Tag: The British Interior Textiles Association

BITA MASTERCLASS – TEXTILE DESIGNER CAREER – ‘HOW TO DESIGN FOR PRINT’

original-2.jpgA day of discussion and valuable insights about how to design for the print industry.

The course will be taught by professionals from Standfast & Barracks and will cover the topics; Researching your customer; The importance of Colour and Technical Considerations; And ‘how to win your dream job in textiles’ – a talk given by BITA & Norfolk house Director, Diane Harding. The masterclass will be useful for people who want to know more about working in the printed textile industry, making contacts and meeting like-minded individuals.

The day will also include a tour of the Standfast & Barracks design studio and factory to get an insight into how a successful Printed Textile company operates.

Diane, will also be on hand to offer tailored advice on your CV and portfolio to help you further your career.

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This event is FREE for BITA members (email siobhan@interiortextiles.co.uk to book) and only £25 for everyone else.

Lunch is provided as well as refreshments on arrival.

Check our website http://www.interiortextiles.co.uk or contact emi@norfolkhouse-uk.com for more information on BITA membership.

* Please note that attendees will be visiting a working mill and must wear sturdy footwear with flat soles and closed toes. No clothing such as floaty scarves and draping skirts will be permitted due to machinery on the factory floor.

Reviews from the previous masterclass;

“I personally enjoyed the design process being explained and comparing it to my methods. It’s great to see how it works in industry as it helps a designer to understand the process and adapt your designs for certain print methods.”
Amy

“A Valuable insight into an industry and seeing the process from design to completion. Seeing the technical process of print was also invaluable as was seeing the factory. It was very professionally run, and the day was delivered brilliantly. Excellent value, I would highly recommend.”
Pippa

BITA 2017 Spring Showcase

BITA 2017 ShowcaseThe British Interiors & Textiles Association (BITA) hosted the Exclusive Spring Showcase Exhibition at Chelsea Harbour Hotel on 12-13 March. Showcasing some of the finest UK & International Interiors and Textiles brands, the event brought together Designers, Retailers, Manufacturers and Makers alike.

With spring in the air, the main show featured exclusive previews of the latest collections from an array of wholesale suppliers & design studios including: Bill Beaumont Textiles, Clarke & Clarke, iLiv, Fibre Naturelle, Warwick Fabrics and many more…

The show also debuted unique collections from Jacqueline Milton, Lorna Syson, McKenzie & May, Mestral Home, PF Collections, Soie De Lune and Studio Kelkka. With the new spring/summer season in mind, the collections presented vivid colours and innovative designs which depicted inspirations taken from nature, interior trends and innovative fabric techniques and styles.

“Our first time at the BITA Showcase, the show was a really enjoyable experience in a prestigious location filled with fantastic visitors, delicious canapés and cream tea! For me it was great opportunity to present my fabrics in front of interior designers and curtain makers from across the UK. We launched our fabric by the meter and we were really pleased with the positive reactions to the fabrics – the Juneberry and Bird design was especially well received.” Lorna Syson

Over the two days, the show also presented insightful Soft Furnishing Masterclasses – hosted by the brilliant Victoria Hammond, educating visitors on how to effectively measure and calculate curtains and roman blinds. Exhibitor prompt presentations were also hosted by Lorna Syson and Daniel Beaumont from (Bill Beaumont Textiles) and the Textile Designer Professional Masterclasses were hosted by Diane Harding, BITA Marketing Director and Designers Mary Jones & Chris Hodgson.

“The professional workshop was an extremely helpful and insightful session, to help advise on what I need to do to achieve my dream job in the Textiles industry. The session was incredibly valuable as it opened my eyes to what I need to develop in my portfolio – and who better to advise me than the experts themselves!” Megan Stolley, Student.

BITA is pleased to support the event and looking forward to future showcases in 2018!

“Bita was delighted to celebrate its 10th Year of Showcases at the Chelsea Harbour Hotel – exhibitors and visitors had a great time and there was a terrific buzz around the show throughout the day!” Diane Harding, Marketing Director, BITA.

Free HR Advice for all BITA Members

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As a BITA member we will help you find your way through the employment minefield. 

At BITA we recognise the complex issues that employment regulations can raise for our members. It’s difficult to keep ahead of this rapidly evolving area of law. To assist our members, we have secured the services of The HR Dept to offer advice to you on all issues relating to people management and employment law.

Free access to The HR Dept advisors

BITA members have access to The HR Dept advisers either in one of their offices or over the telephone. Typical issues that you may wish to discuss with an expert could include:

  • Contract review
  • Dismissals
  • Performance management
  • Absence management
  • Recruitment
  • Redundancy projects
  • TUPE transfers
  • Employee relations
  • Training and development

The HR Dept will allocate an hour, either in one of their offices or by telephone to give an expert opinion on the HR issues within your workplace. This is the chance to ask those tricky questions and will include time to read any documents that you may wish to seek advice on. The HR Dept advisers will advise you on the steps that you need to take and where you may be able to get support. You will receive a written summary of the advice.

