29 March 2024, 07:43
By Furniture News Dec 16, 2020

SATRA expands testing and consultancy services with new appointment

Phil Reynolds, formerly COO of the Furniture Industry Research Association and technical development manager for FIRA International, has joined product testing specialist SATRA to lead its furniture and floorcoverings division.

As divisional manager, Phil will drive SATRA’s strategy to be the UK’s preferred testing and technical partner for the furniture and floorcoverings industry. Phil has over 19 years’ experience in the furniture industry, during which time he has specialised in furniture testing, standards and regulation.

He is currently chair of the British Standards Institute committee for developing furniture standards (FW/0), as well as convenor of two European standards working groups for non-domestic furniture and common test methods for furniture (CEN TC207 WG5 and WG9). In addition, Phil sits as an expert on numerous British, European and international standards for furniture and childcare items, covering both structural and fire safety requirements.

“I am excited to be joining SATRA at this challenging time for the UK furnishings and floorings industry,” says Phil. “As we enter a new trading relationship with the world, and start to leave the Covid-19 pandemic behind us, it is essential that the industry has access to the most up-to-date knowledge and standards, as well as a comprehensive set of testing services.

"SATRA has unparalleled expertise in testing furniture, floorcoverings and associated consumer products and, indeed, has one of the most comprehensive range of test facilities available in the UK. This includes not just structural testing, but textiles, leather, flammability, emissions and chemical-testing expertise.

“I look forward to working with the excellent team at SATRA to provide a comprehensive set of technical services, and to support the furniture, furnishings and floorcovering industry in the way it needs.”

Phil’s previous roles have included technical development manager and general manager at FIRA International, and COO for the Furniture Industry Research Association. He is also a liveryman with the Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers and sits on its Manufacturing Guild Mark Committee and the East Anglian Regional Committee.

SATRA chief executive John Hooker comments: “We are delighted to appoint Phil to the senior management team at SATRA, which further strengthens our commitment to offer world-class services to the furniture and floorcoverings industry. We have ambitious plans for the division, investing in further testing capacity, expanding our training and consultancy services and enhancing our knowledge hub.”

To grow the division, Phil will be working alongside head of furniture and floorcoverings Geoff Bindley, senior team leader Johnny Worthington, and team leader Phil Weal.

© 2013 - 2024 Gearing Media Group Ltd. All Rights Reserved.