‘Expect different’ is what the organisers of FURNITEX connect are telling us prior to blast-off of this year’s July 9–12 launch event which will take place at Melbourne’s historic Royal Exhibition Building.
The difference will be displays of predominantly locally made product, in contrast to other furniture and furnishings shows which tend to feature mostly imported product. For this reason, this is an event worth visiting and therefore supporting.
Refocusing on local product is central to the rebranding which FURNITEX has recently undergone, along with the appointment of a new event manager – Expertise Events. Part of the new difference is also quality checks relating to exhibitors which are now in place.
The FURNITEX connect fair is run by the Australian Furniture Association (AFA) and while the aim is to bring the industry together for education and networking it is also about showcasing to the public the range of locally made product and materials that is now available. To this end there are both trade only and public days.
Small businesses have always played an important role in Australia’s furniture industry, however with a good deal of manufacturing now happening abroad, the spotlight on local manufacturers and bespoke makers has intensified. Bespoke or custom makers are represented within the AFA with a sub-committee headed by Michael Hayes, himself a third generation joiner and furniture maker. You can expect to see displays from bespoke makers at FURNITEX connect.
For the Industry
On Thursday and Friday, July 10–11, trade visitors have the opportunity to attend the Furnishing Futures Conference which is organised by Manufacturing Skills Australia (MSA). This two day conference is a must attend event for all stakeholders in the furnishing industry with a program that includes keynote talks, forums, presentations and networking opportunities to incubate collaboration and cooperation. More information is here.
In addition to displays of locally made furniture and furnishing visitors will also see the following:
Australian Contemporary Emerging (ACE) Design Awards
Entry for the ACE Design Awards exhibition was invited from students and emerging designers from all fields related to the furniture industry.
As well as the recognition of receiving awards, winners will be offered exhibition space at the AFA’s International Pavilions as part of an Australian Trade Mission to Tent London.
Modern Icons Gallery
The Modern Icons Gallery celebrates the achievements and success of one of Australia’s Masters of the Furniture Industry. In 2015 the contribution of Ian Howard, the inaugural recipient of the Australian Furniture Industry Master Award 2014 will be celebrated, along with key works from Aristoc Industries, featuring Tessa, Parker and Featherston interiors including a prototype Mark 2 talking chair.
Event Details
FURNITEX connect
Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton Gardens, Vic
9th – 12th July, 2015
TRADE ONLY: Thurs – Friday 9, 10 July, registration is essential, see this link.
EVERYONE: Sat – Sun 11–12 July
More information: www.furnitex.com.au.
For exhibitor, visitor and general enquiries, contact:
Expertise Events (02) 9452 7575, connect@expertiseevents.com.au
