INFORMING INDUSTRY, BUILDING BUSINESS #363 June 2019
www.furniturenews.net
Inside Fifty Five South’s new showroom BEYOND BELIEF Challenging trust in online reviews
FN363_Cover.indd FN363_Pages.indd 11
HEALTHY EATON? The latest from Long Point
STAR TURN The dangers of celebrity endorsements
22/05/2019 28/05/2019 15:39 13:09
TCS FN June Advert 2019.qxp_Layout 1 09/05/2019 12:49 Page 1
MAXIMISE YOUR FLOORSPACE AND YOUR PROFITS Sell hundred’s of combinations from a single floor model with TCS
The Salisbury
Now Available for Immediate Delivery
• • • • •
Your Sofa Your Way and Made in The UK
3, 2, 1 Seaters 3 and 2 Sofa Beds Jumbo Combinations Extension Pieces Corner Options
• Corner Options with Sofa Beds • Footstools • End Pieces • Fabric Options
TCS - Solely Committ Committed t ed to Serv tt Serving r ing rv Independent Retailers in the UK and Ireland Telephone: 00353 429 351 351 info@tcsimports.com www.tcsfurniturerange.com THE
D E S I G N E R COLLECTION
FN363_Pages.indd Full page USE.indd 2 1
Natural Sleep
the complete service Carpets and Flooring
SERVICE QUALITY VALUE 28/05/2019 09/05/2019 13:09 15:33
19 15:33
3
INFORMATION ON THE COVER
“The CMA now estimates that fake reviews may influence some £23b of customer spending every year”
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 817430 james@gearingmediagroup.com Production assistant Mike Beales 01424 776106 mike@gearingmediagroup.com Digital production assistant Nyall McCurrach 01424 776107 nyall@gearingmediagroup.com Copy administrator Steve Merrick 01424 776108 production@gearingmediagroup.com
COMMENT
I
n a world in which the future of a
and a lack of clarity around which product
nation can be writ large on the side
endorsements were paid for, and which
of a bus, we must remember to read
weren’t. It clamped down on online reviews
between the lines. I’m not saying we take
posted by companies’ own employees, and
everything at face value, but the manner in
pursued the more prominent sources of fake
which we filter information could use some
Twitter followers (one of which reportedly
refinement – and this applies not only to
offered more than 200 million followers
the way we think and what we believe, but
from some 3.5 million fake accounts).
in how we assess what we buy. Fake news is rife, yet, across the world,
In April, the topic reared its head once again, when a probe by Which? revealed that
people’s faith in traditional marketing
Amazon is “flooded” with fake five-star
platforms is at an all-time low. With so
reviews of unverified brands – despite the
Editorial director John Legg 01424 776104 john@gearingmediagroup.com
many of us turning to the internet for
marketplace’s use of automated tech to
inspiration, guidance and reassurance before
weed out any offenders. It found that the
we make a purchase, online reviews are
top-rated products in certain categories
Publisher Nigel Gearing
becoming increasingly influential.
were often spurious unknowns, ranked
Accounts Wendy Williams 01424 817433 wendy@gearingmediagroup.com
and Feefo seem to be doing sterling work to of view, often prompting dealers to take
may influence some £23b of customer
Magazine subscriptions (UK-£65, Europe-£85, RoW-£95) 01424 774982 subscriptions@gearingmediagroup.com
quality and service issues more seriously.
spending every year, in the UK alone. How
the practice. Take the Shed at Dulwich –
what’s ‘sold’ to people, and what they buy?
Connect VIP packages (UK-£95, Europe-£110, RoW-£120) 01424 774982 subscriptions@gearingmediagroup.com
devised by a journalist who was once paid
Do so many of us view statements made
to write fake reviews, this spoof restaurant
through social media and online reviews
was temporarily TripAdvisor’s top-ranked
(well-regulated sites excepted) as truths?
Repro, print and distribution Stephens & George
London restaurant in 2017. At the same
Proofreader Keith Fitz-Hugh
Gearing Media Group Ltd 4 Red Barn Mews, High Street Battle, East Sussex TN33 0AG ISSN No: 1475 - 3731 © Gearing Media Group Ltd 2019 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. Advertiser information is reproduced in good faith and Gearing Media Group accepts no responsibility in respect of adverts appearing in the magazine, and the magazines expressed do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s views. The Publisher accepts no liability for any loss arising from an advertisement’s late or non-appearance.
FN363_Pages.indd 3
Admittedly, websites such as Trustpilot aggregate and disseminate various points
Yet there has long been a darker side to
conspicuously ahead of household name brands. The CMA now estimates that fake reviews
can there be such discrepancy between
Perhaps the online playground hasn’t
time, the British Hospitality Association
been open long enough for us to learn
found that 85% of the businesses in its
the rules. Maybe the digital giants will
sector had been tarred with unfair reviews
successfully crack down on the fraudulent
designed to blackmail management or
practices. And perhaps, in time, the
damage reputations.
consumer will find themselves turning back
Meanwhile an Italian court sentenced a TripAdvisor reviewer to nine months in prison for selling fake reviews. Pascal Lamy,
to those more traditional and accountable media outlets they once trusted. When even the very notion of ‘truth’
chair of the World Committee on Tourism
is questioned on a daily basis, all I can
Ethics, commented: “Online reviews play
suggest is taking things with a pinch of salt,
a major role in tourism and consumer
wherever you read them.
purchasing decisions, but it’s important
Paul Farley
everyone plays by the rules.” At least the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is keeping score. As far back as 2015, the CMA was investigating potentially misleading practices such as fake reviews, the omission of negative reviews,
Editor-in-chief T 01424 776101 E paul@gearingmediagroup.com Twitter @FurnitureNewsED
28/05/2019 13:09
Enter The Bed Industry Awards Now Enter The Bed Industry Awards Now
www.bedshow.co.uk www.bedshow.co.uk
Manufacturer RetailerAwards Awards ManufacturerAwards Awards Retailer Best IndependentBed BedRetailer Retailer BestBed/Mattress Bed/Mattress Independent Best PureOnline OnlineBed BedRetailer Retailer BestAccessory/Component Accessory/Component Pure Innovation NationalBed BedRetailer Retailer Innovation National
FN-page-NBF-Awards-2019-v3a.indd 1
FN363_Pages.indd Full page USE.indd 41 FN-page-NBF-Awards-2019-v3a.indd 1
17/04/2019 13:14
28/05/2019 13/05/2019 08:46 17/04/2019 13:09 13:14
rer
er
Contents | 5
ON THE COVER
7
INFORMING INDUSTRY, BUILDING BUSINESS #363 June 2019
THIS ISSUE
www.furniturenews.net
Partner Comment
58 Furnisher
12 News
60
Out of Hours
22 Events
62 Designer
32 Resources Inside Fifty Five South’s new showroom BEYOND BELIEF Challenging trust in online reviews
HEALTHY EATON? The latest from Long Point
STAR TURN The dangers of celebrity endorsements
FN363_Cover.indd 1
22/05/2019 15:39
Glasgow’s Premier Housewares unveils a new showroom housing the latest from its luxury interiors brand, Fifty Five South (p36)
CONTRIBUTORS 7
36
Profiles
42
Beds & Bedroom
50 Opinion 52
Living Room
56
Dining Room
Matt Hill (62)
The NBF’s Simon Williams explains why entering industry awards is worth the effort
32
Abel & Imray’s Sarah Philips discusses the role of intellectual property rights in the furniture industry
Duresta at Long Point (22)
Alpha Designs Upholstery (52)
At Furniture News, we want to bring you the most relevant content and offers. Scan this QR code with your phone’s camera – or visit www.bit.ly/fn-in – to opt into the communications you’d prefer to receive (including the printed magazine)
The Furniture Trade Directory The indispensible guide for UK suppliers and retailers, in print and online www.gmgconnect.com
3:14
019 08:46 13:14
FN363_Pages.indd 5
28/05/2019 13:22
FN363_Pages.indd Full page USE.indd 6 1
28/05/2019 14/05/2019 13:10 10:39
19 10:39
Partner Comment | 7
Your efforts will be rewarded … “We know from recent research that consumers are influenced in the buying process if they know that a product or brand has won a relevant award” Many of you will have been there before. You’ve been asked by the
Awards offer a rare opportunity to be directly compared to the
boss to put together an entry into your annual industry awards,
competition and can give you great insight into how you shape up.
and your first thoughts are:
If you win, great. If you don’t, you’ll learn a lot from the process
“Thanks a lot! I just haven’t got time to do this …”
(especially if the judges offer their feedback), be able to improve
“They’re too complicated to enter.”
from the experience, and stand a better chance next time. To celebrate 10 years of the NBF Bed Show (taking place at
“What’s the benefit to my team?” “It’s more hassle than it’s worth.”
Telford International Centre on 17th and 18th September), we
“We won’t win anyway (it’s always the same companies that
have given the awards a makeover, with six new categories for businesses to enter. So, this year there are three new awards for
win every year).” These are all totally understandable thoughts, especially given the uncertain business climate at the moment. However, if we all
manufacturers/suppliers: Bed of the Year; Accessory Product or Component of the Year; and Innovation of the Year. For retailers there are also three new categories to enter:
took that stance, then there simply wouldn’t be any awards.
Independent Bed Retailer of the Year; National Retailer of the Year;
Competition has never been tougher, budgets are being squeezed like never before, and it’s getting increasingly difficult to genuinely differentiate and stand out in the crowded marketplace. All of which makes entering awards such as the 2019 NBF Bed
and Pure Online Retailer of the Year. To encourage small businesses that don’t have dedicated marketing or PR teams, we’ve made the process of entering the
Industry Awards more relevant than ever. They can provide you,
awards as simple as possible – further details of the awards, along
your team and your company with a range of benefits including
with downloadable entry forms, are available at
improved brand awareness, greater credibility and increased
www.bedshow.co.uk/awards.
morale. You can share your success with your employees, your suppliers and your customers – maximising the value of your award. We know from recent research that consumers are influenced in the buying process if they know that a product or brand has won a relevant award. Just consider the power of a Which? or Good Housekeeping award – while not quite as competitive as so-called
Simon Williams is the marketing
‘Industry Oscars’, they do demonstrate how much reassurance
manager of the National Bed
such endorsements offer consumers.
Federation (NBF, www.bedfed.
If you win, there are so many things you can do with the good news, such as adding the logos to your website, email signatures,
org.uk), the recognised trade
letterheads and vehicle livery. Whichever social media channels
association representing UK
you use, it’s the perfect opportunity to blow your own trumpet
manufacturers of beds and their
– and a gift of a PR opportunity (but note that, like most things
suppliers. Founded in 1912, the
in life, you get out what you put in – there’s no point entering
federation’s members today
awards if you’re not going to shout it from the rafters if you win or
account for some 75% of the UK’s
make the shortlist).
total bedding turnover.
Our Partners 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
FN363_Pages.indd 7
28/05/2019 13:10
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Register now at manchesterfurnitureshow.com FN363_Pages.indd Full page USE.indd 8 1
28/05/2019 10/05/2019 13:10 10:20
Full pag
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
19 10:20
FN363_Pages.indd Full page USE.indd 9 1
28/05/2019 22/05/2019 13:10 14:24
The Augustine corner group from Comfort Studio
FN363_Pages.indd 10 Double Page Spread.indd 1
28/05/2019 13:10
Cornering comfort Our latest Comfort Studio Collection ranges give your customers the comfort and quality they associate with La-Z-Boy, with design innovations for 2019 including a brand new luxury leather.
www.la-z-boy.co.uk
FN363_Pages.indd 11
28/05/2019 15:43 13:10 22/05/2019
12 | News
Scottish charity appoints new president
Conference reinforces need for training
Scottish industry charity, the Scottish Furniture Trades Benevolent Association (SFTBA), has David Amery
appointed a new president
– Sterling Furniture’s bedroom buyer, David Amery. “Companies in industry must use UK
Government is being reduced and unless
take up the position of president
training providers or risk losing them,”
people are enrolled on courses, training
of this fantastic charity, and would
warned Gary Baker, Furniture and Interiors
institutions won’t get the volume needed to
like to thank Donna Spiers (Archers
Education, Skills and Training Alliance
run. If we don’t do something drastic now,
Sleepcentre’s buying director), retiring
(FIESTA) chairman, at the Closing the Gap
we’ll come up against major problems in the
president, for her leadership and
conference in London in late April.
future.”
He says: “I am very honoured to
contribution to the association over the past two years.”
The event was organised to inform
One of the aims of the Closing the Gap
companies of the looming employment
conference was to demonstrate the value of
crisis the furniture and interiors industry
apprenticeships, which was discussed during
Hampton and McMurray Furnishers,
faces if the emerging skills gap is not
a panel comprising employers, training
Glasgow, has been appointed David’s
addressed.
providers and an apprentice.
Neil Richardson, proprietor of
vice-president.
Gary opened the conference by reminding
For many SMEs, the issue with training
delegates of the circumstances that led
has stemmed from an inability to access
who have fallen on hard times due to
to FIESTA’s formation in 2017, following
funding due to Government cuts, and
illness or other circumstances, and
the Bridging the Gap conference. Statistics
companies being turned away. To support
raises funds through events such as the
from the 2015 Mind the Gap report showed
SMEs and large businesses, FIESTA launched
annual President’s Dinner (set to take
that, of those companies surveyed at the
a new service, Furniture and Interiors Skills
place in November), and the Annual
time, over 50% of their workforce was over
Plus, which aims to enable furniture and
Golf Outing at Deer Park Country Club,
the age of 40. Furthermore, half of the
interiors businesses of all sizes to easily
Livingston, taking place this year on
employers questioned said they did not need
train and recruit employees for all job
8th August.
apprentices or did not know where to find
functions.
The SFTBA aims to assist those
them.
Jay-Be grows sales for 11th year Bed, mattress and upholstery manufacturer Jay-Be reports that its
Four years on, and the hope that the
Gary adds:“Researching training providers that have funding for your
introduction of the apprenticeship levy
training needs and understanding how to
in May 2017 would support businesses to
access funding all takes time.
recruit and train new talent has dissipated,
“The Skills Plus solution will handle all
due to the complexity and rigidity of
of this and offer SMEs advice, guidance and
accessing and using funding, states FIESTA.
access to the best training – from traditional
Gary says: “Research clearly shows that
apprenticeships to vocational courses – for
UK sales have grown for the 11th year
companies that offer training programmes
new and existing staff, at very little cost to
running, driven by a combination of
are much more profitable than those that
your business.”
broadening its product offer, increasing
don’t. There is also a very real danger
production capacity and putting a
that if large businesses don’t wake up and
businesses in the north of England will take
commitment to sustainability at the
start using training providers then these
place on 2nd July at Panaz’s showroom in
forefront of its product development
institutions will disappear. Funding from
Burnley.
A second Closing the Gap conference for
strategy. While export sales declined, the brand established footholds in export markets including Canada and the US,
Registration open for Irish event
from which the company expects to see significant growth in the near future.
