Three Reasons To Choose Domestic Furniture Manufacturers
The global pandemic prompted a massive surge in what is known as “fast furniture.” The cultural phenomenon was born through a combination of online purchasing and an influx of free shipping and returns made available by sellers. As the world contends with the effects of the pandemic, the consequent supply chain crisis, and the environmental impact of fast furniture, people are starting to reassess how they make purchases, the kind of purchases they make, and where they source materials and products.
In this blog, we will highlight the overlooked impacts of fast furniture, as well as some of the benefits of working with domestic furniture manufacturers versus overseas options.
Fast furniture is fast and relatively inexpensive mass-produced furniture, built for convenience. Much like fast fashion, in which retailers like Shein and Zara overproduce cheap, trendy clothing that’s made to be discarded after only a few wears, fast furniture is for those looking for cheap, convenient, options. It is not built to last, making it a massive environmental issue.
Furniture waste in landfills has increased almost five times since the 1960s. And according to the EPA, Americans throw out over 12 million tons of furniture and related furnishings every year. Due to the complexity and varying materials in many fast furniture products—some recyclable and some not—over nine million tons of glass, fabric, metal, leather, and other materials end up in landfills, too.
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Fast furniture is not only extremely wasteful, but it’s also not a good investment. The majority of fast furniture is produced overseas. Historically, outsourcing production used to be a less expensive option however, that’s not the case anymore. Overseas materials and labor may seem less expensive upfront, however, continued disruptions to the supply chain and increased global freight costs can drive up the overall cost of products and unpredictable timelines. The environmental impact of ocean shipping is enormous and container shipping is responsible for more harmful emissions than automobiles globally.
So, what is a better option than outsourcing fast furniture products? Working with domestic furniture manufacturers who can source quality, traceable materials in a sustainable way. Keep reading to learn the top three benefits of working with domestic manufacturers.
Reducing Environmental Impact
Domestic furniture manufacturing ensures you face a shorter supply chain, fewer carbon emissions, and overall less fuel consumption. More specifically, materials and goods don’t have to travel from overseas, which means you’ll be reducing your carbon footprint. When working with domestic manufacturers, you also have the ability to source more sustainable materials. US environmental laws and standards for manufacturing ensure a lower carbon footprint compared to more lax rules overseas. Domestic manufacturers are well known for high-quality standards and building products that last.
Shorter Lead Times
When working with domestic manufacturers, lead times for products are often shorter. Especially as the offshore supply chain grapples with delays and shortages, which are predicted to persist in 2023. With domestic manufacturers, you avoid delays from port congestion, inspection, and quarantine risk, as well as no tariffs.
Leveraging “Made in the USA” Marketing
The U.S. has a longstanding reputation for making quality products and there are deep-rooted feelings associated with American integrity and ingenuity. This means manufacturing your products domestically can be leveraged positively in your marketing efforts. Also, utilizing U.S. manufacturers plays a large role in supporting the national economy and job creation.
Purchasing furniture from a domestic manufacturer is incredibly cost-effective in the long run. U.S.-based manufacturers can often make adjustments to areas most impacted by price, including materials, durability, construction, and lead times — all factors that can be difficult for international manufacturers to adjust.
Working with domestic manufacturers is environmentally friendly. Less fuel is used in the transportation of materials and products and utilizing locally sourced materials from environmentally responsible partners is highly sustainable.
Here at WoodgeniX, we build all of our furniture at our facility in Random Lake, Wisconsin. We guarantee quality furniture pieces within a short lead time and with as little waste as possible.