a blessing.

21st June 2019 | 23

F E A T U R E |C O R K B R I C K

Healthy

Spaces CORKBRICK offers a sustainable alternative in modular furniture

Miguel Reynolds Brandão, founder and chief executive of CORKBRICK, explains the concept behind the brand as it targets its UK entry.

When you were a child did you play with Lego? More often that not, the answer is yes.

In the case of Cabinet Maker’s editor, the answer is a firm yes! In fact, building houses, castles, cars and even ships were some of my greatest achievements in architecture — although they didn’t last long and had to make way for the latest project.

One area that my child-self didn’t properly acknowledge until now is that I even used Lego to build furniture. And here I am some many years later reminiscing those funfilled memories by sharing the news of a Lego-inspired modular furniture company, CORKBRICK, which plans to take the UK market by storm, each brick at a time.

In March, Portuguese start-up CORKBRICK Europe announced the launch of its second funding round as it earmarked the UK for a new production facility. The aim? To raise €250,000 of investment through European equity platform Seedrs. Roll on three months and the objective has already been completed. The company, led by Miguel 21st June 2019 | 24

Reynolds Brandão, gave Cabinet Maker an insight into its concept, its future plans and why the UK plays an important role.

“CORKBRICK is a real-size modular system — inspired by Lego and invented for life.

CORKBRICK reinvents the way we deal with nature and the space we live in. It is a natural solution that can be used again and again, while providing us with benefits from nature such as better indoor climate and sound isolation,” says Miguel.

“CORKBRICK empowers us all to build walls or furniture, inside or outside — with no tools, no screws and no glue. It is easy to use

and simple to change, when your needs or mood does. CORKBRICK is about versatility, flexibility and comfort. It allows you to explore the possibilities of configurations towards a practical use that can easily be transformed into another.

“The seven ‘bricks’ mount and dismount using simply your bare hands. The material itself, cork, offers great levels of comfort in means of temperature, acoustics and environment, as it brings nature inside walls. There is no comparable solution on the market. All with your bare hands, with very light components, it can be handled by any person from eight to 88 years-old!”

FOR FULL STORIES AND DAILY NEWS UPDATES: WWW.CABINET-MAKER.CO.UK

aQO

“DESPITE THE UK’S IMPENDING DEPARTURE FROM THE EU, THE

UK MARKET POTENTIAL FOR US IS TOO BIG TO IGNORE .”

Miguel confirmed that their €250,000 target has been achieved and has continued to raise funds, which now stands at over €270,000 from almost 260 investors. The recent funding round comes off the back of its first equity investment platform, again with Seedrs, when the business raised €150,000 in August 2017.

So what will the investment be used for?

“We are heading to 500 fans and we are on our way to build the first ‘Fan Owned Company’ to create ‘Sustainable Dynamic Structures and Furniture’. Among us we have architects, engineers and designers, who are all creative minds from organisations like Google, Lego, Cisco and the University of London to name but a few,” explains Miguel.

“It is thanks to our fans that we will be able to dream bigger and bring CORKBRICK to every household in the world! The funds raised will go towards increasing production by 10% to around 4,000 pieces a day. We are still inviting investors to get involved, with more information at join.corkbrick.com” A new investment is planned for 2020 and will be used towards financing a new production New funds will increase production

UK launch is planned for 2020

line in the UK, which is set to be located in Derby with a view to completion by next year. The facility will also be used to source and produce materials in Britain as it looks to expand its concept in the UK — a market that holds great importance to Miguel.

“We spent a year perfecting the production process of the parts that make up our system and we are now in a position to start serving the market. Despite the UK’s impending departure from the EU, the UK market potential for us is too big to ignore, therefore, with support of many of our UK and European shareholders, we look forward to opening our UK subsidiary in the next year and bringing our smart solutions for smart living to the market. Brexit cannot compromise this.”

Since the company developed its first ‘brick’, initial feedback has been ‘fantastic’ and now faces the positive problem of increasing production to respond to the ‘huge demand’.

Miguel said that the business aims to transform the way people live their lives and that what CORKBRICK offers is much more than just a modular solution. He said: “We have a diverse group of people, contributing

with their talent to make our dream a reality.

