In the second special one-to-one with the organisers of the January Furniture Show (JFS), we presented more questions from the trade.
Are there any new product categories this year?
Yes – this year sees a stronger focus on outdoor and garden furniture, reflecting growing demand from both retailers and consumers. We’ve also expanded our premium design offering in Hall 1, with more high-end, design-led brands joining the line-up. Beds & upholstery remain core strengths, but buyers will notice a broader, more elevated product mix across the halls.
What key trends or themes will define this year’s show?
Expect strong themes around craftsmanship, contemporary comfort, soft minimalism, sustainable material innovation and multifunctional living. This year’s show has a noticeably elevated, design-led feel, reflecting consumer appetite for high-quality, long-lasting pieces.
Which day offers the best balance of networking and meaningful engagement?
All four days have their strengths, but Monday and Tuesday typically offer the most balanced mix of high-quality, engaged retailers and strong networking. Sunday remains a busy day too, with national retailers and independents kick-starting their Q1 sourcing. This year, Monday 19 January also hosts the inaugural Excellence in Furniture Awards, bringing together more than 350 key industry leaders for a standout evening of celebration and connection. The Tuesday will also host the Women in Furniture Network networking brunch and leadership panel.
How is the show promoting sustainability?
We highlight brands taking real action, from material innovation to ethical production, through our marketing and trend content. The JFS website also showcases B Corp, eco-friendly and sustainable exhibitors to help buyers identify them quickly and easily.
The Excellence in Furniture Awards features a dedicated Sustainability Award and the Retail Revealed LIVE stage will host a focused sustainability discussion, giving visitors practical ideas and forward-thinking insight to support their own responsible business strategies.
Sustainability is also part of our own commitments, from waste reduction to responsible build processes in line with Clarion’s framework.
How are you keeping the show relevant in an increasingly digital world?
While digital tools are helpful, nothing compares to seeing products in person, meeting suppliers face to face and experiencing full collections first-hand. That’s where JFS truly delivers. We continue to enhance the onsite experience with richer product storytelling, more interactive features and improved navigation all designed to make visiting the show more valuable than anything you could achieve online.
Are there plans to extend engagement beyond the event?
Yes – we’re expanding our Retail Revealed content to online, offering year-round insights, trend talks, and exhibitor stories. Exhibitors benefit from ongoing visibility, while visitors can continue to source products and discover JFS brands through Retail Revealed long after the show has finished. It means inspiration, connections and product discovery don’t stop when the halls close but continue all year.
Save the Date
The January Furniture Show returns to the NEC Birmingham from 18–21 January 2026. Sign up using our dedicated link via the QR code now.
