#431 August 2025 www.furniturenews.net
DREAMSPACE Simba’s mission to end bed poverty
READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS MANCHESTER FURNITURE SHOW BEDROOM TRADE SERVICES
SOCIAL STUDIES Behind Sofa Club’s marketing strategy Are marketplaces a must? How to respond to legal threats
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Editor's comment Paul Farley Editor-in-chief
01424 776101 paul.farley@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk @FurnitureNewsED @Furniture News www.furniturenews.net
With summer typically seeing more subdued trade, it’s been especially important this year to seize every possible advantage. This might mean making the most of any seasonal hooks before the sales start to lift again – cooling mattresses for the hot summer nights, some tasteful accessorising to refresh the home over the break, or a new couch for the big sporting events. Elsewhere, canny businesses are finding new ways to work together. Look at how Taylors Creative Living has teamed up with Wilde Java so it can offer Scottish retailers a cost-effective way to buy statement accessories (p41), or how SMEs might establish better collaboration across the supply chain in Clare Bailey’s column on p142. And if you’re in the market for a new supplier – whatever the category – where better to turn than our all-star line-up of Readers’ Choice Awards winners? In this month’s bumper summer issue, we reveal the businesses and individuals you voted best in class (p52). Despite the challenges the industry faces, these partnerships have managed to shine, and we received a record number of votes this year. So, call them, message them, meet them, and congratulate them – these are your favourites, and a roster of very deserving winners. A huge well done to all of them from Furniture News! It already feels like a lifetime ago, but Manchester Furniture Show too proved fertile ground for making new friends and catching up with old ones (I first covered the show in 2006!). It was great to be back, discussing fresh angles, discovering new products and people, and generally having a good time with the trade (the WIFN session was a personal highlight). Thanks to everyone who took the time to chat – you can find some of the highlights from p34. And there are plenty more events coming up, with Ireland’s IFHS and the AIS INDX Furniture exhibitions landing this month, before the autumn show season kicks off in earnest – so no shortage of opportunities for retailers hunting for the next big thing. In this month’s lead story, we meet the marketing team at retail disruptor, Sofa Club. On p8, discover how the brand’s sights have shifted to an older customer base, how it maintains a balance between online and off, and how it is cutting through the noise of today’s social media marketplace. We’ve also interviews with DFI Beds’ Brian McCann and MattressNextDay, while cover star Simba outlines its new initiative to tackle child sleep poverty. Later in the issue, I take a deep dive into retail’s Wild West – online marketplaces. Whether end-to-end platforms or retailer operated, OC&C Strategy Consultants says they’re “driving the largest fundamental shift in consumer spending since the emergence of ecommerce. Depending on your viewpoint, these partnerships represent a margin-starved danger zone, an oasis of reach and revenues, or something in between – look at what our contributors had to say on p132. Our Opinion section sees two regular new columnists come on board: The Retail Champion Clare Bailey, who is on a renewed mission to help independents and SMEs become more competitive; and The Legal Director’s Natalia Samodina, who kicks off by suggesting how businesses can respond to legal threats without breaking the bank (p140). They’re joined by regulars Gordon Hecht, Steve Pickering and Adam Hankinson, while The Furniture Makers’ Company talks corporate memberships, and our feedback panel reveal which changes they’d most like the Government to make. I hope you enjoy this month’s issue – there’s much more to come in September, when we’ll be Bed Show bound with our Bed Buyer supplement, as well as covering the season’s key events, and exploring the role social media influencers and content creators play in our industry (hit like or share!). See you again soon!
Paul Farley
2025-2026
Time to shine in the NBF Bed Industry Awards Retailer Awards
Member Awards
Small NBF Retail Champion of the Year
Bed Product of the Year
Medium NBF Retail Champion of the Year
Component Product of the Year
National Bed Retailer of the Year
Bed Manufacturer of the Year
Online Bed Retailer of the Year
Hosted by Vernon Kay
Supplier of the Year
Live music from the UK’s number one Oasis tribute band, Oasish
Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony on 23rd September Enter now at bedshow.co.uk/awards
23rd – 24th September @TheBedFed
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#431 August 2025 www.furniturenews.net
Contents DREAMSPACE
20
Simba’s mission to end bed poverty
READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS MANCHESTER FURNITURE SHOW
SOCIAL STUDIES Behind Sofa Club’s marketing strategy Are marketplaces a must?
BEDROOM TRADE SERVICES
How to respond to legal threats
COVER FEATURE 16 SIMBA
EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Paul Farley 01424 776101 paul.farley@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk
Brian McCann DFI Beds
140
SALES SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR Sam Horscroft 07764 650655 sam@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk
NEWS
8
INSIGHT
8
Sofa Club
14
Poltronesofà
16
Simba
18
MattressNextDay
20
Getting personal
24 EVENTS 34
Manchester Furniture Show
50
Big Shots
52 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
GROUP SALES DIRECTOR Emma Sharp emmas@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk OVERSEAS AGENT Casey Loo (Asia) +65 973 00123 (WhatsApp) casey@apsmediagroup.com
6
Natalia Samodina The Legal Director
142
PRODUCTION COPY ADMINISTRATOR Steve Merrick steve@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk
118 PRODUCTS 124 Bedroom 128 Trade services 132 OPINION 132 Are marketplaces a must?
DIGITAL MANAGER Nyall McCurrach nyall@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk
136 Press 1 to read this article
ART EDITOR Sarah Crowhurst sarah@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk
138 How coachability unlocks sales success
DESIGNER Tony Godwin
Clare Bailey The Retail Champion
PRODUCTION EDITOR Allan Norbury allan@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk
145
140 Keeping cool when the gloves come off 142 Seize the edge with supply chain smarts 144 Help! I can’t switch off! 145 Partner comment 146 Feedback
ACCOUNTS AND SUBSCRIPTIONS Kay O’Brien kay@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk PUBLISHER AND MD Simon Lewis SUBSCRIPTIONS (UK-£65, Europe-£85, RoW-£95) REPRO, PRINT AND DISTRIBUTION Stephens & George
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George Cooper The Furniture Makers’ Company
Disclaimer: All material submitted for inclusion in Furniture News is done so entirely at the contributor’s own risk. No responsibility is accepted for the safe-keeping of contributors’ materials. Whilst all attempts are made to ensure accurate reproduction, Furniture News accepts no responsibility for variations. Artwork undertaken by our studio remains the copyright of Lewis Business Media (Arts) Ltd and may not be reproduced or stored without prior permission. Some articles in Furniture News have been submitted by companies and organisations. Monies may have been accepted in some instances to offset production costs. All rights reserved. In respect of artwork originated free of charge as part of a booking, clients should know that excessive work (more than one set of corrections, known as ‘authors corrections’) is chargeable at £55 per hour. Data protection statement: Readership data held by Lewis Business Media (Arts) Ltd may be shared with any member of Lewis Business Media (Arts) Ltd and associated companies for the purposes of customer information, direct marketing or publication. Data may also be made available to external parties on a list rental/lease basis for the purposes of direct marketing. If you do not wish data to be made available to external parties for list rental or lease please write to: Lewis Business Media (Arts) Ltd, Suite A, Arun House, Office Village, River Way, Uckfield, East Sussex TN22 1SL, UK. Subscriptions: Refunds on cancelled subscriptions will only be provided at the publisher’s discretion, unless specifically guaranteed within the terms of the subscription offer. ISSN No: 1475-373 © Lewis Business Media (Arts) Ltd 2025
6 NEWS
Dunelm Group has announced the appointment of Clodagh Moriarty, currently the chief retail and technology officer at J Sainsbury, as its CEO, effective from 1st October. She will succeed Nick Wilkinson.
Loaf opened its 11th showroom last month, on Essex Road in Islington, London. The 4100ft2 high street store is home to the retailer’s first Movie Lounge.
Argos’s sales were up +4.4% YoY in the 16 weeks to 21st June, reports J Sainsbury, growing ahead of “a subdued, highly competitive and deflationary general merchandise market”.
Upholstery hubs help Cotswold Co achieve growth
The Cotswold Company has announced a trading update for the 52-week period to 28th February 2025. The group says it significantly outperformed the broader home and furniture category. Sales were up +19% YoY to £100.2m, with ecommerce sales up +14% (representing 78% of total sales). Showroom sales were up +45%, representing 22% of total sales, driven by new openings in Stamford and Marlow, the roll-out of new in-store services such as upholstery hubs, and
the continued success of geo-targeted marketing campaigns, states the retailer. The year saw the evolution of the retailer’s omnichannel model with successful launches on Next.co.uk and John Lewis (online and in-store at Peter Jones, Chelsea), while EBITDA was up significantly (+156%) to £9.2m. The period also saw a +20% increase in active customers – a +32% increase over the last two years. The business also secured B-Corp status, and launched online for customers in Northern Ireland, while investing in its operational infrastructure with the launch of its new delivery centre in Swindon and fleet of vehicles, and the introduction of the Cotswold Home Delivery Academy. CEO Ralph Tucker says: “This is a milestone year for all at The Cotswold Company. More and more customers are moving from ‘throwaway’ furniture to high-quality, made-to-last products that can be passed down for generations.”
House of Raft promises a vertical perspective The National Bed Federation has expanded its Retail Champions Scheme with the launch of an enhanced benefits package for fee-paying UK and Irish bed retailers.
Harrison Spinks has appointed Jimmy Caines as its national hospitality account manager.
The Furniture Makers’ Company’s newly reformed Midlands Region organised a mixer event on 3rd June at venue The Bunker. Organised by Gina Thomson, Paul James and Lynda Corrigan, the mixer welcomed 21 attendees.
Land of Beds has promoted Alan Jones from Wigan store manager to general sales manager.
Koelnmesse Pvt, the Indian subsidiary of imm cologne’s organiser Koelnmesse GmbH, has announced the launch of imm india.
READ MORE ONLINE AT WWW.FURNITURENEWS.NET
London-based furniture brand Raft Furniture has announced the opening of House of Raft, a 20,000ft2 hybrid showroom-workshop space that it says “represents a totally new premium retail experience”. Consisting of a sofa artisan workshop, interior design hub, furniture showroom and outlet centre, the end-to-end production process is visible to customers, in a true industry-first experience on the high street, says Raft: “The customer journey at House of Raft is seamless, and all under one roof. This will create an opportunity for trade collaborations as the sofa workshop space will operate as trade only, other than for appointments for customers who have bought a Raft sofa. “Once customers confirm their purchase, inhouse artisans in the workshop begin crafting the sofa by hand. Once under way, appointments can be scheduled to watch your sofa being made by one of
Raft’s sofa experts, for a fully immersive, informative and reassuring experience showcasing the entire handmade process.” Mick Quinn, director and co-founder at Raft Furniture, says: “What we’re experiencing right now is a cultural revival. More and more people are looking to buy from local heritage brands, and Raft is offering the complete package. “We have been working locally for so long, but physically merging our artisan sofa workshop with a bricks-and-mortar store creates a genuine connection between consumers and craftsmen. Customers will have the opportunity to enjoy the immersive sofa-making experience.” The showroom, outlet and interior design hub opened on 5th July. The trade-only sofa artisan workshop will open its doors at the end of the summer.
IKEA’s first rapid-rollout store comes to Harlow IKEA opened a new ‘small store’ on Harlow Retail Park on 24th July. The first of three to open this year, the store has been developed to be significantly faster and more cost-effective to open than traditional IKEA stores, says the retailer: “Located on retail parks, they will utilise the existing structure, making them just as easy to assemble as the brand’s famous flatpack furniture, and completed at pace. “As a result, IKEA Harlow opened its doors just over 100 days after acquiring the lease. Offering a simpler, faster and more convenient shopping experience, the compact layout will be easy to navigate and designed for everyday convenience. Customers can explore inspiring roomsets,
secondhand finds, plan their kitchens and take home a wide range of home furnishings and small furniture items the same day.” Peter Jelkeby, CEO and CSO, IKEA UK and Ireland, says: “The opening of the IKEA Harlow small store is a landmark moment for us as we continue to evolve our retail offer and explore new ways to serve more people in more places. We look forward to joining this thriving town as part of the local community when we open our doors later this month.” The store is led by a team of 40 staff, and forms part of IKEA’s wider expansion plan in 2025, which includes the opening of two Plan and Order Points in Dundee and York, small stores in Norwich and Chester, and a new city store in Brighton.
NEWS 7
DFS expects to end FY25 on a high
DFS Furniture has issued a trading update for the 52-week year ended 29th June 2025. The group says it traded consistently through the period, with order intake up 10% YoY in both H1 and H2, supported by volume and AOV growth (full-year order intake growth measured on a 52-week versus 52-week basis was 10.2%). Both retail brands performed well, with DFS up 8.7% and Sofology up 16.2% YoY. “Our proprietary data shows the group has grown market share in the specialist upholstery sector in a period where the market remained subdued,” says the retailer. Gross sales, which are recognised on delivery of
orders to customers, were up 5.8% YoY. This was lower than the level of order intake growth (which is measured on a 52-week versus 52-week basis) due to a shift in customer orders to ranges with longer lead times and the impact of the prior year being a 53-week financial reporting period, says DFS. “We have maintained our focus on disciplined cost management and continued to improve our gross margins,” the retailer continues. “This approach, in combination with the increase in gross sales, has resulted in expected YoY PBT(A) growth slightly above the top end of our guidance (£25m-£29m), up from £10.5m in FY24.” Group CEO Tim Stacey comments: “We are pleased to report that we expect profit for the full year to be slightly above the top end of our guidance. Our excellent first half performance set the foundation for our success, with strong trading through the rest of the year, with both our DFS and Sofology brands outperforming the market. “We are confident that the group is well positioned to drive attractive returns for shareholders as the market recovers.”
Furniture Makers pulls together for Family Fun Day The Midlands Region of The Furniture Makers’ Company hosted its first-ever Tug of War and Family Fun Day on 28th June at Long Eaton Rugby Club, raising £1,650 for the industry charity. The event brought together families, local businesses and industry colleagues, and centred around a Tug of War tournament, complemented by garden games, food stalls, a raffle and tombola. The local industry’s response exceeded expectations, with around 200 visitors and participants contributing to the shared cause. During the event, a £500 donation was presented by Andrew Mitchell on behalf of the Long Eaton Guild of Furniture Manufacturers to Gina Thomson, chairman of the Midlands Region, in support of the region’s ongoing charitable efforts. The Tug of War proved very competitive, with former Furniture News publisher Nigel Gearing judging the competition, ensuring fair play. The results were: Men’s Winners – One Call Furniture,
Men’s Runners-up – Celtheath, Women’s Winners – George Stewart Design, Women’s Runners-up – DPG Foam Convertors, Mixed Winners – Webs Training, and Mixed Runners-up – DPG Foam Convertors. The success of the event was made possible through the generosity of local furniture manufacturers and businesses, who donated an array of prizes for the raffle and tombola. The event also received sponsorship from several industry partners including Furniture News and One Call Furniture. Thomson says: “We’re delighted by the overwhelming success of this year’s event. I want to thank everyone who helped organise the day and the companies and individuals that supported it. Due to its success, we have already begun preparations for next year. The date is confirmed for Saturday 27th June 2026, and we are looking forward to an even bigger turnout and another day of fun, teamwork and fundraising.”
This year’s ufurnish.com Home Awards finalists revealed The ufurnish.com Home Awards, which, in partnership with Metro, celebrates home content creation in the UK, has announced the 90 finalists in this year’s competition. After over 22,000 public votes were cast, judges assessed the entries and public votes, and decided on the finalists. Judging was presided over by home industry leaders including Deborah Arthurs, Eva Sonaike, Max McMurdo, Jayne Dowle, Nicki BamfordBowes, Nicky Rampley-Clarke, Wayne Perrey, and
ufurnish.com’s founder, Deirdre Mc Gettrick. The finalists in the Best Retailer category – sponsored by Furniture News – are Dusk, Furniture Edit, Laura James, OKA and Sleepy People. “We look forward to welcoming the finalists to the Home Awards ceremony, being held in the glamorous Kimpton Fitzroy Hotel in London on the 5th of September,” says Deirdre. The full list of finalists can be found at http://bit.ly/413AQpu.
OKA has relocated its headquarters to Milton Park, Oxfordshire, returning to the innovation campus where its journey began in 2009.
Dusk.com is moving into offline retail through a partnership with housebuilder Story Homes which will see its full-home offering styled throughout The Spencer, a newview home at Story Homes’ Tithe Gardens development in Poultonle-Fylde, Lancashire.
Tamarisk has appointed Deborah Dickinson (ex-At-The Helm, Arlo & Jacob, Redbrick) as head of sales.
The UK Centre of Quality Upholstery Manufacturers’ members have donated four bespoke sofas to Canaan Trust, a Christian charity based in Long Eaton that provides supported accommodation to homeless women.
BRC-Opinium data has revealed that more people are turning to secondhand products, with furniture seeing the biggest growth.
Dunelm’s Q4 sales were up 4.0% YoY at £415m, leaving its full-year sales total at £1771m (up 3.8%). It expects its FY25 PBT to be in line with consensus (£210m).
Land of Beds has partnered with physiologist and author Dr Nerina Ramlakhan in order to better support the nation’s sleep health.
HSL Chairs has been named National Family Business of the Year in the Manufacturing category, by Family Business United.
READ MORE ONLINE AT WWW.FURNITURENEWS.NET
8 INSIGHT
Social Club Founded in 2012 by Louis Rose and Tom O’Neill, Sofa Club set out to redefine the sofa shopping experience, disrupting the traditional notions of selling and delivery, and targeting the younger audiences that established brands might overlook. Staying ahead of the curve requires a marketing strategy that never sleeps – here, marketing director Dominic Corr, PR and content specialist Iliana Olymbios, and brand director Olivia Smith, tell Furniture News what this means for the brand’s future …
9
10 INSIGHT
Olivia, Iliana and Dominic take a seat
What’s new at Sofa Club? Olivia: Three big things. First up is showroom expansion – we’re growing fast! Two exciting new locations are set to launch by the end of the year. We can’t say too much yet, but trust us, they’re game-changers. We’re also refining our range, with a strong focus on fashion-forward designs. Expect a wave of new sofas dropping in August and September – all designed to make a statement, while staying timeless. And, when it comes to next-level brand collaborations, we’re going bigger and bolder! This year we’ve already teamed up with Red Bull and sponsored Perrie Sian’s new podcast. And that’s just the beginning … Can you share any recent financial achievements? Dominic: We are delighted to share that the business has grown its turnover by a huge +70% in the last 12 months, with realistic ambitions and projections for a further +40% growth again this financial year.
“We’re going bigger and bolder!
Is the brand’s approach to branding/marketing any different this year? Olivia: This year, it’s all about storytelling. We’re leaning heavily into brand narratives, bringing the personality behind the product to the forefront. You’ll see a bold focus on fashion-led campaigns, elevated social content, and a major push in the press. We’re also building powerful momentum through brand and influencer collaborations, creating cultural relevance and deeper connections with our audience. What changes in the selling landscape have prompted this evolution? Dominic: Sofa Club has always tried to remain agile, at
the forefront of the industry with regards to new ways of shopping, whilst staying true to the mission of creating a stress-free process when shopping for your new sofa. What’s the newest platform/technology you’re utilising, and how’s it going? Dominic: There’s nothing that we’re doing or utilising that’s particularly game-changing – we’ve increased the volume of what we know works, whilst maintaining a big push for creating incredible energy for the brand through offline events, activations and collaborations. From an online perspective, moving the business fully over to Shopify PoS has enabled us to really connect with our customers better and provide a much more tailored and personalised communication strategy. What does your core customer base look like? Olivia: We’re speaking to a stylish, driven audience, typically aged 25-40, either buying their first home or settling into their forever one. Our customers value speed and style. They want quality products now, not six weeks from now. That’s why many of our pieces are available for next-day delivery. Design-wise, our range is clean, neutral, and effortlessly chic, perfect for modern interiors but also flexible enough to evolve with your decor. It’s fashion for your home that lasts. Can you tell us more about that demographic? How/where do they shop? Dominic: In our infancy, our customer was very much a younger profile, typically new homebuyers or first-time renters looking for affordable fashion for their home. But over time, as the brand has grown and the product range has evolved and improved, so
11
has our key target demographic. First-time buyers still play a huge role in our strategy, but our audience has become much more focused towards families, couples and individuals who lead an active, fashion trend-led lifestyle. How is the product itself suitable for that audience? Dominic: Our product focus has always been shaped by our customers’ needs and wants. Our sofas range from very reasonable entry price points – sofas focused on the current trending fabrics and trends, whilst also offering the flexibility to grow your sofa as our customers reach the different stages in life (moving into bigger homes, starting a family, or even downsizing). Do you offer any particular services that particularly resonate with them? Dominic: The ability to offer next-day delivery or select a delivery date of their choice is a real gamechanger for Sofa Club. It is unique to us, and allows us to be able to support our customers with whatever situation they face. We also offer 100% money back, completely free returns within 48 hours of your purchase (if you’re not happy). This is relatively new for us (introduced this January) but has helped us to scale our business online as it removes the unlikely risk that customers won’t be happy with their Sofa Club sofa. What does it take to cut through in today’s crowded social media marketplace? How do you stay out in front? Dominic: For Sofa Club, social media marketing was one of the first stand-out successes, and today is no different for us as a brand. We currently have over 500,000 followers across all platforms, and we were also recently made blue-tick verified on Instagram, so a huge well done to the team for achieving this. The team works tirelessly to find gaps and opportunities for us to connect with our customers – whether it be through content that resonates with our audience, hosting Instagram/TikTok lives to bring our showrooms to customers’ homes, running
competitions with like-minded brands, or strategic collaborations and partnerships that are influential to our audience. What inspires the marketing team? Iliana: For us, it starts with a love for clean, modern, and aspirational interiors – spaces that feel calm, curated, and effortlessly stylish. We take inspiration from real homes and real lifestyles, creating content that’s both beautiful and attainable. From soft, neutral palettes to modular designs that suit everyday living, our aesthetic is rooted in simplicity and sophistication. But we also stay tapped into cultural trends and social platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where we discover new ideas and keep our storytelling fresh, relevant and engaging. What marketing activation in recent memory are you most proud of? Iliana: Our one-day pop-up living room in collaboration with Red Bull, that truly stole the spotlight. On 29th May, we transformed Manchester’s St Ann’s Square into an energised living room, powered by Red Bull’s dynamic spirit. Guests were immersed in a vibrant atmosphere featuring live DJ sets from Red Bull talents Jamie Anne and Prido, free Thai street food, Red Bull drinks, and cosy statement sofas. We hosted interior design popups, street interviews, and giveaways, including the chance to walk away with a free sofa, with over 500 email sign-ups for our sofa prize draw. Are there any radical ideas you’ve been forced to leave on the shelf? Iliana: One of our ideas was to blow up a huge inflatable sofa (I’m talking 100ft tall) in the middle of Manchester. However, due to the size, we realised that people would be unable to sit on it … which was sort of the whole point! How important is physical retail to the brand (as opposed to online)? Dominic: Our physical retail footprint is huge for
››
“Modern success comes from selling a lifestyle, not just furniture
12 INSIGHT
Can Sofa Club’s roots in shopping centre concessions be seen in what it is today? Dominic: Absolutely! We still operate out of two shopping centre concessions, which we call ‘lounges’, in the Metro Centre, Newcastle, as well as Lakeside, Essex – both of which are key brand positions for us. As the brand has grown, so has our need for larger spaces, such as our newest showroom in Speke, Liverpool. However, our lounges are at the heart of what we do, and customers will receive the exact same experience and expertise as if they were purchasing from a showroom such as Liverpool or Hertford.
“A lot of our customers will not commit to a purchase until they’ve touched and felt the sofa
How did co-founder Louis Rose – who sadly passed away in June at the age of 35, following a long battle with cancer – help shape your marketing strategy? Dominic: Louis was incredible. As marketing director, but previous to that head of performance, having Louis on hand to support me and the marketing strategy was more than I could have ever asked for. As a CEO with a marketing-focused approach, Louis always encouraged myself, and the team, to challenge
Sofa Club has come a long way since its inception
the brand. As a customer, buying a sofa is a very considered purchase and something that you will use every day for anything from 2-10 years, and so for a lot of our customers, they simply will not commit to a purchase until they’ve touched and felt the sofa they are interested in – regardless of how nice the sofa looks, or if their favourite influencer has the same one. Therefore, having retail space for our customers to do just that, but through an experiential, relaxed environment with a bar for drinks, etc, is a key strategy focus. For context, our retail stores contribute around 40-45% of our annual turnover, so they’re not just experiential – they are a key driver in our growth. As the brand continues to grow, our ambition is to grow our physical retail footprint by a further two locations this year, with more to come in 2026 too.
everything that we did and to always test and trial new ways of marketing. Not just through words of encouragement, either – financial backing and investment too. What lessons can the rest of the furniture industry learn from Sofa Club’s approach? Iliana: That modern success comes from selling a lifestyle, not just furniture. We combine aspirational storytelling with fast, culturally aware marketing – whether it’s a TikTok trend, an Instagram reel, or an immersive brand moment like our Red Bull pop-up. Our social-first approach and influencer partnerships have helped make our content feel real, relatable and shareable. Add to that over 300 media features in a year, and it’s clear: bold PR, strong visuals, and authentic voices are what set brands apart in a crowded market. What’s next? Dominic: Growth, and elevating the brand to the next level. Sofa Club is no longer a small, disruptive brand that sells entry-level sofas. We’re very much a consideration for customers, and we plan to stay – and take over – so watch this space! www.sofaclub.co.uk
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14 INSIGHT
Refit and rejuvenated Poltronesofà is close to completing the £57m transformation of 96 UK stores, overhauling ScS’s national presence, with the transformation of the sofa collection on offer and the introduction of ‘any sofa, any fabrics’ for UK customers …
Italy’s Poltronesofà group, which acquired ScS Group in January 2024, operates more than 310 stores across Europe, and is a market leader in Italy and France, with a presence in Belgium, Switzerland, Malta and Cyprus. It reported European revenues of more than €640m and EBITDA of €122m in 2023, prior to the ScS acquisition – and says preliminary 2024 results show further EBITDA progress. Poltronesofà says its financial strength has enabled extensive strategic investment in its UK store estate, which began in June 2024 and is set to be completed this month with the refit of the last 15 stores, “setting the stage for sustained growth and a transformed customer experience”. The refit features a store layout in the style of the rest of Poltronesofà’s European stores, with a modern look. The company says it has also improved the quality and style of its collection as it focuses on delivering “the right offer” to UK customers. Its flexible ‘any sofa, any fabrics’ offer includes 66
“We are already reaping the benefits of that investment
customisable models. Customers can choose from more than 200 fabrics and leathers, with a total of more than 250,000 combinations available. The portfolio and store overhaul, backed by the
The transformation has also involved detailed training for UK salespeople at the Poltronesofà ‘university’, which provides over 650 hours of courses at the group’s Forli HQ. Trading in 2025 from the 60 stores refurbished in 2024 has been “extremely encouraging”, says the retailer, “with significant sales increases in respect to 2024 and 2023”. Poltronesofà’s investment in the UK estate – with stores affected by closure and clearance for up to 12 weeks on average – came against a tougher trading climate and one-off acquisition and integration costs, lowering revenues and impacting profits in 2024.
financial strength of the parent group, has been
But, says Poltronesofà, the UK business
accompanied by a strategic focus on the retailer’s
is performing in line with its management’s
core sofa offering, leaving ScS’s flooring and dining
expectations, with a close to breakeven EBITDA
offers behind it.
performance on revenues of £233m in the 11
15
“Amazing store experiences and a superb new range of products and fabrics
months from the acquisition date (30th January
“Over 30 years in business we have two burning
2024) following significant investment in the store
obsessions – the quality of our products and
refit programme.
delivering value to our customers. Now we are
The company is also seeing a return to order
bringing those two obsessions to our UK customers
growth in the current year in the refitted stores, and
with amazing store experiences and a superb new
expects to be “highly profitable” in 2026 as it reaps
range of products and fabrics.
the benefit of the first full year of normal trading following the investment programme.
