Comment

The current turmoil on so many fronts is undoubtedly giving businesses numerous headaches and common to almost all in the furniture and joinery industry for some time has been rising energy and materials costs adding considerable incremental pressure to manufacturers. But talking to suppliers across the board, it seems the inimitable resolve of the furniture and joinery industry remains robust in the face of these difficulties. With numerous examples of businesses focused creating greater efficiencies into their business – and with the show season properly kicking back to gear from May, many will be feeling guardedly optimistic in the medium term despite these challenging times.

Naturally, from within these pages and across our website we regularly hear from businesses with positive stories of investment and progress – and whilst clearly not everyone is on top of things right now, these examples should be providing inspiration and encouragement to those who are having a rough time of it, as many undoubtedly will be.

In this issue, we have a wide range of content to inspire and encourage with features on dust extraction and wood waste management; joinery, window and door production; and storage and materials handling. Elsewhere we have Insight articles from Kenyon Group, TCM Capital and A L Dalton. Positioned between the News and Events page, we have added a Marketwatch section to highlight offers and deals from key suppliers – something always worth keeping abreast of! Another new feature is the Makers’ Gallery of manufacturers finished products – hopefully once again adding inspiration. Accompanying this issue is our annual CNC Supplement with a focused choice of detailed and informative reading for all those considering their CNC production options. Looking forward, alongside our June issue we will be publishing a special supplement focused on sustainable furniture and joinery manufacturing. So I’d like to sound a clarion call to all manufacturers who have made strides regards reducing their carbon footprint – even those who are in the early- or planning stages. I want to hear from you and listen to your experiences and how it is impacting your decision-making and how your business is adapting as you move forwards. Contact me for further details.

I hope you enjoy the issue.

John Legg, editorial director

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