The Cabinet Maker 5th October 2018

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/HEXV GLVFXVVHV LWV UHFHQW n&HUWLƮHGo VWDWXV DFKLHYHPHQW XQGHU ),5$oV new Compliance Scheme.

Cabinet Maker takes a look at what to expect to see at the upcoming Brussels Furniture Fair.

Rose & Grey founder speaks to CM in the month the business marks 10 years of success.

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SAVILE OPULENCE 5000 By Hyder Beds Ltd

DAN SQUIRES

CABINET-MAKER.CO.UK 01223 846 825 PUBLISHER Stewart Rickersey stewart@cabinet-maker.co.uk EDITOR Dan Squires dan@cabinet-maker.co.uk FEATURE WRITER Sally Gower sally@cabinet-maker.co.uk 35(Ç«35(66 352'8&7,21 Stuart West production@cabinet-maker.co.uk SALES Sharon Rickersey Operations & Sales Manager sharon@cabinet-maker.co.uk Kacem Ellabbar kacem@cabinet-maker.co.uk Chris Manning chris@cabinet-maker.co.uk

Subscription prices Cover price for a single print copy £3.75 Published weekly; 48 issues per year Subscribe online at www.cabinet-maker.co.uk P&P extra. VAT will be charged where applicable. Refunds on prepaid subscriptions will only be provided at the publisher’s discretion. Issue no 6091 published by Information Publications Ltd, Suite 15 Brunts Business Centre, 6DPXHO %UXQWV :D\ 0DQVÆ®HOG 1* $+

7KHUH LV RQH LPSRUWDQW cog that is a key ingredient in keeping the economy turning. Consumer FRQƮGHQFH. If shoppers are in FRQƮGHQW PRRG WKH FDVK LV VSODVKHG DQG the contactless transactions keep the tills ULQJLQJ +RZHYHU LI WKH mood turns to rocky terrain, then watching a browsing customer reach into his pocket in apprehension that the wallet will follow back out – but in fact its just another snotty tissue – says it all when everyone is feeling the crunch. $QG OHWV IDFH LW LW SUREDEO\ LVQoW HYHQ the tissue that makes an appearance, but the mobile phone to easily check RXW WKH FRPSHWLWLRQ RU SHUKDSV ƮQG WKH same model online for cheaper. Keeping consumers happy is one thing, but keeping FRQVXPHUV FRQƮGHQW LV DQ HYHU ODVWLQJ battle, especially when uncertain times rear their ugly heads. Brexit has certainly created the latest – and ever-lasting – cloud of misery with most using the word as an excuse not to spend and keep saving. 7KH ODWHVW VHW RI FRQVXPHU FRQƮGHQFH data from GfK indicated that big-ticket purchases during September remained in positive WHUULWRU\ DW ZKLFK LV JRRG QHZV for furniture and other categories classed DV PDMRU SXUFKDVHV 7KH RYHUDOO VFRUH KRZHYHU IHOO E\ WZR SRLQWV WR DV WKH ticking Brexit clock forced consumers to WKLQN DERXW WKHLU SHUVRQDO ƮQDQFHV UDWKHU than spend. 7KH GDQJHU LV WKDW FRQVXPHUV PLJKW capitulate on how they feel about their

SHUVRQDO ƮQDQFHV ZKLFK LI WKLV GRHV LQGHHG KDSSHQ ZHoOO VHH YHU\ VKDUS GURSV in the Overall Index Score in the months XS WR 0DUFK 7KLV SRVHV D FRXSOH RI questions, with Joe Staton, client strategy GLUHFWRU DW *I. TXLWH NHHQ WR DVN p:LOO the coming six months see the consumer PRRG WXUQ VLJQLƮFDQWO\ PRUH IUDJLOH" 2U do consumers think Brexit will ultimately EH SRVLWLYH"q ,W ZLOO EH LQWHUHVWLQJ WR VHH how the upcoming Christmas period will be for trading, but even more interesting to see what type of mood consumers will be in come February. Perhaps there will be a last minute surge in spending ahead of the looming B-Day deadline and potential price hikes, or maybe the purse strings will become even tighter. While you ponder this for yourself, sit back and catch up with all things furniture with a SUHYLHZ RI WKH %UXVVHOV )XUQLWXUH )DLU $OVR LQ WKLV ZHHNoV LVVXH IHDWXUHV investment news from wholesaler GFW, anniversary success from online business Rose & Grey and the importance of becoming a recognised PHPEHU RI ),5$oV QHZ FRPSOLDQFH VFKHPH for upholstered furniture. Lebus shares its VWRU\ RQ DFKLHYLQJ FHUWLƮHG VWDWXV So, for me the question I guess will for the moment go unanswered, but what's your YLHZ ZLOO LW EH WKH ZDOOHW RU WKH VQRWW\ WLVVXH"

Dan Squires Editor

9$7 1R *% † ,QIRUPDWLRQ 3XEOLFDWLRQV /WG $OO ULJKWV UHVHUYHG 1R SDUW RI WKLV 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. 7KH RSLQLRQV DQG YLHZV H[SUHVVHG LQ &DELQHW 0DNHU DUH QRW QHFHVVDULO\ WKRVH RI ,QIRUPDWLRQ 3XEOLFDWLRQV /WG %HLQJ VXEMHFW WR WKH $GYHUWLVLQJ 6WDQGDUGV $XWKRULW\ JXLGHOLQHV LQ SODFH DW WKH WLPH RI JRLQJ WR SUHVV DOO data submitted by advertisers and contained in their advertising copy is accepted by Information Publications Ltd in good faith. ,661 5HJLVWHUHG DV D 1HZVSDSHU DW WKH 3RVW 2ƱFH

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This year Baker Furniture will be launching a number of new and exciting ranges.

DESIGN EXCELLENCE & UNCOMPROMISING QUALITY www.bakerfurniture.co.uk | sales@bakerfurniture.co.uk | 01642 220886

INSIDE THIS WEEK’S ISSUE

NEWS

MANUFACTURE

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RISE & SHINE

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SETTING THE STANDARD

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Karl Walker, managing director at Lebus Upholstery, speaks to Cabinet Maker on its UHFHQW n&HUWLƮHGo VWDWXV DFKLHYHPHQW XQGHU ),5$oV QHZ &RPSOLDQFH 6FKHPH IRU WKH )LUH 3HUIRUPDQFH RI 8SKROVWHUHG )XUQLWXUH

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/DQFDVKLUH EDVHG ZKROHVDOH IXUQLWXUH supplier GFW has recently acquired its VT IW SURSHUW\ DQG DFUH VLWH LQ (FFOHVKLOO DV LWV SHUPDQHQW KRPH -RQDWKDQ Ponsonby, managing director at GFW, sits LQ WKH &DELQHW 0DNHU 4 $ KRW VHDW

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NEWS IN BRIEF DISASTER SUPPORT

Global mattress manufacturer Tempur Sealy has committed an additional $1m in mattress donations to support recovery efforts in the Carolinas following Hurricane Florence. This is in addition to more than $4m in donations already made to support victims of hurricanes and wildfires since 2017.

Safety standards update The Furniture Industry Research Association (FIRA) has published their latest Quarterly Standards Update, which is available to all members of the Association. The 6HSWHPEHU XSGDWH FRQĆŽUPV the publication of a number of new standards across the furniture sector, which can DOO EH YLHZHG DW ĆŽUD FR XN

1HZ GLUHFWRU DSSRLQWPHQW John Lewis & Partners has promoted Sean Allam to a newly created role of director of services. The move is intended as part of the store’s plans to increase the range of services in the categories of home improvements, home assurance DQG ƎQDQFH $OODP WRRN XS KLV new role from 1 October.

6 | 5th October 2018

&RQĆŽGHQFH GRZQ &RQVXPHU FRQĆŽGHQFH LQ the UK fell in September as big-ticket items remained positive. According to *I.oV ODWHVW ĆŽQGLQJV WKH &RQVXPHU &RQĆŽGHQFH Index decreased by two points to -9 in September 2018. The Major Purchase Index remained at +6 and ZDV ĆŽYH SRLQWV KLJKHU WKDQ August 2017.

NEW APPOINTMENTS International wood flooring specialist, Havwoods Ltd. has announced the introduction of three appointments to the company: Mari Daly, European marketing manager, and business development managers, Philip Jones and Steve Clent. The newly-appointed senior roles will support the global development of the brand.

Award winner British lighting design consultancy Nulty has been awarded the business Retail Lighting Project of the Year by the Light Middle East Awards 2018 for its design for Studio Casamia. The system showcases a range of EHVSRNH IXUQLWXUH Ć°RRULQJ tiles and wallpaper.

