Only the Furniture is Casual – Profits are Not

I’ve been watching our distribution services at Manna grow over the last few years. Before the summer of 2008, you might say the economy and consumer buying was responsible for a major part of the growth, but certainly since that time, delivering on the promise of efficiencies is the key to growing in the economic downturn.

I’ve seen the logistics best practices of a number of industries, electronics, furniture, appliances, and others keep the price to consumers in check while still generating profits for retailers. The most profitable and competitive retailers are on a continuous pursuit to improve efficiencies. I have spent more time lately in the casual furniture space and I am intrigued by the opportunities to improve distribution practices in some portions of the industry.

Casual Furniture

I consider casual or seasonal furniture almost like perishable goods. The product needs to be to the final destination quickly because the consumer wants to enjoy it.

The retailer needs to move it quickly or the season’s gone. The more times the product is handled the most it costs.

Economic cycles are part of life, this one is no different. During these times profits may be easier to find in the business process and not just the product sales. I’m looking forward to talking about this issue with retailers at the Casual Furniture and Accessories Market on September 21-24 in Chicago.

Yes, I think I’ll wear my Jimmy Buffet shirt.

Bob is definitely fun at trade shows - Stop by the Manna Booth