The Institute of Export is delighted to welcome our latest Trade Association member, the British Contract Furnishing Association (BCFA).

As the business association for the contract furnishing industry, the BCFA covers the full spectrum of interior products and services in the UK, with sub-sectors as diverse as office, marine, hospitality and healthcare furnishings. The 250 plus members are accredited by the association and are leading manufacturers, suppliers and designers of furnishing services for commercial buildings throughout the UK and in world markets.

Members of the BCFA create effective spaces and settings for their clients, providing design integrity, function, quality and value. They create the opportunity for clients to buy with confidence, and experience complete satisfaction.

As an UKTI Trade Challenge Partner and Accredited Trade Association (ATO), the BCFA has been organising trade missions for British groups of UK companies – both members and non-members – to key interiors and design exhibitions worldwide for the past 25 years.

During this time the BCFA has taken groups to visit Europe, India, the Middle East, China, Russia, South Africa and the USA. In 2016, BCFA will be taking UK groups to exhibitions in Dubai, Mumbai, New York, Paris and Morocco, as well as organising a design and interiors mission to Libya.

Jeremy Stein, Managing Director of the BCFA, said: “We firmly believe that collaboration is the way forward, and are pleased to be the newest Trade Association member of the IOE.

“We are all impressed by the Institute’s dedication to embedding professionalism into international trade and, in partnership with the Institute; we will continue to help new and established exporters to explore vital emerging markets, benefitting our members and the wider UK economy.”

Lesley Batchelor, Director General of the Institute of Export, commented: “It’s great news that the BCFA has joined the IOE. Working with trade associations enables us to provide our helpline support, education programmes, and short course training at a discount for their members who are seeking to take advantage of the wealth of opportunities in international trade.”

For further information please see www.thebcfa.com or contact Sue Graves, International Project Manager sue@thebcfa.com or 01494 896790.

For more information on the benefits of becoming an IOE Trade Association member and reaping the benefits of membership including discounted training, contact the team on 01733 404410.