Cabinet Maker September 2019

BEDS

MANUFACTURE Testing body SATRA has opened its new purpose-built technical facility.

Production & Com ponents

first issue: 1st July 1880 Discovering a love

UPHOLSTERY

MANUFACTURE Machinery supplier Apropa talks about its anniversary, achieving a milestone 65 years.

for hemp | Pages

34-36

September 2019 | 31

COMPONENTS

september 2019

Machinery supplier Apropa talks about its anniversary, achieving a milestone 65 years.

DESIGN .

PRODUCTION AND

The NBF has had a busy year and is looking forward to its 10th Bed Show.

PRODUCTION AND COMPONENTS

The Sofa & Chair Company invests in its showroom and reveals how the changes will boost growth.

cabinet-maker.co.uk

LA-Z-BOY UK | Cassia

Visit us at the Bed Show | Stand H20

www.shirebeds.co.uk | T: 01924 439898 | E: info@shirebeds.co.uk

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 £9.99 Published daily online at www.cabinet-maker.co.uk and monthly in print 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.

Issue no 6128 published by Information Publications Ltd, Suite 15 Brunts Business Centre, Samuel Brunts Way, Mansfield, NG18 2AH VAT No: GB 945225521 © Information Publications Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording, or any information storage or retrieval system without the express prior written consent of the publisher. We regret we cannot be liable for the safe custody or return of any solicited or unsolicited material. Contributors are advised to keep copies of all materials submitted.

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TRADE ASSOCIATION MEMBER

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TRADE ASSOCIATION REPRESENTING THE INDUSTRY

British Furniture Manufacturers British Furniture Manufacturers

In a letter, which was coordinated by the British Retail Consortium, to the new Chancellor, Sajid Javid, retailers called on the Government to put business rates at heart of the promised new economic package.

Backing the call from our sector included some big names, such as Dreams, Carpetright, DFS, B&Q, Steinhoff UK (Bensons for Beds and Harveys) and other department stores including Debenhams, John Lewis and Fenwick.

With retail remaining the largest private sector employer in the UK, approximately three million people, the industry accounts for 5% of the UK economy, yet is burdened with 10% of all business taxes, and 25% of business rates.

The letter asks for four fixes that would address many of the challenges posed by business rates, which include a freeze in the business rates multiplier, fixing transitional relief, introducing an ‘Improvement Relief’ for ratepayers and to ensure that the Valuation Office Agency is fully resourced to do its job.

The state of the High Street has continued to suffer. In fact, the letter came immediately after the BRC’s recent data outlining that the UK vacancy rate had risen to 10.3%, the highest since January 2015. Furthermore, last month’s retail sales monitor showed the 12-month average sales figures dropped to their lowest level on record, at 0.5%.

So will the Government listen? It certainly has an opportunity to ‘unlock the full potential of retail in the UK’, says BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson OBE, but, if ignored, it also has the potential to harm the High Street further.

What’s your view? Let us know While you ponder the plight of the High Street, September’s edition of Cabinet Maker does offer a plethora of positivity. Where to start? Well, it’s Show Time of course.

all the latest innovations that the market has to offer. Furthermore, there is a look at October’s Autumn Furniture Show and you will also notice an exclusive section from the Long Eaton Guild in the centre of the magazine, which not only reaffirms our positive feedback in our new direction, but also highlights what to expect to see during Autumn Long Point.

Back to beds, Harrison Spinks shares an insight into what’s next for the business, as well as allowing Cabinet Maker to meet its hemp master, John Horsfield. Fresh from the firm’s recent appearance on BBC2’s Inside the Factory, we sit down with John in our latest People Behind The Products series.

Also sitting in the CM hot seat is Eve Sleep’s Clare Rydon, who shares an insight into her role, as well as her love for design. Shire Beds, Radium Foam, Gallery Direct, Millbrook Beds, Sweet Dreams, Enkev, Arena Design and Protect-A-Bed also feature in a packed beds section. In Production & Components, Apropa Machinery is celebrating its rich heritage of 65 years.

Moving on to Upholstery & Cabinet, The Sofa & Chair Company speaks to Cabinet Maker exclusively about its showroom refurbishment, whilst Heritage Furniture talks about the importance of social media and how it can help businesses make the most of the tool.

Other features include the latest company updates from Iconography and Greenwood Retail, as well as the next instalment of ‘Ask The Experts’ from FIRA, including its response to a recent fire regulations consultation.

To round off the month, we reflect on another successful Young Industry Professional Experience programme that saw eight rising stars travel across numerous businesses from the industry — including our own HQ. Better put the kettle on and pull up a chair for a good read!

Dan Squires Editor

PRODUCTS BEDS

and had a busy year The NBF has to its 10th Bed is looking forward Show.

september 2019

NTS AND COMPONE DESIGN .

Apropa talks Machinery supplier achieving a about its anniversary, years. milestone 65

first issue: 1

st

MANUFACTURE Machinery supplier Apropa talks about its anniversary, achieving a milestone 65 years.

UPHOLSTERY MANUFACTURE Testing body SATRA has opened its new purpose-built technical facility.

Production & Components

July 1880

Discovering a love for hemp | Pages 34-36 September 2019 | 31

PRODUCTION AND COMPONENTS

The opinions and views expressed in Cabinet Maker are not necessarily those of Information Publications Ltd. Being subject to the Advertising Standards Authority guidelines in place at the time of going to press, all data submitted by advertisers and contained in their advertising copy is accepted by Information Publications Ltd in good faith.

In an effort to restore some life back into the High Street, more than 50 major retailers have come together to demand the Government takes action to fix the broken business rates system.

Company invests The Sofa & Chair and reveals how in its showroom will boost growth. the changes

cabinet-maker.co.u

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ON THE COVER CASSIA FROM LA-Z-BOY UK

September offers a variety of trade shows and exhibitions, with none bigger than the NBF Bed Show. Celebrating its own milestone of 10 years, the Bed Show is back in Telford and will once again display

w www.la-z-boy.co.uk | Cassia LA-Z-BOY UK

British Furniture Manufacturers

NEW FOR AUTUMN WINTER 19

ďƒ˘

Ashford Our new, traditional inspired Ashford range has a smart, buttoned design and is available as a headboard, bedstead and ottoman.

Visit us at the NBF Bed Show 2019 to view our brand new collection of sleep solutions including mattresses, divans, headboards, ottomans and comfortable sofabeds.

F I N D U S AT S TA N D B 5 0 www.gallerydirect.co.uk | 01795 439159

GD Cabinet Maker - 2208.indd 1

22/08/2019 16:32:27

THIS MONTH INSIDE OUR SEPTEMBER ISSUE NEWS 6

LAST WORD 130 BEDS & MATTRESSES

FEATURES EXPERT ACCESS

101

FIRA International answers more industry questions and talks fire regulations.

AUTUMN LONG POINT

104

A preview of what to expect to see during Autumn Long Point.

EMBRACING ECOMMERCE

108

Iconography explains the importance of online in the furniture industry.

A NATURAL STORY

110

Enkev talks about its latest developments, including the appointment of its new MD.

LANDMARK EVENT

112

Greenwood Retail toasts its landmark 1,000th Sales Event.

RISING TO THE OCCASION

114

Eight of the best and brightest junior employees complete industry experience.

REGISTER NOW

116

SHOW TIME

REFILL AT H20

Furniture To Go 122 Sherborne Upholstery 123

The Shire Bed Company is to launch three new collections at the Bed Show.

PRODUCTION AND COMPONENTS

STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

MEET JOHN

118

A look at the industry events during September, both in the UK and overseas.

34

Harrison Spinks’ hemp master features in our People Behind The Products series.

65 YEARS STRONG

38

Apropa talks about its anniversary, achieving a milestone 65 years.

NEW CHAPTER

44

46

Heritage Furniture talks about how to utilise social media to drive footfall into stores.

BEDS & MATTRESSES

The NBF has had a busy year and looks forward to delivering its 10th Bed Show.

82

INNOVATION NEVER SLEEPS Millbrook Beds gives an insight into the company’s latest innovations.

86

62

Sweet Dreams unveils what will be on show during this month’s Bed Show.

92

TRADITIONAL INNOVATION Harrison Spinks is focusing on the future more than ever.

94

Protect-A-Bed explains how being part of its Platinum Club has delivered success.

PERFECT MATCH

66

90

BED EVOLUTION

TIME TO JOIN THE CLUB?

The latest news from Hush-a-Bye (62), Gainsborough (64) and Swanglen (74).

MAKING IT RIGHT

Gallery shares its continued success with July being its most successful month ever.

Clare Rydon, from Eve Sleep, features in our People Behind The Products series.

The Sofa & Chair Company speaks about its recent showroom investment.

PARTNERING FOR SUCCESS

80

MEET CLARE

UPHOLSTERY & CABINET

ARENA DESIGN

A preview of next month’s Autumn Furniture Show.

76

PRODUCT PAGES

96

Vita Talalay and Hypnos have teamed up for sustainable success.

NEWS

FOR FULL STORIES AND DAILY NEWS UPDATES:

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NEWS IN BRIEF NEW CEO

Record orders

Debenhams has announced the appointment of Stefaan Vansteenkiste as chief executive officer. Stefaan joined Debenhams in April 2019 as chief restructuring officer and has been working closely with the executive team on a new business plan to deliver a turnaround.

Terry Duddy, chairman of Debenhams Group, will work with Stefaan to ensure an orderly handover and then step down from the board in September.

Contract furniture specialist Deanestor has announced a record order intake, with £12.5m of orders secured in the last six months. This is a significant increase on the same period in 2018. Contracts have been awarded for delivery through to 2020 and across a diverse range of sectors – private rental schemes, student accommodation, healthcare and education.

Save the date

POPPED UP

Decorex International will make its debut at Olympia London this year, from the 6th to 9th October, marking an exciting new chapter in the show’s 41-year history.

Visitors can discover the new collections and commission bespoke pieces from more than 400 established brands and upand-coming makers.

Online furniture retailer Wayfair recently launched a one-day pop-up store in London. Situated on Soho’s Bateman Street, the pop-up opened on 1st August as the US-based brand continues to raise its profile amongst UK consumers. It was Wayfair’s first pop-up experience in the UK with the showroom offering a ‘trend-forward experience’.

Brexit blues

Brand partnership

Swedish kitchen furniture brand Nobia has reported a ‘soft’ UK market as sales fell -1%. According to its latest trading update ended June, Nobia said: “The UK market continues to be soft on the back of Brexit uncertainty, with the retail segment remaining challenging in terms of both price and volume.

However, deliveries to our larger projects in London are progressing well.”

Online made-to-measure blinds and curtains retailer Blinds 2go has announced an exclusive partnership with Emma Bridgewater. As part of a new collaboration, Blinds 2go has introduced more than 100 blinds and curtains, staying in line to the brand’s signature style of iconic designs, including polka dots, and introducing exclusive new colourways.

September 2019 | 06

RETAIL

Furniture retailer suffers arson attack Independent furniture retailer Home Living has been the victim of a suspected arson attack that damaged one of its stores.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service attended the Home Living store on Ryhope Road in Sunderland.

Crews from Sunderland Central, North Moor, Marley Park and Rainton Bridge also attended in support to tackle the blaze.

The fire damaged the store’s showroom area, including a number of products, whilst the front of the building was badly affected.

In an effort to aid a police investigation into the incident, Home Living shared a CCTV video of the events that happened and has called for anyone with any information to come forward.

Northumbria Police confirmed that the fire is being treated as arson, urging people with any information to contact 101 quoting reference 74 280719 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

In a short statement following the fire, Home Living, which operates another store in Newcastle, said: “There was an incident last night (28th July) at our Sunderland store.

Unfortunately we anticipate the showroom will be closed for some time. The Newcastle store will be open as usual. We are hoping all scheduled deliveries will go ahead as normal.”

w www.home-living.co.uk

MANUFACTURE

FLOORING GROUP CONFIRMS POTENTIAL ACQUISITION Flooring group Victoria PLC has confirmed it is in discussions to acquire Spanish business Ibero.

In a statement responding to recent speculation, the group said: “The Board of Victoria PLC notes the recent speculation that it is in discussions regarding the potential acquisition of Spanish ceramics manufacturer, Ibero Porcelanico.

“The Board has previously stated that it is part of its growth strategy to make highly selective acquisitions and therefore it is frequently in discussions with a number of parties. The Board can confirm that it is evaluating a number of opportunities including this one.

“In the event that the potential acquisition were to proceed it would be financed from the company’s existing resources and be both leverage neutral and earnings enhancing. It would not be classified as a substantial transaction for the purposes of the AIM Rules for Companies. However, there is no guarantee that it will proceed.

“A further announcement will be made in due course as appropriate.”

w www.victoriaplc.com

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Mark Oxenbury, The Oak Loft, Exeter.

REGISTRATION STILL LIVE FOR SOUTH WEST FURNITURE SHOW The South West Furniture Manufacturer’s Agent and Representatives Federation (SWFMARF) have confirmed that registration is still open for September’s show.

Located at the Sedgemoor Auction Centre in North Petherton, Somerset, the show takes place from 10th to 12th September.

Commenting ahead of the event, show organisers said: “Established 25 years ago to promote the sales of quality home furnishing ‘furniture, beds and accessories’ to trade customers in South West England and South Wales, we look forward to welcoming you to our 2019 September edition.”

w www.swfmarf.com

DESIGN

Interiors brand reaches target High-end interiors brand LuxDeco has reached its target in its latest funding round, raising more than £1.5m.

Earlier this year LuxDeco, which had a pre-money valuation of £14.5m, launched a funding round through Crowdcube with the ambition to raise £1.5m. It has exceeded this amount, raising more than £1.55m from 200 investors with an equity of 9.70%.

The business, which was founded by serial entrepreneur Jonathan Holmes in 2012, has an average order value of £920 and has seen sales surpass £13m to date.

LuxDeco has more than 350 brands, including Ralph Lauren, Aerin and Georg Jensen, on its platform and has plans to accelerate its growth further following the investment.

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The company said: “LuxDeco aims to change that by connecting luxury shoppers across the globe to the world’s finest interior brands through a curated online marketplace, personal shopping technology, and white-label e-commerce service.

“What we believe sets us apart from traditional e-commerce is our use of data science, proprietary algorithms, and expert curators to aggregate and standardise product data from hundreds of partners and then present the most relevant selection to users. Our vision is to become one of the largest luxury home decor retailers in the world by simplifying the process of shopping for luxury interiors online.”

w www.luxdeco.com

GREENWOOD RETAIL LTD Britain's Leading Furniture Retail Sales Promotion Company

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"It Was Mental!

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FURNITURE FIRM ENTERS ADMINISTRATION Furniture business Havelock International has been placed into administration with almost 250 staff being made redundant.

David Baxendale and Zelf Hussain, both from insolvency firm PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, were appointed joint administrators of Havelock International Limited on 1st August.

The Fife-headquartered business, which employs around 300 staff, is understood to have faced issues over reduced demand for products and that it was no longer viable for the business to continue to trade.

The appointment has led to 247 employees being made redundant with some being kept on as the company ‘winds down operations’.

JYSK opens another store in UK Danish furniture retailer JYSK has opened its 19th UK store in Wakefield.

The Wakefield opening was another huge success for JYSK — it was within touching distance of a new company record — and UK country manager, David Ashton, said he was incredibly proud of the result.

“It is always fantastic to open a new store and introduce people to JYSK. Sometimes it can be a very long time between location search all the way through to grand opening day — but seeing those customers streaming into the store as soon as the ribbon is cut is why we all love the job we do.

“We opened this store in the middle of the transition period from outdoor to indoor season, therefore we showcased a lot of new furniture early for the customers in Wakefield.

“You can see that notable difference between St Helens and Wakefield openings because nearly 40% of our sales were furniture in Wakefield, compared to 24% in St Helens, which we opened in the middle of the outdoor season.

“The phenomenal performance of garden furniture for the whole country in 2019 meant we were sold out of almost 75% of the entire range before we got to opening day. Demand this year has really been that incredible, so next year we will once again order more stock than ever and give Wakefield something extra special to be wowed by.

“I have said it before, retail does not need to have the doom and gloom impression out there. We are amongst a group of retailers that are thriving at the moment. This retail park in Wakefield is a prime example of one that was near empty a year ago and now has a brand new lease of life.

“The customers are still out there and ready to shop, but they must know and feel that we really do appreciate and value every single one of them. I certainly do.”

“Team JYSK Wakefield made us proud — they delivered a super-attractive store and great customer service. Now we can be the go-to location for Wakefield and surrounding areas for everything for their home.”

The multi-billion Euro company has around 2,800 stores worldwide in more than 50 countries.

w www.jysk.co.uk

Administrators said their attempts to find a buyer for the business were unsuccessful and its focus has turned to helping employees processing their redundancy claims.

A short statement on Havelock International’s website read: “David Baxendale and Zelf Hussain have been appointed as joint administrators of Havelock International Limited to manage its affairs, business and property as its agents without personal liability.”

The failure marks a second administration in two years following Havelock Europa’s collapse, which was subsequently sold in a pre-pack administration process to Havelock International.

w www.pwc.co.uk

RETAIL

Record low of July retail sales growth July saw the lowest retail sales growth for the month since 1995.

According to the latest BRC-KPMG retail sales monitor for July 2019, total sales increased by 0.3% against an increase of 1.6% in July 2018. Like-for-like sales increased by 0.1%, lower than its increase of 0.5% the preceding year.

This is the lowest figure recorded for the month of July since records began in 1995 and comes after the worst June on records. Over the three months to July, in-store sales of nonfood items declined 4.1% on a total basis and 4% on a like-forlike basis. This is worse than the 12-month total average decline of 2.6%.

Non-food retail sales in the UK decreased by 2% on a like-forlike basis and 2.1% on a total basis. Online sales of non-food products grew 3.7% in July, against a growth of 7.5% in July 2018.

Helen Dickinson OBE, chief executive, British Retail Consortium, said: “While retailers will welcome the return to growth, it has nonetheless been a punishing few months for the industry. The combination of slow real wage growth and Brexit uncertainty has left consumer spending languishing with the 12-month average total sales falling to a new low of just 0.5%.”

w www.brc.org.uk September 2019 | 08

aQO DESIGN

Furniture business invests in digital platform Furniture retailer Pavilion Broadway has announced the launch of its first ever photography studio.

Pavilion Broadway has invested £50,000 in a professional photography studio area at its 25,000sqft Tewkesbury warehouse.

APPRENTICESHIP STANDARD NEEDS URGENT SUPPORT The Furniture and Interiors Education, Skills and Training Alliance (FIESTA) is urgently appealing to UK furniture manufacturers to financially support vital work needed to renew the level 2 Furniture Manufacturer Apprenticeship Standard.

The current level 2 standard is the mainstay of apprenticeship training for the UK furnishing industry with around 1000 apprentices having been trained through the 10 pathways since its launch in 2016.

The studio features a five-metre turntable, which allows the company to complete a 360 digital visualisation of products, showcasing its furniture from every angle.

David Ewart, managing director at Pavilion Broadway, said that the studio marks the first of many investments planned to improve its customer experience digitally.

The company added that the investment will allow the business to offer an increased capacity of a greater online catalogue of exclusive products as well as strengthening its online customer journey.

w www.pavilionbroadway.co.uk

The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IFATE), the controlling authority on apprenticeship standards, has said that the current Furniture Manufacturer standard must be reviewed before the end of 2019 as it does not meet its new guidelines.

This means that the existing single standard with pathways must be replaced by separate standards for each specialist occupation if government-funded skills training is to be maintained.

Based on demand for the existing apprenticeship standard, FIESTA is proposing to rationalise the current standard, phasing out five pathways and creating four new level 2 furniture standards that will meet the new criteria laid down by IFATE: 1. Fitted Furniture Installer 2. Furniture Manufacturer 3. Modern Upholsterer 4. Wood Machinist (incorporating Furniture CNC Specialist) The approximate cost of creating the original standard was around £90,000, but the cost of deriving the four new standards is £5,000 each.

FIESTA is calling for manufacturers to contribute towards the cost to develop the standards. The organisation is asking for a minimum of £250 from a manufacturer, but would like larger businesses to consider inputting greater amounts.

Gary Baker, chairman of FIESTA, said: “This represents a significant allocation of resource and FIESTA is asking for industry support to make sure that these new standards can be developed before the deadline at the end of 2019.

“The occupations of fitted furniture installers, cabinet makers, modern upholsterers and wood machinists will be impacted most without a replacement, because employers will no longer have access to funded apprenticeship training, which would inevitably increase the skills gap in the furniture sector.”

If manufacturers are able to support this initiative and want to get involved in the working groups, they should contact Jeremy Stein by calling 01494 896790 or by emailing Jeremy@thebcfa. com.

w www.fiestalearning.com

ALBANY

This popular riser recliner range is now extended into a full suite, with manual/powered recliner, fixed chair and fixed 2-seater also now available. Offered in the Standard size, these provide exceptional comfort, with soft, stylish three-pillow backs and soft ‘pillow’ arms.

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Connor Connor fromComfort Comfort from Studio Studio

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Glasswells storage service celebrates 20 years

KITCHEN COMPANY FINED FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY BREACH

Best known for its huge choice of quality home furnishings, Glasswells also offers storage and distribution services to businesses from its purpose built warehouse on the Moreton Hall in Bury St Edmunds.

Kitchen worktop manufacturing company The Solid Surface Shop UK Ltd has been sentenced for non-compliance of improvement notices and failure to effectively manage health and safety.

On Wednesday, 31st July, the commercial storage team (pictured) celebrated their 20-year anniversary and held an open day to showcase the full range of facilities and services on offer.

Sheffield Magistrates’ Court heard that, during an inspection in March 2016, it was found that there was a poor standard of health and safety management, including significant accumulations of dust around the premises on Henry Street in Sheffield.

In 1946 the first Glasswells furniture shop was opened in Bury St Edmunds. The business expanded rapidly across the county and, in 1958, built its first warehouse to take care of the firm’s home removals, distribution and storage needs.

Forty years later, in 1999, the family business had outgrown the original site and took the decision to invest in a new larger, purpose-built warehouse on Kempson Way. The extra space gained created a new opportunity for Glasswells, and they began to let it out as third party storage for businesses; a division that has grown from strength to strength over the last 20 years.

Further investment was made in 2015, with the addition of an extension and new mezzanine Archive facility, which increased the warehouse to a massive 80,000sq ft and offered its customers even more flexibility.

Paul Glasswell explained: “Whilst we needed somewhere bigger to store our own stock and customer orders, we took the decision to build a warehouse that was much larger than our own needs so that we could rent some of this extra space out to third parties.

“We were already experts at handling and distributing goods across the country, so it seemed an obvious next step to take.

It is an affordable option for businesses with restricted space at their own premises or complicated distribution channels.

“Our brilliant team provide a bespoke service, working with our clients as though they were a part of their business.”

w www.glasswells.co.uk September 2019 | 12

Local exhaust ventilation units present were not subject to thorough examination and test, and no risk or hazardous substance assessments had been completed. The company was served with five improvement notices.

The notices required thorough examination of local exhaust ventilation, monitoring for dusts including respirable crystalline silica, a system to manage respiratory protective equipment, and assessments of the risk from noise and hand arm vibration.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that the improvement notices were hand delivered to the site and discussed with two of the directors. Despite extensions to the compliance dates for all the notices being given, repeated phone calls, emails and letters, no appeals or evidence of compliance was ever received by HSE. A company representative attended an interview under caution but did not provide any reasonable explanations for the noncompliance.

The Solid Surface Shop UK Ltd, previously based at Henry Street, Sheffield pleaded guilty to breaching a single charge under Section 2 (1) of the Health & Safety at Work etc Act 1974. The company has been fined £10,000 and ordered to pay £6181.51 in costs.

After the hearing, HSE inspector Laura Hunter commented: “Improvement notices must be complied with. Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those that fall below the required standards.”

w www.hse.gov.uk

aQO BESPOKE KITCHEN FURNITURE FIRM ACQUIRED Lux Group Holdings has expanded its luxury portfolio with the acquisition of bespoke kitchen and furniture brand McCarron & Co. The business and assets of McCarron & Co were acquired on 12th July and will see Lux Group Holdings expand its luxury empire, which already encompasses Smallbone of Devizes, Mark Wilkinson Furniture and Brookmans under its umbrella.

The sale has secured the future of 41 employees and continued production in Bromham, Wiltshire. Two McCarron & Co showrooms, in Chelsea and Bromham, will also continue trading.

Samantha Clegg, group head of marketing, Lux Group Holdings, said: “McCarron & Co are a great addition, as the brand ethos compliments our current offering of the finest British bespoke furniture pioneering new designs and techniques.

“This is the perfect platform and timing for us to progress our luxury business and develop a major share in the global luxury kitchen industry.”

Lux Group Holdings’ brands have a worldwide reputation for manufacturing high-quality kitchen and fitted furniture and, being part of an international business group, it said it intended to use its resources to build on the strength of these brands.

w www.luxgh.com

Two London brands ‘join forces’ British furniture manufacturer Very Good & Proper has acquired fellow London-based furniture business Isokon Plus.

As part of the acquisition, which remains undisclosed, the merger will see both businesses keep their brand names, while sharing resources in sales, marketing and distribution.

Ed Carpenter, of Very Good & Proper, has taken on the role of creative director and chief executive of both companies, whilst co-founder of VG&P, André Klauser, is design director across both companies. Mark Smith, of Isokon Plus, has been appointed operations director, whilst its founder, Chris McCourt, will remain involved with both companies as design consultant.

A joint statement said: “We will retain our very separate brand identities, but share resources in sales, marketing, design development and distribution. Isokon Plus will also be moving to a new, expanded workshop in Walthamstow, London, which will enable future growth and provide an unparalleled prototyping and R&D resource, creating a dynamic and inspiring focus for British furniture design and manufacturing.

“Throughout its long history, Isokon has stood for creative collaborations, of people working together for the benefit of the whole. This new chapter in the brand’s story continues Jack Pritchard’s legacy, offering exciting opportunities to both preserve and evolve our heritage.”

w www.verygoodandproper.co.uk

Come and see us at the Minerva Autumn Show & the Harrogate Flooring Show

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GOVERNMENT RESPONDS TO FURNITURE FIRE REGS The government is to upgrade its Furniture Fire Safety regulations to further enhance safety provisions, enable newer and innovative materials to come on to the market and reduce the use of hazardous flame-retardant chemicals as a means of making furniture fire resistant.

The government is committed to maintaining safety rules that protect households, consumers and the environment, with safety as its number one priority. The upgrade to existing regulations, which were introduced in the 1980s, reflect advances in technology in furniture manufacturing practices.

The Deputy Lord Mayor of Exeter, Coun Yolonda Henson with Steven Dainty, Wren Kitchens regional manager

This will continue to ensure that manufacturers only place safe products on the UK market. The approach will focus on safety of products, meaning furniture available for UK homes will be designed and manufactured to address risks in the modern home, keeping owners safer. This is consistent with the approach for other consumer products.

Wren celebrates new opening

The move, recommended by an expert Advisory Panel, follows a consultation with fire chiefs, the public, manufacturers, suppliers and advice from chief scientific advisors from across government. In addition to new regulations, standards will be developed by the British Standards Institution in partnership with a wide range of stakeholders, including those in industry, fire safety experts and consumer representatives.

The ribbon cutting event took place on Friday, 2nd August, with the 16,000sqft store officially opened by the Deputy Lord Mayor of Exeter, Coun Yolonda Henson.

This comes in response to the consultation on updating the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988. These regulations apply UK-wide and set fire resistance requirements for cover materials and fillings used to make upholstered furniture found in people’s homes.

w www.gov.uk

RETAIL

French furniture business sees strong Q3 Online French furniture business Vente-Unique has reported double-digit revenue growth in its latest quarter.

According to its latest trading update for the three months ended in June 2019, third quarter sales rose 10% to 22.1m euros, whilst its domestic market only saw sales grow 2%, largely due to the yellow vest protests.

The company, which specialises in flash sales of furniture, said that it is well on its way towards achieving expectations for the year.

Vente-Unique added that its markets outside France also achieved strong growth with sales up by 22% in Southern Europe and up by 23% in Northern Europe.

Kitchen retailer Wren Kitchens has celebrated the opening of its 80th state-of-the-art showroom at Stone Lane Retail Park in Exeter.

Wren donated £500 to the mayor’s chosen charity, CITY Community Trust, which delivers vital health, education and physical activity programmes in the community. Last year the charity supported 45,000 people, aged three to 83, to lead more active and healthier lifestyles.

The new showroom has created 27 local jobs from kitchen designers to showroom managers and this recent £1m investment is part of Wren’s wider expansion plans, opening 14 showrooms across the UK this year.

Wren Kitchens Exeter showroom manager Alison Hawkins said: “It is fantastic to see the public being inspired and excited by our highly-anticipated showroom. I’d like to thank everyone who has wished us success and a real warm welcome. We look forward to making dream kitchens become reality for the Exeter community and beyond for many years to come.”

w www.wrenkitchens.com

DESIGN

Sales down again at fit out firm Interior design and fit out business DMA has reported a third year of falling sales.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 30th September, 2018, total sales fell 4% to £18.8m from £19.6m in 2017. Pre-tax profit resulted at £117,742, down by 15.2%.

