The brands setting the pace in 2026 are those that bring preeminent design together with real-world practicality. Bentley Designs is one such name, using innovation, and a clear understanding of its partners' needs to evolve its business model in 2026. Zak Lalani, General Manager, Bentley Designs, reflects on a pivotal year of development and what lies ahead.
© Bentley DesignsZak Lalani, General Manager (Left) and Rif Lalani, Managing Director (Right)
Bringing clients into the story
In December, Bentley Designs opened its doors at its bespoke Bicester facility ahead of the January Furniture Show 2026, welcoming its customers to preview the 2026 product release. 'We wanted customers to see the collections in our own environment, where we have the time to explain the thinking behind the product,' Zak explains. 'The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many long-standing partners saying it was the strongest line-up they had seen from us.'
'There was a real sense that the ranges had been thought through commercially,' he adds. 'Breadth of offer matters, but so does how it all works together on the shop floor.'
© Bentley Designs
The Verona extension dining table mechanism in action
Practical innovation
Among the most talked-about launches was Odessa, a modular motion sofa that transitions into a bed without a traditional mechanism. 'The way it slides out really captured people's attention,' says Zak. 'Customers kept coming back for a second look, which tells you a lot.'
In cabinet, the expanded Gallery Collection drew equal attention. 'The adjustable height occasional tables have been well received,' he notes. 'Pieces like the in-stock Riley sofa table show how functional innovation can still feel elegant.' Motion dining tables such as Nero, Levanti and Verona also stood out, while Cleo, a pocket sprung dining chair in rich textured velvet was a real highlight.
Conversations shaping future partnerships
Hosting clients in-house allowed Bentley Designs to have a meaningful dialogue with its valued customers, going beyond showcasing its newest designs but also offering a forum for building partnerships for the future.
The in-house setting also encouraged open and frank commercial discussions. 'We could talk honestly about trading conditions and display strategies,' Zak adds. 'Being able to outline our various mixed-container programmes and UK stock bulk discounts, as well as our DHD service via our portal, demonstrated how Bentley Designs supports its clients.'
© Bentley Designs Part of the new collection: the Mateo Nest of Tables & Odessa dual-recliner sofa
Strengthening the offer for 2026
Insights from the Bicester show are now directly shaping Bentley Designs' January Furniture Show presence. 'We saw which products customers naturally gravitated towards,' says Zak.
Two ranges in particular stood out. 'Delta Dining, Living & Bedroom showcase the natural character of rustic oak in a contemporary way,' says Zak, 'while Alora Bedroom brings a softer feel through radiused curves, a waterfall plinth and an opulent crushed velvet headboard.'
Customers also responded positively to the flexibility built into the wider offer. The opportunity to mix and match the extensive chair selection within the Gallery Collection with the wooden cabinet designs across the Premier and Signature Collections was seen as a real strength, giving retailers the freedom to create distinctive, eclectic displays that work cohesively on the shop floor.
Alongside expanded ceramic and metal dining, Bentley Designs will also present its first launch into the sofa market. 'Fixed, motion and modular formats across fabric and leather signal our intention to be a more complete interiors partner,' he says.
Looking ahead, the role of JFS is clear. 'It is where the full story comes together under one roof,' Zak concludes. 'We want partners to see not just what we design, but to understand our complete value proposition, and that will carry us into 2026 with confidence and momentum.'
© Bentley Designs Part of the new collection: Delta Rustic Oak Dining & Living Range
More information:
Bentley Designs
January Furniture Show
18 - 21 January, 2026
NEC, Birmingham, Hall 1, Stand 1-B60
www.bentleydesigns.com
[email protected]
+44 (0) 20 8833 7500
United Kingdom
