Inspiring makers

We are delighted to be taking part in Inspiring Makers 2025, an event dedicated to building connections and shaping the future of craft. Hosted by Artichoke and The Furniture Makers' Company, this gathering at the historic Guildhall in Bath on Thursday 8th May will assemble some of the most respected names in the industry to discuss the evolving landscape of the furniture industry and encourage the talent that will shape it.

This year’s thought-provoking themes include AI and craft, sustainability, grassroots education, and gender inclusion within the industry. Three of our team will tackle the crucial topic of gender inclusion within the furniture industry. 

At Matthew Cox, our approach is to encourage a culture of welcome, kindness, mentoring, and open communication, ensuring that woodworking is a space where diverse talent thrives. During our talk, Camilla McLean, managing director, Greg Stone, creative development lead, and Katy Thompson, junior furniture maker and finisher, will share our experiences and explore ways we can all make the industry more inclusive. Representation matters, and having voices at different stages of their careers engaged in this discussion is how we hope to spark new ideas and inspire action.

We’re proud to contribute to this conversation alongside speakers such as Bruce Hodgson, founder of Artichoke, Sean Sutcliffe, founder and chairman of Benchmark, Selena Bolingbroke, principal of The Building Crafts College, and John Orchard, chief executive of Woodland Heritage. Huge thanks to sponsors Axminster Tools, Ergochair, and Halstock Cabinet Makers for enabling this vital and industry-changing event. Thanks to Artichoke for inviting us and to Cat Poppensieker of the Sylva Foundation for putting us forward.

You can book your ticket and learn more here. We hope to see you there!