Registration for the Irish Furniture &
For the sixth year running, the IFHS
Homewares Show (IFHS), Ireland’s key
will host many of the top suppliers to the
to invest heavily in sustainability,
sourcing event, which will take place
Irish furniture industry, presenting new
product innovation and responsible
at Dublin’s National Show Centre from
upholstery, dining, bedding, cabinet and
manufacturing, and has increased its
24-27th August, is now open on the fair’s
accessories, plus advice and industry trend
investment in training.
website.
insight.
The business plans to continue
FN363_Pages.indd 12
28/05/2019 13:10
News | 13
Vispring MD joins NBF board
M&S battles towards transformation Clothing & Home revenue at Marks &
number of areas of the business. M&S is
Jim Gerety,
Spencer declined -3.6% in the year to 30th
changing faster than at any time in my
MD of
March 2019, driven in part by the retailer’s
career - substantial changes across the
Vispring,
store closure programme, which resulted in
business to our processes, ranges and
has been
a LFL revenue decrease of -1.6%.
operations and this has constrained this
elected to the
As of 30th March, 35 full-line stores
year’s performance, particularly in Clothing & Home.
National Bed
had been closed as part of the retailer’s
Federation
transformation programme, 26 of them
“However, we remain on track with our
(NBF)
during the financial year described – yet
transformation and are now well on the road
executive
there has been 48 new store openings,
to making M&S special again.”
board as a director. Jim, who has been
and good online revenue growth, with UK
New initiatives outlined include a shift
an active member of the NBF since 2012
Clothing & Home revenue up +9.8%. The
towards less discounting, more rationalised,
and previously sat on the marketing
retailer disclosed that despite a strategy of
contemporary store environments, and
committee, says: “I am delighted to
resizing, relocating and new openings, it
the ongoing development of an improved
be joining the executive board and I
expects to close a further 85 full-line stores.
logistics network. Further investment in
am hoping to bring a more export-
Operating costs decreased by -1.2%, with
digital capability will be leveraged in an
focused view to the NBF as well as
the aforementioned store closures more
effort to combine the group’s substantial
fully supporting the entire UK-based
than offsetting the cost of new space and
customer databases (encompassing the M&S
bedmaking business in becoming more
shift towards the online channel.
credit card, Sparks and Ocado).
professional and profitable.”
Steve Rowe, Marks & Spencer’s CEO,
Marks & Spencer also revealed a plan to
comments: “We are deep into the first phase
devolve more decisionmaking to its store
for three years, and reports to the Flex
of our transformation programme and
managers, who will now have visibility of
Group, the company’s Madrid-based
continue to make good progress restoring
their own profits and losses.
owner, for all aspects of the business
the basics and fixing many of the legacy
worldwide – the UK represents 55% of
issues we face. As I have said, at this stage
progress” on saving costs, delivering
the group’s sales, and exports 45% of
we are judging ourselves as much by the
some £100m, during the year on top of
its output. Previously, he worked for
pace of change as by the trading outcomes
the operating costs of the closed stores.
four years as the company’s UK sales
and change will accelerate in the year ahead.
Profit before tax and adjusting items was
Jim has been at the helm of Vispring
director. Prior to joining Vispring, Jim was
“Whilst there are green shoots, we have not been consistent in our delivery in a
The retailer continues to make “good
down -9.9%, but the business’ net debt was reduced to £1.5b.
merchandising director at House of Fraser, firstly in womenswear and lingerie before moving into homewares
Minerva show praises bedmaker
and furniture. says Clive. “Our much-loved Pocketgel and Royal Backcare ranges were also on display
BFM to move to Oxfordshire
at the show.” Minerva’s group business manager, Roy Beagent, reports that the show performed well despite taking place against
The BFM (British Furniture
a backdrop of difficult trading conditions,
Manufacturers) has announced plans to
with “excellent” attendance levels from
relocate its office from The Exchange in Long Eaton to Bloxham Mill in
Sleepeezee’s team receiving Minerva’s award
Oxfordshire on 1st August. The new office is 10 minutes from Banbury with fast trains to Birmingham and London. The move concludes a project to
Fresh from launching a new range and marketing campaign, Kent-based bedmaker
develop a virtual workplace solution
Sleepeezee scooped the best stand award
following a review of operations
at the Minerva Members Furniture & Bed
by new MD, Nick Garratt. Internal
Show, an exhibition for the buying group’s
administration processes have seen
members, which took place at NAEC,
the introduction of a cloud-based
Stoneleigh last month.
document management system,
Furniture Group director Charles Charlton to
without the need for a physical space,
Sleepeezee’s sales and marketing director,
says Nick. Although the team will work
Clive Parry.
switchboard answering service.
FN363_Pages.indd 13
for the Minerva-organised Autumn Furniture Show, which is open to the wider trade and will take place at the same venue from 1st-2nd October, are “well ahead”.
The award was presented by Minerva
enabling the business to operate
remotely, the new office has a central
members. Roy also remarks that bookings
“We proudly presented our new Perfectly British Collection and its striking new PoS,”
28/05/2019 13:10
14 | News
Bed retailer increases capacity
Bazaar targets new business British soft-seating
Bed retailer Time4Sleep is opening a new £3.5m warehouse this month. The business, which operates online and from a showroom in Huddersfield, says the warehouse will drive growth and development. At 35,000ft2, the warehouse, located in the West Midlands town of Willenhall, has been designed specifically for handling beds and bedrelated furniture. The move will allow the company to triple its stockholding
Jen Hannant
Jen, who comes from a home
manufacturer Bazaar
improvement and wholesale retail
Group has appointed
background, says: “It’s a very busy time as
a new business
the new Eden is finalising new ranges for
development manager
2020 and Ayla is, in a sense, a brand new
to support its growing
company.
B2B arm.
Jen Hannant will oversee client-
“A large part of my role is getting out there, getting the brand known and showing
relationship management and tracking
how we can offer full support for new
new business for Bazaar’s educational soft
stockist partners. Ayla is a quality, well-
furnishings brand, Eden Learning Spaces,
designed range, so that’s half the battle, but
and Ayla the company’s first exclusively in-
it’s also about communicating the benefits it
store retail offering.
offers to retailers.”
capacity, enabling it to commit to next-working-day delivery on all stock items. The warehouse utilises new technology including narrow aisle, wire-guided trucks, solar panels to power the facility and electric car charging points for employees. CEO Jonathan Warren says: “In a period of financial uncertainty for the retail sector, our business continues to flourish. After 13 years of trading from our West Yorkshire base, this move will kick-start a whole new cycle of growth for our business. Providing a clean, modern working environment ensures we can continue to advance the quality of service to our customers throughout the UK.” The multi-million pound investment included funding from Yorkshire Bank.
Promotion and closure at AHF
Free repair and legal advice FIRA International’s Service Technicians
identification of possible issues in the
and The Furniture Ombudsman will deliver
production process.
a free joint learning session covering the
The consumer law section, delivered by
latest consumer legal updates, and the
Judith Turner, legal council and head of ADR
process of furniture inspection and repair
at the Furniture Ombudsman, will focus
when customers report a possible product
on consumer remedies in furniture and
defect.
home improvement cases, highlighting the
Taking place on 26th June at FIRA’s facilities in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, the event will include a mix of classroom-style
desirability of remedial works in the first instance. Trudi Dunn, operations manager at FIRA
sessions and hands-on workshops, in which
Service Technicians, says: “Consumers are
delegates will learn how the experts inspect
becoming more legally savvy and often
furniture and identify possible faults, while
turn to the internet for guidance, so by
trying out a range of repair techniques.
working with The Furniture Ombudsman
The sessions will specifically focus on
we’re aiming to support retailers and
upholstery, mattress and cabinet repairs.
manufacturers in understanding the latest
There will also be a focus on utilising
in consumer law.
photo-triage as part of a customer aftercare
“By knowing their rights, and the rights
programme, plus guidance on how good
of consumers, they can approach customer
reporting analytics can help the early
care issues in the correct way.”
Ikea’s new country manager
AHF has promoted Laura Chiddey
our business to ensure Ikea’s continued
to the post of commercial director.
success. Building on many years of solid
Laura worked as a buyer for DFS
growth, we are responding to the changing
from 2006-16, working as head of
needs of our customers to secure an Ikea
buying for the latter four years. She
that is affordable, reaches more people,
subsequently moved to Fabb Sofas, where she was appointed buying
Peter Jelkeby
director, before joining 18-store retailer
delivers excellent customer experience and is truly people- and planet-positive.” Swedish-born Peter returns to Ikea
AHF last August. She has also joined
Ikea has appointed Peter Jelkeby as country
having enjoyed an extensive career of over
the retailer’s board as an executive
retail manager to lead the UK and Ireland
20 years with the company in Sweden,
director.
business. Peter returns to Ikea from Swedish
Russia, Vietnam, and the UK and Ireland.
In other news, AHF MD Matt Hesketh
retailer Clas Ohlson where he worked for the
He started out at the company as a part-
states that the business’ Abingdon
past nine years, most recently as acting CEO.
time co-worker in his local store before
store is to be closed as the site is being
He takes over the role from Javier Quiñones,
joining Ikea Trading, and went on to secure
demolished and rebuilt from scratch.
who is joining Ikea USA as country retail
further experience across the business
“We are just finalising a deal to go
manager.
in positions including store manager at
into one of the new stores in the newly
Peter comments: “I’m delighted to return
Ikea Lakeside, sales and communications
built units, which should open in
to Ikea UK and Ireland at such a significant
manager, and deputy retail manager at Ikea
approximately 12 months,” he says.
point in our history, as we evolve and renew
UK and Ireland.
FN363_Pages.indd 14
28/05/2019 13:10
Full pagGallery
Introducing our new Outdoor Collection Discover our brand new Outdoor Collection;
OSMOND RETRO ARM CHAIR (2PK) W600 x D560 x H900mm
A diverse range of Outdoor Furniture and Wall Decor, perfect for adding a touch of style to your garden ahead of the warmer weather.
PEMBURY BISTRO TABLE W900 x D900 x H760mm
View our full collection online www.gallerydirect.co.uk 01795 439159
FN363_Pages.indd 15 Full page USE.indd 1 Gallery - June Issue FN.indd 1
28/05/2019 13:10 14/05/2019 16:36 Mon 13/05/2019 10:19:05
16 | News
Alstons certified for fire safety Essex-based upholstery manufacturer Alstons has been certified under the Furniture Industry Research Association’s Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture. Alstons passed an independent audit and showed that it has suitable processes and procedures in place to demonstrate due diligence compliance with the Furniture & Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations (FFFSR). MD Philip Grindrod says: “It was key for us to be part of the Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture as it enables us to demonstrate to our stockists that Alstons have a strong focus on compliance and due diligence. The auditor’s analysis of our processes and procedures throughout our entire production process was very in-depth, and passing the audit was a real achievement for the whole team.”
Debenhams plots CVA Debenhams’ creditors have approved the
Redesigned strategy, which proposed a
two CVA proposals presented by Debenhams
smaller UK footprint with better-quality
Retail and Debenhams Properties in April.
stores.
The proposals provide a mechanism to
£200m of fresh liquidity to Debenhams,
plan outlined by management in October
and have committed to equitise £100m of
2018 to reduce Debenhams’ 166-store
debt. The value recovery for shareholders
portfolio by closing around 50 stores, with
of Debenhams plc is expected to be nil,
22 closures set to begin next year, affecting
yet the retailer says that the CVA does
some 1200 employees.
not seek to compromise the claims of any
Debenhams says that further closures
creditors other than certain landlords, local
will be confirmed in due course, the
authorities and inter-company liabilities,
final number being dependent on future
and that all trade suppliers and the
trading performance, and discussions with
entitlements of employees will continue to
landlords regarding changes in lease terms
be paid in full during the process.
and rental levels, as well as with local authorities regarding business rates. Executive chairman Terry Duddy says: “The issues facing the UK high street are
Debenhams has confirmed the closure of its Lodge Farm warehouse. The 11 stores in the Republic of Ireland are not affected by the proposal.
very well known. Debenhams has a clear
“I am grateful to our suppliers, our
strategy and a bright future, but in order
pension stakeholders and our landlords
for the business to prosper, we need to
who have overwhelmingly backed our store
restructure the group’s store portfolio
restructuring plans,” adds Terry. “We will
and its balance sheet, which are not
continue to work to preserve as many stores
appropriate for today’s much-changed
and jobs as possible through this process.
retail environment.”
This is a further important step to give us
The group had previously outlined its
Cane specialist marks centenary
Financial creditors recently provided
restructure the store estate in line with the
the platform to deliver a turnaround.”
Dreams rolls out new technology
Cane and wickerware specialist Desser is celebrating its centenary this year with a series of events and promotions. The family-owned and run firm – now in its fourth generation – was founded in Manchester in 1919, and has since grown to become a leading UK supplier of rattan, wicker and cane conservatory furniture. Today, the company is based in a purpose-built warehouse and showroom in Cheetham. “One hundred years of continuous trading is a remarkable milestone for
Folowing an initial introduction in
sleep – and a bad mattress can be the
any business, particularly in today’s
November 2018, Dreams is rolling out its
main culprit. Yet we know the process of
harsh economic climate, and it’s an
unique mattress-matching technology,
picking a new mattress can sometimes feel
achievement of which we are very
Sleepmatch, to its 195 UK stores.
overwhelming and confusing.
proud,” says sales director Mark
The system analyses 18 measurements
“We don’t think it should be that
Stewart. “During the year we are
including height, weight, shoulder
way. That’s why we’re so proud of our
celebrating the centenary with our
width and preferred sleeping position,
Sleepmatch technology – the only system
many customers throughout the UK
and conducts 1000 calculations to pair
backed by science and specifically designed
with prize competitions, give-aways,
customers with the right mattress for them.
to make choosing the right mattress easier
fun days and celebrity events.
Further informed by Dreams’ Comfort
than ever.
“We will also be active raising
by Colour system, store staff will use the
“This nationwide rollout is a significant
money for our chosen charity, the
findings presented to better guide their
step towards helping more people to get a
Christie Hospital in Withington,
customers.
better night’s sleep.”
Manchester, which carries out amazing
Daniel Parsons, director of buying at
Globally, the technology has already
cancer treatment and research and is
Dreams, says: “Too many people in the UK
resulted in the creation of over 12 million
especially close to our hearts.”
are currently suffering from a poor night’s
profiles.
FN363_Pages.indd 16
28/05/2019 13:10
Full2718 pag
Full pageLectra USE.indd 2718 Made117 to Order Press Ad_A4_v9_OUTLINED.indd 1 FN363_Pages.indd
24/05/2019 09:23 23/01/2019 16:40 28/05/2019 13:10
18 | News
NBF champions social and ethical compliance
Charity installs new master Dids Macdonald OBE, CEO of the design
The National Bed Federation (NBF) is to extend
and intellectual
its Code of Practice to cover social and ethical
property membership
compliance. In a vote at its annual forum and AGM –
and campaigning
the association’s 107th – the NBF’s members voted
organisation Anti
unanimously to join the Fast Forward programme,
Copying in Design
which will involve all members being audited against
(ACID), has been
a rigorous set of statutory compliance criteria.
installed as the 58th
These include all aspects of employment,
master of The Furniture
including eligibility to work, national minimum
Makers’ Company, the
wage, employment law, health and safety,
City of London livery
mistreatment and access to remedy. It also covers
company and charity for
business structure and tax.
the furnishing industry.
