The essential guide to the UK domestic furniture and furnishings trade #353 August 2018 | www.furniturenews.net
Nautilus, Highgate Beds
IN CONFIDENCE Weathering shifting consumer mood
FrontCover353.indd FN353_Pages2.indd 11
THE BRITISH HOME Inside the BFM’s new headquarters
RISING STARS Fresh thinking from New Designers
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3
“Whether all this talk is posturing or prophecy, it’s unsettling enough to keep consumers wary of spending big, and that’s bad news for the furniture industry” COMMENT
T
we are less willing to spend and more prepared to save.
shared desire to have a deal agreed by October,
That said, saving rates remain at an all-time low – what
both the UK and the EU are feeling the heat, and
we say and what we do don’t always align!”
there’s a chance the discussions could get even hotter. They’re even taking more seriously the possibility
The good news is that while political crises undoubtedly affect consumers on an emotional level, the real spending
of a no-deal Brexit – an outcome which Amazon’s UK
drivers and impediments are more often closer to home,
manager Doug Gurr has controversially warned could lead
and present canny businesses with opportunities to sell
to “civil unrest”, and, says consultants Oliver Wyman,
furniture regardless of the national headlines.
may leave British households nearly £1000 a year worse off. Whether all this talk ahead of Parliament’s summer
You’ll find a summary of the report on p38 – turn to p80 to find out how you can get your hands on a copy. This isn’t the only discussion of consumer confidence
recess is posturing or prophecy, it’s unsettling enough
and Brexit in this month’s issue. Gavin Boden – one of the
to keep consumers wary of spending big, and that’s bad
report’s contributors – offers his take on the matter on
news for the furniture industry.
p60, while we reveal the British Furniture Confederation’s
But how much impact are these political machinations
plans on lobbying the Government on matters such as
and about-turns actually having on furniture sales in real
imports, exports, recruitment and quality standards in a
terms? And is there anything retailers or suppliers can
post-Brexit Britain (p42).
do to offset the damage caused by any negative feelings generated? Earlier this year, I took a deep breath and threw
On a final note, while it can feel like uncertainty has become the norm these days, I was personally heartened by the visitor turnout at this summer’s Manchester
myself into tackling these questions and more – the
Furniture Show, and the can-do attitude of the exhibitors
results of which you can find in a special report exploring
present (more on that in next month’s issue).
the relationship between consumer confidence and
The experience reminded me that, when the tide turns
the furniture trade, published exclusively in our new
– and it will – many of us will be ready to make the most
directory, Connect.
of it.
With the help of insight from leading retail experts, furniture retailers and suppliers, who recount personal experiences and suggest how they have prepared to weather any fluctuations, the report interrogates data from GfK’s long-running Consumer Confidence Barometer and the ONS’ Retail Sales Index to identify how major political events align with shifting opinion and
DEL
18 10:48
he Brexit strain is really starting to show. With a
spending patterns. “Consumers thrive on certainty,” says GfK’s client strategy director, Joe Staton, “and in an uncertain world
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Paul Farley Editor-in-chief T 01424 776101 E paul@gearingmediagroup.com Twitter @FurnitureNewsED
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4 | Contents
ON THE COVER INFORMATION
7
Partner Comment
12 News Editor-in-chief Paul Farley 01424 776101 paul@gearingmediagroup.com Twitter @FurnitureNewsED Sales and marketing director (Furniture News portfolio) Sam Horscroft 01424 776100 sam@gearingmediagroup.com Twitter @FurnitureNewsAD Sales executive Caroline Littler 07861 231461 caroline@gearingmediagroup.com Production manager James Ash 01424 775304 james@gearingmediagroup.com
20 Events 38
Resources
45
Profile
48
Beds & Bedroom
56
Dining Room
Autumn Fair (24)
Production assistant Mike Beales 01424 775304 mike@gearingmediagroup.com Digital production assistant Nyall McCurrach 01424 775304 nyall@gearingmediagroup.com Copy administrator Steve Merrick 01424 776108 production@gearingmediagroup.com Proofreader Keith Fitz-Hugh Editorial director John Legg 01424 776104 john@gearingmediagroup.com
New Designers (20)
Publisher Nigel Gearing Accounts Wendy Williams 01424 774982 wendy@gearingmediagroup.com
Consumer confidence and the furniture industry (38)
Subscriptions Claire Jones 07493 391962 claire@gearingmediagroup.com Annual Subscription Rates UK-£65 Europe-£85 RoW-£95 Repro, print and distribution Stephens & George
Gearing Media Group Ltd 4 Red Barn Mews, High Street Battle, East Sussex TN33 0AG ISSN No: 1475 - 3731 © Gearing Media Group Ltd 2018 General information No part of this publication may be reproduced without the specific prior written agreement of the Publisher and may not be stored on any type of retrieval system. Furniture News/ Gearing Media Group Ltd accepts no responsibility for variations in colour reproduction. Special colours (Pantone etc) can be catered for with prior arrangement. Some elements of the editorial content in this publication are submitted by the trade, however, all efforts are made to ensure that the editorial remains true to fact and unbiased. Monies may have been accepted to offset the costs of colour reproduction. Gearing Media Group Ltd reserves the right to alter without prior notice any content other than customers’ advertisements. No correspondence will be entered into regarding altered or adjusted editorial content. The editor’s decision is final. All material submitted for inclusion in Furniture News is done so entirely at the owner’s risk and no responsibility is accepted for the safekeeping or return thereof.
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Contents | 5
ON THE COVER
The essential guide to the UK domestic furniture and furnishings trade #353 August 2018 | www.furniturenews.net
Nautilus, Highgate Beds
IN CONFIDENCE Weathering shifting consumer mood
The BFC manifesto ahead of Brexit (42)
THE BRITISH HOME Inside the BFM’s new headquarters
RISING STARS Fresh thinking from New Designers
FrontCover353.indd 1
24/07/2018 09:58
Read about how Highgate Beds (www.highgatebeds.
60 Opinion 62
Living Room
68
Trade Services
com) has taken a handson approach to product innovation on p54
CONTRIBUTORS
76 Designer
7
Joe McCusker-Bland (76) Charles Vernon highlights the impact of the Furniture Industry Research Association
40
Gus Bartholomew imagines how manufacturer sourcing might look in the future
60
The Exchange (68)
Gavin Boden looks at the cause and effect of
The Furniture Trade Directory The indispensible guide to UK suppliers and retailers,
fluctuating consumer confidence
in print and online
www.gmgconnect.com
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18 13:37
Partner Comment | 7
Recognising best of British We also have an ergonomic project under way regarding kitchen
‘Impact’ could be viewed as a somewhat unusual topic for an opinion piece. After all, impact is something which is often touted
design. Work continues on a new remanufacturing standard for
– but in reality it’s quite hard to pin down and accurately measure.
furniture as part of wider work on the circular economy. And shortly there will be guidance issued around compliance with the
As chairman of the Furniture Industry Research Association, my role is a voluntary one – and the same goes for my peers
General Product Safety Directive. All these projects were chosen as
on the council. We give up our time as we want to ensure the
we could see the potential impact they will make. Further projects due to get under way over the coming months
research association makes an impact through the work it’s doing – giving back to the membership who fund the work, and in turn
include the implications of regulations on electrically-actuated
supporting the wider furniture supply chain. It’s therefore vital
furniture for the commercial market (following on from similar
that we understand the impact our decisions make.
work in the domestic market), supporting members with flammability compliance by understanding what tests are relevant
One way I like to assess how much of an impact the Furniture Industry Research Association makes is through first-hand
to different types of materials and products, and we’re looking at
anecdotal evidence.
how embracing the latest technology and trends could improve UK furniture productivity.
“We give up our time as we want to ensure the research association makes an impact through the work it’s doing”
All these projects are in their infancy, but we’re excited to see what direction they take and the impact they make. If there is a project which you think could make an impact, then please do email your ideas to info@fira.co.uk.
Did you know, for example, that the research association spends approximately £100,000 per annum attending standards committee meetings? Members frequently tell me how valuable this is in supporting with informed business decisions through the valuable insights published via fira.co.uk. Here, we’re having a direct impact – giving outlooks on the direction proposed or current standards may take, or through opening up opportunities to comment on consultations and shape
Charles Vernon is the chairman of
outcomes.
the Furniture Industry Research
The research association also aims to make an impact through its membership projects, which are all funded via membership
Association (www.fira.co.uk),
subscriptions. Current membership projects include writing a
a recognised centre of technical
bariatric bed standard in response to issues being caused by the
excellence which provides knowledge-
increasing weight of the population (this follows on from the
based, technical support to the global
bariatric chair standard we released last year).
furniture supply chain.
Media Partners Furniture News enjoys partnerships with a range of key global and national institutions and exhibitions
Exclusive UK Member
Furniture News supports the aims and objectives of ACID (Anti Copying In Design) which is committed to fighting intellectual property theft
Official Media Partner
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The market is open for inspiration Get your free ticket today www.autumnfair.com
Home • The Light Show • The Summerhouse • Contemporary Gift & Living Body, Bath & Home Fragrance • Fashion, Jewellery & Accessories • Gift Greetings & Contemporary Gift • Retail Solutions • Children’s Gifts, Toys & Gadgets Volume & Housewares • Global Handicraft • Brands of China
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12 | News
Autumn Furniture Show open to all
Arlo & Jacob opens Bristol store Sofamaker Arlo & Jacob will open its new Bristol store – the company’s second showroom, and its first outside of London – on 14th August. Located on 94c Whiteladies Road, an area already busy with interiors brands, the 4500ft2 showroom will house an extensive collection of sofas, chairs and accessories, all of which are handmade in Long Eaton. Bristol is a natural base for the expanding family-centric sofa brand, and will be the first of a number of regional
The Autumn Furniture Show, organised
business, the show offers buying
Arlo & Jacob locations scheduled to open
by Minerva for the benefit of the buying
opportunities ahead of the Christmas and
in the coming year, says MD Nick Wasey.
group’s members as well as the wider trade,
winter sales.
will take place on 2nd and 3rd October this
“We are going through a very exciting
A wide range of suppliers have signed
transition right now,” he adds. “We’ve
up to exhibit, but a few stands are
listened to our customers and understand
still available – interested parties can
just how important experiencing the
entry for the duration for any furniture
contact the organiser on 01249 716195
product first-hand is, and Bristol marks
retailer, contract buyer, interior and
or fill in the contact form on Minerva
a significant milestone in expanding our
contract specifier or other professional
Furniture Group’s website, www.
bricks-and-mortar presence.”
associated with the furniture interiors
theautumnfurnitureshow.co.uk
year at Stoneleigh Park Exhibition Centre. Set across two spacious halls with free
The opening has created six new jobs.
DFS suffers from weather and shipping issues
Julian Cox
While DFS saw positive LFL order intake momentum in Q3, the hot weather
returns to AIS
– particularly over key trading weekends – has led to a significantly poorer Julian Cox, who was the
performance to date in Q4. Over the period, the retailer also experienced disruption to the ships
furniture controller at
bringing made-to-order products from the Far East, resulting in a decline in
Associated Independent Stores
revenues of between -3% and -4% YoY. EBITDA for the full FY is expected to
(AIS) for two-and-a-half
be lower than last year, reflecting the timing of the arrival of products from
years before joining Furniture
the Far East before the financial year end.
Village earlier this year, is returning to the buying group
DFS says that previous investments in its supply chain and the recent
as director of furniture designate on 6th August. In his role in the furniture department, he will report
acquisition of Sofology, together with progress expected at Dwell and Sofa Workshop, will provide benefits to earnings that it expects to help mitigate
to to Peter Mallinson, merchandise director for AIS’
the current challenging sales environment.
Home division.
Dunelm reports flat quarter and brand transitions Dunelm has recorded flat LFL revenues
delivered LFL revenue growth of +4.2% and
(+0.1%) in the quarter ended 30th June,
overall growth of +9.9%.
the result of a strong online performance
Dunelm reports that its customer reach
(+41.8%), and weaker physical store footfall
continues to grow, with the number of
leading to a -4.6% LFL decline in store
active customers on Dunelm.com up +18%
sales.
YoY, and store visits up +5%.
Overall revenues declined -1.4% YoY.
With regards to the Worldstores business,
The Kiddicare website, meanwhile, is to be retired in the next quarter, and the baby and child category developed instead under the Dunelm brand. Although there were no new store openings in the quarter, Dunelm plans to open two stores (one of which is a
Whilst Dunelm benefited from a strong
Dunelm is completing development of its
store opening programme earlier in the
technology platform prior to migrating
financial year, this was offset by decisions
the Dunelm.com website onto this
items) is expected to be approximately
to rationalise the offer across its acquired
platform in the course of the next financial
£102m (£109.3m in 2017), which includes
businesses – Worldstores.co.uk and
year, which, it says, will enable rapid
trading losses related to the Worldstores
Kiddicare.com - having divested itself of
improvements in its online proposition such
businesses, estimated at £8.5m. Exceptional
Achica.com during the previous quarter.
as the implementation of click-and-collect
charges during the period amounted to
functionality.