Foreign sales new represent 42% of total revenue, an increase by 4% when compared to its figure of 38% last year.

The group said that its two core businesses, Denne Joinery and DMA Maintenance, reported a profit of more than £1m but was diluted by the legacy losses in its other businesses, DMA Mechanical & Air Conditioning and Cool Space ACR.

During the period, the business opened a new, larger distribution hub in Amblainville, whilst adding that it aims to achieve sales of 150m euros by 2022.

DMA, which has been established for more than 200 years, has completed projects at Sports Direct HQ, Harrods, and Tottenham Hotspur’s new stadium.

w www.vente-unique.com

w www.dma-group.co.uk

September 2019 | 14

aQO Home shopping retailer broadcasts live on ITV

MANUFACTURE

REUPHOLSTERY FIRM WINS NATIONAL AWARD Sofa and chair recovery specialist Plumbs has taken the title of Best Furniture Reupholstery Company 2019 in a national awards scheme.

Multi-channel home shopping retailer Ideal Shopping Direct has partnered with ITV to broadcast live shopping hours.

Launching from Ideal World on ITV1, which went live on 1st August, the partnership will allow Ideal Shopping Direct the opportunity to broaden the reach of its two flagship brands to a new audience.

Jamie Martin, chief executive, Ideal Shopping Direct, commented: “ITV 1 is the premiere and market leading entertainment channel in the UK and I am delighted that Ideal World and Create and Craft will be broadcast on the number one TV channel in the UK. “Ideal World and Create and Craft will be the first TV shopping channel in the UK to broadcast in true high definition as specified by Sky and the multi-million pound investment in HD equipment is all part of Ideal Shopping Direct’s multi-channel retail strategy as the company navigates the digital waters of media proliferation.”

w www.idealshoppingdirect.co.uk

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The family-owned company’s success in the third annual UK Enterprise Awards has been announced by SME News, a quarterly digital publication for small and medium-sized businesses in the UK. Established more than 60 years ago, Preston-based Plumbs operates across the UK through a network of 120 home consultants and is now the country’s biggest provider of recovering and reupholstery services for the home.

Sarah Page (above), managing director and granddaughter of founder Tom Plumb, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have won this category in the awards. Judges scrutinised everything from our products and services to our dedication to the industry and client testimonials. So we feel this is a truly deserved win — and a testament to the hard work of everyone employed by and working with the company.”

w www.plumbs.co.uk

NEWS NEWS

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MANUFACTURE

FOUR NEW FREEMEN JOIN THE FURNITURE MAKERS’ The Furniture Makers’ Company has announced that four new freemen have been admitted.

DIY retailer recovers as demerger plans outlined Home improvement retailer Wickes has ‘recovered strongly’ in the first half of 2019 as sales grow.

During the period, Wickes, part of the Travis Perkins group, said like-for-like sales grew 9.7% with around 2% of the growth estimated to be attributable to the milder weather in March and April in 2019 compared with the same period in 2018.

Core DIY sales performance benefited from a ‘strong, clear and well balanced trading plan’ combined with the addition of new ranges, particularly in decorating and landscaping, and improvements made in the supply chain to increase product availability in store.

Kitchen & Bathroom showroom (K&B) deliveries remained strong through the half, benefiting from the order book carried into the year from the improved Q4 2018 order intake, along with a continued good order placement so far in 2019.

Wickes said that the order book at the end of the half is encouraging, although the wider market for consumer big-ticket purchases remains subdued and the benefit of competitor withdrawal from the market is cycled in the second half of the year.

Wickes adjusted operating profit showed a significant improvement over 2018, with growth of 49% to £52m. Gross margins, which were under pressure in 2018 from competitor pricing activity, have remained broadly stable in 2019.

Three additional Wickes refits were completed in the half, which, along with one new store opened, brings the total number of new store formats up to 125 from an overall network of 241 stores.

Commenting on the demerger, Wickes added: “Since the capital markets update, good progress has been made in strengthening Wickes’ trading performance, and steps have been taken to provide Wickes with greater autonomy from the Travis Perkins group through the separation of its systems and processes.

After reviewing the options, the Board has determined to demerge Wickes to shareholders as a standalone business.

“The demerger of Wickes is a key component of the overall Travis Perkins strategy to focus on trade customers and to simplify the group, which the Board believes will underpin the creation of enhanced value for shareholders. It is expected to complete in H1 2020.

“The Board believes that Wickes, under a management team led by David Wood, is well positioned to thrive as a stand-alone business. Wickes will have the autonomy to execute on its strategy and allocate capital to its customer proposition and growth opportunities with a clearer focus.”

w www.wickes.co.uk September 2019 | 16

The new freemen were admitted to the Company on 25th July prior to the Young Professional Industry Experience lunch and presentation.

The new members are Simon Acres, Graham Jackson, Digby Summerhill and Claire Williams.

Simon is the director of Acres Consultancy Ltd, which specialises in training and recruitment. Simon previously worked for Omega PLC, having finished 20 years as sales & marketing director.

Graham is the owner of GJ Consultancy, having previously had a number of roles within the furniture industry, including managing director at Bell Northampton and retail director for Heals.

Digby is a director at Minotti London, having originally joined as a manager in October 2015. He has previously worked for EDC London Furniture and Lightsource Renewable Energy.

Claire is the strategic business development director at Ocee Design, Claire joined Ocee in April 2017 as a product specialist, having previously worked for Boss Design and ERA. The Master Dids Macdonald OBE said: “It was such a pleasure to welcome Simon, Graham, Digby and Claire as freemen. I am delighted that, without exception, they all indicated they wish to immerse themselves in supporting our work and give something back to this industry. Already, some have indicated which committee they wish to join and all of them bring a diversity of talents and experience from which we will benefit enormously.”

w www.furnituremakers.org.uk

MANUFACTURE

OFFICE FURNITURE FIRM CONTINUES TO GROW Furniture design and manufacturing business JDD Furniture Ltd has more than quadrupled its workforce in the last two years.

The company recently expanded with the opening of a London showroom in Clerkenwell last year, as well as investing in a new warehouse in Brierley Hill.

The business used support and advice from Thursfields Solicitors, which has seen the company grow its staff from five to 20 over the period, with further plans for future growth outlined ahead.

Commenting on its continued success, JDD Furniture said it feels confident on building on its progress in the next few years.

Walsall-based JDD Furniture Ltd, which was founded by Joe Duffell and James Mercy in 2009, specialises in bespoke office furniture.

w www.jddfurniture.com

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Better than expected Q2 sees forecast raised Fashion and homeware retailer Next has raised its profit guidance following a better than expected second quarter.

According to its latest trading update for the 13 weeks to 27th July, total sales were up 4% with online sales delivering another period of double-digit growth, up by 12%, offsetting retail stores decline of -4.2%.

As a result, first half of the year sales increased 4.3%, driven by online sales growth of 11.9%.

In a statement, Next said: “Full price sales in the second quarter have been better than we anticipated. This was 4.5% better than the guidance of -0.5% given in our May Trading Statement.

A closer examination of the quarter’s performance by month (set out in the chart below) shows that full price sales during May and June combined were up +3.0%; July was particularly strong and up +6.8% on last year.

“However, some of July’s over-performance in full price sales came as a result of lower markdown sales in our end-of-season Sale.

“We believe that the sales performance in May/June is a better guide to underlying growth and we have used this number as the basis for our second half guidance.”

Next also confirmed it has increased its full year sales and profit guidance, adding: “The increase in our full price sales guidance is £70m and, after accounting for associated costs, is expected to add £20m to profit.

“Lower clearance rates to date, along with anticipated lower clearance rates in the second half, are forecast to cost an additional £10m.

“As a result, we are increasing our guidance for full-year group profit by £10m to £725m, marginally up on last year.”

w www.next.co.uk

RETAIL

Flooring retailer moves into Bristol unit Flooring retailer Connection Flooring has secured a new unit at the Imperial Retail Park in Bristol.

Connection Flooring has agreed a new 10-year lease for a 5,519sq ft store through property agent Savills, who brokered the deal on behalf of Capreon.

The business joins home furnishings retailers ScS, Bensons for Beds, Home Sense and B&Q, as well as Argos and Next.

Johnny Rowland, out of town retail director at Savills, said in a statement that Connection Flooring adds to its differentiated retail offering.

w www.flooringsuperstore.com September 2019 | 20

From left, Stuart Noble, Dar; Andrew Nixon, Martech; Steve Davies, LIA; Paul Cassidy, Whitecroft; Joao Pola, Signify; Richard Bushnell, Osram; Phil Cross, Aurora; Matt Carpenter, Feilo Sylvania; Terry Dean, DW Windsor Group; Andrew Gooding, Integral LED; Peter McVeigh, Status International; Mark King, Eaton; Peter Hunt, LIA; David Wright, Jordan Reflectors; Peter Le Manquais, Wila; Russell Cameron, Innermost; Andy Hughes, Zumtobel

LIA WELCOMES NEW COUNCIL MEMBERS July saw the first Lighting Industry Association (LIA) Council meeting chaired by new president Terry Dean, of DW Windsor Group. Terry was joined by two new vice-presidents, Peter McVeigh, chairman and managing director of Status International (UK) Ltd, and Phil Cross, managing director of Aurora Lighting Group.

Terry, chairman of DW Windsor Group, chief executive of DW Windsor and Urban Control accepted the tenure of the presidency at the LIA’s Annual Lunch earlier this year, where the retiring president, David Ribbons, presented Terry with the chains of office, which he will hold for a two-year term.

Terry said: “It is a great honour being elected to this role. Over the course of my presidency, my focus will be on continuing to improve communications between the LIA and its members.

Our members look to the LIA as a body of excellence, technical support and advice: supporting the LIA in delivering on this mission, in a professional manner, will be my priority” The Lighting Industry Association is managed and governed through a collection of well-respected industry wide representatives, collectively known as the LIA Council.

Its purpose is to ensure the LIA’s continued prosperity by collectively directing its affairs, while meeting the appropriate interests of LIA members, the lighting industry and relevant stakeholders.

Council members are elected from the LIA membership on a two-year rotation basis. As council members automatically ‘retire’ they can seek re-election or be replaced by another individual put forward from their member company.

This year candidates were nominated for the eight available seats. Elected by the membership, the following retiring council members were re-elected — Richard Bushnell (Osram), Peter McVeigh (Status International) and Dave Ribbons (Lutron Electronics Limited).

The LIA also welcomed new council members, including: Andrew Gooding (Integral LED), Stuart Noble (Dar Lighting), Joao Pola (Signify), Graeme Shaw (Zumtobel) and Peter Van Der Kolk (John Cullen Lighting).

The LIA Council thanked those retiring members and also took a moment to remember Paul Keen, from GE, and Lou Bedocs, a long-standing contributor to the LIA and the wider lighting industry, both of whom sadly passed away this year.

w www.thelia.org.uk

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NEWS NEWS

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MANUFACTURE

GROUP PROGRESSES ON REDUCING COSTS Interior furnishings group Walker Greenbank has reported a decline in UK sales whilst overseas increased.

According to its half year trading update for the six months ended 31st July, 2019, trading conditions continued to be challenging and saw total brand sales rise by 0.4% in reportable currency (down 0.7% in constant currency).

Brand sales in the UK, the company’s largest market, accounting for approximately 52% of total brand sales, were down 3.1%, whilst international brand sales were up 4.4% in reportable currency (up 2% in constant currency).

The international performance reflects a temporary change in the US operating model relating to the distribution of the Clarke & Clarke and Studio G brands in that revenue was recorded on an agency basis rather than on a distribution basis.

As announced on 1st July, 2019, Kravet Inc. has been appointed to represent the Clarke & Clarke and Studio G brands in the US under a new distribution agreement.

parcelLab grows global team to 50 with new appointments Post-purchase communications specialist parcelLab has strengthened its sales team to drive global expansion.

As part of its continuing global expansion programme, parcelLab has made two senior appointments including Mark Camilleri (left) as head of international clients, and will be based in parcelLab’s rapidly-growing London office, which has just moved to new premises in Hammersmith.

Meanwhile, Conor McGrath (right) has been appointed head of UK clients taking the head count in Britain to 10.

Camilleri has extensive experience in international sales, having worked in the UK, Italy and Germany. He joins parcelLab from Stam Audio Engineering, where he was head of sales.

McGrath brings more than 30 years of experience in technology sales to parcelLab’s UK operations. He has a strong track record in senior business development roles in the UK and the US across a range of large enterprises, including BT, Nomura, Fujitsu, Northern Telecom and Siemens.

Both appointments show parcelLab’s clear ambition to grow not just in the UK, but globally. parcelLab chief executive and founder Tobias Buxhoidt said: “We’re delighted to welcome Mark and Conor to parcelLab, which means we now have 50 staff worldwide.

“Their extensive experience and expertise will prove invaluable in building our customer base further in the UK and beyond, ensuring retailers across the globe deliver the best possible shipping experience to their customers.” parcelLab is a cloud-based, post-purchase solution for smart parcel monitoring and targeted customer communication during the e-commerce delivery process. It serves more than 350 online retailers, including Ikea and Made.com, across 38 countries.

w www.parcellab.com August 2019 | 22

On a like-for-like basis, international brand sales were down slightly by 1.5% in reportable currency (down 2.9% in constant currency) whilst like-for-like brand sales in the US, the company’s second largest market, were down approximately 2.9% in reportable currency (down 5.6% in constant currency).

In manufacturing, sales were down 4.6% in the first half, despite strong growth of approximately 17.2% in export sales.

In a statement, Walker Greenbank added: “The company progressed a number of efficiency and cost-saving initiatives during the first half, including the warehouse and back office integration of the Clarke & Clarke business into the Style Library portfolio of brands (Sanderson, Morris & Co., Harlequin, Zoffany, Scion, and Anthology).

“This integration work is substantially complete and the Board expects that this will result in a saving of approximately £2m on an annualised basis, of which approximately £1m will be delivered in the current financial year. The Board’s expectations for the full year remain unchanged although visibility is limited

by Brexit and continuing wider macro-economic uncertainties.”

w www.walkergreenbank.com

MANUFACTURE

FLOORING FIRM CONTINUES TO GROW SALES Northern Irish-based flooring distributor Flanagan Flooring has reported a fifth straight year of turnover growth.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 30th September, 2018, total sales rose 4.8% to £13m from £12.4m in 2017. Gross profit increased 4.5% to £2.3m from £2.2m, whilst pre-tax profit resulted at £117,482, slightly down from its profit of £176,283 recorded the previous year.

Stated within its report, the company said that it was pleased with the results and that it has maintained its market share.

w www.flanagan-flooring.com

aQO LIGHTING WHOLESALER SEES UK SALES FALL Lighting wholesaler Searchlight Electric has reported a return to sales growth as profit falls.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 30th June, 2018, total sales rose 1.1% to £27.5m from £27.2m in 2017.

Despite the small uplift, UK sales declined 5.4% to £20.8m from £22m, although EU sales increased 29.2% to £5.3m from £4.1m.

Revenue from outside the EU also improved, up by 39% to £1.4m from £1m.

Gross profit slightly fell 0.7% to £13.4m from £13.5m, whilst pretax profit resulted at £2.3m, down by 28% compared to its profit of £3.2m the previous year.

Stated within its report, the business said that all markets and sectors were challenging with the retail sector bearing the brunt of low consumer confidence and the effects of online trading.

The company added that whilst the worldwide lighting market remains high competitive, the entire UK lighting industry is operating in a very demanding period.

w www.searchlightelectric.com

Fit out firm expands team Office fit out and design business Blueprint Interiors has announced the appointment of Charlotte Barnett (right) as its new business development manager.

Charlotte will be working with its head of business development, Andrew Hobson (left), to strengthen existing client relationships. She will also be building new relationships with architects, designers, property agents and the owners of commercial offices who are looking to create motivating workspaces for their people.

Charlotte said: “Blueprint Interiors is an award-winning forwardthinking company that is consistently introducing innovative ideas into workplace design. I’m really excited to be joining the team and look forward to diversifying into a new sector.”

w www.blueprintinteriors.com

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Luxury lifestyle brand to open in Westquay Property firm Hammerson has announced that luxury lifestyle and home furnishings brand The White Company will be opening its first site in Southampton at its flagship destination in the city, Westquay.

The new 6,500sq ft unit is expected to open in time for Christmas and will feature all its collections.

Iain Mitchell, UK commercial director at Hammerson, said: “Across our portfolio, we’re actively rotating our retailer mix, with a focus on aspirational, growing brands that offer a really engaging in-store experience. The White Company is a prime example of that strategy in action.

“The store will bring something new to Westquay, and will complement other brands we have at the destination, such as Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger, and Laing the Jewellers.”

Sarah King, director of property at The White Company, said: “The White Company is delighted that we will be opening in time for Christmas in Westquay. We have been looking at Southampton for quite some time and following our successful pop-up in Westquay last Christmas, we knew this opportunity would be a perfect addition to our portfolio.

MANUFACTURE

PROFIT GROWS DESPITE SALES HICCUP Contract furniture manufacturer Carlick has reported an increase in profit, despite a slight decline in turnover.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 31st December, 2018, total sales fell 2.3% to £12.6m from £12.9m in 2017. Pre-tax profit resulted at £1.3m, up by 18.1%.

The company said it had continued to invest in its infrastructure, plant and machinery and motor fleet. This investment has totalled £310,000 over the last two years.

w www.carlickcontractfurniture.co.uk

DESIGN

Interiors firm appoints new home design consultant Montgomery Interiors has hired its first home design consultant outside of London, to be based at its flagship concession inside Macclesfield’s Arighi Bianchi.

“We are looking forward to seeing our store coming to life and can’t wait to become part of the exciting shopping destination that is Westquay Southampton.”

Eleanor West (left) joins Montgomery Interiors following roles at Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and Homesense. She is also the brand’s first home design consultant outside of London.

w www.thewhitecompany.com

RETAIL

Value homewares retailer opens new store Discount furniture and homeware retailer B&M has announced the opening of its new store in Lichfield.

Situated on Imperial Retail Park in Eastern Avenue, the new store has created more than 50 jobs and features a variety of products, including duvets and pillows from Silentnight, as well as other home furnishings.

As part of the opening day process, colleagues nominated local charity South Staffordshire Mental Health Network to be given VIP treatment. They helped unveil the new store with the Lord Mayor, Coun Deborah Baker.

The store manager, Kurt Frank, said: “The team at South Staffs Mental Health Network really stood out for us as they go the extra mile for local people in the community, so we wanted to give them some VIP treatment as a thank you for all the hard work they do.

“We hope that our donation can help them to continue the great work they do. Our new colleagues worked hard to get the store ready, and we can’t wait to show customers their brand new B&M.”

w www.bmstores.co.uk

Her new role will see her helping clients achieve their dream home by working with them to create their perfect design scheme. She will advise on all aspects, from wallpaper and paint options to blinds, curtains, upholstery and those all-important finishing accessories.

Her role will be a mix of store-based consultation and client home visits.

Eleanor said: “My styling experience and interior design education made for the perfect combination to confidently put room designs together. This is something I now do at Montgomery Interiors, I help the customers create a whole design scheme that brings the room together.”

Eleanor’s appointment follows the launch of Montgomery Interiors’ new-look concession within Arighi Bianchi.

The outlet features a refreshed display and large windows to showcase products in natural light. It carries fabrics from leading brands, including Harlequin, Jane Churchill, Osbourne & Little and Romo.

Eleanor added: “I am really looking forward to the home visits.

This will allow me to gain a great idea of what works in the space and will enable me to create a more successful design.

I have always been creative with a keen eye for detail. This is what drives me to choose and create a look I know our customers will love.”

w www.montgomery.co.uk September 2019 | 24

aQO DESIGN

NEWS

RETAIL

Carpet retailer lays down more growth Carpet retailer Wilsons Carpets has reported another year of growth in both its top and bottom lines.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 30th September, 2018, total sales rose 13.8% to £25.5m from £22.4m in 2017. Gross profit increased 14.6% to £8.6m from £7.5m, whilst pre-tax profit also delivered an uptick of 7.6% to £1.4m from £1.3m year-on-year.

Stated within its report, the business said it has performed satisfactory during the year and the company continues to grow through further investments in new and existing retail outlets.

Wilsons added the current trading is in line with expectations as it looks to build on its previous growth.

w www.wilsonscarpets.com

MANUFACTURE

FLOORING GROUP CONTINUES POSITIVE STANCE Floorcoverings group Headlam has reported a growth in sales with the UK continuing to reflect positive trading.

According to its latest trading update for six months ended 30th June, 2019, total revenue increased by 3.3%, with both the residential and commercial sectors in the UK and continental Europe all contributing positively to this performance.

There was a continuing gradual shift in the business mix towards the commercial sector, highlighting its overall stronger performance relative to that of the residential sector, with the residential and commercial sectors up 2.0% and 5.7% respectively.

On a like-for-like basis, revenue increased by 1.8% and 3.2% in the UK and continental Europe respectively against the same period in the prior year, resulting in an overall like-for-like revenue increase of 2%.

The UK’s positive like-for-like performance was principally driven by a stronger Q1 compared with the weaker prior year comparatives, with Q2 being marginally positive. The Board is maintaining its overall expectations for the full year, ahead of the traditionally stronger second half of the year.

In a statement, Headlam said: “The company continues to make progress in evaluating various constituents of its operational efficiency programme. Of those being progressed, the trial in South Wales targeting more effective delivery fleet utilisation has been successfully completed, resulting in an increased number of order drops per vehicle with a reduction in the number of commercial vehicles needing to service the local area.

“Additionally, the sod-cutting ceremony for the new 190,000sq ft regional distribution centre in Ipswich, which will support customers throughout the south east of England, marks the start of the construction phase of the project.”

w www.headlam.com

Emily Nickless, left, receives her award from Dids Macdonald OBE

ACID unveils 2019 IP Essay Award winner Every year the Furniture Makers Company, the City of London Livery for the furnishings industry, sponsors a unique threeweek programme, where aspiring young people are given the opportunity to visit and understand all areas of the furniture industry, including materials, designing, manufacturing, pricing, marketing, sales, customer service and the importance of intellectual property. The initiative, now in its fifth successful year, is called the Young Professional Industry Experience (YPIE).

Anti Copying in Design (ACID) includes a mini IP masterclass to YPIE participants, delivered by its ACID affiliate lawyers, to ensure that they not only understand the basic elements of intellectual property (IP) law but learn the fundamentals of creating a proactive IP strategy, essential for all brands whether micro or macro.

This year’s outstanding IP essay was written by Emily Nickless, digital manager of Parker Knoll, who won a free ACID membership for her employer, a magnum of champagne and the 2019 ACID IP Essay Award Certificate. A copy of the article will appear in the annual Furniture Makers’ Austin Friar and in the ACID newsletter.

Emily said: “I am delighted to win this award. My essay exemplifies that at Parker Knoll we take not only the protection of our IP seriously but look at the IP underpinning the Parker Knoll brand as the golden seam running through our business.

We look forward to being part of the ACID community.”

Dids Macdonald OBE, chief executive of Anti Copying in Design & Master of the Furniture Makers’ Company, said: “Emily’s essay demonstrated not only a keen understanding of the importance of IP generally, but translated this learning into the key aspects of the Parker Knoll brand, whose awareness of brand protection is paramount. The threats through intellectual property infringement cannot be underestimated and it is essential that these are not threatened but protected to ensure growth.

“I would like to thank our three legal affiliates, Gavin Llewellyn, of Stone King; Sarah Merrifield, of Boult Wade Tennant; and Liveryman Kelly Hudson, of McDaniel & Co, for their fascinating input and expertise they bring to the ACID mini IP Master Class.”

w www.acid.uk.com September 2019 | 25

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DESIGN

Carpet and beds retailer gains market share Carpet and beds retailer United Carpets Group has reported a double-digit growth in sales.

According to its latest results for the year ended 31 March 2019, total sales rose 10.4% to £23.98m from £21.72m in 2018. Likefor-like sales, however, decreased by 0.1%.

Pre-tax profit resulted at £0.59m, down from its profit of £1.52m the previous year.

Within its product categories, floorcoverings sales increased 0.3% on a like-for-like basis, an upswing from -1.6%, whilst likefor-like sales in beds was down 4%.

Paul Eyre, chief executive, said: “An unusually hot summer last year, combined with the football World Cup and a softer housing market, made this a challenging year. Despite this, sales increased by 10.4% through supporting our existing store network and further developing new business opportunities which helped increase market share, whilst only making a small positive contribution to profit in the year.

“Profit before tax was within the reduced range anticipated in March 2019 reflecting an increasingly difficult retail environment.

The business remains well placed with a largely franchised store portfolio operating under a trusted brand, delivering good quality and great value products, and able to take advantage of any upturn in the broader market. The current financial year has started positively with like for like sales up 4.6%for the first 16 weeks.”

Looking ahead, the company added: “We have identified some areas where cost savings can be made and others where performance can be improved. While we do not expect trading conditions to improve markedly from last year, we are confident in our ability to compete effectively and profitably.”

w www.unitedcarpetsandbeds.com

MANUFACTURE

Natuzzi launches debut AR store Upholstery manufacturer Natuzzi Italia has announced the launch of its first Augmented Store in Madison Avenue, New York.

Natuzzi developed a New Customer Journey to improve its physical retail experience and customer satisfaction with a combination of technological solutions like virtual and augmented reality, holographic display, advanced 3D modelling and interactive product configurator, with existing retail techniques.

The project was put together with Microsoft and Hevolus Innovation. It has been designed as an innovative customer journey able to make the shopping experience engaging and exciting.

One of the first in the furniture industry, the new journey consists in a mixed reality system located in dedicated space in the Natuzzi Italia store. By wearing mixed reality headsets, like Microsoft HoloLens, the visitor dives into the Natuzzi Augmented Store, an endless virtual showroom, where all the furnishing settings created by Natuzzi designers can be seen.

The retailer co-designs the interior project with the visitor and shows a scaled 3D model with Holoproject technology. As if having a 3D printer or the expert hand of an architect, the retailer shows the bespoke project thanks to the HoloLens, showing the model of the room and allowing the customer to comprehend and appreciate its details.

The UK arm of US-based furniture business Vitsoe has reported a return to profit as sales jumped 30%.

By wearing immersive mixed reality headsets, the customer will also be able to walk around the project and explore it from every point of view on a real scale, as if it was already manufactured.

Before customers leave the store, they will receive a 360° rendering, which they can browse by touching the screen of their phone or looking into a VR headset, and take home and show it to their families.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 31st December, 2018, total sales rose 31% to £8.9m from £6.7m in 2017. Gross profit increased 69% to £4.4m from £2.6m, whilst pre-tax profit resulted at £165,920, significantly improving from its loss of £455,545 recorded the previous year.

The mixed reality system is a part of a broader strategy around customer interaction in both the digital and physical space.

The digital innovation process aims to improve the customer experience, reduce the time decision of the final customer and at the same time increase the conversion rate of the orders.

Stated within its report, the business said that combined with the predicted reduction in interest charges from £651,000 to £376,000, the elimination of one-off costs incurred during its move to Leamington Spa and increased margin as a direct result of the Vitsoe Inc integration, this has led to a return to profit.

Pasquale Junior Natuzzi, creative director and stylist, said: “The Natuzzi Augmented Store is a revolution in the interior design and decoration. We have worked with our partners on a new customer journey to give consumers an idea of their homes in a way that makes them fall in love.

Furthermore, Vitsoe outlined that EBIDTA recovered during the year by £438,000 to £634,000, representing a mark up of more than 200%.

“We let them walk through their home virtually, showing our collection without boundaries. The mixed reality system gives us an incredible opportunity to lower the stock and the inventory in our stores and increase the sales per square foot.”

UK DIVISION DELIVERS DOUBLE-DIGIT GROWTH

w www.vitsoe.com September 2019 | 26

w www.natuzzi.com

aQO RETAIL

JYSK founder sadly passes away

Second Industry Legend film launches

The man who started global furniture brand JYSK 40 years ago with just one store in Denmark and an ambition to always deliver a great deal for customers has passed away at the age of 71.

Lars Larsen (pictured), who continued to keep the €3 billion+ store group in private ownership, handed over control of the business to his son, Jacob Brunsborg, the board’s new chair.

Lars Larsen was at the opening of the UK’s first JYSK store, in Lincoln, and at the time admitted that opening in the UK had been a long-term ambition for the brand. Since then JYSK has gone on to win a committed following here with big expansion plans for the next five years.

Country manager for JYSK UK, David Ashton, said: “It is a sad day for all at JYSK. The values and culture that he created more than 40 years ago are embedded within everything we do today.

“A true tradesman, he started from absolutely nothing to build the JYSK Group into the huge organisation.

