The Furniture Makers’ Company, the City of London livery company and charity for the furnishing industry, welcomed nine new freemen at an admission ceremony held at Furniture Makers’ Hall, London, on Thursday 4 December 2025.
Becoming a freeman is the first level of individual membership within the livery company. For many, it is the first step towards becoming a liveryman, the senior membership tier that carries voting rights in the governance of the City of London.
During the ceremony, the new members declared their support to the Company and were formally welcomed by Brian Ahern, Immediate Past Master. Afterwards, the new freemen joined guests at the Festive Mixer event.
The new freemen are:
Beth Grover – design consultant, Carbon Efficiency Ltd
Beth supports furniture designers and manufacturers in reducing and reporting carbon impacts through circular design principles. She guides clients through carbon certification processes and product development to minimise environmental impact.
Susan Mancini – commercial manager, Studio 1718 Ltd
Susan entered the furniture industry five years ago to work alongside her husband, liveryman Michael Mancini. Studio 1718 designs, manufactures and restores bespoke furniture for high-net-worth clients, interior designers and commercial and hospitality businesses from its workshop in Dundonald, Scotland.
Anees Mehkri – head of design – Consultant, Mela Artisans
Anees oversees the design and development of new homeware, kitchenware and décor ranges. A strong advocate for sustainability and social impact, she collaborates with artisan communities across India to create innovative, responsible craft and furniture products.
Kim Pinnington – owner, Telegraph Contract Furniture
Kim runs the family business with his sister, continuing the legacy established by their father. The company supplies contract-standard furniture to the leisure, hospitality and office sectors, maintaining long-standing relationships with its customers.
Nick Sneller – designer maker, Nick Sneller Designs
Nick designs and handcrafts bespoke furniture in Devon. Self-employed since 2023, he draws on extensive experience gained from working with several furniture companies.
Robert Stephenson – founder & managing director, Sedilia Ltd
Robert founded Sedilia in 1998 with a vision to combine traditional craft with modern innovation. The company produces high-end upholstered furniture for the interiors industry and is recognised for exceptional craftsmanship.
Simon Taylor – managing director, Simon Taylor Furniture Ltd
For nearly 40 years, Simon has led his business in creating high-end, tailor-made furniture and complete room solutions. The company also provides turnkey building project and installation management services.
Josh Topham – production manager, Create Seating Ltd
Josh has worked at Create Seating for almost five years, progressing to his managerial role. He oversees ordering, stock control and production capacity across the factory and warehouse for this specialist contract furniture manufacturer.
James Viney – chairman & joint managing director, Clockwork Components Ltd
James has led Clockwork Components for more than 30 years. The company supplies components to bedding and upholstery manufacturers across the UK and overseas.
Debbie Johnson, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company, said: “We are delighted to welcome this exceptional group of professionals as freemen. Their skills, enthusiasm and shared commitment to our values will be a great asset to the livery, and we look forward to them becoming an integral part of our community.”
A selection of comments from the new freemen:
Anees Mehkri said: “I’m joining The Furniture Makers’ Company to connect with like-minded designers, manufacturers and retailers who are equally passionate about good making and creativity. I want to share my experience in handicrafts, material innovation and sustainable design, work with local craftsmen, and find partnerships to bring their talent and UK-led work to a global audience.”
Beth Grover said: “Becoming a freeman of The Furniture Makers’ Company is a great privilege, offering the opportunity to continue learning from those with far more experience and to join a community I deeply respect.”
Kim Pinnington said: “It is a great honour to be admitted as a freeman of The Furniture Makers’ Company. Joining the Company is a privilege that reinforces our dedication to the industry as a third-generation family business.”
Simon Taylor said: “I am joining The Furniture Makers’ Company as a freeman to contribute to and learn from a community dedicated to excellence in design and craftsmanship.”
Nick Sneller said: “Now focusing on more sculptural bespoke work, I look forward to networking and sharing with the wide variety of individuals and businesses that make up the UK furniture industry.”
The Company welcomes applications from those in the industry who share its aims and values. Most members are proposed by an existing member – typically a business contact or colleague – but support is available for applicants who need help finding a proposer. The Company can introduce prospective members to a senior liveryman who will guide them through the process.
