FITT-NESS kicks off at the University of Porto to transform the European furniture industry

The European furniture sector is at the centre of a new international project, FITT-NESS (Fostering Innovation and Dual Transition for Inclusive Environments and Smart Homes). This initiative, funded with €1.5 million through the Horizon Europe programme, seeks to boost the sector’s digital and ecological transition, promoting sustainability, innovation and inter-regional collaboration between northern Portugal, the region of Murcia, Sicily and Lombardy.

The inaugural meeting of FITT-NESS took place on 28-29 November at the University of Porto, the institution leading this ambitious project. During the first day, the eight partners of the consortium presented the main lines of work and the objectives of each of the Work Packages, laying the foundations for collaboration. On the second day, representatives from the business sector joined the consortium and participated in presentations and collaborative workshops. These activities not only facilitated the exchange of ideas, but also marked the practical start of the project’s actions.

The FITT-NESS consortium is composed of key entities from four European countries, including APIMA and SHINE from Portugal, AMUEBLA and CETEM from Spain, FLA and CEIPES from Italy, and F6S from Ireland. This multidisciplinary team seeks to integrate knowledge and experience to address the main challenges of the furniture sector, such as digitalisation, sustainability and product customisation.

Over the next two years, FITT-NESS will work on key activities such as the analysis of sector trends and capacities, the identification of market barriers and opportunities, the improvement of workers’ skills, and the provision of business support services. In addition, it will promote the creation of smart environments, sustainable housing and specific adaptations for active ageing.

The impact of the project will be evaluated as activities are implemented, ensuring that companies in the sector can benefit from new tools, technologies and business models that position them at the forefront of the European market. This project represents a unique opportunity to strengthen the furniture sector in Europe and position it as a reference in innovation and sustainability.