The British Furniture Manufacturers (BFM) Furniture Component Expo provides an opportunity for furniture-makers to connect in a one-stop-shop format.
Debuting at the Telford International Centre on 24 & 25 April, the Expo, sponsored by Vita Group, BeA and Carpenter, provides an efficient platform for businesses of all sizes to connect with leading suppliers, source innovative materials and explore cutting-edge machinery and tools.
The Furniture Component Expo will feature a diverse exhibitor landscape showcasing everything from hardware and finishing materials to furniture components and advanced manufacturing equipment. There are much more than just components too. The aim is to see end-to-end of the supply chain, including logistics, home delivery, insurance, IT and software, and training providers, alongside transport, packaging solutions and fleet information.
Furthermore, there will be plenty of informative seminars led by industry experts who delve into topics like sustainable practices, emerging technologies, apprenticeships and skills, exporting and new trends. The Innovation Trail will also showcase new products and services too.
The show is designed to meet the needs of all furniture manufacturers, including makers of beds, mattresses, cabinet and upholstery.
Alan Payne, The Dorset Chairman said: “The opportunity for small businesses such as ours to attend the FCE and network with suppliers in the industry that we would not normally have access to is invaluable.
“I am also honoured to take part as a member of the Automation vs Skills seminar panel taking place during the Expo.”
Nichola Bell, Sales Director at Alpha Design said: “In a business world where time is short, it makes so much sense to be able to see multiple suppliers under one roof, where buyers and sellers can meet and do meaningful business.
“We would like to identify new innovation, potential new suppliers and products from across all aspects of our Industry.
“We have a thriving Furniture Industry in the UK which isn’t celebrated enough, this is a long overdue showcase for suppliers to get exposure to some of the best manufacturers in the country.”
Ian Peers, Operations Director at Ercol said: “The event should bring together a rich concentration of suppliers that are specifically targeted to our needs. We expect to find new suppliers for our business that we’ve not met before.
“Furniture manufacturing in the UK is sizeable and this event will help us all find and work with the best suppliers to our industry.”
Chris Everist, Commerce Director at Parker Knoll said: “There are very few events of this nature that give you the opportunity to browse the market and identify new or potential suppliers.
“It will be useful for the development and production team to see alternative supply routes and products that they may not be aware of. The industry thrives off innovation and new ideas need to be exposed to the manufacturers.”
James Keen, Chief Executive of Hypnos said: “It will be an excellent opportunity to get new and existing suppliers to one event in the UK to showcase their latest products and innovations as well as the networking possibilities.
“We would hope to find some new products and/or suppliers. Also, the opportunity to expand our thinking and own innovations by looking at suppliers to the wider furniture trade.”
Registration is free and is expected to be well-attended with exhibitors already confirmed including Vita Group, BeA, Carpenter, Camco, CPS, Clockwork Components, Fibreline, Fibre Components, Fryett’s Fabrics, Peak Converters, Spinks, Leggett & Platt, RJ Binnie and Handy, to name but a few.
“Whether you’re a seasoned manufacturer or a burgeoning entrepreneur, the Furniture Component Expo has something for everyone,” the organisers said. “It’s an opportunity to save precious time and resources by consolidating your supply chain under one roof, stay at the forefront of industry advancements, and forge valuable connections that can propel your business forward.
“Mark your calendars, register your attendance and prepare to be inspired at the Furniture Component Expo – your gateway to a thriving and dynamic furniture-making landscape.”
