What are the current issues facing the Contract Furniture Industry?
In Canada, several custom furniture companies have actually closed their doors. The escalating prices of fine wood and fine craftmanship put a lot of furniture out of reach for most consumers. Plus the “good stuff” lasted for so many years and if well taken care of, looked like new for decades. Businesses and consulates for example only need to buy once in maybe twenty or thirty years. Cheaper imports from Asia brought the prices down, Ikea introduced minimalist stuff and suddenly everyone could afford the “look” but without the substance and quality. I have noticed a trend over the years that exceptionally fine wood and craftsmanship is okay for hardwood floors. Consumers and businesses have been clamouring for awesome stuff to walk on, but apparently not to sit on or work at.