NBF president Tony Lisanti says: “We are all
She succeeded Hayden
aware of the stories and rumours widely circulating
Davies, and is the second
about rogue businesses which do not behave in
female master in the
socially or ethical acceptable ways and who may even
company’s history.
be breaking the law. Members and their customers
Dids Macdonald OBE
The annual ceremony
– retailers – have been telling us that they would
took place at St Mary-le-Bow Church, followed by a dinner at Mansion House,
like to see our Code of Practice move beyond product
the official residence of the lord mayor of London. Around 220 guests were in
compliance and we wanted to find a way of helping
attendance, plus city dignitaries.
our membership clearly distance themselves from such rogue businesses.” The NBF will now embark on an 18-month programme, introducing the scheme, conducting
Dids says: “To represent the furnishings industry as master of The Furniture Makers’ Company is not only an honour but a huge opportunity to champion the outstanding work of this talented sector.” In a speech to guests, she announced that one of her focuses for the year
training and then audits, with a view to all members
would be increasing awareness of the company’s welfare support provision to
being audited by the end of 2020. The cost of the
industry workers, through the launch of a new campaign called One Step at a
first round of audits will be covered by the NBF.
Time.s “I plan on raising awareness about our charitable giving so that every
In addition, the NBF’s members also voted for the
single individual knows where to come if a curveball strikes,” she said. “As well
federation to sign up to a new initiative co-ordinated
as encouraging more women to join our ranks, I will do everything I can to raise
by the Gangmasters & Labour Abuse Authority
awareness about the looming skills gap crisis.”
(GLAA) – the Apparel and General Merchandise
The evening also saw The Christopher Claxton Stevens Prize presented
Public/Private Protocol – launched in November
to Marc Fish for his Vortex Table, while a Lifetime Achievement Award was
2018, which aims to bring together manufacturers,
awarded to Sir Terence Conran, one of the world’s best-known designers,
suppliers, retailers and a wide range of enforcement
retailers and restaurateurs.
authorities, including The Health & Safety Executive
Terence says: “In my heart I have always considered myself a furnituremaker,
and HMRC, in a proper exchange of information and
it has given me more pleasure than anything else during my rather long career.
intelligence to support targeted enforcement activity
As a very young boy I vividly remember the absolute joy of finally finishing
and investigations.
making my very own bookcase, and it has been in my bloodstream ever since.
Fast Forward audits to date have uncovered
“So it was truly thrilling to be recognised by The Furniture Makers’ Company
serious issues, particularly in the apparel sector,
and to enjoy a very special evening with fellow craftspeople who share my love
ranging from wholesale disregard for employment
of making furniture. One of my big fears is that as a nation we often appear
laws to practices that border on forced labour, such
to have lost the joy of making things, so it was uplifting to be surrounded by
as cash payments below National Minimum Wage,
passionate furnituremakers and see that the talent and passion in our industry
no contracts or paid holidays, benefit fraud collusion
burns as brightly as ever.”
and illegal workers. A support industry that exists to limit risk and hide criminal behaviour, such as fraudulent lawyers and accountants, false paperwork and money laundering, has also been uncovered.
Sofas & Stuff enters the Mailbox
“We hope that joining the protocol will give us a channel for reporting any similar concerns we
Hancrafted and bespoke sofamaker
Level 1, alongside the likes of Heal’s,
hear about in our sector and thus help to protect
Sofas & Stuff is set to open at the
Made.com, BoConcept, Calligaris, and
vulnerable and exploited workers, to disrupt
Mailbox, Birmingham. The new
Design Quarter.
exploitative practices and bring criminals to justice
3000ft2 showroom will be the
– but also to protect honest businesses who do
retailer’s 13th, and marks the brand’s
models, it will be home to a wide
the right thing and are being disadvantaged in
debut in the Midlands.
range of luxury and designer fabrics,
the marketplace as a consequence of such unfair competition,” concludes Tony.
FN363_Pages.indd 18
The showroom is located in the 20,000ft2 Home at Mailbox section on
As well as the retailer’s newest
so customers can customise their selections.
28/05/2019 13:10
Full pag
A WORLD OF INSPIRATION… Welcome to Light & Living. We know better than anyone else how you can create atmosphere with light and home accessories. Our goal is to constantly surprise our customers with new themes in decorative lighting, (small) furniture and home decoration. We have a strong marketing and styling team that pull together the very best concepts with lots of care and attention to detail. Our purchasing department carefully select the products and combine these products with different styles of living. The broad collection of Light & Living now inspires professional resellers in more than eighty countries. Be surprised by the inspiring world of Light & Living!
TO DISCOVER MORE ABOUT OUR INSPIRATIONAL COLLECTION, MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH YOUR AREA SALES MANAGER Contact SALES.ENGLISH@LIGHT-LIVING.NL Order the complete Light & Living collection at WWW.LIGHT-LIVING.CO.UK
Full page USE.indd 119 FN363_Pages.indd
07/05/2019 28/05/2019 13:19 13:10
FURNITURE NEWS DPS MAY 2019.qxp_Layout 1 22/05/2019 15:14 Page 1
The World’s No.1 bed brand... handmade in Cumbria.
Sealy Smart Fibres are endorsed by Allergy UK for the elimination of house dust mites.
FN363_Pages.indd 20 Double Page Spread.indd 1
28/05/2019 13:10
Sealy beds are handmade in the heart of Cumbria, on the edge of the Lake District. When you create something in such beautiful surroundings, it’s a constant reminder that you want things to stay that way. At Sealy, we have been making positive steps to prevent any waste material produced within our organisation going to landfill over the past decade. Ten years ago only 15% of the waste produced in the production of our beds was either recycled or sent to energy recovery. Today, we are Zero to Landfill from our site in Aspatria. We hope with that knowledge you’ll sleep a little easier.
www.sealy.co.uk FN363_Pages.indd 21
28/05/2019 15:57 13:10 22/05/2019
22 | Events
REVIEW
AMAZING SPACES A panoply of Long Eaton’s finest – plus guests – took to the Spring Long Point show to present sourcing and networking opportunities from the intimate surrounds of the town’s local showrooms. Paul Farley reports …
T
he sun shone on Derbyshire, as April gave way to May and 22 exhibitors put their new
lines to the fore. According to Andrew Mitchell – chairman of the Long Eaton Guild of Furniture Manufacturers, and the show’s de facto director – the event was a success, particularly given the current state of trade. Long Point majors in upholstery, with the likes of Westbridge, G Plan Upholstery and Steed Upholstery flying the flag for British-made, midmarket sofas. Yet the show’s cabinet component – from German bedrooms (Wiemann and Staud) to English Harrington Mill, home to many of Long Point’s exhibitors
reproduction furniture (Iain James Furniture) – is growing. Although bolstered by guest exhibitors and those seeking a
the trade during the biannual show,
and hospitality of a manufacturer’s
permanent presence in Long Eaton,
and there’s nothing like seeing new
home turf. It’s just one of owner Sofa
the event sits on a bedrock of local
product in its optimal setting.
Brands International’s showrooms
Take Duresta’s showroom on
in the town that’s open to the public
Eaton Guild – which predominantly
Fields Farm Road. Its opulent look
nearly all year round, proudly flying
comprises long-established upmarket
may be recreated accurately enough
the brand’s flag and giving customers
sofamakers – typically open their
at other exhibitions, but it’s hard
a better idea of how they can sell its
well-appointed factory showrooms to
to beat the atmosphere, intimacy
models in their own stores.
businesses. The aforementioned Long
Elsewhere, guild members such as John Sankey, Steed and Artistic Upholstery present their own highend collections to visiting retailers and interior designers. The town’s showrooms are just a short distance apart from one another, and make for a rewarding diversion from the event’s central hub, Harrington Mill. This expansive building houses the lion’s share of Long Point’s guest exhibitors, but has also seen its inhabitants lavish attention on their own spaces, which are often permanent. Carlton Furniture’s vintage stylings work particularly well, while Alexander & James’ creativity is beyond reproach. The latter wowed January Furniture Show’s visitors with a new Wonderland-themed look (winner of Duresta’s captivating showroom
FN363_Pages.indd 22
Furniture News’ Stand of the Show
28/05/2019 13:10
Events | 23
“We’re already in talks with some new companies regarding their participation in September’s event” award), and it can only be a matter of time before its Harrington Mill John Sankey offered inspired interior design directions
showroom enjoys a similar makeover. Award-winning bedroom manufacturer Wiemann (07787 106225, enquiries@wiemannuk. co.uk) enjoyed a successful show. Its permanent showroom on the first floor of Harrington Mill featured a selection of the company’s latest bedroom collections and innovations, ranging from entry level to the top-quality VIP. Taking centre stage was The Furniture Awards-winning Monaco, plus Misura, Kansas and Brussels. Simon Hewitt, MD of Litmus Furniture, Wiemann’s sole agent for the UK and Ireland, says:
Westbridge reports a good show
“Our perseverance at Long Point and Harrington Mill is paying off. We had a number of productive conversations with a greater number of customers than ever before. Our new showroom ranges and layout were well received, and we look forward to catching up with all the retailers who visited us.” Parties interested in visiting Wiemann’s showroom can do so by appointment. Just down the road from the mill is The Exchange, a new venue that’s home to CG specialist Orbital Vision. As well as show exhibitor Hugo Park, it’s also the
Misura combo slider in a white and pebble grey finish, Wiemann
new permanent base of operations for upmarket German bedroom furniture brand, Staud (see overleaf), adding further flavour to the locale. And Andrew is confident there’s room for further growth. “There’s certainly the capacity to house more exhibitors here,” he says. “Indeed, we’re already in talks with some new companies regarding their participation in September’s event.” To avoid clashes with a bank holiday and a buying group show, this year’s Spring Long Point occupied an earlier dateline than usual, and its organiser is yet to confirm when the 2020 edition will fall. In the meantime, Autumn Long Point will take place from 23rd-25th September.
www.longeatonguild.co.uk
FN363_Pages.indd 23
The show ended with a prize draw for a deluxe accommodation and meal package at Raymond Blanc’s Belmond Le Manoir Aux Quat’Saisons. Maggie Throup MP, chair of the All Party Parliamentary Furniture Group, did the honours – pictured are winner Robert Shotton of Cousins Furniture, with Andrew Mitchell
Alexander & James’ brand director, Michelle White, was presented with Furniture News’ Stand of the Show award for its display at the January Furniture Show
28/05/2019 13:10
24 | Events
REVIEW
OPENING NEW DOORS Visitors to this year’s Spring Long Point may have noticed a new name on the exhibitor roster. Upmarket German manufacturer Martin Staud is intent on setting a new standard for bedroom furniture in the UK, and has taken up permanent residence at The Exchange to start spreading the word, writes Paul Farley …
A
lready a household name in Germany, Staud can trace its roots as far back
as 1653, when Matthäus Staud opened a carpentry workshop in Bad Saulgau, near the German border with Switzerland. Fast-forward a few centuries, and Staud was purchased by furniturefocused investment group Vivonio in 2012. Since then, its turnover has risen from around €45m to €110m – but its owner is not content to stop there. Staud made an abortive attempt to enter the UK market 18 years
Bedside cabinets on display in Staud’s showroom
ago. Consequently, its new owner conducted extensive research before committing to returning – and it best export market for wardrobes,”
Exchange in Long Eaton (home of CG
says Michael. “Staud is making its
specialist, Orbital Vision). Michael
sales director Michael Tattersall and
biggest export investment in 10
explains that the new facility took
area sales manager James Wilson –
years right here – it’s a significant
approximately six weeks to install, but
both previously of Nolte Möbel, and
commitment.”
is pleased with the look his team has
shows. The new UK operation is fronted by
now overseen by UK country director, Sandro Zemunovic. “The UK is traditionally Germany’s
For evidence of Staud’s intentions, look no further than its new permanent showroom, situated at The
achieved. “It’s an excellent central location, and well equipped to show what we’re offering,” he enthuses. “As well as the Long Point shows, we’ll open the showroom for appointments – and we’ll be able to use The Exchange’s conference and hospitality facilities when we receive visitors.” The showroom houses Staud’s range of mid- to upper-level bedroom furniture, which is defined by three tiers of wardrobe system: Sinfonie Plus, a flexible, entry-level programme; Sonate, a higher-quality proposition; and, at the top of the line, Media. All proudly made in Germany from (mostly) German materials, the wardrobes favour sliding doors and glass fronts over hinges and wood, and make great use of frosted glass and innovative fittings to
Media in volcano with frosted glass, with a concealed TV on hydraulic riser mechanism
FN363_Pages.indd 24
deliver thoroughly modern bedroom solutions. The little details reflect how much
28/05/2019 13:10
Events | 25
Sinfonie Plus in light grey with Alpine white glass and crystal mirror
Left: An intuitive product configurator helps guide shoppers’ decisions
thought has gone into the range. A simple product configurator presents the available options, in print and digital formats – “stockists displaying at least three floor models will be supplied with a touchscreen TV for the configurator,” says Michael. Three wardrobe heights – 2m, 222cm and 240cm – mean more efficient use of space, no matter the size of the bedroom. And upon opening the doors, it is clear that as much thought has gone into the internals, with door reverses finished like the external carcass. “Staud were the first company to create sliding door wardrobes with drawers,” states Michael, “and they’re still way ahead when it comes to innovation.” A good example of this
“Staud is making its biggest export investment in 10 years – it’s a significant commitment”
is those models fitted with three kinds of TV unit – front mounted, cupboard
to me that there’s room for our
becoming a leading name in German
concealed and hydraulic riser.
product here.
bedrooms here in a matter of years.”
Then there’s the wide range of bedroom cabinet and beds on offer (all
“After establishing our presence in the UK, we’re looking forward to
E michael.tattersall@staudmoebel.de www.staudmoebel.de
in UK sizes, with some sporting FR upholstered headboards). It all works together so well, replete with nifty design features and encompassing
Sinfonie Plus in natural oak and sand glass
walk-in wardrobes, angled corner units and full-depth corners. Staud’s models are available on an eight-week lead time for delivery directly to the consumer, or four weeks to a warehouse. “We’ve already got some good accounts in the UK,” says Michael, “which we’ve achieved in part thanks to Staud’s impressive marketing materials and its great bedroom configurator. Staud has a huge desire to work in this market, and it’s clear
FN363_Pages.indd 25
28/05/2019 13:10
26 | Events
REVIEW
NEW VENUE, NEW EXPERIENCE FOR SINGAPORE EVENT This year’s International Furniture Fair Singapore (IFFS), which closed on 12th March, attracted 15,126 visitors – including 95 overseas buying delegations – from 87 countries.
