The global school furniture market size is anticipated to reach USD 6.2 billion by 2025, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc., expanding at a CAGR of 6.0% over the forecast period. Increasing focus on the educational sector across rural and urban areas and compulsory basic education schemes provided by governments around the world are affecting the growth of the market. Furthermore, increasing construction of schools in developing regions has contributed to market growth. According to ISC Research, a prominent supplier of international school data, there were just under 10,300 English-medium international schools across the globe in January 2019, with 5.6 million students enrolled.

Growing trend of ergonomic chairs for comfortable seating has promoted the demand for flexible classroom furniture. Demand for multi-functional tables and chairs that can be used in classrooms, labs, and libraries, among others is also on the rise. Introduction of various raw materials for production of furniture that is more stable, durable, and sustainable has played a key role in market growth. For instance, manufacturers have been making tables, chairs, and benches with materials such as molded plastic, processed or engineered wood, and high-pressure laminate. Demand for space-saving furniture with storage options in classrooms has witnessed considerable rise. For instance, CBT Supply Dba Smartdesks creates smart chairs and tables with stackable options and multi-functional applications for classrooms and offices.

In terms of product, the seating category dominated the market with a share of 51.3% in 2018. This can be attributed to features such as wider application than other pieces of furniture, high durability, and the ability to add mobility and functionality. In addition, growing demand for chairs and tables on castors, which helps to easily rearrange furniture, has fueled segment growth. By application, classrooms accounted for the largest revenue share of 79.9% in 2018. Increasing student enrolment in schools across the globe has upped the need for chairs and tables in classrooms. Introduction of swivel chair designs with ergonomic features has been a recent addition in many schools, looking to replace traditional chairs.

Asia Pacific is expected to register the fastest growth in the market, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.1% from 2019 to 2025. Rising culture of private education in developing countries, owing to better quality of education and facilities as well as focus on numerous extracurricular activities, is fueled by growing disposable income and improving lifestyle. This is projected to have a positive impact on the demand for classroom furniture. For instance, private schools in China accounted for more than 35.0% of total schools in the country, reaching a total of 183,500 schools in 2018.

Further key findings from the report suggest:

  • By product, the seating segment dominated the market with a share of 51.3% in 2018. This can be attributed to features such as wide application, high durability, and the ability to add mobility and functionality
  • By application, classrooms accounted for the largest revenue share of 79.9% in 2018. Increasing student enrolment in schools across the globe has upped product demand
  • Asia Pacific is expected to register the fastest growth in the market, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.1% from 2019 to 2025. Rising culture of private school education in developing countries is a key factor driving the regional market
  • Top players operating in the school furniture market include Fleetwood Group; Scholar Craft; VS America, Inc.; Smith System Mfg. Co; Knoll, Inc.; Haworth Inc.; VITRA INTERNATIONAL AG.; Virco; Office Line; and MOBeduc.