The Furniture Makers’ Company looks to boost UK furniture exports with new award scheme

Furnishing industry charity, The Furniture Makers’ Company has revealed a new award that aims to increase exports of UK furnishing manufacturers.

The Export Award, which is open to any furnishings company that manufactures in Britain, has been introduced to help combat the current trade deficit of £3.3bn, according to figures from The Office for National Statistics.

“Recognise and champion companies”

Through the award, The Furniture Makers Company will acknowledge companies that already excel in export, and promote them as an example to other manufacturers.

Paul von der Heyde, chairman of the Manufacturing Guild Mark Committee, says: “The goal of the Export Award is to recognise and champion companies that are flying the flag for British manufacture in export markets.

Demand for UK design

“The UK has a great tradition of fine furniture, bedding and furnishing design and manufacturing and, while imitations are often manufactured overseas, there is an increasing demand for ‘the real thing’.”

Heyde is included among the panel of judges, alongside Ben Burbidge, master of the Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers; chief executive of the British Contracts Furniture Association, Jeremy Stein; chairman of the British Furniture Association, Jeremy Stein and Stephen McPartland MP, who is the chair of the All Party Parliamentary Furniture Industry Group.

When assessing applicants, judges will consider factors such as any development initiatives; growth; techniques; long term commitment and relevant accreditations.

To apply, applicants should fill out an entry form on The Furniture Makers’ Company website before 31 August. More information is available here.