T
he show, which took place in a new venue, the Sands Expo and Convention Centre,
Marina Bay Sands – and will do so for the next four editions – is recognised as one of Asia’s leading events for higher-end, designer product. A total of 204 exhibitors presented new products at this year’s show, which, along with the co-located ASEAN Furniture Show and Nook Asia, represented the entirety of the furniture, furnishing and interior design industries. “As the show continues to evolve amidst a challenging trade landscape, we progressively and sustainably reinvent the show to spot key trends, identify major challenges and
will elevate IFFS to the next level,”
(Belgium), Lumas Gallery (Germany),
propose alternative solutions to best
says Ernie Koh, chairman of show
Manutti (Belgium), PR Interiors
cater to the ever-changing needs of
organiser IFFS Pte Ltd.
(Belgium), Reeves Design (Vietnam),
tomorrow’s urban living. The change
FN363_Pages.indd 26
Exhibitors included brands such
Talenti (Italy), Tetrad (UK) and Woven+ (The Netherlands).
in venue has been a positive step
as Anno 13 (Belgium), Asiades (Hong
for us, as with the introduction of a
Kong), Deesawat (Thailand), District
new, exciting and relevant theme, as
Eight (Vietnam), Halo (Hong Kong),
from 9–12th March.
we welcome a myriad audience that
Koda (Singapore), Life Outdoor Living
www.iffs.com.sg
Next year’s edition will take place
28/05/2019 13:10
Minerva
S HOW 2019 SHOW
DATES F O R YO U R D I A RY … Now in its sixth year, this successful trade show now has a permanent home at Stoneleigh Park, near Kenilworth, Warwickshire. The impressive exhibition halls will feature beds & bedroom furniture, upholstery, cabinet, home office, mirrors, pictures, lighting, accessories, software. A must visit one stop furniture event.
TUESDAY 1st OCTOBER & WEDNESDAY 2nd OCTOBER 2019 G R EAT VENU E On show will be a wide variety of products from national and international suppliers
OPEN TO ALL FURNITURE RETAILERS CENTR A L L O CATI O N DAT ES & TIMES
L O CATI O N
TUESDAY 1st OCTOBER 9am - 5pm WEDNESDAY 2nd OCTOBER 9am - 4.30pm
STONELEIGH PARK near KENILWORTH, WARWICKSHIRE
WWW.T HEAUTU MNF UR NI TU R ES H OW.CO. U K Hosted by
FN363_Pages.indd MinervaJune19.indd 27 1
28/05/2019 24/05/2019 13:10 13:28
28 | Events
PREVIEW
LOOKING AHEAD TO SUMMER’S LIVELIEST SHOW Manchester Furniture Show (MFS) returns to Manchester Central from 14-16th July. More relaxed than its sister event, the January Furniture Show, MFS is already 90% sold out and once again features MidPoint – the show within a show, which promises to be full of exclusive designs from prominent brands …
E
xhibitors in the Main Hall and the MidPoint section include both regular and
new exhibitors with plenty to shout about – hundreds of new collections and dozens of additions to bestselling ranges, all ready to entice more than 5000 expected visitors. Just a few of the well-known UK and international brands showing their latest collections include modern Tate Charcoal Collection, Rowico UK
cabinet supplier ALF from Italy, Baker Furniture from the UK and Ireland’s Vida Living. Upholstery expert Italia Living, Poland’s Sits and the UK’s Westbridge and Whitemeadow brands will all have new models on show. In beds, UK luxury manufacturers Furmanac and Whitemeadow will launch new styles, and will be joined by Sweet Dreams with new mattresses and beds, and Arte N, showing new beds and co-ordinating bedroom
Augustine, La-Z-Boy UK
furniture. The Main Hall plays host to a large
Cabinet suppliers Ancient Mariner, Corndell, Global Home, Heartlands,
on-trend styles since the early 1970s,
those rapidly becoming regulars –
Heritage, Rowico and Value Mark
continually adapting as fashions
upholstery majors Alpha Designs,
regularly enjoy meeting their existing
and manufacturing methods have
Buoyant, La-Z-Boy and XYZ will
customers and making new ones at
advanced.
all return after previously enjoying
MFS, while experts in mixing furniture
successful shows, and will be joined
with decor items such as Bluebone,
show, event director Cleere Scamell
by relaxation and recliner expert
Derry’s, Pharmore and Wilde Java will
says: “We are anticipating a lively
Sherborne Upholstery this year.
also return.
MFS this summer. Our exhibitors –
Virginia, Sherborne
Looking forward to this year’s
After the success of MidPoint’s
both MFS and MidPoint – are experts
debut at MFS last year, the show will
at producing collections that are right
further establish itself as an essential
for the market and that buyers will
part of the event, with many favoured
love. Yet again the exhibitor line-up
brands picking up where they left off.
includes brands with great pedigree
Premium international brands ALF,
and great skills. We look forward to
Gala Collezione, Italia Living and Sits
welcoming all of our visitors to the
will show alongside UK brands Baker
UK’s most important and enjoyable
Furniture, Chelsom and Kesterport.
summer furniture event.”
Then there is new exhibitor
FN363_Pages.indd 28
Poland, which has been producing
number of MFS regulars, as well as
Entrance to MFS is free, and
Kler, a highly regarded multi-case
registration is now live.
manufacturer and supplier from
www.manchesterfurnitureshow.com
28/05/2019 13:10
29
1/2 page landscape.indd 1
14/05/2019 16:42
SOME PEOPLE LOOK FOR A BEAUTIFUL PLACE … SEE US THIS SUMMER AT THE MANCHESTER FURNITURE SHOW CENTRAL HALL A59 14 – 16 JULY
… OTHERS MAKE A PLACE BEAUTIFUL Tel: (0044) 3885 1509 Email: sales@derrys.com www.derrys.com 85 Teaguy Road, Annaghmore, Co. Armagh BT62 1LX DerrysJune19.indd 1
FN363_Pages.indd 29
07/05/2019 14:28
28/05/2019 13:10
FROM JUST
£19.99
ESSENTIALS I RA BEDROOM
ESSENTIALS I RAO DINING
FROM JUST
£32.50
ESSENTIALS I GAO DINING
Double Page Spread.indd 1 FN363_Pages.indd 30
28/05/2019 13:10
FROM JUST
FROM JUST
£32.50
£19.99
ESSENTIALS I GAO BEDROOM
FROM JUST
FROM JUST
£29.99
ESSENTIALS I RA DINING
£19.99
ESSENTIALS I RAO BEDROOM
LEAD THE CHARGE With ‘Essentials by Kettle Interiors’ you can enjoy fantastic value oak and painted furniture ready to lead the charge.
Whether dining, occasional or bedroom; ‘Essentials by Kettle Interiors’ is free from pricing policies, so you deliver the very best prices for your customers. Furniture from ‘Essentials by Kettle Interiors’ starts from just £19.99 Wholesale Any items from UK stock with free delivery from just £250
FN363_Pages.indd 31
Stockist Any items from UK stock with free delivery for a spend of £2,500
Order in the UK from Kettle Interiors 01536 444960 kettleinteriorsagencies.com Order in Ireland from Decor Furniture 028 3844 6000 decorfurintureltd.com
Container Any items with no deposit and delivery from just six weeks
Container prices displayed
Designed to deliver the ultimate combination of impressive quality and unbeatable value, ‘Essentials by Kettle Interiors’ has a style and item for every home.
20/05/2019 13:10 11:30 28/05/2019
32 | Resources
The pharmaceutical industry famously relies on patent protection, but is there also a place for intellectual property in the furniture trade? In the first of a new series from legal practice Abel and Imray, Sarah Phillips outlines the different forms of brand protection available to the industry …
How useful are intellectual property rights? Furniture design and production
for disclosing to the public what you have
necessary to prove actual copying – there
generates intellectual property in many
devised. The right is exclusive – you can
is no protection for independent creation of
different forms: the visual appeal of
prevent others from working your invention,
the same work.
individual products (for example tables,
but will still need to check for existing rights
chairs, cabinets and 2D patterns/surface
to be ‘free to operate’ in the field yourself.
Designs
decoration) is protectable by unregistered
At the end of the patent term, protection
Registered designs protect the appearance
and registered designs; the look of your
expires and the public may freely use your
of your product, and, aside from the product
websites, brochures and new software are
invention.
itself, cover things such as packaging, get-
protectable by copyright; and the technical
Patents therefore give you the certainty
up, graphics, surface decoration and parts for assembly into a complex product.
innovations (for example new fixtures and
of exclusive use of your invention for a
fittings, or methods of assembly) required
limited period of time, and during that time,
to make items function are protectable by
protect against independent generation of
new and have individual character – giving
patents, or may be retained as secret ‘know-
the same idea by a third party. In addition,
a different overall impression to previously
how’.
patents provide a tangible business asset
disclosed designs. Registered designs last up
that can be attractive to investors, and can
to 25 years from registration, providing a
and methods of manufacture, trademarks
be used to generate extra revenue, whether
monopoly right for use of the design.
allow you to protect and assert your brands.
through licensing or as a result of having
Aside from protection relating to products
To qualify for protection, designs must be
Registered design right provides many
exclusivity over the innovation. Of course,
of the same benefits as patents, but can’t
and kept confidential in the form of trade
having a patent also provides marketing
protect the function of an article – just its
secrets, can be a powerful way of retaining
value, and serves as a deterrent to potential
2D or 3D appearance. Unregistered design
valuable information inside your company
competitors.
right can arise automatically under certain
Know-how, when recognised as such
conditions, but lasts for a shorter duration,
for an indefinite period of time. Copyright
and doesn’t provide a monopoly right – so
information be leaked, it becomes public
Copyright arises automatically through
copying must be proved in order to establish
knowledge, and the options for protecting
the creation of a work, and protects the
infringement.
your intellectual property are greatly
expression of your ideas, rather than the
reduced. Know-how arises organically, and
ideas themselves. It arises in original 2D
Trademarks
can be lost – for example, as personnel
artistic works such as drawings, patterns
Registered trademarks protect your brand,
move on, taking with them their knowledge
and other graphic works, and photographs.
enabling your customers to identify you and
It also arises in literary works such as
to differentiate your products from those of
On the other hand, should the
and expertise.
computer programs. Importantly for the
others. They usually take the form of a word,
provides no protection against independent
furniture trade, there is also provision for
slogan or logo, but in certain circumstances
generation of the same ideas by a third
works of artistic craftsmanship.
can also cover shapes, colours and sounds.
Another drawback is that know-how
Since 2016, copyright bans replicas
Trademarks are registered for particular
of such pieces, thus protecting original,
goods or services – the more narrow the
and if commercially important, can be
high-quality works like the Eames DSW
category, the easier they are to obtain.
actively protected through registered rights,
chair and the E1027 side table. Copyright
or managed through internal confidentiality
outlasts other forms of protection, such as
existing rights, they are straightforward to
procedures.
design right, which might subsist in such
register in the UK.
party. Know-how can be captured and defined,
As long as they don’t conflict with other
designs, lasting for a considerable period Investing in IP can pay dividends in
Patents
of 70 years after the death of the author, or
Patents, on the other hand, provide a
50 years from the making of any computer-
the long-term – in the next article, I’ll
20-year monopoly for exploitation of your
generated work.
be looking at how IP can be valuable to
new technical innovations, in exchange
In order to assert copyright, it is
businesses in the furniture trade.
THE AUTHOR Sarah Phillips is a trainee patent attorney at London law practice Abel & Imray, and is writing on behalf of the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys (CIPA). E sarah.phillips@abelimray.com
FN363_Pages.indd 32
www.cipa.org.uk/find-a-patent-attorney/
28/05/2019 13:10
Full pag
• ADVERTISING – Most advertising does not work, so if
Generate 25%, 50% even 100% • PRODUCTS – Be ruthless with your precious floor space. of Your Annual Sales If a product or collection is not pulling its weight after being 2019 given a fair chance toYOUR shine, then clear it and replace it with a in Just 17 Days… better performing line. Test and measure the selling potential SUCCESS STRATEGY yours isn’t, stop wasting your money now and re-design your advertising campaigns using a benefits-orientated-style. Call Greenwood for effective copywriting know-how. 33
SEEK LUXURY.
ON TREN New head D boards and base s choice of in a fabrics and styles
of all your products in a Greenwood Sale.
5 ESSENTIAL WAYS TO MAXIMISE SALES PROFIT Will your JanuaryYOUR 2017 sales be theAND best month’s total
• SELLING SKILLS - Get good at does selling. Most retailers you’re going to see this year? • ADVERTISING – Most advertising not work very well.
If yours stop wasting yourprocess money now. blame don’t bother withisn’t, a proper sales orDon’t sales training. The the media, blame the message. Re-design your advertising Would you like to see sales of two, four, six or even successful ones do! Invest time and money in qualityeight sales in a benefits-orientated-style. Call Greenwood for effective times what is normally your best month? know-how.copywriting Call Greenwood know-how. to arrange an effective sales training course.
PRODUCTS Be ruthless your precious As• our clients –know verywith well (and willfloor tellspace. you),Ifthe a product or collection isn’t performing after being given a above sales results are not exceptional for a Greenwood fair trial, then clear it and replace it with a faster selling line. COMPETITION Check your competition to find out what Sale. They are–standard. You could enjoy such recordTest and measure the selling potential of all your products in a breaking sales Avoid results all-out too – with high margin they are offering. price wars. Bemaintained. sure to out-do Greenwood Sale.
•
Modern Living: Natural Touch High Spring Count Hand Side-Stitched Mattresses
your competition on the most relevant beneficial USP’s • SELLING SKILLS - Get good at selling. Most retailers don’t including choice, quality, value andforservice. Call The Greenwood employ a proper retail sales process big ticket goods. successful do. Invest time and money in quality to mysterymost shop your ones competitors.
Visit our showroom to view the Modern Living Collection one of the NBF Show’s most successful launches! · · · · ·
Spring counts from 1,000 – 12,500 Same week collection Next week UK delivery Natural fillings Available as Natural Touch or unbranded
DISCOVER THE FORTUNE training course for your team. • PROMOTION – Promote yourcompetition businessto effectively. Every •THAT COMPETITIONLIES – Check yourHIDDEN find out what IN they from are offering. Avoid price wars. Out-perform yourusing a good retailer Tesco to all-out Harrod’s does. Consider competition on the most relevant beneficial points including ‘Greenwood’ sales promotionBRAND… to increase sales, turn stock into YOUR choice, quality, value and service. Call Greenwood to mystery sales know-how. Call Greenwood to arrange an effective sales
orders@deluxe-beds.co.uk or call 01484 427 373 www.deluxe-beds.co.uk Deluxe Beds, Beacon Street, Birkby, Huddersfield, HD2 2RS, UK
cash and win market share, while protecting your profit shop future your competitors. at the same time. Call Greenwood!