We are more than a company. We are people with a common vision to develop sustainable dynamic structures and furniture to improve the way we live. CORKBRICK is more than a nice, natural, fun and useful product. It inspires and empowers people to use their imagination to create better and more healthy spaces.”

w www.corkbrick.com w www.seedrs.com/corkbrick

About Corkbrick

“The use of cork, from a cork tree, in products is sustainable. It has a minimal impact on the environment as the harvesting of cork does not harm the tree. In fact, no trees are cut down during the harvesting process. Only the bark is extracted, and a new layer of cork regrows, making it a renewable resource. Each cork tree typically live more than 250 years,” said Miguel.

“My fifth grandfather, Thomas Reynolds, was an early trader of cork in London. After leaving the Royal Navy, where he had fought Napoleon, he dedicated his life to creating the first cork global industry. Together with his sons, he bought cork forests in Portugal and Spain and built more than 20 factories to prepare and export cork worldwide through his offices in Lisbon, London and New York.

“They were pioneers, lovers of freedom, entrepreneurs and liberals that fought both Napoleon and the absolutist King of Portugal D. Miguel. They innovated and prospered with cork and left an outstanding legacy.”

21st June 2019 | 25

F E A T U R E |B R E A S L E Y Brook + Wilde link up

Rob King, sales director at Breasley, shares its latest news following a recent link-up with sleep brand Brook + Wilde.

Elite Leading UK bed manufacturer Breasley has teamed up with luxury sleep brand Brook + Wilde as the exclusive supplier of its Elite mattress range for High Street outlets.

East Midlands-based Breasley, the UK’s foremost producer of vacuum packed, rolled and boxed mattresses, and one of the sector’s fastest-growing success stories, is delighted with the deal, which sees it produce the new, default top-of-the-range mattress collection for bricks and mortar retailers.

British brand Brook + Wilde is known for its premium innovative mattresses, which are driving comfort and design to a new top level 21st June 2019 | 26

within the rolled mattress market.

Rejecting the notion of one mattress type for everyone, consumers are given a choice of soft, medium or firm comfort levels.

Breasley was chosen for its reputation for high-quality customer service as well as its expertise and knowledge of the bed industry.

Each Elite range mattress consists of eight layers, which work together to provide outstanding levels of functionality, comfort and support. These include a removable, washable cover, a

Inside Elite thermo-regulating top layer that provides a higher level of moisture evaporation to keep the sleeper cool and comfortable, advanced

FOR FULL STORIES AND DAILY NEWS UPDATES: WWW.CABINET-MAKER.CO.UK

“BROOK + WILDE IS AN EXCITING ADDITION TO OUR HIGHER-END ROLLED MATTRESS COLLECTION AND DELIVERS AN EXCEPTIONAL LEVEL OF COMFORT AND CHOICE .”

Elite mattress

wave technology to support shoulder and hip alignment and pocket springs to support the individual movement of the sleeper. The mattress does not require turning or rotation, and comes with a 10-year guarantee and 100-night trial.

The Brook + Wilde Elite mattress is the most premium mattress available in the ‘bed in a box’ sector. This is in line with the brand’s objective of being the default luxury mattress within the rolled mattress sector.

The Brook + Wilde Elite collection is available with a choice of headboards and bed bases from

Elite close up

All about

Breasley is one of the UK’s fastest growing bed manufacturers and foam converters, renowned for outstanding customer service and high quality products.

Parent company Breasley Pillows Ltd was started in 1973 by joint partners Alan Crowshaw and Peter Walker. Initially making pillows, they went on to build one of the most successful foam conversion companies in the UK. In 2005, the mattress division was formed and Breasley became one of the first companies to launch a range of vacuumpacked mattresses to be manufactured in Britain. The growth was rapid and Breasley was soon established as the market leader.

Renowned for innovation, the company

aQO

Breasley’s upmarket Salus collection. This includes Breasley’s new ottoman storage base or divan bases with optional storage options and choice of Plush fabrics.

