Four new freemen admitted to The Furniture Makers’ Company

The Furniture Makers’ Company, the City of London livery company and charity for the furnishing industry, has admitted four new freemen at an April ceremony.

The admission ceremony took place on Tuesday 14 April at Furniture Makers’ Hall, London, and was presided over by Debbie Johnson, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company.

The new members are:

James Lawrence, Head of Design at Ocee and Four Design, has over 20 years’ experience in furniture and upholstery design. He leads design direction and strategy across international manufacturing partners spanning the UK, Europe, North America, Asia and Australasia.

Trevor Scott, CEO of Rugby Fitted Kitchens, has built a successful business delivering bespoke kitchen solutions through retail showrooms as well as supplying developers and builders in the new-build market.

Geoff Tucker, Director of GRT Countryside Care, brings more than three decades of experience as an environmental and land-management contractor. His work includes the manufacture of bespoke garden and agricultural furniture and buildings, primarily across the South West of England.

James Woolley, Joint Managing Director of Webs Training, represents the future of skills development in the industry. Having joined Webs Training in 2024 as a Training Officer, he now plays a key role in delivering apprenticeships and training programmes for the furniture sector.

Debbie Johnson, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company, said: “We are delighted to welcome our new freemen. Each brings unique expertise and perspective, strengthening our community and supporting our mission to uphold excellence and sustainability within the furnishings industry.”

Membership of the Company is open to individuals and businesses working across the UK furniture and furnishing industry, offering opportunities to support its charitable work while taking part in networking, social and City livery events with a broad network of industry professionals.

Individuals initially join the Company as a freeman and may progress to become a liveryman, a full member of the organisation. The Furniture Makers’ Company also welcomes businesses to join as corporate members, with the option to appoint up to three employees as corporate liverymen.

Individuals and businesses interested in joining The Furniture Makers’ Company as a member are encouraged to email membership@furnituremakers.org.uk.

Or for more information about The Furniture Makers’ Company, visit: The Furniture Makers’ Company – City of London livery company