Directors, owners and senior leadership team members from a luxury bespoke cabinet making business, a prominent independent furniture retailer and the industry ombudsman were among a crop of seven new freemen admitted to The Furniture Makers’ Company, the City of London livery company and charity for the furnishing industry, yesterday.
The new members were admitted during a ceremony on Thursday 18th July at Furniture Makers’ Hall, London. The seven new freemen declared their support to the company before signing the declaration and being personally welcomed by Brian Ahern, master of The Furniture Makers’ Company.
Following the ceremony, the new freemen were invited to join other members and guests at the company’s Summer Mixer event.
The new members are: David Golding, commercial director, Halstock Cabinet Makers; Jake Goodison, founder and design director, Bespoke-3D; Scott Harper, senior lecturer, Buckinghamshire New University; Mascha Lapotchkina-Evanson, owner, Obi Bespoke; Emma Leeke, MD, Leekes Retail/Leekes; Carl Singleton, director, Sofeasy; and Judith Turner, deputy chief ombudsman, Furniture & Home Improvement Ombudsman.
Brian Ahern says: “We are delighted to welcome our seven new freemen to The Furniture Makers' Company. Each of these individuals brings a unique set of skills and experiences from diverse sectors within the furniture industry. Their dedication and passion reflect the values we uphold as a livery company. I look forward to seeing how their contributions will enrich our community and help us continue to support our charitable and livery objectives.
“Anyone working in the UK furniture and furnishing industry is eligible to join the Furniture Makers. If you are interested in joining a membership organisation where you’ll be making a difference, we’d be delighted to hear from you.”
Emma Leeke comments: “Having worked in the furniture industry for over 20 years, I am delighted to be admitted to The Furniture Makers' Company as a freeman, joining like-minded individuals who are passionate about our industry. The company serves such a valuable role in promoting the British furniture industry, providing valuable networking opportunities and raising valuable funds to offer its hugely important charitable support.”
