INDIA INTERNATIONAL FURNITURE FAIR GAINS POSITIVE RESPONSE FROM TRADE AND INDUSTRY ORGANISATIONS

Unprecedented support from trade organisations and associations for India International Furniture Fair 2011

Since its launch, the inaugural India International Furniture Fair (IIFF) has gained enthusiastic response from the furniture industry. To be held in Mumbai from 16 to 18 November 2011 at the Bombay Convention and Exhibition Centre, IIFF is positioned as a premier international furniture trade fair which will feature over 70 per cent of international exhibitor participation. IIFF 2011 is organised by MP International Pte Ltd and International Furniture Fair Singapore Pte Ltd.

A special industry briefing on IIFF was recently held in conjunction with the International Furniture Fair Singapore 2011 at Singapore Expo. Participants were briefed with impressive growth statistics on India’s booming economy and burgeoning furniture industry.
Ms Sylvia Phua, chief executive officer of MP International Pte Ltd expressed her confidence in IIFF as a dedicated premier platform for international furniture brands to penetrate into India’s massive market.

Ms Phua said, “Following the successful partnership between MP International Pte Ltd and IFFS Pte Ltd for our Singapore event, we are combining our resources and expertise to organise our first show launch in India. Thanks to our strong track record and experience, we have been able to garner support from trade associations and organisations.”

Regional trade associations such as the Singapore Furniture Industries Council, Association of Furniture Manufacturers of India (AFMI) and Institute of Indian Interior Designers have affirmed their support for the trade fair.

Mr Anil Mathur, chairman of AFMI, welcomes the launch of IIFF and cites that there has been a lack of international platforms in India for leading international furniture brands to participate in and to showcase quality products to the local market.

Mr Mathur further explained, “The India International Furniture Fair will be beneficial, not only for India’s high-end furniture importers and retailers to network and source for exciting furniture brands, but also for our local architects, interior designers and real estate developers to be exposed to a diverse range of innovative furniture designs.”

According to the latest figures from World Furniture Review by CSIL Milano, India currently represents the world’s eighth largest furniture market and its real consumption of furniture will grow another 6 per cent in 2011.

India’s rapid urbanisation will spur strong demand for quality furniture in the coming years. Its urban population is likely to rise to 400 million by 2015, with Mumbai set to become the world’s biggest city with a population of 15.7 million, according to Euromonitor International.

According to McKinsey Global Institute’s research published last year, India’s fast-growing cities are estimated to drive a near four-fold increase in the country’s per capita income. There is also a rising prominence of the middle-class households with high purchasing power.

The organisers of IIFF foresee that the impressive growth prospects of India’s furniture industry will continue to attract more international furniture brands to seek new market opportunities though IIFF. India’s domestic demand is currently dominated by imports from Italy, Germany, Spain and Malaysia.

Attracted by the huge business potential India offers, the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) is the latest organisation to confirm its support for IIFF.

Mr Nguyen Van Dzung, director of VCCI said, “We are constantly looking out for opportunities to penetrate and grow in new markets. India’s expanding furniture industry, driven by its buoyant economy and increasing construction development, is a very attractive market to the world now.”

“We are confident of Vietnam’s capability to produce premium furniture and furnishings and participating at the India International Furniture Fair makes perfect business sense since the show focuses on mid- to high-end furniture.”

A wide range of exhibits, ranging from residential to commercial furniture, occasional furniture and furnishings will be on display at the IIFF. The 10,000 square metre showcase is expected to draw some 5,000 visitors from all over India, Sri Lanka and United Arab Emirates.

Besides extensive promotions in Indian subcontinent, attractive show highlights have also been planned. These include a new-to-market product showcase and industry seminars on design trends and new product innovations.

For more information on the event, please visit www.indiafurniturefair.com

MANCHESTER 2011 – THE FURNITURE BUSINESS SHOW!

The industry’s longest running trade exhibition, the Manchester Furniture Show continues to sell out every Summer. With space at the Show in demand an additional hall has been added in 2011. The Charter Hall is located directly alongside the main hall and will allow free flowing traffic between the two halls.

Many of the usual well known brands will be showing including all the Willis & Gambier group companies and all those from the Morris Furniture Group. Both these groups have committed to the Show for the next 3 years. They will be joined by well known exhibitors such as Buoyant, BM Furniture, TCH Furniture, Furnico, Corndell, Kettle Interiors, Seconique, TCS and Harrison Brothers.

Malcolm Nix, Sales and Marketing Director of Old Charm, speaks for many when he sums up its appeal: “It’s the timing! Just perfect for launching and selling in our Autumn promotion and securing additional display space ahead of the vital Winter sales. We also see lots of smaller, Northern independent retailers who don’t travel to other exhibitions but who pack the aisles on their home turf. Add to them the key buyers from AIS and the likes of Furniture Village and it’s very cost effective for us”.

Adrian Kelly of sofa manufacturer DaVinci is also a long standing Manchester exhibitor. “Everyone knows business is challenging to say the least, but you don’t do business by hiding behind a bush and hoping customers will find you. I’ve always rated the Manchester Furniture Show as an exhibition at which to do business. It has a relaxed atmosphere that’s conducive to cementing relationships and unlike some shows, my agents and I find we can spend quality time with customers and that’s a great bonus”.

The show’s website is www.manchesterfurnitureshow.com

THE SALONE DEL MOBILE IS CELEBRATING 50 YEARS

Innovation and tradition: a host of initiatives to celebrate the Salone del Mobile’s 50th anniversary.

“Celebrating 50 years of the Salone del Mobile looking towards the next 50. That is what we are focusing on,” explained Carlo Guglielmi, President of Cosmit, going on to say “It is with no little pride that we prepare to celebrate this occasion in such a hugely affirmative context, just when our fair is enjoying its greatest success. A success that has grown exponentially over the last half century, thanks to the creative input of our entrepreneurs, to the ongoing challenges of a robust structure supported by FederlegnoArredo and the companies who continue to recognise that this fair constitutes a business and brand visibility platform second to none. Credit is also due to the 300,000 operators who firm up that business and to the 5,000 journalists who descend on the Milan fair year after year.”

The growth and success of the Saloni which, unlike any other international fair, has bucked the trend, with a steadily growing waiting list and, especially, an increasingly high quality range of goods, is also bolstered in no small measure by the internationalisation process that has taken the Milan Saloni beyond the city of Milan. “We have just come back from New York, where a carefully structured programme is still ongoing, dovetailing the presentation of Italian goods with a unique cultural event, which has quite literally turned the Americans’ heads” - said Carlo Guglielmi, Cosmit’s President. “Here is just one number to give a flavour of its success. Nearly 6,000 visitors attended the Park Avenue Armory showings of Leonardo’s Last Supper as interpreted by Peter Greenaway in one single week.”

“That is our modus operandi” continued Guglielmi, “in which FederlegnoArredo and Cosmit invest huge private resources; in the case of New York with a major contribution from the ITC (Italian Trade Commission) and the Ministry for Economic Development. Because we believe that culture is an essential tool for promoting our product globally and because this is the way we go about creating trade fairs.”

It is exactly this spirit that is animating the efforts leading up to the April 2011 Saloni, a spirit centred on innovation, in people and in things, looking back at the past with an eye to the future. Innovation was what spurred on that initial group of entrepreneurs, culminating in September 1961 in the first ever Salone del Mobile. This was the era during which design was born, a celebration of the amazing union between the business world and the creativity of the masters.

In an innovative twist, a theatrical production by Laura Curino will be staged by Cosmit, in collaboration with Fondazione Bassetti, FederlegnoArredo and the Milan and Monza-Brianza Chambers of Commerce, which will tell the story of the great Milanese protagonists, designers and design entrepreneurs, and examine the continuity of ideas and the industrial world that grew up around their creative genius. In February “Creating the improbable, Design in Milan: past and future”, will open at the Piccolo Teatro Studio. An original way of recounting history while looking to the future, a platform for the ideas, attributes and experiences of Castiglioni, Magistretti, Menghi, Sottsass, Viganò, Zanuso and the entrepreneurs with whom they dealt, Cassina, Castelli, Gandini, Barassi, Bitossi and Sarfatti. Masters and entrepreneurs from the past, whose input provided the stimuli on which build the future, in other words the models and applications that would mark the fifty years to follow.

Every anniversary includes a time for celebration and retrospection. Cosmit’s is celebrated by the Milan Triennial, which is devoting the fourth of its design museums to the Salone del Mobile.

This year, at Euroluce (the International Lighting Exhibition), Cosmit will be gazing into the heart of Milan, right to its ancient core, comprised of what is now the area around Piazza della Scala-Piazza San Fedele.

Here, where the ground rises gently, the ancients used to worship a small wood that created an arbour sheltered by trees they considered sacred, we intend to recreate the ancient sacred grove, the lucus as they used to call it, which – when the light fell on it– became “a multitude of trees of religious significance.”

Attilio Stocchi’s scenography will transform the heart of Milan into a new, visionary Theatrum Naturae, where the trees once swathed in the Po Valley mists will flourish once again, to the sound of that extraordinary chorus produced by the flying species that populated it: goldfinches, long-tailed tits, hoopoes, common redstarts, wagtails...

Lastly, the suggestive setting of Piazza Duomo will provide the backdrop to “Principia”, an exhibition devoted to an imagined future, a path through eight spaces designed by Denis Santachiara in collaboration with the Solares Arts Foundation and leading artists, scientists and famous designers. The most innovative scientific discoveries will be reinterpreted, manipulating science to create unique works of art that stem from a principium, largely attributable to the latest and most cutting-edge technologies.

The fair will also assign an actual development and business space to exhibitors at the Salone del Mobile and the biennial Euroluce and SaloneUfficio (the International Biennial Workspace Exhibition), back in Milan after a three year gap.

Experiential areas conceived by leading architects following the “Office as Creative Hub” mindset will be dedicated to the office sector, a continuum of the project that explored the theme of “Office Life Italian Style” at the previous edition of the Saloni.

Some key activities are currently in the pipeline with regard to these two biennials, geared to bringing in specialist visitors and sectorial professionals.

FSM IS FOUNDED AND TOOK START ON 17th OCTOBER WOODWORKING & FURNITURE SUPPLIER MAGAZINES FROM DIFFERENT COUNTRIES OF THE WORLD FOUNDED A NEW INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION

13 well known woodworking and furniture supplier magazines who met in Istanbul by the sponsorship of Intermob 2010 trade fair, founded an organization called FSM (for International Woodworking & Furniture Supplying Magazines) on 17th October 2010.

The board consists in five members: Zeki Yücel, Mobilya (Turkey); Luca Rossetti, Xylon (Italy); Richard Barth, Material Technick Mebel (Germany); Carlos Castelo, L'Echo des Bois (Belgium); Eduardo Kiss, Mobile Fornecedores (Brasil). In the first meeting, after the voting process, Zeki Yücel (Turkey) and Luca Rossetti (Italy) are elected respectively president and vice president of FSM association for two years.

During the first board meeting held on 18th October in Istanbul (Turkey) and on 21st October in Pordenone (Italy), the board members realized the delegation of authority, and the tasks distribution. At the same time, the roadmap of the association, its own future events, 2011 program and other issues were discussed and fixed. In the declared aims, there are articles related to the creation of a synergy and a systematic solidarity between the magazines aiming woodworking, semi finished products and other furniture supplier industries; the providing of healthy and accurate flow of information between the global markets and the exchanging of articles, reports, news and advertisements. The association accepts only one member magazines from one country and has one formal and one informal meeting every year.

The 13 founding members of FSM are: Asora Wood & Technology (Argentina), Supplier Woodworking Magazine (Australia), L'Echo des Bois (Belgium), Mobile Fornecedores (Brazil), Dmt (Bulgaria), Lignum (Chile), El Mueble y la Madera (Colombia), Material Technick Mebel (Germany), Epipleon (Greece), Xylon (Italy), Porte (Mexico), Mobilya (Turkey) and Furniture Technologies (Ukraine).

The association has also 12 candidate members who are accepted as members but couldn’t be present in the founding meeting. They are: Holz Kurier (Austria), Wood Industry (Canada), China Wood Industry (China), Puu Tekniikka (Finland), Bois Mag (France), Wood News (India), Drewno Technika (Poland), Intarzia (Romania), Les Prom Inform (Russia), Fdm Asia (Singapore), Woodworking and Furniture Digest (Taiwan), Furniture Production (Uk) and Wood & Wood Products (Usa).

A BRAND NEW COLLABORATION OF 5 AUTHORITATIVE ORGANIZATIONS HFD2011 OPENS A NEW ERA FOR HOME FASHION & DECOR INDUSTRY

2011 is a new start of China's Five-Year Plan (2011-2015). With a clearer direction of promoting "Green Economy" and "Low Carbon Society", environmental-friendly, trendy and green products are more welcomed by local consumers, especially those high-end users who pursue a better quality of life and lifestyle.

In order to have a sustainable growth of China's home fashion, furniture & decoration industry, to facilitate the communication between Northern and Southern Chinese enterprises, as well as to serve the markets surrounding Bohai Sea, China Building Decoration Association (CBDA), China Furniture & Decoration Chamber of Commerce (CFDCC), Dongguan Famous Furniture Association and Guangdong Furniture Chamber of Commerce (GDFCC), firstly join hands with Adsale Exhibition Services Ltd. - the pioneer of international trade fairs organizer in China for over 30 years, to launch China (Beijing) International Exhibition on Furniture, Home Fashion & Decorations 2011 (HFD2011) on Jun 9 -12, 2011 at New China International Exhibition Centre (NCIEC).

