Emerging designer to win new Staples & Co Commission at New Furniture Makers Exhibition

For an emerging designer-maker, the chance to develop a concept for a commercial collection can be a significant step towards building a career in the furniture industry. That’s exactly what one exhibitor at this year’s New Furniture Makers Exhibition will have the chance to do.

Sponsored by Staples & Co, the new Staples & Co Commission will challenge one exhibitor to put their creativity to the test by designing a headboard for the Staples & Co collection.

The winner will receive £1,000 and work alongside the Staples & Co in-house team to develop their design from an initial concept through to a finished product. Along the way, they will gain first-hand experience of the realities of commercial design, from responding to manufacturing and material considerations to creating a product that meets the needs of the customer.

Joining us at the New Furniture Makers Exhibition on 4 November at Furniture Makers’ Hall and the Dutch Church in London will be Emma Forbes, director of owned brands at Bensons for Beds, and Nick Collard, CEO of Bensons for Beds. They will join our judging panels for the day and select the exhibitor whose design on show makes the strongest impression on them.

Looking ahead to the exhibition, Emma Forbes said: “Supporting the next generation of design talent is at the heart of what we do, and we’re thrilled to launch the Staples & Co Commission at this year’s New Furniture Makers Exhibition. This award is about giving an emerging designer the practical experience, mentorship, and commercial platform to turn their vision into a real-world product. I’m looking forward to seeing the fresh perspectives and exceptional creativity the exhibitors will bring to London on 4 November.”

Jonny Westbrooke, CEO of The Furniture Makers’ Company, said: “We are delighted that Nick and Emma will be joining us at the New Furniture Makers Exhibition on 4 November to select a winner of the Staples & Co Design Commission. Their experience and insight will be invaluable as we celebrate the creativity and ambition of the next generation of furniture designers.”

The New Furniture Makers Exhibition, sponsored by Staples & Co, takes place on Wednesday 4 November 2026 at Furniture Makers’ Hall and the Dutch Church in the City of London.