1/4 page vertical.indd 1
22/05/2019
• PROMOTION – Promote your business effectively. Every good retailer from Aldi to Harrod’s does. Consider using a 14:35 Why not callsales me promotion today onto01565 a into free, ‘Greenwood’ increase650101 sales, turnfor stock cash and win future market share, while protecting your profitI can confidential, no-obligation business consultation? at the same time. Call Greenwood! outline sales projections and costs over the phone.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT GREENWOOD SALES... FIND OUT MORE
Limited bookings for 2017 and 2018 are now being taken ABOUT GREENWOOD Take aon look at our website or call us now on 01625 521010, a first come first served basis. TheSALES… best launch dates at ourenquiry, website or call now on 01565 , always gousfirst. or, sendTake ana elook mail and we’ll gladly650101 call you to
Centre of knowledge for the furniture industry
www.fira.co.uk/knowledge-hub
or, send an e mail enquiry, and we’ll gladly call you to discuss
discuss the exciting possibilities canobligation. offer you, the exciting possibilities we can offer you,we without To find out morewithout withoutobligation. obligation, or to book a sale, We are now booking Greenwood Sales right across the call now UK on and 01565 650101, or send an e mail and I’ll Ireland from autumn 2019 to mid 2020 gladly you. basis. on a first come call first served
We are now booking events right across the UK and Ireland for your sales earlycome to guarantee the rest Book of 2013 on event a first firstexclusivity served basis. for your business. Book your sales event early to guarantee exclusivity Why not find out more today? for your business. Call Bernard Eaton or Donald Currie on 01565 650101
Guides, Research, Standards Exclusive to members
GREENWOOD RETAIL LTD
GREENWOOD LTD Britain’s Leading Experts in RetailRETAIL Sales Promotion since 2002 LTD GREENWOOD RETAIL Britain’s Leading Experts in Retail Sales Promotion since 2002
www.greenwoodretail.com Britain’ssales@greenwoodretail.com Leading Experts in Retail Sales Promotion
sales@greenwoodretail.com
1/4 page vertical.indd 1 FN363_Pages.indd 33
www.greenwoodretail.com
1 Wilmslow House, Grove Way, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 5AG GreenwoodRetailJune19.indd 1 16/05/2019 14:57 13/05/2019 10:59 sales@greenwoodretail.com www.greenwoodretail.com 28/05/2019 14:46
34 | Resources
Whether we’re catching up with old friends on Facebook, sharing holiday snaps on Instagram or scrolling through Twitter in the morning for the latest news, social media has become part of our daily routine, writes Stuart Barker, portfolio director at Internet Retailing Expo (IRX), who explores the role these platforms are now playing in relaying brand and product information to customers …
Improving customer experience through technology Recent research by IRX found that social media influencers top the list of third parties who actively influence purchases – showing the truly significant impact they have on consumer decisions. These influencers have become more relevant to our shopping decisions than national newspapers, celebrities and fashion magazines. Yet, as influential as they are, brand is still king. Our research shows that consumers trust brands (45%) significantly more than online influencers (29%) for
“Our research shows that consumers trust brands significantly more than online influencers for shopping recommendations”
for providing the best delivery and returns service. Amazon’s rise shows the huge importance of fast and reliable delivery, with a smooth returns service, in building a successful online brand. When shopping online, consumers are able to benefit from tailored recommendations – an element that can be lacking in the in-store experience. Furthermore, online recommendations and promotions use data to ensure they are as personalised as possible, which in-store shopping struggles to compete with.
shopping recommendations – finding that promotions, advertising, and online and
when they could just get it now. This should
in-store experiences offered by brands have
encourage brands to boost their online
a difference in enhancing the in-store
more of an impact than online influencer
delivery options and offer convenient
experience for the customers – the use
campaigns. We’re used to the high street
return policies, enabling them to meet
of tablet computers for example, could
hitting the headlines each day, but it’s
the increasing expectation of instant
deliver the best of both worlds and excellent
encouraging news for any brand to see that
satisfaction that customers have when
customer service, linking the online
they still have the biggest influence over
buying products online.
and in-store shopping experience with
Online retail giant, Amazon, are a great
purchasing.
This is where technology could make
capabilities such as instant stock checks,
example of a brand that understands how
reserving goods, flexible delivery and
enough. Brands that are thriving in difficult
to get online experience right. According
tailored shopping recommendations based
times are those that go an extra mile with
to GlobalData, over half of Brits buy from
on previous purchases.
customer experience, for example, or
Amazon every month, with 84% of UK
through engaging marketing initiatives.
shoppers buying from Amazon last year.
ability to sway consumers into picking their
With one in every five pounds spent with
Their same- and next-day delivery services
products, and although a great marketing
UK retailers spent online, online experience
have led the way – research shows Amazon
strategy helps, maintaining a loyal customer
has become as important as in-store, and
topping the list of consumer-ranked brands
base means having excellent, friction-free,
However, having influence is still not
It is in every brand’s interest to have the
succeeding in an omnichannel environment
customer experiences online, in-store, or
means learning lessons from both.
both.
In-store shopping provides the
To achieve this, technology should be
opportunity to assess the quality of a
utilised at every step – whether it’s data
product before choosing to purchase, with
analytics in marketing, AI for personalised
recent research finding that 40% of female
product recommendations, in-store tablets
shoppers miss being able to experience the
or automated processes speeding up delivery
product’s look, feel and fit when they shop
and returns, the retailers defying trickier
online.
times will be those turning to technology to
The same goes for delivery – consumers question the need to wait around for days
augment promotions and recommendations strategies.
THE AUTHOR Stuart Barker is the portfolio director at Internet Retailing Expo (IRX), an annual ecommerce and digital marketing event and conference targeting multichannel retailers. The 2020 edition of IRX will take place on 1st and 2nd April at the Birmingham NEC. www.internetretailingexpo.com
FN363_Pages.indd 34
28/05/2019 13:10
Full page USE.indd 135 FN363_Pages.indd
20/02/2019 28/05/2019 15:29 14:47
36 | Profile
The new Fifty Five South showroom is well appointed and full of light
Luxury design’s new destination Premier Housewares’ luxury lifetyle brand, Fifty Five South, reports that it has spent over 12 months meticulously designing and renovating its new showroom, fussing over every detail to create a unique space that serves as the perfect backdrop for its collections … Housed next to the company’s headquarters
colours, plumping cushions, and so much
that you’ll find our photographers setting up
on the banks of the River Clyde in Glasgow,
more, we are delighted to announce that this
a lifestyle shot in the bespoke studio space,”
the showroom occupies an old industrial
new space is ready to receive visitors.”
Emma continues.
building, which has been painstakingly
With over 4000 unique Fifty Five South
“This spectacular location also offers
restored, with a view to maintaining
products currently in stock, and hundreds
the visual merchandisers a new canvas
its exterior character while completely
more being added every month, the new
upon which they can portray the constant
transforming its interior.
showroom provides space to present even
evolution of interior design. This creative,
more products and ranges. Visitors will find
energetic space is sure to leave you feeling
30,000ft2 showroom, and allows visitors
a selection of both established and emerging
inspired after each visit.”
to discover even more of the constantly
interior design trends, from glamorous art
evolving Fifty Five South collection.
deco styles to exotic Indonesian and cool
showroom was to create a destination for
mid-century modern.
buyers and interior designers looking to
This new space complements its existing
Exposed brickwork and original industrial fittings pay homage to the building’s
The whole experience is tailored around
heritage, while double-height ceilings,
the showroom’s guests, with 18 intimate
mezzanines, and a distinctive wedge-shaped
roomsets thoughtfully configured to flow
roof create a sense of drama. Flooded with
from one to the next.
natural light, the 25,000ft2 space “feels
As well as reflecting how the collections
Premier Housewares’ ambition with this
immerse themselves in the latest luxury furniture, lighting, and home accessories. “We’re proud to have created a completely unique, one-of-a-kind destination, and we’d love you to experience it for yourself.
vast, open and airy, inviting visitors to lose
complement and anticipate a variety of
themselves in our design-led furniture”,
design trends, the showroom also gives the
says the brand’s senior visual merchandiser,
company’s creative teams a new space in
tour,” concludes Emma.
Emma Carberry.
which to work.
T 0141 579 2000
“And, after obsessing over the latest paint
FN363_Pages.indd 36
“When you visit, there’s every chance
“Get in touch now to arrange a personal
www.premierhousewares.com
28/05/2019 13:10
FullAdve pag
PREMIER HOUSEWARES PRESENTS
THE NEW DESTINATION FOR LUXURY INTERIORS.
NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN. FN363_Pages.indd 37 Full page USE.indd Advert 2019.indd 1 1
• Over 14,000 product lines in stock • Over 100 new lines added every month • Fast lead times
PREMIERHOUSEWARES.COM 0141 579 2000 INFO@PREMIERHOUSEWARES.CO.UK
28/05/2019 13:10 17/05/2019 14:28 16/05/2019 15:42
38 | Profile
Bury
Craft master Striking a balance between modern and traditional production techniques, Covercraft Upholstery is a modest yet capable designer-manufacturer that has garnered a reputation for quality, service and creativity. Paul Farley visited Covercraft’s factory in Long Eaton to find out more from the company’s director, Stuart Simmons …
Founded in 1986 by Stuart’s father, Jeff,
including hessian, felt, high-density foams
gauge springs, while the backs – and some
Covercraft started life as a re-upholstery
and fibre, and de-quilled feathers.
more compact models – feature serpentine
business, before diversifying in 2000 to offer
The bulk of Covercraft’s seats feature
a well-rounded selection of finished sofas
traditional mesh coil springs on steel laths,
and chairs.
with areas of heavy use employing heavier
springs. Vulnerable areas such as corners feature solid blocks for extra durability. The construction of each model is efficient yet labour intensive, with
Last year, a further piece of the puzzle fell into place when the business acquired its
Covercraft’s skilled team utilising a range
own framemaking shop. Today, Covercraft
of skills to ensure quality and character is
operates from two nearby units and employs
present in every finished model. “Many of today’s upholstery
23 members of staff.
manufacturers have dispensed with the
Its independent portfolio boasts some 60 models, ranging from traditional to modern,
more traditional skills behind our craft,”
and these are dressed in fabrics (plus COM
says Stuart, “but, where they complement
and a few leathers) from textile houses
the process, these have been retained within
including Jim Dickens, Linwood and Art of
our team, handed down from generation to
the Loom.
generation.” Covercraft also offers bespoke design
Each piece is hand crafted, with most of the frames constructed from sustainable
and manufacture, and makes white label
hardwoods, and traditionally glued, screwed
collections for a range of clients, including
and dowelled. The fabrics are hand cut and pattern matched (with matching piping if appropriate), and tailored across fillings
FN363_Pages.indd 38
Emilie Georgia’s Mozart armchair, in Covercraft’s Long Eaton showroom
a growing number of customers in the contract sector. “Everyone’s got their niche,” says Stuart,
28/05/2019 13:10
Profile | 39
Salisbury
“but we do our best to turn our hand to whatever’s required of us. The bespoke element – being able to diversify when we need to – is key to what we do here.” There’s also a playful side to Covercraft. Taking pride of place at the showroom’s entrance is the Mozart armchair, a specially developed model emblazoned with an
“We do our best to turn our hand to whatever’s required of us. Being able to diversify when we need to is key”
Since emerging onto the scene at New
needs, and we pride ourselves on being able to do that at the best possible value.” A growing number of customers is coming to realise Covercraft’s abilities, ensuring a healthy order pipeline and likely further growth. “Our customers appreciate the quality of
eye-catching printed fabric from up-andcoming textile designer Emilie Georgia.
“Alongside our stock portfolio, we’re able to deliver pretty much whatever the client
marries graffiti and watercolours, is one of
our output – and our service. We’re happy to
her more left-field creations, but it makes
go the extra mile to help out if necessary,”
Designers 2016, Emilie has worked with
for a great statement piece, and also conveys
concludes Stuart.
the likes of John Lewis and Sofas & Stuff.
a measure of Covercraft’s attitude. “It’s all
T 0115 973 6111
Mozart, a brash contemporary design that
about capability,” says Stuart.
www.covercraftupholstery.com
Benson chair and Bedford sofa
FN363_Pages.indd 39
28/05/2019 13:10
FN363_Pages.indd 40 1 CFMMay19_DPS.indd
28/05/2019 13:10
FN363_Pages.indd 41
28/05/2019 04/04/2019 13:10 09:43
BEDS & BEDROOM
42
With the striking style and impressive value of GAO Bedroom Cambridge, from award-winning manufacturer Wiemann
from Essentials by Kettle Interiors (01536 444960, sales@
(www.wiemannuk.co.uk), breaks from the traditional German
kettleinteriorsagencies.com), retailers can deliver impactful
norm. “Since its launch at this year’s January Furniture Show,
special offers, store promotions and eye-catching everyday value. Featuring a warming and soothing natural oak finish, rounded
Cambridge has been really well received,” says Simon Hewitt, MD of Wiemann’s UK agent, Litmus Furniture. “It offers all the
corners with bevel detailing to tops and tapered legs, GAO
practicality and flexibility you’d expect from a Wiemann hinged
Bedroom sets a stylish mood, with a look that promises to work
robe but with a classic, British Shaker-style design. It’s something
in almost any setting. Thoughtful details such as brushed metal
quite different from us, just for the UK market – and quite the
handles complete the look.
surprise!” Cambridge is available in widths from 100-300cm and twoto six-door compilations – along with the option of matching bedside and storage chests. The contemporary range comes in
With 12 pieces made to fit today’s modern homes, the GAO Bedroom collection’s high value and price proposition is set to impress retailers and homeowners alike. Like the rest of the Essentials by Kettle Interiors collection, GAO
a choice of three finishes – champagne, havana or white – and
Bedroom is available with fast delivery across the UK through the
mirrored doors are also available.
supplier’s Wholesale, Stockist and Container packages.
IRISH FURNITURE & HOMEWARES SHOW 2019
BRINGING YOU THE BIGGEST
TR O AD N E LY
FURNITURE BRANDS IN THE IRISH MARKET
INVITING ALL RETAILERS
If you are a retailer, contract buyer or indeed any trade customer that needs to buy or source new, innovative furniture and homeware products, then the IFHS is where you need to be with all the top suppliers in the industry.
REGISTER TODAY FOR FREE
24TH - 27TH August 2019 | The National Show Centre, Dublin | www.ifhs-tradeshow.ie 1/2 page landscape.indd 1
FN363_Pages.indd 42
16/05/2019 15:28
28/05/2019 13:11
Full pag
FN363_Pages.indd Full page USE.indd 43 1
28/05/2019 09/05/2019 13:11 10:04
44 | Beds & Bedroom
20
Ranj took to the in-house bowling alley with the event’s visitors
Last month, Sleepeezee (01634 723557, www.sleepeezee.com) invited
The research also found that customers are often confused by
a number of its retailers and partners to an event at London’s Ham
technical jargon, and that the three most important factors deciding
Yard Hotel to present its new brand strategy and website. It also
a bed purchase are price, size and comfort level.
took the opportunity to launch its Perfectly British Collection of
Sleepeezee’s new website puts these factors to the fore, allowing
mattresses – each of which is made using materials sourced from
customers to filter their options based on personal criteria.
around the UK – and introduce its partnership with new brand
Additionally, it supports and drives footfall to Sleepeezee’s partner
ambassador, TV personality, author and NHS practitioner Dr Ranj
retailers, by helping customers find their nearest stockist after
Singh, who previously worked at Sleepeezee’s factory in Kent.
specifying their ideal bed.