Authoritative Guests Attend the Press Conference A press conference was held today (Dec 15) at Beijing Radisson Blu Hotel with theme "The Brand New Integrated Home Fashion Trading Platform in Bohai Area". Number of guests from renowned enterprises and associations attended. Ms. Zhang Zhongling, Secretary General of China Building Decoration Association Material Committee, welcomed all the guests attended on behalf of the organizers; Mr. Li Changli, Vice Chairman of China Building Decoration Association, Mr. Zhang Chuanxi, Executive Chairman and Secretary General of China Furniture & Decoration Chamber of Commerce, Ms. Fang Hui, Secretary General of Dongguan Famous Furniture Association, Mr. Jiang Dehui, Executive President and General Secretary of Guangdong Furniture Chamber of Commerce and Mr. Stanley Chu, Chairman of Adsale Exhibition Services Ltd. delivered their speeches on industrial development as well as show highlights respectively.

Mr. Li Changli of China Building Decoration Association explained, "Home fashion and building materials industry in China is at the key turning point in its history. It is a new era for innovation and quality-orientation. The production value of China's building and decoration industry exceeds RMB 2 trillion in 2010, more than 14 million people are working in this industry. We utilize our advantages to motivate 20,000 member companies to exhibit and visit HFD2011. Exhibitors can understand more about the needs of customers while visitors can grasp the latest market trend. We believe that the show will attract over 30,000 buyers to come and purchase." "Adsale persists in providing the most professional exhibitions to all industry players. Beijing - the capital of China, is a hub of both traditional culture and the latest fads. With Beijing's evolution towards a "World City" and its stepping up for a cosmopolitan image, its influence on the world's economy, politics and culture that the city imposed is indispensable. Beijing has also set the most fashionable trends for home product consumption in China", said Mr. Chu of Adsale.

Spectacular Scale of 600 Exhibitors and 60,000sqm Exhibiting Area HFD2011 is expected to accommodate 600 exhibitors and reach 60,000sqm exhibiting area. 5 theme zones will be set up, namely "Premium Furniture Zone", "Decorative Product Zone", "Kitchen & Bath Zone", "Decorative Material Zone" and "Home Design Zone", so as to facilitate different target visitors including property developers, building constructors, decoration & interior design companies, designers, building design companies, star hotels & restaurants, all design lovers, etc.

Organizers also announced that various attractive activities will be held concurrently with hot topics on Trend, Design, Home Fashion, etc. Among all, China Real Estate Association and China Building Materials Circulation Association will organize an activity named "China Home Interior Design Fair - Designers Homes Exhibition". Award-winning designers homes by 30 top Chinese real estate developers will be showcased and visitors can experience the explicitly creative interior design solutions.

Mr. Jiang Dehui, Executive President and General Secretary of GDFCC, revealed that the chamber will organize a Guangdong Pavilion at the fairground. This is the first time to gather excellent Guangdong's furniture enterprises altogether and to promote "Guangdong as a brand icon" outside Guangdong Province.

Renowned Enterprises Join the Strategic Partnership Signing Ceremony Furthermore, BBMG Group Company Limited, Alliance of Beijing-style Furniture Brands, Beijing New Building Material (Group) Co., Ltd., Hunter Douglas, Guli Security Products Limited, Dongguan YiJia Sofa Co., Ltd., OuDe Furniture, Asia Pacific City of Furniture and Home Materials, etc, have attended the press conference and signed the partnership contract with HFD2011. As renowned enterprises in their own business sectors, they said that Northern China offers unparalleled business opportunities and they believe that the market will grow continuously in coming years. In the past few years, companies could not find one suitable exhibition in Beijing; HFD2011 is really a good platform for them to enlarge the market share in Bohai Area.

In the final part of the press conference, all guests held a ceremony to highlight the first cooperation between Northern and Southern Chinese associations. It is expected that HFD2011 will become a stunning show in furniture and decoration industry in China.

HFD2011 will be held on Jun 9 -12, 2011 at New China International Exhibition Centre (NCIEC), Beijing, PR China. Apart from 5 authoritative organizers, the show is also co-organized by China Building Decoration Association Material Committee, Beijing Yazhan Exhibition Services Ltd. and GD Modern Convention & Exhibition Management Co. Ltd.

FSM IS FOUNDED AND TOOK START ON 17th OCTOBER WOODWORKING & FURNITURE SUPPLIER MAGAZINES FROM DIFFERENT COUNTRIES OF THE WORLD FOUNDED A NEW INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION

13 well known woodworking and furniture supplier magazines who met in Istanbul by the sponsorship of Intermob 2010 trade fair, founded an organization called FSM (for International Woodworking & Furniture Supplying Magazines) on 17th October 2010.

The board consists in five members: Zeki Yücel, Mobilya (Turkey); Luca Rossetti, Xylon (Italy); Richard Barth, Material Technick Mebel (Germany); Carlos Castelo, L'Echo des Bois (Belgium); Eduardo Kiss, Mobile Fornecedores (Brasil). In the first meeting, after the voting process, Zeki Yücel (Turkey) and Luca Rossetti (Italy) are elected respectively president and vice president of FSM association for two years.

During the first board meeting held on 18th October in Istanbul (Turkey) and on 21st October in Pordenone (Italy), the board members realized the delegation of authority, and the tasks distribution. At the same time, the roadmap of the association, its own future events, 2011 program and other issues were discussed and fixed. In the declared aims, there are articles related to the creation of a synergy and a systematic solidarity between the magazines aiming woodworking, semi finished products and other furniture supplier industries; the providing of healthy and accurate flow of information between the global markets and the exchanging of articles, reports, news and advertisements. The association accepts only one member magazines from one country and has one formal and one informal meeting every year.

The 13 founding members of FSM are: Asora Wood & Technology (Argentina), Supplier Woodworking Magazine (Australia), L'Echo des Bois (Belgium), Mobile Fornecedores (Brazil), Dmt (Bulgaria), Lignum (Chile), El Mueble y la Madera (Colombia), Material Technick Mebel (Germany), Epipleon (Greece), Xylon (Italy), Porte (Mexico), Mobilya (Turkey) and Furniture Technologies (Ukraine).

The association has also 12 candidate members who are accepted as members but couldn’t be present in the founding meeting. They are: Holz Kurier (Austria), Wood Industry (Canada), China Wood Industry (China), Puu Tekniikka (Finland), Bois Mag (France), Wood News (India), Drewno Technika (Poland), Intarzia (Romania), Les Prom Inform (Russia), Fdm Asia (Singapore), Woodworking and Furniture Digest (Taiwan), Furniture Production (Uk) and Wood & Wood Products (Usa).

INFDEX PRESS CONFERENCE

 





Ravi Raman Qatar Today – Vice President of Oryx Advertising, Henri Azouri, Georges Saliba Coo Qatar expo, Hani Saade Jaidah Group – Senior Operations Manager, Karim Zarka Ceo Qatar Expo, Carol Abboud Diar – Design Manager, Chris Scott Aqili Furnishings – Qatar Operations General Manager, Liliane Abou Akl Home Collection – Executive Director, Naresh Gakhar Official Rent-a-Car Partner Al Muftah – Senior Sales & Marketing Manager

INFDEX 2010 ANNOUNCES 90% SELL OUT

 






• INFDEX now #1 show in the region for furniture and interior design
• Major sponsors Jaidah Furniture, Al Aqili Furnishing, Skaff Collection, Meker, Chip International,
 Qatari Diar, Al Muftah Rent-a-Car and Qatar Today Green Awards

Doha, Qatar, 2 November 2010: Qatar Expo Event Management has revealed the company’s forthcoming 9th International Furniture and Design Exhibition & Awards (INFDEX 2010) in association with EPOC Messe Frankfurt, is 90 percent sold out as the event closes on its 10 to 13 November dates at the Doha Exhibition Center.

Receiving the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Hamad Bin Jassim Bin Jabr Al Thani, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the State of Qatar for the second year in succession, INFDEX 2010 is guaranteed to offer an amazing selection of new and established furniture and design ideas in a vibrant and interactive environment.

As Main Host Sponsor, Jaidah Furniture Group will be displaying the latest collection of its multi-award winning French furniture designer brand Ligne Roset at INFDEX 2010.

Jaidah Furniture Group’s Ligne Roset range offers consumers a comprehensive lifestyle choice, complementing its furniture collections with decorative accessories, lighting, rugs, textiles and occasional items. Also exhibiting at INFDEX 2010 will be Jaidah Furniture’s DEDON outdoor luxury furniture stand showcasing hand woven weather and temperature resistant outdoor furniture designs made from fully recyclable and sustainable materials.

Amongst the four prestigious awards presented at the INFDEX Networking Lunch will be Best Young Designer, sponsored for the third year in a row Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company. Heading the Best Young Designer Award International Jury will be Lebanese architect and design guru Dori Hitti.

A longstanding INFDEX supporter, Qatari Diar is creating the world-class Lusail City where Qatar’s imagination comes to life, as well as iconic overseas projects including Shard Tower, Chelsea Barracks and United States Embassy developments in London.

Renowned for their consistent quality, product range and competitive prices, INFDEX 2010 Strategic Sponsor Al Aqili Furnishings offers the ultimate in interior solutions with guaranteed excellent product quality.

Founded over 40 years ago, INFDEX 2010 Support Sponsor the Skaff Group specializes in the import and retail of fabrics, furniture, wall coverings and soft furnishings Today, the Skaff Group operates as a retailer with 10 outlets covering Lebanon, Dubai, Kuwait, UK, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman, USA, Singapore and here in Qatar.

The name Meker has become synonymous with competence and logic in the world of kitchens, wardrobes and school furniture. Cutting edge technology and quality materials allow INFDEX Support Sponsor Meker to offer a range of solutions and a personal touch to every home from their Doha showroom.

INFDEX 2010 Support Sponsor CHIP International manufactures and supplies high quality, reliable solutions for Access Control (including electronic locks on hotel doors, hotel safes, and hotel mini-bars), Parking Management & Guidance Systems, Building Management Systems, Temperature Systems, Interactive Room Management Systems and Interactive TV.

INFDEX 2010 Annual Partner Al Muftah Rent-a-Car provides a wide range of cars including economy, saloon, medium size, premium range, luxury, four wheel drives, buses with seating capacity of 15, 26 and above for excursions, rental and long term purposes and commercial vehicles on daily, weekly, monthly and yearly basis. Chauffeur driven services are also available.

Organizers Qatar Expo and EPOC Messe Frankfurt have talked with the region’s designers to see what the interior design industry requires and, as a result, INFDEX 2010 will be a more cutting edge, business-driven event than ever before, in order to maximize the opportunities in the market.

“INFDEX 2010 places doing business at the core of the event. This year we are introducing a number of features to help the interior design industry maximize opportunities in a difficult business environment,” says Qatar Expo COO, Georges Saliba.

Highlighting the importance of sustainable design in the interior design industry, Doha’s leading business and lifestyle magazine Qatar Today Green Awards is rewarding creative and eco-friendly exhibitors by sponsoring the INFDEX Best Environmental Green Stand Award.

Visitors will discover INFDEX 2010 is the perfect opportunity to plan home improvements with selected interior design brands from Europe, the Middle East & North Africa, and Qatar amongst the record 140 expected exhibitors.

UNIVERSITY STUDENTS TACKLE DESIGN CHALLENGES AS PART OF A TALENT DEVELOPMENT FOCUS AT INDEX DESIGN SHOW 2010

 






• Regional Design students required to design an Urban Playground and an Art & Culture Centre as part of the two challenges which will be displayed at INDEX 2010

UAE: Dubai, 30 October 2010 - Creative young designers will be put to the test with two key challenges in a special Student Zone at the INDEX Design Show 2010 taking place from 8 – 11 November 2010 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

To encourage upcoming local talent, the challenges that are hosted at the Student Zone will require students to develop creative design concepts – the Al Habtoor & ISG Design Challenge and the FEKRA Design Competition.

The Al Habtoor & ISG Student Challenge is an event that has long been a highly successful show feature at INDEX. This year, for the second time, the challenge has been developed in conjunction with TASMENA, a non-profit organisation committed to supporting innovation in art and design. The challenge ‘Urban Playground: Active Design for a Healthy Urban Environment’ will have a strong focus on social responsibility, with an aim to tackle the growing epidemic of obesity in the UAE. Students from a number of the top universities across the UAE are competing to design a piece of public playground equipment. The brief suggests that the equipment should not only inspire the user to take part in physical activity but should utilise recycling elements and should also harness the physical motion of those playing to create enough energy to power an additional device/product.

INDEX Vice President Lu Buchanan said: “These challenges are a great opportunity for the upcoming local design talent here in the UAE. Not only does it provide them with a platform to display their work but it also allows students to have access to working alongside industry experts to gain an insight into how the design industry functions from a business perspective. We hope that by participating in the challenge the students gain invaluable experience that will help them to establish successful careers in the design industry.”

“The Al Habtoor & ISG Student Challenge has been one of the great success stories of INDEX’s talent development programme and we are thrilled to include the FEKRA Design Competition this year that will allow the winning team to bring their concepts to fruition in the real world long after the show has ended. We thank the industry for supporting these initiatives and we are sure it will result in some truly innovative designs and excitement on the show floor. We can’t wait to see the results.”

