“As a designer, it is hardly surprising that the principal focus of my year will be on design, particularly investment in design by British manufacturers. The UK is home to some of the rising global stars of design and they are being engaged by enlightened international manufacturers. Those UK furnishing companies who are currently growing and exporting are all distinguished by their investment in design.

 

“The Furniture Makers will be seeking to create forums where design studios can meet prospective furniture manufacturers who want to engage them. We will also be looking to encourage more graduates to join our industry. We must do more to highlight our industry as a wise career choice, with varied opportunities for the entrepreneurial and inventive.”

 

Traders and local authorities must work together, says FSB

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) says half of independent retailers think their town centre is performing ‘poorly' and is backing calls for closer ties between small firms and local authorities, to boost spending on the high street.

 

The FSB is calling for local decision-makers to have closer relationships with small firms, to boost the economy of local high streets. Research by the FSB shows half (53%) of small firms in England think their town centre is currently performing 'poorly'. 70% believe better links between themselves and their local authorities would have a positive impact on their high street.