As the year draws to a close, December’s edition is packed with industry insight and reflection as well as looking ahead to 2025. Our Cover Star this month, Timber Art Design, details its services and product offer, while Gallery Direct and Indus Valley both unveil what’s new and Devonshire Living reveals its new logo fresh for the New Year.
In keeping with a new identity, we took the opportunity to head down to Sofa Connections in the West Midlands where they gave us a tour and an early look at its new rebrand. That will keep for next month, but the feature shares an insight into the factory as well as meeting office dog Mimi. We also caught up with Fairway Furniture as the retailer completed its recent refurbishment, while Spaceworks – the team behind the refit – shares their view on the project.
We also found ourselves at the Vogue Beds factory for a tour where we learnt more about its ongoing innovation journey. This month features its latest Climate Collection while next month will have a full debrief of the visit. Sticking with new products, GNG introduces its new GelMed range, Wiemann lifts the lid on what to expect at the next month’s January Furniture Show and we share previews of both upcoming shows in January, as JFS and INDX Furniture look to kick off 2025 with inspiration.
As for the regulars, COKU Home talks about their rapid growth, its commitment to sustainability and why the industry needs to shift away from ‘fast furniture’ in our latest Retail Focus feature. Matthew Randle, General Manager at independent bed retailer Dreamland Bedding Centre and sustainability guru, shares insight into his career so far, why retailers need to invest in their staff, his admiration for a fellow sustainability expert and the continued consumer shift towards natural products in our Big Interview.
With sustainability in mind, Simon Scholes, Director at Oakdene Hollins, talks about greenwashing and recycling claims, while Purman highlights the power of upcycling rigid PU foam. Our Green Retail spotlight shines on DFS and Siren talks about what recycling a sofa might look like. Meanwhile, WEBS Training shares its view on the future of furniture, Furniture And Choice returns with another trend insight and Loren Williams shares an insight into the company, recent investments and future plans.
Guardsman also features and talks partnerships, while Shankar details the team behind the business and new product development. Purecare continues the conversation on its rapid rise in the UK as it returns to its launch pad at the upcoming JFS, while Platinum labels ask the question: Is your swatch service driving results?
The edition also features more about CGI from Prodoto, the latest insight from the Letter from Vietnam and UK trade data. To wrap things up, Furniture Sales Solutions shares three top tips for a jolly Christmas sale. And on that note, the BFG team would like to thank every contributor and customer for their continued support during 2024 and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
That’s enough from me, so enjoy our latest magazine. Oh, and if you have any news you want to shout about or if you’re keen to get involved in our Retail Focus and Big Interview features, drop me an email on dan@bigfurnituregroup.com. We’d love to share your story.