In regard to this year’s challenge theme, Adina Hempel from TASMENA added: “The cities and communities of the UAE have evolved dramatically over the past several years and we are keen to move the design industry forward in a way that caters to the changing demands of its cities and inhabitants. With the rapid rise of obesity and diabetes a major concern, we wanted to create a challenge that really hits at the heart of what the community needs in encouraging more active play for children. We look forward to seeing the solutions our participants design to meet the brief.”

The FEKRA Design Competition - created through a partnership with Switch Restaurant and Al Ahli Holding Group - is focused on public-space design. A multidisciplinary challenge, the competition requires participants to design a state-of-the-art centre for the community to encourage the exchange of knowledge and inspire creativity. The competition consists of three challenges including ‘Creating a Brand Identity’ for the project; ‘Urban Planning and Architecture’ as well as ‘Interior Design and Molding’ the project. The winners will receive a cash prize in addition to having their creation implemented into the construction of the Art and Culture centre for the creative community in Dubai, where they will have the opportunity to work with the best in the industry to bring their art and dreams to reality. For more details see www.fekra-design.com

Nasreen Al Tamimi, the Projects Development Manager at Al Ahli Holding Group said: “FEKRA is a celebration of the best in design, architecture and art that the UAE has to offer. We are pleased to have been invited to display our work at INDEX, where the local and international design community can see what the UAE has to offer in terms of contemporary design. ”

INFDEX 2010 SHOWCASES I.STYLE ITALIAN DESIGN

• 8 Italian I.STYLE furniture brands to exhibit at DEC from 10th to 13th November

• Best Young Designer Award winners to visit Milan International Furniture Fair

Doha, Qatar, 30 October 2010: The 9th International Furniture and Design Exhibition & Awards 2010 (INFDEX 2010) has announced the participation of I.STYLE, the Qatar-based Italian agency for business design innovation, at the Doha Exhibition Center from 10th to 13th November.

The eight companies representing I.STYLE at INFDEX 2010 will be Turri (classic and contemporary furniture), Salvarani Kitchens, C.O.I office furniture, Misuraemme (modern design furniture), Clerion (fabrics and curtains), Antonio e Figlio Ciulli Antonio (classical home and bath accessories), Rufoli Cotto (handmade cotto tiles) and Imbottiti Colombo sofas and beds.

“I.STYLE aims to present something for the entire Qatari design industry at INFDEX 2010. Qatar is a country that is growing rapidly and its development is based on the criteria of quality, environmental protection and beauty. I.STYLE invites everyone interested in knowing more about our activities and products to visit stand A5 at INFDEX 2010,” says Annalisa Vigano the Project Coordinator.

Having committed to a long-term investment in Qatar with a group of 10 Italian furniture and design innovators, in just nine months I.STYLE has established its presence by providing world-class design services to Qatar’s designers, contractors and developers.

“Italy is respected around the world for the quality of its style, design and creativity,” says Georges Saliba, COO of INFDEX 2010 joint organizer Qatar Expo. “The participation of I.STYLE is without doubt a significant success for Qatar’s largest design and furniture event and a major attraction for the thousands of trade and public visitors to INFDEX 2010.”

I.STYLE’s participation at INFDEX 2010 continues the region’s leading design exhibition’s reputation for bringing Italian design talent to the Qatari market, following the groundbreaking Italian design conference Product and Project Quality: The Italian Furniture Industry Meets the Gulf Professional at INFDEX 2009.

INFDEX 2010 and I.STYLE are also collaborating to send winners of the INFDEX 2010 Best Young Designer Award (sponsored by Qatari Diar) to Italy in 2011 to attend the world famous Salone Internazionale Del Mobile (Milan International Furniture Fair), where they will be hosted by I.STYLE.

“Now is the perfect time for Italian design to further extend its influence in the GCC,” says Annalisa Vigano the Project Coordinator. “There is tremendous creativity waiting to be unleashed in Qatar and we want to inspire young designers with our traditions of design excellence.

“We hope the opportunity to visit the Milan International Furniture Fair will inspire the region’s student designers to create their best work for INFDEX 2010.”

Details and registration for the INFDEX 2010 Best Young Designer Award sponsored by Qatari Diar can be found on the www.qatar-expo.com/infdex website.

PALLADIO INTERIORS TO SHOWCASE PREMIUM ITALIAN ARCHITECTURE AND EXQUISITE DESIGNS AT INDEX 2010

Palladio Interiors, suppliers of the finest Italian designs, architecture and furniture, will be participating and showcasing its high quality interior design products at INDEX 2010, the largest and most established interior design show in the Middle East from 8th – 11th November 2010 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Commenting on the participation at INDEX 2010, Ennio Guzzo, General Director of Palladio Interiors Worldwide said, “Our foray into the Middle East market will be marked by our participation at this year’s INDEX Show, which is a pioneering event bringing the best of the interior design industry from across the world to the Middle East. We look forward towards offering turn-key interior solutions, unique designs and design services never seen before in this region.”

With offices in Italy, Moscow and Kiev, Palladio Interiors has set its sights on the high potential, luxurious and lucrative Middle Eastern market, and recently established a representative office and design studio at Jumeirah Lake Towers in the UAE. “The focus is on offering design expertise and high quality interiors to the entire region whilst widening our presence in the UAE market”, added Guzzo.

Palladio Interiors is the ideal partner for distinguished private customers and for developers, interior designers, architects and real estate companies that intend to provide their customers with an exclusive Italian touch. Palladio Interiors’ experienced Italian architects ensure that every design is distinctive and exclusive.

Palladio Interiors’ product offering includes bespoke furniture and interior designs that set apart each house, hotel or entity from the rest. Most of the furniture is hand made by Italian artists who have produced work in Europe, Russia and other Arab countries.

CHINA (BEIJING) INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION ON FURNITURE, HOME FASHION & DECORATIONS TO BE HELD IN BEIJING IN JUNE 2011

China (Beijing) International Exhibition on Furniture, Home Fashion & Decorations (“HFD” thereafter) will be held in New China International Exhibition Centre (NCIEC) from June 9-12, 2011. The exhibition is jointly organized by Adsale Exhibition Services Ltd., China Building Decoration Association, Dongguan Famous Furniture Association and co-organized by China Building Decoration Association Materials Committee, GD Modern Convention & Exhibition Management Co Ltd and Beijing Yazhan Exhibition Services Ltd.

With the rise of the nation’s economic power, Chinese people become wealthier. They no longer simply consider the practical aspect of home living, but look for a living environment that stresses on comfortable space and spiritual enjoyment. It enriches the furniture and home fashion products with more trendy and stylish elements.

HFD 2011 serves as a good channel for the trendy and innovative brands to expand into the capital-led Bohai market. The exhibition provides a perfect platform for quality home products suppliers to tap into both local and overseas markets. It also satisfies the demand of buyers in sourcing trendy and fashionable home products and materials in the high-end consumer market in Beijing. HFD 2011 follows the latest international trends and creates a modern home living with high-grade living environment.

Beijing, the capital of China, is a business city with both rich cultural heritage and latest trends and fads. Beijing is now transforming into a “World City” and a cosmopolitan image is gradually formed. It does not only exercise great influence on the world’s economic, political and cultural development, but also set the trends for the nation’s home furniture, fashion and decoration products.

The World Bank estimates that more than half of the world’s building construction projects will take place in China by 2015. And by 2020, the urban population in China will rise to 60% while residential area will reach a high level of 70 billion square meters. The Chinese people demand a higher home living standard, which means huge business opportunities to home furniture and decoration industry. HFD 2011 is built upon the themes of “home fashion”, ”environmental-friendly” and “low carbon”. Following the trends of “environmental protection”, “ecology”, “fashion & trends”, “health” and “comfort”, it places great focus on energy saving and low emission and aims to build a green and low carbon city. The exhibition showcases world famous brands, self-developed brands, original design brands and quality products to make itself a new and innovative home furniture and decoration industry event.

HFD 2011 keeps abreast of the industry trends. It provides one-stop comprehensive home furniture, design and decoration solutions based on the ideas of “low carbon”, “environmental friendly” and “green”. In this way, consumers are able to understand the concept of low carbon living and the put into effect the use of environmental-friendly, low carbon and green home furniture and products in thousands of households. Industry practitioners generally agree that “low carbon living” will be the new highlight in the industry of home furniture, fashion and decorations.

To make one-stop sourcing more convenient for buyers, 5 theme zones are set up, namely “Premium Furniture Zone”, “Decorative Product Zone”, “Kitchen & Bath Zone”, “Decorative Material Zone” and “Home Design Zone”. Famous brands in the category of premium furniture, decorative products, whole-set kitchens and related products, sanitary wares, decoration companies, interior design companies, energy-saving and environmental-friendly materials are also invited to make it an important industry function.

The exhibition aims at providing the industry practitioners in Beijing and the nearby regions with the latest home furniture products. It has built a new platform for both local and overseas enterprises to develop their import/export businesses. We cordially invite all home furniture experts to meet in Beijing.

INTERNATIONAL DESIGN INDUSTRY PLACES SPOTLIGHT ON DUBAI: TOP GLOBAL BRANDS SET TO ATTEND INDEX 2010

INDEX 2010, the definitive design event in the Middle East, is bringing top international designers and brands to Dubai from 8-11 November. Exhibitors from across the globe are already confirmed and will showcase a wide array of high-end and innovative design products.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, INDEX has firmly established itself as a leading player in the global design show calendar. Last year, more than 1,000 exhibitors participated from over 50 countries, showcasing the best the world has to offer in design.

The Middle East is still a buoyant market with great export potential for overseas businesses whose markets have been heavily impacted by the economic downturn. The total estimated value of interior design contracting projects from 2009 to 2010 in the GCC was US$22 billion, and the demand for interior design services in the UAE alone is expected to be worth some US$14.6 billion this year.

INDEX 2010 has already confirmed many high profile brands from within the GCC, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the US.

Exciting new exhibitors this year include Toshiro Alloy from Japan, who will showcase ‘Moonlight’ – hand cast, bespoke, pure tin surface panels. This very unique metal design concept creates a finished product resembling a natural material such as stone, wood, cloth, leather and antique. No two projects are the same with each piece being individually designed and hand-made.

HD Interiors from Russia are launching in the Middle East at INDEX 2010. HD specialise in unique and inspiring works using Swarovski crystals. Projects include stunning interior installations, a crystal embossed Rolls Royce and a crystal decorated helicopter.

From the USA, Robert Allen will showcase the finest fabrics including cottons, silks and outdoor fabrics. With the trends for 2010 being bold colour and varieties of textures, Robert Allen will showcase a wide range of fabrics to meet both these contemporary and the more classic requirements.

This year there will be a strong Spanish presence at INDEX. Spanish exhibitors include award winning Andreu World who is synonymous with modern form and functional design along with a range of contemporary finishes with strong character and great presence. Unique furniture designer Jordi Mila will be showcasing a collection of stunning furnishing designs including the Four Seasons lamp and the Hot Rider carbon fiber stool reminiscent of an English saddle. Other Spanish exhibitors include Muebles Canella, Grassoler, Lámparas Schuller, Vicente Zaragoza and Mariner.

Italy has always played a significant part at INDEX and this year is no exception. Exhibitors include world renowned glassmaker ‘Arte di Murano’ who will exhibit ornate and innovative uses of glass in lighting and decoration. Other Italian exhibitors include Casa Shamuzzi, Futura Leathers, Ceramicarte Deruta and IHBA Italian Home Building Automatic.

Participants from the GCC include Rivoli Silks, Baitek Palace representing Informit Italia, Beautiful House, Beacon Decor and Light and Brasslight International.

In addition to the thousands of exhibitors, there will be exciting, educational and inspirational features throughout the show. These will include informal seminars and panel debates, the second designer Contemporary Majlis competition, eclectic design pieces celebrating 20 years of design, the Al Habtoor ISG Student Challenge competition, eco sustainable design at its best and unparalleled industry networking events throughout the 4 days of the show.

Lu Buchanan, INDEX Event Director, said, “We are very excited about the 20th anniversary of INDEX. This year’s show will be truly a celebration of the best the world has to offer in design. We are incorporating many design features not just in the interior furnishing arena, but also looking at all aspects of design from stunning and useable eco sustainability solutions through to our new kitchens and bathrooms area. A first for this year will be the high end dedicated hall with the most beautiful and exclusive furnishings, art, sculpture and design from the top end leading Italian brands”.

INFDEX 2010 LAUNCHES BEST YOUNG DESIGNER AWARDS

˃ Under the patronage of The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Hamad bin Jaber Al Thani for the second year
˃ Young Designer Award sponsored by Qatari Diar for third year
˃ Judges Panel headed by Aziz Rbeiz

Doha, Qatar, 24-8-2010: Under the patronage of The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Hamad bin Jaber Al Thani for the second year, the International Furniture Design Exhibition and Awards (INFDEX) will host the region’s top award for young designers, the INFDEX Best Young Desgner Award sponsored by Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company.

The perfect platform to showcase the Middle East’s best young design talent, the INFDEX 2010 Best Young Designer Award is open to all school and university designers and will once again be decided by an international judging panel headed by Lebanese interior design guru Aziz Rebeiz.

