Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
The Spring Furniture & Bed Show is a premier event for independent furniture retailers, taking place on 19-20 May 2027 at the Telford International Centre. This show, now in its 6th year, is open to all retailers, providing a unique opportunity to discover the latest trends and products in the furniture industry.
Attendees can expect to meet top suppliers, explore innovative designs, and gain insights from leading brands. The Spring Furniture & Bed Show takes place in Telford, United Kingdom.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: 19-20 May 2027 at Telford International Centre in Shropshire, a two-day trade buying window for furniture retail.
- 2Scale and Focus: A trade-only spring showcase of upholstery, bedroom, dining, occasional and bedding ranges, aimed at independent furniture retailers rather than public shoppers.
- 3Entry: Retailer registration is free, and no Minerva membership is required to attend.
- 4Who Should Go: Independent store owners, buying-group members and online furniture retailers sourcing UK-made and imported ranges ahead of the next selling season.
Why visit
Visit The Spring Furniture & Bed Show to discover fresh products and trends in the furniture industry. Dates and Venue: The Spring Furniture & Bed Show takes place on 19-20 May 2027 at Telford International Centre, Telford, United Kingdom. Buyer Authority: Retail buyers from across the UK, Ireland, and Channel Islands are expected to attend.
Why exhibit
Exhibiting at The Spring Furniture & Bed Show offers suppliers direct access to independent retailers, enhancing visibility and fostering valuable connections. Organiser: The show is organised by Minerva Furniture Group Ltd, a leading buying group for independent retailers. Buyer Authority: Retail buyers from across the UK, Ireland, and Channel Islands are expected to attend.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Independent furniture retailers and family-run store owners from across the UK
Buying-group members and central buyers placing volume orders for member stores
Online and catalogue furniture retailers sourcing upholstery and cabinet ranges
Bed specialists and mattress retailers buying bedding and headboard lines
Garden and outdoor furniture stockists adding seasonal ranges
Interior and contract furnishing buyers for hospitality and rental projects
Retailers from Ireland, the Channel Islands and Northern Ireland travelling to Telford
Store managers and merchandisers comparing finish, fabric and lead-time options
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
UK upholstery manufacturers showing sofas, chairs and modular seating ranges
Bedding and mattress brands presenting divan sets, headboards and sleep products
Bedroom furniture makers with wardrobes, beds and fitted cabinet lines
Dining and occasional furniture suppliers with tables, chairs and living-room pieces
Garden and outdoor furniture brands extending seasonal retail ranges
Furniture agents and UK distributors representing imported European and Far East collections
Component and finishing suppliers for frames, fabrics, foam and fittings
Retail-service providers offering logistics, e-commerce and shop-fit support to furniture stockists
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Living room furniture including sofas, chairs and occasional pieces
Bedroom furniture such as beds, wardrobes and bedroom cabinets
Dining room sets including tables and chairs
Beds and mattresses, the bedding half of the show's name
Upholstery and fabric-led furniture collections
Home office and multi-purpose furniture for domestic use
Outdoor and garden furniture for patio and conservatory ranges
Location & Facilities
Venue
Telford International Centre
Hall 1 & 2 International Way, Telford, Shropshire, TF3 4JH
Facilities
Parking
Telford International Centre in Telford typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Telford International Centre in Telford typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Telford International Centre for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Free registration
Event days & opening times
DayOpening hours
Wednesday 19 May 2027:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday 20 May 2027:9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Who runs the show
Organisers
Minerva Furniture Group Ltd
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Telford, United Kingdom
Why it matters
Attending The Spring Furniture & Bed Show on 2027-05-19 to 2027-05-20 in Telford lets buyers and specifiers benchmark suppliers, see live demonstrations, and compress months of vendor meetings into one focused trade visit — worthwhile when your category roadmap aligns with the official exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · GBP
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Birmingham Airport
Birmingham Airport (BHX) is the main commercial gateway serving Telford; allow 45-60 min by road or rail to Telford International Centre
to venue
by car
Manchester Airport
Manchester Airport (MAN) is the main commercial gateway serving Telford; allow 45-60 min by road or rail to Telford International Centre
to venue
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
The International Hotel Telford
midscale
Telford International CentreFree parking and breakfast suit retailers driving in with fabric books and sample orders. Approximate night-rate band in USD; confirm availability for 19-20 May 2027.
