Quality and sustainability will be two key concepts in the panel discussion at Möbelmässan, the Gothenburg Furniture Fair.
– A lot can be improved. We need to get away from waste, says George Makdessi of the industry organisation MIBO.
He is looking forward to a lively discussion where different opinions can be expressed.
Möbelmässan Gothenburg, taking place on 12-14 September at the Swedish Exhibition & Congress Centre, will be complemented this year by an ambitious stage programme: panel discussions and lectures, with exhibitors also having the opportunity to give their own seminars.
– We see it as a way to develop the fair and show what the industry stands for, says George Makdessi, chair of MIBO, the Furniture and Interiors Business Organisation, which is co-organising the fair.
Industry professionals take centre stage
The highlight of the stage programme is the panel debate, which concludes the first day of the fair. It will focus on the industry’s challenges, trends and future issues. Four leading players in the industry will take the stage:
- Göran Stjärnfeldt, Sales Manager at Furninova and board member of MIBO.
- Frida Ramstedt, interior designer and author who runs Trendenser, the leading Nordic blog on interior design.
- Johan Sjöstedt, CEO of Happynest Interior and Chair of PUFF, the Association of Gift Wholesalers.
- Erika Cederberg, CEO of Watt & Veke, President of the Home Light Association.
The debate will be moderated by Bengt Wallin, who has more than 20 years’ experience in the exhibition and meetings industry.
“We need to do a better job”
George Makdessi is looking forward to an exciting exchange of views:
– I’m sure we don’t all think alike, but that’s how it should be in an open debate. We welcome different views and perspectives.
– I see it as an opportunity for all interested parties to gain an insight into our most pressing issues. That’s why I think it’s important for both visitors and exhibitors to come and listen.
Complying with the law is not enough
George himself is passionate about the issues surrounding the industry and where it is heading.
– Looking at the supply chain, it is even more important to do a better job, to deliver better and higher quality. Furniture that can last longer.
– The sustainability perspective is important. We shouldn’t be in the business of throwing things away, especially in the current economic climate. For us at MIBO, it is a central aim to support our members in sustainability issues to produce good products that last a long time.
George believes that it is not enough to simply follow what the law says when it comes to environmental requirements and climate emissions:
– Enough is not enough. We as industry representatives must take our responsibilities seriously, drive these issues and lead development. This is the only way we can shape our future.
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