"Creative student designers are the future of the industry. By offering the Best Young Designer Award for the 3rd year, INFDEX is continuing to invest in young design talent who will take the regional design industry to new levels," says Qatar Expo CEO Mr. Karim Zarka.

Announcing the timetable for the INFDEX 2010 Best Young Designer Awards sponsored by Qatari Diar, INFDEX 2010 organizer Qatar Expo confirmed that all entries must be submitted no later than Wednesday 20 October after which the awards jury will select the list of finalists to be announced on Monday 1 November.
Presentation of finalists’ designs for the review of judges takes place on Doha Exhibition Center on Wednesday 10 November, the opening day of INFDEX 2010. Winning designs in both categories will be selected on 11 November before the winners are revealed and their entries put on display during the Awards Ceremony at the glittering INFDEX Gala Dinner taking place at W Doha Hotel & Residences on Friday 12 November.

INFDEX Best Young Designer Award information and entry forms can be obtained by telephone +974 5523 1268 or by emailing INFDEX@qatar-expo.com Partnering with world-leading exhibition management company EPOC Messe Frankfurt for the first time, INFDEX 2010 is on target to attract 150 leading interior design and furniture manufacturers and suppliers from five continents to showcase new products, new trends and new furniture & design ideas.

Qatar residents who admire classic yachts and tall ships are certain to be attracted to the stand of INFDEX 2010 Support Sponsor Nautica Seychelles (www.nauticaseychelles.com), builders of high quality model ships and exhibiting at INFDEX for the first time.

INFDEX visitors looking to dress their home will be rewarded with a range of the finest garden furniture and exterior design accessories featured on the stand of Support Sponsor Pergola Design.

Among the latest international design brands confirmed for INFDEX 2010 are Effects Graphics (Bahrain), Al Kasr Furniture, Gogo Lights and International Company for Lamps & Decoration (Egypt), Nafed (Indonesia), Askari Gallery (Iran), I Style (Italy), FNA & Partners (Lebanon), Dynamic Furniture Industries and Green Way Trading (Malaysia), Morocaine Palace (Morocco), Bati Anadolu and Tuyap Fair & Exhibitions (Turkey), Star – Brod (Tunisia), Al Aqili Furnishing (UAE) and Janet Yonaty Inc (USA).

Exhibiting the latest styles which are the hallmark of the Qatari interior design industry will be Al Khaleej American Wardrobe, Al Muftah Rent-a-Car, Al Watheer Furnishings, Art of Pottery, Isfahan Persian Carpet, ITC, Jaidah / Ligne Roset, Kro-K Interior Design, Rare Design Studio and WAW.

NEOCON® EAST ANNOUNCES NEW SHOW DATES IN OCTOBER 2010
Premier design exposition, conference for the Mid-Atlantic design community returns to Baltimore

BALTIMORE/CHICAGO (Aug. 12, 2010) – The eighth annual NeoCon® East has been rescheduled to Oct. 28-29, 2010, at the Baltimore Convention Center, differing from the December dates originally announced.

“The Baltimore Convention Center recently informed us of a date opening in their October calendar and we quickly acted on the opportunity to accept the new dates,” said Mark Falanga, senior vice president of MMPI, contract. “At MMPI we are fully committed to NeoCon East, its exhibitors and attendees, and feel the October dates will help to best benefit those on the GSA schedule.”

MMPI consulted with GSA’s Integrated Workplace Acquisition Center (IWACenter) and they were strong advocates for securing the October dates. “I’m thrilled with the October dates as it falls within the first quarter of the new fiscal year when government buyers are flush with new budgets and looking for product for all of their government projects,” said Mark Dunkum, Director of IWACenter. “We are also excited to once again host the Quality Partnership Council (QPC) meeting in conjunction with the show which will help to foster a common understanding between customer, contractor and GSA,”.

NeoCon East is the premier design exposition for commercial interiors with a focus on the Federal Design Community. It features Government Interiors, which focuses on products and services geared to federal government procurement specifiers and industry professionals who are responsible for the repair, retrofit and green building modernization of city, county, state and federal buildings.

NeoCon East showcases thousands of products on the GSA schedule and attendees may learn more about GSA and how to get involved in government projects with:

• Free 60-minute seminars for government employees
• Free GSA-sponsored seminars
• The largest concentration of products and services for commercial interiors on the GSA schedule, making NeoCon East the most cost-effective method for attendees to source products for interior design projects
• Networking opportunities with design and facilities professionals from both the federal government and public sectors.
• A GSA Integrated Workplace Acquisition Center booth on the show floor to assist attendees with the federal government

With more than 7,500 attendees and 250 exhibitors expected, NeoCon East sets the pace for the Mid-Atlantic contract furnishings industry, focusing on the Federal Design Community. Industry professionals including architects, interior designers, facility managers, government specifiers, government designers, space planners, distributors, manufacturers, real estate professionals and students rely on this event for innovative ideas and the latest trends in interior design and architecture. NeoCon East offers CEU accredited seminars representing a variety of important topics and covering 12 distinct educational tracks are available to show attendees, including: facilities management; facilities construction and renovation; green design; government services administration; health care; health, safety and welfare; hospitality; institutional; office design; professional development; residential and lighting.

For more information, about NeoCon East, visit www.neoconeast.com or call 800.677.6278 (MART).

NeoCon® East is a registered trademark of MMPI.

BE INSPIRED AT DECOREX THIS YEAR – THE LEADING DESIGN SHOW IN LONDON

Decorex International is a show that provides visitors with ideas and inspiration. Whether it is a new object, a particular colourway, the shape of a chair leg, the design of a stand, it is impossible to attend the show without challenging and inspiring the senses. It is also the key place to showcase fabulous new designs whether you are a well-known international brand or a new company launching at the show for the first time. Among the 250 stands, around 25% will be new exhibitors this year. What unites all the exhibitors is the sheer quality of design, craftsmanship and materials that will be on view, providing an opportunity to see the latest products, learn about new techniques and trends, and discover new exhibitors.

World-renowned interior decorator Nina Campbell will be creating her own vision with an Alice in Wonderland theme as she custom designs the show’s entrance using established and emerging talent exhibiting at Decorex. Look out for Alice’s bedroom and bathroom, as well as the Mad Hatter’s Library. Hermes and Harlequin Tabletop have also found inspiration from Alice in Wonderland as they create a Mad Hatters Tea Party using exquisite china and glass, furniture and decorative objects again sourced from exhibitors all sited within a grassed over burrow above the ground. While Ben Whistler in conjunction with the Design Research Group will be creating the ultimate champagne bar using their expertise to clad the bar furniture in their own fabulous leather.

Lewis Carroll’s novel Through the Looking-Glass has inspired Spanish duo Herme y Monica, Herme Ciscar and Monica Garcia’s feature, entitled Spain Through the Looking Glass where everything is not what it seems….rugs will change colour depending on where you stand while a secret room, visible through a peephole, will reveal the unexpected by playing on the distortion of scale among a myriad of other optical illusions. All the products on display have been upholstered for the show by Colección Alexandra, Tecninova, Epoca and Mariner.

Over a quarter of all exhibitors at Decorex highlight the fact that their products are made entirely in the UK, using British skills and craftsmanship. This is a level of expertise that appears to be increasing in all areas from the growing number of designers promoted by Design Nation, contemporary furniture pieces created by the Villiers Brothers to newly launched furniture company Nuttall Home. Whether you’re after Phillips & Wood lighting, Byron & Bryon curtain accessories, Barneby Gates wallpaper, Aaronson Noon glassware or Calfe Crimmings architectural finishings, a ‘Made in Britain’ stamp has become a mark of authenticity, quality and good design.

One of Decorex’s strengths is the number of exhibitors who offer bespoke services. There has always been a demand for individual pieces, helping designers bring their visions alive, whether creating a sense of drama, adding a touch of sophistication or making a statement. One-off examples or customising existing pieces are services increasingly offered by many exhibitors including Ben Whistler furniture, Luke Irwin rugs and Diffuse lighting. The possibilities are endless.

Crafted is a new mentoring programme developed to enable emerging craft companies to develop their business skills while connecting luxury organisations with a new generation of skilled craftspeople. Launched at the end of last year, this will be the first time that these craft businesses will show the results of their collaborations with well-known names from the design world. A popular feature is the Seminar Programme that includes well-established names from the world of design alongside panel discussions. Ideas about how to use space, materials, details over scale, saving energy and the influence of French designs are just some of the topics that will be discussed. Guests this year include John Minshaw, Jean Louis Denoit, Victoria Redshaw, Martin Brudnizki, Nina Campbell, Roger Thomas, David Linley and Joanna Wood.

Decorex International 2010 will be held in the grounds of The Royal Hospital Chelsea, London, from Sunday 26 to Wednesday 29 September 2010.

To register as a press attendee, please visit
http://www.decorex.com/page.cfm/Action=Form/FormID=2/t=m.

INDONESIA FURNITURE ASSOCIATION PARTICIPATE THE 8TH CHINA SHANGHAI INTERNATIONAL FURNITURE EXHIBITION IN 2010

The 8th China Shanghai internationalfurniture exhibition which is from 2nd to 4th.June successful concluded. There are total of 332 exhibitors in this exhibition and among them,more than 40 foreign companies in it.They come from the 10 different countries,For example, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, Korea ect. Exhibition received 38000 Professional buyers,among them,nearly 4,000 overseas buyers. In this period,the media which included more than 10 foreign media,more than 20 the domestic mainstream media and more than 40 professional media.For example U.S., South Korea, Japan, India, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Dubai, Wen Hei News, New People's Daily, Liberation Daily, Sina.com, SouFun and "Furniture", "Asia-Pacific Furniture News", "discovered resources", "furniture mainstream", "Dongguan Furniture" etc.came to cover. According to organizers said, the exhibitors has improved satisfaction. 62.5% companies decide to participate the next furniture fair in 9th June 2011. Another 29.8% said that has not been determined. This indicates that most enterprises are optimistic about the situation and confidence in themselves.In the exhibitor area,the 76% domestic buyers said they would visit the Furniture Fair in 2011, while the proportion of overseas buyers is 71.5%. The more exhibitors and visitors stress that they participate this fair every year. New customers and old customers indicated that much better than before about the flow of people.Survey of the situation in the three days,the results exceeded our expectations. We recognize that is more successful show,meanwhile,you can find that get less and less for the impact of the international environment. Recovery of world economy is also evident. With the success of the show ended, exhibitors wish unprecedented hopes to the next year.

THE 8TH CHINA SHANGHAI INTERNATIONAL FURNITURE EXHIBITION

The 8th China Shanghai internationalfurniture exhibition which is from 2nd to 4th.June successful concluded. There are total of 332 exhibitors in this exhibition and among them,more than 40 foreign companies in it.They come from the 10 different countries,For example, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, Korea ect. Exhibition received 38000 Professional buyers,among them,nearly 4,000 overseas buyers. In this period,the media which included more than 10 foreign media,more than 20 the domestic mainstream media and more than 40 professional media.For example U.S., South Korea, Japan, India, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Dubai, Wen Hei News, New People's Daily, Liberation Daily, Sina.com, SouFun and "Furniture", "Asia-Pacific Furniture News", "discovered resources", "furniture mainstream", "Dongguan Furniture" etc.came to cover. According to organizers said, the exhibitors has improved satisfaction. 62.5% companies decide to participate the next furniture fair in 9th June 2011. Another 29.8% said that has not been determined. This indicates that most enterprises are optimistic about the situation and confidence in themselves.In the exhibitor area,the 76% domestic buyers said they would visit the Furniture Fair in 2011, while the proportion of overseas buyers is 71.5%. The more exhibitors and visitors stress that they participate this fair every year. New customers and old customers indicated that much better than before about the flow of people.Survey of the situation in the three days,the results exceeded our expectations. We recognize that is more successful show,meanwhile,you can find that get less and less for the impact of the international environment. Recovery of world economy is also evident. With the success of the show ended, exhibitors wish unprecedented hopes to the next year.

THE FURNITURE AND DECORATION TRADE SHOW PERFECT HOME & INTERIOR 2010

Despite crisis prevailing in Europe, the economic forecasts in Poland for the current year are very good. Exceptionally good economic performance of Poland gets a lot of publicity in the community of foreign businessmen who search intensely for new business relations in Poland. In some industries such as furniture sector the position of Polish companies is incomparably better than their European counterparts.

Your esteemed company should not miss this huge opportunity to establish or develop contacts with businessmen from this region.

Being an organizer of the International Trade Show LIGHT, the largest event of this kind in Central Europe, we can already confirm that the interest of foreign businessmen in Poland is enormous! This year’s edition of lighting trade fairs in March will register the 100% increase in the number of foreign exhibitors. More and more interest is shown by the exhibitors from Italy, Portugal and other EU countries as well as from the Ukraine and Russia in another edition of Furnishings and Fittings Trade Fair PERFECT HOME & INTERIOR that will be held in Warsaw from 3 to 5 September 2010.

After last year’s success the PERFECT HOME & INTERIOR trade fair has become a significant event in the calendar of major trade fairs in Poland. The success was achieved thanks to an interesting format of the event combining presentations of products with the most interesting design with conference, training and exhibition activities that enable the exhibitors to pass much more information to their customers. The highest interest is aroused by the conferences for professionals – architects, designers, hoteliers, retailers and wholesalers.

Another key success factor is the promotion of the event. On the occasion of PERFECT HOME & INTERIOR we cooperate with the best and major publishing houses and industry portals. We run a wide-sweeping advertising campaign in Poland and abroad. Our trade fair offer reaches major exhibitions world-wide such as INDEX in Dubai.

