Tell us about yourself and your brand. How long have you been in business?

Hi I’m kacey Brreach, A business development executive here at Tokyo fabrics. At Tokyo Fabrics, we pride ourselves on being a leading provider with one of the largest stock holders in the UK. Our fabrics are treated in-house in the UK to ensure the highest standards of quality and durability. In addition, we have made significant investments in six mills in China, allowing us to maintain a consistent supply chain and competitive pricing. Our own transportation network within the UK further ensures timely and reliable delivery of our products. We are proud to be the preferred supplier for the majority of manufacturers in the UK, and our fabrics are prominently featured in many high street retailers. Our dedicated design and innovation team works tirelessly to stay ahead of industry trends, ensuring that our offerings are always current and appealing to the market.

The company was founded in the 1970s when our chairman, Tarsem Sandhu, launched a garment printing business, giving rise to the name Tokyo Fabrics. In the late 1990s, Mr. Sandhu's two sons joined the company Sukh and Jag Sandhu and shifted its focus to upholstery fabrics, paving the way for the thriving business we are today.

 

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give to your younger self?

I haven't been in the industry too long myself, just nine years but what I have experienced and learned by working closely with Jag and Sukh is that- Tokyo Fabrics has consistently focused on building strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and industry partners both before and during my time here. In this field, relationships are essential, as trust and quality truly make the difference. Tokyo Fabrics has also excelled at staying ahead of trends; with fabrics, colours, and technology constantly evolving, bringing fresh ideas to our clients has really set us apart. One more important thing: prioritise large stock management and compliance, not just in theory but in daily practice. Having ample stock on hand is essential in this industry, enabling you to respond quickly to client needs, especially for large projects or urgent orders. maintaining strict compliance with fire safety and other standards builds a reputation for reliability and quality. These habits become the foundation of a strong lasting business.

Could you share details about any new collections or ranges you’ll be showcasing at the January Furniture Show?

We're thrilled to announce that we’ll be launching six brand-new upholstery ranges, each featuring a variety of colour options, at this year’s JFS! We’ve expanded our stand to give you a better experience and a closer look at our collections along with a Fire Retardant Education Zone! We’re dedicating a section of our stand to highlight the importance of fire retardant (FR) treatment for upholstery fabrics. FR’s not just recommended but it’s a legal requirement to use on fabrics for upholstery!

 

Do you have any personal favourites in your latest collection?

One of my favorites has to be the Oslo range. I can’t reveal too much, but this fabric stands out with a unique texture and feel that’s unlike anything in our current collection. Plus, it comes in 20 on trend colour options, making it an exciting addition!

 

What are you most looking forward to at the show?

We’re most looking forward to connecting with new and existing partners at the show and showcasing the importance of fire retardant fabrics in the furnishings industry. It’s a crucial aspect that elevates both safety and quality, and we’re excited to discuss it with everyone!

 

Have there been any highlights for you over the past year that you’d like to mention?

Keeping stock readily available has been invaluable, especially with the recent challenges of container delays. It’s allowed us to meet client needs seamlessly, even during supply chain disruptions.

 

Where do you see the furniture industry heading? Are there any styles or trends making a comeback, or any designs you think are least likely to return?

We’re noticing that earthy and natural tones are beginning to replace traditional greys as the go to colours. These warmer shades are becoming increasingly popular for creating a more inviting space.

 

What’s next for your company?

Next for our company is a strong focus on maintaining exceptional service for our existing partners by ensuring consistent supply, competitive pricing, and high quality. We're also committed to investing in new innovations and processes to stay ahead of the industry curve, positioning us as a reliable and forward-thinking partner in the upholstery market.