With more exhibitors, visitors and positive feedback across the board, the second Furniture Component Expo (FCE) has galvanised its position as a key event in the calendar for the supply side of the industry.
The event returned to Telford International Centre after a successful inaugural event in 2024. Hosted by the British Furniture Association (BFA), FCE brings a specific focus to the supply side of the furniture industry.
The first of its kind event in the UK, the show was originally created to meet the needs of large and small makers of furniture including beds, mattresses, cabinet and upholstery – providing a one-stop showcase of component products from a wide range of leading suppliers, as well as offering opportunities for delegates to gain industry insights, collaborate with colleagues and network with partners.
Its initial success was reflected by the fact that Vita Group, BeA Group and Carpenter Limited all renewed sponsorship arrangements in the middle of 2024 for the 2025 event, with Prima Tooling joining the headline sponsors earlier this year.
Now, with plans already in the pipeline for FCE 2026, the BFA is poised to build on the success of the second expo, with plans to return to Telford in March next year.
BFA MD Phil Spademan said: “Once again, FCE was all about backing the British furniture industry and bringing together manufacturers and suppliers in a format which provided opportunities to review and purchase products from across the entire furniture supply chain.
“It’s proving to be a great formula and one we look forward to repeating in 2026.
“Comments from delegates and exhibitors have been extremely positive and we are delighted that, having recognised a need within the industry, we have provided an event that has been both useful and productive for manufacturers and suppliers.
“This year, we achieved an 80% rebook rate – a clear testament to the value and ROI the expo delivers. We also expanded the expo, with c50% of exhibitors attending for the first time this year, drawn by the event’s growing reputation and the tangible benefits it provides.”
Delegates heading to Telford were able to browse product ranges and talk to suppliers, as well as network and collaborate with colleagues, while the seminar agenda included talks on industry-critical topics including ESG, Intellectual Property, Technology and health guidance.
Unravelling EU Policy & Regulations – sustainable product design, product labelling and digital passports with Q&A, alongside the ‘Sit On This!’ podcast, hosted by Vicky Grubb and Ray Clarke, were also featured.
And as part of the FCE event, a special reception was held to announce the winners of another important event in the industry’s calendar, the BFA’s Future of Furniture Awards.
The awards – now in their third year – recognise projects and businesses that focus on sustainability and education, shining a spotlight on some of the excellent work around training and sustainability that is happening in the sector.
Judges for the Future of Furniture Awards included Amanda Moore, Managing Director of Achieve & Partners and Tom Malkin, a sustainability expert at Planet Mark.
Phil Spademan added: “The FCE was made possible through the support of our headline sponsors Vita Group, BeA Group and Prima Tooling, along with registration sponsor Carpenter Limited.
“We are grateful to them and everyone involved in making the show, where furniture takes shape, a success.”
FCE 2026 will be held at Telford International Centre on 11th and 12th March 2026.
More information about exhibiting and sponsorship can be found at: fcexpo.co.uk