Sleepeezee recently completed an extensive consumer insights
The company also presented its new brand campaign – everything
project into how the British public shops for beds. The findings
is easy when you Sleepeezee – which promotes the impact of a good
identified a number of common pain points in the bed-buying
night’s sleep on health and wellbeing the next day.
process, and at the event, Sleepeezee presented its solutions to
This dovetailed into the brand’s exclusive partnership with Ranj,
overcoming these and other common barriers along the purchase
who gave an insightful speech into the importance of sleep, and
journey.
revealed five practical ‘sleep hacks’ to ensure a soothing night’s rest.
Or
1/2 page landscape.indd 1
FN363_Pages.indd 44
08/05/2019 10:42
28/05/2019 13:11
Romexp
th th 12thth--15 15 SEPTEMBER 2019 12 SEPTEMBER 2019
2018 �d�������������� 2018 �d��������������
ROMEXPO ROMEXPO
12 - 15 SEPTEMBER 2019 th
th
ROMEXPO
14,000 14,000 v������� 14,000
19% 19%
2018 �d��������������
19%
f����g� ��mp�����
v�������
f����g� ��mp�����
f����g� ��mp�����
v�������
270 270 270 ����������������������� ����������������������� �����������������������
27,221 27,221 27,221 �qm �f �����d �qm �f �����d �������������� �qm �f �����d �������������� ��������������
Organizer:
Co-organizer:
Organizer: Organizer:
Co-organizer: Co-organizer:
RomexpoJune19_FP.indd 1 FN363_Pages.indd 45
���m���������
���m���������
���m���������
REGISTRATION IS STILL COUNTING, ������� ��� REGISTRATION IS STILL STILL ��� ��g���z���� IS REGISTRATION COUNTING, ��� COUNTING, ������� ������� ��� tttttttttttttttt@ttttttttxtttttttttt ��� �����g���z���� ��g���z���� htttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt tttttttttttttttt@ttttttttxtttttttttt tttttttttttttttt@ttttttttxtttttttttt htttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt Partner: htttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt Partner: Partner:
Main media partner:
Main media partner: Main media partner:
15/05/2019 13:11 08:28 28/05/2019
46 | Beds & Bedroom
Activ Gel Pocket 2800, in a peat colourway
BEDS BUILT WITH THE ENVIRONMENT IN MIND At a time when protecting the environment is more important than ever, it has never been more vital for companies to do what they can to limit the impact their processes have on the environment, believes bedmaker Sealy UK … Sealy UK has undertaken a number of
encouraging biodiversity, the planting
effect that manufacturing can have on the
initiatives to minimise any adverse
demonstrates Sealy’s commitment
environment, Sealy has made a pledge to
environmental effects caused as a result of
to environmental education, and the
minimise adverse environmental effects as
its products – from operating a zero-to-
company’s aim to reduce its impact on the
a result of its production, with a zero-to-
landfill policy to gaining Carbon Neutral
natural world.
landfill policy.
Handmade in Cumbria
resources and energy, Sealy seeks to reduce
consumers are finding it easier than ever to
Sealy possesses a rich heritage that dates
wastage to the lowest practical level, with
be environmentally friendly when buying a
back to 1881, and its beds are now handmade
products now being designed in such a way
new mattress.
in the heart of Cumbria. Based in a village on
as to minimise their environmental effects
the edge of the Lake District, the factory’s
in production, usage and disposal.
Through minimising the use of materials,
status last year. Together, these initiatives mean that
Neil Robinson, Sealy’s marketing director,
Carbon Neutral status
natural surroundings are a constant
Last year, Sealy was awarded Carbon Neutral
reminder that the natural world should stay
says: “It’s never been more vital for
status – a result of balancing its carbon
that way.
companies to step up and review their own
emissions by funding an equivalent amount
All Sealy mattresses are handmade by
practices when it comes to the environment.
of carbon savings elsewhere. The move
a dedicated team of professionals, with
We’re always looking for new ways in which
has seen the company become a Carbon
consideration given to the environmental
we can minimise adverse effects on the
Neutral organisation in both production and
effects of raw material sourcing. The
environment by constantly reviewing our
distribution.
company aims to use materials that are
manufacturing and distribution policies,
renewable and recyclable whenever possible,
and believe this is a vital step in tackling the
teamed up with Carbon Footprint to plant
helping minimise harmful effects on the
environmental issues in our industry.”
over 350 native broadleaf tree species at
natural environment.
As part of this initiative, Sealy recently
School in Wigton. As well as creating wildlife habitats and
FN363_Pages.indd 46
For more information about Sealy’s environmental policies, visit the company’s
St Matthew’s Church of England Primary Zero-to-landfill pledge
website.
Conscious of its carbon footprint and the
www.sealy.co.uk
28/05/2019 13:11
Full pag
All Celebrity ZipSPEED ranges have been reengineered to include Mammoth Medical Grade™ Foam Seating Technology as standard. *Fabric models only. Includes fixed chairs and settees
Tel: +44(0) 1623 440626
FN363_Pages.indd Full page USE.indd 47 1
www.celebrity-furniture.co.uk
info@celebrity-furniture.co.uk
28/05/2019 13/05/2019 13:11 08:41
I
48 | Beds & Bedroom
BREASLEY SECURES ROLLED MATTRESS SUPPLY DEAL Leading UK producer of vacuum-packed, rolled and boxed mattresses, Breasley, has been appointed the exclusive supplier of the new Brook + Wilde Elite mattress range for bricks-and-mortar retailers. Brook + Wilde is a new British luxury sleep
pocket springs to support the individual
reputation for customer service. Brook +
brand that offers an innovative range of
movement of the sleeper. The mattress
Wilde is a nice addition to our higher-end
mattresses, and is aiming to take comfort
requires no turning or rotation and comes
rolled mattress collection and delivers an
and design in the rolled mattress market to
with a 10-year guarantee.
exceptional level of comfort and choice.”
a new level.
In partnership with Breasley, the Brook
A spokesperson for Brook + Wilde adds:
+ Wilde Elite collection is available with
“We are pleased to have Breasley on board
for everyone, consumers are given a choice
a choice of headboards and bed bases
in order to help us grow the retail base for
of soft, medium or firm comfort levels. Each
from Breasley’s luxury Salus collection –
Brook + Wilde. Breasley are well known
mattress consists of eight layers, which
including the new ottoman storage base,
within the retail bed market and have the
work together to provide high levels of
as well as standard divan bases with other
routes to market to help us grow our brand
functionality, comfort and support.
storage options – and it has its own choice
and achieve our ambition of offering levels
of plush fabrics.
of luxury and comfort unheard of in the
Rejecting the notion of one mattress type
These include: a removable, washable cover; a thermo-regulating top layer
Rob King, Breasley’s sales director,
rolled mattress sector, and building on our already successful online boxed mattress
which provides a higher level of moisture
comments: “We are delighted to have been
evaporation, keeping the sleeper cool and
selected by Brook + Wilde as the exclusive
product, Brook + Wilde Premium.”
comfortable; advanced wave technology to
supplier of the Elite mattress range for
T 01629 823680
support shoulder and hip alignment; and
bricks-and-mortar retailers, based on our
www.breasley.co.uk
FN363_Pages.indd 48
28/05/2019 14:49
Full pag
Importer Wholesaler Nationwide Delivery Beech and Oak Chairs Cheape i come RAW and FINISHED Fonr QthueaUlisKtt Chairs! y
Slat Chair
Carver Slat Chair
Spindle Chair
Carver Spindle Chair
Fiddle Chair
High Slat Chair
High Spindle Chair
High Fiddle Chair
Low Stool
High Stool
Spindleback Chair
Carver Fiddle Chair
£29.99
£34.99
£34.99
Oak Chair 004
With Leather Seat Cover
£44.99
www.
£39.99
£34.99
£29.99
£34.99
Oak Chair 001
£26.99
Oak Chair 002
£39.99
With Leather Seat Cover
With Leather Seat Cover
Oak Chair 005
Oak Chair 006
Oak Chair 007
With Leather Seat Cover
£44.99
£44.99
Regent CHAIRS.co.uk
www.regentchairs.co.uk FN363_Pages.indd 49 Full page USE.indd 1
£39.99
£44.99
£44.99
£44.99
£29.99
£28.99
Oak Chair 003
With Leather Seat Cover
£44.99
Oak Chair 008
With Leather Seat Cover
£44.99
Chairs Come in a Variety of Colours!
Please call for any enquiry
07946 757420 open 7 days 8am – 9pm 28/05/2019 14:17 13:11 22/05/2019
OPINION
50
When you wish upon a star
H
aving a celebrity-endorsed collection may seem a sensible
Tom Bourne Creative director, Select First (industry PR)
Now, a wiser move might be to look at commissioning well-known
move towards gaining a lift in sales and leveraging some
designers to come up with a range, and indeed on the surface it’s
kudos, but I’m really not sure that having such a close
probably a more sensible decision for those involved directly in
relationship is a particularly good thing for any brand – and here’s
product design and manufacturing. Getting a designer with a relatively mature level of fame to design
why. Firstly, celebrities are a fickle bunch, and in a badly timed
a new coffee table or lamp – everyone loves a designer lamp - might
revelation they can go from A-lister to Z-lister in a flash – whatever
even be considered by some as a canny move. However, it’s also one
happed to Tulisa? Of course, most furniture and flooring brands
with potential complications.
aren’t after Hollywood stars or even X-factor judges, but the same is
Design is hugely personal, and just because a product bears
true of even some of our most treasured home and lifestyle TV celebs,
the name of someone like Tom Dixon or even Virgil Abloh (Ikea
with impropriety leading to a potentially epic downfall a genuine risk.
references here), it isn’t necessarily any more attractive. Home
Even if your chosen celeb manages to stay out of the headlines for
interiors are not fashion, and people tend to look at purchases as
the wrong reason, there’s an inevitable peak and more worryingly,
a longer game. If the bed fits the style of the home, then it really
a subsequent gradual decline to their career. Strike it lucky and you
doesn’t matter who’s designed it. In effect, a designer won’t be
might hit them on the way up and ride on their coat-tails for a good
enough of a reason to purchase something – so what does a designer
few years – get it wrong and you might well ride the wave straight
range actually bring to the long-term brand picture? It is more a question of raising profile in an immediate and instant
into obscurity. Joining them at their peak means they likely know their own worth
way – changing brand perception by proxy, if you like. It could work
and will want to cash-in, demanding an eye-watering fee and then a
as a flash approach to getting profile in lifestyle media and on social,
healthy percentage of any sales bearing their name. Partnering with
but sustaining a long-term brand perception shift this way is almost
them on the way down because you got a deal … well, then you’ve
impossible – unless you can keep reinventing and bringing out new
only got yourself to blame.
product from the designer on a frequent cycle, something that is
When you think of the two biggest stars in UK home and lifestyle TV, Kirstie and Phil (who doesn’t love an episode of Love It or List It,
costly and not feasible for most manufacturers. Also, it probably goes against the designer’s desire – don’t forget,
even if Kirstie wins nine times out of 10 because who of sane mind
they have their own brand to nurture, too – so it’s an unlikely
would move after spending £50k on making their home perfect?), I
premise anyhow. After a brief reinvigoration and moment in the
have absolutely no doubt they would demand a six-figure up-front
spotlight, an exciting launch and maybe an award, the hype soon
fee, and anywhere north of 10% of profits on sales. Getting someone
dies, and what remains is the longevity and saleability of the product.
at the top of their game is not a cheap way to brand success. For some, though, the gamble is worth taking – particularly in
And so we’ve come full circle – what ultimately remains is the design of the product (of course, it could be argued that good
the competitive world of retailing where big brand stores compete
designers will, by nature, deliver you a good design that has genuine
for every bit of attention across broadcast, online and print. Phil
functionality and beauty, but that’s a whole other debate).
Spencer’s voice-over on the Wickes advert certainly makes me
When it comes to collaborative efforts there are many successful
feel warm inside, but does it really give me impetus to rush out to
ones, but these generally reside in companies and designers with a
Wickes? And anyone remember DFS’ Linda Barker collection? See – I
symbiotic approach to product, echoing similar ambitions and with a
told you it was a risky game.
similar sense of craft and making.
Don’t be fooled into thinking it’s a two-way street, either. There
Yet these are collaborative ways of working to achieve a goal,
is little or no elevation in a celebrity’s status by working with brands
rather than an endorsement as we understand it, and this is a
in the home and lifestyle sectors, it is merely them cashing in and
different thing entirely. Here, where mainstream meets celebrity, I’m
making money while the spotlight remains bright.
just not sure the two go hand-in-hand.
Even if your chosen celeb manages to stay out of the headlines for the wrong reason, there’s an inevitable peak and more worryingly, a subsequent gradual decline to their career Got a view you’d like to share with the trade? Get in touch with the editor at paul@gearingmediagroup.com
FN363_Pages.indd 50
28/05/2019 13:11
Buoyan
www.buoyant-upholstery.co.uk www.buoyant-upholstery.co.uk www.buoyant-upholstery.co.uk www.buoyant-upholstery.co.uk Telephone 01282 691631 Telephone 691631 Telephone - 01282 Telephone 691631--01282 01282 691631
www.buoyant-upholstery.co.uk Telephone - 01282 691631
COME AND SEE US ATAT THE MANCHESTER COME AND COME SEE AND US SEE THE US MANCHESTER AT THE MANCHESTER COME AND SEE US AT THESHOW MANCHESTER FURNITURE SHOW FURNITURE FURNITURE SHOW
FURNITURE SHOW
Buoyant Upholstery build over over a century’s worth of knowledge, experience Buoyant Upholstery Buoyant build Upholstery a century’s build worth over aofcentury’s knowledge, worth experience of knowledge, experience and quality into every piece of furniture we make. and quality into every and quality piece of into furniture every piece we make. of furniture we make.
Buoyant Upholstery build over a century’s worth of knowledge, experience COME AND SEE US AT THE MANCHESTER and quality into every piece of furniture we make. FURNITURE SHOW Buoyant Upholstery build over a century’s worth of knowledge, experience and quality into every piece of furniture we make.
SRoko tellS ate
Roko lla
SRoko tella
Khaleesi rovePnrcoevence PKhaleesi
e Khaleesi Provenc
SRoko tella ella Roko Stand B70 at Manchester Central Stand B70 Stand at Manchester B70 at Manchester Central Central ence St
Khaleesi Prov 14th - 16th JulyJuly 2019 14th - 16th 14th - 2019 16th July 2019 e Khaleesi Provenc
We will aWe new & be exciting collection & collection Webe willlaunching be launching will a new & launching exciting collection a newof & sofas exciting of sofas & of sofas & accent pieces to compliment our existing range. accent pieces to compliment accent pieces our toexisting compliment range. our existing range.
