We recently welcomed back the Furniture Component Expo (FCE) to Telford for a second time.

Hosted by the British Furniture Association (BFA), and taking place across two days, the Expo launched in 2024 in direct response to a BFA members collective desire for an event to promote innovation and growth.

Following the success of this year’s event, we chatted to the team at BFA to know more.

What prompted you to set up the FCE?

As a trade association, we occupy a unique position, bridging the gap between furniture manufacturers and suppliers to the industry. Through extensive consultation and feedback gathered over the years, it became evident that a dedicated platform was essential to foster meaningful connections and drive industry growth.

Specifically, our members expressed a desire for:

• Enhanced Networking Opportunities: Beyond typical trade shows, they sought a space designed for targeted interaction between suppliers and manufacturers.
• Streamlined Collaboration: Facilitating direct dialogue to improve supply chain efficiency and product development.
• Industry-Specific Solutions: Addressing the unique challenges and opportunities within the furniture components sector.

The Expo is therefore more than just an event; it's a strategic initiative aligned with our mission to support and strengthen the furniture industry.

As a not-for-profit organisation, we're driven by our members' needs, and this expo represents a direct response to their call for a focused, collaborative environment.

What have been the easiest and hardest parts of organising FCE?

Organising the inaugural Furniture Component Expo in 2024 was a journey of both significant challenges and rewarding milestones.

The hardest part was starting from scratch. The 2024 Expo was truly a 'start-up' venture. We began with no established brand, name, or visual identity. Defining these foundational elements was a substantial undertaking, requiring extensive research and strategic decision-making.  Essentially, creating a brand-new event from nothing.

Convincing companies to commit to an unproven event required significant effort. We had to articulate the vision and potential value of the Expo, overcoming the inherent uncertainty associated with a first-time venture. This required a lot of relationship building and trust.

Reaching the specific B2B audience was another major hurdle. As a new event on the industry calendar, we couldn't rely on existing routines. This demanded a comprehensive, multi-channel marketing strategy to effectively communicate the Expo's unique value proposition.

Fortunately, our strong membership base recognised the Expo's potential and provided crucial early support. Their willingness to participate validated our vision and fuelled our efforts.

We were incredibly gratified by the broader industry's positive response. The willingness of companies beyond our membership to engage demonstrated the clear need for this type of event.

Once the foundational elements were in place; the brand, website, and marketing strategy, we saw the Expo take shape. Witnessing the event's progression from concept to reality was immensely rewarding.

What feedback have you received from exhibitors/attendees following this year’s FCE?

2025 Exhibitor feedback

“People loved your show because, unlike other shows FCE dives deep into the real, unfiltered side of the industry. While shows often glamorise or sugarcoat, we pull back the curtain and show the grit, the nuts and bolts, and yes—the dirty side that no one else talks about. It's raw, it's real, and it's what actually makes the industry tick. We don’t just give you drama—we give you the truth behind the trades, the hustle behind the highlight reels, and the everyday grind that builds the foundations of this business. That’s what sets FCE apart—and why people can’t stop talking about it.” 

“The FCE is the event to be at if you are involved in the design and manufacture of furniture in the UK.”

“We had a fantastic end to an inspiring and productive show, meeting many new faces and strengthening connections with leading suppliers in the furniture industry. The event provided incredible opportunities to engage in insightful discussions, explore industry trends, and showcase our latest collections to a highly receptive audience.”

2025 Visitor feedback

“It’s great to have all of our relevant suppliers in one place. It’s a great opportunity to catch up and find new suppliers. We found a new label supplier last year and this year were some interesting glue suppliers. It would just be great if it grows year on year.” 

“How useful it is to be able to see products in person when so much is only online now. As a result of meeting a sewing machine supplier I have now purchased a machine from them, which I wouldn't have done were it not for the show.” 

Looking to the future, what are your plans for the FCE?

The BFA Board has committed to support the Furniture Component Expo for at least five years and we are looking to expand into Hall 2 in 2026, and hopefully Hall 3 in the medium to long term.

What do you like most about Telford as an event space and a location?

Telford offers a compelling combination of accessibility and venue suitability that makes it an ideal location for the Furniture Component Expo.

Its central location and excellent transport links make it remarkably easy to reach for both exhibitors and visitors. The abundance of nearby hotels, ample parking, and diverse dining options ensures a comfortable and convenient experience for everyone attending.  The adjacent shopping centre provides added convenience and entertainment, contributing to a positive overall impression.

The centre is spacious enough to accommodate our current needs and future growth, yet it maintains a manageable scale that prevents attendees from feeling overwhelmed. Hall 1, in particular, offers a welcoming and efficient entrance, and the well-placed signage ensures clear navigation throughout the venue.   It is modern and well maintained, which creates a professional atmosphere for our event.

The flexible configuration of Halls 1, 2, and 3 provides us with the necessary scope to expand the Expo as it grows, ensuring we can meet the evolving needs of our exhibitors and visitors.

A special and significant aspect of our experience in Telford is the outstanding support we receive from the TIC staff. Their consistently helpful, courteous, and positive demeanour contributes significantly to the smooth running of the Expo. Their dedication and professionalism are invaluable.

The Furniture Component Expo will return to Telford International Centre 11^th-12^th March 2026. Find out more about next year’s event