The third Monday of January, often dubbed Blue Monday is typically synonymous with low spirits and winter fatigue – but at the recent INDX Furniture show, held from 17-20th January at Cranmore Park, the mood was “anything but melancholic”, says organiser Associated Independent Stores (AIS).
“Instead, the furniture industry’s central sourcing destination transformed into a vibrant ‘sanctuary of calm’, offering a definitive antidote to the winter blues through innovation, warmth and curated design.
“The four-day buying event reaffirmed its status as a vital hub for independent retailers. This season, the show floor was awash with a renewed sense of positivity, characterised by an emphasis on feelgood interiors that prioritise comfort and wellbeing.”
A highlight of the show was the return of trend partner Scarlet Opus, which introduced the Knowmads macro theme.
“This trend moves away from clinical minimalism,” says AIS, “instead embracing warming colour palettes and rich, directional fabric textures. The interactive display area showcased how the industry is pivoting toward more nurturing environments – think earthy tones, soft comforts, and sustainable materials that ground a home.
“In terms of silhouette, the shift toward organic shapes was highly evident. Exhibitors moved away from harsh angles, opting instead for curves that mimic nature. From cocooning upholstery to fluid dining sets, the focus was on creating pieces that invite relaxation.”
The show balanced heritage with fresh perspectives. Established favourites like G Plan Cabinets, Abode, Primavera and Gallery Direct returned to strong demand, while debut exhibitors including Vale Bridgecraft (see overleaf), Kuka Home and Zoy Furniture added a new dimension to the order-writing environment.
“This mix of big-name reliability and design innovation is what continues to define the INDX experience,” says AIS.
“Beyond the products, the INDX Furniture show is celebrated for its intimacy. Unlike the sprawling, often impersonal nature of larger trade shows, INDX offers a business-focused but friendly atmosphere. Visitors noted that the smaller scale allowed for deeper conversations with suppliers and more deliberate decision-making – essential in a market where quality and partnership are paramount.
“As the industry looks ahead to the rest of 2026, the message from INDX Furniture is clear – the home is no longer just a place to live, it is a retreat. By blending nostalgic, timeless designs with modern sustainability, the INDX Furniture show hasn't just forecast trends, it has set the tone for a year of more mindful living.”
