#434 November 2025 www.furniturenews.net
FIRM FUTURE Hypnos sets new standards in sustainable luxury
BED INDUSTRY AWARDS / BED SHOW AUTUMN FURNITURE SHOW LIVING / TRADE SERVICES
BEST IN BEDS Winning strategies uncovered QLS levels up Laura Ashley’s return to bricks and mortar
Comfort Just Got More Comfortable Award-winning comfort, recognised by industry experts. Elevate Ultra & Elevate Collections now available in five signature comfort feels. From luxuriously soft to comfortably extra firm - more feels, more choice, more reasons to stock Sealy Posturepedic.
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Paul Farley Editor-in-chief
01424 776101 paul.farley@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk @FurnitureNewsED @Furniture News www.furniturenews.net
Editor's comment “Laura Ashley’s return to bricks-and-mortar UK retail is a characteristically bold move After Laura Ashley’s UK retail operation went into administration on the eve of 2020’s first lockdown, it was only a matter of time before we saw the quintessentially British brand’s furniture and homewares back in-store. This autumn – coinciding with the 100-year anniversary of its founder’s birth – Laura Ashley announced its presence in style, taking over a 10,000ft2 former Next Home store on Lakeside Retail Park. The brand’s return to bricks-and-mortar retail in the UK is a characteristically bold move, delivering its signature aesthetic, MTO upholstery, interior design services, and an “immersive deep-dive into Laura Ashley” that can’t be found anywhere else. We caught up with UK VP Poppy Marshall-Lawton for an exclusive take on this ambitious flagship project (p12). Another retailer out to make a strong impression with a refreshed presence is QLS, which unveiled its refurbished Watford showroom in September – Furniture News asked a trio of the high-end furniture specialist’s principals for the details (p16). You’ll find that the bulk of this month’s issue is ‘straight from the horse’s mouth’, so to speak, as we relay personal accounts from the people behind many of today’s leading furniture businesses – most notably in our exhaustive (and official) celebration of the NBF Bed Industry Awards 2025-26. Turn to p53 to be transported to the Bed Show’s lively gala dinner and beyond, as we deliver our most in-depth take on the programme yet, including insights from triumphant spokespeople, views from the judges on the assessment process, and details of the products and processes leading the way in the British bed sector. On top of that, we’ve reviews from the Bed Show itself (plus Long Point and the Autumn Furniture Show), a progress update from our cover hero Hypnos (p20), and some of the latest offers in living room furniture and trade services. You’ll also find advice on everything from supplier contracts and sales training to market differentiation and the psychology of shopping – plus guest partner Casey Loo’s take on the likely impact of Trump’s tariffs (p121) and, as the autumn Budget nears, our feedback panel’s considered take on how April’s business cost increases have impacted them thus far (p122). We’ve also reports on Wiemann’s 125th anniversary (p22), a Q&A with independent sales agent Paul Groves (p26), and an analysis of the evolving influence of Swedish furniture design, courtesy of brand marketer Bo Hellberg (p24). With the January Furniture Show just around the corner, Furniture News is getting geared up to once again deliver the unrivalled preview feature our readers have come to expect, which will commence in next month’s issue. I’ve also just spent a couple of busy days helping judge the inaugural Excellence in Furniture Awards, and it’s shaping up to be something pretty special! If you’re looking to make a splash right out of the gates in 2026 by joining our bumper January issue, get in touch with our sales team today. Until then, enjoy this month’s issue.
Paul Farley
18 - 21 January 2026 | NEC Birmingham
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Contents 12
7
NEWS
12 INSIGHT COVER FEATURE 20 HYPNOS
EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Paul Farley 01424 776101 paul.farley@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk
Poppy Marshall-Lawton Laura Ashley
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SALES SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR Sam Horscroft 07764 650655 sam@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk
Laura Ashley
16
QLS
20
Hypnos
22
Wiemann
24
Defining Swedish design
26
Getting personal
24 EVENTS
GROUP SALES DIRECTOR Emma Sharp emmas@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk OVERSEAS AGENT Casey Loo (Asia) +65 973 00123 (WhatsApp) casey@apsmediagroup.com
12
Bo Hellberg String Furniture, Grythyttan Stålmöbler
26
36
Long Point
40
Bed Show
48
Autumn Furniture Show
53 BED INDUSTRY AWARDS
PRODUCTION COPY ADMINISTRATOR Steve Merrick steve@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk
96 PRODUCTS
DIGITAL MANAGER Nyall McCurrach nyall@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk
106 Trade services
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ART EDITOR Sarah Crowhurst sarah@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk
Living
110 OPINION
DESIGNER Tony Godwin
Paul Groves
110 Making supplier contracts stick
PRODUCTION EDITOR Allan Norbury allan@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk
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112 What’s your claim to fame? 114 The psychology of shopping 116 Moving the middle
ACCOUNTS AND SUBSCRIPTIONS Kay O’Brien kay@lewisbusinessmedia.co.uk
118 Competition – fear it, or welcome it? 121 Partner comment
PUBLISHER AND MD Simon Lewis
122 Feedback
SUBSCRIPTIONS (UK-£65, Europe-£85, RoW-£95) REPRO, PRINT AND DISTRIBUTION Stephens & George
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Casey Loo FurnitureAndFurnishing.com 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
Celebrate Brilliance at the Inaugural Excellence in Furniture Awards! Get ready for an unforgettable evening as The Furniture Shows proudly present the very first Excellence in Furniture Awards, taking place alongside the January Furniture Show. On Monday 19 January, over 350 industry leaders, innovators, and rising stars will gather at the NEC Birmingham for a dazzling night of recognition, inspiration, and celebration. Experience the buzz as the industry’s top talent take centre stage in a night of glamour, excitement, and well-deserved recognition. Secure your seat at this must-attend event!
Book by Friday 14 November to enjoy an exclusive early bird discount
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NEWS 7
Stockholm Furniture Fair will not take place this February but will relaunch in 2027, “reimagined and renewed”.
DFS “resilient” through FY25
Furniturebox has secured a £1m Barclays loan to drive its growth in the UK and US.
Flair Furniture (Flairbeds.co.uk, Bedkingdom.co.uk) has created a new board of directors, comprising: Josh Branigan, buying director; Paolo Rizzo, ecommerce director; Bea Jumalon, customer service director; Mark Brooks, operations director; and Gurvinder Bharta, marketplace director.
Bluebone’s third Our Home event will take place at the supplier’s Cheshire showrooms in Dukinfield from 9-12th November.
Breasley (UK) is now Wrexham AFC’s official mattress and pillow supplier.
Bensons has introduced a suite of “industry-leading” family-friendly benefits for its staff, designed to support working parents and families.
JYSK has established a dedicated B2B sales division covering the UK and Ireland.
IKEA will open a pop-up store in Northern Ireland at The Boulevard, Banbridge, on 13th November.
The January Furniture Show visitor registration portal is now open, at bit.ly/4nh5LqD.
READ MORE ONLINE AT WWW.FURNITURENEWS.NET
In its preliminary results for the 52 weeks ended 29th June 2025, DFS Furniture says it achieved “significant profit growth and reduction in leverage”, and that its customer proposition has “never been in better shape”. During the year (set against prior year comparatives of 53 weeks) DFS made market share gains, achieved record established customer NPS and achieved its £50m Cost to Operate programme a year ahead of expectations. Behind these achievements were three key enablers, says the retailer: leveraging its scale, expertise and vertical integration, with exclusive brand partnership ranges now accounting for over 40% of dfs brand sales, cost of goods optimisation driving gross margin progression and continual improvements in manufacturing and the Sofa
Delivery Company’s logistics operations increasing efficiency; focusing on technology-led product innovation to remain agile to evolving consumer trends and investing in proprietary data and insights platform to enhance the customer experience; and harnessing its “unique culture”. The year saw a “resilient” trading performance, with LFL order intake growth, up 10.1% in H1 and 10.3% in H2, with both the dfs and Sofology brands gaining market share. Revenue was up 4.4% YoY, lower than the reported order intake growth of 8.7% due to investment in the retailer’s IFC offer to drive demand, as well as the impact of Easter falling later in the year, and a shift in customer orders to ranges with longer lead times. Underlying profits – PBTu(A) – were up £19.7m YoY to £30.2m, slightly exceeding expectations. Trading through the first 12 weeks of the new financial period was been in line with expectations, states DFS: “We are comfortable with consensus and are planning for profit growth in FY26, despite our expectation for a subdued market in the near term, driven by our compelling customer proposition, further gross margin progression and continued cost discipline.”
Oak & More reports significant growth Retailer Oak & More, which specialises in solid wood furniture, says it has delivered “marketleading” growth, outperforming a challenging retail landscape to deliver a 69% revenue increase for the year ended 31st January 2025. Moreham Wood, which trades as Oak & More (formerly Oak Furniture Superstore), reported overall revenues of £30.9m, substantially up on the prior year’s sales of £18.2m, underpinning a £6.2m in profitability. The retailer attributes the rise in sales – with the growth all coming from its online channel – to its enhanced consumer-facing proposition. CEO Paul Isom says: “It has been a truly transformational year for Oak & More. We’ve proven
that even in a challenging economic environment, our commitment to design and affordable quality resonates deeply. With strong foundations and a clear growth strategy, we are incredibly excited about the opportunities ahead.” Oak & More opened a showroom in Peterborough in June, and two more are set to open by the end of the year, with more slated for 2026. The group has also secured £8m in growth capital and working capital lines. Paul adds: “Our ambition is to redefine what customers can expect from a furniture retailer. By offering design and quality at affordable prices, combined with speed of delivery, Oak & More is taking root as a trusted and go-to furniture retailer.”
Steed Upholstery ceases trading F&M Steed Ltd, trading as Steed Upholstery, was placed into a creditors’ voluntary liquidation (CVL) in September by restructuring and turnaround specialist Leonard Curtis. The family-owned furniture manufacturer, founded in 1965, was based in Long Eaton and employed 21 people. Leonard Curtis’ Phil Morton states: “As a luxury brand offering tailored, high-quality products, the company was hit hard by economic uncertainty and inflation. In an unstable economy consumers tend to spend less on expensive, premium goods, which leads to a drop in sales and cash flow. “On top of this, the company depends on skilled craftsmen and needs to pay competitive wages to
keep them on board. This created extra pressure on finance at a time when demand was unpredictable.” The firm took steps to reduce costs, and the directors injected personal funds to keep the operation going, states Leonard Curtis: “In response to falling demand, directors looked to target new markets aiming to diversify revenue streams and reduce dependence on its current retailers. Unfortunately, the new revenue streams did not generate sufficient income, and with increasing cash flow pressure, the directors concluded that the company should cease trading. “All 21 employees were made redundant on 11th September.”
8 NEWS
IKEA sees sales slow despite footprint growth
IKEA UK recorded retail sales of £2.25b in FY25, a decrease of 2.1% compared with FY24 (£2.30b), yet saw an upward sales trend in the last quarter of the FY (3.3%) which continued into September 2025 (FY26). IKEA UK says it maintained a “stable” market share during the period. Following a £117m investment in price reductions in FY24, it accelerated its expansion with four new store openings in the final quarter and the addition of 101 Collect Near You points, which together contributed to a 4% increase in sales volumes YoY. “In a challenging environment marked by economic and trade uncertainties, rising cost of living pressures and weakened consumer confidence, I am proud that we continued our programme of strategic investments in the UK to
build a more affordable, accessible and sustainable IKEA,” says Peter Jelkeby, CEO and CSO, IKEA UK. “We saw these investments begin to pay off in the final months of FY25 and now into FY26, which gives us confidence for the year ahead.” IKEA opened new city centre stores on London’s Oxford Street and in Brighton’s Churchill Square Shopping Centre, and opened two of three newformat small stores, in Harlow and Norwich (a third opened in Chester last month). New Plan and Order Points opened in Hull and York. Peter continues: “Last year was a landmark year for expansion, with four new stores and two Plan and Order Points, and we’re seeing an exceptional response to these units. As well as strong footfall, there has been an increase to online sales in the new areas we’ve launched, showing a clear desire for our brand and range.” Online sales grew by 2% in FY25, accounting for 43% of total sales, compared with 41% in FY24. Globally, parent company Ingka Group announced IKEA retail sales of €39b, with an increase in quantities sold by 1.6% and the number of store and online visits going up by 1.3% (to 736 million visits) and 4.6% respectively. The group says its key priority has been to continue keeping prices low – leading to a decrease in sales of 1.6% YoY.
Comfys return to celebrate the best in pillows Nominations are now being welcomed for the 2026 Comfy Awards, which celebrate the best in the pillow sector. “These are the only awards that celebrate the most underrated item in your home,” says the awards’ co-ordinator, 100% Comfort. “Pound for pound, the pillow is the most important thing we own, without it we simply can’t sleep, and now we have a dedicated awards to acknowledge the best of the best.
“As consumers continue to prioritise sleep health and comfort, The Comfys will set the bar for excellence in pillow design and technology, creating an essential guide for those seeking the perfect pillow for their sleep needs.” Categories include: Best Memory Foam Pillow, Best Latex Pillow, Best Luxury Pillow, Best Pain Relief Pillow, and Best Anti-Snore Pillow. Brands can enter by 5th November via bit.ly/4nZSHXR.
Momentum builds at The Cotswold Company The Cotswold Company has announced record results in its latest trading update, covering the six months to 30th August 2025. Building on a record FY25, which saw the group deliver orders of over £100m, The Cotswold Company has continued its strong momentum in H126, achieving YoY sales growth of 30% (+£13.1m) to £56.9m. The group says it materially outperformed the broader home and furniture market in the period, and for eight consecutive quarters. New showrooms (in Harpenden and Knutsford), investments in new ranges, and brand-led marketing campaigns have driven a 21% YoY increase in active customers, to more than a quarter of a million. The group unveiled a major upgrade to its digital experience with the launch of Searchandising, an
AI-powered tool designed to improve customers’ search process, and made further investments in its operational infrastructure with the opening of a 80,000ft2 distribution centre in Lichfield, while investing in a new fleet of 30 delivery vehicles. September also saw the launch of the brand’s partnership with furniture restorer and TV personality Will Kirk as its quality expert, who has curated his own edit of his favourite pieces from the brand’s collections to showcase furniture “that’s built to last”. The Cotswold Company plans to launch its first retail park showroom, on Portfield Retail Park in Chichester, in mid-December. Last month, Sky News reported that the company’s PE owner, True, is preparing a long-term plan to sell the business.
Swyft, known for its easy-toassemble furniture, opened its first store, Store 01 on 25th October in Islington Square, London.
Whitemeadow has appointed Victoria Blott as its area sales manager for the north of England and Scotland, following the retirement of Jim Fraser.
Laura James has appointed its former COO Matthew Talbot (exOKA, Neptune, Hotel Chocolat) as CEO.
Dreams has completed the purchase of its ‘Bedquarters’ head office in High Wycombe from the company’s founder, Mike Clare.
Sofa Club has revealed its first independently audited financial results, citing revenue growth of 24% to £33.5m in FY24/25, turning around a £50,000 loss to a profit of £2.6m after tax. It also delivered a 7.7% net profit margin increase and EBITDA of £3.3m, an increase of more than 100%.
Bell & Stocchero ceased trading last month, and the company’s assets auctioned off by asset advisory firm Walker Singleton.
Barker and Stonehouse’s 51st Teesside Golf Day raised £21,000 for The Furniture Makers’ Company this summer.
Oak Furnitureland opened a new 1,518m2 showroom on Alvis Retail Park in Coventry in September.
JYSK has earned a place on three global employer rankings – Forbes, Fortune, and TIME Magazine.
READ MORE ONLINE AT WWW.FURNITURENEWS.NET
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12 INSIGHT
LA STORY Lakeside Retail Park welcomed the highly anticipated return of Laura Ashley to UK bricks-and-mortar retail in September, the brand’s new 10,000ft2 flagship store – operated in partnership with Next – promising “an immersive environment” that “signals the next phase of growth for the brand”. Furniture News asked Laura Ashley UK’s VP Poppy Marshall-Lawton for a brief of the new game plan …
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Why here? Why now? We have a strong customer demographic in Essex and the surrounding areas, making this the perfect spot for our return to retail. The site was formerly a Next Home store, and was one of their best performing, so it made sense for Laura Ashley to take over the space when Next Home relocated into the shopping centre. From a consumer perspective, customers have told us for the past five years that they want to see Laura Ashley stores return, making it all the more significant. The opening also coincides with what would have been our founder Laura’s 100th birthday, making this a commemorative moment to honour her history and legacy. How did the opening go? Our first day trading was a great success and it was really exciting to see a crowd gathering outside waiting for the store to open – one lady had left home at 6am to be the first in! Within the first two hours we sold bedding, curtains and womenswear, and had large orders placed for made-to-order sofa and armchairs, rugs and other pieces. The opening weekend saw the store become a hive of activity, with lots of loyal Laura Ashley fans who had been eagerly awaiting our return to bricks and mortar. What does Laura Ashley have to offer the market that isn’t there already? Laura Ashley’s aesthetic is instantly recognisable worldwide, and our brand has become synonymous with timeless design, with its signature prints and customers’ trust in the quality of our collections. We have an extensive archive that is the driving force behind many of our creative decisions, and it is these archive-inspired designs that continue to prove popular with customers, both established and new, today. Our rich heritage and understanding of the importance of home are part of what makes us such a
latest development? As VP for Laura Ashley UK, I worked closely with the senior management team at Next to bring this project to life. The new store marks the next phase in our long-term partnership with Next, and we set ourselves an ambitious goal to launch before the end of September – completing in under three months what typically can take up to a year. Working as a team, we co-ordinated regular cross-team meetings to ensure every aspect of the launch was covered, and our team played a key role in perfecting the finishing touches, from ordering fresh flowers to arranging the move of one of our Laura Ashley fitted kitchens into the new store. Roughly what proportion of the store is dedicated
unique brand and so popular with customers.
to furniture/furnishings?
Can you provide a brief history of the brand’s
dedicated to our home furnishings collections, while
presence in the UK market? Since 1953 Laura Ashley has evolved into the brand now known internationally today, and the first stores opened in London in 1968. However, in 2020, when the brand was under previous management, the retail section of the business went into administration, leading to the closure of all UK stores. Over the past five years, we have established
The vast majority of the almost-10,000ft2 store is approximately a fifth of the store showcases our womenswear, sleep and loungewear and girlswear offering, bringing the full, immersive Laura Ashley lifestyle under one roof. Can you give us an idea of what the launch portfolio looks like in this regard? Any personal highlights/favourites?
a strong relationship with Next as our main retail
The store offers a curated mix of home furnishings,
partner in the UK, bringing the brand back to
an extensive Sofa Shop experience and the Laura
customers online and through Next stores. The
Ashley Interior Design Service. A dedicated Design
Thurrock store is operated in partnership with Next,
Hub invites visitors to explore fabrics by the metre
leveraging its advanced retail systems and stock
alongside the brand’s wallpaper and paint collections
management expertise.
– a central feature that pays homage to our brand’s
Laura Ashley maintains a strong global retail
“Laura Ashley’s aesthetic is instantly recognisable worldwide
What role have you played personally in this
heritage in shaping home design.
presence with 60 stores outside the UK – most
The assortment will further include decorative
notably in Japan and South Korea, where the first
accessories, soft furnishings, lighting and tableware,
international locations opened in Tokyo in 1985.
complemented by an edit of Laura Ashley’s women’s
››
14 INSIGHT
“Having just moved house myself, it is brilliant to see the large swatches of the fabrics
fashion and girlswear collections. My favourite part of the store is the made-to-order section for upholstery. Having just moved house myself, it is brilliant to see the large swatches of the fabrics and to be able to take them to your preferred sofa to see how it would look in your home – I’m undecided between the new Westerham sofa or the Beverley! How would you describe a typical interiors customer? Our typical interiors customer is drawn to the brand’s timeless aesthetic, yet their personal style can align with any one of four design pillars, as the brand has such a broad reach. This includes the Romantic seeking soft florals, the Country customer wanting natural textures and cosy patterns, or those preferring elegant, sophisticated, enduring classics. The Heritage customer values iconic prints. They are all looking for quality and comfort to create a personalised, beautiful home. Our loyal fanbase always return for the prints, patterns and pieces that they truly love, but we’re constantly evolving the brand to reimagine some of our most iconic prints and designs to welcome new customers to the brand. What exactly makes the shopping experience “immersive”? From a brand experience perspective, the store offers customers an immersive deep-dive into Laura Ashley in a way you won’t experience anywhere else. They will be able to experience the brand as a whole. Customers will also benefit from the expertise of the Laura Ashley retail team, who will be on hand to provide design guidance and deliver the specialist services such as our Interior Design Service. Events,
launches and activations will help create a dynamic and ever-evolving environment. Will the retail proposition incorporate any existing furniture/furnishings licenses? Yes, the store brings together products from across our entire licensee portfolio, creating a one-stop shop to browse and experience the entire Laura Ashley product offering, including one of our show kitchens. A one-of-kind experience, for now! Will you be stocking any new licensed interiors products? Yes, we will be stocking new licensed interiors products and we’re always expanding and building on existing assortments. New and launching in Thurrock is a brand-new cookware collection, and we’re also introducing a collection of Christmas gifting options and decorations, along with new additions to our home fragrance selection. In appliances, you can expect to see new products such as air fryers, toasters and slow cookers. Additionally, we will have licensed wall art on display in-store, which can then be ordered online. 2026 will be a real growth year for the brand, bringing wider product selections and categories that will be available in-store and online. Are any in-store activations/events lined up yet? As part of our commitment to creating an exciting and ever-changing environment, we’re currently working on a winter events schedule, with workshops, launches and events planned for the coming months. Full details and dates will be announced soon, so keep an eye out for updates.
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How will your online channel deliver an engaging furniture-buying experience, or tie up with the in-store offer? Our store is designed to complement and enhance the online furniture-buying experience, creating a seamless and engaging journey for customers. In-store, shoppers can explore our full furniture collections, take home samples, fabric swatches and detailed product cards to help inform their choices. Once they’ve experienced the range in person, they can head to lauraashley.com to configure their perfect piece using our sofa builder tool online, choosing from over 90 fabrics and 15 shapes to suit their style and space. While the store acts as a physical showcase for much of our range, the website offers access to our entire collection, making it easy to browse, customise and order for direct home delivery. This connected experience ensures customers can enjoy the best of both worlds – in-store experience and exploration, and convenient online shopping. What are the opportunities – and limitations – that come from partnering with Next on the roll-out? What exactly is the relationship between Marquee Brands and Next? We’re proud to be partnered with Next as our main retail partner, and this opening demonstrates the strengthening partnership between Next and Marquee Brands, the fast-growing global brand owner and accelerator which acquired Laura Ashley in January 2025. With a shared commitment to the growth of Laura Ashley, this flagship opening signifies a pivotal moment for the return of Laura Ashley to bricks-and-mortar retail in the UK. Partnering with Next allows us to move quickly, like with the timeline for this store opening, and gives the brand a much wider reach – there are signs in the new Next Home store in Lakeside directing the customer to our store.
Where does the store footprint go from here? Initially, we’ll be focusing on how this first store evolves, taking feedback from customers to ensure this flagship store remains the strongest representation of the Laura Ashley brand. With these learnings and insight of how the business is developing, we plan to open more stores in the UK in the long term. How do you plan to mark the brand’s centennial? We’re celebrating what would have been Laura’s 100th birthday, with our Laura Ashley: 100 Years of an Icon campaign. This store opening was a pivotal moment in those celebrations, and we are embarking on a year-long schedule of exclusive events, campaigns, launches and experiences to continue to honour the life, legacy and history of Laura herself. Looking forward, we will be celebrating the brand’s 75th anniversary in 2028. www.lauraashley.com
“The store offers customers an immersive deep-dive into Laura Ashley you won’t experience anywhere else
16 INSIGHT
Quality assurance
“While customers are considered in their choices, demand for quality has remained consistently strong
From left: Richard Searle, Alex Searle and Dan Roback at the showroom’s launch event
Quality Lounge Suites (QLS), a family-run business specialising in high-end furniture, unveiled its newly refurbished Watford showroom in September, introducing an expanded home offer and a clearer showcase of its bespoke capabilities. Furniture News asked the retailer’s founder and director Richard Searle, and directors Alex Searle and Dan Roback, for details …
Can you outline the history and structure of QLS? Richard: QLS was founded over 40 years ago by my father in Watford, with the aim of bringing the best craftsmanship and design to the local community. At the very beginning, it was purely a sofa business – that’s where it all started. Over the years, the business has grown and evolved with our customers. Today, QLS still offers sofas, but we’ve expanded into much more – bespoke joinery, dining tables, coffee and side tables – and we also manufacture furniture for a number of designers. The showroom has changed with us, too. What began as a sofa store is now a full lifestyle destination, where clients can discover rugs, lighting, and even scents, giving them everything they need to create complete interiors. QLS has always been, and continues to be, a family business. I am proud to carry forward my father’s
legacy, and today I run the company alongside my son Alex and business partner Dan. Together, we’ve stayed true to the values of quality, service and design expertise, while making sure the business keeps moving forward for the future. Can you outline the showroom’s ‘vital statistics’? Alex: Our showroom is at 289 Lower High Street, Watford WD17 2HY, spanning over 6,000ft2. This allows us to present a broad collection in a curated, premium environment. Key members of the team include Richard, Dan and myself, supported by our experienced joinery and design staff who work closely with us to support our clients on bespoke interiors. The location is well positioned, accessible for local clients across Hertfordshire while also attracting shoppers from London and the surrounding counties.
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Why was the decision made to refurbish the store? Richard: After more than four decades, it felt like the right moment to reinvest in the business and refresh the showroom so it reflects how people live and shop today. We’ve always been about craftsmanship and quality, and this update allows us to present that in a modern, inspiring way. Alex: The decision was also driven by our clients. We were hearing a clear appetite for more choice, more inspiration, and a setting that reflects the full lifestyle experience. The refurbishment lets us expand our offer, from sofas and dining suites to lighting, rugs and accessories, while keeping the service and personal touch QLS is known for, and we wanted to create a design-led environment that feels fresh, modern and welcoming. Watford has always been our home, and this investment also shows our commitment to the area. Dan: For us, it was about evolving the space into something more than a furniture showroom. We wanted it to feel like a destination somewhere customers can explore design, discover new ideas, and really see what’s possible with bespoke interiors. What inspired the design and presentation of the new space? Dan: The inspiration came from combining contemporary European influences with our own history as a family-run company. Each area is designed to feel like a home setting, so customers can imagine the collections in their own interiors. Lighting and textures play a key role in creating warmth and sophistication. Can you give us an idea of the range of products/ brands you stock? Dan: We offer exclusive sofa and dining collections, contemporary bedroom furniture, luxury lighting, rugs and curated home accessories. Key brands include Alf DaFre, Eforma, Maserio and Steve London Art. What really sets QLS apart, though, is our ability to create bespoke furniture for our clients, from tailored finishes on existing collections to fully customised joinery and one-of-a-kind pieces. It means every customer can walk away with something unique that truly reflects their personal style. Do you have any favourites? Dan, Alex and Richard: As a team, one of our favourites is the Lisbon sofa. It’s a piece that really sums up what QLS is about – contemporary design
“It was about evolving the space into How have you seen demand change in the luxury end of the market? something more Richard: We’ve seen steady growth in the luxury end than a furniture of the market. While customers are considered in their choices, demand for quality has remained consistently showroom strong and, in fact, has been increasing YoY. entire interiors with us rather than buy single pieces. Bespoke joinery and customised finishes are also expanding, as they align with what QLS has always done best.
