This week, Guadalajara, Mexico, saw the opening of the 34th edition of the country's principal furniture sourcing platform, Expo Mueble Internacional Invierno.
Organised by AFAMJAL, the chief furniture association of Mexico's main furniture-producing region, Jalisco, the event has grown steadily over the years, with this edition covering an impressive 60,000 sqm.
An increasingly design-conscious event, Expo Mueble Internacional Invierno offers a diverse complement of furniture and accessories, ranging from the traditional dark cabinet offering one would expect to find in Latin America, to a surprisingly advanced upholstery selection. There's also plenty of mattresses, lighting, outdoor furniture and fabrics on show, across halls organised by the region of origin.
An employment boom in the sector means the Mexican industry is better equipped than ever to serve - and reach - key export markets. Foremost amongst these is the US - fresh developments in logistical supply, coupled with the shipping freight difficulties the US West Coast is currently experiencing, makes Mexico an attractive prospect for many. The manufacturers present are quick to affirm the high quality of their goods, and whilst significant exports to Europe seem a long way off, there's definitely enough wealth of cultural creativity here to catch the eye.
The event also hosted the latest World Furniture Congress, in which global experts came together to discuss topics such as Mexican design, sustainable furniture and world market perspectives.
Read a full report from the exhibition in an upcoming issue of Furniture News magazine.