Said Rob King, sales director at Breasley: “We are delighted to have been selected

by Brook + Wilde as the exclusive supplier of the Elite mattress range for bricks and mortar retailers, based on our reputation for customer service. Brook + Wilde is an exciting addition to our higher-end rolled mattress collection and delivers an exceptional level of comfort and choice.”

w www.breasley.co.uk

remains one of the UK’s leading producers of rolled and boxed mattresses. Alongside the successful Uno range, which is sold to independent retail partners throughout the UK, the company is also very experienced in producing own-label mattress ranges, often to a bespoke specification, for customers both in the UK and overseas.

Breasley’s premium non-vacuum packed Salus brand, which was launched in 2009, has evolved into a superb collection of quality mattresses, divans, headboards and fabrics, offering a range of technologies such as Adaptive and Purotex, plus a choice of comfort options including Viscoool® and natural fillings. .

Breasley expands boxed mattress offering

w www.breasley.co.uk 21st June 2019 | 27

Register now at manchesterfurnitureshow.com

TO ADVERTISE A JOB PLEASE CONTACT SHARON RICKERSEY Q 01623 372213 m SHARON@CABINET-MAKER.CO.UK

CLASSIFIED

The Furniture Makers’ Company the furnishing industry’s charity

WE CAN HELP YOU

Things don’t always follow the design

Life

There may be times you need

have in mind

often throw some curve balls

We will always be there for

The Furniture Makers’ Company has been supporting the welfare of employees in the interiors and furnishing industry for more than 100 years. If you or someone you know is in need of financial support, let us help. Visit our website www.furnituremakers.org.uk/assistance or contact 020 7256 5558

This advertising space was generously donated by Cabinet Maker magazine in support of The Furniture Makers’ Company’s welfare campaign.

The Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers’ Charitable Funds incorporating the Furnishing Trades Benevolent Association is a registered charity in England and Wales (no. 1015519) and a registered company (no. 02759359) in England and Wales

Welfare FX half page.indd 1

21st June 2019 | 29

12/10/2017 15:12

A L P H A A D S |C O N N E C T I N G B U Y E R S A N D S E L L E R S E BoConcept

A

Norfolk, NR17 1N3 www.boconcept.com

A By Andre

Bodyease

www.abyandre.com

Dewsbury, WF12 9AH www.bodyease.co.uk

ACID

Malvern, WR14 1GP www.acid.uk.com

0845 6443617

ADVANSA

Hamm (Germany), 59071 www.advansa.com

+49 23888402207

AHF

Peterborough, PE3 7PR www.ahf.co.uk

0800 046 99 01

Bolia.com

Aarhus (Denmark) www.bolia.com

+45 51502110

Boss Design Group

Dudley, DY2 8SZ www.bossdesign.com

01384 455570

01733 336200

Airsprung

Staverton, BA14 8RQ www.airsprungbeds.co.uk

01225 754411 +90 352 322 05 88 www.boyteks.com OSB. 8. Cad. No: 60, 38070, Kayseri, Turkey

