National trade body the British Furniture Manufacturers (BFM), has released its annual wages survey for 2022/23.

The survey analyses trends in pay for 2022 and outlines forecast pay awards for 2023. The document also identifies issues that impact on wages in the sector, as well as breaking down average pay for specific roles in furniture manufacturing.

BFM MD Sean Holt said: “BFM’s annual wages survey offers useful insights into wage trends over the past 12 months, alongside forecasts for the coming year.

“This year’s survey revealed that 69% of survey respondents have budgeted for pay awards in 2023, with more than half planning to offer more than 4%.

“The survey also highlights areas of concern, with the rising cost of raw materials and economic uncertainty identified as the two main factors most likely to impact on pay in the sector.”

In addition, the survey found that 77% of respondents were experiencing moderate to severe problems in acquiring skilled staff.

Sean added: “We recently launched our Future of Furniture campaign to raise the profile of the furniture industry and reach those who may not have thought about it as a career choice.

“We have interviewed a number of apprentices who have shared their experiences and what they have found most valuable in their career journey so far.  Many of them see themselves moving into different positions as their career develops.

“The industry has a variety of positions available for new entrants and experienced individuals and we hope that our campaign will highlight the opportunities available to all.”

Information about the Future of Furniture campaign can be found here https://www.bfm.org.uk/about/the-future-of-furniture