As the UK furniture industry gathers at the NEC each January, attention turns to where the market is heading – and, following a period of economic uncertainty and changing consumer behaviour, 2026 is shaping up as a year retailers want to approach with greater clarity and confidence, says supplier Furniture To Go.
Within that context, Actona’s presence at the upcoming January Furniture Show reflects wider shifts in the mid-market, it continues. Known for its accessible Scandinavian design, Actona’s latest collections aim to respond to evolving consumer tastes, with warmer finishes, softer silhouettes and more tactile material combinations, while maintaining "commercially realistic pricing".
Paul Sheldon of Furniture To Go says customers continue to prioritise value, but increasingly expect products to feel more considered: “Consumers still want good value but they’re also looking for furniture that feels thoughtful and well designed. Actona have judged that balance particularly well for 2026.”
He adds that one of the ongoing challenges for retailers is expanding choice without increasing operational risk. While online shoppers expect breadth of range and fast availability, many retailers remain cautious about holding stock.
Furniture To Go’s UK-based stockholding model is designed to address that challenge. The company currently holds around 1,800 commercial lines in UK stock, available for next-day delivery, enabling retailers to broaden their assortments, test new styles and respond quickly to changing trends without committing to inventory.
“It gives retailers flexibility,” Paul says. “They can offer more choice and react faster, without tying up cash or warehouse space.”
While digital tools continue to influence buying decisions, the NEC show remains an important opportunity for retailers to view collections in person. Seeing products first-hand allows buyers to assess finishes, proportions and overall quality, helping them determine how ranges will perform both online and in-store.
As confidence gradually returns to the market, the combination of Actona’s design direction and Furniture To Go’s operational infrastructure reflects how many retailers are planning to operate in 2026, says Paul – with greater flexibility, lower risk and a focus on sustainable growth.
Pictured: Thoughtful commercial lines from Actona, on display at the Birmingham NEC from 18th-21st January
