The British Furniture Association: Championing the UK’s Thriving Furniture Industry

The British Furniture Association (BFA) stands at the heart of a vibrant and dynamic industry, proudly serving as the voice of the UK furniture sector. Our mission is clear: to support British furniture suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers by fostering collaboration, liaising with government, and promoting a thriving, sustainable industry.

A Vital Industry for the UK Economy

The UK furniture sector is a cornerstone of the national economy. In 2023, total consumer expenditure on furniture, textile floorcoverings, and furnishings exceeded a staggering £28.7 billion. The industry, encompassing both manufacturing and retail, is made up of over 33,000 companies, collectively contributing more than £41 billion to the UK economy.

Recent figures highlight interesting trends:

• Furniture imports dropped by 13% in 2023 to £11.96 billion, with China being the largest source (£3.85 billion), followed by Italy (£972 million), Poland (£878 million), and Germany (£839 million).
• Furniture exports rose by 11% compared to 2022, reaching £3.49 billion.

A Passionate Team with Strong Governance

At the BFA, our passionate team is backed by robust governance, ensuring we deliver a wide range of meaningful services, benefits, and support for our members. Run by members, for members—and for the wider industry—we represent businesses from every part of the UK. Our broad sector includes upholstery, cabinet, bathroom, kitchen, and office furniture, as well as mattresses and beds.

Founded in 1947 as the British Furniture Manufacturers (BFM), the BFA has witnessed—and helped shape—decades of industry change. Today, the lines between manufacturing and retail are increasingly blurred, with vertical integration and evolving business models. Our membership has expanded to reflect these changes, bringing together suppliers, manufacturers, and, more recently, retailers.

Growing Membership, Growing Influence

As our membership grows, so does our influence. The combined turnover of our members now exceeds £5.5 billion. This scale strengthens our ability to petition government and raise awareness of the industry’s needs. The more diverse our membership, the greater our collective voice.

The BFA is a not-for-profit organisation, but growth is essential to maximising our effectiveness. Increased membership enables us to expand our benefits and services, ensuring maximum value for our members.

Connecting the Industry: Events, Forums, and Support

Regional meetings and forums are central to the BFA’s mission, providing learning opportunities and facilitating networking that nurtures meaningful connections. Our meetings cover a range of topics, from packaging regulations and apprenticeships to fire safety and Environmental & Social Governance (ESG).

We also run Special Interest Groups, including support for HR professionals and a new group dedicated to helping businesses navigate environmental policy and net zero carbon obligations.

Data, Insights, and Core Benefits

We provide members with essential insights through our Trade and Price Trends Survey, International Trade Review, and Wages Survey. These resources keep our members informed about business conditions, trade patterns, and wage trends.

Core membership benefits include:

• Discounted services
• Free legal advice
• Technical and health & safety support

Join the BFA Community

Membership starts at just £500 per year for retailers with a single store. If you want to connect with industry leaders, share valuable knowledge, and help shape the future of the UK furniture sector, we invite you to join us.

Contact us:

Email: info@bfa.org.uk
Phone: 01295 724202

Together, we can ensure the continued success and growth of British furniture.