Updating or replacing commercial furniture is a significant investment, both financially and in terms of time. It involves researching suppliers, identifying suitable products, customising features, and negotiating costs, not to mention the environmental implications. This process can often feel overwhelming. To assist you, we’ve compiled a list of essential factors to consider when selecting the ideal provider:
1. Craftsmanship is at the heart of their business
Manufacturing furniture requires both hand and machine. Although technology can help, genuine skill is learned through time-honoured techniques. A reliable manufacturer will have a long history, so look into their origins. For instance, the Burgess story began more than 60 years ago with the manufacturing of frames for bicycles.
2. Experience in the industry is essential
Knowledge about your sector is beneficial in a variety of ways. A proven industry background will enable the manufacturer to provide professional assistance and discover difficulties you may not have considered. This will simplify the procedure and allow you to make the most of your budget.
3. Independently tested furniture
The manufacturer should give independent testing results to certify the product’s suitability for the purpose of ensuring the furniture’s quality and longevity. The Furniture Industry Research Association (FIRA) tests our goods thoroughly and certifies the results.
4. Ability to customise
Don’t compromise on style. The manufacturer you choose should offer fabric and frame finish options to suit your interior. Some may even offer bespoke solutions; for example, we developed a Freestanding Laptop Table based on client specifications that were so successful we added it to our range.
5. Environmental credentials
Find out where their materials are sourced and how they are recycled. Recycling and ethically sourcing sustainable resources are critical to reducing environmental impact. A recently formed industry initiative called The Hospitality Alliance for Responsible Procurement (HARP) has been created to help businesses source environmentally sustainable partners. This helps to reduce the decision process, saving time and money.
6. Genuine global reach
Proven global reach is essential for manufacturing and delivering commercial furniture because it assures reliability, efficacy, and consistency across various markets. A strong worldwide presence displays the capacity to manage complex supply chains, adhere to regulatory standards, and meet the logistical demands of large-scale operations. It also demonstrates a commitment to quality and client fulfilment, as manufacturers with global reach frequently have developed networks to deliver furniture on time and provide after-sales service around the world. This competence not only establishes trust but also enables businesses to cater to the particular needs of clients from other locations, giving them a competitive advantage in the market.
7. See the furniture for yourself
Where possible, we always recommend you see and feel the furniture in person. Experiencing the quality and comfort is an important part of the decision process to ensure you’re making the best choice for your venue or establishment. Hopefully, your chosen supplier will have their own showroom similar to ours to demo their ranges.
We hope you found these tips useful, and we’re always happy to offer our expertise and advice.
If you would like further information on any of the above or have an upcoming project to discuss, please do not hesitate to contact our team via email hello@burgessfurniture.com or call +44 (0)33 0333 9258