HIGH POINT — With a nod to consumer financial challenges as well as the popular housing trend of smaller floorplans, more than half a dozen Polish furniture manufacturers attending High Point Market are offering product solutions that address both factors, including first-time exhibitor and solid wood case goods manufacturer, Krysiak Furniture.
“The trend of smaller housing in America presents a prime opportunity for furniture offerings from Poland to shine,” said Tomasz Wiktorski, owner of B+R Studio and advisor to numerous Polish furniture manufacturers. “This observation is underscored by a recent report in The Washington Post, which highlights the increasing popularity of compact living spaces. In contrast to the sprawling homes often associated with American living, Europeans, particularly in Poland, have long embraced smaller dwellings. For instance, according to data from 2022, the average new apartment in Poland measured just 560 square feet, while houses clocked in at 1360 square feet.
“Given this shift towards smaller living quarters, furniture must adapt accordingly, prioritizing space-saving and multifunctional designs,” Wiktorski said. “Polish furniture stands out not only for its impeccable craftsmanship, on par with other European countries, but also for its significantly more affordable price point compared to Italian or German counterparts.”
Product for retail pain points
Showing for the first time at High Point Market, Krysiak Furniture will debut two new collections of fully assembled solid wood oak furniture. These collections include classic oak bedroom sets with a European flair, alongside a dining room collection “showcasing exquisite craftsmanship,” Wiktorski said.
He added that Homenestry has “revamped” its European high runner, the Bond upholstery armchair and sofa, to cater to American preferences. Additionally, Spin Furniture is introducing Yacht, a new outdoor collection that features modern, organic shapes.
Intermeble will show its range of ready-to-assemble furniture, targeting buyers seeking low-cost transportation and warehousing solutions. Gala Meble‘s redesigned space will feature bedroom, dining room, mudroom, and entertainment collections, also tailored for new smaller apartments in the U.S.
Meble Wajnert, a product design award winner at the 2024 Meble Polska Furniture Fair in Poznan, Poland, will show new upholstery. Black Red White will also show its full line of furniture, including a variety of price points and product scale.
Wiktorski will be on site in the Polish showrooms to assist retailers with sourcing information. He noted that expedited shipping options and cost-effective logistics allow businesses to capitalize on faster cash circulation and reduced inventory costs by stocking in Poland and ordering based on demand.
“This convergence of American housing trends and the value proposition of Polish furniture presents a compelling opportunity, especially for distributors struggling with suppliers offering subpar products,” Wiktorski said. “Polish manufacturers are seizing this moment to broaden their offerings for the American market, introducing fresh designs across various categories.”