Alpha Designs Upholstery Bilston, WV14 7HZ

01902 492937

Alstons Upholstery

Colchester, CO2 9JU www.alstons.co.uk

01206 733300

AMA Research

Cheltenham, GL50 1TY www.amaresearch.co.uk

01242 235724

Aquaclean Fabrics

www.aquaclean.com

07779 597040

Arc Lighting & Design

Swindon, SN1 3BH www.arc-lighting.co.uk

01793 612660

Archers Sleepcentre

Glasgow, G52 4BN www.archerssleepcentre.co.uk

0141 892 0308

Ashley Manor

Dudley, DY2 0RL www.ashleymanor.co.uk

01384 486800

Association of Independent Stores

Solihull, B90 4LF www.aistores.co.uk

+90 (212) 549 20 60

London, SW10 0XE www.bakerfurniture.com

020 7823 3612

Barkers Home

Northallerton, DL7 8UB www.barkershome.co.uk

01609 776 667

Dewsbury, WF13 3RD www.thefurniturebazaar.com

0333 7721242

01202 552022

01159 071700

0333 222 6800

Betta Living

0800 083 1127

BFM

Melbourne (Australia) www.bunnings.com.au

(03) 8831 9777

C Calia Trade SPA

Matera (Italy) www.caliaitalia.com

01457 861141

Carpetright

Purfleet, RM19 1TT www.carpetright.co.uk

0330 333 3444

Leicester, LE3 1TH www.cimchome.com

0116 287 5288

Charltons Furniture

Midsomer Norton, BA3 4BS www.charltonsfurniture.co.uk

020 3058 2751

Rochdale, OL16 4NG www.clelandmciver.co.uk

01706 374431

Witney, OX29 0YN www.clockworkcomponents.com

01993 775 767

London, W1K 3QD www.colefax.com

020 8874 6484

Birmingham, B23 5PN www.cookesfurniture.co.uk

0121 2505050

D Daniel Stores

01332 321 827

BIID

21st June 2019 | 30

Bunnings

Cookes Furniture

Bensons for Beds

London, EC2A 4PE www.biid.org.uk

01244 812628

Colefax

Belfield Furnishings

Long Eaton, NG10 4QD www.bfm.org.uk

Connah’s Quay, CH5 4DP www.brownsfurniture.co

Clockwork Components

Beales

Oldham, OL9 7TH www.bettaliving.co.uk

01629 823680

Browns

Cleland McIver

Bazaar

Mansfield, NG18 1HA www.bensonsforbeds.co.uk

Ilkeston, DE7 5EP www.breasley.co.uk

Ceramic Import and Manufacturing Company

Baker Furniture

Ilkeston, DE7 5EP www.thebelfieldgroup.com

0905 873 8509

Breasley

Glossop, SK13 6LE https://carpenter.com/uk/en

B

Bournemouth, BH1 1LJ www.beales.co.uk

Halton Hills, ON L7G 4R9 www.brc.group

Carpenter Ltd

Aydin Tekstil Ticaret

Istanbul (Turkey) www.aydintekstil.com

BRC

Windsor, SL4 1DP www.danielstores.co.uk

01753 801000

Decorative Panels 0207 6280255

Elland, HX5 9HF www.decorativepanels.co.uk

01484 658341

ERS EVERY WEEK

TO ADVERTISE ON THESE PAGES CALL 01623 372213 OR GO TO: WWW.CABINET-MAKER.CO.UK

Decorex International London www.decorex.com

020 7921 8275

Design Guild Mark

London, EC2N 2HE www.designguildmark.org.uk

020 7562 8520

DFS

Doncaster, DN6 7NA www.dfs.co.uk

Furniture World

Newquay, TR7 2HS www.furnitureworld.co.uk

Home24 01209 210080

Failsworth, M35 9BA www.housingunits.co.uk www.hslchairs.com

www.gallerydirect.co.uk Sittingbourne, ME10 3RN 01795 439159 0800 652 5090

01924 422 537

01274 877200

020 7462 0440

ercol

Princes Risborough, HP27 9PX www.ercol.com

01844 271800

Espoke Living

Chester, CH4 8BU www.espokeliving.com

0333 344 2855

Eve Sleep

London, N5 1XL www.evesleep.co.uk

0800 808 5766

F Findel Education Ltd

Accrington, BB5 4EE www.findel-education.co.uk

03451 203 603

FIRA International Stevenage, SG1 2EW www.fira.co.uk

01438 777 700 +48 29 64 42 222

Furmanac