Each member is entitled to a one hour session in any twelve month period. Advice is restricted to matters affecting the member organisation. The HR Dept does not advise individuals on personal employment issues.

About The HR Dept

This service is provided by The HR Dept which advises businesses around the country on HR matters. The HR Dept has access to over 70 qualified HR professionals who form a nationwide network.

Following a consultation, any additional support required by members will be on a paid for basis. The HR Dept offer a range of HR services, all of which are available to members of BITA subject to a 5% discount off the standard fees (net of any insurance costs).

All HR Dept Licensees are professionally qualified with senior level experience. As small business owners themselves, they understand the pressures that SMEs face, an insight that really helps to understand your business. This understanding allows them to provide the most practical and pragmatic solutions tailored to your business, designed to help you to achieve the best possible outcome.

The HR Dept will also undertake a free review of your Contracts of Employment and Company Handbooks to ensure these reflect current legislation and your business accurately.

Contact details

If you wish to take advantage of this member offer, please contact Karen Bevan on 01908 410598 (ext 5) or email karen.bevan@interiortextiles.co.uk. She will take your contact details and refer you to The HR Dept.

An advisor from The HR Dept will then contact you to arrange a time for a discussion to answer any questions you may have and make recommendations for HR support as appropriate.

Looking ahead to BITA’s September Roadshow: 4 months to go!

We are already getting excited about September’s Showcases and we know, with March’s resounding success still ringing in our ears, that it will be upon us before we know it.

We start in Manchester at the opulent Lowry Hotel on Sunday 13th & Monday 14th September, travel down to the chic Nottingham Belfry Hotel for Wednesday 16th & Thursday 17th September and finally culminate at London’s stunning Hilton Syon Park on Sunday 20th & Monday 21st – where you can make the most of your day by visiting Decorex at the same time!

With venues up and down the country you can come and see us at a place convenient to you and, if your appetite hasn’t been satisfied by the many brands that are showing with us, enjoy free tea & coffee and maybe even time it just right to enjoy our complimentary canapé or buffet lunch (depending on where you visit us).

With many of the UK’s top brands already signed up, including: Archroll, Chatham Glyn, Eclectics, Emily McGuiness, Foster Lane, Integra, Jones Interiors, Novatec, NV Blinds, Prestigious Textiles, Rol-Lite Blinds, Silkland, Simta, Streets, Swish, Tulip, Universal, Wendy Cushing and Wise Windows you are sure to leave with inspiration galore and a BITA goody bag too!

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To pre-register as a visitor and keep up to date with the latest show information please visit www.interiortextiles.co.uk

Thinking about exhibiting?

For more information and an exhibitor information pack, please contact Laura Jones on 01908 410 598 ext.5 or email laura.jones@norfolkhouse-uk.com

BITA’s Spring 2015 Chelsea Harbour Showcase: “Our Most Successful Yet!”

The British Interior Textiles Association is proud to announce yet another record breaking showcase with its 92nd one day showcase in 8 years!

With the stunning backdrop of London’s Chelsea Harbour, the exhibition on 8 & 9 March, at The Chelsea Harbour Hotel, showcased over 30 exciting brands – some brand new! Over 600 visitors were treated to free entry to the popular trade show and exhibits of fabric, cushions, blinds, poles, upholstery, trimmings as well as complimentary Masterclasses.

Many new, high end exhibitors such as Olivia Bard, Diffusion, Artistic Upholstery, Today Interiors and Warwick Fabrics joined our already extensive list of exhibitors and brands, including Prestigious Textiles, Simpson Interiors, Evans Textiles, Chatham Glyn and Edmund Bell, to make this another hugely successful and exciting BITA show.

Victoria Hill, Victoria Hill Bespoke Soft Furnishings, commented that, “Olivia Bard’s new collection is stunning, and the accessories are too, the way they had laid it out was very attractive. I liked the Yorke stand very much too, with their inclusion of the upholstered pieces.”

While Janette Thomas, Verity Threadgold Curtains and Blinds thought that, “accessibility and appreciation of the needs of the newcomer at Ashley House and Streets were definite highlights.”

Many visitors also commented on how passionate the exhibitors were about their products, that the product ranges were fresh, innovative, varied and up to date and how friendly and informative staff were.

Nyki Jones, Darley Design, was excited by the, “really gorgeous high end looking fabrics on offer at many stands, such as Warwick, at a very reasonable price.”