Stand atManchester Manchester Central Stand B70 B70 at Central 14th 16thJuly July2019 2019 14th --16th
MADE INMADE THE UK IN THE UK
MADE IN THE UK
We new&&exciting exciting collection of sofas Wewill willbe belaunching launching aanew collection of sofas & & accent tocompliment compliment existing range. accent pieces pieces to ourour existing range.
MADE IN THE UK
MADE IN THE UK
FN363_Pages.indd BuoyantJune19.indd 51 1
28/05/2019 17/05/2019 13:11 14:23
LIVING ROOM
52
Nido snuggler
WHAT IT TAKES TO BE TOP DOG For Alpha Designs Upholstery, coming Highly Commended in this year’s edition of The Furniture Awards was just the latest stepping stone towards widespread recognition in the sector. Furniture News talks to Charlotte Floate, director of the Bilston, Wolverhampton-based business, about her lauded entry and the business’ trajectory …
Alpha was founded as a wholesaler in 2008 by Constantino Xydhias, and began manufacturing its own models soon after. Since its inception, the family-run business has taken great strides towards becoming a sought-after supplier to the trade, offering an engaging contemporary upholstery line that marries comfort and style. Pipped to the post by Parker Knoll in the Upholstery Category of The Furniture
“Achieving such an award … really does motivate us to continue to be creative and confident in the direction we choose”
change for the business. We strongly believe that we need to continually invest in the best working practices, people and product development to be able to gain momentum whilst really adhering to our underlying values of providing flexibility, quality and service. “We are currently increasing our development team substantially, working on a works processing system and updating our
Awards this year, Alpha put its best foot
working environment.Factory-wise, we’ve
forward with Nido, a collection which
further invested in our development team
combines contemporary design with a traditional fabric treatment. Available with pillow or traditional backs, with contrast
HIGHLY COMMENDED
THE FURNITURE
AWARDS 2019
much on-trend.” This flexible line comprises four-, three-
new technologies to enhance the working “Our showvans are out doing the rounds,
– attracted praise from the judges, who shape, displayed in a colourway that’s very
facilities, and are currently investigating environment.
or self piping, Nido – Italian for ‘nest’ commented: “Comfortable, a great frame
and facilities, along with new warehousing
10-year frame guarantee. Its manufacturer has its sights firmly set on growth through investment – yet never at the expense of integrity, explains
showing a mix of product launched at the NEC and beforehand to existing and potential customers.” Prior to receiving the accolade at this
and two-seater sofas, plus complementary
Constantino’s partner, Charlotte: “This
year’s January Furniture Show, Alpha came
snuggler and footstool, and comes with a
year will be another year of growth and
Highly Commended in 2018 for its eye-
FN363_Pages.indd 52
28/05/2019 13:11
Living Room | 53
catching entry, Tiffany. “Being chosen as a Highly Commended entrant for the second
Nido three-seater with traditional back
year in a row is an amazing accolade,” enthuses Charlotte, “and really enhances the feeling of achievement and pride that all of our development team feel. “Achieving such an award in a category that attracts so many long-established industry names really does motivate us to continue to be creative and confident in the direction we choose. “The show always provides us with the best platform to display our product, and has really helped to establish our name within the industry. The overall reaction to the presentation of our business and our new products this year was extremely encouraging, and in a tough climate we can only further strive to be the best at what we do and to entice people to trust us to deliver new product design, accompanied by great customer service.” Alpha will be present at the Manchester Furniture Show next month, where it plans to introduce several new models.
T 01902 492937 E barry@alpha-designs.co.uk Product suppliers exhibiting at the January Furniture Show in 2020 can find out more about how to enter The Furniture Awards at www.januaryfurnitureshow.com/thefurniture-awards.
Nido four-seater pillow-back sofa
FN363_Pages.indd 53
28/05/2019 13:11
54 | Living Room
Hayward velvet sofa
JULIAN BOWEN INNOVATES TO IMPRESS Julian Bowen is one of the UK’s leading furniture wholesalers. The company is based in Nottinghamshire at the centre of the UK’s transport network, and has been the recipient of numerous industry awards in recent years, in recognition of its broad capabilities and industry-leading customer service.
Julian Bowen’s ethos is based on a commitment to offer the highest-quality
Mila chair in teal
providing an eye-catching accompaniment to immaculate pale oak tops to create a
product in the marketplace across the
range that sits equally well with traditional
widespread categories, styles and price
and contemporary decor. Julian Bowen’s accomplished upholstery
points at which it sells. This is underpinned by a deep investment in its supply chain
offering also continues to grow. The stylish
over many years, which includes an
new Hayward sofa range exudes quality,
extensive quality control team in the UK
combining strong craftsmanship with a
and around the world, plus long-term
timeless design in a soft, tactile grey velvet,
relationships with specialist manufacturers.
while the Mila accent chair hits a smart
The team at Julian Bowen is focused on
contemporary note, combining a metal
a constant programme of innovation which
frame with a sleek, modern shape, and
has resulted in significant growth in the
presented in a choice of velvets in classic
number of ranges offered by the company
grey or on-trend teal. Children’s furniture is an acknowledged
in recent years, while an extensive new product pipeline is under development to
strength of the business, and a significant
ensure even greater choice for customers
focus for the in-house design team. Its
and a solid platform for sustainable growth.
latest offerings are off to a strong start in the marketplace, with the Jupiter mid-
Recent newness has been well received in the marketplace. The Brooklyn living
sleeper, offered in both pure white and grey
and dining range, which combines solid
oak finishes, performing notably well, and
oak with a gunmetal finish, is accompanied
consumers warming to its combination of
by a range of industrial-style chairs and a
functionality and crisp styling. The company is particularly excited about
bench, and has proved particularly popular, with extensions to the range already in
current developments in its kids’ range, and
development.
will unveil a number of innovative products in the coming months.
The success of the company’s existing
Visit the website to explore the full range
Richmond dining collection, finished in dove
of Julian Bowen products.
grey, has been followed with the same range now presented in a striking midnight blue,
FN363_Pages.indd 54
Richmond sideboard in midnight blue
www.julian-bowen.co.uk
28/05/2019 13:11
Full pag JB 2205
Julian Bowen
Brooklyn Dining
Bentinck House, Park Lane, Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Notts NG17 9LE Tel: (01623) 727374 Fax: (01623) 754555 e-mail: sales@julian-bowen.co.uk www.julian-bowen.co.uk All Products are available for Direct Home Delivery FN363_Pages.indd 55 Full page USE.indd 1 JB 220519 FN 297x216.indd 1
28/05/2019 24/05/2019 09:24 22/05/2019 13:11 17:34
DINING ROOM
56
Available from Essentials by Kettle Interiors (01536 444960, sales@
extending models), four sideboards, and a range of occasional pieces
kettleinteriorsagencies.com), the stylish GAO Dining collection
including three sizes of TV units. Featuring a natural oak finish,
represents impressive value for modern oak furniture, and is ready
rounded corners with bevel detailing to tops and tapered legs, as well
to lead the charge on promotions, window displays and in-store
as brushed metal handles, every piece in the collection is packed with
incentives.
stylish detail.
Comprising 21 items well-proportioned for today’s homes, GAO Dining features three sizes of dining table (two of which are
GAO Dining is now available through Kettle’s Wholesale, Stockist and Container services, with fast delivery across the UK.
M&P Chairs Limited WWW.MANDPCHAIRS.CO.UK
110 - Slat Side (& High Back) Chair
111 - Spindle Side (& High Back) Chair
112 - Fiddle Side (& High Back) Chair
114 - Slat Low Carver
115 - Spindle Low Carver
116 - Fiddle Low Carver
QUALITY EUROPEAN HARDWOOD (BEECH AND OAK) CHAIRS THIS IS JUST A SMALL SELECTION OF OUR RANGE - PLEASE CONTACT US FOR FURTHER DETAILS ON OUR FULL OFFERING ALL AVAILABLE FROM STOCK • FINISHING SERVICES AVAILABLE • LARGE OR SMALL QUANTITIES • DISCOUNT FOR COLLECTION EMAIL OR CALL US TO REQUEST A BROCHURE AND PRICE LIST Please visit our website to see our full ranges - WWW.MANDPCHAIRS.CO.UK All enquiries to: Mike Hodgson – mikehodgson@gmx.com • Call: or Paul Hodgson – paul.holroyd.hodgson@gmail.com • Call:
1/2 landscape.indd M&Ppage Chairs 340.indd 1 1
FN363_Pages.indd 56
07802 648383 07469 819520
17/04/2019 13/06/2017 11:25 10:20
28/05/2019 13:11
YeOlde
YOTFC
LTD
Ye Olde Traditional Furniture Company
www.yotfc.co.uk
Welcome to www.yotfc.co.uk - our new website now online
YOTFC produce Solid Oak, Beech & Pine Chairs,Tables, Stools, Cabinets and Components. We offer on site, comprehensive bespoke polishing and upholstery services. Deliveries are made by our own dedicated vehicles, customer collection or by pallet/carriers where “Just in Time� is the order of the day.
tel: 01604 890 956 | email: md@yotfc.co.uk | brd@yotfc.co.uk 3 Roe Farm, Whiston Road, Cogenhoe, Northampton, NN7 1NL FN363_Pages.indd YeOldeJune19.indd 57 1
28/05/2019 24/05/2019 13:11 11:27
FURNISHER
58
Belgian rug and woven carpet specialist Louis de Poortere (info@ depoorterelouis.com, www.louisdepoortere.com) has released the Haute Couture Design box, which contains a plethora of woven carpets, tailor-made rugs, standard-sized rugs and stair runners. Now readily available, the box holds swatches of the collection’s woven wool, cotton polyamide and cotton wool qualities, across 40 samples selected from 15 designs. Giving an overview of the scale of the collection, the box also holds a brochure, revealing the designs, colours and finer points of the concept in full. Each of the designs, themselves available in a selection of
Alexander Joseph (01202 863600, www.alexanderjoseph.co.uk)
colourways, can be made in either broadloom carpet, standard-
supplies high-quality, completely cordless lamps which hold
sized rugs or a tailor-made rug. Along with stair runners in six
a charge for up to four weeks – take a look at the company’s
designs and over 30 colourways, it is a comprehensive range.
website, which features a video demonstrating how these wireless
“The Haute Couture Design collection is expansive, and it has been something of a challenge to make sure it can be thoughtfully
models can work within the home. Made from 100% British materials and designed in the UK, the
and elegantly presented,” explains Alan Russell, sales director
lamps employ innovative technology which utilises the latest in
UK. “We believe we have just the thing with our new box. It’s a
high-density lithium ion batteries with specially made vintage-
genuinely useful tool for retailers looking to offer their customers
style LED bulbs. The technology is discrete but delivers over 52
a very special service.” The box is available for €99, discounted
hours of use before recharging is needed.
back from the first order if required. For those investing, 9 x 9cm cuttings of all designs are available from the sales office.
In addition to its range of cordless lamps, Alexander Joseph also produces one-off designs and commissions.
www.markwebster.co.uk 1/2 page landscape.indd 1
FN363_Pages.indd 58
12/03/2019 14:02
28/05/2019 13:11
Full pag
M1, off junction 28
ex-display old stock prototypes end of line seconds returns
visit mfa.bid FN363_Pages.indd Full page USE.indd 59 1
28/05/2019 16/05/2019 13:11 15:19
OUT OF HOURS
60
Working in the furniture industry can be incredibly demanding, yet many members of the trade find the time to pursue noteworthy avenues alongside the day job. In Out of Hours, we discover what some of the industry’s more colourful characters get up to in their spare time …
The YA author “Writing can be very therapeutic, and can take you away from the stresses and strains of the normal working day” My name is Gavin Boden, and I’m a sales
genres (hopefully being nominated for
agent. Working as GB Agencies, I sell
literary awards!).
furniture into retail. I have learned that writing can be very Out of hours, I like to write young adults’
therapeutic, and can take you away from the
(YA) books. I’m having my first book
stresses and strains of the normal working
published in August this year – it’s called
day in the furniture industry.
Time Travelling Heroes, The Dreams of You might not know this, but I hold a
Time.
Guinness World Record in ten-pin bowling. I became involved in this because over
Because of the work MacMillan Cancer
the last six years I have been through a
Support did for my sister, I wanted to raise
great deal of loss, losing my sister in 2013
some much-needed funds for the charity,
to cancer, my mum in 2015, and then my
so in June 2017 me and my friend Anthony Kyme (from Cleethorpes) bowled for 24
brother in a road traffic accident in 2017. I used the power of imagination to get myself
will need to market the book, including my
hours without any rest, and knocked down
through the grieving process, by escaping to
website and social media presence.
37,653 pins to break the world record by over 1200. At the same time, we raised over
an imaginary place and writing about it. My
£7000 for the charity.
sister was an amazing inspiration to me and
I’m most proud of that fact that I’ve
loved my writing – she was always pushing
completed the first book (which I’ve
me to write a book and get it published.
dedicated to my sister).
It asks that I commit to several hours
Ten years down the line, I see myself as a
the mailing list for updates about the book
of writing each week, but the biggest
successful author, with several published
– when it will be on sale, where it will be
commitment will be the time and work it
books under my belt across lots of different
available, book signings, special events, etc.
If you want to know more, email me at gavboden@gmail.com and I will put you on
Got an interesting hobby or accomplishment you’d like to share with our readers? Message the editor on paul@gearingmediagroup.com.