Clients want investment pieces that will last, with a growing emphasis on personalisation. Many are choosing timeless bases and then adding individuality through finishes, art and accessories, so their homes feel unique but still enduring.
mixed with comfort, and a flexibility in the range that means it can work in so many different settings. It’s stylish, versatile, and crafted with the kind of attention to detail that our customers expect. Are there any product segments you’re looking to grow/change? Alex: Yes, lighting and accessories are key areas of growth, as more clients are looking to complete
Have you noticed any particular buying trends, or changing attitudes to materials/colours/shapes? Dan: Natural materials and softer tones are very much in demand, but we’re also seeing clients embrace bolder shapes and statement items. Comfort remains a top priority, yet there’s a strong appetite for furniture that combines function with real design impact. Colour-wise, earthy neutrals continue to dominate, ››
18 INSIGHT
“More clients are looking to complete entire interiors with us rather than buy single pieces
and shades like Pantone’s Mocha Mousse capture the warmth and sophistication that many clients are looking for. It’s a versatile tone that works beautifully across upholstery, accessories and even statement pieces, creating interiors that feel timeless but still on-trend. Has QLS made any significant changes to its team/infrastructure/online presence? Alex: We’ve invested in our social media presence, which has become an important way for clients to see our collections and stay connected with the brand. Looking ahead, we’re preparing to relaunch our website towards the end of 2025/beginning of 2026, which will allow customers to both explore our collections in detail and purchase selected items online. At the same time, our team has continued to grow, bringing in additional expertise to support bespoke projects and ensure every client receives a tailored experience. The showroom remains the heart of the business, but these digital investments will help us reach and inspire new audiences. What experience do customers receive in your showroom that they can’t find anywhere else? Dan: A combination of heritage, expertise and personal service. Clients are welcomed into a space where they can explore curated collections at their own pace, with the option of one-to-one guidance from an experienced team. The bespoke element makes every experience unique. Are you planning to host events there? Dan: Yes, our relaunch event in October was the first, and we plan to continue with seasonal showcases and curated evenings to keep the showroom fresh and engaging. How can interested parties find out more? Alex: They can visit the showroom at 289 Lower High Street, Watford, follow us on Instagram @qualityloungesuites, or contact the team directly for a consultation. www.qualityloungesuites.co.uk
20 INSIGHT
Committed to natural, sustainable sleep The pioneering luxury British bedmaker showcased its collection for launch in 2026 at the Bed Show. The firmer mattress options, on-trend fabric selections, and an all-new collection of wool bedding were well received, the bedmaker reports, and reaffirmed its commitment to British quality and craftsmanship, while addressing consumer comfort preferences. “Sleep is increasingly viewed as a cornerstone of wellbeing,” states Hypnos. “There is greater knowledge on how to encourage healthy sleep, and a desire to choose individualised support and comfort – whether that be in the home or whilst travelling. Hypnos achieves this with high-performing materials and natural fibres that can help manage body temperature and moisture, free from harmful chemicals and ethically sourced.” The bedmaker adds that consumers are also searching for “a luxurious yet firmer, supportive feel”, and as a result it has selected mattresses from its collections in which to introduce the ReActivePro Ortho pocket spring, which it says creates “a choice of extra-firm feels, designed for sleepers seeking enhanced spinal alignment and support but unwilling to compromise on materials and the ultimate sleep experience”. The first three mattresses in the Legacy Collection – including the award-winning Good Housekeeping Institute Approved Legacy III – boast three tensions rather than two, a choice of medium, firmer, and now, extra firm. This seasonal-turn, handcrafted range includes layers of RWS-certified British wool and Adaptiv comfort springs. Inspired to create an extra-firm, no-turn collection, Hypnos has also redeveloped the Origins Luxury No-Turn Collection. Offering several layers of highly resilient and responsive natural latex and breathable RWS British wool, these three mattresses, with their unique feel, are now too complemented by a choice of three tensions – medium, firmer and extra firm.
“Our commitment to net zero is hugely exciting
ReActive Ortho
New textures Also at the show, Hypnos debuted its new upholstery fabric collections, which reflect contemporary interior design trends and were selected to accompany its range of high-quality, hand-built divans and headboards. “With a focus on tactile finishes and soft, mineral
Steve Malkin and David Baldry – united in net-zero ambition
This autumn, Furniture News’ cover star Hypnos not only announced its successful certification with Planet Mark as Net Zero Committed – making it the first bed industry brand to achieve this status – but also expanded its retail portfolio by adding firmer tensions to selected collections, introducing new luxury fabrics, and launching pure wool bedding made in Britain.
hues, the new fabric selection is sensitive to customers’ needs,” says Hypnos, which introduced a Luxury fabric collection offering a palette of textures and colours exclusively for specially selected retailers. “Offering individuals choice and style, with bright colours and playful textures to elevate the visual and sensory appeal of any bedroom, the collection also features many stain-resistant fabrics – an added benefit to an already-comprehensive collection,” says the bedmaker. On the stand, headboards and divans were paired with complementary fabrics and colours to display choices of colour and texture together, and to highlight the opportunity to refresh headboards more regularly. Every Hypnos mattress and bed is made to order at the Princes Risborough factory, with every detail carefully considered – at the Bed Show, members of Hypnos’ team shared their latest thoughts on divan accessories and the soft-close, solid oak, dovetail drawers the manufacturer plans to introduce to shop floors this spring. Tailored to suit Retailers were also introduced to Hypnos’ new bedding collection, the Tailored Sleep Collection, also coming this spring, and handcrafted in Britain with RWS wool from British farms. The collection includes a lightweight wool all-seasons duvet, a mattress protector, and a tailormade selection of pillows. Luxury wool pillows – made with clusters of pure wool, or a unique blend of wool and responsibly sourced feather – are available in medium and firm, while the natural latex pillow has been cocooned in layers of wool. Providing natural temperature regulation, hypoallergenic properties and renewable sourcing credentials, wool’s inherent breathability ensures year-round comfort, keeping sleepers warm in winter and cool in summer, says Hypnos. “The Bed Show was an ideal opportunity to introduce retailers to these new product developments, and we were pleased by the reaction,”
COVER STORY 21
comments group MD David Baldry. “The new tensions across the six models are available from December onwards, whilst the new fabrics and Tailored Sleep Collection will be available to stores in March. “The Hypnos brand is renowned for its quality and comfort, and is an ethical choice for a discerning consumer who values luxury, craft and durability. Our mattresses are hand-tailored, and every one made bespoke.” Train to gain “Providing our retailers with the tools and knowledge to help consumers choose the right mattress is a key driver, and we are committed to offering comprehensive training,” David continues. “Our new training portal will offer our retailers the opportunity to become more familiar with the Hypnos brand, our partners and materials, and what we mean by ‘comfort with integrity’, and we anticipate the launch before the end of the year to better support peak trading. We have already provided 1,575 hours of inhouse training alone this year.” Over the next year, the brand will introduce new PoS and bed displays in a planned, store-by-store process as new ranges are launched. “Helping our retailers to provide an amazing
“We know we’re going in the right direction
horticulturalists provided the plants for its garden party theme, while celebrating the many plant fibres that go into the Eden Project mattresses. The founder of the Planet Mark, Steve Malkin, joined David and Hypnos’ CEO James Keen on the stand to announce that the bedmaker has embraced its transition plan for achieving net zero by 2040. Guided by its certification partner Planet Mark, Hypnos will follow a pathway to significantly reducing its carbon emissions through targets that align with the principles of the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) Corporate Net Zero Standard. David concludes: “It was fantastic to have Steve with us at the Bed Show to explain what a feat this achievement is. Our commitment to net zero is hugely exciting, and could not have been achieved without the significant efforts of the Hypnos team working together across all areas of the business, alongside some of our partner suppliers, and guided by the expertise at Planet Mark, enabling us to set new industry standards. “We’ve already taken positive steps in carbon efficiency, demonstrated with an over -23% reduction in our last reporting year, and this new transition plan will see the organisation focus on a roadmap to net zero.” www.hypnosbeds.com
customer experience, supported by achieving development and choice,” David continues. “And by offering the highest-quality bedding with natural, renewable materials, we’re proud to support our British farmers and offer customers products that are both luxurious and environmentally conscious.” Progress in partnership
Hypnos’ Luxury fabric collection
a higher margin, is reflective in our product
Hypnos was joined at the Bed Show by representatives from its many partnerships including charity partner, the Eden Project, whose
Hitting the mark At the Bed Show, Furniture News took the opportunity to learn more from David Baldry and Steve Malkin about what the partnership between Hypnos and Planet Mark means for the bed brand and the wider industry. “Why did we choose to work with Planet Mark? It’s a practical and deliverable programme that helps us measure how we can make our business more carbon efficient – the targets are tangible, and they take the guesswork out of carbon reduction,” says David. “We’re doing the right thing for the planet – while making improvements to our operations as we go.” The transition plan and certification process bring focus to Hypnos’ efforts, he adds, and impetus to make changes – no matter how small – today, rather than putting
them off to one moment in the future. Steve founded Planet Mark in 2013 to help SMEs better understand and assess their environmental impact. “Most SMEs sit below regulatory requirements to measure and reduce carbon, so helping them see the business benefits is essential, as well as doing the right thing,” he explains. “Fundamentally, efficiencies and energy saving reduce operational costs, and committing to net zero aligns with many B2B customer demands.” There are further benefits to the partnership, David explains. Team members at every level are engaged to believe in and help deliver these actions, and suppliers are encouraged to get on board. “It’s not about making our partners jump
through hoops,” he clarifies, “they want to be part of the conversation, and many are already doing the right things.” Ultimately, Hypnos’ pledge to achieve net zero by 2040 is bigger-picture stuff. “We’re not just planning for the next 2-3 years,” says David, “but thinking what the next 120 might look like. And with each member of our workforce striving to do something to make our business better, each and every day, we know we’re going in the right direction.” Hypnos made huge progress towards net zero in its latest reporting year, and while David can’t promise that reductions will be consistently that strong every year between now and 2040, Planet Mark will ensure the business is kept on track to achieve its nearand long-term targets.
22 INSIGHT
Wiemann celebrates 125th birthday Wiemann’s 48,000m2 site today
Award-winning German bedroom manufacturer Wiemann celebrated its 125th birthday this autumn, prompting the company’s principals to look back at how far it has come …
Mathias Andreas Wiemann and his son, Markus Wiemann
The family-run company has come a long way from when 23-year-old Mathias Wiemann set up shop as a carpenter/furnituremaker in a 15m2 basement of an inn in Oesede, North West Germany. Mathias made a variety of bespoke furniture, including pews for the local church, took on an apprentice and expanded the workshop. He was also an innkeeper and farmer. In time, his son, Wilhelm, became an apprentice and eventually took over the business. Wiemann survived boom and bust through the 1920s and 1930s, and in 1934 was named Oeseder Mobel-Industrie Mathias Wiemann – the name it is still officially known by. Owner and MD Markus Wiemann says: “Wiemann’s history has been interesting and inspiring. During the war, we were instructed to make barracks. Then in 1945 we were told to blow up the factory! Wilhelm Wiemann was having none of that, and buried machinery and equipment in the nearby forest. “When the British arrived a few weeks later, we were instructed to build barracks again – but we also resumed furniture production for civilians. There were tumultuous times post-war too, with devastating floods from the River Dute, but forward-thinking Wilhelm pushed for local action to limit the likelihood of future flooding.” The second half of the 20th century saw rapid expansion. Wiemann furniture went on sale all over the world – in the US, Canada, South Africa and Asia, as well as throughout Europe. Markus continues: “We became established as one of the largest bedroom factories in Germany. Along the way, we developed our wood processing, veneering, distribution and production methods. Wiemann has a long history of investment and modernisation of production facilities, all the time focused on
productivity, quality and, increasingly, sustainability.” “Wiemann is a In 2003, Wiemann joined forces with Litmus Furniture, its sole agent for the UK and Ireland, which tried, trusted and is now the company’s biggest export market. Wilhelm reliable brand was succeeded by his son, Mathias Andreas, who in
turn handed over to his son, Markus, who is MD today. Markus says: “I am incredibly proud of what my family has achieved since 1900. If Mathias could have seen what his little workshop below the inn would become, he would never have believed it! “Today we have a modern, successful business operating from a 48,000m2 site producing attractive, practical, high-quality products which our customers cherish. Throughout our 125 years, colleagues across the business have consistently worked extremely hard to produce and deliver excellent products. We are fortunate in having a dedicated, motivated and loyal team. “We are proud of our family values, culture of investment, high standards and always striving to improve. We look forward to continuing to uphold these benchmarks for the next 125 years and beyond.” Simon Hewitt, the MD of Litmus Furniture, comments: “Congratulations to Wiemann on its milestone birthday. We are delighted to have worked with the Wiemann team for the last 22 years. “Wiemann is a tried, trusted and reliable brand – qualities which are so important in today’s climate and which we value highly. Here’s to the next 125 years!” Wiemann celebrated its birthday with a dinner and party in Germany in September. www.wiemannuk.co.uk
24 INSIGHT
Defining Swedish design String Furniture
Swedish design has long received recognition and, as a style revered amongst homeowners and designers, continues to gain momentum in 2025, writes London-based agency PuRe PR – which interviewed Bo Hellberg, CMO at both String Furniture (a Scandinavian design icon since 1949) and Grythyttan Stålmöbler (a Swedish outdoor furniture expert since 1895), to find out more about the appeal of this popular look …
Bo Hellberg
Over the last year, Google Trends has reported the search term ‘Scandinavian Design’ has increased by 5000%. Truly emerging at the 1930 Stockholm Exhibition, its design style became aligned with modernism, a streamlined aesthetic, lightness and functionalism. But, as it gained global recognition, it has long been associated purely with ‘minimalism’. We put our questions around Swedish design – its history, heritage, common misconceptions and why it is continuing to gain momentum in 2025 and 2026 – to Bo … How would you define Swedish design? Why is it having a moment right now? Modern Swedish design can be traced back to the late 18th century when King Gustav III popularised a minimalist version of European Neoclassicism, featuring pine furniture and bare wood floors,
“Swedish designers continue to create innovative, visually appealing solutions
reflecting a desire for simplicity and natural elements. It continued into the 1830s with a version of Biedermeier style, characterised by spare, blondwood furniture. But Swedish design truly emerged at the 1930 Stockholm Exhibition, which was a pivotal moment, showcasing modern and streamlined aesthetic, lightfilled interiors and functional furniture, epitomising the essence of Swedish design as we know it today. Swedish design continues to evolve, blending heritage with contemporary influences. It embraces sustainability, social responsibility, and inclusivity, reflecting Sweden’s commitment to environmental and social issues. I think Swedish design is being noticed because of
all the reasons above, and Swedish designers continue to create innovative, visually appealing solutions that cater to the needs of individuals and society. Swedish design often comes under the broader term, ‘Scandi’ design. Are there any differences? What distinct values does Swedish design hold? ‘Scandi’ design is a very broad term, as you point out. Generally speaking, it would be clean but warm, with a calming nature of a large, light-filled space without any clutter. At a glance, much of the modernist and functionalist ‘Scandi design’ that emerged in the 1930s until the 50s looks quite similar. What sets Swedish design apart is the more pronounced innovation in design, material and manufacturing
25
String Furniture
“The region’s style is more than just understated, neat, and necessary
(‘Scandi design’ tends to gravitate towards tradition, both in design and craft). There is also a more pronounced democratic philosophy in Swedish design, and it’s been at the forefront of sustainability for a long time.
Grythyttan Stålmöbler
What are the common misconceptions? When it comes to Scandi design, there’s often a big misconception – ‘minimalism.’ Although there are parallels, the region’s style is more than just understated, neat, and necessary. Equally essential as pure function is beauty that draws inspiration from Nordic nature – which isn’t just pale birch trees and blankets of snow. Consider the wildflower garlands that adorn heads, maypoles, and tabletops during Midsommar, the Swedish celebration of the summer season and the longest night of the year.
IKEA is often known as a key ambassador of Swedish design. What other brands would you say have played a crucial role in defining the history of Swedish design? Brands that played a key role in Swedish design would be Svenskt Tenn (Josef Frank), Kasthall, Bruno Mathson, Carl Malmsten, Axel Einar Hjorth, Kosta Boda, Swedese and obviously Dux. For obvious reasons, I’d put String (Nisse Strinning) in the mix too. All of those have informed, educated and inspired Swedish designers and design that we see today. Swedish culture places a strong emphasis on sustainability and eco-conscious production. How are Swedish designers global frontrunners in sustainability, and what are the big things to look out for in 2026? I’d say that Swedish designers very often start their process with material and sustainability in mind, both in manufacturing as well as product lifespan. Center Center by Form Us With Love is a good example, a modular system for retail and offices that can be reconfigured endlessly or recycled. Swedes are also at the forefront of how interiors and furniture affect our wellbeing – for example, companies like Baux, world-leading in sustainable acoustic absorbers. Equally exciting is colour psychology, where designers and institutions like NCS will take centre stage as brands embrace the power of dopamine decor. And we’ll continue to see more biodegradable and energy-efficient materials – there is also a fascinating evolution of how AI is transforming interiors. www.stringfurniture.com/en-gb www.grythyttanstalmobler.com
26 INSIGHT
GETTING PERSONAL
Paul Groves Paul has worked in the bed and furniture industry for 35 years, starting out at the age of 17 in his family business. He then became a sales representative for Myers Beds, and went on to become an independent sales agent, representing multiple manufacturers – helping retailers grow their business with the right products and support, and increasingly finding himself advising manufacturers on product development, marketing and growth strategies.
How might a child describe what you do? Tries to help people sleep, but doesn’t do much of it himself!
great team and a great sales force. Everyone was pulling in the same direction and we broke records every year.
What’s the biggest long-term challenge you face? Staying relevant in a world that is slowly cutting me out. Customers can find a lot of suppliers online, contact them directly and negotiate without a middleman, which didn’t used to happen. It also seems that more manufacturers are now going direct to consumer, so the space for people like me is getting smaller.
What’s the biggest myth about our industry? That we are all on a level playing field. I’ve done this for nearly 30 years now and worked with a lot of companies along the way. Not all manufacturers operate with the same integrity as others, and are not playing by the same rules. Everyone talks about it, but nothing seems to change.
If you had 10 x your working budget, what would you spend it on? I’d stop trying to convince people to take risks, and just take them myself – create a bold and original brand built for how people actually shop now. What would be the title of your autobiography? The One That Got Away. I always wanted to work in music or football journalism, and wrote about both of them for my local newspaper when I was 16. Then I joined the family furniture business at 17 and that all stopped. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved but often wonder what the other path could have looked like. What does ‘work/life balance’ mean to you? Work hard, play hard (although at 52 it’s getting harder to do!). Who’s been your most influential trade mentor? Stuart Hibbert [ex-Breasley, currently working with Shire Beds]. He has a faith in you that makes you feel unbeatable, and he proves that you can be successful and have a laugh at the same time. What advice would you give your younger self? Be braver, don’t settle. Just because your dad liked the industry, doesn’t mean that you have to. It’s a big old world out there. What’s been your best day in business to date? The start of the Breasley journey was the best time I had – there were so many good days. Great product,
What should everyone in our industry either stop or start doing? Stop greenwashing. If you are going to talk about sustainability then make sure it is real and not just a box-ticking exercise. Too many brands are using environmental language as a sales tactic without a great deal of substance. Where do you see the industry going in the next 5-10 years? On the retail side, the mid-large size, family-owned businesses will make it through and continue to grow stronger. I talk to lot of smaller retailers who are fast-tracking retirement or just looking to call it a day. Online will continue to dominate, but the way we consume will change – also, there will be more D2C trading, so it will be hard to compete. The industry needs a change, and I’m looking forward to waving goodbye to the old, stuffy way of doing things. What comes next should be bolder and braver. I think it’s long overdue. What question do you wish we’d asked? How would you have answered? Q: What do the next 5-10 years hold for you? A: I’d like to prove that you can do it differently. Be disruptive and creative, but build an honest brand that does good things at the same time. I’d bring more young people into this industry with new ideas and approaches, and leave something behind that challenges the current norm so that my time in this industry isn’t wasted.
“The industry needs a change, and I’m looking forward to waving goodbye to the old, stuffy way of doing things. What comes next should be bolder and braver
27
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January Furniture Show preview: Our preliminary teaser of the main event
Rhian Francis, M.D., The Place For Homes Ltd, Cowbridge.
With the approach of a new year (and the January shows), now’s the time to make headlines – and Furniture News gives you maximum impact across print and digital. December’s issue features:
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28 EVENTS
“The industry’s trusted stage” returns
Visitor registration is now open for the January Furniture Show (JFS), the UK’s largest furniture and interiors trade event, which returns to NEC Birmingham from 18th-21st January 2026, and is inviting the entire furniture design, retail and manufacturing community to help shape the industry’s future …
“A powerful mix of fresh talent and trusted industry leaders
Celebrating 36 years as the industry’s trusted stage, JFS 2026 promises to build on its legacy with an expanded footprint (+15% ) and “bigger ambitions”. Over 500 brands – 40% of them international – are set to showcase more than 50,000 products, including thousands of exclusive launches, across four halls: Premium Design; Home, Lifestyle & Garden; Living, Dining & Cabinet; and Upholstery & Beds. A number of businesses are set to exhibit at JFS for the first time – visitors will find international enterprises such as Meta Sofa, Cardoso Leal, Fabryka, Mebli TOM-POL, Lech Fabrics, Davis Fabrics and AIT Home Delivery, alongside returning exhibitors and newcomers Urban Social, Furnt, Hug Rug, Aspire Furniture, Stressless and Homingly. “These new additions, alongside established favourites, underscore the show’s powerful mix of fresh talent and trusted industry leaders,” states show organiser Clarion Events. Returning to the show are the likes of Whitemeadow, Baker Furniture, Alstons, Alpha Designs, Tetrad, Buoyant Upholstery, Sherborne, Welcome Furniture, Westbridge, Ashwood Designs, La-Z-Boy, Global Home, Highgrove Beds, Seconique, Bluebone, Taylors Creative Living, Siren Furniture, Duresta, The Lounge Co, and international brands Rauch, Premier Furniture, ROM, Mindy Brownes, Airlia Home, and Pure Designs.
The show will host the inaugural Excellence in Furniture Awards. This new event, taking place on the evening of Monday 19th January, aims to recognise outstanding design and commercial success, building on The Furniture Awards’ established format to add a new dimension to JFS and celebrate the industry’s leading innovators and influencers. The upcoming edition will also bring a refreshed hall layout and larger overall show footprint, with significant expansions to both Hall 2 and Hall 5. In response to industry feedback, the organiser has relocated Hall 4 into Hall 3, creating “a smoother transition between spaces”, says Clarion: “This change marks the first step towards restoring the traditional five-hall horseshoe shape and further enhances the visitor journey.
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“JFS is where the industry’s best set the trends
“The expansion of Hall 2 also supports the growth of the Premium Design sector, while the enlarged Hall 5 offers additional opportunities for exhibitors and a more dynamic experience for attendees.” Over four days, visitors will be able to explore product launches, attend interactive sessions, and join networking events including the Show Party, Botanical Garden Bar, Women in Furniture Network (WIFN) and the Excellence in Furniture Awards. The VIP Buyer Programme also returns, offering exclusive access to key decision-makers, alongside bespoke business opportunities. JFS offers a uniquely British and global perspective, in one of the UK’s most accessible venues. According to Clarion, 92% of visitors say attendance is essential for their business. “JFS is where the industry’s best set the trends and define the styles customers will crave for the year ahead,” the show organiser concludes. “Experience a vibrant mix of industry leaders and innovators, alongside many exclusive launches never seen elsewhere. Join us as we shape the future of the UK and global furniture sector.” Register to attend next year’s show by visiting bit.ly/4qoMxCh. www.thefurnitureshows.com
30 EVENTS
INDX SHOWS www.indxshows.co.uk
For industry professionals looking for the latest in furniture design, the new INDX Shows calendar is set to deliver 18 business-focused events throughout 2026. Organised by the UK and Ireland’s leading buying, event and retail services group, Associated Independent Stores (AIS), INDX Shows are designed by industry experts, bringing together a selection of top brands and innovative product showcases. “The result is a commercial edit that goes beyond the standard trade show, delivering authentic, trend-driven insight that helps you stay ahead of the curve,” says AIS. The home of INDX Shows, Cranmore Park in Solihull, is a centrally located exhibition venue, created for easy access and professional networking, says the buying group: “Enjoy free parking, complimentary barista refreshments, and hospitality that makes your visit both productive and enjoyable. “INDX is more than a trade show – it’s where you can connect, collaborate, and find the inspiration you need to help fuel your business growth.” Register today to attend INDX Furniture (17-20th January, members only on day one), and INDX Beds (28-29th April, members only on day one). INDX events taking place in 2026 also include shows dedicated to homewares and gifts.
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32 EVENTS
Negotiate global transformation with CIFF In an era marked by shifting global dynamics and evolving market demands, the 57th China International Furniture Fair (CIFF Guangzhou) aims to be “the definitive platform for industry transformation and growth”. Scheduled to take place from 18th-21st and 28th-31st March 2026, this landmark event promises to “unite the global furniture community to navigate challenges and shape the future of design and manufacturing” …
CIFF Guangzhou 2025’s success exemplifies the fair’s leading position. With over 4,900 exhibitors and 363,000 professional visitors from 187 countries, including 56,794 overseas attendees (representing a 10.91% YoY increase), and taking place across 850,000m2, the fair demonstrated its capacity to facilitate foreign trade and boost market demand, while establishing new industry benchmarks. With the theme ‘Connect, Create’, CIFF Guangzhou 2026, returning to the China Import and Export Fair Complex and PWTC Expo, is poised to advance its proven formula, says the event’s organiser: “Enterprises pursue dual export-to-domestic and domestic-to-export strategies, while navigating blurred B2B and B2C boundaries. International buyers, influenced by US tariff policies and European environmental regulations, look increasingly toward China. Consumers drive demand for smart homes, green homes, senior- and pet-friendly homes through integrated online-offline retail experiences. Recognising the need to re-evaluate every industry link, CIFF Guangzhou has developed a strategic response based on three core areas: 1. Breaking boundaries and forging new growth CIFF Guangzhou will expand beyond traditional furniture categories in 2026 to encompass emerging sectors including nursing home furnishings, ecofriendly solutions, smart office systems and innovative upholstery materials.