We invite your company to participate in the PERFECT HOME & INTERIOR trade fair and to meet with the customers from Poland and from Eastern Europe. The trade fair will be held between 3-5 September 2010 at EXPO XXI venue in Warsaw. We expect more than 15 thousand visitors. More detailed information can be found on our website www.perfecthome.pl

FURNITURE REVOLUTION GALLERY DEBUTS STUDENTS’ DESIGNS AT NEOCON® WORLD’S TRADE FAIR

CHICAGO (April 5, 2010) - This year’s NeoCon® World’s Trade Fair will debut the Furniture Revolution Gallery, a new concept which gives design students the chance to get their unique product in front of the world’s top manufacturers.

“The idea was born out of a discussion about the status of furniture design in the United States,” said Antonio Larosa, project chair of the Furniture Revolution Gallery. “The Furniture Revolution Gallery is set-up to highlight students, and young designers just out of school who have the potential to be the next great designer in America. This is unique because NeoCon is the first venue out there giving students a real chance of being seen and noticed by the major players in the design industry. ”

“The Furniture Revolution Gallery will display prototypes of students’ furniture designs on the NeoCon show floor, which draws nearly 40,000 trade and industry professional over the three day period,” said Sara O’Hare, director of student programs and events for NeoCon.

The 42nd annual NeoCon® World’s Trade Fair takes place June 14-16, at The Merchandise Mart, Chicago and is North America’s largest exhibition of contract furnishings for the design and management of the built environment. NeoCon features the latest trends, products, and concepts in office, healthcare, hospitality, residential, institutional and government environments from more than 700 exhibitors. The trade show offers the most comprehensive conference schedule in the industry with more than 150 CEU-accredited seminars, industry association forums, and keynote presentations in 16 different career tracks.

NeoCon® World’s Trade Fair is a registered trademark of MMPI.

MMPI is a trade show and property management firm, specializing in managing buildings devoted to wholesale showrooms and commercial office space. MMPI produces more than 300 trade shows, market events and conferences each year.

MMPI manages The Merchandise Mart and 350 West Mart Center in Chicago; Market Square, the Suites at Market Square, Hamilton Market, Plaza Suites, Furniture Plaza and the National Furniture Mart in High Point, N.C.; the Architects & Designers Building, 7 W New York, and Piers 92 & 94 in New York City; the Boston Design Center in Boston; the L.A. Mart in Los Angeles; the Washington Design Center in Washington DC.

Vornado Realty Trust, owners of MMPI, based in New York City, is a fully integrated equity real estate investment trust. Vornado’s common shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange and are traded under the symbol VNO.

CHICAGO (March 29, 2010) - NeoCon World’s Trade Fair, North America’s largest conference and exhibition of contract furnishings for the design and management of the built environment, returns June 14-16, to Chicago’s Merchandise Mart, with an incredible line-up of keynote speakers.

The 42nd annual NeoCon will feature top-name keynote speakers each day of the conference, including: Majora Carter, former executive director and founder of the non-profit Sustainable South Bronx; Michael Graves, architect and founder of Michael Graves & Associates and Michael Graves design group; Margaret McCurry, one of Architectural Digest Magazine’s AD 100 Top Designers for 2010; and Yves Behar, industrial designer and founder of fuseproject.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Majora Carter, sponsored by Allsteel, presented by IIDA
8 a.m., Monday, June 14
Majora Carter was the executive director and founder of Sustainable South Bronx, a non-profit which was one of the nation's first green-collar job training and placement systems housed in one of the most environmentally and economically challenged parts of the country. Hear this pioneer’s new way of thinking green with her keynote address “Green the Ghetto and How Much it Won’t Cost Us.”

Michael Graves, sponsored by Paoli, presented by ASID
8 a.m., Tuesday, June 15
With his keynote address “A Grand Tour,” Michael Graves will give a short biographical history, which will center on key influences in his career. He will also touch on his life as a “figurative” architect and what that means to his buildings and his art.

Margaret McCurry, presented by Fine Design®
1 p.m., Tuesday, June 15
Selected by Architectural Digest Magazine as an AD100 Top Designer for 2010, Margaret McCurry believes that when it comes to designing homes, big isn’t necessarily better. During her keynote presentation “Inside Out,” McCurry will discusses her various award winning residential design projects from coast to coast and around the inland sea.

Yves Behar, sponsored by Herman Miller
Noon, Wednesday, June 16
Many consumers want products to be about personal expression and the leading edge of innovation while reflecting our 21st century values. Yves Behar’s keynote address “Design in the Age of 360°” explores how the new role of a designer is to create, and sometimes arbitrate, between the elements of contemporary culture.

In addition to the daily, top-name keynote address, this year’s NeoCon will offer the most comprehensive conference schedule to date with 150 CEU-accredited seminars, industry association forums and featured programs, giving architects, designers and facility managers the opportunity to discover the newest trends and techniques from some of the top-names in the industry. New this year, a Career Development Educational Track has been added to the NeoCon schedule to assist industry professionals who are looking for a job or trying to secure their current position. Attendees may view the entire listing of seminars by going to www.neocon.com and clicking on “Education.”

NeoCon will once again feature the latest trends, products, and concepts in office, healthcare, hospitality, residential, institutional and government environments from more than 700 exhibitors. Additionally, this premier contract show features a variety of show components: The Lighting Pavilion, GREENlifeTM, Buildings Show®, NEWHospitality, OFDA, Fine Design, LuxeHome and the debut of BUILDEX Chicago.

For more information about NeoCon, visit the www.neocon.com or call (800) 677-6278 (MART). Outside of the United States call (312) 527-7600. NeoCon is only open to trade professionals with proper credentials. Online registration is available at www.neocon.com.

NeoCon® World’s Trade Fair is a registered trademark of MMPI.

MMPI is a trade show and property management firm, specializing in managing buildings devoted to wholesale showrooms and commercial office space. MMPI produces more than 300 trade shows, market events and conferences each year.

MMPI manages The Merchandise Mart and 350 West Mart Center in Chicago; Market Square, the Suites at Market Square, Hamilton Market, Plaza Suites, Furniture Plaza and the National Furniture Mart in High Point, N.C.; the Architects & Designers Building, 7 W New York, and Piers 92 & 94 in New York City; the Boston Design Center in Boston; the L.A. Mart in Los Angeles; the Washington Design Center in Washington DC.

Vornado Realty Trust, owners of MMPI, based in New York City, is a fully integrated equity real estate investment trust. Vornado’s common shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange and are traded under the symbol VNO.

MEBLE POLSKA 2010 – offer of the third largest European furniture exporter!

A new name, a new timing and a new trade fair profile – the upcoming 29th MEBLE POLSKA that will combine the innovativeness and tradition of Poland’s largest furniture show is going to be extremely attractive. The best Polish furniture manufacturers will present their collection to furniture buyers from all over Europe.

In 2010, Poland’s largest furniture trade show will have a new name: MEBLE POLSKA and will be held on new dates: 16-19 February 2010.

Józef Szyszka, MEBLE POLSKA 2010 Director: So far, the show has been held in late May and early June. Following the exhibitors’ requests, MEBLE 2010 will be held at the beginning of the year as a separate business-oriented event. The show will be a B2B contracting event and will not be available to the general public. The new dates in February will bring many benefits both to exhibitors and to buyers. The promotion of new designs at the beginning of the year will give buyers much more time to test the new offers and, in turn, will facilitate making decisions about orders in the second half of the year. The shipments will reach showrooms earlier.

MEBLE POLSKA 2010 is addressed solely to the furniture sector. Offers of the largest group of furniture producers in Poland will be showcased at the trade fair. The most important market leaders have declared their participation: Black Red White, Klose, Jadik, Rameta, Bogatti, Tombeau, Jafra, Wintech, Mebin, Gawin, Forte, MSP DĄB and many more. The lead theme of the fair is: “A new zone of contracts” This year’s MEBLE POLSKA is to become a venue for concluding contracts between furniture producers and business buyers (only furniture buyers). Planning of meetings will be facilitated thanks to business cards of exhibiting companies published at www.meble.mtp.pl. It is enough to click them to plan a business meeting.

Józef Szyszka: Poland is the 3rd largest European and the 4th largest international supplier of high quality furniture. The Polish furniture brand, however, is not known among foreign clients. MEBLE POLSKA, which will include presentations of integrated offers of Polish furniture manufacturers, is to promote the Polish furniture industry among traders and buyers from all over Europe.

A special offer has been prepared for furniture buyers this year. Traders can receive a special trader package including: free-of-charge admission and car entry on all trade fair days, a parking permit for parking a car on the fairgrounds, an all-day catering facility and participation in the traditional Poznań carnival party for furniture producers and traders. To receive a unique trader package complete the registration form at www.meble.mtp.pl.

MEBLE POLSKA 2010 will be traditionally held under the auspices of the Minister of Economy and numerous mass media.

Almost 500 exhibitors from over 20 countries participated in MEBLE and the simultaneously held BIURO, HOME DECOR and BUDMA INTERIOR shows in 2009. The offers were admired by 20,000 visitors.

Survey reveals that over a third of UAE office workers rarely leave their
 desks

A survey carried out on behalf of The Office Exhibition has shown that 33% of employees in the UAE either stay at their desk all day or only leave their desk for a lunch break. This puts a third of office workers at risk of serious health problems, such as obesity and deep vein thrombosis, or stress and back problems. These problems can easily be resolved with the incorporation of Deskercise into a regular working day.

To start the New Year on a healthier note, The Office Exhibition has devised a Deskercise routine, which helps fight stress and tension and encourages flexibility and mental stimulation, allowing people to take time out of a busy working day to focus on wellbeing. The routine, which is simple and effective, can be carried out in the office, as it can be performed at the desk at any point throughout the day. Deskercise focuses on regions of the body where tension is most likely to build up throughout the day, such as the neck, shoulders and back as well as providing toning workouts for arms, legs and stomach. The routine includes sets of fool-proof exercises which colleagues will not notice you doing:

• Neck Push - this can be done sitting or standing and helps to strengthen the neck muscles:

- Keep your head up-right

- Press one palm against your forehead and press head into your palm, which resists the push

- Hold for 10 to 15 seconds then release

- Clasp your hands behind your head

- Press head backwards, resisting the pressure with your hands

- Hold for 10 to 15 seconds then release

- Hold your right hand against the side of your head

- Press your head into your palm, resisting the pressure with your hand

- Hold for 10 to 15 second then release and repeat on the left side

• Heavy Hinged Shoulders - this exercise is done standing and will stretch the shoulders and release tension:

- Push both hands straight in front of you with your palms facing down

- Hold for five seconds

- Bend the arms in at the elbows with the fingers pointing straight ahead

- Hold for five seconds

- Repeat five to 10 times

• Tummy Toners - everyone wants a toned tummy, but sitting at a desk all day does not make for a slender stomach. Deskercise offers a way to tone whilst you type:.

- Sitting up-right in your chair, hold onto the arms or underneath of the seat

- Keep your feet together and knees bent

- Lift your knees to your chest whilst tightening your abdominal muscles

- Hold for five seconds

- Relax and repeat five to 10 times

• Shapely Arms - give your wrists a break from typing and get your arms working with a simple exercise which can be done at any time of day.

- Put your left hand on top of your right in front of you, palms together. Lift upward with your right arm while using your left arm to create resistance,

- Feel the pressure in your right arm and hold this for five seconds

- Switch arms and repeat. Do twice on each side

• Perfect Posture - posture can be seriously disturbed by sitting at a desk all day, which can lead to pain in your back, shoulders and neck:

- Whilst sitting, bend your elbows at a 90-degree angle, forearms parallel to the floor

- Squeeze your shoulder blades down and together

- At the same time gently press your elbows back

- Hold for five seconds then release and repeat

• Thunder Thighs – don’t neglect your legs, work your thighs with a simple exercise that no one else need see:

- Sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor

- Bring one leg straight out in front of you

- With your back straight and chin lifted, hold your leg up for five to 10 seconds

- Lower leg then repeat with the opposite one

- Repeat twice with each leg

Speaking about the survey, Sinead Bridgett, Show Director, The Office Exhibition said,

“People are now pretty aware of the importance of preventing DVT by exercising on longhaul flights, but few realise the potential health-hazards of a desk-bound job. Many people are now suffering serious health problems as a result of long working hours and the inability to take regular breaks from their desks.

“In order to optimise the brain, it is recommended that people should take regular breaks, have their lunch break away from their desk and exercise a few times a week after work. The Office Exhibition’s Deskercise routine is designed to go some way to ensure that office workers can exercise at any time of the day, providing some kind of release from everyday anxieties.”

Now in its 9th year, The Office Exhibition is a leading showcase for the high-end products, technology and services that combine to create outstanding working environments. Set to take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 9-11 February 2010, the show will feature over 350 companies, covering an area of approximately 15,000 m2.

DIEFFENBACHER CONCEPT FOR THE INDIAWOOD 2010 in BANGALORE

Dieffenbacher presents itself as the leading supplier for plant technologies for the production of engineered wood products. The decade long experience with many references all over the world and specifically in India enables Dieffenbacher to give an excellent value to customers. Short start-up times, technological support and the service and support from within the region - a package only Dieffenbacher can provide.

