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Big Furniture Group Ltd accepts no responsibility for variations in colour reproduction and cannot be liable for the safe custody or return of any solicited or unsolicited material. We are committed to producing a true, factual, fair and unbiased publication through the editorial content within and takes appropriate measures to do so. Big Furniture Group Ltd reserves the right to edit any content other than advertisements, with the editor’s decision being final. All material submitted for inclusion in Big Furniture Group is done so entirely at the owner’s risk. Advertiser information is accepted in good faith and Big Furniture Group accepts no responsibility in in adverts appearing in the magazine, and do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s views. Contributors are advised to keep copies of all material submitted.
Dan Squires Managing Editor
Welcome to August’s Big Furniture Group Magazine ”
Over cover star this month features the Irish Furniture & Homewares Show as organisers prepare to welcome the industry back to Dublin. We found out more about what’s on show. In keeping with August events, INDX Furniture also returns at the end of the month. We caught up with the team on what visitors can expect to see.
This month features another Big Furniture Awards 2025 roundup – this time sharing some pics from the winners, while we also recap the recent Manchester Furniture Show through images. From one show to another, Gallery Direct details its experience at SOLEX and we take a first look at next month’s NBF Bed Show.
Moving on from shows, we were welcomed to the Peak Converters facility where we got a chance to explore behind the scenes at the UK’s leading foam and fibre converter. We caught up with Glasswells on its ongoing refurbishment, Material Things on its 50th anniversary milestone and Purecare, uncovering more insight from its new Sleep Study. Scatter Box reveals more about its new chapter in home interiors, Shire Beds continues its brand message and Nectar talks about its recent MTick certification.
Furthermore, Right Furnishings details its white label soft furnishings expansion, MattressNextDay delivers its fifth consecutive record-breaking year, Natalia Samodina explores five pressing workforce challenges, and GNG reveals the return of a fan favourite product. Meanwhile, FURNY shares an insight into AR developments and its new app, RetailSystem explains why WebSystem delivers the digital edge, ufurnish talks about continued scale and innovation, and we introduce WebReadyCatalog – a powerful tool full of supplier content. We also introduce a family-owned Ukrainian furniture factory FURNITURE TOKABO LTD as it looks to build new wholesale partnerships in the UK, while Sealy shares more about its recent Which? Best Buy Mattress recognition.
As for the regulars, Rachel Cooper, Category Manager at AIS Ltd, talks about a passion for interiors, current trends and what needs to change in the industry in our latest Big Interview, while Mark Gannon, CEO of Image Furnishings Group and Founder of IFHS, shares an insight into establishing and Irish show, fire reg changes and what’s next in a second Big Interview –that’s right, there’s two this month! Damien Lawlor, Managing Director of Lawlors Furniture and Flooring, talks about recent investments including its new mobile floor shop in our Retail Focus feature and we also spoke with Dave and Debbie Jenkins on their journey as agents in the industry.
Meanwhile, our next round of expert commentary from George Sinclair focuses on why kid’s beds matter too, we cover the latest news from Vietnam, China, the USA and Ireland markets, while the Sleep Geek, aka James Wilson, talks about hot weather opportunities. We also caught up with some award winners where Celebrity, Emmiera, Dura Beds, Harrison Spinks, Ekornes, Guardsman, Ulster, Woods Packaging and Pacific Lifestyle share their respective reactions, while Whitemeadow, BedGear, Willis & Gambier, Birlea, Avriio, Sofa Source and Image Furnishings detail recent developments.
We caught up with Bodyease on its Mammoth opportunity, the Business Helpline Group looks into what happens next when a furniture business fails, Furniture And Choice talks trends, and Furniture Sales Solutions signs off the edition with an insight into the easiest way to grow sales in furniture retail.
That’s enough from me, so enjoy our latest magazine. Oh, and if you have any news you want to shout about or if you’re keen to get involved, drop me an email on dan@bigfurnituregroup.com We’d love to share your story.
76 – Sleep Geek Says
78 – The Bed Expert
80 - PureLay’s simple core philosophy
82 – How does sleep make you feel?
84 – Powering Retail Success
88 – A fifth record-breaking year
90 - Realising a Mammoth opportunity
92 – A Hattrick for Woods Packaging
94 – GEARing up for UK expansion
96 - Emmiera Group Raising Standards
100 – Meet the Agent/Rep
102 – What’s fashionable in furniture
104 - Leading through meaningful design
106 – Sustainability Spotlight 108 – New Products
112 - Award-winning Outdoor Furniture
114 – Ulster’s Innovation
116 – Big Question: Finance?
118 – A journey of modernisation
120 – MFS 2025
124 – From Ukraine to the UK
126 - 3D modelling that sells
128 - A Furniture Search Leader
130 - Letter from Ireland
132 - Destination Furniture
134 - Letter from Vietnam
136 – Letter from China
137 – Letter from America
138 - Guardsman Celebrates Award
140 - When a furniture business fails
144 – From one Peak to another
146 - Last Word with Furniture Sales Solutions
RETAIL FOCUS, Damien Lawlor, Managing Director of Lawlors Furniture and Flooring, talks about recent investments including its new mobile floor shop.
edge for furniture & bed retailers.
PEAK CONVERTERS We explore behind the scenes at the UK’s leading foam and
Save the date for The Autumn Furniture Show
The Autumn Furniture Show returns from 8 – 9 October 2025 at the exciting new venue in Telford. Taking place at the Telford International Centre, the show follows on the from its successful sister event, The Spring Furniture & Bed Show, which also relocated to Telford and delivered a popular showcase.
Now, attention turns to The Autumn Furniture Show, organised and managed by Minerva Furniture Group, an independent buying group for the independent retailer. Established since 1990, the group has been working with quality independent furniture retailers spanning the UK, Ireland & Channel Island. This year sees the hosts continue its 35th anniversary celebrations by returning to Telford where it began its journey back in 2014.
This purpose-built exhibition facility in Telford is well equipped, centrally located and easily accessible by road and rail making it the perfect destination for this two-day event.
Over the course of the event, the two halls will feature exhibitors covering beds & bedroom furniture, upholstery & living, lighting, cabinet & dining, occasional decorative accessories, software systems, soft furnishings & pictures and home office. The twoday show provides an ideal opportunity for trade visitors to view new ranges and product trends in a comfortable and relaxed setting.
Hotels to suit all budgets can be found near the exhibition venue, while all trade visitors are welcome as VIP guests, with free parking, free entry, and a complimentary light lunch over the two-day event.
This Show is a TRADE ONLY event. Furniture retailers, interiors and contract specifiers and other professionals associated with the furniture interiors business are welcome. Registration is free of charge which you can either pre-register or register on the day. The Autumn Furniture Show is not just for our membership, but for the entire trade industry.
The show is an excellent opportunity to meet current, and new leading Suppliers as well as to network with other business colleagues. We look forward to welcoming all visitors to the Autumn Furniture Show.
Show Information
OPENING TIMES: Wednesday 8th October 9am – 5pm Thursday 9th October 9am -4pm
VENUE: Telford International Centre, Hall 1 & 2 International Way, Telford, Shropshire. / For sat nav use TF3 4JH
Contact Us / Pre-Register today for your VIP buying experience and if you’re interested in exhibiting, we still have opportunities available with competitive rates plus more advantages. Why not call us today on 01249 716195 or email admin@minervafurnituregroup.co.uk or visit www.theautumnfurnitureshow.co.uk to book your stand.
Loaf announce Islington showroom
Premium British furniture brand Loaf has expanded its London presence with its eleventh Shack (its take on a showroom) in Islington, London.
Officially opened on 17 July 2025, the launch comes after the successful opening of its Chiswick Shack last Summer, and follows the recent closure of Loaf’s Spitalfields Shack, as the brand relocates to a larger site to better serve its growing customer base.
Situated on Essex Road, just a five-minute walk from Angel tube station, the 4,100 sq ft high-street store has been designed by Loaf’s in-house team in collaboration with design studio, Studio Jill.
Loaf’s CEO, Sam Perkins, says: “Opening in Islington marks another exciting step in our London expansion. We’re continuing to grow our presence across the city, making it easier for people to experience what we’re all about- laid-back comfort, thoughtful design, and a space to properly unwind.”
OKA Newcastle to open in August
Following the successful opening of OKA Redbrick store in March, the retailer is continuing to make its northern mark –this time in the heart of Newcastle, with a new concession at department store retailer Fenwick.
Located on Fenwick’s renowned furniture floor, the new OKA space will showcase its carefully curated collection of furniture, homeware, textiles, and lighting.
Mark Saunders, OKA CEO, commented: “We’re seeing customers make more considered purchases when it comes to interiors, so our showrooms are a really important part of the OKA experience. Most customers investing in a larger piece want to see and feel it for themselves – that’s why we’re continuing to grow our presence in key UK home interiors
markets where we see real opportunity. Watch this space.”
Stephen Ayres, Concessions Director at Fenwick, added: “We are delighted to welcome OKA to the Fenwick furniture floors at our Newcastle store. This exciting addition strengthens our curated portfolio of premium home and lifestyle brands. OKA’s timeless British design and distinctive style further positions Fenwick as the go-to destination for discerning customers seeking high-quality furniture and unique home accessories.”
David Phillips Furniture placed into administration
Furniture supplier David Phillips Furniture has entered administration, while its rental division continues to trade as administrators explore a sale of assets.
Sam Birchall and Howard Smith of Interpath were appointed as Joint Administrators to David Phillips Furniture Group on 15 July 2025.
Founded in 1998, David Phillips Furniture Group has grown to become a leading provider of furniture solutions to the UK’s residential property and build-to-rent sectors. Headquartered in London, the Group is well-regarded for its high-quality, tailored furnishing packages and end-to-end service offering, serving property professionals, developers, and institutional landlords nationwide.
Financial performance across the Group in the last year has been hampered by margin pressures and the wider downturn in the construction sector. Despite efforts by management to improve operational efficiency and strengthen cashflow, the business continued to face mounting financial pressure.
To explore potential avenues for recovery, the directors engaged advisors to undertake an accelerated options process, including efforts to secure a sale or refinancing. Unfortunately, with no viable solvent options available, the directors made the difficult decision to seek the appointment of administrators.
Following the appointment, the Group’s main trading operations have ceased, and, regrettably, the majority of the Company’s 134 employees have been made redundant. The remaining staff have been retained to assist the Joint Administrators in their duties.
The furniture rental division of the business continues to trade while the Joint Administrators explore all available options for the sale of the wider business and its assets, including the David Phillips brand.
Sam Birchall, Managing Director at Interpath and Joint Administrator of David Phillips Furniture Group, said: “David Phillips has been a trusted name in the property furnishings market for over 25 years, known for its quality, service and scale. We are now seeking buyers for the business and its assets and encourage interested parties to get in touch as soon as possible.”
Dunelm appoints new CEO
Home furnishings retailer Dunelm has announced the appointment of Clodagh (Clo) Moriarty as Chief Executive Officer, with effect from 1 October 2025.
Clo will succeed Nick Wilkinson who, as announced in February, had informed the Board of his intention to retire from Dunelm and full-time executive life, following seven years in the role. To ensure a smooth transition, Nick will continue in his role until Clo’s appointment and will step down from the Board at the end of September, before leaving the business in early October.
Alison Brittain, Chair of Dunelm, said: “Clo was the standout candidate from a strong field, and we are delighted that we have been able to attract such a talented and high calibre executive. As Nick hands on the baton, we are confident that her blend of retail, digital and strategic expertise will be a significant asset as we move into our next phase of growth as The Home of Homes.”
Clodagh Moriarty added: “Dunelm is a fantastic business which I have followed and admired for many years, so to be joining as CEO is a real privilege. Nick and the team have done an incredible job growing the business, its channels and its capabilities over recent years in service of Dunelm’s customers. We have an amazing platform to build from, and I can’t wait to get started.” Celebrity’s MD on CVA completion and taking full ownership
Upholstered furniture manufacturer Celebrity has announced that JDP Furniture Group has officially exited its Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA).
Back in 2020, the company entered into a CVA with its creditors to secure the future of the business after its parent company JDP Furniture Group entered administration a few months prior.
The administration ended during August 2022, moving into its own CVA agreement to rescue the business as a going concern.
The CVA has been completed more than a year ahead of schedule, marking the next chapter in the company’s growth plans.
In a latest update, Wayne Hollis, Managing Director at Celebrity Motion Furniture, confirmed the news: “Completing the CVA early is a significant milestone. It reflects our team’s dedication and allows us to fully focus on future growth. It also reassures stakeholders that Celebrity is in a strong financial position and moving forward with confidence.
“It’s a proud moment. Completing the CVA early shows just how far we’ve come. The entire team has contributed, and seeing that effort pay off—especially under challenging market conditions—is incredibly rewarding.
“We’ve been able to achieve this through disciplined financial management, strong sales, and strategic cost control. We’ve also maintained excellent relationships with customers and suppliers and made operational improvements that supported our progress.”
Detailed in Celebrity’s most recent filed accounts for the year ended 30 September 2024, total sales rose 7.4% to £17.6m, while pre-tax profit resulted at £1.1m, up 78%.
“This performance reflects the strength of our products and relationships, as well as our responsiveness to market trends,” Wayne added. “We’ve invested in enhancing production facilities, product development, and staff training too. These areas are crucial to maintaining our standards and supporting future growth.”
With a look to the future, Celebrity plans to continue its focus on innovation, expand its product offerings, and deliver excellent customer service. “We have exciting new features and designs in the pipeline and are gearing up for a key autumn sales period,” Wayne said.
Finally, Wayne revealed that he has taken full ownership of the business, which will further boost momentum. “For me, it represents both a personal commitment and a strategic opportunity,” Wayne said. “It enables faster decisionmaking and ensures continuity. For the business, it means we can act with agility, invest with confidence, and continue building momentum.
“We remain committed to British craftsmanship and continuous improvement. There’s a strong sense of momentum here at Celebrity, and we’re excited about the future.”
Land of Beds promotes Wigan Store Manager
Online bed and mattress retailer Land of Beds has announced the promotion of Alan Jones from Wigan Store Manager to General Sales Manager.
Jones brings over 40 years of retail management experience to his new role, with expertise spanning sales, finance, and customer services across multiple industry sectors. His comprehensive background positions him well to drive sales performance and customer satisfaction across the organisation.
“Since joining Land of Beds, Alan has quickly mastered the bed industry and helped drive a successful year at our Wigan store, consistently delivering the expert guidance and personalised service our customers expect,” said Mike Murray, Managing Director at Land of Beds. “His appointment reinforces our commitment to having the most knowledgeable and experienced team in the sleep industry.”
In his new position, Jones will be at the heart of Land of Beds’ customer-focused approach, leading teams to deliver exceptional service and expert sleep recommendations tailored to each customer’s individual needs. He will manage day-to-day operations across sales teams while spearheading all training and development initiatives to ensure staff remain the industry’s leading sleep experts, delivering ‘The Land of Beds Way’ training programme.
“Alan brings a wealth of experience and insight from his prior positions as store manager and area manager within the retail industry,” says Maria, sales director at Land of Beds.
“His proven ability to adapt products and services around customer needs, rather than the other way around, makes him the perfect fit for this expanded role. We’re really excited about Alan’s promotion and look forward to seeing how his four decades of retail wisdom will help drive Land of Beds forward as we continue to further position ourselves as the leading experts.”
Land of Beds has also recently partnered with Dr Nerina Ramlakhan, a respected physiologist and author with over 25 years’ experience helping people improve their sleep and overall wellbeing.
Dr Nerina brings a unique blend of academic rigour and lived experience. Known for her practical, deeply human approach, she encourages people to reconnect with what their bodies already know about rest, balance and recovery. “I’m delighted to be working with Land of Beds to help the nation get better and deeper sleep,” says Dr Nerina.
To mark the launch of the partnership, Land of Beds and Dr Nerina commissioned a national sleep study: ‘The Shocking Sleep Habits Wrecking Britain’s Health.’
The study gathered insights from over 1,000 respondents, aged 18–99, across all UK regions. The findings offered a clear message: from disrupted sleep cycles to burnout and poor bedtime habits, people across the country are more sleepdeprived than ever and looking for support they can trust.
Mike added: “We’re thrilled to be working with Dr Nerina. Her experience and approach align perfectly with what we stand for: helping people sleep better, not just selling beds.
“This partnership helps cement our place as one of the UK’s most trusted online sleep destinations. By combining expert insight with our products and service, we’re able to offer something that goes beyond transactions: real, trustworthy support rooted in experience, expertise, authoritativeness, and trust.”
NBF announces Judging Panel for 2025 Bed Industry Retailer Awards
The National Bed Federation (NBF) has announced a panel of well-respected and experienced judges for the retailer categories in the 2025 Bed Industry Awards.
The four retailer awards shine a spotlight on UK and Irish bed retailers of all sizes that predominantly stock NBF-approved brands to highlight their achievements from the past 12 months.
Judging the Small and Medium NBF Retail Champion of the Year, Online Bed Retailer of the Year and National Bed Retailer of the Year categories is Jarrod Bird, sales director at Interiors Monthly; Bernard Eaton, MD of Greenwood Retail; and Dan Squires, editor of Big Furniture Group.
Richard McMurrough, director of leading strategic brand and management consultancy Propaganda, completes the National Bed Retailer of the Year panel and James Winfield, digital director at Propaganda, makes his judging debut to complete the Online Bed Retailer of the Year panel.
The winners will be announced at the NBF Bed Show gala dinner and awards ceremony on Tuesday, 23 September at the Telford International Centre.
Further information on all the awards and judges, including how to enter for free, is available on the Bed Show website: http://www.bedshow.co.uk/awards/
Online dips but showroom sales grow
Home furnishings and interiors business Fired Earth has reported a growth in sales while losses widened. According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 30 September 2024, total sales rose 5.8% to £14.9m from £14.1m in 2023. Pre-tax losses resulted at £1.6m, widening from a loss of £1.5m recorded the previous year.
IKEA submits Ayr Tesco locker plans
Swedish furniture retailer IKEA has submitted a planning application to South Ayrshire Council where it plans to erect secure lockers at Ayr Tesco Extra store on Whitletts Road. The plan was first announced last year and will allow IKEA customers to have an “accessible shopping experience” instead of travelling to its physical stores. The lockers will take up the space of 12 car parking spaces.
Arlo opens Outlet store
British furniture-makers Arlo & Jacob has announced the opening of its first Outlet store. Situated next door to its Ely showroom at retail village Ben’s Yard in Stuntney, the Outlet and Sample Sale Shop offers discounted items for customers. The new store, which officially opened 11 July 2025, has up to 60% off all products.
Profit more than doubles at carpet maker
Carpet manufacturer Cormar Carpets has reported a growth in profit despite a decline in turnover. According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 30 September 2024, total sales fell 2.7% to £143.8m from £147.7m in 2023. Pre-tax profit resulted at £12.4m, up from £5.9m recorded against the previous year. UK sales were down to £139m from £143.1m, while EU sales rose to £4.5m from £4.4m. Outside the EU, revenues decreased from £166,000 to £148,000.
Roomix secures £850k raise
Roomix, the UK-based furniture brand known for its customisable, made-toorder pieces, has successfully raised £850k in its latest funding round. The recent funding round, which included investment from Simply Scaling, Syndicate Room and a range of existing and new sector-focused angel investors, will support the company in carving out a new niche in the furniture market.
KI opens new show room in Clerkenwell
KI Europe has announced the opening of its new showroom on Goswell Road in Clerkenwell, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s evolution and highlighting its commitment to innovation and design excellence. The move celebrates 30 years of KI in the UK, marking its growth by placing KI at the centre of London’s design district.
Long-serving independent to close
Independent furniture retailer Sturtons & Tappers is to close, bringing an end to almost 120 years. Situated on Wimborne Rd in Bournemouth, the business owners David and Pauline Scott will retire following a closing down sale. A statement said: “This decision comes with much reflection, love and gratitude for our wonderful team, loyal customers and supportive community. Thank you for being part of our story. You’ve made this more than a store – you’ve made it family.”
AIT Home Delivery joins industry charity
AIT Home Delivery, the UK’s leading two-person delivery specialist, has joined The Furniture Makers’ Company, the City of London livery company and charity for the furnishing industry, as a corporate member.
Blum introduces MERIVOBOX
Blum, an innovative furnishing
solutions provider, has introduced MERIVOBOX to the UK market, a unique, modular, single platform drawer box solution. Designed to combine maximum flexibility with ultimate creativity, MERIVOBOX offers a number of applications, all from one single running platform.
Irish independent confirms closure
Independent furniture retailer Madden Furniture has announced its closure, bring an end to almost 50 years of trading. Situated on Station Rd in Ennis, Madden Furniture has been in operation since 1977. In a parting statement from the company, it thanked its loyal customers from over the years. “After 49 incredible years suppling furniture to our community, the time has come for us to say goodbye.”
Barrow furniture business opens new clearance outlet
Independent furniture business
Dandy’s Furniture Store has announced the opening of a new warehouse as part of its 45th anniversary celebrations. Situated at Unit 2 at the Meeting Industrial Estate in Park Road, Barrow-In-Furness, the new unit will be used to clear surplus stock as a clearance outlet and will not impact its main store operations on Duke Street.
Next secures planning permission
Fashion and home furnishings retailer Next has secured plans to open a new store in Reading. Situated at the Reading Gate Retail Park, the new store will take over a former Carpetright location. According to planning documents submitted to Reading Borough Council, Next intends to feature a ground floor and a mezzanine where clothing, accessories, furniture and household goods will be sold.
BIG SOCIAL AUGUST 25! ON
Hypnos Beds
At Hypnos Beds, we’re passionate about nurturing young talent and preserving craftsmanship. We recently welcomed participants from The Furniture Makers’ Company Young Professionals Industry Experience (YIPE) to our Princes Risborough factory, giving them hands-on insight into traditional bedmaking skills. We’re proud to support initiatives like YIPE that help the next generation build exciting careers in furniture and bedmaking.
Wolf Components
Today marks another key milestone in our investment programme with the delivery of two further state of the art Lian Rou 180 coil-a-minute machines.
As a business we are passionate about investing in the latest technology and this investment ensures our manufacturing processes remain agile and competitive, keeping us at the forefront of bedding industry standards.
A look at what’s been going on over social media channels. Share your news with us and email dan@bigfurnituregroup.com
Louise Tamplin
I’m excited to share that I’ve started a new role as Sales Director at HTL Group of Companies. After 20 years in the bed and furniture industry, I’m now shifting into the upholstery category, applying the knowledge and experience I’ve built and looking forward to the fresh challenge ahead. Thank you to everyone who’s already made me feel so welcome and part of the team. A special thank you to Mei Ming, Andy, Roxanne Yap and Selina for the smooth onboarding. And to Greg Sheil thank you for putting me forward for this incredible opportunity.
The Cotswold Company | B Corp™
We’re proud to share a record year at The Cotswold Company, with EBITDA more than doubling to £9.2m and sales reaching an all-time high of £100m. CEO Ralph Tucker said it best: “This is a milestone year for all at The Cotswold Company, with more and more customers moving from ‘throwaway’ furniture to high-quality, made-to-last products that can be passed down for generations.” With standout Christmas trading (+22%), a 19% sales uplift, and a 20% increase in active customers, we’re continuing to outperform the market. This performance is a testament to the strength of our brand, the appeal of our craftsmanship-led products, and the strategic pivot to a truly omnichannel model, including partnerships with John Lewis & Partners and Next. A huge thank you to our brilliant teams for making it happen..
Dura Beds
’We’re excited to give you a sneak peek from our latest photo shoot featuring brand new additions to the Dura Bed lineup! From upgraded designs to innovative features, these new products bring even more durability, comfort, and style to your space. It was amazing to see them come to life in front of the camera — and we can’t wait to show you more. Huge thanks to the creative team, crew, and everyone involved in making this shoot a success!.
BIG INTER VIEW FEATURES
Category Manager at AIS Ltd, talks about her role, a passion for interiors, most admired, current trends and what needs to change in the industry.
WITH RACHEL COOPER, which grew three-fold in a year as Oak entered the UK market!
Let’s start with you. Can you share a bit about yourself and your background?
I have been in the furniture trade for over 30 years, the last 23 being with AIS. Prior to AIS I worked for Allied & Maples within their Contracts division furnishing show homes all over the UK. These jobs gave me a wonderful opening into the home décor market and interior furnishings. It allowed me to work with a major interior decorating magazine and even decorate & furnish a chateau in France!
I joined AIS as their Partnership Trading Manager, providing an excellent grounding into compliance in this sector. The true industry legend, Joe Martin was my mentor and really helped me develop my skills and knowledge; and trusted me to oversee the Cabinet category within AIS, as well as giving me responsibility for our import arm of the business -
I travelled many places with Joe and rapidly realised having a break or anything less than a 12-hour day was not Joe’s thing! For anyone that knows me, I work hard, I am passionate about what I do, and I think a lot of my work ethics were instilled in me by Joe. I moved on to work with the beds category for many years at AIS before my current position as Category Manger for Upholstery, Cabinet & Garden Furniture.
I live on the outskirts of the Cotswolds in a small village with my lovely husband Darrell, my wonderful daughter Olivia and Bella (the diva) cat.
What is your current job role and key responsibilities?
Currently I am the AIS Category Manager for Upholstery, Cabinet & Garden
Furniture. I have been in this role for three years. This entails working with suppliers to select product, develop new models and exclusives for the Membership, negotiating pricing, ensuring best margin potential is achieved, and organising promotional activity. I take time to visit Members, suppliers, external trade shows as well as comp shopping to ensure my knowledge and expertise is always its very best. I also work in close conjunction with our Events Team as we run three INDX Furniture trade shows a year.
What do you love about your job?
Firstly, I get to work with product every day, it’s just the best, from the development of product, selection of fabrics, working on pricing, launching of product through to seeing final products in store and customers purchasing them. The product journey is amazing! Secondly and most importantly the
people I work with from suppliers, through to members to the team at AIS. The industry has some amazing people within it who you can support, but who will also support you too if and when you need it. We are a small team at AIS dedicated to furniture but we work closely and effectively. I don’t regard them as a team, more of a work family.
What
time is your alarm clock set for, and do you have a morning routine?
On an average day 6am, but there aren’t that many average days as I can be in the office some days, out with suppliers’ other days and off to see Members too. Make up and sorting out my crazy, unruly hair are the only morning routine which never change, everything else will change dependent on where I am travelling to that day.
Why did you choose to work in the furnishing industry?
I didn’t choose it; it seemed to choose me. I graduated from London University with a Geography degree with all good intentions to apply for my PGCE and go into teaching. I have always had a passion for interiors; from an early age I remember looking through my Mums interiors magazines at home and forever changing my bedroom to keep up with trends so maybe I was destined! I took a temporary job within the furniture industry after my degree and the rest is history as they say!
Who
do you most admire in the industry and why?
I admire different people for different reasons, it’s hard to name just one, I will try and narrow it down. I admire our current MD at AIS, Sue Kemp. She has turned AIS around in the five years she has been with us. We are a more modern, forward-thinking business. It’s a very different business to what it was 10 years ago! I had a great deal of admiration for Lesley Graham from Sterling, what an amazing lady, a hugely respected figure who worked exceptionally hard in a male dominated industry, which makes her an inspiration to many. She is a sad loss for the furniture industry.
