FEB 2019 FEATURE:
An SFIC wishlist for 2019
”The start of a new year is always exciting as it brings forth an opportunity for change. For SFIC especially, there are many projects in the pipeline from design innovation to digitalisation that will have immense potential to elevate the industry. Together with my fellow committee members and support from our secretariat, I am confident 2019 will be a watershed year for all of us.’Mr Mark Yong, SFIC President (above right) officiating the launch of SingaPlural 2017 with Minister of Trade and Industry Mr Chan Chun Sing
The journey to become the Asian Hub influencing tomorrow’s urban living is paved with challenges but one that is worth taking up.
The SFIC Executive Committee and secretariat continue to introduce new programmes that are aligned to our collective vision. With support from government agencies as well as partnerships with fellow trade associations, we hope to lead the industry closer towards our goal to become business agile, customer-centric with an international outlook.
A snapshot of what’s ahead:
- Trendspace – a furniture hub developed by JTC Corporation in Sungei Kadut to house our industry players
- Business Development missions to Indonesia, Vietnam, Western China & India
- Design Innovation Programme
- Dealhunter Programme
- Key trade fairs such as Archidex, CIFF, Kofurn etc
- Tech Roadmap for Furniture Retail Sector
Stay tuned for more updates on our website!
Wishes for the New Year
“My hope for 2019 is to see positive developments following our recent joint dialogues with Enterprise Singapore (ESG) and the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) on some pressing issues that have been plaguing our contract manufacturing sector for some time.”
Alison Kwok
Chairman, Contract Manufacturing Cluster
“In collaboration with the Singapore Retailers’ Association, we have recently organised a retail mission to New York for our members which proved to be an eye-opener. We plan to organise similar missions to keep our retail members updated on the best practices for the sector & hope more members can participate.”
Gan Shee Wen
Chairman, Retail Cluster
“As Chairman for both Youth Furniture Chapter & ASEAN Youth Furniture Exchange, I am heartened that we have come a long way in forging close ties with our regional neighbours and am excited to carry on the good work for the year ahead.’
Jake Tan
SFIC Vice President & Chairman, Youth Furniture Chapter & Supporting Industries Cluster
“Growth Asia is a key pillar of the SFIC roadmap and we have been very active in the ASEAN region as well as in the China trade fair circuit. We will be embarking on more business development missions not just in the Chinese Tier 1 cities but exploring opportunities in Western China as well.”
Kenny Koh
SFIC Vice President & Chairman, Manufacturing Cluster
“A Design Innovation Programme will be rolled out this year to harness innovation for our industry. We hope to pair Singapore-based furniture and furnishings manufacturers or brands with foreign firms & designers to design, produce and launch commercially viable products on preferred platforms including international ones.”
Emily Sim
Chairman, Design Cluster
“My company Scanteak is one of the participating companies in the new tech roadmap for the furniture sector by SFIC, IMDA and ESG. It is my sincere wish that more companies can seize the opportunity to embark on their own technological path to remain competitive in this new digital landscape.”
Jamie Lim
Vice Chairman, Retail Cluster
“I am honoured to be able to work closely with SFIC on the PYTHA software solution that will help industry players become more efficient in the designing and manufacturing process. I hope more will join our digitalisation journey and be ready to reap the rewards that the information age can offer.”
Aaron Boo
Executive Committee Member