MANUFACTURE

BFC PRODUCES VIDEO ON FIRE SAFETY CONCERNS The British Furniture Confederation (BFC) has produced a video which graphically demonstrates how consumers may be at risk from the sale of chairs, passed as VDIH EXW OLNHO\ WR JR XS LQ Ć°DPHV The BFC, an alliance of the industry’s main trade associations, commissioned the video following new guidance from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) regarding motorised furniture. BFC chairman Jonathan Hindle, said:â€?The upshot of this guidance appears to be that two items of motorised IXUQLWXUH FRXOG EH RĆŹHUHG for sale in the UK side by side and Trading Standards would not be able to take any action against the supplier, even though the product did not conform to the current Furniture & Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations (FFFSR).â€? The video shows one compliant and one noncompliant chair being subjected WR D ĆŽUH VRXUFH HTXLYDOHQW to a burning match - with GUDPDWLFDOO\ GLĆŹHUHQW UHVXOWV Jonathan added: “The need for DQG HĆŹHFWLYHQHVV RI WKH )))65 LV FXUUHQWO\ EHLQJ TXHVWLRQHG by a number of stakeholders but what prompted us to carry out this test was that we were informed that the Directive which encompasses CE marking - covered all aspects of safety, LQFOXGLQJ ĆŽUH VDIHW\ ,W LV WKHUHIRUH our understanding that a product that is CE marked in the EU, but outside the UK, can be CE marked as safe given it follows the guidelines within that country.â€? BFC was concerned at this advice, fearing that it could undermine the UK’s safety

regime and put the public at risk. It therefore commissioned a piece of research looking at WKH ĆŽUH VDIHW\ SHUIRUPDQFH of an electric rise and recline chair that conforms to the FFFSR, and of an identical chair constructed in materials used in furniture construction in the EU. The video graphically demonstrates the speed of HVFDODWLRQ RI ĆŽUH RQ WKH QRQ compliant chair compared with WKH FRPSOLDQW RQH DIWHU D Ć°DPH VRXUFH HTXLYDOHQW WR D PDWFK was applied for 20 seconds. The Ć°DPHV RQ WKH FRPSOLDQW FKDLU self-extinguished within a few seconds of the source being removed. The non-compliant chair was burnt to a cinder within 10 minutes. The BFC has submitted this video to Kelly Tolhurst, MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Minister for Small Business, Consumers and Corporate Responsibility at BEIS, to demonstrate that the suggestion that the Directive and WKH )))65 RĆŹHU WKH VDPH OHYHO RI ĆŽUH VDIHW\ LV QRW WKH FDVH DQG urgently needs revisiting. “We believe that this ĆŽOP GRHV GHPRQVWUDWH WKH RQJRLQJ HĆŹHFWLYHQHVV RI the FFFSR in protecting the general public and that they need to be retained,â€? said Mr Hindle. “However, they are in urgent need of updating to UHĆ°HFW PRGHUQ PDWHULDOV DQG PDQXIDFWXULQJ WHFKQLTXHV and to ensure environmental concerns are met and we are urging government to engage in meaningful consultation as soon as possible.â€?

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Soft furnishings, fabrics and fashion designer Orla Kiely has FHDVHG WUDGLQJ ZLWK LPPHGLDWH HĆŹHFW 2UOD .LHO\ KDV DSSRLQWHG UHVWUXFWXULQJ ĆŽUP 'DYLG 5XELQ Partners to wind down the business after closing its stores and online platform on 17 September 2018. 7KH FRPSDQ\ FRQĆŽUPHG WKDW LWV KRPHZDUH OLFHQVH GLYLVLRQ of the business remained active and would continue to operate through its distribution network. In a statement, the company said: “Kiely Rowan Plc has ceased trading. This means our retail stores in London and Kildare and our online business have been closed. “We apologise for any inconvenience caused. Orla Kiely’s Home and Design licensing business will not be impacted, and its selection of accessories and homewares will continue to be sold through its distribution partners.â€?

Online furnishings retailer Wayfair is in the process of creating 200 new jobs in Ireland. Online home furnishings retailer Wayfair is to create 200 new jobs in Galway at the same time as it marks the tenth anniversary of its European operations centre in the city. Wayfair currently employs more than 400 people at its VT IW IDFLOLW\ LQ WKH 0HUYXH %XVLQHVV 3DUN ZLWK WKH LGHD WR FUHDWH D FRPELQDWLRQ RI ERWK RĆąFH EDVHG DQG UHPRWH SRVLWLRQV “Over the past ten years, as we expanded our Galway workforce from a few employees to more than 400 today, the team has continuously delivered exceptional support for our customers in Europe. There is no doubt that the excellence of our Galway team has been a key driver in our tremendous business growth across the region,â€? said vice president of sales and service at Wayfair, Liz Graham. She continued: “We are now delighted to further expand the team with the launch of a virtual workforce in Ireland that will enable us to tap into an even broader talent pool and provide new employment opportunities to a wider range of highly TXDOLĆŽHG FDQGLGDWHV q Established in 2002, the brand employs over 9,700 SHRSOH ZRUOGZLGH +HDGTXDUWHUHG LQ %RVWRQ ZLWK RSHUDWLRQV throughout North America and Europe, it generated $5.7 billion in net revenue in the 12 months ending June 30th, 2018. 7KH FRPSDQ\ ZKLFK OLVWHG LQ 1HZ <RUN LQ ODWH RĆŹHUV more than 10 million products under its own brands on several websites.

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DANI SH FURNI TURE BR AND E X PAND S CONTRACT PRESENCE Danish furniture brand %R&RQFHSW KDV FRQĆŽUPHG LW will be attending German trade show Orgatec 2018. During the event, BoConcept will showcase its latest products from its contract furniture division, which has been established since 2014. The biennial event is one of the largest contract fairs in the world, attracting over 50,000 attendees. This year’s theme is “Culture @ Work.â€? BoConcept’s exhibition is entitled, ‘LIVE. WORK. PLAY.,’ and looks to the workspace, asking how it can better support today’s work-life trends. In addition to bestselling products from the likes of Karim Rashid and Nendo, BoConcept will launch debut designs from Henrik Pedersen and Morten Georgsen, as well as its new B2B brandbook. Christian Malkemper,

BoConcept B2B director, said: “Demands are changing. Homeliness used WR EH D TXDOLW\ YDOXHG RQO\ in residential or hospitality settings. In 2018, employees want a feeling of home in their workspaces as well. Offices also need to promote fluidity of use and collaboration. And designing IRU WKHVH TXDOLWLHV LV FHQWUDO to our approach. p7KLV LV RXU ĆŽUVW 2UJDWHF DQG we want to make an entrance. We have a few surprises and can’t wait to see the public’s reaction. We are relishing the opportunity to show the world’s leading decision makers how we can help them towards greater success.â€? Orgatec 2018 takes place from 23-27 October at Koelnmesse GmbH, Messeplatz, in Cologne, Germany.

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Lighting supplier opens new showroom Bespoke lighting business WonderGlass has announced the RSHQLQJ RI LWV QHZ KHDGTXDUWHUV Situated in the design district of Fitzrovia in London, the new showroom and HQ was officially launched during the London Design Festival this month. To mark the opening, WonderGlass invited London-based design duo Raw-Edges to curate their first installation of their iconic piece Horah, created for the company. The collection, displayed in the space as a selection from the limited edition series, reflects on the theme of light in dialog with one of the essential aspects of contemporary living, being sociability. Founders Maurizio and Christian Mussati commented: “The gallery envelopes our DNA as artisans to provide tailormade solutions with the transparent material of hand-blown glass, cast glass and all its bespoke variations.�

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TIMBER FIRM FINED FOLLOWING STAFF INJURY

Homeware and carpet retailers have agreed leases to complete a recently refurbished retail park in Scotland. Situated at St Catherine’s Retail Park in Perth, homewares and IXUQLWXUH UHWDLOHU +RPHVHQVH DQG Æ°RRUFRYHULQJV VSHFLDOLVW 7DSL &DUSHWV KDYH ERWK VLJQHG OHDVHV RQ D VT IW DQG VT ft site respectively. %RWK RƱFLDOO\ RSHQHG WKLV PRQWK DQG PDUNHG WKH FRPSOHWLRQ RI WKH Æ®QDO SKDVH RI GHYHORSPHQW DW WKH UHWDLO SDUN ZKLFK LV managed by Savills Investment Management on behalf of purchaser EPISO Boxes GP Limited. This latest phase, which started last October 2017, included WKH GHPROLWLRQ RI D VT IW ZDUHKRXVH IRUPHUO\ RFFXSLHG E\ % 4 DQG WKH UHGHYHORSPHQW RI VT IW RI UHWDLO warehousing. Homesense and Tapi Carpets join other home furnishing retailers at the park, which include The Range, Home Bargains, Bensons for Beds and Pagazzi Lighting.