£8.9m.
For the year as a whole, the group
FN353_Pages2.indd 12
relocation) early in the new financial year. FY profits (before tax and exceptional
24/07/2018 15:40
News | 13
ercol’s Henry Tadros promoted to director Henry Tadros has been promoted to director at ercol Furniture, with responsibility for developing the company’s international and contract business. Henry, the great-grandson of ercol’s founder, Lucian Ercolani, will sit on the board of directors, after serving almost seven years within the family business. Henry has worked across the company in various positions. For the last five years, he was responsible for the international business in the retail
Retirement prompts new agent appointment at Serene Having spent five years at Serene
Lorraine Selby
Andrew Smith
new adventures, my lovely retailers
Furnishings’
and the great
Lincoln and East
people I have
Anglia sales
worked with.” Andrew Smith
agent, Lorraine Selby has decided
will take over
to retire from the
from Lorraine. Andrew started
industry. She says: “When I started in the
his career in the furniture industry on
furniture trade 30 years ago, I was
his 13th birthday, and worked in retail
constantly told it was a people’s business,
for many years, before going to work as a
and it is.
representative for G Plan Cabinets and then
“It is the people I will miss as I start on
an agent.
and contract markets. He will now take director-level responsibility for these customers and markets. Edward Tadros, ercol’s chairman and Henry’s father, comments: “As you can imagine, I am delighted to welcome the fourth generation of my family to the board of ercol Furniture. We are very much committed to the future prosperity of the company and believe that the development of the international and contract markets is essential for the long-term success of our business.”
Dreamworks Beds to merge with Gallery business Dreamworks Beds has been integrated into
photography, trade show presence and
the Gallery Direct business, in a merger
website.
designed to maximise the skills within the
the first-class manufacturing skills at
to the market.
Dreamworks Beds and combining it with
Dreamworks Beds’ bespoke
the sales and marketing and operational
manufacturing facility in Westbury
efficiencies that Gallery can offer, reducing
has already benefited from the group’s
duplicated costs and putting us in a good
resources, while Gallery boasts a first-class
position to look after customers’ needs for
supply infrastructure.
years to come.
Peter Delaney, MD of Gallery Direct,
Duvalay signs East Asia distribution deal
“It is a proactive realignment, keeping
two companies and bring a new bed brand
“It will benefit both Dreamworks Beds
says: “The integration makes perfect sense.
and Gallery customers. For those who
Dreamworks Beds has the manufacturing
already trade with both companies, it
site and skilled team but has not had the
will simplify ordering and invoicing, as
resources to really develop the product
everything will be done through Gallery,
offer. A strategic restructure under
and for those who only trade with one, it
Bedmaker Duvalay has signed an
Gallery will provide that platform with
offers a broader catalogue of home interior
exclusive licensing agreement that
our warehousing, logistics, design and
pieces.”
permits Chinese manufacturers to produce and distribute one of its mattress ranges to the East Asian market. The deal will see Duvalay’s Rosalia
House of Fraser CVA approved
Collection manufactured under licence in the Far East, devolving production
House of Fraser’s CVA proposals have
with landlords and other stakeholders to
from the company’s Yorkshire-based
been approved by creditors. According to
implement the proposals, including the
factories for the first time. The NBF Bed
the retailer, the restructuring which these
31 stores identified for closure (which are
Manufacturer of the Year award winner
CVAs will enable is essential to securing
likely to cease trading until early 2019).
will continue to produce all mattresses
the company’s future and accessing
and beds for British consumers in the UK.
new capital from international retailer,
approval of the CVAs is a seminal moment
C.banner.
in House of Fraser’s history. We must
“This is a landmark agreement in our
Chairman Frank Slevin says: “The
company history that takes Duvalay truly
House of Fraser CEO Alex Williamson
now continue with the implementation
global – bringing our brand of affordable
says: “This was clearly a difficult decision
of our restructuring plan. This is also an
luxury to East Asia,” says sales and
to take but is, ultimately, the only one
important milestone in the transaction
marketing director, Liz Colleran. “We
to secure our future. Our focus is on
with C.banner and moves us toward the
have done our due diligence and we are
supporting all of our affected colleagues
completion of the capital injection first
confident that under the terms of our
and we are exploring every opportunity
announced in May.” In May, retailer
licensing agreement our partners in China
available to them working alongside
C.banner announced it had entered into
will manufacture our Rosalia Collection
the Retail Trust and the wider retail
a conditional agreement to acquire a 51%
to the same exacting standards Duvalay is
community.”
stake in the Nanjing Cenbest-owned House
known for here in the UK.”
FN353_Pages2.indd 13
House of Fraser has now started working
of Fraser Group.
24/07/2018 15:40
14 | News
SATRA grows furniture department Testing and certification specialist SATRA has appointed Johnny Worthington to the position of senior team leader in its
Highgate quashes Zero Gravity trademark challenge
furniture and floorcoverings department, where he will act as a deputy to the head of
After a two-year legal battle, Matza
department, Geoff Bindley.
& Co has asserted its ownership of
Johnny’s appointment is part of a programme of expansion in SATRA’s furniture and floorcoverings department,
the Zero Gravity trademark, which is licensed to Highgate Beds. Despite an appeal made to
both in staff and in testing equipment, in
cancel the trademark by Platinum
response to an increasing demand.
Enterprise (T/A Bodyease) last
Johnny has moved internally from
December, Matza & Co has
SATRA’s chemistry testing team. He says:
successfully defended its rights to
“Having worked in most departments in
the wording, which refers to “the
my 20 years at SATRA, I am thrilled to go
feeling and comfort when lying on
back into the
their specially-developed technology
furniture and
within their mattresses”.
floorcoverings
In a prepared statement, the
team. My
defendant states: “While it has been
experience in
a very stressful time, we are now
quality services
glad that we can go forward with our
and work in
Zero Gravity trademark once again,
laboratory
and ensure it is exclusive to us. We
accreditations
would like to thank professor Ruth
will be of huge
Annand for settling the final appeal,
benefit to my
as well as Oliver Morris, registrar,
new role.”
who fairly judged the case.”
Steinhoff’s UK revenue down in wake of accounting crisis Steinhoff International, which operates in the UK household goods market through Bensons for Beds and Harveys, has reported an unaudited operating loss of £31m across its UK retail and manufacturing operations over the six months to 31st March 2018. Revenue dropped -6% YoY (just -3% at constant currency levels) to €339m, a LFL decline of -0.5%. The group reports that a strong performance from Bensons during the period was offset by a decline in trading from loss-maker Harveys. During the period, Bensons maintained margin, in-store customer conversion and online sales, despite trading from 13 fewer stores compared to the comparative period. Various initiatives have now been implemented to help Harveys build profits without increasing its store footprint, including the establishment of a new senior leadership team, a new
eve CEO departs as sales fall short
marketing campaign and brand message, an uplift in conversion rates, and a focus on efficiencies and cost savings.
Paul Pindar, chairman of eve Sleep,
Steinhoff’s UK household goods
issued a trading update for the six months
comments: “We have fallen short of our
division also incurred one-off fees of
to 30th June, which reports that CEO Jas
own and the market’s high expectations
€2m as a result of its parent company’s
Bagniewski has left the business. eve’s CFO
and as a result have taken the tough
ongoing liquidity crisis.
Abid Ismail has assumed the responsibility
decision to make management change. Jas
PwC was appointed in December 2017
of acting CEO until a replacement is found.
has, as one of the founders, been a driving
to conduct an independent investigation
The brand’s sales over the period fell
force for this business and has much to be
into financial irregularities at the group,
proud of.
and is on track to deliver a final report
D2C European sleep brand eve Sleep has
short of expectations, although group sales grew approximately +61% to £18.6m, with
“In tandem with the search for a
by the end of the 2018 calendar year. The
sales in the UK and Ireland up +62% and
new CEO we will with immediate effect
group aims to release full-year audited
international sales up +60%. The H1 revenue
be refocusing all of our efforts on
group results for 2017 by the end of
shortfall is not expected to be recovered in
strengthening the eve brand in our core
December 2018, and full-year audited
the traditionally stronger H2.
markets.
group results for 2018 by the of end
The company blames volatile trading
“While we do not anticipate a near-
January 2019.
patterns and “strategic missteps” in rolling
term improvement in the external
out its European strategy. In response, eve
environment, we have a healthy net
months for Steinhoff, its employees
plans to refocus its strategy towards greater
cash position, our trading continues
and stakeholders,” writes Heather
penetration in its core markets.
to far outstrip that of the market and
Sonn, chairperson of Steinhoff’s
should be underpinned by company
supervisory board. “The revelation of
Dreams, which will see the eve mattress
growth initiatives including the Dreams
alleged accounting irregularities and the
sold nationwide in 193 Dreams stores and
partnership that we expect to benefit the
resignation of the former CEO has had a
through its website. The deal increases
traditionally stronger second half. We
profound impact on the group.”
eve’s retail presence across its three largest
remain convinced that the sleep market
markets – the UK, Germany and France – to
will continue to transition online, that the
a restructuring plan with its creditors,
331 stores, building on existing partnerships
opportunity to build a new brand of size
in an effort to stabilise the business
with Next Home, Fenwick and Debenhams
and strength is significant and that eve is
and its relationships with suppliers and
in the UK.
well placed to achieve this.”
customers.
It has also announced a partnership with
FN353_Pages2.indd 14
“It has been a challenging seven
Steinhoff reports that it is finalising
24/07/2018 16:18
GalleryA
Aster Two door cabinet and Pavillion mirror
Autumn Fair | Hall 02 Stand 2C05 - B04 www.gallerydirect.co.uk | T 01795 439159
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16 | News
Loaf showroom coming to St Albans
Whitemeadow victorious in charity football tournament
After opening a store in Solihull late last month, Loaf plans to open in St Albans in early September – taking the total number of UK Loaf stores to seven. These 5000ft2 spaces feature mattresstesting stations, sofas and arcade games, and the St Albans ‘shack’ will also house an old-school ice cream parlour. Loaf’s founder Charlie Marshall says: “Our new St Albans Shack is slap bang in the middle of commuter Shangri-La.”
Sweetpea & Willow refurbishes showroom Luxury furniture and interiors retailer Sweetpea & Willow has completed the renovation of its 8000ft2 West London showroom. New roomsets convey the company’s summer collection, from classic colonial style and an opulent LA-inspired living area, to a bedroom area upstairs – as well as one of the UK’s largest offers of furniture and accessories from Dutch brand Eichholtz. The larger space now promises to give interior designers and trade customers a professional place to meet with clients, present ideas and discuss projects over a cup of barista-style coffee.
Industry employees from around the
Vintage Clarets, a team of ex-professional
UK took part in the sixth annual Sealy
football players.
Cup five-a-side football tournament in
Hayden Davies, master of The Furniture
Coventry earlier this month, in aid of The
Makers’ Company, says: “The event is now
Furniture Makers’ Company.
very much a part of the Furniture Makers’
The one-day competition took place
calendar and I’m sure next year will be
on 1st July at the Coventry Powerleague,
even more closely fought. As always, we
and was the biggest yet, with 15 teams
would like to thank our main sponsor Sealy
from furnishing retailers, manufacturers
for helping make the event a resounding
and distributors, including Crofts &
success.”
Assinder, Designer Contracts, Hypnos, Lee
Daniel Oscroft, sales manager at
Longlands and Sealy, competing on one
Whitemeadow, says: “We think the
of the hottest days of the summer with
competition is fantastic and a great
the aim of toppling returning champions
opportunity for employees within our
Whitemeadow.
business to socialise and bond with
The final saw Crofts & Assinder and the
colleagues that they wouldn’t get the
Whitemeadow Wizards competing, with
chance to at work. We had a great day and
the latter again triumphant.
would encourage more companies to come
In addition to the knock-out tournament, every team had the chance to test their skills against the Burnley FC’s
along for the competition next year.” The next tournament will take place on 30th June 2019.
John Lewis sets out future of differentiation and investment The John Lewis Partnership has outlined the
and is committed to maintaining a debt ratio
position to be the best it has been for 10
next phase of its development strategy, with
position of around three times within some
years, which will allow it to maintain
measures including a focus on competing
five years.
investment at a rate of £400m-£500m a
As such, HY profits before exceptional
year, and a level of capital investment as a
rather than scale, maintaining a higher level
items are expected to be close to £0 this
percentage of sales more than +10% ahead
of investment in product and service, and
year, and the partnership assumes that
of typical competitors.
enhancing the role staff play in the business.
