Recognizing the importance of aligning with consumer expectations, Best Home Furnishings is planning for the future in 2024 by aiming to maintain and improve an established business practice.
Eric Vollmer, Senior Marketing Strategist, noted, “Historically, special orders have been associated with extended wait times. However, consumer expectations, particularly among Millennials, are reverting to pre-COVID timelines. Fortunately, our business model prioritizes custom orders with quick-ship capabilities, and we expect this approach to contribute to our continued success in 2024 and beyond.”
The convergence of three motors, distinctive signature pieces, and heightened consumer confidence
Closely monitoring headlines and potential reactive consumer behavior for the upcoming months is being undertaken by Janae Lange-Wendholt, Vice President of Design, and Vollmer.
Entering 2024, there is a lot of uncertainty looming, especially with it being an election year and the influx of foreign conflicts, and the retail sector will continue to grapple with the aftermath of high inflation, commented Lange-Wendholt. A decline in home sales and new construction is being witnessed due to rising interest rates and lower consumer confidence, and a tendency for significant expenditures on large living room sets or extensive remodels to be avoided can be expected.
She continued to note that significant growth has been observed in our custom-order segment over the past year, indicating a more discerning approach to spending by individuals. Instead of a complete room overhaul, the transformation of an area can be achieved through the strategic addition of a distinctive signature piece and subtle enhancements.
In the upcoming year, Best Home envisions presenting a diverse array spanning all major upholstered categories, featuring styles from midcentury modern to traditional, according to Lange-Wendholt. “We predict a notable focus on swivel chairs and reclining furniture,” she stated. “Expanding on the triumphs observed at recent High Point shows, our plan includes broadening swivel recliners with chair-like aesthetics. With the initiation of production for our innovative three-motor lift recliners, offering users a comprehensive range of health and wellness positions, including zero-gravity and an extensive spectrum of positions in between, our goal is to incorporate similar cutting-edge technology into our regular recliner and motion line.”
Source: Cindy W. Hodnett, Furnituretoday.com
