As 2019 begins, Devonshire unveils new ranges, and explains how it is putting the show on the road – Furniture News talks to one of the company’s directors, Nicolle Hockin, about what the manufacturer and importer has in store for 2019 …
With over 26 years in the industry, Devonshire is always on the look-out for new and upcoming furniture trends, as well as consulting with customers about what they want to see. In the autumn, the company launched two new ranges – a white cedar range named Coniston, and a variation of one of its bestselling oak ranges, Dorset, now in a painted finish. Both have been taken up well by the trade, with orders exceeding Devonshire’s predictions.
Devonshire recently launched two further ranges, which will be available early this year. The first, a take on the growing industrial wood-and-metal trend, is Hanover, an oiled oak range with live edges and dark metal legs. The second is Copenhagen, a nod to the fashionable Scandinavian style which is a clean light oak range with tapered legs and cut-out handles.
“The business is evolving, and have brought in a new marketing director to manage the demands,” says Nicolle. “The company has also just recruited two people to the sales team - one of whom has been with us for 10 years, working in transport and assembly.
“These trade sales representatives command a show van and show lorry, respectively. These vehicles are purpose-built and designed to bring samples and product direct to your store, to give you all the tools and personal service needed to make a decision on stocking any of our ranges.”
Nicolle goes on to announce that Devonshire has also partnered with a talented furniture designer, to work on a new range, which will be made in its 240,000 sqft factory in Devon.
“Manufacturing is where our heart is,” Nicolle says, with a smile. “[Painted pine collection] Lundy is still our top-selling range, and has been for many years now. Our customers know that with Lundy we are in total control of it – the quality, the packaging, lead times, any new designs to add in, everything.”
Last year, Devonshire began the switch to batch building, increasing efficiencies and reducing lead times, and passing the savings straight on to its customers – at a time when many other suppliers were raising their prices.
“We have so many opportunities as a UK manufacturer,” concludes Nicolle. “The possibilities for growth really are limitless.”