“The definitive catalyst for global furniture industry development
2. Design renewal and quality enhancement The 2026 edition will see upgrades in theme positioning and event programming. Enhanced halls including the Contemporary Design Fair, Trendy Design Hall and Original Design hall promise to serve as catalysts for industry-wide improvements. Cross-industry exhibition projects will promote designindustry integration, while the CD Awards will continue to honour benchmarks and encourage innovation.
3. Forging new links, globally and locally CIFF Guangzhou 2026 aims to strengthen domestic and international connections through enhanced regional industrial cluster co-operation and expanded international partnerships. Buyer engagement will intensify across home renovation, commercial projects and ecommerce, while expanding the show’s global reach. Phase 1 of the event, taking place from 18th-21st March, will cover home furniture, home decor and textiles, and outdoor and leisure furniture. In the former segment, key highlights include: the Contemporary Design Fair, which will establish an Industry-Academia-Research-Application ecosystem; an upgraded Sofa Plus segment featuring more than 50 signature windows and smart sleep technology; the International Pavilion, with exhibitors from Japan, South Korea, Netherlands and Belgium, enabling a philosophy of “visit one exhibition, buy globally”; specialised Dining and Living Design halls with cross-border ecommerce capabilities; an upgraded Hall 19.1 Brand Pavilion featuring garden landscapes, toys, and pet furnishing themes; and a “comprehensive” outdoor furnishing segment. The second phase will focus on solutions for offices and commercial spaces, alongside the CIFM/ interzum Guangzhou supply chain-centric event. The organiser explains: “CIFF Guangzhou has established itself as the essential platform connecting three critical bridges: the Industry Bridge, linking upstream manufacturing to downstream consumption; the Trade Bridge, connecting domestic and international markets; and the Innovation Bridge, integrating production, academia and research. “The 2026 edition will embody CIFF Guangzhou’s commitment to Chinese Smart Manufacturing + Global Sharing – leveraging China’s manufacturing excellence while fostering international collaboration. This vision transforms today’s complex trade challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth, reinforcing CIFF Guangzhou’s position as the definitive catalyst for global furniture industry development.” www.ciff-gz.com
34 EVENTS
VIFA Expo enjoys national recognition This year, VIFA Expo and its organiser Lien Minh Company achieved significant milestones, further cementing their position in Vietnam’s furniture and home decor industry.
“It serves as powerful motivation for the event
VIFA Expo was honoured by the Vietnam Records Organization (VietKings) as the longest-running and largest-scale event in the industry, while Lien Minh Company received the award for Top Outstanding Enterprise in Vietnam – both achievements providing strong evidence of VIFA Expo’s reputation and Lien Minh Company’s organisational capabilities. At the opening ceremony of VIFA ASEAN 2025, held on 26th August in Ho Chi Minh City, VIFA Expo was officially recognised by the Vietnam Records Organization (VietKings), under the Vietnam Records Association, with the title ‘VIFA Expo – the annual old established and largest international furniture and home accessories fair brand in Vietnam (since 2008).’ “This is not just a symbolic title, but an official recognition of VIFA Expo’s sustainable development history and its leading scale within Vietnam’s furniture, woodwork and handicraft industries,” says Lien Minh Company. “This record is a well-deserved acknowledgment of VIFA Expo’s journey through 16 continuous editions and development since 2008. It serves as a powerful motivation for the event to continue its path toward professionalism, quality improvement and scale expansion, ready to stand alongside major furniture exhibitions in the region and globally.” Alliance Handicraft & Wooden Fine Art Corporation (Lien Minh Company) – the owner and organiser of the VIFA Expo brand – has strived to build a professional, industry-leading trade promotional fair, establishing it as a vital export bridge for Vietnam’s furniture and home decor sector. Its achievement is not only the result of the relentless efforts of Lien Minh Company’s staff, but a testament to the international-calibre eventorganising capability of a purely Vietnamese company – along with the trust and partnership of relevant organisations, enterprises, visitors, partners, and the press and media, both domestic and international. Just under a month after VIFA Expo was honoured with the Vietnam Record title, on 13th September Lien Minh Company was recognised with the ‘Top 20 Excellent Enterprises in Vietnam 2025’ award, certified by the Science Institute for Development of Economic and Cultural Manpower and the Center for Research and Application of
Consumer Protection Technology. “This award is a recognition and honour for Lien Minh Company’s positive contributions to the nation’s economic development, particularly in the field of export trade promotion,” states the show organiser. “Furthermore, it serves as a practical confirmation of the company’s professional organisational capacity, its global connectivity capabilities, and its leading position in the industry.” Both are milestones which affirm the company’s reputation in the industry and serve as a foundation to continue building and developing two major fair brands, VIFA Expo (since 2008) and VIFA ASEAN (since 2023), fulfilling Lien Minh’s mission of connecting trade, linking the production-export value chain, and elevating Vietnam’s furniture, woodwork and handicraft industry on the global economic map. Following the success built on 16 previous exhibitions, VIFA Expo 2026 (its 17th edition) will, for the first time, be held at two major exhibition centres in Ho Chi Minh City – SKY Expo (Trung My Tay Ward) and WTC Expo (Binh Duong Ward), from 8-11the March 2026. The organiser expects to attract over 650 enterprises across a total scale of 2,800 booths, alongside numerous engaging activities. Specifically, Lien Minh Company will implement a free shuttle bus programme, with three routes connecting the Tan Son Nhat Airport area with the venues, facilitating travel for all visitors and exhibitors throughout the four days of the exhibition. The organising committee will also offer support programmes to ensure VIFA Expo’s guests have “the best possible experience”. Lien Minh Company will continue to strengthen the import-export community with VIFA ASEAN 2026 (fourth edition), taking place from 2nd-5th September 2026 at SECC (Tan My Ward, Ho Chi Minh City). “This will continue to serve as a new platform that helps elevate the influence of the ASEAN furniture, home decor and handicraft community on the global stage,” concludes Lien Minh Company. www.vifafair.com
The annual old-established & LARGEST Int’l Furniture & Home Accessories Fair Brand in Vietnam (since 2008) (Certified by the Vietnam Record Association - August, 2025)
VIETNAM INTERNATIONAL FURNITURE & HOME ACCESSORIES FAIR
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36 EVENTS LONG POINT
Innovation, craft and community WEBS Training’s Samarah Dawson
This autumn’s edition of Long Point brought together 33 exhibitors across showrooms throughout Long Eaton, welcoming in excess of 100 trade buyers and interior designers from across the UK and further afield, reports the show’s organiser, the Long Eaton Guild of Furniture Manufacturers …
Running from 15-17th September, with many exhibitors also opening by appointment on the 18th, the event once again highlighted Long Eaton’s role as the UK Centre of Quality Upholstery Manufacture. Over three days, buyers, designers and industry professionals were treated to a showcase of British upholstery, cabinet furniture, accessories and fabrics, plus numerous international brands – all presented within the unique mill showrooms and venues that define Long Point.
At The Helm
“We’re proud to see Long Point continue to thrive as a vital platform for our industry
Exhibitor highlights Stella made a bold entrance at the September event, launching the Stella Collection at the Westgate Suites, alongside Bluebone. Stand-out pieces included Jack and Alezio, both of which “drew strong attention for their style and versatility”, says the supplier. Couch & Co unveiled a brand-new collection that won “a tremendous amount of incredibly positive feedback,” with customers praising comfort, quality, and price – the brand’s core values. The Masie model was a clear star, with its eight-way, hand-tied base and feather-wrapped comfort, while an extension to the popular Millie range was also warmly received. Tamarisk reported a “fantastic few days” in its newly refurbished showroom, with visitors responding positively to both new ranges and unique fabrics, alongside enhanced comfort across existing models. At The Helm showcased a selection of customer favourites in new 2025 materials, including UK stock models Avery, Kensington, Savannah and Verona. In addition, the supplier introduced new models across the At The Helm and Hydeline collections, which generated strong interest during the exhibition and are scheduled to be available on shop floors this spring.
The newly introduced models – presented in a mix of existing and new leathers and fabrics – were well received, further boosting confidence in the upcoming release, while the UK stock programme of cabinet and lighting ranges also received positive feedback, the supplier reports. A key highlight of the exhibition took place on Tuesday 16th September, when At The Helm hosted a TrendBible talk, offering consumer insights on the theme Redefining the Home. This well-attended session explored how shifting consumer values are reshaping lifestyle-driven design, providing guidance for brands and buyers alike. This was followed by a hosted lunch with the Piaggio pizza van, creating a relaxed and engaging atmosphere for networking and customer interaction. Overall, Long Point proved to a valuable event
37
David Gundry
for At The Helm, providing “an excellent platform to introduce new models and ranges, gather direct customer feedback, and strengthen relationships with both existing and new clients”, states the supplier, adding: “The level of engagement and interest was very encouraging, leaving the team confident about momentum heading into the next season.” Tetrad, Spink & Edgar and Westbridge exhibited at the Village Hotel, where new products and fabrics were reportedly met with enthusiasm from trade buyers. Iain James Furniture exhibited from its Bridge Street showroom, which it shares with sister company and fellow member of the Long Eaton Guild of Furniture Manufacturerers, Artistic Upholstery. The team introduced a new burr oak media unit, highlighting its ongoing craftsmanship in bespoke finishes and tailored sizes. Gascoigne Designs reported strong engagement from high-end retailers, with “encouraging investment in quality floor stock despite challenging trading conditions”. Visitors praised the brand’s commitment to quality, states the manufacturer, with positive feedback highlighting minimal service issues and the proven longevity of both products and fabrics. Gascoigne Designs’ latest launch, the Central Park sofa, drew particular attention and was “very well received”. Hartmann impressed visitors with its Kilva range, inspired by Scandinavian craft traditions and the “cleaving power of the axe”. Split-oak shingles, anthracite ash and warm lighting combined to create a sense of warmth and security in the room settings, and the team welcomed a number of quality visitors to the showroom – interest that it hopes will translate
into new business later this year. Violino presented a flexible corner group sofa with power recliners and ratchet headrests, “balancing sleek styling with everyday practicality”, while WEBS Training reinforced its vital role in championing apprenticeships and skills, with business development manager Samarah Dawson engaging visitors at the Harrington Mills reception hub. The team reflects: “It’s always wonderful to be part of such an important local event for furniture. We value the opportunity to help people find out more about apprenticeships, stay up to date with the industry, and of course, see all the wonderful furniture being showcased. Raising the profile of both the furniture industry and apprenticeships remains at the heart of what we do.” Siren welcomed visitors with new collections and a warm hospitality offer of coffee, cake and fizz, while David Gundry Fine Furniture showcased bespoke occasional chairs and stools that underline the manufacturer’s commitment to tailoring detail and style. G Plan celebrated the reception of its new launches and reconnected with both longstanding and new customers, while Buoyant Upholstery returned with ›› Iain James Furniture
Violino
“The Long Eaton community once again proved the value of authentic showrooms and personal connections
38 EVENTS LONG POINT
Tetrad
“The event once again highlighted Long Eaton’s role as the UK Centre of Quality Upholstery Manufacture
Parker Knoll
Voices from the show The breadth of design on display impressed attending interior designers. Gemma Helm of gemmalofthouse. com, a freelance pattern, textile and tile designer/ upholstery and textile designer, and sourcing specialist, observes: “It was really nice to see so much texture and great uses of colour back in the showrooms. “People are looking for more from their furniture – it’s not just about what’s good now, it’s about what’s going to work for a longer period of time, while still providing comfort, from material style to colour and trend.” Speaking on behalf of the organiser, Andrew
Siren
new models, fabrics and colourways. The Caspian collection, featuring DuoFlex seats and feather bolsters, proved popular, while the Viscount Mix and Ziggy Mix demonstrated the appeal of combining fabric and faux leather with Featherflex seating, reports Buoyant. Other highlights included the successful debut of Master Sofa Group’s new showroom in Harrington Mill, alongside Michael Tyler Furniture’s engaging new space, and the latest offering from wardrobe specialist Wiemann.
Mitchell, chairman of the Long Eaton Guild of Furniture Manufacturers, and the MD of Artistic Upholstery, reflects: “This autumn’s Long Point has been another excellent showcase of what makes Long Eaton the UK Centre of Quality Upholstery Manufacture. “The feedback from exhibitors and visitors alike has been overwhelmingly positive, underlining the strength of British craftsmanship and the importance of bringing the trade together in this unique setting. We’re proud to see Long Point continue to thrive as a vital platform for our industry.”
Duresta
Looking ahead The dates for the 2026 spring and autumn Long Point shows will be announced over the coming months. Those interested in attending are encouraged to keep updated via the guild’s website and social channels. “With its mix of heritage and innovation, autumn Long Point 2025 reaffirmed its role as one of the most significant events in the UK furniture calendar,” the organiser concludes. “Exhibitors launched new collections, buyers discovered fresh ideas, and the Long Eaton community once again proved the value of authentic showrooms and personal connections. “As the industry looks ahead, Long Point continues to evolve – grounded in tradition, yet focused firmly on the future of design, craftsmanship and collaboration.” www.longeatonguild.co.uk/longpoint
tps://gddesignstudio.slack.com/files/U09JJARR5D5/F09LPP1RP1A/2025.09.02-29.jpg?origin_team=TA8R9GNG3&origin_channel=D09JWAHLBX
NEW ADDITIONS T O E T O N OA K The Eton collection, known for its timeless craftsmanship and contemporary charm, is expanding with a selection of beautifully designed new pieces. Crafted from solid oak, each addition continues the collection’s signature style showcasing refined detailing, clean lines, and a perfectly balanced finish. These new introductions bring even greater versatility to the range, offering fresh options for living, dining, and bedroom spaces while maintaining the cohesive elegance the Eton collection is known for.
View our full collection online at www.gallerydirect.co.uk Scan the QR code for more
From extended dining solutions and enhanced storage designs to thoughtfully updated statement pieces, the new additions seamlessly complement the existing range, elevating both function and style throughout the home.
SINCE 1973
40 EVENTS BED SHOW
Britain’s essential bed showcase On 23rd-24th September, the National Bed Federation (NBF) Bed Show returned to Telford International Centre, putting the British and Irish bed industry front and centre. Furniture News looks at a few of the event’s highlights …
“A huge thank you to everyone who joined us in Telford
The Bed Show is the UK’s biggest bed exhibition, bringing an unrivalled number of British and Irish bed manufacturers and component suppliers together under one roof. From the biggest household names to smaller, niche players, the annual exhibition reflects the industriousness and ingenuity of the British bed sector. Around 50 exhibiting companies occupied three of the centre’s halls this year, with eye-catching stand displays making way for the more technical offering in the show’s Supplier Zone towards the back of the space. Following a brisk day of business, over 500 guests returned to the venue to network and discover the winners of the Bed Industry Awards 2025-26 at the event’s gala dinner. “It was a truly unmissable night for the bed trade, celebrating the excellence of our sector,” comments the NBF. “A huge thank you to everyone who joined us in Telford to catch up with industry colleagues, do business, and celebrate the best in class across
manufacturing, supplying and retail at the gala dinner and awards ceremony. Thank you to all our generous sponsors, and to Telford International Centre for hosting us for our 15th year!” Next year’s Bed Show will take place on 22nd-23rd September. Read all about the winners of this year’s Bed Industry Awards in the official celebratory feature, starting on p53 – and read on to discover some of this edition’s exhibitor highlights … www.bedshow.co.uk
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42 EVENTS BED SHOW
A premium platform for Sleepeezee
The show provided the ideal platform for Sleepeezee to unveil its latest collections, says the bedmaker, whose stand, which garnered significant attention from visitors and industry experts alike, was “a reflection of the company’s commitment to craftsmanship, innovation and style, demonstrating Sleepeezee’s new brand proposition under ‘The Rest of your life’ campaign”. Three stand-out collections for Sleepeezee’s independent retail partners were launched at the show. The Jessica range, designed in partnership with brand ambassador Jessica Ennis-Hill, saw the introduction of its next generation, with each model specification improved, as well as a new enhanced comfort filling called Dual Gel introduced. Dual Gel is a pressure-relieving memory foam that is infused with two gel additives to regulate temperature. Red gel acts as a heat conductor that helps move away excess heat, while the blue gel acts as a heat sink to manage the excess heat. The result means Dual Gel provides heat transfer four times faster than standard foam, says Sleepeezee, creating a cooler, more comfortable night’s sleep. On top of this, the gel beads within the foam cluster together under compression to provide additional support and reduce excessive sinking and pressure, helping to keep the spine aligned and body supported during sleep. Sleepeezee also extended its most premium collection, Centurial, adding two models to the range, which will now see the product designed with a luxurious loose topper which can be used across the collection. With 8000 springs each, the two new models are the most supportive yet, boasting natural fillings including horsehair and latex.
Centurial
“A testament to its enduring legacy
Majestic
Following a successful appearance at the Bed Show, Sleepeezee reflects on an event filled with highlights, industryleading designs, and a celebration of the brand’s rich history …
Sitting underneath the Centurial collection is a new range named Majestic. Each model features multiple layers of British wool, silk and cashmere, finished with a soft and sumptuous chemical-free Damask. The Majestic collection offers customers “premiumquality” mattresses, says Sleepeezee, backed by a 10-year guarantee at competitive price points. “Sleepeezee’s successful presence at the NBF Bed Show 2025 is a testament to its enduring legacy and vision for the future,” the bedmaker concludes. “As the company embarks on its next century, it remains committed to delivering innovative, high-quality sleep solutions that meet the evolving needs of its customers.” www.sleepeezee.com
Jessica Deluxe Shown on Joshua Latte
Timeless quality, luxurious comfort
44 EVENTS BED SHOW
Energize makes its powerful debut Energize on show in September
The launch of Kaymed’s Energize range at this year’s Bed Show made waves – and for good reason, says the bedmaker: “Retailers responded enthusiastically to a range that feels fresh, different, and perfectly timed for today’s wellness-driven consumer.”
Energex foam “helps sleepers move more easily and stay in deeper sleep longer”, says Kaymed
“We knew Energize had something very new and special – and the response confirmed it
A range that “feels as good as it looks” “Energize blends style with substance,” says Kaymed. The range comprises two all-foam models, wrapped in futuristic fabrics that “turned heads”; and four hybrid models, featuring modern waterfall tops and tailored borders, with spring counts from 1,000-2,000 for layered comfort and support. “Retailers were instantly drawn to the bold new aesthetic,” says Kaymed, “but it was the feel of the mattresses that truly won them over. Energize offers a plush, contouring comfort on first contact, followed by a dynamic bounce that activates as the sleeper’s body warms the surface. “Unlike traditional visco-elastic foams that soften with heat, Energex activates at 27ºC, becoming more elastic and motion-friendly – helping sleepers move more easily and stay in deeper sleep longer.”
The team behind Energize at this year’s Bed Show
Positioned prominently at the show entrance, Energize stood out, thanks to its bold purple branding and eye-catching visuals. The six-model line-up – including two concept designs in striking black-andpurple covers – drew immediate attention and footfall, says Kaymed.
Seeing is believing A simple demo unit stole the show, says Kaymed: “Using a hairdryer to warm Energex foam, buyers could feel the transformation – from firm and static to elastic and energising. The hands-on experience reassured retailers and sparked real excitement.” Terry Bridger, sales manager UK, says: “We knew Energize had something very new and special – and the response confirmed it. “Retailers loved the feel and the story. We’ve already secured placements with key independents and are in talks with national chains.” Conor Stapleton, marketing manager, adds: “It’s fantastic to see the brand promise land so well. Energize helps people sleep deeper and move easier – and now it’s my job to help retailers tell that story in-store.” Engaging with Energize Retailers interested in previewing the range or booking a demo are invited to contact Terry by emailing terry.bridger@kaymedworld.com. www.kayfoam.com
Recharge your sales Terry Bridger terry.bridger@kaymedworld.com
46 EVENTS BED SHOW
Sealy rounds off a successful year
Mark Tuley
“2025 has seen us not only sell more mattresses than last year, but also at significantly higher average values
Sealy’s show team
Sealy Posturepedic continues to build on its legacy of innovation, performance and partnership. Following a successful Bed Show, where the brand was awarded Bed Product of the Year for the Elevate Edison Luxury Plush, Furniture News caught up with CCO Mark Tuley to discuss the brand’s wider progress, performance, and plans for the year ahead …
Aside from the award win, how did the show go? The Bed Show was a real success story for Sealy Posturepedic this year. We had a record number of retailers visit the stand, and that translated directly into an uplift in new floor model displays across both existing and new retailers. It was also great to see the strength of the relationships we’ve built over recent years really coming to life. We’ve been targeting several key prospects to become Sealy stockists, and the show provided the perfect platform to convert many of these discussions into live accounts. The buzz on the stand was fantastic, and it’s fair to say this year’s event has set a new benchmark for engagement and momentum going forward. How would you describe your progress this year? It has been another strong year of growth for Sealy UK. At the end of August, we were trading 9% ahead of last year, and that’s in a market that’s broadly flat, with some reports even suggesting a slight decline. That means we’ve grown our market share for the third consecutive year, which is an achievement we’re extremely proud of, given the challenging retail environment. It’s a real testament to the strength of our brand, the loyalty of our retail partners, and the continued consumer confidence in the Sealy Posturepedic proposition. What’s next for Sealy Posturepedic? Product development has been a major focus for us throughout 2025. We’ve continued to evolve our range by introducing new comfort feels to our established
collections, ensuring there’s something to suit every kind of sleeper. This approach has been very well received by our retailers, providing them with even greater choice and helping them to drive incremental sales opportunities. Our aim has always been simple – to help retailers build a better mattress business. That sits at the heart of what Sealy Posturepedic stands for. Seeing that vision reflected in our shared success, both in our results and those of our partners, is incredibly rewarding. Which products are leading the charge in your portfolio? As the Posturepedic ranges have become firmly established across retail floors, we’ve seen particularly strong growth in the higher end of our product offering. As retail staff confidence grows, they naturally become more adept at converting customers at higher ATVs, and that’s something we actively encourage and support. The introduction of our Exquisite range with selected retailers in 2023 has been instrumental in driving this premium momentum, complementing continued growth within the Elevate Ultra range. In simple terms, 2025 has seen us not only sell more mattresses than last year, but also at significantly higher average values. That’s exactly the kind of sustainable, value-driven growth we want to continue delivering – for our retailers, our customers, and the Sealy Posturepedic brand as a whole. www.sealy.co.uk
48 EVENTS AUTUMN FURNITURE SHOW
Autumn exhibition hits the mark
“Visitors came ready to do business
Whitemeadow’s Daniel Oscroft and Oliver Keating with the show’s Best Stand Award
The Autumn Furniture Show 2025, which took place at the Telford International Centre on 8-9th October, proved “a resounding success”, reports organiser Minerva Furniture Group …
The buying group behind the show reports that the event attracted a strong turnout of visitors and exhibitors, “bringing together a dynamic mix of industry professionals who shared ideas, unveiled new products, and built new partnerships”, says Minerva’s COO, Julian Cox. “A broad range of premium industry exhibitors
was represented, including an impressive line-up of service providers,” he continues. “All exhibitors added real value to the show. Exhibitors showcased new product launches, while visitors came ready to do business, placing orders, making new connections, and finalising plans ahead of the winter sale season. “The atmosphere throughout the show was vibrant and energetic,” Julian adds. “The halls were filled with lively conversation and positive interaction. “As the show ended, one thing was clear – the industry is keen to support the format, the venue, and the professionalism of the event. Minerva Furniture Group would like to thank all visitors and exhibitors for
49
“One thing was clear – the industry is keen to support the format, the venue, and the professionalism of the event
their support and attendance – it was a great occasion to bring the industry together under one roof.” The show also included a well-attended gala dinner which was hailed as “a great success”, says Julian, “with all participants enjoying the evening”, and saw Whitemeadow Furniture receive the event’s Best Stand Award. “We’re excited to confirm that the Autumn Furniture Show will return to Telford on 7-8th October 2026,” Julian concludes. www.theautumnfurnitureshow.co.uk
50 EVENTS AUTUMN FURNITURE SHOW
Wiemann enjoys busy autumn shows
Phoenix
The company, which celebrated its 125th birthday last month, reported good attendance and positive feedback at Autumn Long Point, the NBF Bed Show and the Autumn Furniture Show. The Wiemann display at all events was popular, as the team behind the brand showed off quality products and demonstrated its leading customer service commitment. The 125th anniversary comes just less than two years after marking two decades of working with Litmus Furniture, Wiemann’s sole agent for the UK and Ireland. The partnership has seen the UK and Ireland become well established as Wiemann’s largest export market.
New York
“We had great feedback on our ranges
Dubai
Leading German bedroom manufacturer Wiemann successfully exhibited a wealth of contemporary furniture this autumn …
Litmus Furniture’s MD Simon Hewitt says: “We are passionate about producing high-quality furniture and backing it up with an enviable delivery, installation and customer service. We were delighted to welcome lots of visitors to our displays at the various shows and share Wiemann’s autumn 2025 offering.” Generating a buzz at the shows was: Ohio, with its multiple door options; the classic New York, featuring solid oak doors; the super-versatile Phoenix; and Dubai, a classy, ultra-modern range with sliding doors. Kai Schwenke, Wiemann’s export manager, adds: “We had great feedback on our ranges, especially the lighting effects, which sets the products apart, creating a focus for a stunning bedroom. Ohio has eye-catching floor-to-ceiling lights, while the downlights on New York bring a touch of glamour. Dubai’s internal lighting behind smoky glass is sophisticated and trendsetting.” Wiemann has two permanent showrooms, in Harlow and Long Eaton, and appointments to view at either can be made by emailing enquiries@wiemannuk.co.uk. www.wiemannuk.co.uk
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BED INDUSTRY AWARDS 2025-26
A Furniture News supplement delivered in partnership with the NBF
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BED INDUSTRY AWARDS 55
“They’re leading an industry that’s already punching well above its weight Welcome back to another official Bed Industry Awards special! The NBF’s big September shindig never fails to impress, and this year’s gala dinner was memorable for all the right reasons – good hospitality, lively entertainment, and some great company. I’m going to resist littering my introduction with Oasis puns, although seeing Vernon Kay step up to belt out Rock ‘n’ Roll Star with the evening’s live band certainly got the night off to a strong start (you’ll see from the photos that a good time was had!). At the heart of the dinner was the presentation of various awards – eight this year – each recognising the most captivating strategies and products in the UK and Irish bed industry, across retail, supply and manufacture. It’s been something of an uphill battle for many this year, so the entrants have had to dig a little deeper than usual to find that special sauce – but find it they did. Congratulations to winners Harrison Spinks, The Vita Group, Sealy UK, John Cotton Nonwovens, Bensons for Beds, MattressNextDay, Mattressman and The M6 Bed Warehouse, and to all the finalists – not forgetting the entries that almost made the cut. As a judge for the Bed Product of the Year category, I was again astounded by the sheer levels of comfort on offer. I don’t think I’ve ever found it harder to snap out of a ‘rest test’ and get on with the business of scoring (yes, I know, it’s a hard life), and while the old adage “you get what you pay for” still applies, it never ceases to amaze me how the submissions get better and better, at every price point. Health and wellbeing are high on the consumer’s agenda, and a good mattress (these were above and beyond) is one of the most important purchases they can make. Thanks to manufacturers and retailers like those listed, there are plenty worthy of their spend. I tip my hat again to the NBF for co-ordinating and delivering this annual celebration of the best in beds, and for entrusting Furniture News to tell the Bed Industry Awards story in the detail it deserves. This year, as well as each entry’s highlights, judges’ comments and party pics, you’ll find even deeper insight from the people at each winning business, views from the judges on the evaluation process, and a good deal more. In closing, I know these winners would never rest on their laurels, but I think that perhaps, if only for a moment, they deserve to – safe in the knowledge that they’ve gone supernova (sorry!) in an industry that’s already punching well above its weight.
