Vivion Connolly, Managing Director at independent furniture retailer Connollys of Moy, talks about recent investments, a trend in premium category buying habits and why furniture should be treated as a long-term investment.
Meet Vivion
I’m the MD of Connollys of Moy. My main responsibilities include setting the strategic direction of the business, overseeing all operations, selecting and sourcing quality furniture and ensuring we deliver an excellent experience to our customers while maintaining strong communication ties and values.
Recent investments?
We have made a number of investments to strengthen our customer experience. This includes over £35,000 invested in point-of-sale materials and in-store signage, helping customers better understand our ranges and visualise complete room solutions.
We have also invested heavily in staff training across the UK & Europe, ensuring out team stays at the forefront of product knowledge, design trends and customer care. In addition, we’ve invested in new vehicles for our delivery depot, enhancing efficiency and maintaining high standards of service from showroom to home.
Alongside this, we continue to develop our mobility and comfort offering as part of our wider furniture portfolio, ensuring we can cater to a broad range of customer needs while maintaining high standards of design and quality.
Future plans?
Keep evolving in better design and service offerings. We plan to regularly refresh our showroom selection, introduce new brands and expand ranges that reflect current and emerging home-interior trends.
Having marked 30 years in business, our priority is building on that experience through ongoing investments, innovation and strong customer engagement.
What is your mission?
Our mission is simple: to help people create homes they love. We do that by offering great quality, honest advice, and a welcoming experience from the minute someone walks through the door. We’ve never chased fast trends or disposable furniture. We focus on pieces that last and that genuinely improve how people live in their homes.
On sustainability, what is your business doing on this topic?
As a retailer, our biggest impact lies in the products we choose to sell. We focus on high-quality furniture that is built to last. We also work with established manufacturers who prioritise responsible sourcing, sustainable materials and long-term durability.
Internally, we’re continually improving recycling practices, minimising waste and encouraging customer to invest in long-term pieces rather than disposable options.
How has recent business been? What trends are you noticing?
We had an extremely strong year, supported by several industry recognitions and continued customer loyalty.
A key trend we have noticed is that customers are investing more in their homes with a growing interest in premium sofas, luxurious beds and standout dining sets.
What would you change in the industry?
I’d like to see a move away from disposable, low-quality furniture. The industry has leaned too heavily into short-lifespan products. Furniture is a long-term investment, and the industry should treat it that way.
What challenges do you currently face and how are you overcoming these?
Like many independents, we face competition from larger chains and online retailers. We overcome this by offering what they can’t replicate, genuine expertise, a personal service and quality furniture you can actually sit on and fall in love with.
Consistency, reputation and trust are our strongest assets and they’ve carried us for decades.
Do you have any staff you would like to pay special thanks or recognition to and why?
I’m proud of every single member of our team. Our showroom staff, warehouse and delivery team and office support all play a vital part in the Connollys experience.
I would also like to give special recognition to my two managers. Firstly, Adele Webster who in 2025 proudly celebrated her 30-year anniversary with the company. Secondly, Dominic McAliskey. Their loyalty, experience and dedication truly reflects the values Connollys of Moy is built on, and they are both integral to our continued success.
Why do you think customers choose your business?
I believe customers choose Connollys of Moy because they trust us. They know they will get honest advice, quality furniture and a personal service. Our reputation has been built over decades and customers tell us they appreciate the atmosphere, the choice and the confidence that we will look after them before and after a purchase.
Final thought…
I am immensely proud of how far the company has come and grateful for the loyalty of our customers and staff. Although the business has grown, our family values remain exactly the same: quality, trust and care. We look forward to continuing to evolve and help people create homes they can be proud of for years to come.
