Gerber Technology, the world leader in integrated software and automation solutions for the apparel and industrial markets, hosted its first Furniture Symposium in Newton, N.C. at the Catawba Valley Furniture Academy, a program administered at Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) on Jan. 31.

Executives attended the symposium from some of the world's leading furniture manufacturers, who came together to discuss industry trends, workforce challenges and transformative technologies. Gerber demonstrated their easy-to-use software and automated textile and leather cutting technologies highlighting how they are helping to decrease time to market, increase throughput and improve material yields.

During the symposium, Bill McCloughlin, editor-in-chief at Furniture Today, discussed five of the trends affecting the furniture industry including:

1. Anti-Globalization – increased focus on revitalizing domestic economies around the world
2. Made in America – consumer awareness of where goods are made and increasing manufacturing in the United States
3. Consolidation – retail consolidation with mergers and acquisitions
4. Mobile-ization – internet is king, 52% of consumers use mobile when shopping for furniture
5. It's my life (style) – understanding the unique needs of the millennial demographic

"The common theme throughout the day was showing how technology addresses key trends in the market and helps our customers achieve optimum results," said Leonard Marano, director of product marketing, automation solutions at Gerber Technology. "These events provide a great avenue for communication with our customers, allow us to understand their pain points and fuel new innovations in our product development."

Dr. Andre West, assistant professor, TATM NC State University, presented new projects at the University utilizing digital printing and designing with AccuMark® pattern design, grading, marker making and production planning software to create pillow shells for outdoor furniture. Digital printing workflows could help furniture companies increase their agility and ensure they are able to respond to style trends in the future.

Additionally, demonstrations by Gerber experts were focused on matching and leather workflows. The GERBERcutter® Z1 with AutoMatch™, was shown, highlighting latest technology for automating the process of matching complex patterns across cut parts with the promise of increasing productivity and throughput by up to 75% and reducing labor costs by 50% or more. As the luxury furniture market expands, leather will play an increased role. Gerber highlighted methods to optimize yield and increase throughput while demonstrating their GERBERcutter Taurus II leather cutting system.

"We enjoyed the discussions with our customers and appreciate our partnership with CVCC in collaborating on the event. Partnering together for the good of the industry is extremely important as we address new trends and the ever changing market landscape," Marano concluded.

(Source: prnewswire.com/)