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OFFICE FURNITURE GROUP MAINTAINS RAPID GROW TH 2ƱFH IXUQLWXUH PDQXIDFWXULQJ group Senator International KDV UHSRUWHG D ƮIWK VWUDLJKW year of turnover growth as sales surpassed the £160m mark. $FFRUGLQJ WR LWV ODWHVW ƮOHG accounts for the year ended 31 December 2017, total sales rose 18.5% to £165m from £139.2m in 2016, as all three of its core geographical markets reported growth. UK sales, its largest market share, rose by 18.1% to £118.7m from £100.5m. EU sales also marked growth of 18.3% to £7.1m from £6m, whilst outside the EU sales increased 19.8% to £39.2m from £32.7m. The group also stated that its US division, Senator Inc. also reported a sales growth of over 14% to $42m from $37m and indicated that its future prospects for growth 8 | 5th October 2018

remain on track following the completion of its warehouse facility extension and the new opening of a fourth showroom in San Francisco. *URVV SURÆ®W URVH WR £48.8m from £41.8m, whilst SUH WD[ SURÆ®W UHVXOWHG DW £10.5m, increasing 20% on its SURÆ®W RI ~ P FRPSDUHG WR its previous year. The group, which houses the Senator, Allermuir and torasen brands, also announced it has established a trading company’s in India and in Hong Kong, which are expected to generate sales for the UK business. During the year Senator expanded its UK presence with a new showroom in the Midlands, whilst relocating its Melton Street showroom to a new site in London.

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Timber merchant Timberline ',< /LPLWHG KDV EHHQ Æ®QHG after breaching health and safety standards. South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court heard how, on 30 June 2016, a Timberline DIY employee was cleaning brand re-saw at the premises on Riley Street, Jarrow, when he made contact with a moving blade. As a result of his injuries, the worker was rushed to hospital where he had to have three of KLV Æ®QJHUV SDUWLDOO\ DPSXWDWHG An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found the machine was QRW HƬHFWLYHO\ EUDNHG DQG therefore the cutting blade took an excessive time to stop. Additionally, there were failings in the guarding of

WKH PDFKLQH DQG DGHTXDWH training had not been provided to the worker. Timberline DIY Limited pleaded guilty to breaching Health and Safety at Work UHJXODWLRQV DQG ZDV Æ®QHG £40,000 with £8,000 costs. Fiona McGarry, HSE inspector, said: “Woodworking machines run at very high speeds and workers are at risk during machine rundown. p)LWWLQJ HƬHFWLYH EUDNLQJ devices reduces the rundown time, making them safer for workers and this could have prevented this incident occurring. New machines should come with braking where necessary but older machines PD\ UHTXLUH LW WR EH UHWURÆ®WWHG oo

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)XUQLWXUH UHWDLOHU RQ WDUJHW WR DFKLHYH ~ P WXUQRYHU Online home furnishings retailer OKA Direct Ltd has reported a seventh straight year of turnover growth as sales edged closer to the £30m milestone. $FFRUGLQJ WR LWV ODWHVW ƮOHG DFFRXQWV IRU WKH \HDU HQGHG January 2018, total sales rose 3.2% to £28.7m from £27.8m in 2017. *URVV SURƮW URVH WR ~ P IURP ~ P ZKLOVW SUH WD[ SURƮW UHVXOWHG DW ~ P GRZQ IURP ~ P ODVW \HDU Stated within its report, OKA said that sales increased due to the opening of its new showroom in Edgbaston as well as the FRQWLQXHG GHYHORSPHQW RI LWV SURGXFW RƬHULQJ OKA revealed that it has further strengthened its home accessories range, whilst adding that it plans to introduce new ranges into its furniture category in the year ahead. ,Q -DQXDU\ 2.$ ZDV DFTXLUHG E\ *OREDO ,QGXVWULDO Holding S.a.r.l, which will enable the brand to continue its growth strategy. During the year, OKA has launched a new store in Guildford and plans to expand its 15 locations in the UK when opportunities become present.

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BED MAKER ANNOUNCES NEW PARTNER SHIP British bed maker Hypnos announces new partnership to mark Sleeptember. British luxury bed manufacturer and Royal warrant holder, Hypnos, is marking ‘Sleeptember’ with the announcement of a new partnership. The award-winning company has revealed plans to work with leading performance wellbeing Specialist, Natalie Pennicotte Collier [MSC, MBCT, D.CHyp, DHybKG, Accred CNHC]. As well as providing Hypnos customers with advice for ways in which to improve their sleep and wellbeing, Natalie will also be consulting and supporting Hypnos’ 500-strong workforce on getting the best night’s sleep possible. As one of the UK’s leading performance wellbeing experts, Natalie – aka The Mind Coach - specialises in sleep, stress and wellbeing solutions. Over the past decade she has dedicated her time to understanding the human nervous system and how people can harness the power of the mind, positive psychology and mindfulness to optimise sleep wellbeing and mental health.

As a clinical therapist and mindcoach, Natalie is one of the few integrative therapists working in Elite Sport, private practice and leading Sleep & Mindful Wellbeing strategies in organisations worldwide. Hypnos beds group marketing director, Chris Ward, explained: “We know that wellbeing plays a major role in general health and the overall sleep process, so working with an expert in this field seemed a natural fit with our business. “By combining our bed making expertise alongside Natalie’s sleep & wellbeing knowledge, we will have a totally holistic approach to better sleep, which provides an unprecedented offering for our customers and added benefits to our staff.� Natalie added: “Hypnos is a widely respected bed brand ZKLFK SODFHV WKH TXDOLW\ DQG comfort of its customers at the core of its business. This felt like a very natural partnership for me as we share a passion for creating a better sleep experience for people.�

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There’s never been a better time to call us than times like these.

For over a century, retailers have depended on the Lynch Sales Company to be there through thick and thin, helping them reduce inventory while improving cash flow and profits.

Circa 1930 Lynch Sales Company Event

Isn’t this the perfect time for a Lynch Sale event? Our clients are doing substantial business even during these uncertain times.

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Call today for an outline of our copyrighted SALE PLANS. Find out how a Lynch Sale can help your business prepare for the future.

2QOLQH UHWDLOHU WR H[SDQG 2QOLQH IXUQLWXUH UHWDLOHU 6ZRRQ KDV FRQĆŽUPHG SODQV WR RSHQ more concession stores in Debenhams. (DUOLHU WKLV \HDU 6ZRRQ ODXQFKHG D VT IW VSDFH DW 'HEHQKDPVo :HVWĆŽHOG :KLWH &LW\ VWRUH DQG QRZ SODQV WR WDNH D IXUWKHU VT IW RI VSDFH DFURVV RWKHU 'HEHQKDPV VWRUHV the UK. The next phase of Debenhams shops to take part in the roll out include Watford, Guildford, Brighton, Manchester, Glasgow, (GLQEXUJK &KHOPVIRUG %ULVWRO &DUGLĆŹ DQG &ODSKDP

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Contact Gareth Price Tel: 07974 209761 www.LynchSales.co.uk Copyright 2018 Lynch Brothers Licensing Corporation

|N E W S MANUFACTURE

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NBF & SLEEP C OUNCIL PARTNER NE W SLEEP SHOW

Bespoke furniture ďŹ rm collaborates with wireless provider

The National Bed Federation (NBF) and The Sleep Council KDYH EHHQ LQYLWHG WR EH RĆąFLDO SDUWQHUV IRU WKH 8.oV ĆŽUVW HYHU show dedicated to sleep health, SOMNEX – The Sleep Show. Taking place at London’s Old Truman Brewery from 12th – 14th October 2018, 6201(; ZLOO RĆŹHU YLVLWRUV advice, innovative new products and interactive experiences to help people get a better night sleep. Professor Jason Ellis from the Department of Psychology at Northumbria University will present a keynote address on the trade day (12th October) on behalf of The Sleep Council. It will focus on its partnership research ‘The Healthy Sleep Project’ which looks at how TXLFNO\ ZH IDOO DVOHHS VOHHS

latency) and how that indicates overall sleep health. Lisa Artis of The Sleep Council, said: “We were delighted to be invited to SDUWLFLSDWH LQ ĆŽUVW HYHU VOHHS show in the UK as a strategic partner and to also sit on the advisory panel. As part of the seminar programme, both the NBF and Sleep Council are guest speakers on the consumer days. “I’ll be talking about creating the perfect bedroom environment while my colleague Simon Williams will be giving lots of practical advice about how to choose the right bed.â€?