Kingswinford, DY6 7FF www.furmanac.com

01384 408844

020 3348 9829

0800 035 0070

Furniture Link

Telford, TF1 7AD www.furniturelinkuk.co.uk

01952 604960

020 72565558

Bolton, BL6 4SA www.officefurnitureonline.co.uk

0333 7777 575

H

Hypnos

Princes Risborough, HP27 9RS www.hypnosbeds.com

01844 348200

I

02380 517067

London, W1T 7PJ www.habitat.co.uk/furniture

0344 499 4686

Hammonds www.hammonds-uk.com

0800 021 4363

Harrison Spinks Leeds, LS11 5SB www.harrisonspinks.co.uk

0113 205 5200

Harry Corry

028 9060 6801

Harvey Norman

Ikea International

www.ikea.com/gb/en

ISM Networks Furniture Leigh, WN7 2RR www.ism.furniture

0300 030 9915

J January Furniture Show

London, SW6 3JW januaryfurnitureshow.com

020 7384 8211

Jarrold & Son

Norwich, NR2 1JF www.jarrold.co.uk

01603 660661

www.harveynorman.com www.harveysfurniture.co.uk

0344 372 1000

Headlam

Birmingham, B46 1LW www.headlam.com

01675 433000

JJOplc

Rotherham, S66 9HU www.healthbeds.co.uk

Bacup, OL13 0EA www.jjoplc.com

Hockley, SS5 4AD www.heico-fasteners.co.uk Rotherham, S66 9HU www.heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com Blackburn, BB1 1TJ www.heritagefurnitureuk.com Melksham, SN12 6GN www.hermanmiller.com Liversedge, WF15 6QA www.highgrovebeds.co.uk

01706 877877

JYSK 01268 745421

069 7575-0

Hazel Grove, SK7 5BW www.jysk.co.uk

03300 883818

K Kaymed

01254 660777

Dublin www.kaymed.co.uk

+353 45 484 300

KBSA 0845 226 9776

Highgrove 0800 804 8879

Ilminster, TA19 9DN www.iconography.co.uk

Nottingham, NG2 4BN www.indusvalley.co.uk

Habitat

Belfast, BT17 9GX www.harrycorry.com

Iconography

Indus Valley Furniture Ltd

Herman Miller

Furniture Village

Slough, SL1 4DX www.furniturevillage.co.uk

Gresham

Heritage Furniture

Furniture to Go

Portsmouth, PO3 5QD www.furniture-to-go.co.uk

01565 650101

Heimtextil

Furniture Makers

London, EC2N 2HE www.furnituremakers.org.uk

Dewsbury, WF13 1EN www.hyderbedsltd.com

01343 813271

Heico

Furniture Choice

Mirfield, WF14 9DQ www.furniturechoice.co.uk

Hyder Beds

01291 645080

Health Beds

Furnico

London, E12 6SJ www.furnico.co.uk

Knutsford, WA16 6EN www.greenwoodretail.com

Harveys

Forte Furniture

Warsaw ww2.forte.com.pl

01908 968228

Greenwood Retail

Ekornes

London, EC1N 6TE www.ekornes.co.uk

Milton Keynes, MK12 6HS www.hydeline.co.uk

Grampian Furnishers

Elgin, IV30 8QN www.grampianfurnishers.com

E

01284 752804

Global Furniture Alliance Chepstow, NP16 6UN www.gfa.uk.com

0345 675 9090

01382 477281

Glasswells

Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3TU www.glasswells.co.uk

Dwell

London, SE1 0SW www.dwell.co.uk

Gillies

Dundee, DD5 2AJ www.gillies.co.uk

Duvalay

Gomersal, BD19 4HX www.duvalay.co.uk

01924 486902

Hydeline Furniture 01257 262141

Dura Beds

Batley, WF17 6PB www.durabeds.co.uk

0161 681 5678

HSL

01302 573 200

Dreams

Mansfield, NG18 1HA www.dreams.co.uk

+49 30 20 38 99 66

Housing Units

G

Dickinsons Furnishers

Chorley, PR7 2ST www.dickinsonschorley.com

Berlin (Germany) www.home24.com

Mansfield, NG19 8R www.kbsa.org.uk

01623 818808

Kelston House 01924 406600

Foxrock www.kelstonhouse.com

353 404 80068

»

21st June 2019 | 31

A L P H A A D S |C O N N E C T I N G B U Y E R S A N D S E L L E R S E Mathias Wiemann GmbH & Co KG

