During the depths of the pandemic, when trade professionals were keen to reach out to one another, stay connected, and buy or sell stock, furniture importer Ben Womack launched the Trade Only Furniture Group across various social media platforms – and has since gone on to record regular podcasts in conversation with industry experts …
How’s the group going? Has it changed much?
The group is going really well, it’s now over 2200 members and growing. It is strictly trade only, and all members are vetted before they can access the group.
What commercial/business aims have you realised thanks to the group’s community?
Having a dedicated trade furniture group, where you can post/advertise for free to a targeted audience, has made a huge difference to my business (and, I’m sure, to many others in the trade).
Why did you create a podcast for the industry?
I like listening to podcasts and think they are informative. There wasn’t one for the furniture trade and I thought it was a good opportunity. It’s been a good way to network for myself, and a marketing ecosystem that I have exclusivity on.
What’s been the most challenging part of delivering the format?
Time. It’s not always easy to lock people down. There’s been a few technical issues, but generally it’s been good.
Can you list some of the guests you’ve already hosted?
Paul Wray, Gavin Boden, Lesley Edgar, Ian Bellis …
Would you say there’s a common theme to your discussions?
Yes, it’s focused on the furniture trade – I try get people on who can offer the listeners educational advice related to the furniture industry. It’s also interesting and inspiring to hear people’s stories from the trade.
Please share a couple of the biggest revelations you’ve shared on the podcast …
Too many to mention, it’s full of revelations!
… and what’s the most fun you’ve had during your discussions?
I enjoy doing them and listening to people’s journeys … not sure ‘fun’ is how I’d describe it.
Where next for the podcast, and for the group in general?
The group is self-managed by the members, who are constantly posting either stock they need, stock for sale, advice or services offered all trade related.
The podcast will keep going, getting more guests on. The great thing is the podcasts are all done online, a bit like a Zoom call – so, if anyone wants to be a guest, please get in touch!
Listen to the latest episode of Ben’s podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/..., and find the Trade Only Furniture Group on LinkedIn and Facebook.