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FURNITURE SUPPLIER INCREASES UK MARKET SHARE Furniture manufacturer and wholesaler Finsahome has reported another year of WXUQRYHU DQG SURƎW JURZWK $FFRUGLQJ WR LWV ODWHVW ƎOHG accounts for the year ended 31 December 2017, total sales grew by 27.7% to £2.3m from £1.8m in 2016. *URVV SURƎW UHJLVWHUHG DQ uptick of 22.7% to £911,000 from £742,000, whilst preWD[ SURƎW PRUH WKDQ WULSOHG to £119,000 from £33,000 recorded the previous year. This registered a growth of 260%. The company, which is part of the Spanish Financiera Maderera group – also owned by Spain-based Fincorporativa SL, said it had increased its presence within the contract _ 5th October 2018

market, which is ‘rapidly’ becoming an important division of the business. Specialising in kitchens DQG Ć°RRULQJ )LQDVKRPH KDV two UK outlets in Birkenhead and Birmingham, with both stores said to be generating consistent growth. Stated within its report, the company successfully completed an ERP migration to a new computer system, which has resulted in increasing the level of customer service it provides as ZHOO DV VWDĆŹ SURGXFWLYLW\ Finsa Group, which has been established since 1931, has 13 factories across Europe, as well DV VDOHV RSHUDWLRQV RĆąFHV

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Bespoke joinery specialist Hannaford has announced a new collaboration with wireless technology supplier Chargifi. The partnership brings wireless charging and high-end furniture design together for the first time, to combine a seamless integrated smart charging solution with bespoke furniture under a Royal Warrant joinery company. Hannaford works across historical buildings, private residencies, commercial and retail. The patented Chargifi SmartSpots solution aims to provide a touchpoint for boosting customer engagement. Chargifi will be working with the Hannafordlife division of the business, whose mission is to innovate and explore new possibilities for creative ‘interactive’ furniture. The teams at Chargifi and Hannafordlife have collaborated to enhance the customer experience by crafting purposedesigned furniture that incorporates the latest smart technology. Dan Bladen, CEO and co-founder of Chargifi, commented: “Customer experience matters more now than ever before. Today’s consumer not only has a keen eye for aesthetically pleasing design but expects their daily experience to be as seamless and personalised as possible, which is why this new partnership between Chargifi and Hannaford is a compelling offering to the market. “Smart wireless charging provides consumers with a reliable and fast source of power, which means they can always stay connected. It also provides insight on customer location and duration of dwell time to create new customer engagement opportunities to enhance customer experience.�

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JANUARY FURNITURE SHOW 2019 RE GISTRATION NOW LIVE Organisers of the January )XUQLWXUH 6KRZ KDYH FRQĆŽUPHG that registration is now live for visitors. Taking place from 20-23 January 2019 at the NEC in Birmingham, the four-day event is live for visitors to register at www.januaryfurnitureshow.com. New for 2019 will be the enhanced concentration of bed companies in Hall 5, with major signing Silentnight joining the JURZLQJ OLVW RI FRQĆŽUPHG EHG companies.

The new lighting section LIGHT, will feature over 20 well-known UK based lighting companies. Hall 2 will see an increase in the number of European companies exhibiting. Over 85% of the show is already sold out. The exhibitor list will again comprise over 500 UK and International exhibitors in upholstery, cabinet, beds and interior accessories.

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BFM APPOINT NEW EDUCATION AND TRAINING MANAGER The British furniture Manufacturers (BFM) has appointed Lisa Williamson to a newly created role of education and training manager. Lisa joins the association from a pivotal senior management position in RSHUDWLRQV DQG TXDOLW\ DW Occupational Awards Limited (OAL). Her responsibilities at the BFM will include working with the Industry to continue to develop and promote apprenticeship Standards. Additionally, she will help grow and develop the BFM’s HGXFDWLRQ DQG WUDLQLQJ RƏHU WR support the industry, working in partnership with OAL. Lisa has more than 18 years of experience in the Design, development and delivery RI TXDOLƎFDWLRQV ZLWKLQ WKH furniture and wood industries and brings with her a strong reputation. Lisa has been

working closely with employers, trade bodies and stakeholders in the furniture, wood and related industries for over 10 years, and is also a liveryman with The Furniture Makers’ Company (FMC). Lisa said: “I am looking forward to this exciting opportunity with the BFM and working more closely with the furniture industry to further develop education and training opportunities.� Jackie Bazeley, BFM managing director, said: “The BFM recognises the ongoing importance of education and training to ensure the sustainability of our workforce to compete globally. I saw the opportunity to harness Lisa’s expertise and a partnership with OAL to further our work towards this goal.�

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Nevada The popular Nevada recliner/suite is adding considerably to it its appeall with the introduction of leather. This range is proving to be a real winner, with its softer backs and exceptional all-round comfort. Offered in at least two sizes throughout, with three sizes of recliner and four sizes of electric riser recliner.

Sherborne Upholstery Limited Pasture Lane, Clayton, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD14 6LT, England.

Telephone: 01274 882633 Fax: 01274 815129

sales@sherborne-uph.co.uk www.sherborneupholstery.co.uk

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DESIGN

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Carpet manufacturer Brintons has been awarded Designer Collaboration of the Year at the 2018 Wool Carpet & Rug Awards for its Craigend collection with Timorous Beasties. The award honours the creative partnership between designers and manufacturers, with the judging panel commending the Craigend collection as “a beautiful product that plays to the strength of both collaborators.� The Craigend collection was launched in May this year and consists of nine designs that are inspired by textures and surfaces found naturally underfoot, all reimagined in the Brintons’ signature 80/20 blend of 80% wool and 20% nylon. Sponsored by The Campaign for Wool, in association with British Wool, the Wool Carpet & Rug Awards celebrate excellence in wool carpet and rug manufacture. Now in its third year, the event helps to promote the many benefits of wool flooring to a wide and varied audience.

2QOLQH ưRRULQJ ƎUP 8. )ORRULQJ 'LUHFW KDV DQQRXQFHG WKH DSSRLQWPHQW RI IRXU QHZ PHPEHUV RI VWDƏ Jordan Simpson has been appointed as its new trade account manager, whilst Luke Scott joins the business as head of category. 3HWHU %UDGOH\ WDNHV XS WKH SRVLWLRQ RI IXOƎOPHQW PDQDJHU ZLWK Sarah Genner completing the newcomers in the role of samples consultant. 7KH IRXU QHZ DSSRLQWPHQWV EULQJ WKH EXVLQHVVHV VWDƏ numbers past the 100 milestone, with UK Flooring Direct FRQƎUPLQJ PRUH DUH LQ WKH SLSHOLQH XQGHU LWV UHFUXLWPHQW GULYH The business aims to expand further with the creation of around 60 new jobs over the next two years as it looks to grow its sales, IT, marketing and warehouse teams. The new appointments follow UK Flooring Direct’s recent UHORFDWLRQ RI LWV KHDGTXDUWHUV WR D QHZ VT IW VLWH LQ Hinckley. The company has ambitious plans to generate a ~ P WXUQRYHU RYHU WKH QH[W ƎYH \HDUV ,WV PRVW UHFHQW VDOHV ƎJXUHV URVH WR ~ P IRU WKH \HDU HQGHG 0DUFK ZLWK SUH WD[ SURƎW UHVXOWLQJ DW ~ compared to its previous year’s loss of £235,097.

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5th October 2018 | 11

|N E W S MANUFACTURE

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SOFA MANUFACTURER ELIMINATES PLA STIC PACKAGING ON ITS FAR EAST PRODUCTS

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Sofa manufacturer eliminates plastic packaging on its Far East products La-Z-Boy UK is leading the way in eco-friendly packaging by eliminating all plastic wrapping on its Far East models. The upholstery brand is the ĆŽUVW FRPSDQ\ LQ WKH FRXQWU\ to have adopted the 100% recycled and fully recyclable product, which features a ZRYHQ TXLOWHG SURWHFWLYH EDJ and outer carton to minimise damage in transit. The revolutionary new packaging has been repeatedly tested over 12 months to thoroughly HOLPLQDWH VFXĆŹ VFUDWFK DQG crush issues that can often be problematic in the transport of upholstered sofas.

Commenting on the SDFNDJLQJ TXDOLW\ PDQDJHU Pete McDonald, said: “Our ecofriendly packaging has multiple HQYLURQPHQWDO EHQHĆŽWV VXFK DV no plastic, no polyurethane, and no restricted chemicals, while helping to reduce our overall carbon footprint. “We’re really proud to be the ĆŽUVW EUDQG LQ WKH LQGXVWU\ WR have adopted this innovative approach, which is now in use on the majority of our products. It’s important for a world renowned brand to take its environmental considerations seriously, and our next focus is to work on reducing plastic on our European made products.â€?

