For businesses wishing to invest in the industry’s long-term prospects, there are few investments more valuable than applying for corporate membership of The Furniture Makers’ Company, writes the livery company/charity’s head of communications and corporate membership, George Cooper …
In an increasingly competitive and values-driven marketplace, companies in the furniture and furnishing industry must do more than simply produce quality products – they must also invest in the long-term health of the industry, build meaningful networks, and demonstrate a commitment to ethical practice.
That’s where corporate membership with The Furniture Makers’ Company, the City of London livery company and charity for the furnishing industry, becomes not just beneficial but essential.
Corporate membership offers much more than prestige. It provides companies with a unique platform to engage with the industry at a deeper level, support emerging talent, and influence the future direction of the sector. As the heart of the UK furnishing industry’s professional community, the company fosters connections across manufacturers, retailers, designers, suppliers, and education providers, creating an invaluable space for collaboration and shared learning.
Importantly, membership also connects companies to the rich heritage and civic life of the City of London through the livery tradition – a centuries-old framework that still plays a vital role in promoting excellence, philanthropy and fellowship across modern industries.
One of the most tangible benefits of membership is the access it provides to a wide-reaching network of industry peers. For senior leaders and executives, the ability to interact with other high-level decision-makers – in a non-commercial, trust-based environment – opens the door to partnerships, mentorships and insights that might otherwise take years to develop. This is particularly relevant in a sector that is heavily influenced by design trends, materials innovation and supply chain shifts.
Moreover, corporate members actively contribute to shaping the future workforce. Through our strong focus on education and training, member companies support initiatives like apprenticeships, student awards, an annual exhibition, and career guidance. This investment helps ensure a pipeline of skilled and enthusiastic talent enters the industry – something that benefits every player in the long term. At a time when skills shortages are widely felt, the value of this cannot be overstated.
Membership also offers a way for companies to give back, and to demonstrate corporate social responsibility in a meaningful way. Our charity provides financial and practical support to industry professionals facing hardship, from young apprentices to retired veterans. Being part of that mission shows a company’s values in action – to employees, clients, and the wider public.
In an industry built on craftsmanship, tradition and innovation, corporate membership is both a nod to the past and a step toward the future. It tells employees they are part of something bigger, tells customers that a company is serious about quality and ethics, and tells competitors that it’s committed to leadership.
For companies looking to strengthen their reputation, grow their network, support talent and help safeguard the future of the furniture and furnishing industry, there are few investments as rewarding as corporate membership of The Furniture Makers’ Company.
For more information about corporate membership, email [email protected].