“If you ever had the privilege to meet him you will know that he was warm, welcoming and incredibly down to earth. Quite a special man, and somebody for us all to really look up to.”

w www.jysk.co.uk

Dedicated KBB and merchant service provider Acres Consultancy has launched the second film in its Industry Legend series, designed to share the thoughts and advice of some of the most successful professionals in the industry.

The second film features Peter Bird founder, of Anglia Interiors, a family business that celebrated 45 years in business in 2019.

Anglia Interiors has showrooms in Bedford and Huntingdon and has built a reputation locally for quality kitchens and bedrooms.

Principal director at Acres Consultancy, Simon Acres and Peter Bird, talk about smart solutions and the advice Peter would give those wanting to build a successful independent retail business.

Whilst customers have become more knowledgeable and the web has changed how customers shop, Peter believes that the ability to sell is still the most important skill for any retailer.

He said: “People buy from people, so staff must have the skills to engage with potential customers when they visit the showroom. In my experience, doing what you do best and bringing in experts to look after other aspects, training, recruitment and social media, will save time, money and stress.”

The next industry legend film will feature well known industry professional Ray Isted.

w www.acresconsultancyltd.co.uk

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Business on track for 40 openings Kitchens business Howdens has reported a double-digit growth in profit as well as an increase in sales.

MANUFACTURE

MANUFACTURING GUILD MARK SECURES NEW CO-SPONSOR

According to its latest trading update for the 24 weeks ended 16 June, 2018, total half-year sales rose by 5.4% to £652.6m from £619.4m in 2018.

The Furniture Makers’ Company, the City of London livery company and charity for the furnishing industry, has announced that technology manufacturer Biesse has signed a three-year deal to be co-sponsor of the prestigious Manufacturing Guild Mark.

Howdens said that gross profit margin improved to 61.9% (2018: 61.3%), reflecting a price increase in January and a more disciplined balance between volumes and price achieved in depots.

Awarded by The Furniture Makers’ Company, the Manufacturing Guild Mark has been the mark of excellence, distinguishing Britain’s top furnishing manufacturers since 1993.

Pre-tax profit resulted at £78.1m, up by 13.5% from £68.8m.

This was due to good sales growth with improved gross margin, partly offset by continued investment in the business.

The mark is awarded to companies on completion of a successful independent audit that assesses high standards across all aspects of the business, including manufacturing, design, product quality, marketing, finance, commitment to training, employment conditions and sustainability.

During the course of 2019, it plans to open around 40 depots in the UK, including the five opened in Northern Ireland, and around five in France; 15 depots were opened during H1 2019.

w www.howdens.com

MANUFACTURE

The audit is carried out by FIRA International on behalf of The Furniture Makers’ Company and companies are reaudited every three years to ensure they retain their high standards.

As co-sponsors, along with Lectra, Biesse has given an undisclosed sum and committed to promoting the Manufacturing Guild Mark to its extensive customer base through its website and sales team.

The Manufacturing Guild Mark is only open to companies that manufacture most of their products in the UK. Currently 19 British manufacturers hold the coveted Manufacturing Guild Mark, including Bisley, Delcor, Ercol, Gratnells, Harrison Spinks, Jay-Be and Wren Kitchens.

FLOORING FIRM WINS RECYCLING AWARD Designer Contracts has been named Take Back Partner of the Year for the fourth time by Carpet Recycling UK (CRUK) at the annual awards and conference held at Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham.

Its national distribution manager, Glen Mitchell, was also named Recycling Champion of the Year.

Designer Contracts managing director Peter Kelsey said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be regarded so highly by Carpet Recycling UK for both our recycling efforts — and for Glenn, who works tirelessly to ensure the systems are in place to divert more than 250 tonnes of waste from landfill each year. We also won the Take Back award in 2015, 2016 and 2017, so to win for a fourth time is fantastic!”

The company’s Take Back Scheme works by diverting 90 percent of unfitted carpet waste through waste solution companies, which convert it into a sustainable resource.

In addition to the Take Back Scheme, the company has invested heavily in its equipment, which includes a £40,000 bailing machine that helps to recycle more than 70 tonnes of cardboard and more than 20 tonnes of plastic each year.

The company also attained Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) accreditation, which is given to businesses that ensure its vehicles are driven in a manner that minimises fuel consumption and emissions.

w www.designercontracts.com September 2019 | 28

Ben Burbidge, Manufacturing Guild Mark chairman, said: “Biesse is known worldwide as a manufacturer of quality machinery and has built this reputation over the past 50 years.

We couldn’t think of a better partner to work with, alongside our existing sponsor Lectra, as we look to build upon the Manufacturing Guild Mark’s reputation as a distinguisher of excellence for UK furnishing manufacturers.”

Steve Bulmer, chief executive at Biesse Group UK, added: “To be involved as corporate members of this great charitable organisation in addition to being co-sponsors of the Manufacturing Guild Mark presents us with a great opportunity to not only support the industry as a whole but also to encourage manufacturing excellence within the UK furniture industry. We know existing holders have benefited greatly as the Guild Mark demonstrates they have achieved and maintain the highest standards in all aspects of their businesses.”

w www.biessegroup.com

RETAIL

Digital retailer makes ‘solid start’ Online retailer Findel has reported a solid start to the year.

According to its latest trading update for the 16-week period to 19th July, 2019, Studio, the group’s largest business, grew revenue by 3% in this ‘relatively quiet period’ against a strong comparator from prior year (up 11% in Q1 against a full-year outturn of 8%) with recent weeks showing significantly stronger levels of growth.

w www.findel.co.uk

We are delighted to invite you to The Autumn Fabric Show on the 1st-2nd October 2019 where we will be exhibiting our whe latest collection of upholstery fabrics.

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FABRICS SUPPLIER APPOINTS AKA PR Furnishing fabrics and wallpaper supplier Prestigious Textiles has announced the appointment of interiors specialist AKA PR to handle its B2C public relations activity.

The long-established agency, which has supported some of the biggest names in British furniture, will work with the group to help increase brand awareness and raise the profile of the business and products, using strategic and targeted communications.

Nicola Brumfitt, marketing director at Prestigious Textiles said: “The team and I are very excited to be working with AKA PR to further promote our wide choice of fabrics to the consumer and look forward to maximising AKA’s expertise within the sector to discover new ways to reach different audiences.”

Jan Turner, director at AKA PR, added: “We’re delighted to have been chosen to represent Prestigious Textiles and continue to tell its success story.”

w www.prestigious.co.uk

MANUFACTURE

FIRE BREAKS OUT AT STORAGE FACILITY

MACHINERY SUPPLIER MOVES TO NEW FACILITY Mattress machinery specialist Mattresstek has relocated to a new site due to ‘continued growth’.

Mattresstek, which was founded just over two years ago in March 2017, has moved to a new 16,000sq ft manufacturing and assembly facility at Forest Mill in Rossendale, Lancashire.

The business confirmed that the relocation was due to its continued growth and increasing order book since its inception, as Shaun Peel, technical director at Mattresstek, told Cabinet Maker: “The move was necessary to cope with current production needs. Significant investment has gone into the move and in the manufacturing and assembly department, as well as the construction of a building for new offices.

Furniture business Wood Bros has confirmed a fire broke out at its storage facility in Ware.

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene on 21st August and managed to extinguish the fire on Marsh Lane, with no injuries reported.

In a statement through social media, Wood Bros said: “Thankfully there were no injuries and the fire was brought under control quickly by the emergency services. Our huge thanks to Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service for their rapid response, and for all the well wishes from members of the public. Fire investigators are working to establish the cause of the blaze, and in the meantime we are still open for business.”

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that an investigation into the cause is under way.

w www.woodbros.co.uk

MANUFACTURE

‘DISAPPOINTING’ YEAR FOR LIGHTING GROUP Lighting group Dextra has reported a decline in both sales and profits. According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 31st December, 2018, total sales fell 17.2% to £56.3m from £68m in 2017. Gross profit slipped 19.2% to £24.3m from £30.1m, whilst pre-tax profit also decreased 17.1% to £14.4m from £17.6m year-on-year.

Stated within its report, the business said it was disappointed with its results as it struggled to retain turnover levels across all of its brands. Dextra further commented that Brexit and all the uncertainty around it continues to hamper performance.

w www.dextragroup.co.uk September 2019 | 30

“We are constantly developing new machines and evolving as a company — two new machines have just been launched (VPTEK / vertical panel cutter and a handle maker) and we also have a simulated side stitch machine in design, which is for a current customer. We aim to launch this within the next six weeks.”

Mattresstek officially moved in on 2nd August, with the relocation creating two new jobs, as well as offering potential for further recruitment.

Shaun said that the business has been extremely busy and plans to celebrate its milestone move later in the year. “Every year’s turnover has surprised us right from the first year. Second year turnover was a significant increase and this year we have already matched the second years’ turnover in the first months,” he added.

“We have a very good loyal customer base with repeat orders and many new customers ordering from us all the time. We haven’t had time to stop and appreciate the move properly yet. But hopefully we will do something to celebrate before Christmas!”

Adding a final word on the current state of the market, Shaun revealed: “The mattress production market seems to be very up and down. We have some customers who seem to be a little quiet and some who are the busiest they have ever been.”

w www.mattresstek.co.uk

MANUFACTURE Machinery supplier Apropa talks about its anniversary, achieving a milestone 65 years.

MANUFACTURE Testing body SATRA has opened its new purpose-built technical facility.

Production & Components

Discovering a love for hemp at Harrison Spinks | Pages 34-36 September 2019 | 31

PRODUCTION AND COMPONENTS

MANUFACTURE FIRA International has released details of two new flammability courses.

PRODUCTION AND COMPONENTS NEWS PRODUCTION AND COMPONENTS

MANUFACTURE

MANUFACTURE

CHINESE FURNITURE FIRM EARMARKS EU FACTORY Chinese furniture company UE Furniture has confirmed plans to open a factory in southern Europe.

UE Furniture revealed that its new 40,000sqm factory would be located in Deva, central-western Romania. It is understood that the first phase of production on the build will begin in 2021 and will see the business invest around €8.4m in the facility.

The new factory will focus on making office furniture chairs and sofas for its European market. EU Furniture, which was founded in China in 2001, is located in Anji Region and operates in more than 60 countries.

w www.uechairs.cn

MANUFACTURE

SATRA OPENS NEW FACILITY

MOBUS SEES GROWTH FOLLOWING RESTRUCTURE

Testing body SATRA has opened its new purpose-built technical facility.

Fabrics manufacturer Mobus has reported an increase in sales.

The facility brings together laboratory services operations with the design and manufacture of test equipment for improved testing in global supply chains, including in-house laboratories.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 30th September, 2018, total sales rose 7% to £17.9m from £16.8m in 2017. UK sales rose 10.8% to £14.3m from £12.9m, whilst EU sales remained consistent at £1.4m. Sales in the USA climbed 14.8% to £318,804 from £277,928, although sales in Asia fell 14.2% to £1.8m from £2.1m.

Gross profit fell 10.5% to £3.4m from £3.8m, whilst pretax resulted at £1.4m, down by 33% from £2.1m recorded the previous year. Stated within its report, Mobus said that profitability was restrained by pressures on margins and a restructure of the business under its MBO, which was completed in March.

The company added that recent investments in support staff, IT, warehousing and testing will provide the business with a great platform for future growth.

w www.mobus.co.uk

MANUFACTURE

DANZER GROWS UK SALES Austrian hardwood timber and flooring supplier Danzer has reported a growth in UK sales, despite overall turnover declining.

According to its 2018 results, total sales fell 3.6% to €202m in 2018, which was mainly attributed to technical challenges at Danzer France, the trade dispute between China and the USA and unfavourable order intake from the automotive industry.

Despite the decline, sales within its UK market increased — although an exact figure was not reported — but stood as its second largest export market behind the US.

One significant difference will be a faster and more efficient feedback loop from the laboratory accreditation team out in the field back to test equipment design personnel, so the next generation of machines can be anticipated and product development aligned with rapidly-evolving customer demand.

John Hooker, SATRA’s chief executive, said: “The opening of Century House demonstrates SATRA’s continued commitment to the development and close working of our engineering and quality services teams. As well as extending our current portfolio of 300 test machines, this large and modern facility will give us the opportunity to move further towards advanced manufacturing.”

The new facility offers laboratory managers in any country video conference access for remote maintenance, training, calibration guidance and problem solving for specific test equipment and laboratory set-ups.

“More than 200 in-house laboratories around the world have achieved SATRA Laboratory Accreditation,” John added. “The rigorous auditing process by SATRA assesses their ongoing ability to test in accordance with particular test methods and standards.”

As well as the continued success of SATRA’s accreditation programme and its reputation for being the authority in footwear supply chains, last year saw substantial growth in orders for SATRA-manufactured test machines.

It was also the best year on record for the volume of SATRA test consumables shipped, which is evidence that many test laboratories around the world acknowledge the importance of using high-quality reference materials and consumable items that satisfy relevant test methods.

Danzer’s US production facilities for sliced wear layers for wood flooring performed well, running at full capacity for the first time in 2018.

“It is fitting in SATRA’s centenary year that we have opened this fantastic new facility,” John said, “which shows that SATRA is thriving internationally and at the same time continues to invest and create jobs in the local Northamptonshire region.”

w www.danzer.com

w www.satra.com

September 2019 | 32

aQO DESIGN

FIRA INTERNATIONAL TO HOST FLAMMABILITY TRAINING

Softwood conference registration now open

FIRA International has released details of two new flammability courses that will be taking place in Wednesbury, West Midlands.

Registrations for the International Softwood Conference 2019 at the Radisson Blu Astrid hotel in Antwerp, from 16th to 18tg October, are open via www.ettf.info/isc2019

The courses will be delivered by Phil Reynolds, technical development manager at FIRA International.

The courses confirmed are: · An introduction to Domestic Furniture Fire Safety Training, Tuesday, 8th October, 10am-2pm. · An introduction to Non-Domestic Furniture Fire Safety Training, Wednesday, 9th October, 10am-2pm.

The curriculum for the domestic furniture course will explain the requirements of the Furniture & Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations (FFFSR) covering the supply of furniture and beds for domestic use. The course will be structured in a way to show why and how the regulations came about, a look at what’s in and out of scope, together with an explanation of the testing and labelling requirements.

Crucially this course will also reference the recent Government response to the 2016 consultation regarding the FFFSR. The response, which was published on 18th July, came off the back of the Environmental Audit Committee’s enquiry into ‘Toxic Chemicals in Everyday Life’. Whilst details and time-frames are currently unclear, more is expected over the coming months.

The non-domestic course will explain how the requirements of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order affects the supply of furniture and beds for office, contract and hospitality use.

The conference is primarily targeted at producers and importers of softwood, who will meet for two days of inspiring presentations and contacts. Antwerp, on the crossroads of international trade and a major harbour for wood and wood products, is an ideal venue for this.

ISC2019 is hosted by the softwood importers section of Fedustria, the Belgian federation of the Textile, Wood and Furniture Industries and organised in co-operation with the European Organisation of the Sawmill Industry, EOS, and the European Timber Trade Federation, ETTF. In addition to the “technical” meetings, participants will be able to get to learn about Antwerp better at a welcome reception and official conference dinner at famous landmarks, such as the MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) and Antwerp Zoo.

w www.ettf.info/isc2019

MANUFACTURE

UK TEXTILES BUSINESS SOLD TO US FIRM Textiles supplier Vision Support Services Group (VSS) has been sold to US-based Westpoint Home.

Both courses will take place at the Element Materials Technology ‘supersite’ in Wednesbury. The 50,000 square foot site, which opened in June 2017, is operated by the parent company of FIRA International. The location was chosen to help make the FIRA International courses more accessible for those from across the furniture industry who are based in the north of England.

VSS has grown to become one of Europe’s leading suppliers of textiles to the hospitality sector, boasting key customers such as Marriott, Hilton and Accor, as well as John Lewis in retail.

Places will be limited on both courses to give the opportunity for delegates to ask questions related to their specific company circumstances.

The combination of VSS and WestPoint Home will create a world-leading textile business with a dominant position in the hospitality sector. The VSS management team will look to accelerate the impressive rate of growth that has already been achieved across Europe, the Middle East and Asia with a new push into North America.

Further details are available from www.fira.co.uk/training, by emailing info@fira.co.uk or calling +44 (0)1438 777 700.

w www.fira.co.uk

VSS also has a growing foothold in Asia, having built service centres in China, India and Pakistan and sales operations in Dubai, Kochi and Hong Kong.

Dan Wright, executive chairman and founder of VSS, responsible for its development to this point, will step down after the transaction to concentrate on his other business interests.

Dan Wright said: “I am proud of the market-leading business that we have built at Vision, crowned last year by the Exporter of the Year National Business Award. We have grown revenues by over 10 times and expanded the employee base to more than 150 across six time zones. I am pleased to hand over the reins to Laurie Thomas and the team who, with WestPoint’s backing, will be able to take the business to new heights.”

Laurie Thomas, managing director, who has worked alongside Dan in delivering growth in Vision since its inception, will continue to lead the business.

w www.visionsupportservices.com September 2019 | 33

PRODUCTION AND COMPONENTS

MANUFACTURE

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 / H A R R I S O N S P I N K S

How long have you been in your current role?

I have worked at the hemp plant for nine years all together. It’s only in the last 18 months that I have taken charge of it though.

September 2019 | 34

B ple eh

Can you give a brief background on yourself?

Before I worked here, I was mainly in sales.

I was also a stay-at-home dad for two years, which completely changed my outlook on life.

I actually became involved in hemp by accident — I just wanted a job that enabled me to finish work in time to pick the kids up from school. It is purely coincidence that the job involved hemp and that I now love working with it so much.

What is the best thing about your role?

I’m fascinated by the different uses of hemp;

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ind

Can you describe your current job role and responsibilities?

My job is to run the hemp processing plant at the Harrison Spinks farm at Hornington Manor. I also provide talks and tours to visitors and customers about why we use hemp and its benefits as a material.

eld Name... John Horsfi ocessing Supervisor Job role... Hemp Pr Spinks Company... Harrison d@aol.com Email... johnhorsfiel

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John Horsfield, from Harrison Spinks, features in our People Behind The Products series, reveals how wanting a job that enabled him to pick up his children from school led him to his love for working with hemp and a recent visit to Buckingham Palace to meet Prince Charles

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PRODUCTION AND COMPONENTS

Meet John

it really is a miracle product! My favourite thing is that it can be used to replace fossil fuels and other non-sustainable products or processes with a climate-friendly alternative.

For every acre of hemp grown, one tonne of CO2 is absorbed. Together with other local growers we produce 300 acres of hemp, so 300 tonnes of CO2 are absorbed in the process.

What is the most challenging?

When working with hemp, the weather can often be a challenge. Hemp will only grow well in certain conditions, for example it must

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

have a mild climate and humid atmosphere to grow properly. The strength of the hemp can also be a challenge when harvesting and breaking it down. Hemp fibres are stronger than steel, so this can be really difficult to work with at times.

Can you describe your typical working day?

A typical day for me, working with hemp, will involve taking the raw plant and converting it into the fibre product, which is then used in three different ways: •Harrison Spinks mattresses — We convert hemp fibres into natural filling pads for mattresses, which reduces CO2 produced per mattress by 83 per cent. Using hemp as a mattress filling is beneficial for the end customer as well as it being an antibacterial material that is breathable, hygienic and can help to regulate the body’s temperature, keeping us comfortable throughout the night.

•Animal bedding and building materials —

These are made from the waste product from hemp processing. The bedding is used for the animals that we keep here on the farm, including sheep that we hand-rear in return for their wool to go in our mattresses. We also turn some of the waste into briquettes, which are then sold externally, including to a local power station that uses them as a coal power substitute.

•Biofuel — Biofuel is also made from waste hemp product. We burn this biofuel to power the Harrison Spinks farm’s biomass boiler, which fuels Hornington Manor.

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

Initially, I really just wanted a job that enabled me to finish work in time to pick up the kids from school. My passion for hemp and sustainable product manufacturing followed, once I began to understand just how great it is. »

“MY FAVOURITE THING ABOUT HEMP IS THAT IT CAN BE USED TO REPLACE FOSSIL FUELS AND OTHER NONSUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS OR PROCESSES WITH A CLIMATE-

FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVE .”

John Horsfield has worked at the hemp plant at Harrison Spinks for nine years September 2019 | 35

PRODUCTION AND COMPONENTS

The hemp that is used inside Harrison Spinks’ mattresses

aQO

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 / H A R R I S O N S P I N K S

What are your favourite things in life?

Hemp, beer and computer games.

What are your future ambitions?

In terms of career progression, I’m very happy with the position that I’m in. However, I do have many ambitions when it comes to manufacturing products in a sustainable way.

I want to use hemp to create carbon negative products, so that it is easier for customers to make greener choices. I strongly believe that people want to know that their choices are benefiting the climate.

Do you have any furnishing industry icons you admire?

Sorry, no.

Do you have any career highlights that spring to mind?

Not long ago I got to travel to Buckingham Palace with Peter Spinks, our chairman, to meet Prince Charles, which was incredible.

We were invited for a meet and greet after winning the Queen’s Award for Sustainable Development earlier this year.

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

I have a clock in which the centrepiece is a

John recently met Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace dial from a Spitfire aeroplane cockpit. My Grandfather brought it back from the war and the surround was carved from an old church beam by my Great Great Uncle Benny.

What do you love about the furnishing industry?

The use of hemp as a sustainable material.

What could be improved to make the industry better in your opinion?

I think that a lot more companies should use hemp in their manufacturing. It has so many uses and is such a great, sustainable, miracle product, it really should be considered by more businesses.

What industry trends are you seeing at the moment?

Businesses are starting to understand that more customers want greener alternatives to interiors and pieces of furniture, and rightly so — if you can be sustainable, then why wouldn’t you be?

Can you predict any future trends that may emerge?

I think that businesses will start to produce more eco-friendly and sustainable products and will adjust their manufacturing processes to be more sustainable as well. You have to give the customers what they want and, in

September 2019 | 36

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Can you share something that your coworkers may not know about you?

I don’t think that anyone would know that my birthday is coming up, I’m quite a private person. They also might not know that Jelly Babies are my favourite sweets. I never mention I have them, so they don’t ask for one!

the future, it will be assumed that businesses are behaving in a responsible way with the environment in mind. I think that businesses will more and more be held accountable for their carbon footprint.

Did you know that Cabinet Maker has been established since 1880? How long have you been reading the magazine?

I didn’t know that, no. I’m afraid I was only made aware of Cabinet Maker very recently; I focus my attention more on green farming and processing rather than the furniture industry. However, I am now converted, and you have another reader!

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

I honestly have no idea. I love what I do so I’d probably be a lot sadder and less motivated as I doubt it would be something that I am as passionate about as hemp.

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

Grumpy, stubborn, but loyal.

w www.harrisonspinks.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.

P R O D U C T I O N A N D C O M P O N E N T S F E A T U R E |A P R O P A PRODUCTION AND COMPONENTS

Sala mattress wrapping, pressing, folding and rolling line

65 Furniture and bedding machinery supplier Apropa talks to Cabinet Maker about its anniversary, achieving a milestone 65 years.

The year 1954 marked a number of milestones achieved in British history, particularly from a sporting standpoint. You may remember it was the year England, France and Wales were all crowned as the rugby union Five Nations Champions, with England also winning the Triple Crown and Calcutta Cup. Or perhaps you’re a football fan who may recall Wolves winning their first ever First Division title, whilst West Bromwich Albion were crowned FA Cup winners for the fourth time in their history with a 3-2 victory over Preston at Wembley. Then there’s the England cricket team, which reclaimed the Ashes by beating Australia on their own turf 3-1 over a five-Test series.

However, there was also another milestone — the birth of a machinery business that has continued to grow through the decades, which may have gone under the radar. The business in question is, of course, Aporpa Machinery, which is currently celebrating its 65th anniversary in the furniture and bedding trade.

Since 1954, Apropa Machinery has supplied cutting-edge machinery and automation technology to the foam, bedding, furniture September 2019 | 38

and building industries. As agents for worldleading machinery suppliers, its aim is to help its customers increase productivity and reduce costs and downtime, as well as boost revenue through technology.

The company, led by Jonathan Borchardt and Andrew Chadbourne, has continued to build on its foundation, experiencing rapid growth over the past five years, with the mattress market proving to be a particular success story.

“For mattress production, Apropa supplies equipment from start-to-finish, including foam cutting lines, automatic glue lines for foam and spring mattresses, covering machines and bed-in-a-box mattress wrapping, pressing and rolling equipment to significantly reduce shipping costs,” Jonathan said.

The Teddington-based business supplies machinery to the UK from a number of European brands, mainly out of Germany, Italy and the Netherlands. In fact, when the business started out it formed a partnership with Baumer, who manufacture all types of cutting machinery for all types of foam and other expanded materials, and are still the

years strong

agent representing the brand in the UK today.

Jonathan continued: “Looking at foam and latex mattresses in particular — you can achieve significant cost-savings by cutting your foam or latex in-house using our Baumer foam-cutting machines rather than buying in pre-cut parts for which you pay a premium.

The fact that the technicians at Baumer produce the fastest foam-cutting machines on the market means you will be able to cater to your customers with minimal floor space required for machinery. When cutting foam, the natural by-product is, of course, waste and it is always a key job to minimise this as far as possible. Baumer, seeing this need, has developed advanced nesting software, BaumerNest and MattressNest, as an important solution.”

Minimising waste is key in becoming a more sustainable business and using its supplier Grauff you can create high-quality filling material from foam waste by granulating and blowing it into cushions, pillows and even futons.

“With a way to create money from waste material, the combination of Baumer and

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Another key partner in the Apropa portfolio is Lamit, now owned by Baumer, who are regarded as the global technology leader for automatic mattress glue lines. Jonathan explains: “Through Lamit’s technology, you have complete control over the amount of glue applied to your mattresses, meaning far greater consistency in the quality of your product and a far greater output in the same production time. Additionally, you will be able to significantly reduce over-use of glue compared to manual hand spray guns, where overspray often occurs or the operator applies too little or too much glue.”

For traditional mattresses, Apropa is proud to confirm it represents the market leaders in quilting machinery, Mammut. With its unique patented sewing heads, quick looper and material change system, Mammut is unmatched with stitching speeds at up to 1,700 stitches per minute. Other bed-focused brands that are part of the Apropa umbrella include mattress foam-drilling business Boers Techniek, large product packaging specialist Desco and Sala, with the latter an industry specialist in terms of machinery for the boxed-mattress market.

Apropa offers a complete supply service, with one concept in particular experiencing a market boom. Andrew explains: “The biggest revolution in the mattress industry over the last five years is arguably the rolled mattress and bed-in-a-box. Apropa Machinery is heavily involved in this field, having supplied most of the major bedding companies which produce such mattresses with its machinery from Italian supplier Sala.”

Sala Macchine Speciali was the world’s first company to produce vacuum packing machinery for mattresses and has constantly innovated for more than 30 years, becoming a key supplier of mattress wrapping, pressing, folding and rolling lines to companies all over the UK and worldwide.

“A shift of perception in the market, aided no doubt by huge marketing campaigns from bed-in-a-box brands like Eve and Casper, now means what was previously regarded as something just for budget mattresses has become the norm for middle and upper range mattresses too,” Andrew said, continuing: “Both foam and spring mattresses can be roll packed and in particular even larger cost savings are possible with foam mattresses that can be folded before rolled meaning a mattress that might normally be 1.8m rolled can now be just 1m!”

Jonathan added: “The market is changing and one in two beds are now bought »

“OUR VISION IS TO CONTINUE WHAT WE ARE DOING AND TAKE THE MARKET AS IT COMES BY BEING

READY TO ADAPT TO WHATEVER MAY CHANGE IN THE NEAR TERM.”

LEFT: Baumer horizontal CNC for foam and latex ABOVE: Mammut multi-needle chain stitch quilter VMK250 September 2019 | 39

PRODUCTION AND COMPONENTS

Grauff machinery means you can reduce your waste to minimal levels and increase revenue streams and find new markets and importantly help save the planet,” said Jonathan.

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P R O D U C T I O N A N D C O M P O N E N T S F E A T U R E |A P R O P A PRODUCTION AND COMPONENTS

online by the consumer rather than instore, so that is a big shift. There has been huge marketing campaign’s from the bed-in-a-box market that has fuelled this growth and it is changing how people shop. We are proud that one in two rolled mattresses sold in the UK are made using our equipment and that the likes of The Belfield Group and Harrison Spinks chose our machinery to automate their mattress production facilities. Over the past few years our business has seen rapid growth and we are looking to maintain this momentum moving forward.”

So how is the business celebrating its anniversary year? Jonathan continued: “We are investing heavily in our online presence with a new website, which is set to go live by the end of 2019. The whole website is being

redesigned with a fresh, modern new look that we are incredibly excited about.

you are being looked after by the best in the industry.

“Our vision is to continue what we are doing and take the market as it comes by being ready to adapt to whatever may change in the near term.”

As Apropa continues to celebrate its milestone year, Jonathan concluded by saying that the team is excited for the years ahead.

