Last night, in the dynamic setting of the January Furniture Show’s Social Studio at the NEC Birmingham (running from 21-22 January), the winners of The Furniture Awards 2025 were revealed. Presented in partnership by JFS and Furniture News, these prestigious awards honour the businesses driving progress and innovation in the furniture industry. Across five categories—Sustainability, Best of British, Superior Service, Design Innovation, and Global Player—the winners showcase the exceptional standards shaping the sector's future.

 

Best of British

Winner: Whitemeadow

Celebrating three decades in 2025, Whitemeadow exemplifies British craftsmanship at its finest. Operating across four sites in Nottinghamshire, this sofamaker continually raises the bar. Their ISO accreditation achieved last year underscores a steadfast commitment to quality and sustainability, ensuring great products are backed by robust systems.

Judges’ thoughts: “Three decades in, and Whitemeadow is still leading the way. Balancing the needs of multiple and independent retailers, they invest in training, design, and innovation—everything a Great British business should.”

Highly Commended: Celebrity Motion Furniture, Ashwood Designs

 

Global Player

Winner: Wiemann Germany’s

Wiemann secures its fifth Global Player win, a testament to its enduring impact. With a strong presence in the UK and Irish markets, this family-run business pairs high-quality furniture with exceptional customer service. By leveraging smart technological investments, Wiemann ensures competitive pricing while maintaining its loyal customer base.

Judges’ thoughts: “Wiemann’s commitment to the UK market is unwavering. They’re innovative yet grounded, and they never miss the mark when it comes to customer service.”

Highly Commended: Qualita

 

Sustainability

Winner: Gruppo Mastrotto

Gruppo Mastrotto, a leading Italian leather manufacturer, redefines sustainability in the industry. Aligning with global standards such as the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, their approach addresses environmental impact and ethical governance, demonstrating that responsibility and innovation can go hand in hand.

Judges’ thoughts: “Gruppo Mastrotto stands out by turning the leather industry’s challenges into opportunities. From animal welfare to sustainable resources, they’re leaders in every sense.”

Highly Commended: Shire Beds

 

Design Innovation

Winner: Skovby

Since 1933, Danish brand Skovby has pushed the boundaries of cabinetmaking. Their latest innovation, the #546 Dual Cabinet, epitomises their commitment to merging timeless Scandinavian design with modern functionality. Featuring a rotating interior, it balances aesthetics with practicality.

Judges’ thoughts: “Skovby’s Dual Cabinet is a standout piece, marrying motion and elegance. It’s rare to see this level of innovation in one design.”

Highly Commended: At The Helm

 

Superior Service

Winner: Welcome Furniture

From their Caernarfon base, Welcome Furniture delivers precision and reliability. Employing over 220 staff, their made-to-order model ensures a seamless 10-day lead time, complemented by dedicated in-house delivery teams. This approach minimises returns and maximises customer satisfaction.

Judges’ thoughts: “Welcome Furniture is a problem-solving pro. Their service model is everything retailers and consumers look for, executed to perfection.”

Highly Commended: Sci-Net

 

A Standard of Excellence

Paul Farley, editor-in-chief of Furniture News and chair of the judging panel, shared: “Recognising these winners is always a highlight. Their achievements set a high standard for the industry. A big thank you to our judges – Malcolm Walker, Emma Leeke, Darryl Simpson, Richard Naylor, and Becca Maloy – for their expertise, and congratulations to all the entrants who continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in furniture.”

 

With two more busy days of inspiration and innovation at the NEC Birmingham, the 2025 awards are just one highlight of what the January Furniture Show has to offer. Don’t miss your chance to experience it all—register now.