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Becoming increasingly diverse , furniture and interior brands from more than 18 countries are exhibiting , including from Australia , the USA , Italy , and Germany . There will be several International Pavilions , representing Vietnam , Portugal , and Poland , and more than 350 brands signed up so far to attend .
The Furniture Talks Stage will see a number of engaging topics across the four days , with a focus on sustainability , innovation , trends and insights . The schedule features masterclasses , panel discussions and interviews with renowned makers and designers , industry trailblazers and recognised thought-leaders . The line-up so far includes :
- John Hubbard , Technical Consultant for FIRA International , on leveraging the Furniture Industry Sustainability Programme ( FISP )
- Franky Rousell , Founder & Creative Director of Jolie Studio , on working with sensory design
- Panel discussion hosted by Made in Britain CEO , John Pearce , featuring founders of British brands including The Soho Lighting Company and Wrought Iron and Brass Bed Co .
The VIP programme has also been remodelled for 2023 , following consultation with key buyers , and will focus on those with spending budgets of £ 500k and above , in particular international buyers . The programme offers unrivalled networking opportunities with bespoke content and insight , fastrack registration , free parking near the NEC , as well as access to ‘ The Suite ’, a new VIP lounge where complimentary lunch , beverages , refreshments as well as invitation-only round tables will take place .
Following the success of last year ’ s showcase , the Young Furniture Makers will be back , bringing even more emerging designers and new talent in the industry . There will also be a focus on sustainability with live furniture making and demonstrations from renowned designers , with further details to be announced imminently .
James Howard , Show Manager , said : “ The 2023 show promises to be one of our biggest and best yet , with exciting new launches , fresh brands , industry insights and emerging trends .
Our talks programme will be tackling some of the most pressing issues in the furniture and interiors market , from sustainability to the impact of Brexit on import , export and storage , and the importance of skills sharing for future generations .
“ We are committed to offering our audience the most valuable takeaways possible , and it ’ s a unique opportunity to be able to provide small businesses with trend content and forecast information that would usually be unobtainable . The Better Trends Company provides digestible and aspirational reports , inspirational new installations , and expert sessions to deliver ‘ shop-able ’ trends on the show floor as well as informative digital content that is easily adapted to suit each business ’ s needs .