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5HWDLOHU UDLVHV SURĆŽW JXLGDQFH IROORZLQJ XQH[SHFWHG JURZWK )DVKLRQ DQG KRPHZDUHV UHWDLOHU 1H[W KDV UDLVHG LWV SURĆŽW guidance following a better than expected August trading period. According to its latest half year results ending July 2018, full price sales were up by 4.5% on last year, which was ahead of its forecast of 1% and 2.2% stated back in January and May respectively. Next said that it expected its positive July performance to be impacted by losses in August, although the company has reported no material loss of sales during last month and early September. 'XH WR WKLV 1H[W KDV UDLVHG LWV IXOO \HDU SURĆŽW JXLGDQFH E\ ~ P WR ~ P ZKLFK LV VOLJKWO\ KLJKHU WKDQ LWV SURĆŽW RI ~ P DFKLHYHG last year. 1H[W ZDV TXLFN WR SRLQW RXW WKDW WKH 8. UHWDLO PDUNHW UHPDLQV ‘volatile’ and its store sales continue to be ‘challenging’. Online sales have continued to grow year-on-year and are expected to surpass the ÂŁ2bn milestone come the year end, although store sales have experienced a decline with the division set WR UHSUHVHQW RQO\ RI RYHUDOO JURXS SURĆŽW Next retail store sales were down 6.9% to ÂŁ925.1m, whilst online sales rose 16.8% to ÂŁ892.3m during the half year period compared WR 3UH WD[ SURĆŽW VWRRG DW ~ P XS E\

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Netherlands-based mattress business Beter Bed Holding has sold its Spanish business following a strategic review. As part of the review, Beter Bed has decided to sell its operations of El Gigante del ColchĂłn with all 42 stores and all employees related to the operation to be transferred to (YROXFLĂ?Q GHO 'HVFDQVR HĆŹHFWLYH RQ 1RYHPEHU The sale of El Gigante del ColchĂłn will have a positive 2019 EBIT impact of approximately â‚Ź2m compared to 2018. John Kruijssen, on the divestment of the Spanish operation, said: “We are pleased with the fact that we found a professional group to take over our operation in Spain. This allows Beter Bed to continue and further intensify the focus on our remaining businesses.â€?

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MANUFACTURE

BFM APPOINT NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR The British Furniture Manufacturers (BFM) has announced the appointment of Nick Garratt as its new managing director. Nick, who joins the association from ercol, takes up his role on 5 November 2018 and succeeds Jackie Bazeley who has held the position since 2011. 1LFN TXDOLĆŽHG DV DQ engineer and holds an MBA. Following an early career in engineering and automotive businesses, Nick then moved into the furniture business holding senior positions with Parker Knoll and Silentnight. Nick moves to the BFM following 13 years with ercol, where he originally joined as operations director and then as managing director for the ODVW ĆŽYH \HDUV Jackie will stay on in a part time capacity to assist with the next London Fabric Show and SupportAbility project and fully retire from the organisation mid-2019. Commenting on his

appointment, Nick said: “Having served on the board of Directors of the BFM for a number of years I would like to thank Jackie for the WHUULĆŽF MRE VKH KDV FDUULHG RXW modernising and moving the organisation forward. “It is now a real privilege for me to now step up to the role as managing director. I am looking forward to working with the team and the board to further improve the service we RĆŹHU WR RXU PHPEHUV q Jackie added: “It has been a privilege working for the BFM and I have enjoyed my time with the association and expanding my network and knowledge within the industry. I know it is in safe hands with Nick and he will advance the BFM further to the benefit of members. “I wish both him and the association all the best for the future. I am now looking forward to spending time with my partner, family and friends.â€?

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MANUFACTURE

&DUSHW EXVLQHVV VKRUWOLVWHG IRU HQWUHSUHQHXU DZDUG

OFFICE FURNITURE FIRM LAUNCHES GREEN FLEET

Grimsby-based CarpetRunners.com has been shortlisted for the 2018 NatWest Great British Entrepreneur Awards. CarpetRunners.com has been nominated in the ‘Family Business Entrepreneur of the Year’ category. Now in its sixth year, the NatWest Great British Entrepreneur Awards celebrate entrepreneurship across a number of FDWHJRULHV ZKLFK WDNHV SODFH DW ĆŽYH JDOD ĆŽQDOV DFURVV WKH 8. LQFOXGLQJ &DUGLĆŹ %LUPLQJKDP (GLQEXUJK 0DQFKHVWHU /RQGRQ Myles Shaw, managing director at CarpetRunners.com, said: “It’s an absolute honour to be shortlisted for this prestigious award in recognition of the hard work, commitment and determination that have gone into making CarpetRunners.com the success story it is today. “We’ve had an incredible journey over the past eight years and I am extremely proud of the success that the CarpetRunners. com family has achieved in such a short time. “As we get ready to expand internationally, this accolade will give XV HYHQ PRUH FRQĆŽGHQFH WR WDNH WKH EXVLQHVV WR WKH QH[W OHYHO q Creator of the awards Francesca James said: “We have been inundated with some incredible entries this year, and all shortlisted applicants should be extremely proud of themselves! This year has yet again seen a record number of entrants and we’ve been absolutely blown away by the strength and diversity of applications.â€? “We cannot wait to celebrate entrepreneurship across Great Britain with them, and put a spotlight on the incredible talent within the British entrepreneur ecosystem.â€?

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MANUFACTURE

EU E XPANSION OFFSE TS UK SALES DECLINE Bathroom furniture supplier C.P. Hart has reported a seventh straight year of turnover growth GHVSLWH SURĆŽWV DOPRVW KDOYLQJ $FFRUGLQJ WR LWV ODWHVW ĆŽOHG accounts for the year ended 31 December 2017, total sales rose 0.4% to ÂŁ43.5m from ÂŁ43.3m in 2016. UK sales, its core market, slipped 0.4% to ÂŁ42.8m from ÂŁ43m, whilst EU sales saw a VLJQLĆŽFDQW LQFUHDVH XS E\ to ÂŁ434,373 compared to just ÂŁ85,630 generated last year.

Sales outside the EU also rose 4% to ÂŁ230,580 from ÂŁ221,825. *URVV SURĆŽW GHFOLQHG E\ 1.1% to ÂŁ17.2m from ÂŁ17.4m, ZKLOVW SUH WD[ SURĆŽW UHVXOWHG DW ÂŁ526,242, down by 47.4% from ÂŁ1m recorded the previous year. Stated within its report, the company said that it continued to increase its online sales, as well as expanding its contract division with hotels and property developers.

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2ĆąFH IXUQLWXUH VSHFLDOLVW 2[IRUG 2ĆąFH )XUQLWXUH KDV H[SDQGHG LWV GHOLYHU\ Ć°HHW ZLWK new ‘green’ vans. 2[IRUG 2ĆąFH )XUQLWXUH KDV launched an electric delivery Ć°HHW LQFOXGLQJ IRXU 1LVVDQ E-NV200 combi vans. The move is to cut down emissions and forms part of a wider plan of its home towns initiative to become a ‘Garden Town’. The company is based on

Telford Road Industrial estate in Bicester and has become WKH ĆŽUVW IXUQLWXUH GHOLYHU\ company in Oxfordshire with a GHGLFDWHG (9 GHOLYHU\ Ć°HHW As part of the new electric Ć°HHW VFKHPH WKH FRPSDQ\ is also working to develop an electric pool car scheme at its site to encourage other companies to follow suit.

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'LUHFWRU RI IXUQLWXUH UHWDLOHU SOHDGV QRW JXLOW\ RYHU H[SORVLRQ The director of a former independent furniture retailer Homes in Style Limited has pleaded not guilty after being charged with ‘causing an explosion likely to endanger life’. Pascal Blasio, a named director of Homes in Style, was arrested back in May 2017 on suspicion of arson and fraud relating to a huge explosion at its store location on Boundary Road in New Ferry, Wirral. Mr Blasio has been under investigation since the arrest and appeared before Liverpool Crown Court on 24 September 2018 at a plea hearing. $ SUHYLRXV VWDWHPHQW RI WKH RĆŹHQFH UHDG p7KH SDUWLFXODUV of the charge being that on 25th March 2017 at Birkenhead unlawfully and maliciously caused by an explosive substance an explosion of a nature likely to endanger life or cause serious injury to property.â€? Mr Blasio has also been charged with making a false fraudulent insurance claim to the National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society, on or around March 28 last year, following the explosion. However, the defendant indicated that the claim was ‘genuine and that he was not responsible for the explosion’. Mr Blasio will stand trial, which is expected to last four weeks, on 7 January 2019 and was remanded on unconditional bail until the trial by Judge Clement Goldstone. Furthermore, Contract Natural Gas Limited (CNG), an independent gas supplier which provides gas exclusively to EXVLQHVV FXVWRPHUV KDV DOVR EHHQ FKDUJHG ZLWK DQ RĆŹHQFH XQGHU the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 for failing to discharge general health/safety duty to a person other than an employee. CNG also pleaded not guilty and will stand trial on the same date. The explosion left 33 people injured, several homeless and destroyed other businesses in the area as well as the Homes in Style property.

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5th October 2018 |

|NEWS RETAIL

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American boxed Mattress brand Nectar Sleep announces expansion into the UK market. Nectar, the USA’s fastest-growing e-commerce mattress company, has announced its UK expansion, becoming the FRXQWU\oV RQO\ PDWWUHVV FRPSDQ\ ZLWK D XQLTXH QLJKW WULDO and forever warranty. Launched two years ago with a vision to make the most comfortable mattress money can buy, Nectar currently sells 1,000 mattresses a day in the US and has received thousands of ĆŽYH VWDU UHYLHZV WDNLQJ WKH GLUHFW WR FRQVXPHU VHFWRU E\ IRUFH with a revenue run rate of $315m. The company is now looking to introduce its consumerFHQWULF EXVLQHVV PRGHO DQG KLJK TXDOLW\ nEHG LQ D ER[o SURGXFW WR REWDLQ D VLJQLĆŽFDQW VKDUH RI WKH 8.oV ~ EQ nPDWWUHVV market’. Nectar Sleep launched in the UK on 27 September 2018. Angela Crouch, managing director at Nectar Sleep, said: “With a business model that challenges competitors in this space and through access to top talent, we see the UK as the best place to expand our international operations.â€?

