IFFS, enjoyed a reputation for quality and diversity

IFFS expects to attract visitors from over 100 countries - as I've mentioned, it's an eminently international affair, with the kind of global appeal that makes it accessible for every nationality. Case in question - two UK suppliers (London's design-led Andrew Martin is already well established here) decided to exhibit at IFFS this year for the first time, in an effort to broaden their market reach - Carlton Furniture and Core Products, the former wearing its UK identity proudly in its new logo, and the latter presenting flat-pack product under the name The Flat Pack Furniture People. Both reported highly promising first days, and both, interestingly, made sales to UK customers! It's a valid step for anyone feeling that their stockist pool is dwindling, yet a brave one - the principals of both agree that their reputation and reach have been heightened by the experience, and both felt that IFFS was the ideal place in the East from which to strike outwards.

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IFFS' home base may be under new pressures this year, but these are being tackled head-on. Like many others, Singapore's companies face rising business costs and a tighter labour market in 2013, and its Government has introduced measures to help these operators restructure to meet these challenges, as well as find new opportunities in the region. In 2011, a S$17m Furniture Productivity Plan was launched, and so far aid to the tune of S$9.6m has been committed to support the productivity of 63 local companies. This entails various initiatives to encourage design innovation, optimise productivity, and enable the exploration of new markets - hence Singapore Furniture Industry Council (SFIC) members participating in the most recent editions of imm cologne and Shanghai's Furniture China.

Following a trend I'm expecting to afflict this month's global events in general, IFFS may be a little quieter this year - I'll wait for the official visitor numbers to qualify that - but the event is clearly set on a path to success. I recommend a visit to any buyer wishing to gauge the newest Eastern - nay, global - trends, and the higher end of the region's product. Long has IFFS enjoyed a reputation for quality and diversity, and it's a strength that is only likely to intensify.