K

Germany www.wiemann-online.com/en

Kettle Interiors

Corby, NN17 4JN www.kettleinteriorsagencies.com

01536 444960

Kobe UK

Crowthorne, RG45 6LS www.en.kobe.eu

Norfolk, NR14 8SQ www.mattressman.co.uk

0333 577 5773

Mattresstek 01344 771653

L

Lancashire, BB4 5JT www.mattresstek.co.uk

07891 506241

Matza

Dewsbury www.matza.co.uk

01924 458699

Metro Wardrobes and Kitchens

Lanzet

Blackburn, BB1 2BX www.lanzet.co.uk

49 5401 852-0

Mattressman

01254 265883

London, HA9 0LB www.metrowardrobes.co.uk

0203 4883347

Laura Ashley

Newtown, SY16 1DZ www.lauraashley.com

03332 008 009

Millbrook Beds 023 8086 6111 www.millbrook-beds.co.uk

Minerva Furnishers Guild

Corsham, SN13 0HN www.minervafurnishers.co.uk

Lebus Upholstery

Scunthorpe, DN16 3RN www.lebus.co.uk

01724 281381

Lectra

Greengates, BD10 9TQ www.lectra.com/en

0333 222 4120

Telford, TF3 3BQ www.thelia.org.uk www.loaf.com

020 7739 5561

London Fabric Show

Long Eaton, NG10 4QD www.londonfabricshow.uk

Myakka

Wincanton, BA9 9EQ www.myakka.co.uk

Manchester, M60 6ES www.nbrown.co.uk Wensley, DL8 4HS www.nathanfurniture.co.uk

01332 321827 Skipton, BD23 1NL www.bedfed.org.uk

0797 420 9761

0039 080 8820488

NCF Furnishings

01483 306 280

Neville Johnson

Stretford, M17 1RW www.nevillejohnson.co.uk

Made.com

London, WC2H 0JG www.made.com

0161 873 8333

Nolte Möebel

Bury, BL9 8RN www.nolte-mobel.co.uk

Magniflex

+39 057451011 0808 234 21 72

Mammoth

0161 767 8244

O Oak Furniture Land

www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk

Wallsend, NE28 9NZ www.mammothcomfort.com

0800 440 2254

Oldrids and Downtown Scunthorpe, DN15 6SU www.oldrids.co.uk

Mason and Pearl

Dudley, DY2 8NT www.masonandpearl.co.uk

Italy www.natuzzi.co.uk Guildford, GU1 3DU www.natuzzi.co.uk

M

www.maisonsdumonde.com

01756 799 950

Natuzzi

Lynch Sales

Maisons du Monde

0161 236 8256

Nathan Furniture Group

Luxury Furniture Manufacturers www.longeatonguild.co.uk

Italy www.magniflex.com

0345 460 3122

N Brown Group

Long Eaton Guild

Portsmouth, PO10 7HE www.lynchsales.com

01706 878 558

N 0345 468 0697

London Design Fair

London, E1 6QR www.londondesignfair.co.uk

Bacup, OL13 9RW www.mptgroup.com London, WC1N 2BF www.muji.eu

LIA

Loaf

MPT Group

Muji

Leekes

Bilston, WV14 8LB www.leekes.co.uk

01225 444204

0116 4422363

Oliver & Sons

www.oliverandsonsuk.com

01724 281888 0800 083 0683

ERS EVERY WEEK

TO ADVERTISE ON THESE PAGES CALL 01623 372213 OR GO TO: WWW.CABINET-MAKER.CO.UK

Oliver Bonas

www.oliverbonas.com

020 8974 3332

P 0115 951 9512

0121 389 4262

Perfect Home

Huthwaite, NG17 2HW www.perfecthome.co.uk

01623 441886

Pickworth Furnishings

Loughborough, LE11 3HB www.pickworthfurnishing.co.uk

01509 235236

Pike Textiles

Wisbech, PE13 2RS www.pike-textiles.com

020 8731 0020

0116 284 9063

017738 38800

+32 87 59 59 59

01249 821 748

Royams Upholstery 01254 665228

S 0800 14 13 786

0115 943 8980

Satra Technology Centre 01536 410000

Savoir

0208 8384838

SCS

Nottingham, NG2 3GZ www.scs.co.uk

0115 943 8980

Sealy UK

Aspatria, CA7 2AS www.sealy.co.uk

016973 20342

Serene

West Bromwich, B70 0TX www.serene.co.uk

Sharps

www.sharps.co.uk

0177 0512 7700

Denmark www.skovby.com

Thirsk, YO7 4LX www.treske.co.uk

01845 522770

Turnaround

45 87 54 55 00

Bishop Wilton, York

Peter Rex

Birmingham, B11 2NR www.slumberdream.co.uk

0121 773 6669

01204 368413

pjrex@hotmail.co.uk

07711 743531

U United Carpets

0808 159 9679

Sofa.com

0345 400 2222

Sofahouse Importers Ltd

Mansfield Woodhouse, NG19 9AL www.unitedcarpetsandbeds.com 01623 428481

V Vi Spring

353 42 935 1950

01278 557755

Staingard

01244 888658

Steinhoff (International)

