CebuNext targets 50% more buyers

CEBU CITY, March 9 (PNA) -- Organizers of CebuNext, the 2010 International Furniture Exhibition, are targeting 50 percent more buyers this year.

Cebu Furniture Industries Foundation (CFIF) vice president for external affairs Charles Streegan, who also chairs Cebu Next 2010, said that while the furniture industry is one of those hard hit during the global crisis, the industry itself is very optimistic to attract more local and foreign buyers for this year’s exhibition.

CFIF reported that about 600 buyers have pre-registered for the exhibit. “But we expect that the number will go up since we expect more talk-in buyers,” Streegan said.

He said a “good mix” of buyers are coming to the exhibition from countries in the Middle East, Europe, Asia and the United States.

Although, the industry experienced a 50 percent cut on sales due to the economic crisis, Streegan said that they still look forward to developing new products and tapping new markets.

”CebuNext is a proof of resilience amid the global crisis. We don’t see quick recovery but we are optimistic with the slight pickup seen in the past three months. We are on our way,” Streegan said.

CebuNext, formerly known as Cebu X, features 49 furniture and furnishings exhibitors from Cebu and Negros. The exhibition showcases sustainable and eco-friendly products and designs of local furniture designers and manufacturers.

The exhibit also showcases the materials library special setting -- a replica of the actual facility housed at the CFIF buildings on Jagobiao, Mandaue City. The facility features swatches of natural and sustainable raw materials that can be supplied by local communities.

The exhibit runs until March 8 at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino. (PNA)
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