Have there been any special moments during your career?
Every time we put together an INDX furniture/bed show at AIS I consider this to be a special moment. The hours spent working towards these shows, the commitment from our suppliers, the AIS Teams involved and the feedback from Members gives us an immense feeling of pride and satisfaction. I have just calculated that I have been involved with around 90 furniture shows during my time at AIS and I still love working on them to this day!
What is your favourite item of furniture you own and why?
Has to be my bed! I have a sumptuous Relyon bed from their Royal Collection. You can never underestimate the need for and importance of a good night’s sleep.
What do you think is trending within the industry at present?
Smart furniture integration has really taken off recently, with furniture being further equipped with technology which enhances usability and functionality. Wellness integration is strong too. Furniture has adapted to customers’ lifestyles, tracking movements and preferences. We can already see this with smart mattresses monitoring sleep patterns, massage function in beds & chairs and the recent accelerated growth of heat functions within upholstery. Although, as I answer these questions in 31-degree heat, I think we could do with cooling functions in our office chairs – maybe one for the future!
In terms of design multifunctional and modular designs are growing as furniture works harder for the consumer. Reconfigurable sectional modular sofas allow greater flexibility dependent upon the occasion and the person’s lifestyle.
As a business we will continue with the expansion of INDX Trade Shows and look to develop further new product categories. ”
Many consumers continue to buy a neutral colour palette when it comes to upholstery, focusing on earthy tones including greens, rusts and browns. Patterns, textures and bolder colours are added in from accent pieces including cushions and rugs.
Promotional products remain important with consumers demanding higher quality customisable furniture, but also seeking a competitively priced option to match shrinking purchasing power as the economy toughens. Suppliers in this sector have a challenge to offer quality furniture at affordable prices, but are all working hard to adapt to this.
What would you change in the industry?
Review of the quantity of chemicals within products and a higher push towards recycling products and sustainably in general. Change in consumer perception, stop everything being centred around cost, it should be more about quality and longevity. And finally, more younger people entering the industry.
Can you share an insight into your future plans?
Working with suppliers and Members will continue to be paramount. Understanding the needs and wants of our Members, consumers and the market in general will remain at the forefront of everyday work life.
We continually look at trends to ensure we know what the market is going to do next. We are very fortunate to work with our trend agency, Scarlet Opus and to have so much data and knowledge available to us which we share with suppliers when developing new products. At each of our INDX shows we dedicate an area for the latest trends to share with members and visitors. Our latest trend “The Nurturers” will be on display at the next INDX furniture show on 27* & 28 August and is absolutely stunning (*member only day).
As a business we will continue with the expansion of INDX Trade Shows and look to develop further new product categories. Home Accessories will feature more heavily at the forthcoming August show with a fabulous offering from new supplier Gallery Direct and Trampoline.
There will be further work on own label collections, currently within furniture Dreamworld is our largest brand on beds.
What do you enjoy most outside of work / free time?
Spending quality time with my family and friends. I love the theatre too, favourite show has to be Moulin Rouge, my daughter and I have watched it too many times but can highly recommend it!
What might someone not know about you?
I have always had a secret (now not so secret) crush on Rowan Atkinson, especially from his appearances in the Blackadder series. I am yet to find anyone who understands or appreciates this!
If you had a different career, what would it be?
I would work for MI5 as a spy, travel the world, know the secrets and save the country from any harm. Although based on the above I would probably be more Johnny English than James Bond!
Finally, if you were an item of furniture, what would it be and why?
I would be an original Eames Chair, stylish, reliable, design led, iconic & timeless (well, we can all dream of being timeless!)
5 FUN QS:
If you could hack into any one computer, whose computer would you choose and why?
Donald Trump. I mean, what is going on in that man’s head? We need to get some form of understanding.
What fact amazes you every time you think of it?
An adult human body contains about 60,000 miles of blood vessels. Freaky!
What’s the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?
Paragliding in Corfu. I absolutely hate heights and not keen on deep water either. I got dared to do it by my husband of all people!
What is the most important object you own and why?
Has to be my wedding video, it captures our day beautifully and is priceless. Those that know me know how important this day was to me and my family.
What did you think was cool when you were young but isn’t cool now?
Everything 80’s fashion, including my vast array of Ra Ra skirts, pedal pushers, leg warmers and neon socks along with my mix tapes of the Thompson Twins and Nick Kershaw!
www.aistores.co.uk
FEATURES 22
A BIG congratulations to all of the Big Furniture Awards 2025 winners. In further recognition of the awards, here are some of the winners who shared their pictures on being named the best of the best in the furnishings industry. Here are your 2025 Big Furniture Awards winners.
People
Best Agent/Rep in North West England
Sarah Summers
Best Agent/Rep in North East England
Adam Oldham
Best Agent/Rep in South West England
Paul Owen
Best Agent/Rep in South East England
Greg Noble
Best Agent/Rep in the Midlands
Debbie Jenkins
Best Agent/Rep in Wales
Paul Davis
Best Agent/Rep in Scotland
Robert Hunter
Best Agent/Rep in Northern Ireland
John Corr
Best Agent/Rep in Ireland
Phil Cotton
Big Personality
Adam Hankinson, Managing Director at Furniture Sales Solutions
(Green Credentials) Harrison Spinks - Runner up: ercol
Best Supplier for Display Support
(Point of Sale) Sleepeezee - Runner up: Adjust-A-Bed
Best Bed Supplier (High Quality)
Harrison Spinks - Runner up: Hypnos
Best Bed Supplier (Mid Range)
Hypnos - Runner up: Highgrove Beds
Best Bed Supplier (Value Range)
Dura Beds - Runner up: Deep Sleep
Best Mattress Supplier
Harrison Spinks - Runner up: Relyon
Best Bedding Supplier
Purecare - Runner up: Floks
Best Bedroom Cabinet Supplier
Birlea - Runner up: One Call
Best Upholstery Supplier (Bespoke/High Quality)
David Gundry - Runner up: G Plan
Best Upholstery Supplier (Fabric)
Sofa Connections - Runner up: Alstons
Best Upholstery Supplier (Leather)
La-Z-Boy - G Plan
Best Occasional Chair / Recliner Supplier
Celebrity Motion Furniture- Runner up: Ekornes
Best Living Room Cabinet Supplier
ercol - Runner up: Bentley Designs
Best Dining Cabinet Supplier
Furniture Link- Runner up: ercol
Best Carpet Supplier
Ulster- Runner up: Cormar Carpets
Best Rug Supplier
Mastercraft Rugs- Runner up: Asiatic
Best Accessories Supplier
(Lighting/Giftware/Pictures/Mirrors)
Gallery Direct- Runner up: Mindy Brownes
Best Flatpack Furniture Supplier
Rauch- Runner up: Wiemann
Best Home Office Furniture Supplier
GFW- Runner up: Kesterport
Best Garden/Outdoor Furniture Supplier
Pacific Lifestyle- Runner up: Gallery Direct
Trade Services
Best Staff Sales Training Company Furniture Sales Solutions
Best Software Company RetailSystem
Best Sales Promotion Company
Lyleoak
Best Buying Group AIS
Best Trade Show
January Furniture Show
Best Finance Provider
Novuna
Best Furniture Care/Repair Company
Emmiera
Best Warranty/Product Protection Provider Guardsman
Birlea
Emmiera
David Gundry
Debbie Jenkins
ercol
La-Z-Boy
VetiGraph
Greg Noble
Novuna
Lyleoak
Harrison Spinks
Sofa Connections & Debbie Jenkins
Sarah Summers Sofa Connections
Woods Packaging
Phil Cotton
Gallery Direct
Guardsman Rauch
Gallery Direct makes a Strong debut at SOLEX
Gallery Direct made a confident and memorable debut at this year’s SOLEX Exhibition – their first time exhibiting at the show since becoming a LOFA member earlier this year.
The event proved to be an invaluable opportunity to connect with trade customers, showcase their latest Outdoor Lifestyle Collections, and reinforce their position as a complete lifestyle supplier.
James Hudson, Commercial Director commented “As a new face at SOLEX, we were proud to present a stand that stood out – not just for its bold visual impact, but for its distinctive approach. Many visitors commented on how the space differed from traditional furniture showcases. Rather than simply displaying outdoor furniture sets in isolation, we presented a carefully curated lifestyle offering – demonstrating how retailers can create a cohesive and aspirational look.”
From parasols and planters to soft furnishings, lighting, accessories, and of course, beautifully designed furniture ranges – Gallery’s collections are carefully curated to inspire. This complete approach to outdoor living was a key talking point, with buyers and visitors alike noting how Gallery Direct provided the whole look – not just products in isolation.
Peter Delaney, Product and Sales Director said “We were delighted by the meaningful conversations that took place across the three days of the show. Whether speaking with long-standing partners or potential new stockists, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Buyers appreciated the blend of style, durability and commerciality, and there was a strong appetite for solutions that help retailers maximise their outdoor category with ease and impact.”
As a supplier, joining LOFA and exhibiting at SOLEX marked an exciting new chapter for Gallery Direct. Their presence at the show reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the sector with high-quality, trend-led, and reliable products – backed by exceptional customer service and trade-focused support.
Gallery also attended the fantastic SOLEX British Grand Prix F1 Themed Afterparty & Awards Evening, which offered a great opportunity to network and celebrate alongside fellow exhibitors and buyers. With Sky Sports F1 Lead Commentator David “Crofty” Croft bringing energy and insight to the night, it was a lively and memorable event that added a celebratory edge to the experience.
Chris Lewis, Head of Independent Sales commented, “SOLEX was a fantastic experience from start to finish. We’re incredibly grateful for the warm welcome and to everyone who took the time to visit our stand. The response to our outdoor collections was extremely positive, and we’re excited to build on the conversations and connections made.”
For those unable to attend, Gallery’s full Outdoor collection is available to view on their website. Or you can reach out to one of their friendly sales team to arrange an exclusive preview of their 2026 collection.
Elevating British Craftsmanship
Frank
Smith, Director at Right Furnishings, talks about elevating British craftsmanship through white label soft furnishings.
Our white label service is designed for businesses seeking premium-quality soft furnishings manufactured exclusively in the UK. With over 30 years of experience in the furniture industry, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of British craftsmanship. Every item that leaves our workshop undergoes stringent quality checks and is backed by a oneyear manufacturer’s warranty, ensuring complete peace of mind.
We understand the challenges faced by UK businesses competing against low-cost foreign imports, which are often mass-produced and plagued by quality issues. Our competitive pricing structure enables our clients to offer superior, UK-made furnishings without compromising on affordability or reliability.
Our collections are carefully curated to reflect current interior design trends, with an extensive selection of fabrics and finishes that add distinction in a market saturated with bland, mass-market options. All of our hardwood frames are sustainably sourced, and our fabrics comply with UK fire safety regulations, including optional Crib 5 treatments for commercial requirements.
finishing touches, allowing your brand to stand out in today’s competitive marketplace.
At a time when the market is flooded with low-quality, unregulated imports, we believe there is a renewed importance in supporting local craftsmanship. As a small, independent business ourselves, we are passionate about helping other UK-based companies grow. Whether you require a single sofa or a large volume order, every client receives the same high level of service and respect, with our full support to help build your brand identity.
To assist your sales efforts, we supply virtual fabric swatches, tailored promotional materials, and comprehensive product information including specifications and dimensions. We also run regular monthly offers, ensuring our loyal trade partners benefit from ongoing value and incentives.
Lillie Sofa
Franklin Sofa
Whether your clients favour modern or contemporary styles, we offer a versatile range of designs to suit varied tastes. We also provide nationwide delivery to ensure all products arrive promptly and in pristine condition. In addition, we offer an array of premium fabric choices and bespoke
At a time when the market is flooded with low-quality, unregulated imports, we believe there is a renewed importance in supporting local craftsmanship. ”
Unlike many wholesalers, we are committed to protecting our trade clients. We do not undercut our partners by selling directly to the public at reduced rates—a practice that has unfortunately become common in the industry. We too have experienced the frustration of seeing identical products offered to end-users at the same price we paid as trade customers. This is an issue that has been raised frequently in industry discussions and one we are determined to address with fairness and integrity.
We bring a personal, hands-on approach to the white label sector, distinguishing ourselves from large, impersonal corporations. Every business we work with—no matter its size—is treated as a valued partner. At the heart of what we do is a genuine commitment to quality, reliability, and fostering long-term relationships.
WORKFORCE UNDER PRESSURE
Natalia Samodina, Client Legal Director at the law firm The Legal Director, explores five pressing workforce challenges.
In an industry grappling with rising input costs, supply chain disruptions, and uncertain consumer demand, labour challenges have taken centre stage. Employment costs are increasing, legal obligations are shifting, and workforce models that once seemed stable are under strain.
The British furniture and homeware sector, known for its craftsmanship and resilience, must now become fluent in a new core skill: AGILITY. Adjusting workforce strategies to meet financial, regulatory, and technological pressures is no longer optional.
This article outlines five pressing workforce challenges, from statutory wage hikes and employment law reforms to the subtle but significant impact of AI on jobs. We explore each issue from both employer and employee perspectives and offer practical steps for navigating the landscape.
1. MINIMUM WAGE & NATIONAL INSURANCE
The government’s recent minimum wage increase aimed to help workers amid rising costs for essentials like rent, energy, and mortgages. However, warnings from industry bodies, such as the British Retail Consortium, are materialising. Coupled with National Insurance Contribution (NIC) hikes, employers are facing mounting pressures.
According to Make UK and BDO’s Q1 2025 Manufacturing Outlook, the sector is forecast to contract by 0.5%, revised down from –0.2%, directly tied to rising employment costs.
The ONS June 2025 labour report found:
274,000 fewer payrolled employees year-on-year, with retail and manufacturing hit hardest; and
• 63,000 drop in job vacancies, marking the 35th consecutive quarterly decline.
Consequences are evident with some furniture businesses reducing staff, retailers freezing recruitment or shortening store hours and workers, particularly in areas with few alternative employers, are feeling the impact.
While there’s no simple fix, cumulative efforts may help:
• claiming the available NIC employer allowance (up to £10,500 for 2025/26);
• cross-training staff rather than expanding or downsizing; leveraging 3D modelling and, where feasible, VR to showcase collections without large physical footprints;
• exploring non-payroll cost savings, including (1) showroom sharing and collaborative retail spaces (e.g., The Range x Kitchens by Homebase), (2) bulk-buying and shared logistics; and (3) energy efficiency upgrades in high-usage areas like showrooms and warehouses.
2. THE UNDER-UTILISED YOUNGER WORKFORCE
The sector leans heavily on experienced, often retirement-age employees. While invaluable, this workforce is costly, and skills gaps, especially in upholstery, joinery and CAD, are slowing growth.
Without a pipeline of trained young talent, businesses risk outsourcing craftsmanship or relying on contractors. Yet many remain unaware of the DfE’s £3 billion funding for 2025–26, which supports Level 2–3 roles and youth employment in construction and manufacturing.
New rules effective 1 August 2025 offer key benefits:
• up to £2,000 incentives and £666 progression bonuses for foundational apprenticeships;
• shorter programme duration (from 12 to 8 months) for seasonal or project-based roles; and levy transfers for employers with payrolls under £3 million with no contribution required.
An apprenticeship strategy can be a valuable untapped resource that can support:
• succession planning by cultivating skilled younger staff;
• brand integrity through in-house craftsmanship;
• sustainability goals via training in circular design and refurbishment; and
• improved retention as apprentices often stay loyal to their training employers.
And for apprentices? The experience offers more than a job. It fosters confidence, discipline, transferrable skills and economic family contribution — with long-term psychological and social benefits.
3. EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS BILL 2024: A NEW ERA OF OBLIGATIONS
The Employment Rights Bill 2024 brings sweeping changes to UK workplace regulations. While its effects apply broadly, small and micro businesses will bear disproportionately high administrative and compliance costs.
In the sector with seasonal staffing and lean HR models, the reforms introduce real financial pressure.
Key changes and estimated timeline:
• statutory sick pay reform (April 2026) eliminates lower earnings limit and the 3-day wait, extending coverage to circa 1.3 million workers;
• day-one rights (April 2026), including unpaid parental leave and paternity leave, will kick in from the first day of employment; and
• zero-hours reform & unfair dismissal protections (2027) will require guaranteed hours for regular schedules and full dismissal procedures from day one.
Delayed preparation could cause fragmented HR processes, legal exposure, and operational disruptions. For micro businesses, this risk is especially acute.
The following timely steps are recommended in order to prepare the business for compliance and plan financially:
• conduct compliance reviews in line with rollout dates;
• update contracts and handbooks to reflect new rights;
• train HR teams on dismissal law, flexible working and scheduling; and budget for enhanced sick pay and leave costs.
Employees, meanwhile, should familiarise themselves with upcoming rights and maintain open dialogue with HR teams.
Self-employed sales agents remain vital in furniture and homeware, offering low overheads and flexibility. Yet amid economic uncertainty, issues around commission, payments and reporting transparency are growing.
When agents feel undervalued or poorly compensated, brand loyalty falters. Disengagement, misaligned focus and reputational damage can follow, particularly in close-knit trade communities such as English furniture.
To maintain trust and protect the business:
• ensure agency contracts are clear in outlining commissions, performance metrics, and termination rights;
• introduce regular commission cycles (monthly or bimonthly) to signal reliability; and
• verify that agents qualify as genuinely self-employed as misclassification risks financial liability.
Supporting agents through consistent policies is more than goodwill. It is strategic.
5. AI & AUTOMATION: BALANCING INNOVATION WITH ETHICS
AI is transforming furniture design, production and sales. Companies like IKEA, Sofology, and Juliette Interiors use AI to generate bespoke concepts later refined by artisans. Chatbots are replacing call centres.
While AI brings efficiency, it also raises concerns about displaced jobs. The Institute for Public Research Policy’s 2024 report estimated that up to 8 million UK entry-level roles could be lost to AI.
Navigating this shift requires ethical foresight. To strike the right balance in the immediate term to reap the benefits long-term, businesses should focus on:
• using AI to enhance, not replace, human creativity; cross-training employees to multiply their skill set, increase productivity and help them stay relevant; and
• engaging in developing ethical standards and policies around AI adoption.
Done thoughtfully, AI can complement craftsmanship rather than compromise it.
CONCLUSION
Workforce resilience in the furniture and homeware industry is facing a perfect storm: policy shifts, economic strain and technological disruption. But agility, awareness and long-term strategic planning offer a path forward.
From understanding apprenticeship incentives and compliance timelines to strengthening agency relationships and using AI responsibly, businesses can remain competitive while keeping people at the centre.
Retail Focus with
LAWLORS FURNITURE FLOORING FEATURES AND
Damien Lawlor
, Managing Director of Lawlors Furniture and Flooring,
talks about recent investments including its new mobile floor shop, plans for growth and why there needs to be more consistency in service standards.
Meet Damien
I oversee all aspects of the business from strategic planning and operations to customer experience and team leadership. My role involves driving innovation, maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and customers, and ensuring the business continues to grow while staying true to our values of quality, service and trust.
Recent investments?
Our mobile floor shop is an exciting extension of Lawlors Furniture and Flooring, our full-service interiors store. It’s designed to bring the showroom to our customers’ homes - with a carefully curated selection of flooring samples and the tools needed to deliver a complete consultation on-site.
One of the key benefits is that we can professionally measure floor areas during the visit, discuss all the requirements of the job, and provide an accurate quote there and then. This saves time, improves accuracy, and makes the process much smoother for the customer.
We invested in this concept because we believe the future of retail is
blended - combining the convenience of at-home service with the in-store experience. The mobile showroom makes flooring selection easier and more personal, while our physical store remains a hub for inspiration, interior design, and complete home solutions.
We’ve invested approximately €60,000 in launching the mobile showroom. This includes the vehicle itself, custom racking and display systems, sample stock, technology for quoting and scheduling, and marketing to promote the service. It’s a long-term investment that aligns with our customer-first approach and supports growth in a changing market.
The reception has been very positive. Customers really value the convenience, the professional insight during the visit, and the ability to make informed decisions without needing to leave home. It’s helped increase our conversion rate from consultation to sale and generated great word-of-mouth feedback. Many say it feels like a premium, personalised service - and that’s exactly what we aim to deliver.
In addition to the mobile floor shop, we’ve made several strategic investments including the upgrade of our in-store in-store showroom with new layouts and lifestyle displays, the expansion of our range of eco-friendly and sustainable flooring and furniture, the introduction of online booking and enquiry features on our website, and investing in staff training for in-home consultations, flooring advice, and interior design support.
Future plans?
We have several exciting plans in development to continue expanding the business. These include growing the mobile floor shop service, introducing full interior consultation packages, integrating flooring, furniture, and home styling, developing digital tools such as augmented reality and fostering new partnerships with builders and the trade for wider projects. By building strong relationships with industry professionals, we aim to position Lawlors as a trusted supplier for both individual homeowners and trade clients.
What is your mission?
Our mission is to make high-quality home interiors more accessible, personalised and enjoyable for everyone. We aim to deliver the best possible service and value, combining in-store inspiration with mobile convenience and expert advice across furniture, flooring and full interior solutions.
On sustainability, what is your business doing on this topic?
Sustainability is a growing focus for us. We are increasing our range of eco-friendly products including recycled and renewable flooring materials, working with suppliers who prioritise responsible sourcing and production, and reducing waste through accurate measuring and smart ordering. We are also making changes to our packaging and looking into greener transport options where possible.
How has recent business been? What trends are you noticing?
This year has been strong, particularly considering broader market conditions. The mobile showroom has contributed significantly to growth, and we’ve seen increased engagement both online and in-store. Customers are spending more time planning their interiors, and we’re well positioned to support them from consultation to installation and we’ve received consistent positive feedback on service quality.
A few key trends we’re seeing include greater demand for sustainable and lowmaintenance flooring, such as luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and hybrid options, and customers seeking in-home services that offer professional advice without the need for showroom visits. We’re also seeing more interest in complete solutions - from product selection to installation and aftercare, as well as a shift toward neutral tones, natural textures, and minimalist design in flooring and furniture choices.
What would you change in the industry?
across the sector would lead to better outcomes for everyone involved.
What challenges do you currently face?
Like many businesses, we face ongoing challenges with rising costs and changes in how customers shop. We’ve responded by staying flexible, investing in new services like our mobile floor shop and keeping close relationships with our supply partners. We are focused on offering convenience and expert support to stay ahead of changing expectations.
Do you have any staff you would like to pay special thanks or recognition to and why?
I want to say a big thank you to our entire team. From our sales staff and office team to our fitters and delivery crew, everyone plays a crucial role in the success of the business. We’re proud of how everyone works together, supports one another and gets stuck in whenever needed.
Some of our staff have been with us since the very beginning. They’ve grown with the business, know our customers by name and truly understand what Lawlors stands for. That loyalty, experience and dedication is something we value deeply.
Without them, we wouldn’t be where we are today. It’s that teamwork, commitment and shared passion that really sets us apart.
Final thought…
We’re proud to be evolving with our customers’ needs while staying true to our values of quality, service, and trust. The mobile floor shop is just one part of our broader vision - to make home improvement simpler, more enjoyable, and more accessible.
Whether it’s through in-store inspiration or at-home convenience, Lawlors Furniture and Flooring is here to offer a seamless experience from start to finish.
We would like to see more consistency in service standards across the industry and greater emphasis on long-term value over short-term pricing. Transparency, education and professional advice should be central to the customer experience. Raising the bar www.lawlorsfurniture.ie
THE DIGITAL EDGE
David Hewitt, Head of Global Support & Implementation at RetailSystem, an award-winning and industry’s leading POS and ERP software for furniture and bed retailers, talks about WebSystem Shopify and why it provides the smart digital edge for furniture & bed retailers.
In today’s digital-first retail world, having a powerful and flexible online store isn’t a luxury - it’s essential. That’s why we created WebSystem Shopify - a fully integrated e-commerce solution built specifically for Furniture & Bed retailers, powered by the globally trusted Shopify platform.
One of the most common questions we hear is: “Why Shopify and not WooCommerce, Wix or another platform?” The answer’s pretty straightforward. We believe Shopify is simply the most commercially comprehensive platform available. Its rock-solid infrastructure, scalability, and access to thousands of high-quality apps and marketing tools make it ideal for retailers who want to grow quickly - and professionally - online.
But the real strength of WebSystem Shopify is what happens behind the scenes. It’s fully integrated with RetailSystem, the award-winning ERP built specifically for the furniture and bed industry. That means unlimited product options, variants, finishes, fabrics, and configurations — all handled with ease. RetailSystem’s unique, furniturefocused product builder takes care of the complexity, so you don’t have to.
With one central database, you can manage live stock across both your in-store and online channels. Orders drop straight into RetailSystem - no duplication, no manual admin, no delays. It’s fast, seamless and reliable.
And here’s the part our clients really love: we don’t just hand over a blank website
We offer a simple 30-day rolling agreement, because we believe in earning your business month after month.
and send you on your way. Our team will work closely with you to create a branded, professionally designed siteand we’ll even upload all your product images, descriptions, options, and measurements for you. It’s a massive time-saver, taking the pressure off your team and helping you launch with confidence.
Better still, with our incredible onboarding offer, your new website can be live before you’ve paid a penny. That’s right - no upfront costs. And once you’re up and running, you’ll benefit from 12 months of exclusive discounts to keep your overheads down while you scale up.
And it’s not just for existing RetailSystem users. If you’re not currently using our ERP, WebSystem Shopify is also available as a standalone solutionbringing the same smart functionality and retail-focused approach to any furniture business.
One final - and important - point: there’s no long-term contract. We offer a simple 30-day rolling agreement, because we believe in earning your business month after month. If you’re being asked to sign up for a year or more elsewhere, it’s worth asking why - providers usually only tie you in when they’re worried you’ll want to leave.
WebSystem Shopify combines the strength of Shopify, the intelligence of RetailSystem, and the support of a dedicated team that understands the furniture trade inside out. If you’re ready to upgrade your digital presence and make life easier for your staff and customers, we’re ready to help - no hassle, no hard sell, just real results.
www.retailsystem.com/uk/
Irish Furniture & Homewares Show
The Irish Furniture & Homewares Show (IFHS) returns to the National Indoor Arena in Blanchardstown, Dublin. We take a look at what’s on show.
IFHS continues to be a vital meeting point for retailers, buyers, and suppliers seeking the latest in furniture, décor, and homewares collections. As the sector navigates evolving consumer tastes and rising demand for sustainable, design-led products, the IFHS remains a key date on the buying calendar, offering attendees a curated showcase of innovative products, from contemporary furnishings to sustainable living solutions.
A major strength of the show is its strong alignment with the Irish and UK retail market. As one of the most sought-after trade exhibitions in the sector, the IFHS attracts a wide range of suppliers eager to showcase collections tailored to market tastes and retail trends.
Visitors can expect to see the latest updates from exhibitors including Adjust-A-Bed, Alcore Living, Asiatic London, Avriio, Bluebone, Cofra, Dura Beds, Gannons Furniture, GIE, Gleneagle, Highgrove Beds, Homelee, Image Furnishings, Keen Classics, Lebus Upholstery, MPD Furniture, Respa Beds, RetailSystem, Scatter Box, Sealy, Sofa Factory, Sofa Source International and Wiemann to name but a few.