8SKROVWHUHG IXUQLWXUH DQG Ć°RRULQJ UHWDLOHU 6F6 KDV UHSRUWHG DQ XSWLFN LQ ERWK VDOHV DQG SURĆŽW DV RQOLQH GLYLVLRQ UHFRUGV GRXEOH digit growth. According to its preliminary results for the 52 weeks ended 28 July 2018, total sales rose 0.8% to ÂŁ352.3m from ÂŁ349.5m in 2017, with revenue improving by ÂŁ4.3m to ÂŁ337.3m. Like-for-like orders increased by 0.2%, whilst online sales rose 22.6% during the year and represented ÂŁ13.8m of turnover. The company recorded an EBITDA of ÂŁ18.8m, up by 8.1% on ODVW \HDU ZLWK SUH WD[ SURĆŽW UHVXOWLQJ DW ~ P XS E\ IURP ÂŁ12m in 2017. Current trading has seen sales order intake grow 2.1% on a like-for-like basis for the 9 weeks to 29 September 2018.

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5HVXOW DPHQGPHQW ,QGHSHQGHQW IXUQLWXUH UHWDLOHU (OHJDQW +RPHV KDV UHDĆąUPHG SRVLWLYH WUDGLQJ LQ WKH \HDU IROORZLQJ LWV UHFHQW DFFRXQW ĆŽOLQJ The Cornwall-based business indicated that a number of issues impacted its previous year, which was unknown to Cabinet Maker ahead of publication last month. Following a recent discussion, the company said that funds from Elegant Homes has been used to support another company under the same ownership, which is currently in a legal dispute with a third party company with a joint venture agreement. Aside from ongoing legal proceedings, Mr Fenton said that despite increased competition from online only retailers and larger scale multiples, the business has performed well and UHPDLQV FRPPLWWHG LQ LWV FXVWRPHU VHUYLFH DQG LWV SURGXFW RĆŹHU Furthermore, Mr Fenton raised concerns over a growing trend involving charity shops that sell new furniture, stating: “I have always been a supporter of charity shops but some now operate very cleverly as they don’t have to pay any business rates and taxes. They have one earner in the shops who is usually on D KLJK ZDJH ZLWK WKH UHVW RI VWDĆŹ RQ D YROXQWDU\ EDVLV 7KH\ are buying brand new furniture, which is impacting the small independents as they can cut the price. This isn’t good for the industry as some big manufacturers are now supplying these charity outlets.â€?

w ZZZ HOHJDQWKRPHVFRUQZDOO FR XN 14 | 5th October 2018

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MANUFACTURE

FOAM SUPPLIER CONTINUES GROWTH Foam components PDQXIDFWXUHU 'XĆ°H[ )RDP Limited has reported a seventh successive growth in turnover as sales stormed past the ÂŁ40m mark. $FFRUGLQJ WR LWV ODWHVW ĆŽOHG accounts for the year ended 31 December 2017, total sales rose 20.9% to ÂŁ43.3m from ÂŁ35.8m in 2016, a growth of ÂŁ7.5m *URVV SURĆŽW LQFUHDVHG 21.3% to ÂŁ7.4m from ~ P ZKLOVW SUH WD[ SURĆŽW accelerated to ÂŁ2.4m, a growth of 41.1% compared WR LWV SURĆŽW RI ~ P LQ LWV previous year. Detailed within its report,

'XĆ°H[ ZKLFK LV SDUW RI WKH %HOĆŽHOG )XUQLVKLQJV group, said that its positive performance was driven by new accounts obtained during the year as well as from existing clients. During the year, the Ilkeston-based company, which manufactures bedding products for the home furnishings market produced from polyurethane foam, continued its commitment to reduce its carbon footprint and maintained its 100% waste recycling scheme.

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5HWDLOHU WR FORVH WKUHH VWRUHV 'HSDUWPHQW VWRUH UHWDLOHU +RXVH RI )UDVHU KDV FRQƎUPHG WKDW three store will close following a break down with landlords. +RXVH RI )UDVHU ZKLFK DV DFTXLUHG RXW RI DGPLQLVWUDWLRQ E\ Mike Ashley’s Sports Direct for a sum of £90m, revealed that stores in Edinburgh, Hull and Swindon would close after the failure of negotiations over potential cuts in rents.

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www.modulo.be | 320160

BRUSSELS FURNITURE FAIR

SUN 4 - WED 7 NOV 2018 SUN - TUE 9AM - 7PM & WED 9AM - 6PM BRUSSELS EXPO WWW.FURNITUREFAIRBRUSSELS.BE

BRUSSELS FURNITURE FAIR

BRUSSELS SHOUT OUT Cabinet Maker previews the upcoming B r u s s e l s F u r n i t u r e F a i r i n N o v e m b e r. Duvet know it’s Brussels time? Okay, so perhaps it’s still a little early for Christmas jingles as we haven’t even had Halloween yet. However, we all know that in the world of trading, looking ahead is key to success. And if you thought October’s schedule would be the last of the furniture creativity on display in Europe for the year, you’d be very much mistaken. For four days from Sunday 4th to Wednesday 7th 1RYHPEHU WKH %UXVVHOV ([SR ZLOO RQFH DJDLQ ƎOO up with furniture brands from all over the world exhibiting their latest and greatest designs for the 81st edition of the event. The fact that it’s been going for such a length of time is testament to its success and it’s lauded for being one of the oldest professional trade fairs in Europe still running. Split into seven categories, the exhibition comprises seven halls dedicated to Brussels by Night, City, Fusion, Holland à la Carte, Hospitality World, Mozaïek and Square. It’s not just Belgian brands that come to showcase their products at this prestigious event: an array of companies from around

the globe are present each year to take advantage of the high visitor turnout in the capital rated as the world’s seventh most LPSRUWDQW ƎQDQFLDO FHQWUH $W ODVW \HDUoV HYHQW YLVLWRUV ưRFNHG WR WKH FLW\ from Belgium, the Netherlands, France, the UK, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland and Scandinavia to peruse the latest designs from an impressive 258 exhibitors in the lead up to Christmas. The rabble is gathering in anticipation of the 2018 line-up, so who’s going to be talking the talk this year? Quite a number of companies from a comprehensive selection of specialities! Square in Hall 3 features furniture collections DQG DƏRUGDEOH GHVLJQ ZLWK D P\ULDG RI SXUH lines from exhibitors attending from Italy (Delta Salotti, Dienne Salotti and Munari]; Croatia (Dizz Concept and Era Group], France (Akante] and Belgium (Joli]. Onto Fusion, and the cosiest section of the fair! Industrial vintage look, loose armchairs

Brussels Furniture Fair takes place from 4-7 November 2018

FOR FULL STORIE S AND DAILY NE W S UPDATE S: WWW.C ABINE T-MAKER .C O.UK

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Last year’s event saw 20,000 visitors attend and side tables, solid wood furniture, FKHVWHUƎHOGV DUH DOO GHVWLQHG WR PDNH WKLV D segment with an extra something. UK based Baker Furniture from Middlesbrough will be showcasing its collections of beautiful dining, occasional and bedroom furniture made from combinations of wood, metal and stone in Hall 8 Stand 209. Celebrating 50 years in business, Tetrad will also make its way from Preston to Hall 8 with the latest styles in luxury sofa upholstery, including the popular Heritage Collection. While the bulk of the companies in Fusion’s Hall 8 hail from European countries, such as ByBoo from the Netherlands, Artesano Moveis and Tora Brasil will travel across the Atlantic from Brazil to represent the South American industry. If you’re on the lookout for bedroom furniture, KHDG WR +DOO DV WKDWoV ZKHUH \RXoOO ƎQG D FRQVLGHUDEOH RƏHULQJ RI VSHFLDOLVWV IRU EHGV box springs and mattresses, with bed textiles also in abundance. Companies exhibiting here include: Soraya, Brinkhaus, Brun de Vian-Tiran, Candia Handmade Mattress, Carlina, Cartel Bedding, Duvatex, Karintrad Bedding, Leticia Modular Mattress, LS Bedding, Mahoton Slaapsystemen BV, Nill Spring, Norma, Polypreen, Recor Group, Revor Group, Van Landschoot and Veldeman Bedding. In the direction of City now, and German furniture manufacturer Wiemann will be on hand, showcasing its latest products in Hall 4 Stand 209. Said Simon Hewitt, managing