Paul Farley Editor-in-chief, Furniture News
56 BED INDUSTRY AWARDS
Above and beyond
“The stand-out companies in the UK and Irish bed sector
former master, The Furniture Makers’ Company), Jonathan Hindle (chairman, BFC and MD, KI Europe)
Vernon Kay ably hosted the presentation
The NBF’s Bed Industry Awards celebrate the brightest and best in beds each year, and the class of 2025-26 continues to set a high bar. In this official feature, Furniture News looks in depth at the manufacturers, suppliers and retailers leading the industry right now …
and Richard Naylor (CEO and founder, Hawksfield and Hawksfield Innovations). Supplier of the Year (p62): Recognising the achievements and innovations of component and service suppliers at a company level. The judges were: Brian Ahern, Jonathan Hindle and Richard Naylor. Bed Product of the Year (p66): Recognising the On 29th September, following a busy first day of the Bed Show, radio and TV broadcaster Vernon Kay took to the stage at the gala dinner to reveal the winners of this year’s Bed Industry Awards, backed by lively tribute band Oasish. Having submitted themselves to a rigorous inspection process, carried out by an independent panel of judges, eight winners emerged victorious. These champions, and the finalists in their categories, share their stories across the following pages, while Furniture News looks more closely at the assessment process, the value of NBF membership … and the fun the attendees had on the night! NBF president Tean Dallaway says: “Now in their 16th year, the esteemed NBF Bed Industry Awards remain a valuable opportunity to recognise the standout companies in the UK and Irish bed sector who have gone above and beyond in the last 12 months. Congratulations to all the worthy winners and finalists, and to those who put themselves forward to be judged.” The awards were sponsored by Highgrove Beds, the gala dinner drinks reception by Harrison Spinks, and the band by Adjust-A-Bed. This year’s programme included four awards for NBF member manufacturers and suppliers, and four for retailers that predominantly stock NBF-approved member brands. Bed Manufacturer of the Year (p58): Recognising the achievements and innovations of NBF-approved manufacturer members at a company level. The judges were: Brian Ahern (British Furniture Association, British Furniture Confederation, and
most outstanding new product. The judges were: Sue Davies (owner, Sue Davies Design Solutions), Steve Adams (founder and CEO, Mattress Online), Paul Farley (editor-in-chief, Furniture News), James Dunne (operations director, Prestige Beds) and Jo Fielding (beds category manager, AIS). Component Product of the Year (p70): Awarded to the most innovative component product or machine used in manufacturing a finished product. The judges were: David Morris (purchasing director, Sleepeezee), Natalie Armstrong (product development manager, Sealy UK) and Danny Blackmore (operations director, Silentnight). Small Retail Champion of the Year (p76): The Retail Champion awards are open to all retailers signed up to the NBF’s Retail Champions Scheme, which supports businesses whose product offer comprises at least 50% NBF-approved member brands. This category is open to retailers with one or two stores, recognising the contributions of independents. The judges were: Jarrod Bird (sales director, Interiors Monthly), Bernard Eaton (MD, Greenwood Retail) and Dan Squires (editor, Big Furniture Group). Medium NBF Retail Champion of the Year (p80): This category is open to retailers with 3-20 stores. The judges were: Jarrod Bird, Bernard Eaton and Dan Squires. National Bed Retailer of the Year (p86): For retail businesses with more than 20 stores. The judges were: Jarrod Bird, Bernard Eaton, Dan Squires and Richard McMurrough (director of strategic and brand consultancy, The Propaganda Agency). Online Bed Retailer of the Year (p90): For businesses at which at least 80% of the sales are
Tribute band Oasish bookended the evening with a set of indie classics
transacted via the internet. The judges were: Jarrod Bird, Bernard Eaton, Dan Squires and James Winfield (digital director, The Propaganda Agency). Read on to find out who won, and why, and how their teams feel to be named the best in the UK bed industry … www.bedshow.co.uk/awards
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As this year’s winners were revealed, they joined celebrity host Vernon Kay and NBF president Tean Dallaway on the gala dinner stage to collect their trophies …
Clockwise from top right: The Vita Group’s Greg Flynn, Nicoleta Stoian, Alan Blythe, Justyna Nowak; Louis, Oliver and Joe Mitchell, The M6 Bed Warehouse; Sealy UK’s Natalie Armstrong, Mark Tuley; MattressNextDay’s Lewis Wills, Barry Rickhuss; Mattressman’s Mark Wootton, Marc Coles, Amy Chandler, Daniel Harverson, Andrew Kerry, Jodie Huggins; John Cotton Nonwovens’ Mark Baron, Mike Holmes, Stephen Midgley; Harrison Spinks’ Graham Astle, Simon Spinks, Nick Booth; and Bensons’ Paul Owen, Mark Slater, Pam Johnson, Neil Hesseling
Industry heroes
58 BED INDUSTRY AWARDS
Bed Manufacturer of the Year: Winner
Harrison Spinks
Harrison Spinks’ workforce celebrates the King’s Award
Harrison Spinks’ branding, ‘Cut from a Different Cloth’, is designed to stand out from the crowd, and there is no doubt that in the market space it occupies, the company continues to perform with excellence on all fronts … Financially, improved efficiency contributed to good bottom-line performance – while topline sales also grew – particularly thanks to a complete re-range of products and marketing for independent customers. The year has seen a renewed strategic focus on customer service, using direct feedback to develop a road map of activity to address what is important to them. As a result, a new electronic ordering system has been developed to increase speed and accuracy and reduce customer queries. Harrison Spinks became a member of the Institute of Customer Service in April, signalling its commitment to continuous customer service improvements. During the year, over 100 independent stores have been through an intensive programme of PoS and digital marketing support, leading to 10-15% YoY increases in sales. Significant PoS installations and concept store development for group customers have also driven double-digit sales improvements.
Two new marketing support innovations were also launched: a new and improved AI-based Bed Visualiser, which can be integrated into retailers’ own websites to further enhance their bed offering; and significant upgrades to its retailer portal, where customers can now download all their marketing assets – from spec sheets to brand videos, product photography, social media templates and more – all tailored to their specific ranges at login. Marketing collateral for export and licence customers in Asia, North America and Europe has also been re-engineered and re-imagined, with customer-tailored content specific to each product, range and brand story. Product and manufacturing innovation also continues unabated. Highlights of the year include the development of a new ultrasonic pocket spring assembler which produces a more consistent, stronger and longer-lasting weld, delivering considerably better product performance. It is also +40% faster than previous equipment, so has an added benefit of energy, waste and production time savings. To complement the wool mattress collections and meet growing demand for natural, sustainable luxury, a new British Wool Pillow Collection was also launched earlier this year.
“Staff morale is at an all-time high These create a useful upsell for customers, as well as helping to widen the brand offering through other retail outlets. In conjunction with sister company Spinks Springs, the company has also developed a patented new micro spring comfort layer, Microlution (working title), which won best in its class at interzum. This ‘nested’ spring product provides further sleeper comfort, by using the spaces between the springs to add a secondary support phase when adding pressure. Meanwhile, on the bedmaker’s farm, sunflowers are being grown as a trial crop to enhance biodiversity and soil health but also ultimately to produce a new, natural fibre for the company’s mattress fillings layers and enlarge its unique homegrown story. Sustainability is always a focus, with the company on target towards reaching its long-term goal of Net Zero by 2050. Further reductions of 10% in Scope 1 and 37% in Scope 2 emissions have been achieved during the year, while certification as fully organic should
New brand PoS in Rodgers of York
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be achieved by January 2026. In October 2024, the company became an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), putting 51% into the trust of its employees, with the Spinks family retaining 49%. This move not only aims to secure the future direction of the company, ensuring core values and ways of working are protected in the long term, but also gives all employees a vested interest in how
the business is run, and the ability to share in its success. On the back of positive 2024-25 financial performance, a tax-free bonus of £500 has been paid to all employees. No wonder staff morale is at an all-time high! Harrison Spinks is no stranger to awards and accolades, but in the past year it has scooped a King’s Award for Sustainable Development, which was presented in person by HRH
Princess Anne, who visited the factory and the farm – while chairman Simon Spinks was recognised in the King’s New Year’s Honours with an OBE for services to the mattress and bed industry, citing his commitment to sleep innovation. And now the NBF Bed Manufacturer of the Year 2025 award! www.harrisonspinks.co.uk
Nick Booth, MD, Harrison Spinks Beds
“A testament to the dedication, skill and passion of our entire team
How do you feel about the win? We’re incredibly proud to have been recognised as the National Bed Federation’s Bed Manufacturer of the Year for the second consecutive year, and for the fifth time overall. It’s a milestone that reflects the hard work of everyone at Harrison Spinks, and a moment for our colleagues to feel proud to be part of an award-winning British manufacturing business. Being part of the NBF and winning this
award is something we’re truly proud of, and it reflects just how we approach bedmaking differently. ‘Cut from a Different Cloth’ is our belief in doing things the right way using homegrown fillings and responsible innovation, to create lovingly handcrafted beds. We’re a family business that puts our colleagues and the needs of our customers at the heart of everything we do. This prestigious accolade recognises not only our dedication to craftsmanship, innovation and sustainability, but also the collective effort of the entire Harrison Spinks family – working together to achieve something truly special. Thank you also to our customers, who value our vertically integrated business model and our commitment to making the most comfortable mattresses and beds in the most responsible way.
How do you plan to capitalise on/ celebrate it? Winning this award again is a testament to the dedication, skill and passion of our entire team, and we’ll be capitalising on this by sharing the news across our internal and external communications, through our PR activity, in collaboration with our retail partners, and on our website. What’s in the pipeline for the coming year? Following a very successful NBF Bed Show, where we received fantastic feedback on our new products – particularly our concept beds – we’re feeling very positive about the next 12 months. We look forward to introducing elements of these into future products, as we have some exciting new launches coming up in the next year.
60 BED INDUSTRY AWARDS
Bed Manufacturer of the Year: Finalists
Silentnight As the UK’s biggest bed manufacturer and one of its leading brands, one would expect Silentnight to have a laser focus on quality, service and customer satisfaction, and for Corporate Social Responsibility to run ‘like a golden thread’ through everything it does. The year has delivered some real achievements: a suite of new products focused around better temperature control, including last year’s Bed Product of the Year, Airmesh, along with new marketing and PoS materials to support these; the Operational Excellence Award from the Kaizen Institute, which covers all business functions, including customer service; and not only measuring but reducing the notoriously challenging Scope 3 emissions by over 10%; while introducing Product Passports on all product and materials SKUs – which run into the tens of thousands! This year’s TV advertising campaign, ‘sleep great, Britain’ delivered a 7% uptick in brand awareness, with Sky research showing the ad receiving its highest-ever scores for viewer relevance and attention – across all brands in all markets. Silentnight also set out to increase brand awareness among 18-34 year olds with the aim of
future-proofing the brand. Its social
over the past 12 months.
and influencer content had over
At the heart of this success is
800 million views in the past year,
the decision to pivot the business
leading to a 23-point increase in
away from building its own label
brand awareness in that age group.
to becoming the ’Brand Behind
www.silentnight.co.uk
Your Brand’.
Shire Beds
product lines tailored to individual
Shire Beds is on an exciting
retailers’ own-brand identities, and
journey, with ambitions to more
delivering profit margins some
than double the size of the
30% higher than the norm. The
business in the next five years
package – already adopted by over
– and it has started well, with
200 retailers – includes custom
turnover increasing by over a third
product development and design,
Shire is offering bespoke
bespoke branding, packaging and PoS, reliable UK-based manufacturing and delivery, and marketing and technical support. To support this offer, Shire has invested in its manufacturing infrastructure to improve productivity, enhance product consistency, and support scalable operations – and has expanded its workforce, increasing headcount by over 30%. This has included the creation of new roles across manufacturing, logistics, sales and customer service to enable increased production capacity, supported by enhanced training programmes and wellbeing initiatives aimed at fostering a resilient, skilled and engaged workforce. Meanwhile, Shire has worked hard to establish its credibility within West Yorkshire, with director Fara Butt chairing the West Yorkshire Manufacturing Advisory Board, contributing to policy discussions and helping futureproof the sector. A proportion (2.5%) of the company’s profits are donated to good causes – locally and in Pakistan. www.shirebeds.co.uk
61
Driving innovation, partnership and performance “This achievement reflects the company’s ongoing
Solitude 11000
Shire Beds continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the UK’s most trusted and forwardthinking bedding manufacturers, capping an “outstanding” year as one of the three finalists in the Bed Industry Awards’ Manufacturer of the Year category.
commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and retailer-focused solutions,” says Shire, which supports over 200 independent furniture and bed retailers through its exclusive ‘Brand Behind Your Brand’ white-label programme, with collections designed to help retailers achieve better margins, stronger brand identity, and long-term growth. The Capri and Ravello Collections, where Shire’s white-label story began, remain stand-out performers. Crafted with natural materials and hand side-stitched, pocket-sprung construction, these double-sided mattresses “match the quality of leading branded alternatives while offering exceptional value”, says Shire. Now with a 10-year guarantee, they continue to
Verona 2000
deliver impressive sales and retailer confidence. In line with this, the Artisan and Boutique ranges of divans and headboards also now carry a 10year guarantee and are available in six additional colourways, allowing retailers to offer fully coordinated bedroom solutions. At the Bed Show, Shire Beds’ stand showcased its full white-label portfolio, featuring seven distinctive collections that combine comfort, performance and retail versatility. Visitors were particularly drawn to the Tencel and Bamboo Hybrid range, featuring foam-
Sienna 2000
encapsulated borders and pocket springs (1,000, 3,000 and 5,000). Each model includes high-density, pressure-relieving viscoelastic foam infused with gel bead technology for advanced comfort and temperature regulation. Complementing this innovation, Shire Beds’ Cool Nytz Collection continues to address growing demand for temperature-controlled sleep, while the Solitude range offers a sustainable, chemical-free option for eco-conscious consumers. For premium buyers, the Verona and Sienna collections blend wool, silk and cashmere, delivering luxury and craftsmanship. Retailers praised not only the quality and comfort of Shire Beds’ products but also the flexibility for ownlabel branding, giving partners control over pricing, margins, and in-store differentiation. “The response to our products at the show was phenomenal,” says director Fara Butt. “Retailers loved the combination of modern styling, sustainable materials and white-label opportunity. Being recognised among the top-three manufacturers nationally validates our approach and our team’s hard work.” Behind the scenes, Shire Beds has experienced a year of strategic growth, expanding its workforce by over
“Recognition at this level is about more than awards
30% and reinvesting more than £250,000 in advanced machinery and automation. These investments, along with new staff development initiatives, have enhanced quality, scalability and sustainability. Operational improvements, including short delivery times and a no-quibble returns policy, have further
As Shire Beds looks to the future, the company remains focused on innovation and retailer success. Through its ‘Brand Behind Your Brand’ initiative, partners gain access to bespoke PoS materials, merchandising support, and co-ordinated bedroom solutions to drive profitability and brand growth. A redesigned website, launching later this year, will showcase the complete product portfolio – including Capri, Ravello, Cool Nytz, Solitude, and luxury collections – while enhancing digital engagement and customer support. “Recognition at this level is about more than awards – it demonstrates that quality, innovation and partnership deliver real business results,” adds Fara. “Our focus remains on helping retailers thrive while setting new standards in comfort, sustainability and performance.” With a growing product range, modern design ethos, and dedication to partnership and excellence, Shire Beds says it “continues to shape the future of the UK bedding industry”.
strengthened customer trust and demonstrated Shire Beds’ commitment to reliability and partnership.
www.shirebeds.co.uk
62 BED INDUSTRY AWARDS
Supplier of the Year: Winner
The Vita Group
Vita has confirmed its direction
It has been a year of transformation at Vita, which is celebrating 75 years in business and using this milestone to realign its structure, with a focus on empowering its teams to sharpen their areas of expertise and drive forward its sustainability and innovation ambitions … A key achievement was being awarded an EcoVadis Platinum rating, scoring 83/100, placing the company in the top 1% of companies assessed globally. The award recognises leadership in sustainable innovation, ethical business practices, social responsibility and inclusion, and sustainable procurement. It was a breakthrough year for product innovation, with two major advancements “redefining” sustainability and performance in flexible polyurethane (PU) foam technology. Orbis Ultra represents a leap in circularity for PU foams. Developed in close collaboration with Evonik, this pilot-scale concept foam incorporates up to 100% recycled polyol and up to 100% recycled
“It was a breakthrough year for product innovation TDI, enabling foam production with over 95% total recycled content – a true closedloop solution, which achieves 60% carbon footprint reduction compared to conventional foam, maintains superior resilience, durability and comfort, and seamlessly integrates into existing applications, offering a low-carbon, high-performance alternative, says Vita. Vita’s team has delivered multiple charitable donations this year
“It sets a new benchmark for circular design, material efficiency and environmental responsibility, helping to unlock a low-carbon future for the PU industry,” Vita states. For the UK market, Vita has developed FRee Plus, the latest advancement in its FRee foam range. This pioneering polyether flexible PU foam is engineered to meet the stringent requirements of Schedule 1, Part 1 of The Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations, while delivering the same level of durability and comfort as conventional foam products. Melamine- and TCPP-free, FRee Plus eliminates harmful additives, significantly reducing VOC emissions and improving indoor
63
air quality. Other features include: a low-odour, scorch-free formulation to ensure a safer and more comfortable experience; exceptional fire resistance, retaining all the protective benefits of the original FRee formulation; versatile applications for furniture, bedding, and high-performance upholstery; exceptional resilience, maintaining structure and support over time; and a soft yet durable feel for long-
lasting comfort. Vita’s anniversary campaign, celebrating both its legacy and its future vision, has focused on positioning the company for thought leadership in its space, with a number of industry forums and media engagements, as well as targeted campaigns featuring its latest product, Orbis Ultra, and its other sustainability credentials. Staff were encouraged to donate time and
money to their local communities as part of the group’s 75th anniversary celebrations. At its Manchester and Accrington sites, this took the form of supporting 75 different initiatives, from planting trees, painting and maintaining local areas, to donating time to local hospitals and care homes. www.thevitagroup.com
Greg Flynn, sales director Western Europe and UK (furniture and bedding), The Vita Group
How do you plan to capitalise on/ celebrate it? We plan to celebrate the win internally to recognise everyone’s contribution – it’s a team success. Externally, we’ll be using the accolade across our marketing, social media and trade communications to strengthen brand credibility and support our customer base. It’s also a great platform to open new conversations, both with customers and prospective partners. What’s in the pipeline for the coming year? The year ahead is all about building momentum. We’re investing further into product innovation and sustainability, expanding our use of environmentally responsible materials. We’re also investing a significant amount into training for all our commercial teams across The Vita Group, to further enhance and develop their abilities to meet customer expectations. How do you feel about the win? We’re absolutely delighted with the win – it’s a proud moment, and kudos for everyone in the business. It recognises the hard work, commitment and passion that our team brings every day. More importantly, it validates our ongoing focus on quality, innovation and customer trust. It’s a fantastic boost and a clear sign that we’re moving in the right direction. What points in your entry do you think swung the victory? We believe the judges recognised that we attempt to take the ‘right steps, not necessarily the easy ones’ in what is a challenging market. Our entry highlighted tangible improvements in sustainability without a concession on quality, but offering our customers a science-based validated USP, as well as a strong emphasis on our B2B partnerships. Above all, it reflected a culture of passion, integrity and continuous improvement that runs throughout the business.
“It’s a fantastic boost and a clear sign that we’re moving in the right direction
64 BED INDUSTRY AWARDS
Supplier of the Year: Finalists to improve logistics operation. The business has also moved to a brand-new spring factory in Turkey, opened a new warehouse in the US, and brought in additional staff across all operations (in the UK, US and Turkey). John Cotton also took home this year’s Component Product of the Year accolade
But perhaps the main gamechanger has been becoming the UK distributor for BekaertDeslee. This has seen existing Bekaert-Deslee customers move their stockholdings from overseas warehousing to Fotex’s UK warehouse, enabling them to reduce their stockholding, improve their cashflow, reduce stock movements and receive next-day delivery from Fotex. The new marketing strategy has resulted in a new website and corporate signage, companybranded uniforms and safety equipment, and increased social media exposure. John Cotton Nonwovens
launch has been Platinum Q
bedding and upholstery industry,
John Cotton Group continues to
– a quiltable version of its award-
focused on delivering good-
respected industry organisations
innovate in product, sustainability,
winning Platinum 3D, engineered
quality springs, mattress ticking
and certification bodies (NBF,
and customer service. This year,
to deliver a plush, premium feel
and upholstery fabrics as quickly
SEDEX, FSC) to highlight its
a significant £1.5m investment
in the top layer of a mattress
and efficiently as possible.
commitment to corporate
in a state-of-the-art thermal
without compromising the core
This strategy is paying off, with
responsibility and ethical
bonding oven has dramatically
support benefits. It has already
both sales and profits growing as
behaviour. The company is
reduced emissions and created
been successfully adopted by a
quality new relationships are built.
committed to obtaining ISO 9001
a cleaner working environment
major national, and is supported
Significant investments this year
for both employees and
by a suite of marketing materials,
include a complete renovation of
as part of its corporate
surrounding communities.
including videos which can
its UK showroom and warehousing,
responsibility journey.
Another major innovation
be filmed at customers’ own
and additional lorries and trailers
www.fotex.co.uk
production sites.
insulator pads made using post-
John Cotton has also invested
consumer waste, including used
this year in its technical laboratory,
quilts, mattress materials, and
expanding its team of skilled
PET binders instead of traditional
professionals. The increased
polypropylene. These pads not
knowledge base has directly
only offer a cleaner production
contributed to faster innovation
process with significantly less
cycles and more robust, evidence-
dust, but are also easier to recycle
led solutions. One example is the
at the end of their life.
development of an Articulated
John Cotton has also pioneered a circular economy model. Using
Mattress Testing Machine designed to replicate mattress performance
its own transport fleet on return
in real-world conditions.
journeys from customer sites, the
www.johncotton-nonwovens.
company collects waste materials
co.uk
for recycling. Customers have been
Fotex Group
provided with balers to compact
This year, Fotex embarked
waste into manageable bales,
on a new business strategy
simplifying logistics and reducing
and marketing campaign to
landfill impact.
rebrand and reposition itself as
A significant new product
a significant player within the
and 14001 over the next year,
The Fotex spring factory in Turkey
has been the transition to white
Fotex has also joined
65
Same quality, lower impact
Scan to find out more
Choose our Orbis flexible PU foam range. Orbis has the same quality and durability as our standard foam grades but with a reduced environmental impact. Swapping to Orbis can result in a carbon reduction of up to 4%, supporting your business in meeting its sustainability goals. Contact us now to learn more. info@thevitagroup.com www.thevitagroup.com
Fotex stands as the UK’s leading manufacturer of springs and wholesaler of fabrics. Our comprehensive range includes pocket, Bonnell, and tablet springs, complemented by the nation’s largest warehouse for mattress ticking and upholstery fabrics. As the UK distributor of Bekaert-Deslee fabrics, Fotex also supplies grey board, non-wovens, and insulator pads. We manage stock levels, oversee your inventory, and offer next-day delivery services. For those aiming to optimize space, reduce expenses, and enhance cash flow, Fotex represents the perfect solution. www.fotex.co.uk / sales@fotex.co.uk Phone: 01924 431 350
66 BED INDUSTRY AWARDS
Bed Product of the Year: Winner
Elevate Edison Luxury Plush mattress, Sealy UK
The mattress is packed with patented technology, from unique coils to world-leading edge support, innovative comfort fillings and bespoke fabrics. It offers a luxury feel that is unique to Sealy Posturepedic – “a feel which simply cannot be replicated”. Working alongside the Orthopaedic Advisory Board, Sealy understands the body’s skeletal alignment and what it takes to achieve restorative, high-quality rest. At the core of the mattress is the AlignSupport coil, which operates in two stages. It starts by sensing the sleeper’s shape as their body relaxes into the mattress. The unique geometry of the coil then follows up with deep-down, consistent support that does not diminish over time, thanks to twice-tempered technology for added durability. Every Sealy Posturepedic is UniCased for added edge support, so the user benefits from a larger usable sleep surface. The Edison Luxury Plush is also available with the latest FlexKey edge support, offering compatibility with an adjustable base. Both edge support systems are supported by Sealy BasePlank, underpinning the entire mattress and working with the support system to provide dependable durability. Only the highest quality materials that strike “the perfect balance” between durability and eco-friendliness are used in the Edison. ComfortCore, positioned in the centre third of the mattress, targets the heaviest part of
Product development manager Natalie Armstrong enjoyed a successful show
“This is a standout winner
Sealy UK’s winning team
A deserving winner of this category, with all the judges scoring it in first place, the Elevate Edison Luxury Plush mattress is a new addition to Sealy’s award-winning Posturepedic collection.
the body for personalised pressure relief – while a double layer of exclusive InfiniLux, a high-resilience, high-quality foam, recovers “instantly” after every use. Additional layers of medium-softness foam complement InfiniLux to provide a plush feel, while nestled in the quilt layer is EternityFibre, designed to reduce settlement and body impressions. Sealy only uses components and manufacturing techniques that make its products easier to disassemble at the end of their life – allowing materials to be recycled, reused or refurbished. For added peace of mind, all of the foams and fibres used in the Edison Luxury Plush are certified by OekoTex and Certipur. The mattress is dressed in a distinctive fabric infused with advanced sleep technology. At the forefront is ProShield – a cutting-edge, bio-based treatment that safeguards the sleep surface. Endorsed by Allergy UK, ProShield actively targets and eliminates house dust mites, whilst keeping allergens at bay. It works alongside SmarTex to wick away moisture and regulate sleep climate. To support the launch of the Edison, a new premium PoS package is available to stockists, consisting of power-lit display boards, plus a suite of marketing collateral including product imagery, mattress cutaways, digital ads, promotional assets and social media content,
supported by targeted brand video campaigns via PMax and YouTube. One of the judges commented: “Sealy has listened to the needs and feedback of consumers, responding with a thoughtfully expanded product range that offers greater choice than ever before. By introducing models with a softer feel, they’ve addressed a key market demand while maintaining quality and innovation. Their commitment to consumerfocused design and comfort sets them apart in a competitive field.” Another added: “Sealy have executed an extremely comfortable, great-value and highly commercial product whilst maintaining excellent support for your body with an unrivalled mattress edge, suitable for all sleeping positions. Backed by research and development and excellent marketing resources, this is a stand-out winner.” Sealy UK concludes: “We’re honoured to receive this prestigious award. It’s a proud moment for the entire team and a true celebration of our dedication to product quality, innovation and setting new benchmarks in the mattress industry. Special thanks go to the judges, our retail partners, and the suppliers who continue to support and place their trust in us. It’s a big win for us all.” www.sealy.co.uk
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Elevate Edison Luxury Plush mattress
“We popped a few champagne corks within minutes of picking up the award!
