Stuart Wallace, director of Core Products, introduces the company’s new business, Highland Home Furniture …
What are the brand’s fundamentals?
Highland Home Furniture is our new business developed specifically to service retail-based furniture shops with ready-built cabinet furniture at value-for-money prices.
What exactly does the collection comprise?
We have researched what our retail customers want, and from this determined our product offer. Covering bedroom, living and dining, the ranges offer a selection of key pieces, rather than a confusing variety. Materials used include pine, hardwood, oak veneers and painted MDF finishes. By concentrating on bulk production of key lines we are able to ensure the best possible use of materials and pricing.
Where is it manufactured, and how might that affect its roll-out?
We have collaborated with suppliers of fittings, finishes and components that we have worked closely (and successfully) with for many years when producing our existing furniture ranges.
During the past two years we have taken the concept, analysed every single product, part and component needed and determined the best supply route – the ensuing result being a compendium of products built both overseas and, where more practical and economical, here in the UK.
The first ranges were launched at the January Furniture Show, when production commenced to meet anticipated initial demand.
Are those local manufacturing measures a reaction to Brexit?
The impact of Brexit has been somewhat disruptive to our short-term planning as currencies have been so volatile – but more significant has been the overall growth in enthusiasm in the UK we have noted over the past couple of years.
When was the brand conceived, and what were the thoughts behind its creation?
For several years now we have noted increasing inflationary and production costs across the Far East. During this period we have seen a period of stability here in the UK which has led to our decision to reopen our facility in Glenrothes.
We will be offering seven ranges initially. Whilst some will be fully produced in an overseas facility, many items will be built here in the UK.
How does the brand complement Core’s wider offer?
Whilst it could be argued that there is an element of self competition, we find the majority of retailers either sell flat-packed furniture or do not – having a dedicated offer which suits retailers who want a ready-to-go offer seems a logical way to further develop our furniture business.
How large is the team behind the brand?
The full resources of Core products are behind the new business, so the distribution and administrative systems are already proven, whilst the management and development team have many years’ experience in the furniture trade, so this new venture is in safe hands. This is all supported by our dedicated team of agents who maintain regular contact with customers in their areas.
