British producers should aspire to match the feats of Germany and Italy by building big export businesses, according to furniture trade association FIRA.
The industry body, which has partnered UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) for its new Export Hub launching next month, says Made in Britain is a strong USP and that it is a myth that all manufacturing is moving to cheap labour economies.
Dr Peter Beele, FIRA technical development manager, said: "The UK faces a rising tide of imports, particularly from China, but these are not all attributable to developing countries.
"Germany and Italy are the next largest exporters of furniture to the UK. There is no reason why the UK shouldn't aspire to compete with its European counterparts, it is just that at the moment, it does not."
He added that British firms had a number of things going in their favour and that their own process would improve by building overseas sales.
He said: "British-made furniture is invariably considered a mark of quality, and, as such, is highly valued overseas. This unique selling point alone should encourage UK furniture manufacturers to explore the considerable export growth opportunities.
"It has been shown that successful exporters experience significant overall business improvements, particularly in relation to productivity and competitiveness. Businesses which get involved in international markets become more dynamic, innovative and successful."
FIRA will launch its Export Hub at an event at its Stevenage HQ between 10am and 12pm on 18 October. Officers from the British Embassy and consulates will be in attendance along with an advisor from UKTI, who will provide an explanation on the export process.
