Eight new freemen welcomed at Common Hall

We were pleased to admit eight new freemen to the Company at our Common Hall event (annual general meeting) on Thursday 10 April.

The new freemen were formally admitted to the Company at a ceremony held at Furniture Makers’ Hall in London.

Lynda Corrigan, managing director of DPG Foam Convertors Ltd, leads the family business, established in 1991, which supplies foam products to the furniture industry for sofas, seating, mattresses, and more. Under her leadership, the company continues to be a vital supplier to the sector.

Nigel Gearing, chairman of Gearing Media, was also admitted. Nigel founded Gearing Media in 1982, which publishes Furniture News, the UK’s leading trade publication for the domestic furniture industry. His company continues to be a key voice through its print and digital platforms.

Annik Heal, a new partner freeman, has a longstanding connection with the Company as the wife of the late liveryman Oliver Heal. Annik is a trained ballerina and dance teacher from the Royal Ballet School, bringing artistic elegance and cultural richness to the community.

Sahika Karagoz, managing director of Erdem Fabrics, becomes a freeman following her leadership in the third generation of her family business. With over six decades of heritage, Erdem Fabrics designs textile collections for interiors. Sahika’s previous career in retail banking and her financial expertise support the business’s continued innovation.

Alex Muradian, principal of Oyster Studio Furniture, joins from the United States. Alex leads two companies: Oyster Studio Furniture, which creates bespoke furniture using traditional and modern methods, and Oyster Wellness, which crafts custom meditation seating. He began his career with training at Williams & Cleal.

Julian Penrose-Smith, of Penrose Restoration, was also admitted. A skilled antique furniture restorer and conservator, Julian works on intricate repairs to both structural and surface elements of period and 20th century furniture, including gilding, marquetry, and ormolu restoration.

Taam Sasikan, an accomplished furniture designer and registered architect with the Architect Council of Thailand, also joined. His work spans high-end upholstery, cabinetry, and bespoke pieces for luxury residential and hospitality interiors.

Finally, Agnes Xavier-Phillips JP DL joins as a partner freeman. Agnes is a senior executive director, general counsel, and board advisor with a career in financial services. She supports her husband, liveryman Nigel Phillips, and is the current Master of the Livery Company of Wales, as well as a member of several other livery companies.

The eight freemen declared their support to the Company, before signing the declaration and being personally welcomed by Brian Ahern, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company.

Brian Ahern, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company, said: “We are delighted to welcome this group of accomplished individuals into our fellowship and look forward to their contributions to the Company’s mission of supporting the UK furnishing industry.”

Following the admission ceremony, the Master reported on the achievements the Company had made in the past livery year and spoke on the many events he was privileged to attend and represent the Furniture Makers. After the Master’s presentation, treasurer Alistair Gough gave members an update on the finances from 2024-25, who was followed by Master-Elect Debbie Johnson, who outlined her plans for the 2025-26 livery year.

After the meeting, members and guests enjoyed a complementary Mixer event.