One such exhibitor is Sofa Source. “Retailers can adapt products to reflect their brand’s unique identity-choosing from bespoke fabrics, finishes, and modular configurations tailored to their audience. For those looking for quicker turnaround, we also offer a curated selection of ready-to-deliver pieces, providing the flexibility to balance personalised design with immediate availability. This dual approach helps retailers stand out in the market while staying agile and efficient.”
As for Avriio, “Our latest designs embody a refined balance of contemporary elegance and timeless versatility. Each piece-whether a plush sofa, modular seating system, or elegant accent chair-is crafted with the end user in mind, offering both visual appeal and superior comfort.”
Image Furnishings said: “Our 2025 collection is a testament to this approachhighlighting the latest in market-led aesthetics while staying grounded in the real-world needs of modern interiors. Visitors can expect to see a curated selection of recliners, sofas, accent chairs, and sofa beds that reflect the brand’s focus on comfort, function, and visual appeal.”
Scatter Box is excited to see how well its new collection resonates in person during its official launch in the Irish market at the show. “The response to our lighting and accessories ranges has been particularly strong. They bring a fresh dimension to our offering and complement our textile heritage beautifully. Likewise, reintroducing furniture and curtains has allowed us to present a more complete design story.”
Meanwhile, RetailSystem will be on hand to detail its latest developments, while AdjustA-Bed is making its debut at the show. “With a comprehensive offering, we provide a 5-year guarantee. At Adjust-A-Bed, we pride ourselves on being more than just a bed manufacturer - we are your reliable experts in adjustable bed solutions, that will allow to increase sales in this lucrative part of the bed market.”
Building on its Manchester Furniture Show success; Lebus is unveiling new ranges and additions to its bestsellers. Influenced by the latest fashion trends, their designs are fresh and modern whilst still being competitively priced. A key highlight is the addition of more modular units, demonstrating clever construction and offering remarkable flexibility for diverse living spaces. Furthermore, at IFHS, Cófra will showcase exciting updates to our portfolio, informed by a year of valuable feedback. “We’re focused on growing brand awareness and introducing innovative chair fabric combinationsboth wipeable and scratch-resistantdesigned for stylish interiors that stand up to everyday life.”
As for Respa Beds, the brand has over 75 years of expertise in handcrafted sleep solutions, and is a trusted name in quality, innovation, and comfort. Visit their stand to experience the latest in mattress and bed design, made right here in Ireland. Exhibiting for the first time is Fervor + Hue, which are bringing their signature splash of colour,
Alcore Living Scatter Box
creativity, and contemporary style to the floor. From vibrant homewares to standout furniture pieces, they’re all about making interiors fun and fearless. Another debutant is Alcore Living, which brings fresh design and modern living solutions, while Wiemann, one of Europe’s leading bedroom furniture manufacturers, is known for its innovative designs, exceptional quality, and contemporary style. Visit their stand to explore their latest collections and discover smart solutions for modern living.
“More than just a product showcase, IFHS supports the development and recognition of the industry through initiatives like the Irish Furniture and Homewares Award,” organisers said. “Taking place during the show, the awards celebrate excellence in design, innovation, and business performance across multiple categories. These awards are not only a prestigious industry benchmark, but also a powerful business asset.
“For suppliers, receiving an IFHS Award offers national recognition, boosts brand credibility, and can significantly increase visibility within the trade. Open to all exhibitors at the show, the awards will be judged by Amanda Bone, an architect, educator and broadcaster who champions creativity, individuality, and clever design.”
Respa
Banbury by Sofa Source
Arga Sofa Bed by Image Furnishings
OSCAR by Lebus
Corfu Sectional & Veria
Swivel Chair by Avriio
Fervor + Hue
Cofra
Adjust-A-Bed
BIG INTER VIEW
WITH MARK GANNON,
CEO of Image Furnishings Group and Founder of IFHS, shares an insight into his role, establishing and Irish furniture show, fire reg changes and what’s next.
Meet Mark
I was born and raised in Roscommon town, and although my career began elsewhere, home was always part of the plan. After studying Marketing in Dublin, I worked with global brands like Coca-Cola, Guinness, and Vodafone-experiences that gave me a solid foundation in branding, sales, and customer strategy.
Eventually, I returned to Roscommon, where my brother David and I started Image Furnishings. From the beginning, I focused on product development, sales and customer relationships, while David managed logistics. That balance has helped us grow steadily over the last 20 years.
After traveling through South East Asia in 2002, I returned to the region in 2003 and continued on to China where I began building strong
supplier relationships which has let us develop a business with on-trend designed quality products.
What is your current job role and key responsibilities?
I am the Group CEO which includes three brands: Image Furnishings, Sofa Source, and our newest venture, Avriio. I’ve been in this role for over 20 years, since co-founding the business in Roscommon. Alongside this, I’m the founder of the Irish Furniture & Homewares Show (IFHS), which launched in 2014 to support collaboration and long-term partnerships in the trade.
What do you love about your job?
Honestly, it’s the mix of things. Meeting customers face to face,
hearing their feedback, and understanding what they need to succeed—it’s those conversations that often spark new ideas or product directions. I’m also passionate about continually evolving our rangesworking closely with our in-house design team and production partners to push boundaries, take risks, explore new ideas, and bring fresh, on-trend products to market. What I really enjoy is the daily interaction with our team across all areas of the business. Whether it’s sales, logistics, design, or customer service or our team in our office in China, I get to work with a fantastic group of people.
What time is your alarm clock set for, and do you have a morning routine?
I’m lucky that our company is based
in my hometown Roscommon, and I live just up the road. Because we’re in a rural area, I’m time-rich-no traffic jams, long queues, or hectic city pace to deal with-so I don’t need to be up at the crack of dawn! My morning routine is pretty simple: some time with the family, followed by a coffee with someone up the town if I am not on the road. It’s a calm start to the day… before everything gets a bit more lively at work!
Why did you choose to work in the furnishing industry?
My family has a strong history in the furniture industry and homeware products so it felt natural to follow that path.
Who do you most admire in the industry and why?
I have a lot of respect for those who’ve spent years in this industry. It’s full of resilient and creative people who’ve navigated shifting trends and economic challenges while continuing to innovate and grow. It takes real determination and passion to keep moving forward, especially while maintaining high standards of quality and service.
Have there been any special moments during your career?
One of the biggest highlights was setting up the Irish Furniture & Homewares Show back in 2014. There wasn’t a dedicated furniture trade show In Ireland for our industry at the time and that gap in the market sparked the idea to create the IFHS. Over the past 10+ years, we’ve continued to invest in the event, building it into a dynamic platform that highlights the best of Irelands suppliers and helps drive the growth of the entire Irish furniture sector. Seeing it grow and make a real difference has been one of the proudest moments of my career.
What is your favourite item of furniture you own and why?
An office chair I bought at a show in the NEC over 10 years ago. It’s stood the test of time and still in perfect condition to this day.
What do you think is trending within the industry at present?
Right now, we’re seeing a strong move toward soft, calming interiors-both in colour and shape. Fabrics this season are all about muted, natural tones like soft sands, smoky greys, and earthy greens, with the odd touch of rust to warm things up. It’s a palette that feels grounded and easy to live with.
In terms of shapes, there’s a big focus on flow and comfort-curved arms, rounded silhouettes, and deep, cocoon-like seating that really invites you to sit back and stay a while. It’s all about creating spaces that feel effortless and welcoming, with that sweet spot between modern style and everyday comfort.
What would you change in the industry?
Fire Retardant Regulations in Ireland and the UK. The only markets that we sell into that require these regulations, these need to be reviewed and brought in line with what the industry requires right now.
Can you share an insight into your future plans?
We have a ‘Vivid Vision’, an exciting three-year plan already in motion. Our Vivid Vision is the roadmap for the Group. It clearly defines where and how we’ll growexpanding into new markets with innovative products, a growing expert team, and even closer collaboration with our trading partners in the UK and Europe.
A key part of this plan is the construction of a new office space, which will begin soon right beside our recently completed distribution centre. This development will help streamline operations, support continued growth, and ultimately allow us to serve our customers and our team even better as we move into the next phase.
What do you enjoy most outside of work / free time?
Since I travel a lot for work, I really value spending time with my family. Going on holidays together and just being with them is what I enjoy most. It’s a great way to relax and be in the moment with them.
Seeing
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IFHS grow and make a real difference has been one of the proudest moments of my career.
What might someone not know about you?
I’ve always had an interest in vintage cars - especially Porsches. I have just commenced a full restoration of a 1974 Porsche 911 Targa.
If you had a different career, what would it be?
When I was younger, I always wanted to be a bin man, it looked fun and you got to hang off the back of the lorrywhat more could you want as a child?
Funny enough, that childhood fascination came full circle years later when I met the CEO of The City Bin Co. at a Scaling Up conference. Hearing about the scale, success, and profitability of their business was genuinely inspiring. It really opened my eyes to how even the most everyday jobs, when done well and with vision, can be built into something incredibly impressive.
Finally, if you were an item of furniture, what would it be and why?
I’d probably be a bean bag—comfy, laid-back, and built for relaxing.
www.ifhs-tradeshow.ie www.imagefurnishings.com
5 FUN QS:
If you could hack into any one computer, whose computer would you choose and why?
The biggest achievement would be learning how to hack, never mind whose computer it is.
What fact amazes you every time you think of it?
No number before 1000 contains the letter A.
What’s the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?
I’d say riding a motorbike through Vietnam from Sàigon to Hanoi back in 2002 with no plan never mind a helmet - and somehow made it out the other side.
What is the most important object you own and why?
I’d say my boat—it’s just 10 minutes from our home to the River Shannon. Taking the family out on it is the perfect way to unplug and relax with no agenda. I always make a conscious effort to slow it down and spend more quality time with my family, even when things get busy. The kids love kayaking/ paddle boarding and just being outdoors, so it’s really become our or their go-to place for quality time with friends and family.
What did you think was cool when you were young but isn’t cool now?
When I was younger, I thought skateboarding was the coolest thing ever. I even bought a board once in Canada while on holidays, fully convinced I was going to go pro! Turns out, my skills didn’t quite match the dream, however I definitely would not be cool on a skateboard today.
MORE THAN JUST FURNITURE
Avriio sets the standard in contemporary upholstered furniture with successful 2025 launches and upcoming trade show highlights.
More than just furniture, Avriio delivers lasting value, strong partnerships, and peace of mind.
Specialising in contemporary upholstered furniture that seamlessly blends style, comfort, and long-lasting durability, Avriio has quickly emerged as a trusted name among retailers and design professionals across Ireland, the UK, and international markets.
With a growing reputation for quality and innovation, the brand is poised for a standout second half of the year as it prepares to exhibit at two of the industry’s most important trade events this August: The Irish Furniture and Home Show (IFHS) in Dublin and the INDX Furniture Show in the UK.
These key exhibitions present a prime opportunity for industry insiders to explore Avriio’s 2025 collection, which has already garnered attention for its sophisticated aesthetic, exceptional build quality, and thoughtful design. Both shows will serve as platforms for unveiling new product launches, many of which have already been successfully received in earlier market previews and retailer showcases this year.
“Our latest designs embody a refined balance of contemporary elegance and timeless versatility. Each piece—whether a plush sofa, modular seating system, or elegant accent chair—is crafted with the end user in mind, offering both visual appeal and superior comfort.”
The company’s commitment to innovation is matched by its use of premium materials and precision engineering, setting a high benchmark in the upholstered furniture category.
“One of the defining strengths behind our success is our unwavering focus on craftsmanship and quality assurance,” the company continued. “Every product is backed by an industry-leading 10year frame warranty, underscoring our confidence in the construction standards and providing peace of mind to retailers and consumers alike. This attention to detail has been a major factor behind our strong performance in 2025, with several standout models receiving praise for their comfort, design-forward thinking, and robust construction.
“As the furniture market continues to evolve with customer preferences leaning towards sustainable quality and enduring design, Avriio is responding with collections that don’t just follow trends—they anticipate them. This year’s successful launches have reflected this approach, introducing modular flexibility, rich textured fabrics, and sleek silhouettes that resonate with today’s modern consumer.”
Retailers attending IFHS and INDX can expect to experience firsthand the craftsmanship, design innovation, and commercial appeal that have come to define Avriio. “Our presence at these shows also represents our commitment to nurturing relationships within the trade, offering tailored support and valuable insights to partners seeking reliable, stylish, and high-margin furniture lines.
“As 2025 unfolds, we continue to build on its momentum—not only through stunning product launches but through our growing visibility on the trade show circuit and our reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction. More than just furniture, Avriio delivers lasting value, strong partnerships, and peace of mind.”
Kastoria
Corfu Sectional & Veria Swivel Chair
DISCOVER IN-STOCK, DESIGN-LED SOLUTIONS AT IFHS
This August, Image Furnishings is set to make a strong impression once again at the Ireland Furniture & Homewares Show (IFHS), held at the National Indoor Arena in Dublin.
As one of Ireland’s most trusted furniture suppliers to the trade, Image Furnishings offers buyers an invaluable opportunity to experience its latest collections in person. Whether you’re a retailer, commercial buyer, or fit-out specialist, IFHS provides the perfect setting to explore Image Furnishings’ design-forward, fully stocked furniture ranges that are ready for immediate delivery.
Known for their commitment to practical, on-trend design, Image Furnishings continue to strike the ideal balance between commercial sensibility and contemporary style. Their 2025 collection is a testament to this approach—highlighting the latest in marketled aesthetics while staying grounded in the real-world needs of modern interiors. Visitors can expect to see a curated selection of recliners, sofas, accent chairs, and sofa beds that reflect the brand’s focus on comfort, function, and visual appeal.
A key differentiator for Image Furnishings is their stock-first approach. “We keep a wide selection of our most popular and trend-responsive pieces in stock, ready to ship,” Image added. “This means that trade customers can benefit from quicker turnaround times, more predictable deliveries, and fewer delays—helping businesses stay agile and competitive in a fast-paced marketplace.
For buyers looking to streamline their sourcing process and align with a supplier who understands both style and service, this is an unmissable opportunity.
“At IFHS, attendees will be able to engage directly with our team at Stand E6 to discuss product specifications, delivery logistics, and how we support our trade partners with flexible service, reliable stock levels, and clear communication. It’s this hands-on, collaborative approach that has helped us build long-term relationships with hundreds of furniture professionals across Ireland and beyond.
“For buyers looking to streamline their sourcing process and align with a supplier who understands both style and service, this is an unmissable opportunity. Whether you’re refreshing a retail floors, Image Furnishings offers solutions that are both design-led and operationally efficient.
“Don’t miss your chance to see the latest collections up close and discover how we can help you buy smarter, respond faster, and sell with confidence.”
Visit Image Furnishings at stand E6 at IFHS 2025 at the National Indoor Arena, Blanchardstown from the 24th – 26th August. To preview their full range ahead of the show, visit their website.
Arga
Sofa
Bed
Nantes
FEATURES
FRESH DESIGNS AND RETAIL-DRIVEN SOLUTIONS
Sofa Source is set to showcase fresh designs and retail-driven solutions at IFHS, Dublin, and INDX, UK.
“In today’s fast-moving furniture market, retailers need more than just stylish products—they need adaptability, commercial insight, and true partnership,” Sofa Source said, “and we deliver on all fronts.”
This August, the brand will be showcasing its latest collections and retail-focused solutions at two major industry events: IFHS in Dublin and the INDX Furniture Show in the UK.
“What sets Sofa Source apart is our ability to merge trend-forward aesthetics with a clear understanding of what works in-store,” the business said. “From modern silhouettes to popular colour palettes and versatile upholstery options, our collections are thoughtfully
designed to meet the evolving tastes of today’s consumer and support strong retail performance.
From the expertise of an in-house design team and tailored marketing support to responsive customer service and showroom layout guidance, Sofa Source provides retailers with a well-rounded toolkit. “This holistic approach empowers retailers to elevate the customer experience and drive sales both online and in-store,” the company continued.
What sets Sofa Source apart is our ability to merge trend-forward aesthetics with a clear understanding of what works in-store.
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Banbury
Flexibility in product design is central to Sofa Source’s offering. “Retailers can adapt products to reflect their brand’s unique identity—choosing from bespoke fabrics, finishes, and modular configurations tailored to their audience. For those looking for quicker turnaround, we also offer a curated selection of ready-to-deliver pieces, providing the flexibility to balance personalised design with immediate availability. This dual approach helps retailers stand out in the market while staying agile and efficient.”
Behind the scenes, Sofa Source has built a responsive infrastructure that keeps pace with the demands of modern retail. “With flexible service, scalable order management, and a commitment to collaborative growth, we support our partners every step of the way,” Sofa Source said.
“Retailers heading to IFHS Dublin or the INDX Furniture Show are invited to visit our stand and discover how trend-led design and tailored retail support can come together to drive long-term success.”
www.sofasource.com
A NATURAL EVOLUTION
Caroline Horgan, CEO and Founder of Scatter Box, talks about a new chapter in colour, craft and home interiors.
At Scatter Box, creativity has always been at the heart of what we do. As a second-generation, family-run, Irish business, our journey began with a deep love for colour, print, and textiles — a passion that has only grown over time. What began as a soft furnishings company has evolved into a vibrant, design-led interiors brand that helps people turn their house into a home.
expanded beyond our current categories to include lighting, accessories, furniture, and curtains. These additions don’t change who we are — they build on our existing foundation and allow us to offer even more ways for people to express their personal style at home.
Our approach to design remains rooted in artistry. Every Scatter Box print begins as a hand-painted artwork, created with brush, canvas, and pigment. These original paintings are then digitised and transformed into textiles, resulting in truly unique interior statements. From bold abstracts to serene botanicals, each design tells its own unique story.
That blend of heritage and design is something I’m particularly proud of. We stay true to traditional craftsmanship while embracing modern design and technology. This balance allows us to cater to a wide variety
Part of Abbeylands Furniture — which has been serving customers since 1959 — Scatter Box carries a sense of trust and a legacy of quality. When I founded Scatter Box, my aim was to bring art and colour into everyday living spaces. I wanted to offer joy, character, and a tactile sense of design through thoughtfully made pieces.
This year marks an exciting new chapter for us. While some might call it a relaunch, we see it as a natural evolution. We’ve
of tastes — from timeless and elegant to expressive and eclectic.
This season, our vision was clear: to create a collection that offers both luxury and versatility, while appealing to a wide range of tastes and colour palettes. Each theme is designed to stand alone or be layered with others, offering flexibility and individuality. Every piece is thoughtfully crafted to combine texture, tone, and tactile detail in a way that elevates everyday
interiors. This latest collection brings that vision to life through five distinct design stories, each with its own mood and character:
• Tobacco Luxe brings warmth and richness with its earthy palette and boucle textures — ideal for grounded, contemporary interiors.
• Hushed Haven is all about soft, soothing luxury, with plush velvets and calm neutral tones.
• Slate Noir introduces a modern edge, with monochrome contrasts and confident architectural designs.
• Atelier Print celebrates colour and movement with expressive, hand-painted designs that make a joyful impact.
The feedback so far has been incredibly encouraging. Our long-standing retail partners have embraced the new direction with genuine enthusiasm. The launch at the Manchester Furniture Show was a huge success, providing a valuable opportunity to connect directly with both retail partners and hospitality and interior design customers.
We’re especially excited to see how well the collection resonates in person during its official launch in the Irish market at the Irish Furniture & Homewares Show this August.
We’ve expanded beyond our current categories to include lighting, accessories, furniture, and curtains. ”
bring a fresh dimension to our offering and complement our textile heritage beautifully. Likewise, reintroducing furniture and curtains has allowed us to present a more complete design story.
These additions help customers create layered, harmonious spaces where every element feels thoughtfully considered.
At Scatter Box, we believe beautiful interiors should be created with responsibility in mind. Sustainability and longevity are central to our design process. We prioritise durable, timeless pieces and seek out eco-conscious materials wherever possible, partnering with suppliers who share our values.
Why now? Quite simply, the timing felt right. Our customers in both retail and trade were asking for more, and we were ready to deliver. This expansion isn’t just about product lines; it’s about purpose. We aim to provide cohesive, curated collections that bring joy, enhance interiors, and deliver lasting value.
Whether it’s a single cushion or an entire room, our mission is to inspire and uplift. Every product is designed to bring beauty into the everyday.
As we look ahead, I feel more excited than ever. Scatter Box continues to grow and evolve, staying true to its roots while embracing the future of modern interior design. We’re proud of the journey so far — and even more inspired by what lies ahead.
We invite you to explore this next chapter with us, and discover what happens when heritage meets heart, and every room becomes a canvas.
The response to our lighting and accessories ranges has been particularly strong. They www.scatterbox.ie
A Powerful Partnership
Alexandra Tomanova, Lead Project Manager at RetailSystem, an award-winning and industry’s leading POS and ERP software for furniture and bed retailers, introduces a WebReadyCatalog - a powerful tool full of supplier content.
If you’re a RetailSystem client, you may have already spotted a powerful new feature that’s recently appeared in your system - FurnitureCatalog. It’s now live, and it’s going to save you more time than you might think.
FurnitureCatalog is a game-changing addition to your RetailSystem, giving you instant access to an ever-growing list of leading furniture and bed suppliers. With just a click, their full product ranges - including pricing and high-resolution images (if available)can be streamed directly into your RetailSystem point of sale.
That means no more hours spent updating spreadsheets, chasing new price lists, or manually uploading imagery. You stay up to date automatically - with the latest information ready to go, right inside your RetailSystem.
And now, we’ve taken it one step further.
Introducing WebReadyCatalog, available exclusively to WebSystem Shopify clients. With it, you can publish entire supplier product ranges directly to your WebSystem website at the click of a button. Product data, imagery, options and regular updates from the supplier - all delivered straight to your online store without the manual work.
And the best part? You stay in control. If a supplier’s feed doesn’t work for you, simply switch it off - no questions asked, no disruption to your system.
You can publish entire supplier product ranges directly to your WebSystem website at the click of a button.
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To find out more about how to get started and view the latest list of participating suppliers, contact our sales team on +44 (0)207 0961 456. They’ll guide you through setup, show you how it works, and provide full details on access and availability.
FurnitureCatalog and WebReadyCatalog are built to save furniture & bed retailers time, reduce admin, and ensure you’re always working with the most up-to-date supplier content - both in-store and online.
Seamless, simple, and made for furniture retail.
AWARD-WINNING CELEBRITY MAINTAINS MOMENTUM
Wayne Hollis, Managing Director at Celebrity Motion Furniture, reflects on recent award wins, how the year has been so far, recent investments and current trends.
It has been a challenging time for many across the furnishing industry, while one such manufacturer has committed to innovation and stronger relationships that has helped it bucked the downward trend.
For Celebrity, while it has also been a challenging year for the business, top line growth has been recorded in its latest set of accounts ended 30 September 2024, with sales up 7.4% to £17.6m and pre-tax profit increasing 78% to over £1m. Wayne puts this growth down to a number of key metrics.
“The results were achieved in difficult trading conditions in the post pandemic, which included the continuation of the war in Ukraine, high inflation and interest rates all having an impact on retailer and consumer confidence.
“We have maintained strong relationships with our retailers and our suppliers. We have continued to thrive despite the continued impact of economic circumstances on the general economy. It’s certainly been a challenging year so far, with a number of pressures across the industry.
“However, we’ve continued to focus on innovation and open communication, working closely with our customers to strengthen both our service and supply. Adapting quickly and staying connected has been key to navigating the year so far. By being responsive and supportive when it’s needed most, we’re able to keep the momentum going.”
In recognition to its ongoing commitment to product development and customer service, Celebrity was voted as the winner in two Big Furniture Awards 2025, including Best
Occasional Chair / Recliner Supplier and Outstanding Supplier Product for its Canterbury Recliner Chair.
“These accolades are a reflection of our unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction,” Wayne continues. “At Celebrity, our mission is to enhance comfort and elevate lifestyles through expertly crafted recliner furniture. To have the Canterbury Recliner recognised as a standout product in today’s competitive market is a true honour.
“This achievement also celebrates the core values that drive our business—collaboration, integrity, and a deep appreciation for our dedicated employees, who are the heart of everything we do. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who voted for us.
“The Canterbury really speaks for itself. It offers optimal levels of comfort for our customers and is one of our top-performing models. Its design and functionality align perfectly with the needs of our target audience, which is why it continues to resonate so strongly in the market. It’s a product we’re incredibly proud of.”
Wayne added that the business is “continually investing in both our employees and our facilities to ensure we remain efficient and competitive in a constantly evolving market”, with recent investments focusing on enhancing its production capabilities and supporting staff development, which are both “crucial to maintaining the high standards our customers expect”.
“It’s all part of our long-term commitment to continuous improvement and staying proactive in the industry,” Wayne said. “We are seeing a growing demand for enhanced and
These accolades are a reflection of our unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
additional features on our products. In particular, enhancements like adjustable headrests and lumbar support are becoming increasingly popular with customers.
“These features add comfort and customisation, which align with the current consumer preference for furniture designed for better comfort and flexibility. We have some exciting plans in the pipeline and are particularly looking forward to the upcoming autumn sale period, which is always a key time for us. It’s an opportunity to showcase new ideas and continue building
momentum as we head into the final part of the year.”
Celebrity will continue to innovate, develop and build on its success and growth, with recent award wins cementing its position as a market leader in its field. “As a business, we’re always looking ahead to the next innovation, whether that’s in product development, service improvements, or new ways to support our customers,” Wayne concluded.
www.celebrity.furniturebrochure.com
INDX FURNITURE SUMMER SHOWCASE
Delivering the ultimate destination to connect, collaborate, and thrive, attendees can look forward to exploring a commercially crafted product showcase, brought together by industry experts, and designed to help fuel your business growth.
Organised by Associated Independent Stores (AIS), the UK’s leading buying, services, and event group, INDX Furniture is your gateway to success, providing a dynamic platform for retailers to explore the latest designs across upholstery, living room, dining room and garden.
With a focus on newness and innovation, the upcoming show will be an unmissable opportunity for suppliers and retailers to catch-up, connect, and do business.
Plus, AIS Members can look forward to enjoying a second opportunity to see the relaunch of their exclusive own label Dreamworld Collection, first unveiled at INDX Beds April 2025 show.
New Product Category: Home Accessories
In direct response to buyer feedback, the August 2025 show will introduce new category, Home Accessories.
Featured within this category are a host of first-time brands including Gallery Direct; established in 1973, and one of the UK’s leading suppliers of furniture, upholstery, home décor, textiles, art, lighting, and accessories.
With a rich heritage spanning over 50 years, and wealth of knowledge and experience, Gallery Direct has unrivalled resources and operational strength – holding over 750,000 stocked items across 355,000 sq ft of UK warehousing.
INDX Furniture returns to Cranmore Park from 27*-28 August 2025 (*AIS Member-only day).
Peter Delaney, Sales & Product Director, Gallery Direct: “We are really pleased to be working with AIS and reconnecting with such a well-respected group within the industry. We are also looking forward to exhibiting at the upcoming INDX Furniture show – they offer a fantastic opportunity to meet AIS Members and retailers in person, and showcase our latest collections, and better understand their needs.
“With services such as direct dispatch from our extensive UK distribution centre, we can help reduce the day-to-day costs and logistical pressures of stockholding, while providing access to an extensive range of design-led products.