Mark Tuley, CCO, Sealy UK
It’s always a team effort, and touches many functions, including our sourcing and purchasing team, manufacturing colleagues and the members of the sales and marketing team. We take entering the awards very seriously, and a huge thanks must go to Natalie for the time and efforts she puts into this. To win the award means all the hard work from her and the development team has paid off handsomely.
How do you feel about the win? We’re absolutely delighted to have won the coveted Bed Product of the Year award. It’s a massive achievement for the product development team at Sealy UK, led by Natalie Armstrong, but it also reflects a lot of hard work that has gone into this from all areas of the business.
What points in your entry do you think swung the victory? We have worked on the product itself for several months, and had some specific objectives in mind from the outset. Not only did we want to enhance the Posturepedic Elevate range with this product, to ensure we offered our retailers additional levels of comfort for the consumer in their stores, but we also wanted to ensure it offered them the opportunity to deliver incremental sales in a tough economic environment, so we targeted this development at the heartland of Posturepedic price points, with minimal impact to the wholesale price.
How do you plan to capitalise on/ celebrate it? For anyone who was at the NBF dinner on the Tuesday evening, you may be aware that we chose to celebrate with the sales and marketing teams in attendance almost immediately … we popped a few champagne corks within minutes of picking up the award! In all seriousness, having won Bed Product of the Year back in 2022 with an Elevate Ultra product, we know how important this win can be for us in driving incremental business gains for both ourselves and our retail partners. The new product, Edison Luxury Plush, is available for immediate delivery, and we were focused on day two of the Bed Show on securing as many new display orders as we could, and we will be delivering these to those lucky retailers that placed those orders in the next 2-3 weeks. There will be further orders placed in the coming weeks, I’m sure, as the sales team follow up with their key retailers who either couldn’t attend the show, or possibly couldn’t get onto our rather busy stand on Wednesday morning to do so! This will allow us to deliver all these orders in November and help us all to maximise this fabulous opportunity during the peak trading season of Black Friday and throughout the winter sale activity we have planned. What’s in the pipeline for the coming year? As some of retail partners are beginning to realise, Sealy UK’s lifeblood is our ongoing drive for product innovation in the mattress category. We are tireless in our pursuit of excellence in terms of mattress comfort, support and durability – the foundations of Posturepedic technology – and we are already working on new and innovative additions to the Posturepedic ranges for 2026.
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Bed Product of the Year: Finalists
Ultragel Cool-to-Touch 3000 boxtop mattress, Silentnight
Carisbrooke with wool topper, Relyon
Carisbrooke zipped removable topper mattress, Relyon At the heart of the Carisbrooke lies a simple but powerful innovation – a zipped removable topper system designed to combat mattress settlement, the most frequent source of customer dissatisfaction and returns in the sector. This design allows consumers to replace or rotate the topper, customise their comfort, and extend the life and performance of their mattress. It addresses hygiene, durability and long-term value in one elegant solution. Both topper styles are designed to work with the same base, allowing consumers or retailers to easily switch styles without investing in an entirely new mattress. Visually, the Carisbrooke bridges both modern and traditional tastes. The main mattress body is deep and sumptuous, with elegant side stitching and a highquality damask border. It takes on the appearance of a luxurious pillowtop mattress but with the added flexibility of a fully zipped removable topper, available in two distinctive styles: the foam topper features a modern flat quilted finish in breathable fabric, delivering a sleek, contemporary aesthetic; while the wool topper boasts deep hand tufting and a traditional feel, ideal for customers who favour timeless comfort and style.
At the Carisbrooke’s core is a robust and responsive 1500 fullheight pocket spring foundation with a layer of 2000-count nano pocket springs and layers of cotton, West Country wool, and resilient polyester (70% recycled content) providing comfort with responsible sourcing. The judges said: “A visually appealing product, expertly tailored with a sumptuous feel. Offering good value and maximising the conversion opportunity for floor
space with two different innovative zipped toppers that help to combat settlement. A close runner-up to the winner.” www.relyon.co.uk Ultragel Cool-to-Touch 3000 boxtop mattress, Silentnight What makes this product truly innovative is the integration of advanced cool-to-touch technology directly into the surface fabric. This clever construction delivers an instant cooling sensation the moment the user lies down, helping regulate body temperature and encouraging faster sleep onset. In addition to its cooling properties, its responsive comfort layer provides targeted pressure relief while actively adapting to the sleeper’s movements. It cushions them as they settle, then rebounds quickly, allowing them to shift positions smoothly without disturbing their partner. It is “smart, seamless comfort created for deeper, uninterrupted sleep”. It offers value for money by delivering premium comfort and cooling technology at an attainable price point, with advanced materials and sleeper benefits are typically found in
higher-end products. Available across a wide network of retailers, UltraGel Cool-to-Touch 3000 “makes the perfect night’s sleep accessible to more customers”. The judges commented: “As you would expect from Silentnight, marketing support for this product is exceptional. They have developed a comprehensive suite of marketing assets designed to bring its features and benefits to life across every touchpoint.” This includes high-impact video content that showcases the UltraGel material in detail, highlights product aesthetics, and uses animation to clearly communicate the technologies. A rich library of product imagery complements this, featuring close-up detail shots and lifestyle roomset photography, both with and without models and from undressed to fully styled. To elevate the in-store experience, a bespoke shop-inshop display has been created, with PoS materials that incorporate UltraGel-specific messaging and visuals, ensuring the range is instantly recognisable and compelling to shoppers. www.silentnight.co.uk
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Sealy steals the show Sealy UK’s show team
Sealy UK was overjoyed to claim the Bed Product of the Year accolade, for its impressive Elevate Edison Luxury Plush model. Furniture News asked Natalie Armstrong, product development manager at Sealy Posturepedic, for details …
Natalie Armstrong
How was the Bed Show for Sealy Posturepedic this year? The Bed Show continues to be one of the highlights of our calendar. It’s an invaluable platform to reconnect with our retail partners, meet new faces, and showcase the ongoing evolution of Sealy Posturepedic. This year’s event had such a positive atmosphere. We experienced a real buzz around the stand, with visitors eager to understand more about the technology, craftsmanship and design detail that go into our collections. It was a brilliant opportunity to demonstrate not only our latest products, but also the values that sit at the heart of our brand. Congratulations on the award win! What does this recognition mean for Sealy Posturepedic? We’re absolutely thrilled. Winning such a prestigious award is a real testament to the hard work and collaboration that happens across every department within Sealy. It’s a reflection of the innovation, dedication and expertise that drive our team daily. For us, it’s more than recognition – it reinforces that our commitment to creating world-class sleep
solutions is resonating with both the trade and “Our consumers alike. commitment to How was the feedback from retailers and visitors creating world- at the show? The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. class sleep Retailers commented on how refined and cohesive the new collections look, and how the smaller solutions is details, from our bespoke fabrics to the advanced technology, make a tangible difference. resonating with Posturepedic Hearing that our products are not only meeting expectations, but helping to define them, is incredibly the trade and rewarding, and gives us huge confidence as we move consumers alike forward into the new season.
Aside from the Elevate Edison Luxury Plush, did any particular product stand out? The Elevate Edison Luxury Plush certainly captured attention – retailers were drawn to its luxurious comfort and the quality of finish – but, that said, the appeal extended across the full collection. From indulgently soft to reassuringly firm feels, our goal has always been to offer comfort for every kind of sleeper. The interest across the range was a great indicator that we’re achieving that balance. What’s next for Sealy UK and Ireland? We’re entering an exciting phase. Our focus remains on continuous innovation, elevating design, and strengthening our premium offering. Product development will remain central throughout 2026, as we explore new materials, enhanced technologies, and ways to make our collections even more tailored to consumer needs. It’s about pushing the boundaries of comfort while staying true to what Sealy has always stood for – quality, expertise, and a good night’s sleep. www.sealy.co.uk
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Component Product of the Year: Winner
Platinum Q, John Cotton Nonwovens John Cotton’s eye-catching show stand
It is a well-known fact that polyester goes flat when one tries to quilt it, states supplier John Cotton Nonwovens, whose customer feedback and market analysis revealed an unmet need for a more luxurious, plush feel in the mattress top layer, without losing the core benefits of support and longevity. John Cotton subsequently set about developing a version of its award-winning Platinum polyester padding which could fill the gap. Platinum’s advanced construction, leveraging a unique blend of spiral crimped conjugate fibres, combined with a superior Japanese elastomeric binder, set a new industry benchmark when it was launched, says John Cotton, providing “a fully circular polyester pad to rival foam”. Platnum Q brings that same technology and performance to the surface – a harmony of structural integrity and indulgent softness,
Mattress technology testing in action at John Cotton
engineered to meet the evolving demands of modern consumers seeking enhanced comfort and performance in their mattresses. Platinum Q has been developed in close partnership with Dreams’ manufacturing, and has already proved its worth. It is easy to integrate into existing product lines, without significant cost or delay. By using Platinum Q in the top layer, mattress producers can elevate their entire product range’s performance and appeal, resulting in improved customer satisfaction and brand loyalty, says John Cotton. Moreover, its durability helps to reduce returns and product complaints related to mattress sagging or loss of support, enhancing its value for money. John Cotton works closely with all of its customers, offering bespoke testing of a wide range of material combinations in its own laboratory, and can customise a suite of supportive, explanatory marketing materials and messages, including videos of the customers’ own products being tested. Platinum Q also ticks many of the best practice boxes for sustainable manufacturing – it is made from recycled PET fibres, which can be reused at the end of life in new mattress materials or alternative products subject to the required cleaning processes, reducing waste and supporting a more circular economy thanks to its high durability. “Platinum Q is more than just a new quilting
Mark Baron, sales and marketing director at John Cotton Group, comments: “John Cotton Nonwovens is proud to be awarded the NBF Component Product of the Year 2025, for the innovative Platinum Q 3D mattress component. “This recognition celebrates the team’s commitment to sustainable innovation, quality and performance. Winning this industry award reinforces our passion for pushing boundaries in comfort and design, while supporting customers with advanced, eco-conscious solutions that set new standards in the bedding industry.”
layer, it’s the next evolution in sustainable mattress comfort technology,” the supplier states.
www.johncotton-nonwovens.co.uk
“It’s the next evolution in sustainable mattress comfort technology
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What points in your entry do you think swung the victory? The winning edge for the Platinum Q 3D in the NBF Component Product of the Year award likely came from several stand-out aspects highlighted in the entry. The product builds on the proven success of Platinum 3D, introducing a quilted top layer that delivers indulgent softness without compromising structural support. This demonstrated genuine advancement rather than incremental improvement. The strong eco-design focus, including the use of recycled PET fibres and a circular design approach, positioned Platinum Q as both high-performing and environmentally responsible, a combination that resonates strongly with modern industry values. Platinum Q was developed in direct response to consumer insights and retailer feedback, successfully bridging the gap between luxury comfort and long-term durability. Its adoption by major retail partners like Dreams underscored its commercial credibility. Also, the judges likely appreciated its manufacturing efficiency, which allows quick adoption without costly production changes, and the tangible business benefits such as reduced returns and enhanced brand perception. Together, these factors – innovation, sustainability, market validation, and commercial practicality – created a compelling case that set Platinum Q 3D apart as a true industry-leading component. How do you plan to capitalise on/ celebrate it? Winning the NBF Component Product of the Year for Platinum Q 3D has created fantastic momentum that John Cotton
John Cotton’s proud team (Mark Baron pictured back left)
How do you feel about the win? As John Cotton Group’s sales and marketing director, I couldn’t be prouder that our Platinum Q 3D has been recognised with the NBF Component Product of the Year award. This achievement is a true testament to our team’s drive for innovation, quality, and collaboration with our partners. The Platinum Q 3D represents everything we work for, combining advanced fibre technology with real customer value. To see it celebrated by the industry is incredibly rewarding. This award reinforces our commitment to pushing boundaries and continuing to deliver products that set new standards in performance and comfort.
“John Cotton has an exciting year of innovation and investment ahead fully intends to build on. The product generated huge interest at the show, with our stand providing the perfect platform to demonstrate its unique comfort and performance benefits. Having Dreams already using Platinum Q 3D in their ranges added real credibility, reinforcing its proven success in the marketplace. We’re now following up on the significant interest from other mattress brands, with plans to expand partnerships and showcase the product’s versatility across multiple avenues. What’s in the pipeline for the coming year? John Cotton has an exciting year of
innovation and investment ahead. We’re continuing to strengthen our sustainability credentials with the installation of a £1.5m thermal-bonded line dedicated to processing recycled textiles, reinforcing our commitment to circular manufacturing and reducing waste. Alongside this, we’re introducing a new needling line to further expand the Platinum family of products, enabling the development of advanced comfort layers that don’t require thermal bonding. These investments will not only broaden our product capabilities but also open new opportunities for customers seeking highperformance, environmentally responsible sleep solutions.
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Component Product of the Year: Finalists Serene Carpenter’s PoS extols the virtues of its Serene foam
Serene Foam, Carpenter Carpenter has developed Serene foam as an alternative to memory foam – but without the latter’s tendency to harden in low temperatures. Created with Supportive Air Technology, Serene foam harnesses billions of microscopic air capsules to deliver a luxury, temperature-stable sleep experience with good support and responsiveness, says Carpenter, resulting in immediate pressure relief and consistent comfort across the mattress. Its unique cell structure is significantly less temperaturesensitive than other comfort materials such as viscoelastic foam, and it retains its plush and responsive feel even at temperatures as low as -13°C, says Carpenter.
to convert used domestic waste
properties, is easy to clean and
to prove its temperature claims
vegetable oils from cooking,
will reduce the carbon footprint of
and scores highly for durability
for example, into a softening
the ticking.
performance.
treatment for mattress tickings – a
It has been thoroughly tested
Enviro has twice won the
Customers will be supported
currently unique circular solution
European Responsible Care award
by full marketing materials and
to replace current silicone-based
from the European chemical
technical information.
softeners, which diverts the
industry and has Blue Design,
www.carpenter.com
oils from polluting water and
GOTS and ZDHC certifications
impressed the judges.
and, although this is its launch
Serene is available in multiple thicknesses and can be used in
Enviro fabric treatment, Boyteks
conjunction with other foams and
Boyteks has partnered with an
qualities, Enviro provides
attracting interest in markets such
fillings and springs – either as a top
Italian chemical company, which
moisture management and
as Brazil.
or middle layer.
has found an award-winning way
hydrophility, has anti-static
www.boyteks.com/en/home
In addition to its environmental
into the UK market, it is already
74 BED INDUSTRY AWARDS
Taking foam forward
Podz Pocket
“For comfort that’s smart, sustainable and supportive, meet the next generation of sleep innovation with our mattress ranges featuring the Podz Mini and Podz Pocket foam springs,” Carpenter continues. “Designed to replicate a metal spring, they deliver responsive comfort and firm support, perfect for an undisturbed sleep. And here’s the bonus – these clever foam springs are fully recyclable, making mattress disposal simple and sustainable. “Podz foam springs offer a unique proposition, being available in our full foam range, giving different feels – soft, medium and firm – and can be produced at varying heights.” Podz Mini mattresses are able to respond to body movement and have a spring-like performance with excellent durability to give an exceptional feel, says Carpenter, with the Podz Mini foam springs being used either as a middle or top layer. “The Podz Pocket mattress collection has been crafted to provide exceptional support, motion transfer and edge-to-edge stability,” the supplier explains. “Whether used as a base layer or a plush comfort layer, the Podz Pocket foam springs are built to enhance the quality of sleep with a more sustainable choice at the end-of-life of the mattress. “Our unique Serene Foam, meanwhile, is designed to offer the optimum in comfort and support,” Carpenter continues. “It is enhanced with billions of microscopic air capsules to cradle the body, increase the level of support and aid in reducing pressure on sensitive areas. It gives an immediate comfort response to your body, no matter the temperature, and helps to absorb movement, making Serene Foam the perfect comfort layer for mattresses, toppers, pillows and cushions.” Committed to the markets it serves – and reflected in continued investment – Carpenter has a state-of-the
Podz Mini
“Our innovative foam developments, exclusive profiles and mattresses can enhance your creations
Carpenter’s stand at this year’s Bed Show
Carpenter would like to thank its customers and potential buyers for visiting its stand at the Bed Show. “It was a huge success, with customers loving the feel of the Podz Pocket mattresses and our newly developed Serene Foam, which was a finalist in the Component of the Year category,” says the foam specialist …
art PU foam-pouring facility in Glossop, Derbyshire, which is complemented by its Richbond block production, Carpenter Underlay and conversion and bedding divisions servicing the mattress, upholstery, leisure and mobility sectors with comfort solutions. “If you missed us at The Bed Show, contact sales. uk@carpenter.com to discover a world of Carpenter, and learn how our innovative foam developments, exclusive profiles and mattresses can enhance your creations,” the foam specialist concludes. www.carpenter.com
A W O R L D L E A D E R I N M AT T R E S S E S P I L L O W S TO P P E R S
A HIGHER LEVEL OF INNOVATION
Thank you for your support at the Bed Show. If you missed our innovations, please contact: sales.uk@carpenter.com
TM
®
GRAPHITE FOAM
P CKET
FOAM SPRINGS GRAPHITE FOAM
Serene Foam ®
TM
®
MiNi
FOAM SPRINGS
For more information about our innovative products contact us on 01457 861141 or Email : sales.uk@carpenter.com The Carpenter logo and We bring comfort to your life® are registered trademarks of Carpenter Co.
Serene® Foam and Aurora® are registered trademark of Carpenter co. Podz™ is a trademark of Carpenter Co.
www.carpenter.com
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Small NBF Retail Champion of the Year: Winner
The M6 Bed Warehouse
Inside The M6 Bed Warehouse
The retailer’s Northwich store
The M6 Bed Warehouse topped this category, a recognition of the family-run business’s commitment to trust, service, innovation and community.
“A business that is both thriving commercially and making a meaningful difference
Over the past year, the Cheshire-based retailer has delivered outstanding financial growth, expanded customer choice, championed NBFapproved members’ products, and introduced initiatives that enhance sustainability and customer experience.
Turnover and order volumes rose significantly, supported by website traffic that more than doubled in the qualifying period. Recognising that research is central to buying a high-value product, the business has invested heavily in digital content, ensuring customers
are fully informed before they step into one of its two stores. Growth has also been fuelled by strong relationships with NBF suppliers, with notable increases in sales from Deepsleep, Sealy, Sleepeezee, Infinity Springs and Enchanted House. The business has proudly showcased these brands through PoS materials, product education and in-store investment. A £15,000 refurbishment created a boutique-style Enchanted House studio in the Alsager store, while a new 4.5m educational banner at the Northwich store highlights the technical innovations of Kaymed mattresses. Customer care remains a cornerstone of the business. A bespoke mattress care guide is now attached to every order, offering clear advice on getting the best from a new bed. Free delivery and mattress recycling, in partnership with TFR Group, have helped divert thousands of mattresses from landfill. With an average review rating of 4.8/5, the company continues to be praised for its customer service. Staff development and consistency across the board is also central to its success. Every team member undertakes the NBF Introduction to
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Beds course, alongside factory visits with partner brands. Quarterly reviews focus not only on KPIs but product knowledge and customer feedback. Technology has also played a key role in M6 Beds’ success. New route optimisation software has improved delivery efficiency, cutting emissions and costs while providing real-time updates to customers. This has created a greener, leaner operation and enhanced the overall delivery experience. As an NBF Retail Champion, The M6 Bed Warehouse actively promotes the federation’s values, reassuring customers with official branded swing tickets and PoS materials, and educating them about the risks of noncompliant sellers. The NBF’s Bed Advice UK consumer campaigns such as May Be Time for a New
Mattress have been widely supported across its social media channels, reinforcing this important messaging of buying safe, clean products made by reputable manufacturers. Additional seasonal campaigns, engaging social content, and the retailer’s own Bed of the Month video series have also boosted awareness and footfall. Beyond the showroom, the business remains deeply rooted in its community. A £20,000 donation to a local cricket club funded a new training facility, while its playful involvement in a Pokémon hunt brought families into the town centre. Through a blend of innovation, sustainability, staff development and a genuine passion for customer care, The M6 Bed Warehouse has not only achieved impressive results but also
Louis Mitchell, director, The M6 Bed Warehouse
highlights include diverting more than 2,600 mattresses from landfill through our partnership with TFR Group, implementing route optimisation software to significantly improve logistics efficiency, and creating a mattress care guide for every order. Drawing on both industry resources and over 20 years of experience, the guide helps customers get the best from their investment while reducing common post-purchase concerns. Together, these initiatives demonstrate our commitment to sustainability, innovation and customer care – key values that set us apart.
How do you feel about the win? We’re absolutely honoured and delighted to win this award. Having been finalists last year, it’s fantastic to go one step further and be recognised within the industry for the hard work our whole team puts in to deliver the best possible customer experience. The reaction has been wonderful – our staff are proud and excited, our customers have shared so many kind words, and even suppliers and fellow retailers have sent congratulations, which really makes us feel we’re doing something right. It’s recognition that aligns us with the very best retailers in the country, and winning an NBF award cements all the hard work our teams have done, especially since opening our second store. What points in your entry do you think swung the victory? We gave a lot of thought to our application and took a very considered approach, and we feel that the breadth of our investments this year all contributed to the win. Personal
How do you plan to capitalise on/ celebrate it? We’re making the most of the win by updating all our printed artwork to feature the winners’ logo and refreshing the signage on our delivery vehicles. Large, eye-catching signs will also go up on the front of both stores to showcase the achievement. In addition, we’re working with one of our major NBF suppliers to create an exclusive, limitededition Champions mattress, which we’ll be proudly introducing to our customers in the coming weeks.
set new standards in independent bed retailing, the judges state: “This award recognises a business that is both thriving commercially and making a meaningful difference to its customers and community.” The retailer responds: “We are absolutely delighted to have been recognised as the Small NBF Retail Champion 2025. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, and the trust and loyalty of our customers. As a family business, our focus has always been on delivering quality products and outstanding service. “Congratulations also to all of this year’s finalists and winners – it’s fantastic to see excellence across our industry celebrated.” www.m6beds.co.uk
“Our second store has given us invaluable experience What’s in the pipeline for the coming year? We’re always looking to grow and progress our business further, and recent investments reflect that commitment. We continue to invest in our showrooms, staff training and digital presence to ensure we offer the very best experience, both in-store and online. Our second store has given us invaluable experience of both the positives and the challenges that come with running multiple sites. Building on that, we remain fully committed to our expansion strategy and are actively looking for new opportunities. We’ll continue searching for potential sites that meet our requirements, with the goal of bringing our trusted service, quality products and family values to even more customers in the future.