A strong financial background and the Know-How of hundreds of specialized engineers in the Dieffenbacher group make sure, that our plants work well and adapt to all kinds of raw material and product requirements. The very big R&D department ensures that Dieffenbacher is always creating the leading edge technology, which improves quality and reduces production cost. The success in developing new technologies in the fields of MDF, HDF, Woodfiber Insulationboard, Particleboard and OSB is proven by the many active patents hold by Dieffenbacher.

Wood-based panel plant

At the Indiawood the Dieffenbacher group for the first time incorporates SWPM in the stand and both companies present new technologies to our customers:

       a.  The Dieffenbacher concept uses a continuous press for the production of particleboard and
            MDF. Dieffenbacher is very proud about having the only references in India with continous
            presses.

       b.  SWPM presents its very successful and proven 4ft- MDF plant concept. It goes along with
            multidaylight and continues presses.

Dieffenbacher will be exhibiting in Hall 1, upper level during the Indiawood, held in Bangalore from 4–8  March 2010.

WMF2010 & FAM2010 - CREATING A NEW MILESTONE FOR WOODWORKING INDUSTRY IN 2010

Being an excellent trading platform in woodworking industry, the biennial world-class event, The 13th International Exhibition on Woodworking Machinery and Furniture Manufacturing Equipment (WMF2010) and The 13th International Exhibition on Furniture Accessories, Materials and Wood Products (FAM2010), will be held on March 10 to 13, 2010 at the China International Exhibition Centre (CIEC) in Beijing, China.

Despite the global economic downturn, the furniture and woodworking industry in China gradually recovers and records an encouraging growth. China is undoubtedly a huge market; Domestic sales for furniture in the first half of 2009 have reached RMB 152.9 billion, with a 10.6% year-on-year growth. Furniture exports in the first half of 2009 remained high at USD 14.1 billion despite a drop of 9.45%. Among all, the decline in China’s wood products import and export trade were less than the national level, trading amount for China’s wood products reached USD 26 billion in the first half of 2009. Second quarter data even showed a more impressive increase rate at 15.05%, when compared to first quarter. Such recovery has reinforced the enterprises’ confidence for the WMF2010 & FAM2010, which in turn has resulted to an overwhelming response in both exhibitors recruitment as well as visitor promotion.

Asia’s Largest Woodworking Fair Hits Record Scale

Following the success in 2006 and 2008, WMF2010 and FAM2010 continue to be Asia’s Largest Fair for Woodworking Machinery, Furniture Accessories and Materials. WMF2010 & FAM2010 will occupy an exhibition area of 70,000sqm, accommodating 700 exhibitors from 19 countries and regions including Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, India, Italy, Malaysia, China, Taiwan Province and more. Over 2,000 machines will be presented at the exhibit.

The organizers have also expanded the venue from 10 halls to 12 halls to include theme zones on Woodworking Machinery, Panel Board Manufacturing Technology, Furniture Accessories, Materials and Wood Products (Overseas), Furniture Accessories, Materials and Wood Products (Local) and others. Meanwhile, the number of pavilions will be increased to 7 to include those from Germany and Italy, and from associations / regions like Taiwan Association of Machinery Industry (TAMI), Taiwan Woodworking Machinery Association (TWMA), Qingdao Woodworking Machinery, Shanghai Woodworking Machinery and Lunjiao Woodworking Machinery.

Numerous renowned woodworking, accessories and materials enterprises have already confirmed / reserved spaces for the event. Lunjiao Woodworking Machinery Pavilion will house Nan Xing, New Mas, Weideli, V-hold, Guangdong Firmy, Tongan, Ente, etc. Qingdao Woodworking Machinery Pavilion will include Friend, Yazhou Gongyou (Weihai), Shanxi Qiulin, Qingdao Yongqiang, Qingdao Haomailong, Qingdao Huashunchang, Qingdao Haozhonghao, Qingdao New-Motivity, Shangdong Dongwei, Laizhou Fulin, Qingdao Qianchuan, Qingdao Huachengtian, etc. Shanghai Woodworking Machinery Pavilion currently partners with Shanghai Yuetong and other renowned exhibitors. Exhibitors from Furniture Accessories, Materials & Wood Products will include Blum and more, while exhibitors from the Woodworking Machinery & Panel Board Manufacturing Technology are namely Guanglong, Jiangsu Jangja, Nantong Guoquan, Dalian Huizhong, Anderson, Beijing Lianzhonglian, Keenman, Sufoma and more.

A One-stop Sourcing Platform for Machinery, Accessories and Materials

To enhance the brand image of the show, the organizer, Adsale Exhibition Services Ltd. specially designs a new logo for FAM. Incorporating with the original logo of WMF, the show has manifested one-stop purchasing and trading concept of “Machinery + Materials + Accessories” to all visitors.

Since its inception in 1986, WMF & FAM have gained wide support from furniture and related industries. The trade fair, recognized as the most established woodworking fair in China, is now in its thirteenth set. As in the past, WMF & FAM is expected to demonstrate the latest woodworking machinery, accessories and tools to professional buyers. Exhibits on machinery and tools will include Wood Processing Machinery, Furniture Manufacturing Machinery, Panel Board Manufacturing Machinery, Knife and Blade, Machinery Accessories, Hand Tools, Grinder, Measuring Equipment, Materials Handling Equipment, etc. Exhibits on the materials will include Logs, Panel Board, Hardware, Semi-finished Wood Products, Chemicals, Decoration Materials and more. Building Construction Products and Interior Decorative Materials and Software will also be displayed in their specific theme zones.

Supported Exclusively by EUMABOIS

WMF & FAM have gained exclusive support from European Federation of Woodworking Machinery Manufacturers (EUMABOIS) for three consecutive years (2008, 2010, and 2012), which further consolidates the show’s international and local support.

With diversified and extensive promotion campaigns, organizers have collaborated with various local and overseas trade media, as well as furniture-related professional markets for visitor promotion. Several buyer delegations and associations from the Hebei Province and more have been invited. Over 30,000 visitors from all over China and the world are expected to visit the show.

The honorary organizers of WMF and FAM are the State Forestry Administration of P.R. China, China International Exhibition Centre Group Corporation and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade. The organizers include China National Forestry Machinery Association, Adsale Exhibition Services Ltd., China Forestry Group Corporation and China Building Decoration Association.

INDEX, THE MIDDLE EAST’S MOST EXCLUSIVE INTERIOR DESIGN EVENT, IS SET TO OPEN ITS DOORS TO THE PUBLIC

INDEX, the leading trade interior design show in the Middle East, has announced an exclusive consumer evening on Monday 16 November, from 16.00 - 21.00. Consumers will have access to some of the most influential and cutting edge interior design brands from across the world all gathered in one place.

Showcasing everything from luxurious lighting to cutting edge textiles, unusual paints to outdoor furniture and tableware, INDEX is guaranteed to be the perfect place for design lovers to purchase sought after, individual pieces from leading interior brands from around the world including Villeroy & Boch, Alpha Crystal Lighting, Andrew Martin International, Bafco Karndean, Kartell, Flou, Zanotta and Swarovski.

In addition to being able to snap up some fabulous and unique pieces for the home, consumers will also get an in-depth insight into all the latest interior trends, providing inspiration for them to create the perfect stylish home. Leading interior designers will also be on hand with style advice and providing top tips on interior design. World expert trend forecaster, Victoria Redshaw from Scarlet Opus will provide consumers with an overview of the Spring/Summer 2010 & Autumn/Winter 2010/11 trends, detailing the coming season’s colours, materials and surface patterns, ensuring that they are informed about the latest interior design concepts.

The show is also set to include other inspirational features, such as a competition to design the majlis of the future. The first competition of its kind, four leading interior design companies have been selected to design and build their vision of the contemporary majlis using only products available at the show. A symbol of traditional Arabic culture where family and friends gather, the challenge lies in fusing the old with the new. All four designs will be built and showcased at INDEX, with the best being selected and awarded by a panel of industry leaders.

Lu Buchanan, INDEX event director said, “We are looking forward to welcoming consumers to what is otherwise a trade dominated event. INDEX will provide a rare opportunity to purchase a vast array of high end products from the best designers in the world, including Italy and Spain. With the exhibition’s focus firmly on high-quality design, visitors are guaranteed an exclusive opportunity that anyone with an interest in interior design should not miss!”

Access to the consumer day will cost just 50 AED, with tickets available on the door of the World Trade Centre, for more information or to reserve your ticket visit www.indexexhibition.com.

With European markets depressed as a result of the economic crisis, The Office Exhibition 2010 is seeing increasing interest from European office sector companies wanting to capitalise on the huge opportunities that are available in the UAE.

The office sector in the UAE continues to grow, and the region is becoming an attractive location for companies to relocate to, with many leading international companies transferring their headquarters to the region as a result of its tax-free environment and advantageous free-zones.  The recent drop in high office rent, prompted by the current global economic situation, has also added to the attractiveness of the region, resulting in an increasing number of businesses relocating or opening offices within the GCC.  The UAE is predicted to have the highest growth in office space in the region, with a further 6.7 million m² of new office space planned in 2010 alone.

Despite the current global economic downturn, the MENA region is still growing, achieving real GDP growth of 2% for 2009.  In particular, the higher education, healthcare and public sectors are set to continue to experience extraordinary growth, with the UAE government committed to spending some US$56 billion on public development projects over the next three years.

The Office Exhibition, now in its 9^th year, is a premium showcase for the high-end products, technology and services that combine to create outstanding working environments.  The exhibition, which is the only event of its kind in the MENA region, will take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 9-11 February 2010 and will feature over 350 companies, covering an area of approximately 25,000 m².  The event has evolved into a one-stop-shop for the office industry, and will include everything from the latest in office furniture design to cutting edge technology solutions.

Interest in the show from companies outside of the Middle East, in particular from Europe, has increased significantly.  In addition to National Pavilions from the UAE, Germany, Portugal, UK, Austria, Sweden, USA, Korea and Turkey, there will be a debut appearance of a Greek Pavilion, and Cyprus has doubled the size of theirs.  The Danish Export Association is also, for the first time, working on bringing a grouped participation of up to 12 companies.

Given the changing shape of the office, with technology becoming increasingly important, The Office Exhibition 2010 will have an increased focus on this sector, and will provide opportunities for IT companies from across the world to showcase their latest products.  The show will also include a visionary Future Office feature, where a number of manufacturers from both furniture and the technology companies will put together a mock-up of their predictions of what the working environment will look like in years to come, addressing also the ergonomic issues.   

Sinead Bridgett, The Office Exhibition event director, said, “As the European economy continues to suffer, we are seeing strong interest from European companies who are recognising the massive potential of the Middle East.  The office sector here remains a growth area, and The Office Exhibition provides an excellent opportunity for overseas businesses to showcase their products, and network with companies here.”

POSITIVE BUSINESS NEWS FROM THE GCC REGION

Saudi Arabia's small business sector is among the most optimistic of 12 key emerging markets studied in a new HSBC survey.

Small business sentiment across the kingdom was largely positive in their 12 month outlook regarding nvestment in their businesses, foreign trade and recruitment, the Emerging Markets Small Business Confidence Monitor added.

The survey showed that 39 percent of Saudi businesses with a turnover of less than $30m expected to increase capital expenditure while only 19 percent believed investment in their companies would slow.

The kingdom's entrepreneurs were even more optimistic about trade outlook. About 57 percent believed trade with the rest of the Middle East will expand by up to a fifth or more.

80 percent predicted increased business with mainland China, with more than half of these anticipating growth of more than 20 percent.

Two thirds of respondents forecast a rise in trade with the rest of Asia.

Regarding recruitment, owners and top management of Saudi Arabia's small businesses have the most ambitious plans of any of the 12 emerging markets surveyed with 40 percent expecting to need to increase their workforces and with one in eight seeking to grow their staff by more than 20 percent.

"Overall, the leaders of Saudi Arabia's smaller business sector - the vital fuel of every country's economy - are more positive about the short term outlook than their counterparts in almost all other emerging markets surveyed," said, Adel Al-Nasser, deputy managing director of SABB.

Strong support from our exhibitors ensure FMC 2009 was fully booked a month before its opening. FMC will host more than 600 exhibitors of woodworking machinery and furniture matereals over 36,000 sqm of exhibition space. The show is proud to attract a large numbe of famous machinery equipment brands, including HOMAG, BIESSE, WEINIG, YUETONG, NANXING, YUANTIAN, many other wel-known Chinese woodworking machinery manufacturers as well as a pavilion organized by the Taiwan Woodworking Machinery Association (TWMA) with more than twenty Taiwanese companies. At the same time, more than 350 domestc furniture matereal suppliers will present a full variety of high-quality products and exhibits, together with well-known international brands like AHEC, JOWAT, ITC, CHENGUANG, FRENCHTIMBER, KINGDECOR etc. Firms like HUARUN coating and BASF will be participating in the show for the first time.

Located in hall E5, FMC PREMIUM 2009 will feature 150 selected exhibitors over 6,000 sqm of exhibition space. Exhibits will cover all necessities for furniture manufacturing rom raw materials to chemicals, fittings, semi-finished products and many more.

The Organiser is arranging a series of seminars and other activities during the show to foster cooperation between domestc and overseas companies. Organised in cooperation with "China Wood", the "Legal & Sustainable Furniture Raw Mateal Forum" will be held on September 10, 2009. WWF-CFTN, FSC\PEPC, AHEC, Canada Wood and French Timber will come together to discuss timber availability, classification and application in China, and about sustainable development of furniture matereal.

