Clarion Retail, the organiser of trade events including the January Furniture Show, Manchester Furniture Show, Home Interiors Show, Top Drawer and Home & Gift, has announced its next Women in Furniture Network event.

Following the successful launch of its first Women in Furniture Network (WIFN) networking event, which took place at the Furniture Makers’ Hall in London on 29th June, the second event has been scheduled for 25th October in Birmingham, although the official location is yet to be revealed.

The event, which will run from 3-6pm, will have a ‘Mentorship’ theme and will also include another guest speaker talking about the benefits and importance of having a mentor within the furnishing industry.

The first WIFN event was hosted by Amanda Waring, the 61st master of The Furniture Makers’ Company, and featured guest speakers Dids Macdonald, OBE, chief executive of ACID and Donna Bellingham, CEO of Shackletons.

The event was tailored to support women professionals from across the whole furniture industry, within a variety of roles from design, manufacturing, buying and more. Attendees were able to unite and meet industry leaders, forge new partnerships, discover a supportive community and grow their furniture network.

Zoë Bonser, Portfolio Director for the Retail division at Clarion Events, said: “I am thrilled with the successful launch of our first Women in Furniture Networking event. We wanted to foster a supportive and inclusive environment for women in the UK furniture sector to meet and network. 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.

“We understand that networking is crucial for professional development, but we also recognise that women sometimes face unique challenges and biases. By creating a dedicated space, free from judgment or bias, we look forward to empowering women to build their networks, expand their horizons, and take bold strides towards their career aspirations.

“Our commitment to supporting women in the furniture sector goes beyond this event. 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 next event in Birmingham soon.”

Visitors can register their interest to find out more here.