“Poltronesofà acquired ScS to enter a key market and support the next stage of its development, providing
Poltronesofà’s group CFO Luca Mazzotti says:
the capital needed to accelerate its ambitions. This
“The financial strength of the Poltronesofà business
significant investment – in product, stores and staff –
across Europe gives us the ability to invest for growth
shows us delivering on those promises.”
in the UK and we are already reaping the benefits of that investment.
www.poltronesofa.com
16 INSIGHT
COVER STORY
Simba tackles UK bed poverty Simba’s charity bed bundles include a bed, mattress, duvet, pillow and protector
This month’s cover star, sleep tech company Simba, has launched Dreamspace, a nationwide initiative to tackle bed poverty by donating complete bed bundles to 1,000 children and families most in need …
The new video shows how a lack of sleep can impact children’s lives
“When sleep is disrupted, the impact can last a lifetime
New research by Simba reveals that more than one in 10 children in the UK are now living in bed poverty, which means they do not have a clean or comfortable space to sleep. Nearly one in five low-income adults say they have experienced bed poverty (rising to 28% in London). Among single parents, bed-sharing with children has nearly doubled since 2023, increasing from 16-28%. Joseph Howes, CEO of charity Buttle UK, says: “Tonight, thousands of children will sleep on floors, sofas or overcrowded beds. Proper rest is essential for their health and dignity.” To help address this crisis, Dreamspace will provide full bed bundles including a bed, mattress, duvet, pillow and protector. These are now being distributed through referral partners such as Barnardo’s and Buttle UK. “No child should have to start the day already exhausted because they don’t have a proper bed,” says Simba’s CEO, Steve Reid. “Sleep is crucial for a child’s
development, behaviour and emotional resilience. When it’s disrupted, the impact can last a lifetime.” To raise awareness, Simba has released No Room for Rest, a short film created using generative AI. It shows the physical and emotional toll of poor sleep on children, highlighting how exhaustion can affect their ability to learn, connect and cope. The film is available on Simba’s website and forms part of a wider campaign to highlight hidden poverty in the UK. To help more children get the rest they need, Simba customers are also able to donate and support the campaign at checkout. Lynn Perry, chief executive of Barnardo’s, adds: “Bed poverty is just one aspect of child poverty, yet it starkly illustrates the challenges facing families across the UK. We’re grateful to Simba for this generous donation, which will mean more children and families are able to enjoy a good night’s sleep.” www.simbasleep.com/dreamspace
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18 INSIGHT
Selling beds and breaking records The MattressNextDay team outside the Whitstable showroom/distribution centre
Kent-based online mattress and bed retailer MattressNextDay has delivered another year of exceptional growth, with turnover reaching £36.6m for the year ended March 2025 – a remarkable +47% increase from the previous record-breaking year …
AI chatbot Kip is available 24/7 on the website
The company’s impressive trajectory continues to defy challenging market conditions, with turnover having increased by a staggering +447% since 2020, when it stood at £8.2m. Stuart Rogers, CFO at MattressNextDay, says: “We’re delighted to report another year of exceptional performance. Our turnover increase of +47% to £36.6m, combined with a gross profit of £17m at 46.5% margin, demonstrates our ability to scale efficiently while maintaining profitability. Our pre-tax profit has grown to £3.6m, up from £3m last year, proving that our growth strategy is both sustainable and profitable.” The results are particularly impressive given the uncertain economic climate that has challenged many retailers over recent years. CEO and founder Martin Seeley comments: “While the UK economy has faced headwinds, we’ve continued to thrive by focusing on the important things. Our success stems from our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and putting our customers at the heart of everything
Sharp from Tempur, with her 20 years of product knowledge, we’re ensuring our customers receive the most accurate and comprehensive product advice possible. Nobody knows these products better than
we do.”
the people who work with them every day.”
Expert advice
ambassadors (with more to come), each bringing
A key driver of MattressNextDay’s continued success has been its investment in customerfocused initiatives. In June, the company launched its brand ambassador programme, partnering with
“Nobody knows these products better
brings 13 years of industry experience, and Emma
The programme features 10 carefully selected decades of combined experience from their respective brands. From Stuart Hibbert’s 40+ years’ experience in the industry to Michael Prime’s consumer insight background at Sleepsoul (Birlea),
sleep industry and product experts from leading
these partnerships ensure customers receive expert
manufacturers including Sleepeezee, Sealy, Tempur,
guidance tailored to the products they are browsing.
Hypnos, and Silentnight. CTO Jamie Latham says: “Our brand ambassador
Beyond human expertise, MattressNextDay has significantly enhanced its customer service
programme represents our changing approach to
capabilities through strategic AI implementation. The
presenting products on our website. By partnering
retailer describes the results as “exceptional”, with the
with experts like Amy Curtis from Sleepeezee, who
technology helping to streamline customer enquiries
19
MattressNextDay’s directors Jamie Latham (CTO), Stuart Rogers (CFO) and Martin Seeley (CEO)
“We’re not just growing for growth’s sake
even more intuitive, helpful and informative shopping experience for customers.
A snapshot of the expert brand ambassadors on MattressNextDay’s website
Customer confidence MattressNextDay’s dedication to customer satisfaction extends beyond the point of sale. The company is expanding its 100-night sleep trial to all mattresses on its website, demonstrating confidence in both product quality and procedures. “Sleep is personal, and we understand that choosing the right mattress online can feel daunting,” says Martin. “By expanding our 100-night sleep trial across our entire mattress range, we’re removing the risk for customers. “We’ve had positive feedback on the sleep trials we do offer on selected mattress ranges, so it makes sense to expand this out and give our customers as much choice and flexibility as possible.”
and improve response times, while maintaining the personal touch that customers expect. “We’ve seen fantastic results from our AI-enhanced chatbot, which we’ve called Kip,” Jamie notes. “This technology allows us to provide instant, accurate responses to common queries, 24/7. Kip saves the customer service team roughly 400+ hours each month, allowing them to focus more on complex matters and ensure the best possible experience for every customer.” The company continues to invest heavily in its digital infrastructure, with a new stock management tool, new homepage and enhanced product pages scheduled to launch in the coming months. These improvements are designed to create an
Considered growth MattressNextDay’s focus remains on sustainable expansion and innovation. The retailer says the combination of strategic partnerships, technological advancement and commitment to customer service has created a foundation for future success. “We’re not just growing for growth’s sake,” Stuart concludes. “Every initiative, from our brand ambassador programme to our AI implementation, is designed to enhance the customer experience while building a sustainable, profitable business. This approach has served us well through uncertain times, and we’re confident it will continue to drive success in the years ahead.” With its strong financial performance, innovative customer experience initiatives, and commitment to sustainability, MattressNextDay is well positioned to maintain its trajectory as one of the UK’s most successful online furniture retailers. www.mattressnextday.co.uk
20 INSIGHT
GETTING PERSONAL
Brian McCann
Describing itself as the purveyor of “Ireland’s most popular bed”, DFI Beds is based just outside Coalisland in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, where it makes and sells beds, mattresses and headboards through its website and two stores. Following five years of growth, Brian – formerly the head of finance and accounting at another Northern Irish bedmaker, Comfizone – has invested in new machinery and staff, with a view to taking the business nationwide …
21
Brian with brand ambassador Erin McGregor
How might a child describe what you do? My daughters talk about going to “big work” which is our retail premises, and “wee work” which is the factory. They don’t really know what I do – probably a bit like myself … What’s the biggest long-term challenge you face? Keeping the energy and high standards the business has set. There is always a risk of becoming too comfortable. If you had 10 x your working budget, what would you spend it on? I’d sponsor major sporting events and get invited over to enjoy them! What would be the title of your autobiography? Rebel with a Cause – Shaking up the Mattress World (I did use AI for clarity!).
Who’s been your most influential professional mentor? Colin Christie, MD of Christiesdirect.com – someone I enjoy chatting and listening to. What advice would you give your younger self? Study marketing – something I never thought I would say, as someone who was hell-bent on being an accountant.
DFI partners with charities including Ronald McDonald House Charities Ireland
What’s been your best day in business to date? Black Friday, post Covid. We exceeded our expectations, and it was a proud moment to do so.
“There is always a risk of becoming too comfortable
DFI is the Ladies Gaelic Football Association’s first official sleep partner
What does ‘work/life balance’ mean to you? Being in online retail work is life, as it is 24/7, but being able to put time aside for family/life is very important. My wife is very understanding, and knows that if I get an hour or two for work time, even on holidays, we will all enjoy it much more.
What’s the biggest myth about our industry? That we all make loads of money! What should everyone in our industry either stop or start doing? Start adapting. The market, and market share, has changed – don’t be afraid to adapt. Where do you see the industry going in the next 5-10 years? Great question, and I’m confident I have the answer – retailers need to adapt. I can offer a service in Ireland which could save the local independents and major retailers alike. People want the ‘Amazon experience’, and I’ve the supply chain and logistics to do this. www.dfibeds.com
“My wife is very understanding, and knows that if I get an hour or two for work time, even on holidays, we will all enjoy it much more
NEW VENUE
OPEN TO ALL TRADE CUSTOMERS
08 - 09 OCT 2025 TELFORD INTERNATIONAL CENTRE TF3 4JH
UPCOMING EVENT - REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!
Where Innovation Meets Design! Happening on October 8–9 at the Telford International Centre, this leading trade event brings together top UK and international brands to showcase the latest in furniture and accessories. It’s your ideal chance to network with suppliers, explore fresh collections, and stay ahead of the trends for the new season. More information: autumnfurnitureshow.co.uk
PREMIER EVENT SPACE
KEYNOTE SESSIONS
FREE LUNCH
FREE
PARKING
Let’s connect
24 EVENTS
Gallery shines at SOLEX After becoming a member of outdoor furniture association LOFA earlier this year, Gallery Direct says it made a confident and memorable debut at this year’s SOLEX, which took place the NEC Birmingham last month …
According to the supplier, the event proved to be an invaluable opportunity to connect with trade customers, showcase its latest outdoor lifestyle collections, and reinforce its position as a complete lifestyle supplier. Commercial director James Hudson comments: “As a new face at SOLEX, we were proud to present a stand that stood out – not just for its bold visual impact, but for its distinctive approach. Many visitors commented on how the space differed from traditional furniture showcases – rather than simply displaying outdoor furniture sets in isolation, we presented a carefully curated lifestyle offer, demonstrating how retailers can create a cohesive and aspirational look.” From parasols and planters to soft furnishings, lighting, accessories, and of course, well-designed furniture ranges, Gallery’s collections are “curated to inspire” – and the supplier’s holistic approach to outdoor living was a key talking point, with buyers and visitors alike noting how Gallery Direct provides the whole look, not just products in isolation. Peter Delaney, Gallery’s product and sales director, says: “We were delighted by the meaningful conversations that took place across the three days of the show. Whether speaking with longstanding partners or potential new stockists, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Buyers appreciated the blend of style, durability and commerciality, and
“We were proud to present a stand that stood out
there was a strong appetite for solutions that help retailers maximise their outdoor category with ease and impact.” As a supplier, joining LOFA and exhibiting at SOLEX marked the start of a new chapter for Gallery Direct. Its presence at the show reaffirmed its commitment to
service and trade-focused support”. Gallery also attended the SOLEX British Grand Prix F1-themed after-party and awards evening, which offered an opportunity to network and celebrate alongside fellow exhibitors and buyers. With Sky Sports F1 lead commentator David ‘Crofty’ Croft bringing energy and insight to the night, it proved a lively and memorable event that added a celebratory edge to the experience, says Gallery. Chris Lewis, the supplier’s head of independent sales, notes: “SOLEX was a fantastic experience from start to finish. We’re incredibly grateful for the warm welcome, and to everyone who took the time to visit our stand. The response to our outdoor collections was extremely positive, and we’re excited to build on the conversations and connections made.” For those who were unable to attend, Gallery’s full outdoor collection is available to view on its website – and the sales team can arrange an exclusive preview of the supplier’s 2026 collection.
supporting the sector with high-quality, trend-led and reliable products – backed by “exceptional customer
www.gallerydirect.co.uk
SINCE 1973
New
AUTUMN/ WINTER 2025 COLLECTION
This exclusive first look at our AW25 launch offers a sneak peek of our brand-new furniture ranges that celebrate strength, simplicity, and natural beauty. Available to order soon, our AW25 ranges showcase solid wooden construction, clean silhouettes, and warm finishes that bring comfort and character into every room. Blending functional design with thoughtful detail, select pieces highlight the natural grain and texture of wood, bringing depth and individuality to key surfaces, while others focus on smooth finishes and subtle accents for a more refined look. New accessory and textile collections will also be introduced, perfectly complementing the furniture, adding even more style and versatility to your home. Scan the QR code for more
View our full collection online at www.gallerydirect.co.uk
26 EVENTS
Putting Ireland’s trade on the map Ireland’s leading trade-only event for the furniture industry, the Irish Furniture and Homewares Show (IFHS), returns to the National Indoor Arena, Dublin from 24-26th this month.
“IFHS 2025 promises to be a stand-out trade show
A key date in the retail calendar, the IFHS is a meeting point for retailers, buyers and suppliers looking for the latest in furniture, decor and homewares. “As consumer tastes evolve and demand grows for sustainable, design-led products, IFHS offers a curated showcase of innovative collections,” says the show’s organiser, “from contemporary furnishings to eco-friendly living solutions. “Its strong alignment with Irish and UK retail trends makes it a must-attend event for both independent stores and large retailers. Exhibitors include top suppliers showcasing ranges tailored to local market preferences, offering unmatched sourcing opportunities and valuable networking in a professional setting.” Beyond product displays, IFHS champions industry excellence through the Irish Furniture and Homewares Awards, held during the event. Celebrating outstanding design, innovation and
business performance, the awards include categories such as Best New Product, Sustainability Excellence, and Supplier of the Year. Open to all exhibitors, the awards are judged by architect and broadcaster Amanda Bone, known for her focus on creativity and smart design. Winners gain national recognition and increased visibility in the trade. The IFHS also supports both established and emerging brands, highlighting its commitment to all levels of the industry. “By bringing together top-tier products, people, and ideas, the show remains a celebration of creativity and strength in Ireland’s furniture sector,” says IFHS. “IFHS 2025 promises to be a stand-out trade show for professionals looking to grow, connect and be recognised. It’s more than an event – it’s where the industry comes together.” www.ifhs-tradeshow.ie
T h e N a t i o n a l I n d o o r A r e n a , B l a n c h a r d s t o w n , D u b l i n . 2 4 t h - 2 6 t h A u g u s t 2 0 2 5
SECURE YOUR BADGE HERE
www.ifhs-tradeshow.ie
Ireland’s Premier Furniture &
Homewares Show
28 EVENTS
INDX Furniture’s summer showcase returns
Maxfurn
“INDX Furniture is your gateway to success, providing a dynamic platform for retailers to explore the latest designs across upholstery, living room, dining room and garden,” the buying, services and event group continues. “With a focus on newness and innovation, the upcoming show will be an unmissable opportunity for suppliers and retailers to catch up, connect, and do business. “Plus, AIS members can look forward to enjoying a second opportunity to see the relaunch of their exclusive own-label Dreamworld Collection, first unveiled at INDX Beds’s April 2025 show.” In direct response to buyer feedback, this month’s show will also introduce new category, home accessories. Featured within this category are a host of first-time brands including Gallery Direct. Peter Delaney, Gallery’s sales and product director, says: “We are really pleased to be working with AIS and reconnecting with such a well-respected group within the industry. We are also looking forward to exhibiting at the upcoming INDX Furniture show – they offer a fantastic opportunity to meet AIS members and retailers in person, and showcase our latest collections, and better understand their needs.” In partnership with trend forecasting agency Scarlet Opus, the show’s Trend Area will presents key theme ‘The Nuturers’, “featuring a pastel palette which creates a refreshing atmosphere and sets the mood for a new attitude – light-filled, cleansing and optimistic”. Visitors will also be able to explore products from exhibitors Abode and Ashwood Designs, with supporting accessories sourced from Premier Housewares and BHS. Within the upholstery category, confirmed exhibitors include Abode, Alstons, Aquinos, Ashwood Designs, Ashwood International, Celebrity, Conform Collection, Furninova, Gainsborough, G Plan, HTL, IMG Comfort, LPD, New Trend Concepts, Parker
Gallery Direct
“INDX Furniture is your gateway to success
Cófra Furniture
INDX Furniture returns to Cranmore Park from 27-28th August (AIS members only on day one), and promises to deliver “the ultimate destination to connect, collaborate and thrive”, where “attendees can look forward to exploring a commercially crafted product showcase, brought together by industry experts, and designed to help fuel your business growth, says organiser Associated Independent Stores (AIS).
Knoll, Primavera, Sofa Source International, Vilmers, and WS Wholesale. This season’s confirmed cabinet exhibitors include Abode, Bell & Stocchero, Cardoso Leal, Cófra Furniture, Hill & Hunter, Hooker Furnishings, Kettler (Indoor), LPD, Maxfurn, Maysons Furniture, Torelli Furniture, and Willis & Gambier. Garden suppliers will include Kettler (Outdoor) and Signature Living, and in direct response to buyer requests, the home furnishings sector will feature exhibitors including Gallery Direct, The Globe Company, and Trampoline. All INDX shows are free to attend, with free on-site parking and complimentary refreshments for all visitors. www.indxshows.co.uk/shows/furniture
30 EVENTS
All the fun of the fair Hill Interiors
Home, gift and fashion trade show Autumn Fair returns to the NEC Birmingham from 7–10th September, bringing together over 800 brands and more than 12,000 retail buyers for four days of product discovery ahead of retail’s busiest season …
My Gifts Trade
At the heart of this year’s edition is a line-up of industry favourites and bestselling brands across 10 curated destinations, with many unveiling new seasonal collections. With more than 800 brands under one roof – more than 30% of them exclusive to Autumn Fair – the event promises inspiration, innovation, and new revenue streams. Home and lifestyle buyers will find fresh inspiration from Hill Interiors, Trampoline, Quirky Barn, Inside Out, Ancient Mariner, Walton & Co and Indra Importer in
My Gifts Trade
the Home, Living and Décor destination. New brands present include Hedgeroe Home, an interiors lifestyle brand offering homewares, lighting and furniture; Bedeck, which will launch its Land & Shore homewares collection; and Atolia Designs, which will debut its sustainably sourced homewares and gifts. The Summer House Edit returns with a curated edit of high-end furnishings, decor and gifts, from Scandinavian influence, to rustic, chic and even artisanal and quirky styles. Also presenting their latest collections will be Nordic Style, Hot Tomato, Malini, The Otters Brook Collection, Bronte By Moon, Blooms by Samuel Baker, Inis – Energy of the Sea, and Present Time. Autumn Fair’s portfolio director, Jackson Szabo
“This is shaping up to be our most compelling edition yet
says: “This show has always been a destination for serious retail buyers and independents, and this year is shaping up to be our most compelling edition yet, offering retailers a key opportunity to refresh their product ranges ahead of the peak shopping season. “With 85% of floor space already sold and a +10%
experiences, from retail masterclasses to networking retreats. Retail Corner is a hub for industry icon trend talks, trend forecast presentations and practical sessions, while Pitch Live will welcome exhibitors to the stage with their most innovative products. There is also Autumn Fair’s new partnership with SaveTheHighStreet.org. The Retail Makeover Mission is an initiative aimed at revitalising independent retail and act as a catalyst for high street regeneration across the UK,
increase in event footprint, Autumn Fair is building on
Autumn Fair remains the essential event for the retail
the momentum of the successful 2024 show, which
trade calendar,” concludes show organiser, Hyve Group.
saw a +34% rise in new buyers in attendance.” Autumn Fair will also offer visitors a host of
www.autumnfair.com
32 EVENTS
The biggest Furniture Component Expo yet As the UK’s furniture industry looks ahead to 2026, the eyes of many are on the Furniture Component Expo (FCE), an event that has quickly established itself as an essential meeting point for manufacturers, suppliers and innovators …
With more than 50% of the show’s floorspace already claimed by exhibitors, the anticipation is palpable, says organiser, the British Furniture Association (BFA) – adding that next year’s expo, the third annual gathering, promises to be the largest and most dynamic yet. A showcase for innovation and opportunity Scheduled for 11-12th March at Telford International Centre, FCE 2026 is more than just a trade show, says the BFA: “It’s a one-stop shop for the entire furnituremaking community. “From cabinet and upholstery specialists to bed and mattress manufacturers, the event brings together the full spectrum of the industry under one roof. Here, the UK’s largest furniture producers can review the latest products, network with peers, and forge new partnerships with leading suppliers. “The expo’s unique strength lies in its ability to attract decision-makers from across the sector. Whether you’re a well-established supplier or a newcomer with a game-changing solution, FCE
and Carpenter, both of which have renewed their partnership agreements, further underscores the event’s growing importance. Their continued involvement, alongside the return of Furniture & Joinery Production as sponsor of the seminar theatre and drinks reception, signals strong industry backing and a commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration, adds the BFA.
offers unparalleled access to buyers, designers, manufacturers and fellow suppliers – all eager to do business and explore new opportunities.” New sectors and renewed partnerships Phil Spademan, MD of the BFA, is confident that 2026 will mark a turning point for the event. “All signs are already pointing to our biggest year to date for the expo, which fills a much-needed gap for the industry,”
“The expo fills a much-needed gap for the industry
he says. This year, the event is broadening its scope to welcome exhibitors and visitors from the kitchen and bathroom sector, as well as contract furniture and interiors. The BFA says this strategic expansion reflects the evolving needs of the market and ensures
Why FCE 2026 matters “For anyone involved in the furniture supply chain, FCE 2026 is shaping up to be an unmissable event,” the association continues. “In an industry where relationships and timely information can make all the difference, the expo offers a rare chance to connect face to face with the people who matter most. Every conversation has the potential to open doors, spark ideas, and drive growth. “As the countdown to March begins, the message is clear – the Furniture Component Expo is not just keeping pace with the industry, it’s setting the agenda.” For more information on exhibiting or attending, visit the show website.
that the expo remains relevant and forward-thinking. The support from headline sponsors BeA Group
www.fcexpo.co.uk
Telford International Centre, Telford, U K 11 and 12 March 2026
The UK’s premier trade show of products and services for the furniture manufacturing industry
Exhibition packages and sponsorship opportunities
The Expo exceeded our expectations in terms of leads and customer contact. Overall, one of the most productive exhibitions I’ve been involved with. Kevin Parr, Jet Press Ltd Scan here
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fcexpo.co.uk
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34 EVENTS MANCHESTER FURNITURE SHOW
MFS brings the industry together Now in its second year since returning from a five-year hiatus, the Manchester Furniture Show (MFS) once again brought the UK furniture industry together at Manchester Central on 6-7th July for two days of buying, networking and inspiration …
Following its comeback in 2024, this year’s edition built on that momentum, delivering “a focused, energetic and commercially valuable sourcing opportunity” for furniture professionals from across the UK and Ireland, reports organiser Clarion Events. More than 120 brands showcased upholstery, cabinet furniture, beds and accessories, capturing the attention of a cross-section of retailers and industry specialists. Retailers in attendance included Casey’s Furniture, Sainsbury’s, DFS, Sterling Furniture Group, Cousins Furniture Store, Fairway Furniture, Glasswells, W J Aldiss, Stokers, Housing Units, Stocktons, Andersons of Inverurie, Glenkeen Furnishings, B&B Furniture, Connollys of Moy, Home World Beds, Hegartys and Hafren Furnishers. “Last year’s show was good, but this year’s has been even better,” stated BB Furniture’s visiting buyer. “We’ve ordered from multiple suppliers, and because the show is compact, it’s easy to see everyone. “Day one has been incredibly productive, and
“It’s great to see the show back
quality, reports Clarion, underlining MFS’s growing importance as a commercial hub. Notably: VIP buyer
we’re expecting even more tomorrow. We’ve already
attendance rose by +86% YoY, indicating stronger
placed a lot of orders and plan to spend more.
senior-level engagement; the number of buyers with
These new orders will help secure strong repeat
£500k-£1m budgets increased by +46%, while the
business, not just for us, but for the suppliers too.