FMC 2009 will be a testimony to the rapid development of the country's furniture and interior design industry. This year the show will again

NEW MEDIA CENTER TO OPEN FOR FALL 2009 HIGH POINT MARKET

State-of-the-art Environment Designed by Industry Icon Jena Hall and Furnished by aspenhome

High Point, North Carolina, August 24, 2009—The High Point Market Authority is unveiling a brand new, state-of-the-art, High Point Market Media Center this Fall in a  permanent space on the plaza level of SHOWPLACE West, at the corner of Main and High Streets.

The High Point Market Media Center—which has long been housed in a temporary location inside the High Point Theater -hosts some 350 editorial media representatives from at least 200 different publications each Market from across the world and provides press kit distribution for the Market’s exhibitors.

The new Media Center will open to the press at noon on Friday, October 16, 2009 and remain open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. throughout Market week. All High Point Market exhibitors are invited to send press kits to the Media Center and there is no charge for press kit distribution. 

According to Brian D. Casey, president and chief executive officer of the High Point Market Authority, industry icon Jena Hall, executive vice president of merchandising and design at AspenHome, is overseeing layout and design of the new, 3,000-square-foot permanent space, which features a full complement of comfortable seating and sleek home office furnishings from aspenhome’s award-winning Adagio collection.

“Given how hard journalists work here at Market each season, covering news and new product introductions in more than 60 categories of home furnishings with multiple choices at every price point from more than 2,000 world-class suppliers, we wanted to create a convenient and comfortable, and extremely functional space where they could retreat to work and relax,” Casey says. “Our goal is for them to come into the Media Center, sit down and say, ‘Ah,’ and we are grateful to aspenhome for so graciously helping us to realize this vision.”

For his part,Bill Colegrove, chief executive officer and general manager of aspenhome says, “We are honored to demonstrate our support of the High Point Market by furnishing the Media Center, which will be used by journalists from across the country and around the world. High Point is the heartbeat of the industry and as the Market celebrates its 100^th anniversary this year, we believe it is our responsibility to help ensure its continued success in the years to come.”

“The press room has historically always been the place where both the national and international press obtains information about the latest trends and news from the home furnishings Market,” Hall says. “In creating the new space, we talked with the Market Authority about the evolving needs of journalists today. The result is a wired space that is warm and inviting and as stylistically up-to-date as it is functional.”

“As a former journalist used to long hours covering Market myself, I’m very excited about the comfort and functionality of the new Media Center,” says Kimberley Wray, vice president of marketing/communications for the Market Authority. “From the floor-to-ceiling windows which flood the space with light to the modern, ergonomically correct furnishings, everything has been done with an eye toward making the press feel welcome and at home in the world’s home for home furnishings.”

Adds Patricia Bowling, vice president of communications, American Home Furnishings Alliance, (AHFA), who assists the Market Authority with Media Center operations, “The furnishings will allow journalists to work the way they like to work, whether that means curled in a comfortable chair with a notebook computer, or seated at a work station surrounded by all the accoutrements of an office, or even collaborating with a colleague across a desk. We think this will be an ideal environment for press from all over the world to gather and we applaud the Market Authority’s efforts to improve services for the media here at Market.”

“The entire team at the Market Authority and the AHFA, which has operated the Media Center on behalf of the Market for the past ten years, is looking forward to the grand opening of this new permanent home for the press,” says Casey.

 # # #

The High Point Market Authority is the official sponsor of the High Point Market in High Point, North Carolina. Featuring an extensive selection of exhibitors spanning every category, style and price point and attracting thousands of visitors from more than 110 countries twice each year, the High Point Market is the driving force of the home furnishings industry.

INDEX 2009 SET TO PARTNER WITH APID – FIRST STEPS TOWARDS DUBAI FESTIVAL OF INTERIOR DESIGN

INDEX 2009, the leading trade interior design show in the Middle East, has signed an agreement with APID, the Association of Professional Interior Designers, making them the official partner for this year’s show.  It marks the first steps towards a combined goal of introducing the Dubai Festival of Interior Design, which would place the Emirate at the forefront of the international interior design calendar.

APID is hosting the 24th General Assembly of the IFI (International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers) and the World Interior Design Congress 2009.  These biennial events are being held in Dubai for the first time in their 46 year history, and take place from 6-11 November.

INDEX takes place the following week, from 14-17 November, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, and is introducing a number of features to help the interior design industry maximise opportunities in what is a difficult business environment.  The exhibition will showcase some of the industry’s leading products and designs from high profile companies including Longhi, Rexite, Porada, Andreu World and Colleccion Alexandra.  Pre visitor registration for INDEX is already at record levels, up by over 90% from this time last year.

In order to bridge the gap between the events, INDEX will be hosting cultural tours for IFI delegates on 12 and 13 November, as well as a reception at the show.  In addition, IFI delegates will be invited to join the INDEX VIP Business Match-Making programme, which will match top interior designers, specifiers and buyers with relevant exhibitors.

Hosting the Dubai Festival of Interior Design will be a fusion of the best of creative talents and business minds that will undoubtedly place Dubai on a level with other major international design show capitals.

The Emirate of Dubai will embrace interior design for the week, promoting interior design as a vital part of Dubai’s economy where significant projects are confirmed for the year 2009.  The Dubai Festival of Interior Design will elevate the profile and global understanding of professional interior design and consultancy to a new level, thereby providing significant benefits to both clients and the design profession world wide. 

APID and INDEX are collaborating closely to ensure that this event will be a landmark in the design calendar and an event at the forefront of “Design Worldwide”, for the future.

Lu Buchanan, INDEX event director said, “We have been working closely with the industry to ensure that INDEX 2009 is very design-focused, as we want to produce a show that rivals the other leading international interior design events.  Our longer term goal is to expand INDEX so that it becomes part of a brand new Dubai Festival of Interior Design.  Working with APID, and other interested parties, will ensure that this happens, and our formal relationship for INDEX 2009 is a great start to this process.

“We are looking forward to IFI Conference delegates joining us – I am confident that the special activities we have planned for them, in addition to the fact that they will be part of our VIP Business Match-Making programme, will make their time in Dubai worthwhile.”

Kenneth Laidler, APID President, added, “”APID was given the opportunity to host the IFI National Assembly and grasped the opportunity with both hands, similarly APID welcomes the opportunity to partner with INDEX and is confident the collaboration will produce a truly individual inspiring and memorable event.”

LE 2010 ANTICIPATES TO GATHER LARGER SUPPLIERS OF
FURNITURE & WOOD INDUSTRY

The 4th International Supplier Fair of Wood and Furniture Industry gathered, from July 27 to 30, 2009, nearly 750 companies exhibiting machines, raw material, hardware, accessories and services for the wood and furniture Industry. The largest fair of the sector in Latin America, ForMóbile received around 60 thousand visitors, coming not only from Brazil but from all over the world, especially from South America and Central America.

The great development of the supplying industries in this sector in Brazil makes the country a technology radiating pole to the entire region. Brazil exports machines, raw material and hardware to many countries. These are products of great quality, comparable to the European products, with very competitive prices, sometimes comparable to the Asian prices. All this diversity is exhibited at ForMóbile, which also counts on another important competitive differential: its location in the city of São Paulo. São Paulo is geographically located in a point of easy access, both for Brazilians and foreigners. Also, the city has the broadest and most complete infrastructure of services in the country. It counts on about 60 thousand hotel rooms, 12,500 restaurants and 15 thousand bars, in establishments with tariffs and services for all tastes and budgets. Another important point: São Paulo is served by the largest road and air network in the country, which makes the access to ForMóbile easy, fast and cheap.

The ForMóbile visitation profile is quite varied, which is another differential aspect of the event. They are furniture makers, woodworkers, carpenters, resellers, wood processors, architects and designers, among others.

The president of the fair, Alexandre Barbosa, declares that this great variety of professionals attending ForMóbile 2008 is due to the fact that it is a complete fair: “No other event in Brazil gathers so many exhibitors, novelties, and so many new partnership opportunities. There will be exhibitors from the major international and national groups that supply technology or inputs to the wood and furniture areas. Therefore, the fair is a unique chance to see all these novelties at once”, he explains.

Besides the main fair, ForMóbile 2010 will have three important simultaneous events. The Texbrasil Decor Textile Exhibit brings the latest worldwide trends in fabrics, colors, and textures specially developed for the furniture and decoration sector. The ForMar – Joiners/Carpenter Fair – will have a special program of exhibition and workshops for small furniture manufacturers, besides a “Model Furniture Factory” operating during the fair, demonstrating processes and products.

The main highlight of the simultaneous events at ForMóbile 2010, however, will be the ForWood – International Suppliers Fair of Wood Transformation Industry. Following a world trend to gather the entire production chain in a great event that is subdivided into other smaller ones, ForMóbile 2010 will have the first year of Forwood. Since the first edition, in 2004, ForMóbile has already counted on the presence of the wood field, important link of the chain. This participation has grown and now justifies the need for a specific event to be held, with different attractions and profile. ForWood shall broadly include the wood chain, from the beginning up to the finished product.

FURNITURE MANUFACTURING & SUPPLYCHINA2009

Concurrently with Furniture China, FMC Premium September 9-12, 2009, Shanghai New Int’l Expo Centre

Organizer:

China National Furniture Association

Shanghai UBM Sinoexpo Int’l Exhibition Co., Ltd.

FMC 2009 – Fully Booked

Furniture Manufacturing & Supply China 2009 (FMC 2009) will be staged alongside FMC Premium at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre from September 9-12, 2009. Being a part of Furniture China, FMC is one of the largest furniture equipment and material exhibitions in Asia. The show is proud to attract more than 650 famous machinery equipment exhibitors and furniture supply corporations.

FMC 2009 benefits from co-location with Furniture China 2009, the 4th largest furniture exhibition in the world, which is expected to attract more than 70,000 domestic and international trade visitors. FMC and FMC Premium will host about 650 companies with 36,000 sqm of exhibition area.

World famous brands re-join in spite of a weak economy

Despite a bleak economic climate, FMC 2009 has continued to keep its key figures at the record heights achieved in the previous edition. According to the statistics of the organizer, FMC 2009 is fully booked again. International and domestic woodworking manufacturers, such as HOMAG, BIESSE, WEINIG, SCM, NANXING, Shanghai YUETONG, V-HOLD confirmed their participation. Taiwan Woodworking Manufacturers Association (TWMA) will joint with more than 30 of their members. In addition, a large number of exhibitors have confirmed their attendance in the classified display sections, LEITZ, LEUCO and AKE in Saws Blades and Tools hall, JUNJIA, LIWANG in Fabric and Leather hall, HYDERON, BOKE in Furniture Hardware and Fittings hall, CHANGRUNFA PAINT, HUARUN PAINT in Furniture Coatings & Chemicals hall…Thus FMC will create an excellent opportunity for great business deals and provide international networking at the show.

FMC Premium continues to attract industry leaders

As a part of FMC, FMC Premium continues to provide an exclusive business platform where exhibitors can concentrate fully on business and products. Targeted at high leveled furniture raw material exhibitors, FMC Premium has been fully booked, among them international companies such as JOWAT, POLLMEIER, EXOR, TABU, AHEC, etc. FMC Premium witnesses the rapid development of the country’s furniture and interior design industry. The show will again bring us updated products and ideas of the market.

Exhibition space of FURNITURE CHINA including 10 indoor halls and 26 outdoor halls are fully booked and assure the high quality and quantity exhibitors and visitors of FMC. Thus the show will showcase the full spectrum of the industry. This September exhibitors from over 20 different countries gather in Shanghai, to show their latest products, discuss the latest industry technologies, prospects and innovations. In this special environment, FMC will still be the most important platform in China for visitors and the exhibitors to establish profitable relationships.

NO.1 IN ASIA，LEADING THE WORLD “CIFF 2009”

CIFF 2009 March, short for 23rd China International Furniture Fair (Guangzhou), lowered its curtain with gratifying results on March 30th at China Import & Export Fair Complex, Guangzhou. The 1st phase of the grand event specialized in CIFF-Home Furniture, staged from March 18th to 21st, concurrently with Outdoor & Leisure Guangzhou 2009, Homedecor & Housewares China 2009, CeramEx China 2009 and Intertextile Guangzhou-Hometextile China 2009, while the 2nd phase focused on CIFF-Office Furniture, along with China International Woodworking Machinery & Furniture Raw Materials Fair (Guangzhou) / interzum guangzhou 2009 from March 27th to 30th.

In the face of the global economic crisis, the March show of CIFF 2009 along with seven vertical shows under one roof gained a great success. The total exhibition scale has enlarged to 500,000 SQM and hosted 2620 domestic and overseas exhibitors while gathering 136310 buyers, 32922 of which are overseas buyers from 160 countries and 103388 are domestic buyers, respectively. The overall attendance of buyers remains the same level as that of 2008, with 3.1% growth in domestic visitors and 11.8% decline in overseas counterparts.  According to the feedback of our satisfaction survey, exhibitors are fairly pleased with the results which are better than what they anticipate and they have basically achieved the targeted goals.

