The British Furniture Manufacturers (BFM) plans to launch a new exhibition in 2024, providing an opportunity for furnituremakers to connect with the components sector in a one-stop-shop format.
The inaugural Furniture Component Expo will provide an opportunity for manufacturers of furniture to review, network and purchase products in the supply chain from leading suppliers, all under one roof.
Taking place at Telford International Centre, the date for the B2B event has been set for 24-25th April.
The expo will also feature a seminar theatre where industry insights will be discussed and exhibitors will launch new products. Also being launched is Club BFM, an exclusive lounge for BFM members.
Sean Holt, BFM MD, says: “After researching the industry we found a gap in the market for a one-stop shop for furniture components. Suppliers to the furniture industry are potentially missing out on opportunities to expand their business, and manufacturers are looking for routes to discover new and innovative ideas. To bridge this gap, we’ve been working with some leading industry suppliers to help shape the profile of the show. The format has led to them showing an early commitment to exhibiting.”
News of the expo was well received by Nick Harland-Smith, MD of Handy, who says: “We are delighted to learn of the BFM’s initiative to launch a UK-based furniture components suppliers’ exhibition. The presence of such a show is long overdue. April 2024 cannot come quickly enough, and the Handy sales team look forward to welcoming visitors to our stand at this inaugural event.”
Stuart Elmy, marketing and business development at Heico Fastners, is also supporting the event. He says: “We feel the Furniture Component Expo offers a unique opportunity for companies such as ours to reach a targeted audience of furniture manufacturers.”
Paul Shepherd from BeA Group adds: “We want to use the Furniture Component Expo 2024 as a platform to introduce automation. We need to start the automation conversation now, before UK manufacturing comes under pressure from overseas, and the expo provides the ideal opportunity.”