£1m-£2m band rose by +26%; and buyers with annual
It’s great to see the show back – it’s been well
budgets over £1m in attendance increased by +6%,
worth it!”
and overall attendance from those with budgets over
This year’s edition saw a significant uplift in buyer
£500k rose by +17% compared to 2024.
35
“A key touchpoint for high-value decision-makers in the furniture sector
“These figures reaffirm the show’s role as a key touchpoint for high-value decision-makers in the furniture sector,” says Clarion. Alongside the business focus, MFS created space for relaxed connection and community. The Spritz Bar, sponsored by Claimlane, and the VIP Lounge, became go-to spots for informal networking, while the Official Show Party on Sunday evening brought a lively end to day one, featuring a live DJ and a fastpaced table tennis tournament that brought out both the fun and competitive sides of the industry. Monday morning saw the return of the Women in Furniture Network (WIFN) with a well-attended brunch and panel session, chaired by Zoë Bonser, portfolio director at Clarion Events. Panellists Kellie Wyles (DFS), Jan Duckworth (Cox & Cox) and Fara Butt (Shire Beds) discussed leadership, visibility and mentorship, sharing personal reflections
on the progress of women in the industry and the importance of paving the way for future generations. “The WIFN panel was a powerful reminder of how important it is to create space for honest conversations in our industry,” says Zoë. “The stories shared were inspiring, and the energy in the room showed just how much appetite there is for progress, visibility and support.” With two editions now delivered, the Manchester Furniture Show has firmly re-established itself as the UK’s essential mid-year trade event, says Clarion: “The next edition will return to Manchester Central on 5–6th July 2026, with interest already building among returning buyers and new exhibitors alike. Be part of the momentum – register your interest today and stay connected with everything to come.” www.thefurnitureshows.com
36 EVENTS MANCHESTER FURNITURE SHOW
Quality time with Alpha Designs
Aiden
“It was great to spend some quality time with our customers, and although a small show, it was definitely worth us exhibiting,” says Nichola. “Alpha has been working on cementing our ‘DNA’ of good, commercial, family-friendly shapes with great comfort and value, and we believe that our collection at Manchester was evidence of this. “With our ‘famous’ Halley having a facelift in a new cover, giving it a fresh look, and our 2025 models Aiden and Astrid looking splendid in our on-trend colours, it was a pleasure to see the collection working fantastically together. “We launched a lovely new range, Logan, with great curves, comfort, and just the right amount of contrast piping detail to create sophistication – a perfect addition to our family. “It has been a difficult year for our trade,” Nichola continues, “but Alpha is working on our ‘back to the future’ plan. By carefully navigating supply issues, concentrating on improving our customer journey, and delivering good product, on time, we are confident that the second half of the year will be a strong one. We have a fantastic customer base which we value greatly, and look forward to building new relationships along the way. “It certainly feels like there are some shifting sands in our industry at the moment as many of us navigate the challenges of the commercial world, but we must remember that we have a fantastic British furniture industry that needs to be celebrated and protected. “I believe the Manchester Furniture Show has always been a great opportunity for our industry to get together, buy/sell product, negotiate and socialise in a fun and relaxed atmosphere – but to make it more
Astrid
“It was a pleasure to see the collection working fantastically together
Logan
Alpha Designs sales director Nichola Bell looks back at the successful conclusion of another Manchester Furniture Show …
worthwhile for both buyers and suppliers, more of us need to come together under one roof and celebrate what we do. There are many smaller shows during the year that seem to dilute a strong annual summer show, and I’d love to see it get back to what could be a great opportunity for everyone. In the meantime, it’s back to preparations for the January Furniture Show.” Nichola can be reached at sales@alpha-designs.co.uk.
thank you aabig big
totoeveryone everyonewho whosupported supportedususatatthe the
Manchester ManchesterFurniture FurnitureShow Show
BRITISH BRITISH FURNITURE FURNITURE
ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATION
APPROVED APPROVED MEMBER MEMBER
sales@alpha-designs.co.uk sales@alpha-designs.co.uk
38 EVENTS MANCHESTER FURNITURE SHOW
FWS Home plays it Smart at MFS
“Smart Occasional has become the cornerstone of our offering
The Hudson Ash Collection is back
This year’s Manchester Furniture Show saw the launch of Smart Occasional by FWS Home – and the roll-out proved a “resounding success”, reports sales director Andrew Parker …
FWS Home specialises in high-quality, solid wood furniture designed for modern living. As a dedicated wholesaler, the business supplies independent retailers, interior designers and trade professionals across the UK with “beautifully crafted pieces that combine timeless design with everyday function”. Its collections cover every part of the home, from the living and dining room to bedrooms and hallways. “Whether you’re looking for solid wood coffee tables, dining sets or practical storage benches, our range offers something to suit every space and style,” the supplier states. MFS saw the wholesaler strengthen its portfolio with the addition of the popular Smart Occasional brand of cabinet products – including the relaunch of its well-established Hudson Ash Collection. “This year, we acquired Smart Occasional, a trusted name with a long-standing heritage in solid wood furniture,” says the supplier. “Known for its craftsmanship, durability, and classic design, Smart Occasional has become the cornerstone of our offering, and now stands as our flagship brand. “By bringing Smart Occasional into the FWS Home family, we’ve expanded our range and reaffirmed our commitment to solid wood furniture that lasts – furniture your customers will love for years to come.” FWS Home also launched three other collections at the show – two painted ranges and a rattan collection. The full product offer can be explored on the FWS Home website, and is supported by four experienced sales agents. For further details about FWS Home’s products or its regional agents, contact the business through its website or call 03333 553366. www.fwshome.co.uk
FW Style Limited expand into new premises
Due to continued success in the UK market, FW Style Limited, have recently moved into two brand new warehouses in Chorley, Lancashire. Now boasting three times its previous storage capacity with nearly 6000 pallet spaces and coupled with a major investment in a new WMS, FW Style are perfectly positioned to support their two wholesale brands. The successful launch of Smart Occasional by FWS Home at the recent Manchester Furniture Show is concentrated on Assembled Furniture and Solid Timbers, the full range of which can be found on their www.fwshome.co.uk trade website. A team of experienced Furniture Sales Agents will support the continued expansion of this brand into Bricks & Mortar Retailers. FW Style also carry an extensive valuefocused collection of Flat-Pack Furniture for bedrooms and living rooms, all of which can be found on their www.fwsdirect.co.uk trade website. With low minimum order values for Free Carriage of bulk orders, FW Style can also support customers with an efficient dropship service. Please contact us either through the trade websites or give us a call on 03333 553366.
40 EVENTS MANCHESTER FURNITURE SHOW
Scottish stockists go Wilde for Taylors tie-up How was MFS for you?
Taylors’ Manchester stand, complete with Wilde Java statement accessories
This year’s show saw rustic/ reclaimed cabinet specialist Taylors Creative Living launch a supply partnership with Wilde Java, supplier of statement home accessories – providing customers in Scotland with a cost-effective route to stocking their complementary pieces. Furniture News sat down with Taylors’s Michael Taylor and Wilde Java’s Phill Jones at the show to find out more …
Michael: It was good from the perspective of the tie-in with Wide Java, which really elevated the look of the stand. We enlisted Callie Bridson Designs to pull the whole thing together, which paid dividends, and we picked up a few very good new accounts. How were your new products received? Michael: We were delighted that the Wilde Java collaboration created both interest and sales. Also Malvern, a new parquet collection from India, was greatly admired – even though we just had four pieces on the stand due to a container being stuck at sea! We’re working with a fantastic factory, which made these pieces in just five days so we could make the airfreight deadline ahead of the show. We’ll be adding bedroom pieces soon. Why did you decide to partner up? Michael: We’ve been friends for many years so it made the discussion process very easy, but essentially for two reasons. The look of Wilde Java’s product ties in beautifully with ours – both our slightly rustic and soft industrial ranges – and will help sales for both companies, and retailers can easily put together some very nice looks on their show floors. Secondly, logistics in Scotland are very easy for us and more difficult for Wilde Java, due to the MOQs – delivering a dozen vases to Inverness is difficult from much of England, but pairing those orders with ours makes it achievable. Phill: Partnering with Taylors will definitely help grow Wilde Java in Scotland. We’ve known and respected each other for years, so when we discovered that they wanted to add accessories to their collection, it seemed a no-brainer. What does this mean for your customers? How do they benefit? Michael: As we’ll be holding stock in Scotland there’s literally no minimum order size, and lead times for Scottish customers will be significantly reduced. Phill: It means Scottish retailers will be able to stock Wilde Java products with even greater confidence. Anyone interested should contact either of us to find
“The look of Wilde Java’s product ties in beautifully with ours
out more.
Phill: Wilde Java products don’t particularly lend themselves to online selling. Now, even more bricksand-mortar retailers can stock our collections, safe in the knowledge that they’re not being discounted online, and ensuring our customers earn the right margin. Why don’t more suppliers work together in this manner? Michael: You’d have to ask them! The industry has seen some very good partnerships in the past … but I suppose smaller companies can be more nimble. Personally, we’re always looking to make new friends and contacts.
Are statement accessories in particularly high demand right now? Michael: We think so. We certainly took orders for them at the show, and will be looking to expand this market further with new and existing customers. I’ve learned
Phill: I don’t think it’s a normal occurrence, and I wouldn’t say it’s easy. In our case, it has come about slowly, through many, many conversations – but I’m looking forward to seeing where it goes!
that, during difficult times, people are happy to spend smaller amounts of money to put something nice into their homes which friends and family will talk about.
www.taylorscreativeliving.co.uk www.wildejava.com
Make a statement Taylors Creative Living and Wilde Java have teamed up to offer Scottish stockists the best of both worlds! With Taylors now holding Wilde Java stock in Scotland, customers now benefit from: • No MOQ on Wilde Java’s statement accessories • Faster lead times • The perfect complementary products Create engaging lifestyle displays in-store, with cabinet and accessories in harmony!
www.taylorscreativeliving.co.uk www.wildejava.com
42 EVENTS MANCHESTER FURNITURE SHOW
Shankar enjoys a warm reception Club armchair in vintage tan
Shankar UK would like to thank all the companies that visited its stand at the show. “We were overwhelmed with the warm reception received from visitors, and picked up numerous new accounts and leads,” the supplier enthuses …
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
Oslo lounge chair in burnt orange
“Our stand was bustling as visitors flocked to see an array of new products, including stylish dining chairs, innovative lounge chairs, elegant sofa chairs, and a fresh line of ergonomic office chairs,” reports Shankar UK. “The enthusiastic reception from visitors was overwhelming, affirming our commitment to design and quality. As a result, we secured numerous new accounts and leads, marking a significant milestone in our growth strategy.” Among the stand-out models was the Oslo lounge chair, featuring an inviting burnt orange hue, and a natural option. Upholstered in a high-quality tactile fabric, this chair offers not only comfort, but a stylish statement that enables it to suit any interior, says Shankar: “The Oslo touted an unbeatable combination of design and affordability, leaving visitors impressed and eager to learn more. “The Club armchair, available in both a rich vintage tan and a deep navy faux leather, also received accolades,” the supplier continues. “Its elegantly crafted ash frame put a modern twist on the highend look that is sure to enhance any home. The Club armchair showcased the brand’s commitment
to offering luxury at accessible pricing, further “It’s clear that cementing our reputation in the market. “Not to be missed was the Rome dining chair, Shankar UK is featuring a trendy updated design. The chair comes on the right track in elegant moss heather and warm toffee fabrics,
making it an ideal blend of contemporary style for both modern and traditional dining spaces. “We not only demonstrated our innovative approach to furniture design at the event, but also solidified our position as a key player in the industry, with potential clients eager to collaborate. The crowd’s excitement and positive feedback confirm a strong future for the brand as we continue to redefine contemporary living spaces. “Thanks to the overwhelmingly warm reception from the visitors at the show, it’s clear that Shankar UK is on the right track to achieve even greater success in the coming months.” www.shankar.uk.com
K
GAS LIFT
44 EVENTS MANCHESTER FURNITURE SHOW
Sofa Connections encouraged and energised “We’re thrilled to reflect on an incredible few days at the Manchester Furniture Show, where we had the pleasure of meeting some truly lovely customers and making valuable connections across the industry,” reports Sofa Connections operations manager Sarah Oakley …
“It was a fantastic opportunity to showcase our growing collection and share what we’ve been working on with the wider furniture community,” Sarah continues. “One of the highlights for us was unveiling our brand-new model, the Kingston. We were delighted by the positive response it received – stylish, comfortable, and crafted with care, the Kingston is already generating a buzz, and is set to arrive on shopfloors by the autumn. “Our stand drew a lot of attention, and it was great to see returning favourites like the Belfry, Blakedown and Sherwood models continuing to perform so well with designers and retailers alike. The feedback we received throughout the show has been both encouraging and energising, and we’re excited about what’s to come.” Sarah, who attended the Women in Furniture Networking (WIFN) event during the show, adds: “Events like this are a brilliant platform for sharing experiences, learning from one another, and championing women across the industry. I’m already
“We were delighted by the positive response Kingston received
looking forward to joining the upcoming mentoring scheme when it launches – initiatives like this are vital for supporting the next generation of leaders.” The sofamaker, which was founded in 1995 but has only made its presence truly known in recent times, also won the Best Newcomer accolade in Furniture News’ Readers’ Choice Awards this year. “It’s a real honour to be recognised in this way, and we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone
that our entire team has poured into making a bold entrance into the furniture world. “With the momentum of Manchester behind us, we’re excited to see what the rest of the year holds. Watch this space – there’s plenty more to come!”
who voted for us,” says Sarah. “This award is a testament to the hard work, dedication and passion
www.sofaconnections.co.uk
Crafted by us, branded by you
Tel: 01384 476614 Email: info@sofaconnections.co.uk www.sofaconnections.co.uk
46 EVENTS MANCHESTER FURNITURE SHOW
SECONIQUE Seconique would like to thank everyone who visited its stand at the Manchester Furniture Show, where it showcased its Select. By Seconique assembled range of solid and manufactured wood products which were launched in January. The collection is available in two distinct styles and three elegant colourways. These new ranges feature a blend of traditional and modern styles, crafted from premium oak and manufactured wood. The Bordeaux bedroom, living, and dining range features a decorative plinth and detailed tops, with the Bordeaux living collection finished in either pebble grey or ivory, complemented by a waxed oak top. Bedroom pieces are finished in an all-over painted look. The Bordeaux range offers a choice of two handles, one in matching colours and the other in brushed steel. The Windsor bedroom, living and dining range is available in three finishes – oak and oak veneers with a soft waxed finish, which brings a classic feel to the home, or in pebble grey or ivory with oak veneer tops. New launches for the show also included the Tessa self-assembly occasional range, finished in an oakeffect veneer with modern black stripes on the doors, and the Eton sofabed, which features a full pull-out bed. To discover more and see the full product range, call 0121 506 4888 to request a catalogue, visit the website, or explore the supplier’s extensive showroom.
By Seconique
Windsor
Seconique Furniture Ltd, Boulton House, Owens Trading Estate, Wobaston Road, Pendeford, Wolverhampton, WV9 5EY
Bordeaux
www.seconique.co.uk
Windsor Cross Back Chair
Windsor Extending Dining Table
Tel: 0121 506 4888 Fax: 0121 506 4889 Email: sales@seconique.co.uk Website: www.seconique.co.uk
47
YOUR 2026 SUCCESS STRATEGY
LOOKING FOR SOMETHING SPECIAL? With autumn’s shows bringing buyers new products, September’s issue will point readers to where and what they can source this season – and extra magazine distribution at the Bed Show, Autumn Furniture Show and Long Point means even more bang for your buck! Together with the latest in Bedroom, Dining, Living and Trade Services, it’ll contain: * Previews of autumn Long Point and Minerva’s Autumn Furniture Show * The latest technological advantages in our Retail Technology feature * Bed Buyer, our annual supplement dedicated to the NBF Bed Show and the federation’s members. Our independent publication, endorsed by our partner the NBF, is also distributed at the show Call now to be part of this important issue!
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FIND OUT MORE ABOUT GREENWOOD SALES… Grow your business, build your order book and win future market share with a Greenwood Promotional Sale or, realise the enormous value of your goodwill using a Greenwood Business Closing / Retirement strategy. Either way you can generate record-breaking sales and profits.
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Catching up with Buyline after the Manchester Furniture Show 2025 It’s been a month since the Manchester Furniture Show, so we caught up with Leon Robinson, Head of New Business at UK-based point-of-sale finance provider Buyline, to chat about the event, what retailers are up against right now, and how Buyline is helping businesses stay ahead in a tricky market. Interviewer: How was the Manchester Furniture Show for Buyline this year? Leon: It was great, as always. We’ve had a stand at the show a few times now, and it’s consistently a good one for us. We get to catch up with some of our existing partners and meet lots of new businesses too. It was really useful to hear first-hand what challenges retailers are dealing with right now. Interviewer: What sort of challenges came up? Leon: A big one is still competing with the big national chains that already offer finance. Smaller independents often struggle to find a finance provider who’s ready to back them and give them the support they need to get going. On top of that, plenty of businesses said they’re finding it tougher to close sales — with the cost of living where it is, people are thinking a lot more carefully before making bigger purchases.
Interviewer: Do businesses need to be regulated to offer finance? Leon: Not with our BuylineGo product. It lets partners offer 0% finance for up to 11 months without needing FCA regulation. If they want to take it further, we can help them move to BuylinePro, which opens up access to our full range of regulated finance options. Interviewer: What kind of support do you give your partners? Leon: We’re very hands-on. Our Partner Success team provides full training and gives partners everything they need — whether it’s in-store or online materials — to promote finance in a way that really works. It’s all about helping them make the most of it and grow their business. Interviewer: Is your solution available online as well?
Interviewer: How does Buyline help with that? Leon: This is exactly where we come in. Unlike the big finance firms, we don’t expect a certain turnover or years of trading. We look at each business on its own merits and make onboarding as simple as possible. Our range of finance options — from 0% interest-free to 19.9% APR over 6 to 48 months — gives partners the freedom to offer what works best for their customers and helps them close more sales, even in this climate.
Leon: Absolutely — we offer a full multi-channel setup. Partners can offer finance in-store, over the phone, or online. For e-commerce, we’ve got ready-to-go plugins for big platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento. It’s quick and easy to get set up, and it gives independents the tools they need to compete with the big online retailers. Interviewer: Anything else that makes Buyline stand out? Leon: We’re very data-focused. We help our partners get to know their customers better through demographic insights and regularly check in on how their sales journey is performing. The goal is to make sure finance is really working for them and driving growth — in a smart, sustainable way.
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Buyline Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Firm Reference Number 805162. However, credit agreements that are interest free and less than twelve months are unregulated. Registered office: B12 Elmbridge Court, Cheltenham Road East, Gloucester, GL3 1JZ
50 EVENTS
Feat of clay Big Shots / Holland & Holland, Northwood, Middlesex Wednesday 11th June www.furnituremakers.org.uk The furnishing industry’s clay pigeon shoot, principally sponsored by Furniture Village in aid of The Furniture Makers’ Company, celebrated its 30th anniversary in style, raising a recordbreaking £46,000, beating last year’s record of £42,000. The event brought together more than 160 industry professionals for a day of sport, camaraderie and charitable giving. Several shooters stood out: Top Gun Male, Tom Prestwich (Belfield Group) – 106 points; Top Gun Female, Nicky Hutten (Minotti) – 81 points; Top Gun Novice, Jack Cochrane (Furniture Village) – 89 points; Top Team, The Fighting Twenty Fifth (RAF) – 431 points; Runner Up Team, Sharpes Shooters (2 Rifles) – 405 points; Top Novice Team, Clay-Z and the Snipers (Furniture Village) – 378 points; and Four Man Flurry Winners, Sharpes Shooters (2 Rifles) – 83 points. The 31st Big Shots will take place on 10th June 2026.
51
52 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
Stars in your eyes Your votes have been counted, and Furniture News can now reveal the winners of our fifth annual Readers’ Choice Awards!
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of votes this year,” says Furniture News editor-in-chief, Paul Farley. “Thanks to everyone who took the time to nominate their preferred suppliers, agents and reps, and a huge well done to those who took the top spots.” It has been a challenging year for much of the industry – which is all the more reason the businesses going above and beyond for their customers should be recognised. The Readers’ Choice Awards were created to make sure the industry’s stand-out suppliers get the recognition they deserve. As well as a seal of approval from our readers, a win reflects the achievements of the people behind the business, from product
design, assembly and testing to sales, administration, management and beyond, and reminds every member of those teams that what they are doing makes an impact. This year saw the introduction of new categories to recognise the trade’s favourite agents and reps, plus additional trade service fields. Readers cast their votes in our online form, selecting their chosen supplier in each category, or nominating their own. But that’s enough preamble – here are this year’s winners …
Best (complete) Bed Supplier: Sleepeezee (p60) “We are thrilled! This award is testament to all the hard work the team at Sleepeezee have done in handcrafting superior beds and mattresses, and providing our customers with the best value and support. To be recognised for this award is something we’re all incredibly proud of.”
specialists and our customer service team, all work extremely hard to produce and deliver amazing products which are beautiful, practical and excellent quality. To be recognised for this is pleasing and much appreciated..”
Best (supplier) Training Support: Emmiera Group (p62) “We are incredibly proud to have been voted Best Furniture Care/Repair Provider and Best (supplier) Training Support in this year’s Furniture News Readers’ Choice Awards. These awards are a fantastic recognition of the passion, expertise and commitment shown by our entire team across the UK. Whether it’s delivering exceptional repairs or completing our live repair demonstrations and highquality service team training, we always strive to lead by example. To receive this endorsement from the industry is truly meaningful.”
Best Boxed Sofa Brand: Swyft Home (p66)
Best Bed Component Supplier: Spinks (p61) “It’s a great honour,” says CCO Darren Marcangelo. “At Spinks, innovation constantly drives us forward, and we’re proud to lead the way in developing cuttingedge technology that helps our customers create furniture products that continue to raise the bar for comfort, quality and performance. The recent launch of four new spring innovations will help us take this even further, and we’re especially proud to design and manufacture our springs right here in Britain.” Best Bedroom Cabinet Supplier: Wiemann (p64) “To top a poll “We are delighted to win this prestigious award,” says Hewitt, MD of Wiemann’s sole agent for the voted for by our Simon UK and Ireland, Litmus Furniture. “To top a poll voted by our industry peers is both humbling and an industry peers is for honour.” Kai Schwenke, Wiemann’s export manager, both humbling adds: “Colleagues across the business, from design, manufacture and distribution in Germany to the and an honour UK sales team, our home delivery and installation
Best Boxed Mattress Brand: Simba Sleep (p16)
Best Buying Group: Associated Independent Stores (AIS, p68) Best CGI Visualisation Provider: Chilli Pepper Designs (p70) Best Children’s/Nursery Furniture Supplier: Julian Bowen (p72) Best Decorative Accessories Supplier: Coach House “Thanks to all who have taken the time to vote for us! We have spent a lot of time as a team designing and developing new accessory items, so it’s great to see the hard work paying off. It’s often the decorative accessories which give personality and soul to a space, and ultimately bring joy, and we’re proud to be part of the process, in creating interesting and soulful interiors. Thanks again for voting for us – we will continue to pursue new designs with your support.” Best Dining Furniture Supplier: Gallery Direct (p74) “We’re absolutely delighted to have been named Best Dining Furniture Supplier – a fantastic achievement, made even more meaningful by the fact that it’s voted for by the industry. This recognition reflects the collective effort of our entire team – from product design and development to our creative studio, UK and overseas QC teams, supply chain, operations, delivery, customer care and sales. It’s a true team effort, and every individual plays a key role in helping us deliver the high standards our
53
Ercol was “delighted” to top the Best Home Office Furniture Supplier category
customers rely on. At Gallery, we remain committed to investing in our people, our products, and our operations – and it’s incredibly rewarding to see that this ongoing commitment is recognised.” Best Display Support Provider: Reborn Marketing & Design (p69) “We’re over the moon to hear that FeelingReborn. com has been named Best Display Support Provider for the third year in a row,” says founder and creative director Adam Ashborn. “At FeelingReborn.com, we don’t just build displays – we bring ideas to life with creativity, passion, and a touch of flair. This hat-trick win is all thanks to our incredible team working tirelessly behind the scenes, and our amazing clients who inspire us every day. Here’s to bold designs, brilliant partnerships, and being proudly Reborn again (and again)!” Best European Exhibition: imm cologne “We are truly honoured. This recognition reflects our successful repositioning as an international B2B event dedicated to the consumer-oriented interiors market.” Best Fabric Supplier: Warwick Fabrics Best Fabric Upholstery Supplier: Whitemeadow Furniture (p76) Best Flatpack Furniture Supplier: Furniture To Go (p78) Best For Innovation: Orbital (p82) “It’s an honour to be recognised by the industry as one of the UK’s leading CGI agencies for furniture and interiors. From growing our team and expanding our client base, to investing in cutting-edge tech and developing our library of digital assets, we’re always pushing boundaries. This award is a reminder of what we’ve achieved, and what’s still to come!” Best For Staff Welfare: Lebus Upholstery (p84) Best For Sustainable Thinking: Harrison Spinks “We’re incredibly proud to have been named Best
Best Furniture Component/Material Supplier: Peak Converters “This endorsement makes us extremely proud, in what has been an exceptional year,” says MD Mike Crowshaw. Best Furniture Packaging Provider: Woods Packaging Best Garden/Outdoor Furniture Supplier: Bluebone Imports (p88) Best Home Office Furniture Supplier: ercol Furniture “We’re delighted to have won,” says chairman Henry
for Sustainable Thinking by Furniture News readers
Tadros. “This wouldn’t have been possible without
for a third time,” says MD Nick Booth. “As a proud
our team at ercol and the dedicated support from
fifth-generation British bedmaker, responsible
all our retail partners who we work with on a daily
manufacturing isn’t just a company value, it’s a major
basis and greatly respect. We work hard to design
priority, and embedded in every decision we make,
quality furniture that is fit for purpose, well made,
from growing natural fillings on our Yorkshire farm to
comfortable and beautiful.”
eliminating foam and glue from our mattresses early in our journey. This recognition reaffirms we’re on the
Best Importer: Global Home
right path in our mission to become the UK’s most responsible bedmaker.”
