Following new retail data revealed by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) in recent press reports, it suggests that the sales of furniture and carpets are growing at the fastest rate for 17 years. This surge in sales could provide the latest evidence yet that the market is heading towards a brighter future.

Intrigued by this surge, Interiors UK has turned to its trusted exhibitors to gauge their market outlook and whether this data translates into the showroom.

James McConnell, MD at Furniture Link, says: “It’s encouraging to see positive articles such as this. Press negativity, regarding consumer markets, I believe has added to the detrimental influences upon customer confidence. However, there is still a mountain to climb, the heady heights of 2007/2008 sales figures are unlikely to return any time soon, we are now operating in a very different marketplace. Furniture Link has survived the test of time by investing in logistics and better infrastructure so that we can provide customers with a reliable experience, get their order right first time and therefore support customers with a reliable experience.”

Sammy Gorjian, director at Rama Carpets, says: “I think our top piece of advice to ride this up-curve is to constantly innovate. Whether you like it or not, consumers are constantly on the hunt for new products and for us Interiors UK has been a key outlet for us to get these new products in the hands of the right people in the industry. The growth of online business has benefited us as we offer the widest assortment of rug collections in the market. We plan to follow this through at Interiors UK this year where we will be unveiling a whole host of new designs and innovations.”

Suzie Ager, Event Director, comments: “Our exhibitors are often a steady barometer for the market. We are pleased that the tide could be turning towards better fortunes, we have worked tirelessly over the last few years to provide the best show for the industry and a platform for exhibitors to meet key independent and multiple retailers.”