director of Wiemann’s UK agent Litmus Furniture: “The Wiemann team and I will once again be exhibiting at the Brussels Furniture Fair. We’ll be previewing our 2019 collections and will have a selection of our best sellers on display. We’re looking forward to greeting our UK customers and showing them our latest addition.â€? The City Segment is the largest category and will boast three halls: 3, 4 and 5, showcasing big names in the furniture game such as Nolte MĂśbel, Calia Italia, Calligaris, Brinkhaus and Lithuanian leather and modular upholstery experts Vilmers. The aptly named MozaĂŻek segment, like the fair itself, RĆŹHUV D SDUWLFXODUO\ ZLGH YDULHW\ IRU FKRLFH RI QDWLRQDOLW\ DORQJ ZLWK DĆŹRUGDEOH SLHFHV From Belgium, the Netherlands, France and Italy to Turkey, Poland, Denmark and /LWKXDQLD WKHUHoOO EH VRPHWKLQJ KHUH WR ĆŽQLVK the jigsaw and bring the picture together. Finally, the Patio will play host to plenty of design prowess through the Dutch segment, as Holland Ă la Carte is due to comprise 15 brands, including: BKS Meubelen, Cartel Living, Chita Group, Claudi, Expo Trading Holland, HE Design, Jess Design, Klusens Meubelcreaties, Nix Design by PMP Furniture, Nouvion, Spinderdesign, StickyLock B.V., Sumisura, Urban Cotton and Ztahl by Dijkos. +HUH LQ +DOO \RXoOO ĆŽQG D VWXQQLQJ PL[WXUH RI sofas, tables, chairs, cushions, lighting and HYHQ ZDOO UXJV RQ RĆŹHU

258 exhibitors will be on show

SHOW INFO:

Venue: Brussels Expo Dates and times: Sunday 4th to Tuesday 6th November: 9am to 7pm Wednesday 7th November: 9am to 6pm On the Tuesday evening, Balthazars will be awarded to the companies boasting stand RXW SURGXFWV DQG RĆŹHUV ZLWK WKH LQWHQWLRQ of providing the most innovative and original brands with the recognition they’ve earned. During a festive award ceremony, the winners will receive the prize of prizes: a 12-litre bottle of champagne. Simply not to be missed! Brussels Furniture Fair is the place to be in November, so go ahead, register for a ticket, and find your showroom’s new pièce de rĂŠsistance.

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www.meubelbeurs.be/en

5th October 2018 | 17

MANUFACTURE|UPHOLSTERY

SETTING THE K a r l W a l k e r, m a n a g i n g director at L e b u s U p h o l s t e r y, speaks to Cabinet Maker on its recent ‘Certified’ status achievement under F I R A’ s n e w C o m p l i a n c e Scheme for the Fire Per formance of Upholstered Furniture.

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First off, congratulations on the gaining the ‘Certified’ status from the Furniture Industry Research Association. What does this mean to the business? Our Compliance and Management team are very proud of the achievement. We felt LW LPSRUWDQW WKDW ZH ĆŽUPO\ XQGHUOLQHG RXU commitment in ensuring that all elements of our business were compliant to the highest VWDQGDUGV 7KH &HUWLĆŽHG VWDWXV FRQĆŽUPV that our procedures and work practices are implemented to the highest possible level. How long did the process take? From the point of application to FIRA to the completion date the process took around three months. How do you feel on being the first independent manufacturer to achieve this milestone? Clearly we are delighted. We already had very UREXVW V\VWHPV LQ SODFH EXW WKLV UDWLĆŽHV WKDW 7R EH WKH ĆŽUVW XQGHUOLQHV MXVW KRZ FRPPLWWHG and focused we are on ensuring that our FXVWRPHUV IHHO FRQĆŽGHQW LQ WKH SURGXFW the purchase from the Lebus business.

Over recent years there has been a lot of focus on fire regulations in beds and mattresses, why do you think it is important for the upholstery market to address this topic? In principle the current standards are fit for purpose, if properly administered and controlled. The big issue is that there appears very little control away from the larger retailers and manufacturers. There are still quantities of product finding its way into the market place which does not comply. We know because we test competitive product on a regular basis. The upholstery sector does appear to be lagging behind the bedding market and as a result it allows less scrupulous suppliers to exploit the situation. In simple terms it costs to be compliant. Cut corners and you cut cost, until it all goes wrong. What would you say are the benefits in becoming a certified company under this scheme? It clearly demonstrates to our existing customers, the end consumer and potential new customers that they are buying safe and compliant product. It proves our due diligence not only meets the requirements of the 1988 act, but exceed this and further underlines our commitment that FR product safety is one of our core values. What do you hope the scheme will bring to the upholstery industry? I would like to believe that the scheme ZLOO KHOS WR FUHDWH D OHYHO SOD\LQJ ĆŽHOG WKDW guarantees both buyers and end consumers VDIH DQG FHUWLĆŽHG SURGXFW &OHDUO\

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Billie

something that is a long way from being the case currently. What has the feedback been like for the business? It’s fair to say hardly a fanfare! However acknowledgements from many of our customers who are reassured that they are not exposed to potential issues, and interestingly one or two enquiries from new customers who share our values.

sense of achievement and continues to motivate everyone to push for continuous improvement. Externally it gives our customers and end consumers peace of mind that they are buying safe and compliant product.

How has trading been for the business so far this year? Interesting to say the least! We had a phenomenal start to the year, which gave us D UHFRUG ĆŽUVW TXDUWHU then the ‘Beast from the East’ hit followed by the hottest summer since I was in short pants. Neither of which compels the consumer to rush out and buy sofas. Challenging is a polite way RI VD\LQJ pEORRG\ GLĆąFXOWq WKURXJKRXW WKDW period. Thankfully the tide turned very nicely from July and it now appears that business is very strong. It would be nice to think we can continue our unbroken six-year record RI LQFUHDVHG JURZWK , DP FRQĆŽGHQW ZH ZLOO be thereabouts and if the FIRA achievement helps this cause, then happy days. It was

How do you remain a member of the scheme and are you planning further investment? Annual audits, unannounced visits and a requirement that all records are maintained and made available at any time. We have a strategy to further enhance the system and make the most of the technology available. What would you say is a drawback of not being part of the scheme? It leaves the door wide open for non FRPSOLDQW SURGXFW WR FRQWLQXH WR EH RĆŹHUHG within the UK. What did you think was most attractive about undergoing the process? Internally it gives the Lebus team a Camden

Ashley

QHYHU RXU REMHFWLYH WR XVH WKH &HUWLĆŽHG VWDWXV as a means to increase sales, but if the side HĆŹHFW RI WKLV GRHV LPSURYH WKH QXPEHUV , ZLOO certainly not complain! What is next for the business following this certification? We have developed our own internal testing Laboratory that undertakes composite Cigarette and Match Testing. It is our intention to further develop this facility to attain UKAS accreditation in the future.

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www.lebus.co.uk

5th October 2018 | 19

RE TAIL|ONLINE

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www. roseandgrey.co.uk

5th October 2018 | 21

MANUFACTURE|WHOLESALE

INVEST FOR How will the new £10m investment help the business grow? The new investment has initially assisted with the purchase of the building and with this now complete we can look forward to growing the business by potentially expanding the site as we look into new markets. :H KDYH DOVR VLJQLƮFDQWO\ XSJUDGHG ,7 DQG order process systems allowing us trade PRUH HƬHFWLYHO\ ZLWK RXU NH\ FOLHQWV Can you give a breakdown of the £10m investment on what it will go towards? The investment was made up of a mortgage package for the building, a trade loan and invoice discount facility. All of which enable is to trade at a higher level than we previously have.

22 | 5th October 2018

Lancashire-based wholesale furniture supplier GFW has recently acquired its 205,000sq ft proper t y and 55 acre site in Eccleshill as its permanent home. J o n a t h a n P o n s o n b y, managing director a t G F W, s i t s i n t h e Cabinet Maker Q&A hot seat.

What was the reason behind the investment? The company has strong intentions to position itself as key supplier within its sector of the marketplace and has grown year on year since its inception in 2009. To be able to continue with the growth we need the extended support of HSBC. What are your general thoughts on the current furniture market and trading environment? :H IHHO WKHUH LV D OLWWOH PRUH FRQƮGHQFH back in the market and that trading conditions are easing a little. How has business been so far this year? Business has been very strong for far this year each month has been an improvement when ORRNLQJ DW \HDU RQ \HDU ƮJXUHV 2YHUDOO ƮJXUHV are 52% up on the same period in 2017.