For a business to stand the test of time is an achievement in itself, but to continually build momentum recognises that its machinery is made to last. Here’s to another strong 65 years.

Apropa was quick to point out that its supply chain also stems outside the beds industry, with brands Bornemann, Eagle, Croma, GEW, Kottmann and Tara — offering milling, routing and rebond foam production plants and foamprocessing machinery.

w www.apropa.co.uk

One of the key advantages Apropa has is its after-sales support with highly-trained UK based engineers covering installations, servicing and repairs so you can rest assure

over its 65-year history Founded by Dr. Michael Mayer, the company was established in Poultry, City of London with a principal mission of supplying specialised machinery to the Foam Industry as well as additives for the meat industry.

The company split into two totally separate entities. Jameson Equipment Limited, under the direction of Michael Mayer, continued to supply additives to the food industry. Ralph Borchard founded Apropa Machinery Limited, which took over the sole distribution of equipment to the foam industry and all allied industries.

Ralph Borchard passed away after a short illness which led Jonathan to take over the role of Managing Director of the company. Jonathan continues in the role to this day.

Apropa Machinery expanded into the United States market for the first time under Apropa USA.

65 strong years.

Jonathan commented on another historic milestone: “We have got this far through hard work, superior products, dedication and loyalty to our valued customers and integrity in the way we conduct our business.

We look forward to continuing our business relationships with our large list of satisfied customers and gaining new customers who will appreciate our work ethic and the way we have always maintained our company on the cutting edge of current technology.”

1954 1957 1974 1976 1986 2004 2010 2012 2019

Ralph Borchard, the stepson of Michael Mayer, joined the company and took over the responsibilities for the machine side of the business.

September 2019 | 40

Ralph’s son, Jonathan joined Apropa and right away began his training at Albrecht Baumer for a period of six months.

During this period, Jonathan learned not only the language but also the details of the foam machinery manufacturing business.

Apropa Machinery Limited celebrated its 50th Anniversary.

Jonathan moved the company to its present location in Teddington, Middlesex.

MANUFACTURE The Sofa & Chair Company invests in its showroom and reveals how the changes will boost future growth.

RETAIL Heritage Furniture talks about how retailers can make the most out of social media.

Upholstery and Cabinet

Heritage Furniture partnering for success | Pages 46-48 September 2019 | 41

UPHOLSTERY AND CABINET

DESIGN Sofa.com has announced the launch of its first ever Contract Collection.

UPHOLSTERY AND CABINET NEWS UPHOLSTERY AND CABINET

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MANUFACTURE

LA-Z-BOY UK SPONSORS ANNUAL GOLF EVENT La-Z-Boy UK was the principal sponsor of the Scottish Furniture Trades Benevolent Association (SFTBA) Annual Golf Outing.

The event, which took place on 8th August, at Deer Park Golf Course in Livingston, raised funds for people in Scotland connected with the furniture industry, who through illness or misfortune may require a helping hand.

Sofa.com launches debut Contract range Upholstery retailer Sofa.com has announced the launch of its first ever Contract Collection.

The brand offering has been extended to fully encompass the growing trade and contract market. The fully compliant range of styles and fabrics has been developed as a direct response to requests from leading designers for a collection that is suitable for use in commercial projects.

This high-performance contract collection has passed the BS7177 & BS7176 flammability tests with all fabrics CRIB 5 rated.

Handmade to order on a lead time of eight to 10 weeks, the range consists of nine bestselling sofa designs with matching chairs and footstools, including one exclusive model, the Zeppelin, as well as beds and mattresses.

w www.sofa.com

RETAIL

ScS in line with expectations

Competitors had the chance to win individual and team prizes, including the star prize of a £25,000 car provided by La-Z-Boy UK. After the dinner, a grand auction raised additional funds, with guests bidding on lots that included a La-Z-Boy recliner chair.

La-Z-Boy UK marketing director Mark Draper said: “It was a fantastic opportunity for furniture professionals to get to know one another better, enjoy a game of golf in beautiful surroundings, and, of course, raise money for a great cause.”

w www.la-z-boy.co.uk

DESIGN

Lowdown on Loaf’s new collection Furniture brand Loaf has revealed its new AW19 collection, which lands this August.

The collection features cabinets, sofas and new bed ranges, including the Smooch sofa and Cinema sofa. Other products include Caboodle and Caboodle Jr, a solid oak coffee and side table duo that have an upholstered cube parked neatly underneath that can be used as a footstool or extra perch.

Parquet Pie is a hand-laid parquet-topped round table that extends into an oval for large uses. The new Multi-Storey table offers a variety of uses from a coffee table, footstool, chair and occasional bed with an unfolding compact single mattress for a spare guest bed underneath.

Upholstered furniture and floorings retailer ScS has confirmed that trading remains in line with expectations.

Loaf is also adding more sleep styles to its range of beds. Parlay is a new day bed, Sugar Puff is a traditional French-style design, and Pillow Talker features a marshmallow headboard.

According to its latest trading update for the 52 weeks ended 27th July, 2019, like-for-like order intake sales increased 4.2%, with a two-year like-for-like order intake growth of 5.2%.

w www.loaf.com

The group reported like-for-like order intake growth for the 33 weeks ended 16th March, 2019, of 2.9%, and the full year performance reflects the strong growth the group has achieved in the last 19 weeks.

This growth has been partly assisted by weaker comparatives in the prior year, as a result of the hot weather and football World Cup. David Knight, chief executive of ScS, commented: “This result is underpinned by the team’s relentless focus on becoming Britain’s best value sofa and carpet retailer, thereby facilitating our continued outperformance in the current political and economic environment.

MANUFACTURE

FURNITURE MAKER REVEALS POSITIVE FIRST HALF Furniture manufacturer Wiemann UK is celebrating double-digit year-on-year independent customer sales growth in the first half of 2019.

“We will continue to target profitable growth by providing an excellent customer experience, with outstanding value, quality and choice for our customers.”

Simon Hewitt, managing director of Wiemann’s UK agent Litmus Furniture, said: “Despite the tough trading conditions, Wiemann has been working hard to build business with our customers and striving for continuous improvement. We have been focusing on factors such as quality, value for money and excellent service, which we believe are the recipe to succeed and win in the long-term. We’re now exploring ways we can maximise on and continue our success in the second half of the year.”

w www.scs.co.uk

w www.wiemannuk.co.uk

September 2019 | 42

ALBA

ROUGH SAWN OAK LIVING & DINING COLLECTION

Showcasing Two New Collections For 2019 & Some Of The Best Living, Dining and Bedroom Collections. We Look Forward To Seeing You At The Autumn Furniture Show, Hall 2, Oct 2019

W W W. H E R I TA G E F U R N I T U R E U K . C O M APPROVED SUPPLIER

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Moore by The Sofa & Chair Company

The Sofa & Chair Company has continued to invest for future growth

Kate Wright, creative and brand director at The Sofa & Chair Company, speaks to Cabinet Maker about its recent showroom investment and how the changes will help towards future growth.

Investing for the future is key for the continued success of any business. This could be in the form of new products, new premises, new appointments or new infrastructure. In the case of The Sofa & Chair Company, it was time for an overhaul at its London showroom.

A leading manufacturer of luxury sofas and bespoke furniture for both commercial and retail applications, The Sofa & Chair Company continually strives to offer an impeccable service and a memorable buying experience.

In an effort to keep ahead of the game, the business decided the time was right to upgrade its 60,000sq ft showroom, which

September 2019 | 44

is situated at the Western Avenue Business Park on Mansfield Road.

The showroom, which also houses the UK’s largest fabric library, was officially relaunched in June and, a few months on, Cabinet Maker caught up with Kate Wright, creative and brand director to find out more.

“The refurbishment was in part driven by practical requirements. The showroom did not have air conditioning or heating and with the extreme weather the UK is now experiencing, it became necessary to ensure a good customer experience for everyone walking through the doors,” Kate revealed.

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“With the refurbishment, we moved some offices and staff to another part of the building and opened up the ground floor as a showroom, increasing the number of roomsets to more than 140. This enables us to display a wider selection of our range and provide more space to showcase several new brands. We have also created a new area for luxury developers to design a show home, enabling them to sell off-plan, prior to breaking ground.”

Kate was quick to point out that at any given time, there is more than £2.5m-worth of products on display in the showroom, with displays changing on a weekly basis. She continued: “The displays are changing weekly as new products and ranges are being added, so the showroom is constantly transitioning, making it really exciting for those who visit us often and those who are stepping through the door for the first time.

“The showroom’s best feature is without a doubt, the sheer scale of it. There is no other luxury showroom like it in the UK offering the range of products and services we have.

Customers who walk through the door are in awe of the size and some spend hours perusing the products and our extensive fabric library, which is the largest of its kind in Europe.”

Provence Bed

It is not surprising to hear that initial feedback since the reopening has been very positive for the business, especially when the market remains challenging. Kate proudly stated: “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, not only for the fresh presentation of our collection but for the breadth of products we are now able to display. This gives our customers much more access to visit us to view and try out products they are interested in, but also those that they may not have previously seen.

“In this rather challenging market, we are delighted with sales results and have seen many customers who had moved to other suppliers return to us as the quality of our product cannot be matched. We are the market leaders of luxury upholstery and we work incredibly hard to keep improving every year.”

Key products to its success this year include its contemporary-feeling Moore modular sofa, which has already become its best-selling modular sofa and one of its most popular sofas to date. Another product playing a vital role in the last 12 months include its new Provence bed, which has proved to be a huge success with customers.

On trends, Kate explained: “Customers are

“THE SHOWROOM’S BEST FEATURE IS WITHOUT A DOUBT, THE SHEER SCALE OF IT. THERE ARE NO

OTHER LUXURY SHOWROOMS LIKE IT IN THE UK OFFERING THE RANGE OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES WE HAVE.”

certainly becoming more adventurous with colour and mixing various materials. From vibrant fabrics to textured wallpapers, we’re noticing that people are being much bolder with their choices in furniture. Despite this, we’re also seeing them move towards simpler forms. These tend to offer more versatility, allowing people to complement or contrast with accessories, colour or materials to create a unique look that is personal to them.”

Back to the relaunch of the showroom, the business has expanded its sales teams, bringing in new consultants and account managers, enabling it to reach a wide range of new customers. The Sofa & Chair Company has also created an operational role to coordinate the sales processes and hosted a special event to celebrate the investment. “We hosted a party for some of our fabulous clients, suppliers and staff,” Kate said, adding: “Despite the sheer size of the showroom, it was packed! It was a truly fantastic way to celebrate the new chapter of our company.

“The significant investment is just the first phase of the showroom’s overhaul with many exciting changes still to come. It is a really exciting time for the business.”

w www.thesofaandchair.co.uk September 2019 | 45

UPHOLSTERY AND CABINET

Inside the newly revamped 60,000sqft showroom

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Alba

Partnering

for

Success

Sid Mohmed, sales director at Heritage Furniture, talks to Cabinet Maker about how the business is partnering in many ways with retailers and how it can utilise social media to drive footfall into stores.

The furniture industry has a reputation for reacting slowly to trends, especially when it comes to customer experience whilst shopping and adopting marketing strategies for their business. The industry predominantly still implements old school tactics, like seasonal sales and advertising in the local paper, which, for the most part, makes sense.

The goal is to drive footfall to the store so that consumers can make a purchase.

However, with the way purchasing behaviour and habits have changed, those High Street retailers who solely rely on this footfall traffic for business are the ones most likely to suffer the most when the economy takes a hit — just like Brex… Actually, lets not go there!

September 2019 | 46

Cabinet Maker caught up with Sid Mohmed, sales director at Heritage, who regularly visits retailers and often finds himself asking the question: what other channels do they use to sell through?

“Most have some web presence and basic social media set-up, like Facebook or Instagram,” Sid said, continuing: “However, a large majority of them still struggle to make an impact. Even some of the larger retailers who have cash resources still miss the mark when it comes to using social media as they post but get very little engagement or reaction to the latest collections.”

Osby

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aQO UPHOLSTERY AND CABINET

Sunbury

So whether you are established in digital marketing or one who can scream out at the mere sight of a post, Sid has shared an insight into some tips that could help increase engagement, with the aim to benefit footfall.

The basics — make sure you have a website.

“In 2019 you would think this is a no brainer.

However, the number of retailers who I have seen with no or a very basic website is alarming. I would argue having a website is business-critical as it acknowledges your existence on the web.

Social media “Facebook has been a godsend to many retailers, allowing the potential to reach out to a whole new customer base online.

It is mostly free and has a very low cost of advertising compared to the traditional newspaper adverts out there. If you are not using Facebook and Instagram, then as a retailer you are significantly missing out.

Not only in attracting a new audience, but in terms of building awareness, and standing out in this competitive market place.”

Moving beyond a post

“The simple fact is that this is the first step most customers do — use Google to look you up whether they know about you or not. Then closely second is to ensure your website looks respectable.

“I say this with the utmost respect but, as consumers, we make snap judgements when visiting a website and if you have a poorlydesigned site, which does not do justice to your retail outlet, then you are the one who will really miss out. The site design on the most basic level helps establish credibility and trust.”

“Now, this is the fun part. As an independent retailer, you can really stand out and compete with the likes of massive High Street brands with huge marketing departments.

“In order to maximise this medium, retailers need to move away from just splashing the latest collection and saying ‘buy now’. No one likes to be sold to, but as consumers we do like to engage.” »

“YOUR POTENTIAL CUSTOMERS ARE

CRAVING CONTENT ,

ENGAGEMENT AND ENTERTAINMENT. THEY WANT TO BE INVOLVED IN THE CONVERSATION.” September 2019 | 47

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Hartuka

“I REGULARLY ADVISE OUR CUSTOMERS TO PARTNER UP WITH OTHER LOCAL BUSINESSES” Alstead

So what’s the secret to effective Social Media?

It is pretty simple, the key is in the name -— ‘social’, as Sid explains: “Your potential customers are craving content, engagement and entertainment. They want to be involved in the conversation. Engage your audience by asking for opinions, utilising polls and prompting a reaction.

“I was talking to one retailer about our Alba collection, which has the option for a bench to go with the dining table instead of chairs.

I said, ‘why not ask online which do you prefer, carry out a poll with both options’.

This is just one example, but thinking a little bit outside of the box can really produce some tremendous results —and plenty of engagement.”

The big question: How to use Social Media to increase footfall?

“It doesn’t just stop at getting interactions and feedback. You can use social media to organise events to get people to come into the store.

“I regularly advise our customers to partner up with other local businesses. For example, if you have a bakery nearby, have a free doughnut day at your store. Get people to check-in using Facebook and take a pic on Instagram whilst tagging your outlet. Not only are you helping out your local area by joining September 2019 | 48

forces with other independents, you will soon see an uplift in traffic, as well as creating an experience that will be talked about — and, of course, shared!” Sid said.

Heritage pays special attention on being able to see the challenges retailers are constantly having to face and the way the industry is going.

By doing this, the company has been able to forge closer partnerships with its retailers and help them make the change into the digital world.

“Retailers need to evolve or risk being one of the casualties of these times,” Sid revealed, adding: “At Heritage we try to offer support above and beyond providing furniture and prices.

“In the spirit of partnership, suppliers need to help retailers to get up to speed, provide support and get them to adopt and change to see their business thrive.”

For more information regarding partnering with Heritage, contact sid@ heritagefurnitureuk.com Heritage Furniture will also be exhibiting at the Autumn Furniture Show in October, so

make sure you drop by the stand at Hall 2.

w www.heritagefurnitureuk.com

MANUFACTURE Sweet Dreams unveils what will be on show during this month’s Bed Show in Telford.

RETAIL The NBF has had a busy year and is looking forward to its 10th Bed Show.

Beds September 2019

ACE of Beds | Shire Beds (Stand H20)

BEDS

DESIGN eve Sleep’s Clare Rydon features in our People Behind the Products series.

BEDS NEWS NEWS

RETAIL

MANUFACTURE

Dutch bed group posts ‘stable’ Q2

MATTRESS RECYCLING RATE INCREASES 55%

Dutch beds group Beter Bed Holdings has reported an increase in sales during its second quarter.

The National Bed Federation’s (NBF’s) third report on the rate of mattress recycling in the UK has revealed a 55% increase in the number of mattresses being handled by recyclers between 2015 and 2017 and evidence that this growth will continue in the near term. The recycling rate, calculated as a percentage of new mattress replacement sales, has increased from 15% in 2016 to 19% in 2017.

According to its latest trading update, sales were ‘almost stable’ at €88.6m. Like-for-like sales increased by 2.4% due to good sales increase at Beter Bed in the Benelux, Sweden and in DBC Wholesale, which compensated for the decrease at Matratzen Concord.

Beter Bed added that it has secured a loan of €7m, provided by three major shareholders, whilst it anticipates completion of the, previously announced, full or partial exit of Matratzen Concord before the end of 2019, with several parties expressing serious interest.

Its new businesses, comprising Sängjätten in Sweden and the DBC wholesale business, realised €5.2m sales, representing a strong total sales growth of 62.5% compared to the same period last year, and a like-for-like sales growth of 27.9%.

John Kruijssen, chief executive of Beter Bed Holding, said: “Over the past period, we have been in constructive dialogue with our banks, and I am pleased to announce that we have been able to reach an agreement. At the same time, we were able to secure additional financing from our major shareholders.

“This shows that we have key stakeholders that are confident on the strategic direction and that we are taking the right actions to get back on track to a financially healthy company with strong prospects. The announced financial short-term platform, by means of temporarily waiving covenants and a secured loan, enables us to proceed with the process to investigate the full or partial exit alternatives for Matratzen Concord.

“At the same time, our key focus will remain on accelerating our activities in the Benelux region, which showed a strong sales performance over the second quarter of this year, with increased focus on Sweden and on boosting the digital and wholesale channels, where the current growth rates are ahead of what was initially anticipated. Although the general market conditions will remain essential, we believe these activities and their current performance positions us well for a sustainable future.”

w www.beterbed.nl

MANUFACTURE

BEDDING SPECIALIST SUFFERS UK SALES DIP Bedding and home textiles supplier Rapport Home has reported a decline in both sales and profit.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 31st October 2018, total sales fell 5.1% to £14.8m from £15.6m in 2017. UK sales fell 18.5% to £12.3m from £15.1m, whilst sales in the EU significantly increased from £488,051 to £2.5m.

Gross profit slightly decreased 2.6% to £3.7m from £3.8m, whilst pre-tax profit resulted at £1.3m, down by 23.5% compared to its profit of £1.7m recorded last year.

Stated within its report, the company said that administrative expenses increased during the year, resulting in a reduction in profit.

w www.rapporthome.com September 2019 | 50

Based on detailed analysis of published data plus surveys and interviews carried out with local authorities, manufacturers, retailers and recyclers, The 2019 End of Life (EoL) Mattress Report aims to paint a picture of the number and type of mattresses there are in circulation across the UK and their end of life fates. It is produced on behalf of the NBF (the trade association representing UK and Irish bed manufacturers and their component suppliers) by environmental consultants Oakdene Hollins.

The report estimates that 7.26 million /181,500 tonnes of mattresses were disposed of by households, businesses and service providers in 2017 at a cost of more than £20m, excluding transport and handling — 91% of all new mattress sales. Of these, 19% — 1.363 million / 32,3271 tonnes — were diverted from landfill to mattress recycling businesses. This is 55% higher than the 879,000 estimated for 2015. The rest went into landfill (40%) or energy from waste (41%). Figures were not fully available at the time, but the prediction is that the recycling rate for 2018 will have increased to 20-22%, with mattress recyclers reporting that their throughput in 2018 was 29% higher than in 2017.

Although changes in methodology do not allow for exact comparisons, it would appear that manufacturers, retailers and other businesses have increased their mattress recycling significantly since the previous survey.

There has been explosive growth in the mattress recycling sector in the last few years, with new companies being established and existing ones expanding. As it matures, the level of professionalism in the sector appears to have much improved, probably due to customer expectations and a recognition of the importance of trust and visibility to building long-term relationships with customers. The imminent launch of the Register of Approved Mattress Recyclers (RAMR) scheme, being developed by a stakeholder panel including the NBF and the Textile Recycling Association, will be another milestone in that journey.

However, there are still geographical gaps with many areas of the UK not covered by a local recycler and transport/logistic and economies of scale barriers to overcome. The report describes the recycling technologies used by these recyclers, ranging from manual and semi-automated deconstruction to shredding, and the end fates of the materials recovered. Most avoid landfill altogether, with around 20-25% of materials by weight going to RDF (Refuse Derived Fuel) production. An increase in mattress and component reuse was also noted — a move that the NBF cautiously supports, as long as there is clear labelling to indicate this at the point of sale.

The report concludes that while the mattress recycling sector appears to be commercially viable at the scale it is now, at the current rate it would take another 50 years to reach a 100% mattress recycling rate.

The full report can be accessed online at:

w www.bedfed.org.uk/nbf-recycle

Visit us during the Bed Show 2019 Stand G1

Latexco offers fire retardant versions of its hyper-soft flofom and its viscoelastic aerfom.

Thanks to the usage of expandable graphite, a fire retardant mineral, all Latexco’s foams are free of halogens or brominated fire retardants.

Latexco’s fire retardant foams meet the British Standard Crib 5 criteria.

info@latexco.com | www.latexco.com

Come and see us at the Minerva Autumn Show & the Harrogate Flooring Show

ARE YOU GIVING YOUR CUSTOMERS THE BEST? If not, you need to discover the award winning mattressgard range Create the most hygienic and restorative sleeping environment possible Hygienic, Comfortable & Anti dustmite Budget & Luxury Ranges • Quilted & Fitted Sheet Styles Bamboo, Polyester Tencel or Cotton Introducting an exciting new product to our range.

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Fire retardant comfort

BEDS NEWS NEWS

MANUFACTURE

MANUFACTURE

CAIRNGORM CAPITAL ACQUIRES MILLBROOK HEALTHCARE Cairngorm Capital Partners LLP has announced its second fund, Cairngorm Capital LP II, has acquired Millbrook Healthcare Limited together with its subsidiaries, Ultimate Healthcare Limited1 and Consolor Limited2.

This transaction marks Cairngorm Capital’s entry into the assisted living sector, a long-held objective of the firm, which was facilitated by the appointment of Dr Amit Thaper as Investment Director in April 2017.

Dr Thaper, who practiced as an orthopaedic surgeon with the NHS for several years, will use his knowledge and expertise to help Millbrook to respond proactively to the challenges presented by an ageing population and to enhance service users’ experiences.

Established in 1995, Millbrook Healthcare is an outsourced provider and manufacturer of equipment, assessment services and home-based adaptations that help service users live independently at home for longer. On behalf of local authorities and the NHS, Millbrook offers the broadest range of community and mobility-related services in the industry. The company is the only provider to supply these as an in-house, fully integrated service to commissioners. Headquartered in Southampton, it has 29 service centres across the UK. Millbrook will benefit from capital and expert strategic guidance from the Cairngorm Capital network. A strengthened Board will be led by Mike Kerins, who joins as non-executive chairman.

As the former chief executive and president of Cromwell Group (Holdings) Limited, a leading industrial distribution firm, Mike brings invaluable experience of developing and growing businesses.

He is supported by Victor Vadaneaux, a Cairngorm Capital operating partner, who joins as a non-executive director to help the management team drive operational improvements. Victor brings considerable expertise in business transformation, gained at Advent International, GE Capital and McKinsey & Co. Dr Thaper, who led Cairngorm Capital’s team on this investment, explained, “Our firm is very conscious of the need to support the evolving needs of an ageing population and to reduce the pressure on acute services.

“It has long been an objective of ours to support companies delivering the solutions to do so. Millbrook is an excellent example of the type of company that we like to partner with. It is well established in the healthcare industry, has a differentiated offering and is run by an excellent management team.

Millbrook’s dedication to delivering the highest level of care to service users is present throughout the organisation, and we are excited to partner with Phillip and his team.”

BED MAKER SURPRISES RUGBY SUPPORTER Bed brand Sealy UK recently surprised a lifelong Wigan Warriors super fan to a dream match day experience and extra special Sealy sleep prizes as part of the brand’s first ever Dream Come True Awards.

Sealy teamed up with the Wigan Warriors to ask fans to nominate a friend or family who deserved a treat for going above and beyond in their life or needed a pick-me-up.

Hundreds of people nominated their friends and family members as part of the awards, with Mick Treen (above), of Clayton-LeMoors, picked as the lucky winner. Nominated by his fiancé Rachel, Mick was chosen after working tirelessly to support his family since the birth of his son in September, and dreaming of meeting the Wigan Warriors rugby players for years.

Sealy surprised Mick with a phone call from one of his favourite players, Willie Isa, who revealed Mick had been picked as the winner and would be treated to a VIP hospitality experience, behind-the scenes stadium tour and player meet and greet at Wigan Warriors’ game against Hull KR on Friday, 5th July.

The surprise continued at half-time when the couple were treated to a Sealy duvet and pillow set along with a two-night stay at the luxurious Lodore Falls Hotel in the Lake District.

Sealy is the Wigan Warriors official sleep partner, a sponsorship that has included the provision of Sealy mattresses to all players and even the installation of a ‘rest bed’ for recovery at the team’s high performance centre. The awards underpin Wigan Warriors aim of working with its partners to enhance the fans’ experience whenever possible.

Reflecting on his experience, Mick said: “I’m a huge Wigan Warriors fan so getting the call from Willie Isa to say I had won was just unbelievable. Meeting the team, having a private stadium tour, and being on the actual pitch instead of just the stands was incredible. It was one of the best nights of our lives.

Thank you to Sealy and the whole team, it really was a dream come true.”

Colin Croll, owner of Millbrook said, “I am extremely proud of all that we have achieved at Millbrook to date — we are performing strongly, have established a terrific management team and are well-prepared for the future. Consequently, I believe that this is the appropriate time for me to step aside and for Millbrook to progress with new owners, who will ensure that it fulfils its potential. Cairngorm Capital is the right partner for the management team and will continue to focus on delivering excellent service to all of our key stakeholders, particularly our service users.”

Dan Burton, Group Commercial Director at Wigan Warriors said: “We’re always looking at ways we can reward our fans and bring them closer to the club and its players through initiatives with our Club Partners, and working with Sealy, we’ve truly managed to do that in an engaging way.”

w www.millbrook-healthcare.co.uk

w www.sealy.co.uk

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Neil Robinson, sales and marketing director at Sealy UK, said: “Once again, we really enjoyed collaborating with the Wigan Warriors. Having the opportunity to provide such a unique surprise to this couple after hearing their story is wonderful.”

Carpenter Bed Show Creative 137mm h x 192mm Landscape.qxp_Layout 1 13/08/2019 11:08 Page 1

We see the future of sleep today

NEWS

SEE TRUE INNOVATIONS Visit us at the NBF Bed Show on September 17th & 18th

www.carpenter.com

MATTRESS TOPPERS

STAND C30

PILLOWS

THE COLLECTION

N E W FO R 2020

NATURE REINVENTED

R O S A L I A COLLECTION

Come and experience the Duvalay quality for yourself and take an exclusive look at our brand new Wooltec collection.

See us at The Bed Show 2019, Stand F40

Visit duvalay.co.uk

BEDS NEWS BEDS

MANUFACTURE

MANUFACTURE

FABRICS WHOLESALER DRIVES UP PROFIT BY £500K Bedding and soft furnishings fabrics wholesale group Ashley Wilde has reported a fifth straight year of turnover growth.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 31st December, 2018, total sales rose 2.5% to £31.7m from £30.9m in 2017.

UK sales experienced an uptick of 1.5% to £25.8m from £25.4m, whilst EU and outside the EU sales both increased by 9% to £2.4m from £2.2m and 6% to £3.5m from £3.3m respectively.

Gross profit increased 6.7% to £12.7m from £11.9m, whilst pretax profit rose 41.6% to £1.7m from £1.2m year-on-year.

Stated within its report, the group said that its core markets and demand for products has shown resilience, leading to an increase in turnover.

Ashley Wilde added that new product development continues to be a key element of its model with further new products launched during 2019 expected to drive future growth.

BED MANUFACTURER APPOINTS NEW MD Lancashire bed manufacturer Burgess Beds has announced the appointment of Matt Dwyer as its new managing director.

Matt has more than 20 years’ experience as a supplier of fillings solutions to the mattress market, the last 12 years as sales director of the Enkev Natural Fibres Group.

Owner Andy Jackson commented upon the appointment, saying that Matt Dwyer has immediately focused upon redesigning and relaunching the Burgess Range.

The new ranges will have almost a century of history and heritage in hand-crafted beds and mattresses at their heart.

These have been specifically designed with appearance, construction and comfort to ensure the products can sit well within retail floors as a visible family of product with a clear progression of price point, both in domestic and the rapidly developing export market.

Matt said: “It’s a real honour to continue the great history and to build upon the great potential of Burgess Beds.

