John Smith-Bodden, the organiser of the country's only national technology and materials event for the furniture and joinery market, holds a firm belief that the conditions are becoming more viable to look at improving the capability and capacity of furniture and joinery businesses through investment in new technology and supplies.
"Two things have come together to suggest that furniture and joinery manufacturers should be thinking about investing in new machinery," says John Smith-Bodden, "with the Government footing a good chunk of the cost, it is an opportunity that should be grabbed with both hands.
"The machinery installed is likely to be kept busy. Even the usually gloomy forecasters are seeing brighter times ahead. With a general recovery now finally under way the construction sector is bouncing back with growth of over 2% predicted for 2014, rising to 4.5% in 2015. Private housing starts, driven by the government’s Help to Buy Scheme, are set to rise 15% this year followed by an average 9%pa until 2017 – and very positive signals," adds John.
"In addition, the annual investment allowance has been increased from £25,000 to £250,000, that’s a ten- fold increase!, but only until December 2014. So that means a huge cost reduction for those manufacturers buying any sort of machinery. Companies should check with their accountant for specific details. At W14 next year, visitors will be able to see and experience running machinery from all sectors of the market. Meeting experts from the major brands at the show has been and is a great way to settle on the right investment for your company for over 30 years.
"Our exhibitors love to demonstrate and tell visitors about the latest technology available to companies of all sizes," says John. "Their own investment in meeting and talking to their customers, face to face, shows a confidence in their product and brands. Companies should use W14 to uprate their businesses for the upturn."
If readers require information regarding exhibiting at W14, contact Jenny Dunn or Katrina Johnson on 01629 530998 or see the exhibition website.
