Built around the theme of design, ASFI 2000 was an ‘overwhelming success,’ say the organisers. With 264 exhibitors offering supplies, raw materials, components, fittings and services for the furniture manufacturing industry, the show was an ideal opportunity for almost 15,000 visitors to see new products under one roof.
Ben Morby of Martin & Co, which showed a new range of handles and furniture light fittings said: ‘This show was the best we’ve ever had. Customers came in droves to our stand!’
Hill’s Panel Products was equally enthusiastic. ‘It’s been superb,’ said a spokesperson. ‘We’ve had a great response especially from interior designers and office furniture manufacturers – the leads were all high quality.’
Allan Lewis, chief executive of the Association of Suppliers to the Furniture Industry which sponsors the show, said: ‘We were delighted to have attracted such an exciting selection of products for all sectors of the furniture industry, including many new launches and new market entrants. This, in turn, attracted serious buyers and resulted in the huge success already reported.’
Top UK designers Jeff Banks, Mark Wilkinson and David Newell judged ASFI’s Design Competition. They unanimously chose Mike MacVean’s multi-functional work storage /shelving system – in which surfaces can be arranged horizontally, vertically and at 45O angles and slide back against the wall when not required. Runner-up was Jamie Ward, whose maple wall cabinet was inspired by Japanese hand-held fans (movement of the fan was replicated in the mechanism of the cabinet door). Both are students at Buckingham Chilterns University College and received prizes of £1,500 and £750 respectively.
