Column: Carolyn Mitchell – Celebration of 2024
Monthly Column By Carolyn Mitchell
As I look back at 2024, I realize what an incredibly busy year it has been for the industry, for each of us personally and professionally, and how much we have packed into the calendar at Commercial Interiors UK and Design Insider.
We all work at “Contract Speed,” focused on hitting budgets, sales targets, and important deadlines. Often, we work months ahead, preparing for the next challenges and planning for the future, which can make the year fly by without a moment to reflect on what has been achieved—both collectively and individually. However, as we look toward 2025, it is so important to take that time to reflect if we want to learn from the journey and our achievements to continue to build on them.
This year, I am incredibly proud to see the CIUK and Design Insider brands significantly grow their prominence within the commercial interiors community, a success reflected in the many new member companies joining our community. This growth highlights not only the expanding reach of our network but also the crucial support we provide our members, boosting their business visibility, and introducing them to their future clients. As a not for profit organisation, the commercial success of our member companies is integral to our work as the industry’s trade association..
The success of our events, both within the UK and overseas, provides us with the opportunity to showcase the diverse and expansive network of businesses and products we represent. Beyond this, our events programme has become a platform for fostering a thriving, inclusive culture that celebrates creativity and nurtures talent. This year, our annual luncheon held a particularly significant moment for me personally. Looking out into the room, I saw so many new faces and future leaders—our “Next Generation”—ready to build with us and shape our collective future.
With the momentum we’ve built this year and the many exciting plans already in place for 2025, whatever the year may bring, you are in good company for success with Commercial Interiors UK and Design Insider
Wishing you all a prosperous and peaceful 2025.
Carolyn Mitchell, Chairwoman of Commercial Interiors UK