Best Insurance/Aftersales Support: Guardsman (p90)
Best Fulfilment Provider: F Edmondson & Sons (p86) Best International Exhibition (outside Europe): Best Furniture Care/Repair Provider: Emmiera
High Point Market
Group (p62)
“This recognition means a great deal to our team,
››
“It means everything to our team
54 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
says group MD David Baldry. “It’s testament to the quality and value of the handcrafted collections that Hypnos creates. A huge amount of planning and investment has taken place over the last Peak Converters has enjoyed an “exceptional” year
few years in all areas of the business to make tangible improvements for our customers, and I am delighted that these measures are having an impact!” Best Mobility Furniture Supplier: Celebrity Motion Furniture “Celebrity is delighted to have been awarded Best Mobility Furniture Supplier, a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality, innovation and customer satisfaction. Our mission has always been to enhance comfort and elevate lifestyles through and we are incredibly proud to be acknowledged by the readers of Furniture News. As the world’s largest home furnishings trade show, this recognition is a testament to the unmatched scale, energy and industry collaboration that define High Point Market. We’re proud to represent such a vibrant community of
expertly crafted recliner furniture, and this recognition reflects that dedication. This achievement celebrates the values that drive us – collaboration, integrity, and a deep appreciation for our exceptional team, who are at the heart of everything we do.”
brands, buyers and creatives .”
Best Newcomer: Sofa Connections (p44)
Best Leather/Leather-Look Upholstery Supplier:
Best Occasional Chair/Recliner Supplier: Ekornes
Tetrad (p92)
(Stressless, p100)
Best Lighting Supplier: Elstead Lighting
Best Product Protection Supplier: Staingard
Best Living Room Cabinet Supplier: Devonshire
Best Retail Finance Support: Novuna
Best Machinery Manufacturer: Leggett & Platt
Best Retail Point Of Sale: La-Z-Boy UK
“This prestigious accolade, reflecting the combined efforts of our Leggett & Platt teams, confirms our dedication to providing top-quality products and exceptional service. It’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to exceeding customer needs and upholding the highest standards of quality and reliability. This recognition, a true team effort,
Best Retail Technology (in-store) Support: Iconography (p96) Best Retail Technology (online) Support: Sci-Net (p102) “As a Microsoft Gold Partner with over 30 years of
motivates us to continuously improve and innovate.”
industry experience, this win reflects our ongoing
Best Machinery Technology Provider: Lectra (p79)
industry-tailored ERP solutions. We’re proud to play a
“Lectra is honoured to receive the Best Machinery
part in helping our customers grow through technology,
Technology Provider 2025 award, a recognition
and grateful for the trust they place in our team.”
that underscores our commitment to leveraging
commitment to supporting retailers with reliable,
advanced technology to support our customers in
Best Rug Supplier: Asiatic Carpets (p104)
achieving their goals. Every day across the world,
“We are incredibly honoured to be recognised as
with over 40 years’ experience, upholstered furniture
the Best Rug Supplier for the second consecutive
is manufactured using Lectra technology. Our
year. This recognition celebrates our continued
industrial intelligence solutions connect operations
commitment to creating beautiful, high-quality rugs
and harmonise every step of the production
and delivering outstanding service.”
workflow, from design through to production. The recognition serves as a testament to our dedication
Best Sale/Promotion Support: Greenwood Retail
to empowering our customers and driving positive
“Going from a one-man-band to become the UK and
change in the industry.”
Ireland’s leading firm in this specialist field has been an epic journey, and a truly British success story,”
Best Marketing Support: Iconography (p96)
“We’re excited to Best Mattress Supplier: Hypnos (p98) keep building on “The team at Hypnos are really pleased to have been named as Best Mattress Supplier and Best this momentum Upholstered Bed Supplier in this year’s awards,”
says founder and MD Bernard Eaton. “It seems like yesterday when I launched our first Greenwood sale – we held three sales back in 2002, our first year. Since then, at the time of writing, we have averaged around 50 sales a year and completed 1,181 Greenwood sales for hundreds of quality retailers.”
55
The January Furniture Show team
Best Sofabed Supplier: Kyoto (p106) “After celebrating 30 years in the industry, this recognition reaffirms our place in the market and reflects the dedication of our talented team and our carefully curated range.” Best Soft Furnishings Supplier: Scatter Box (p107) Best Staff Training Provider: Furniture Sales Solutions (p138) Best Testing Services/Certification Provider Supplier: FIRA International (p108) “We want to thank all the readers of Furniture News for supporting us. This latest win follows success in the same category in 2024, 2023, 2022 and 2021. We are grateful to be recognised in this way by the furniture sector. We would also like to thank our testing and certification experts, who are critical to our success.” Best Trade Body/Association: National Bed Federation (NBF) “A huge thank you to all the readers who voted us Best Trade Association, which is a testament to the hard work of our dedicated team,” says executive director Tristine Hargreaves. “We continually strive to improve our support offerings for our members and the wider trade, as demonstrated by our new enhanced benefits package for NBF Retail Champions. We stay ahead of the game with our in-house sustainability support, as well as keeping members informed of new standards and advocating for them at government level.” Best Trade Showroom: Alexander & James/Ashley Manor (p63)
The NBF team
Best UK Bed Manufacturer: Silentnight Group
Best UK Exhibition: January Furniture Show “We’re incredibly proud to have been named Best UK Exhibition in the Furniture News Readers’ Choice Awards for the fifth consecutive year – 2021 through 2025! This recognition is a powerful testament to the value our show brings to the UK furniture industry. It means everything to our team, reaffirming the impact of our work in creating an unrivalled platform for innovation, inspiration and connection. We believe this award reflects our relentless focus on quality, collaboration, and the evolving needs of our industry.” Best UK Upholstery Manufacturer: Buoyant Upholstery (p112) Best Upholstered Bed Supplier: Hypnos (p98) Best Vehicle Manufacturer: Maxi Mover (p114)
››
“Your continued support motivates us to keep setting new standards
56 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
furniture industry, it’s hard to leave, and in my opinion, that’s absolutely right. I’m in it for life.” Best Agent/Rep (Scotland): Peter Westbrook “I’m absolutely honoured to have been named Best Agent/Rep (Scotland) in this year’s Furniture News Readers’ Choice Awards. This award is especially meaningful because it reflects the trust, support and relationships built over the years. I’m lucky to work with fantastic partners and passionate professionals every day, and I share this recognition with all of you. Here’s to continuing to grow, support great design, and drive our industry forward.”
James Leach
Best Agent/Rep (Northern Ireland): Alan White
Best Agent/Rep (North West): James Leach “I am truly honoured and humbled to receive this award. I relish my role working with some fantastic brands and great retailers. Maintaining relationships, and developing new ones, is something I enjoy.” Best Agent/Rep (North East): Mike Brown Best Agent/Rep (South West): Anthony Palmer Best Agent/Rep (South East): Rob Moore
Debbie Jenkins
“Many of my customers are now more than customers
are friends too. It’s also where I met my husband and business partner, Dave. Running our successful sales agency is hard work, but also great fun – and it’s made easier by dealing with great customers. I’ve heard it said many times that once you’re in the
Best Agent/Rep (Wales): Dilwyn Waymouth “I am incredibly honoured to have received this prestigious award, and would like to sincerely thank all my customers for voting for me. Over the years, I have built strong and lasting relationships across the trade, and I’m proud to now call many of my customers friends. These relationships are the foundation of my work, and one of the most rewarding aspects of this industry. I proudly represent Celebrity, a British company recognised for its innovation and Dilwyn Waymouth
Best Agent/Rep (Midlands): Debbie Jenkins “I am both delighted and humbled that I have been voted Best Agent in the Midlands for 2025. Our industry is very much a people industry, and many of my customers are now more than customers, they
Best Agent/Rep (Republic of Ireland): Phil Cotton “This recognition means a great deal and I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way – from customers and manufacturers to mentors and friends. Thank you for trusting me and for making this such a great industry to work in.”
leadership in the motion chair and sofa market. I work alongside a highly skilled and dedicated team committed to delivering award-winning products of exceptional quality. To all my customers, thank you once again for your continued and unwavering support, especially over the past few months.” The Furniture News Readers’ Choice Awards will return in 2026 – watch this space!
w d ho lfor d S Te Be 25 | he 20 t T 24, s a 2 3n u er Joi temb
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Your Integrated Supply Partner From game-changing spring innovations to semi-finished foam application, our industry-leading capabilities enhance your product proposition, streamline processes, and boost financial performance. Our integrated lean supply chain solutions foster strong customer-supplier synergies, enabling better end-to-end planning which helps you unlock greater efficiency and customer responsiveness.
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60 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST (COMPLETE) BED SUPPLIER
Sleepeezee
“It starts where every good story begins – in bed
Cool Refresh 3200
As a heritage British brand steeped in craftsmanship, Sleepeezee is proud to announce a refreshed identity – one that honours its legacy while embracing the future, is the bedmaker steps “confidently into the premium market”. Last year, Sleepeezee was acquired by The Sleep Group (majority shareholder of Silentnight) and a new five-year growth strategy was created. As part of this progression, the company started to look at the development of a refreshed brand proposition, alongside a renewed visual and verbal refresh that would elevate the brand in line with its growth plans. At the heart of this transformation is a promise: “To elevate the day by enhancing the quality of your night. And it starts where every good story begins – in bed. Because better days begin with a better night’s sleep, and that’s something Sleepeezee takes very seriously.” Marketing director Amy Curtis says: “We are so proud to have been crafting luxurious beds and mattresses that combine traditional craftsmanship with innovative design for over 100 years. As the company looks to the future, we are proud to be even more committed to pushing the boundaries of sleep technology and enhancing the sleep experience for our customers, both in product design and brand design.” The collections reflect this evolution, blending craftsmanship with cutting-edge sleep technology. Expect temperatureregulating materials, sustainable fibres, innovative spring systems, and hand-crafted finishing touches, all wrapped up in designs that are “as beautiful as they are supportive”, says Sleepeezee. “It’s a modern reinvention of a classic – like a country house with Wi-Fi. “Sleepeezee believe a quality bed belongs in every home, and that’s why we offer a range of products, because every person, and every home, is unique. Whether you’re a hotel guest expecting five-star comfort, a family upgrading the spare room, or someone investing in their own sleep sanctuary, there is a product and
Natural Splendour
Category winner Sleepeezee has been helping people sleep soundly since 1924, but today, it is “waking up to the rest of your life” – a new chapter for the company …
bed for everyone. “This brand refresh isn’t just about new products – it’s about a new purpose. At the heart of Sleepeezee’s appeal is a commitment to delivering comfort without compromise. And as we step into this next era, our tone remains distinctly warm, regal and British.” The company has held a Royal Warrant since 1963, continuously demonstrating high standards and dedication to environmentally responsible practices. From sourcing materials such as British wool and soft alpaca wool,
to operating a zero-to-landfill manufacturing process, Sleepeezee remains committed to reducing its environmental impact while delivering “outstanding quality”, and says it will remain honest about what goes into its products, with sustainability as a key cornerstone of the brand’s ethos. “The bed is back at the heart of the home, thanks to Sleepeezee,” the manufacturer concludes, “and the future is looking well-rested.” www.sleepeezee.com
61
BEST BED COMPONENT SUPPLIER
Spinks Leading British spring manufacturer Spinks has launched four groundbreaking innovations – three of which have achieved prestigious interzum awards. The newly launched Microlution microcoil, featuring the company’s innovative two-stage design, combining two springs to provide initial comfort with secondary support in a single layer, claimed the coveted Best of the Best Award – the highest accolade available at the show. The new Quadrolution spring system, which builds on Spinks’s glueless QuadCore technology, allowing complete customisation by positioning Response Coils between QuadCore springs, was awarded ‘High Product Quality’, along
with Micro Copper – the world’s first microcoil incorporating copper-infused nonwoven fabric. This hydrophilic nonwoven, commonly used in medical applications, provides antimicrobial and anti-fungal protection, suited to hygienecritical environments. The final new product – the Micro Trio – is a patented coil system featuring three active coils formed from a single wire, delivering “seamless pressure relief and adaptive support tailored to every body”. Together, these pocket spring technologies represent Spinks’s next-generation approach to comfort innovation and reinforce its reputation as a leader in the industry – a position recognised in the 2025 Furniture News Readers’ Choice Awards Best Bed
Component Supplier win. To support its continued growth, Spinks has also strengthened its leadership with the appointment of Steve Moffatt as sales manager for the UK and Ireland. Bringing
extensive customer account management experience, Steve is set to accelerate sales growth and reinforce Spinks’s position at the forefront of spring technology. www.spinks.co.uk
W I R E D F O R C O M F O RT
We’ve created some of the most innovative, sustainable microcoils for the bedding and furniture industry.
www.spinks.co.uk Get in touch for more information at info@spinks.co.uk or visit our website. Follow us on LinkedIn
™
62 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST FURNITURE CARE/REPAIR COMPANY BEST (SUPPLIER) TRAINING SUPPORT
Emmiera Group “To receive this recognition – especially as it’s voted for by the industry itself – is an incredible honour and a testament to the passion, dedication, and expertise of our entire team across the UK,” Emmiera Group enthuses. “This recognition comes at a pivotal time in our journey,” the group continues. “Over the past 12 months, we’ve been working hard behind the scenes on a series of operational upgrades and service improvements that reflect our ongoing commitment to raising the standard of furniture repairs and mattress inspections in the UK. “While these changes are extensive, they will be introduced in stages over the coming months to ensure they are integrated smoothly and deliver meaningful impact for both clients and customers. “At the heart of our success is our people. Every technician’s performance – and every job we undertake – is closely monitored to ensure we uphold our high standards. We use this data not only to maintain service levels, but to identify opportunities for continuous improvement. Where needed, we deliver additional support and development through our in-house training academy, ensuring each technician receives tailored coaching to improve outcomes and maximise first-time fix rates.” And Emmiera’s training culture does not stop there. “Regular one-to-ones between field technicians and our technical managers provide direct feedback and on-the-road support,” the group explains. “Monthly town hall meetings give every technician a voice and a platform to raise issues, suggest
From left: Kate Cook, HR manager; Matt Ross, financial consultant; Natalie Richards, customer service manager; Craig Hart, sales and marketing director; Emma Gowland, FD; Jason Grinnall, operations director; James Lane, CEO; Dav Pattar, IT director; Samantha Harding, call centre manager; Lyndsey Turner, executive assistant; and Charlotte Turner, head of account management
improvements, and remain involved in shaping the future of our service. Our HR department plays a vital role in this, ensuring communication is clear, inclusive, and timely across all levels of the business. “But training and development aren’t limited to our internal teams. Our account managers regularly host live repair demo days with our clients and their call centre teams – showing first-hand what’s possible when damaged items are entrusted to Emmiera rather than automatically replaced. These sessions include Q&As and real-world examples, giving frontline staff the confidence to promote repair over replacement, and empowering retailers to protect their margins while reducing landfill.
“These awards are a direct result of our collective effort to embed quality, collaboration, and accountability into every part of the Emmiera process. From redesigned job submission and triage processes to tailored repair workflows, live data dashboards, and innovative mattress inspection tools, each improvement has been carefully developed – and will be rolled out in a phased approach across the coming months. “Our national scale allows us to deliver rapid, reliable service anywhere in the UK – but our mindset remains local. Whether it’s a next-day visit in Manchester or a mattress inspection in rural Devon, we strive to bring the same care and responsiveness our clients have come to expect. “To everyone who voted for us – thank you. We’re honoured by your support and remain fully committed to setting the benchmark for excellence in furniture care, repair and training. “Team Emmiera. Together, we’re raising the standard – again.”
Emmiera Group’s CEO, James Lane
www.emmieragroup.com
“This recognition comes at a pivotal time in our journey
READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS 63
BEST TRADE SHOWROOM
Ashley Manor Upholstery/ Alexander & James Margot in situ in Harrington Mills
“Winning this award is a real honour – especially as it reflects the appreciation of our showroom at Harrington Mills, Long Eaton,” states the team behind the upholstery brands … “We’re incredibly proud to be on a transformative journey that homes in on our British design roots and celebrates the timeless beauty of our craftsmanship across both the Alexander & James and Ashley Manor Upholstery brands,” states the supplier. “We’ve evolved – and continue to evolve – the space to truly embody our design ethos, where our product stands proud. It’s elegant, timeless, and quintessentially British. “From launching stand-out new collections to hosting our customers loyal and new, it’s been a remarkable chapter for us, and we have lots of exciting developments to come. “We are grateful to all our customers and the readers of Furniture News for their continued support, and for awarding us this accolade. This support continues to inspire us to lead the way in British design.” The showroom is located on the first floor of Harrington Mills, on Leopold Street, Long Eaton. www.ashleymanor.co.uk www.alexanderandjamessofas.com
Sydney
Vivienne
“We have lots of exciting developments to come
64 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST BEDROOM CABINET SUPPLIER
Wiemann
offering a total bedroom solution for any size or style of home. It has worked with Litmus for more than 20 years – a partnership which has seen the UK and Ireland become well established as Wiemann’s largest export market. Says Simon: “Wiemann is a tried, trusted and reliable brand, qualities which are so important in today’s climate and which we value highly. We are delighted with feedback from the market which suggests retailers especially appreciate our reliable delivery and installation service, and our five-star customer service, as well as our outstanding products. “Some of our latest ranges have been particularly popular, with the new-for-2025 Ohio, Dubai and New York proving to be hits. Monaco continues to be a solid bestseller, with new accessories added all the time. “The team is about to embark on a busy
Ohio
Wiemann says this latest accolade is especially dear to its team, as it is voted for by readers of Furniture News. Kai Schwenke, Wiemann’s UK export sales manager, says: “We are delighted that Wiemann has been endorsed by UK readers and would like to thank everyone who voted for their support. “This represents a big well done to our entire team, whether that’s in Germany, including our designers, factory staff and distribution team, or the UK-based sales, delivery, installation and customer service colleagues.” Litmus Furniture is Wiemann’s sole agent for the UK and Ireland. MD Simon Hewitt comments: “We are delighted to win this prestigious award. To top a poll voted for by our industry peers is both humbling and an honour. To be recognised in this way is pleasing and much appreciated. I would like to add my thanks to Kai’s to everyone who voted for us.” Wiemann has a 125-year history of producing high-quality contemporary bedroom furniture, and is particularly known for its clever design,
Dubai
German bedroom manufacturer Wiemann, which is headquartered in northern Germany with a UK-based sales and customer service team, is proud to top the poll – after winning Best Importer last year, and fresh from success in The Furniture Awards, which were celebrated at the January Furniture Show and saw the company take the top spot in the Global Player category, for its high-quality goods and service.
autumn of trade exhibitions. We are excited to show off our products and catch up with friends and customers, new and existing, in the coming weeks.” The next chance to see Wiemann will be in Dublin at the Irish Furniture and Homewares Show from 24-26th August, then at autumn’s Long Point show from 15-17th September, and the NBF Bed Show on 23rd-24th September. In addition, Wiemann has two permanent showrooms, in Harlow, Essex, and Long Eaton, Derbyshire, and appointments to view can be made by emailing enquiries@wiemannuk.co.uk.
New York
www.wiemannuk.co.uk
“To top a poll voted for by our industry peers is both humbling and an honour
BEAUTIFUL BEDROOMS FROM WIEMANN
Ohio
BEDROOMS OF DISTINCTIVE STYLE, QUALITY AND VALUE enquiries@wiemannuk.co.uk | www.wiemannuk.co.uk HOME DELIVERY & INSTALLATION | SALES TRAINING | MARKETING SUPPORT | UK CUSTOMER SUPPORT
MADE IN GERMANY
66 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST BOXED SOFA BRAND
Swyft “When our journey began in 2019, we set out to redefine the way people buy sofas, combining speed, convenience and style,” the brand continues. “A glance back at our roots reminds us how far we’ve come. In a world where we expect faster service and better quality, frictionless homeware with easy delivery was a natural progression. “Our products are timeless. They steer clear of trends, sticking closely to styles that will stand the test of time. Styles that fit any interior design from any era. At Swyft, we’ve always challenged traditional furniture retail. We believe furniture shouldn’t be restrictive, it should enhance the spaces we dwell in. “We’ve always aimed to make high-quality, design-led furniture accessible – from competitive pricing and our 24-hour sofa delivery, to simple home assembly. Time shouldn’t be a barrier to choosing a product. “And we back our quality. Every Swyft sofa comes with a 15-year frame guarantee and a two-year fabric guarantee, giving our customers complete peace of mind. “What makes this award especially meaningful is that it’s chosen by the people
Model 04 in vine
“We are absolutely honoured to have won the Best Boxed Sofa Brand award in Furniture News’s Readers’ Choice Awards for the third year running,” states Swyft …
who matter most, our customers. Receiving recognition from Furniture News’s readers, the people who live with our sofas every day, gives our mission real meaning. “We’ve always believed that a sofa isn’t just furniture. It’s a statement, a comfort zone and a part of your life. To be voted best in our category is a validation of both our design philosophy and our commitment to customer satisfaction. “It’s been a huge year at Swyft. From expanding beyond sofas into TV units, coffee
tables, dining furniture and more in July 2024, to growing our incredible team, launching exciting collaborations and reaching more people than ever before, we’re proud of how far we’ve come. “Since the early days of our Model 01, we’ve remained committed to pushing boundaries. This year, we took that even further with our biggest collaboration yet, Swyft x Morris & Co. Blending our modern modular designs with their iconic heritage patterns has been a highlight, and the response has been overwhelming. We had so much fun creating it and can’t wait to show you what’s next. “As we look ahead, our goals remain the same. To make beautifully designed, highquality furniture that fits your life, not the other way around. We’re continuing to invest in design, quality and service in every corner of our business. “To everyone who has supported us – customers, collaborators, and our dedicated team – thank you. Awards like this don’t just reflect our success. They reflect the amazing community that’s grown with us. Here’s to another exciting year ahead.”
Model 04 in vine
www.swyfthome.com
“Receiving recognition from Furniture News’s readers gives our mission real meaning
We started Swyft to inspire people to create beautiful homes. We believe furniture should be an expression of who you are, that great design should be timeless, effortless, and built to last. And that you shouldn’t have to wait for a piece you love.
Quick delivery
100 day returns
15 year frame guarantee
Guaranteed to fit
Easy assembly
Designed to last
SWYFTHOME.COM
68 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST BUYING GROUP
Associated Independent Stores (AIS) competitive and profitable.
we have been named Best Buying
“We’ve worked tirelessly to
Group 2025 by Furniture News
bring our members access to
readers,” says AIS. “We extend
expertly curated furniture ranges
our thanks to all the readers who
and exclusive lines from top-tier
voted, our loyal members, and our
suppliers, and have provided
valued suppliers.”
invaluable market insights and trend
“Helping independent retail
AIS members at a recent INDX show
“AIS is thrilled to announce that
forecasting specific to the furniture
thrive is at our heart, and this
sector, enabling our members to
recognition comes at a pivotal
make informed buying decisions
time, with a year of focus and
‘in the now’, and also to plan ahead
strategic activity within furniture at
with future trend forecasting.
AIS,” the buying group continues.
“The appetite to join our
regular member and supplier visits,
clear price points to help drive cut-
discussions, and events like INDX
through, sales and satisfaction for
Furniture, INDX Beds and INDX Home, we knowledge share and
our members.” Emma Rackley, director of
“It also comes as we approach an
commercially focused community
provide direct support to address
important landmark in our history
continues, and we’ve been
the unique challenges faced by
– when we celebrate our golden
delighted to welcome new
independent furniture retail – while
anniversary in 2026.
members from across UK and
the product team, with a good,
Ireland, with Andersons of
better, best strategy, has worked
have continued to support our
Inverurie, Kenneth Hodgins and
to enhance the member offering
achieve together, and thank you
independent furniture members,
Glentree joining AIS.
with the refresh of the Dreamworld
for this recognition.”
