For many buyers, the Far Eastern exhibition circuit has become almost second nature. However, a few key changes to the 2014 show dates means that this well-trodden path might have to be revised …
For a number of reasons – different dates for the Singapore show, new events and changing sourcing demands – it may be worth taking another look at the destinations next March, before travel and accommodation commitments are made.
To this end, I’ve attempted to present the various stops along the buying route in March 2014, to the best of my abilities – I’ll attempt to update this article on the Furniture News website if I hear of any changes, and please do not follow it without checking the facts with the respective exhibition organisers.
Disclaimers aside, here goes. As usual, the circuit begins with Malaysia’s MIFF, which takes place from 4-8th March. After posting record sales in 2013, MIFF will incorporate the inaugural Southeast Asia Furniture & Interiors Import-Export Exhibition (SEAFIE) exhibition, previously scheduled to take place in September 2013.
There's also the nearby Export Furniture Exhibition (EFE), running from 5-8th March in a new location, the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center, which promises over 350 exhibitors from Malaysia and overseas.
Next up is Singapore, but not as we know it – Maison&Objet Asia debuts at the Marina Bay Sands from 10-13th March.
"For a number of reasons, it may be worth taking another look at the destinations next March, before travel and accommodation commitments are made"
Chronologically, the next event is UBM’s new IFEX, which will be held at Jakarta International Expo from 11-14th March. Incorporating IFEX Woodworking Machinery & Supply Expo, IFEX may be new, but it already boasts the support of a large number of the region’s suppliers.
The Vietnam International Furniture & Home Accessories Fair (VIFA) will take place between 11-14th at the Saigon Exhibition & Convention Center (SECC), while Thailand’s TIFF show will occupy Bangkok’s Impact venue from 12-14th – with additional public days from 15-16th.
Next is Singapore, traditionally many buyers’ stop right after Malaysia. The International Furniture Fair Singapore (IFFS) and 31st ASEAN Furniture Show has moved to 13-16th March, and will feature the co-located Hospitality 360° and The Décor Show, as well as the city-wide SingaPlural design event.
According to the Manila FAME website, 13-16th will also see Manila Now, Cebunext and Bijoux Cebu take place at the SMX Convention Center, Manila, The Philippines.
"You can find previews (and reports from previous editions) of many of these events on the Furniture News website, along with a handy diary of forthcoming fairs"
Jakarta’s IFEX, mentioned earlier, appears to have supplanted the established IFFINA exhibition, which, together with the Indonesia Woodshow, has moved to the following week, and a new venue – 14-17th at East Green Eco Park.
From here, it’s on to China. 3F (Dongguan), the 31st International Famous Furniture Fair (and woodworking machinery and material fair) will run from 16-20th in Houjie.
Starting in 2014, the two phases of China International Furniture Fair (CIFF Guangzhou) will be extended in duration, the first phase (CIFF Home Furniture, etc) taking place from 18th-22nd and the second (office and woodworking) from 28th March to 1st April.
Finally, SIFE (Shenzhen) will take place between 19th-22nd March.
As always, you can find previews (and reports from previous editions) of many of these events on the Furniture News website and magazine, along with a handy diary of forthcoming fairs.
I wish you all the best of luck in your sourcing endeavours!
- Paul Farley, Editor, Furniture News (UK)
