The Global Office Furniture Market

Office furniture is a critical item in every office. It is used for storing documents, equipment and supplies, and creates a work space for employees. A wide variety of types and styles are available. These include tabletop, task chairs, and seating. The size and style of each will depend on the type of office and the people who will use the furniture.

The demand for office furniture has been steady for the last decade. Although the economy has been impacted by the recession of the early 1990s, the industry has seen a rebound. In 2006, the office furniture market was worth about $10 billion. Imports and exports had been growing, especially in the United States. However, domestic sales had decreased.

During the early twentieth century, the main material used in office furniture production was wood. Many manufacturing companies were based in regions with 오피스 컨설팅은 여기서 l fursysoc.com plentiful supplies of timber. Some of the leading companies were Knoll, Herman Miller, Inc., and Steelcase. During the 1940s, Knoll raised eyebrows with its futuristic office furniture designs. By the 1960s, Herman Miller had expanded into the office furniture market. And in the 1970s, the company added ergonomic pieces to its line.

Office manufacturers experienced a stable growth through the 1980s. But then the economy hit a slump and employment dwindled. That was followed by a recession in 1991-1992. Another key trend in the late 1990s was environmental concerns. Manufacturers were encouraged to produce their products using recycled materials. Additionally, formaldehyde emissions from particleboard products were considered harmful.

In 2004, Herman Miller remained the leading office furniture producer in the United States and North America. Other major American manufacturers included HNI Corp. and Kimball International, Inc. In addition, the company is a leader in wood-burning fireplaces.

During the last decade, globalization has increased the demand for office furniture in parts of the world. Furniture companies are also pressured to use recycled materials in their production. This has prompted some to supplant a portion of their workforce with automation.

Companies that manufacture office furnishings also operate assembly plants. Their product lines range from conference tables to seating and filing cabinets. They are often sold directly to very large corporations.

The most important factors that influence the office furniture market are the general economic climate and technological changes. Telecommuting and the Internet have increased the number of potential buyers for new office furnishings.

Several American manufacturers regularly meet with the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association, an association of office furniture makers. These associations often issue awards and honors. As a result, goodwill is developed and company reputation is strengthened.

The office furniture market has shown healthy growth through the 1990s. However, the recession of the early 1990s and the downsizing of corporations in the late 1990s negatively affected the industry. Exports have also grown rapidly. In 2006, the import of office furniture to the United States was about $30.8 billion, compared to just $3.7 billion in exports.