Home Furnishings companies compete for Eurozone business

Five Northern Ireland home furnishing companies are currently building their euro business at the first international trade show in Europe since the introduction of the new currency on January 1.

The five local companies, Bedeck, Liddell, Samuel Lamont, Thomas Ferguson and Ulster Weavers Home Fashions, are taking part on the Northern Ireland Group Stand at Heimtextil 2002 in Frankfurt, which began on Wednesday January 9 and will continue until Sunday January 13.

The stand has been organised for Trade International, IDB’s export and trade arm, by the Northern Ireland Textiles and Apparel Association and the Irish Linen Guild.

Alan Hingston, Executive Director of Trade International: “The companies on our stand are experienced exporters to Europe and farther afield and are all well prepared for the challenge of doing business in euros. By taking part in this very significant event they are demonstrating that they are ready and able to do business in the new currency.

“Heimtextil also provides an ideal and early opportunity to local companies to meet and discuss any changes in trading requirements since the introduction of the euro.

“Another encouraging aspect of the Northern Ireland presentation at the Heimtextil is the focus on innovative designs and different products being displayed by the participating companies.” Heimtextil, the world’s biggest and oldest fair for home and household textiles, is expected to attract over 70,000 trade visitors from 96 countries including all member nations of the eurozone. Most of the visitors will be from the specialist retail and wholesale trades, as well as from major department stores and mail order chains. It also attracts substantial numbers of interior designers, decorators and architects. (MB)