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With regards to product expansion, what new products are you planning to launch? We will be adding new design beds, H[SDQGLQJ RXU OLYLQJ URRP RƬHULQJ DQG launching some new innovative storage products throughout the year. What areas are you looking to export into following international growth in East Asia? We currently import from the far east not H[SRUW 2XU RQO\ H[SRUW PDUNHW LV (XURSH which accounts for around 2% of the overall sales. How many new staff are you looking to appoint? What does the business look for when recruiting? We recently employed four new members RI VWDƬ DQG ZLOO EH ORRNLQJ WR DGG D IXUWKHU four over the coming months taking the total workforce to 42. Do you view Brexit as an opportunity or barrier? 1R VSHFLƮF WKRXJKWV HLWKHU ZD\ DV ZH started the business in the middle of a recession and have managed to grow to GFW has taken steps to increase its product range

GFW secured bank support to fund investment 5th October 2018 | 23

MANUFACTURE|WHOLESALE The company has been established since 2009

this level in the nine years trading so far. So we will remain vigilant of the trading environment but continue with the same ethos we always have. Does the company have any other investments planned for the future? We will continue to invest organically in the growth of the business alongside our banking partner HSBC. What is the key to your businesses recent success? We have built a team that is determined to succeed and has an excellent work ethic which has enabled us to grow so quickly along with the support of HSBC who came on board in initially in late 2015 and had a great understanding of the business from the outset.

“WE FEEL THERE IS A LITTLE MORE CONFIDENCE BACK IN THE MARKET AND THAT TRADING CONDITIONS ARE EASING A LITTLE. ”

You mentioned that you expect turnover to grow by 15% in the next 12 months, do you have an official figure of turnover and bottom line you want to achieve? Previous 12 months trading ending November 17 sales achieved of £13.5m with a GP of 3.4m and Net of 1.26m. Forecasted sales for year ending November 18 are 15.5m with a GP of 3.84m and net of 1.665m However year to date actual (Dec 17 – Mar 18) is 12.1% ahead of forecast with GP up by DQG QHW SURƮW WKXV IDU E\ Finally, what advice would you give to businesses to move forward? We have benefited from being adaptable and being able to move with times whilst still keeping sight of short and mid-term goals.

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24 | 5th October 2018

www.gfwlimited.co.uk

CLASSIFIED

TO ADVERTISE A JOB PLEASE CONTACT KACEM

Q 01223 846 825 m

KACEM@CABINET-MAKER.CO.UK

Sales Agent Required for South West England & Scotland AREA SALES MANAGER SOUTH OF ENGLAND ŽŵƉĞƟƟǀĞ ĂƐŝĐ ^ĂůĂƌLJ н ŽŵŵŝƐƐŝŽŶ ^ĐŚĞŵĞ н ŽŵƉĂŶLJ Ăƌ н ďĞŶĞĮƚƐ

MARTIN STAUD GMBH INNOVATION AND TRADITION SINCE 1653 Solid craftsmanship and advanced, industrial manufacturing processes form the basis when it comes to the production of our high-quality bedroom furniture ranges. The STAUD product offer includes modern, top-quality wardrobe systems, bed, chests and occasional furniture ranges. A clear product range structure offers our customers a wealth of models and variations for individual bedroom design.

Helix

This is a fantastic opportunity to join an energetic business at a time of expansion into the UK market. Reporting to the UK Sales Director the ideal candidate will have passion for the industry and will have a driven and motivated attitude towards relationship building with customers. You will have a proven track record of generating new business and integrating these new customers into your account base seamlessly. With the ability to work autonomously, you will be able to really take control of the territory from the start. There is huge opportunity on patch that, with the right frame of mind, can be made into a really thriving part of the business.

Maxi Base

Runner up in 2017/2018 NBF Awards for launching the Helix Mattress collection – This innovative mattress has defined the Vogue ethos of creating premium products not previously available in the marketplace.

Some key points to consider for this role would be: • • • • • •

Therapy

Established since 1990, Vogue Beds knows what it takes to create the perfect night’s sleep. Boasting design and technical expertise in the bed and mattress industry, Vogue manufacture an extensive range of products in the UK under our Vogue, Repose, Hampton , Therapy Mattresses and Swift Vacuum Mattresses as well as manufacturing a NEW UK made Bedsteads available in 18 fabrics along with Headboards and blanket boxes.

This role would suit an experience and established agent, well versed in selling quality, premium beds and mattresses.

Industry knowledge is ideal Strong skills in relationship building and maintaining Availability to travel and stay over throughout the territory Ability to work autonomously Will to work hard and put in the hours to effectively grow territory Enthusiastic, charismatic and determined personality

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.

This is a wonderful opportunity for an Area Sales Manager that has a lot of passion and drive to work hard and smart on the territory and to help the business grow in this region of the United Kingdom.

To apply please send CV to Managing Director, Ebrahim Patel via email: emp@voguebeds.co.uk RU FRQWDFW WKH RƱFH RQ 01455 841257

To be considered for the position please send your CV with covering letter to – sandro.zemunovic@staudmoebel.de

The Furniture Makers’ Company the furnishing industry’s charity

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5th October 2018 | 25

LAST WORD

N I C H O L A S R AD F O R D , M A N A G I N G D I R E C TO R , N AT H A N F U R N I T U R E .

REMAKING A CLASSIC:THE CHALLENGES OF RE-ISSUING AND MANUFACTURING AN ICONIC RANGE OF FURNITURE I was born into the furniture trade. My great grandfather started Stag in 1914, and was followed into the business by my grandfather, father, uncle and eventually myself. Although I went on to run my own companies, I spent my early years in the trade making furniture for Stag designed by mid century pioneers John and Sylvia Reid, and I’ve long held a desire to relaunch some of their work. With the resurgence of mid century design, , GHFLGHG WR ƮQDOO\ GR LW ODVW \HDU $ORQJ ZLWK John and Sylvia’s son Dominic Reid, we selected the S-Range. Perhaps the important thing with any reissue of a classic range is maintaining the integrity of the original. Some have chosen to update original designs, or alter them to ƮW PRGHUQ PDQXIDFWXULQJ WHFKQLTXHV s DQG that’s understandable. But for me, the real value here was preserving John and Sylvia’s legacy. We wanted to recreate them exactly to the original drawings. With the S-Range, I was surprised at the level of detail included in the original collection such as the v-shaped feet where the ironwork is deliberately shaped to ensure the sideboard won’t rock and will sit neatly on all four corners. But particularly impressive was how much the designers had thought about the ways the furniture was going to be produced in the factory.

However, things have moved on so choices had to be made to either find ways of recreating their work, or finding workarounds. In nearly all aspects, we chose the former. Sourcing the correct timber to get the right colour and look was not an easy process. Replicating the metal work exactly saw us search for platers with the right skills to apply the nickel. And we took that approach right down to WKH PLQXWLDH s HYHQ VRXUFLQJ WKH H[DFW VL]H DQG VKDSH Æ°DW KHDG VFUHZV DQG WKHQ JHWWLQJ WKHP SODWHG WR EH H[DFWO\ ULJKW 2WKHU XQLTXH design features such as the handles, hinges and feet all had to be manufactured and the correct materials sourced. 3HUKDSV WKH RQO\ UHDO GLƬHUHQFH EHWZHHQ our re-issued range and the originals is the Æ®QLVKLQJ LV DFWXDOO\ FRQVLGHUDEO\ EHWWHU simply because today’s manufacturing technology has evolved to become more VRSKLVWLFDWHG LQ WHUPV RI TXDOLW\ 6R ZKLOH the pieces look identical, they are actually more robust and will last longer.

Perhaps the biggest thing I’ve taken from the experience is it’s always harder to copy something already in existence, rather than create a new piece from scratch. Because when you’re recreating something from the past, people expect it to be exactly the same. With your own, you shape it as you go along and often to fit in with manufacturing constraints. When I watch the BBC’s Fake or Fortune now, I almost admire the people who can copy a masterwork so precisely. It’s far harder than creating the original.

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My advice for other manufacturers going down this route is to go into it with your eyes open. Make the decision early to SURWHFW WKH RULJLQDOoV LQWHJULW\ RU QRW s DQG then be prepared to see it through to the smallest detail.

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Bezel

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Over 3000 air suspension pocket springs in king size mattress. The mattress is made from soft cotton felt, pure lamb’s wool, silk and cashmere. High quality viscose fabric. Hand tufted mattress finish with pure woollen rosettes. 3 rows of hand side stitched mattress borders. Air ventilators and flag stitch handles. Divan base fitted with shepherd castors and corner guards

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1000 pocket springs in a king size mattress Natural silk, WOOL and cashmere fillings Foam edge encapsulated support, adding strength to the sides of the mattress Micro quilted mattress finish Soft touch knitted wool fabric Non-turn mattress (rotatable)

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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. No turn mattress A wide range of luxury base options available in a choice of colours

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9000 heat treated pocket springs in a king size mattress. Fillings include pure lamb’s wool, silk and cashmere. 4 rows of side stitched mattress borders, also fitted with air vents and flag stitched handles. Hand tufted mattress finish with pure woollen tufts. Superior quality damask fabric. Divan base fitted with chrome glides.

Tel: +44 121 773 6669 Fax: +44 121 773 6788 Web: www.slumberdream.co.uk A part of Slumberdream Group

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