The joys of spring

From 16-17th May, Stoneleigh Park Exhibition Centre welcomed the return of the Spring Furniture & Bed Show, the first of two exhibitions arranged each year by the Minerva Furniture Group, and another confident presentation of the industry’s latest offers …

The sun seems to shine on the Stoneleigh showgrounds every May, and despite it taking place midway through a busier-than-usual show season, this year’s spring exhibition offered the trade yet another warm reception.

Over 70 upholstery, cabinet, bed and accessory suppliers – including overseas brands – presented their newest and most popular lines to a visitor base comprising the majority of the Minerva Furniture Group’s member retailers – independents, nationals and online players – plus trade visitors from every corner of the furniture and furnishings sector.

“The show was our biggest to date, with over 70 exhibitors occupying two halls of the exhibition venue,” says the buying group’s new CEO, Jim Orr. “Overall attendance was our highest ever, too.”

The event’s popular gala dinner, held at nearby Chesford Grange Hotel (see overleaf), saw the presentation of three exhibitor awards, plus a special Long Service accolade for Minerva’s Roy Beagent, who retired following 22 years with the buying group.

“Our next event, the Autumn Furniture Show, takes place from 3rd-4th October at the same venue,” concludes Jim, “and stand enquiries are now open –contact me at jim.orr@minervafurnituregroup.co.uk if you’d like to take part.” www.springfurnitureshow.co.uk