The British Furniture Manufacturers Association (BFM) has announced that James Keen, the chief executive of Hypnos Beds, has been elected to the BFM Board.

The fifth generation of Keens to lead the British family-run mattress and bed manufacturer on a day-to-day basis, James is the son of Hypnos Chairman Peter Keen. Together with his sister Sarah, James has steered the company’s progressive approach to sustainability – one of the core areas the BFM is in the process of developing for its members.

Nick Garratt, Chairman of the BFM, said: “We are delighted to welcome James to the BFM Board. The culture at Hypnos in supporting British manufacturing and sustainability very much aligns with the BFM’s objectives for 2023 and beyond.

“Hypnos has been undertaking a comprehensive sustainability journey for the last 11 years, which has seen it become the first carbon neutral bedmaker in the world, and more recently led to the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development. James will provide valued support in helping the BFM develop its offer to members in this important area.”

Recently the BFM joined forces with Planetmark, to drive forward a strong sustainability offer for its members.

The trade body also revealed plans to launch The Future of Furniture campaign at the January Furniture Show 2023.

The campaign will highlight the value and variety of careers within British furniture-making, as well as showcasing the steps the industry is taking to support a greener approach to manufacturing.

James said: “The BFM has been making considerable inroads to help its members embrace a more sustainable approach.

“I look forward to supporting this important area of its work, as well as working to promote the quality and value of British-made furniture and highlighting the importance of the Made In Britain message.”