Collection of sleep products, with
www.aistores.co.uk
“This past 12 months, we
ensuring they remain relevant,
“And that’s not all. Through
Furniture at AIS, adds: “This award truly reflects the warmth and dedication of the furniture trade. We are very proud of what we all
VOTED NUMBER 1 Associated Independent Stores is thrilled to be named Readers Buying Group of the Year 2025. A huge thank you to all readers, our loyal members, and valued suppliers. Together, we're Helping Independent Retail Thrive.
aistores.co.uk
69
BEST DISPLAY SUPPORT PROVIDER
Reborn Marketing & Design “We’re over the moon to hear that FeelingReborn.com has been named Best Display Support Provider for the third year in a row! A massive shout-out to everyone who voted and keeps believing in our vision to make brands shine even brighter,” says founder and creative director, Adam Ashborn. “At FeelingReborn.com, we don’t just build displays – we bring ideas to life with creativity, passion, and a touch of flair,” he continues. “This hat-trick win is all thanks to our incredible team working tirelessly behind the scenes, and our amazing clients who inspire us every day.” “Reborn creates, cultivates and inspires brands, for those who aspire to be market leaders. We will turn strategies and ambitions into creative solutions, nurtured
across every branding touchpoint. Our work encompasses graphics and identity, architecture and interiors, products and packaging, exhibitions and installations, websites and digital experiences, advertising and communications. “Over the past 12 months, with global events impacting businesses, it was great to see furniture brands still investing in trade shows, and the visitor rates have been very good overall. “We are now in the process of offering our clients more booth solutions that best match their budget price-points – whether that’s a bespoke, custom-made booth, or pop-up solutions that can be reused in their showrooms or at other events. “Thanks again to Furniture News’ readers for this vote
of confidence. Here’s to bold designs, brilliant partnerships, and being proudly Reborn again (and again)!” www.feelingreborn.com
“We don’t just build displays, we bring ideas to life
70 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST CGI VISUALISATION PROVIDER
Chilli Pepper Designs
Chilli Pepper Designs brings virtual environments to life
The imagery is suitable for a range of media, from print to screen
“At Chilli Pepper Designs, we’re not just creating ‘nice visuals’, we’re helping furniture brands sell before stock even hits the dock,” says the CGI marketing specialist. “From jaw-dropping lifestyle imagery to interactive AR, 360° spins, and sofa configurators, we turn static products into sales tools. “We get it – because we started as a furniture company ourselves. In the early days, we were producing stunning new designs at InDesign Furniture. During Covid, product photography was out, so we built CGI for ourselves, and quickly realised we weren’t alone. Every furniture company needed this. “That lightbulb moment sparked the start of Chilli Pepper Designs. And we learned fast. We tested layouts, played with lighting, and refined workflows until we cracked the code – CGI that doesn’t just look good, but performs. “Our first images pre-sold entire container loads. That’s when we realised – this isn’t just creative, it’s commercial.” Fast-forward to 2025, and Chilli Pepper Designs has launched ultra-realistic lifestyle renders, rolled out AR and ‘view in space’ experiences, built ecommerce tools such as modular sofa customisers, and created interactive showrooms “to wow buyers before they even walk in the door”. “We’re helping global retailers, wholesalers and manufacturers stand out, simplify sales, and scale faster,” says Chilli Pepper Designs. “Tech is moving fast, but let’s not forget what sells furniture – stunning, emotionally engaging CGI product and lifestyle visualisations. We’re not here to chase every trend – we’re here to deliver photorealistic visuals that convert to sales and appeal to customers. While others race ahead with AI and AR, we believe in ‘going slow to go fast’, focusing on clarity, craft and delivering amazing product and lifestyle imagery. Because in a world of overcomplicated tech, great CGI still wins.” So, why should furniture businesses choose Chilli Pepper Designs’ CGI over basic background apps?
A fully rendered CGI furniture room scene
“It’s another big win, and we owe it all to our brilliant clients, the legends who voted, and our fiery team, who bring the heat every single day,” says Chilli Pepper Designs …
“There’s a big difference between pressing a couple of buttons to drop a product onto a generic background and crafting high-quality CGI that truly sells,” says the service provider. “At Chilli Pepper Designs, we don’t just place a product in a room – we build the scene around your brand, with attention to lighting, angles, material, and mood. The result? Imagery that feels real, polished, and emotionally engaging. “Since Covid, the industry has proven that CGI is more than a backup – it’s a powerhouse. And while AI and AR have a role, many aren’t ready for the complexity. So, we’re keeping it real, building one powerful image at a time. With a new website,
“We believe in ‘going slow to go fast’
exciting projects, and red-hot visuals on the way, 2025 is looking red hot.” www.chillipepperdesigns.co.uk
WINNER BEST CGI VISUALISATION PROVIDER 2025 WINNER BEST INNOVATION 2024 WINNER BEST CGI VISUALISATION PROVIDER 2023 WINNER BEST INNOVATION 2022 WINNER BEST CGI VISUALISATION PROVIDER 2021 WINNER BEST NEWCOMER 2021
E: info@chillipepperdesigns.co.uk W: chillipepperdesigns.co.uk
72 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST CHILDREN’S/NURSERY FURNITURE SUPPLIER
Julian Bowen Julian Bowen says it is proud to have been named Best Children’s/Nursery Furniture Supplier by Furniture News’s readers, calling the win “a recognition that highlights the care, quality and thoughtful design the company brings to one of the most important areas of family life …” “This award reflects the trust that retailers and parents alike place in Julian Bowen to deliver stylish, safe and reliable furniture that supports growing families,” says the supplier. “From nursery essentials to innovative children’s bedroom solutions, every piece is crafted with the same attention to detail and commitment to excellence that define the brand. “Creating outstanding children’s furniture involves more than aesthetics. It requires a deep understanding of how children grow, how families live, and what parents value most – safety, durability and practicality. Julian Bowen’s collections are designed to meet these needs, offering smart, space-saving solutions and timeless styles suited to real homes. Whether it’s a convertible cot bed or a space-efficient bunk for siblings, the focus is always on functional, long-lasting value. “Every part of the design and production process reflects this mission. From safety testing to responsible material sourcing, Julian Bowen ensures its children’s furniture meets the highest standards. With new lines constantly in development, the team remains focused on innovation – anticipating how families live today, and what they’ll need tomorrow.” Service is another cornerstone of Julian Bowen’s success in this category. “Behind every product is a responsive, experienced team committed to supporting retailers at every step,” the supplier continues. “From product selection to delivery, Julian Bowen’s reliable processes and transparent communication make it easy for partners to serve their customers with confidence. “A key tool driving this efficiency is the Julian Bowen Online Portal (JPOP), a self-service platform that provides live access to stock, product data and order tracking. In a fastmoving category like nursery and children’s furniture, where timelines are often critical, this
“We know how important this furniture is to families
real-time visibility is a major advantage.” Stock availability is also a core strength. With a target of 85% availability across the full range and 90% on key lines, Julian Bowen says it ensures retailers can access bestsellers when they need them most: “For families preparing for a new arrival or upgrading children’s spaces, this level of reliability is invaluable. “And sustainability is an ongoing priority. The company continues to reduce plastic in packaging, phase out polystyrene, and explore eco-friendly materials – steps that align with the values of today’s families.” MD Emmett Lenaghan comments: “Being recognised as Best Children’s/Nursery Furniture
Supplier is a fantastic honour. It reflects not only the strength of our product range but the passion our team brings to this category. We know how important this furniture is to families, and we’re proud to offer designs that combine safety, style, and real-life practicality. “This award is more than recognition – it’s a reflection of Julian Bowen’s values of quality, care, and continuous improvement. With over 200 new products planned for 2025, the company is looking ahead with optimism, and is committed to supporting families and retail partners with furniture that truly makes a difference.” www.julian-bowen.co.uk
JULIAN BOWEN
The Eagle Gaming Highsleeper Style. Quality. Value — Delivered. Join leading retailers across the UK who trust Julian Bowen for beautifully designed, commercially successful furniture collections. Get in touch with our sales team today to discover how we can support your business. Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/company/julian-bowen/ Instagram - @_julianbowen email: sales@julian-bowen.co.uk web: www.julian-bowen.co.uk
74 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST DINING FURNITURE SUPPLIER
Gallery Direct Proud category winner Gallery Direct has bolstered its lifestyle offer by unveiling its Autumn/Winter (AW) 2025 Home Accessories and Textiles collection. “Rich in seasonal storytelling and thoughtful design, the latest launch provides a complete offering that captures both warmth and refinement, spanning decorative accessories, soft furnishings, glassware and tabletop pieces,” says the supplier … Gallery says its AW25 story begins with “an autumnal theme, embracing the beauty of nature’s transition with decorative details including pumpkins, mushrooms and falling leaves. A palette of warm rusts and golden tones bring cosiness to interiors, making it a perfect prelude to the festive months”. The Christmas collection introduces three distinct themes, each offering its own unique style: Heritage delivers “timeless festive charm” with classic red and green pairings, Christmas trees and traditional motifs; Woodland Folk leans into Scandi-inspired simplicity, with olive greens, natural finishes, stags and tree silhouettes bringing a relaxed, rustic atmosphere; while Deco Luxe is an elegant and contemporary take on Christmas styling, blending creams and golds, beaded textiles, marble, and white ceramics for “a luxurious look”. In the core AW25 range, a refined selection
“Exceptional seasonal styling and commercial breadth
of deep jewel and brown tones reflect the artisanal aesthetics. A stand-out feature is the introduction of two new dinnerware ranges, accompanied by a new glassware collection showcasing opulent swirl detailing and tinted olive-green finishes. The textile refresh brings indulgent updates including embossed flannel fleece designs and a new sherpa alternative throw with a more luxe handle, says Gallery – available in a larger size for ultimate comfort and versatility. Completing the offering is a new range of utility and log baskets, each thoughtfully linenlined for added texture and practicality, and ideal for both styling and storage. “With availability from early August, our AW25 accessories and textiles deliver exceptional seasonal styling and commercial breadth,” the supplier concludes, “and are all available online.” www.gallerydirect.co.uk
SINCE 1973
New
AUTUMN/ WINTER 2025 COLLECTION
This exclusive first look at our AW25 launch offers a sneak peek of our brand-new furniture ranges that celebrate strength, simplicity, and natural beauty. Available to order soon, our AW25 ranges showcase solid wooden construction, clean silhouettes, and warm finishes that bring comfort and character into every room. Blending functional design with thoughtful detail, select pieces highlight the natural grain and texture of wood, bringing depth and individuality to key surfaces, while others focus on smooth finishes and subtle accents for a more refined look. New accessory and textile collections will also be introduced, perfectly complementing the furniture, adding even more style and versatility to your home. Scan the QR code for more
View our full collection online at www.gallerydirect.co.uk
76 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST FABRIC UPHOLSTERY SUPPLIER
Whitemeadow
Daniel says the new range is “a bold reminder of why buying British matters”
Whitemeadow’s ranges are carefully considered
“On behalf of the entire team, I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the readers of Furniture News who voted for us – your recognition holds immense value to us, and is what keeps us inspired,” Daniel continues. “Thirty years later, we remain a privately owned British sofa manufacturer, and over the years, we’ve worked hard to earn a reputation for quality, innovation and service. Every piece we produce is designed and crafted with care in the UK, and we pride ourselves on being a trusted partner to some of the most respected retailers in the furniture industry. “To be recognised by the people who work hard within this industry, those who truly understand what sets a great fabric upholstery supplier apart, is a huge honour. It’s a meaningful vote of confidence – not just in what we do, but how we do it. “The business has continued to see steady growth, specifically within the independent sector, following a number of successful product launches at the last two January shows. We plan to continue to build on this growth curve by launching well-considered, commercial product ranges, specifically designed with the independent retailer in mind. “Over the past year, we’ve focused on innovation and agility. Whether it’s updating our product lines, refining service, or introducing exclusive offerings, our aim has been clear – to give our partners a compelling, competitive edge. A key part of that edge is our fabric range, which consistently earns praise from our retail partners.
Paisley
“We’re incredibly proud to share that Whitemeadow has been named Best Fabric Upholstery Supplier in this year’s Furniture News Readers’ Choice Awards,” begins the sofamaker’s sales and marketing director, Daniel Oscroft …
“Our fabric offering is comprehensive, yet considered – built with the end-customer in mind and continuously evolving. From trendled styles to timeless staples, we offer depth, variety and customisation that empowers our partners to meet diverse consumer tastes. “And we do things differently. Every product we develop starts with intentional thinking, always with the end-consumer in mind and shaped by emerging trends. We believe in offering real value, but never at the expense of quality. Most importantly, we lead from the front. We stay in our own lane, focus on doing things properly, and that sets us apart.” As the business looks ahead, the team is excited to continue bringing purposeful design and exceptional British craftsmanship to the market, says Daniel: “We’re proud to be launching a new product collection that represents the very best of British upholstery manufacturing. It’s a show of true craftsmanship, quality and heritage.
“At a time when more furniture is being imported from the Far East and Eastern Europe, this range is a bold reminder of why buying British matters – supporting local skills, ensuring superior quality, and investing in businesses that care about their craft, community, and our economy. “Winning this award is a proud moment – but it’s also fuel for what comes next. Thank you again to everyone who voted. We remain committed to raising the bar for our partners and their customers,” he concludes. www.whitemeadow.com
“It’s a meaningful vote of confidence – not just in what we do, but how we do it
If imitation is flattery, we’re *blushing*. There’s only one Metro. Designed by us, loved by you, copied by a few. We’d love to see our trusted partners at our In-House Show: 15th-17th September.
DRIVEN TO LEAD. PROUD TO IMPRESS.
78 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST FLATPACK FURNITURE SUPPLIER
Furniture To Go
Linley
“At Furniture To Go, we don’t just sell furniture, we sell smart solutions for modern living. With over 1,800 high-quality, ready-to-assemble pieces available for next-day delivery, we’ve built our business around simplicity, speed and sustainability,” the supplier continues. “From day one, our mission has been to make life easier for retailers. Whether you’re a small independent store or a growing online marketplace, our flatpack-first model delivers more than just furniture, it delivers peace of mind. Every product in our catalogue is handpicked to meet the demands of today’s customer – stylish, durable, and easy to transport. “But it’s not just about great furniture, it’s about how we deliver it. Flatpack isn’t a compromise, it’s a strategy. Our approach keeps production and shipping costs low, reduces waste, and slashes the carbon footprint of every item we sell. By optimising packaging and delivery, we’re cutting down on emissions and inefficiencies at every stage, from factory to front door. “This award is a testament to the hard work we’ve put into building a business that works for the long-term. We’ve invested in technology, streamlined our logistics, and focused on realtime inventory and dependable lead times. The result? A flatpack operation that’s fast, flexible, and forward-thinking. “Of course, we wouldn’t be here without the loyalty and feedback of our customers. Being voted Best Flatpack Furniture Supplier is more than just a badge of honour, it’s a sign that our
Bohol
“This recognition means the world to us, not just because it’s from an industry publication that’s so well known, but because it’s voted for by the people who really matter to us – our customers, partners, and the rest of the industry,” says the supplier …
partners value what we do and how we do it. To them, we say, thank you for using flatpack. Thank you for choosing a solution that’s good for your business, your customers, and the planet. “As we look ahead, we’ll continue to expand
our range, innovate our service, and champion sustainable designs. Whether you’re furnishing a single room or scaling a multi-site operation, Furniture To Go is your one-stop shop for reliable, stylish flatpack furniture – delivered next day, no fuss. “We’re proud of what we’ve built,” Furniture To Go concludes, “and even prouder to be building it with you.”
Roxby
www.furniture-to-go.co.uk
“It’s a sign that our partners value what we do and how we do it
79
BEST MACHINERY TECHNOLOGY PROVIDER
Lectra Image courtesy Shutterstock/Gorodenkoff
Lectra is honoured to be recognised as Best Machinery Technology Provider in the 2025 Furniture News Readers’ Choice Awards. At the forefront of innovation since its creation in 1973, Lectra offers industrial intelligence solutions combining SaaS, cutting equipment, data analysis solutions and associated services to the fashion, automotive and furniture industries. Lectra facilitates the digital transformation of the companies it serves and helps its customers succeed thanks to the key technologies of Industry 4.0 – AI, Big Data, cloud technology and the Internet of Things (IoT). Lectra’s solutions provide everything needed to enhance the production of upholstered furniture, supporting furniture manufacturers in transforming
processes. The group’s industrial intelligence solutions connect operations and harmonise every step of the production workflow to help customers achieve their business goals. By leveraging Industry 4.0 technologies, combined with expertise and data analysis services, Lectra says it offers
complete control and oversight of the cutting room. From design to production, process agility is increased, technical constraints are managed, and operational efficiency is maximised, all while reducing waste. With Lectra, manufacturers can meet customer demand profitably and sustainably.
“This recognition from Furniture News’s readers reflects the trust placed in Lectra’s solutions and serves as a testament to our dedication to empowering our customers and driving positive change in the industry,” Lectra concludes. www.lectra.com
FURNITURE | FASHION | AUTOMOTIVE
W E L I G H T T H E WAY SO THAT YOU CAN L E A D W I T H AG I L I T Y. At Lectra, we simplify complexity with our industrial intelligence solutions, helping furniture makers transform their processes with confidence. By harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence and other Industry 4.0 technologies, our offer streamlines every step of production, ensuring profitable and sustainable growth.
S O F T W A R E | E Q U I P M E N T | D ATA | S E R V I C E S
Thanks for using Flatpack Business based descisions that benefit people and the environment! Choosing ready-to-assemble flatpack furniture means lower production and shipping costs, streamlined logistics, and a reduced carbon footprint from factory to end customer. It’s a smart, scalable solution for retailers and professionals looking to meet demand for sustainable, modern living without compromising on quality or design.
More than 1,800 fantastic products! Your ultimate one-stop shop for next-day home delivery!
Best Flatpack Furniture Supplier
Call us at 02380 517067 and let’s see how we can support you. sales@furniture-to-go.co.uk | www.furniture-to-go.co.uk
82 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST FOR INNOVATION
Orbital Vision OV25’s product configurator is ahead of the curve, says Orbital
The furniture industry is in the midst of a digital revolution, says Orbital Vision, and leading the charge is OV25, its powerful 3D product configurator and SaaS platform that aims to reshape how products are showcased, customised and sold … This year, Orbital proudly secured two prestigious awards, including Furniture News’s Best for Innovation accolade – marking a major milestone for Orbital’s team, and recognising its role in reshaping how furniture brands go to market. “We’re absolutely over the moon, and hugely grateful to our clients and readers of Furniture News for voting for us,” says Orbital. “It’s an honour to be recognised as one of the UK’s leading CGI agencies in the interiors space.” In an increasingly competitive and fast-paced market, presenting products
“OV25 offers a gamechanging advantage
effectively and efficiently is essential, the business continues: “Built to solve the limitations and challenges of traditional photography and marketing workflows, OV25 offers manufacturers and retailers instant access to high-quality, fully customisable product visuals that elevate every stage of the customer journey. With Orbital’s extensive 3D asset library, users can create, personalise and share content within minutes – something that would previously take weeks or months. “At its core, OV25 simplifies and accelerates the customer journey. With an ever-growing 3D asset library, it’s never been quicker or easier to create and share marketing visuals and sales assets. “From 360-degree model views and realtime material changes, to live pricing based on selected fabrics, the experience is completely interactive. Customers no longer need to imagine how a piece might look in a different finish – they can see it instantly, with pricing updating as they go. “This level of interactivity transforms how customers shop, making them feel more
involved in the design process and giving them full creative freedom without the need for a bespoke service. It feels personal, empowering and efficient, which is everything today’s customer wants. “The magic continues with app-less AR, allowing users to place products in their own homes at the touch of a button – no downloads or technical hurdles, just seamless decision making. “But OV25 isn’t standing still. The platform is evolving rapidly, with features like animated product models (ideal for recliners and motion furniture), global flash sale modules, and AI-generated lifestyle imagery already in development. Soon, businesses will also benefit from integrated analytics, giving valuable insight into trends and customer behaviour. “Whether you’re a heritage manufacturer or a modern retailer, OV25 offers a gamechanging advantage – streamlining processes, cutting costs and enhancing how customers connect with your products. The future of furniture visualisation has arrived, and it’s already winning awards,” Orbital concludes. www.orbital.vision
The Award-Winning All-in-One 3D Product Configurator. One Platform. Every Product. Ready to Sell. Access thousands of ready-made 3D furniture models and instantly customise products with live pricing, real-time visuals, built-in AI lifestyle imagery and app-less AR. Sell more, launch faster - without the cost or complexity of traditional methods.
www.orbital.vision | info@orbital.vision | 01332 552 212 www.orbital.vision | info@orbital.vision | 01332 552 212
84 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST FOR STAFF WELFARE
Lebus Upholstery “On behalf of Lebus, I am deeply honoured to accept this staff welfare award,” says Lisa Burrows, head of HR at Lebus. “It’s a proud moment for all of us, and a true reflection of the heart and soul of our organisation – our people …”
Henley
“This recognition means a great deal to us, because it speaks directly to one of our core values – taking care of our team,” Lisa continues. “We believe that when employees feel valued, supported and empowered, great things happen – not just for the business, but for our entire community. “Our approach to staff welfare goes beyond policies or benefits. It’s about creating a workplace where people feel safe, heard and genuinely cared for. From our employee assistance programme and works council to professional development, open-door leadership and celebrating milestones, every initiative is rooted in respect, inclusion and wellbeing. “This award is a testament to the collective effort of our HR team, our managers and every employee who speaks up, supports each other and helps us improve. It’s also a reminder that staff welfare is not a destination, it’s an ongoing journey. We’re committed to doing more, listening more and evolving with the needs of our people. “Thank you for this incredible honour. We share this award with every employee – because their trust, engagement and feedback are what truly drive our welfare culture forward.” Lebus also won the award for Best Fabric Upholstery Manufacturer for 2025 in the Interiors Monthly Awards, and recently showcased new and refreshed models at the Manchester Furniture Show – a combination
of new and existing range additions, highlighting strong combinations and modern fabrics, all heavily inspired by the latest fashion trends. The new launches also saw clever construction coming through, with the introduction of modular units which offer great flexibility with layout options. “Lebus continues to focus on great design, and the new ranges represent some of the most commercially priced and best value in the sector,” Lisa adds. “With a commitment to British manufacturing, investment in people, and continuous improvement, Lebus Upholstery remains a trusted name in the furniture
industry – built on decades of experience, passion and quality.” To find out more about the company and to view the range of independent models, visit Lebus’s website. www.lebus.co.uk
“Staff welfare is not a destination, it’s an ongoing journey
www.Lebus.co.uk
Value & Quality WITHOUT COMPROMISE
86 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST FULFILMENT PROVIDER
F Edmondson & Sons
87
“Customers can focus on their business, knowing that their product is in safe hands
A family business founded by Fred Edmondson and now spanning three generations, F Edmondson & Sons has been delivering furniture for over 75 years, and today specialises in the delivery of furniture throughout the UK, Ireland and Europe. “It has been a difficult few years with Brexit, Covid and the war in Ukraine, all of which have presented their own distinct challenges,” states the Morecambe-based delivery and storage specialist, “but these have forced us to become more efficient, which has only served to improve our service. “Notwithstanding the difficult economic climate, we believe there is always a market for high-quality furniture. We deal with many reputable furniture manufacturers whose brands are synonymous with quality, and we aim to ensure that their level of quality and service is reflected in our delivery service. “We firmly believe in building relationships with our customers, some of whom we have worked with for over 40 years. Good relationships enable good communication and a clear understanding of our customers’ requirements. As we move forward together, we look to enhance our service through an online portal and barcode scanning, providing greater visibility of orders.
“We firmly believe in building relationships with our customers
Fred Edmondson (left) founded the business in 1948
“We are delighted to receive this award, and very grateful for the support of all those who voted for us,” states Russell Edmondson. “There is no better recommendation than word of mouth, so we see this as a very positive endorsement of what we do.”
“Our strength is in our staff, who take pride in what we do, handling furniture with care and professionalism. This means customers can focus on their business, knowing that their product is in safe hands, being delivered on time and in perfect condition.” www.edmondsonfreight.co.uk
88 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST GARDEN/OUTDOOR FURNITURE SUPPLIER
Bluebone “We are thrilled that we’ve been awarded the readers’ choice for outdoor furniture,” says the Bluebone team. “This recognition means the world to us – not just because of the award itself, but because it comes directly from our customers.” “From all at Bluebone, thank you for your votes, your support, and your belief in what we do,” the supplier continues. “Winning this award isn’t just a pat on the back – it’s a validation of the passion, craftsmanship and care that goes into every piece of furniture we create. “We set out to offer something a little different in a crowded market, and we’re proud to see that it has resonated with so many of you. “At the heart of our collection is our signature selection of solid teak furniture – pieces that seamlessly bridge the gap between outdoor durability and indoor style. “Teak has always been celebrated for its resilience, but what sets our range apart is how beautifully it performs in both environments. Whether it’s a sun-drenched patio or a cosy dining room, our teak designs bring warmth, structure, and a sense of timelessness. Many of you have told us that our pieces don’t just survive the elements – they elevate your spaces. That’s exactly what we hoped for when we chose to focus on this exceptional material. “We’re also incredibly proud that our customer service has played a key role in this win. Our team is dedicated to making your experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Whether it’s answering questions about product care, helping with design choices, or going the extra mile on delivery logistics, your satisfaction is always our top priority. We’re grateful that so many of you have noticed – and voted. “Of course, we’re not stopping here. We believe good design never stands still. We have been busy developing exciting new lines for next season, including some bold new takes on classic pieces and a few surprises we can’t wait to share. We’ll be offering a preview of our upcoming collections at the next Our Home
“We set out to offer something a little different in a crowded market
showroom event this November, and we warmly invite you to join us. It’s always a pleasure to connect with customers face to face, share what’s new, and hear what inspires you. “As we celebrate this Furniture News Readers’ Choice Award, we do so with immense gratitude and renewed energy.