“As always, we are keen to listen and work closely with all our customers, and we are excited to be collaborating with the current dynamic and forwardthinking AIS team to help drive success. Together, we want to make a real difference by offering practical solutions that support independent retailers.”
Trend Area
In partnership with leading trend forecasting agency Scarlet Opus, the Trend Area presents key theme ‘The Nuturers.’
Featuring a pastel palette which creates a refreshing atmosphere and sets the mood for a new attitude – light -filled, cleansing, and optimistic.
Attendees can explore handpicked products from exhibitors Abode, Ashwood Designs, and Gallery Direct, with supporting accessories sourced from Premier Housewares and BHS.
Trend Area
Within the upholstery category confirmed exhibitors will include Abode, Alstons, Aquinos, Ashwood Designs, Ashwood International, Celebrity, *New*Conform Collection, *New*Furninova, Gainsborough, G Plan, HTL, IMG Comfort, *New*LPD, New Trend Concepts, Parker Knoll, Primavera, Sofa Source International, Vilmers, and WS Wholesale.
This season’s confirmed cabinet exhibitors will include Abode, Bell & Stocchero, Cardoso Leal, Cófra Furniture, Hill & Hunter, *New*Hooker Furnishings, *New*Kettler (Indoor), *New*LPD, Maxfurn, Maysons Furniture, Torelli Furniture, and Willis & Gambier.
Garden suppliers will include *New*Kettler (Outdoor) and Signature Living, and in direct response to buyer requests, the *New* home furnishings sector will feature exhibitors including *New*Gallery Direct, The Globe Company, and Trampoline.
Delivering the UK’s busiest retail trade show calendar, all INDX Shows are free to attend, with free onsite parking and complimentary refreshments for all visitors.
https://indxshows.co.uk/shows/furniture
Be part of it. Grow your business, close deals, and build connections.
Maxfurn.Sfeerfoto Mix & Match Hunter
SofaSource
Furninova
W&G Sorrento Table_Light, chair
GalleryDirect
FEATURES
MATERIAL THINGS CELEBRATES 50 YEARS
Matthew Gingell, Sales Director at Material Things, reflects on its 50th anniversary milestone.
Back in 1975, Portsmouth-based Material Things was officially launched. Founded by Malcolm Gingell, the business has evolved, innovated and grown over the last five decades, all while keeping it in the family too. Some 50 years later, Malcolm’s daughter Victoria & son Matthew are spearheading its next phase of growth, which we will come onto later in this article.
For the moment, Matthew shared its founding story, feeling extremely “proud” of how far the business has come. “Reaching our 50th anniversary is genuinely a proud moment for us. For me, not just as Sales Director, but as Malcolm’s son, it’s a real privilege to carry forward what my father started all those years ago. So many businesses, similar to us, in the area have closed in the years we’ve enjoyed, and some of that is down to not having family members interested in continuing the business, so for Victoria and I it’s a pleasure to see it thrive.
“When Dad started Material Things in 1975, it was in my paternal grandfather’s garage. He just had an upholstery bench and did some work for friends and family at first after leaving the larger upholstery trade to begin this venture. His ideals back then (and now) were very clear, the belief of quality above all else. Over the years, we’ve grown enormously—expanding into premium sofa brands, handmade curtains, blinds, shutters, awnings, and of course developing the largest re-upholstery workshop in the area. But that commitment to quality has never changed.
“It’s not just about the products we sell (although I do believe we offer only the best available). It’s about the experience, the attention to detail, and the expertise our customers know they can trust. None of that would be possible without our incredible staff—some of whom have been with us for decades. Their skill, loyalty and genuine care for customers are the real reason we’ve reached 50 years.”
Over this time, the business has achieved many milestones –too many in fact to capture in one article alone, but Matthew revealed some key highlights along the way. “It all starts with Malcolm! My Dad completed his “furniture production and management diploma” in High Wycombe, achieving a 2.2. Despite being trained in wooden furniture and cabinetry, he worked for the multinational upholstery group Christie Tyler as a graduate and manager trainee in the Western Upholstery division, eventually leaving to become a manager at a Portsmouth based upholstery firm, S.E.B upholstery.
“One day he had a falling out with one of the owners and, being a man set in his vision, Malcolm wouldn’t back down from his point of view. The owner at that point said: “If you think you have all the answers, why don’t you go out and start up your own upholstery business?” He didn’t realise that this would be the kindling to doing just that. Starting small, he’d quote, re-upholster and collect and deliver anything his friends and family would like revitalising. Word spread, and it got to the point where he needed to quote and run the company full time, and so rented a small unit in North End, Portsmouth, with enough room for a bench and not much else.
“At this point, he began with his business partner and friend Jenny, an incredible seamstress who sadly passed away during the early years of Material Things but whose talent and dedication helped lay the foundation for everything we’ve become. As he was so busy quoting, he took on a friend and upholstery expert from SEB, Dave Shiers, who has been with Material Things almost the entirety of the 50 years. He outgrew the small shop, moving across the road to a larger store, and then eventually buying the building next door and knocking through.
“Over the years he opened five other small shops locally until he realised the need for one large superstore, where all the showrooms would be, as well as the workshops. It’s where
we still are today on Fitzherbert Road! Over the next 25 years we went through a complete revolution, not just offering reupholstery, but building our own sofa, taking on some massive names in furniture to sit along side our own, opening our own curtain workshops and offering carpets and blinds.
“Even in the last five years we’ve changed immensely. We’ve changed our image, focussed on going more upmarket with our offering, invested in a fully digital CMS computer system, launched a massive new website, replaced our roof, added air conditioning and opened a Stressless Studio & an ercol studio, as well as trebling the size of our shutters, blinds & awnings department.”
For Material Things, constant evolution, adapting to market needs and investing in its growth have been pivotal to its ongoing success. The business is far from done too. Having recently completed its new ercol studio, attention turns to its own brand Bowes & Hill, as Matthew teased. “We’ve got a massive surprise towards the end of the year for our own handmade sofa brand, Bowes & Hill, made in our own workshops.
“We’ve delved in to every single model and revitalised every part of them, from the fabric offering (over 10,000 and counting), to the specification, the sizing, the comfort, everything. It will be so different when it’s finished and we’re, again, tearing up our showroom to reflect the huge changes to such an important part of our business. It may not sound much, but when you try it, you’ll see why we’re excited!”
Keeping the excitement levels high, Matthew and the team have launched an anniversary sale event to celebrate the occasion and remain bullish despite a challenging market. “Footfall is the biggest challenge. Once people visit us, we find most people buy. But a lot of people are buying online, which I can’t imagine doing with a sofa when you can’t sit on it.
“The economy hasn’t been good across every business type/ sector, I don’t think that’s a secret. However, we’ve been so lucky that we’ve made a brilliant start to the year, and are ahead of the last three years in first half yearly turnover figures, when most companies are returning to pre-covid figures. The big change for us this year has been average order value. Whilst footfall may been down in the last few months, each customer is spending more with us, and cross selling to our other products has been key.
“We’ve also just launched our largest ever sale to mark the anniversary, which our fantastic suppliers have kindly supported us in. That’s helping customers get incredible value on some of the best brands around, which feels like a fitting way to say thank you.”
Another thank you Matthew was quick to address is to his father in fitting sentiment to conclude the article. “This anniversary is a testament to everyone at the business, to our customers who keep coming back and recommending us, and to the simple
idea my father had when he founded the business: if you do things properly, people notice. I think that’s as true today as it was in 1975.
“I’d love to say a massive congratulations to my father for this huge milestone, and both Victoria & I can’t wait to see what the next 50 years reveals. Bring it on!”
FEATURES
INTRODUCING SORRENTO
Willis & Gambier is proud to unveil the bold and characterful Sorrento collection at this year’s INDX Furniture Show, held at Cranmore Park on 27–28 August.
Join us at Stand P1 to explore this striking new dining range, presented alongside our enduringly popular Cannes dining and Casera bedroom collections.
Full of rural charm with a contemporary twist, Sorrento is a true statement in rustic-modern styling. Handcrafted from solid elm and elm veneers, the collection features bold silhouettes and rich, multi-tonal finishes that bring out the natural depth of the wood grain. A distinctive chevron planked design runs throughout the range, providing visual interest and texture, while elegant burnished brass hardware adds a refined, timeless touch.
This is a collection designed to make an impact – perfect for retailers looking to offer aspirational, design-led dining furniture that combines substance with style. With its clean lines, warm tones, and rural heritage influence, Sorrento is well placed to resonate with today’s consumers seeking authenticity and character in their interiors.
At the INDX Furniture Show, Sorrento will headline a curated display from Willis & Gambier that also includes two of our best-selling collections: Cannes and Casera.
The Cannes collection is a celebration of rustic sophistication, blending weathered oak tones with soft, relaxed styling. With its panelled detailing, distressed finishes and a sense of
timeless charm, Cannes continues to perform strongly across a broad customer base.
Casera, on the other hand, offers a more contemporary interpretation of oak bedroom furniture. With clean, minimal lines and beautifully crafted natural oak finishes, it’s a versatile and popular choice for modern interiors, striking a perfect balance between simplicity and warmth.
We warmly invite you to visit us at Stand P1 during the INDX Furniture Show to discover these collections firsthand. Whether you’re looking to refresh your dining offering or invest in bedroom bestsellers, we look forward to welcoming you and discussing how our ranges can support your growth in the seasons ahead.
We look forward to welcoming you and discussing how our ranges can support your growth in the seasons ahead.
MEET THE NEW HATTI BED
Michael Prime, Head of Marketing & PR at Birlea, shares an insight into how the business is leading the way with trend-driven innovation.
“At Birlea, we believe that staying ahead of the curve is essential,” Michael says. “That’s why product development is at the heart of everything we do – enabling us to consistently bring our customers the very best in on-trend, design-led furniture.”
In 2025 alone, Birlea has launched over 130 new products, with many more still to come, ensuring its customers have constant access to fresh, commercial ranges that capture the latest interior styles.
One of its most exciting recent additions is the Hatti bed, as Michael reveals: “This is a bold, fashion-forward statement piece that blends soft curves, vertical fluting, and plush fabric finishes for a luxurious look that’s bang on trend. The Hatti bed is designed for modern living – stylish enough to be the centrepiece of any bedroom, but practical and easy to integrate into a variety of home aesthetics.”
The Hatti is a perfect reflection of Birlea’s design philosophy: contemporary, accessible, and made with the modern consumer in mind. “Whether it’s the sculptural form, tactile materials, or carefully curated colour options, everything about
this bed speaks to current market demand – particularly from younger, style-conscious shoppers,” Michael adds.
But the Hatti bed is just one example of how Birlea is pushing the boundaries of trend-led furniture design. “Across beds, bedroom furniture, living, dining and more, our product development team works year-round to ensure that retailers always have something new and exciting to offer,” Michael continues. “From contemporary silhouettes and luxurious fabrics to clever space-saving solutions, our ranges are created to align with evolving customer preferences and supported by fast stock availability and responsive service.”
To explore our latest collections, including the Hatti bed and dozens of new 2025 launches, visit www.birlea.com. With more exciting additions on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to partner with Birlea.
BED SHOW PREVIEW
Excitement is building for the renowned Bed Show, which returns for its 15th year to the Telford International Centre on September 23 and 24, 2025.
Organised by the industry trade association, the National Bed Federation (NBF), the premier event is the cornerstone of the UK’s bed industry offering a vibrant mix of British and Irish manufacturers along with leading European suppliers.
From established bed industry leaders to emerging innovators, more than 60 esteemed bed brands will gather under one roof to showcase their latest products and technologies, including Breasley, Harrison Spinks, Highgrove Beds, Hypnos, Kaymed, Sealy UK and Silentnight.
Setting the show apart from other furniture and bed exhibitions is the NBF’s stringent Code of Practice. Every Approved NBF Member manufacturer has undergone rigorous independent auditing to certify that they comply with UK regulations on safety, cleanliness of fillings and trade descriptions. Essentially, visiting retailers can be assured that the beds they buy will be everything they say they are.
Organisers encourage purchasing managers from bed manufacturers and those operating mattress production units to prioritise the Supplier Zone in Hall 1. Take time during your visit to explore this “show within a show.” Stay ahead of the competition and discover the latest innovative solutions and exciting developments in components and fillings that could soon become the new must-have technology in mattresses and other bed products.
The popular Supplier Zone features a curated selection of leading component and service providers, including Airofreem,
Alfrecell, Apropa, Boyteks, CPS Print, Enkev UK, Handy, John Cotton Nonwovens, Leggett & Platt/Kayfoam, Maes, Nestor Springs, RA Irwin, The Vita Group, WE Rawson, and Wolf Components.
Tristine Hargreaves, executive director of the NBF, said, “The Bed Show continues to provide an unparalleled opportunity for the bed and furniture trade to stay ahead with the latest creations and cutting-edge technologies, just in time for the busy autumn buying season.
“When the industry comes together, invaluable friendships are forged, and new opportunities are discovered, so book your tickets now and we’ll see you very soon!”
As well as enjoying complimentary parking and entry, visitors will receive refreshment vouchers valid at the three onsite cafés, including a spacious main hot food café located at the front of Hall 1. There are additional cafés located at the back of hall 2, kindly sponsored by Sealy and at the front of hall 3, kindly sponsored by Silentnight. These complimentary refreshment vouchers will be available to collect at the NBF stand near the entrance to Hall 3.
NBF Retail Champions who have signed up for their enhanced benefits package will receive VIP treatment at the show. This package includes dedicated parking and access to the exclusive Retail Champion Lounge, allowing them to enjoy the UK’s largest beds-specific exhibition in comfort.
The Gala Dinner and Bed Industry Awards ceremony will take place on the first evening of the show. Generously sponsored by Highgrove Beds, the awards celebrate the achievements of bed retailers and NBF members from the past year, helping to raise their company profiles and recognise their team’s efforts.
Expect a perfect blend of celebration, relaxed networking, and first-class entertainment as the evening kicks off with a drinks reception, followed by a delicious formal three-course sit-down dinner.
The Bed Show continues to provide an unparalleled opportunity for the bed and furniture trade. ”
Host and leading radio and TV broadcaster, Vernon Kay, will crown the eight award winners across manufacturing, supplying and retail. The UK’s official number one Oasis tribute band, Oasish, will keep the celebrations going into the night.
As the organisers count down to this glamorous event in the bed industry calendar, guests are encouraged to dust off their dancing shoes and prepare for an unforgettable evening.
For those unsure if they can justify visiting the Bed Show this year, getting through the tough business climate is the very reason you should attend. Do not sleep on the opportunity to find inspiration, new products and new marketing ideas to help boost your business.
Mark your calendars and secure your place to be at the forefront of industry innovation. Online registration is open via the Bed Show website at www.bedshow.co.uk Join the conversation
Komfi prepares for its biggest NBF appearance yet
As the countdown begins to the National Bed Federation (NBF) Show this September, GNG Group is thrilled to reveal a preview of what promises to be one of their most exciting showcases yet.
From fresh product launches to a renewed focus on sustainability, GNG Group is ready to make a bold impression. Richard Gretton, Commercial Director, discusses how the business continues to tackle current market demands along with their ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation.
How are the new ranges adapting to the current market demand?
GNG Group is proud to reveal three new and exciting Komfi collections that reflect the evolving needs of today’s consumers. Komfi’s Vitality range combines a visually appealing design with superior functionality, including our in demand Ultra Firm and Hybrid mattresses as well as the Vitality Max, powered by cutting-edge Next Gen 4G foam for enhanced comfort and support.
We are also bringing back a fan favourite, SleepShaper, now reimagined with eight distinctive models designed to cater to a variety of sleep styles and preferences. SleepShaper also features the benefit of being rolled, folded, and boxed for the convenience of both retailers and customers.
For consumers increasingly prioritising health and well-being, our new FlexiWell range delivers advanced adjustable comfort with a clear focus on sleep wellness. Engineered to support spinal alignment, pressure relief, and improved circulation, FlexiWell promotes restorative sleep that contributes to both physical recovery and overall well-being. The range is particularly well-suited for those with evolving comfort needs, offering customisable support that adapts to individual sleep profiles and a strong value proposition for retailers targeting wellness-conscious buyers.
We are bringing back a fan favourite. ”
How does GNG Group continue to have a positive impact on the environment?
Beyond product innovation, our commitment to sustainability remains at the heart of everything we do. We continue to integrate ecofoam into many of our products, helping reduce waste without compromising on comfort. We’re also on track to achieve ISO 14001 certification, a globally recognised standard for environmental management. This milestone underlines our dedication to responsible manufacturing and a greener future for our industry.
What investment has Komfi made to develop customer relations?
Komfi now has an exciting new website for viewing. Our new website is now live, offering a sleek, user-friendly platform where customers can browse our full product range, read expert blogs, stay up to date with the latest from our team, or contact us with any queries. It’s designed to inspire and inform, making it easier than ever to discover what sets our collections apart.
Join us at our Komfi stand at the NBF Show in September to experience all this and more. From exciting and innovative new collections to sustainability in action, we can’t wait to show you what’s next!
www.komfi.com
FEATURES
SEALY ELEVATE BLACKWOOD NAMED A WHICH? BEST BUY MATTRESS
In the pursuit of better sleep, one name is standing out for all the right reasons. The Sealy Posturepedic Elevate Blackwood has been awarded the prestigious Which? Best Buy—a trusted seal of approval from the UK’s leading consumer review organisation. But what makes this mattress more than just a comfortable choice? It’s a masterclass in sleep engineering, handcrafted in Britain and built to last.
WHY THE WHICH? BEST BUY MATTERS
Which? Best Buy mattresses are independently tested for comfort, durability, and performance. The Elevate Blackwood scored among the highest-rated Sealy models ever reviewed, making it a standout choice for anyone serious about sleep.
SUPPORT THAT STARTS AT THE CORE
At the heart of the Elevate Blackwood lies the AlignSupport™ Coil, a patented spring system exclusive to Sealy. This innovative coil features a unique geometry that senses your body as it meets the mattress, offering an immediate response followed by deep-down support. It’s twice-tempered for durability, ensuring consistent performance year after year.
COMFORT, CRAFTED TO PERFECTION
Sealy’s comfort architecture is more than just layers, it’s a bespoke support system of bespoke materials, hand selected and tested to deliver. Combined with a double layer of firm and extra firm foams, the Elevate Blackwood Extra Firm mattress delivers maximum support and a truly robust feel. This model is purpose-built for those who demand the firmest level of comfort and support.
The mattress is finished in luxurious textiles that are not only beautiful but also built last the distance. Each fabric is carefully chosen for its tactile quality and long-lasting performance, ensuring your mattress looks and feels exceptional for years to come.
EDGE-TO-EDGE EXCELLENCE
Thanks to UniCased®, the Elevate Blackwood offers superior edge support. This perimeter system reinforces the entire mattress edge, expanding your usable sleep surface and eliminating that “rolling off” sensation. It also prevents sagging and lateral movement, preserving the mattress’s shape and structure over time.
SMART SLEEP TECHNOLOGY
• SmarTex®: This advanced fabric technology is woven into the surface layer to disperse heat away from your skin, helping you stay cool and comfortable throughout the night.
• ProShield®: Endorsed by Allergy UK, this naturally derived treatment protects against allergens, keeping your mattress clean, fresh, and hygienic.
HANDMADE IN BRITAIN, BUILT FOR REAL LIFE
Crafted in Cumbria with a zero-to-landfill policy, the Elevate Blackwood is a product of thoughtful design and sustainable manufacturing. Every mattress is made with care, using advanced materials and techniques that reflect Sealy’s commitment to quality and the environment.
FINAL THOUGHT…
If you’re looking to strengthen your product range with a proven, high-performance mattress that delivers consistent support and durability, the Sealy Elevate Blackwood is built to perform. With its award-winning design, advanced technology, and handcrafted construction, it’s a reliable choice for retailers who prioritise quality and long-term satisfaction.
To find out more, contact your Sealy sales representative or get in touch with the team today.
www.sealy.co.uk
INTRODUCING DURA’S TRIO MATTRESS RANGE
Andrew Parkin, Sales Director at Dura Beds, shares an insight into its new Trio Mattress Range and its expansion into commercial markets with an enhanced CRIB 5 Collection.
In a world flooded with choice, Dura Beds is bringing clarity and comfort back to the mattress market by asking one simple question: How do you want your mattress to feel?
After over 25 years of success in the retail bedding industry, Dura beds are proud to showcase the Trio Mattress Range, a fresh, feel-first approach to sleep. Designed to take the stress out of mattress shopping, the Trio Range focuses on simplicity, comfort, and choice—without the technical language that often confuses customers.
Three Feels, One Easy Choice
At the heart of the Trio Range is a straightforward concept: three clearly defined comfort profiles—Soft, Mid, or Firm.
This shift toward feel-based shopping empowers both customers and sales staff. Rather than bombarding buyers with specs and comparisons, retail teams can guide them through a simple, sensory-led experience—try the Soft, try the Mid, try the Firm—and let comfort lead the decision.
Two Constructions: Natural and Hybrid Foam
Comfort isn’t just about firmness—materials also play a crucial role. That’s why the Trio Range offers two thoughtful construction options: Natural and Hybrid Foam.
The Natural Trio is crafted with breathable, traditional materials such as cotton and wool. The mattress is ideal for those who want a natural feel with time-tested performance. It features hand side stitching for enhanced durability and edge support.
On the other hand, the Hybrid Trio takes a more modern approach. Built with advanced foam layers, this version delivers excellent pressure relief, motion
isolation, and adaptive support. It’s perfect for tech-savvy shoppers or anyone who enjoys the contouring feel of modern construction techniques.
Whichever option customers choose; they can count on the same Dura Beds quality. As members of the National Bed Federation (NBF) and approved by Trading Standards, Dura Beds continues to uphold its reputation for reliable, British-made craftsmanship.
With fewer models to manage and more meaningful engagement with buyers, the Trio Range helps drive quicker decisions, greater confidence, and better sales results.
New Trio Pillow Range: The Finishing Touch
To complete its feel-focused sleep system, Dura Beds has launched the Trio Pillow Range, designed to mirror the Soft, Mid, and Firm comfort levels of the Trio mattresses. This thoughtful addition allows customers to build a fully coordinated sleep experience, ensuring consistency in comfort and support from head to toe.
Each pillow is engineered to complement its corresponding mattress feel—plush and cloud-like for Soft, balanced and adaptive for Mid, and supportive yet breathable for Firm. This alignment not only enhances the overall sleep quality but also simplifies the shopping process by giving consumers a ready-made pairing that makes sense.
For retailers, the Trio Pillow Range is more than just a product extension—it’s a smart sales tool. It presents a natural, value-adding upsell opportunity that enhances the customer journey while increasing basket size. By offering a complete sleep system in one streamlined package, Dura Beds helps retailers deliver greater satisfaction and differentiate themselves in a crowded market.
Our goal was to deliver a CRIB 5 collection that meets every commercial need-without compromising on comfort or compliance.
Dura Beds Expands CRIB 5 Range for Hospitality, Student Living & Build-to-Rent
While the Trio Range continues to make an impact in the consumer and retail spaces, Dura Beds is also turning heads in the commercial sector with its refreshed and expanded CRIB 5-compliant mattress collection—designed specifically for high-occupancy environments such as hotels, student accommodation, and build-to-rent developments.
Every mattress in this contract range meets BS7177 CRIB 5 fire safety regulations, making them fully compliant for use in commercial settings where safety is a top priority. But compliance doesn’t come at the cost of comfort or design.
Whether it’s durable, budget-friendly options for student residences or premium models tailored for luxury hospitality, the updated CRIB 5 range reflects the same commitment to comfort, quality, and craftsmanship that defines the Dura Beds name.
Manufactured in the UK using high-quality materials, each model is thoughtfully styled to blend seamlessly into a range of interiors—proving that safe doesn’t have to mean sterile.
Commercial Markets Expansion with Enhanced CRIB 5 Collection
Dura Beds understands the fast-paced nature of commercial developments and has built its service model to match. From flexible ordering and streamlined lead times to UK-wide delivery, the CRIB 5 collection is supported by logistics that scale to meet the demands of any project—whether outfitting a single building or managing multiple locations.
NECTAR SLEEP AWARDED MTICK CERTIFICATION
Nectar Sleep, a British award-winning mattress company is proud to announce that it has joined the GenM Collective - the Menopause Partner for Brands and Home of the MTick® - to transform the shopping experience for millions of menopausal women through the creation of a new retail category that makes menopause-friendly products more visible in stores and online.
The MTick® is the universal shopping symbol and certification designed to signpost menopause-friendly products, making it easier for customers to find what they need and shop with confidence.
Nectar Sleep’s mattress range has earned MTick® certification for its effectiveness in supporting key menopause symptoms, including sleep issues, insomnia and nights sweats. They feature trialled and verified ReVo™ foam technology, which is proven to wick moisture and dissipate heat.
The leading British-made mattress brand, specialises in award-winning memory foam and hybrid mattresses. Their unique offering includes an industry-leading 365-night home trial, a forever warranty and peace of mind, knowing that their mattresses are environmentally conscious and ClimatePartner certified.
15.5 million women in the UK are currently experiencing menopause, yet when it comes to the menopause industry, 87 per cent of women report feeling overlooked and underserved by brands and retail. Research shows that 94 per cent of women want to shop menopause-friendly labelled products, and yet two thirds (66 per cent) say that these are difficult to find.
The demand for menopause-friendly solutions continues to grow, with the number of shoppers purchasing menopause-related products hitting a record high in 2024. United by the MTick®, the GenM Collective is committed to improving the menopause shopping experience through designated permanent space online and in-store, increased range and clear signage - all delivered with the trust, efficacy and confidence that the menopausal shopper is looking for.
Angela Crouch, Managing Director at Nectar Sleep said: “Joining the GenM collective is both a privilege and an honour. Recognising the profound impact of a good night’s sleep, our straightforward promise is to guarantee the best sleep of your life, driven by our belief that quality rest should be accessible to all.
“This core philosophy guides everything we do, encompassing high-quality design, innovative technology, environmental awareness, a seamless delivery process, competitive pricing and our unique 365-night trial period.”
Heather Jackon, CEO & GenM Founder, said: “We are so proud that Nectar Sleep joins more than 120 brands in the GenM collective, committed to empowering women through choice and trust – to understand, support and serve those in menopause better. With 48 signs of menopause, this stage of life can impact every aspect of a woman’s life – and rather than overwhelming her, through the MTick she can be signposted to trusted products that can make the experience of menopause better today than yesterday.
“It is these small changes that can make a huge difference to a woman’s lived experience of menopause. United by the MTick, Nectar Sleep, and GenM are delivering trust, choice and visibility to menopause, truly transforming the menopause shopping experience and driving the growth of a purposeful new retail category.”
www.nectarsleep.co.uk
SLEEP GEEK SAYS
The Sleep Geek, aka
James
Wilson, talks about how hot weather can be a hot opportunity – if it isn’t messed up.
The mattress minefield: This is where things often go off the rails. I regularly run menopause sleep sessions, and one product comes up again and again, and not in a good way. “Gel” mattresses.
Let’s call it what it is. It’s foam. With added bits. Foam is an insulator, which means it keeps heat in. No matter what Gillian Anderson says, “gel” mattresses don’t keep you cool all night. At best, they stay slightly less warm for a couple of hours. For hot sleepers, especially menopausal women, that’s not good enough.
