HR teams within the sector have to develop as production methods are evolving, being driven by technological advancements, changing employee expectations, and nationwide events such as the increase in minimum wage and national insurance contributions.  

The BFA HR forum is the BFA’s special interest group dedicated to bringing HR professionals together to learn, network and share best practice.  Formed in September 2024 at the instigation of Sarah Jane Hutchinson, Head of Group HR at Whitemeadow Upholstery, Sarah-Jane identified that there was great value to be gained from having a network of likeminded people who were willing to share best practice working within the unique world of furniture HR.  The inaugural forum meeting was hosted by Sarah-Jane at the Whitemeadow HQ showroom and was met with great success. Attendees prepared to forge new connections, share insights and to learn from each other.

HR professionals throughout the BFA membership are at the forefront of dealing with ever-changing landscapes of day-to-day operational business requirements and needs within furniture manufacturing, supply and retail, and thanks to the success of the inaugural forum, we now have a network of likeminded individuals who can provide support outside of their own organisations.  The success of the Forum has led to further growth with the development of a WhatsApp Group, and an ever increasing and diverse range of BFA members in attendance.

At the latest HR forum on 6th March 2025, held at DFS Doncaster, we had representation from G-Plan, Parker Knoll, DFS, Lebus Upholstery, Dreams, and Silentnight, and the Forum met to discuss the impact of the minimum wage increases, how the BFA Wages survey could be improved, along with how rewards for staffing could help employee retention.  All in attendance reported that they’d found the session useful and highly beneficial.

The next HR Forum will be hosted by Lebus Upholstery at Scunthorpe on 18th September.  If you are a BFA member working within HR and wish to join the Forum please register your interest by emailing joanna.privett@bfa.org.uk