FN363_Pages.indd 60
28/05/2019 14:52
61
1/2 page landscape.indd 1
20/05/2019 12:07
INFORMING INDUSTRY, BUILDING BUSINESS
The essential guide to the UK domestic furniture and furnishings trade
BIGGER BETTER AND IN 2019
The esse
Th
e es
se
l nt ia
gu
id e
to
#3
UK th e
58
Ja
nu
ar
do
m es
y 20
19
tic
fu rn
| ww
w.
itu
fu
re
rn
an
itu
re
d fu ne
rn
ws
is hi
ng
s tr
ad
guid e ntia l
#360 March 2019 | www.furniturenews.net
estic UK dom to the
#359
February
2019
furn iture
| www
.furn
ishin and furn
iturenews
#357
lig na : Da cy en ER! POW Agers in media EST UK matt PINTER ography e Th phot
PeterBrownAug18.indd 1 FN363_Pages.indd 61
.furn
ht
en
Kr
iste
ns
en
an
d
Jo
ne
s&
and furn ishin
iturenews
.net
gs trad e
e es
se nt
ia l
by iste ection , Kr MN Coll AND CLICKS aiBRICKS ldnew The Ba Made.com’s CCO ? on omnichannel u af GUIDE RE 18 es OSTU 20 DY ler hom , Gr ST m
IN il fro ning ’S ta Desig re HAT in
W
for smal
ur
Yo
s
ide
to
gu
8
201
12/
19/
r35
in
6.in
dd
An industry in statistics, from FIRA 7.indd
1
ns
FrontCover360.indd 1 sso
Le
2019
28/01/
du
11:27
at Bowood on Ra Night ng by Row e,ico W FAMOUS FIVE es tb COMThe Furniture EXAwards 2019 ridg MER CIALSq IT La-Z e Fu -Boy SENSE ’s claim uarinST RA rn to fame g
up TEG to Br IES ex it
re
CON Mike
A
ndd
E.i
18
do |
m es ww
tic
w.
fu rn
fu
rn
itu
itu
re
re
ne
an
ws
d fu
rn
.net
is hi
ng
s tr
ad
e
TEN
£95
T MAN AGER
Kingsbur
VE
RY
BR
ls all
19/11/
IT
2018 15:50 Be ISH st of BE D th e Be TI d Sh ME ow
ts
cre
US
UK
r 20
y revea
E 1 AL s 9.indd nt over35 F SCe gia Y O lum OM e vo ON of th
R
th e
be
ONLY
itu
19/02/2019 09:03
Se
1
m
y
Why
EC
to
ve
str
Ke
e of futur TheSTATE OF TRADE
over35
id e
No
IN
e ev A SH olu tio OP n of an
Fro 11 ntC 16: ove
BY THE 1 T? Paradise 3000, Rest Assured Habitat SEASID FLIC E wowDER CON Ireland ery in BOR s Brigh delivton FrontC
gu
56
CH
Th
LL TE on as D AN n se tio OW hibi SH ex
Co
Interior Kettle
FrontC
Subscribe today
25/
10/
201
8
09:
56
12 issues UK
Each monthly issue of Furniture News provides market news, insight and new products. Subscribe today to receive your physical copy every month, plus a copy of Connect, The Furniture Trade Directory (and VIP online login status).
£115
+ Wood Touch-up & Repair Training Courses
www.furniturerepairdistribution.co.uk
| www
#3
VE
Fillers • Simple Fill-Sticks & Quick Fill hot sticks • Burn In Repair Systems - matt & gloss • Epoxy Repair Fillers
r 2018
Th
CO
Repair Kits • Touch Up Furniture Repair Kit • Professional Furniture Repair Kit • Cabinet Installation Kit • Flooring Installation Kit • Solid Wood Repair Kit • Quick Repair Burn-In Kit
to the UK dom estic furn iture
Decembe
.net
The most extensive range available from including: Repair Aerosols • Dye & Pigment Colouring Aerosols • Finishing Aerosol in 6 sheens • Low Odour Finishing Aerosols • Speciality Aerosols for spot repairs, blushing etc
l guid e
e
ns
Touch Up Markers & Graining • Transparent & solid colour markers • Clear finishing markers • Graining markers & colouring sticks
The esse ntia
e gs trad
.net
12 issues Europe
£125
12 issues International
Call: 0044 (0)1424 774982 Email: subscriptions@gearingmediagroup.com
10/07/2018 2019FNSubsAd_QPALT.indd 10:48 1
28/05/2019 14:54 28/05/2019 14:54
62
DESIGNER
IN DESIGN
Array coffee table, Matt Hill Matt unveiled Array at last year’s New Designers show, before going on to receive an accolade for the design’s innovation at the Young Furniture Makers exhibition in October. Combining the classic pairing of oak and walnut with metallic fixtures, Array bosts modular contruction elements and steam-bent components.
“The inspiration for this design came from exploration of
“As my design process progressed through
patten inspired by nature in art, design and photography
initial design to development, the concept
throughout my education. Research into how pattern is received
of using modules to create interconnecting
by the brain and the reactions it causes inspires the use of
and modular furniture became the direction
pattern, symmetry and material in my designs. Steam-bending
I wanted to follow. This led to the Array
was the process I wanted to explore – pushing how steam-bent
module used in this coffee table”
components can interact, utilising their properties of strength and elegance”
“Oak and walnut are a classic combination
“Inspiration from
in furniture. However,
mid-century furniture,
I wanted to contrast
through the use of
these classic warm
material combinations
tones with stark
and utilising modern
metallic fixtures.
techniques, pushed
Further development
me in the directions of using precisionmachined components and fixtures”
of the design could see
“Experimenting with processes and materials to try and understand their limitations is an important aspect of design, and has the potential to lead to something new and innovative, pushing modern design”
alternative material options for the different components within the Array range.”
Training: Matt graduated from Nottingham
Achievements: Array was one of two designs exhibited
Trent University with a 2:1 in Furniture and
by Matt at the Business Design Centre as part of New
Product Design, having completed internships
Designers 2018. Matt also exhibited at last year’s Young
at Sitting Firm Chairmakers and as a furniture
Furniture Makers exhibition, where he won the Young
designer at Nottingham Boat Company. Shortly
Furniture Makers Innovation Award for the Array coffee
after finishing university, Matt started working
table.
in product development at deVOL Kitchens, and now aspires to develop his own furniture designs alongside his career there.
FN363_Pages.indd 62
E matt@matthilldesign.com
28/05/2019 13:11
IAFP_2
World of Opportunity
Engage a
The International Alliance of Furnishing Publications (IAFP) is an association comprising the leading industry trade publications in 18 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 #357 December 2018 | www.furniturenews.net
Contact us on 0044 (0)1424 776101 or visit the IAFP website to find out more. Bowood Night by Rowico
BY THE SEASIDE Habitat wows Brighton
FrontCover357.indd 1
FN363_Pages.indd IAFP_2019.indd 1 63
COMMERCIAL SENSE
CONTENT MANAGER
La-Z-Boy’s claim to fame
Mike Kingsbury reveals all
19/11/2018 15:50
www.iafpalliance.com
28/05/2019 20/12/2018 13:11 13:58
Are you Connected yet?
The Furniture Trade Directory Furniture Manufact
urers & Suppliers –
Beautiful Bedr oom Furniture
BEDROOM
Oak and paint ed furniture collec tions for beau bedrooms, direc tiful t from Kettle Interiors. Enjoy from UK stock fast service s with free delive ry from just £250 . Order today at kettleinteriorsag encies.com Kingstown Furnitu re Ltd Victoria House Leeds Road
Levitas Design Ltd Elevation Space Manston Park Ramsgate CT12 5FA 01843 606822 www.levitasdesign.co m
Hull HU7 0BZ 0333 014 3750 www.kingstown.co.uk Kit for Kids The Clock House 3-4 Blighs Road Sevenoaks Kent TN13 1DA 01732 455000 Komfi Unit 1 Navigation Yard Chantry Bridge Wakefield WF1 5DL 0330 008 0804 www.komfi.com
Kozee Sleep (Midla nds) Ltd 154 Wharfdale Road Tyseley Birmingham B11 2DG 01924 526789 www.kozeesleep.co.u k Kumfi Beds Ltd Unit 6B George Street West Bromwich West Midlands B70 6NH 01215 253337 La-Z-Boy UK 6 Bell Street
Maidenhead Berkshire SL6 1BU 01628 513810 www.la-z-boy.co.uk
Connect Section
2.indd 99
Limelight Beds Orbital House Arthur Street Barwell Leicester LE9 8GZ 01455 850150 www.limelightbeds.co .uk Litvinoff & Fawce tt 281 Hackney Road London E2 8NA 02077 393480 LPD Midland Road Hunslet Leeds LS10 2RJ 0113 271 5151 www.lpdfurniture.co.uk M7 Polska
Ul. Marcinkowskie go 6 Puszczykowo 62-040 Poland 00 48 601 918763 Mammoth Perfor mance Units 8-10 Abingdon Eston Way Oxon OX14 1TR 01235 529148 www.mammoth uk.com
Matparts
New Line Industri al Estate The Sidings Bacup Lancashire OL13 9RW 01706 871933 Mattress Direct Unit 2 32 Lawn Road London NW3 2XU 07921 210641 Mattress-shire 13 Bolton Street Birmingham West Midlands B9 4HH 01217 733476 Metal Beds Ltd T/A Wholesale Beds Verulam Road Stafford Staffordshire ST16 3EA 01785 250888 www.wholesalebeds.c o.uk
The second edition of Connect – The Furniture Trade Directory is coming this summer. Within its pages, buyers and sellers will find:
Marine Beddin g Company 101 Woolsbridge Road Ashley Heath Ringwood Hampshire BH24 2LZ 01425 480605 Marthill Int Ltd Marthill Building s Lower Regent Street Beeston NG9 2DJ 0115 9259094 www.marthill.co.uk
99
Millbrook Beds (UK) Ltd Calmore Industri al Park Totton Southampton SO40 3XJ 0845 373 1111 www.millbrookbeds.co .uk Mlily Healthcare Ltd 2 Covent Garden Close Luton LU4 8QB 01582 400604 www.mlily.uk Myer Adams UK Ltd Grange Road Industri al Estate Grange Road Batley WF17 6LN 01924 444 463 www.myeradams.co.u k/ Nathan Furnitu re Frostholme Mill Burnley Road Cornholme Todmorden OL14 7ED 01706 811299 www.nathanfurniture.c o.uk Naturalmat Odhams Wharf Ebford Exeter Devon EX3 0PD 01392 877247
Thousands of retailer and supplier contact details (including new and refreshed data) An exclusive report on furniture trend development and deployment Industry state of play summary and event diary
Natuzzi SpA Via Lazzitiello 47 I-70029 Santera mo In Colle Bari Italy www.natuzzi.com
www. gmgc onnec
How to use the directory’s digital counterpart, gmgconnect.com
t.com
06/07/2018
09:56
To purchase a copy, contact: 01424 776100 | sam@gearingmediagroup.com (Also available as part of a subscriber package – see page 61)
FN363_Pages.indd 64 1 FNConnectJune19.indd
28/05/2019 13:11 13:09
19 13:09
65
1/2 page landscape.indd 1
12/03/2019 14:20
SteelyTrolleys
Steely Trolleys - Known and Proven
CONTRACT MARKETING MANAGER REQUIRED • To support brand & marketing strategy for the business and come up with and own marketing objectives that will help deliver the strategy for the contract business. • Continuously review our brand and identify how to best utilise our brand identity to develop sales & revenue. • Ownership and communication of the contract marketing calendar. • To own and deliver marketing campaigns to meet planned objectives, on brand and aligned with our customer segments. From initial brainstorming and strategy development through to delivery of commercially successful campaigns, on-time and budget. • Monitor and report on effectiveness of contract marketing communications. • Develop marketing assets and collateral for specific customer segments – with good ability to copy write. • Support the Marketing Manager with strategic research and insight projects to understand our customers, our brand, competitors and products, in order to identify marketing needs and opportunities to create compelling plans and campaigns. • Design and manage the contract events and shows throughout the year. • Develop with the NPD team new product offerings and design options to further strengthen the contract business and target new customer segments. • Develop digital marketing techniques to target new business and support the contract sales team. • Set up and draft regular email campaigns to target different customer segments, with lead follow ups. • Design and scope a new contract website that will either sit on Sleepeezee’s current website platform, or will be a stand alone website. • Oversee and manage the contract marketing budget to maximise spend and ROI. • Liaise and manage external agencies who help support Sleepeezee in achieving their marketing strategy.
SKILLS
Increase Space and Efficiency Call Steely: 0161 702 7002 Email: sales@steelyproducts.co.uk Web: www.steelyproducts.co.uk
• Good analytical and reporting abilities • Good understanding of all traditional and digital marketing techniques • Excellent brand and commercial awareness • Excellent planning and reporting skills • Natural communication skills (for consumers, agencies and key stakeholders) • Good leadership, management and collaboration skills • Ability to manage external agencies to deliver campaigns/projects • Background in hotel/hospitality or furniture industry preferred • B2B experience • Experience with Google Analytics
A competitive salary and package available to the right candidate Please send your CV and covering letter to a.curtis@sleepeezee.com by 30th June
SteelyJan19.indd 1 FN363_Pages.indd 65
18/12/2018 SleepeezeeJobQP_June19.indd 10:08 1
21/05/2019 11:31 28/05/2019 13:11
FURTHER READING
66
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 email newsletter at www.bit.ly/fn-in
News Northpoint Show organiser considers rescheduling event to spring timeline
News Charity’s One Step at a Time campaign aims to raise awareness of welfare support
Events Sherborne heads up newcomer roster at next month’s Manchester show
SHARE STORIES
GET CONNECTED
ADVERTISE
Got some news or an idea for an article? Call the editorial desk on 01424 776101 or email paul@gearingmediagroup.com
Join our trade directory at www.gmgconnect.com, or order a hard copy/VIP package from subscriptions@ gearingmediagroup.com
To promote a product or service, call the sales team on 01424 776100, or email sam@gearingmediagroup.com or caroline@gearingmediagroup.com
SUBSCRIBE
DIGITAL
FOLLOW
Receive a guaranteed copy of the magazine each month by messaging subscriptions@ gearingmediagroup.com
Register for latest issue alerts, our email newsletter, special o�ers and more at www.bit.ly/fn-in
Keep up with our latest news and opinions via our Twitter feeds @FurnitureNewsED and @FurniturenewsAD
Decembe
IN T ERIOR
DESIGN
RESTA
ELS, FOR HOT
Issue 74
URAN TS,
r 2017 Products #290 / Insta llations Timber / Upda & Pane tes ls / Sand Software ing & Finis / Dust & Wood hing waste Manageme www.furn nt iture
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 refer to Furniture Production (www.furnitureproduction.net).
CLUBS BARS &
er 2017
er - Decemb
| Novemb
productio n.net
Flat Panel FP290_
Lamination
by BA Com
ponents
pages.in
Mondrian
dd 1
Doha, Qatar 7 15:32
01/12/201
30/11/2
017 11:34
es.1.indd
HI74_pag
1
NEXT MONTH
Manchester Furniture Show Preview | Showtime Living Room, Dining Room, Beds & Bedroom, Furnisher and Trade Services
FN363_Pages.indd 66
28/05/2019 13:12
Full pag
FN363_Pages.indd Full page USE.indd 67 1
28/05/2019 13/05/2019 13:12 08:36
MAXIMISE YOUR BUSINESS THE ULTIMATE FURNITURE DELIVERY VAN
THE ULTIMATE LIGHTWEIGHT LOW FLOOR LUTON VAN RANGE PURCHASE | FINANCE | LEASE | CONTRACT HIRE
FROM £22,990 + VAT
BESPOKE SHOWROOM VANS AVAILABLE
MAX PAYLOAD MAX VOLUME MAX PROFIT DELIVERY & SHOW VANS FOR SALE, VIEW OUR LATEST STOCK: WWW.MAXIMOVER.CO.UK
CALL OUR SALES TEAM FOR THE VERY BEST DEALS
01673 863300
VISIT WWW.MAXIMOVER.CO.UK FN363_Pages.indd MaxiMoverJan19.indd68 1
28/05/2019 13/12/2018 13:12 09:01