Free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking, pet-friendly, bar, restaurant, full-service laundry, accessible
The Telford Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort
upscale
TelfordBest fit for supplier teams needing meeting space or a quieter stay outside the town centre. Approximate USD night-rate band for the show dates; confirm availability.
Pool, eco-certified, spa, golf, restaurant
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
rail
Estimated costGBP 9-20 airport or regional rail single journey
Best forBirmingham New Street to Telford Central
West Midlands rail services run into Telford Central, with connections from Birmingham International for BHX arrivals. From Telford Central, complete the journey by local bus or taxi to the TF3 venue district.
bus
Estimated costGBP 2.50-5.50 single Tube or tram journey
Best forTelford town centre bus station to Telford International Centre
Local buses link Telford town centre, Telford Central and the retail park district around the venue. Telford has no metro or tram network, so bus and rail are the public transport options.
taxi
Estimated costGBP 30–70 taxi or rideshare to the venue district
Best forTelford Central station to Telford International Centre
A short in-town trip. Book ahead for early badge collection or if you are carrying heavy sample cases.
taxi
Estimated costApprox. GBP 55-80 for a metered taxi or pre-booked transfer; confirm quotes
Best forBirmingham Airport (BHX) to Telford International Centre
The road route runs via the M6 and M54. Rail via Birmingham New Street to Telford Central plus a short taxi is often cheaper for a single traveller.
taxi
Estimated costApprox. GBP 85-115 for a metered taxi or pre-booked transfer; confirm quotes
Best forManchester Airport (MAN) to Telford International Centre
A longer cross-region transfer than from BHX. Compare a pre-booked fixed-price transfer against rail via Manchester Piccadilly.
parking
Estimated costApprox. GBP 5-12 per day; confirm the venue tariff
Best forTelford International Centre on-site car park
On-site parking is the simplest option for buyers driving in with fabric books or sample orders. Arrive before the opening rush on day one.
walking
Estimated costFree
Best forTelford town centre hotels to Telford International Centre
Some town-centre hotels are walkable to the TF3 venue district, but allow extra time in wet May weather and wear comfortable shoes for hall walking.
Weather
Telford in late May is typically mild and changeable: daytime highs around 14-19 C, overnight lows around 7-10 C, with a real chance of showers. Confirm the Met Office forecast in the week before travel and pack a light waterproof layer and comfortable shoes for walking between halls and car parks.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
UK mobile coverage is generally good in Telford, with EE, Vodafone, Three and O2 offering pay-as-you-go SIM and eSIM options for international visitors. Venue Wi-Fi availability and capacity vary by hall, so confirm with Telford International Centre if you need live order-entry or card payments on the stand. Bring a portable charger for long show days.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Business dress
Smart casual is the norm at UK furniture trade shows: chinos or trousers with a shirt or knitwear, and a jacket for evening supplier dinners. Comfortable shoes matter more than formality across a large exhibition hall.
Greetings and meetings
A handshake and first names are standard in British furniture retail. Stand appointments usually start with a quick range overview, so arrive with your price points and space requirements ready.
Currency and payments
The currency is pound sterling (GBP). Card payments are widely accepted in Telford, but carry a small amount of cash for taxis or buses if your card is not contactless-enabled.
Tipping
Restaurant bills often include a discretionary service charge; otherwise 10 percent is a normal tip. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip but rounding up is common.
Trade show etiquette
Ask before photographing a stand or new range, and do not discuss supplier pricing openly in shared areas. Book follow-up meetings at the stand rather than relying on passing conversations in the aisle.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: BHX
Book into Birmingham (BHX) when the fare and schedule work, because it gives the shortest transfer to Telford. Compare Manchester (MAN) only if the saving is material, and factor in the longer road or rail transfer. For a 19-20 May 2027 show, aim to book six to ten weeks ahead and choose a flexible fare if supplier meetings might extend your stay. No airfare figures are quoted here because live prices change daily.
