The British Furniture Manufacturers trade body has announced a brand-new show for 2024, providing an exciting opportunity for furniture makers to connect with the components sector in a one-stop shop format.
The inaugural Furniture Component Expo will provide an opportunity for manufacturers of furniture– to review, network and purchase everything in the supply chain from leading suppliers, all under one roof.
Taking place at the Telford International Centre, the date for the business-to-business event has been set for the 24-25th April.
The Expo will feature a seminar theatre where topical industry insights will be discussed and exhibitors will launch new products, enhancing the experience for visitors.
An exciting new development is also being launched with ‘Club BFM,’ a new and exclusive members’ lounge for BFM members, introduced at the event.
Sean Holt, BFM MD said: “After researching the industry we found a gap in the market for a one-stop shop for furniture components.
“Suppliers to the furniture industry are potentially missing out on opportunities to expand their business, and manufacturers are looking for routes to discover new and innovative ideas.
“To bridge this gap, we’ve been working with some leading industry suppliers to help shape the profile of the show.
“The format has led to them showing an early commitment to exhibiting.”
News of the Furniture Component Expo has been well-received by Nick Harland-Smith, MD of Handy. He said: “We are delighted to learn of the BFM’s initiative to launch a UK-based furniture components suppliers’ exhibition.
“The presence of such a show is long overdue. April 2024 cannot come quickly enough, and the Handy sales team look forward to welcoming visitors to our stand at this inaugural event.”
Stuart Elmy, Marketing and Business Development at Heico Fastners, is also supporting the event. He said: “We feel the Furniture Component Expo offers a unique opportunity for companies such as ours to reach a targeted audience of furniture manufacturers.”
The BFM events’ team is developing the Expo to ensure broad appeal, and offer an opportunity for wider discussion about the furniture industry and its future.
Paul Shepherd from BeA Group added: “We want to use the Furniture Component Expo 2024 as a platform to introduce automation.
“We need to start the automation conversation now before UK manufacturing comes under pressure from overseas and the Expo provides the ideal opportunity.”
