Having worked in the Interiors industry for as long as I have, there are a lot of things that remain with you.
I have just read a Blog from one of my principles LIZZO where they have recently visited one of their distributors in Japan. It got me thinking about the companies I have had the pleasure of visiting over the years. Sadly some are no longer with us or have been taken over and now part of larger organisations.
I have had the privilege of seeing furniture being made at White & Newton, Stag, Karel Mintjens in Belgium, Wood Bros, J Coyle in Ireland, beds produced by Staples, Myers and Silentnight, carpets by Carpets of Worth and German company Anker, wallpaper by Cole & Son and Swedish brand Eco Borastapeter and upholstery by Derwent and Cavendish.
What really stood out for me was the feeling of enthusiasm of wanting to sell these products after visiting these factories. Seeing something made and seeing what actually went into it and understanding why they cost what they did gave me the knowledge and confidence to sell them over all other brands.
Today, it has to be said that a lot of companies do not actually manufacture their own product, but for those that do, factory tours are far more beneficial and educational than in-house training or brochures, and it is a shame that more manufacturers do not seize this opportunity.
The fact that I am able remember fondly all the manufacturers I listed (some go back to the 70's!) and I can still visualise the furniture and flooring being made, is testament that these tours do work.
John Northwood
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