An all-women team came together for the latest episode of the British Furniture Manufacturers (BFM) podcast, Industry Matters, available now online.
The theme of the discussion centred around the recent launch of the Women in Furniture Network (WIFN), set up by the organiser of the January Furniture Show, Clarion Retail.
Joining the podcast host - BFM’s marketing and communications manager, Jo Audley-Charles - were Zoë Bonser, Shona Carmichael and Franky Sequeira of Clarion Retail, as well as Natasha Shillingford, brand marketing director at La-Z-Boy International.
Zoë, the portfolio director for the Retail Division at Clarion Events, says: “For over 30 years, Clarion Retail has been dedicated to curating best-in-industry furniture shows that connect businesses worldwide, and during that time we have seen countless women push the boundaries and drive the industry in groundbreaking ways.
“We believe in the power of connection, collaboration, and celebration of women’s achievements and that’s why we founded the Women in Furniture Network, which offers a supportive space to enable females in our sector to grow and thrive professionally.
“Taking part in the podcast was a superb opportunity to get the message across and collectively discuss how the profile of women is growing in the furniture industry.”
Jo adds: “This podcast covered a broad range of issues and opportunities relating to women in the furniture industry. It is clear from the conversations we had that women are creating their own opportunities in what is traditionally a male-dominated sector, aided by initiatives including the Women In Furniture Network, which gives us a platform to connect, network, share perspectives and develop in our careers.”
Pictured: Franky Sequeira, Jo Audley-Charles and Zoë Bonser