FY profits before exceptional items will be
through differentiation and innovation
At John Lewis, the focus on differentiation will be in three key areas, says the retailer
substantially lower than last year. The business expects to see a decline in
John Lewis currently operates through an estate of 50 stores – which may see adjustments, including exits or closures,
- unique products, personal service and
John Lewis’ business, and significant extra
but at a rate in line with what the company
expanding into new services.
costs incurred by greater IT investment.
has seen over the last few years, says the
At the heart of the strategy is developing
However, it does plan to strengthen its
retailer.
an assortment which is increasingly unique
balance sheet by a further £500m over
to John Lewis. Currently 30% of John Lewis’
three years to invest in product and service
staff. The partnership plans to continue
sales are from own-brand and exclusive
innovation, which will be achieved by
to invest in pay, and aims to make the the
products, and the ambition is to increase
rebuilding profitability at Waitrose, creating
business one of the healthiest places to work
this proportion to 50%.
more value from the property estate, and
by 2025.
Sustained investment is essential to these plans, says the partnership, which has
conducting a review of its pension scheme. As a result, the partnership expects its
Finally, there will be a greater focus on
As a sign of its intent, from September 2018 the two brands that make up the
already taken steps to strengthen its balance
cash position for this year to be in line
business will be known as Waitrose &
sheet by £750m over the last three years,
or ahead of last year’s, and its liquidity
Partners and John Lewis & Partners.
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20 | Events
REVIEW
CREATING NEW ROUTES TO MARKET New Designers returned to Islington’s Business Design Centre in July, to present a wealth of work from students of the creative arts and established design practitioners. With a strong complement of furniture on display, the four-day second phase – which also presented graduate work from areas as varied as the automotive products and illustration – affirmed the creative vision and skill of the next generation of designers looking to enter the industry, reports Paul Farley …
N
ew Designers is unlike the
industry, who visit, keen to spot fresh
University graduate Joe Parker, who,
bulk of trade shows attended
talent, commission promising designs
alongside three other graduates,
by Furniture News – there’s
and take on new development staff.
was offered a chance to join the
no finished, mass-produced product
Those students graduating from the
Sainsbury’s-Argos Home product design department at last year’s event.
on display, but visitors instead
better-developed university furniture
encounter something between a
design courses – for example,
graduate show and a gallery sale, as
those offered by Nottingham Trent,
at the 2017 show, Joe went on to
over 3000 students from more than
Sheffield Hallam, Birmingham City
complete a 12-month training period,
200 creative courses put their best
and Northumbria – approach the
developing his own furniture designs
foot forward in the form of wide-
event with some assurance, having
for the retail giant.
ranging product prototypes.
often spent time in industry work
After winning an innovation award
This year, Adele Marie Sison,
placements, and these up-and-
another graduate of Nottingham
reinforced the very real opportunities
coming creatives are keen to sign off
Trent University, was awarded the
available to the students taking part in
their courses through some valuable
Made.com TalentLab award for her
this event. As well as prompting each
exposure.
showpiece, the Alessia sofa. Drawing
Repeated visits have steadily
participant to refine their designs,
And the success stories one hears
on her experience of working with
marketing materials and sales pitches,
truly cement New Designers’ role
Duresta’s design team, Adele designed
the show puts them in front of
in launching the careers of talented
a modular sofa that can be easily
decision-makers from throughout the
individuals. Take Nottingham Trent
transformed from a standard model
“New Designers demonstrates that there’s no shortage of talent on the design front”
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into a corner sofa, chair footstool, and even
– ensuring the industry is constantly
there’s no shortage of talent on the design
a bed – addressing today’s demand for
revitalised with fresh ideas and creative
front.
flexible furniture suitable for smaller living
energy.
spaces.
With more furniture on show than in
“Design education and society’s needs are
previous years, countless networking
continuously changing, and every year New
opportunities and the visible presence of
placement with Duresta during the third
Designers responds to and anticipates this
enough major retailers and manufacturers
year of her degree, Adele continued to
shifting landscape.”
to cement its relevance, New Designers
After completing a year-long industrial
work for the manufacturer part time while
continues to be a powerful force for young
Much has been made of the skills
creatives looking to make the transition to
completing her final year, and plans to
shortage facing the furniture industry – and
continue doing so after she graduates.
while this is true for UK manufacturing on
the workplace.
the whole, New Designers demonstrates that
www.newdesigners.com
As well as commercial opportunities for those straight out of university or college, New Designers offers more established professionals a useful platform, in the form of One Year In, a curated feature highlighting the work of 100 entrepreneurs who recently launched their own design and crafting businesses. This year’s participants unveiled commissioned work of an extremely high standard of craftsmanship – notable mentions go to Jan Lennon, Adam Azmy and Andy King – and, like the student participants, they hoped to catch visitors’ eyes in a bid to take their businesses forward. Rounding off the event was a diverse programme of talks, numerous awards (both financial and training-related), and nods to emerging trends such as 3D printing and recycled surface materials. Event director Chris Hall comments: “New Designers is a celebration of creation and connectivity. The event is a vital platform for the design of tomorrow
FN353_Pages2.indd 21
“The success stories one hears truly cement New Designers’ role in launching the careers of talented individuals”
24/07/2018 15:40
22 | Events
PREVIEW
MEETING DEMAND IN THE IRISH MARKET The Irish Furniture and Homewares Show (IFHS) returns to Dublin’s National Show Centre from 18th21st this month. Promising more than 85 exhibitors and a dedicated trade services hub, the show is primed to address the sourcing needs of visitors from Ireland and further afield.
C
reated specifically to cater to
years ago, and today is attended by
include Abbeylands Furniture
the buying needs of the Irish
the bulk of the country’s top furniture
(www.scatterbox.ie), which, for nearly
furniture market, IFHS has
suppliers and businesses.
40 years, has built a reputation in
grown steadily since its inception five
the furniture industry for design,
“The philosophy behind IFHS is that people do business with people,
innovation, and quality. Its Scatter
and that continues to be its driving
Box collections feature a full range
force today,” says Enda Moran,
of feather-filled cushions, curtains,
IFHS’ marketing manager. “It is this
bedding, throws, velvet furniture and
philosophy – along with our targeted
original hand-painted art. Abbeylands will introduce its new
marketing efforts – that bring the right people together, ensuring good
autumn/winter collection at IFHS –
business is done, year after year.”
which it will also display at Autumn Fair in September – interested parties
IFHS presents major suppliers of upholstery, dining, bedding, cabinet
can also pick up the company’s latest
and accessories, reflecting both
look book, which consists of new
manufacturers and distributors.
colours and designs which reflect
The 2016 edition saw the launch
the latest interior design trends.
of the Irish Furniture and Home
Abbeylands’ design team travels
Awards, giving industry suppliers
worldwide selecting materials, fabrics
an opportunity to promote their
and trimmings in order to continually
best products, and reflecting the
fulfil customers’ needs.
innovation and efforts taking place in Scatter Box cushions from Abbeylands Furniture
the market. Exhibitors at this year’s show
A full list of exhibitors can be found on the IFHS website.
www.ifhs-tradeshow.ie
The 2017 edition enjoyed strong visitor turnout
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24 | Events
PREVIEW
GATEWAY TO THE GOLDEN QUARTER Offering unrivalled scale, variety and choice, home and gift marketplace Autumn Fair – which describes itself as the “Gateway to the Golden Quarter” – is set to help buyers stock up for the peak sales period and discover new opportunities for profit …
P
romising visiting retailers new
our visitors to take a glimpse of the
goods from across the world. Global
features and areas, expert
trends to come, and effortlessly take
Handicraft will offer buyers the
advice – from the likes of
them away on ready-made digital
opportunity to explore a unique area
moodboards.”
of the market, featuring everything
Theo Paphitis and Holly Tucker – and innovative product, from quality
from fine ceramics to exotic textiles
British goods to exotic, handcrafted
Den fame, will host the new Small
and quirky lighting from more than 50
pieces, this year’s Autumn Fair is set
Business Sunday #SBS Pavilion, an
international brands.
to be one of the best yet.
area dedicated to celebrating new
There will be no shortage of
and unique products from ambitious
British-made product, either. Autumn
Young says: “As well as being able
start-ups and small businesses. He
Fair will welcome some of the best
to order products at Autumn Fair
says: “I am thrilled to be bringing
British manufacturers and designers,
for the busiest retail period of the
#SBS to Autumn Fair, giving 12 small
including cushionmaker Evans of
year, buyers will be able to see the
businesses a free platform to showcase
Lichfield.
upcoming trends, and get ahead
their wares and access a brand new
of the competition by seeing 2019
marketplace.”
Spring and Autumn Fair MD Louise
product launches before anybody else.
FN353_Pages2.indd 24
Theo Paphitis, of BBC Dragons’
This year, Autumn Fair is also
With international trade being a significant aspect of Spring Fair earlier this year, Autumn Fair is set to
Through a renewed collaboration
celebrating handicraft, with a special
build on its sister show’s success in
with Pinterest, we will also enable
platform for handcrafted, artisan
capturing the interest of international
24/07/2018 15:41
HanlinA
HALL 3 STAND A20
FN353_Pages2.indd HanlinAug18.indd 1 25
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26 | Events
and the youth of China have turned their
buyers seeking genuine British product.
attention towards the manufacture of mass-
The next feature is DesignFirst, which will offer up to 30 innovative brands a chance
produced consumer products. However, as
to present their products at prime locations
China’s economy increases and prepares to
across the show. Louise says: “It will bring
overtake that of the US, the local Chinese
new talent, new blood and new brands to
market for traditional oriental design is
Autumn Fair.”
showing burgeoning demand, perhaps signalling a revival.
Autumn Fair’s Home sector has seen
Whether it is traditional Chinese
significant growth, and will offer an overview of some of the best contemporary
reproductions or Dutch contemporary
homewares manufacturers, including:
furniture, to help visitors find exactly what
handmade lampmaker Copper Fish; unusual
they need, Autumn Fair is also launching a
and industrial-inspired furnishings from
product matching service which intuitively
Soho Vintage; and eclectic wholesaler
recommends the best suppliers to visit. The
Minster Stylish Living.
AF Product Match app promises to learn
Another exhibitor set to enjoy a successful show is Mandarin Arts (stand 2G01, 01873
Mandarin Arts
used, to ensure the most productive and streamlined experience possible.
812255, www.mandarinarts.co.uk). Now in its 30th year of sourcing fine oriental –
about the user’s preferences the more it is
This year, the company has also supplied
And there will be no lack of things going
mostly Chinese – products for the European
replica terracotta warriors to sell, alongside
on from which to choose. This year, Autumn
market, Mandarin Arts focuses strongly on
an exhibition which puts the army of the Qin
Fair will host four theatre and workshop
ceramics, which range from vases, ginger
dynasty emperor, Qin Shi Huang, in historic
spaces, each of which will deliver a unique
jars, flower pots and fish bowls with images
context.
area of retail insight.
of goldfish adorning the inside, to teasets,
The company developed from humble
The Main Stage is set to be a central
sake and sushi sets, sets of rice bowls,
origins in the 1980s when many exquisite,
hub for buyers and retailers of all kinds,
Blanc de Chine and pottery figurines, plus
traditional arts and crafts were being made
with high-profile speakers – such
porcelain stools which double up as side
all over China. Over the years, many of
as Holly Tucker MBE, co-founder of
tables, ornaments, lamps and matching
the workshops, in which skills were passed
notonthehighstreet.com and UK ambassador
decorative accessories.
down through the generations, have closed,
for Creative Small Business, and small
+44 (0) 1241 858777 customer@finaltouchesltd.co.uk www.finaltouchesltd.com
NEW PRODUCTS ADDED ACROSS OUR COLLECTIONS THIS SUMMER Visit us at the Autumn Fair Stand 2E10-C12 to find out more FinalTouchesAugust18.indd 1
FN353_Pages2.indd 26
19/07/2018 12:52
24/07/2018 16:20
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28 | Events
digital players. Speakers will include experts from Ecommerce Masterplan, Findmeagift. com and Findyourinfluencer.co.uk. Next is the Master the High Street Theatre. From last-minute tips for a successful final quarter to trend-led video content aimed at helping retailers buy smarter, this stage is aimed at independents which want to see their bricks-and-mortar store or online shop come out on top. The likes of Pinterest and Google Digital Garage will talk about how high street retailers can make themselves more visible online. Finally, there is Fashion Talks, which will present an in-depth look at trends and retail insights through a series of unique fireside-style chats and discussions. Among
Mandarin Arts
the speakers will be Beaulagh Brooks of business champion Theo Paphitis – offering
the Birmingham school of Jewellery, and
inspirational messages and retail advice.
Amy Hobson, from social media and digital marketing trainer, SocialB.
