From the 30th September to 3rd October 2018, the NEC will open its doors to the UK’s only furniture manufacturing show, the W Exhibition, and components show, Elements. This year, as well as an impressive exhibitor line-up that will see over 250 of the biggest names exhibiting at the two trade events, both shows will continue their pledge to help champion the industry’s future by introducing a brand new Education Zone.
Situated in hall 6, the Education Zone has been designed to support and advise visitors on the latest legislation, health and safety, productivity, careers, education and apprenticeships within the furniture industry.
Experts from the Furniture and Interiors Education, Skills and Training Alliance (FIESTA), the British Furniture Manufacturers (BFM), the British Woodworking Federation (BWF), National Association of Shopfitters (NAS) and Didac Training College will be on hand to help visitors navigate their way around key issues and important changes within the industry and take part in one-to-one drop-in sessions and daily workshops that are open to all.
Iain McIlwee
BWF’s Iain Mcllwee says: “Exhibitions really are a physical manifestation of a trade association, a melting pot for ideas and networking and also, if we use them well, an opportunity to project the sector. For the BWF, the Education Zone is the ideal platform for us to promote the importance of health and safety and productivity in the workplace. The accident rate in this sector is high and we want to use the interactive area to help tackle this issue.
"We’ll also be on hand to help companies improve efficiencies. Every business is different and there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach when running a successful business but our team will be there to advise, help and shape ideas to help the industry grow.”
Jon Gibson
Jon Gibson, managing director at Didac adds: “The introduction of the Education Zone is the perfect opportunity for us to educate employers on the benefits of training and the funding available to students.
"We all know that finding the right person with the right skills is important but, where do you find them? We want to show the industry the many paths available to them and how a solution is often simpler than you think. If you’re looking for a new employee or you’re keen to progress in the manufacturing sector, come and talk to our team and find out more.”
Lisa Campagnola
Event director, Lisa Campagnola comments: “The Education Zone will give visitors an opportunity to invest in the industry’s future. We want to deliver a strong message at the show and offer our support to businesses and individuals – regardless of their age or background –that are looking to progress in the furniture sector.
"Thanks to the support of leading trade associations and training providers, we are in a great position to engage with the industry and help employers and trainees reach their full potential.”
The W Exhibition and Elements will be taking place from the 30 September to 3 October 2018 at the NEC, Birmingham. For more information please visit www.wexhibition.co.uk or follow @W_Exhibition and @Elements_Expo on Twitter and like ‘The W Exhibition’ on Facebook.
