Long Point’s autumn edition was held last month, with the manufacturers of Long Eaton opening up their showrooms to the trade. Victoria Noakes paid a visit to the exhibition to discover what was on offer ...
Long Eaton has a rich, long-standing history of furniture manufacture, with its mills hosting the showrooms and factories of some of the most influential names in upholstery. Held twice a year – in spring and autumn – Long Point aims to present and promote the companies that make up the Long Eaton Guild of Furniture Manufacturers, as well as other important brands in the market.
The Long Eaton Guild manufacturers are based in eight permanent showrooms across Long Eaton, and are well known for hand-making high quality furniture not only for independent retailers, national multiples and interior designers in the UK, but around the world. As a consequence, Long Eaton is internationally recognised for its furniture manufacture.
I was lucky enough to see Duresta’s showroom and factory for the first time during my visit – the mix between contemporary, vibrant and colourful models and fabrics and more traditional pieces making for a memorable trip. The company’s focus was on highlighting its new fabrics, such as Plantation – initially made for John Lewis – which pays reference to British explorers. In addition, Puma with its geometric design and a bright Matthew Williamson fabric certainly made an impact.
John Sankey demonstrated its eclectic, characterful and bold appeal in its trademark manner, by cleverly mixing fabrics and making use of contrasting textures. The company used the exhibition as a platform to launch its Renshaw sofa – displayed in both a formal and informal setting – and enjoyed further success with its popular Partridge sofa.
Reborn at Interiors UK in January, Henderson Russell’s impressive refurbished showroom presented the company’s ability to create room concept displays for retailers. With a well-rounded collection of upholstery and accent chairs, including the well-received Latimer and Pimlico collections, the company now offers express delivery on a selection of its products, with just a four- to six-week lead time.
Alstons Upholstery launched new fabrics and models, including Cambridge – a timeless classic with a sofabed option and a choice of chenille, plain and striped fabrics. The company’s new entry-point Carnaby sofa is aimed at a younger market, with a keen price point and a colourful, fresh appeal. In addition, the sought-after Newport and Vermont models have been enhanced with new fabrics.
Long Point welcomed four newcomers to its showrooms this autumn. Cavendish Upholstery marked its first time exhibiting by launching four new sofa ranges and a host of new fabrics. Collins & Hayes announced that it will be taking up permanent showroom residency in Long Eaton, in addition to the showroom adjoined to its factory in St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex.
The 3d Partnership, the UK agent for high-quality contemporary Spanish upholstery manufacturer, Belta/Frajumar, launched some of the company’s latest designs – which combine function and innovation – at Long Point. Belta represents a higher-end collection, whilst Frajumar is more competitively priced.
Sister brand of Carlton Furniture, Vintage Sofa Company – launched at the recent Manchester Furniture Show – demanded attention with its range of striking product with a wide choice of leathers, fabrics and wools. From retro footstools to Chesterfield sofas, the brand provides a strong offering for retailers.
The quality and mastery demonstrated by Long Point’s exhibitors was once again at an impressive level, as visitors have come to expect. With the event continuing to grow steadily, Long Eaton undoubtedly remains a true hub for the UK’s upholstery market to shine.