78 BED INDUSTRY AWARDS
Small NBF Retail Champion of the Year: Finalists Carters Bed City Carters Bed City is a threegeneration family business built on trust, loyalty and exceptional customer service. The Somersetbased retailer is one that its local community can rely on, evidenced by it being in the top six of 93 mattress shops and the top eight of 128 in the bed shop category on Trustpilot. The company’s success is underpinned by a loyal, highly trained team, many of whom have been with the business for decades. Staff receive regular manufacturer-led sessions, inhouse training, and complete the NBF Introduction to Beds course, ensuring customers receive expert advice at every stage of their purchase. As such, reviewers consistently highlight Carters’ excellent customer service, noting that its staff go above and beyond to meet their needs, while the delivery service is praised for its efficiency and professionalism. Carters stocks an extensive selection of beds and mattresses from leading NBF-approved brands such as Harrison Spinks, Vispring, Relyon and Hypnos, with sustainability playing a central role in its offer. Its commitment to recycling, responsible sourcing, and reduced mattress-to-landfill demonstrates a genuine dedication to environmental best practice. Support for the federation goes beyond simply stocking its member products, however. Bespoke NBF-branded educational posters are displayed in-store that feature the NBF’s signs that indicate it is time for the consumer to replace their bed, and guidance on how to properly test beds in-store. A proactive approach to marketing – including a successful 50th anniversary campaign, digital
The Carriage This Burley-in-Wharfedale business has evolved over 10 years to become one of the leading premium bed retailers in the north of England. Over the past decade, the business has weathered economic challenges, expanded with a second showroom, and consistently achieved growth in turnover, gross margin and operating profit. Its success lies in a clear
advertising, and engaging social
ethos – to champion the benefits
media content – has helped
of buying in person and to offer
Carters achieve strong YoY growth,
customers the best range of
making it a worthy finalist.
premium beds and mattresses
www.cartersfurnitureonline.co.uk
from trusted, NBF-approved
manufacturers. The retailer’s exclusive focus on pocket-sprung mattresses with natural fillings – from brands such as Vispring, Enchanted House, Millbrook, Harrison Spinks and Highgrove – has helped it stand out in a market increasingly dominated by online sales. Investment in its team has also been central to its success. With training through the NBF Introduction to Beds course and specialist social media development, The Carriage continues to evolve while staying true to its founding principles. The retailer’s substantial use of NBF marketing resources, both
in-store and online, not only raises awareness of the trade association’s crucial role in the industry, but helps to educate consumers, encouraging them to consider their bed and the broader sleeping environment when it comes to achieving good quality sleep. From reporting a very healthy financial performance and investing in the team, to supporting NBF-approved brands, delivering exceptional customer service, and honing its marketing to its targeted audience, The Carriage continues to evolve and succeed, making it a worthy contender for this award. www.thecarriageburley.co.uk
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Finalists in the frame The morning after the successful gala dinner, NBF president Tean Dallaway presented the deserving award finalists with their certificates …
00 BED INDUSTRY AWARDS 80
Medium NBF Retail Champion of the Year: Winner
Mattressman
In a unanimous decision by the judges, Mattressman was crowned Medium NBF Retail Champion of the Year, recognised for excelling across every judging criterion. The online mattress specialist has combined record-breaking financial performance with a rebrand, its first national TV campaign, investment in staff, and impressive sustainability and community initiatives – setting new standards in the bed retail sector. The past 12 months have been transformative. Turnover rose by 32%, supported by a rise in profit and increase in AOV. A major investment in user experience – including the appointment of a dedicated user experience (UX) designer – led to a 45% improvement in website conversion. Alongside this, two new stores are set to open this autumn, with refurbishments under way to elevate the in-store experience. Marketing reached new heights over the past year, beginning with a full rebrand in October 2024 that refreshed every touchpoint, from packaging to stores. In December, Mattressman launched its first national TV campaign on Sky, spotlighting products made by NBF-approved members and introducing millions of new customers to the brand. Targeted campaigns and partnerships with leading agencies have
created immersive in-store experiences and compelling digital content. Staff development has been strengthened with the launch of a three-year People Strategy. This includes an enhanced induction programme, with mandated NBF Introduction to Beds training for every retail staff member, factory visits, supplier-led training, structured progression pathways, quarterly reviews and tailored development plans. Wellbeing support, including mental health first aiders and financial guidance, ensures staff feel valued and supported, with the belief that thriving employees deliver the best service. Customer service remains at the heart of Mattressman’s success. With a Trustpilot rating of 4.8/5 from nearly 60,000 reviews, alongside consistently strong Google ratings, the retailer has built a reputation for reliability and care. A new Customer Service Charter reinforces its promise of fast, transparent and empathetic support, while benefits such as next-day delivery, a 60-night comfort guarantee and mattress recycling continue to set it apart. Sustainability and social responsibility have been another area of focus that helped Mattressman clinch the award. Not only has the retailer recycled more than 149,000 mattresses to date, but it has also planted over 173,000 trees in partnership with Ecologi, and
“A business that has raised the bar for bed retailing introduced digital display tickets to reduce paper waste. It has donated beds and mattresses to the charity Furnishing Futures, sponsored local sports initiatives, and supported young talent, including a junior ski champion. From financial growth and customer service excellence to staff investment and sustainability, Mattressman has delivered a year of extraordinary progress. “This well-deserved award recognises a business that has not only raised the bar for bed retailing but also shown the impact a values-driven, customer-focused retailer can achieve,” the judges state. The retailer responds: “Being named Medium NBF Retail Champion of the Year is a testament to our team’s dedication to delivering quality sleep solutions. This award reflects our commitment to growth, innovation and sustainability, and inspires us to continue helping everyone achieve a better night’s sleep.” www.mattressman.co.uk
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Andrew Kerry, founder, Mattressman
“It’s lifted the whole team, and morale has been sky-high
How do you feel about the win? It’s an incredible feeling, really a moment that’s been 20 years in the making. This award reflects not just the past year but two decades of hard work, resilience and evolution. I’m extremely proud of the whole team. To have the recognition of the National Bed Federation, an organisation we’ve always admired and supported, means a great deal to all of us. It’s a validation of the commitment and passion that’s gone into building Mattressman from the ground up. What points in your entry do you think swung the victory? I think it was a combination of strong financial growth and some really meaningful
progress across the business. We’ve had a record-breaking year, turnover up 32% to £35m, and AOV improving too. More importantly, we’ve reinvested that success into our people and brand. The rebrand, and our first-ever national TV campaign, really marked a new era for Mattressman, showing how far we’ve come. How do you plan to capitalise on/ celebrate it? We’ve been celebrating internally – it’s lifted the whole team, and morale has been sky-high for the past couple of weeks. We’re proud to be showcasing the win across all our marketing channels – in-store, on our website, on social media, and even through
PoS displays coming soon. It’s a powerful message to customers that they’re buying from an award-winning, trusted retailer. And of course, it’s a fantastic motivator for everyone in the business to keep raising the bar. What’s in the pipeline for the coming year? We’ve got three new store openings planned and some exciting new product launches being developed by our product team for 2026. Our marketing efforts are continuing to evolve, building on the success of our rebrand and TV campaign. We’re investing further in people, training and customer experience, too. We want to build on this momentum and keep pushing forward.
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Medium NBF Retail Champion of the Year: Finalists Linthorpe Beds Linthorpe Beds has enjoyed another impressive year of growth, with rising sales, profitability and AOV, alongside improved conversion rates and earnings per employee. The North East retailer continues to demonstrate its strength through innovation, investment in people and a strong commitment to sustainability. A proud supporter of the NBF since the Retail Champions Scheme began, Linthorpe Beds actively promotes the benefits of buying beds made by NBFapproved members both in-store and online. From engaging with the NBF’s National Bed Month campaign that produced record monthly turnover growth in the qualifying period, to its website featuring a dedicated explanatory video on the NBF, Linthorpe actively helps to build trust and awareness of the federation’s vital role among consumers. Stocking 18 NBF member brands, including Sleepeezee, Hypnos, Silentnight, Harrison Spinks, and Health Beds, the retailer consistently highlights the value of buying products made by reputable, NBFapproved member manufacturers. Marketing innovation has also been key for the family-run business, with creative social media and radio campaigns boosting engagement and awareness, including humorous TikTok content and a high-impact Silentnight Hippo promotion. Training and staff development remain central to its success, with new recruits completing both the NBF Introduction to Beds course and Linthorpe Beds’ bespoke product focus induction programme. Managers also benefit from external training in leadership, consumer law and team building. These initiatives underpin exceptional customer service, reflected in a five-star Trustpilot rating from over 1,000 reviews. Sustainability and community impact are embedded in the
business, from LED lighting and zero-to-landfill mattress recycling to charitable donations supporting causes such as Zarach and Children in Need. Linthorpe Beds continues to set a benchmark for responsible retailing and long-term growth. www.linthorpebeds.co.uk Prestige Beds With over 60 years of heritage, Prestige Beds continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the North West’s leading independent bed retailers, championing sleep health, sustainability and exceptional service. Over the past year, the Lancashire-based business has achieved another period of impressive growth, with increased turnover and boosted gross profit margins to over 52%. These results
reflect the retailer’s disciplined financial management, balanced online-offline strategy and enduring partnerships with NBFapproved brands. The company expanded into new markets through high-profile commercial supply contracts, including over 1,000 mattresses for student accommodation and supplying a local Michelin-starred restaurant hotel. Refurbishments at its Alma Mill outlet helped drive a 28% revenue uplift, with flagship showrooms in Whitebirk and Bold Street continuing to deliver strong performance. Prestige Beds’ commitment to the bed industry’s trade association runs deep – the retailer proudly promotes NBF branding and resources across its stores and communications, while showcasing member ranges from Hypnos, Harrison
Spinks, Vispring, Sealy and more. Sustainability remains central, with over 2,500 mattresses recycled this year through TFR Group and a growing focus on circular economy initiatives. Exceptional service, underpinned by a 4.9/5 Trustpilot rating, and continuous staff development through the NBF Introduction to Beds course and supplier factory visits, reinforce the brand’s trusted reputation. Rooted in community values, Prestige Beds continues to make a meaningful local impact, supporting charities such as Nightsafe, East Lancashire Hospice and Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone. This is a retailer combining tradition with transformation, proving that purpose, people and performance can go hand in hand. www.prestigebeds.co.uk
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PRESTIGE BEDS Prestige Beds achieved a finalist title in the Medium NBF Retail Champion of the Year category, in recognition of its outstanding achievements. “This honour reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to providing high-quality products, matched with delivering outstanding customer service,” says Prestige Beds. Serving the North West for over 65 years, Prestige Beds has built a trusted reputation for providing a personal touch that helps customers find their perfect night’s sleep.
Prestige Beds’ Joe and James Dunne, with NBF president Tean Dallaway
www.prestigebeds.co.uk
As a third-generation family business, Prestige Beds says it continues to evolve responsibly, with a growing focus on sustainability and community support. Its team takes pride in combining traditional family values with a carefully curated selection of beds and mattresses from leading brands – and the company’s passion for quality craftsmanship is reflected not only in its product selection, but also in its enduring relationships with some of Britain’s most respected bed manufacturers, ensuring every collection represents “timeless design, superior comfort, and the finest materials, for an exceptional night’s rest”. As one of the UK’s leading independent bed retailers, Prestige Beds is honoured to be recognised among the industry’s best – an achievement that reflects its ongoing mission to deliver comfort, quality and craftsmanship for every home.
CHESHIRE’S AWARD WINNING BED SPECIALIST
ALSAGER
RADWAY GREEN BUSINESS PARK CW2 5PR
NORTHWICH
WINNINGTON BUSINESS PARK CW8 4DL
Tel: 01270 879379 • www.m6beds.co.uk 115-120 The Courtyard, Radway Green Business Park, Alsager, Cheshire, CW2 5PR Winnington Business Park, Winnington, Northwich, CW8 4DL
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LINTHORPE BEDS www.linthorpebeds.co.uk
Need, the MND Association, and local charities, we’re determined to make a positive difference. “To even be recognised among the best in the industry is an incredible honour. We’re truly grateful to our team, our customers, and our partners for helping us achieve finalist status at this year’s NBF awards.” The Linthorpe Beds team at this year’s gala dinner
“We are absolutely delighted and deeply proud to have been shortlisted as finalists for the Medium NBF Retailer Champion of the Year Award 2025 – a recognition that truly celebrates the hard work, dedication and values that define Linthorpe Beds and our team,” the retailer enthuses. “As long-standing supporters of the NBF, we’ve continually championed its standards of quality and trust, proudly showcasing NBF member brands in our stores and online. Our website features dedicated NBF content and videos, and our stores display clear signage reflecting our NBF Retail Champion status. “This year marked exceptional achievements across the business. We’ve also celebrated continued growth in employee performance and engagement, through structured training, qualifications, and inhouse product induction programmes. “Our creative marketing campaigns – from radio jingles and TikTok videos to humorous social media stories – have helped strengthen brand awareness and reach new audiences. Combined with a five-star Trustpilot rating from over 1,000 reviews, these efforts highlight our ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences. “We’re equally proud of our strong sustainability and community focus. From our ‘zero to landfill’ policy and energy-efficient operations, to donating mattresses to Zarach and supporting Children in
Stockton-On-Tees
Darlington
Portrack Lane, TS18 2RB
45 Russell Street, DL1 1PT
01642 613684
linthorpebeds.co.uk
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Evaluation stations Each year, the NBF assembles a crack team of industry professionals to evaluate the Bed Industry Awards entries, from leading retailers to trade journalists. Here, Furniture News asks a selection of them for their thoughts on the process, and about this year’s entries in particular …
“We have a good spread of judges with complementary and differing experiences in the sector
Natalie Armstrong, product development manager, Sealy UK: I’ve worked at Sealy UK for nine years now, but I’m far from a bed sector veteran. It always surprises me how long people have been in the industry – it’s a great crowd to be a part of. For the vast majority of my time at Sealy, I’ve worked in marketing-based roles. Naturally, this is something I focus on when judging the Component of the Year category. Are the features and benefits consumer-friendly? Is it unique and will it stand out? How will the component be positioned commercially? I’ve judged alongside Danny Blackmore and Dave Morris for the last couple of years. Each member of the panel focuses on a different angle, which is what makes it work. It’s always a fascinating process, and a fantastic opportunity to see the latest innovations in the industry. This year saw a broad spectrum of entries – from foams and fibres to fabrics and spring technology. It was great to receive so many submissions and see the expertise showcased in each supplier’s presentation. Every supplier delivered a strong and engaging presentation, incorporating demonstrations, videos, and detailed technical information. With such a diverse range of components in contention, each presentation brought its own unique style and character – making the judging process both varied and enjoyable. The NBF awards celebrate excellence across our industry, recognising the outstanding achievements of suppliers, manufacturers and retailers – both independent and national. These prestigious awards hold significant value for businesses, shining a spotlight on the dedication, innovation and hard work of everyone involved. James Dunne, operations director, Prestige Beds: I’ve worked in the bed industry for 20 years, with experience in more or less every role within the business. I believe I have a wealth of product knowledge and understanding, particularly at the luxury end of the market, and have been the buyer for our company for more than 10 years. I felt this year’s entries were of a high standard, with most being very comfortable and well made. They were diverse in terms of components and innovation, and each presentation was well executed. The whole afternoon trying out the entries was a lot of fun, but the winning product from Sealy was a stand-out memory, as it felt amazing, and was very well presented. The awards carry a great deal of importance for suppliers, manufacturers and retailers in the recognition from the NBF it brings for their excellent work, and an achievement which can then be promoted, adding extra credibility to what you do as a business. From experience of being a finalist
and winning in the past, it also gives your team a boost and a sense of pride, which sparks energy for the future. Steve Adams, CEO, Mattress Online: I’m the co-founder and CEO of one of the first online mattress retailers. I’ve been reviewing and buying mattresses since 2003 – that’s 22 years of getting under the bonnet of what makes a good mattress, from commercial viability to the customer benefit and demand. No matter how good a mattress is, if it doesn’t sell, it’s missed the mark. The entries for this year’s Bed of the Year Award were pleasantly diverse, with a good mix of consumer price points, technologies and feels. The award entries were of a high quality, and provided the judges with sufficient background to delve into the details during the product demonstrations. We have a good spread of judges with complementary and differing experiences in the sector, which always creates a forum for debate – and sometimes constructive disagreement. A couple of stand-out memories from the judging this year included the interactive Copper Fresh demo from Deluxe Beds, and meeting the Earthfoam latex factory owner from Sri Lanka with Burgess Beds. It always gives me a sense of pride to have the privilege of judging one of the most important awards in our industry. It helps inspire innovation amongst our manufacturers, and across the NBF show as a whole. Danny Blackmore, operations director, Silentnight Beds: I’ve worked in the industry for 33 years across various different functions and roles, covering all operations, new product introduction and development, product management and business IT applications. I’ve been heavily involved with product details from both a commercial and sustainability perspective, and this allows me to ask the challenging questions and get under the skin of an entry’s features and benefits. I really enjoy the process, and there were some very impressive and innovative materials and products presented. Each year the process gets better and better, and the presentations also improve as the entrants become more familiar with the process. Although we’re all from different areas of business, we really work together well as a panel of judges – and we’ve all agreed on the results every year, it’s always been unanimous. I think the awards are great and the results are 100% genuine, derived from what we see and hear in the presentations. The categories and specific measures are definitive and really help to rank and rate the components, and they’re all evenly weighted. The process is very robust and transparent.
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National Bed Retailer of the Year: Winner
Bensons for Beds In an exceptionally close contest, Bensons for Beds has been crowned National Bed Retailer of the Year, recognised for its ability to deliver commercial success, customerfirst innovation and bold brand building in a challenging market. Despite economic pressures, the retailer expanded its footprint, launched a refreshed brand platform, and invested heavily in people, products and customer experience, demonstrating why it remains one of the industry’s leaders. The national bed retailer remained financially resilient, with gross ordered sales up, and a rise in store sales and strong online growth. Conversion rates improved both in-store and online, with email traffic rising and ATVs increasing across channels. Bensons also grew its retail estate from 169 to 177 stores, swiftly converting 19 former Carpetright locations in less than a month, while refurbishments enhanced the shopping experience nationwide. Innovation has been central to this year’s success. The relaunch of the Simply by Bensons collection, the introduction of iGel NanoTech with graphene for advanced temperature control, and new collaborations with brands including ELLE Home and Simba expanded choice for customers. Over half the product
Bensons celebrates yawns in its dedicated online YawnHub
“This award is fantastic recognition of the transformation we’ve all driven across the whole business
range now features trusted NBF member brands such as Hypnos, Silentnight, Sealy, Jay-Be and iGel, supported by dedicated in-store zones and branded online landing pages. Customer experience reached new heights, with Bensons achieving its highestever business-wide NPS and maintaining a Trustpilot rating of 4.6/5. A new WhatsApp channel improved accessibility, while the integration of telesales into customer service generated more than £3m in revenue. Selfservice functionality expanded too, allowing customers to manage orders with ease, while a relocation of the contact centre created a more inclusive workplace, earning national award recognition. The business also invested significantly in people. Over 200 members of staff joined through a new Great Start 12-week induction, while the REM engagement programme was rolled out to more than 1,000 employees, earning a Salesforce award shortlist. Leadership was strengthened with the appointment of Rob Pierce as COO, bringing a sharper focus to
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logistics and the post-purchase journey. Marketing activity has been equally ambitious. The bold new brand platform, Sleep Is Our Obsession, boosted ROI and exceeded awareness targets. The first influencer-led campaign, fronted by Monica Geldart, achieved more than 3.6 million views, while internal ‘Bedfluencers’ helped share the brand story. PR activity such as Yawnhub secured hundreds of media hits and drove a surge in organic search. Social channels also grew strongly, with Instagram followers now at 66,000 and LinkedIn surpassing 9,000. Bensons’ commitment to sustainability and social good continues to set it apart. Its
13-year partnership with the British Heart Foundation has generated £8m in customerdonated stock, diverted nearly 4,000 tonnes from landfill and supported thousands of collections. A cause-related campaign with Crisis at Christmas raised over £23,000, funding homes for people transitioning out of homelessness. Seven new product awards were also won, bringing the retailer’s total to 14, while Bensons became the first GenM partner to receive the MTick in the mattress category for its menopausesupporting products. From bold brand campaigns to customer service excellence and meaningful community
partnerships, Bensons for Beds has shown the impact of a modern, forward-thinking retailer. This award recognises a business that combines scale with innovation, and commercial strength with social responsibility, proving why Bensons was crowned the worthy winner. “This award is fantastic recognition of the transformation we’ve all driven across the whole business,” says Bensons’ CEO, Nick Collard. “We’ve always believed that ‘unlocking the power of our people’ is key to our strategy, and this award acknowledges that we’re doing exactly that.” www.bensonsforbeds.co.uk
Nick Collard, CEO, Bensons for Beds
“Our whole team has shown huge dedication in working together to make this happen
How do you feel about the win? It’s fantastic to receive recognition for our outstanding performance and be named National Bed Retailer of the Year in this prestigious award. Our people are at the heart of the Bensons business, and this award acknowledges that our whole team has shown huge dedication in working together to make this happen. We’ve delivered growth by focusing on customer experience, store investment and strong new product innovation, and I couldn’t be prouder of all our people here at Bensons for Beds. What points in your entry do you think swung the victory? In our award entry we were able to demonstrate several milestone achievements in the past year – for example, how we have unlocked the power of our people to drive significant improvements in our conversion and ATV, and most importantly seen record levels of customer satisfaction. How we have significantly
expanded our retail footprint across the country, alongside making real strides in improving our digital channels with the launch of a whole new platform. We have also seen some market-leading NPD and the introduction of new services to improve the experience for customers. It was also clear that our successful marketing achievements stood out to the judges – the launch of our new brand platform and its first creatively ambitious influencer campaign drove substantial engagement across web channels, all of which have seen us grow our market share. Overall, I think the panel could see just how huge the strides have been for the business since some challenging times back in 202122, and just how much our colleagues have led a genuine transformation of the business since then. How do you plan to capitalise on/ celebrate it? The win has been celebrated in a number
of ways – we’ve put out a variety of communications, both to colleagues and externally to press to tell everyone the good news. We also made sure we celebrated internally at Bensons with a celebratory lunchtime gathering put on for all head office colleagues on the day we found out about the win. We’ll be sure to capitalise on the win in our future marketing and advertising too – it really adds kudos alongside our hard work, dedication and craftmanship. What’s in the pipeline for the coming year? The NBF judges praised our bold new brand platform, innovative product launches, sustainability initiatives, creative influencer campaign and customer-first approach, and we want to continue to build on all of this. It’s important for us to continue expanding our retail footprint and experience for customers, providing affordable sleep solutions to everyone, whether that’s instore or online. Expect to see more innovative product innovation, and more creativity as we build on our recently launched brand platform. We are just getting started, and believe there remain huge opportunities for Bensons to continue to grow ahead of the market and build on the success of recent years.
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National Bed Retailer of the Year: Finalists
DFS Despite challenges across the industry, DFS has achieved another strong year of performance in its beds and mattresses division, with consistent growth in sales, profitability and customer engagement. Mattress sales remain a standout success, supported by the retailer’s fast-delivery proposition and a robust online offering. Its collaboration with eight NBFapproved member partners now accounts for a significant share of its beds and mattresses revenue. Enhanced website functionality and improved customer
navigation have resulted in a higher conversion rate and more transactions YoY, while an expanded range of NBF member products continues to strengthen DFS’ trusted reputation, backed by the introduction of expanded customer safety guidelines around ottoman beds. In-store, customer experience remains a top priority, with over 300 bed and mattress bays across its retail network and ongoing mezzanine refits enhancing the shopping environment. Quick-delivery ranges – offering selected NBF member mattresses within seven days – reflect DFS’ commitment to convenience and
service excellence. Partnership remains central to the national retailer’s approach, from co-branded ranges with Silentnight, Sweet Dreams and Matza, to collaborations with Country Living and House Beautiful. Training is another cornerstone to ensure product expertise across the business, with specialist packs, manufacturerled learning, and a dedicated beds and mattresses feature at the DFS annual conference. Demonstrating its strong focus on sustainability, DFS has committed to achieving 100% FSC-accredited beds by December 2025. Plus, through community initiatives, inclusive practices, and charitable support for organisations such as Children in Need and Zarach, DFS continues to demonstrate that commercial success and social responsibility can thrive together. www.dfs.co.uk Dreams Dreams has reinforced its leadership in the UK bed market by focusing on quality, service, innovation and customer trust. Delivering another stand-out year, with both sales and turnover increasing, the retailer achieved
solid growth while continuing to invest heavily in futureproofing its business. Strategic upgrades – including cloudbased system transitions, store refurbishments, new openings, logistics improvements and digital infrastructure – have strengthened the company’s operational resilience and supported long-term expansion. Ecommerce performance remained strong, with higher online sales, improved conversion rates and a growing ATV. The business also advanced its premium Feather & Black brand through new leadership and additional ‘shop-in-shop’ formats, reinforcing its luxury offer for consumers. Dreams continues to be a leading advocate for NBF member brands, collaborating closely on new product developments and joint marketing initiatives. Innovations with partners such as Sleepeezee and Carpenter helped drive sales growth across finished goods, supported by the company’s UK manufacturing base, Dreams Bed Factory, which integrates sustainable materials from NBF supplier members and advanced spring technologies. Customer service remained a clear strength, reflected in Dreams’ ‘Excellent’ Trustpilot rating and record internal satisfaction scores. Investment in its innovative Sleepmatch technology and staff training, plus a new digital brand platform, which boosted footfall, engagement and brand strength, all further enhanced customer experience. Sustainability and social responsibility remain at the heart of Dreams’ operations, from FSC-certified manufacturing and nationwide mattress recycling to its ongoing partnership with charity Shelter. Overall, Dreams demonstrated a resilient, forward-thinking approach despite a tough retail climate, delivering growth, expansion and deepened collaboration with NBF members. www.dreams.co.uk
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Before the gala dinner, guests enjoyed a drinks reception sponsored by Harrison Spinks
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Online Bed Retailer of the Year: Winner
MattressNextDay
MattressNextDay’s Whitstable HQ
MattressNextDay has scored a hat trick as Online Bed Retailer of the Year, impressing judges with record-breaking results, a slick digital journey, and its commitment to sustainability, people and community. Over the past year, the retailer has combined ambitious growth with industry leadership, championing NBF-approved member brands and enhancing the online buying experience to rival the very best in ecommerce. MattressNextDay – whose overall turnover has increased by almost 450% since 2020 – experienced another consecutive year of growth. A major driver to the record-breaking turnover and gross profit increases seen during the qualifying period was continued investment in the website, now rebuilt to be fully API-driven for faster, more intuitive performance. More than 100 updates and multiple A/B tests were deployed, supported by a growing inhouse web team and partnerships with leading tech providers. Accessibility has also been improved, ensuring a “seamless” experience for all customers, while new delivery tools and
“A huge testament to the hard work and creativity of our entire team! content-rich product pages build trust and confidence at every stage. The retailer has also expanded its product range, adding luxury names such as Vispring and a host of NBF-approved brands including Hypnos, Harrison Spinks, Sealy, Sleepeezee and Silentnight. A Brand Ambassador Programme, launched in May, now features endorsements from 11 manufacturers, boosting customer confidence and lifting add-to-basket rates across endorsed lines. In addition, a new 100-night Global Sleep Trial has been rolled out across all mattresses, removing barriers to purchase and simplifying the buying process. Customer support has been transformed through a blend of technology and people. The AI-powered chatbot, Kip, now resolves the majority of queries instantly, freeing staff to focus on complex cases. Alongside this, the customer service team remains highly rated,
with Trustpilot scores holding strong at 4.6 from nearly 30,000 reviews. Bite-sized review summaries and product-specific ratings have also been added on-site to help shoppers make better-informed choices. Sustainability remains central to the MattressNextDay ethos. More than 72,000 mattresses have been recycled to date, supported by initiatives such as its first Free Recycling Week. The business also continues its tree-planting partnership with Ecologi, while internal changes – from idle-engine policies for delivery vans to improved stock planning software – cut waste and emissions. Investment in people has been equally important. Staff-led wellbeing initiatives have introduced paid leave entitlements, monthly free lunches and even a community garden. Employees also chose The Fifth Trust as the company’s charity of the year, with
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fundraising, volunteering and donations all providing vital support. Local partnerships include sponsorship of Whitstable Women FC, reinforcing the company’s ties to its Kent roots. From innovative digital tools to customer-first policies and meaningful community impact, MattressNextDay has shown what an online retailer can achieve when technology, trust and responsibility come together. Winning
Online Bed Retailer of the Year for the third time underlines its position as one of the UK’s most forward-thinking mattress retailers, and one determined to make every night’s sleep better for customers, staff and the planet. Marketing manager Barry Rickhuss comments: “We’re honoured to have been named Online Bed Retailer of the Year for the third consecutive year. This award is especially
Martin Seeley, CEO, MattressNextDay
“It’s a fantastic credibility marker for our brand the dedication of our entire team. Every year, the standard in this industry rises, so to be recognised again by the NBF is incredibly rewarding.