And yet they buy them, because we’ve sold them the dream. That’s where we go wrong. The reality is that springs and natural fillings give better airflow. They wick moisture. They help regulate temperature properly. If someone loves the feel of foam? Fine, we can work with that. But let’s help them build a sleep environment that genuinely supports cooler sleep.
Consumers are getting wise. ”
SO, WHAT NOW?
Consumers are getting wise. A recent McKinsey report on the wellness industry said people want more credibility, more transparency. In sleep retail, we’re not always great at that. We hide behind buzzwords instead of real benefits.
I’m writing this in July and praying it’s still roasting when you read it in August, not because I love the heat, but because hot weather is a golden opportunity for sleep retailers… if we actually get it right.
Let’s be honest: summer sleep is hard. As nights get warmer, poor sleepers get even poorer sleep. And while we can dish out basic advice (close blinds when the bedroom has direct sunlight on it, crack windows open for airflow, have a lukewarm bath, don’t shove frozen peas in your pillowcase), what really matters is what people are sleeping on and under.
THAT’S WHERE WE AS AN INDUSTRY COME IN.
Bedding basics: Natural materials like wool, alpaca, silk and bamboo are brilliant at helping regulate body temperature. But only if they’re used in meaningful amounts, too many products chuck in a whiff of natural fibre, slap on a label and expect consumers not to notice. We can do better.
That’s why I created my Sleep Geek Certified training. I recently delivered it to the team at Fishpools, giving them the insights to match products to actual sleep problems, not just sell what’s trending. The result? Happier customers, fewer returns, and better reputations.
The heat is on – literally and figuratively. Let’s stop selling fluff, start talking truth, and turn hot nights into hot business (without burning our credibility in the process).
About the Sleep Geek
James Wilson (AK The Sleep Geek) is a Sleep Educator & Practitioner and founder of kipmate. He is currently the sleep expert on ITV’s This Morning and has worked with the likes of Zurich, Next, Under Armour and West Ham United helping their people kip better. He offers training and certification for retailers, and a certification scheme for sleep products.
www.thesleepgeek.co.uk
FEATURES
THE BED EXPERT
George Sinclair, Owner at retailer Nimbus Beds, talks about how to choose the right mattress from growing bodies, emphasising the fact that kid’s beds matter too.
While much of the bed industry focuses on adult comfort and luxury, the importance of choosing the right mattress for children is often overlooked. Yet for growing bodies and developing minds, a good night’s sleep is essential. The right mattress can support spinal alignment, encourage healthy sleep habits, and contribute to overall wellbeing during critical stages of development.
UNDERSTANDING GROWTH AND SUPPORT NEEDS
Children’s bodies are in a constant state of growth and change, making proper support a top priority. A mattress that is too soft may not provide the spinal alignment they need, while one that’s too firm can be uncomfortable and disruptive to sleep. Medium/firm mattresses often strike the right balance, offering both comfort and adequate support.
As children grow into teenagers, their sleep patterns and physical needs evolve. Choosing a mattress that accommodates this growth or planning for upgrades at key stages can prevent issues related to poor posture or interrupted sleep.
MATERIALS AND SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
When selecting a mattress for a child, materials matter. Opt for low-VOC (volatile organic compound) foams, hypoallergenic covers, and certifications like OEKO-TEX® or CertiPUR-US® to ensure the mattress is free from harmful chemicals. Breathability is also key, particularly for younger children who may be prone to overheating.
Waterproof or washable covers can be a game-changer for parents, protecting the mattress from spills or accidents while extending its lifespan. For bunk beds or trundle frames, consider mattress thickness and safety requirements to avoid compromising guardrail height or head clearance.
SIZING IT RIGHT
Many parents opt for cot beds or small singles early on, but it’s wise to consider future growth when purchasing a new mattress. Standard single or even small double beds provide more room to grow, especially for older children and teenagers who may need the extra space for comfort and sleep quality.
CREATING HEALTHY SLEEP HABITS
Beyond the mattress itself, the bedroom environment plays a crucial role. A consistent bedtime routine, reduced screen time, and a calming sleep space all contribute to quality rest. The mattress should be seen as a foundation for these habits, literally and figuratively.
”
Retailers often overlook the children’s segment in favour of adult mattresses, but this market is full of opportunity.
A MARKET WORTH ATTENTION
Retailers often overlook the children’s segment in favour of adult mattresses, but this market is full of opportunity. Educating parents and caregivers about the importance of proper sleep support for children can not only drive sales, but also foster brand loyalty from families making repeat purchases over time.
In the end, kids’ beds matter just as much as adult ones, perhaps even more so, given their role in healthy development. Choosing the right mattress is an investment in a child’s physical and emotional future.
FEATURES
PURELAY’S SIMPLE CORE PHILOSOPHY
Bed and wellness brand PureLay details the key benefits behind its products and why they lead to better well-being.
“Better sleep leads to better well-being”. It’s this simple philosophy that PureLay adheres to when developing products. “With a focus on revitalisation and energy restoration, we’re committed to creating sleep solutions that leave sleepers feeling refreshed each morning,” says Paul Lake, Purecare & PureLay UK and Europe.
It’s this simple philosophy that has resonated so quickly with the UK following a series of successful shows that have continued to raise the profile of the brand. Creating eye-catching products is one thing, but what lays beneath the surface is tailored to provide an optimal sleeping experience.
“PureLay is designed to look great, feel extremely supportive while remaining comfortable, and offer a strong retail presence,” continues Paul. “Customers are actively seeking solutions for heat buildup and inadequate support.
“With this collection, we’ve answered that need by blending breathable, cooling materials with firm, orthopaedic support. The response so far has been brilliant. Retailers are excited about the wellness-driven approach we’re bringing to the market.”
The new PureLay Ultimate Back-Care Collection combines the cooling and breathable properties of PureLay Latex with natural fillings, including wool, cotton, cashmere, and silk, all designed to create a luxurious and temperature-regulating sleep experience.
PureLay’s products are designed specifically for those who prefer a firmer sleep surface, with the collection said to be the “ultimate back-care solution for wellnessconscious sleepers”. Furthermore, as hybrid mattresses, they combine the natural elasticity and breathability of PureLay Latex with a firm ortho-zoned pocket spring system—ensuring optimal spinal alignment, pressure relief, and airflow throughout the night.
Moreover, PureLay also offers a range of unique latex mattress toppers, designed to provide an extra layer of breathability, comfort, and targeted support. These toppers, also made with PureLay Latex, enhance the sleeping experience by pressure points, and improving spinal alignment.
“Our new new range is engineered for those who prioritise back care and firm support without compromising on comfort,” Paul added. “With fast delivery options, PureLay presents an excellent opportunity for sleep retailers looking to offer premium, wellnessfocused mattresses and accessories without long lead times. As the demand for natural, breathable, and supportive sleep solutions continues to grow, PureLay is an exciting new option in the mattress market.”
This is evident following the early success and momentum the brand has achieved since launching during the January Furniture Show at the beginning of the year. Since then, PureLay has exhibited at three other key UK events, including the INDX Beds show, The Spring Bed and Furniture Show, and more recently the Manchester Furniture Show.
“We had a fantastic response during all four shows so far this year,” says Paul. “They have been ideal platforms to introduce and now build the brand. We’re now working hard on maintaining our momentum and growing the brand further.”
PureLay presents an excellent opportunity for sleep retailers looking to offer premium, wellness-focused mattresses and accessories without long lead times.
To find out more, contact sales@purelay.co.uk
”
HOW DOES SLEEP MAKE YOU FEEL?
Award-winning US bedding brand Purecare reveals more insight from its own Sleep Study as consumers prioritise sleep health and well-being.
It’s no secret that Purecare has been on a mission in the UK to raise the bar in providing sleep solutions. The brand recently conducted a dedicated ‘Sleep Study’ where it surveyed over 1,000 British consumers to better understand their sleep routines, priorities and habits, in relation to wellness and product insight.
Initial insights indicated that 99.8% said sleep is important to their overall wellbeing, while the largest group (25.1%) rated their sleep quality at 7 out of 10, showing room for improvement and aspiration. Furthermore, almost half said they sleep between 7–8 hours a night, and 69.5% prefer to sleep on their side, a position Purecare’s design team considered when designing their cooling Wave and Nano pillows.
Shifting the focus, this article will look at how beneficial sleep made people feel and why health and well-being is paramount, while exploring the difference between Sleep Hygiene vs. Sleep Wellness. To kick things off, 42% said that they feel significantly better, more productive and focussed after a good night’s sleep as opposed to a poor one. Moreover, 10.3% said they felt ‘dramatically better’, while 28.6% said they felt ‘moderately better’. Only 3.9% said that felt no noticeable difference. This indicates a clear impression that a good night’s sleep is crucial.
When asked about what has the greatest impact on the quality of your sleep, 62.2% said their mattress, while 44.4% said pillows and 12% indicated bedding. “Many people understand sleep is vital, but not everyone knows how to improve it,” says Paul Lake, Purecare UK and Europe. “We see it as our responsibility to bridge that gap with products and education that make a measurable difference.
“With the results highlighting some interesting reading towards bedding, we see this as an opportunity to broaden awareness around the wider sleep ecosystem. It was no
surprise to then see that 33.4% of respondents said they do not use a mattress protector.”
Of the 33.4% who said no, 51.8% were simply unsure of why they’d need one, while others believed it wouldn’t help (27%) or saw it as too expensive (12%). The data also showed that with the use of non-waterproof protectors used, 81.4% of respondents may not be adequately protecting their mattress or creating a clean and hygienic sleep environment. This not only highlights the importance of instore education of the customer during a sale, but a large opportunity for retailers to significantly grow sales within this category.
Furthermore, it opens the conversation to explore the differences between sleep hygiene and sleep wellness, with both elements ingrained in Purecare’s philosophy. “With every fibre of our being and stitch of our fabric, we care about the sleep quality and wellness of everybody and every body. This is why we design products with one simple mission: to wrap the world in whole-body care and comfort. Because when we sleep well, we rise to live well too.”
It’s a powerful mission statement that touches on a couple of keywords, ‘quality’ and ‘wellness’. Focusing on the latter, to achieve overall sleep wellness, the quality of products used, combined with good sleeping practices, are paramount. And that’s where Purecare excels. However, when terms like sleep hygiene and sleep wellness are used, perhaps people think they are two of the same things. They cross over, but the fundamental concept behind both terms is different.
With the results highlighting some interesting reading towards bedding, we see this as an opportunity to broaden awareness around the wider sleep ecosystem.
“Sleep hygiene and sleep wellness both sound fancy, but they’re actually pretty straightforward,” Paul said. “Sleep wellness is about the routines, habits, nutrition and specialist products that help us fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed. Things like winding down before bed, limiting screen time, avoiding caffeine late in the day, and choosing the right mattress, pillow, and bedding for your needs.
“Sleep hygiene, on the other hand, focuses on the physical cleanliness of your sleep environment and looking at what’s building up in your mattress and pillow if unprotected. For example, a study conducted by Barts and The London NHS Trust found that after two years of use, more than one-third of a pillow’s weight can come from dead skin, dust mites, their droppings, and bacteria.
“Most people don’t realise we shed up to a gram and a half of skin daily and sweat roughly 98 litres a year while we sleep. Without proper protection, like mattress and pillow covers, this buildup creates a breeding ground for dust mites, bacteria, fungi, and allergens. You can’t simply just put a mattress in a washing machine.
“Good sleep hygiene starts by creating a clean sleep zone, one you can easily and regularly wash, like using mattress protection, pillow protectors, and fresh bedding. Not only does this promote a healthier sleeping environment, but it also helps preserve the condition and extend the lifespan of your mattress.”
Back to the study, Purecare asked if the respondents knew the benefits of a mattress protector, with 40.7% saying ‘no’. This again highlights the need and power of educated in store sales representatives, and a wider opportunity, to raise the awareness of the key benefits behind using a mattress protector.
“Our research reveals that sleep wellness is of profound importance to the vast majority of individuals, highlighting valuable opportunities to further elevate the quality of rest,” Paul continued. “It also underscores the vital role that mattress protectors, pillows, and bedding play in fostering deeper, healthier sleep. It’s not just about selling a product it’s about showing consumers the ‘why’ behind it. Purecare is consistently dedicated to helping our retail partners, in communicating to customers the core benefits of a good sleep environment and how focused products can enhance their experience and sleep wellbeing.”
For example, only 24.3% said they believe mattress protectors improve sleep quality, with over half unsure. “That’s a huge opportunity,” adds Paul. “We know that quality protectors, especially those with advanced features like ours, make a real difference. Our job is to share that insight clearly and effectively.”
Take the OmniGuard Advance Mattress Protector, which is recognised with the prestigious Good Housekeeping Award.
“The OmniGuard Advance 5-Sided Mattress Protector stands out for its exceptional protective features, creating a barrier against moisture, allergens, dust mites, mould, and mildew,” Paul said. “This comprehensive protection ensures a cleaner, healthier sleep environment, which is essential for maintaining a hygienic bedroom space. The mattress protector is designed to fit like a fitted sheet, making it compatible with both adjustable and standard bases, and accommodating various mattress depths.
“The Good Housekeeping Institute’s rigorous testing process, known for its thoroughness, evaluated the OmniGuard Advance 5-Sided Mattress Protector across several key parameters, including durability, effectiveness, and ease of use. The protector excelled in repelling liquids, resisting allergens, and maintaining its quality even after multiple washes. We’re dedicated to make the home the heart of wellness and our innovative sleep solutions continue to resonate with the market.”
FEATURES
Crafting Comfort, Driving Innovation, and Powering Retail Success
Shire Beds, the Dewsbury-based bed manufacturer, continues to make waves in the UK furniture industry with its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability.
With a legacy rooted in British craftsmanship since 1997, the company has evolved into a powerhouse of own-brand and white-label manufacturing, supplying over 170 retailers nationwide.
At the heart of Shire Beds’ success is its unique “Brand Behind Your Brand” philosophy. Rather than pushing its own label, Shire empowers retailers to shine by offering bespoke product lines tailored to their brand identity. Customisable details and Point of Sale give retail partners exclusive products that resonate with their customers.
“Our growth is a reflection of our team’s hard work and our partners’ trust,” says Fara Butt, Director at Shire Beds. “We’ve invested in innovation, people, and processes—and it’s paying off.”
That investment was on full display at the January Furniture Show 2025, where Shire Beds left a lasting impression. Their stand in Hall 5 was a hub of activity, showcasing new collections that blend traditional techniques with modern design. Bestsellers like Ravello and Capri remained crowd favourites, while newer ranges such as Solitdue and Cool Nytz impressed with their natural and cooling properties.
Looking ahead, Shire Beds is gearing up for a major presence at the NBF Bed Show 2025, where the company plans to unveil a fresh wave of innovative products. Building on the success of its current collections, Shire is developing new ranges that focus on enhanced sleep technology and bespoke design options tailored to evolving consumer needs. These upcoming launches will further reinforce Shire’s position as a forwardthinking manufacturer committed to supporting retail partners with exclusive, high-
quality sleep solutions. Visitors to the show can expect a dynamic showcase that blends craftsmanship with cuttingedge comfort.
Sustainability is another cornerstone of Shire Beds’ strategy. The company has been highly commended at The Furniture Awards for its eco-conscious practices, including the use of FSCcertified materials and energy-efficient manufacturing. “As we scale up, we’re also scaling up our commitment to sustainability—because it’s what our customers expect, and what the planet needs,” Fara adds.
Shire Beds’ momentum shows no signs of slowing. With plans to expand their own-brand offerings and explore new markets, the company is poised for another strong year. Their blend of innovation, craftsmanship, and customercentricity continues to set them apart in a competitive market.
As Fara concludes, “Our mission is simple: to deliver exceptional sleep solutions that support our partners’ success. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved—and even more excited about what’s to come.”
We’ve invested in innovation, people, and processes—and it’s paying off. ”
FEATURES
A FIFTH RECORD-BREAKING YEAR
MattressNextDay has delivered its fifth consecutive record-breaking year with 47% annual turnover growth. We found out more.
Kent-based online mattress and bed retailer MattressNextDay has delivered another year of exceptional growth, with turnover reaching £36.6 million for the year ending March 2025 – a remarkable 47% increase from the previous record breaking year of £24.9 million.
The company’s impressive trajectory continues to defy challenging market conditions, with turnover having increased by a staggering 447% since 2020, when it stood at £8.2 million.
Stuart Rogers, Chief Financial Officer at MattressNextDay highlighted the company’s financial health: “We’re delighted to report another year of exceptional performance. Our turnover increase of 47% to £36.6 million, combined with a gross profit of £17 million at 46.5% margin, demonstrates our ability to scale efficiently while maintaining profitability. Our pre-tax profit has grown to £3.6 million, up from £3 million last year, proving that our growth strategy is both sustainable and profitable.”
The results are particularly impressive given the uncertain economic climate that has challenged many retailers over recent years. CEO and founder Martin Seeley reflected on the company’s performance: “While the UK economy has faced headwinds, we’ve continued to thrive by focusing on the important things. Our success stems from our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and putting our customers at the heart of everything we do.”
BRAND AMBASSADORS
A key driver of MattressNextDay’s continued success has been its investment in customer-focussed initiatives. This June (2025), the company launched its groundbreaking Brand Ambassador program, partnering with sleep industry and product experts from leading manufacturers including Sleepeezee, Sealy, TEMPUR®, Hypnos, and Silentnight, to name a few.
Jamie Latham, Chief Technology Officer, explained the strategic importance of this initiative: “Our Brand Ambassador program represents our changing approach to presenting products on our website. By partnering with experts like Amy Curtis from Sleepeezee, who brings 13 years of industry experience, and Emma Sharp from TEMPUR®, with her 20 years of product knowledge, we’re ensuring our customers receive the most accurate and comprehensive product advice possible. Nobody knows these products better than the people who work with them every day.”
The program features ten carefully selected ambassadors (with more to come), each bringing decades of combined experience from their respective brands. From Suart’s Hibbert’s vast 40 years+ experience in the industry to Michael Prime’s consumer insight background at Sleepsoul (Birlea), these partnerships ensure customers receive expert guidance tailored to the products they are browsing.
Beyond human expertise, MattressNextDay has significantly enhanced its customer service capabilities through strategic AI implementation. The results have been exceptional, with the technology helping to streamline customer inquiries and improve response times while maintaining the personal touch that customers expect.
“We’ve seen fantastic results from our AI-enhanced chat bot, which we’ve called Kip,” noted Jamie Latham. “This
The MattressNextDay team outside of their Whitstable Showroom and Distribution centre
Our success stems from our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and putting our customers at the heart of everything we do. ”
technology allows us to provide instant, accurate responses to common queries 24/7. Kip saves the Customer Service team roughly 400+ hours each month, allowing them to focus more on complex matters and ensure the best possible experience for every customer.”
The company continues to invest heavily in its digital infrastructure with a new stock management tool, new homepage and enhanced product pages scheduled to launch in the coming months. These improvements are designed to create an even more intuitive, helpful and informative shopping experience for customers.
100 NIGHT SLEEP TRIAL
MattressNextDay’s dedication to customer satisfaction extends beyond the point of sale. The company is expanding its 100 Night Sleep Trial to all mattresses on its website, demonstrating confidence in their product quality and procedures.
“Sleep is personal, and we understand that choosing the right mattress online can feel daunting,” said Martin Seeley. “By expanding our 100 Night Sleep Trial across our entire mattress range, we’re removing the risk for customers. We’ve had positive feedback on the sleep trials we do offer on selected mattress ranges, so it makes sense to expand this out and give our customers as much choice and flexibility as possible”.
LOOKING FORWARD
As MattressNextDay celebrates its continued growth, the focus remains on sustainable expansion and innovation. The combination of strategic partnerships, technological advancement, and unwavering commitment to customer service has created a foundation for future success.
“We’re not just growing for growth’s sake,” concluded Stuart Rogers. “Every initiative, from our Brand Ambassador program to our AI implementation, is designed to enhance the customer experience while building a sustainable, profitable business. This approach has served us well through uncertain times, and we’re confident it will continue to drive success in the years ahead.”
With its strong financial performance, innovative customer experience initiatives, and commitment to sustainability, MattressNextDay is well-positioned to maintain its trajectory as one of the UK’s most successful online furniture retailers. www.MattressNextDay.co.uk
MattressNextDay Directors: Jamie Latham CTO, Stuart Rogers CFO, Martin Seeley CEO
REALISING A MAMMOTH OPPORTUNITY
Under new ownership and with a long-term UK licence in place, the Mammoth brand launched back into the UK market in 2025.
Bodyease Director, Shakeel Baig, and Blue Dragon Assets
Managing Director, Sarah Harris, explain why the future is bright for a brand that has never been more relevant and how solid foundations are paving the way for success.
Having secured the UK licence for Mammoth mattresses and pillows in late 2024, Bodyease set about using the business’s 30 years of industry expertise to ensure that Mammoth’s market-leading Comfort and Performance collections would once again be available to retailers around the UK, providing consumers with a genuinely healthy choice backed by scientific testing and research.
Bodyease Director, Shakeel Baig, says: “When the opportunity to acquire the UK licence for Mammoth’s mattresses and pillows came about late last year, we moved decisively to expand our portfolio. We already held the UK licence for the brand in the mobility category and knew how highly regarded Mammoth was as a leading retail name in health and wellbeing.
“In our first months of trading we’ve used our expertise in manufacturing and logistics to ensure we are well positioned to produce the highest quality products.
We’ve also placed real emphasis on elevating standards for customer service – an area we know is crucially important in the market today. This includes the development of our state-of-the-art portal, which enables automated ordering, rapid delivery and attentive aftercare.
“I see huge potential in Mammoth and we’re committed at Bodyease to making it the household name it deserves to be.”
Sarah Harris joined Blue Dragon Assets (the global rights holders for the Mammoth brand) as Managing Director in December 2025. A highly respected figure in the furniture industry with more than 25 years’ experience in roles at Hilding Anders, Steinhoff International and Bensons for Beds, Sarah has a clear remit to drive the sustainable growth of the Mammoth brand in UK and international markets.
Sarah said: “As trusted partners with Bodyease we’re excited to once again show to the trade that Mammoth offers something unique and compelling in the furniture market. No other brand shares Mammoth’s heritage in healthcare and clinical credentials. We also recently announced that we have renewed our exclusive partnership with the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, which reflects the close relationship between Mammoth and health professionals around the country.”
Shakeel adds: “In recent weeks we’ve appointed a number of new agents to enhance our coverage around the UK and our show van will be out and about providing retailers with an opportunity to see for themselves what Mammoth can bring to their shop floors.”
Interested in stocking Mammoth’s Comfort and Performance collections? Email mammoth@bodyease.co.uk for more information
www.bodyease.co.uk www.mammothcomfort.com
Sarah Harris & Shakeel Baig
FEATURES A HATTRICK FOR WOODS PACKAGING
Angela Doran, Sales Advisor at Woods Packaging, reflects on a third consecutive award win, as well as recent business updates.
First of all, everyone at Wood’s Packaging is over the moon about winning the ‘Best Supplier for Packaging Products (Wrapping)’ award for the third straight year. We make sure that everyone at Wood’s understand it’s down to their commitment to providing a great service, that we were voted for the award. To win, was an absolute bonus.
When the trust, values and core beliefs of a small family run business grow as the company does, it helps us to help our customers in a way they need. It allows us to build a strong and long-lasting business relationship with our customers to a degree where we’re invested in the livelihood and success of their business too. We like to consider ourselves pro-active and often happy to call our customers to tell them the price has come down if we were able to make a saving on a particular product, without them having to ask. Naturally, this works both ways. If we must put a price up, our customers trust that it’s necessary based on this strong relationship.
It would be obvious for us to claim that it’s been a great year, however dealing with so many furniture companies it’s impossible to avoid the feedback about how quiet the furniture industry is this year. This naturally has a knock-on effect in the furniture packaging world. Wood’s Packaging are lucky that we supply to anyone that works with furniture including manufacturers, retailers, two-man home delivery teams and removal companies as an example. It has meant it’s given us time to get out and about and visit customers face to face which helps to maintain established customer relationships.
We’re constantly on the lookout for new sustainable packaging solutions to offer our customers and extending our range to ensure we are fully equipped to supply everything our customers use. As well as exhibiting at multiple shows each year, we visit numerous packaging shows to keep up to speed with packaging trends. We’re working behind the scenes on some exciting projects which will help our customers to
reduce their bubble-wrap consumption with paper-based, more eco-conscious alternatives. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok & LinkedIn for news and updates.
August 2024 saw Wood’s Packaging warehouse transform and become the set of Wainwrights, a DIY store in the groundbreaking Netflix show, Adolescence, starring Stephen Graham. It was such an incredible experience for everyone involved and it gave
We’re constantly on the lookout for new sustainable packaging solutions to offer our customers and extending our range to ensure we are fully equipped to supply everything our customers use. ”
us all a real insight into the planning and preparation a show like this takes to create. It was operationally very challenging as we continued to despatch orders and ensure our day-to-day business was unaffected. The Netflix crew were fantastic, and we worked closely on this exciting task to ensure a successful project. The final day of filming, early September we were graced with a visit from Stephen Graham himself who took time out for photos with the Wood’s Packaging staff and was genuinely the loveliest guy ever!
The show launched in March 2025 and smashed records like no other for its viewing figures, storyline and filming techniques used. We knew it was going to be good (we’d seen the cast list) however we never expected it to receive the accolades it did. We are so proud to have been part of the story both on and off the camera, however small our part. We were all bound to strict secrecy since the filming and therefore it was a huge relief when it eventually aired in March of 2025 and we could speak about it. Look out for “Wainwrights” in episode 4 of Adolescence. The whole company enjoyed a complimentary day at the races with the proceeds from Netflix.
We want to thank every person who voted for us in this year’s awards and extend our congratulations to all the winners. We know how much hard work goes into it and certainly do not take it for granted.
FEATURES
GEARing up for UK expansion
Eugene Alletto, Founder/CEO, and Tyler Sakry, Director, Marketing & Sales: International, at BEDGEAR, shares an insight into the business following its strategic launch into the UK and Ireland markets.
Back in May, US sleep brand BEDGEAR announced its newest partnership with bedding manufacturer and distributor The Fine Bedding Company. This collaboration marked BEDGEAR’s strategic entry into the UK and a further expansion into Ireland, aiming to bring Performance® sleep solutions to a new audience of retailers and consumers.
Through this partnership, The Fine Bedding Company will serve as a distributor of BEDGEAR products across the UK and Ireland. The relationship will focus on expanding BEDGEAR’s retail presence, bolstering ecommerce operations, and delivering dynamic consumer engagement experiences, all while introducing BEDGEAR’s personalised shopping journey and breathable Performance® products to the region.
A few months on, Tyler revealed more about progress made so far. “We’re excited to introduce several of our top-performing and award-winning products to the UK and Ireland, including the Storm Performance® Pillow and Night Ice Performance® Pillow, which are consumer favourites known for advanced cooling technologies. We’re also bringing best-sellers like the Dri-Tec® Performance® Mattress Protector and the VerTex™ Performance® Mattress Protector, as well as BEDGEAR’s Performance® sheets.
