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Connect, Collaborate, Celebrate

For over 30 years, Clarion Retail has been dedicated to curating best-in-industry furniture shows that connect businesses worldwide. During that time, we have seen countless women push the boundaries and drive the industry in ground-breaking ways.    

Here, we believe in the power of connection, collaboration, and celebration of women's achievements. That’s why we’ve founded the Women in Furniture Network. Whatever position you hold within the furniture industry, our group offers a supportive space where you can grow and thrive professionally.    

Most importantly, we want to give you the platform and network to share your perspectives to learn and connect with other like-minded women in the industry. Therefore, we are excited to bring you specialised networking events to support professional growth in a male-dominated industry.

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Next Event: Celebrate Success, 21 January 2025, Birmingham

WIFN will be reuniting once again to learn, connect and be inspired on the 21 January 2025, 5:30pm-7.30pm at the January Furniture Show, NEC Birmingham. We will be joined by an expert panel of senior women who have been trailblazing change in the industry. They will be sharing their success stories as they share their career journeys along with offering actionable tips to overcome challenges and forge your own path to success. 

REGISTER HERE

JFS X WIFN

January Furniture Show

Location: NEC Birmingham

21 January 2025

17:30-19:30

Theme: Celebrating Success

Panel: Celebrate Success

Sarah Bianchi

Owner and Lead Buyer, Arighi Bianchi

Sarah Bianchi

 

Sarah is the fourth generation of the Bianchi family to run the 170-year-old furniture and interiors business and has worked for the family business for 25 years. After her ascension to CEO in April 2021, Sarah is leading a 5-year growth strategy and significant investment in the brand and shopper experience, with the aim of cementing the brand legacy in 2024 (the 170th anniversary year of Arighi Bianchi) and beyond.

Gisela Lancaster

Head of Buying, Sofology

Gisela Lancaster

 

With over 20 years in the home sector, Gisela is an experienced retail buyer who began her career at Makro and advanced to Buyer and Senior Buyer roles at N Brown Group, where she successfully quadrupled the furniture category and developed key product and sourcing strategies.

Currently, Gisela is focused on redefining Sofology’s design identity and enhancing customer experience, leading to a 120-point improvement in ratings post-COVID. Her global travels have helped her build strong supplier relationships, ensuring the brand delivers top-quality products. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring interiors, shopping, and traveling for fresh trends and inspiration.

 

Katy Hawes

Founder, Grace & Favour 

Katy Hawes

 

Katy Hawes is the director of Grace & Favour, a family-run business specialising in luxury sofas, chairs, furniture, and accessories. Launched earlier this year as a sister company to Vintage Sofa Co. Yorkshire, Grace & Favour focuses on combining comfort, design, and quality craftsmanship. With over 10 years of experience in the UK furniture industry, Katy, alongside her husband Peter, built Vintage Sofa Co. into an award-winning, multi-million-pound business. Known for her creativity, eye for detail, and love of glamour, Katy brings her expertise and passion for design to every piece at Grace & Favour.

 

Victoria Darnell

International Furniture Designer and Merchandiser, Hooker Furnishings 

Victoria Darnell

 

With a BA in Product Design from the London College of Fashion, Victoria moved from fashion to furniture and spent nine years at The Cotswold Company as a furniture buyer, specialising in product design, sourcing, and range building. Her passion for furniture design and product development drives her current consulting role with Hooker Furnishings, where she is set to launch an exciting new collection with the brand, debuting at JFS in Hall 1.

 

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Cheryl Busby, People Consultant & Performance Coach

MENTORSHIP PLATFORM

Our events are the perfect space to meet and connect but we know that sometimes you need support or advice outside of our events. So we have created the Mentorship Platform where you can connect with our group of Mentors all at the top of their field across the furniture industry.

The platform is your space to connect with Mentors ready and willing to share their expertise and insights no matter what stage you are at on your career journey. Our diverse collection of Mentors are here to inspire, advise and support our fast growing network.

Whether you are looking for long term mentoring or some advice on facing a challenge, our group of Mentors are here to help. 

Contact Franky now to find out more and access the Platform. 

FIND OUT MORE

WIFN Mentorship Platform

 

Hear From Our Members...

First Time Joining WIFN?

Here is what you can expect...

Our events are tailored to support women professionals in the furniture industry, providing an exceptional opportunity to establish connections, foster collaboration, and expand your professional network.

Meet Industry Leaders: With opportunities to listen to and meet key female leaders from across your industry. This is a great way to hear success stories and be inspired by accomplished women who have made a significant impact in the field of furniture. 

Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded professionals, forge valuable partnerships, and expand your professional network. Share experiences, exchange ideas, and collaborate with fellow women in the industry. 

Supportive Community: Join a community of like-minded women who share your passion for furniture and design. Build long-lasting relationships, find mentors, and contribute to a supportive network that can help navigate challenges and celebrate achievements together. 

Provide Your Input: Let us know what we can do for you. This event is the first of many, and we want to make sure you get the most out of the WIFN. 

 

 

WIFN Group Photo

  • At Clarion, we recognise the incredible talent and expertise that women bring to the industry, and we believe in providing an equal platform to network, collaborate, and excel. As a Portfolio Director, I understand that networking is crucial for professional development and recognise that women can face unique challenges and biases. We firmly believe that diversity and inclusion are essential for a thriving industry, and we are actively working towards creating more opportunities, promoting leadership roles, and celebrating the achievements of women in this field. I invite all women in the UK furniture sector to join our Women in Furniture Network and I look forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming event.
    Zoë Bonser
    Portfolio Director for Clarion Retail

Women In Furniture Network News

Principal Media Partner 

Furniture News

Network Partners 

                    Big Furniture Group WIFN

    interiors monthly            

       

  furishing report       

furniture makers co        

hooker furnishings

Hall 1 & VIP Lounge Partners

Claimlane

VIP Entrance Sponsor

world first

Show Party & Furniture Awards Sponsor

zopa bank

Champagne Bar Sponsor