AIS members, retailers, general traders and industry suppliers turned out in force to support the recent INDX Furniture show, which took place at Cranmore Park exhibition venue in Solihull from 23rd-25th January.
Despite the ongoing challenges of holding a live event, the show presented a selection of market-leading suppliers including G Plan, himolla, Alstons, HTL, Corium, Ashwood, 3C Candy, Stella, Ideal, Julian Bowen, Artedi, Actona, TCH, Unique, Papaya, Hill & Hunter, Andrena, HND, Jual, Firmans and Sealy.
Formerly known as The AIS Furniture Show, this was the second edition of the popular industry show to take place under the INDX Home umbrella branding (the launch having taken place in September 2021), and the team responsible for organising the show were delighted with the industry’s response.
Emma Rackley, director of furniture and home at AIS, was quick to recognise the teamwork involved in making the show a success: “The AIS team were delighted to be able to host a live-format show, and once again, the show was well received by our industry colleagues. Visitor footfall was excellent, and we would very much like to thank all those who attended for their continued support – it was great to see so many familiar faces and to be welcoming so many newcomers.
“We couldn’t have delivered the show without the continued support of our suppliers, whose collaboration led to a very meaningful event in what continues to be a very challenging period. We look forward to seeing everyone again soon!”
Exhibitors were quick to herald the show a success, mentioning the positivity and enthusiasm of the attending retailers. Rauch Furniture’s Darrell Cooper says: “Rauch Furniture exhibited at the INDX Furniture show at very short notice, following the postponement of the January Furniture Show at the NEC. It was essential for us to reconnect with our customers and take the opportunity to have long-awaited, face-to-face meetings. In this respect the show was a great success, and we are delighted with our decision to attend. Both the visitor numbers and quality of customers were excellent, with a number of high-profile retailers in attendance. There was certainly an appetite to get back to normal and enjoy the live show experience.”
HTL and Corium’s Mark Flint comments: “It was a pleasure for HTL & Corium Italia to exhibit at the January 2022 INDX Furniture show. As usual, the show was very well organised, and very well attended. It was great to see so many customers, there was a real buzz around the showroom and an enthusiasm for new products.”
Julian Bowen’s Chris Atkinson adds: “We would like to thank the organisers for inviting Julian Bowen to showcase our products at the January INDX Furniture show. We would also like to thank AIS members and retailers who made us feel very welcome. The show was a great opportunity for Julian Bowen to present our extensive, value-for-money ranges, which were well received, helping us gain many new floor placements.”
Delivered by leading UK buying group Associated Independent Stores (AIS), INDX represents a group of trade shows which are curated by industry experts, comprising over 20 events per year across 12 home and fashion sectors. While INDX Furniture is due to return in early autumn, the team is now focused on co-ordinating the launch of INDX Beds & Bedroom, which will take place at Cranmore Park on 26-27th April 2022.
One of the latest category additions to the recently expanded INDX Home portfolio, INDX Beds & Bedroom will showcase beds, bedroom cabinets and sofabeds from some of the biggest names in the industry, providing visiting retailers with a professional forum to meet with existing suppliers and discover new opportunities. Registration is open now.
