Long Point Spring preview

The Long Eaton Guild’s Long Point Exhibition takes place from 9 – 11 May and will showcase an array of designs covering a wide selection of upholstery, cabinets, bedroom furniture and accessories, as well as some new exhibitors joining the show.

Long Point is spread over six locations within the town, many located in old mills, where, in the early 1900’s more than 800 lace machines were housed, employing some 1,200 twist hands, card punches and lace mechanics before its decline in the 1920’s due to the change of fashion. Furniture making in the area commenced over 100 years ago, and, in 2014 Long Eaton was recognised as the UK Centre of Quality Upholstery Manufacturing with over 30 companies dedicated to the industry including frame, spring, cushion makers and component suppliers.

The exhibition continues to get stronger year-on-year and with 2023’s edition upon us, the organisers revealed that five new exhibitors have been confirmed for this year’s event. These include Contrast Upholstery, Couch & Co, Ercol, Kesterport and Violino. Alongside these include traditional exhibitors such as Artistic Upholstery, Iain James Furniture, Alexander & James, Ashley Manor, Carlton Furniture, Parker Knoll, Wiemann, David Gundry, Bree’s New World, Tamarisk, Warwick Fabrics, Duresta, G Plan, Richmond Interiors, Siren Furniture, Ashwood Designs, Gascoigne Designs, Steed Upholstery and Hunter Knight.

Commenting ahead of the show, Andrew J Mitchell, Chairman of the Long Eaton Guild and MD of guild member Artistic Upholstery, said: “Long Point continues to be the UK’s most enjoyable and relaxed furniture exhibition within the UK, and is the perfect event for retailers, manufacturers and suppliers to meet and discuss exciting and new collections.” www.longeatonguild.co.uk/longpoint

Preview:

Spring Furniture & Bed Show

Jim Orr, Minerva’s new Group Chief Executive, talks about the upcoming Spring Furniture & Bed Show as well as sharing an insight into his new role at Minerva.

The Spring Furniture & Bed Show, housed in two dedicated exhibition halls, has sold all available stands, so attendees can look forward to viewing products from an extensive range of major British and overseas suppliers.

The show will take place on 16th and 17th May 2023 at the NAEC in Stoneleigh, Warwickshire CV8 2LZ, and is open to all furniture buyers. The benefits of this venue are free parking, and its superb location for road, rail, and airport links.

In addition to free WIFI and a free show catalogue, the hosts, Minerva, are inviting all show visitors to enjoy a free lunch in the Strollers restaurant. The in-show coffee shops with seating also contribute to the relaxed environment.

Group Chief Executive, Jim Orr, is delighted to confirm: “Over 70 exhibitors will showcase their latest new season’s ranges, which is a terrific opportunity to see a comprehensive mix of Upholstery, Cabinet, Bedroom Cabinet, Beds, and Accessories under one roof. Don’t miss your chance to view fantastic products from great suppliers, register now!”

To register for your complimentary entrance pass, visit: www.springfurnitureshow.co.uk

Meet Jim Orr, Minerva’s new Group Chief Executive

Ahead of the Spring Furniture & Bed Show, we spoke with new Group Chief Executive, Jim Orr, who talked about ongoing show development and why he jumped at the chance to lead Minerva.

Can you share a bit about yourself and your background in the furniture industry?

I have thoroughly enjoyed working within the furniture industry for a number of years, with the highlights being successful terms with Dreams and Furniture Village in senior Buying positions. Its satisfying to see both businesses continuing to perform extremely well.

How have you settled into the new role?

I joined Minerva in January as Chief Executive, where I will be replacing Rot Beagent who has served with the business over 21 years. Through his tenure Minerva has become a significant Buying Group in the UK where Roy has supported the development of many major independent furniture retailers, as well as worked with several major UK and overseas suppliers. Roy is due to retire at the end of May and the transition has been seamless. I’m really enjoying it.

What attracted you to the role?

The main attraction of the role at Minerva is having the opportunity to take Minerva to the next stage of its development. There are lots of initiatives that I am planning to assist our Members, and Suppliers to support and improve our working relationships.

What can the industry expect to see moving forward through your aims and ambitions?

There are lots of exciting opportunities including stock projects, exclusive product ranges, product training, online development support, and sustainability support to highlight a few.

What is your view of the furnishing industry at present?

The furnishings industry requires a stable global Supply Chain following the disruption, and costs incurred as a result of Covid. As orderbooks return to previous levels this has allowed suppliers to offer lead times which customers demand. As Exhibitions also start to return to their regular calendar dates this is driving fantastic new product developments, and we are excited to see all our Suppliers and their new product ranges at our forthcoming Spring Show on 16th and 17th May at Stoneleigh, CV8 2LZ, where we welcome everyone from the furniture industry to visit.

Do you have a message for the trade?

The message I would share is that Minerva will continue to support its Members, and Suppliers and I look forward to a good working relationship with everyone in order to develop the business, and benefits of working with ourselves.

Outside work, how do you spend your free time?

I enjoy road cycling in my free time, as well as spending time with my family and travelling.

What is your favourite item of furniture you own and why?

I have an Eames Chair, which I bought a number of years ago. I love the design of the chair, and the moulded plywood and luxury leather materials. It’s a work of art!

Any final thoughts ahead of the Spring Show?

We are really excited to have sold all our Stands for the Spring Show, with a couple of Suppliers on the waiting list too! It will showcase some major UK and overseas suppliers with some fantastic new products. We are looking forward to offering a warm welcome to all furniture industry representatives.