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Join the Conversation at Manchester Furniture Show

Panel Discussion: Shared Growth in Action

Across the industry, women are often closest to customer needs, product development and day-to-day consumer behaviour. Yet many remain underrepresented in the rooms where commercial decisions are ultimately made.

The result isn't simply a diversity challenge. It's a business challenge.

When important customer perspectives are absent from strategic conversations, brands risk missing opportunities, slowing innovation and creating products or experiences that don't fully reflect how people live today.

Shared growth happens when knowledge, access and opportunity become more visible and more accessible. Sometimes it's mentorship. Sometimes it's collaboration. Sometimes it's simply being introduced to the right person at the right moment.

The question for the industry is simple: how do we make those opportunities more consistent?

This session explores exactly that.

Want to be a part of changing and shaping the future of the industry? Register for your free badge to Manchester Furniture Show today,


Format:

The session begins with a networking brunch, giving attendees the opportunity to connect with peers from across the industry, before an engaging panel discussion followed by an interactive audience Q&A.

Date:
Monday 6 July

Time:
11:30am - 1pm

Location:
Manchester Furniture Show

Hosted By:
Women in Furniture Network

What to Expect:

  • Leadership insights from senior women across furniture and interiors
  • Discussion around career progression, influence and visibility
  • Perspectives on product development, sourcing and customer understanding
  • Practical ideas for individuals and businesses looking to build stronger, more inclusive organisations
  • Audience questions and networking opportunities following the session

MEET THE SPEAKERS

Previous Speakers

Our previous panel speakers represent a powerful cross-section of leaders shaping the future of the furniture and interiors industry. From design and manufacturing to retail, sustainability, and entrepreneurship, each speaker brought valuable insight, lived experience, and practical wisdom to the conversation.

Through honest discussion and shared stories, they explored leadership journeys, industry challenges, innovation, and the importance of supporting women at every stage of their careers. Together, these voices have inspired meaningful dialogue, fostered connection, and strengthened a growing network committed to collaboration, visibility, and positive change across the furniture sector.

Mentorship

Connect, Collaborate, Celebrate

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.
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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. 

Women In Furniture Network News

Hear From Our Members...

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