For online retailers, the event is
Autumn Fair will take place from 2nd-5th
introducing the Master Online Retail
September at the Birmingham NEC (with the
Theatre. All content will have the online independent retailer in mind, while looking at the objectives of buyers from larger
SweetDreamsAug18_1.indd 1
FN353_Pages2.indd 28
Mandarin Arts
Volume halls opening a day earlier).
www.autumnfair.com
19/07/2018 10:28
24/07/2018 15:41
Orienta
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30 | Events
PREVIEW FURNITURE CHINA STEPS UP The 24th China International Furniture Expo (Furniture China 2018) and Maison Shanghai 2018 will be held from 11-14th September at Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC) and Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center (SWEECC), in Pudong, Shanghai. Together, the two will present furniture manufacturers from across the globe … Furniture China’s organiser has
including Stellar Works, MC’s Dr
and components presentations, FMC
signalled a full upgrade across this
Patrick Leung Design series, Hothing,
and FMP – including Swedish Wood,
year’s edition, from expanded design
Maxmarko, Lacasa, and other popular
which returns to FMP, alongside new
coverage to new supplier brands.
furniture brands.
brands such as Wayon Stone and
An array of three design halls –
As always, the exhibition’s
Visitors will not want for trend
international component is significant.
present more design brands than ever
Brands from 24 countries will exhibit
inspiration, either. Eight colour-
from 129 participating businesses
across the fairground, and in six
themed roomsets will be created
country-specific pavilions, from Italy
which aim to immerse the audience
(the Veneto region), France, Belgium,
in various emotions, with industry
Turkey, South Korea and Malaysia.
experts delivering presentations
Meanwhile, 14 new international
discussing colour theory, and its
brands including Germany’s Quadrato,
potential relationship with the Chinese
Norway’s Nordic, and Dubai’s Decoart
furniture industry.
will join an increasing number of
FN353_Pages2.indd 30
Foresco Co.
occupying halls E5, E6 and E7 – will
Meanwhile, the concurrent Maison
exhibitors from the Middle East and
Shanghai, taking place at SWEECC,
South America.
will feature a strong roster of brands,
Indeed, exhibitors from over 60
including Meissen and DXRacer.
countries will attend the machinery
www.furniture-china.cn/en-us
24/07/2018 16:22
31
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32 | Events
PREVIEW
STYLE HAS SUBSTANCE THIS AUTUMN Taking place from 17th-21st October (trade-only visitors for the first three days) across halls 98-105 of the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC), Thailand’s Style exhibition promises a fine selection of fashion, gifts and homewares products alongside more than 50 furniture suppliers ….
S
tyle is organised by Thailand’s
With an array of dining furniture,
Department of International
upholstery and accessories on show,
Trade Promotion, Ministry of
plus solutions for outdoor spaces and
Commerce, and brings together three
offices, Style is set to be a design-led
major annual Thai fairs – Thailand
gateway to the colourful world of Thai
International Furniture Fair (TIFF),
manufacture.
Bangkok International Fashion Fair
www.stylebangkokfair.com
and Bangkok International Leather Fair (BIFF&BIL), and Bangkok International Gift Fair and Bangkok International Houseware Fair (BIG+BIH) – in one comprehensive destination. The exhibition promises to bring the creativity and innovation of Thailand’s established lifestyle brands and budding entrepreneurs to the fore, alongside engaging seminars and business matchmaking opportunities.
FN353_Pages2.indd 32
24/07/2018 15:42
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34 | Events
PREVIEW
SERBIAN SHOW PROMISES COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE Belgrade Furniture Fair returns to Belgrade Fair, Serbia, from 6-11th November. One of South-east Europe’s key furniture events, the 56th edition of the exhibition – which encompasses design, manufacturing and distribution – will benefit from a greater number of global brands, plus exhibitor awards and a diverse seminar programme.
L
ast year’s fair saw debut
This year’s event will be more
supply – the country boasts some
appearances from world-
international than ever, bolstered
2.5 million hectares of forests, with
renowned exhibitors including
by an improved hosted buyers
beech, oak and other hardwoods and
programme.
softwoods in good number (some
Vitra, Elica, Mattiazzi, LaCividina, Forestier, Petite Friture, Mobles 114
FSC-certified). Meanwhile, local manufacturers
and Emko, and this edition – which
present a diverse mix of discussions
comprises the 56th International Fair
with designers and architects, while
are able to produce particleboard,
of Furniture, Equipment and Interior
an international jury will grant the
polyurethane foam and other
Decoration, as well as the 56th
Golden Key awards to the most
important raw materials for use in
International Fair of Woodworking
successful exhibitors at the end of this
furniture production.
Machines, Tools and Production
year’s fair.
Materials – promises to take a step
The exhibition’s setting reflects
Within 2000km of most major European markets and Moscow, and
forward in every area, from design
a manufacturing base rife with
with a currency linked to the Euro,
quality to communication.
competitive advantages. Serbia’s
meaning greater price stability, Serbia
highly-skilled workforce has a
also enjoys free trade agreements
exhibitors are both regional – from
strong tradition of woodworking,
with most major economies, which
Serbia, Slovenia, Croatia,Bosnia &
furnituremaking and exporting, and
help make it an attractive prospect
Herzegovina – and international,
labour rates are among the lowest in
for those seeking new import
drawing on US, Austrian, German,
Europe.
opportunities.
Belgrade Furniture Fair’s
Italian, Polish and Turkish product.
FN353_Pages2.indd 34
Over six days, the show will
Raw materials are not in short
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38 | Resources
Happy customers mean prosperous business. There’s an irrefutably close correlation between a consumer’s confidence and the purchases they make, and factors both external and personal influence how people behave. In a new report developed exclusively for Gearing Media Group’s new trade directory, Connect, Paul Farley endeavours to put the relationship between consumer confidence and furniture sales in context, and identify the principal drivers of, and obstacles to, spend in the sector – and, by doing so, better empower retailers and suppliers to weather fluctuating customer optimism …
A question of confidence People will always need furniture. But their desire to buy new furniture is influenced by myriad factors, both positive and negative. For example, a wage increase might prompt an overhaul of a tired set of bedroom cabinet, while impending political change could persuade them to postpone the replacement of an ailing mattress. Despite ongoing population growth – the Office for National Statistics (ONS) recorded YoY growth of 538,000 in 2017, to 65.6 million, the sharpest rise nearly 70 years – factors such as rising material and fuel prices, shrinking homes, increasingly fierce competition and a consumer that’s becoming more demanding with each passing year are putting UK furniture businesses under considerable pressure to
“Furniture businesses cannot proof themselves against macroeconomic crises or a customer’s personal circumstances, but there are safeguards that can offset the vagaries of fluctuating consumer confidence”
mood; and in October 2016, the MPI high water mark following the referendum. Furniture sales and the MPI GfK’s MPI is not furniture-specific, but encompasses opinions on a multitude of considered purchases, from large home appliances and entertainment devices to holidays and cars. How does furniture fare within the bigger picture? A study of the ONS’ monthly Retail Sales Index, which covers the total value of retail sales – offline and online – transacted by UK furniture and lighting stores, reveals a more general trend of growth over the period. Also, whatever the weather, on a month-by-month basis, there are general patterns reflecting the established purchasing cycle for furniture
seize their share of the market. The graph demonstrates that throughout
and furnishings – so the generalisation that
those factors within the seller’s control –
the five-year period spanning April 2013 to
furniture sales mirror consumer confidence
such as product, pricing, online offer and
March 2018, the measures loosely mirror
is not entirely straightforward.
promotional activities – on a consumer’s
one another – as consumer confidence
decision to buy, it’s crucial to understand
waxes and wanes, so too does willingness to
Assessing the drivers
the drivers that encourage them to spend or
shop for big-ticket items.
GfK’s Consumer Confidence Index exists
But before considering the impact of
save in the first place.
From March 2013 to August 2015 a general
in order to simplify a complex economic
recovery from the financial crisis which
picture. Confidence – and the ensuing
Considered purchase confidence in context
hit in 2008 can be seen in both measures,
store or website footfall and transactions
GfK’s Consumer Confidence Barometer,
but following this period there are several
– is impacted by a plethora of macro- and
conducted on behalf of the European
deviations, such as: in January 2016, where
micro-economic factors, political and social.
Commission, surveys a representative
the MPI spikes considerably higher than the
Retail has become a popular topic
selection of UK adults each month
general index, perhaps indicating consumers
for the mainstream media, making the
to establish consumers’ feelings and
keen to pick up bargains in the season’s
tribulations of furniture businesses more
expectations.
sales despite a more generally downbeat
transparent than ever. Meanwhile, the stage
One element of the measure is the Major
of international politics is volatile, and is
Purchase Index (MPI), which is based on
coupled with the onset of Brexit, an extreme
feedback to the following question: ‘In view
transition of the UK’s own making.Yet while
of the general economic situation, do you
political crises may affect consumers on an
think now is the right time for people to
emotional level, one should look closer to
make major purchases such as furniture
home to discover the real drivers behind
or electrical goods?’ By comparing the
consumer confidence.
movement of the MPI within the wider
They range from distress purchases to
Consumer Confidence Index over a five-year
meet unexpected demand – such as the
term, it is possible to identify how supposed
need for a sofabed for an elderly relative
demand for big-ticket items weighs up
coming to visit – to promotional campaigns
against more general consumer optimism.
(offline and online) and credit facilities.
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Tracking the relationship between general consumer confidence and people’s willingness to buy big-ticket items by mapping GfK’s Overall Index Score against its Major Purchase Index, April 2013 to March 2018
They can offer flexible credit options,
Perhaps a customer has just bought a new
times been mitigated to a degree by positive
home, which requires furnishing regardless
factors encouraging big-ticket spend, such
and innovative, high quality products and
of the immediate economic landscape – or
as low unemployment, wage growth and low
services. They can deliver these honestly
they are content to wait for next opportunity
interest rates.
and consistently across every sales channel.
Yet, with business rates fast becoming
They can ensure visibility through well-
an unbearable overhead for many, coupled
considered multichannel marketing, and
itself. As consumers tighten their belts, they
with growing competition from online
work closely with their suppliers and
tend to fall back to more affordable options
pureplays and other big-ticket purchases,
customers to specify and select the most
that represent good value, while the more
the furniture industry faces the likelihood of
on-trend product.
high-end luxury goods suffer.
greater pressures.
to buy furniture at a discount. Then there’s the nature of the product
Ideally, they will cultivate a product offer that covers as many bases as possible, and a
But there are are also buying patterns related to product type. As a necessary
A confident approach
pricing model that can flex to meet current
purchase, mattresses tend to endure better
The challenge facing the industry is clear
demand.
than dining furniture, and affordable
– to minimise the harmful impact of
upholstery will do well, while home office
fluctuating consumer confidence wherever
consumers look for good value. That may be
ranges may not.
possible, to seize opportunities when
reflected by a product’s quality, its pricing,
they arise, and to acknowledge changing
or the manner in which it is delivered, but
consumer demand.
value is a constant that endures the tides of
Challenging times ahead? Ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Brexit
Furniture businesses cannot proof
Whether times are good or bad, UK
political change and personal circumstance. And, unlike consumer confidence, good
negotiations (and the fall in the pound
themselves against macro-economic crises
it precipitated) has created significant
or a customer’s personal circumstances,
value – and the trappings that surround
difficulty for furniture businesses, but this
but there are safeguards that can offset the
it – is within the control of the supplier and
is just part of a bigger picture, and has at
vagaries of fluctuating consumer confidence.
retailer.
THE AUTHOR Paul Farley is Gearing Media Group’s editor-in-chief. The full report on which this article is based, which includes detailed insight from leading furniture retailers and suppliers, can be found in Connect – The Furniture Trade Directory. A copy of the printed directory – and, for a limited time, VIP membership of the online Connect platform and a free 12-month subscription to Furniture News magazine – is currently available for just £95. Call 07493 391962 or email subscriptions@gearingmediagroup.com to take advantage of this offer.