In March 2019 the company also acquired the assets of Voyage Decoration Limited under its subsidiary Ashley Wilde Designs Limited. This has been rebrand under a new name of Voyage Maison Limited and is expected to deliver new growth opportunities once fully integrated within the wider group.

“The NBF Bed Show in September is a really exciting opportunity for us to showcase the developments across all models, from the competitively priced Classic Range to the splendid Autograph Ranges and, of course, in combination with our beautiful range of bed upholstery.”

w www.ashleywildegroup.com

w www.burgessbeds.co.uk

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MD SUDDENLY PASSES AWAY Northern Irish kitchen and bedroom furniture manufacturer Fairline has confirmed the sad news that its managing director, Albert Tedford, has passed away.

Albert was on a holiday in France when he suddenly died on 22nd July. He leaves behind his wife, Norma, and two daughters, Margaret and Rebecca.

BUSINESS INVESTS FOR FUTURE GROWTH Beds and mattresses business Mansion House Bedding Company has reported a slight decline in sales and profit.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 31st March, total sales fell 1.1% to £8.7m from £8.8m in 2018.

Gross profit also fell 7.4% to £3.7m from £4m, whilst pre-tax profit resulted at £411,082, down from £590,234 recorded the previous year.

Stated within its report, the company said that it experiencing a decline in sales around the months leading up to the proposed date of Brexit in March 2019.

Confirming the news, Fairline Kitchens and Bedrooms released a short statement, saying: “We are deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Albert Tedford, our managing director.

Since its year-end, the business has appointed two new area sales managers to cover the central belt and north of England.

Both appointments are expected to deliver a boost in turnover in the year ahead.

“Very deeply regretted and sadly missed by the entire family circle. The staff at Fairline would like to thank everyone for their support during our period of bereavement.”

Mansion House Bedding also appointed Robert Graves as new finance director, promoted from company secretary, and will look at the efficiency of the business to maximise profits.

The business, which has been manufacturing bespoke furniture at its Richhill factory for more than 50 years, confirmed that it is ‘continuing as usual’ during this difficult time.

Furthermore, the company has invested heavily into new automated machinery to help reduce costs and boost productivity.

w www.fairlinekitchens.com

w www.mansionhousebeddingco.co.uk

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New warehouse for beds retailer Beds and mattresses retailer Time4Sleep has expanded with a new warehouse.

BEDMAKER OPENS ITS DOORS TO THE BBC

The business, which is based in Huddersfield, secured a funding package from Yorkshire Bank to open a 35,000sq ft warehouse in Wolverhampton.

Renowned Yorkshire bedmaker, Harrison Spinks, starred on the small screen when Inside The Factory aired on 20th August on BBC Two.

The new warehouse will enable the firm to offer next-day delivery for customers throughout the UK for the first time.

Gregg Wallace and Cherry Healy (pictured above and below) were given access to Harrison Spinks’ state-of-the-art factory, which makes 600 beds every day.

The investment has also seen the business appoint four new staff to run the warehouse, expanding its team to 16 employees.

Jonathan Warren, director at T4S, said: “Our new warehouse is a fantastic opportunity to expand our company. With our online presence growing continuously, demand has been rising, putting pressure on us to adapt our business.

Following the production of pocket sprung mattresses from the arrival of hard steel right through to soft bedding heading out of dispatch, Gregg learnt how lengths of metal are stretched into thin wire and coiled into springs, which are placed into individual pockets, and how the mattresses are designed to wick away moisture from our bodies with the help of natural fibres like hemp and wool.

“Establishing a warehousing operation in the Midlands makes strategic sense and is a fundamental part of our growth strategy.

The investment from Yorkshire Bank signals strong confidence in our prospects for growth and we’re thankful for the team’s support during the transaction.”

Anthony Cope, commercial relationship manager at Yorkshire Bank, added: “Victoria, Jonathan and their tight-knit team have created an efficient and dynamic business that is taking advantage of the online sales revolution fantastically well. We were delighted to be working with the business during this vital phase of their growth, which will set the stage for exciting new opportunities.”

w www.time4sleep.co.uk

MANUFACTURE

HEALTHCARE SPECIALIST ACQUIRES FIRST HQ Specialist mattress topper and pillow provider Simple Stuff Works has acquired its first head office in Tamworth following a six-figure funding package from NatWest.

Meanwhile Cherry found out whether there are benefits to be had from taking an afternoon nap. And she visited Harrison Spinks’ very own sheep farm, where she saw how wool is shorn and discovered its anti-bacterial and fire-retardant properties.

Historian Ruth Goodman investigated the origins of the modern mattress. She learnt how steel transformed our bedtime habits, first with the ‘innerspring’ and then with the more comfortable ‘pocket spring’ technology, which Harrison Spinks has adapted and made its own.

Commenting on its new HQ, James Hellewell, managing director, said that the new premises forms a strong platform to expand its network worldwide and future growth.

Simon Spinks, managing director at Harrison Spinks, said: “To be chosen to be part of a programme as prestigious as Inside The Factory is a huge honour for Harrison Spinks. Our employees are all incredibly proud of their workplace and to shine a spotlight on the amazing time-honoured skills and traditional bed-making methods that we nurture during such a brilliant slot on the BBC is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

w www.simplestuffworks.com

w www.harrisonspinks.co.uk

The facility, which is based on Lichfield Road Industrial Estate, also includes dedicated spaces for manufacturing, warehousing and distribution, as well as an education area in The Goldsmith Centre for specialist training.

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BEDS NEWS NEWS

RETAIL

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Steinhoff confirms supervisory board changes

Mattress firms in merger talks

Global group Steinhoff International Holdings has confirmed that two directors will step down from the supervisory board at the end of August.

Steve Booysen informed the chairperson of the supervisory board that he will step down as a supervisory director at the end of the AGM on 30th August.

Angela Krüger-Steinhoff has also decided to step down as a supervisory director with effect from the end of the AGM to focus on the family business.

In a statement on both resignations, Steinhoff, which owns UK brands Bensons for Beds and Harveys, said: “With the completion of the forensic investigation, the publication of the 2017 and 2018 Annual Reports, and the expected completion of the financial restructure in early August 2019, Steve Booysen has achieved the objectives he set for himself shortly after the events of 2017. We thank him for chairing the audit and risk committee and his role on the supervisory board during this critical time.

“Angela is leaving the supervisory board at a time that the group has made significant progress with the financial restructuring and the process is nearing full implementation. We thank her for her contribution, especially during the past 18 months.”

w www.steinhoffinternational.com

MANUFACTURE

FOAM SPECIALIST GROWS SALES AND PROFIT

Online mattress retail rivals Eve Sleep and Simba are in merger talks. Eve Sleep confirmed the news in a statement that said discussions were at a very early stage.

It stressed that there was no certainty the talks would result in a deal. It added that if the merge progressed, it could constitute a reverse takeover under the AIM Rules for Companies and the consent of shareholders would be required. Trading in shares was temporarily suspended.

Eve Sleep was worth £140m when it floated in 2017 but is now valued at £12.8m. The company posted losses of £19.2m on £34.8m sales last year.

In January, new chief executive James Sturrock asked investors for £12m to support plans to refocus on the UK, Ireland and France core sleep markets.

In a recent first half trading update, it announced new partnerships with Homebase, Argos and Dunelm to sell its products online. However, it warned full-year sales would be slightly below previous guidance.

Simba generated sales of £28.4m in the year to September 2017, but has yet to post its results for last year.

w www.evesleep.co.uk w www.simbasleep.com

DESIGN

Tempur unveils latest tech collection Bed manufacturer Tempur Sealy has unveiled the TEMPUR-Ergo® Smart Base Collection with Sleeptracker® technology.

Mattress manufacturer and foam specialist Comfortex has reported a growth in both sales and profit.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 31st December, 2018, total sales rose 2.3% to £12.9m from £12.6m in 2017.

The increase in sales marked a fourth straight year of turnover growth, with UK sales up by 2.8% to £11m from £10.7m.

Sales in the EU remained static at £1.7m, whilst outside the EU sales rose 150% to £255,843 from £102,366.

Gross profit increased 4.5% to £2.3m from £2.2m, whilst pre-tax profit resulted at £689,734, up by 5% compared to its profit of £656,881 recorded last year.

Stated within its report, the company said that it has cemented relationships with new supply chain partners, as well as continuing to explore new markets to ensure sustainable growth.

w www.comfortex.com

Combined with adaptive Tempur-Pedic mattresses, the TEMPUR-Ergo Smart Base creates a completelyintegrated system with personalised sleep analytics and coaching, plus a uniquely-responsive foundation that can now automatically respond to snoring and may help people sleep more comfortably.

The newly unveiled TEMPUR-Ergo® Smart Bases now with Sleeptracker® technology silently sense and respond to you and your partner throughout the night — automatically.

Scott Thompson, Tempur Sealy president and chief executive, said: “Tempur-Pedic has a rich history of delivering the best options for transformative sleep, and we continue that tradition.

“With the advent of our TEMPUR-Ergo Smart Base Collection with Sleeptracker technology, and our recently-launched TEMPUR-breeze® line of mattresses, we are tackling two of the biggest obstacles that prevent people from getting a good night’s sleep — ­ snoring and sleeping hot.”

w www.tempursealy.com September 2019 | 58

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LIVE IN LUXURY. SLEEP IN STYLE. Celebrating 10 years of comfort and innovation

SALUS LAUNCH AT THE BED SHOW 17 — 18 September 2019, Telford Stand No. J60 Come and see the new look Salus at this year’s Bed Show. We’ll be showcasing our new comfort options.

10 YEAR GUAR ANTE E

MADE IN THE UK

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B E D S F E A T U R E |H U S H A B Y E BEDS

New edj shape by hushabye

Premium silicon badges

All change

at

The first thing you will notice when you visit the hushabye stand at the Bed Show in Telford is the brand refresh. It is quite a departure, after all the Wiltshire-based bed company has been in existence since 1856 and the brand has developed gradually over time. Managing director Nick Gigg explains why the dramatic change has been made now? “hushabye has been changing over the last couple of years, with more emphasis on innovation and design. Of course, the quality and reliability is unchanged, but we had feedback from retailers that the brand may not reflect the forward thinking that hushabye demonstrates,” explained managing director Nick Gigg.

It’s never easy to let go of a well-established logo, but Nick worked closely with his in-house marketing team. He continues, “We discussed many routes, but when I saw what became the final design, it seemed right immediately. The finished logo is contemporary and flexible and better reflects the tone of voice that hushabye now represents.”

Of course, a new brand is all well and good but it should not be just a rebadging exercise, you need the new product to match. Enter edj, a sleek contemporary mattress with a supportive outer edge and a pocket spring core that offers edge-to-edge support. Nick explained the concept. “We, in the trade, know the benefit of edge to edge support, but we are often told by retailers that it is not high on customers’ awareness. Once they understand that this gives them much more of a sleeping surface, it becomes a key selling point. I have been surprised how many of those brands that feature edge support don’t talk about it, so I September 2019 | 62

wanted to make sure the idea was right there in the name — hence, edj.”

It’s different to the traditional type of brand name, but Nick believes this will give the model an advantage. The range has a distinctive look with contemporary silicone badging that makes it stand out on the shop floor.

Within the edj range there are three models — PURE, a 2,000 spring count natural mattress featuring natural wool, silk and cotton fillings; SHAPE, which has 3,000 springs and features high-quality next generation memory foam to give total support for a perfect night’s sleep; and a gel latex version called COOL, which features a cool latex gel layer. The model has 4,000 pocket springs and features a soft knit stretch cover, which assists with the cooling effect.

All three models will be on show at Telford and will be displayed on hushabye’s new contemporary bedstead. The base features a drop-in platform that gives a bedstead look, and as there are no additional fixings, it can be assembled much quicker than traditional slats.

The new hushabye brand and the edj range are quite contemporary in appearance but it was important to have a flexible brand and

logo that would complement a more traditional product. This brand flexibility is evident on the new Natural Backcare collection. The four models feature natural fillings such as wool, cotton, silk and bamboo. The signature look is soft and natural with a 100% cotton cover.

The Natural Backcare collection is available with 1,000, 1,200, 1,500 and 2,000 springs, each available in firm and extra firm tensions.

The silicon badges and embroidered handles are presented in muted tones and hand tufting completes the premium look.

Hushabye are launching six brand new headboard styles, which will be available in any of the wide selection of fabrics. The exciting thing for retailers is that they can now offer every one of these styles as either a strutted or floorstanding headboard or even the new bedstead.

Having spent a long time developing the brand, Nick and the team cannot wait to get the new range out to market. As Nick says, “If you have never considered hushabye, now is the right time to discover us, and if you are already one of our valued customers we would love to talk you through this, and future developments.”

w www.hushabyebeds.co.uk

a mattress with real

visit us on stand J25 to find out more

B E D S F E A T U R E |G A I N S B O R O U G H BEDS

Box sprung base with Mayfair 9000 mattress

Mayfair 13000 on contemporary bedstead

The

QUALITY

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In a short space of time, Gainsborough’s Mayfair collection has become an impressive success story. Managing director Nick Gigg explains some of the reasons why.

Gainsborough’s Mayfair collection has been well received by retailers and this is due, in part, to the early involvement of key retailers during the design process. As managing director Nick Gigg says: “We recognise that bricks and mortar retailers have a unique understanding of what their customers are looking for. Being able to tap into that expertise and design a product based on the feedback has been extremely useful.”

The results are impressive, with many multi-store retailers citing Mayfair as their best-selling range, and to quote one retailer — “Mayfair is now my pocket of choice.”

Some of the finest fillings available, including cashmere, merino and alpaca wool, are finished with up to three rows of hand side stitching, hand tufting and eight embroidered flag-stitch handles. What really sets this range apart, however, is the support layer. Many September 2019 | 64

brands would boast 3,000 springs in their top model but, for Mayfair, this is just the beginning. Moving up through 5,000, 7,000 and 9,000, the range peaks at an amazing 13,000 individual pocket springs.

On show at Telford this year is the next phase of the Mayfair’s development; a pillow top, the clever combination of micro springs and fillings, reduces settlement yet offers the same generous specification. Crucially for the retailer it can be offered at exactly the same price points as the regular version.

As Nick Gigg explains: “Mayfair is designed to make the retailers’ job as easy as possible.

The look and feel of the mattress sells itself and we’re rolling out new options to satisfy as many customers as possible.”

Mayfair is made in the UK and carries a 10-year frame guarantee. This range was conceived to give retailers a collection that

they could confidently offer to any customer looking for a top quality bed, and it has proved that it can deliver a compelling solution.

There is more to come from Gainsborough, as Nick explains: “The methodology behind creating Mayfair was a bit of a departure for us, but the success of it reassures me that we got it right. My aim is to bring the thinking behind the range development to the rest of our portfolio.

“There are plans for the rest of the bed range, and some very exciting developments on our sofa bed range. The Mayfair project started with us liaising closely with our retailers, so I would encourage customers to come on to our stand and talk to us about Gainsborough’s future plans.”

w www.gainsborough-beds.co.uk

Best selling since 2017 The Mayfair collection is the most comfortable range we have ever made. Commanding a real presence in-store, these models have been our best selling since 2017.

For further details contact our Sales Director, Peter Ridpath at peter.ridpath@gainsborough-beds.co.uk

B E D S F E A T U R E |T H E B E D S H O W BEDS

Making it

RIGHT The National Bed Federation, affectionately known as NBF or Bed Fed, has had a busy year and as it sets out to deliver its 10th Bed Show — and its industry awards evening — we take a look at what it has been up to in 2019… » Page 67

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COMING SOON.

A NEW RANGE OF MATTRESSES THAT OFFERS A BED FOR EVERYONE.

View our exciting new range at the AIS Show on 4th September, the NBF Bed Show on 17th- 18th September and the Minerva Show on 1st- 2nd October. marketing@steinhoffukbeds.co.uk

www.slumberland.co.uk

Year Guarantee

Made in the UK

B E D S F E A T U R E |T H E B E D S H O W BEDS

Bed Show celebrates 10 years

The NBF has been serving the bed industry for 107 years, working proactively on issues of mutual interest and benefit, championing good practice, improving standards and educating the consumer. With more than 65 manufacturing members, representing approximately 70% of UK production, the team works diligently to provide a comprehensive member service.

Bed Show celebrates 10 years The industry’s favourite bed event is back for a milestone 10th year (from 17th to 18th September) at its familiar haunt, Telford International Centre. With another strong lineup of British and Irish bed manufacturers and Bed Show awards is always a grea

the shop floor precious, the Bed Show is the ideal opportunity to see all the best names in the industry under one roof. Nowhere else will visitors get to see such a wide range of large and small companies and most major UK brands. suppliers, it is where the industry’s leading bed brands come together, with more than 1,400 visitors, to support the two-day show.

Since its conception in 2010, the Bed Show has accommodated more space and more exhibitors, sparking the interest of more and more visitors as it is recognised as the UK’s biggest bed specific exhibition.

As many retailers continue to increase their product offering, and with time away from

t celebration

Bed Industry Awards The Bed Industry Awards, an integral part of the Bed Show and Gala Dinner, honour the brightest and best enterprises in the bed market. Renowned for being a pinnacle of excellence in the trade, the awards showcase the very best in inspiration, design and innovation from bed manufacturers, suppliers and retailers.

With a bumper crop of entries this year, the independent panel of judges have had a tough time picking winners in each of the six categories: Bed of the Year, Accessory/ Component of the Year, Innovation of the Year, Independent Bed Retailer of the Year, Online Bed Retailer of the Year and National Bed Retailer of the Year.

Winners will be announced at the Gala Dinner on 17th September. »

September 2019 | 68

SAY HELLO TO THE HYBRID‌

‌same Dunlopillo quality with a surprising price.

Combining pressure relieving, anti-allergenic and breathable Dunlopillo latex with the latest pocket spring technologies, Dunlopillo Go has been specifically designed to support your active lifestyle.

For details to become an exclusive stockist of this range please contact David Wescomb, Brand Director Email: info@dunlopillo.co.uk | Telephone: 01823 667 501

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year guarantee

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B E D S F E A T U R E |T H E B E D S H O W BEDS

Code of Practice has been in place since 2013

Version Three of the Code of Practice Since its launch in 2013, the NBF’s Code of Practice has been the flying the flag for good practice in the industry, giving trade buyers and consumers reassurance that its members’ products meet all the required legal standards.

“ALL ALONG, OUR CODE OF PRACTICE HAS BEEN ABOUT REASSURING

CUSTOMERS THAT WHAT THEY ARE

BUYING FROM NBF MEMBERS IS SAFE, CLEAN AND HONEST .”

— Jessica Alexander, executive director of the National Bed Federation

The third iteration of the scheme was announced at the beginning of the year, covering 10 key areas, including new additions and adjustments to existing requirements, and was awarded Assured Advice status from Trading Standards.

It allows members to rely on this to demonstrate they are exercising an acceptable level of due diligence in complying with the law in those areas under the jurisdiction of Trading Standards, namely product safety and product descriptions.

Championing social and ethical compliance and tightening the membership criteria to raise standards, the Code of Practice is to be extended beyond product compliance, to cover social and ethical compliance.

The decision, agreed by members, does involve NBF members being audited against a rigorous set of statutory criteria through the Fast Forward, a third party run labour standards improvement programme. These include all aspects of employment, including eligibility to work, the national minimum wage, employment law, health and safety, mistreatment and access to remedy. It also covers business structure and tax.

Said NBF president Tony Lisanti: “We hope that joining the protocol will give us a channel for reporting any concerns we hear about in our sector and help to protect vulnerable and exploited workers, to disrupt exploitative practices and bring criminals to justice — but also to protect honest businesses that do the right thing and are being disadvantaged in the marketplace as a consequence of such unfair competition.”

Due Diligence random testing revealed Introduced in 2018 after an initial pilot and now forming part of the NBF’s Code of Practice, which has received ‘assured’ advice status from primary authority West Yorkshire Trading Standards, the Due Diligence programme was implemented to test the effectiveness of the NBF’s programme of factory audits with random purchases and to investigate allegations of non-compliance.

The first round of results found NBF members faring far better than non-members. In the first round, 49 products were purchased — 24 from members and 25 from nonmembers. They were a mixture of mattresses, headboards, divan sets and upholstered bed frames. The initiative continues with the second round of purchasing well under way.

Said Jessica Alexander, executive director of the NBF: “All along, our Code of Practice has been about reassuring customers that what they are buying from NBF members is safe, clean and honest. People can’t look inside a mattress to see what’s there or set light to it to see if it burns — they have to take on trust what they are told. The Due Diligence programme is a further check to try to ensure compliance beyond audit day is being met.”

»

September 2019 | 70

THE NAKED TRUTH

The naked truth is that the key to a great night’s sleep is maintaining the body’s temperature all night long. The body’s core temperature has a natural rhythm while sleeping which many people struggle to maintain by adding and removing layers in bed each night.

It’s time to strip off your old ways! Therma-Phase+ is an advanced mattress with a unique combination of built-in phase-change crystals and additional copper particles which react to the skin’s temperature, absorbing and releasing heat while you sleep - whilst at the same time ensuring the mattress is as supportive as it can be.

If you want to increase sales and realise the return on investment of innovation over imitation, contact us now via the ‘Become a Stockist’ link on www.kaymed.co.uk and discover the naked truth about Therma-Phase+ www.kaymed.co.uk

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17/07/2018 10:46

B E D S F E A T U R E |T H E B E D S H O W BEDS

Mattress End of Life Report by the NBF

Going Green The third End of Life Mattress report, compiled independently for the NBF by internationally-respected environmental consultants Oakdene Hollins, has revealed a 55% increase in the number of mattresses being handled by recyclers between 2015 and 2017 and evidence that this growth will continue in the near term. The recycling rate, calculated as a percentage of new mattress replacement sales, has increased from 15% in 2016 to 19% in 2017.

Publishing the report is just one of a number of initiatives the NBF is spearheading around the ‘green’ agenda.

In October it published its policy on used mattresses and component parts and announced an ambitious target of 75% diversion from landfill of mattresses by 2028.

Marketing Support NBF recognises the importance of helping the industry to market the products it sells, whether it’s through training courses, awareness campaigns, supporter packs or other marketing collateral.

September 2019 | 72

They are designed to help retailers provide reassurance to consumers that the products they are buying are safe, clean and honest.

The kit includes web banners — both animated and static — portrait posters and new roundels for retailers to use in store and online.

Each year it runs four annual awareness campaigns: National Bed Month, May Be Time For A New Mattress, Sleeptember, and National Sleep In Day. All are embraced every year by retailers and manufacturers, which take advantage of the free tools developed to promote the importance of a good comfortable bed for a great night’s sleep.

There is also access to other marketing supporting materials from the NBF, including logos, videos for websites and social media, infographics, informative leaflets and generic press releases.

Supporting its Code of Practice, there are dedicated Code of Practice supporter packs —— free POS — that support why consumers should buy NBF Approved member products.

w www.bedshow.co.uk w www.bedfed.org.uk

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:

CM-page-BedShow-2019-main-B2.indd 1

www.bedshow.co.uk

@BedShow

15/04/2019 10:57

B E D S F E A T U R E |S W A N G L E N BEDS

MAIN IMAGE: Chrystal bedstead in Shetland Pink, shown with light square feet INSET: above left, Abbey Bedstead in Shetland Beige, shown with light round feet, and, above, Chapman Bedstead in Shetland Grey, shown with dark round feet

NEW

bedstead range

The Swanglen name has been synonymous with quality headboards for decades, now for 2019 they are launching an exciting new range of bedsteads.

The new range of Swanglen bedsteads has evolved from a process of R&D over the last few months.

The principle was to develop a contemporary bedstead that would easily accommodate any headboard style in any fabric in their swatch.

With 17 styles and 50 fabrics all available with four foot options, that’s more than 3,500 permutations. The choice is huge but the base itself is incredibly simple, as sales director Peter Ridpath explains.

“For Swanglen, R&D is driven by conversations with our customers. There has been, for some time, a desire to supply something that has the ease of a divan base alongside the contemporary feel of September 2019 | 74

a bedstead,” he said. “At the same time, customers are looking for a wide range of styles and fabrics. That is how we developed this new range of bedsteads.”

The base features a revolutionary drop in platform, which eliminates the hassle associated with a slatted base. It is incredibly robust and delivers a much more consistent sleeping experience than slats.

Everything is sent to the customer flat packed, but the assembly time is minimal.

The most important feature, however, is choice, as Peter says: “Swanglen is well known for not only the quality of finish but also the wide selection of headboard styles

and fabrics. We needed to offer a solution that can deliver the widest choice. We have 17 styles and more than 50 fabrics as well as four foot options. This pretty much guarantees that there is something for everyone in this range.”

As with all Swanglen products, the bedsteads are made to order and as they are handmade in the UK, lead times are kept to a minimum.

The bedstead range will be front and centre on Swanglen’s stand at Telford, but the team is looking to build on the huge success of the next-day and signature ranges launched at last year’s show.

w www.swanglen.co.uk

launches stylish, hassle-free bedsteads

The new range of contemporary bedsteads are more stylish than a divan, less hassle than slats, the revolutionary drop-in base can be assembled in minutes.

With 17 shapes, 50 fabric choices and 4 feet options, that’s over 3000 combinations to choose from.

Visit us on stand J34 for more information.

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13/08/2019 09:07

B E D S F E A T U R E |T H E S H I R E B E D C O M P A N Y BEDS

Refill Bravos

at

H20

Fara Butt, sales and marketing director at The Shire Bed Company, reveals it plans to launch three new collections at The NBF Bed Show 2019.

Known for innovation and creative approaches to bed design and development, the NBS Bed Show for The Shire Bed Company will set the scene for the new season. Having recently launched Heaven7, the latest bed-in-a-box range offering an eco-friendly biodegradable mattress choice and the design-led Italian Edit, consisting of the hugely popular Amalfi, a 1500 product spring mattress that is designed for super and optimal comfort — the new collections will ACE the show.

The Artisan Collection is a mid to high end collection of pocket sprung pillow top beds with natural fillings. With spring counts ranging from 3,000 to 6,000, including 2,000 micro pocket unit in the top layer, which also consist of natural top layer fillings, this is a sumptuous collection from the Yorkshirebased bed manufacturer.

beds. This consists of the complete family of cores, from open coils to pocket sprung units with memory top layers, all finished in rich white Egyptian cotton.

The Shire Bed Company has further developed its production facility to incorporate a new headboard division located within Shire’s 110,000sq ft manufacturing space. Manufacturing its own quality headboards has seen a considerable uptake of these products from its customers.

Said Fara Butt, Shire’s sales and marketing director: “Our new production facility has given us greater control with our headboard and base designs as well as the fabrics on offer.

The Couture Collection, the high end collection with top-quality spring units and natural fillings finished in stunning fabrics, will also be unveiled at the show.

“The development in our facilities is another example of our ongoing commitment to the industry and our products. Our continued growth in business allows us to invest, update and expand our product offering in order to reach new markets and audiences.”

The Essentials Range is the core range of

Shire Beds continues to strengthen its market

September 2019 | 76

position, which has seen its sales grow in rolled up mattress. From new product launches and improvements in its current range offer and ventures into the accessories market, with pillows trialled by elite Yorkshire sports personalities to increasing its footprint in the contract sector, the Shire Bed Company is making its presence felt in all markets.

The company, which has its roots firmly based in Dewsbury, remains a family-run business. It was originally the brainchild of Safdar Hussain, who has been in bed manufacturing since the 1980s and is the father of the current sales and marketing director, Fara.

The company has expanded its manufacturing facility from 30,000 to more than 100,000sq ft, including the new headquarters.

The company has also invested in new wrapping and rolling machinery and foam cutting technology to make its systems as automated as possible in its Roll & Rest division.

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

aQO BEDS

Added Fara: “Our on-going investment into modern machinery allows us to further grow and develop our product range. We’re passionate about our products and their quality — we work hard to continually update our offering.”

Shire has also further improved facilities for its workforce and recently updated the canteen area to feature larger, more modern facilities for use at break and social times.

Said Fara: “We look forward to strengthening the team spirit and investing further in the well-being of our employees. This involves providing excellent facilities where our staff can relax and recharge.”

Shire has also seen great success in its partnerships with Yorkshire County Cricket Club (YCCC) and Leeds Rhinos, which it has spent a five-figure sum developing since 2015.

Added Fara: “We’ve seen many benefits to our sponsorships with the Yorkshire sports clubs, the main one being an increase in our market share. Many people are asking for the Shire beds and mattresses our elite sports stars, including international cricketers Jonny Bairstow and Liam Plunkett, are sleeping on.

“It has also presented us with a great opportunity to portray a positive brand image by association with the clubs, strengthening our credibility within the local area.”

And it doesn’t stop there. Shire Beds has developed an exciting new mattress collection following its work with partners, incorporating feedback from players, coaches

Pennine

and physios, to provide the rest and recovery benefits that are critical to elite athletes.

Following the success of its Sleep4Sport project and range of Active Response beds, the company launched Pillow Talk, a collection of specialist premium pillows. As the manufacturer’s first venture into bedding accessories, the range consists of four highquality options that are designed to target specific needs.