Plymouth, PL5 2TT www.vispring.com/en-uk

01752 366311

Victoria Plc

Kidderminster, DY10 1JR www.victoriaplc.com

01562 749610

VIDA Living

Stockport, SK3 0XT www.vidaliving.com

353 (0) 42 933 7044

27218080700

Swaffer

Peterborough, PE2 6WQ www.swaffer.co.uk Hampshire, PO7 7XY www.swanretail.co.uk

Sassy Home

London, NW10 6UD www.savoirbeds.com

www.simmons.com

Stellenbosch, (South Africa) www.steinhoffinternational.co.uk

0121 505 0270 0800 789 789

01204 368413

Treske

Simmons Bedding Group

Waverton, CH3 7PD www.staingard.co.uk

01225 792429

Timeless Chesterfields

01733 371727

Swan Retail

Sareer

Rothwell, NN16 8SD www.satra.com

www.theloungeco.com Bolton, BL3 2NZ www.timelesschesterfields.com

London, SW1E 6QT www.simbasleep.com

Highbridge, TA9 3AE www.sopha.co.uk

Rowico

Cwmtillery, Abertillery, NP13 1LZ www.sassyhome.co.uk

0333 123 0892

Simba

Co. Louth, Ireland www.sofahouse.ie

01261 819984

Cheltenham, GL52 6NZ www.thegreatchaircompany.com

The Lounge Co

Barnoldswick, BB18 6BJ www.silentnight.co.uk

Sopha

ROM Sofas

Dewsbury, WF12 9AH www.sareerfurniture.co.uk

Silentnight

www.sofa.com/gb

Wellington, TA21 8NN https://relyon.co.uk

Lancashire, BB1 5JJ www.royams.net

0844 292 1000

Godalming, GU7 1EY www.sofaworkshop.com

Relyon

Calne, SN11 9BN www.rowico.co.uk

Banff, Aberdeenshire www.goodsleepcompany.co.uk

The Great Chair Company

Liverpool, L70 1AB www.shopdirect.com

Sofa Workshop

Recticel

Belgium www.romsofas.co.uk

Shop Direct

Bolton, BL3 2NZ www.sofasbysaxon.com

RJ Binnie

Somercotes, DE55 4RD www.recticel.com

01924 439 898

Sofa by Saxon

Radium Foam (see Vita Talalay)

0333 241 3209

The Good Sleep Company

Slumberdream

R Leicester, LE8 6LH www.rjbinnie.co.uk

Stevenage, SG1 2AD thefurnitureombudsman.org

Skovby Mobelfabrik A/S 01945 461361

Protect-A-Bed

London, NW2 1LJ www.protectabed.co.uk

01274 882633

Dewsbury, WF13 3JY www.shirebeds.co.uk

Park Lane Bedding

Birmingham, B8 1AG www.parklanebeds.co.uk

The Furniture Ombudsman (TFO)