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Whilst new technologies continue to transform ecommerce, bricks and mortar, global delivery and postal returns, procurement and supply chain management has until now remained relatively unchanged – writes Gus Bartholomew, who suggests what the future of manufacturer sourcing might look like …
How we will source manufacturers in the future? Within the furniture world, 3D modelling
For furniture and interiors brands looking
Social and environmental impact
to be a step ahead in an increasingly
It no longer suffices for a brand’s social
software is excellent for communicating
competitive and volatile marketplace, the
and environmental impact to be an add-on,
designs to manufacturers, but other
future of sourcing will have to look very
or an empty marketing campaign driven
industries have been slower to catch up.
different. Better supplier collaboration and
by the CSR department. There has been a
Advances are starting to be made within
adoption of new supply chain technologies
monumental shift in consumer mindset
the fashion world in particular, where
will enable brands to find the best factories
over the past few years that means sourcing
companies like Optitex have developed
and build faster, leaner, more flexible and
and taking responsibly is a necessity and no
3D virtual prototyping software. Real-
more transparent supply chains.
longer a point of difference.
time visualisation of designs saves time
The decision to source more responsibly
and money and reduces the amount of
Digitisation
needs to have buy-in from all key decision
back-and-forth between brands and
As consultant McKinsey said in a recent
makers within an organisation. Making more
manufacturers.
report, digitisation is the next sourcing
sustainable and ethical decisions needs to
country. Brands will have to find other ways
be front of mind throughout, from supplier
3D manufacturing
to cut costs in their supply chain beyond
selection and design through to production
There has been a buzz around 3D for
squeezing suppliers and manufacturers on
development, production and delivery.
several years but, as solutions become more
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IIIIII I
IIIIIIII
prices. To remain competitive and to make
accessible and affordable, it has become a
better margins, digitising the supply chain is
Trust and better supplier collaboration
very real possibility for certain furniture
key – and that entails looking for end-to-
Even in the digital age, personal
brands as their production method of the
end software solutions that will help bring
relationships are key. The key to having
future.
greater visibility, traceability, transparency
an efficient and robust supply chain is to
and planning to sourcing.
pick the right partners and invest time
customisation and expect products to be
and money in building long-term strategic
delivered quicker, it will no doubt be an
partnerships with them.
increasingly popular option for furniture
Whilst cost of labour has traditionally been
IIIIIIII
Strategic country selection
There needs to be a shift in mindset –
As consumers demand more
brands. Products can be designed to suit the
one of the key drivers for manufacturing
not just from sourcing teams, but from
location, as living wages between countries
manufacturers too, in order to survive in the
demands of the customer and printed
level out, this will increasingly become a
future. Manufacturers need to understand
locally, which avoids the high costs and
less important factor.
that the model is shifting from a demand-
delays associated with sourcing overseas.
With the change in consumer
based one more to a consumer-driven one. There will be a paradigm shift within
expectations, furniture and interiors
Those who are agile and keen to adapt will
brands will be much more driven by speed
be the winners. The manufacturers and
procurement in the future. Procurement
of delivery, value (quality/price) and
brands who invest in modernising their
decisions will play a more important role in
compliance. As consumers become more
supply chains will prosper the most.
the operations of organisations, and cloudbased supply chain solutions will take centre
clued up on how products are made, and the
stage.
value of having product made by a skilled
3D virtual protoyping
workforce, and the carbon footprint of their
The one area within the supply chain which
products, it is likely that we will see more
is full of avoidable mistakes, delays and
development, communication, payments,
product produced closer to where the raw
unforeseen costs is the sampling process.
tracking and compliance will happen
material is grown and where the specialist
Design development is still to this day
online, enabling real-time collaboration,
workforces live.
largely manual, despite the advances that
greater visibility and a more streamlined
have gone on within technology.
procurement process.
In the future, supplier selection, design
THE AUTHOR Gus Bartholomew is the co-founder of Supplycompass, a tech-enabled, end-to-end production management platform for brands that want to find and work with international manufacturers. Brands can create tech packs, get matched with a manufacturer and use the platform to manage production from design to delivery, responsibly and sustainably. W supplycompass.com
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Industry lobby group the British Furniture Confederation (BFC) has published its second manifesto, in which it calls for Government co-operation and support for the furniture and furnishings sector on training, exports, standards and regulations and the environment.
How can Government support the furniture industry? The BFC is the UK furniture industry’s representative body which seeks to engage with Government and ensure that its policies and initiatives support a thriving furniture, furnishings and bed sector. The manifesto has been sent to ministers across Government, as well as shadow ministers and key members of the All Party Parliamentary Furniture Industry Group (APPFIG), with clear, implementable calls for action to bolster the industry, including: clarity on Brexit negotiations; enhanced
“We must keep on reminding the Government of the importance of the furniture and furnishings industry to the economy”
above inflation rates, and 85% anticipating further rises in the next 12 months. The BFC’s voice therefore joins many others calling for as tariff-free trading as possible, and clarity as soon as possible. British business must remain a primary focus for Government in its negotiations, and all options for supporting businesses should be considered. The industry has seen exports increase slightly in the past couple of years – up +13% to £1.13b from 2015-16 – but only 20% of survey respondents are currently
long-term export support; increased support for training to resolve the growing skills gap; the maintenance and policing
growth industry for the UK, supporting
of safety standards and regulations; and
over 327,000 jobs across 50,000 registered
engagement with, and support for, moving
companies. Manufacture of furniture and
towards a more circular economy.
beds in Britain is one of the top three
“It has been encouraging to see the
divisions driving manufacturing growth in
Government’s renewed focus on industry,
the UK, with output of over £11b emanating
and we welcomed the publication of the
from 8390 companies employing 118,000
Industrial Strategy in November, which
individuals.”
can only have a positive impact,” says BFC
Uncertainty surrounding the future of
chairman Jonathan Hindle. “However, it did
trading with Europe remains high on the
not fully address our concerns about the
list of concerns for industry – not just for
skills gap, export support or indeed support
exports to the UK’s main markets, but also
in general for what is seen as a more
for imports of essential materials.
traditional manufacturing sector. “Hence the publication of this, our second
Costs have already risen – with 94% of survey respondents reporting increases well
manifesto, and a very clear message to Government about the value of our industry and the ways in which Government can specifically help it to continue to prosper and contribute to the economy and culture of the UK.” As before, the BFC 2018 manifesto has been developed in response to an industrywide survey, completed by 65 companies across the sector. The results highlighted a number of strengths, opportunities and challenges, and the manifesto sets out to identify the BFC’s specific action plan for 2018/19. “We must keep on reminding the Government of the importance of the furniture and furnishings industry to the economy,” says Jonathan. “At nearly £17b and rising [according to FIRA’s latest Statistical Digest], it’s a substantial
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Resources | 43
The BFC also urges Government to
exporting more than 10% of their turnover,
is continuing to engage and collaborate
or plan to increase exports over the coming
fully with Government. Getting the balance
continue to support apprenticeships and to
year or so.
right between maintaining high levels
ensure the Apprenticeship Levy works for an
of safety and reducing the use of certain
industry dominated by SMEs (less than one
so to new markets – the BFC still wants
fire-retardant chemicals is critical, and
in six are levy payers). Encouraging schools
Government to commit to a clear five-year
collaborative action with all stakeholders is
to partner more with local businesses would
strategy, detailing the value of support
essential.
also help.
To encourage more exporting – and doing
The BFC survey also confirms the
available to exporters in each year. It wants to see more knowledge and in-market
furniture and furnishing industry’s
support. The BFC also urges measures such
commitment to becoming more
as tax breaks for export investment, more
environmentally friendly – 62% are
trade missions, export finance guarantees,
committed to reducing carbon emissions,
simplified grant systems, and increased
95% are aware of the environmental and
funding and more sector-devolved power
health impacts of the chemicals used in
for Trade Challenge Partners (TCPs).
products, and most have taken steps to reduce them.
“The BFC is also calling for clarity on product safety and the mutual recognition regime the industry will have to work to post-Brexit to ensure frictionless trade with the EU”
The industry also supports the Government’s aim for a greener, more sustainable economy, with 87% of respondents in favour of positive engagement in the development of product stewardship schemes. The BFC wants to ensure full collaboration With almost 80% of survey respondents
with the industry of the development of any
concerned about their ability to recruit
such schemes in support of moving towards
adequately skilled staff over the next few
a more circular economy.
years, the Government’s approach to
While there continues to be significant
education and apprenticeships remains
voluntary engagement in efforts to reduce
crucial to the success of the sector.
packaging waste, CO2 emissions, recycling
Not only is Brexit, and its subsequent
and diversion from landfill, there are
immigration policy, of concern – but so
concerns that, without proper scrutiny, the
too are the unintended consequences
number of rogue traders could escalate,
of education policies which are turning
and the BFC is looking to Government for
furniture industry approves of, and is
schools away from teaching skills essential
support in policing the use of secondhand
committed to, maintaining the current
to furniture making (namely design and
and re-used components to ensure the
high levels of product safety and standards.
technology). These subjects should be
consumer is not the victim of misdescribed
But a significant 35% feel that the UK
accredited as core and properly represented
and/or unsafe products.
does not effectively enforce product
in all accountability measures, says the BFC.
The BFC’s survey indicates that the
safety regulations, so the BFC is urging
Jonathan adds: “Without highly-skilled
In addition, the Government must support the industry – particularly micro
Government to increase resources across the
employees, the UK’s reputation for high
and SME businesses - to increase research
regulatory landscape to improve policing.
quality, innovative goods – the very
and development of more environmentally-
“The safety of our products is of paramount
products that present the best export
friendly materials and manufacturing
importance,” says Jonathan, “both as a
opportunities – will decline.”
methods.
basic duty of care to our customers and to the reputation of our industry.” The BFC is also calling for clarity on product safety and the mutual recognition regime the industry will have to work to post-Brexit to ensure frictionless trade with the EU. With no further progress made on the review of the flammability regulations, the BFC is now pushing for urgent action, and
“Uncertainty surrounding the future of trading with Europe remains high on the list of concerns for industry – not just for exports to the UK’s main markets, but also for imports of essential materials”
THE AUTHOR Principal contributor Jonathan Hindle is the chairman of the British Furniture Confederation (BFC), an association that represents the sector and comprises members from the BCFA, BFM, NBF, FIRA, LOFA and the Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers. The full 2018 manifesto can be downloaded from the BFC website, www.britishfurnitureconfederation.org.uk
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World of Opportunity
Engage a
The International Alliance of Furnishing Publications (IAFP) is an association comprising the leading industry trade publications in 19 countries. Established in 1997, the IAFP aims to improve communications between international markets and create new business opportunities. Furniture News is the IAFP’s representative in the UK, and can offer readers and advertisers target market information, contacts and reach through the most effective B2B channels. The essential guide to the UK domestic furniture and furnishings trade #350 May 2018 | www.furniturenews.net
Contact us on (+44)1424 776101 or visit the IAFP website to find out more. Camden Collection, Gallery Direct POLE POSITION Meble Polska looks ahead
LAID BARE Behind mattress brand Otty Sleep
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MARK OF DISTINCTION This year’s Design Guild Mark winners
23/04/2018 12:56
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Profile | 45
Lundy
New thinking from Devon’s finest With a thorough rebrand, fresh lines and new manufacturing methods in place, Devon’s pre-eminent cabinetmaker and supplier is taking measures to ensure it offers stockists the best possible quality and service, for years to come. Furniture News speaks to one of Devonshire Living’s directors, Nicolle Hockin, to find out more … For over a quarter of a century, the
The website is also being updated to
sense to streamline our output and turn to batch manufacturing.
family-run Devonshire Living – formerly
reflect this new offer, and comprehensive
Devonshire Pine, and Devonshire Pine &
product listings will help stockists –
Oak – has manufactured and imported high
particularly those without a website of their
efficiently, stock more items for quicker
quality cabinet furniture, offering retailers a
own – more effectively communicate the
delivery, and resolve any returns much
unique and flexible proposition.
portfolio’s appeal to consumers.
faster.”
Whilst it enjoys ongoing success from
More significant are the changes taking
“It means we can make products more
A traditional lead time of two-to-three
both its own-manufactured and imported
place behind the scenes, which include a
weeks could become less than one – a
lines, Devonshire Living has taken steps
major switch to batch manufacturing in the
development which will massively enhance
to ensure its offer is fit to handle the
UK.
Devonshire’s appeal to potential stockists.
challenges of the future.
“Updating our UK manufacturing
New ranges are on the horizon, too –
methods means we can offer better service
this autumn, Devonshire Living plans to
Living, as Devonshire Pine & Oak just wasn’t
and quality, as well as better prices in these
introduce a painted version of its popular
broad enough to define the scope of our
uncertain times,” says Nicolle.
Dorset oak range, as well as a mindi wood
“First up, we’ve rebranded to Devonshire
activities,” says Nicolle, who explains that
A good example is Devonshire’s
collection, while other collections will be
the business is planning to branch into new
bestseller, its painted Lundy range. Although
revealed to major customers through soft
timbers (such as mango) and possibly soft
the original 12 dated paint colours were
launches from the company’s two show
furnishings.
modernised in January, just four colours
vans.
The brand’s look and marketing
are now available – the tried-and-tested
Retailers can see the results of these
collateral has been overhauled and
favourites ivory, truffle, platinum (grey) and
changes for themselves – every available
modernised to reflect this change – on the
white.
model is on show at Devonshire’s 25,000ft2
road, Devonshire’s 14-lorry fleet boasts
“These well-established paint colours
new livery, which will go a long way in
account for some 98% of our current orders
T 01237 471872
establishing the company’s new identity.
anyway,” says Nicolle, “so it made so much
www.devonshirepineandoak.co.uk
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showroom in Bideford.