“Additionally, BEDGEAR’s retail displays and in-store experiences are available in the UK and Ireland. BEDGEAR’s M3 Performance® Mattress, the industry’s first dualsided modular mattress, which allows users to choose between four different levels of firmness on either side of the mattress, is also coming to the UK and Ireland soon.
These products were selected for their proven success and ability to meet the growing demand for Performance® sleep solutions in these markets.
“The initial response to BEDGEAR in the UK and Ireland has been incredibly positive. Retailers and consumers alike are showing strong interest in our products and our Performance®-driven approach. We’re already seeing early adopters in both sectors who are excited to bring something new and innovative to the sleep category.”
BEDGEAR already has some weight behind its brand, with over 280 worldwide patents and trademarks, as well as being available in more than 6,500 retail stores globally. So, why was the UK and Ireland markets of interest? And why now?
Tyler continued: “Globally, consumers are increasingly prioritising health and wellness, seeking out purpose-driven products that enhance their everyday lives—especially when it comes to sleep. This trend is especially relevant in the UK and Ireland, where there’s a clear gap in the market for Performance® sleep products.
“Our expansion includes strategic retail partnerships, experiential in-store destinations, and a digital-first approach that puts education and engagement at the forefront. We believe this market
The initial response to BEDGEAR in the UK and Ireland has been incredibly positive. ”
is ready for a sleep brand that focuses on Performance®, personalisation, and a better night’s rest. In the coming months, we’ll be launching immersive retail experiences, a best-in-class digital presence, and consumer engagement initiatives that we believe will truly energise the market.”
Digging deeper into these future plans, Tyler said that retail displays are paramount to the success of the brand, fully endorsing all of the work that goes into making each product. Furthermore, consumer engagement initiatives range from partnering with a variety of events. “In terms of retail experiences, BEDGEAR has a long history of providing its retailers with innovative and interactive retail displays that both attract customers and educate them on products.
“BEDGEAR always aims to have all its touch points, which includes its in-store displays, reflect the same quality of innovation that it builds into its products, which helps the brand stand out from the crowd and create a more consumer-friendly and engaging shopping experience. BEDGEAR has found great success with its retail displays both domestically and internationally and plans to utilise them in the same way in both the UK and Ireland.
“In terms of consumer engagement initiatives, BEDGEAR also has a long history of engaging with different sports teams and performance-based events. BEDGEAR is currently the Official Sleep Partner of the Dallas Mavericks and has worked with other professional sports teams as well as professional and Olympic athletes.
“Additionally, BEDGEAR has also focused on creating activations and consumer engagement initiatives at performance-based events such as the New York City Marathon, or, more recently, Ironman Australia. BEDGEAR has seen great success with these partnerships and events and intends to replicate this approach and explore similar opportunities in the UK and Ireland.”
The company has seen a growing shift through its retail and direct channels, due to customers being “savvier”, as Eugene explains: “People don’t just want soft, firm, or somewhere inbetween. They want solutions that adjust to them—their sleep style, their environment, their recovery needs. That’s where we thrive. We’re continuing to build a product roadmap rooted in breathability, adaptability, and longevity. We’re scaling with purpose, not ego.
“We’re doubling down on innovation too — not tech for tech’s sake, but meaningful tools that elevate how people sleep and recover. We’re evolving our digital experience so customers can be guided and fitted for their sleep essentials anywhere in the world. We’re also putting more muscle behind circular materials and smart logistics to ensure our environmental footprint shrinks as we grow. Every investment has to align with one question: does it make people sleep better and live better?
“We’re not just showing up in Europe—we’re showing up differently. We’re not here to copy-paste our US playbook. Europe is a marketplace that values craftsmanship, design, integrity, and substance—all things that fuel our vision. You’ll see more collaborations, exclusive regional product drops, and a tighter alignment between sleep science and local lifestyles. We’re building relationships, not just distribution. And we’re here to raise expectations, not just meet them.”
Since 2009, BEDGEAR has been pushing the limits to deliver enhanced sleep solutions, with its constant innovation and product development core to its business. “BEDGEAR is not just a mattress, pillows, and sheets company,” Eugene said. “We’re a precision-engineered brand of Performance® that personalises all aspects of your sleep.
“Everything we create is built to individual body type, sleep position, and temperature preference, moving and responding to your body in real time. While most of the industry is busy selling nostalgia, we’re focused on the future of recovery. That means personalisation at scale, patented airflow innovations, and a fitting process that removes the guesswork. BEDGEAR isn’t a product line—it’s a system designed to help you wake up ready.”
FEATURES EMMIERA GROUP: RAISING THE STANDARD OF FURNITURE REPAIRS. AGAIN.
We’re extremely proud that Emmiera Group has been voted Best Furniture Care/Repair Company in the Big Furniture Awards 2025. To receive this recognition—especially as it’s voted for by the industry—is a real honour and a reflection of the passion, dedication, and hard work of our entire team.
This award comes at a pivotal time for Emmiera Group. Over the past 12 months, we’ve been through a period of significant transformation, growth, and operational development. While change can bring moments of uncertainty, our purpose has remained clear: to continuously raise the standard of furniture repairs in the UK.
In the spirit of that commitment, we’re rolling out a full programme of service enhancements across every repair stream in the coming months. These upgrades aim to streamline operations, improve customer experience, and deliver more consistent, first-time-right repairs.
UPGRADED JOB SUBMISSION & REPORTING
We’ve redesigned our job submission system to be faster and more intuitive. The new platform captures concise, actionable data right from the moment a job is logged, giving our triage and technician teams greater clarity from the start.
EXPERT TRIAGE BY SKILLED TECHNICIANS
Every repair job will be reviewed by a dedicated triage team using issue-specific workflows. This expert-led review ensures the right parts, skill sets, and solutions are prepared ahead of every visit—eliminating guesswork and enabling smarter, more efficient repairs.
1-TOUCH IMAGE UPLOADS
No more delays due to missing images. Customers can now upload photos and videos from their phones in seconds with our 1-Touch Image Request tool, dramatically improving job accuracy and resolution speed.
FASTER SCHEDULING & MORE APPOINTMENTS
Our new scheduling technology is designed to improve contact speed, booking flexibility, and appointment availability. We’ve made it easier for your customers to choose a time that suits them—cutting down on wait times and increasing satisfaction.
TAILORED WORKFLOWS FOR SMARTER REPAIRS
Technicians now follow best-practice repair workflows based on fault type. These tailored guides ensure that every repair is consistent, compliant, and effective—maximising first-visit resolution rates.
James Lane CEO
James Lane CEO & Lyndsey Turner Executive Assistant - Lyndsey has been working with James in various roles across all departments of the business since the company was originally formed and is the longest serving employee.
MEANINGFUL REPORTING THAT DRIVES DECISIONS
We are scrapping generic job sheets in favour of targeted, issue-specific reports. Whether it’s a fabric repair, mechanical issue, or structural problem, our reports clearly explain what was found, what was done, and why—making liability and outcomes easier to understand.
LIVE DATA DASHBOARD
Clients will have access to a live job-tracking dashboard, offering real-time updates, performance metrics, and resolution insights—right at your fingertips.
Our purpose has remained clear: to continuously raise the standard of furniture repairs in the UK. ”
REVOLUTIONISING MATTRESS INSPECTIONS
In a market first, we’re launching advanced mattress inspection technology designed to deliver more accurate, data-backed assessments. This new apparatus will be supported by structured technician training and available for live demonstrations, either at your premises or ours.
The new system enables: Quantifiable data-backed reporting
• Visual documentation and expert insights
• Nationwide consistency in inspection quality
• Greater clarity in liability decisions
A full performance review will follow the rollout, measuring service improvements, turnaround times, and satisfaction levels to ensure our evolution aligns with your expectations.
NATIONAL REACH, LOCAL TOUCH
Emmiera Group now operates at full UK scale—but with a local mindset. Whether it’s a next-day emergency visit in Glasgow or a mattress inspection in Devon, we bring the reliability of a national provider with the care and responsiveness of a local team.
Thank you to everyone who voted for us—and to all our clients and partners who continue to support us. We’re excited to bring you these improvements, and even more proud to be setting the benchmark for the furniture care and repair industry in the UK.
Together, we’re raising the standard—again.
Right to left - Kate Cook - Human Resources Manager, Natalie Richards - Customer Service Manager, Craig Hart - Sales & Marketing Director, Emma Gowland - Financial Director, Jason Grinnall - Operations Director, Matt Ross - Financial Consultant, James Lane - CEO, Dav Pattar - IT Director, Samantha Harding - Call Centre Manager, Lyndsey Turner - Executive Assistant, Charlotte Turner - Head of Account Management.
Emmiera Group CEO & Directors - Craig Hart - Sales & Marketing Director, Jason Grinnall - Operations Director, James Lane - CEO, Dav Pattar - IT Director, Emma Gowland - Financial Director,
In the next instalment of our series of interviews with agents and reps across the furnishings industry, we spoke with husband-and-wife team
Dave and Debbie Jenkins
who share respective insights into life as an agent.
Meet Dave and Debbie
We’ve both been agents for around 15 years, but jointly have over 60 years experience in the furniture industry! We currently represent Adjust-A-Bed, Westgarth Furniture (Sits, Flexlux, Italia Living), Sofa Connections and Staingard.
What drew you into the life of an agent?
Dave - frustrations of working in a corporate environment meant I felt too restricted in how I used my abilities, and the only way to satisfy that was to work for myself, and a sales agent role seemed to suit it perfectly. Day-to-day is great, as no two days are alike, and working with my business partner (and wife) is the best fun and so rewarding.
Debbie - Having been a successful Sales Representative for Premium Kitchens and then Silentnight Cabinets, this led me on to having my own furniture manufacturing and retail business. I ran my own business for nearly 10 years before it succumbed to the 2008 crash.
It was natural for me to still want to have the freedom that I had enjoyed whilst running my own business and the opportunity to join Dave as an agent really appealed as it still gave me the buzz of selling and the freedom at the same time.
What is the best part of your role?
Dave - Oh that’s easy, working as a husband-and-wife team, building our business to the level it is and getting so much satisfaction of seeing and enjoying the fruits of that success –and we have a great laugh together.
Debbie - Visiting my customers. Many are now more than just customers, they are friends too. Our industry is full of genuinely nice people and I love to hear their news and gossip. I don’t mind doing a bit of selling to them either. People are what matter most in business and our industry is very much a peoples industry.
What is the most difficult?
Dave - Buyers who won’t give you the time because they think they know what you have to offer, when in fact if they spent half an hour just meeting with you, they’d probably find the little golden nugget that makes a difference to their business – and that’s what we have been successful in doing, making a positive difference to our customers businesses.
Debbie - I find it difficult at times not being able to make certain business decisions that I would previously have had the authority to do so in my own business. It’s a small frustration rather than a difficulty.
Do you have any particular highlights so far?
Dave - Yes, Deb and I came up with the whole concept of Adjust-A-Bed and we were fortunate that the two people we approached could see the vision we set before them and now after four short years of hard work on everyone’s part, it’s the leading adjustable bed manufacturer in the UK.
Debbie - I have to agree with Dave on this one. Adjust-A-Bed
is such a success story and its wonderful that we were in the beginning and still are an integral part of this business. Another highlight of course, is being voted ‘Best Agent for the Midlands’ in the recent Big Furniture Awards 2025. It was a real surprise and I’d like to thank everyone who voted for me.
What challenges do you think agents currently face in the furnishing industry?
Dave - Potentially the influence of AI on the industry, I’m not yet sure how that will affect the day to day selling that we do, but it will have some influence somewhere, hopefully in a positive way.
Debbie - Ever increasing costs. Running costs of our cars/ vans cost a fortune now but you can’t do the job without them.
What would you like to see change?
Dave - At the moment, the country having a much better “feel good factor” so this translates into a much more positive retail sector to sell to.
Debbie - Lower Taxes! As a small business we feel the burden of taxes just as every other business does.
What would help agents more?
Dave - Better commission rates – the expectations on agents has increased dramatically, and workloads become larger over the years and as a result our expenses have increased quite dramatically (and principals either not realising it or choosing to ignore it) – it’s no longer just a selling role.
Debbie - Having all the tools to do the job. I appreciate that show vans are very expensive to run but they are an invaluable tool in helping to get business. Also, everything going digital isn’t always the best approach. I have many customers who I email information to but then ask for hard copies when I visit them. Not everyone is a fan of digital brochures and digital fabric swatches.
Can you share something that irritates you the most as an agent?
Dave - Buyers who don’t keep appointments – if an agent was to not turn up for an appointment the buyer had made, he wouldn’t ever been seen again.
Debbie - Lack of courtesy between agents/ reps when visiting a customer. For example, if I visit a customer, and the person I want to see is with another agent or rep, I will either wait in the furthest corner of the showroom and wait for them to finish their meeting or I’ll wait in my car until I see that agent/ rep leave. I wouldn’t want someone hovering over my shoulder when I’m presenting to a customer, so I won’t do it to them.
What would you say to someone considering becoming an agent?
Dave - Have a real business plan to work to with realistic expectations and funding. I know quite a few people who have thought stepping into a sales agent role is easy, but its hard work and has to be treated as a real business that involves budgets, targets and reserves.
Debbie - Do it – it’s a great life. (Although I don’t always think this when it’s in the depths of Winter). If you put the hours in, you will be rewarded.
What is the most important attribute to have as an agent and why?
Dave - Self motivation, and belief in how good you are.
Debbie - Self motivation – if you don’t go out and get it, it won’t come to you.
Can you share an insight into your plans for the year ahead?
Dave - Because there’s two of us, we are very planned, Deb & I link our diaries and ensure we have plans for the next six months. This recently included the Manchester show with Sofa Connections & Staingard last month, as well as the show van with Adjust-A-Bed in July and into August, UK week with Westgarth Furniture team in October (in Poland) … ooh, then its Christmas!
Debbie - My answer is quite simple, to use as many show vans as possible.
What’s the next big thing you are seeing in the industry and why?
Dave - I guess it’s the use of AI and we’re seeing all manufacturers trying to understand how they can use it best to benefit them.
Debbie - Sustainability – manufacturers will really need to switch into this as its going to become even more prominent and relevant.
Final thought…
Dave – The furniture industry gets some bad press at times, some of it justified, most of it not. The industry is a great people industry where everyone gets to know everyone and the longterm relationships that I have formed with my customers are special and this sets the industry apart. Deb and I are fortunate (through hard work) that our business is successful, which gives us a great satisfaction, but having fun when you’re working with your best friend (and wife) is just the best thing!
Debbie - Just to say a Big Thank you to all my customers who make my job so rewarding.
What’s fashionable in furniture FEATURES
Amthal Karim – Head of Design at Furniture And Choice – shares her monthly overview of on-trend styles and interior looks currently inspiring furniture buyers.
There was a time when it seemed that open plan living would never go away but now -years after the pandemichomeowners are beginning to crave private spaces, nooks and even ‘zones’ to claim as their own. Modern designers are required to understand how people live and what suits their habits, not just day-to-day but hour-to-hour, from breakfast to hybrid working, entertaining to working-out.
In this multi-functional world where furniture is designed to fit around us there’s been plenty of excitement about modular sofas, and now dining tables are claiming a piece of the action too. Contemporary dining sets are increasingly aiming for a perfect blend of utilitarian practicality and aesthetic beauty as we attempt to run our modern lives with effortless ease and sophisticated style.
Contemporary dining sets are increasingly aiming for a perfect blend of utilitarian practicality and aesthetic beauty.
In terms of design for a dining space, the opportunities are endless - from a space-saving bistro table to a family size extender. And seating has also become interesting - choose chairs, benches, banquettes or bar stools.
For those with a separate dining room, extending tables are ideal to complete transformations from day-to-day life to family celebrations. It’s not just larger extending tables that add value, a small, drop-leaf table in a kitchen corner provides a perfect space for two to share a quick breakfast before work, or brunch at the weekend.
When it comes to modern kitchen-diners, it’s chic cafés and coffee shops that have much to answer for. Increasingly popular as inspiration for home set-ups, it’s no surprise that bar stools have become widespread with designs ranging from minimal to biophilic, Hygge-inspired to modern and edgy with hints of Brutalism.
The beauty of barstools and a kitchen island perfectly demonstrate modern multi-functionality - laptop working in the day, chatting with family as we cook, and casual entertaining into the evening. With morning to night covered it’s no surprise that we’re even starting to see more formal bar type tables emerging for the kitchen - designed to match the more traditional dining table but taller, in light woods, gloss or marble-effects.
And who knows what’s next? If American trends sway the UK, we’ll soon be taking on multi-functional kitchen islands complete with split level platforms for dining and conversing, power points for working and cooking - all designed to fit seamlessly into your beautiful home ‘zone’.
www.furniturechoice.co.uk
Caevndish extending table
Franklin dining set
FEATURES
LEADING THROUGH MEANINGFUL DESIGN
From trend-inspired product launches to evolving fabric collections, Whitemeadow work carefully to bring newness, variety and inspiration to the upholstery market.
With recent award wins and successful product launches, it’s the positive feedback and authentic engagement with retail partners that drives their passion and commitment to impress.
“The business has continued to see steady growth, specifically within the independent sector, following a number of successful product launches at the last two January shows.” says Daniel Oscroft, Sales & Marketing Director. “We plan to continue to build on this growth curve by launching well-considered, commercial product ranges, specifically designed with the independent retailer in mind.”
With a fabric offering that’s comprehensive yet considered, it’s built with the end customer in mind and continuously evolving. From trend-led styles to timeless staples, they offer depth, variety, and customisation that empowers their partners to meet diverse consumer tastes.
“We do things differently,” adds Daniel. “Every product we develop starts with intentional thinking, always with the end consumer in mind and shaped by emerging trends. We believe in offering real value, but never at the expense of quality. Most importantly, we lead from the front. We stay in our own lane, focus on doing things properly, and that sets us apart.”
We do things differently. ”
Their in-house design and development studio have been focusing their efforts towards their anticipated September In-House Show. Hosted at their showroom in Nottinghamshire, Whitemeadow are looking forward to welcoming their partners and showcasing some commercially reliable product as they continue to bring purposeful design and exceptional British craftsmanship to the market.
“We’re proud to be launching a new product collection that represents the very best of British upholstery manufacturing,” Daniel explains. “It’s a show of true craftsmanship, quality and heritage. At a time when more furniture is being imported from the Far East and Eastern Europe, this range is a bold reminder of why buying British matters: supporting local skills, ensuring superior quality, and investing in businesses that care about their craft, community and our economy.”
Whether it’s refining operations, launching forward-thinking ranges, or evolving an exclusive fabric portfolio, Whitemeadow’s aim is to stay ahead of the curve while supporting local skills. This past year, their focus has been clear: to lead through meaningful design, offer real value, and provide partners with a competitive edge - all while proudly manufacturing in the UK.
Sustainability Spotlight
In the next part of our ongoing sustainable series, KI Europe introduces its new eco-focused product and Stressless receives recognition for its innovative Adam armchair.
INTRODUCING THE SEBEL CHAIR
Sebel, KI’s newest launch, is manufactured entirely from post-consumer waste as part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability. With no industrial cut-offs, colourants or additives, Sebel is made up of household waste, with each chair preventing 4.5kg of waste plastic from going to landfill.
“With the chair being made from 100% post-consumer waste, there is no colourant added. Unlike most chairs that incorporate a colour masterbatch (typically 3% of a chair’s weight and not recycled material), Sebel avoids this addition ensuring that the entire chair is made from 100% post-consumer waste,” the company said. “As a result of this, Sebel comes in a colour we call Grey-dient, meaning each chair varies slightly in shade, with subtle differences in grey tones reflecting the nature of the recycled material.
“As well as it’s sustainability accolades, Sebel is ergonomically designed to support natural posture and meet the demands of everyday use in learning environments, with durable polypropylene legs built to withstand impact, wear and support up to 220kg. The waterfall seat edge and curved back rest increase flexibility which in turn aid better lumbar support, with a built-in window to provide ventilation.
“Maintenance is kept simple for Sebel users, it is lightweight, antistatic, stain resistant and made using a one-piece injection moulding with no finger traps, loose parts or gaps. Storage within the classroom is easy, using the integrated handle for easy lifting, Sebel only weighs 4.5kg and can be stacked up to 12 high with an optional trolly for manoeuvrability.
“Sebel’s extensive warranty of 25 years enforces the products strength and durability which is also supported by testing to BS1729, making Sebel set to be the next solution for sustainable education seating.”
STRESSLESS ADAM WINS RED DOT AWARD
Stressless Adam, manufactured by Norwegian furniture producer Ekornes, has been awarded the prestigious Red Dot Award: Product Design 2025. The Red Dot is one of the world’s most renowned design awards, recognising products that combine outstanding aesthetics with functional innovation.
“We are incredibly proud and excited. It recognizes our work in developing furniture that combines comfort, functionality, and elegant design,” says Tine Hammernes Leopold, CEO of Ekornes.
Established in 1955 in Essen, Germany, the Red Dot Design Award is judged by an independent panel of international experts. Products are evaluated based on criteria including innovation, functionality, ergonomics, durability, and sustainability.
According to Mariana Sousa, Head of Design at Ekornes AS, Stressless Adam represents a significant evolution in the category: “Stressless Adam represents a bold step forward in the design of motorized recliners. It challenges the conventional notion that functionality must come at the expense of aesthetics. With Stressless Adam, we’ve managed to harmonize advanced comfort features with a refined, Scandinavian-inspired design language.”
The Red Dot jury echoed this sentiment, stating: “Although the Stressless Adam armchair clearly focuses on comfort, its Scandinavian-influenced design ensures a harmonious appearance.”
The recognition has had a personal and professional impact on the development team. “As a designer you always hope your work connects with people, but to have it recognized by Red Dot is something else. It’s a moment of pride, not just for me, but for everyone involved in the project. This recognition strengthens our position in the global furniture market and gives us the opportunity to continue delivering world-class Norwegian design,” adds Sousa.
108NEW PRODUCTS 108
Gallery Direct
Gallery Direct’s outdoor collection combines style, durability, and comfort – conveying the elegance of indoor living outside. Alongside their outdoor furniture ranges, they also offer elegant parasols, shade solutions, atmospheric fire pits, and decorative lighting, textiles and accessories – designed to seamlessly create complete and cohesive outdoor living spaces. Explore their latest ranges, competitive trade pricing, and the exceptional service delivered by their dedicated and knowledgeable sales team. www.gallerydirect.co.uk
Celebrity
The Canterbury Recliner Chair is available in three tailored to fit sizes, Grande, Standard and Petite. These recliners are available in up to 5 actions, with adjustable headrest and lumbar support options on Dual Motor and Cloud Zero Riser Recliners. Fabric models come with Mammoth Medical Grade Foam Seating Technology and all models are available in any Celebrity fabric or leather. The solid beech wood ‘grab’ handle is integrated into the chair frame for more durability. If preferred, the Canterbury can be manufactured without a knuckle. www.celebrity.furniturebrochure.com
Birlea
The Belmont Ottoman Bed. With its sleek upholstered finish, durable wooden frame, and sprung slatted base for enhanced comfort and mattress longevity, the Belmont is more than just a bed—it’s a statement piece. Designed with modern living in mind, the Belmont features a spacious ottoman storage solution discreetly integrated beneath the mattress. Ideal for keeping your bedroom clutter-free, this hidden compartment offers ample room for spare bedding, seasonal clothing, or everyday essentials—perfect for homes where space is at a premium. www.birlea.furniturebrochure.com
Cófra
An exclusive launch at INDX, the Ego table is a testimony to why European product deserves some serious attention from UK retailers. Simulating designs thought only to be possible with solid wood, the Ego table is crafted from oak veneer, providing all the benefits that come with it, including the finest timber selection and the craftsmanship of true furniture artisans.
www.cofrafurniture.com
GNG
Our new Vitality range by Komfi has been expertly designed to cater to every type of sleeper, from those who love ultra-firm support to those craving the plush, responsive comfort of a hybrid mattress. With five unique models, Ultra Firm, Excel Medium, Excel Firm, Hybrid, and Max, Vitality brings true variety to retailers’ in-store and online offerings. From smart temperature-regulating fabrics to high-density foam layers designed for durability and long-lasting support, every model is engineered to offer superior comfort and longevity. www.komfi.com
Shire Beds
At the heart of Shire Beds’ success is its unique approach to own branding. Rather than promoting their own label, Shire Beds focuses on empowering other brands to shine. This means offering fully bespoke product lines, personalised point-of-sale materials, and a collaborative approach to design and development. Every element—from the structure of a divan base to the stitching on a luxury mattress—can be customised. The result? Retailers gain exclusive products that align with their brand’s identity and meet the exact needs of their customers. www.shirebeds.furniturebrochure.com
FEATURES
AWARD-WINNING OUTDOOR FURNITURE
Pacific’s Outdoor Living Collection includes a range of Outdoor Furniture, manufactured from a variety of quality sustainable materials.
In addition, they offer exclusive Platinum Parasols, alongside Pergolas, Cosi Fire Pits and Lanterns. The breathable Aerocover range provides year-round protection for all your garden furniture and accessories.
Brand new for 2025, Pacific’s Abierto Pergola is a luxurious addition to any outdoor space. This electric pergola features a waterproof retractable roof where you can effortlessly switch between a closed roof for complete protection and an open top to let the sun shine through. You can choose between the electric weatherproof blinds or stylish louvre panels, or mix and match between them. The LED colour-changing lights are dimmable and can be controlled with the handy remote control, along with the roof and weatherproof blinds.
Create a modern aesthetic with the Nevada Fully Upholstered Outdoor Corner Set with Adjustable Table, designed to be left outside all year round and ideal for effortless al fresco dining. Upholstered in Putty-coloured acrylic fabric, known for its impressive UV resistance, capable of withstanding direct sunlight while maintaining its high-quality
appearance. The fabric is also resistant to mould, mildew, rubbing, and tearing, making it ideal for outdoor conditions as it is virtually maintenance-free.
For a natural look, the Salita Outdoor Dining set is the perfect choice. Available as a 6 seater or an 8 seater dining set, there is plenty of room for al fresco dining with family and friends. This beautiful set is constructed with natural teak wood, complemented by the light linen natural oatmeal cushions, upholstered in Olefin fabric. The Olefin fabric is a premium season-proof fabric, resistant to stains and fading, and is quick drying, making this set perfect for outdoor use.
The Glow Challenger Parasol is available in a range of colours and features wireless LED lighting offering a functional yet stylish addition to any outdoor space. This premium parasol can also be moved around 360 degrees in a smooth and easy action, guaranteeing shade wherever you desire all day long. The canopy fibres are solution dyed through to the core rather than just the outer layer, meaning that any possible fading from the sun will not be seen for twice as long compared to other parasols on the market.
You can view these fantastic ranges in person, along with the rest of the Outdoor Living ranges at Pacific’s Huddersfield based Showroom, along with their Home and Lighting Collections.
To find out more, visit the Pacific website or contact their sales team sales@pacific-lifestyle.co.uk if you are interested in becoming a supplier.
We are thrilled to have been awarded Best Outdoor Furniture and Garden Supplier in the Big Furniture Awards 2025. It’s an honour that reflects our passion for beautifully designed, thoughtfully cohesive, Outdoor Living Collections. - Nigel Lawrence, Sales Director.
FEATURES
INNOVATION AND EVOLUTION AT ULSTER CARPETS
The Northern Ireland-based manufacturer was again voted as the Best Carpet Supplier in the Big Furniture Awards for the second time in three years and is continuing to look ahead with confidence.
