The United Kingdom is the second-largest furniture market in Europe and the British furniture distribution system is dominated by non-specialist retailers. Due to an improving economy, with business confidence levels returning to growth, and expansion of businesses increasing their expenditure on additional office space and furniture, the demand for office furniture is increasing steadily in the country.

The office furniture market in the country is divided into two major categories, the corporate sector which is serviced by the UK and overseas branded suppliers, either directly to end-users or via fit-out specialists and furniture dealers and the small office’s sector is supplied mainly from countries like China and other low cost producing countries through mail orders, Internet and retail outlets.

It is estimated that 30% of the UK’s furniture manufacturing turnover is attributable to the office and contract sub-sectors. This industry produces a wide range of office furniture, including office desks, work stations, seating, tables, cabinets, and other items for the office environment.

Key Market Trends

Growing Flexible Office Spaces in the Country

The number of flex office spaces in the United Kingdom is witnessing constant growth and has grown from 4,000 four years ago to more than 6,000 in 2019. The UK has seen a steady increase in flexible supply, with growth levels well above that seen in the traditional sector. The growth in flexible workspaces is primarily driven by the larger multi-location providers increasing their coverage across the UK and into new markets.

These offices are promoting collaborative work and adaptability and are increasingly ordering more and adjustable furniture and office products more suitable for these areas are developing such as moveable, high-backed chairs, height-adjustable desks, and sit and stand workstations.

Rising Imports of Office Furniture in United Kingdom

The United Kingdom’s office furniture market relies heavily on imports and they account for nearly 35% of the share. Some of the major importing countries include China, Germany, France, Italy, and other European countries. The United Kingdom imports of office furniture were worth almost 204 million British pounds in 2018, of which around 113.4 million came from European Union member states.

Competitive Landscape

The office furniture market in the United Kingdom remains highly competitive and fragmented with a large number of suppliers operating in the market. Some of the major companies in the market include Urban Office, Herman Miller, Steelcase, and Knoll. The players are constantly innovating in terms of designs and other features of products to remain competitive in the market.

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