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Relaunch of Devonshire Pine and Oak A new name A fresh approach to our UK made collections A new modern look across all our platforms New ranges coming soon Still the same high quality Still the same great delivery and customer service Still incredibly competitive prices Still the UK’s leading furniture manufacturer and importer E: enquiries@devonshireliving.co.uk DevonshirePineAug18.indd 1 FN353_Pages2.indd 46
T: 01237 471872 24/07/2018 15:43
UK Made Held in Stock Fast Delivery Competitive Prices
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BEDS & BEDROOM
48
The Shire Bed Company’s (01924 439898, www.shirebeds.co.uk) Active Response Fresh mattress, from its second generation Active Response collection, comes with climate and moisture management at 37°. It features moisture wicking to help provide a drier sleeping surface, and is constructed from soft memory wool to aid user comfort. Also included in the Active Response range are Active Response Care, Active Response Cool and Active Response Breeze, plus the Opulence 3000 and Elegance 1500. The Shire Bed Company produces beds, mattresses and divan bases and supplies nationally and internationally to major retailers Berlin slider in pebble grey matt and glass
and the contract sector including education, care and hospitality.
Selecting the right furniture for the bedroom is important,
Active Response Fresh
even when on a budget. Simon Hewitt, director of Wiemann’s (enquiries@wiemannuk.co.uk, www.wiemannuk.co.uk) UK and Irish agent, Litmus Furniture, says: “Bedroom furniture is always going to be a big decision for consumers, with storage and practicality being key features. After more than 10 years in the UK, we have a good understanding of what hits the spot for both retailers and consumers.” Wiemann’s Berlin collection is an affordable range that offers consumers a simple but attractive selection of furniture pieces suitable for rooms of various sizes and shapes. Available in white, rustic oak, dark rustic oak, havana and pebble grey finishes, plus white, sahara, pebble grey, havana, black and magnolia glass door front options, the range comes with sliding and hinged wardrobes, in widths from 50-300cm that can be customised to include wooden and glass doors, mirrors, and smart soft-closing mechanisms.
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Millbroo
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The Emma Original mattress, the latest product from D2C brand
Hybrid Pocket Perfection 2200
Emma Mattress (www.emma-mattress.co.uk), has been awarded a Which? Best on Test accolade for the category – as well as being named a Which? Best Buy for the second year running. Made in Britain, the Emma Original can be trialled for 100 nights at home, with a pick-up and return service as well as a moneyback guarantee. Key features include a new foam combination for superior breathability and durability, which enhances comfort and body support for all body types. It also benefits from a cover with open-pore cell structure technologies to improve air circulation. Max Laarmann, founder and CEO of Emma Mattress, says: “Emma Mattress was born out of a consumer problem. Before, mattress buying was cumbersome and confusing to shoppers – add to this the long delivery times, and it didn’t make for easy or
Transparency to customers and taking care of the environment is
seamless buying journeys. Using customer insight, we not only
of the utmost importance to Sealy UK (www.sealy.co.uk), which
sought to make the buying process easier, more convenient and
in recent months has taken steps to satisfy changing consumer
quicker, but also harnessed the science behind sleep to create a
demands with two new initiatives – the launch of an ingredient list
mattress that suits all body and sleep types.”
for its brochure models, and a zero-to-landfill policy. The move to become completely transparent with its products comes as Sealy works to strengthen its position as an innovator and influencer in the bed market. Its ingredient list features a full product declaration, and takes inspiration from food labelling. Environmental footprint is also an issue important to the brand, and where practical Sealy seeks to exceed all relevant regulatory requirements and minimise any adverse environmental effects caused by its activities or products. Sealy has pledged to reduce wastage to the lowest practical level whilst pursuing a zero-to-landfill policy, and aims to design products in such a way to minimise their environmental effect in production, usage and disposal.
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Dormeo
THE
AUTUMN FURNITURE S H OW 2018
2nd & 3rd October 2018
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52 | Beds & Bedroom
Hyder Living (01484 531000, www.hyderliving.com) has launched Harmony, a handcrafted bedframe in a combination of velvet-style grey fabric and tempered mirrored glass. Suitable for contemporary homes, Harmony’s simple lines are elegant and assured. Available in 4ft 6in and 5ft options, Harmony is supplied direct from stock, with Hyder Living offering a direct home delivery service. “Mirrored bedroom furniture has become commonplace, but until now there have been few bedframes to complement bedsides, dressing tables and chests,” explains director Biny Hyder. “We’ve developed Harmony to overcome this, using tempered mirror glass to elegantly define the quilted headboard. Contrasted with a padded, grey velvet-look fabric, the mirror glass looks fantastic and gives the bed a really luxurious feel.” Featuring solid wooden feet and a sprung slatted base for support, Harmony joins an expanding collection of high-quality, handcrafted bedframes, and can be supplied with any of Hyder Living’s mattresses. Building on the success of The TT Dining Collection, Kettle Interiors (01536 444960, sales@kettleinteriorsagencies.com) has launched The TT Bedroom Collection, featuring the same combination of paint finishes and contrasting lime-washed oak tops. Available in old white or millstone grey, the range is finished with chrome cup handles. “While being relatively new, we now count TT Dining among our bestselling ranges,” explains Simon Ainge, sales director. “A great mix of on-trend classic English style and the popularity of a painted finish, it was only natural that we launched a bedroom collection, so that it can be enjoyed in more rooms of the home. We’ve designed both as an accessible entry into the classic English country style typically found at the premium end of the market.”
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The best of both worlds from Deluxe! Combine a high quality, hand side-stitched mattress with natural fillings from our Hamilton & James brand, together with a bed frame that contrasts popular and vibrant accent colours to complete the look of any bedroom. The Splendour mattresses are available in spring counts from 4,500 to 12,500 pocket springs. The bed frame is available in three different colour combinations & all products are available for weekly delivery or collection. enquiries@deluxe-beds.co.uk or call 01484 427 373. www.deluxe-beds.co.uk Deluxe Beds, Beacon Street, Birkby, Huddersfield, HD2 2RS, United Kingdom
DeluxeAug18.indd 1 FN353_Pages2.indd 52
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24/07/2018 PeterBrownAug18.indd 15:01 1
10/07/2018 10:48 24/07/2018 15:44
Boyteks
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54 | Beds & Bedroom
Nautilus in midnight blue
ZERO BARRIERS TO HIGHGATE’S ADVANCE With its Medicpaedic, SportLine and well-established Healthopaedic brands making good headway, Yorkshire’s Highgate Beds continues to offer consumers new levels of comfort and quality … Highgate Beds is looking forward
One of the USPs at the heart of Highgate
to manufacturing – all of which are helping
Beds’ sought-after portfolio is its Zero
the business set itself apart from its
to unveiling its latest models at next
Gravity technology, which brings various
competitors.
month’s NBF Bed Show – comprising
medical benefits to its mattresses.
Zahid reveals that the last year has been
beds with luxury fillings such as wool,
a busy one, principally driven by the desire
mohair, cashmere and pashmina, plus new
Beds worked hard to develop a second
to ensure that Highgate Beds’ products are
developments in the SportLine collection.
generation of this technology, which means
of the highest standard, and that there is a
T 01924 454678
its mattresses now promise even greater
model for every customer.
www.highgatebeds.com
Over the course of last year, Highgate
support, comfort and pressure reduction. This year, the company has been forced to fight hard to protect the Zero Gravity branding and trademark at the core of its business, and only now, having won this legal battle, can it reveal its benefits and the story behind its development. By travelling to suppliers’ fabric houses for inspiration, Highgate Beds has further built its capability to develop new lines and business relationships fit for future demand. As always, Highgate Beds’ hands-on
S w a
director, Zahid Ayub, has been at the heart of these developments, spending a good deal of time in the company’s factory, trialling and creating innovative new designs, and refining its approach
FN353_Pages2.indd 54
SportLine 2000 in steel
24/07/2018 15:44
Highgat
It can only be‌
Shown here in a 4ft6 Pocket Zero mattress, with a Ren style base in Memphis camel, and Stratford Floorstanding headboard
T E
+ 44 (0) 1924 454 678
info@highgatebeds.com
www.highgatebeds.com HighgateAug18.indd 1 FN353_Pages2.indd 55
20/07/2018 15:44 11:46 24/07/2018
DINING ROOM
56
M&P trades from large stocks
M&P is based in East Sussex, carries large
M&P Chairs (07802 648383,
demand for its new Nordic stick-back and
www.mandpchairs.co.uk) experienced a good
Paesana wooden-seated chairs, which
stocks of its core products, and distributes
first half year of trading, during which the
it introduced shortly after the January
throughout the UK using its own delivery
supplier continued to see good demand for
Furniture Show.
vehicles in tandem with pallet and courier
its range of farmhouse and Shaker chairs, as
As the company moves into the quieter
providers. It prides itself on being able to
well as its rocking and high-back granddad
period of the year, it will use the time to re-
deliver quality European hardwood (beech
chairs.
stock in readiness for the busier September
and oak) chairs to its customers quickly and
to December season.
efficiently.
M&P Chairs is also seeing growing
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FN353_Pages2.indd 56
07469 819520
13/06/2016 10:42 11/06/2018 11:30
24/07/2018 15:44
Woodm
WoodmanJuly18.indd 57 1 FN353_Pages2.indd
19/06/2018 15:44 15:57 24/07/2018
58 | Dining Room
The mirrored Apollo range from CIMC (01162 875288, www.cimchome.com) was inspired by antique patterns, and creates a bright, elegant look. Mirrored furniture can open up a smaller space, while adding elegance to any room. As well as Apollo, CIMC’s bestselling ranges also include those at the leading edge of contemporary design, such as Aria, Milano and Cleo. The company is launching 350 new products for autumn 2018, and aims to offer full furnishing and accessory solutions for any property, inside and out.
Jungle, which comprises a tabletop upon a branched entanglement of triangular legs connected by sturdy joints made from solid wood, is a good example of Calligaris’ (www.calligaris.com) ability to work with wood. The double base, made from natural ash and available in several finishes, is the table’s main aesthetic feature, paired with a range of tops in different sizes, shapes and materials – rectangular and elliptical, wood, and glass-ceramic with different trims. Boasting a host of different combinations with a range of tops, Jungle is both solid and versatile, fitting any modern space.
Ye Olde Traditional… F FINI
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FULL RANGE OF OAK-BEECH CHAIRS AND PINE/OAK TABLES AND CABINETS AT G AN E SERIOUSLY COMPETITIVE PRICES
www.yotfc.eu www.yotfc.co.uk T:
01604 890956
E:
md@yotfc.co.uk or brd@yotfc.co.uk
YOTFC Ltd. 3 Roe Farm, Cogenhoe NN7 1NL YeOldeJuly18.indd 1
FN353_Pages2.indd 58
Beech Amish also available with oak seat
20/06/2018 11:26
24/07/2018 15:44
JaipurA
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24/07/2018 23/07/2018 15:45 10:46
OPINION
60
Gavin Boden
A crisis of confidence
T
he furniture industry is all about consumer confidence. Because the industry mostly comprises high-ticket items, it accounts for a good percentage of gross sales in the
marketplace. Over the last 11 years since the very beginning of the recession,
Furniture sales and marketing professional
The consumers on our little island are stressed – about the recession, about leaving Europe, about the wars, about wages, the cost of living, immigration, gun crimes, terrorism … the list could go on and on. So, now, when little Jonny damages the dining room table which
the furniture industry has, let’s say, evolved, with the emergence
has been in the house for seven years, mum and dad will repair it or
of more and more multiple outlets on retail parks, the internet, and
cover it up, whereas before 2007 they would have considered buying
cheap imports from the Far East and Eastern Europe.
a new dining room.
All this has caused a huge decrease in the number of independent
Why? Because they are not sure what is going to happen next
retailers on high streets all over the country – and particularly in the
year, next month, or even next week. They will be worrying if dad’s
north of England.
company is going to shut down, or about the interest rate going up,
The internet has swept up most of the lower end of the market,
which will cost them another £50 per month on their mortgage. At
while the big multiples like DFS, ScS, Furniture Village, etc have
the moment, families would rather spend their money on a holiday to
taken over the majority of the middle market, and the better
somewhere warm than buy a new piece of furniture.
independent stores have retained the bulk of the top end of the business (apart from branded product).
When I first left school and went into furniture retail, before the internet, when DFS had just three stores and everyone was paid cash
Consumer confidence over this period has been up and down like
in a brown envelope at the end of the week, we knew where we stood
a yo-yo – but if we are talking about the independent business, then
– when the busy times of the year, the month and week would be. On
the lack of consumer confidence has made for very tough trading.
