The two phases of key Chinese exhibition CIFF Guangzhou drew to a close at the end of March, and set new records in terms of scale.
Due to demand, the organiser employed an adjacent building, the Poly World Trade Centre Expo, increasing the total space of the fair from 680,000 sqm to 750,000.
There were 3868 exhibiting companies, who greeted a reported 168,881 furnishing sector professionals – 9% more than in the previous edition in March. Foreign exhibitors also increased by 50%, occupying a total surface area of 90,000 sqm.
More than 45 thematic forums were held under this roof, in order to discuss the latest trends in intelligent furniture, customisation and the internet. The 37th edition of CIFF focused particularly on the concept of smart furniture, and the increasing demand for interaction between technology and furniture.
The opening ceremony saw Tom Conley, president and CEO of the US' High Point Market, officially announce a new strategic alliance with CIFF, creating synergy between two global giants in the furniture sector.
The next edition of CIFF will be held from 7-10th September in Shanghai Hongqiao, and will occupy more than 400,000 sqm of the brand new National Convention & Exhibition Center.
A large number of international exhibitors are set to enliven this edition, plus focus areas on the design sector and office furniture, clearer signage and greater accessibility.