Shire also provides mattresses for some of England women’s cCricket team training with YCCC. Said Fara: “We’ve exhibited at The Bed Show since it first began in 2009 — it’s the highlight of our year. Our significant investment into our manufacturing facilities means that we’re able to continually innovate and bring new products into the market.”

Shire is keen to support wider industry too, with Fara herself heavily involved in its key trade association, as a board member of the NBF and chairman of the NBF marketing committee. The company is also a member of the Sleep Council and the British Furniture Manufacturers (BFM). Fara chairs The Furniture Makers’ Company’s Yorkshire and Central region fundraising committee and hosts an annual curry evening.

The Shire Bed Company supplies nationally and internationally to major retailers and the contract sector, including education, care and hospitality.

w www.shirebeds.co.uk

“WE’VE EXHIBITED AT THE BED SHOW SINCE IT FIRST BEGAN IN 2009 — IT’S THE HIGHLIGHT OF OUR YEAR. OUR

SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT INTO

OUR MANUFACTURING FACILITIES MEANS THAT WE’RE ABLE TO

CONTINUALLY INNOVATE AND BRING NEW PRODUCTS INTO

THE MARKET.”

Pearl September 2019 | 77

Pocket Collection EMPIRE 12000

on 00

OUR COLLECTIONS

Pillow Top Collection - ROYALTY

Cushion Top Collection - PRESTIGE

Luxury micro-quilted pillow top mattress with a knitted stretch cover.

Natural latex fillings.

3000 air suspension pocket spring in a king size mattress.

3 rows of side stitched mattress borders with air vents and handles.

Non turn mattress.

A wide range of luxury base options available in a choice of colours.

Divan base fitted with corner guards and chrome glides.

Luxury micro-quilted box topper mattress with a knitted cover.

Natural latex fillings.

2000 heat treated pocket spring in a king size mattress.

3D airflow mattress borders with air vents and handles.

Non turn mattress.

A wide range of luxury base options available in a choice of colours.

Attached Top Collection - CROWN

Ottoman Collection - FRONT LIFT OTTOMAN

Luxury micro-quilted box topper mattress with a knitted cover.

Natural latex fillings.

1000 heat treated pocket spring in a king size mattress.

Vertical stitched mattress borders with air vents and handles.

Non turn mattress.

A wide range of luxury base options available in a choice of colours.

Upholstered in luxury faux suede fabric.

Choice of 6 different colours.

Gas strut lift base.

Front lift opening hydraulic base.

Available in 3’0 and 4’6.

AND MUCH MORE

B E D S F E A T U R E |G A L L E R Y D I R E C T BEDS

Going from

Strength to

Moresco coffee table

STRENGTH

James Hudson, sales and business development director at Gallery Direct, talks about its continued success with July being its most successful month — ever.

Seagreen mattress collection Gallery Direct has had a fantastic year so far, exceeding sales targets, despite the difficult trading times. July, usually a quieter period, was its biggest turnover month in the history of the company.

Collection features revolutionary technology that optimises sleep comfort, with properties that increase airflow and help draw away moisture. Made using natural fillings, this collection is anti-allergen and handmade in the UK using the finest materials.

James Hudson, sales and business development director at Gallery, told us: “Our drive for success and determination to continually develop exciting new products for our customers ensures we continue to go from strength to strength. By offering quality, design-led pieces at value-for-money prices, we are bucking the Brexit woes and expanding the business.

“Furniture has proved to be really successful over the last few years,” continued James, “so we wanted to develop the range further.

Our AW19 Collection, which is our biggest launch ever with more than 600 new lines in total, features over 150 furniture pieces, including more than 25 made-to-order lines.”

The new products include additions to Gallery’s Luxe trend, which encompasses sophistication and luxury, with a combination of indulgent tones and metallic finishes. The stunning Moresco coffee table, which offers both style and practicality, is one of the new pieces capturing this on-trend look perfectly.

Gallery is also introducing a new trend, Apartment Living, which features clean lines and ‘strong’ finishes. The new Carbury and Forden furniture ranges, which combine September 2019 | 80

metal and oak veneers in black and grey oak finishes, offer a selection of pieces that would fit perfectly into any modern interior to give the Apartment Living look, as would the Huntington dining table and bench.

Seagreen is an innovative mattress collection, designed to help reduce the amount of plastic in the oceans whilst also offering quality and comfort at an affordable price. The ticking used is Seaqual™ certified, containing marine plastic, captured from the sea, and upcycled to produce environmentally-friendly fabric that contributes to preserving natural resources whilst reducing waste in the planet’s oceans.

The polyester fillings selected for the Seagreen mattresses are also manufactured from recycled plastic.

On the made-to-order side, Gallery is introducing three new mattress collections — Luxury, Everynight and Seagreen. These have been developed to add even more choice to Gallery’s current range, with each having its own features to suit different requirements.

James commented: “Public awareness of the problem of ocean plastics has risen recently, increasing the demand for greener products that are kinder to the planet. For many consumers, consideration of environmental issues is a key factor in the decision-making process when buying products. Seagreen is ideal for these customers, helping to give a good night’s sleep and a clean conscience!”

The Luxury Collection optimises sleep comfort by drawing away moisture. Crafted using natural materials, this collection is handmade in the UK using traditional highlyskilled techniques, including hand side stitching, and is chemical free. The Everynight

With the new mattresses are four new bedstead, ottoman and headboard collections, each offering their own style to suit different tastes and interiors. The four collections, Ashford, Doddington, Kempton and Milan, are all available in a choice

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

aQO

of seven new fabric ranges, each with a selection of colours to give 58 options in total. The Ashford has a smart buttoned headboard, which creates a check design; the Doddington has a chic winged headboard; the on-trend Milan features a loose cover and deep style headboard; and the Kempton has a traditional style, softened curved headboard.

Also on the made-to-order front is the Eastwood, a revolutionary new sofa bed.

Quick and easy to open, with a pocket sprung seat interior that folds out to give a pocket sprung bed, it offers convenience and comfort for both sitting and sleeping. It is available as a single armchair, a double and king sofabed with arms, and as an armless single.

The new furniture collections are complemented by the extensive ranges of

soft furnishings, lighting and wall décor in the AW19 Collection. Offering a wonderful variety of styles, with many designed to fit perfectly into the Apartment Living and Luxe trends, these eclectic ranges offer quality, combined with value for money.

Gallery’s AW19 Collection is being launched at the Autumn Fair, from 1st to 4th September, on stand 19D10-E11. The new made-to-order products will be exhibited at the Bed Show from 17th to 18th September, where you will find them on stand B50. And a selection of the new AW19 Collection will be showcased at the Autumn Furniture Show, Hall 2, from 1st to 2nd October at NAEC Stoneleigh Park. Don’t miss out, go along to see them at the shows, to be amongst the first to view these exciting new products!

w www.gallerydirect.co.uk

“OUR DRIVE FOR SUCCESS AND DETERMINATION TO CONTINUALLY DEVELOP

EXCITING NEW PRODUCTS FOR OUR CUSTOMERS ENSURES WE CONTINUE TO GO FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH.”

Huntington dining table and bench September 2019 | 81

BEDS

Doddington bedstead

B E D S F E A T U R E |M I L L B R O O K B E D S BEDS

INNOVATION

Never Sleeps

Ross Thurston, operations director at Millbrook Beds, shares an insight into the company’s latest innovations ahead of the Bed Show.  September 2019 | 82

WHAT KEEPS US UP AT NIGHT? #perfectsleep

Perfect sleep. That’s what keeps us awake until the early hours.

We’ve been burning the midnight oil developing and refining our new mattress range because we believe innovation never sleeps.

THE NEW COLLECTION PREVIEWS AT THE BED SHOW TELFORD 17th & 18th SEPTEMBER

COME AND SEE US ON STAND B30 millbrook-beds.co.uk

297x210mm Press Ad Template.indd 1

05/08/2019 09:53

B E D S F E A T U R E |M I L L B R O O K B E D S FEATURE

New range to be unveiled “WE HAVE A PRODUCT Millbrook Beds will be unveiling four new ranges at the Bed Show in Telford. Nine months of research, development and innovative thought has culminated in four completely new natural, handmade mattresses — Grandeur, Majestic, Ortho and Pillow-top collections.

New technology and investment in machinery, combined seamlessly with the company’s renowned handmade approach, has enabled Millbrook Beds to develop a range with a more sumptuous feel, offering models with higher spring counts — up to 14000 pocket springs, and greater sustainability credentials.

Consultation with retail partners as well as listening to comments and recommendations from the sales team has also been an important contributing factor to the range innovations.

The mattress collection is now chemical-free, offering a 100% natural sleeping surface — no chemicals have been used in the cotton covers or in any of the sumptuous natural fillings, which include Hampshire wool, English spun cotton and Cashgora.

Super-soft, breathable TENCEL™ is used for the sleep surface of the new PillowTop mattress. This fabric is produced from sustainably-sourced wood, using environmentally responsible processes.

THAT WILL PROVIDE AN AMAZING SLEEP EXPERIENCE. WE repurposes nine million plastic bottles a year for use in mattress borders and headboards.

Operations director Ross Thurston said: “We have been burning the midnight oil for nine months, developing and refining our range, because innovation never sleeps!

“We now have a product with enhanced performance that will provide an amazing sleep experience.

“We expect this new range to change the perception of Millbrook Bed’s product completely.”

w

www.millbrook-beds.co.uk

EXPECT THIS NEW RANGE TO CHANGE

THE PERCEPTION OF MILLBROOK BED’S PRODUCT COMPLETELY.” — Ross Thurston, operations director

In addition, Millbrook Beds currently

Handmade using traditional craftsmanship and natural fabrics Borne out of traditional craftsmanship, each Millbrook mattress is individually and lovingly handmade in England using only the finest natural fabrics and fillings, such as Hampshire wool, English spun cotton, cashgora — an ultra-soft fibre produced by cross-breeding angora and cashmere goats, bamboo, and silk.

Sheep from the Hampshire Down can be recognised by their black face and the

September 2019 | 84

sheep living there produce a fleece that tends to be fuller and bulkier. 100% fleece wool grown in the county of Hampshire has been specially selected to make Millbrook mattresses.

All mattresses containing Hampshire wool from the black-faced sheep feature a single black tuft in the bottom right hand corner.

This mark of quality tells the story that this mattress has been made using only

Hampshire wool. Millbrook is proud to be using locally-sourced materials.

Its handmade mattresses and beds are designed in-house and use the finest materials and craftsmanship techniques, such as traditional hand-side stitching, and individually hand-nested pocket springs.

Every stage in the making of its beds meets exacting standards of timeless quality.

Let’s Put Rogue Traders to Bed Rogue traders continue to steal business from legitimate bed manufacturers and retailers. They dupe people into buying products that are simply not what they claim to be.

SA

F

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N

D

E

EP

E • SLEEP S PACK INCLUDES: Window vinyl, in-store vinyls, pyramid display boards, USB stick with new videos and downloadable artwork

Email: simon@bedfed.org.uk for further information 24237•NBF Trade Ads Cabinet Maker.indd 1

SL

Become a NBF Retail Supporter and together we can put rogue traders to bed.

of their beds from NBF members

MEMBERS

P

S ED

The NBF is fighting back – investigating dubious products FREE point of sale pack and businesses and reporting Available for bed retailers ROUD TO STOCK B our findings to trading standards. sourcing at least 50%

bedfed.org.uk 24/04/2018 13:52

B E D S 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 / E V E S L E E P BEDS

Meet Clare n Name... Clare Rydo cing of Product and Sour Job role... Director p PLC Company... Eve Slee

Clare Rydon, from boxed mattress brand eve Sleep, features in our People Behind The Products series, revealing her love for beautifully-designed products and the arts.

Can you describe your current job role and responsibilities?

I am the director of product and sourcing at eve sleep, which means I am responsible for the design, development and sourcing for all of our sleep wellness products. In February 2015 we launched with one mattress, our original, and since then we have expanded our product range to ultimately create sublime sleep products that help our customers to rise and shine.

September 2019 | 86

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How long have you been in your current role?

I have been at eve for almost two and a half years.

product development. I have now been in homeware for the past ten years, working for some incredible brands, both heritage high street and creative start-ups in the industry.

Can you give a brief background on yourself?

I started my career in the toy industry and had a desire to be Tom Hanks in Big! I then moved to homeware a few years later as I wanted to expand on my creativity and

What is the best thing about your role?

Seeing the tangible outcome of all the work with our designers, partners and factories.

Knowing that we have created a beautiful and quality product which customers will love and cherish in their homes. There is nothing better

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

What is the most challenging?

Being disciplined with development and ensuring that as our range expands we remain focused on sleep wellness products that delight our customers.

Can you describe your typical working day?

Most days are filled with team catch-ups, looking at the latest samples, design drawings and production planning. We then also spend time with the wider teams to sure we keep everyone up to speed on launches, what’s in development as well as any exciting product plans for the future.

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

I have always loved the marriage between fashion, functionality and longevity that the furnishing industry offers. I also love that good design really does stand the test of time.

Can you share something that your coworkers may not know about you?

I was once a dancer in a hip-hop crew, and have performed in shows worldwide, including the home of hip hop LA. What are your favourite things in life?

My family, my home and espresso martinis.

What are your future ambitions?

I love what I do and can’t imagine doing anything else. I would like to continue to work in the industry, for brands that push the boundaries with accessible design.

Do you have any furnishing industry icons you admire?

I am a lighting developer by heart and, therefore, my icons tend to stem from that area. I love the work of Allied Maker, Bert Frank and Tom Dixon.

Do you have any career highlights that spring to mind?

Having my product featured on the front page of Elle Décoration was definitely a highlight, however working with one of my favourite brands, Plumen, is also up there. I created their first light fitting collection, which is still a best seller today.

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

My sofa. A teal, mid-century design single cushion sit piece. It’s as beautiful today as the day I bought it, the colour is vivid and bold, and the design is perfect to compliment my modern home. Its got low wide arms too, so it’s a great sofa for lying on whenever I am in need of a lazy Sunday.

What do you love about the furnishing industry?

That you can change a person’s emotion through designing a space.

What industry trends are you seeing at the moment?

Still a strong skandi aesthetic, with soft radiuses and natural materials.

More sustainable and complete circle manufacturing processes in the creation of our goods. »

“ I LOVE WHAT I DO AND CAN’T IMAGINE DOING ANYTHING ELSE. I WOULD LIKE TO CONTINUE TO WORK IN THE INDUSTRY, FOR BRANDS THAT PUSH

THE BOUNDARIES WITH ACCESSIBLE DESIGN.”

September 2019 | 87

BEDS

than creating a new product that is going to help people feel better.

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B E D S 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 / E V E S L E E P

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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.

Clare Rydon Can you predict any future trends that may emerge?

Modularity and Dual Use furniture. Space is now at a premium in most consumers home, and with the desire for furniture pieces that stand the test of time, I believe there is space for more duality in designs to ensure that customers can have multi uses for the pieces they invest in and also be able to move them around the home as they make dĂŠcor changes.

Did you know that Cabinet Maker has been established since 1880? How long have you been reading the magazine?

Keeping up with industry news is so important and I have been reading Cabinet Maker for as long as I can remember.

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

I think I would be working in stage design and propping for theatre. The arts were my first love and having a job that combined looking for products with the arts would have also suited me.

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

Loyal, resilient and fun.

w www.evesleep.co.uk

September 2019 | 88

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B E D S F E A T U R E |S W E E T D R E A M S BEDS

MAIN: Duke 3000, Royal Pillowtop collection INSET, ABOVE LEFT, Dynasty 2000, Royal Pillowtop and RIGHT, Carnival 2000, Anniversary in new base colour

Bed

EVOLUTION Sweet Dreams unveils what will be on show during this month’s Bed Show.

Sweet Dreams is looking forward to the Bed Show and launching no fewer than three divan collections: Defined Edge Support, Handcrafted and Pocket Air Pure. In addition, there will be fresh developments across the entire range.

The Anniversary collection will see four new colourways for its bases, while the popular Royal Pillowtop range sees the introduction of three models: Emperor 4000, a memory foam bed featuring 3,000 pocket air and 1,000 mini springs; Crown 2000, with 1,000 minisprings and latex sheet to the box top; and Dynasty 2000, a memory foam box top featuring 1,000 minisprings.

Sweet Dreams has witnessed increased interest and sales in foam-encapsulated beds and is launching Defined Edge Support September 2019 | 90

in response. The collection will comprise pocket spring models offering high counts — including 1,500 and 2,000 pocket spring beds.

The Handcrafted collection is the second new range, and here hand-stitching is the prominent feature. This collection comprises three models, containing pocket springs with counts of 2,000, 1,500 and 1,000. All sport the side-stitch border, crafted by hand, and boast a luxurious top layer of a natural filling, such as wool, cashmere and silk.

Then there’s Pocket Air Pure. In an innovation designed to appeal to the green consumer, all four beds will feature FR chemical-free fabric to the mattress. This is expected to generate a high degree of interest from retailers with its strong ‘purity’ marketing message. Pocket Air beds, with

alternate rows of full and shortened springs leading to a sensational ‘lighter than air’ feeling, have long been a big success for Sweet Dreams. The Pure beds, which star the Pocket Air spring system and the attractive base colours sported in the Anniversary collection, will win new fans with their approach to fire-retardancy: safe and natural.

The Sweet Dreams Beds brochure for 2019 will also be launched at Telford and all divans and frames, as well as bedroom cabinet, children’s beds and sofabeds, will be featured within its pages.

See Sweet Dreams on Stand H40.

w www.sweetdreamsuk.com

B E D S F E A T U R E |H A R R I S O N S P I N K S BEDS

Where

Harrison Spinks managing director Simon Spinks

Tradition meets Innovation

Fifth generation luxury bedmaker Harrison Spinks was established in 1840 but is today focusing on the future more than ever, while still maintaining its family-run roots. Managing director Simon Spinks gives an insight into the company, its recent innovation and what’s next for the business, including another world first…

“This year has been a real turning point for us. We’ve just made the pledge to go foam and glue-free, which is a significant milestone for both Harrison Spinks and the industry,” explained managing director Simon Spinks.

“For the last 10 years our core business objective has been trying to change the way the world sleeps. We’ve been relentless in looking for more sustainable ways of working so we can look after our planet for future generations. It is for this reason we have made the commitment to not develop any new mattresses containing foam or glue and to eliminate foam from any existing product by 2020.

“Because of the dangers of foam and the negative effect it has on the environment, we use sustainable fillings and grow nearly 800 tonnes of natural fibre fillings for our mattresses each year. By farming our own materials and manufacturing our own components, we have been able to save more than 1,300 tonnes of CO2 every year.

September 2019 | 92

“But our foam and glue-free commitment isn’t the only turning point. We have just launched a world-first in the furniture and bedding industry — a 100% recyclable glue-free pocket spring system, Cortec™.

Cortec™ uses Harrison Spinks’ unique patented eco-spring™ design and technology. By developing the finest high-tensile wire ever to be used in a core unit and sonic-welding each spring pocket, rather than using glue, Cortec™ delivers a new dawn for comfort technology.

Cortec™ will set new standards in sustainable comfort innovation and raise the bar on a global scale.

“The individually-pocketed springs are extremely durable, providing ultimate support, and are distributed at a high density to create more points of contact, providing greater body contouring accuracy for superior comfort,” said Simon.

“It will form part of the Harrison Spinks mattress offering in the UK and, as it is a foam replacement component, it has many other uses within furniture in the UK and furniture and bedding worldwide.

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

“But this is just the beginning. At the AIS, NBF and Minerva shows, we’ll be unveiling another industry leading innovation with Synergy — a brand new contemporary foamfree mattress collection from Harrison Spinks, which uses our Cortec™ fully-sustainable ecospring™ system and micro springs.

“The result is quite simply an amazingly comfortable mattress, which is perfect for

“We’ll also be unveiling an incredibly exciting heritage brand partnership with rural TV presenter Adam Henson — our Adam Henson

by Harrison Spinks collection.

“At the heart of every Adam Henson mattress is carefully-selected rare breed wool from the fleece of sheep reared on Adam’s and other local Cotswold farms. Naturally soft, springy and absorbent, this lustrous wool works in harmony with our ultra-responsive Cortec™ springs to deliver the best night’s sleep.

Harrison Spinks has formed a partnership with TV’s Adam Henson

“Our Cortec™ springs form the supportive core of every mattress in the Adam Henson range. Cradling the body and reacting to individual movements, they work together with layers of HD and Microlution springs to reduce pressure points and roll together, significantly improving sleep quality.

“As we progress on our journey, we will be making more of the Harrison Spinks name — starting with rebranding Harrison across to

“THIS IS JUST THE START FOR HARRISON SPINKS , WITH SO MUCH MORE TO COME.” — Simon Spinks, managing director Harrison Spinks. We have a host of exciting new products up our sleeves, including a new Harrison Spinks pillowtop collection for our independents and a collection of contemporary bedframe designs that don’t use foam.

“Our hard work has been recognised with three Queen’s Awards for Enterprise in Innovation, Sustainable Development and International Trade, which are testament to the dedication and creativity of our team.

“We’ve always been about innovation and quality and are proud to have brought a number of firsts to the bed industry, however, this is just the start for Harrison Spinks, with so much more to come.”

w www.harrisonspinks.co.uk

Harrison Spinks has been recognised with three Queen’s Awards September 2019 | 93

BEDS

a healthy night’s sleep (being foam and chemical free) and fully recyclable, so we are all doing our bit to protect the environment.

aQO

B E D S F E A T U R E |P R O T E C T - A - B E D BEDS

Time to join

THE CLUB? Simon Zamet, chief executive, and Paul Lake, national sales manager at Protect-A-Bed, explain how being part of its Platinum Club has delivered continued success.

Nine months into the year, award-winning mattress protection specialist Protect-A-Bed has continued to build momentum, which has in turn delivered year-on-year sales of growth of around 20%.

Much of this success is down to two key features the business introduced at the start of 2019 — its Platinum Club and new eyecatching displays.

Protect-A-Bed’s growth has been highly impressive when considering the market’s unpredictable economic and political outlook. As already highlighted, a big factor in its success has been the formation of its Platinum Club. Paul Lake, Protect-A-Bed’s national sales manager, explained: “In a year where volume of customers has declined, September 2019 | 94

focus has never been more important on each customer who walks through the shop door.

We know we can help any store reach a 50% attachment rate or higher. As a business we are constantly looking to help drive sales for all of our retail partners. But specialist training is vital to unlock the sales potential and our Protect-A-Bed team is incredibly adaptive to support this in any retail environment.”

Paul continued, “We support this training through a bespoke reward system at the Protect-A-Bed Platinum Club. Since launching the Platinum Club, the results have been excellent. Both existing and new partners have joined and are benefiting from the focused approach to growing sales.’”

Protect-A-Bed has taken the values of being

Display success

part of a club, which offers a sense of belonging, unity and exclusivity, to match its own values of high customer service.

Following the successful launch of its new collections, the company aims to reward those who are loyal to the brand with the Platinum Club doing just that — offering members special incentives.

Simon Zamet, Protect-A-Bed chief executive, added: “The Platinum Club has been designed to build, recognise and reward success with unique promotional and discount opportunities, sponsored incentives, tailored POS solutions as well as membership rewards.

“Protect-A-Bed has developed a world-class programme honed over years of experience,

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

aQO

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“

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with We are very happy to be working are a partner like Protect-A-Bed, who not have They e. llenc exce to committed tantly cons are and back sit to us ed allow ance.” driving us to improve our perform

ing us Protect-A-Bed are constantly help e doing we’r k thin we as soon As . rove imp The er! bett even get well, they help us .” astic fant n bee has s sale in increase

built on a singular focus. This includes a unique sales training and motivational programme, our best-in-class mattress protection collection and bundled guarantees, new state-of-the-art display bays, awardwinning customer services and claims resolution, and a next-day delivery service where required.

“Protect-A-Bed are specialists in the mattress protection category. Nobody else in the category has the same passion, drive and focus to grow sales and that’s why we are the leading global brand in healthy sleep.”

The other key ingredient to its continued success has been its new TV displays.

Eye-catching to say the least, the displays have proved a useful tool in engaging with customers on product information as well as signalling Protect-A-Bed’s intent to embrace the digital age we operate in.

The new retail TV displays proved to be extremely popular and continue to receive great success since making their debut

Protect-A-Bed promised us an imp rovement in attachment rates but we neve r imagined that it was possible to deliver this kind of performance. Their passion for their product and outstanding sales training have been brilliant.”

We have been working with Prot ect-ABed for a number of years, however the recent refocusing has pushed sale s to new heights and we are delighted with the outcome.”

back at the January Furniture Show. The displays were once again on show during the Manchester Furniture Show in July and will again feature during the Minerva Autumn Furniture Show this month. On the global scale, the company has invested heavily in high-quality videography for displaying on TV screens, as well as formulating a sustainable ‘blueprint’ for ongoing growth. Paul said: “We have developed more models for training and producing more dynamic video footage to supplement existing resources, whilst focusing on continuous improvement.

“We have several blueprints that instantly increase sales revenue and profitability. Every customer who walks through the door, if buying a mattress, needs to buy a mattress protector. It’s in their interest to do so for many reasons. Therefore, we continuously build frameworks that are simple for retailers to implement in order to achieve extremely high attachment rates.

“Focus is key, lots of small improvements often lead to significant improvement in performance once compounded. Often these areas are overlooked, but through analysing every detail, how it’s displayed, how it’s introduced, how sales people feel when pitching, for example, will significantly increase sales in store. Therefore, we know we can instantly increase sales within this category, for new and existing retail partners.”

Paul concluded: “Protect-A-Bed’s ability to upskill your team and increase your sales revenue by maximising every sales opportunity has been well documented. We can manage every step of the process for you and build a reward scheme through The Protect-A-Bed Platinum Club. There is nothing to be lost and everything to be gained. Isn’t it time you joined the club?”

Sales rose 20% year-on-year

“SINCE LAUNCHING THE PLATINUM CLUB, THE RESULTS HAVE BEEN EXCELLENT . BOTH EXISTING AND NEW PARTNERS HAVE JOINED AND ARE BENEFITING FROM THE FOCUSED APPROACH TO GROWING SALES .”

— Paul Lake, national sales manager

w www.protectabed.co.uk September 2019 | 95

BEDS

WHAT THEY SAID ABOUT protect-a-bed

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

Sustainable, natural latex

PERFECT MATCH

Vita Talalay and Hypnos have teamed up for sustainable success. Cabinet Maker found out more.

Sustainability is a key driver to continuous improvement, although one can always do better. For Vita Talalay the Cradle to CradleÂŽ philosophy is the motivation for many new innovations.

Vita Talalay and Hypnos

One of the highlights so far has been the patented recipe for Natural Vita Talalay, which was developed in 2012 and ruled out any possible highly problematic substances.

The positive side effect was the reduction of the carbon footprint of the company, as oil-derived synthetic latex was replaced with natural latex, which is a sustainable, renewable resource that is harvested from rubber trees.

In 2013 it started sourcing electricity from windmills and all gas consumption was offset with carbon credits. Then in 2017, it first introduced a product made with responsible FSC certified latex and then a product Âť September 2019 | 96

Victor Garcia

Richard Naylor

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

that replaced their flame retardant with a natural, sustainable option.

Victor Garcia, responsible at Vita Talalay for the UK market, said: “Even though we do all these investments because we feel we need to, it is also beneficial to support like-minded customers. For instance, recently we were one of the only ones that received from RedDot the ‘Interzum Best of the Best Award’ for a recyclable mattress, in which we were the sustainable comfort material.

“And another example closer to home is our cooperation with Hypnos. When I explained our Cradle to Cradle philosophy and our newly-developed completely natural FR solution, I knew this was something Hypnos felt very strongly about.”

Richard Naylor, newly-appointed sustainable development director at Hypnos, added: “We are committed to using environmentally-responsible materials of the highest quality. It requires suppliers who can deliver the very best materials that are also sustainable. They include natural fibres like wool, cotton and latex.

“We’ve worked with Vita Talalay latex for over a year now because it provides superb comfort as it’s made with pure natural latex that is naturally fire-retardant to meet the most stringent legislation and third party certifications.”

Vita Talalay and Hypnos Naylor continued: “For example, their patented recipe meets Cradle to Cradle Gold requirements and avoids bad toxins that could be damaging to humans or the environment.

Their Eco-Institut certification testifies there is zero toxicity, ensuring there is no harmful off-gassing from the latex whilst you sleep.”

Garcia added: “Where we also have synergy is in our efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Our Natural Vita Talalay is derived from rubber trees.

Rubber trees are big in carbon sequestration.

Since we started Inside Vita Talalay rolling Natural Vita Talalay out into the market we’ve tripled the use of natural latex, replacing synthetic latex. As a bonus, rubber trees have a large CO2 uptake. In addition, all our electricity is coming from wind, and we offset our gas use with so called carbon credits, which plant and protect forests as well as wildlife.