Saturdays, it would be busy right through the day.
As I have said before, independents not using the internet as a force
All of that has gone now. Our pay comes into our bank accounts,
for driving tra�c into their stores have struggled, and I’m not just
at di�erent times of the month, we work whatever hours we need
talking about websites, but social media (Facebook, Twitter and
to including weekends, and have a choice of seven days in which to
Instagram) too.
shop.
There’s been plenty for the average consumer to complain about over the last 11 years, which has had an e�ect on their confidence. Any kind of election has historically a�ected business within the
How can retailers plan anything – their sta�, their opening hours, or their sale periods (which for most multiples is all-year round)? Over the next 10 years we’re going to witness a rise in consumer
furniture industry, and we have been through it all during this period
confidence, caused by a lot of di�erent contributors – but how will it
(I’m not saying that the downward turn in confidence is justified, but
a�ect the independent retailer?
it is an excuse not to buy big-ticket items). We’ve had the referendum which led to Brexit, three major elections, the whole Donald Trump thing, and various other scandals. Another factor which a�ects the confidence of the public is world conflicts, and there is a mountain of them – Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq,
Positively, let’s hope. Yes, we are going to see more casualties – that I am sure – but we will have a smaller, stronger industry which will have gone through the biggest changes in its history, and, for those who have survived it, through the back of the wardrobe will be a much better, brighter world.
the Libyan and Yemeni crises … not to mention Kim Jong Un in North Korea. All these things make the British public stop and think – not only because the British Government must get involved in every crisis around the world, but because the world is so small now and we hear about absolutely everything, seconds after it happens.
The consumers on our little island are stressed, because they are not sure what is going to happen next year, next month, or even next week Got a view you’d like to share with the trade? Get in touch with us by contacting paul@gearingmediagroup.com
FN353_Pages2.indd 60
24/07/2018 16:43
Stainga
60
Staingard, market leaders in the provision of care plans and products for the furniture, beds and flooring industry. For more information see our promoted entries in connect or call: 01244 888 658
sales@staingard.co.uk
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For many years now Staingard have, in association with Leather Master Scandinavia, been supplying great products for the consumer to take care of their leather upholstery. Driven by demand for similar products that could be supplied to technicians, leather repairers and upholstery manufacturers Staingard have now developed ‘Leathergard’.
leathergard.co.uk
Perfect protection for your floors and furniture Protect your floors and move heavy objects like Sofas, Chairs, Recliners, Bookcases, Beds, Appliances and other household items with ease. • Adhesive / Screw On / Push On • Available as PTFE and Felt • Various Sizes and Shapes • Easy to Fit • Protects Flooring and Furniture • Exceptional Margin Opportunity
See us at THE FLOORING SHOW - Harrogate • 16-18 September • Stand C3 StaingardAug18.indd 1 FN353_Pages2.indd 61
09/07/2018 24/07/2018 16:11 15:45
62
LIVING ROOM The stylish lines of The NTP Collection from Kettle Interiors (01536 444960, sales@kettleinteriorsagencies.com) are influenced by classic Danish design – the collection shares its blueprint with the NT Collection, this time offering pieces for dining, occasional and bedroom in a dove grey paint. The supplier has not forgotten the appeal of the original’s natural light oak finish, so The NTP Collection bears contrasting tops in the same wood. “When we launched the original collection, it marked a departure from the usual styles of our oak dining and occasional furniture, yet it received a very warm reception and has gone on to great success,” says Kettle’s Simon Ainge. “However, such is the popularity of painted furniture at the moment that we simply couldn’t resist the temptation to mix
Designs from the Mad Men collection now rank in the bestselling
things up a little further and wrap the stunning lines of the original
rugs from Louis de Poortere (info@depoorterelouis.com,
in a gorgeous dove grey paint.” The NTP Collection offers an array
www.louisdepoortere.com), with the new The Cracks pattern also
of items including four sizes of sideboards, cupboards and cabinets,
recently entering the manufacturer’s top 20.
dining tables, three bedsides, three wardrobes and various chests.
Echoing the golden age of advertising in the New York City of the 1960s, Mad Men is a series of bold and powerful rugs woven in an artful blend of high-gloss polyester and cotton chenille. A mix of straight and broken lines reminiscent of the ragged pencil strokes beginning iconic brand campaigns, the Jacob’s Ladder and Griff designs are full of energy and a vibrancy that has seen them become ranked among Louis de Poortere’s most popular designs. The Cracks is cloaked in the hues of dark pine, deep mine and abyss blue, and, like the rest of the Mad Men collection, comes in a range of standard sizes from 80 x 150cm up to 280 x 360cm. Hand-finished and with a natural anti-slip latex backing, Mad Men is machine-woven in Belgium.
According to Shankar (www.shankar.uk.com), its new sofa range,
brushed velvet, with diamante buttons, stud detailing around the
which was launched only last month, is already attracting a lot of
front, back and sides, and polished chrome legs. It comes complete
excitement and good reviews.
with two cushions and bolsters.
Designed to transform the interior of any room, the range has an emphasis on clean lines and is available in a grey or mink (pictured)
FN353_Pages2.indd 62
A a
F P E
In all, this stylish range comprises four-, three-, and two-seater sofas, a square edge chair and ottoman.
24/07/2018 15:45
Furnitur
INTRODUCING
ZINGARO
COOL, CONTRASTING, CONTEMPORARY
Zingaro fuses light and dark to create bold and imposing furniture which works perfectly as a whole range of pieces complimenting each other and creating a room set, while each individual piece can function as a statement piece. Truly a beautiful range and, in our mind, a future classic, with the optional lighting adding to the bold and modern look. All available for next day delivery to yourself or your customer – no minimum order and 20% off for displays.
As always, there is no minimum order and pieces are available for next day delivery, so call today! Furniture To Go, 3 Keel Close, Interchange Park, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO3 5QD - T: 02380 517067 E: sales@furniture-to-go.co.uk - www.furniture-to-go.co.uk
FurnitureToGoAug18.indd FN353_Pages2.indd 63 1
09/07/2018 15:45 12:52 24/07/2018
64 | Living Room
Customer expectation for quality designs that fits a lifestyle is on
willing to pay more for products that are made of better materials,
the rise, and modern solid wood furniture is positioned to fulfil that
and which last longer. Consequently, its new ranges employ solid
demand. According to Jaipur Furniture (01992 666526,
woods including mango and sheesham, and the company has worked
www.jaipurfurniture.net), success in this market depends on three
even harder to ensure that the quality of its output is consistent.
things – product design, quality and service. One key emerging trend is the fusion of different elements and
Jaipur Furniture aims to always put the customer first, and it does so by working closely with them to solve any issues, create
geometric designs, and Jaipur’s new collection adapts ideas of
new designs and ensuring the stock capacity is always on hand to
minimalism and urban lifestyle to fit the modern home.
meet demand – indeed, Jaipur recently expanded its warehouse in
Jaipur believes that rising expectations have made customers
Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, to better meet its customers’ needs.
www.bluebone.co.uk Telephone.: 0161-330 8959 E-mail: sales@bluebone.co.uk
Unique and Exclusive Designs Soft Industrial Retro & Vintage Furniture and Accessories Storm Grey and Cottonwood Retro Oak Come and see us at Autumn Fair 2-5 Sept NEC Hall 2 - F03/E02 BlueboneAug18.indd 1
FN353_Pages2.indd 64
18/07/2018 16:47
24/07/2018 16:44
Shanka
Introducing our new range with style and design in mind
Available in Grey or Mink Luxurious Brushed Velvet • Diamante buttons • Stud detailing • Polished Chrome Legs
01902 399764 • sales@shankar.uk.com • www.shankar.uk.com ShankarAug18.indd FN353_Pages2.indd 165
16/07/2018 24/07/2018 12:51 15:45
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24/07/2018 15:45
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24/07/2018 16/07/2018 15:45 09:53
68 | Trade Services
THE NEW HOME OF BRITISH FURNITURE Earlier this summer, trade association the British Furniture Manufacturers (BFM) relocated from its traditional home in High Wycombe to The Exchange, a newly-refurbished office and showroom facility in Long Eaton. Furniture News quizzed the association’s outgoing chairman, Matt O’Flynn, on the benefits of the move … The BFM’s new headquarters now occupy
(an official opening party is mooted for
How will the new HQ benefit the BFM’s
a fully refurbished office, showroom and
Monday 17th September, with new All
members?
meeting hub in the heart of the UK’s
Party Parliamentary Furniture Industry
The Exchange is bang in the middle of the
upholstery manufacturing region. Located
Group [APPFIG] chair Maggie Throup MP
upholstery industry, with a large number
in Westend Mill on Leopold Street (opposite
in attendance), and has been named a new
of manufacturers and retailers all either
the well-known Harrington Mill building),
regional headquarters for The Furniture
permanently based here or converging
The Exchange is also home to Orbital,
Makers’ Company.
regularly as part of their normal business
Promising the offer of an open, flexible
cycle – plus the twice-yearly Long Point
known for website building and its new 3D
space in which to interact and do business
show. The Exchange has been laid out to
visualisation software solution, enVision.
– plus some 3000ft2 of open space still
be accessible and flexible enough to house
available for rent – The Exchange signals an
everything from small meetings to larger
John Sankey and Collins and Hayes principal
exciting new chapter in the BFM’s history,
seminars, meaning the BFM can interact
Matt O’Flynn, who, after serving more than
explains Matt …
with and offer services to the industry like
an industry-focused digital agency best
The move was spearheaded by former
never before.
the standard two-year term as chair of the BFM, has stepped back to focus on co-
Why did you choose this venue?
directing Orbital’s growing business.
The BFM was looking for a suitable location
Can you tell us more about any upcoming
and opportunity to grow our business, and
fixtures?
enable the BFM to interact more readily with
the showroom facility came as a natural part
We are yet to publish our calendar. However,
its members and the rest of the industry. It
of the process. As soon as we saw the space
we plan to launch The Exchange some time
is already lined up to be an official part of
in Westend Mill, we knew what we needed
in September, with Maggie Throup doing the
this year’s autumn Long Point exhibition
to do.
official honours, and for us to make the
According to Matt, the new location will
The Exchange offers fully-featured meeting spaces
FN353_Pages2.indd 68
24/07/2018 15:45
Compan
FURNITURECOURIERS.COM “A business built by experienced removal staff ”
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0800 145 5056 Enquiries@furniturecouriers.com WWW.FURNITURECOURIERS.COM FN353_Pages2.indd 69 CompanyAssistJuly18.indd 1
24/07/2018 10:01 15:45 21/06/2018
70 | Trade Services
N
C
Orbital’s studio at The Exchange
most of the opportunity by raising money
facilities and WiFi. The colours throughout
make interactive – bringing clients’
for The Furniture Makers’ Company as their
are a calming neutral with a matt finish,
entire catalogues to life and making the
new Heart of England region location.
accented with Orbital’s enVision green to
consumer’s journey much more engaging
inject energy.
and productive.
Upholstery Manufacture. Has has this
How is business going at Orbital since its
multiples right now, and our client roster
accolade made a difference to the town?
launch to the trade in January?
currently includes the likes of Furmanac,
This is a message that needs continuous
Orbital has been supplying graphic design,
Linwood, Collins & Hayes, Celebrity, John
wind in its sails. It is a great covenant, a
photography, print and brand strategy to
Sankey, Sleepeezee, Wood Bros, Ikon and
genuinely interesting story, and reaches well
numerous brands, small to global, for over
Debenhams, to whom we offer creative
beyond just upholstery.
a decade. More recently, we decided to place
services including 3D product rendering,
our focus purely on the interiors market.
fabric wrapping, 3D roomset creation,
We’re doing very well with the big
Long Eaton is now a UK Centre of Quality
The mills that are so well used by the furniture trade now are part of the story.
P
Technology has improved so quickly
photography, videography, website building and ecommerce solutions.
Westend Mill is one of the oldest remaining
– largely thanks to the gaming industry –
tenement lace mills in town – with the
and it allows us to develop truly realistic
BFM now located here, it will further grow
representations of products in natural-
www.bfm.org.uk
people’s awareness and respect for the
looking environments, which we then
www.orbital.vision
area. The digital revolution that Orbital is spearheading will provide a long reaching continuation of growth within the industry for the future. What inspired your interior design choices during the refurbishment?
