FIRA’s much-awaited competitiveness report, last published in 2002, will be launched at an industry event on Thursday, 11 February, 2010 at RSA House in London.
The project draws on an in depth analysis of the furniture industry to formulate actions and strategies that will underpin the future success of individual organisations and “Furniture UK”.
There are few who would argue that UK furniture manufacturing has become increasingly challenging. Output value is declining, profit margins are being squeezed, imports account for almost half of the market and exports are minimal.
To add to the industry’s pressures 2009 figures are expected to confirm that production has continued to fall and it will be at least 12 months before consumer confidence returns and Government purse strings are loosened.
Despite these gloomy statistics FIRA contends that UK furniture manufacturing has a future and that it does matter. It contributes almost £9 billion per year to the country’s Gross Domestic Product and employs almost 100,000 people. In addition it supports many other businesses in the retail and contract sectors. Product quality and service have improved and, more than at any time over the last ten years, retailers and specifiers appear to be more disposed to buying British.
The launch is a unique opportunity for chief executives and senior managers from across the furniture supply chain to share in the report’s findings and to discuss these with their contemporaries with a view to generating ideas that will ensure the long term successes of their respective businesses.
It is anticipated that demand will be high and attendance will be by invitation only. To receive a priority invitation, and to ensure that you are at the meeting, please reserve the date in your diary and contact FIRA Customer Services on 01438 777700, or email info@fira.co.uk with your name, position, company and contact details.