Garcia: “Our brand and product should support our customers. We are very honoured to be part of the well-known comfort that Hypnos brings and adding to their health and sustainability efforts.”

Vita Talalay can be found in the new Hypnos Origin Collections at the NBF Bed Show in Telford, on 17th and 18th September. For more information, visit Hypnos on Stand C40.

w www.vitatalalay.com w www.hypnosbeds.com

“WHEN I EXPLAINED OUR CRADLE TO CRADLE PHILOSOPHY AND OUR NEWLYDEVELOPED

COMPLETELY NATURAL FR

SOLUTION, I KNEW THIS WAS SOMETHING HYPNOS FELT VERY STRONGLY ABOUT.” — Victor Garcia, responsible at Vita Talalay for the UK market Hypnos bed with Vita Talalay latex September 2019 | 98

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F E A T U R E |F I R A FEATURES

FFFSR Update

In July 2019 the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) finally published its response to the 2016 consultation into revising the UK’s Furniture & Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations (FFFSR).

It’s been a long wait for the furniture industry, with not knowing what lies in the future causing concern and uncertainty, and the outcome of the Government’s response is that there is still uncertainty and more work is needed. Whilst this happens the current FFFSR will remain in place.

The aims of the proposed changes to the FFFSR were to: •Maintain a high level of consumer fire safety •Reduce the levels of fire retardants in products — because historically some have been found to be harmful to humans and/ or the environment and there are concerns regarding others •Allow innovation in design and new technology •Improve Trading Standards’ ability to enforce the Regulations •Improve areas where there is some lack of clarity, especially around items such as seat pads, scatter cushions and outdoor furniture.

BEIS received 126 responses from a wide range of stakeholders from furniture businesses and charities to the fire services and Trading Standards. There were positive responses from the majority of respondents on a number of key issues: •Improving the definition of upholstered furniture (91% in favour) •Excluding mattress protectors and sleeping bags (68% in favour) •Better defining what is a scatter cushion and seat pad (69% in favour) •Maintaining the requirement for secondhand furniture to comply (77% in favour) •Requiring manufacturers to maintain a technical file (78% in favour) •Maintaining the permanent label, but removing the display label/swing tag (77% in favour) •Allowing a 24-month implementation period for the proposed changes (68% in favour) •Increasing the time Trading Standards has to instigate legal proceedings from six to 12 months.

Where there was not agreement was on whether the proposed changes to the test regimes would be effective in maintaining fire safety and reducing the levels of fire retardants in products. Broadly the respondents were split equally on all these

We asked Phil Reynolds, chief operating officer at the Furniture Industry Research Association (FIRA), to give an insight into the Government’s recent response to the Furniture & Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations (FFFSR), and what the future may look like.

issues, with a third supportive, a third against and a third who were unsure.

So what does the future look like?

As there was no consensus from the consultation, BEIS sought the advice of an advisory panel.

From this the decision is to look at a new approach based on a list of Essential Safety Requirements for fire safety that are less prescriptive and less inhibiting of innovation.

It is hoped that this approach will preserve fire safety, whilst giving manufacturers the ability to reduce or remove the use of fire retardants in furniture. The response cites the requirements listed in the Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC as an example of how this might be achieved.

As yet we have no information on what these requirements will be, or the test methods that will underpin these, which we believe will be led by the Office of Product Safety & Standards, with the British Standards Institute. As industry experts we look forward to being involved with this process.

It is of interest that the document clearly states that meeting the Essential Safety Requirements ”will sit firmly with the manufacturer”, which is very different to the current Regulations (see panel), where there is a responsibility on the supply chain to ensure the safety of the product.

Without knowing what will be proposed, it will be interesting to see how this approach could affect small manufacturers and reupholsterers, or indeed those offering any sofa in any fabric, but hopefully this will become clearer.

Once the new requirements and standard are developed, Government will consult again on the new approach, together with the other changes that were more positively received.

There is, however, no timescale for this and so, in the meantime, the current FFFSR will continue to apply in the UK.

w www.fira.co.uk

How the Regulations currently work The current FFFSR put an obligation on the entire upholstery supply chain to meet the Regulations.

This means that suppliers of foams, fibre and textiles etc. should only supply materials that are compliant with the Regulations, and manufacturers should only use compliant materials.

The advantage of this process is that it means that a manufacturer, especially a small or bespoke organisation, can buy compliant materials and be reasonably sure that their product meets the requirements of the Regulations.

In addition, testing fabrics over a worst case filling means that it is possible for retailers to offer any style of sofa in any fabric and again be reasonably sure the product meets the requirements of the Regulations regardless of filling material.

The downside to this route, however, is that whilst fire retardants are not mentioned in the FFFSR they are generally needed to ensure that fabrics, interliners and foams are compliant with the regulations.

» September 2019 | 101

F E A T U R E |F I R A FEATURES

Expert Access

Q: What happens if a product fails a test?

A: Howard James, operations manager – testing, FIRA International: Where a product fails in testing there are a number of things to be considered dependant on the product and the failure: •Foam or fabric fails the Furniture & Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations (FFFSR) — Compliance with the FFFSR is a legal requirement, however, there are a number September 2019 | 102

of factors that may affect test results and it always advisable to discuss with the test house the extent of the failure, and possibly have repeat samples tested. If these still fail then the product cannot go on sale. For a product already sold it is worth discussing with an expert the risk to the consumer and also discussing with your local Trading Standards body on a suitable course of action.

•Product is covered by the General Product

In a third ‘clinic’ experts at FIRA International answer questions on sustainable practices, what happens when a product fails a test, Brexit and Standards. Send your questions to the experts to dan@cabinet-maker.co.uk

Safety Regulations — In the UK most furniture products are covered by the General Product Safety Regulations (GPSR). Whilst there are some standards that are listed in the Official Journal of the European Community (OJEC) as meeting the requirements of the GPSR, and so almost mandatory, there are few for furniture (Foldaway beds being the most prominent example).

Under the GPSR, where the standard is not

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

aQO FEATURES

cited in the OJEC, the producer needs to carry out a risk assessment on the product, which may include having the product assessed to current European or British Standards.

definitive direction. I am still in dialogue with Government and www.fira.co.uk/brexit carries the latest updates when these are available, @FIRANews will also carry updates so it’s worth following us.

If a product fails a standard, the producer needs to understand whether the product is unsafe — for example, could cause injury to a consumer — or whether it is a technical or minor failure to meet a standard.

Q: Are there any new furniture standards to be aware of?

A: Phil Reynolds, director, Furniture Industry Research Association: We’ve recently seen three newlypublished standards:

In all cases, it is essential to understand why a product has failed and how a consumer may be affected by the failure. A risk assessment is an important tool, but all scenarios and potential users should be considered.

A risk assessment on an unsafe failure will help you decide on an appropriate course of action, in conjunction with your local Trading Standards Body, especially if product is already on the market.

A risk assessment on a technical or minor failure to meet a standard may conclude that a product does not pose a material risk to the consumer, and thus is still classed as a safe product under the GPSR and suitable for sale.

Q: What sustainable practices would you say are becoming more important across the industry?

A: Stuart Cochrane, Sustainability Consultant, FIRA International: Sustainability is very much back on the agenda given recent media coverage, social protests and publication of the UK Government’s Resources and Waste Strategy in December 2018. Maximising the value of precious and finite materials through ecodesign, promoting circular economy activities and minimising waste is a key element of the UK Government’s strategy.

Waste problem areas are addressed, with packaging and, in particular, single-use plastics and foams likely to face increased taxation in the future. Businesses should be seeking alternatives to traditional packaging materials that can help reduce environmental impact but also mitigate against the financial impacts of extending the scope or replacing

Suzie Radcliffe-Hart

The Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations 2007.

In addition to packaging, bulky waste items are highlighted in the UK Government’s Resource and Waste Strategy as an area to be tackled. A number of potential compulsory and voluntary extended producer responsibility schemes are being considered in the hope that it will encourage products to be given a second life or the components and materials within those products to be reused or recycled.

A good challenge for all manufacturers is to consider the scenario where they are responsible for the product at the end of its first life. How would this impact the way products are designed and assembled if manufacturers were seeking to maximise the value of the product or materials at the end of its first life?

•PD CEN/TR 16411:2019 Child care articles.

Compiled interpretations of CEN/TC 252 standards •BS EN 527‑2:2016+A1:2019 Office furniture - Work tables Part 2: Safety, strength and durability requirements (this supersedes BS EN 527‑2:2016, which is withdrawn) •BS EN 716: 2017 + AC: 2019 Furniture.

Children’s cots and folding cots for domestic use. Part 1: Safety requirements A lot of preparatory work has also taken place in the development of standards for swing chairs, such as hammocks, garden swings and egg chairs. This has come about due to a number of incidents involving such items, so we’re looking at where we can reduce risk.

In addition, the Furniture Industry Research Association will shortly be publishing a standard for bariatric beds.

For further information on FIRA International go to www.fira.co.uk, email info@fira.co.uk or call +44 (0)1438 777 700.

w www.fira.co.uk

Q: Where are we with Brexit?

A: Suzie Radcliffe-Hart, technical manager, FIRA International: At the time of writing there is still no September 2019 | 103

F E A T U R E |A U T U M N L O N G P O I N T FEATURE

Quality

Rubens Grand Sofa, John Sankey’s new shape

Cabinet Maker previews this year’s Long Eaton Guild Autumn Long Point with the organisers and some of the exhibitors It’s billed as one of the most important and exciting furniture exhibitions in the UK, and this year’s Autumn Long Point is certainly no different.

So says Andrew Mitchell, Long Eaton Guild chairman and managing director of guild member Artistic Upholstery.

He tells Cabinet Maker there will be a dedicated registration point situated in Harrington Mill, where visitors can register for a chance to win a fabulous stay at the famous Michelin-starred Belmont Le Manoir Hotel and Restaurant, get help, advice and obtain detailed maps to all locations that will be highlighted by eye-catching signage.

And what a show it promises to be, with new additions and twists to old favourites.

The David Knight Collection is delighted to be exhibiting at Long Point in its own factory/showroom, where customers old and new can see a bespoke upholstery range (and where it is made), including the well-known Harlequin collection. A small, family-owned, company, it offers “extreme flexibility and works in partnership with independent retailers and interior designers.”

Retaining the family ethos, the company is pleased to announce “the best kept secret in Long Eaton”, with David and Lyn’s son-inlaw, Ben Hunter, joining the company as a September 2019 | 104

Professional rugby player Ben Hunter is joining David Knight Collection director. At present Ben, who is married to Sophie, is a professional rugby player but this is his last season. He has already been working closely with people in the company, which on 1st September will be rebranded as Hunter Knight Upholstery.

David told us: “Ben is very enthusiastic and very keen to take the company forward, and this is very important to us all.”

Iain James Furniture said it was delighted

to be showcasing several new additional pieces to its successfully-launched Rosewood collection.

It’s a striking range of furniture offering “an eclectic mix of simplistic elegance and classical design”, and is further enhanced through the use of delicate Ebony inlays and fully dovetailed solid Ash drawer sides.

The ever-popular Burr Walnut collection, along with further Mahogany and Oak »

For over 20 years we have been pioneering ecologically friendly artificial leather, remodelling the world of ethically produced faux leather for a better tomorrow.

AUTUMN FABRIC SHOW Tuesday October 1st, 10am - 6pm Wednesday October 2nd, 9am - 6pm Old Trafford, Manchester United Football Ground

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F E A T U R E |A U T U M N L O N G P O I N T FEATURE

ranges, will also be displayed at both of its showroom locations.

Splendour, from Ashley Manor

Meanwhile, Alexander and James Sofas reports that it will be focusing on fashion flashes. It said: “Find playful combinations of trend-led fabric stories on the latest shapes and new hand-tipped leathers with gravitas at Alexander & James this season. We look forward to welcoming you to our world this Autumn.”

With Ashley Manor, it’s all about the light fantastic and visitors to Long Point will be in for a treat. It said: “Discover Ashley Manor’s new design language for Autumn at Long Point Show. Light reflective materials, exclusive fabric collections and the very best in stylish shapes are designed to WOW you.”

John Sankey, which will be showcasing its Rubens Grand Sofa — John Sankey’s new shape — added: “Everything about Rubens is soft and tactile; from the classic lines of the camel-back shape to the sumptuous Oxfordedged pillows.

combined with excellent functionality, and the new ranges being shown are no exception. ercol will have six new collections on display, adding to its current portfolio of designs that include dining, living, bedroom and home office furniture created by its skilled in-house design team and made by craftsmen in ercol’s Buckinghamshire factory or by one of ercol’s manufacturing partners across the globe.

“The yielding sitting experience is achieved by a combination of sprung platform, soft Another exhibitor that is foam/feather-wrapped seat interiors and particularly proud of its feather-filled heritage is Steed pillows, which Upholstery, work together which “creates to deliver such upholstery of a pleasurable outstanding experience of quality”. It’s wrap-around Iain James Furniture is still a family-run comfort.” showcasing new pieces to business five its Rosewood collection decades on — and The sofa is available proud of that fact. in three sizes and is supported by a beautiful new Situated in Long Eaton, which is recognised range of fabrics. John Sankey is showing as the country’s centre of upholstery at home in its gorgeous showroom at excellence, Steed has established a marketMilner Road, Long Eaton — contact sales@ leading reputation for exceptional design and johnsankey.co.uk to confirm a visit during manufacturing quality.

Long Point week. ercol furniture is synonymous with quality, timeless, pared down furniture design

At this year’s Autumn Long Point, Parker Knoll will be introducing a new full motion

will be on display at the The innovative 5th Avenue during Autumn Long Point om wro sho igns Des Gascoigne September 2019 | 106

range within The LifeStyle Collection, along with an exclusive stain-resistant fabric collection. It’s headline news from Parker Knoll, so people should certainly check out Parker Knoll at its dedicated showroom in Turret C, Floor 3 of Harrington Mills, where it will also be showcasing its latest collection, Collection 150.

There is also a launch from Collins & Hayes, which will be introducing a slip cover edition of its popular tailored Heath collection. In direct response to customer demands, the new addition maintains the contemporary style of Heath, while offering more choice, with more than 460 natural fibre fabrics to choose from.

A spokesperson said to “experience true understated luxury”, visit Collins & Hayes on Floor 3, Turret C, in Harrington Mills and view the complete collection at a dedicated customer showroom.

Meanwhile, Gascoigne Designs is proudly celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, and to coincide with this will be opening its extended new showroom, where a more diverse range and larger collection of its luxury products will be on show.

w www.longeatonguild.co.uk

From Parker Knoll, the Man hattan Three Seater Sofa in Capture Natural, with Sophie Wing Chair in Fusion Sage

F E A T U R E |I C O N O G R A P H Y FEATURES

Embracing

eCommerce

Rosie Rudge, marketing manager at Iconography, explains the importance of online in the furniture industry. eCommerce for furniture retailers No one said running a business would be easy and even the most successful retail stores are failing. Well-known furniture retailer Sofa.com had a terrible 2018, which caused the business to be sold to Mike Ashley.

Throughout 2018, the UK had record proportions of online spending, with an increase to 18.2% in August. With the average rate of retail stores closing at 14 per day in the UK, it’s not surprising retailers are adding eCommerce as an additional sales and customer engagement channel.

It’s quite clear to see that both retailers and manufacturers need to embrace eCommerce as it’s growing so strongly year on year. But how can businesses get the best of both online and offline retailing?

Offer an omnicommerce experience Omnicommerce means a seamless and consistent customer experience, across all retailing and customer channels: in-store, online and mobile. To offer this, businesses must choose the right eCommerce platform, which can handle everything from interface to integration.

Choose the right eCommerce platform You should see your website as a huge window for your store, accessible by anyone at any time. Investing poorly could cost you in the long run, so ensure you do your research. Selecting the right eCommerce platform is essential, but don’t neglect that you need to decide on the right agency for your business. Look at the clients the agency has previously worked with and research Google reviews and the agency’s portfolio.

Integrations for current software Before parting with your budget for a website, make sure that the platform works flawlessly with any legacy EPoS and retail management software you are currently using. It is a wise move to check that your web agency has previous experience with the specific integration you need.

Iconography has developed an enterpriselevel eCommerce platform, which integrates seamlessly with the leading furniture retail management systems. If you would like more information or a free demo, get in touch today – iconography.co.uk

An eye on the future Some of our most progressive clients — including some in furniture — are now moving away from their dated EPoS and retail management software, moving away from integrations between websites and offline systems and asking us to deliver a complete solution for online and instore retailing based on our Iconography Online + Instore platform.

The benefits of this approach are considerable — removing outdated software, primarily written before the web was the powerhouse it is today. Often, in our experience, this older software is over-engineered and difficult for the users to master, and is associated with protracted implementations, costly training and expensive licensing and support costs.

Iconography is pioneering an agile web-first retail platform, enterprise eCommerce and intuitive EPoS for face-to-face retailing — essential for the future of retailing.

w www.iconography.co.uk

Cookes: “Thrilled with the outcome” Cookes is a leading member of the Minerva buying group; an extremely successful family-run furniture store established in 1946, now with two stunning showrooms located in Birmingham and Christchurch.

In 2015, Iconography launched the first Cookes website, which was a dramatic improvement to its old under-performing Magento site.

We’ve built a fresh modern enterprise eCommerce website that conveys the look and feel of the Cookes retail space. The new website looks fantastic, is featurerich and based on the latest version of our Iconography eCommerce September 2019 | 108

platform. Some of the features that are included are: a bespoke appointment booking service, Swan Retail Systems integration and a Swatch Wizard.

Cookes said: “Our latest Iconography eCommerce website has a vast array of features; we are thrilled with the outcome.

“We decided to renew our website with Iconography as we’ve built a strong relationship with them.

“Megan, our client account manager, is absolutely brilliant.”

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Alan Ward: offered the perfect solution You’ll find everything you need to furnish your house with Alan Ward.

process by developing a robust integration for their third-party programmes, X-Margin and FRS, then integrating into our enterpriselevel eCommerce platform. This then allowed Alan Ward greater flexibility and control of how their products are displayed. Utilising FRS, we also created better customer navigation as X-Margin previously only allowed for two levels of categories.

Alan Ward first opened their doors back in 1970 and are still proudly family-owned. Over the decades they have grown and added more stores to the group portfolio. They pride themselves on being able to offer a vast array of choice, and the ability to furnish every room of your home from visiting the store alone. In 2017 they were awarded second place in the AIS Member of the Year award.

The new website and integrations have proven very successful, greatly reducing data errors and increasing efficiency across the business.

Iconography first met with Alan Ward when they approached us at the AIS conference in April 2017 and discussed their eCommerce requirements, because they wanted to move away from using Magento.

Alan Ward is a brilliant success story.

They found Magento to be extremely limiting and inflexible. Alan Ward uses two third-party integrations, X-Margin and FRS. These integrations are back-office software, commonly used within the furniture retail sector, enabling them to update essential product-related information from a single location for use in-store and online, with product data transferred automatically to the website from their legacy FRS retail management system.

unusable. The way Magento was displaying product data pulled from X-Margin wasn’t user-friendly, due to the limitations of both the eCommerce platform and X-Margin.

Alan Ward was unable to change the way products were displayed on the website, which was extremely frustrating.

The team were finding Magento a hindrance as the required third-party integrations were

We were able to offer them the perfect solution by streamlining the back-end

Their success is driven by the teams’ continual push to improve their website, adding new features to benefit the customer experience, which is paying dividends.

Comparing year on year sales figures, through the eCommerce platform alone, they have experienced a 110% increase*. * comparing the first six months of 2018 to 2019.

September 2019 | 109

F E A T U R E |E N K E V FEATURES

A

NATURAL

Story Natural fibres specialist Enkev talks about its latest developments, including the appointment of its new UK Managing Director, Dan Porter.

Enkev has been turning natural fibres into quality products for over 80 years. Since our foundation in 1932, we have become one of the worlds leading processors of natural fibres, transforming them into new, sustainable and innovative natural products of outstanding quality that can be used in almost limitless applications.

Enkev UK is nestled in the stunning natural landscape of Cumbria, where we primarily process fillings and comfort layer materials for the mattress and furniture industry. Our natural products are also great for packaging purposes, automotive seating, filtration products and a wide range of other diverse uses.

We source and use only the very best natural materials to make our products; coir fibre, wool, hair, cotton, sisal, jute, corn and pure natural latex. Unsurpassed in their resilience, durability and ventilation, these materials enable Enkev UK to supply a completely environmentally friendly alternative to September 2019 | 110

Apart from believing in the sustainable development of our company, we also have a responsibility towards the people we work with, and the people who we do business with. synthetic materials.

Our historic core principles meet the rising consumer demand of ethically sourced, traceable, low carbon footprint, and fully biodegradable materials.

Enkev offers products that meet, and often exceed, today’s market expectations, and with an eye on the future we are already developing new materials. We will be launching a brand-new product at the NBF show this September.

We can also provide New Zealand Wool that is 100% traceable to the audited farmer, unique in the world.

In these long-term relationships we value concepts such as reliability, loyalty and trust.

To us this feels like the proper way of taking care of you.

We are incredibly proud we hold an NBF A Grade approved supplier status, after our recent successful audit.

It is with great pleasure that we would like to introduce to you the newest members of the Enkev family; Dan Porter – UK Managing Director.

Dan joined us in January and brings with him a wealth of production, engineering and manufacturing experience.

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This experience allows us to meet the high expectations of our customers, and the insight to use new and exciting materials within our manufacturing processes.

We are also pleased to announce that Chris Francis has joined us as the UK Sales Manager.

Chris, having spent over 30 years in the Bedding and Furniture industry, has an abundance of knowledge and understanding in regards to the needs of our customers.

Having an international sales background, he has also developed a wider world view of the industry, and he is excited to be working closely with our UK customers.

The Enkev Group takes immense pride in being a supplier of high quality, high integrity filling solutions, and our exclusive partnership with Wools of New Zealand helps us take our ethical and traceable supply chain to truly unique levels.

This partnership allows us the sourcing of the very best material direct from farms on the beautiful islands of New Zealand, where the husbandry and stewardship of their livestock and lands are deep rooted.

Its not all about the geography; it’s also about stringent product quality, environmental standards, and social responsibility.

Integrity, Innovation, Sustainability, Transparency, People and Planet Friendly are not just tag lines, they are something we all truly believe in, and we very much look forward to working with our customers both old and new, delivering these values through our products to your consumers.

Please come along to visit the Enkev stand #D5 at this year’s National Bed Federation Show, in Telford 17th – 18th September, to discuss how we can help your business move towards a more natural and sustainable future.

w www.enkev.com

“THE DEMANDS BEING MADE BY CONSUMERS HAVE NEVER INFLUENCED OUR PRODUCTS MORE THAN THEY DO TODAY, ESPECIALLY VIA SOCIAL MEDIA.”

September 2019 | 111

F E A T U R E |G R E E N W O O D R E T A I L FEATURES

Front left, Bernard Eaton, and front right, Adam Tomlin, with, in the background, Jones & Tomlin staff celebrating the end of the sales event, which was Greenwood Retail’s 1,000th

LANDMARK EVENT

Bernard Eaton, founder and managing director of Greenwood Retail, toasts its landmark 1,000th sales event as Cabinet Maker found out more.

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, 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.

September 2019 | 112

“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 such as Jones & Tomlin.”

Having planned and coordinated more sales events in the UK and Ireland than any other sales company, Greenwood Retail is a true British success story.

Working with quality retailers of furniture and furnishings, homewares, garden products, fashion, giftware and jewellery, no other

company is more experienced in this market or better qualified to advise the quality independent retailer about sales success than Greenwood. Many of Greenwoods clients are members of AIS and Minerva.

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

He said: “We only work with quality retailers and all Greenwood sales events are designed

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Greenwood Retail hosts around 50 to 60 sales events a year

“WE ARE DELIGHTED TO HAVE REACHED THIS SUBSTANTIAL MILESTONE AND TO HAVE WORKED ALONGSIDE SO MANY TALENTED PEOPLE.” 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 per cent 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! That’s three great results in a row for us over five years, which proves how reliable their marketing model is. I would not hesitate to hire Greenwood again.”

enjoy record-breaking sales results, despite the political chaos.

“We’re now almost fully booked for 2019 and well into 2020. They say it’s never too early to book your Greenwood Sale. Booking in advance guarantees exclusivity for the season before and during your Greenwood Sale within your own market territory. Here’s to the next 1,000 sales events.”

To find out more about the services offered

by Greenwood Limited, call 01565 650 101 or go to

w www.greenwoodretail.com

Bernard added: “The uncertainty of Brexit continues to cause a significant downturn in big ticket and non-essential spending.

However, Greenwood’s clients continue to September 2019 | 113

F E A T U R E |Y P I E FEATURES

Eight of the best and brightest junior employees in the furniture industry have completed The Furniture Makers’ Company’s unique Young Professional Industry Experience.

The Young Professional Industry Experience was launched in 2014 to give companies the opportunity to invest in the development of their employees and send future leaders of the sector on a course of continuous professional development like no other.

This year’s participants were Jess Bowyer, sourcing and corporate social responsibility manager at Ocee Design; Oliver Clegg, junior quality assurance analyst at Camira Fabrics; Ryan Goddard, operations graduate at Herman Miller; Kieran Gunn, technical support at Ercol; Emily Nickless, digital marketing manager at Parker Knoll; Hattie Speed, design engineer at Ercol; Josh Stancer, business development/ September 2019 | 114

to the

occasion

trainee veneer specialist at Mundy Veneer; and Carl Sunderland, development CAD technician at Parker Knoll.

The group spent three weeks across June and July travelling around the UK, visiting 21 companies to learn about the furniture supply chain, including raw materials and components, manufacturing, retailing, buying, pricing, marketing, merchandising, intellectual property, consumer law, after sales and customer service.

They presented their collective findings to representatives of the host companies as well as other industry dignitaries at Furniture Makers’ Hall, London on Thursday, 25th July.

During the presentation, the group identified five themes — Brexit, an ageing workforce, sustainability, online retailing/changing consumer habits and employee engagement — that were having an impact on the sector and put forward solutions to the perceived threats.

Dids Macdonald OBE, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company, said: “The culmination of this unique three-week intensive programme of zig-zagging around the UK was a wonderful celebration of learning. The excellent presentation, reviewing the key issues within the sector and possible solutions, provided food for thought for us all. The experience would not have happened without the

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“THE CULMINATION OF THIS UNIQUE THREE-WEEK

INTENSIVE PROGRAMME OF ZIG-ZAGGING AROUND THE UK WAS A WONDERFUL

CELEBRATION OF LEARNING.” — Dids Macdonald OBE, Master of the Furniture Makers’ Company

ABOVE: Students visit FIRA in Stevenage LEFT: Getting hands-on in the workshop

commitment of our corporate members and supporters.”

Oliver Clegg, junior quality assurance analyst at Camira Fabrics, said: “To pinpoint one single thing that I’ve gained the most from the programme is a very difficult task, but it would have to be how much my eyes have been opened to the industry. If you think you know everything about it, you don’t! This really is an unrivalled insight into the furniture industry.”

Hattie Speed, design engineer at Ercol, added: “I found the programme an incredibly enriching experience that taught me a lot about the scope of this industry and the role I can play within it. Meeting other young people also starting out on their career pathways was one of the most beneficial aspects of the course because it made me realise I am not alone in some of the difficulties I am facing, and it gave me a better insight in how to overcome some of my own individual challenges.”

Kieran Gunn, technical support at Ercol, said: “I am so pleased to have had the chance to take part in this course. One of the highlights for me was meeting the other candidates and learning about their roles.

“Visiting the wide range of companies was very exciting. Being able to see how they work and ask questions about challenges

they face was very helpful.”

Josh Stancer, business development/trainee veneer specialist at Mundy Veneer, thought: “The most notable aspect of the course was the exposure to a vast array of companies within the furniture industry. The number of different environments we visited and different processes we got to experience really shows the depth of the furniture industry. This exposure will be crucial within my personal development and more growth within my own company.”

Emily Nickless, digital marketing manager at Parker Knoll, said: “I found the programme to be a very enlightening and fruitful experience. I gained so much out of visiting other manufacturing facilities, given my marketing background, which will allow me to have a more holistic approach to my role.”

After the presentation the Master awarded candidates with a certificate of completion.

To support their continued development, each will be paired with one of the Company’s members to act as their mentor.

If you are interested in sending one of your employees on the programme in 2020, contact Anne Sampson, educational events and campaigns manager — email anne@ furnituremakers.org.uk or call 020 7562 8523.

w www.furnituremakers.org.uk

ABOVE: YPIE students at Cabinet Maker HQ RIGHT: Learning about the production of mattresses at Hypnos September 2019 | 115

F E A T U R E |A U T U M N F U R N I T U R E S H O W FEATURES

NOW!

A look ahead to next month’s Autumn Furniture Show as it returns for a sixth year.

September 2019 | 116

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The Autumn Furniture Show takes place at NAEC, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire

A COMPLETE A-Z OF EXHIBITORS INCLUDING MANY WELL-KNOWN The Autumn Furniture Show, now in its sixth year, takes place on 1st and 2nd October at NAEC, Stoneleigh Park, near Kenilworth.