One of the reasons the company’s carpets remain so popular is Ulster’s constant evolution and innovation, as demonstrated by a recent expansion and the impending additions to their already impressive line-up of colours and designs.
With colour trends finally moving away from grey, the focus of Ulster’s Residential Designers Clare Jenkinson and Calvin Pope has been adding warmer neutrals, earth tones and greens to Ulster’s palette.
This will be reflected in the forthcoming additions to the popular Grange Wilton and Open Spaces ranges as well as planned new launches in Ulster’s Axminster offering.
Calvin commented, “Greens and blues have become warmer, mint greens are being replaced with moss greens, and greyish blue are being replaced by soft blues. Rather than a fad, we see these colours as being here to stay!”
Clare added, “The beauty of these colours is that you can pair them with stronger reds, plums, greens and blues or use them to support traditional styles such as country house looks with chintz, plaids and stripes. For lighter, modern schemes, these colours can easily be based around natural textures and materials.”
When it comes to creating these beautiful carpets, Ulster are in full control of every step. This includes sourcing and processing the wool into yarn through to the weaving of the carpet.
A recently-completed multi-millionpound investment at Ulster’s County Armagh headquarters has taken this to a new level, with an impressive expansion of their High Speed Weaving Building to create the highest Axminster capacity in the company’s history.
Ulster Carpets design and manufacture custom-designed carpets and rugs for some of the world’s leading hotels, casinos and cruise ships, including this stunning space at Fairmont Hotel Macdonald in Canada.
With a diverse range of colours and styles, Ulster have an impressive selection of carpets.
Colour and design remain at the heart of success at Ulster Carpets. ”
During a challenging time for the carpet sector when other manufacturers were consolidating, Ulster Carpets were the exception to the rule by focusing on investment and expansion over the last 18 months.
Jeremy Wilson, Residential Sales Director, explained, “These investments are clear evidence of the confidence we have in our products. Our initial expansion proved so successful that we made the quick decision to double the size of our High Speed Weaving Building and coupled with our focus on improved IT systems, these are welcome improvements.”
In addition to working within the residential sector in the UK and Ireland, Ulster Carpets also works across the world in the hospitality industry, manufacturing customdesigned carpets and rugs for the world’s leading hotels, casinos and cruise ships.
This all points to continuing success for a family-owned company that has been in business for over 85 years.
Ulster Carpets have invested in a significant expansion of their High Speed Weaving Building to boost production levels.
New additions to Ulster’s Open Spaces Auckland and Queenstown ranges are set to be launched later this year.
Recent investment in new state-of-the-art looms has created the highest Axminster capacity in the Ulster’s history.
FEATURES
THE BIG QUESTION
Fairway Furniture
Using a range of finance options – be that interest free or longer term low-cost chargeable credit – is a key tool in helping increase both the breadth of customer appeal and average transaction value (ATV). The ability to ‘sell-up’, as well as make customers better appreciate the affordability of what they are considering, really drives ATV. Over the past 12 months, our ATV for orders on finance was 68% higher than for non-financed, a difference that is more pronounced than ever. While finance offers impact margin, at a time when big-ticket consumer spending is under pressure, they help convert prospects who otherwise I have no doubt we’d fail to gain as customers.
Home World – Mattress & Bed Centres
Currently we do not offer outside finance options, we haven’t needed to be honest. We find most customers have credit cards anyway. For those that don’t have a credit card we do offer a Layaway service, where they can pay weekly or monthly, then once the products are paid, we can arrange delivery.
Material Things
No, we don’t offer customers finance. We used to around seven years ago, however we weren’t doing enough to warrant the cost and the regulations around finance got tighter and tighter, so we decided to drop it as an option. We saw no drop off in turnover, and have been growing at a pace ever since. We also don’t have the hit on margin from the finance as it was mostly 0% that we offered.
M6 Beds
Offering finance is a really important part of our business. It makes our products much more accessible, allowing customers to spread the cost in a way that suits them. We offer a range of flexible, interest-free options both in-store and online. The key for us is that these are 0% finance options, which ensures customers aren’t paying more to shop with us — just spreading the cost in a manageable way. We’ve fully integrated these services into our website, and it’s been extremely well received. From a business point of view, it’s had a clear impact: we’ve seen higher conversion rates, increased order values, and stronger overall sales performance. But just as importantly, the process is quick and simple, which gives our customers a smooth and stress-free experience — something we really pride ourselves on.
Dreamland Bedding Centre
At one time, we did offer a formal finance solution, which we marketed as “interest-free credit.” However, as with many such schemes, the reality is that the associated costs were effectively embedded within the pricing structure of the goods themselves.
Ultimately, the third-party finance provider we partnered with encountered a series of operational and reputational challenges, prompting us to withdraw from the arrangement. Given the socioeconomic context of our region—where a significant proportion of households already contend with financial hardship— we made a conscious decision not to contribute to the broader debt culture.
Instead, we introduced a more responsible and transparent alternative: an in-house instalment option whereby customers can spread the cost of their purchase over time, with delivery scheduled once payment is complete. Payment is always taken in advance of delivery, ensuring customers are not burdened with repayment commitments after receiving their goods. While this model may not suit all, it has provided a manageable and debt-free route to ownership for many. Simultaneously, we have strategically refined our marketing efforts to target consumers with greater financial freedom—those who are unencumbered by credit obligations and who possess higher levels of disposable income. This dual approach allows us to serve our community ethically.
This month we’re asking retailers: Do you offer your customers finance options and how beneficial is this?
Yes, we do offer finance options, up to 3 years interest free credit through Buyline, who have been a fantastic company to work with. I was limited in which providers I could choose from, as many only accept businesses with a turnover of £2 million or more (I wish!). That said, I’m really pleased with how smooth the process has been with Buyline. If I’m honest, I expected more customers to take up the finance option, but so far uptake has been lower than I would have liked. I’ve recently added Klarna as another option, which I hope will appeal to a wider audience and help boost sales. With the cost of living and general uncertainty, I do believe flexible finance will become more important for customers and I want to make sure we can offer that support when needed.ol.
At Sofa Club we pride ourselves on offering flexible finance options that make high‑quality sofas accessible to all lifestyles. We offer 0% interest finance for 3, 6, or 12 months on eligible purchases over £600/£675 (minimum order varies by provider), with only a 10% deposit required. Longer terms available via V12 Finance at a representative 14.9% APR over 24, 36, or even 48 months for those needing lower monthly payments. We partner with DivideBuy too, offering instant eligibility checking with a soft credit search, interest‑free for terms up to 12 months and fixed 12.9% APR up to 36 months. This helps our customers spread costs and choose the term that suits finances. Our partners use personalised lending that’s more likely to approve younger buyers or those with limited credit history. We aim to make financing people’s dream sofas affordable, transparent and stress‑free, backed by FCA‑authorised partners.
Linthorpe Beds
We do offer finance options to our customers, and it has proven to be beneficial. We’ve found that it helps customers manage their cash flow, which in turn contributes to a higher average order value for us. However, we do have a minimum order value in place for purchases made using finance options, restricting it for smaller transactions.
Absolutely! We truly believe a great night’s sleep starts with a good bed, and everyone deserves one. That’s what motivates us every day; to help as many people as possible sleep better. Buying a mattress isn’t just a purchase. It’s an investment in your sleep, your health, and your overall wellbeing. That’s why we offer flexible finance options, because quality sleep shouldn’t depend on what’s in your bank account right now. Wherever our customers are on their journey, we want to make sure they have the support they need. It’s been great to see customers who might have walked away because of price now getting the sleep they deserve straight away. So many of them tell us they wish they’d done it sooner!
We do have finance options available to our customers, and it can be a great benefit to our team and customers alike. Beds and mattresses can be a significant purchase, ranging from hundreds to thousands of pounds. Most of our customers pay via credit / debit card giving them their own personal flexibility. By offering other finance options this allows the customers to spread out payments over time or give breathing space over crucial periods, making a higher quality product more accessible. Someone who needs a new bed or mattress due to a move, injury, or unexpected situation etc. can act right away, without having to wait until they’ve saved up by using one of our ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ and ‘low APR interest bearing’ options, or by using PayPal’s ‘PAY in 3’ via our online platforms. We use the Novuna platform which the team use with extreme ease and the customer experience is so easy giving an extra confidence to offer the finance options available, if the customer think’s that is the best option for them. Offering finance can often give us that extra edge when needed against some of our competition who do not offer this service, and it can be used as an ongoing tool for the sales team but more importantly an extra service for our valued customers whatever their budget.
Yes, and it is critical for a consumer to be able to justify a luxury mattress. Even statistics show you’re able to cater to more people and allow every consumer to get the bed that they need by offering these options.
118 FEATURES
A JOURNEY OF MODERNISATION
Kevin Robertson, Sales Director at Glasswells, shares more details behind its recent refurbishment project as the business looks to bring five years of updates to a grand finale.
At the end of June, Glasswells announced its most recent renovation, investing a significant £500,000 into the ground floor at its Bury St Edmunds store. The latest refurbishment project is final piece in its revamp puzzle that has seen the store completely transformed over the last few years.
It’s all about reinvesting to build on past growth and to modernise the space to create a first-class shopping environment. “Refurbishment work began with the design phase in 2023, with final plans receiving approval in 2024,” Kevin revealed. “This marked the start of detailed fixture drawings and preparation for implementation.
“Significant changes include a complete upgrade of the lighting system, including new electrical infrastructure to support modern lighting grid displays. All flooring across both the lower and upper ground floors is being replaced, transitioning from carpet to LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.
“The refurbishment also features contemporary fixturing designed to better showcase a variety of products, along with expanded areas for pictures and mirrors, as well as lighting displays.”
Glasswells is working with John Evans Interior Architecture & Design on the refit, which has been a smooth and collaborative partnership so far. “We partnered with John Evans to bring the project to life,” Kevin said. “They presented the initial design concept, which we then developed collaboratively to reach the final approved scheme.
“Over the past five years, we’ve been upgrading each department to create a more modern, inviting, and enjoyable shopping environment. We’ve just begun Phase 1 of the refurbishment, with the work planned across three carefully managed phases. This phased approach allows us to keep the departments open and trading while the transformation takes place.
“This final phase ensures that every corner of the store reflects the same standard of comfort, style, and convenience that our customers have come to expect. So far, everything is progressing well, and we’re aiming to complete all phases by autumn.”
Upon completion, Glasswells aims to enhance the shopping experience that truly “inspires our customers”, as Paul Glasswell, Managing Director, adds: “This refurbishment is part of our ongoing investment in enhancing the store’s ambience and delivering an exceptional customer journey. We’ve been a part of the town since 1946, and this is about building for the future — we’re here to stay.
“The refurbishment will also allow us to expand key categories—Gifts, Linens, and Cookshop—offering greater choice and fresh ideas. We want customers to feel
Over the past five years, we’ve been upgrading each department to create a more modern, inviting, and enjoyable shopping environment. ”
inspired, find more of what they love, and enjoy a more seamless, engaging visit every time they shop with us.”
In keeping with reinvesting back into the business, Glasswells has also recently invested in a makeover for its “very busy and popular” restaurant. This included enhanced lighting, refreshed décor, and all-new tables and chairs, creating a more inviting and comfortable space for its guests to enjoy.
The company has also benefited from the warmer weather too, with sales of garden furniture delivering a strong performance, helping to offset a challenging environment and ensuring the business maintains its market share. Following the final phase of its refurbishment journey, it is hoped that this will also boost business further.
“We’re continuously looking for ways to enhance our store and ensure the shopping experience remains fresh and relevant,” Kevin added.
“The Glasswell family has proudly reinvested in the business for over 80 years, always with an eye on the future and that commitment will continue for many years to come.”
www.glasswells.co.uk
In Pictures: Manchester Furniture Show
The Manchester Furniture Show (MFS) once again brought the UK furniture industry together at Manchester Central on 6–7 July for two vibrant days of buying, networking and inspiration. Here’s a look at some snaps from the show.
FROM UKRAINE TO THE UK
A family-owned Ukrainian furniture factory FURNITURE TOKABO LTD. with over three decades of experience is now looking to build new wholesale partnerships in the UK.
Based in Western Ukraine, the company specialises in the largescale production of high-quality solid wood furniture made from oak and beech.
With a strong production capacity and modern manufacturing technologies, the factory supplies major wholesalers and distributors across Europe. Now, the company is extending its reach to the UK, offering a reliable, volume-ready solution for buyers seeking sustainable, natural wood products.
The product portfolio includes living room furniture-such as TV stands, chests of drawers, coffee tables and display cabinets-as well as bedroom ranges (beds, wardrobes, nightstands), and a variety of solid wood tables and chairs. All pieces are made from responsibly sourced timber and treated with natural oils, creating a product that is both durable and environmentally conscious.
“We’re proud to work alongside some of Europe’s largest wholesalers, designing collections that reflect the latest interior trends,” a company spokesperson said. “We combine modern production with traditional values-quality, sustainability, and long-term partnership.”
The manufacturer’s facility features up-to-date European machinery and streamlined logistics, making it well-suited to meet the demands of high-volume wholesale orders while maintaining consistent lead times and product quality. The business does not focus on small-batch or bespoke work— instead, it is geared toward dependable, large-scale supply with full product consistency.
Private label development and collaborative collection planning are also part of the company’s offering. The team works closely with buyers to develop exclusive lines that match regional preferences and retail strategies.
With increased interest in solid wood furniture among UK consumers, the company sees strong potential in the British market-particularly among retailers seeking dependable long-term supply partners with the flexibility to scale.
The business invites new wholesale enquiries and is open to scheduling meetings with interested UK buyers.
We combine modern production with traditional values-quality, sustainability, and long-term partnership.
For more information or to begin a discussion, email k.flekevchuk@furnituretokabo.com / meblitokabo@gmail.com or visit the website. www.furnituretokabo.com
FUTURE OF FURNITURE: 3D MODELLING THAT SELLS THROUGH EXPERIENCE
“FURNY was born out of a personal frustration with how difficult it was to shop for furniture online and even in store,” says Saima. “The traditional e-commerce experience relies on static images, which often fail to give customers a true sense of scale, material, and fit within their space. In store has its own challenges where one can only imagine or visualise any furniture item back in their home/office, they physically see in the showroom. None of the buying options were fully satisfying the decision of shopping. We saw an opportunity to bridge that gap using augmented reality (AR).”
FURNY’s inspiration emerged from two key components. The first being the rise of AR in other industries like fashion and automotive, with the second stemming from a belief that furniture being deeply tied to personal space and style deserves the same immersive, decision-support tools. “We didn’t just want to sell furniture, we wanted to redefine how it’s experienced digitally,” Saima said. “That’s why we focused on building both a marketplace and a service layer: we help retailers bring their products to life in 3D and AR, while also enabling everyday shoppers to feel empowered in their choices.”
This AR-powered approached is geared towards a variety of users across the industry, including furniture designers and manufacturers that require 3D modelling, as well as retailers and wholesalers to help improve sales, reduce returns and increase conversion rates. “What they all have in common is a need to bridge the gap between digital browsing and physical buying,” Saima explains. “Our 3D models and AR assets provide that bridge showing products from every angle, in every variant, and even in the customer’s own space.
“We’re currently collaborating with a mix of independent retailers, mid-sized regional chains and furniture wholesale brands across the UK. While some of our early clients were boutique or specialised retailers, we’re increasingly being approached by larger players looking to modernise their product visuals and shopping experience.
“We’ve also begun building relationships with platform partners in the home decor and interior design space, with the aim of creating a more integrated 3D asset ecosystem. These collaborations help streamline the deployment of our models across multiple sales channels from websites and apps to virtual showrooms and trade events.”
Over the last 12 months, FURNY has invested in its 3D modelling infrastructure, including a custom production pipeline, automation tools, and a growing team of 3D artists and AR developers. The company has also enhanced its onboarding systems and client support, offering retailers a streamlined way to submit product details and receive market-ready 3D/ AR assets efficiently. “In addition, we’re also heavily investing in developing its “FURNY” mobile application that will be a revolutionary change in the furniture consumer market with the provision of AR feature, user friendly interface and high sensitivity,” Saima revealed.
“FURNY is the next step in transforming how furniture is purchased and experienced. It allows customers to place true-to-scale 3D furniture models directly into their homes using AR, helping them make more confident, informed buying decisions. We invested in this technology because the way people shop for furniture has fundamentally changed. Customers expect visual clarity, spatial understanding, and convenience before committing to a purchase.
Traditional product photography can’t offer that but AR can. FURNY also allows for customisation options like finishes, fabrics, or styles shown in real time in 3D, creating an interactive, personalised experience that elevates any digital storefront.
“Looking ahead, we see AR evolving into fully interactive commerce and moving into AI with customers not just placing items, but customising them, staging full rooms, and even checking material impact or delivery fit in real time. At FURNY, we’re building towards that future now.”
FURNY is the next step in transforming how furniture is purchased and experienced.
www.furny.uk
Saima Mobeen, Director at FURNY, shares an insight into the company, AR developments and its new app.
A FURNITURE SEARCH LEADER FEATURES
Furniture and furnishings search and discovery platform, ufurnish.com, has been busy building its brand towards becoming the household name in the UK that owns the ‘furniture search’ space.
“Continued scale and innovation is the main focus for us,” says Ray Wright, Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer at ufurnish.com. Playing a key part in this strategy has been partnerships, with the brands the platform showcases as well as powerhouses like ITV.
It’s with the latter ufurnish.com has really accelerated of late – launching on TV screens across a number of ITV channels and programmes. “ufurnish.com commenced TV advertising in 2025 and will scale up across the year,” continues Ray. “We’re investing multiple millions of pounds over the next two years to drive our campaign.
“We’re on track to become a household name in the UK that owns furniture search. Similar to Rightmove for property search or Autotrader for car search, ufurnish.com has scaled up its advertising focus to reach consumers across the UK and bring them to our website. Our initial focus is growing in partnership with ITV where ufurnish. com’s TV ad has been played across ITV channels and programmes. We’re excited to develop this channel of growth.”
With more than 100 furniture retailers already utilising ufurnish.com’s powerful search platform, the brand has other areas of key focus too, with AI at the forefront. “We’ve invested heavily in AI powered image shopping technology which we have developed all the IP for in house,” reveals Deirdre McGettrick, Co-Founder and CEO.
“In 2024, we released image search capability for consumers on the ufurnish.com website and in 2025 this has been scaled to partnerships with mainstream UK
publishers with home and garden content such as The Independent, Reach PLC and News UK. Publisher partnership will contextually place products from ufurnish.com retail partners in front of UK consumers across the internet driving millions of shopping journeys every month.”
This also allows for ufurnish.com to monitor changing behaviours in consumer shopping, proving insights on emerging trends, popular products in the moment and data to better serve its community. Exploring some of these insights, Ray explained: “Home furnishing as entertainment for UK consumers is the big trend.
“As more and more people embrace online, we’re seeing people trying to visualise what their home could look like and products they can place. Browse times on ufurnish.com are up
Our AI platform is a clear market leading proposition in creating online home furnishing experiences and we want to expand this capability.
by 300% over the past 18 months with many consumers spending time in the evening researching products, suppliers and consuming content that will inspire and inform them.
“The big trend is leaning into home styles that are flowing out from online content creators and then being embraced by consumers more broadly. Many of these styles can be seen through the ufurnish.com Home Awards that highlights and celebrates the best of the best in UK home content creation - https://homeawards.ufurnish.com/ live/en/page/home.
“Moving from trends to challenges, the biggest one for us, and probably for most businesses, is gaining a clear understanding of the role that AI will play for businesses in the future. We’re embracing it, but proceeding with caution as we learn.”
ufurnish.com itself has been trending too. The brand has seen 200% growth in H1 2025 v H2 2024, with over 3.2million users on the platform already. The company is on track to hit 13million users by the end of 2025, driven by its advertising campaign that is set to supercharge its scale-up ambition.
“Continued scale and innovation is the main focus for us,” reminded Ray. “Our AI platform is a clear market leading proposition in creating online home furnishing experiences and we want to expand this capability. Expansion into international markets is on the horizon in the years to come to, so watch this space – and of course – our TV advert.”
www.ufurnish.com
Letter from Ireland
Darren Bastin, Sales Director Ireland & Northern Ireland at RetailSystem, talks about winning the right Way.
As retailers, we don’t just want someone’s business today, we want it next time, and the time after that. The real win isn’t the single sale; it’s the relationship that lasts.
And at the heart of that? It’s not some clever trick. It’s not margin games or flash promotions. It’s something much simpler: treating customers the way you’d want to be treated yourself.
It sounds obvious, but in my experience, on both sides of the counter, it’s the one thing that consistently separates great retailers from the rest. The ones who win, long term, are the ones who make it easy for customers to shop and of course, to buy, who follow through on their promises, who answer the phone when something needs attention. They’re the ones who go the extra step, not because it’s policy, but because it’s right.
It’s that same mindset we bring to RetailSystem. We’re not just here to get a system in the door and move on. We want to help retailers win again and again, not just with better data or cleaner stock handling, but by making sure the customer experience feels better from start to finish.
Because when the system is working, orders are correct, lead times are managed, and the delivery’s smooth. But more importantly, your team has the confidence to say, “Yes, we can sort that for you,” and then actually do it.
That builds trust. And trust brings people back.
I spent nearly 20 years running a furniture and bedding business. I made my share of mistakes, but what always worked was doing the basics well. No drama. No ego. Just doing what we said we’d do, and treating people fairly. It was never glamorous, but it worked.
RetailSystem helped me do that, quietly and consistently, behind the scenes. And now, being on this side of things, I see even more clearly how much value there is in getting the simple stuff right.
The real win isn’t the single sale; it’s the relationship that lasts. ”
So, whether you’re dealing with a tricky supplier delay, a weekend rush, or a high maintenance customer who wants the impossible, if you’ve got the right tools, and the right attitude, you’ll come through it.
Because in the end, people remember how you made them feel. That’s what brings them back. And in retail, there’s no better win than that.
If any of that resonates, or if you’re simply wondering whether your current system is helping or hindering, I’d be happy to have a no pressure chat.
I’m based in Sligo and work closely with retailers all over the island of Ireland, helping them get more from their systems and their teams. Whether you’re a single site operator or running multiple stores, the goal is the same: give your customers a better experience, every time. If you have any questions, feel free to drop me a line, I’d love to hear from you.
Furniture imports during May 2025 increased slightly on the same month last year while exports from the UK also rose.
According to the latest UK trade data, analysed by Big Furniture Group, total imports of furniture into Britain valued £728.5m in May 2025, up 1.2% from £719.4m against the same month the previous year.
Imports from the EU registered an increase of 2.8% to £323.6m from £314.5m. Imports from Italy were up 18% to £76.3m, while Polish imports fell 15% to £53.5m. Imports from Germany were up 16% to £53.4m. Notable rises came from Denmark, up 44% to £19.7m, and from Latvia, up 107% to £1m.
As for outside the EU, total imports were flat at a value of £404.9m. Chinese imports were down 0.7% to £287.3m, while Vietnam rose by 13% to £24.5m. Imports from USA declined 5% to £19.2m and Moroccan imports fell 12% to £10.2m.
Moving to exports, the total value of UK furniture leaving the country rose 4.3% to £209.3m from £200.5m yearon-year. In Europe, exports increased slightly by 0.3% to £98.5m from £98.1m. Exports to France increased 14% to £31.8m, while Irish exports were up 2% to £19.8m. Exports to Slovakia rose 555% to £3.5m, while to Spain, exports were up 54% to £3.2m.
Outside the EU saw exports increase 8.2% to £110.8m from £102.3m. Exports to China were up 206% to £5.3m, while Singapore rose 1283% to £9.4m. Exports to the UAE were up 29% to £9.8m, while the USA decreased 17% to £48.6m and exports to Switzerland rose 299% to £6.9m.
Get the free data
For the monthly data and all other annual changes across four main sectors of the market – including upholstery, mattresses, cabinet and carpets, download the full report of imports and exports by country and value at
Henrik Pontoppidan, Director of S2U Design, talks about the mezzanine floor graveyard for failed projects.
Spend enough time in Vietnamese furniture factories and you’ll notice something curious. In the corners of showrooms, on mezzanine floors, or stacked at the back of a warehouse, you’ll often find a group of samples gathering dust. They’re not rejects. In fact, some of them are excellent. But they all have one thing in common: they were developed for a customer who for one reason or another didn’t go ahead and ordered it.
Because the samples were made specifically for specific customers, most factories now consider it untouchable. Off limits. No one else is allowed to buy it – not even if it’s a super promising design and the original customers has disappeared.
Serious Vietnamese factories don’t take any risks of ending up in IP conflicts.
From Factory Mezzanines to Our Own Design Shelf
When I first launched S2U Design Vietnam, one of the ideas was to rescue the forgotten gems – those well-made samples gathering dust on factory mezzanines. The plan was simple: find the best of them, fix the flaws, and bring them to market. But it quickly proved unworkable. Most of these samples were tangled in uncertainty – no clear ownership, incomplete specs, and often outdated production setups. We shelved the idea.
Then, years later, the concept came back – but in a new form.
How we end up with great production ready designs, outperforming competing products
At S2U Design, our core business is delivering the blueprint to properly developed furniture – from idea to shipment – as a paid service as you can see on www. s2udesign.com. That’s the model. But occasionally a buyer approaches us hoping we’ll do development work for free. They see it as a simple factory intro and a small commission if things go well. We don’t work like that – and for good reason. That shortcut leads to inconsistent quality, unresolved design flaws, and no real control.
If a client isn’t prepared to invest a little in proper development – and own the outcome – we usually say no. But every now and then, a concept is too good to ignore. If we believe we can beat the competition on quality and price through better design, we quietly develop it ourselves. We hold the IP. We fine-tune every detail. Then we offer it back to the original client who has not been involved in the development. Most often, they don’t buy – perhaps indicating they didn’t have a strong intention or ability to buy in the first place.
What we’re left with, though, is a range of strong, clean, production-ready designs –
better made, better looking, full control over specs and quality - and usually at a better price. And now, they’re available. Ready to quote. Ready to order. Full development is done. Factory is keen.
These aren’t old samples from factory storerooms. These are clean, ready-torun products developed by S2U Design – and now we offer them to buyers who want something competitive and commercial with no direct competition.
Here’s one we prepared earlier
Take the white-painted bedroom range you see in the photos. We originally got the enquiry from a potential client who didn’t want to pay for development. But we saw a clear opportunity: The right timing, contemporary and popular style, and plenty of possibilities to design it better than the nearest run of the mill products in the market.
So, we designed and created it ourselves – carefully. Through own designs we did away with the frequently occurring quality issues found in most ready assembled fast selling budget furniture, such as:
• Drawers either sticky or too loose
• Drawers not quite lining up and gaps uneven.
• Finish inconsistent
• Back panes fitted with visible, wonky screws.
I know all of these from 15 years of importing and retailing furniture in the UK – hard to avoid, you live with them – small but annoying issues. And now I
Drawers running on bottom runners and closing against the front rails between drawers. This ensures that drawers close accurately and don’t stick, even with small tolerance.
design to prevent them and produce cleaner solutions – cheaper! While controlling the production on the ground only in factories who back the agenda for better products.
