Now in its second year since returning from a five-year hiatus, the Manchester Furniture Show (MFS) once again brought the UK furniture industry together at Manchester Central on 6-7th July for two days of buying, networking and inspiration.
Following its comeback in 2024, this year’s edition built on that momentum, delivering "a focused, energetic and commercially valuable sourcing opportunity" for furniture professionals from across the UK and Ireland, reports organiser Clarion Events.
More than 120 brands showcased upholstery, cabinet furniture, beds and accessories, offering a product edit that resonated with visiting buyers. With fresh launches and carefully presented collections, exhibitors captured attention from an impressive cross-section of retailers and industry specialists.
Retailers among those attending to reconnect with suppliers and discover stand-out new products included Casey’s Furniture, Sainsbury’s, DFS, Sterling Furniture Group, Cousins Furniture Store, Fairway Furniture, Glasswells, W J Aldiss, Stokers, Housing Units, Stocktons, Andersons of Inverurie, Glenkeen Furnishings, B&B Furniture, Connollys of Moy, Home World Beds, Hegartys and Hafren Furnishers.
“Last year’s show was good, but this year’s has been even better," stated BB Furniture's visiting buyer. "We’ve ordered from multiple suppliers, and because the show is compact, it’s easy to see everyone. Day one has been incredibly productive, and we’re expecting even more tomorrow. We’ve already placed a lot of orders and plan to spend more. These new orders will help secure strong repeat business, not just for us, but for the suppliers too. It’s great to see the show back – it’s been well worth it!”
This year's edition saw a significant uplift in buyer quality, reports Clarion, underlining MFS’ growing importance as a commercial hub. Notably: VIP buyer attendance rose by +86% YoY, indicating stronger senior-level engagement; the number of buyers with £500k-£1m budgets increased by +46%, while the £1m-£2m band rose by +26%; and buyers with annual budgets over £1m in attendance increased by +6%, and overall attendance from those with budgets over £500k rose by =17% compared to 2024.
"These figures reaffirm the show’s role as a key touchpoint for high-value decision-makers in the furniture sector," says Clarion.
Alongside the business focus, MFS created space for relaxed connection and community. The Spritz Bar, sponsored by Claimlane, and the VIP Lounge, became go-to spots for informal networking, while the Official Show Party on Sunday evening brought a lively end to day one, featuring Pimm’s, cocktails, strawberries and cream, a live DJ and a fast-paced table tennis tournament that brought out both the fun and competitive sides of the industry.
Monday morning saw the return of the Women in Furniture Network (WIFN) with a well-attended brunch and panel session, chaired by Zoë Bonser, portfolio director at Clarion Events. Panellists Kellie Wyles (DFS), Jan Duckworth (Cox & Cox) and Fara Butt (Shire Beds) discussed leadership, visibility and mentorship, sharing personal reflections on the progress of women in the industry and the importance of paving the way for future generations. Attendees stayed on long after the session ended to continue conversations and build new connections.
“The WIFN panel was a powerful reminder of how important it is to create space for honest conversations in our industry," says Zoë. "The stories shared were inspiring, and the energy in the room showed just how much appetite there is for progress, visibility and support.”
With two confident editions now delivered, the Manchester Furniture Show has firmly re-established itself as the UK’s essential mid-year trade event, says Clarion: "The next edition will return to Manchester Central on 5–6th July 2026, with interest already building among returning buyers and new exhibitors alike.
"Be part of the momentum – register your interest today and stay connected with everything to come."