Thank you for recognising the vision we’ve worked so hard to bring to life. Here’s to the beautiful spaces we’ve already created together – and the many more to come,” the Bluebone team concludes. www.bluebone.co.uk
BEST GARDEN/OUTDOOR FURNITURE SUPPLIER
‘OUR HOME’ 9 - 12th November 2025
LOCATION: BLUEBONE SHOWROOMS RIVER MILL 2, PARK ROAD DUKINFIELD SK16 5PD
BOOK YOUR VISIT: SCAN QR CODE 0161 330 8959 ELAINE@BLUEBONE.CO.UK
90 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST INSURANCE/AFTERSALES SUPPORT
Guardsman
“This achievement is not only a recognition of our product and service excellence, but also a testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work of the entire team. “This award is more than a symbol of quality, it’s a testament to the collaboration between our head office, field teams, restoration networks and service delivery specialists who work together to uphold the highest standards for our retail partners and their customers. “At Guardsman, teamwork isn’t just a value, it’s a practice. Our team believes that by working closely with our retail partners, suppliers and customers, we can deliver a service that goes beyond expectation. Retaining this recognition for nearly a decade underscores the pride we take in every aspect of our work.” This year marks a turning point for Guardsman – with a renewed leadership team and a refined strategy, the business is evolving to better meet the changing needs of its partners. “The key developments include expanded coverage – our plan portfolio now includes beds (with ottomans and tech-integrated designs), enhanced dining coverage (including table leaves and motion elements), and updated carpet plans that now cover underlay. In terms of product innovation and sustainability, we’re investing in greener, smarter solutions – our team recently launched a new cooling range of mattress protectors, follow an eco-friendly OEKO-TEX certified manufacturing process, and have launched improved care and maintenance products. “Our new logistics partner brings enhanced tracking, improved performance, and additional resources to streamline the delivery process, while a fully compliant online learning platform is now available and can be tailored for in-house delivery to retail teams. “And, whether through face-to-face
“At Guardsman, teamwork isn’t just a value, it’s a practice
Mattress protectors
“In an industry where consistency, innovation, and exceptional customer support are key, Guardsman is proud to have been awarded Best Insurance/Aftersales Support for a second consecutive year,” states the service provider …
Russell Philpott, Ryan White, Michelle Buckland and William Taylor
meetings, virtual sessions or regional support, the team is offering flexible, partner-first relationship management. “This period of growth is guided by a blend of fresh perspective and deep industry expertise. Our leadership team combines insight from the insurance and furniture sectors to ensure a balanced and strategic approach to client success. “The principals include: MD Russell Philpott, who brings over 20 years of governance and regulatory experience, with a strong focus on customer-centric service; head of strategic partnerships, Andy Leech, who joins in September with extensive experience in insurer relations, and will drive our commercial propositions; Ryan White, head of sales for the UK and Ireland, who combines hands-on knowledge
of the furniture industry and commercial insurance insight; Michelle Buckland, head of operations, who, with over 30 years of operational excellence, is a cornerstone of service delivery; and William Taylor, head of network services, who is focused on technical consistency and delivering an outstanding customer journey strategy. “This leadership team, supported by more than 60 head office staff, field specialists, technicians and franchised repairers, is ready to take Guardsman into the future with confidence,” Guardsman concludes. Russell adds: “Thank you sincerely to everyone who voted – your support means everything. We look forward to continuing to innovate, support and grow alongside our retail partners.” www.guardsman.co.uk
MULTI-AWARD WINNING SERVICE
Industry leading 77% first visit fix across both networks* We visit over 50,000 homes each year Repairs to all furniture types, including fabric, carpets, glass, marble, stone and leather
Offering: Protection plans Warranty services Commercial service Bespoke care products and kits
01235 444700
*Source: Guardsman Claims data March 2025
www.guardsman.co.uk *Source: Guardsman Claims data March 2025
860003/07/24
92 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST LEATHER/ LEATHER-LOOK UPHOLSTERY SUPPLIER
Tetrad
tradition. Highlighted are the British heritage
Beckett
Known for its innovation, distinctive craftsmanship, rich textures, and timeless British design, Tetrad says it continues to captivate both retailers and customers alike, adding that each individual piece is handcrafted with care, using high-quality materials and traditional techniques that celebrate longevity and comfort. “This award is a testament to the dedication and passion of our team,” says sales director Chris Fletcher. “We don’t just make furniture – we create experiences, with designs that connect, inspire, and invite customers to imagine them in their own homes.” Collaborating closely with retailers, Tetrad blends strong aesthetics with high build quality, offering a curated collection of fabrics and leathers that appeal to a wide audience. “From classic silhouettes to contemporary twists, the brand’s furniture has become synonymous with style, substance, and enduring appeal,” the sofamaker continues. “With another award under its belt, Tetrad continues to set the benchmark for luxury British upholstery – proudly proving that true quality and craftsmanship never goes out of fashion.” This year has also seen Tetrad rebrand, with a new logo echoing its values and
Warwick
Tetrad says it has once again secured its place at the top of the upholstery industry, being named Best Leather/Leather-Look Upholstery supplier of 2025 in Furniture News’ Readers’ Choice Awards – the third consecutive year the company has taken home a prestigious accolade in these annual awards …
and longevity of the business, having been established in Lancashire since 1968. Being rolled out through 2025-26, the new logo will start to appear throughout the branding for in-store and online. New swatch books are also on their way to retailers this year, with updates to shop floor displays and product literature to follow. To support the new brand rollout and bolster the business’s marketing efforts, Tetrad recently appointed a new head of marketing, Rowena Allen. With over 20 years in marketing and significant experience in the interiors trade, she will work alongside sales and product development to drive forward brand awareness and retail support. “I’m delighted to join the team at Tetrad and am looking forward to contributing to the evolution of the Tetrad brand,” says Rowena. “It’s an exciting time to help tell more of the Tetrad story and bring to life the fantastic heritage and product catalogue.”
To find out more, or to arrange an appointment with the team in September or January, contact marketing@tetrad.co.uk. www.tetrad.co.uk
Retailers can visit Tetrad at this year’s autumn Long Point exhibition and the January Furniture
Rowena Allen
Show 2026, to see its new products and branding come to life. Alongside the bestselling ranges, visitors will also see latest designs for the Harris Tweed and Spink & Edgar collections.
“We don’t just make furniture – we create experiences
We are proud to be voted
B E S T L E AT H E R U P H O L S T E RY S U P P L I E R by the readers of Furniture News
tetrad.co.uk Featured: Kensington grand sofa displayed in ‘Austin’ leather and ‘Vintage’ velvet
Lydford Dining – The Next Chapter in a Retail Favourite IN STOCK IN THE UK
The Legacy Grows Stronger
Elevate ElevateYour Your Store Store with with Timeless Timeless Charm: Charm: Discover Discover Our Our Heritage Heritage Pine Pine Range Range ARRIVING ARRIVING SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER
Back Back to to our our Roots Roots Get Get in in touch touch today: today: enquiries@devonshireliving.co.uk enquiries@devonshireliving.co.uk 01237 01237471872 471872
96 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST MARKETING SUPPORT BEST RETAIL TECHNOLOGY (IN-STORE) SUPPORT
Iconography
Two-category winner Iconography says it is proud to be working with some of the most successful furniture retailers in the UK and Ireland … “Over recent years, speaking with many leading independent furniture retailers, we’ve set about resolving one of the key issues they all face – running a truly effective and efficient business online and in-store,” explains director, Wayne Robbins.
“We truly believe this new approach points to the future
“The source of many problems retailers experience can be isolated to the integration between their ecommerce website and the legacy retail management software they are using across other aspects of the business. “As many retailers know, integrations between systems can cause many day-to-day operational problems that impact businesses in numerous ways – causing friction, mistakes, delays and errors in lead times, stock levels, stock visibility and availability. “Managing essential data, if different systems are employed, can result in some duplication of effort – things can take longer and feel more cumbersome than they should (requiring additional staff due to a reliance on disjointed processes). “For retailers striving to be agile, effective
and efficient, both online and in-store, a new approach is now available. We’ve developed a complete cloud-based platform to manage and facilitate all aspects of furniture retailing – selling online and in-store, and powering associated back-office operations. “OMNIS enables furniture retailers to use a single coherent system, for selling, order processing, purchase ordering, warehouse management, delivery scheduling, customer service, marketing and the associated retail management and reporting activity. “We truly believe this new approach points to the future and delivers competitive advantage for the users of OMNIS Retail,” Wayne concludes. www.iconography.co.uk/furniture
Effective & efficient omnichannel retailing Competitive cost, comprehensive capability + Enterprise eCommerce + EPoS + Retail Management + Warehousing + Purchase Ordering + CRM + PIM
by Visit iconography.co.uk/omnis
98 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST MATTRESS SUPPLIER BEST UPHOLSTERED BED SUPPLIER
Hypnos With a 120-year history in handcrafting mattresses and beds, Hypnos’s enduring legacy is a testament to its people and values. The British bedmaker has a reputation for creating mattresses of the finest quality, ethically made and sustainably delivered. Hypnos has an impressive range of mattresses and beds, providing plenty of choice for consumers to suit their individual comfort, storage and aesthetic desires. The brand’s commitment to innovation and responsible design is epitomised by the collection created in collaboration with educational charity, the Eden Project. This collection of mattresses uses plant-based fibres developed by Hypnos, including banana, citrus and pineapple, and includes the Good Housekeeping Approved Eden Project Rainforest mattress. Rainforest was recognised by the institute this summer as the most comfortable More Eco-friendly Pocket Sprung Mattress. Legacy Origins III was also acclaimed by the Good Housekeeping Institute for the second year running, and is made using Responsible Wool Standard-certified wool sourced through The Woolkeepers initiative, which sees a fair and timely price paid directly to British farmers. It also features layers of Himalayan allo, kapok and responsibly sourced cotton. The mattress was named Best Luxury Mattress, with one tester describing it as “life changing”, delivering a “brilliant night’s sleep”. Hypnos is recognised for its excellence in mattress design, but also in upholstery, and holds a Royal Warrant for Beds, Mattresses and Upholstery to His Majesty King Charles III. With a range of different comfort, storage
“We’ve perfected the art of handcrafting pocket-sprung mattresses and upholstered beds
Legacy Origins III
Hypnos says it is delighted to have been awarded Best Mattress Supplier and Best Upholstered Bed Supplier in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
and design options, these durable pieces of furniture are handcrafted and upholstered at the Hypnos workshops. Each is robustly made with high-quality FSC-certified timber, and, alongside shallow or deep divans with hidden drawers, Hypnos has developed the spacious Hideaway and ottoman SuperStorage models, which are upholstered in a spectrum of colours and textures. Hypnos also provides a bespoke service for upholstery in the customer’s own fabric. Mark Cort, commercial director, says: “Winning these awards from the readers
of Furniture News is great news. For more than a century, we’ve perfected the art of handcrafting pocket-sprung mattresses and upholstered beds, and we are extremely proud to be a great British brand, partnering with quality furniture retailers across the country.” Stockists of both Rainforest and Legacy III have access to PoS and supporting assets for use in-store and online to promote the endorsement by the Good Housekeeping Institute. www.hypnosbeds.com
Established in 1904 and proud Royal Warrant holders for over 95 years C a r b o n N e u t r a l | I n s p i r e d b y N a t u r e | 1 0 0 % Re c y c l a b l e | h y p n o s b e d s. c o m
100 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST OCCASIONAL CHAIR/RECLINER SUPPLIER
Ekornes (Stressless)
“A huge thanks to the readers for the award,” begins Stressless’s marketing manager, Anna-Marie Warren. “There’s a huge amount of competition in this category, so it really means a lot to win. We’re looking forward to maintaining our position as market leaders within recliners by investing in innovation and great design, all supported by beautiful marketing campaigns.” On that first point, the Norwegian furniture manufacturer says its newest recliner “brings you into a new era of comfort. It’s an almost sensational way of recharging. Thanks to its Zero Gravity function, the Stressless Adam allows you to elevate your legs above your heart, creating a feeling of weightlessness. “This optimal seating position offers multiple benefits, helping you to calm your mind. In other words, you do not just take a break from your everyday life – you take a break from gravity itself to fully recharge for your next phase of full performance. “Like all our furniture, Stressless Adam adapts to your individual requirements. From its supportive, soft cushioning, to its numerous comfort features to the possibility for personal adjustments, this recliner is made to soothe your mind, body and, above all, your eye. From the cushion to the foot, the recliner is fully customisable to perfectly fit your perception of design.” The Stressless Adam recliner was created with flexibility and personalisation in mind. Its key features include: a tilt function, ComfortZones in the seat and back, automatic adjustment of head and lumbar support, height-adjustable headrest cushion, manual adjustment of headrest angle, integrated footrest with stepless adjustment, and 360-degree swivel. Adam’s appeal saw it receive the Red Dot Award for Product Design this year. The Red Dot, established in 1955 in Germany, is one of the world’s most renowned design
“A bold step forward in the design of motorised recliners
Stressless Adam
Category winner Stressless remains one of the world’s favourite seating brands, and took Furniture News’s readers’ top spot this year, hot on the heels of a prestigious accolade for its new Adam chair …
awards, recognising products that combine outstanding aesthetics with functional innovation. Products are evaluated based on criteria including innovation, functionality, ergonomics, durability, and sustainability. Ekornes CEO Tine Hammernes Leopold says: “It recognises our work in developing furniture that combines comfort, functionality, and elegant design.” According to Mariana Sousa, Ekornes’ head of design, Stressless Adam is a significant evolution in the category. “Stressless Adam represents a bold step
forward in the design of motorised recliners,” she says. “It challenges the conventional notion that functionality must come at the expense of aesthetics. With Stressless Adam, we’ve managed to harmonise advanced comfort features with a refined, Scandinavianinspired design language. “We had a strong feeling about Stressless Adam from the beginning. There was something about the proportions, the materials, the way it all came together – it just felt right.” www.stressless.com
The calm before your spotlight moment. A morning run, a breakthrough at work, or time with loved ones - your shine moments come in many forms. This year Ekornes® are the Furniture News Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 winner! Ekornes® won Best Occasional Chair/Recliner Supplier.
new STRESSLESS® ADAM
stressless.com
102 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST RETAIL TECHNOLOGY (ONLINE) SUPPORT
Sci-Net Business Solutions
Designer Sofas is making good use of Sci-Net’s solutions
“Consumer expectations are rising, and supply chains are becoming more complex – which means competition is intensifying both online and in-store,” writes Duncan. “Subsequently, having clear, actionable insight into your business has never been more important. “And for those yet to adopt a modern ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system, the opportunity to transform operations and your decision-making is not only compelling – it’s essential in the fast-paced world of today. “At Sci-Net, we specialise in helping furniture retailers to take control of their data to streamline operations and deliver exceptional customer experiences. Through our ERP>Retail platform – built within Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central – we’ve partnered with some of the UK’s most recognised big-ticket retailers to do just that. “But, despite being a staple of household name retailers, you don’t have to be a large chain to benefit from this technology. “One of the most common challenges
we see in the industry is the reliance on disconnected systems – spreadsheets for stock, paper-based order tracking, siloed finance tools and more. While these may get the job done in the short term, they restrict visibility and increase the risk of errors, making strategic decision-making more difficult than it needs to be. “An ERP system consolidates all these moving parts into one central, integrated solution – providing real-time data across your business. From the showroom floor to the warehouse, from customer service to finance, every team can access the same live information, ensuring better co-ordination and smarter, faster decisions. “Take stock management, for instance. Knowing exactly what’s available, what’s been ordered and what’s in transit is critical in furniture retail – especially when dealing with large, made-to-order or custom-configured items. ERP>Retail offers full stock traceability and warehouse integration, helping avoid costly over-ordering or missed sales opportunities. “It also radically improves the sales process. With tools like our tablet-driven sales wizard, your team can easily guide customers through configurable options, check availability on the spot and generate quotes with integrated finance options – all from the shop floor. This not only enhances the customer experience
Duncan Fergusson
“In the ever-evolving world of furniture retail, you need to move with the times,” writes Duncan Fergusson, MD of Sci-Net Business Solutions, which scooped both the Best Marketing Support and Best Retail Technology (online) Support accolades in this year’s awards …
but also increases AOV and conversion rates. “Behind the scenes, ERP also delivers critical insights. From analysing bestselling lines and seasonal trends to tracking the profitability of each store, product and even individual salespeople, you gain a complete view of what’s working and where improvements can be made. This level of reporting and forecasting is simply not possible with manual systems. “For many furniture retailers, the transition to an ERP system can feel like a daunting leap. But with the right partner, it’s a step that pays dividends. Improved accuracy and time-saving benefits helps to empower you to scale with confidence. At Sci-Net, we don’t just implement systems – we build lasting partnerships based on trust and transparency, allowing you to benefit from our extensive industry expertise to ensure a seamless process. And as the winner of this year’s Furniture News Readers’ Choice Award for Best Retail Technology (online) Support, we’ll guide you through everything that’s needed. “If your current setup is holding your business back, now is the time to take a closer look at what ERP can do. Smarter decisions start with smarter data – and the right system puts that power firmly in your hands,” concludes Duncan. www.sci-net.co.uk
“At Sci-Net, we don’t just implement systems
Using Your ERP Data to Make Smarter Retail Decisions. Empowering retailers to make smarter, data-driven decisions Sci-Net streamlines fulfilment from warehouse to customer with
www.sci-net.co.uk 01869 349 949 | hello@sci-net.co.uk ERP House, Duns Tew Grange, Duns Tew Rd, Chipping Norton, OX7 7DQ
104 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST RUG SUPPLIER
Asiatic London
“A heartfelt thank you to our amazing customers and dedicated team
Zennith Grad
www.asiatic.co.uk
Laurent
Asiatic London says the win reaffirms its position as a leading brand in the rug industry. The brand attributes its success to innovative design thinking, a deep understanding of its customers, and an unwavering standard of quality. “We collaborate with trusted manufacturers and nurture partnerships with skilled artisans who share our values for exceptional quality and fine craftsmanship, ensuring that every rug is made to perfection,” says CEO Sharon Kelaty. “This commitment to delivering the very best remains at the core of the brand.” Asiatic London offers one of the widest collections of rugs in the UK and Europe, designed to cater to various customer needs and preferences. Looking forward, the business continues to expand its portfolio, creating collections that reflect some of the best in style, craftsmanship and innovation. Asiatic London will be launching a new catalogue for autumn/winter 2025, featuring a wide range of contemporary additions, from inviting textures and neutrals to vibrant designs. “We are incredibly honoured to be recognised as the Best Rug Supplier,” the supplier continues. “This recognition celebrates our continued commitment to creating beautiful, high-quality rugs and delivering outstanding service. “A heartfelt thank you to our amazing customers and dedicated team for their unwavering support and commitment. We look forward to continuing to bring excellence to every rug we create and every customer we serve.” Alongside its collections, Asiatic London offers bespoke product development, FOB solutions and consolidation services to meet customers’ demands at every level. For personalised assistance, contact sales@ asiatic.co.uk, or explore more offerings on the company’s website.
Anders
For the second consecutive year, Furniture News readers named Asiatic London as Best Rug Supplier in the Readers’ Choice Awards.
AVAILABLE FOR PREORDER
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Block O, OCC 105 Eade Road, London N4 1TJ Phone: +44 (0) 20 8800 2000 UK & Ireland: sales@asiatic.co.uk Export: export@asiatic.co.uk
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Explore the Catalogues
106 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST SOFABED SUPPLIER
Kyoto
Bentley console table
in solid mango and acacia woods. In response to growing demand for calming, versatile and long-lasting furniture, the range moves away from rigid symmetry and embraces soft, irregular silhouettes that echo the natural world. “Our team travelled to India to source these products, and developed relationships with new factories. This launch reflects a shift as Kyoto broadens its offerings – not only quality upholstered products, but a range of furnishings to encompass a look or lifestyle. As our homes increasingly become sanctuaries from busy lives, we see a clear appetite for furniture that offers warmth, individuality, and a sense of connection with nature. “We extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who voted for us and supported us over the years. This award not only celebrates our past but energises our future. We look forward to showcasing what’s next for Kyoto at the January Furniture Show 2026.” Visit Kyoto’s website to explore the full range, or follow the supplier on LinkedIn for product news and updates. www.kyoto.co.uk
Remy lamp table
“After marking 30 years in the industry, this recognition is a meaningful reminder of our place in the UK furniture market. It reflects the hard work and commitment of our dedicated team, the quality of our curated product range, and the continued loyalty of our trade customers. “At Kyoto, sofabeds have always been our flagship category, and over the years we’ve seen this versatile product evolve from a spare-room staple into a central feature of modern living. “In today’s compact and flexible homes, demand is growing for pieces that offer both style and functionality – and our sofabeds are designed with this in mind. With contemporary silhouettes and practical mechanisms, all our models effortlessly transform from stylish sofas into comfortable sleeping spaces. It’s not uncommon for customers to be surprised to learn they’re looking at a sofabed at all! “Our in-house design team continues to refine the collection, relaunching bestsellers in updated fabrics such as the Lux in washed olive (pictured), while introducing new designs that reflect today’s interior trends. Whether click-clack, compact pop-up styles or generous corner units, the goal remains the same – to combine practicality, aesthetic appeal and comfort into a single, hard-working product. “While sofabeds remain at the heart of what we do, this autumn marks an exciting new chapter for Kyoto as we expand our range further. This September, we’re launching a brand-new accent furniture range – a 12-piece collection of coffee, console, side and lamp tables, designed to complement our upholstery. “Inspired by timeless design, organic forms, and rich earthy tones, this new collection places natural wood at its core, with products
Lux click-clack sofabed in washed olive
“We are delighted to once again be named Best Sofabed Supplier in the 2025 Furniture News Readers’ Choice Awards,” says Kyoto.
“This autumn marks an exciting new chapter for Kyoto
107
BEST SOFT FURNISHINGS SUPPLIER
Scatter Box “We are incredibly proud to have been awarded Best Soft Furnishings Supplier for the third year in a row! This continued recognition means a great deal to our team, and we would like to sincerely thank everyone who took the time to vote for us,” says the supplier. “It’s a true honour to be acknowledged by our peers and customers alike. “This year marks an exciting new chapter for Scatter Box. Building on our established reputation for high-quality soft furnishings, we’ve thoughtfully expanded into new categories including lighting, furniture, accessories and curtains. “These additions stay true to the Scatter Box ethos – bold design, premium craftsmanship, and curated style.
“Rather than changing who we are, this growth allows us to offer even more ways for customers to express their individuality and create beautiful, considered spaces throughout the home.” The supplier is now looking to spread the word even further. “We’re now preparing to introduce these expanded collections to the Irish market at the IFHS show this month,” states the Scatter Box team. “The response so far from our retail partners and customers has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re truly grateful for the support!” For enquiries, call +353 (0)46 9021691, UK LoCall on 0203 432 6165, or follow the brand on Instagram @scatterbox.ie. www.scatterbox.ie
108 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST TESTING SERVICES/CERTIFICATION PROVIDER
FIRA International
“For those unfamiliar with FIRA International and the integral role we play across the furniture sector, we’re part of the Element Group,” he continues. “From our custom-built testing facilities in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, we specialise in providing a comprehensive range of independent testing, inspection, certification, technical and training services. “Essentially, we exist to help our customers to make certain that their materials, products, systems and operations are safe, quality, compliant and ultimately fit for purpose. “Alongside our comprehensive range of testing and certification services, FIRA International also supports the furniture sector with ergonomic services and specialist technical advice. “In the 12 months since we last won this award, we have continued to grow and develop our testing offering, and we achieved UKAS accreditation for several updated standards. It continues to be a busy time for standards updates so we are working hard to ensure we are ready to offer the latest test methods. “The key to our success lies within the expertise and experience of the testing team – section head Steve Cotton and technical specialist James Moore are both into their 27th year at FIRA, and I’m not too far behind. We also have lab manager Paul Soley and section heads Joseph Eribankya and Lee Haines all coming close to 20 years’ service. In a specialised industry such as ours, the value of such a wealth of experience cannot be overstated. “In addition to our testing services, we are the service provider to the Furniture Industry Research Association (FIRA). Our experts undertake all activities on behalf of the association, from representing them on various standards committees to supporting members
“We have continued to grow and develop our testing offering
Howard James
“The entire team at FIRA International is once again delighted to have been recognised as the Best Testing Services/ Certification Provider by the readers of Furniture News,” enthuses technical manager Howard James. “Thanks to everyone for supporting us again and making it the fifth year we’ve topped this category!”
with technical expertise to authoring their guides and publications. “In the past year we have continued to add to the lean manufacturing guides series, issued guidance on the changes to the EU and GB General Product Safety Regulations and published research into the specific challenges faced by those involved in Educational Furniture Procurement. “FIRA International is also the scheme administrator for the Furniture Industry Sustainability Programme (FISP), whereby we support FISP members and conduct scheme audits. It has been a successful year for the
scheme, with continuing growth in membership. “In the next 12 months we will be continuing to support our customers with support and advice regarding the challenges of new legislation relating to Electrically Operated Furniture and Digital Product Passports. “In closing, I thank our testing and certification experts, who are critical to our success,” says Howard. “Without their dedication and support, we couldn’t deliver our breadth of services and support you in the way that we do.” www.fira-international.com
BUILDING ASSURANCE. YEAR ON YEAR ON YEAR. BEST TESTING SERVICES / CERTIFICATION PROVIDER 2025. AS VOTED BY YOU FOR FIVE YEARS RUNNING.
The secret to our success is quite simple, really; excellence isn’t our finish line. It’s our ongoing ambition. We deliver this to you with comprehensive testing, certification, dedicated expertise, strategic investment, and support for the furniture sector and the wider community. Our continual improvement mission helps our customers be confident that their furniture materials, products and operations are fit for purpose. It’s about making tomorrow safer than today. Together. fira-international.com
112 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST UK UPHOLSTERY MANUFACTURER
Buoyant Upholstery
Ziggy
“We’re hoping to keep this momentum going
means a great deal to us.” Development director Glen Ainsworth adds: “This award is a true testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of our team, and to the enduring value of British manufacturing. Every piece we create is made here in the UK, by skilled hands that carry forward generations of upholstery tradition.” The Manchester Furniture Show proved to be another successful exhibition for Buoyant, which says its existing models and new additions received great feedback from visitors. “We’re hoping to keep this momentum going by exhibiting at the autumn Long Point show in Long Eaton, an exhibition that was also a success for us back in the spring,” Buoyant concludes.
Kahlo
“It’s a great honour to be awarded this year’s Furniture News Readers’ Choice Award for Best UK Upholstery,” states the sofamaker. “We’re constantly looking for ways to improve our product and processes – our business has been established for over 100 years, and we’re always striving to build on that existing knowledge and experience. To know that this has been recognised by people within the furniture industry, such as the readers of Furniture News,
www.buoyant-upholstery.co.uk
We are delighted to receive the Best UK Upholstery award and would like to thank all those who voted for us.
