Archive for March, 2009
March 9th, 2009 at 07:08am
Under Furniture News
The furniture industry has been hit really hard with the slumping economy. Many consumers are finding it harder to purchase the things they need and are putting off replacing furniture items that are still usable. Many furniture store’s and manufacturers have already lost the battle.
The latest residential furniture survey from Smith Leonard PLLC revealed that residential furniture purchases were 21 percent lower in December 2008 than in December 2007. And, orders were down 14 percent for the entire year.
The office furniture industry realized their largest decline since the recession in 2001. According to the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association, they saw a drop of 25 percent in January. They have also readjusted their prior forecast for this year from an 11.6 percent drop up to a 26.5 percent decline!
By MCC
March 8th, 2009 at 07:42am
Under Furniture News
Despite the failing economy, Febo International is getting ready for another year of growth! The accent furniture specialist has combated declining sales by offering value oriented products to their customers.
While the company expects 2009 to be a tough year for the industry, they’re hoping to see some growth or at least maintain the profits seen last year. Revenue increases were estimated at about a 20 percent over 2008 from both existing customer accounts and new ones they acquired.
The company initially planned to offer a wide selection of products including dining room furniture, home office furniture and accent furniture, but decided to narrow their stock to better fit the needs of customers. By offering relatively low priced items, the company is trying to attract those consumers who still have some disposable income.
By MCC
March 7th, 2009 at 07:18am
Under Furniture News
Facing some of the worst economic times this country has seen, Raymour & Flanigan are continuing with their plans for expansion. Last year, the company acquired a dozen defunct Levitz stores and are planning to open four more stores later this year!
Raymour & Flanigan, a Top 100 company will go forward with the next growth period through three more stores recently acquired out of bankruptcy, Linen N’ Things. These three stores are set to be reopened by the summer and fall.
When asked about how the company is able to keep expanding in today’s tough industry, President and CEO, Neil goldberg said, they’re choosing locations to fill the market gaps, but that do not compet with their existing stores.
By MCC
March 6th, 2009 at 01:17am
Under Furniture News
While many furniture stores and manufacturers are finding it hard to keep afloat with today’s economy, at least one store has survived the ups and downs of the furniture industry for a century! Dearden’s in downtown Los Angeles just celebrated 100 years of business!
The store offers furniture, appliances and electronics and credits it staying power to it’s ability to change! The chain operates nine stores throughout Southern California and employees over 500 people!
President and chief operating officer, Ronny Bensimon said that although the company has been through a lot of hard times, they’ve never been through anything as bad as it is now! This simple statement solidifies how bad the economy really is right now.
Although, being able to remain open for 100 years is good cause for celebration, the company has no plans of making a big deal out of the anniversary. Their attentions are more focused on staying open with the economy seemingly worsening every quarter.
By MCC
March 5th, 2009 at 11:15pm
Under Furniture News
Several school’s in Minnesota are experimenting with the idea that sitting still in class might not always be the best way for students to learn! These classrooms are taking advantage of “sit to stand” tables to make the students more comfortable.
Some students prefer to stand, some concentrate better if they can shift their weight from one foot to another, not all students benefit from being stationary all the time! With adjustable classroom tables, students have the option of choosing which position makes them more comfortable.
Teachers have seen a noticeable difference in how being able to stand helps the children focus much better on their work! Mayo Clinic professor, Dr. James Levine is an advocate for what he refers to as “activity permissive” classrooms.
Sitting still all day long is hard enough for adults, for active children it can be miserable! Being able to stand allows them to work off energy by moving and fidgeting and helps them concentrate on learning!
By MCC
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