How do you feel about the win? We’re absolutely thrilled to have been named Online Bed Retailer of the Year once again (for the third time, no less!). It’s a huge honour and a real testament to
What points in your entry do you think swung the victory? We believe our focus on delivering an exceptional customer experience and a genuine product expertise really stood out. Our Brand Ambassador Programme sets us apart and has been really well received by our customers.
meaningful to us because the NBF is such a respected voice in our industry, setting high standards for quality, innovation and customer experience. To be recognised by them not just once, but three years running, is a huge testament to the hard work and creativity of our entire team! It means a great deal to us.” www.mattressnextday.co.uk
How do you plan to capitalise on/ celebrate it? We’re already celebrating with the team, they’re the reason we’ve achieved this again! Externally, we’ll be sharing the news with our customers, suppliers and partners, reinforcing what the award represents – trust, quality and reliability. It’s a fantastic credibility marker for our brand and a reminder to customers that when they shop with us, they’re choosing one of the very best in the business. We’re showing it on the website, and want to shout about it on off-site marketing communications. What’s in the pipeline for the coming year? We’re focusing on updating our photos and videos on our website across all ranges. We’re also updating sections of the website to help increase the experience of our customers.
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Online Bed Retailer of the Year: Finalists Land of Beds Land of Beds has cemented its reputation as one of the UK’s most trusted online retailers, combining outstanding customer
innovation, and putting people and planet first, Land of Beds continues to set industry benchmarks for quality, trust and responsibility. www.landofbeds.co.uk
satisfaction with strong financial performance and a deep commitment to NBF values. In the qualifying period, the business delivered double-digit gross margin improvements by strategically focusing on own-label ranges manufactured exclusively by NBF-approved suppliers. Today, more than 80% of its product range is sourced from NBF members, supported by targeted digital campaigns, expert commentary, and factory visits that strengthen supply chain collaboration. Evidence-based advice strengthens Land of Beds’ sales and marketing strategy. Partnerships with renowned sleep professionals Dr Nerina Ramlakhan and Dr Katrina O’Donnell ensure customers receive trusted, expert-led guidance, amplified by a Help & Advice hub and sleep studies. Customer experience is also central to success. Improvements such as cleaner navigation, SEO and a commissioned UX study have reduced bounce rates by Google Lighthouse scores ensure fast, responsive performance. Investment in high-quality imagery and video – from product demos and buying guides to behindthe-scenes supplier features – has boosted engagement and conversions across all channels. Sustainability and community impact remain core values. Hundreds of mattresses have been diverted from landfill through recycling initiatives, and the business continues to support charities including Claire House hospice, Talk First, and grassroots sport. Its sponsorship of the ‘12 in 12’ marathons challenge raised over £50,000 for Brain Tumour and MND charities. By championing NBF member brands, investing in digital
team delivered faster page speeds, new product filters, refreshed homepage design and smarter product comparisons. CGI visuals, innovative bi-section mattress imagery and AI-generated creative enhanced clarity and engagement. Investment in video content from social media featuring colleagues to in-store digital screens, while sharing sleep education, built authenticity and deeper consumer connection. Mattress Online also invested in expertise, welcoming head of sleep science Hannah Shore, nutritionist Helen Ruckledge, and relationship expert Jenni Trent
Hughes. Their evidence-based insights shaped refreshed advice pages, high-profile blogs, PR and sleep education campaigns. Community remains a core focus, too. From supporting SEN pupils, grassroots sport and Rotherham Hospice, to tackling bed poverty through Safe Space to Sleep and Baby Basics, the business continues to put people and purpose at the heart of its growth. Mattress Online has clearly demonstrated that innovation, sustainability and social responsibility can go hand in hand with commercial success. www.mattressonline.co.uk Mattress Online’s CEO Steve Adams
over 10%, while best-in-class
Mattress Online Mattress Online has excelled in 2024/25 by combining digital innovation, customer-first service and community commitment to deliver strong growth. With an Excellent 4.8 Trustpilot score from over 67,000 reviews, the retailer continues to build consumer trust while championing NBF standards, with almost 80% of its mattresses made by NBFapproved members. Financial performance was robust, with an uplift in AOV and 16% more orders placed than the previous year. Stores reported steady footfall, supported by a transparent hybrid pricing strategy. Mattress Online’s also range grew by just under 200 new products, almost doubling its bed collection and boosting unit sales by over 20%. Nearly half its products now contain recycled materials, and a quarter of customers opted for mattress recycling (up by 13% YoY). Digital transformation remained a core driver. Its development
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WE’RE ASKING THE AWARD WINNERS …
What’s the most valuable aspect of being an NBF member? It’s important for us at Bensons to be an NBF member. We’re dedicated to ensuring all our customers get a great night’s sleep, and being an NBF member and award winner helps us demonstrate to our customers and brands that we’re serious about this and that our products are high quality and expertly crafted. Being an NBF member also allows us to take part in NBF committees, helping Bensons to be part of shaping our industry and be instrumental in influencing policy Nick Collard (Bensons for Beds) The NBF sets and upholds the highest standards in our industry, from product safety and ethical manufacturing to retailer integrity. Being part of that network gives both businesses and consumers confidence. It also connects us with other likeminded professionals who share our commitment to raising standards and pushing the industry forward. The most valuable part is tapping into this network Martin Seeley (MatttessNextDay)
Being a member of the NBF is incredibly valuable to John Cotton, as it allows us to connect with a community of like-minded, quality-driven manufacturers who are committed to raising standards across the industry. Beyond the invaluable networking and shared insights, the opportunity for industry recognition through the NBF awards is particularly meaningful and important to us, as it shines a spotlight on excellence and gives credibility to the hard work and creativity that go into every product we develop
Being part of the NBF carries real weight in the industry. It provides credibility and reassurance for our customers, knowing that our products meet the highest standards of quality and integrity. Beyond that, it offers access to valuable insight, shared best practice, and a collective voice promoting ethics and excellence across the sector Greg Flynn (The Vita Group)
Being an NBF member reinforces everything we stand for – trust, quality and responsibility. It gives customers confidence that they’re buying from a retailer that upholds the highest standards. The training, resources and community that come with membership are invaluable, and it’s great to be part of a federation that’s driving the industry forward and helping retailers and manufacturers grow together Andrew Kerry (Mattressman)
We’re proud to be a key member of the NBF, and value the opportunity the Bed Show brings. It’s great to showcase new products, receive feedback from our key customer base, and connect with others across the industry on a national scale Nick Booth (Harrison Spinks)
The most valuable aspect of being an NBF Retail Champion is the trust and credibility it brings. It signals to customers that they are buying from a retailer committed to quality, safety and best practice. It also gives us access to top-quality suppliers and the opportunity to build strong relationships with other retailers, learning from their experience and expertise. Combined with the NBF’s training, resources and networking, this helps us continually improve our business and customer experience
Being an NBF member brings many benefits, and we have made every effort to become more engaged in all that is on offer, from the forums that allow collaborative discussion and action for the benefit of the industry, to driving a manufacturing sector that embraces the opportunity for more sustainable solutions to all our activities. With all that said – and somewhat selfishly from the head of our sales and marketing function – I think attending the Bed Show each year is a vitally important and unique opportunity to meet with as many retailers as we can, to share not only our new products but also our ideas for the future, to develop stronger and more profitable businesses together
Louis Mitchell (The M6 Bed Warehouse)
Mark Tuley (Sealy UK)
Mark Baron (John Cotton Nonwovens)
94 BED INDUSTRY AWARDS
More than mattresses
Visitors from charity The Fifth Trust at MattressNextDay’s Kent HQ
“We’ve experienced so much growth – in the past three years, especially
MattressNextDay’s team with NBF president Tean Dallaway (centre) at this year’s Bed Show
Having secured a hat-trick of Online Bed Retailer of the Year awards, MattressNextDay spoke to Furniture News about what landed the ecommerce leader the top spot once again, and how it is championing its staff through new charitable initiatives …
MattressNextDay is celebrating yet another accolade, having won the NBF’s Online Bed Retailer of the Year award for the third consecutive year. This hat-trick is a testament to the company’s continued growth, as well as its commitment to a sleek, effective website design, expanded product offering, and dedication to sustainability and new community partnerships. The NBF commended MattressNextDay on another record-breaking year of turnover growth, with an increase of 47% YoY, plus continued investment in customer experience on its website, enhancing the online buying experience. One key factor that helped secure MattressNextDay’s win was the implementation of its Brand Ambassador Programme, which has seen the e-tailer partner with representatives from many leading brands to provide comments and expertise on key commercial pages. Not only does this strengthen
the company’s industry ties, but it also enables customers to gain expert insight into brands and products, encouraging more informed and confident purchasing decisions. Expanding its in-house web team by +33% helped MattressNextDay to invest heavily in these website additions, and carry out intricate changes that enhanced the website to deliver “an exceptionally slick and intuitive user experience”, as described by the judges. Other initiatives that took it to the top spot included its rollout of a 100-night Sleep Trial across all mattresses, and an increased emphasis on sustainability. The Sleep Trial bought MattressNextDay in line with competitors and helped remove barriers to complete customer satisfaction. In terms of sustainability, MattressNextDay has long been an advocate, and the past year has seen the company plant thousands more trees through its partnership with Ecologi, and recycle many more mattresses through its mattress disposal and recycling scheme. CFO Stuart Rogers comments: “To win Online Bed Retailer of the Year again is a huge achievement, and one that we’re very proud of. We’ve experienced so much growth – in the past three years, especially – and these awards are a testament not only to that growth but also to the hard work of each member of the team. “We’re already looking into new ways we can develop and improve – but that’s just what we do. We’ve taken the time to celebrate our win, but now it’s back to ensuring we keep evolving and growing to make things even bigger and better.” In the past year, MattressNextDay also increased its focus on corporate responsibility, launching its Staff Wellbeing Initiative. A staff-led initiative, this allows all team members to give anonymous suggestions on
Most of the people supported by the Fifth Trust would rarely have the opportunity to visit a business
The Fifth Trust visitors were keen to get hands on in the warehouse
95
“We’re already looking into new ways we can develop and improve
www.mattressnextday.co.uk
A visitor from The Fifth Trust discovers the joys of a Vispring mattress
improving their day-to-day working lives, such as a free lunch once a month, and a garden area to take a break from the work environment during the day. The election of a staff wellbeing co-ordinator also encourages the organisation of larger staff wellbeing events and ventures, such as a staff-elected Charity of the Year. This provides the opportunity for staff to work together to raise funds and awareness for their chosen charity, all the while building a strong sense of achievement and community. From a selection of local charities, staff voted this year to elect The Fifth Trust, a Kent-based charity that provides daycare facilities for adults with learning disabilities. With two sites in the Elham Valley area of Kent, it offers enjoyable and productive activities such as woodwork, horticulture, pottery and cooking for over 170 adults, and also has a vineyard where wine is made, and a cafe and garden centre which are open to the public. A group of students from The Fifth Trust recently visited the MattressNextDay site, taking a tour of the offices, warehouse and showroom. Marking the start of their partnership, this visit was enjoyed by both the students and the retailer’s staff, who answered questions about how things operate in the world of beds and mattresses. Mick James, fundraising manager at The Fifth Trust, says: “Visiting the MattressNextDay office was incredibly exciting for our students. This was a chance for them to see a real workplace in action, something most of them would rarely have the opportunity to do, and meet new people outside of
their usual routine. We had a wonderful time and can’t wait to bring more students for a visit. “This is the first time The Fifth Trust has been chosen as a Charity of the Year, and we’re incredibly excited about working with MattressNextDay to raise vital funds, which we rely on to provide enriching activities for our students.” Nikki Marley, CEO of The Fifth Trust, adds: “We are so delighted to have been chosen as MattressNextDay’s Charity of the Year for 2026. This partnership means so much to us – our staff, volunteers, and, most importantly, the learningdisabled students who access our vital services.” Ideas for fundraising activities for next year include a 10km run, a charity quiz night, and a summer barbecue. Molly Beal, content lead and staff wellbeing co-ordinator at MattressNextDay, says: “The idea of having a Charity of the Year is to offer our staff another sense of achievement outside of their day-to-day work. It’s something everyone can get involved in, from every department, and have fun, all while raising money for a truly deserving cause and strengthening our relationship with our community. It’s an inspiring and fulfilling initiative.” This commitment to strengthening community ties is a reflection of MattressNextDay’s people-first ethos, which is arguably what underpins its success and has helped it secure its third Online Bed Retailer of the Year win. From championing staff and local charities, to making online purchasing as easy as possible for its customers, MattressNextDay continues to set new standards in the bed and furniture industry.
96 PRODUCTS
GALLERY DIRECT www.gallerydirect.co.uk
Building on the success of a bespoke furniture collection developed in partnership with a leading national retailer, Gallery Direct has launched a new range designed for the independent retail market. The latest collection represents an evolution of Gallery’s popular Eton range, which first made its mark through its sophisticated palette of seasonal colourways – Meteor, Moss, Prairie and Clay. Responding to customer demand for “timeless finishes and broader lifestyle appeal”, Gallery has now reimagined the range in two new colourways: a pure, natural oak; and a contrasting oak with white painted features. Together, these two finishes span 30 co-ordinated pieces across living, dining, occasional and bedroom furniture (with the oak and white finish available exclusively for the bedroom). The result is a collection that balances modern minimalism with classic craftsmanship, fitting into both contemporary and traditional interiors, says Gallery. In addition to its clean aesthetic and versatile design, the range also brings an enhanced focus on practicality and comfort. Highlights include a generous larder cupboard and functional kitchen island, new upholstered dining chairs and stools that complement the original rope-seated models, and two new extending dining tables – a trestle table and a circular extending table – offering even greater versatility alongside the existing rectangular
extending option. The bedroom offering also features an innovative trundle bed. “This is a collection that truly bridges the gap between design-led and commercial,” says sales director Peter Delaney. “We’ve taken one of our most successful core ranges and elevated it with fresh finishes that feel relevant, natural and enduring. Due to high demand, Gallery has decided to release the range immediately upon stock arrival in late November/early December. Imagery, specifications, and ordering details will be available online upon its official launch at the end of this month.
FURNT www.furnt.co.uk Promising “wholesale furniture with quality, style and value”, Furnt designs and manufactures furniture for the trade, “combining excellent craftsmanship with outstanding pricing. “With our own dedicated and invested manufacturing network, inhouse QC team and enhanced packaging, we ensure every product is built to last and arrives in perfect condition. “We supply designers, developers and retailers with on-trend, readyto-go furniture collections that look premium, without the premium price tag. We also provide professional product photography to help you list and sell faster. “Quality you can trust. Prices you’ll love. Furnt – your reliable wholesale furniture partner.” Contact Furnt at enquiries@furnt.co.uk.
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98 PRODUCTS LIVING
At The Helm adds cabinetry and lighting At The Helm has expanded its commitment to craftsmanship, material integrity and timeless design with the introduction of its Cabinetry and Lighting collections …
Boxing clever The Cabinetry Collection comprises Lumina, Dusk, Opal and Ivory. Lumina unites natural travertine and oak, creating a striking balance between smooth stone and rustic wood. Each travertine surface is honed and hand-filled, preserving its natural texture while ensuring practicality. Heat-treated cracked oak veneers are antiqued and sanded to achieve depth, warmth and individuality – no two pieces are ever identical, “setting the standard for craftsmanship in natural materials”. Dusk “captures the beauty of simplicity and the honesty of natural materials”, At The Helm continues. Crafted from oak, it pairs minimalist lines with richly tactile finishes. Hand distressing and end-grain detailing evoke the character of solid wood, while stable construction ensures lasting integrity. Opal, meanwhile, brings “a relaxed, modern sensibility, defined by its warm sorrel oak finish and forged pewter details”, says the supplier. “The interplay of materials – oak, marble and metal – creates an understated yet luxurious aesthetic. Handhammered hardware and pewter-capped legs provide
Lumina
Ivory
“Furniture and lighting that not only inhabit a space, but elevate it
Dusk
Customers can now access the brand’s most distinctive pieces with shorter lead times and assured availability, as the entire collection is stocked in the UK. Across both cabinetry and lighting, the collections reflect a shared design language – natural materials, refined textures, and meticulous hand-finishing that bring warmth and authenticity to contemporary interiors, says the supplier. From honed travertine and oak to sculpted alabaster and woven hemp, each material is “celebrated for its inherent beauty and individuality”.
subtle texture and contrast, showcasing the brand’s mastery of considered detailing.” Finally, Ivory offers a lighter, coastal-inspired aesthetic, combining weathered grey oak with coraleffect resin. A crisp two-tone finish and rope-wrapped accents in soft coastal hues “evoke effortless elegance”, says At The Helm – “tactile, balanced and inviting”. Bright ideas The Lighting Collection extends this design ethos into illumination. A selection of lamps and pendants crafted from travertine, porcelain, alabaster and natural hemp are shaped and combined to create sculptural lighting that feels both elemental and refined, the supplier explains: “The contrast of natural materials, softly translucent mineral surfaces and woven organic fibres reflects At The Helm’s appreciation of honest materials and their interplay with light. “Each piece is hand-finished by artisans, producing subtle variations that lend character and individuality.” Together, these collections demonstrate At The Helm’s ability to merge function with artistry, says the supplier: “Every cabinet and light embodies the tactile quality and enduring craftsmanship that define the brand – furniture and lighting that not only inhabit a space, but elevate it. “Now available through the UK stock programme, the Cabinetry and Lighting collections bring the essence of At The Helm closer than ever – timeless designs, crafted by hand, ready to ship.” www.atthehelm.com
LUMINA COLLECTION
Every piece tells its own story - where natural travertine meets rustic oak. Shaped by nature, crafted by hand.
Defining the benchmark
www.AtTheHelm.com
100 PRODUCTS LIVING
A partnership that delivers
Omaha
“Retailers asked for the same speed and flexibility they get from our dropship model
FTG, already a leading supplier of cabinets, occasional furniture and dropship solutions, has leveraged this collaboration to expand its category offering and strengthen its next-day delivery proposition. “The results have been outstanding,” says Paul. “Actona’s design expertise, combined with our UK warehouse and fulfilment capability, has given retailers fast access to stylish, high-quality furniture – without the usual stock risk.” Since the partnership began, FTG has stocked Actona’s full range of chairs, tables, storage and occasional pieces in its Portsmouth warehouse, ensuring next-day delivery to stores and direct to customers. With over 2,000 SKUs across more than 100 commercial ranges and a 98% on-shelf availability rate, retailers benefit from a comprehensive, one-stop solution. Actona’s UK regional manager Mike Devey adds: “Making our UK commercial assortment instantly available through FTG has strengthened our presence in the market and helped retailers respond quickly to growing demand.” Building on this success, FTG and Actona are now launching a.upholstery, a stock-free sofa concept designed for modern UK retail. “Retailers asked for the same speed and flexibility they get from our dropship model, applied to sofas,” explains Paul. “With a.upholstery, they can display in-store or list the range online, and we handle delivery straight from our warehouse, within 24 hours – without the need for the retailer holding stock.” The collection combines European design heritage, contemporary styling, durable fabrics and versatile colours, offering pieces suitable for a wide range of
Paul Sheldon and Mike Devey
Two years ago, Furniture To Go (FTG) and Actona Group joined forces, forging a partnership that they say has “transformed” the UK and Irish B2B furniture market – and with the launch of a new upholstery programme, there’s more to come, explains FTG’s director of sales and operations, Paul Sheldon …
interiors. And this is just the beginning – FTG plans to expand the a.upholstery offering with more ranges, giving retailers even greater choice and flexibility. By merging Actona’s design capabilities with FTG’s logistics strength, a.upholstery aims to provide a highquality, risk-free way to sell sofas, while maintaining competitive pricing and reliable next-day service. Paul says: “FTG continues to cement its position as the UK’s one-stop shop for next-day home delivery, providing retailers with a comprehensive offering across living, dining, and now, upholstery.” www.furniture-to-go.co.uk
a.upholstery SELL SOFAS WITHOUT HOLDING STOCK Discover a.upholstery – the latest sofa concept from Furniture To Go and Actona, created to help retailers grow sales with zero stock commitment. Just sell the sofa, and we’ll handle the rest — delivering next day direct to your customer. Modern, practical designs that turn heads and turnover fast.
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102 PRODUCTS LIVING
Reliable supply meets Italian-inspired design
Rome Rome
logistics co-ordination, enabling partners to operate smoothly and profitably, says Divania. “For wholesalers, furniture retailers, and interior specialists seeking a dependable, design-led supplier, Divania International represents the ideal partner,” the supplier concludes. “With a wide selection of sofas in fabric and leather, a proven, high-performing range, and the all-important advantage of immediate delivery on stock, Divania offers everything the modern trade professional needs to thrive. “When it comes to style, quality and speed, Divania International continues to lead the way.” www.divaniainternational.co.uk
Rio
“Every sofa is built to last and designed to sell
Known for its Italian-inspired craftsmanship and practical approach to business, Divania says it delivers a blend of style, comfort and commercial reliability – “everything a retailer or wholesaler needs in a trusted supplier.” At the core of Divania’s offering is an extensive collection of sofas available in both premium fabric and genuine leather. “Each piece reflects a careful balance between modern design and enduring comfort,” says Divania, “from the soft, inviting textures of fabric to the timeless elegance of leather, Divania’s upholstery options allow partners to cater to a wide range of customer preferences.” A spokesperson explains: “Our goal is to make it easy for our trade partners to offer choice and confidence to their customers. Every sofa is built to last and designed to sell.” Divania’s most popular sofa ranges have earned their reputation thanks to their quality and commercial success, says the supplier. Retailers can choose from compact two- and three-seaters, larger corner configurations, and versatile modular options – all designed with durability, comfort and everyday usability in mind. Strong hardwood frames, high-density cushioning and refined stitching ensure every model not only looks good on the showroom floor, but also performs well in the home for years to come. One of Divania International’s most valued trade advantages is its immediate delivery on stock items. With an efficiently managed inventory and streamlined logistics, Divania ensures its partners can meet customer demand without the frustration of lengthy lead times. This rapid availability enables faster stock rotation, greater sales flexibility, and improved customer satisfaction – key benefits in today’s fastpaced retail environment. “Immediate delivery has become a cornerstone of our service,” a director explains. “Retailers need confidence that when they place an order, stock is ready to go, and with Divania, it is.” Beyond its product range, Divania International is committed to building strong, lasting relationships with its trade partners. Dedicated account management, responsive communication and flexible ordering options mean that working with Divania promises to be “as straightforward as it is rewarding”. Each partnership is supported by a focus on service excellence, from product selection advice to
Massage chair
In a market where quality and turnaround times can make or break a sale, Divania International strives to set the standard for excellence in sofa manufacturing and trade supply …
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Electric motion as shown
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100% GENUINE LEATHER
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Immediate Delivery Or Cash And Carry On All Sofas
3
Years
Structural
Contact Dino (Agent) on 07710 741890 www.divaniainternational.co.uk Office : 01698 883001
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divaniainternational@gmail.com Unit 50, Excelsior Park, Wishaw, ML2 0EG
ON ALL SOFAS
104 PRODUCTS LIVING
RUGGABLE www.ruggable.co.uk
Ruggable, a leader in machine-washable home textiles and “the inventor of the machine-washable rug”, has announced its most significant product evolution to date – All-in-One, a new one-piece washable rug system designed to make modern living even simpler without compromising on style, performance or comfort. CEO Nicole Otto says: “Our two-piece system changed the way people think about rugs, but we heard from consumers that it wasn’t perfect. All-in-One is our answer – delivering the same great washability in a design that’s easier to set up, effortless to clean, and more stylish than ever in the home. It’s built to be durable enough for busy families and anyone seeking long-lasting quality. It’s proof that when our consumers speak, we listen and innovate.” The All-in-One products introduce a new onepiece washable rug system with built-in non-slip silicone backing for instant, fuss-free placement with no assembly required; optional All-in-One cushion pads for additional comfort; enhanced durability and washability, in keeping with Ruggable’s promise of performance and practicality; and innovative flexible design, making All-in-One rugs machine washable, and still as easy to spot clean as all Ruggable products, says the brand. Ruggable’s latest innovation launches in two distinct textures, Tufted All-in-One and Plush All-in-One.
Welcome to the comfort zone Huxley’s clever console unit offers you a smarter way to relax. Enhance your lazy moments with wireless charging, useful storage space, handy cup holders and a Bluetooth speaker.
Huxley
Power recliner sofa with console
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MADE IN AQUINOS
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106 PRODUCTS TRADE SERVICES
Setting the standard for furniture logistics In a sector where precision, reliability and presentation mean everything, Grays Transport says it has become a trusted name, synonymous with care and capability …
“We’ve grown by building long-term relationships, not transactions
Operating from the heart of Derbyshire, this family-run business delivers a complete logistics solution for the furniture industry, from large-scale B2B distribution and flexible groupage services to secure warehousing, home deliveries, showroom installations, and even branded exhibition showvans. For Grays Transport, “furniture logistics isn’t just another service, it’s a craft. Every process, from warehouse handling to final delivery, is built around the specific needs of the furniture trade. The result? Fewer damages, smoother operations, and stronger relationships between manufacturers and retailers”. Behind the scenes, over 100,000ft2 of warehousing provides a central hub for stockholding, cross-docking and consolidation. Advanced barcode scanning and live tracking systems ensure full traceability at every stage, offering customers real-time visibility and complete confidence in their supply chain through their individual online portal. Grays’ strength is in its people as much as its systems. The company’s team combines longstanding industry expertise with a shared sense of pride in what it does. From drivers to planners, every individual plays a role in maintaining the company’s reputation for care, professionalism and consistency, and, says Grays, it is this dedication that gives customers peace of mind that their products – and their brand’s reputation – are in safe hands. What truly sets Grays apart, though, is its approach, explains MD Jennifer Evans: “We’ve grown by building long-term relationships, not transactions. Our customers know they can pick up the phone and get a straight answer from someone who understands
their business inside out. That personal touch means everything to us.” That blend of family values, personal care and industry expertise has earned Grays Transport the trust of some of the UK’s most respected furniture brands, buying groups and retailers, including key partnerships within both the manufacturing and importation sectors, as well as its recent appointment as Minerva’s chosen delivery partner. The company’s flexibility is another strength. Whether managing nationwide retail rollouts, just-intime manufacturer deliveries or bespoke exhibition logistics, Grays is able to adapt to every challenge, ensuring full control, quality and consistency. As the furniture industry continues to evolve, Grays Transport remains focused on innovation and partnership. From investing in technology and sustainable fleet improvements to expanding industry presence, the company is committed to supporting its customers’ growth for years to come. “Our business has evolved with the industry,” adds Jennifer. “We understand that today’s customers want more than just transport. They want visibility, partnership, and peace of mind, and that’s exactly what we deliver.” From factory floor to showroom door, Grays Transport says it continues to set the standard for furniture logistics, combining innovation, transparency and genuine care to keep Britain’s furniture industry moving. www.graystransport.co.uk
GRAYS TRANSPORT At Grays Transport, we specialise in delivering furniture excellence across every stage of the journey from large-scale B2B distribution and home delivery to showroom installations, exhibition set-ups, and mobile show vans. Whatever the requirement, we provide a seamless, reliable service tailored to the needs of the furniture industry. Based in the heart of the UK, we offer a complete logistics solution including large-scale manufacturer distribution, flexible groupage services, secure warehousing, and advanced barcode tracking. Every item is handled as if it were our own, ensuring your products arrive in perfect condition and on time. What sets us apart is our combination of family values and industry expertise. We’re not a general haulier dabbling in furniture; we live and breathe it. We take pride in being approachable, proactive, and easy to work with – offering clear communication, real-time visibility, and traceability at every stage. Our customers trust us for the care we take, the consistency we deliver, and the genuine commitment we show to protecting their brand reputation. Whether it’s a single showroom delivery or a nationwide distribution campaign, there’s nothing we don’t cater for – every project receives the same attention, dedication, and is designed around the furniture industry’s specific needs: blanket wrapping, careful handling, timed deliveries, and brand presentation. Our dedicated fleet, facilities, and trusted team make us the chosen delivery partner for some of the UK’s most respected furniture brands, buying groups and retailers! At Grays Transport, we don’t just move furniture – we move businesses forward.