Best UK Upholstery
21 22 23 25
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Trusted by 30+ leading furniture brands across the UK & Ireland
114 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST VEHICLE MANUFACTURER
Maxi Mover
For operators requiring even more volume and capacity, Maxi Mover’s new Hi-Roof Luton van delivers the same high performance without compromising on payload. “Like its AeroMAX sibling, the Luton model benefits from ultra-lightweight composite construction, allowing businesses to deliver heavier loads legally while staying under the 3.5 tonne threshold,” says Maxi Mover. The AeroMAX Hi-Roof Luton Van is available with a wide range of bespoke options, such as: heavy-duty tail lifts; high-performance non-slip full closure ramp; rear roller shutter door; and heavy-duty rear doors, or the unique KurtainSlider, designed to maximise time and efficiency, with much faster loading and unloading times. “From a driver’s perspective, both the AeroMAX Low Loader van and Luton van conversions offer quiet, comfortable and wellequipped cabins,” says Maxi Mover. “Featuring cruise control, air conditioning, driver assistance systems – such as lane departure warning, emergency braking and blind spot monitoring – and an intuitive infotainment interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Maxi Mover AeroMAX offers a safe, comfortable working environment. “Maintenance is simple, thanks to Renault’s proven 2.3L dCi engine and nationwide support
“Helping furniture and logistics firms stay ahead of the curve
Maxi Mover’s Luton
Built on the all-new 2025 Renault Master chassis, Maxi Mover’s AeroMAX low-loader van range consists of the entry-level AeroMAX XP, the high-performance AeroMAX PRO, the Renault Trucks AeroMAX RED Edition and the 100% electric E-Loader, which boasts an extended 255-mile range. All models are purpose-built for businesses transporting large, bulky furniture, white goods and high-value homewares. The range’s class-leading payload of up to 1450kg is achieved through the advanced HexLITE, 100%-recyclable, fully composite bodywork material, allowing operators to transport more cargo per trip without compromising efficiency or safety – “an ideal fleet upgrade for companies looking for unmatched payloads and volumes, reduced operating costs and sustainable environmental credentials,” says Maxi Mover. The vans are designed and manufactured for the demands of furniture distribution, the manufacturer continues: “Delivering bulky and fragile items with high customer expectations means that delivery vans must offer easy loading, secure storage with smooth ride handling. “The Maxi Mover AeroMAX low-loader van range addresses these head-on, with a low rear-loading height and a high-roof cargo area that comfortably accommodates large sofas, beds, wardrobes and boxed furniture. Inside the cab, operators benefit from a wide range of bespoke and popular options, from reinforced flooring to anchor tie points and cushioned rails to keep valuable cargo stable during transit, vital for preventing damage.”
Maxi Mover’s AeroMAX range
In the fast-paced world of furniture distribution and logistics, payload and efficiency are everything, and time, fuel economy and reliability are essential, says Maxi Mover, whose latest innovation, the Renault Master AeroMAX high-payload low loader and Luton van range, offers compelling solutions that combine ultralightweight design, robust, heavy-duty construction and “outstanding operational performance”.
network, and both models come with a threeyear/100,000-mile chassis warranty and fiveyear/150,000-mile body construction warranty. “Maxi Mover is a proud Renault RED Trucks premium conversion partner, and the Maxi Mover AeroMAX RED Edition comes with
“Keeping your Maxi Mover on the road is critical to your business’s success. You can trust our aftersales team to be there when you need them. No matter if it’s a simple question or query regarding the chassis cab or body construction, or if you need help solving a mechanical problem, Maxi Mover’s aftersales team are always are just a phone call away.” For logistics and furniture delivery operators, the new Maxi Mover AeroMAX and Luton low loaders represent more than just new vans, the manufacturer concludes: “They’re business tools manufactured to enhance productivity and reduce running costs. Whether it’s a single van upgrade or a fleet overhaul, Maxi Mover low-loader vans deliver loads more for less. “In a delivery economy where success rides on performance and reputation, Maxi Mover’s Renault Master AeroMAX low loaders and Luton vans help furniture and logistics firms stay ahead of the curve.”
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118 PRODUCTS
Forte’s invitation to meet at MOW Forte suggests an industrial look
After the success of its recent participation in Germany’s Partnertage Ostwestfalen (partner days) fair, Polish cabinet manufacturer Forte is inviting furniture professionals to see its latest launches at the upcoming MOW, taking place from 21st-25th September in Bad Salzuflen, Germany …
Forte’s display at this year’s Partnertage Ostwestfalen
“This year, we’re bringing fresh energy, new ideas and innovative solutions,” enthuses Forte. “If you’re curious about what’s next in furniture design, assembly systems and interior trends, our stand is the place to be. “We’re really looking forward to meeting you in person, exchanging insights and talking about what’s shaping the future of our industry. Whether you’re a long-time partner or just getting to know Forte, we’d love to connect. See you in Bad Salzuflen!” Anyone interested in scheduling a meeting or learning more can contact the team at uksales@forte.com.pl.
Forte’s innovative EasyKlix easy-assembly collection on show
“We’re bringing fresh energy, new ideas and innovative solutions
Forte’s unmissable display at last year’s MOW
www.forte.com.pl
The Furniture Makers’ Company the furnishing industry’s charity
SUPPORT FOR FURNISHING INDUSTRY PEOPLE Struggling financially? We’re here to help! As the charity for the furnishing industry, we have been supporting the welfare of people working in the trade since 1903. We help furnishing industry people by providing financial grants and practical, useful advice.
020 7256 5558 07366 568 458 welfareofficer@furnituremakers.org.uk www.furnituremakers.org.uk/welfare The Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers’ Charitable Funds incorporating the Furnishing Trades Benevolent Association is a registered charity in England and Wales (no. 1015519) and a registered company (no. 02759359) in England and Wales
120 PRODUCTS
MERIDIAN UPHOLSTERY www.meridianupholstery.co.uk
Meridian Upholstery says it is committed to introducing innovation fabrics that combine trendforward design with outstanding durability. “We continuously update our collection to ensure our retailers have access to the latest styles, while also keeping our top-selling fabrics available,” the sofamaker continues. “Sometimes, a fresh colourway is all it takes to reinvent a classic range. “Current trends are leaning towards richly textured plains with a soft handle, a direction we’ve embraced
by adding new textured plain collections to our branded swatch books. These come in commercial, trend-led colour palettes that we’re excited to share. “We are seeing a strong presence of green, blue and neutral tones, which we’re incorporating into both our current and upcoming ranges. “Our patterns range is also evolving. With a return of maximalist designs, we’ve been hard at work developing bold, expressive patterns that we look forward to launching very soon.”
Jaeger, Hessian
Utah
Manhattan, Alpine
HANDMADE IN BRITAIN
howcanwehelp@meridianupholstery.co.uk
NOT LONG TO WAIT NOW….
THE DATE OF THE GRAND OPENING OF THE BRAND NEW MASTER SOFA SHOWROOM IN LONG EATON, WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN THE AUGUST EDITION OF FURNITURE NEWS. MY PHONE HAS NOT STOPPED RINGING IN RECENT WEEKS FROM RETAILERS ASKING WHEN THE SHOWROOM OF THE BEST MANUFACTURER OF COMMERCIAL, SMART SOFAS IS GOING TO OPEN. THE ANSWER IS VERY SOON. MASTERSOFA ARE IN THE PROCESS OF COMPLETELY RENOVATING THE FORMER PARKER KNOLL SHOWROOM AT HARRINGTON MILLS, IN LONG EATON. THE MASTER SOFA TEAM ARE REALLY EXCITED ABOUT OPENING IN SUCH A PRESTIGIOUS BUILDING AND IN AN AREA WHICH HAS A STRONG TRADITION AND LONG HISTORY OF MAKING QUALITY UPHOLSTERY. WHILE SMART SOFAS ARE AN IMPORTANT AND GROWING PART OF THE MASTER SOFA COMPANY, THE SHOWROOM WILL DISPLAY SOME INCREDIBLE QUALITY MOTION SOFAS AND CORNER GROUPS, AT COMPETITIVE PRICES . MASTER SOFA HAVE OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE OF SUPPLYING UK AND IRISH RETAILERS AND WE KNOW HOW IMPORTANT CUSTOMER SERVICE IS. THAT IS WHY WE STORE ALL SPARE PARTS AT EMMIERA IN DUDLEY, WEST MIDLANDS, FOR QUICK RESOLUTION TO ANY SERVICE ISSUES. WATCH THIS SPACE FOR THE GRAND OPENING DATE. I CAN ASSURE YOU OF A WARM WELCOME AND SOME REAL SPECIAL OFFERS. KIND REGARDS, MIKE CONROY, SALES DIRECTOR 07712 702044 E: mike.conroy@mastersofa.com.my
122 PRODUCTS
LOUIS DE POORTERE www.louisdepoortere.com With its modern reimagination of traditional tribal design, Berber is one of the many new styles found in the Ecorugs 2025 Collection from Louis De Poortere. The traditional bi-coloured designs of Morocco’s Beni Ouarain tribe are the inspiration behind Berber, the latest addition to the Structures Collection of textured Ecorugs. The rug is available in eight sizes, ranging from 80 x 150cm up to 280 x 390cm, with a 240cm circular option. As part of Louis De Poortere’s Ecorugs collection, Berber is machine woven from 40% recycled PET. In fact, the whole rug is made from polyester so that it can be recycled through the brand’s Take Care programme. Beber comes in four colours combined with offwhite – the gold of ERG, green Oasis, charcoal Caidal and terracotta Ksar.
WOODMAN CHAIRS www.woodmanchairs.co.uk
mean having to tie up loads of money in (even then) a limited and committed stock range, on a slow boat from China – or have a chair or frame you might want made, or just an idea you would like to explore – why not shift your thinking to Woodman Chairs?” Oak Stockholm chair (powder seat)
Woodman Chairs makes solid wood chairs and frames in oak, beech, ash and other hardwoods. “But we don’t just supply – we design and create,” says director Tom Woodman, “and not just in our own styles, but to our clients’ own designs and needs.” Bespoke chair and frame making is a rapidly growing part of Woodman Chairs’ business, and Tom says his team would be pleased to discuss making for any particular needs. “We can also offer tables, stools, benches and bespoke components,” he continues. “We can make and supply in raw wood or finished (including painted), with good lead times, often from stock, and at realistic prices. “Our solid wood products are built to last, and many of our styles are almost timeless in nature, and resistant to the fickle ebb and flow of changes in fashion. Whilst there is a growing choice of more modern chairs in many materials, solid-wood, traditionally constructed models have their own very clear niche, and demand naturally endures. Visually evoking charm, they speak to quality.” Woodman Chairs now offers an extended stock and bespoke table offer, as well as easy chair and sofa ranges – which again, says Tom, could possibly be tailored to suit. He concludes: “If you’re looking for something different in your chair offer – which maybe doesn’t
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F Edmondson & Sons
European Furniture Transport Specialising in the collection, distribution and delivery of high quality furniture throughout the UK and Europe for manufacturers, retailers and private clients.
+44 (0)1524 382211 sedmondson@edmondsonfreight.co.uk
www.edmondsonfreight.co.uk FEd_424JA.indd 1
05/12/2024 09:43
124 PRODUCTS BEDROOM
Komfi prepares for biggest NBF appearance yet Vitality Max
As the countdown begins for the NBF Bed Show this September, GNG Group reveals a preview of what promises to be one of its most exciting showcases yet. From fresh product launches to a renewed focus on sustainability, GNG is ready to make a bold impression – here, commercial director Richard Gretton discusses how the business continues to tackle current market demands, along with its ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation …
Richard Gretton
How are the new ranges fit for current market demands? GNG Group is proud to reveal three new and exciting Komfi collections that reflect the evolving needs of today’s consumers. Komfi’s Vitality range combines a visually appealing design with superior functionality, including our in-demand Ultra Firm and Hybrid mattresses as well as the Vitality Max, powered by cutting-edge Next Gen 4G foam for enhanced comfort and support. We are also bringing back a fan favourite, SleepShaper, now reimagined with eight distinctive models designed to cater to a variety of sleep styles and preferences. SleepShaper also features the benefit of being rolled, folded and boxed for the convenience of both retailers and customers. For consumers increasingly prioritising health and wellbeing, our new FlexiWell range delivers advanced adjustable comfort with a clear focus on sleep wellness. Engineered to support spinal alignment, pressure relief and improved circulation, FlexiWell
This milestone underlines our dedication to responsible manufacturing and a greener future for our industry.
promotes restorative sleep that contributes to both physical recovery and overall wellbeing. The range is particularly well suited to those with evolving comfort needs, offering customisable support that adapts to individual sleep profiles and a strong value proposition for retailers targeting wellness-conscious buyers. How does GNG Group continue to have a positive impact on the environment? Beyond product innovation, our commitment to
“We can’t wait to show you what’s next!
sustainability remains at the heart of everything we do. We continue to integrate ecofoam into many of our products, helping reduce waste without compromising on comfort. We’re also on track to
What investment has Komfi made to develop customer relations? Komfi now has an exciting new website for viewing, offering a sleek, user-friendly platform where customers can browse our full product range, read expert blogs, stay up to date with the latest from our team, or contact us with any queries. It’s designed to inspire and inform, making it easier than ever to discover what sets our collections apart. Join us at our Komfi stand at the Bed Show to experience all this and more. From exciting and innovative new collections to sustainability in action, we can’t wait to show you what’s next!
achieve ISO 14001 certification, a globally recognised standard for environmental management.
www.komfi.com
Hig h qualit y sleep solut ions cat ering t o a broad rang e of price point s and sleep pref erences.Hig h qua O f f ering ret ailers short lead t im es, reliable UK m anuf act uring , and conv enient deliv ery opt ions. O f f ering re
Please contact yourt olocal agent fore more information Hig h qualit y sleep solut ions cat ering a broad rang of price point s and sleep pref erences. O f f ering ret ailers short lead t im es, reliable UK m anuf act uring , and conv enient deliv ery opt ions.
Chris Lester Edward Bacon Graham Dickinson Jason Hillier Chris Hillier Lester Nigel Edward Bacon Graham Dickinson Jason Hillier Nigel Hillier
All of Ireland. 00353 87 7779993 chrislester2000@gmail.com Chris Lester North West & East Midlands. 07976 061173 edward.bacon@icloud.com Edward Bacon contact your local agent for07734 more853473 informationgrehamd@aol.com North Please East & Yorkshire. Graham Dickinson South East & East Anglia. 07876 508913 rosethornagencies@outlook.com Jason Hillier All of Ireland. 00353 7779993 chrislester2000@gmail.com South West, South Wales & West Midlands. 07971 87 484550 nigel@nhillier.co.ukNigel Hillier North West & East Midlands. 07976 061173 edward.bacon@icloud.com North East & Yorkshire. 07734 853473 grehamd@aol.com South East & East Anglia. 07876 508913 rosethornagencies@outlook.com CO2 South West, South Wales & West Midlands. 07971 484550 nigel@nhillier.co.uk
10 Year Warranty
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126 PRODUCTS BEDROOM
Nature meets innovation, in Mlily’s Haluna
“Nature’s finest ingredients, enhanced by cutting-edge sleep science
Haluna Natural 4000
Mlily is proud to unveil the latest evolution in its commitment to natural comfort and innovative sleep technology, the Haluna Natural Sleep Series …
Designed to bring a natural tone to Mlily’s product range while enhancing consumer appeal, this new collection of mattresses blends advanced materials with nature-inspired design for “a luxuriously pure sleep experience”. The Haluna Natural 1500, Haluna Natural 2500, and Haluna Natural 4000 mattresses mark the next chapter in Mlily’s product journey – one that embodies the values of breathability and advanced comfort. Each mattress in the Haluna range features the brand’s signature luxury quilted cover, now infused with natural wool and Bamboo Memory Foam. This unique combination delivers a plush, breathable feel that assists with moisture wicking and helps regulate body temperature – making it ideal for clean, restorative rest, says Mlily. At the heart of the Haluna series is the proprietary Bamboo Air Memory Foam, a punched layer engineered to enhance airflow, keeping the sleeper cooler for longer. Combined with Mlily’s Flex Comfort Foam, this foundation creates a responsive yet supple sleeping surface that gently conforms to the body. Support is tailored across the range to meet varying comfort preferences: the Haluna Natural 1500 features a 1,500-pocket spring system, offering robust, targeted support for those who prefer a slightly firmer feel; the Haluna Natural 2500 upgrades to a 2,500 H-Spring system, enhancing comfort while
maintaining full-body support; and, for even greater luxury, the Haluna Natural 4000 boasts a doubledecked 4,000 H-Spring system, delivering deep, contoured support and advanced pressure relief. Each mattress is also equipped with Mlily’ Airtech Border and Flex Support Foam – a combination that ensures airflow from edge to edge and foundational support from the base up. Mlily’s innovative F-Joint system further guarantees stability across the entire mattress surface. True to the spirit of Mlily’s collection structure – from the Memory Gel to the Supreme Series – the Natural Sleep Series adds a more organic tone to Mlily’s offering. The name ‘Haluna’ draws subtle inspiration from celestial calm and new beginnings, symbolising a fresh start every morning. To complete the sleep experience, the Haluna Pillow offers superior-quality neck support and breathable comfort, aligning seamlessly with the mattress range as part of a cohesive bedroom solution for consumers. With the Haluna Natural Sleep Series, Mlily says it delivers the best of both worlds: “Nature’s finest ingredients, enhanced by cutting-edge sleep science. Welcome to a purer kind of comfort – where every night feels like a new beginning.” www.mlily.uk
128 PRODUCTS TRADE SERVICES
Making retail spaces work
Woods, Dorchester
“How do we reduce stock? How do we get rid of all the existing kit? When should be do it? Can we stay open? How will keep my customers satisfied? What about the mess?! “So many questions, so much to consider,” says Kate. “Yet the consequences of not carrying out that overdue refurb project can be far greater for you as a business than the short-term upheaval of getting the workers in. An unattractive interior, a space that looks outdated or unfinished, gives an unprofessional and low-quality perception. Why should customers buy a £50 jacket from a fixture that has chipped paintwork, rusty metal arms and drooping signage? “Bad experiences don’t just start inside though – an uninviting shopfront will fail to draw customers in, while a poorly laid-out department will frustrate the savvy shopper, reduce dwell time and, essentially, sales. A retail refurbishment project needs to be carefully considered and designed. “We have over 30 years’ experience in the design and delivery of quality build and refurbishment projects. We’ve been lucky enough to work with the best in the country – Woods Dorchester, Fairway Furniture, Gillies of Broughty Ferry, Haskins, and Barbours of Dumfries. We take the time to understand your individual business needs, and get to know your customers. “But, when we do, we can get the creative juices flowing, designing functional spaces that engage with your target audience and are also striking on the eye! A practical approach to the end result, our designs are buildable and realistic whilst always ensuring that end result meets content and budget expectations.” This year, Spaceworks completed a refurbishment for Fairway Furniture, a 21-week programme of works covering strip-out, new flooring, new ceiling, all-new electrical and lighting installations, as well as the new fixtures (room dividers, bed displays, customer
Gillies of Broughty Ferry
“A retail refurbishment project needs to be carefully considered and designed
Fairway Furniture, Plymouth
The thought of taking on a refurbishment project can be daunting and even overwhelming for even the most organised and streamlined of businesses – but it doesn’t have to be, writes Kate Rowe, the owner of retail and commercial interior design and shopfitting specialist, Spaceworks Interiors …
services desk and sales pods). “We phased the works, allowing the shop to remain open throughout and with suitable customer access to all products,” Kate continues. Fairway’s MD, Peter Harding, comments: “From the very first introductory meeting looking at the refurbishment of our flagship store, I knew that Spaceworks were a company we could work with and who shared our passion for creating a new format experience for the store. I’d have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone who wants to bring their retail space to life, whether large or small.” Spaceworks can be contacted by calling 01749 586586, or emailing kate@spaceworksinteriors.com. www.spaceworksinteriors.com
We have the secret for furniture retail success + Dealing with too many pockets of information? + Struggling to make data-driven decisions? + Human error resulting in lost revenue?
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130 PRODUCTS TRADE SERVICES
SWAN RETAIL www.swanretail.co.uk
How can retailers create a genuine point of difference in their furniture store? “In 2024, the
UK furniture retail market was worth almost £16b, but getting a greater slice of that comes with its challenges,” explains retail management and EPoS solution specialist, Swan Retail. “Shoppers now expect a seamless, omnichannel retail experience when they shop, and while we previously assumed the final decision often came down to price, 88% of buyers now value the overall experience as much as the product or service itself.” To create that point of difference – and stand out from the crowd – retailers need to get personal, says Swan: “Customer data is your greatest ally – you can use it to learn more about what your customers are interested in, and understand them as individuals. “This enables you to create personalised offers and recommendations, while using something like a loyalty app to incentivise them to keep coming back for more. “If customers have an emotional connection to your brand, they’re much more likely to remain loyal.
Photo courtesy iStock/Kosamtu
Your furniture retail store likely has a long and rich history, or a passion that fuels the everyday – don’t be afraid to share that with your customers. Tell your brand story well and build a connection, and you’ll find customers start to share that passion too.” Visit Swan’s website to find out the other ways the service provider can help furniture stores establish a point of difference.
CASTELAN GROUP www.castelangroup.com
“2025 continues to be a year of growth for Castelan as we invest in people and infrastructure to further consolidate our commitment to providing marketleading insured schemes and in-guarantee service provision,” says Martin Napper, CEO of furniture care, insurance and commercial services specialist, Castelan Group.
“We were delighted to welcome Zeyn Kassam to our team this year – he has a passion for the sector and has a tremendous desire to build strong, longterm relationships, both internally and externally. We’re look forward to his valuable input in building the business further. “In September, we will be taking delivery of a new fleet of vehicles which will be rolled out to all our furniture technicians. This investment will help ensure timely and reliable services across all UK locations and means that, with more modern vehicles, we are able to further reduce our carbon footprint. “All of these, and future investments, mean that we are able to back up the commitments we make to our clients and their customers. We already have the bestinsured schemes in the market – offering the highest levels of cover to provide even greater peace of mind. “Our national network of expert technicians
Castelan’s HQ in Weston-super-Mare
consistently delivers a high-quality experience in the home, reflecting the value you place on customer service. With lead times to appointment being less than five days, we are the best partner to look after your in-guarantee service delivery too.” Martin concludes: “We would be delighted to meet up and demonstrate our commitment to you and your customers. Now, more than ever before, is a time to put your trust in a business that delivers on its promises.”
Trust has to be built.
That’s why so many clients trust us, year after year, to provide: Compliant insured warranty schemes ‘First Year Liability’ service delivery Comprehensive Care Product ranges Commercial build and refurbishment
To find out how we can help your business call our Business Development Team on 0330 024 0315 or email sales@castelangroup.com Your customers love us too!
www.castelangroup.com
132 OPINION
Are marketplaces a must? Promising vendors vastly amplified audience reach, online marketplaces can seem an attractive proposition for furniture sellers – but this extra business inevitably comes at a cost. This month, Furniture News looks at the upsides and downsides of joining an online marketplace, with viewpoints from the trade …
133 00
Putting multiple sellers in front of a huge audience, online marketplaces continue to disrupt traditional retail, promising greater convenience, choice and pricing, and fewer barriers to entry for sellers wishing to compete with bigger brands. “The rise of the online marketplace model is driving the largest fundamental shift in consumer spending since the emergence of ecommerce,” stated OC&C Strategy Consultants in 2022. In the same year, Edge by Ascential predicted that third-party sales through online marketplaces would grow to account for 59% of the world’s ecommerce trade by 2027. These predictions were made in a period in which the furniture industry’s growth in this arena had begun to normalise, as shoppers sought to reconnect with physical retail in the wake of Covid-19. Yet while marketplace growth slowed, it continued, with the emergence of new players and greater consumer engagement. As OC&C put it, “disruption is always daunting – but for those who are on the front foot, there can be big rewards”. Trading places Various models are available, from end-to-end platforms that handle every aspect of a purchase, like eBay, to other general marketplaces like Amazon and Alibaba, which also sell their own white-label products against their market traders. There’s a growing number of retailer-operated marketplaces run by the likes of Tesco, B&Q, Debenhams and The Range, those brands seeking to branch out in parallel to their core offer – and even industry specialists like Houzz, the home improvement hub. Even those marketplaces relatively new to the scene have made rapid headway. Launched in 2022, B&Q’s specialist home improvement marketplace offers customers “an expanded choice of over 1.2 million products from more than 1,100 verified sellers as well as an integrated experience for customers who benefit from both online and in-store facilities”. The retailer says its marketplace continues to go from strength to strength – in January 2024, its sales already accounted for 38% of B&Q’s total ecommerce sales. Risky business? Yet while online marketplaces enable established retailers to grow revenue and diversify, they present furniture sellers with a dilemma, as getting on board with a big business, instead of going it alone online, inevitably comes at a price. And there can be significant discrepancies in how businesses selling on marketplaces are treated and Image courtesy Shutterstock/jamesteohart
rewarded – as illustrated by the British Independent Retailers Association’s (BIRA) class action against Amazon on behalf of sellers for “illegally misusing their data and manipulating the Amazon Buy Box to benefit its own commercial operation and its overall revenues and profit” (an action currently on hiatus pending the outcome of a concurrent claim). BIRA CEO Andrew Goodacre commented: “One might ask why would an independent retailer use
››
Image courtesy Sgutterstock/fizkes
134 OPINION
Amazon if it is so damaging to their business? In reality, we have seen a significant shift in consumer buying behaviour and, if small businesses want to sell online, Amazon is the dominant marketplace in the UK. As a result, for small retailers with limited resources, Amazon is the marketplace to start online trading. Whilst the retailers knew about the large commissions charged by Amazon, they did not know about the added risk of their trading data being used by Amazon to take sales away from them.” Retail’s new frontier While this class action, and others like it, may have tarnished the way these platforms are perceived by smaller retailers (and suppliers), many would assert that they remain a necessity for any business wishing to compete on a broader stage than its own website alone. So, do marketplaces represent a lucrative frontier for the ambitious furniture professional, or a ‘deal with the devil’ that few can truly benefit from? Furniture News asked some of our regular contributors for their thoughts. Do they – or their customers – sell through marketplaces, and what are the pros and cons of doing so? Do they feel they have a choice? And what are the likely outcomes, should this “fundamental shift in consumer spending” continue to gain ground?