Clayton, BD14 6LT www.sherborneupholstery.co.uk

Shire Beds

Paragon Interiors

Nottingham, NG8 6PX www.paragonplc.com

Sherborne Upholstery

vitatalalay.com

02393 873 170

Sweet Dreams

Burnley, BB10 1SH www.sweetdreamsuk.com

01282 830033

T 01689 886888

353 42 935 1351

Tempur Sealy

Lexington (USA) www.tempursealy.com

01455 841257

0203 457 5862

W Wayfair

www.wayfair.co.uk Greenfield, CH8 7FF www.westbridgefurniture.com

01352 714131

Woods Furniture 01772 792936

Dorset, DT1 1HN www.woods-furniture.co.uk

01305 262666

W.S. Dennison

The Cotswold Company Norwich, NR1 3PA www.cotswoldco.com

Barwell, LE9 8GZ www.voguebeds.co.uk

Westbridge

800.805.3635

Tetrad

Preston, PR1 5PQ www.tetrad.co.uk

Vogue Beds

Denham, UB9 4DX www.walkergreenbank.com

TCS Imports

Louth, BT35 8PX www.tcsimports.com

London, W1U 3ED www.vitsoe.com

Walker Greenbank

Tapi Carpets

Orpington, BR6 0PH www.tapi.co.uk

Vitsoe

0333 200 1725

Antrim, BT41 2SJ www.wsdennison.com

028 9446 5108

21st June 2019 | 33

LAST WORD CHRIS PROCTOR, ONESERVE CHIEF EXECUTIVE The cost of a machine downtime

first work out the following:

For many businesses across the UK, machine downtime can cause major complications. If there is no preparation in place, interruptions to appliances can cause alarming outcomes on productivity and profit margins. A study commissioned by Oneserve revealed machine downtime costs the UK approximately £18 billion a year.

• Labour costs — The duration of the machine downtime period x the hourly pay rate of your operators to = your lost labour costs.

There are allegations that if this was reduced, it could boost the UK economy at a time when it’s most essential with the uncertainties of Brexit still floating around.

But what is the true impact of machine downtime in UK industry and what solutions are available?

• Recovery costs — Work out how much it costs you for: machine reboots, energy surges, replacing/repairing parts, and retrieving lost data + your other calculations to get a more accurate machine downtime value.

• Product costs — The price of a singleunit product x by the total of items you produce in a certain period x by the machine downtime period.

• Extra costs — Simply bear in mind that the value of machine downtime goes beyond profits lost during the downtown period.

Machine downtime for UK companies Machine downtime is certainly not planned and causes any manufacturing process to cease. With growing consumerism creating higher demand for products, fast and efficient machine procedures are critical to a firm’s success. But does the impact of machine downtime differ by industry?

• Total cost – All the above costs + total cost of machine downtime. Ensure that you use the same units of time to work out each section for an accurate outcome (e.g. employee pay per hour, product output per hour, etc.).

In the global automotive industry, one minute of machine downtime can cost just under £17,000, while a British Airways technical failure in 2017 came with a price tag of £80 million, according to the airline’s chief executive. Due to a rising reliance on technology across the board, machine downtime affects every industry; even computer systems can bring major costs to a UK business if they were to go down with average cost of £3.6 million a year.

Solutions With the costs of machine downtime being clear, it’s important for companies to ensure a plan is implemented to help reduce the negative impact. Statistically, more than half of machinery downtime is caused by hidden internal faults. It’s essential that you regularly check and maintain your machines.

It’s not just the financial side that is affected by machine downtime; a company’s reputation is also on the line if it fails to meet a supplier’s demand, alongside the stress on employees who must rectify the downtime.

How to calculate the costs of downtime To calculate the costs of downtime, you must

LAS VEGAS PREVIEW HARROGATE GIFT FAIR PEOPLE BEHIND THE PRODUCTS 21st June 2019 | 34

One of the most common technical faults is the overheating of particular parts, especially where there is metal on metal, as these can short electrical circuits and cause machines to stop running.

effect that can have a devastating impact on the machine. General wear and tear, as well as operator misuse, can also be the cause of a technical fault.

Acquiring services, such as industrial pump repairs, can reduce the risk of internal issues that can spark lengthy machine downtime if not identified. Adopt a preventive maintenance mindset and check your machines and computers for viruses, glitches, and inefficient parts that could cause a company-wide cessation of work.

Boost manager-to-operator communications so that those working with the machines in question can relay concerns, if they have any, before it’s too late. Commit your company by regularly updating your software and equipment, and training staff to use machines and work stations properly.

For all industries, machine downtime is likely to occur. However, it doesn’t have to spell disaster. Bear preventive methods in mind and make sure to keep on top of downtime calculations so that you have an accurate oversight of the effect of downtime on your staff, processes, and profit margin.

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Vibrations, usually the first sign a machine is breaking, are another major cause of internal technical fault — they cause a cascading

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