Guests were also impressed by House of Robinson’s Loose Covers Masterclass on Sunday afternoon, where Sallyann Rolfe demonstrated the intricateness of loose covers by covering pattern placement, tuck aways and easing fullness. On Monday visitors were also treated to two Moore & McCabe Masterclasses. The Cushion Cover Master Class included ‘top tips’ and the Upholstered Pelmets Master Class discussed the materials and assembly of professional pelmets.

Evrin Skyers, Skyers Furnishings, who visited the BITA CHELSEA HARBOUR SHOWCASE on Monday, said that, “The whole exhibition was excellent and welcoming. Being able to talk to so many exhibitors on a one-to-one basis was very beneficial. He also commented that the Masterclasses were, “Fantastic and professional, they really delivered and I was so impressed. I am already looking forward to the next ones.”

Diane Harding – Secretary & Marketing Director of BITA and Show Organiser was delighted with this season’s event, “This was our 3rd showcase at Chelsea Harbour and our most successful yet! A perfect opportunity for exhibitors, who can’t have a permanent showroom in the Chelsea Harbour area, to show their ranges in the busiest week of the year! We expect this Showcase to be even bigger and better next year! Now we are looking forward to exhibiting at the Hilton at Syon Park – next door to Decorex – in September.”

Our exhibitors enjoyed the best visitor to exhibitor ratio in BITA showcasing history and were full of praise for the showcase:

Graham Bateman, Prestigious Textiles, felt that, “The confidence we are currently experiencing in the general market-place was reflected in the positive comments received from our visitors. A number of new accounts plus new enquiries added to the interest expressed by our existing customers. A very good show.”

“10/10 for the venue and location.” Lindsy Wilson Haddow

When asked what had gone well, Gary Millican, Rol-lite, couldn’t have been clearer, “Everything!”

While both Fibre Naturelle and Simpson Interiors commented on the excellent organisation of the show.

Visitors to the trade event also enjoyed free tea and coffee, complimentary canapés and afternoon tea as they browsed the show in the exquisite harbour setting.

Karen Roberts Woodrow Bespoke Soft Furnishings summed up the show’s atmosphere perfectly, “It was fabulous and every effort was made to make me feel welcome and to get the most out of my visit.”

Both visitors and exhibitors have already seen the benefits of BITA membership since visiting the show. BITA is pleased to welcome Dorset Chairman, Classic Curtains, Moore & McCabe and House of Robinson as its newest members.

Regular satisfied exhibitors have already signed up for our September 2015 Roadshow, three 2 day shows in Manchester, Midland and London’s Syon Park (during Decorex).

For more information and photos please contact Laura Jones, Marketing Manager on 01908 410598 ext.5 or email marketing@norfolkhouse-uk.com

TURKISH TOWELS EXHIBITION FEBRUARY 2014

The DENIB Home Textiles Group and The British Interior Textiles Association (BITA) have collaborated this year to create a unique opportunity. On Tuesday 24 February at Manchester’s Radisson Blu Edwardian & Thursday 26 February at London’s Westbury Mayfair Hotel, the premium comfort of Turkish Home Textiles will be exhibited for large retailers, distributors, wholesalers, importers and designers to view.

With the superior quality offered by 18 distinctive producers of luxury towels, bathrobes, bedcovers, table cloths and other premium products and excellent exhibition management, provided by Norfolk House Consultants www.norfolkhouse-uk.com this event is must see exhibition.

INSPIRED BY ANCIENT WONDERS; DESIGNED FOR TODAY’S LIFESTYLE

With historic roots dating back to ancient times, the Denizli Home Textiles Group, Turkey, are proud to be showcasing their gorgeous collections of towels, bathrobes, bed linen, tablecloths and other premium products.

In our age of fast food and throwaway clothing, the concept of ‘quality’ has increasingly eroded; but traditional techniques, tested through time, have not been lost.

The Textile Industry has existed in Turkey for thousands of years. In particular, the city of Denizli is known for its 4,000 year old history as a textile producing hub. Having manufactured high-end textile products since ancient times, Denizli remains a world leader in this sector today.

Visitors from large retailers, distributors, wholesalers, importers and designers are invited to join us to view these top quality products. Enjoy: free entry, complimentary tea & coffee and light snacks.

Show Details:

Manchester: Tuesday 24 February 2015, 10am-6pm, Radisson Blu Edwardian

Free Trade Hall, Peter Street, Manchester, M2 5GP

London: Thursday 26 February 2015, 10am-6pm, Westbury Mayfair Hotel

Bond Street, London, W1S 2YF

For further information please see: http://www.interiortextiles.com/turkish-towels-uk-showcase.php

Or contact Diane Harding:

E: diane.harding@norfolkhouse-uk.com

T:07912 379739

BITA SHOWCASE MARCH 2015

The British Interior Textiles Association is celebrating its 8th successful year of showcases with a 2 day event at London’s Chelsea Harbour Hotel on 8 & 9 March 2015. The trade exhibition, taking place the same week as London Design Week, will showcase some of the most popular brands of furnishing fabrics, curtains, blinds, poles, upholstered furniture, wallpaper and other interior accessories in the UK.