The venue is set in beautiful Warwickshire countryside and will be well signposted.

Previously the venue for The Royal Show, the complex now offers three large purpose-built exhibition halls. The Autumn Furniture Show will be utilising two of these halls, a total of 7,000 square metres. Ample free car parking is available adjacent to the halls.

This prestigious location is extremely convenient for major road and rail links.

Birmingham International airport is only just 20 minutes away by car. The nearest railway station, Warwick Parkway, is 6.5 miles from Stoneleigh.

The show itself attracts a wide range of key manufacturers with a variety of products, including Dining, Upholstery, Beds, Bedroom

MANUFACTURERS IS AVAILABLE TO VIEW ON THE WEBSITE

Furniture, Home Accessories and Software Systems. A complete A-Z of exhibitors, including many well-known manufacturers, is available to view on the website.

Useful information Where: NAEC, Stoneleigh Park, Code CV8 Warwickshire, CV8 2LG (Satnav 2LG) 9am-5pm When: 1st and 2nd October, from the on pm -4.30 9am and on the Tuesday, Wednesday entary lunch Entry: Free, along with complim e. logu and cata Parking: On-site free parking selection Accommodation: There is a wide will find you h whic of y man by, of hotels near listed on the website ow.co.uk

www.theautumnfurnituresh

Entrance to the show is by registration only, visit the website www. theautumnfurnitureshow.co.uk to book your place. All trade buyers from the furniture sector are welcome.

w www.theautumnfurnitureshow.co.uk September 2019 | 117

F E A T U R E |S H O W S P R E V I E W FEATURES

Habitare

Showtime!

The Flooring Show — 15th-17th September, Harrogate Convention Centre, Harrogate Widely recognised as the UK’s National Flooring Event, 2019 marks the 57th edition, a record performance for a b2b sector trade show, and a not-to-be-missed event for any supplier or retailer in the sector. This is where the industry’s leading brands and suppliers from the UK and beyond turn out to support the three-day show, using the occasion to showcase new ranges across all types of flooring including carpet, laminate, LVT, wood, vinyl plus cork and grass for both the contract and retail markets. With more than 50 exhibitors new to the show for 2019 or returning after a short break having already signed up, visitors should allow enough time to meet some new faces and review their ranges and flooring offers.

w www.theflooringshow.com Furniture China — 9th-12th September, Pudong, Shanghai Co-organized by CNFA and UBM Sinoexpo, the annual trade exhibition Furniture China will celebrate its 25th anniversary at SNIEC in Pudong, Shanghai. In conjunction with September 2019 | 118

With the Bed Show, the Autumn Fair and Long Point all taking centre stage this month, Cabinet Maker takes a look at the other 12 industry events during September, both in the UK and overseas. It’s certainly Showtime!

Maison Shanghai at SWEECC, the events continue the commitment to bringing a higher level of furniture exhibition, with around 3,500 exhibitors coming on stage to present new and diversified products and home decoration. Trade buyers, visitors and media can make online registration prior to the events, enjoying preferential prices and quick access to visiting Furniture China onsite. Wang Mingliang, founder and director of UBM Sinoexpo, commented on last year’s success: “Furniture China 2018 attained the greatest progress over past 10 years, which led the exhibition into a new era. Meanwhile, the organisers have also developed with a superior planning value. The renewing Furniture China emphasises more on the lifting quality than quantity. High quality is undoubtedly the aim and one of the core competitiveness of Furniture China to make its way to a world’s leading and international furniture expo.”

w www.furniture-china.cn

Maison & Objet — 5th-10th September, Parc des Expositions de Villepinte, France MAISON&OBJET is the major event for professionals working in the art of living in all its rich and varied expressions. The lifestyle show brings together a 360°product offering.

Decoration, design, furniture, accessories, textiles, fragrances, the world of children and tableware are all on display. The styles coexist in a multifaceted way, throughout the inventive show design that enlivens the spaces. This diversity is in line with the varied expectations of global markets. With each session, the great lifestyle platform, at the intersection of business and creativity, reveals solutions to visitors from around the world in search of uniqueness.

w www.maison-objet.com

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Decosit has replaced MoOD

Decosit, replacing MoOD — 10th-11th September, Hall 10 – Brussels Expo Following the cancellation of the trade show MoOD by Easyfairs, Fedustria, the Belgian federation of the textile, wood and furniture industries has taken the initiative to launch a new trade show for upholstery fabrics and interior textiles under the name Decosit.

This initiative is taken on request of the textile companies, members of Fedustria.

This means the revival of the world-famous Decosit fair and a return to the former name and venue. Decosit aims to attract textile producers from across the globe and bring this unique fair back to the world map of trade fairs. Above all its timing is perfect, as Kris Vermoesen, product manager Textiles of Fedustria, explained: “Decosit is the only European fair in the fall, and comes just in time for the winter collections and the furniture shows in the months of November, December, January and February. Gathering the major players from the furniture fabrics and interior textiles sector in the heart of Europe allows optimising networking opportunities for attracting new customers.

This new initiative was positively welcomed also beyond the borders and the interest in participating is large.”

w www.decosit.eu South West Furniture Show — 10th12th September, North Petherton, Somerset Registration for the South West Furniture Manufacturer’s Agent and Representatives Federation (SWFMARF) is still open for this month’s show. It is located at the Sedgemoor

Auction Centre in North Petherton, Somerset.

Organisers said: “Established 25 years ago to promote the sales of ‘Quality Home Furnishing Furniture, Beds and Accessories’ to trade customers in South West England and South Wales, we look forward to welcoming you to our 2019 September Edition.”

w www.swfmarf.com

the home sector is interiors and accessories, from rugs and throws to clocks and cushions, kitchen dining with the latest tableware, furniture and lighting with the latest designs from multiple product groups and outdoor living, which focuses on the outside space.

PULSE, now co-located with Top Drawer for the first time and joined with Spotted, will give visitors looking for emerging talent and new names access to original and innovative brands.

Top Drawer — 8th-10th September, Olympia, London

w www.topdrawer.co.uk

Top Drawer provides exclusive access to the latest trends, a curated selection of over 1,500 design-led lifestyle brands, across 11 sectors from more than 60 countries, and industry insight through diverse seminar programmes. Each year Top Drawer attracts the most successful retailers, contract buyers and press from the UK and beyond, resulting in more than 21,000 visitors attending. Within

Habitare — 11th-15th September, Helsinki, Poland Habitare, the largest furniture, design and interior decoration event in Finland offers experiences and ideas on interior decoration, and on the functioning and look of homes and other spaces. Habitare highlights the ideas and works by a new generation of designers, and sparks discussion. There were 59,200 visitors in Habitare 2018.

w www.habitare.messukeskus.com South West Furniture Show

Glee — 10th-12th September, NEC, Birmingham Offering thousands of the newest and most inspirational garden retail products from over 500+ suppliers, Glee welcomes all kinds of exhibitors from across eight carefully-edited show sectors. Whilst discovering the latest in innovative products, you can also meet hundreds of new and existing suppliers all under one roof. Home, gift and clothing is the perfect sector for retailers looking to diversify their offerings and a great opportunity for suppliers looking to be an integral part of a rapidly-growing show sector.

w www.gleebirmingham.com »

September 2019 | 119

F E A T U R E |S H O W S P R E V I E W FEATURES

LEFT: designjunction BELOW: Top Drawer BOTTOM: London Design Festival

London Design Festival — 14th-22nd September, London London Design Festival stages four major trade shows, known as Design Destinations.

These are the commercial pillars of the festival and are key meeting places for designers, manufacturers, buyers, specifiers, the media and design enthusiasts to discover new product releases and identify current trends. They are: Focus/19 — 15th-20th September, Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, London For six days, visitors flock to Focus/19 to enjoy an abundance of collection launches, immersive events and more than 100

September 2019 | 120

experiences. New-season collections from 600 international brands look to the future by showcasing fresh colour stories, original narratives and techniques, while meet the designer sessions, Design Discovery Tours, workshops and artisan demonstrations further engage, inspire and inform. The Conversations in Design series creates an exciting dialogue with world-class speakers.

Specially commissioned installations and places to eat and drink complement the event’s dynamic approach.

w

www.londondesignfestival.com/ events/focus19

100% Design — 18th-21st September, Olympia, London 2019 marks the 25th anniversary of 100% Design, the UK’s leading design trade event.

Celebrating a quarter century of introducing some of the industry’s most influential designers, makers and producers, the 2019 show will present a stellar line-up of more than 400 exhibitors showcasing the latest products across furniture, lighting, textiles, glazing, surfaces, accessories and more. Striking installations, inspiring collaborations and innovative projects feature thought-provoking experiences and push the boundaries of design. New for this year, 100% Design will showcase ‘A Sense of Finland’ curated by Finnish/English designer Hanna Laikola, founder of HEMLO

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ABOVE: Furniture China BELOW: Glee at the NEC BOTTOM: The Flooring Show

creations. The Canopy, located under a heritage protected wrought iron structure, will house 70 premium pop-up shops and emerging design labels, selling everything from fashion accessories to technology, ceramics, glassware and stationery.

in collaboration with renowned Nordic brand Tapio Anttila Collection and Polar Life Haus, the long-established eco log house company.

Voted the happiest country in the world for the second year running, the Finland pavilion will allow visitors to experience the sounds, sights, touch, smell and taste of Finland in the middle of London.

w www.100percentdesign.co.uk designjunction — 19th-22nd September, Kings Cross, London Where Design Meets; designjunction presents a curated mix of more than 200 world-class furniture, lighting and accessory brands, alongside pop-up shops and major brand activations offering the ultimate design

w

www.londondesignfestival.com/ events/designjunction experience. Previously welcoming over 27,000 visitors across five days, designjunction will bring together designers, architects, retailers, developers and consumers at the spectacular Kings Cross site, London’s newest creative neighbourhood, during the 2019 London Design Festival. Cubitt House, a dedicated pavilion located adjacent to Coal Drops Yard, will house cutting edge and iconic furniture and lighting brands showcasing their latest

London Design Fair — 19th-22nd September, Old Truman Brewery, Ely’s Yard, London London Design Fair remains the goto destination for global design during the London Design Festival, hosting an impressive 12 country pavilions across the ground floor of the Fair. This year’s countries include Uruguay, Chile and the Czech Republic alongside returning showcases from Barcelona, Italy and Sweden. In addition, the fair will welcome more than 550 established brands and independent designers, presenting new designs to an audience of 29,000 retail buyers, architects, interior designers, press and design-savvy public.

w

www.londondesignfestival.com/ events/londondesignfair

Keep up-to-date with all the latest event dates with Cabinet Maker.

w www.cabinet-maker.co.uk/events

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PRODUCT PROMOTION|FURNITURE TO GO

Toronto

Elegantly modern with light and colour Toronto’s subtle glossy fronts and included LED lighting will add elegance and modern flair to any interior. The reflective surface will mirror the colours and lights of its surroundings, giving a sense of drama and class.

This beautiful furniture collection is also characterised by its contrasting oak melamine trim, and makes for an ideal choice for the most modern of homes. The concealed lighting really gives that extra “wow” factor to the range. Toronto also features a sleek handle-free solution, adding to the sharp clean lines and modern form of the design.

This modern range is complimented by adjustable shelving, easy-glide soft close drawers and soft close doors. The high-quality laminated surfaces are resistant to damage, scratches, moisture, high temperatures and are easy to clean. All pieces are designed for easy self-assembly at home.

All kept in stock, for next day direct home delivery.

w Visit www.furniture-to-go.co.uk to explore the full Toronto range!

September 2019 | 122

PRODUCT PROMOTION|SHERBORNE

Virginia

Virginia and Albany by Sherborne The recently-introduced Virginia range is, by popular demand, also now available in leather. Offered in two sizes throughout, this wonderfully comfortable design suits both traditional and contemporary settings.

The three-pillow-back Albany has proved to be so successful as a riser recliner that we are now extending this range into a full suite. So the Albany Standard fixed chair, recliner and fixed 2-seater are all available now.

A new Aquaclean fabric, the Sargasso in three colours, and the new Queensbury Slate leather were also introduced at the recent Manchester Show to much acclaim.

Sherborne Upholstery Ltd Tel: 01274 882633 Email: sales@sherborne-uph.co.uk w www.sherborneupholstery.co.uk

Virginia

Virginia Albany September 2019 | 123

CLASSIFIED

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

AND FINALLY

WE SUPPLY WOOD VENEER

Cabinet Maker is the UK's most respected WHKlY N[WS title reporting on all aspects of the furniture industry with IND[P[NO[Nl insight since 1880.

A MAGAZliE WITH WILL RESEARCHED EIITORIAL CONIEIT CARRIES AUTHORITY: II IS Ammo SOURCE OF IIFORMAIION.

Here at DF Richards we offer many types of wood veneer sourced from around the world.

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abinet M�-

Call 01268 523 611 or Email marketing@dfrichards.co.uk www.dfrichards.co.uk

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1

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 V BIID

A

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

/_bodyease

0800 0469901 www.bodyease.co.uk

SMART M AT I C

A By Andre

0207 6280255

/bodyease1

The Next Generation of Smart MotionTech Beds

www.abyandre.com

ACID

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

iTEK

0845 6443617

ADVANSA

Hamm (Germany), 59071 www.advansa.com

+49 23888402207

AHF

Boss Design Group

Dudley, DY2 8SZ www.bossdesign.com RIO

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

01733 336200

01225 754411

HALL 5 Stands D48-D49 & E50

Alpha Designs Upholstery 01902 492937

Alstons Upholstery

BRC

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

01206 733300

AMA Research

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

B

0905 873 8509

10/12/2018 22:38:42

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

London, SW10 0XE www.bakerfurniture.com

Browns

Connah’s Quay, CH5 4DP www.brownsfurniture.co Melbourne (Australia) www.bunnings.com.au

(03) 8831 9777

C Calia Trade SPA

Matera (Italy) www.caliaitalia.com

Carpenter Ltd

01457 861141

Carpetright

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

020 7823 3612

Charltons Furniture

01609 776 667

Cleland McIver

Bazaar

Dewsbury, WF13 3RD www.thefurniturebazaar.com

01244 812628

Bunnings

Leicester, LE3 1TH www.cimchome.com

Barkers Home

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

01629 823680

0330 333 3444

Ceramic Import and Manufacturing Company

Baker Furniture

0333 7721242

Beales

01202 552022

Belfield Furnishings

01159 071700

Bensons for Beds

0333 222 6800

Betta Living

Midsomer Norton, BA3 4BS www.charltonsfurniture.co.uk Rochdale, OL16 4NG www.clelandmciver.co.uk

0116 287 5288

020 3058 2751

01706 374431

Colefax

London, W1K 3QD www.colefax.com

020 8874 6484

Cookes Furniture

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

0121 2505050

D Daniel Stores

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

0800 083 1127

Decorative Panels

01332 321 827

Decorex International

BFM

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

Bodyease-FP-Jan-11-2019.indd 1

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

Aydin Tekstil Ticaret

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

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

Breasley

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

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

+90 352 322 05 88 www.boyteks.com OSB. 8. Cad. No: 60, 38070, Kayseri, Turkey C O L L E C T I O N

Bilston, WV14 7HZ

Ilkeston, DE7 5EP www.thebelfieldgroup.com

ANNABELLE

With customizable features you can create the perfect essence of modern living, with options for feet, grab rails, contols and even slatted massage systems.

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

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

01384 455570

C O M P L I M E N T S

Airsprung

Istanbul (Turkey) www.aydintekstil.com

SAVANNAH

0800 0469901 www.bodyease.co.uk

Elland, HX5 9HF www.decorativepanels.co.uk London www.decorex.com

01753 801000

01484 658341

020 7921 8275

S EVERY DAY

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

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

020 7562 8520

G

Housing Units

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

DFS

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

Wellington, TA21 8NN www.dunlopillo.co.uk

0800 652 5090

01924 422 537

Duvalay

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

01274 877200

Dwell

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

0345 675 9090

E 020 7462 0440

Princes Risborough, HP27 9PX www.ercol.com

01844 271800

ercol

03451 203 603

01438 777 700 +48 29 64 42 222

Furmanac

01384 408844

Furnico

0800 035 0070

Telford, TF1 7AD www.furniturelinkuk.co.uk 01952 604960 Furniture Makers

0800 021 4363

www.ikea.com/gb/en

Indus Valley Furniture Ltd

0300 030 9915

J January Furniture Show

0113 205 5200

Harry Corry

London, SW6 3JW januaryfurnitureshow.com

020 7384 8211

Jarrold & Son 028 9060 6801

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

01603 660661

Harvey Norman

www.harveynorman.com

Harveys

www.harveysfurniture.co.uk

0344 372 1000

Birmingham, B46 1LW www.headlam.com

01675 433000

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

JJOplc 01709 559977

Hockley, SS5 4AD www.heico-fasteners.co.uk Rotherham, S66 9HU www.heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com Blackburn, BB1 1TJ www.heritagefurnitureuk.com

01268 745421

069 7575-0

Furniture World

Melksham, SN12 6GN www.hermanmiller.com

01254 660777

Liversedge, WF15 6QA www.highgrovebeds.co.uk

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

03300 883818

K Dublin www.kaymed.co.uk

+353 45 484 300

KBSA 0845 226 9776

Highgrove 01209 210080

01706 877877

Kaymed

Herman Miller 0800 804 8879

Bacup, OL13 0EA www.jjoplc.com

JYSK

Heico

Heritage Furniture 02380 517067

Furniture Village

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

Hammonds www.hammonds-uk.com

Heimtextil 020 72565558

Furniture to Go

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

Ikea International

Leigh, WN7 2RR www.ism.furniture 0344 499 4686

Belfast, BT17 9GX www.harrycorry.com

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

ISM Networks Furniture

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

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

Iconography

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

Health Beds

Furniture Link

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

01343 813271

Headlam 020 3348 9829

Furniture Choice

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

I

01291 645080

Call 01565 650101 Today

Habitat

Forte Furniture

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

01844 348200

01284 752804

GREENWOOD RETAIL LTD

0800 808 5766

FIRA International

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

Chepstow, NP16 6UN www.gfa.uk.com

H

Findel Education Ltd

Kingswinford, DY6 7FF www.furmanac.com

Hypnos

Global Furniture Alliance

0333 344 2855

F

Warsaw ww2.forte.com.pl

Glasswells

www.greenwoodretail.com

Eve Sleep

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

01382 477281

Britain’s Leading Experts in Retail Sales Promotion

Espoke Living

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

Dewsbury, WF13 1EN www.hyderbedsltd.com

Princes Risborough, HP27 9RS www.hypnosbeds.com

Gillies

Elgin, IV30 8QN www.grampianfurnishers.com

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

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

Hyder Beds

Schlangen, Germany www.mygermania.com +447950 379823

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

01908 968228

Grampian Furnishers

Ekornes

Chester, CH4 8BU www.espokeliving.com

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

01795 439159

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

01924 486902

Hydeline Furniture

GERMANIA

Dura Beds

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

www.hslchairs.com www.gallerydirect.co.uk

01823 668200

Dreams

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

HSL

01302 573 200

Dunlopillo

0161 681 5678

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

01623 818808

Kelston House 01924 406600

Foxrock www.kelstonhouse.com

353 404 80068

»

September 2019 | 127

AND FINALLY

Design Guild Mark

A L P H A A D S |CONNECTING B U Y E R S A N D S E L L E R S Mathias Wiemann GmbH & Co KG

K

Germany www.wiemann-online.com/en

Kettle Interiors

Corby, NN17 4JN www.kettleinteriorsagencies.com

49 5401 852-0

Mattresstek 01536 444960

Rossendale, BB4 9PX www.mattresstek.co.uk

01282 479922

Kobe UK

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

01344 771653

Award winning mattress protection

L

mattressgard.co.uk | 01244 888 658

Lanzet

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

01254 265883

Laura Ashley

Newtown, SY16 1DZ www.lauraashley.com

03332 008 009

Metro Wardrobes and Kitchens

London, HA9 0LB www.metrowardrobes.co.uk 0203 4883347

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

Lebus Upholstery

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

01724 281381

Lectra

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

Bacup, OL13 9RW www.mptgroup.com 0333 222 4120

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

01480 442244

N

London Design Fair

020 7739 5561

London Fabric Show

Long Eaton, NG10 4QD www.londonfabricshow.uk

01706 878 558

Myers

Huntingdon, PE29 7EF www.myersbeds.co.uk

LIA

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

www.minervafurnituregroup.co.uk MPT Group

Leekes

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

An independent buying group for the independent retailer

01332 321827

N Brown Group

Manchester, M60 6ES www.nbrown.co.uk

0161 236 8256

Nathan Furniture Group

Wensley, DL8 4HS www.nathanfurniture.co.uk

Long Eaton Guild

Skipton, BD23 1NL

Luxury Furniture Manufacturers www.longeatonguild.co.uk

www.bedfed.org.uk 01756 799 950

Natuzzi

Italy www.natuzzi.co.uk

07974 209761 www.lynchsales.co.uk

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

M

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

London, WC2H 0JG www.made.com

www.maisonsdumonde.com

Bury, BL9 8RN www.nolte-mobel.co.uk +39 057451011 0808 234 21 72

Mammoth

0161 767 8244

O Oak Furniture Land

www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk

0800 440 2254

Oldrids and Downtown

Wallsend, NE28 9NZ www.mammothcomfort.com

Scunthorpe, DN15 6SU www.oldrids.co.uk

Mason and Pearl

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

0161 873 8333

Nolte Möebel

Magniflex

Maisons du Monde

01483 306 280

Neville Johnson

Made.com

Italy www.magniflex.com

0039 080 8820488

NCF Furnishings

0116 4422363

Oliver & Sons

www.oliverandsonsuk.com

01724 281888 0800 083 0683

E

S

EVERY DAY

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

www.oliverbonas.com

The Furniture Ombudsman (TFO) Stevenage, SG1 2AD thefurnitureombudsman.org

020 8974 3332

P

The Good Sleep Company

Banff, Aberdeenshire www.goodsleepcompany.co.uk 01261 819984

01274 882633 www.sherborneupholstery.co.uk

Paragon Interiors

Nottingham, NG8 6PX www.paragonplc.com

Shire Beds

0115 951 9512

Park Lane Bedding

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

01924 439898 www.shirebeds.co.uk

01623 441886

Pickworth Furnishings

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

The Great Chair Company

Cheltenham, GL52 6NZ www.thegreatchaircompany.com

The Lounge Co

0121 389 4262

Perfect Home

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

www.theloungeco.com Bolton, BL3 2NZ www.timelesschesterfields.com Thirsk, YO7 4LX www.treske.co.uk

01509 235236

01945 461361

020 8731 0020

Simmons Bedding Group www.simmons.com Denmark www.skovby.com

RJ Binnie

Slumberdream 0116 284 9063

017738 38800

Relyon

Wellington, TA21 8NN www.relyon.co.uk

01823 668200

+32 87 59 59 59

01249 821 748

01254 665228

0800 14 13 786

Cwmtillery, Abertillery, NP13 1LZ www.sassyhome.co.uk 0115 943 8980

SATRA

Co. Louth, Ireland www.sofahouse.ie

01480 442244

01204 368413

0808 159 9679

0208 8384838

01562 749610

Stockport, SK3 0XT www.vidaliving.com

0161 495 7990

01278 557755

Orpington, BR6 0PH www.tapi.co.uk Louth, BT35 8PX www.tcsimports.com

vitatalalay.com

Vitsoe 01244 888658

London, W1U 3ED www.vitsoe.com

W Walker Greenbank

Denham, UB9 4DX www.walkergreenbank.com 01689 886888

0203 457 5862

Wayfair

www.wayfair.co.uk

00353 42 935 1351

Tempur Sealy

Lexington (USA) www.tempursealy.com

Norwich, NR1 3PA www.cotswoldco.com

01352 746269 www.westbridgefurniture.com

800.805.3635

01772 792936

The Cotswold Company 0800 789 789

Kidderminster, DY10 1JR www.victoriaplc.com

+353 42 935 1950

T

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

www.sharps.co.uk

01752 366311

VIDA Living 0345 400 2222

Tetrad

Sharps

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

Victoria Plc

Burnley, BB10 1SH www.sweetdreamsuk.com 01282 830033

TCS Imports

0115 943 8980

V Vi Spring

Sweet Dreams

01536 410000

SCS

01623

Sopha

Tapi Carpets

Savoir

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

0121 773 6669

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

Sofahouse Importers Ltd

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

Sassy Home

London, NW10 6UD www.savoirbeds.com

www.sofa.com/gb

U United Carpets

Staingard

Sareer

Kettering, NN16 8SD www.satra.com/furniture

Godalming, GU7 1EY www.sofaworkshop.com

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

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

Bolton, BL3 2NZ www.sofasbysaxon.com

Sofa.com

Royams Upholstery Lancashire, BB1 5JJ www.royams.net

45 87 54 55 00

Sofa Workshop

Rowico

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

Huntingdon, PE29 7EF www.slumberland.co.uk

07711 743531

0177 0512 7700

Sofa by Saxon

ROM Sofas

Belgium www.romsofas.co.uk

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

Peter Rex

pjrex@hotmail.co.uk

Slumberland

Recticel

Somercotes, DE55 4RD www.recticel.com

Bishop Wilton, York

0333 123 0892

Skovby Mobelfabrik A/S

Radium Foam (see Vita Talalay)

01845 522770

Turnaround

Silentnight

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

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

01204 368413

Treske

Protect-A-Bed

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

01225 792429

Timeless Chesterfields

Pike Textiles

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

0333 241 3209

0333 200 1725

Woods Furniture

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

01305 262666

W.S. Dennison

Antrim, BT41 2SJ www.wsdennison.com

028 9446 5108 September 2019 | 129

AND FINALLY

Oliver Bonas

AND FINALLY

LAST WORD MIKE MURRAY, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF LAND OF BEDS Attracting Talent — it’s the future, but not as we know it Someone told me recently that 80% of kids starting school this year would be working in jobs that do not exist today — these job roles have not been invented yet! It sounds crazy to think this could be a reality in as little as 10 years from now. How do we even educate and train this next generation of workers? Let them have eight hours a day playing Fortnite?

If we consider how fast technology is moving and the speed at which companies race to innovate and disrupt industries, then it makes perfect sense. It is now perceived to be cool if you are a disrupter, or work for a startup venture that wants to change the world — and investment companies are betting big on the next big thing.

“COULD THE UK BECOME THE LARGEST EXPORTERS OF MATTRESSES IN THE WORLD?“

CONTRACT FURNITURE BRUSSELS PREVIEW WILLIS & GAMBIER LA-Z-BOY UK September 2019 | 130

In 1901 James Marshall invented the pocket spring, arguably the biggest innovation in mattress manufacturing since forever. So, in our sleepy industry how are we going to attract the talent of tomorrow to help change the future — and what roles will they play?

The mattress industry in the UK is estimated to be worth approx £2billion a year, so the prize for the individual or company that can innovate could be incredibly lucrative.

I know as the managing director of Land of Beds that recruiting technology-based staff can be tough, as we often compete on a UK scale against the big tech companies in cities such as London and Manchester, and then globally against heavily-invested multinationals outside of our industry.

Are mattresses and beds sexy enough to excite talent and draw them into our industry? Surely sleep can pucker interest as it’s such a big topic and fundamental to our health and wellbeing. I do like the angle that some companies are adopting by positioning their brands towards becoming sleep and wellbeing businesses. I myself often

quote that Land of Beds doesn’t just sell mattresses; we help customers get a great night’s sleep — so this could potentially be a good angle for enthusing talent who want to change the world.

However, to make a big dent in attracting talent I think the industry needs to come together and show just how exciting and varied our entire eco-system is, from manufacturing and logistics to multi-channel retailing. A £2billion industry on our shores has a lot to offer the aspiring next generation of workers — we just need to get the message out.

We have partnered with some of the UK’s leading universities to launch a graduate scheme to nurture future talent within the software development sector. This has enabled us to keep in touch with new technologies and stay close to those who are developing them.

I wonder, could the UK become the largest exporters of mattresses in the world? Can we become the pioneers of the best innovation in sleep technology? Can we help the world to sleep better? I think we can, but it might need something that hasn’t been invented yet, by someone who is not even in work yet — James Marshall invented the pocket spring to help his sick wife get a more comfortable night sleep. What a legacy that would be to leave — surely this could inspire the next generation?

TO HAVE YOUR LAST WORD OR OPINION PLEASE CONTACT DAN@CABINET-MAKER.CO.UK

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Hollywood Mirrors

Morgan

Suzie

Clarence

Georgia

Liberty

Delphine

At the Telford Bed Show?

Why not come to our

At Home Show?

17th - 18th September 2019 Furniture Link’s Showroom

Hortonwood 60 Telford Shropshire TF1 7AD Tel: 01952 604960 Email: sales@furniturelinkuk.co.uk Click: www.furniturelinkuk.co.uk