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Birmingham Airport (BHX): Birmingham Airport (BHX) is the main commercial gateway serving Telford; allow 45-60 min by road or rail to Telford International Centre; Manchester Airport (MAN): Manchester Airport (MAN) is the main commercial gateway serving Telford; allow 45-60 min by road or rail to Telford International Centre. Allow road or rail time to Telford International Centre; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Telford International Centre: Telford International Centre: The International Hotel Telford; Telford: The Telford Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort.
Ride-hail: Ride-hailing coverage in Telford is thinner than in London or Birmingham, and availability can drop on weekday evenings. Pre-book a local licensed taxi for airport transfers and keep the number of a Telford firm for the return trip. Rideshare apps may work for short town-centre hops, but confirm a car is available before relying on one for a tight badge-collection slot.
Public transit: Telford has no metro or tram network. The practical public transport route is rail to Telford Central, with West Midlands services connecting via Birmingham New Street and Wolverhampton, then a local bus or short taxi to the TF3 venue district. Local buses also link Telford town centre bus station with the retail parks around Telford International Centre. Services are less frequent on Sundays, so check current timetables before travelling.
Parking: Telford International Centre has on-site parking, which is the simplest option for buyers and exhibitors driving in with stock or sample cases. Budget approximately 5-12 GBP per day and confirm the current tariff, payment method and hall access arrangements with the venue before you travel. Allow extra time on the first morning for queues at the car park and badge desk.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: May
Temperature: Typically 14-19 C by day and 7-10 C overnight in Shropshire in late May. Confirm the Met Office forecast for Telford in the week before travel.
Seasonality: May is a changeable, showery month in the West Midlands. Rain can slow the car park and outdoor queues, and the late May bank holiday can make hotel and rail bookings busier, so reserve accommodation early.
Packing: Pack layers, a light waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes for walking exhibition halls and car parks. Bring a portable charger, business cards and a tablet or notepad for range notes; evenings can be cool enough for a light jacket.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at The Spring Furniture & Bed Show usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
T-1
Confirm your registration and badge details
T-2
Book rail or flights into Birmingham (BHX)
T-3
Reserve a Telford hotel night
T-4
Plan the drive and parking
T-5
Build a supplier hit list
T-6
Prepare buying targets
T-7
Draft questions for suppliers
T-8
Check the show schedule and travel times
T-9
Pack the right kit
T-10
Arrange cover for the shop
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Telford International Centre
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2The Spring Furniture & Bed Show registration concourse
Telford International Centre
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Telford International Centre
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights£190.00
- Per diem × 2£150.00
Estimated total£340.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether The Spring Furniture & Bed Show fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
What is your primary role?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus aligns with the official product themes.
Best for
Buyers, researchers, and delegates evaluating the programme and networking value.
Min. budget
$400.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration and travel.
Risks
Limited session times published - confirm agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a clear lead-generation or launch goal for this market.
Best for
Suppliers and brands seeking qualified meetings with the event audience.
Min. budget
$2,500.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, and marketing prep.
Risks
Booth pricing not published in captured sources - confirm with organiser.
skip
Programme, audience, or commercial goals do not match your plan.
Best for
Teams whose category or region fit is weak this edition.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
No major risks listed.
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
When and where is the Spring Furniture Show 2027?
The Spring Furniture Show runs 19-20 May 2027 at Telford International Centre in Telford, Shropshire, England.
Who is allowed to attend the Spring Furniture Show?
It is a trade-only event for furniture retailers, buying groups, interior and contract buyers, and relevant press. Public visitors are not admitted because the show is built around wholesale ordering.
Do I need to be a Minerva member to register?
No. Registration is open to independent furniture retailers free of charge, and Minerva membership is not a condition of entry.
How much does it cost to attend?
Retailer registration is free according to the show listing. Travel, accommodation and parking are at your own cost, so budget for a Telford hotel night and rail or road transfer.