CIFF-HOME FURNITURE (18th -21, March, 2009)

ALL Star Cast

CIFF 2009 March - Home Furniture shows up with an all-star cast. The domestic leading brands like LANDBOND, HING LEE, KINWAI, ROYAL, KUKA, ZUOYOU, RED APPLE, OPAL, KANG SHENG, BEKING，CAMERICH, ZHI HAO, STEEL-LAND, YI FENG, BILTURE display their newest products in Modern Furniture region. FOUR SEAS, BO YUEN, YUE XING, WEN HUA SPIRIT, POSH, GOLD PHOENIX, GAINWELL, FU BANG, WSXINGLONG, MINGQING in Classical Furniture region exemplifies dazzling charm in showcase. Besides, overseas exhibitors including INDEX(Thailand), Colono(Spain), KODA(Singapore), Ashley(America), Jans2en(HK), HI TEAM(Taiwan), PT. BUANA INTER GLOBAL(Indonesia) bring in the furniture of fresh designs. Though the buyers from USA and Europe buy less due to weak markets, exhibitors gain increased trading volume in the domestic market and other rising markets like Middle East. The furniture wholesaling giants of Shunde Louvre and Redstar Macalline have their booth shown at CIFF as well.

Comments from Participants

President of China National Furntiure Association, Mr. Jia Qingwen, praises CIFF as “the barometer of Chinese furniture industry”. Chinese buyers are happy to see the enterprises pay more attention to the domestic market, while 89.2% overseas buyers are satisfied with the exhibition effect according to the on-site survey. The trading delegation from Japan is formed with five reprehensive enterprises like TAIYO Furniture, JEFSA Central Inc., GARANT MOBEL and so on. Particularly, the president over 80 years old of TAIYO Furniture, the biggest furniture department store in Japan, takes part in the shopping at CIFF for the first time. The speaker of the delegation says, “We will increase the shopping volume and select the suppliers and qualified products more carefully this year. This is our unique way to tackle the difficult time.” He also remarks, “On this tough occasion, it is impressive for CIFF to successfully keep the progress in scale and quality.”

Professional Activities & Service On-Site

The fashion concept of “LOHAS”, standing for the idea of healthy life and human friendliness, is expressed in the design of furniture found throughout the fair, which delivers the good experience to the visitors. They also appreciate the services and activities at the CIFF, like the “Service System for Frequent Buyers” first launched this year, the gallery of “Red-Stroke Design Exhibition” promoting cooperation between designers and manufactories, and the Digital Kitchen Zone highlighting the technology in lifestyle. The multifunction of trading and communication at CIFF gains the high intention for next session’s participation from both buyers and exhibitors.

Outdoor & Leisure Guangzhou 2009

Under “VIP Union System”, innovatively launched this year, 105 most influential brands like ALMA CONTRACT, KIAN, MANO LEISURE, GARDENART FURNITURE, ARTIE GARDEN, HUATONG GARDEN and LINYA CRAFTWORK have been attracted to the fair of Outdoor & Leisure Guangzhou 2009. The show establishes a high-end platform for commercial meeting, image presenting and fashion releasing through the full display of outdoor living.

Seminar on European Outdoor Furniture Design delivers a hint of making use of high-quality environment-friendly materials to enter the market. The gallery of “World Class Outdoor Design” combines together top-brand display and interactive communication to release the latest outdoor fashion and promote the concept of healthy living. Over 90% buyers are satisfied with the show and will come back next year in the survey.

Homedecor & Housewares China 2009

Homedecor & Housewares China 2009 covered an area of 35,000 SQM, 15,000 SQM larger than the previous session in March 2009. Around 200 domestic and overseas enterprises including famous brands like Sitong,Xiang You, Artage, Eternal, Yinbo, Zhongshun Wooden, Jin Da, Landbond, Ya Masun, Fuhua, Beixiong displayed their qualify products at the show.The diversity of product lines cover the products of Pottery & Glassware, Lighting, Picture & Frames displayed at the show which becomes richer than that of the last session. The inspired designers bring in concepts like “Continental Style”, “Miscellaneous Pieces” of Nature, Abstract Art, and Accessories for all to the exhibits.

There are 34,834 buyers visit the show, 8,322 of which are international buyers. 82% of them feel satisfied with the effect of participation and find the products meeting their needs.   

Ceramics China 2009

CeramEx China 2009, covering an area of 10,000 SQM, has engaged in household & art ceramics in spite of Hong Kong Pavilion and Chao Zhou Pavilion. Famous brands like Sanhuan, Red Star, Hualian, Liuhua, Shunxiang, and Yongfengyuan exhibit at the show with products from different regions. The stylish features insist on the concept of health, environmental friendliness and green techiques. Hunan Hualian China Industry Co.,LTD. showcases the estimated master piece of the Chairman Mao’s memoral, which is full of collection values and attracts a good flow of visitors at the show. 

Intertextile Guangzhou- Hometextile China 2009

China (Guangzhou) International Trade Fair for Home Textiles 2009(hereinafter refer to as Intertextile Guangzhou- Hometextile China 2009) featured by 151 exhibitors in an exhibition area of 20,000 SQM. It’s the first time that overseas group pavilions from Germany, Britain, Korea and Pakistan participated in the show, while the exhibitors from major domestic manufacturing clusters like Yuhang, Jiaxing, Shaoxing and Haining in Zhejiang province continually attend the show in regional pavilions. The products are much richer with sofa fabrics and leather accounting for 43.9%, upholstery fabrics 23%, curtain fabrics 15.5%, bed linen, blankets and bedding down products, carpets and rugs 17.6%.

Seminar-“The trends of 2010 for the interior products market based on observation of developments in Europe” was performed by Kevin Lewis - a famous designer from Britain during the show. The Gallery of “Outstanding Works in Home Textiles 2008” displays the awarded products in last session show. Visitors are crowding into the gallery and appreciating them as pieces of art. Buyers throughout the world pay high involvement to the show and about 80% of whom remarked that they will be back at the next session according to the research.

CIFF-OFFICE FURNITURE (27-30, March, 2009)

All Star Cast

CIFF 2009 March - Office Furniture is the largest office furniture event in Asia with features of new concepts, new designs and new stature. Nearly all top furniture enterprises like MATSU, SAOSWN, OU LIN, YOUZHAN、SUNON, OFISWORLD have participate the show and divided by specified product categories in order under the deeper professional organization. Many famous manufacturers at the fair demonstrate their latest creations and advancements to show their improvement in technological innovation. SUNON firstly releases their latest R&D technique of “U + Coating Technology” during the show, which reveals the new progress in the environmental friendly skill in domestic furniture manufacturing industry. Seminar hosted by SAOSEN Furniture introduces the future development of “medium density fiberboard powder coating technique” to furniture manufacturing.

Multiple Industrial Activities On-Site

The office furniture show this year adopts the creative multiple formats in activity organization. The theme gallery of “Finland Modern Furniture Design and Office Space-Works of Yrjo Kukkapuro and His Students” is one of the unique activities consisting of three parts: the design works show, the academic forum and the cocktail banquet. Many domestic furniture companies appreciate the works created by the renowned design master and his students and acquire advanced design concepts from Europe through the event. It also functions as a channel for communication in the furniture industry. Besides, the Annual Meeting of China National Furniture Association Office Furniture Profession is held during the show. The 3rd Annual Meeting of Government Furniture Procurement kicks off with officials from over 30 procurement centers of municipal governments and furniture company representatives. The 23rd CIFF-Office Furniture is more than a mere “one-stop” trading platform, but a must attended event of Chinese office furniture industry.

Comments from Participants

Though the industry is in a tough time resulting from the global economic crisis, the industry practitioners still remain confident about the future by the positive responses from the market at CIFF. Zhu Changling, vice president of China National Furniture Association, foresees an increase of exports in the office furniture industry; his foresight is not only justified by investigation done by the organizer of CIFF which indicates that there is a change in sales strategy, but not in volume, but also proved by the marketing director with HONGKAI who also says that there is an increase in the number of buyers both at home and from abroad at this fair indicating a promising future.

Renames in 2010

As Asia’s mature trading platform of office furniture, CIFF Office Furniture Show is growing to be the best place to showcase office integrated environment, office space design and systematic planning. From March 2010, the show will be renamed as CIFF Office Show, so as to further reflect the positioning of Whole-office presentation. Getting more elements from office perspective, the show will provide all-in-one solutions in the fields of modern office space layout, environment design and supported facilities. (无须突出该部分)

China International Woodworking Machinery & Raw Materials Fair (Guangzhou)/ INTERZUM GUANGZHOU 2009

China International Woodworking Machinery & Raw Materials Fair (Guangzhou)/interzum guangzhou 2009, holding the strategic position as a gateway for international companies to sell to the China market as well as a springboard for China companies to sell to Asia, attracts many repeated as well as first time exhibitors. The fair is further enlarged in size to 80,000sqm, 33% over that of last year, providing more opportunities for participating companies and buyers. In total, 761 exhibitors attend the show, 10.6% more than that of last year, with 209 international exhibitors.

Industry players remain optimistic about the future. About 39,222 buyers visit the show, 9,057 of which are overseas buyers, slightly over the situation in last year. Li Qiang from Chengdu, China, says the increasing number of buyers at the fair shows the sign of an optimistic attitude toward the future market. The frequent buyer, Karl R. Kehrer from Australia, is glad to see the great progress in scale and upgraded products and service. Jan Rudzki, the purchasing agent from Sweden, says with excitement and eagerness that products exhibited are great in quantity.

“Actually, the situation is better than what we expected. Chinese customers are more optimistic and they hold a very good view for the future.” commented Mr. Marco Rampichini, General Manager, SCM Group. Mr. Aduen Wang, the Marketing Manager for A&D JASMINE INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD said “This is the second time that we exhibit and we feel that it is an excellent platform to showcase our products, as we received many enquiries from buyers in China and the Asia Pacific region.”

Preview of CIFF 2009 September

In the next session, the 24th CIFF will keep the exhibition marketing principle of “Export Orientation” along with the “Domestic Market Expansion”. There are three highlights of CIFF 2009 September you can not afford to miss as follows:

A Right Comprehensive “Whole-Home-Decor” showcase with accessories and textiles.

Core themes of Modern Furniture and Classical Furniture in CIFF 2009 Sept. along with Homedecor + Hometextile China (Guangzhou) 2009 will be held concurrently. Outdoor & Leisure products theme will be shown in the special zone at the show. The exhibits from interior furnishing to outdoor lifestyle will form the “Whole-Home-Decor” platform continually.

September Fair Attracts Growing Attention of the world

CIFF 2009 September’s exhibition venue is located closely by the largest furniture manufactory base of China and Southern Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan. The marketing channel throughout the world and the thousands of esteemed customers of CIFF will make CIFF 2009 September the Asia’s furnishing sourcing center in fall season.

Professional Service Valuates your Participation.

The floor plan arrangement will be divided more scientifically; high technology in fair networking will be adopted to upgrade the service systems for buyers, exhibitors and media; more added value activities and seminars will be organized to motivate the long-term development of the furniture industry. More spectacular business of world furniture industry awaits your participation in CIFF 2009 September. See you right in Guangzhou, September 6th-9th, 2009.

SENIOR MINISTER GOH APPLAUDS SINGAPORE MOZAIC SHOWING AT SALONE
INTERNATIONALE DEL MOBILE 2009 IN ITALY

Singapore’s Senior Minister, Mr Goh Chok Tong visited the prestigious Salone Internazionale del Mobile 2009 in Milan, Italy on Wedneday. He visited the show to lend support for the Singapore contingent representing the country’s furniture industry at the event under the collective brand, Singapore Mozaic.

SM Goh was received by Mr Andrew Ng, President of the Singapore Furniture Industries Council and accompanied by representatives from Singapore government agencies. Together, they toured the Singapore pavilion and viewed the quality displays by the six local companies that are holding Singapore’s name up high under the Singapore Mozaic umbrella – they are brand ambassadors Air Division Pte Ltd, Getz Bros & Co (S) Pte Ltd, Koda Ltd, Office Planner Pte Ltd and Star Furniture Industries Pte Ltd as well as Exit Design.

An initiative by the Singapore Furniture Industries Council (SFIC), Singapore Mozaic is a B2B industry furniture brand supported by International Enterprise Singapore (IE Singapore) and SPRING Singapore. It aims to showcase Singapore furniture’s finest and to enhance global recognition of the quality, design, reliability and value offered by Singapore’s furniture companies so as to gain greater market share worldwide.

SM Goh also had a series of lively discussions with the representatives of the six Singapore exhibitors at the fair whose participation is supported by the International Marketing Activities Programme (IMAP) from International Enterprise Singapore (IE Singapore). He was also given a quick overview of the works by six of Singapore’s rising design companies - 1degOFF design playgroup, d.lab™, Jarrod Lim Design, Air Design Group, Outofstock and Studio JUJU. These companies are exhibiting at Salone Satellite, an annual showcase for new designs and ideas by young architects and students of industrial design with the support of the Overseas Promotion Partnership Programme (OPPP) by DesignSingapore Council. Mr Andrew Ng said: “I am glad that Singapore furniture companies and our young designers are leveraging on important international platforms such as Salone Internazionale del Mobile to reach out to a bigger, global audience and thus, increase Singapore’s profile as reputable furniture player in the international market”.

SM Goh’s visit is a strong testimony for the local furniture industry and an endorsement of its efforts to expand internationally. The positive encouragement he has given to the Singapore Mozaic ambassadors and furniture designers while on his visit to Salone Internazionale del Mobile has given the industry a positive fillip.

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