Expanding connections at the Smart Furniture Show 2024
From high-end furniture to saunas, B.C. wood is finding a growing market in Vietnam.
At the recent Smart Furniture Show 2024, FII Vietnam promoted diverse applications of B.C. species, connecting with manufacturers interested in ways to integrate B.C. wood in their manufacturing processes.
Now in its fifth year, the Binh Duong-based wood and woodworking trade event hosted over 180 exhibitors and attracted more than 10,000 visitors. Showcasing smart manufacturing and digital technologies, the exhibition aimed to assist manufacturers in enhancing production speed, efficiency, and quality. This marked FII Vietnam’s first participation in the event.
Working with Techno Coatings, FII Vietnam promoted B.C. species in a variety of applications and finishes. This collaboration is part of FII Vietnam’s strategy to expand relationships beyond direct manufacturers, increasing influence within Vietnam’s wood furniture manufacturing industry.
Within the booth space attendees were able to explore the properties, processing techniques, and practical applications of various B.C. species firsthand. The team advised on any specific manufacturing concerns, such as wood movement, moisture control, and finishing techniques, enhancing their understanding and confidence in using B.C. wood in their production processes.
Notably, the event facilitated connections with Chinese-owned factories. Since the early 2000s, Vietnam has seen a notable increase in foreign investments in the wooden furniture sector. This has included Chinese companies looking to diversify operations from South China. FII Vietnam is targeting this audience to further expand its reach within the manufacturing landscape.
The event generated interest among manufacturers in using B.C. wood species for diverse applications. Manufacturers expressed strong interest in western hemlock for high-end furniture production, citing its fine grain and superior machining properties. Douglas-fir gained recognition from door manufacturers for its strength, stability, and workability. Sauna manufacturers showed interest in thermally modified hemlock and western red cedar, recognizing their moisture resistance and premium aesthetics, making them ideal for high-end sauna applications.
The tradeshow generated enthusiasm for integrating B.C. wood into various manufacturing processes. Attendees requested additional technical details and follow-ups. Manufacturers indicated their readiness for potential product trials and expressed interest in ongoing technical collaborations to optimize the use of B.C. wood in their production lines.