“The largest fundamental shift in consumer spending since the emergence of ecommerce
Brian McCann (DFI Beds): Moving to marketplace is currently something I am investigating. An early analysis is saying that there is margin there – if the volume is there. Ultimately, and in very simple terms, marketplaces are designed by the big companies to make money off the smaller guys. If you wish to
grow your business and can weigh up the cost per sale using traditional methods of advertising/bricks and mortar etc versus the commissions/costs in marketplace, then this will allow each individual to make the decision based on what suits them. Phil Gant (PG Agencies): I personally don’t think these platforms are the best for selling furniture. Whilst it is possible, the margins are often poor. If you’re selling a commodity, low-value product and you need volume to make your money, then I can see it working for you – but if you’re selling a quality product, I believe that an instore shopping experience is the best method. Anthony Joyce (Wolf Components): We do not sell Wolf products via marketplaces. We have a small, focused customer base. However, I understand the paradigm shift that is happening with new consumer spending preferences. I can’t see how as an industry we can ignore these, and I feel we need to embrace them as opportunities. Entrenched traditional positions of manufacturers and retailers will not end well. As we experience further consolidation in our industry, expect to see more blurring of the lines. My spending habits as an old, white male have very little in common with a 30-year-old consumer, and they will be buying furniture for many more years than I will be.
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Image courtesy Shutterstock/fGorodenkoff
“Marketplaces are designed by the big companies to make money off the smaller guys
Nathan Edwards (The
service. Being the face of the business and
Furniture Consultant):
supporting small, local enterprises can differentiate a
Online marketplaces have
business from faceless marketplace giants.
become increasingly
They should also provide services that
essential for reaching
marketplaces often cannot, such as personalised
a broader audience
customer service, customised products, and quick,
and offering customers greater convenience, choice, and competitive pricing. These platforms put multiple sellers in front of a huge audience, disrupting traditional retail by lowering barriers to entry and allowing smaller sellers to compete with bigger brands. We do sell through marketplaces, and while there are significant benefits, there are also notable challenges. In terms of opportunities, marketplaces mean increased visibility. They have the lion’s share of online traffic, providing access to a vast customer base that might be difficult to reach otherwise. And there are lower barriers to entry. Setting up
reliable support. There’s an opportunity to carve out a niche away from marketplaces by focusing on exceptional service and unique offerings that larger marketplaces may struggle to provide. Ideally, a business will diversify its sales channels by maintaining a strong presence on marketplaces while also investing in a robust, independent online store and physical retail presence. If marketplace dominance continues, it will likely lead to more innovation in customer engagement and differentiation strategies – and businesses that can effectively balance marketplace presence with unique, high-touch service will be best positioned to thrive in this evolving landscape.
shop on a marketplace is relatively easy compared to
Phil Pond (Scarlet
building and maintaining a standalone ecommerce site.
Opus): Online shopping
On top of that, consumers tend to gravitate towards
may be a game-changer,
known and trusted brands, so selling on a reputable
but it still represents the
marketplace can lend credibility to smaller sellers.
minority of all purchases.
And there’s greater cost efficiency, as marketplaces
Offering a product online
handle many operational aspects, such as payment
to a huge audience will
processing and customer service, allowing sellers to
not necessarily lead to
focus on their core business.
significantly more sales.
Yet there are challenges. As highlighted by BIRA’s class action against Amazon, there can be significant discrepancies in how businesses are treated and rewarded, leading to potential unfair practices. The intense competition on marketplaces can drive down prices and margins, making it harder for smaller businesses to compete on cost alone, while relying heavily on a marketplace can make businesses vulnerable to changes in marketplace policies, fees and algorithms.
It requires investment. However well a product is presented online, that’s all there is, so your online presentation had better be very well thought through, and executed with brilliant creativity. The competition for attention online is far tougher and considerably less forgiving than in the physical world. Of course, have an online presence – it’s needed, for sure. But before jumping online with an
Also, building a trusted and recognisable brand
appropriately large investment, consider how you
independently can be costly and time-consuming, as
might improve the experience your customers are
consumers often prefer established marketplaces.
given – think about how you engage with them and
Businesses should consider a balanced approach,
how can you develop that. They’re not always ‘buying
focusing on dominating the local geographic market
furniture’ – mostly they’re just in the process of
by leveraging longevity, trust, and personalised
creating a beautiful and comfortable home.
136 OPINION
Press 1 to read this article
By Gordon Hecht
From pizza shops to medical offices to retail stores, it seems every business has one these days. It’s those darned computer-generated phone answering systems. The ones that require endless button pushing just to get connected to the wrong person or department (press one to place an order, press two for pick-up, press three to add pepperoni …). The concept is to save time and money. One fewer person paid to answer incoming calls. Every call is answered quickly, and routing becomes more efficient. That’s how a CFO or VP of sales prevention may see it. The fact is that most calls to businesses are from prospective customers who want to buy, or current customers who have dished out hard-earned bucks and have already bought. In these days of reducing the hassle out of the buying experience, auto phone systems are having the reverse effect. If your company still has a real human answering phone calls, congratulations! Nothing beats interactions between two people. But even that system can add hassle to your callers’ experience. Auto system or live person, here’s a challenge to you. Reach out and call your business this week. If your voice is recognisable, like mine, or if your shop’s phone system shows the incoming number, have someone else call and listen on another line or speaker. Tune in to hear if your company is guilty of these frustrating roadblocks: • A greeting with an indistinguishable company name. Whether machine or person, sometimes the name is said so fast or garbled, and callers won’t know if they reached the right company. The greeting should start with “Thank you for calling...” and continue with “my name is (state your name), how can I help today” • Asking callers to repeat the same information each time they get transferred. We all get tired of repeatedly giving our name, reason for calling, last four digits of our Social Security number and blood type. • For digital systems – more than four button pushing prompts to get to the right person. For live operators – more than two transfers. The first prompt of any digital system should be for the sales department. That’s
Photo courtesy Shutterstock/Volodymyr TVERDOKHLIB
Does your business employ an automatic call-handling system? If so, perhaps it’s time you tried it out for yourself, suggests business growth and development consultant to the retail home furnishings industry Gordon Hecht, writing for US trade magazine Your Source News …
what generates revenue. Having service or repair preceding sales tells callers that your products break down (a lot) • Not getting the caller’s number in case of disconnection • Keeping callers on hold for extended periods. If you need two minutes to gather information, inform the caller that you’ll be off the line for that period. Retail stores can get busy. Rather than keep callers on hold for more than two minutes, ask if you can call them back to resolve their request. Some auto systems have that feature built in • Continually playing dreadful hold music. Or worse, repeated commercial messaging while callers are on hold. They drive your shoppers nuts. A simple beep or tone every minute lets callers know they are still connected Incoming calls are vital to your business, whether you have one shop or 100. There are efficient ways to corral those calls that may work well for you, but not for the buying public. Rather, look for effective ways to answer and direct calls that are pleasing and encourage shoppers to become buyers, and buyers to remain loyal. This article was originally published by Your Source News. Gordon can be reached at gordon.hecht@aol.com.
“There are efficient ways to corral calls that may work well for you, but not for the buying public
MADE IN AQUINOS JOIN US AT
INDX Furniture Show 27 & 28 Aug 2025 Stand P22
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138 OPINION
How coachability unlocks sales success Is your sales approach stalling simply because you’ve always just done it the same way? This month, industry training specialist Adam Hankinson (Furniture Sales Solutions, voted Best Staff Training Provider in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards) explains why being ‘coachable’ may be the key to successful selling … By Adam Hankinson
We recently trained a new-to-furniture salesperson, and they absorbed everything we taught like a sponge! Whereas another salesperson (with 30 years’ experience) from the same business was completely closed-minded to anything we said. It made me realise that there’s a blunt truth everyone in sales needs to acknowledge – you’re not stuck because of your customers. You’re stuck because of your thinking. Every time you tell yourself “they’re just browsing” or “they’ll come back if they’re serious,” you reinforce a belief that limits your growth. You stop learning. You stay where you are. Coachability is the opposite of that. It’s the ability to ask a powerful question, one that unlocks everything: “Is it possible there’s a better way?” That question requires humility. It asks you to set aside your ego and challenge what you’ve always done, even if it’s sometimes worked. Because sometimes isn’t enough any more. What’s really holding you back? Let’s say you’re not converting as many customers as you’d like. Do you blame the footfall? Blame the product? Blame the customer’s budget? Or do you ask: “What am I doing, or not doing, that could be improved?” That’s the difference between a fixed mindset and a coachable one. Coachable salespeople don’t fear feedback, they chase it. They know the biggest breakthrough usually lies behind the smallest blind spot. A poor habit. A weak phrase. A missed question. A moment where confidence dropped and the customer walked. A simple model for growth – the PACE check-in When you feel stuck, use this to explore other ways forward:
belief? (E.g. lost sales, low confidence, missed upsells) • E (Experiment) – what could I try instead, just for today? (maybe ask a different question, pause longer, or use a new closing line) It’s simple, fast, and it works. Here are three real-world PACE examples: 1. Closing hesitation • Pattern: I wait for customers to say “I’ll take it” rather than asking for the sale • Assumption: If they want it, they’ll say so • Consequence: I lose sales from people who liked the product but didn’t make the leap • Experiment: Try an assumptive close today: “Shall we get that reserved for you now?” 2. Overselling features • Pattern: I talk too much about features before understanding the customer • Assumption: The more I tell them, the more impressed they’ll be • Consequence: Customers disconnect or feel overwhelmed • Experiment: Spend the first five minutes just asking questions. No pitch, no spiel 3. Low confidence with high-value items • Pattern: I avoid showing the most expensive options • Assumption: They’ll think I’m being pushy or can’t afford it • Consequence: I miss out on high-margin sales and devalue what we offer • Experiment: Show the best option first. Let the customer walk it back if they need to – not you
• A (Assumption) – what assumption am I making? (for example, they won’t buy today, they can’t afford it)
Coachability removes your internal roadblocks. It forces you to stop defending your habits and start testing new ones. It puts you back in control of your growth. You don’t need more time, talent or training to sell more. You need more openness to change. So, start here: “Is it possible there’s a better way?” Ask it daily. Mean it. Then experiment, and let the breakthroughs speak for themselves.
• C (Consequence) – what’s the cost of this habit or
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• P (Pattern) – what pattern do I keep repeating? (perhaps always giving the price too early, or waiting too long to close)
“Coachability removes your internal roadblocks. It forces you to stop defending your habits and start testing new ones. It puts you back in control of your growth
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140 OPINION
Keeping cool when the gloves come off
Photo courtesy Shutterstock/ fizkes
When times are tough, businesses may look to litigation when feeling threatened. Being on the receiving end of such threats is never a pleasant experience – yet, writes The Legal Director’s Natalia Samodina, by reacting in a calm, considered manner, and considering the options available, it might be possible to salvage the situation – and any business partnership – without turning to the last resort … By Natalia Samodina
In today’s tough economic climate, disputes feel more acute. With squeezed margins and stretched business models, it is conventionally unsurprising that some turn to litigation to recoup losses – be that targeting contractual partners over alleged defaults, insurers with deeper pockets, or professional advisers whose advice is scrutinised after the fact to shift financial liability. But, as this article shows, when times are tough, litigation is exactly the kind of thing businesses should try to avoid (like the plague). Litigation is not a fast or frictionless process. On the contrary, in England the backlog in the civil justice system continues to grow, with small claims taking on average 54 weeks to reach trial, and more complex disputes 80 weeks – and that’s just to begin proceedings. Litigation drains financial and human resources, destroys relationships and reputation. It is as uncertain as it is slow. And those threatening you may or may not know that. So, what do you do when a legal action is threatened, whether by a verbal ultimatum, an email or a formal letter? Let’s jump into it. Triaging the threat Not all litigation threats are created equal. Before picking up the phone or drafting a reply, it pays to pause and diagnose the situation with a cool head. That initial triage can save time, money and missteps later down the line. Here are some key considerations to guide your early assessment:
1. Who is making the threat, and how serious does it seem? Does this smell like a pressure tactic? 2. Strip out the emotive language and look at what is really being alleged. Is there a credible contractual breach? 3. How economically important is the relationship with the sender to your business? 4. Do you agree with the merit of the claim? Are there documents or advice that clearly support your position? 5. Consider the practical toll of litigation – time, energy, legal fees and disruption to your business, bearing in mind that the other side will likely be running the same assessment. 6. A sharply worded email is not a claim form. Consider whether this is still salvageable through negotiation or other forms of managed engagement. Getting clarity on these points not only frames your initial response but it will also help shape a broader strategy that reflects your business priorities as much as your legal rights. Engage with purpose Once you’ve triaged the threat, the next step is to decide how and when to engage. This stage is about setting the tone, taking control of the dialogue and laying the groundwork for a resolution that protects
“If you’ve received a legal threat or expect one soon, don’t let panic dictate your response
141
let me be unequivocal up front – litigation should be your last resort. Instead, do your utmost to resolve the dispute by negotiations with your trusted legal adviser backing you. If that option ends up being a dead end, consider ADR. Whether it works, and if the dispute ultimately goes to court, the judge would favour a party that engaged in ADR (it’s a public funds-saving thing). Three key ADR options stand out: Mediation: The most collaborative of all ADR routes, mediation invites parties into a confidential setting, often the first meaningful exchange since tensions flared. A neutral facilitator, who is usually a very experienced lawyer, guides the dialogue without passing judgment. Photo courtesy Shutterstock/artist
Pros: it is flexible, fast, relatively inexpensive, and can begin even before formal claims arise. Cons: mediation outcomes aren’t binding unless documented in a signed agreement. Expert determination: When disputes turn technical (regarding product specs or import rules, for example), expert determination is a sharper tool. your interests. Here are some guiding principles: 1. An off-the-cuff reply can haunt you in ‘disclosure’
Parties appoint a neutral industry or subject expert (not a lawyer) to deliver a decision, guided by written submissions and industry benchmarks. Pros: it is speedy due to a streamlined process and
– that is the formal legal process of exchanging
cost-effective for the same reason, it is private, it can
documents and communications to substantiate each
be binding if the parties agree to that in writing, and it
side’s position. Take a breath and send an initial holding
offers closure without combative theatrics.
letter, signalling that you are taking legal advice, giving you a breather before you are ready to engage on merits. This step can be taken before the triage. 2. Work closely with legal advisers before putting anything in writing. They’ll help test the validity of the claim and spot tactical issues, like whether to preserve ‘privilege’ (that is your right to keep certain types of information from disclosure) or protect
Cons: there’s usually no right to appeal or change the decision, there are no procedural safeguards, there is no automatic enforcement, and it has to go through the courts if the parties refuse to abide by the decision voluntarily. Arbitration: Arbitration mirrors litigation’s structure, with binding enforcement, but offers greater control,
insurance positions.
privacy and flexibility.
3. ‘Silence is deadly’. Do not ignore the claim or
rules), shielding sensitive commercial information;
unduly delay your response.
there will be a faster resolution compared to court
Pros: proceedings are private (subject to institution
trials, reducing disruption and cost; parties choose 4. If there’s a commercial relationship worth saving,
arbitrators, often with industry insight; and it is
let your language reflect that, even as you protect your
less adversarial.
legal flank. Establish two channels of communication: one protected by a ‘without prejudice’ header for all correspondence related to the dispute; and the second one open, relating to the parallel ongoing commercial relationship (if that exists). It’s not about playing nice. It’s about playing smart. Legal positioning Once you have clarified your legal position, ask your
Next steps If you’ve received a legal threat or expect one soon, don’t let panic dictate your response. To stay ahead of the curve, spot weak points in your contracts before they unravel, and train your staff to ensure that contract compliance is clear and documented. To discuss a threat of legal action that you have
solicitor if a dispute can only be heard by a court (if it
received, email natalia.samodina@thelegaldirector.
comes to it) or if alternative dispute resolution (ADR)
co.uk for a free 30-minute consultation.
is possible. Do not rush to those formal options, and
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“An initial triage can save time, money and missteps later down the line
142 OPINION
Seize the edge with supply chain smarts
By Clare Bailey
If you’re still relying on the same long, fragile supply chains you did five years ago, stop. Wake up. Disruption isn’t the exception any more – it’s baked in. The question isn’t if your next container will be delayed, it’s when. War in Ukraine, attacks in the Red Sea, volatile fuel prices, and rising US-China tariffs are all pushing costs and lead times up, while your customers’ patience shrinks. Every new geopolitical tremor sends shipping rates rocketing. Insurance premiums jump, rerouted vessels take longer, and small businesses like yours get stuck at the back of the queue. Meanwhile your competitors, the big chains and online giants, have the money and leverage to jump the line. If you can’t deliver, they will. Independent retailers can’t afford to shrug this off. You don’t have the buying power to absorb endless extra costs, or magic new stock out of thin air when a shipment’s stuck off Gibraltar. Your only edge is agility – so use it. First, get serious about nearshoring and reshoring. Yes, a British-made range might dent your margin by a few points compared to importing cheap containers from Asia. But what’s the true cost of ‘cheap’ if you can’t get it on the shop floor for six months? Closerto-home production means more reliable lead times, lower carbon miles, and a growing competitive story your customers want to hear. In furniture, that could mean working with regional makers or British workshops – even if it’s just part of your range, it buys you time and resilience. Next, stop treating your suppliers like order-takers, and start treating them like partners. Build real relationships. Collaborate. If you can’t fill a container alone, find other independents in your network and co-load. Share routes, storage or even warehousing, if it keeps shelves full and costs down. Push for packaging that cuts waste – not only will it save money, it’ll appeal to shoppers who want less landfill with their new sofa. Don’t keep this behind the scenes. If your supply chain is greener, shorter and more transparent than your rivals’, make it part of your sales story. Today’s shoppers want sustainability, but they want certainty more. If you can’t undercut the chains on price, compete on trust. Show them how buying from you means they know exactly where that table’s from, when it’ll arrive, and what it took to get there. Put QR codes on
Photo courtesy Shutterstock/Pakorn Khantiyaporn
In the first of a series of columns aimed at helping furniture independents and SMEs become more competitive, retail expert and high street advocate Clare Bailey, founder of The Retail Champion, explains how smaller businesses can make the supply chain work for them, rather than vice versa …
product tags that reveal the journey from workshop to warehouse to their front door. Share behind-the-scenes content. Offer honest lead times and stick to them. Reliability builds loyalty, and loyalty builds margin. Finally, tighten up what you stock and how you stock it. Be brutal – know what sells, when it sells, and don’t let sentimental ranges hoard your cashflow. A container stuck at sea is useless, but so is a dusty corner of your storeroom stacked with slow movers that drain working capital. Hold your assortment accountable. Keep it lean but responsive, ready to flex with customer demand. The bottom line is that disruption is the new normal. Blaming it won’t pay the bills, but outsmarting it will. Build a supply chain that earns trust and keeps promises. Cut the excuses. Get creative. Get local where you can. Share your story so your customers believe it and stick with you when prices go up. Flexibility beats cheapness every time. Stay stocked. Stay honest. Deliver what you promise, or someone else will. www.retailchampion.co.uk
“Flexibility beats cheapness every time – stop hiding behind fragile supply chains
144 OPINION
Help! I can’t switch off! This month, Steve Pickering, the ‘unorthodox’ CEO of independent bed retail chain Sussex Beds, discusses a problem that will feel all-too familiar to many business owners – and may have come up with an answer to switching out of ‘work mode’ … By Steve Pickering
A few weeks ago, during my monthly one-to-one with my business coach, I raised an issue that many of us face – my recent inability to switch off at weekends and on holiday. My mind remains stuck in work mode, and my moods swing hour by hour with the ebb and flow of sales figures. He shared some eye-opening research about how long it actually takes to fully “chill down and switch off” during a holiday. While it varies from person to person, studies suggest that around 7-10 days is typically needed for most people to fully detach from work stress and experience significant mental and
physical recovery. The science behind recovery looks like this: short breaks (3-4 days) can help with mild stress relief, but may not fully reset the mind; 7-10 days is the sweet spot for significant stress reduction and cognitive recovery; and 2+ weeks is optimal for deep relaxation, creativity boosts, and long-term wellbeing. This hit me hard. Reflecting on my holiday history, I realised the last time I had a two-week holiday was in 2009 – that’s 16 years ago! Most of my breaks have been seven days, occasionally stretching to 10. This summer, this drought ends. My family and I are embarking on
a well-earned two-week family holiday, and we’re all stepping away from the business completely. And we’ve made a family holiday pact, implementing a ‘business blackout period’ with strict rules – no-one can check daily sales until close of business each day, and viewing time is limited to just one hour. Anyone caught breaching this rule faces a forfeit! Discover more of Steve’s thoughts at www.linkedin.com/ in/steve-pickering-unorthodoxceo/ or listen to his podcast, An Unorthodox CEO
“We’ve made a family holiday pact, with strict rules
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PARTNER COMMENT OPINION 145
THE FURNITURE MAKERS’ COMPANY
Join the (corporate) club For businesses wishing to invest in the industry’s longterm prospects, there are few investments more valuable than applying for corporate membership of The Furniture Makers’ Company, writes the livery company/charity’s head of communications and corporate membership, George Cooper … By George Cooper
In an increasingly competitive and values-driven marketplace, companies in the furniture and furnishing industry must do more than simply produce quality products – they must also invest in the longterm health of the industry, build meaningful networks, and demonstrate a commitment to ethical practice. That’s where corporate membership with The Furniture Makers’ Company, the City of London livery company and charity for the furnishing industry, becomes not just beneficial but essential. Corporate membership offers much more than prestige. It provides companies with a unique platform to engage with the industry at a deeper level, support emerging talent, and influence the future direction of the sector. As the heart of the UK furnishing industry’s professional community, the company fosters connections across manufacturers, retailers, designers, suppliers, and education providers, creating an invaluable space for collaboration and shared learning. Importantly, membership also connects companies to the rich heritage and civic life of the City of London through the livery tradition – a centuries-old framework that still plays a vital role in promoting excellence, philanthropy and fellowship across modern industries. One of the most tangible benefits of membership is the access it provides to a wide-reaching network of industry peers. For senior leaders and executives, the ability to interact with other high-level decision-makers – in a non-commercial, trust-based environment – opens the door to partnerships, mentorships and insights that might otherwise take years to develop. This is particularly relevant in a sector that is heavily influenced by design trends, materials innovation and
supply chain shifts. Moreover, corporate members actively contribute to shaping the future workforce. Through our strong focus on education and training, member companies support initiatives like apprenticeships, student awards, an annual exhibition, and career guidance. This investment helps ensure a pipeline of skilled and enthusiastic talent enters the industry – something that benefits every player in the long term. At a time when skills shortages are widely felt, the value of this cannot be overstated. Membership also offers a way for companies to give back, and to demonstrate corporate social responsibility in a meaningful way. Our charity provides financial and practical support to industry professionals facing hardship, from young apprentices to retired veterans. Being part of that mission shows a company’s values in action – to employees, clients, and the wider public. In an industry built on craftsmanship, tradition and innovation, corporate membership is both a nod to the past and a step toward the future. It tells employees they are part of something bigger, tells customers that a company is serious about quality and ethics, and tells competitors that it’s committed to leadership. For companies looking to strengthen their reputation, grow their network, support talent and help safeguard the future of the furniture and furnishing industry, there are few investments as rewarding as corporate membership of The Furniture Makers’ Company. For more information about corporate membership, email george@furnituremakers.org.uk. www.furnituremakers.org.uk
INDUSTRY PARTNERS
“There are few investments as rewarding as corporate membership of The Furniture Makers’ Company
BRITISH FURNITURE
ASSOCIATION
Young Furniture Makers exhibition.
Women in
FURNITURE
146 OPINION FEEDBACK
THIS MONTH, WE’RE ASKING …
What principal change would you like to see the Government make? To put plans in place to build more affordable housing Phil Gant (PG Agencies)
Business rates are always top of the agenda for many UK businesses like ours, and this is something I’d like the Government to properly review. We also need to ensure ongoing investment in skills, training and technology to ensure that the next generation of businesspeople are equipped with the right skills and tech to see us through another 170 years
Reduce corporation tax Garry Preston (TR Hayes)
Keeping to their promise of not raising tax, and increasing spending on defence Paul Irwin (Smiths of Harrogate)
Ensure all policies are first genuinely in the best interests of the whole population Phil Pond (Scarlet Opus)
building or lower stamp duty. Stop the ridiculous hikes in
Reduce the business rates and parking charges in our town and city centres to help rejuvenation. Anything to encourage new business start-ups and help drive shoppers back into a vibrant and bustling town and city centre would be most welcome
minimum wage
Daryl Drylie (ID Agencies)
Nick Bianchi (Arighi Bianchi)
Anything that helps the housing market – so, more house
Hamish Mansbridge (Heal’s)
Reduction in VAT to 15% to stimulate the economy Anthony Joyce (Wolf Components)
In Scotland we haven’t enjoyed the Business Rates Relief of our competitors In England and Wales, so seeing this extended would be a good start John Pattison (ex-Sterling Furniture Group)
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Changes to the EN747 bunk bed regulations to allow for more creative product development, and for the UKFR regulations to be scrapped Ashley Hainsworth (Flair Furniture)
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