T: 01773 749727 or E: info@graystransport.co.uk www.graystransport.co.uk
108 PRODUCTS TRADE SERVICES
CHILLI PEPPER DESIGNS CGI visualisation by Chilli Pepper Designs
www.chillipepperdesigns.co.uk
Stand out in print and on screen with ultra-realistic roomset images
“Great visuals aren’t about shortcuts – they’re about standards,” says Chilli Pepper Designs, which was voted Best CGI Visualisation Provider in Furniture News’ Readers’ Choice Awards this year. “We’re not just making ‘nice visuals’. We’re helping furniture brands sell before stock even hits the dock. Our CGI is designed to elevate your product, reflect your brand identity, and drive sales. Quick apps may offer speed, but they lack the depth, realism and storytelling power needed to inspire buyers. “We get it, because we’ve lived it. Starting out as furniture designers ourselves, we learned fast, testing, refining and perfecting our CGI until it didn’t just look beautiful, it performed. That’s when we realised – this isn’t just creative, it’s commercial. “While others chase every new tech trend, we focus on what truly sells furniture – quality, realism and emotion. We believe in crafting with intention, taking the time to get it right so your brand moves faster in the long run. “Because in a world full of shortcuts, great CGI still wins, and at Chilli Pepper Designs, we’re setting the standard.”
MOBUS FABRICS www.mobusfabrics.com
Mobus Fabrics says it is leading the post-bromine movement with new flame-retardant (FR) technology, PurePass. With the European Chemicals Agency officially identifying DBDPE (Decabromodiphenyl ethane) as a Substance of Very High Concern, the furniture and upholstery industries are under growing pressure to replace traditional brominated FR compounds with safer, more sustainable alternatives, says Mobus, which has answered that call with PurePass, a next-generation, white bromine-free FR system developed to deliver BS 5852 compliance while improving the breathability, handle and aesthetics of upholstery fabrics. Unlike traditional FR systems based on brominated compounds, PurePass uses mineral-based, inert, and odour-free chemistry, ensuring compliance with OEKO-TEX, REACH, and ZDHC standards. The technology is available in multiple forms, including direct coating, lamination, and PurePass+, to meet diverse manufacturing and performance needs. Developed over the past five years, through close collaboration between Mobus UK, Mobus Sian, and Clarkson Coatings, PurePass benefits from mirrored finishing capabilities across the UK and China, ensuring consistent global quality and supply. PurePass is part of Mobus’ wider FR innovation portfolio, which also includes phosphorus-based and inherent fibre FR systems.
“At Mobus Fabrics, innovation means anticipating tomorrow’s challenges and delivering practical solutions today,” says sales director Sam Thornber. “We are prepared and ready to help guide our upholstery partners through this transitional process and new era of safer, more sustainable FR solutions.”
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110 OPINION
Making supplier contracts stick Photo courtesy Shutterstock/Worawee Meepian
Following on from her article in September’s issue on smarter B2B buyer contracts, our regular legal contributor Natalia Samodina turns the spotlight onto B2B supplier relationships – a critical (but often under-optimised) area for the British homeware sector … By Natalia Samodina
In today’s unpredictable market, supplier contracts must do more than secure stock. They must protect operational stability, margins and long-term resilience. Whether you’re sourcing raw materials, components or finished goods, your supplier contract is the blueprint for delivery, risk management and commercial alignment. When that blueprint is vague, imbalanced or missing key clauses, the fallout can be serious – delayed shipments, strained relationships and costly disputes, both with your suppliers and your customers. This article explores six common mistakes furniture and homeware businesses make in their supplier contracts, as well as how to fix them. Let’s jump in … 1. Negotiating from a win/lose position In British commercial culture, the principle of ‘let
the buyer beware’ has long shaped the legal and psychological landscape of business transactions. This English contract law doctrine places the onus on the buyer to protect their own interests, fostering a mindset of self-reliance and strategic caution. Over time, this has evolved into a broader negotiation posture where buyers – especially in B2B contexts – feel justified, and even expected, to extract the most favourable terms possible. The result is a widespread tendency to push suppliers to the brink – demanding discounts, extended payment terms, rigid delivery schedules and punitive clauses that secure short-term advantage. Yet what this approach often overlooks is the long-term cost of imbalance – strained relationships, reduced flexibility, and a supplier who may deprioritise your business when market conditions
“In today’s volatile supply environment, the legacy of ‘buyer beware’ must be tempered with commercial empathy and strategic foresight
111
shift. In today’s volatile supply environment, the legacy
original wording or, worse, breed frustration
of ‘buyer beware’ must be tempered with commercial
and inertia.
empathy and strategic foresight.
If a party bypasses informal steps and heads
To fix it, shift to a win/win approach. Structure
straight to court, they risk being penalised on costs
deals that offer value to both sides, fostering co-
for failing to attempt an out-of-court resolution. If
operation and long-term reliability. This doesn’t mean
formal legal action commences, it won’t be a quick
compromising on protection, but instead it focuses on
fix. English commercial courts are facing record
designing terms that support mutual success.
delays, with cases taking months and even years just to reach trial.
2. Sparse or illogical delivery and risk terms
Add to that the uncertainty of outcome, the
Delivery clauses are frequently expressed in
financial and human cost of handling a battle, and
shorthand (such as ‘CIF Southampton’) and without
it’s easy to see why internal contract management
being properly aligned with related provisions like
mechanism is worth investing in.
the transfer of risk and ownership (not the same
Fix it by building in a contract management clause
thing), payment and insurance. This creates gaps
that encourages early dialogue, tracks performance
and overlaps that can lead to operational confusion,
and provides a roadmap for resolving issues
surprise costs and disputes, especially in cross-
constructively. This helps preserve relationships,
border arrangements.
adapt nimbly to the ‘ground’ changes and avoid the
Fix it by ensuring delivery, risk, ownership and
scorched-earth effect of legal battles.
payment terms are logically connected and clearly drafted, both in a domestic and international context.
5. Automatically defaulting to English courts, even
For international procurement, it’s important to note
if it makes no sense
that Incoterms do not replace or override the contract,
It’s common to include a clause stating that disputes
but rather supplement it.
will be resolved in English courts. But this can be
These must be aligned in both a commercially
problematic if your supplier is overseas and the
coherent and legally enforceable manner. Without
judgment won’t be recognised in the supplier’s
that logical interaction, your contract lacks bite – and
domicile, leaving you with a hollow victory. And
your supplier may not take it seriously.
besides this obvious bar, there may be plenty of others – including the obvious prohibitive cost, length
3. Missing or inadequate inspection and
and the psychological impact of going through an
rejection rights
English litigation.
Without a clear mechanism for goods’ inspection,
Fix it by considering alternative dispute
including rejection and price adjustment mechanism,
resolution methods like arbitration, mediation or
buyers may find themselves stuck with substandard
expert determination. These can be faster, more
or non-conforming products. This is especially
cost-effective, and better suited to preserving
risky when fulfilling buyers’ onward contract B2B
commercial relationships.
obligations, where quality failures or off-spec goods can cascade into missed deadlines, penalties and
6. Overlooking the ‘boilerplate’
reputational damage.
Governing law, jurisdiction, entire agreement and
Fix it by including express inspection rights,
communication clauses may seem like legal filler –
rejection procedures and clear timelines, with links
yet they’re anything but. Poorly drafted or missing
to payment triggers. These clauses should be drafted
boilerplate terms can leave you exposed to foreign
with care to ensure that they are legally enforceable
litigation, unenforceable judgments and surprise
and commercially practical.
claims based on informal correspondence.
4. No contract management or
them as an afterthought. It pays to focus on them, as
escalation framework
they are surprisingly technical, especially if there’s a
Contract management clauses were covered in detail
cross-border element. If the thought of it makes you
in September’s article – but here it is again, albeit
yawn, perhaps leave those to a professional.
As unexciting as boilerplate clauses are, don’t treat
briefly, as I cannot overemphasise its importance. Contracts often include formal dispute resolution
Bullet-proof your supplier contracts
clauses but omit the softer mechanisms that help
In a sector defined by tight margins and complex
prevent legal disputes in the first place – like regular
supply chains, your supplier contract is like a
check-ins, KPI reviews or tiered escalation paths.
foundation to a building – you don’t want to build
Why is it important? Because it is not possible
on shifting sands. From delivery terms to escalation
to foresee every eventuality in a lasting relationship
frameworks, each clause is a lever for commercial
documented over a few pages – and surprises
strength and operational stability.
and calamities will happen from time to time. When uncertainties or disagreements arise, vague
This article does not constitute legal advice.
or altogether missing internal escalation clauses
To receive tailored advice on the subjects
can either lead to costly and time-consuming
covered here, contact Natalia at
contractual amendments to plug the holes in the
natalia@interiordesignlawyer.co.uk
“Poorly drafted or missing boilerplate terms can leave you exposed
112 OPINION
What’s your claim to fame? Are today’s bed and furniture retailers afraid to do something different? This month, business growth and development consultant Gordon Hecht, writing for US trade magazine Your Source News, suggests delivering a unique proposition instead of following the crowd … By Gordon Hecht
Our retail world has been criticised as being a Sea of Sameness. In the big-ticket arena, it’s a case of similar-looking merchandise – mattresses or appliances lined up in rows. Furniture stores have their rows too – recliners that look like continental soldiers, sans muskets. Some of it is because retail has become a game of Follow the Leader. We want to do whatever the winners are doing to win. But in that pursuit, retailers become followers and copycats. Business owners, gurus and leaders who come to me for advice on building their market share will be faced with this uncomfortable question – tell me what makes your store unique in the marketplace. And you cannot answer, “We have great prices, great people, great service, and great products.” That’s because all your competitors will tell me they have great prices, people, products and service. You need to find or develop your own unique advantage. And include it in your marketing and sales presentation. You need, as Seth Godin would say, to be the Purple Cow in a field of brown cows. Here are a few examples. I scream for Jeni’s: It’s a fact that plain ol’ vanilla is the bestselling flavour of ice cream. But those folks at Jeni’s decided not to compete for a thin slice of that pie. They continuously create new and off-the-wall flavours. Their fans love it. If you crave the flavour of goat cheese with red cherries, you can hand over $12. Some salty language: Salt was once valued so greatly it was used as currency (didya ever hear of the word ‘salary’?). It’s so commonplace these days, it’s one of the few items you can buy for under a buck. Popcorn salt is a finer grind, and you’ll pay a bit more. Pony up a few more pennies and you can get buttery flavoured salt. But how about paying almost $4 for a couple of ounces? Check out Kernel Season’s salt. They have plain and butter flavour. You can also sprinkle their Ranch, Cheesy Jalapeno, Caramel Corn or Bacon Cheddar on your Orville Redenbachers. They’re all in 2.8 shakers on the shelf at my local Stop ‘N Rob grocery store for $3.69 a ‘pop’. A purr-fect cup of Java: There’s no middle ground with some things. Caviar, cruises, and cats. You either love them or can’t stand them. And if you love Fluffy Face or
Mr McMittens (actual name of my son’s cat), your wallet is always open to spending money on felines. Next time you’re in Chicago, check out The Tree House Cafe. Far from being a struggling pet adoption centre, it’s a place where you can sip on a latte for $6. And for an extra ten-spot you can mingle with the orphan kitties looking for a new home. The Vegas notion: The big convention is just a few months away. Rent a car or hire an Uber to drive the famous strip. Each hotel offers a unique experience. You can travel to Paris, Venice, New York or ancient Rome within a two-mile stretch. Be at the circus or a pirate ship – the choice is yours. No Generica on that street. Each property vying to be the ‘most unique’. Here’s the point. Jeni’s, Kernel Season’s and The Tree House took things that are quite common – ice cream and salt are everyday items (and there’s never been a supply line issue with kittens). They each took something ordinary, added in their own touch of unique and made it extraordinary – and, if you hadn’t noticed, raised the value and price accordingly. You need to add in your own touch of uniqueness to your marketing and branding. You will need to develop it for your local market. Just do the things noone else is doing. It might be: • A welcoming chocolate sample just for walking in • A 24-hour delivery service, with in-home delivery available any hour of the day • Lifetime warranty on parts, at no extra cost • Free bedroom slippers for test-resting a bed. Shoppers are encouraged to take them home! • A shop-at-home service. Bring the mattress right to the shopper for a test rest. Bring three comfort levels • For furniture dealers – a full accessory service. Bring pictures, lamps, and rugs to the shopper after the furniture is delivered. They only pay for what they keep • Post a Joke of the Day on your website. Shoppers will come back for more • Catered dinner after the installation of a four-piece kitchen package What makes you unique? This article was originally published by Your Source News. Gordon can be reached at gordon.hecht@aol.com.
“We want to do whatever the winners are doing to win. But in that pursuit, retailers become followers and copycats
114 OPINION
The psychology of shopping In the third of an exclusive series of columns taken from her new book, The Science of Shopping, retail expert Kate Hardcastle explains what’s behind why people shop … By Kate Hardcastle
Shopping is far more complex than a simple exchange of money for goods or services. At its core, it is a deeply human act shaped by emotions, perceptions and desires. It is about meeting needs – not just practical ones, but emotional and psychological needs too. Understanding the motivations behind why people shop is essential for any retailer that wants to connect meaningfully with its customers. In today’s consumer-driven world, rational decision-making is often only part of the story. While price and practicality play a role, they are frequently overshadowed by emotional triggers – desires, fears and aspirations. To thrive in this environment, retailers need to go beyond functional benefits and focus on creating emotional value for their customers. The Equation of Value Central to this is the Equation of Value: product/ service + perceived value = price paid. This simple yet profound formula highlights that value is not a fixed concept – it is shaped by perception. A product is not just judged on its price tag, but on how it makes the consumer feel. Does it evoke a sense of pride, security or joy? Is the emotional pay-off worth the monetary cost? Luxury brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel illustrate this perfectly. Their appeal goes far beyond the product itself. A handbag or a pair of shoes from these brands carries the weight of cultural significance, status and emotional resonance. For their customers, the perceived value – what the product represents – far exceeds its physical worth, justifying the premium price. Emotional drivers in consumer behaviour Consumers are often motivated more by the desire to avoid loss than by the prospect of gain. This is why strategies such as limited-time offers or scarcity models are so effective. These approaches heighten the perception of value by playing on the fear of missing out (FOMO), triggering emotional responses that lead to action. At the same time, modern consumers seek reassurance in their purchases – what can be called emotional insurance. They want to feel that their choices are smart, responsible and rewarding. Brands like Apple and Patagonia excel in providing this emotional safety net. Apple’s ecosystem of products creates a sense of reliability and innovation, while Patagonia’s sustainability
narrative offers consumers the satisfaction of aligning their purchases with their values. The emotional heart of retail At its essence, shopping is a deeply personal act. It is a way for consumers to express their identity, fulfil their desires and find emotional satisfaction. The most successful retailers are those that recognise the human side of shopping, crafting experiences that resonate on an emotional level. As the industry evolves, the importance of connection will only grow. Retailers that embrace this understanding will not only sell products but create lasting relationships with their customers. By focusing on the emotional drivers behind consumer behaviour and crafting value-driven narratives, they can ensure their relevance in an ever-changing landscape. The act of buying is rarely just about the product – it is about the feelings, stories and aspirations tied to it. Retailers that understand and embrace this will not only meet consumer needs but become an integral part of their lives. Key takeaways 1. Emotional security is a priority: Consumers today are as driven by the emotional aspects of shopping as they are by practical needs. Retailers must understand that their customers seek more than products – they seek emotional reassurance and connection. 2. Perceived value drives purchasing decisions: The Equation of Value reminds us that value is largely about perception. Retailers must craft compelling narratives around their products, enhancing the consumer’s emotional investment and justifying their price. 3. The power of scarcity and urgency: Urgencydriven models like limited-time offers or exclusive collections work because they heighten the emotional stakes. Retailers can use these tools to amplify the perceived value of their products. 4. Emotional narratives build loyalty: Narratives that focus on emotional storytelling – whether through sustainability, innovation or community – create connections that are harder to replicate, and help foster loyalty in a competitive market. Excerpt from The Science of Shopping, courtesy Kogan Page. To buy a discounted copy, visit bit.ly/3Jo5xQb and enter code KOGANPAGE25 at checkout.
“The most successful retailers are those that recognise the human side of shopping, crafting experiences that resonate on an emotional level
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116 OPINION
Moving the middle It’s natural for retail managers to focus on their best- and poorestperforming salespeople, writes Adam Hankinson, CEO at sales training specialist Furniture Sales Solutions – but there are huge potential gains to be made by encouraging the majority in the middle … By Adam Hankinson
Every sales team, whether in furniture retail or beyond, has three groups. At the top, the stars who consistently overachieve. At the bottom, the strugglers who absorb most of the manager’s time and attention. And in the middle, the backbone – the steady, reliable group who hit targets some months and miss them in others. It’s natural for leaders to focus on the top and bottom. High performers are celebrated, often with minimal input. Underperformers attract scrutiny, consuming much of a manager’s time. But the true key to sustainable sales growth lies elsewhere – moving the middle.
Attitude, approach, questioning, listening, selling solutions, concluding confidently, and generating referrals – these aren’t elite skills reserved for the top 5%. They’re disciplines anyone in the middle can master with the right guidance.
Why the middle matters The middle group is where the numbers stack up. In most retailers, the majority of the sales team sit here. They’re competent, capable, and carrying a large share of turnover. If you can shift this group upwards by just a notch, the impact dwarfs what’s possible by focusing only on the top or bottom. Take a typical team of 10 salespeople. Two are high flyers, two struggle, and six form the middle ground. If those six could each win just one extra order per week, and if that order averages £1,500, then across the group that’s £9,000 of extra sales weekly. Multiply that by 47 working weeks in the year, and you’re looking at well over £400,000 in additional revenue – without hiring a single extra person.
Coach on the elbow: Middle performers thrive on feedback in the moment. Catching them ‘doing it right’ builds confidence and cements habits.
The coaching gap Why does the middle get overlooked? Because they’re not causing problems. Managers feel compelled to ‘fix’ the bottom, while the middle quietly ticks along. But left alone, they plateau. The difference between ‘solid’ and ‘exceptional’ is rarely talent – it’s coaching, encouragement, and structured development. This is where our Seven Habits of the Most Successful Furnishings Salespeople comes in.
Practical steps to move the middle Shift the spotlight: Celebrate incremental wins. Recognise the salesperson who improved their finance attach rate, not just the one who wrote the biggest order.
Break it down: Small, measurable goals work best. One extra order per week is achievable, meaningful, and transformational when multiplied across the team. Build belief: Middle performers often don’t see themselves as ‘top’. Coaching should reinforce that the gap is smaller than they think, and entirely within reach. The payoff When you move the middle, everyone feels the lift. Sales grow, morale rises, and the business gains resilience. Top performers are inspired by the competitive push, while bottom performers see clearer models of success to emulate. The real opportunity lies in coaching the core – the people who make up the majority of your team, and the majority of your results. Moving the middle is where it’s at. And in today’s competitive retail environment, it’s essential. www.furnituresalessolutions.com
“When you move the middle, everyone feels the lift. Sales grow, morale rises, and the business gains resilience
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118 OPINION
Competition – fear it, or welcome it? How would you respond if a rival set up shop next door to yours? This month, Steve Pickering, the ‘unorthodox’ CEO of independent bed retail chain Sussex Beds, reveals why he prefers to keep his competitors close … By Steve Pickering
I love keeping my competition close. I recall learning many years ago that Dreams was opening a new store right next door to our Portslade shop. Initially, there was fear and dread. Would we lose business? How could we possibly compete? The truth was the complete opposite – sales increased and business flourished. The reason behind this transformation wasn’t that we were beating our competition hands down – it was that two bed stores located side by side created a focal destination for bed shopping in
the local area. Customers could compare, contrast, and make informed decisions, all in one convenient location. We’ve also experienced the flip side over the years. When we were located away from the competition hub, we struggled to attract prospects who simply weren’t thinking about bed shopping in that area. When evaluating new store opportunities today, there are many critical considerations – property size, accessibility, visibility, demographic and
psychographic density. But the location of our competition has now become a key factor in our decision-making process. Sometimes your biggest threat can become your greatest opportunity.
Discover more of Steve’s thoughts at www.linkedin.com/ in/steve-pickering-unorthodoxceo/ or listen to his podcast, An Unorthodox CEO
“The location of our competition has now become a key factor in our decision-making process
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PARTNER COMMENT OPINION 121
INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF FURNISHING PUBLICATIONS (IAFP)
The cost of bringing it home
By Casey Loo
The global furniture market is in a state of flux. The US is, without doubt, the world’s largest furniture market – and what happens there has a significant impact on the global industry. President Trump’s current tariff strategy to penalise imports and bring manufacturing home has caused much chaos and anxiety worldwide – especially in APAC, which has long dominated as the largest furniture production region and the top supplier to the US. However, whether President Trump’s strategy will succeed remains to be seen. There’s a huge gap between import demand and US domestic production capacity, which will require tremendous resources, conviction and time for it to work. Each presidency is limited to four years and a maximum of two terms – he has another three years to see it through, via very fluid policy decisions and many other areas of concern for his government to address. In the meantime, American consumers suffer the price increases. For the furniture market across the rest of the world, despite the current climate of uncertain outlook for most economies, elevated trade tensions, both Fortune Business Insights and research agency CSIL have projected continued growth for the furniture trade in 2025, and it looks like it’s on track. That is comforting news for all (furniture is a necessity, after all). The US Department of Commerce has introduced an extension of tariffs on steel and aluminium, also covering furniture – up to 50% tariffs on imported products. It’s a decision intended to protect the domestic industry, but it may also weaken the position of European manufacturers. European concerns are justified, but, as stated, it is doubtful that the US will be able to fully replace imported furniture any time soon. In the meantime, the extent to which European manufacturers are impacted depends on numerous factors: which country gets what percentage of tariff, eventually – which will influence where buyers source,
Image courtesy Shutterstock/Miha Creative
Casey Loo is the president of the International Alliance of Furnishing Publications (IAFP), and the publisher and editor-inchief of its Singapore member FurnitureAndFurnishing.com. In an interview with Poland’s member magazine Biznes Meble, Casey shared his thoughts on the likely impact of Trump’s tariffs on a global industry already beset by challenges …
if there are government incentives available to US manufacturers, if there are enough US companies that are keen to develop or expand their own production capacities (and be competitive), and how quickly these production plants can be up and running. In addition to the investment required, cost concerns, manpower and time constraints, there’s also a need for the domestic supply chain to scale up to be able to support domestic production for the US furniture industry to rise again. In the US, furniture consumption is strongly linked to the housing market, which is currently sluggish in terms of sales, with increasing inventory. So, while furniture is a necessity, changing/updating it can be put on hold if the prices are not desirable, or the US economy remains depressed (there’s presently very low growth projected for the year). Let’s not forget that the higher cost of domestic production, and its impact on profitability, was the reason behind the exodus of US furniture production and the huge wave of outsourcing in the 1990s. www.iafp.info
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“There’s a huge gap between import demand and US domestic production capacity
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122 OPINION FEEDBACK
THIS MONTH, WE’RE ASKING …
How have you been impacted by April’s business cost increases? We’ve been impacted on multiple fronts – from our own staff costs and a double whammy with the minimum wage which ripples upwards – and we also had to move team members who sit above minimum wage to a higher wage. We’ve also had the inevitable price increases from our suppliers in the same situation with increased staff costs Steve Adams (Mattress Online)
The indirect impact has been very apparent – costs of UK goods and services have been rising as companies look to pass on the cost increases Greg Suthern (100% Comfort)
Every client I work with has felt the squeeze – energy, wages, supply chain shocks. It all hits margin and confidence which in turn makes the ideal client slightly more reluctant to call on external support advice (cost worries), but the reality is that good advice pays back many times over, and now more than ever, retailers need that fresh pair of eyes – they can’t be experts in everything/do it all alone Clare Bailey (Retail Champion)
As an employee of my business, my NI has gone up and the threshold has come down, so I pay, and the business pays Gareth Mayhew (Roundhill Consultancy)
We have been impacted, but, as with many other businesses, the impact has been minimised by cost-saving measures taken before it came into effect
It feels like the April increase to business costs has been a double whammy. Whilst not only have our salaries and NI contributions increased, meaning it hits our bottom line, we’ve also seen a downturn in footfall and business, increased costs and less demand, which is concerning – therefore we’ve obviously had to look at margins, staffing numbers and importantly our marketing activity to ensure that this does not falter Kathryn Lukehurst (Lukehursts)
The announcement of the cost increases in the October Budget was the point at which a tough year ahead became an unviable year ahead. The numbers didn’t add up and the decision was made to close the store. It doesn’t get much more impactful than that Andy Stockwell (Improve Retail)
These cost increases, from a Government totally out of touch with the business community, have added over £100k to our direct operating costs. We have tackled this through some increases to our service costs to customers (delivery charges, disposal costs etc) and, reluctantly, some redundancies in nonsales roles. We have also raised prices for consumers where our suppliers have levied increases to cover their increased costs Peter Harding (Fairway Furniture)
We’ve just noticed a general sense of ‘wait and see’ from retailers in a number of sectors
Garry Preston (TR Hayes)
Wayne Robbins (Iconography)
We are a small team and we have a strong grip on costs, but of course it’s impacted – but we invested in the product and made sure our numbers are, probably enviably, double-digit up on the previous year to compensate
The increases forced a sharper focus on efficiencies – every cost line had to justify itself. It also encouraged deeper conversations with suppliers and partners around shared pressures, and in some cases, more collaborative problem-solving
Jan Duckworth (Cox & Cox)
Only indirectly Bernard Eaton (Greenwood Retail)
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