The result? A better product than what’s out there – at a price point that works for midmarket retailers.
One example is the images from a sample inspection. This bedroom range is for sale at FOB prices from $39.50 for the large 3 Drawer Bedside Table and $75 for the large 2 over 4 Chest of Drawers. The value of a 40ft FCL is 14-15,000 USD – and the quality does not appear like budget end.
Skip the hassle, get it to market
If you’ve ever developed a range from scratch, you know how long it takes. And how often you find yourself in the dilemma of launching timely or postpone launch to re-do and perfect samples.
But with our pre-developed ranges, you can bypass all that. You get a range that’s already been through the process, already costed, and already vetted for production. You don’t need to draw anything. Just place an order, and we’ll get it made.
Ready to talk? - Request the price list
If this sounds like the kind of range you’d like to put on your shop floor – or if you just want to see what else we’ve developed – we’d love to hear from you.
With this article you’ll find photos from our own sample inspection. This is what the product actually looks like – not a factory showroom mock-up. Want the full FOB price list? Just ask – we’ll send you the whole package: prices, specs, lead times, options.
FEATURES
Paul Wray, Managing Director of Modern Outlook Furniture, details how China is a leading global supplier of furniture.
CHINA IS A LEADING GLOBAL SUPPLIER OF FURNITURE
Contemporary & Modern Furniture
Chinese manufacturers produce a vast range of contemporary furniture, including sleek sofas, modular sectionals, and minimalist dining sets. These pieces often feature clean lines, neutral tones, and high-quality materials like engineered wood, metal, and premium upholstery fabrics. Many international brands showcased at Furniture China 2024 (Shanghai) highlighting China’s capability in modern design, and should be no exception to Furniture China 2025 in September showcasing Scandinavian-inspired coffee tables, mid-century modern armchairs, and modular shelving systems using materials such as MDF, plywood, stainless steel, tempered glass, and synthetic leather.
Traditional & Classic Furniture
China is renowned for its craftsmanship in traditional wooden furniture, including Anglo-Chinese export pieces like folding tables made from rosewood or padauk, historically supplied to the UK. These items often feature intricate carvings and durable hardwoods. These consisted of furniture Replica Qing dynasty cabinets, Ming-style rosewood dining tables, and carved console tables, using Solid teak, mahogany, rosewood, and lacquered finishes.
Office & Commercial Furniture
China supplies ergonomic office chairs, modular workstations, and conference tables tailored to UK corporate needs. The Furniture China expo highlights innovations in office furniture, including space-saving designs and smart furniture with integrated tech. Adjustable-height desks, executive leather chairs, and soundproof meeting pods, using materials such as Mesh fabric, memory foam, and powder-coated metal frames.
Outdoor & Garden Furniture
Chinese manufacturers produce weather-resistant outdoor furniture, such as aluminium garden sets, rattan loungers, rattan garden sets and folding picnic tables. These are popular in the UK due to their durability and cost-effectiveness. Powdercoated steel/Aluminium, UV-resistant rattan sofas, and teak benches are produced using PE rattan, rust-proof aluminum, and treated hardwood ideal for the UK market.
Custom & Bespoke Furniture
Many Chinese factories offer custom-made furniture,
allowing UK buyers to specify dimensions, materials, and finishes. This includes tailored upholstery, modular kitchens, built-in wardrobes, made-to-order sectionals, personalised headboards/beds, and bespoke outdoor furniture. Factories are able to supply CAD designs, sample approvals, and OEM/ ODM services which is making China a go to country to buy furniture for UK buyers.
Upholstered Furniture
China is a major supplier of sofas, recliners, and ottomans, with options ranging from budget-friendly polyfoam to luxury downfilled seating. The FMC China exhibition showcases high-end upholstery fabrics and innovative designs, with products ranging from Chesterfield sofas, reclining loveseats, and convertible sleeper sofas using Top-grain leather, linen blends, and high-resilience foam that meets UK regulations.
Children’s & Nursery Furniture
Safety-certified cribs, bunk beds, and study desks are exported to the UK, complying with EU/UKCA standards (post-Brexit certifications like UKCA are now required), using Non-toxic paints, rounded edges, and sustainable pine.
Sustainable & Secondhand Furniture
With growing demand for eco-friendly options, Chinese suppliers also contribute to the circular economy by refurbishing or producing furniture from recycled materials. Platforms like AptDeco facilitate the resale of pre-owned furniture, including Chinese-made pieces, from Upcycled wooden tables, vintage-inspired cabinets, and reclaimed timber shelves.
Key Considerations for UK Buyers
Certifications: Ensure compliance with UKCA marking (replacing CE for the UK market).
Logistics: Factor in shipping costs and lead times for bulk orders. Trends: Stay updated on designs showcased at trade fairs like Furniture China.
Modern Outlook Furniture stands ready to support businesses of all sizes in their procurement endeavours from China, offering comprehensive Quality Control services to ensure successful project outcomes. Should you wish to explore how we can assist you in avoiding potential challenges and setbacks, please do not hesitate to contact us.
A look at some recent news from the American furnishings market.
Mattresses recalled
Mattress brand Crayan has issued a product recall on its mattress sold via Amazon in the US market.
The recalled mattresses fail to meet open flame flammability requirements in violation of federal safety standard for mattresses, posing a deadly fire hazard.
The recall implicates around 100,000 units, which were sold exclusively online on Amazon.com from July 2022 through June 2024 for between $100 and $220.
The mattresses were manufactured in Japan and imported by Foshanshi Liyue Jiaju Youxian Gongsi, doing business as Crayan Inc., of China. No incidents or injuries have been reported to date.
A statement said: “This recall involves 10-inch and 12-inch Crayan Mattresses sold in Twin, Full, Queen and King sizes. The single-sided mattresses have a white knit quilted top with the brand name “Crayan” printed on the gray side panel. They were sold compressed in a box. The fiber content, size and “WG/P Foundation” are on a white label sewn onto the mattress cover.
“Consumers should stop using the recalled mattresses immediately and contact Crayan to receive a full refund. The firm is contacting all known purchasers directly.”
La-Z-Boy to acquire Galleries® stores in southeast region of US
Global upholstery manufacturer La-Z-Boy Incorporated has announced the signing of an asset purchase agreement to acquire a La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries® store network in the southeast region of the United States from Atlanta Furniture Galleries, LLC, owned by Tom and Amy DeGoey.
The DeGoey business is the second-largest independent operator within the entire La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries® store network, with 15 stores, four warehouses, and approximately $80 million in annual sales.
The acquisition will provide continuity for the highly successful southeast-based business. Once complete, the 15 stores will become part of La-Z-Boy Incorporated’s Retail reporting segment, will be immediately accretive to sales and profits, and will bring the total company-owned store count to 220, 60% of the entire La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries® store network. The transaction is expected to close in late October 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.
Melinda D. Whittington, Board Chair, President and Chief Executive Officer of La-Z-Boy Incorporated, said: “We are pleased to acquire this business in the rapidly growing and strategic southeast region. These stores are in core markets for us, including Atlanta, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Knoxville, and will pave the way for additional growth.
“We are grateful to Tom and Amy for their commitment to the company over the last two decades, developing one of the most successful independent La-Z-Boy licensee businesses. As strong stewards of our La-Z-Boy brand, they have made meaningful contributions, including innovative retail practices, an updated store network, and a strong group of employees.
“I would like to personally take the opportunity to thank Tom, who has led the business since 2004 and, along with Amy, was recognized in 2024 as our Retail Partner of the Year for the second time. We wish Tom, Amy, and their family all the best in their next phase of life.
“This significant acquisition is another example of creating our own momentum in an increasingly challenging macro environment and investing for our next 100 years despite current headwinds. This is another proof point of La-Z-Boy Incorporated continuing to deliver on its Century Vision objectives and growing Retail and direct to consumer.
“Our vertically integrated model is a key differentiator, and we have the opportunity to further leverage the combined margin associated with earning sales and profit on both Wholesale and Retail sales. We expect a smooth and seamless transition and look forward to continuing to inspire and delight our consumers.”
GUARDSMAN CELEBRATES A SECOND YEAR OF BEST WARRANTY/PRODUCT PROVIDER AWARD
In an industry where consistency, innovation, and exceptional service are critical, Guardsman is proud to have once again been awarded Best Warranty/Product Provider Award for the second consecutive year.
This achievement is not just a reflection of product excellence, it’s a clear testament to the dedication, passion, and resilience of every individual across the Guardsman business.
This award symbolises far more than quality alone. It represents the strength of collaboration between head office teams, nationwide field representatives, service delivery professionals, and restoration networks. Together, they uphold the highest standards to support retail partners and their customers, ensuring a seamless and trustworthy experience across every stage of the customer journey.
At Guardsman, teamwork is not just a core value, it’s a way of working. Whether it’s shaping new solutions alongside retail partners, resolving claims with care, or supporting customers in their homes, the team approaches every task with pride and commitment. To have retained this prestigious recognition for almost a decade demonstrates the integrity behind every decision and every service interaction.
A YEAR OF SIGNIFICANT CHANGE AND GROWTH
The past 12 months have brought exciting developments and considerable transformation for Guardsman. Despite the wider challenges in the industry, the business has not only remained resilient, it has also taken bold steps forward.
From relocating to a new, modern head office designed to encourage collaboration and innovation, to launching a strategic partnership with a new logistics provider that enhances warehousing capabilities and tracking performance, it has been a year of action. These changes were made with one goal in mind: to improve service, strengthen infrastructure, and future-proof the business.
KEY ENHANCEMENTS TO THE BUSINESS
As Guardsman continues to evolve, several strategic changes have been introduced to align with the evolving needs of retail partners and to ensure that product and service excellence remains at the heart of the company. These include:
• Expanded Coverage: Insurance plans have been enhanced to include a broader range of products. Coverage now extends to beds, including ottomans and tech-integrated designs, along with expanded protection for dining furniture such as table leaves and motion mechanisms. Carpet plans have also been improved to now include underlay.
• Sustainable Product Innovation: From more environmentally friendly packaging to OEKO-TEX certified mattress protectors, Guardsman is investing in greener, smarter solutions that benefit both retailers and customers.
• Smarter Logistics: Significantly improving the performance and tracking of orders and providing additional resource to ensure reliable and efficient delivery.
• Next-Level Training: The business has rolled out a fully compliant online training platform, aligned with regulatory standards. This platform can be tailored to suit retail partners’ teams and ensures consistency in knowledge and delivery.
• Flexible Relationship Management: Recognising that one size doesn’t fit all, Guardsman now offers a more tailored approach to partner engagement, whether face-to-face, virtually, or regionally, designed around the preferences of each partner.
Your continued support means the world to us. ”
A STRONGER, SHARPER LEADERSHIP TEAM
These developments are underpinned by a refreshed and strengthened leadership team, combining new perspectives with deep industry experience across insurance, compliance, operations, and marketing. Together, they are driving forward a clear, customerfocused strategy and ensuring Guardsman remains adaptable and agile in an evolving market.
• Russell Philpott, Managing Director – Brings over 20 years of experience in governance and regulatory environments, with a strong focus on customercentric service delivery.
• Andy Leech, Head of Strategic Partnerships (joining September) – With extensive insurer-side experience, Andy will focus on strategic relationships and driving the commercial proposition forward.
• Ryan White, Head of Sales for the UK & Ireland – Combining industry knowledge across both the furniture and insurance sectors, Ryan provides a well-rounded commercial lens to sales and partner development.
• Michelle Buckland, Head of Operations – With more than 30 years in the business, Michelle’s end-to-end operational knowledge ensures service delivery remains robust and effective.
• William Taylor, Head of Network Services – Oversees technical consistency and ensures the service network continues to evolve alongside trends and repair innovations.
Together, the leadership team is supported by over 60 dedicated head office staff, technicians, field teams, and franchised repair professionals who make up the heart of Guardsman’s success.
Looking Ahead
As the company continues to invest in its future, its commitment to excellence remains unwavering. Guardsman is poised to deliver even greater value to its retail partners, backed by strong leadership, smart innovation, and a genuine passion for service.
Russell Philpott concludes: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who voted for us. Your continued support means the world to us. Thank you for being part of our journey, we look forward to continuing to grow, innovate, and deliver for you in the years ahead.”
www.guardsman.co.uk
WHEN A FURNITURE BUSINESS FAILS
Nicole
Sharples, Director of Business
Helpline Group,
looks into what happens next when a furniture business fails and what options are available.
The UK furniture industry has always been fiercely competitive, but in recent years it has become increasingly fragile.
With rising overheads, ongoing supply chain disruptions, and pressure from creditors, many directors are facing an uncomfortable reality: their business may no longer be solvent.
In this article, the first of a three-part series, we will break down what really happens when a furniture company becomes insolvent, the responsibilities of its directors, and how you can act early to protect yourself, your staff, and your reputation.
What Does Insolvency Actually Mean?
In simple terms, a company is insolvent when it can no longer pay its debts as they fall due, or its liabilities exceed its assets.
For many furniture businesses, this moment arrives slowly. Cashflow tightens, suppliers shorten terms, HMRC may send letters, and suddenly directors find themselves juggling unpaid bills.
The important thing to understand is that once insolvency is suspected, directors have a legal duty to act in the best interest of creditors.
This changes everything, and inaction at this point can lead to serious personal consequences.
What Happens Once You Realise the Company is Insolvent?
Here is the typical process:
1. Assessment You will usually start by speaking with an insolvency expert. They will help assess whether the business can be rescued (through an Administration, Company Voluntary Arrangement, a Time to Pay arrangement with HMRC, or refinancing) or whether liquidation is the right path.
2. Cease Trading or Proceed Cautiously Directors must be careful not to worsen the position for creditors. Continuing to take orders you know cannot be fulfilled or incurring more debt could be classed as wrongful trading.
3. Appointing a Liquidator If a Creditors Voluntary Liquidation (CVL) is the chosen route, a licensed insolvency practitioner is appointed to handle everything. They will communicate with creditors, sell off any assets, and ensure proper closure of the company.
4. Director Investigations The liquidator is legally required to submit a report on director conduct to the Insolvency Service. If you have acted responsibly, cooperated, and sought advice early, there is usually nothing to worry about.
Will You Be Held Personally Liable?
One of the biggest misconceptions among furniture business owners is that they will automatically be personally liable for the company’s debts.
In most cases, this isn’t true. If you haven’t signed personal guarantees, overdrawn a Director’s Loan Account (DLA), or engaged in wrongful or fraudulent trading, your liability typically remains limited to the company itself.
That said, if there are Bounce Back Loans, overdue taxes, or personal guarantees in play, it is vital to get advice. In many cases, an insolvency practitioner can negotiate with creditors or advise on steps to mitigate exposure.
What About Customer Refunds and Complaints?
In the furniture sector, customer deposits and delivery promises are a big concern when the company is under financial pressure.
If your business has taken pre-orders or deposits, it is likely those customers will become unsecured creditors in a liquidation scenario, meaning they may not receive their money or product.
Managing this with transparency is key.
It is possible to structure an orderly wind down that minimises reputational damage and a proposed Insolvency Practitioner can handle this communication and strategy in many cases.
What You Should Do Now If You’re Worried
If your furniture business is under pressure, perhaps sales are down, costs are up, or you are struggling to meet supplier and tax obligations, the best thing you can do is act early.
The earlier you take advice, the more options you will have.
Turnaround strategies, informal repayment plans, or even restructuring through administration may be on the table. Waiting until creditors are knocking on the door or court proceedings begin dramatically reduces those options.
In the furniture sector, customer deposits and delivery promises are a big concern when the company is under financial pressure. ”
Final Thoughts…
Bringing an end to a Company is never an easy decision. For many directors, it is emotional, stressful, and tied up with years of hard work. But knowing the process, understanding your responsibilities, and acting early can make all the difference and in many cases even rescue the Company as a going concern.
In the next article in this series, we will dive into the most common creditor issues in the furniture industry and how to manage escalating pressure from suppliers, banks, and HMRC.
About the Author
Nicole Sharples is a Director at Business Helpline Group. With over 10 years’ experience helping company directors across the UK navigate business challenges, Nicole leads with empathy, integrity, and straight-talking advice.
Your role will be to upholster sofas and chairs as part of a 4-person team system. Must have at least 2 years’ experience in an upholstery role.
Proven experience in upholstery, within sofa or furniture manufacturing
Strong attention to detail and ability to produce consistent, high-quality work
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Reliable & punctual
Lebus Benefits
• As an employee-owned trust, we try to offer our employees as many benefits as possible.
• 20% discount on sofas
• Employee-owned trust bonus paid annually; tax free after 1 year service
• Employee monthly prize draw, prizes up to £250, 10 winners per month (High Street Vouchers)
• Employee Assistance Programme – offering retailer discounts, bike to work scheme, appliance scheme and 24/7 counselling services
Onsite Canteen
Competitive pay and overtime opportunities
Supportive team environment
Opportunities for growth and skill development
On target earning – £34,000
If you are interested in this role, please send your CV by Friday 29th August 2025 to HR@lebus.co.uk
Sofa Factory – Agent for South West and South Wales
Sofa Factory, part of the Bentinck Group, has a great opportunity to join its team as a sales agent in the South West and South Wales. As one of the fastest growing upholstery companies in the UK, Sofa Factory supplies sofas, sofabeds and footstools and specialises in fabric upholstery sofas. For more information or to apply, please email your CV to orders@bentinckfurniture.co.uk & kevin.barfoot10@gmail.com.
Highgrove Beds – Area Sales Manager Northern Ireland
Highgrove is one of the UK’s fastest growing bed manufacturers and to help us continue our growth, we are looking to strengthen our sales team with the following appointment: Area Sales Manager – Northern Ireland. The candidate must be able to work on their own initiative and have a pro-active attitude and take ownership and responsibility for their work. In addition to providing excellent service to our existing customers, the successful applicant will be self-motivated and be responsible for identifying and developing new business opportunities as well as dealing with existing customers. More information here: https://www.bigfurnituregroup.com/highgrove-beds-area-sales-manager-northern-ireland/
Are you looking to expand your team? Advertise your job with us. For more information, contact Nick on nick@bigfurnituregroup.com
For more jobs and further information, visit www.bigfurnituregroup.com/jobs
Job 2: Experienced Frame Assembler
Are you an experienced Frame Assembler? We are looking for Frame Assembler to join our fastpaced manufacturing team at Lebus Upholstery on a permanent basis. As a Frame Assembler you are a key part of the Frame Department. And instrumental to the success of the department and following sections.
All Lebus sofa frames are handmade at our manufacturing site to ensure the highest standards, these frames will then pass through the factory until the product is a completed sofa or chair. As a Frame Assembler you will use several different materials, assembling them using various tools and glue to create a fixed frame structure. This then will move forward to the upholstery section where it is turned in to finished pieces of furniture.
A high attention to detail is essential as well as being comfortable using hand and air tools. In the role we will give you the training you need or the opportunity to transfer your already established skills and hone them on to a new product. Salary: OTE £32k per annum. If you are interested in this role, please send your CV to HR@lebus.co.uk
Deluxe Beds Ltd – Sales Agents Required
Deluxe Beds is a family-run business, manufacturing all their beds, mattresses, bases and headboards from their mill in the heart of the Yorkshire Pennines. Combining traditional craftsman skills with cutting edge technology, Deluxe Beds is now recognised as one of the leading bed manufacturers in the UK.
• UK – Midlands (East and West)
• UK – Scotland
Sales Agents required in the above areas to sell all Deluxe Beds’ sub-brands to retailers & other customers on these exclusive areas. Agent must live in the area (Midlands or Scotland) and must have experience selling mattresses to retailers in the UK as a Sales Agent or Representative/Area Sales Manager. Please send a message to me if you fit this criteria. This is a self-employed position with the recognised commission structure.
Email orders@deluxe-beds.co.uk
FROM ONE PEAK TO ANOTHER
Peak Converters opened up the factory doors where we got a chance to explore behind the scenes at the UK’s leading foam and fibre converter.
Nestled in the picturesque market town of Wirksworth, surrounded by the stunning Derbyshire Dales landscape, Peak Converters combines its tech-savvy approach to modern-day manufacturing while keeping its local charm, fostered from the community.
It’s this sense of community that has allowed Peak to thrive over the years, with staff retention and multi-skilling a big focus at the business. In fact, 70% of Peak’s workforce has served over five years or more, with over half living locally, while the company has an average of 12.5 years of service per employee – that’s some stat!
The scenery provides an idyllic setting – who wouldn’t want to work in such a location? But it’s much more than that, which was evident when walking through the 92,900sqft factory, seeing the smiles on every face as production was all systems go. It’s something that Mike Crowshaw, Managing Director, really encourages – a happy workplace leads to positive productivity.
“We are really proud of all of our team members and take pride in knowing that over half live locally to our beautiful corner of the Derbyshire Dales. Back in June this year, we marked our 5-year anniversary with a company wide celebration.
“The last five years have been transformative for our business as we have re-focussed, built our team, invested heavily in improving our productivity, and become a more sustainable business. To mark the occasion, we wanted to thank all of our employees, especially those that have been with us for five or more years.”
A special thanks also went out to its longest serving employees, who have amassed a total of 151 combined years of service. Hats off to Clem Upton - Senior Team Leader
(39 years’ service); John Davies - Sales Director (30 years’ service); Lorraine Kay - Supervisor (31 years’ service); Andy Prince - CAD Technician (26 years’ service); and Tracey Watson - Senior Team Leader (25 years’ service).
What this also highlights, is what Peak Converters as a company is like to work for. It’s a business that is committed to developing not only products and processes, but also the people. “We’re committed to continuing to invest in our workforce by implementing a multiskilling program to enhance employee development,” says Mike.
“Everything we do is driven by a desire to be better and is executed by our team who have a wealth of knowledge developed over many years. We are immensely proud of our ability to retain staff.”
From the initial block storage zone, right the way through to final checks and loading for delivery, what was clear, was a very clinical operation. Everyone knows their role and how important it is to the wider process, from quality checking the foam blocks as they arrive to cutting, gluing, assembling and more.
Starting at the beginning, you’re greeted by another picturesque landscape – this time not the multi-coloured fields of the Derbyshire Dales, but the colourful blocks of foam and that create its own peak. Eager to get up close, just one memory foam block, as an example,
comes in at 60 kilos per meter cube! These are then processed to a big-built-in floor scale to quality check the weight before being processed to the next stage of the factory. The blocks even have their own slide to enable this transition from storage to QC.
It was here a deeper understanding of the software systems involved across Peak’s entire operation were revealed. From the outset, traceability is paramount. “Using our unique software, we can track any foam used in future products,” says Mike. “Being able to trace foam back allows us to deal with any issues and we know exactly what was used and when.”
Due to the high quality of foam and fibres used, it’s actually extremely rare – if ever - a traceability issue is raised! The blocks are then moved on to the cutting area, where three large scale machines do all the heavy lifting – specifically programmed for a range of precise cuts. Mike revealed that compressed fibre has now overtaken foam – a shift the company has seen of late.
From cutting to identification – again using integrated technology, labels are used to identify which cuts go in what area, ready for the kitter and assembler teams to get to work. It’s a smooth, efficient clockwork process that is supported by a visual aid through Peak’s KPI monitoring software.
“Everything is monitored in real time via our KPI software screen in the centre of the factory,” Mike says. “Everyone can see progress made throughout the day, what targets are being achieved and what each area is doing. The data is live and can be drilled down into specific sections and orders for further detail.”
It’s a fascinating watch. The live data shows progress on Cutting, Assembly and Quality as well as a general homepage. As a snippet, this includes data on cutting runs per day, recuts, assembly figures with a target of over 7,000 per day, and in quality there was a neat statistic on total repurposed plastic bottles also displayed. At the time of the visit, it was just a ‘small’ figure of 668,000, and growing!
From plastic bottles to solar panels – 501 to be exact, Peak is committed to sustainability and has been working on other initiatives throughout the factory to improve its eco-credentials.
“Since last Autumn, savings in energy from our solar panels equate to 21 tonnes of Co2 emissions, the same as planting 1,278 trees,” revealed Mike. “We often put energy we source back to the grid too, which includes around 40% of solar energy since April. We have completed our electric car investment where every car is now electric with charging stations at the factory, while we are also looking at potentially introducing electric trucks to our fleet.
“We are continuing to go paperless throughout the factory and we only have a few zones left, which will be completed by the end of this year and we’re constantly upgrading and investing in our machinery to make it more energy efficient too.
“We recently embarked on a major machine refurbishment programme, which includes upgrades to advanced machine monitoring software. These improvements are aimed at increasing production efficiencies, reducing lead times, and delivering even greater value to customers. Plans for the next few years include further investment in machinery and IIoT technologies to increase capacity and reduce machine downtime.”
Furthermore, Mike revealed some other “exciting” investments in the pipeline as well as how its latest spring cushion product launch is progressing. This will be covered in next month’s feature. For now, as the visit came to close, it’s clear to see why Peak Converters is known for its outstanding customer service and innovative, high-quality foam and fibre products.
“Since we relaunched as Peak Converters five years ago, we have made huge strides forward across all areas of the business,” Mike added. “From utilising next generation raw materials, to improving operating efficiencies, reducing lead times and modernising our staff facilities, we are continuing our exciting transformation journey.”
LAST WORD
Adam Hankinson
PLANTING MONEY TREES
Adam Hankinson, Managing Director at Furniture Sales Solutions, details the easiest way to grow sales in furniture retail.
Sometimes the simplest ideas turn out to be the most powerful.
One habit we love, and it’s working wonders for others too, is giving every customer two business cards. One for them. One for someone they know who’d love what you do.
We call it planting seeds to grow money trees. And if you do it consistently, those seeds turn into real sales. Most people see at least one new customer walk in within six months. One delegate who tried it recently had two referrals come in within three weeks of our training.
That’s the kind of growth every salesperson and showroom manager wants. And the best bit? It costs nothing.
Why It Works So Well
There’s a bit of psychology behind this practice, and it’s all in your favour:
• People love to recommend a good experience. If your service was great, most customers are happy to pass on your details. You’ve just got to make it easy.
Make It Part of the Conversation
You don’t need a script. Just a relaxed moment at the end of the sale, when the customer’s happy and everything’s gone well. You might say:
“Here’s my card, and one for someone you know who might be looking too. We’d love to look after them like we’ve looked after you.”
You’ve planted the seed. No pressure. No awkward ask. But you’ve left the door open for a second sale, maybe even a third or fourth, without lifting another
• Friends trust friends. When someone walks in with your card and says, “My mate bought here and said to come see you,” that’s trust you can’t buy with advertising.
• It’s a tiny gesture with a big return. You’re not asking for a review, a favour or a phone number. You’re simply handing them something useful, and planting a quiet suggestion.
• It builds momentum. Do this every day and your referrals start working quietly in the background while you crack on with your next customer.
Real Results
This isn’t just theory. We’ve seen it in action.
One salesperson who never used to ask for referrals started giving out two cards with every sale. Three weeks in, two brand-new customers walked in holding her card. One bought a full suite.
That’s thousands of pounds in extra sales, just from a five-second habit.
Final Thought
In furniture retail, word of mouth is gold. But word of mouth doesn’t spread itself – you’ve got to give it a little nudge. So, start handing out those second cards. Do it with every customer. And let those money trees grow.
Because the truth is, when you make people feel good about buying from you – they want to help you succeed.
