82 OPINION FEEDBACK
THIS MONTH, WE’RE ASKING …
What do you want from a trade event? Our industry lacks the level of market analytics that other industries enjoy. Improving this would hugely benefit our partners and the consumer
Mainly to view new products and network, but being able to see speakers offer expert presentations would be a bonus Jerry Cheshire (bed and mattress expert)
Jonathan Burrage (Hydeline Furniture)
A good proportion of decision-makers attending Tim Hobbs (Prestige Furniture Logistics)
As an organiser of trade events for the furniture industry, it’s vital to provide great all-round content for visitors, enthusiastic exhibitors, new product development, topical seminars and an opportunity to network Phil Spademan (BFM)
Firstly newness, both in products ready for market and insights into future trends and technology … and a strong representation of brands across the sector to ensure the event delivers maximum return. The opportunity to meet people from manufacturers and relevant organisations, including those who may not be your usual point of contact, is key Martin Eastwood (Mattress Online)
To meet up with customers old and new and take some orders Brian Levitt (Brian Levitt Sales Agencies)
Good footfall of customers, both current and prospects, so we can show them our products in person – I believe getting to know them and their requirements, as well as allowing them to ‘touch and feel the products, is key to building successful relationships
As exhibitors, we want to see well-organised, well-advertised, valuefor-money events where exhibitors’ needs are taken into account as much as the visitors’ – this will encourage more people to exhibit, and therefore more visitors to visit. Surely it’s a bit chicken and egg?
Carole Nolan (Gallery Direct)
Nichola Hornby Bell (Alpha Designs Upholstery)
Value for money
ROI is key, and a commitment from the trade in general to attend and support British manufacturers. Without this, trade events are in danger
Ultimately ROI, but we don’t consider this to be solely focused on driving sales. We recognise the value in maximising these opportunities to network and build relationships, increase Siren’s profile and establish brand recognition amongst potential customers and industry peers
Nick Williams (Sweet Dreams)
Gavin Boden (Rhenus Home Delivery (UK))
It’s a great opportunity to show visitors a side of us they may not expect
Andrew Kerr (Siren Furniture)
Paul Little (Airsprung Group)
Sales, and lots of buyers
Creating good customer relationships and new business – whether that’s new displays with existing customers or opening new accounts, resulting in improved sales – and understanding what the rest of the industry is doing
Greg French (Westgarth Furniture)
It’s an opportunity to see and try new products and compare similar brands under one roof. We also often gain inspiration for our store displays James Dunne (Prestige Beds)
Sam Jackson (Bluebone Imports)
High level of visitors, good competition, lively social interactions and lots of sales Steve Warren (Sleepeezee)
Variety, newness and inspiration. We sometimes place orders at shows, but more often we order afterwards. But they are vital for seeing what’s new, and what the trends are Andy Stockwell (Gardiner Haskins)
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