“BITA exhibitors were so pleased with the results of our first show at Chelsea Harbour last year – with over 600 visitors – that BITA are delighted to be back again, during London Design Week on 8 & 9 March 2015. The Chelsea Harbour Hotel is a wonderful venue, especially with the Chelsea Harbour Design Centre being just next door!  We are expecting even more visitors this March and our Annual BITA Gala Dinner, held on the Sunday night for anyone in the industry – not just exhibitors and visitors – is nearly sold out!”  Diane Harding –BITA Secretary & Marketing Director and Show Organiser.

Some of our exhibitors were keen to share their thoughts as to why they have decided to join us. Here’s what they had to say about BITA:

“Fibre Naturelle will yet again be using Chelsea as a platform to launch their new collections. Great atmosphere enjoyed by all our clients in a superb location.” Jennie Gravett, Sales Manager

“The BITA shows are an excellent way to showcase our new collections, so many customers in one place at one time.” David York, Managing Director of Simpson & Yorke Interiors

“Warwick are excited to join BITA Chelsea as part of our drive to develop business in London and the South East of England. We are looking forward to showcasing our latest fabrics with existing and new customers.” John-Andrew Ovenstone, Managing Director, Warwick Fabrics

“Haddow Group have been exhibiting at BITA for the last 5 years with Kestral, one of their highly successful interior brands,  and have selected to show case this year at BITA, the new Olivia Bard’s stirring debut collection of fabrics, poles and tiebacks.

“BITA offers us a perfect opportunity to present our new collection to numerous current customers and potential new clients, in a relaxed and professional environment.  We believe this to be a perfect launch environment for our new brand and looking forward to another successful show.” Lindsy Wilson Sales Director Haddow Interiors.

“Diffusion are looking forward to launching a stunning collection of voile fabrics at the BITA London Showcase.  It will be a tremendous opportunity to present our new product range to a host of existing and new clients.” Vivien Corr, Commercial Director, Diffusion

“We always look forward to the BITA shows whether it be the London Showcase or the September Roadshows. They provide a great friendly yet professional environment in which to meet both new customers and connect with current customers to showcase our new and current fabrics & linings. A must on our event calendar each year.” – Andrew Hoyle – Sales & Marketing Director – Edmund Bell Fabrics

“Prestigious Textiles is delighted to continue its support of the London Chelsea BITA event. This event has grown in stature over the last couple of years and is ideally located to rub shoulders with London Design Week. As much as welcoming our visitors to our stand and presenting our new Spring/Summer 2015 ranges,  we also look forward to a little light entertainment at the Gala dinner!” Graham Bateman – Sales Director – Prestigious Textiles Ltd

Further to the fantastic feedback and success of last year’s masterclass, this year visitors will be treated to 2 masterclasses from Moore & McCabe Textiles. Join us to experience their expertise with a cushions Master Class – which will include ‘top tips’ – and a pelmets Master Class, as well as a Q&A session.

Visitors will once again find the welcoming, warm and friendly setting that makes BITA Showcases so popular, with FREE entry, canapés, afternoon cream teas and refreshments throughout both days.

To pre-register as a visitor please visit www.interiortextiles.co.uk.

For more information and photos please contact Laura Jones on 01908410598 ext.5 or email marketing@norfolkhouse-uk.com


 

BITA Partners with Smart Currency Business

The British Interior Textiles Association (BITA) and international payment specialist Smart Currency Business have partnered to provide interior textiles businesses with a wider range of information and services.

A trade association for the UK interior textiles industry, BITA promotes and safeguards the interests of its members, which range from large, well-known brands to small companies with a few employees.

Smart Currency Business has been working with interiors and textiles companies for over ten years to help them minimise losses and mitigate risk on currency exchange transactions.

“BITA’s members – whether small or large – have growing export and import businesses, so it makes sense for our Association to find a currency exchange partner who can give our members a reliable and competitive service,” says Diane Harding, BITA Secretary. “We have researched the market and believe that Smart Currency Business will give our members more than just low priced currency exchange – with the excellent service they have already supplied to UK Fashion & Textile Association (UKFT) members, it made sense to choose them as our partner in this financial arena.”

“Smart Currency Business provides more than currency exchange transactions,” says Alex Bennett, the company’s sector business specialist. “The Smart Currency Business ethos is to provide clients with added value, through sharing industry-specific news, insights and educational content, networking opportunities, and hospitality arrangements.

We go the extra mile to help our clients grow. This is why we are delighted to be working with BITA, who also work to help their members maximise their business opportunities. I am confident that by pooling our resources, we can refine and expand our services to the industry, and help many more UK interiors and textiles companies to thrive.”