What product categories will I find at the show?
Expect upholstery, bedroom cabinets and beds, dining and occasional furniture, bedding and mattresses, garden furniture, plus fabrics, components and retail services. The mix is aimed at independent store ranges rather than mass-market discount lines.
Which airport should I fly into for Telford International Centre?
Birmingham Airport (BHX) is the closest major gateway, with a road transfer of roughly one hour via the M54. Manchester Airport (MAN) is a longer transfer of around 1.5 to 2 hours and is usually the alternative when BHX fares or routes do not suit.
How do I get from Telford Central station to the venue?
Telford Central is the town's main rail station. From there take a local bus towards the town centre and TF3 district, or a short metered taxi of roughly 6-10 GBP. Confirm current bus times before travelling.
Is there parking at Telford International Centre?
Yes, the venue has on-site parking. Budget approximately 5-12 GBP per day and check the venue tariff and hall access arrangements before you travel.
Where should exhibitors and buyers stay in Telford?
Hotels close to the venue include Premier Inn Telford International Centre and The International Hotel Telford. Town-centre options such as Mercure Telford Centre Hotel and Travelodge Telford are a short drive away.
Can I bring a colleague or a supplier to my stand meeting?
Retailers usually register each attendee individually with a business email and company details. Add colleagues to your registration early so badges are ready at the door.
Is the venue accessible for wheelchair users and visitors with limited mobility?
Telford International Centre is a purpose-built exhibition venue with level access and accessible facilities. Contact the organiser before the show if you need a specific adjustment such as a scooter or seating at a stand appointment.
What should I wear and bring to the Spring Furniture Show?
Smart-casual business dress is normal for UK furniture trade shows. Bring a notepad or tablet for range notes, fabric and finish references, business cards and a charged phone for supplier follow-ups.
Glossary
- Independent furniture retailer
- A privately owned store or small chain buying furniture directly from manufacturers and agents, the core buyer group for the Spring Furniture Show.
- Buying group
- An organisation that negotiates terms and collects orders on behalf of member retailers, such as the Minerva Furniture Group referenced in the show's attendance rules.
- Upholstery
- Sofas, armchairs, corner groups and modular seating built on a frame with foam, fibre or sprung filling and covered in fabric or leather.
- Cabinet furniture
- Rigid timber or board furniture such as wardrobes, sideboards, chests and dining tables, as opposed to soft upholstered pieces.
- Bedding and divan sets
- Mattresses sold with a base, plus headboards, toppers and protectors - a major spring buying category for bed retailers.
- Occasional furniture
- Small living-room pieces including coffee tables, lamp tables, consoles and TV units, often bought alongside sofa ranges.
- Stockist
- A retailer approved to carry a supplier's brand or range, usually with agreed pricing, display standards and minimum order commitments.
- Minimum order quantity (MOQ)
- The smallest number of units or value a supplier will accept per order, a key negotiation point at trade shows.
- Lead time
- The window between order confirmation and delivery to the retailer, typically quoted in weeks for made-to-order upholstery.
- Drop-ship
- A fulfilment model where the supplier sends goods directly to the consumer on the retailer's behalf, reducing stock held in store.
- Ready-to-assemble (RTA)
- Flat-packed furniture shipped for home assembly, common in bedroom, dining and home-office categories.
- End-of-line clearance
- Discontinued fabric, finish or model ranges offered at reduced trade prices to clear supplier stock.
- Trade-only
- An event restricted to retail buyers, specifiers and press rather than members of the public; the Spring Furniture Show operates on this basis.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- The Spring Furniture & Bed Show 2027
- The Spring Furniture & Bed Show Telford 2027
- The Spring Furniture 2027
- The Spring Furniture Telford 2027
- Telford United Kingdom
- Furniture Trade Show Trade Show Telford
- Living room furniture including sofas and chairs
- Bedroom furniture such as beds and wardrobes
- Dining room sets including tables and chairs
- Office furniture for home and commercial use
1 more alternate names hidden
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.