P
We love these old mill buildings – they’re full of natural light and character. We wanted to take it back to its original form as much as possible, and then appoint the different areas sympathetically to their function. The BFM office is a professional space, allowing for privacy whilst still feeling open and benefiting from all the natural light. The Exchange’s reception is warm and welcoming, and the showroom benefits from exposed brickwork, great open spaces and a large cafe area with conferencing
FN353_Pages2.indd 70
Showroom space is available to rent
24/07/2018 16:44
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72 | Trade Services
Customer service is much more than dealing with complaints these days, says Retailsystem (www.retailsystem.com), which believes that it is about being proactive, keeping the customer informed every step of the way, and handling any issues in a prompt and efficient way. If desired, Retailsystem keeps the customer informed from the moment they place an order – online order tracking allows them to log in to see the status of their order whenever they choose, but the retailer maintains control over what they see. Client analysis has shown that this alone can reduce incoming order chase calls by nearly -50%, freeing sales staff to spend more time booking new orders. Rather than let the retailer know when customer orders are overdue, Retailsystem offers alerts ahead of time, enabling
helps retailers manage any issue end-
the retailer to take action rather than
to-end, by recording action taken by
firefighting after the event.
personnel, customer photographs of
Text alerts advising customers of the
damage, upholsterer reports or supplier
arrival of their goods and confirming
correspondence and replacement re-
delivery slots is another area where
order, whilst allowing staff access to the
Retailsystem helps businesses demonstrate
information so anybody can help the
exceptional customer service.
customer.
For the times when complaints are received, its customer service module
Contact Retailsystem for an online or onsite demonstration.
DELIVERY SUCCESS ON FIRST ATTEMPT DELIVERY DELIVERY SUCCESS SUCCESS ON ON FIRST FIRST ATTEMPT ATTEMPT
DAMAGE RATE LESS THAN DAMAGE DAMAGE RATE RATE LESS LESS THAN THAN
94%
0.01%
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Trade Services | 73
With ever-increasing demand for value-added products such as the
Step three was to recruit more sewing machinists. Having
Encore cushion range, and shorter and shorter lead times, Fibreline
recognised that the textile industry has lost many skilled machinists
(01535 606846, www.encorecushion.co.uk) believes that in-house
over the years, Fibreline’s management knew that the recruitment of
control of sewn case production is essential for meeting customer
trained machinists would be difficult.
demand. In recent years, Fibreline has undertaken a major project
Following discussions with the local college and other local textilebased manufacturers, a project was established, with the aid of the
to increase its in-house cut-and-sew capacity. A complete
Textile Growth Fund, to set up a Textile Sewing Academy within
refurbishment of an existing building, including the installation of
Keighley College. Subsequently, this has proved successful, and
10,000ft2 of mezzanine flooring, came first, to house the existing
Fibreline has offered full-time employment to a number of students.
cutting and sewing facilities. Then an additional state-of-the-art CNC cutting machine was installed, along with laying-up equipment and extra sewing machines – all of which resulted in a doubling of capacity.
Encore Fibre
Encore Feather
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S
74 | Trade Services
C
Latexco (www.latexco.com), a Belgian manufacturer of latex
Boyteks is working towards sustainable cotton manufacturing processes, among others
foam components, PU foams and pocket spring units for the bedding industry, has obtained Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, so it can now offer a product range made with FSCcertified latex. This certificate guarantees that products with the FSC logo are produced with materials from responsibly-managed forests, and provides transparency and material traceability throughout the supply chain. The FSC label is a next step in Latexco’s sustainability efforts. Over the last 10 years the company has been raising awareness and investing in advanced technology, cutting energy consumption by almost 50% over the past few years. The company also recycles
Sustainability and social conscience are two of the most important
100% of its wastewater and converts latex waste into new products.
values a business can have today, according to Turkish fabric manufacturer Boyteks Tekstil (www.boyteks.com), which believes it has a responsibility to consider how every aspect of its production and supply chain might impact future generations. “In all our R&D work, we aim to minimise our impact on the natural world, while contributing to environmental cleanliness with our upholstery fabrics produced from yarns produced from used bottles,” says a company spokesperson. “Boyteks also offers Nano Clean upholstery fabric, which is easy to clean, and Cleanink upholstery fabric, which is effective against ballpoint pen stains.” One of the world’s foremost suppliers of mattress ticking, upholstery fabric and carpet, Boyteks offers an extensive portfolio which ranges from velvet and nubuck fabric to office and garden furniture upholstery fabrics, enabling furniture manufacturers to diversify their brands through each product, staying on trend with easily-cleanable, sustainably-produced fabrics.
Supply chain management specialist iForce (www.iforcegroup.com) has secured a three-year contract to provide a range of fulfilment services to Made.com. Under the terms of the deal, iForce will provide Made.com with an online fulfilment and warehouse management service using its unique Smart software capability from its 226,000ft2 warehouse in Redditch. Additionally, Made.com will be deploying Route Genie software, a carriage management solution provided through the iForce Pathfinder service. This will enable Made.com to manage the allocation of parcels to the most appropriate carriers based on weight, service requirement and cost, as well as providing the Made.com customer service team with a consolidated view of carrier performance.
The Furniture Makers’ Company (020 7562 8522), the furnishing industry’s charity, is appealing to the sector to support its 2018 welfare campaign by hanging its new poster up to help spread the word that it can support industry workers past and present if they have fallen on hard times. The organisation is calling on employers within the industry to get behind the initiative and hang copies of the poster in
Elaine, one of the charity’s welfare beneficiaries
offices, factories and other designated staff
their employees by displaying the poster on
areas.
factory floors, break rooms, back offices –
Jonny Westbrooke, CEO of The Furniture
see it and as a result know where to turn to
supporting people working in the UK
for help.”
furnishing industry for more than 100 years,
Copies of the poster can be downloaded
but new people join every month. We want
from www.furnituremakers.org.uk/charity-
everyone in the industry to know that we are
poster/
there for them if they fall on hard times. “We need businesses large and small to support us to communicate this message to
FN353_Pages2.indd 74
anywhere that an employee will be able to
Makers’ Company, says: “We have been
The Furniture Makers’ Company provides financial assistance to workers within the industry through grants.
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SiestaA
SIESTA SIESTA BEDS BEDS Comfort Comfort&&Quality QualityAssured Assured Est.1986 Est.1986
FN353_Pages2.indd SiestaAug18.indd 1 75
Mulliners ullinersWorks Works M 154 Bordesley Green Road, 154 Bordesley Green Road, BordesleyGreen, Green, Bordesley Birmingham, Birmingham, B8 1BY. 1BY. B8 Emailinfo@siestabeds.co.uk info@siestabeds.co.uk Email Tel: 0121 0121773 7739969 9969 Tel:
24/07/2018 18/07/2018 15:46 10:00
76 | Designer
IN DESIGN
Dotti, Joe McCusker-Bland During an internship at Ocee Design, Nottingham Trent University student Joe McCusker-Bland created Dotti, a soft-upholstered reception chair that aims to bring an even greater domestic feel to today’s increasingly homely office spaces.
“The soft curvy arms and the retro button detail is inspired by the design of vintage sofas. I chose to combine this domestic upholstery design with an industrial steel leg frame to give character to Dotti’s appearance. Dotti makes an ideal piece for o�ce spaces with an eclectic interior”
“It’s designed for breakout spaces. It can be utilised for informal meetings, socialising and laptop use, etc, and the back is angled suitably for working and socialising in comfort”
“To achieve a professional prototype, I used the experience gained from my construction detailing role from my previous internships. This proved an advantage when it came to communicating the assembly of the design to di�erent manufacturers – special thanks go to Pressfab Engineering who helped weld the leg frame, Deebee Foams who helped produce the foams, and Ocee Design, who helped upholster the fabrics”
“Camira Synergy fabrics were a great choice for upholstering Dotti. The range provided flexible choice for di�erent colour combinations. Compound and Lateral were great colours for giving Dotti its smart appearance”
“Understanding construction is essential for any designer – there’s no use to being a felt-tip fairy” Training: Joe will graduate with a first-
Exhibitions: Dotti was one of two products
class honours degree in Furniture & Product
exhibited by Joe at this year’s New Designers
Design from Nottingham Trent University
event in London, at which he received
this year, having completed internships
runner-up awards from John Lewis and
at Ocee Design, Tom Dixon and Furniture
Made TalentLab.
Group Contracts. Joe McCusker-Bland plans to gain more
E joe_mcbland@hotmail.co.uk
experience by working in the industry, before he approaches his next goal of setting up his own design studio.
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MFAAu
END OF LINE SECONDS RETURNS
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MFA.BID
EX-DISPLAY OLD STOCK PROTOTYPES
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78 | Designer
that you would give to the manufacturer and
Know your rights! ACID’s chief executive, Dids Macdonald OBE, answers your design and intellectual property (IP) queries …
In the last five years of the right, any
ask them to sign before sending them any
person is entitled as of right to a licence to
prototype, or sample of your designs. Signed
produce your designs. If you cannot agree
agreements provide clarity of ownership
terms then this can be resolved by the
should you ever need to rely on them in any
Design Comptroller at the UK Intellectual
dispute.
Property Office.
Include details of your registered
However, the matter may not be so
design and, if possible, register your
simple. If your furniture, for example, is
design in China – or, if you are relying on
handmade, then it may be protected by
unregistered design rights, you may decide
copyright, to which no licence of right
to lodge them on the ACID IP databank,
applies.
which provides independent evidence of
In addition, any surface patterns, such
the date they are received together with a
as engravings or prints on the furniture,
unique tamper-proof number. Registration
could also be subject to copyright. In those
is also available through WIPO and the
circumstances, again, those parts of the
Hague agreement, with one application
furniture would not be subject to the licence
for 100 designs offering protection in 68
of right.
countries. The agreement outlines that you are the
In this situation, it would be advisable to seek legal advice as soon as possible.
owner of the samples and any intellectual property rights. The manufacturer, by signing the agreement. would acknowledge that, and also agree not to do anything with the samples without your written consent. It would also subject the manufacturer to English law and jurisdiction, meaning it is simpler and less costly to take action. Of course, this does not offer any guarantee that things will not go wrong, but it simplifies matters as opposed to having no written agreement in place. Increasingly,
“When it comes to sending prototypes for quotes, there are measures you can put in place to offer at least some protection”
though, we are seeing a move towards I have designed and produced a chair
British manufacture, which eliminates many
design which I think is suitable for mass
of these issues.
production. What sort of documentation
How do I know which world territories recognise my unregistered rights?
should I have in place before I contact
My company has been producing a very
Community unregistered design right is
manufacturers in the Far East for
successful range of bedroom furniture for
applicable in all 28 member states of the
production quotes?
some years. Another company recently
EU (until Brexit or the end of transitional
Most people acknowledge that copying in
approached me and said that now I have to
arrangements). UK unregistered design
the Far East is problematic and because
allow them to produce it too. Is this right?
right is limited territorially to the UK (and
of distance it can often be difficult to take
Yes, potentially. If your furniture is the
a handful of countries offering reciprocal
action against copyists. On the other hand,
mass-produced type, and you have not
protection).
this needs to be balanced with the fact that
sought a formal design registration, then
there may be savings in production costs
any protection is likely to be limited to the
far wider ranging, because of various
which can be made by shifting production to
UK unregistered design right. The right lasts
international conventions and treaties which
those countries.
for 15 years from the end of the calendar
most countries in the world are party to
year in which that design document or
and which offer reciprocal protection to
acquaintances who also use companies
that article came into existence (whichever
contracting states.
in the Far East, as they may be able to
occurred first).
The first steps could be to contact any
recommend a trustworthy contact. However,
However, if articles made to the design
Copyright, on the other hand, can be
For example, a book that is copyright in the UK will be protected in France.
when it comes to sending prototypes for
are sold anywhere in the world within the
Difficulties can arise when it comes
quotes, there are measures you can put in
first five years, then the design right will
to copyright works which have been
place to offer at least some protection.
expire 10 years from the end of the calendar
industrially exploited, as often the level of
year in which the articles were first made
protection offered can be left to individual
available for sale or hire.
countries.
The ACID Intellectual Property Agreement could be useful. This is a short agreement
Got an IP query for Dids? Email her on didsm@acid.uk.com or visit www.acid.uk.com to find out more about ACID (Anti Copying In Design), the UK’s leading design and IP campaigning organisation.
FN353_Pages2.indd 78
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CordsnC
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82
FURTHER READING
ON THE WEB New stories are added to the Furniture News website as they break. Browse www.furniturenews.net on your desktop or mobile, and sign up for our twice-weekly email newsletter at www.bit.ly/fn-in
News Training alliance partners with Apprenticeship Management Group
Events Partnership with leading Chinese distributor to lift this year’s CIFF Shanghai
Profile How Turkey’s Boyteks Tekstil is developing fabrics for the future
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Furniture News is just one of the industry titles published by Gearing Media Group. Those involved in the contract furnishings market should take a look at Hospitality Interiors magazine (www.hospitality-interiors.net), while anyone seeking furniture manufacturing machinery or supplies should check out Furniture Production (www.furnitureproduction.net).
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