The priority should be the quality of the manufacturer and the reliability of the supplier rather than the country of origin. Purchasing directly from a manufacturer can reduce costs and allow for custom furniture tailored to specific office conditions.
The furniture is important, but the supplier is more important.
How to vet a furniture manufacturer
The most reliable method is personal communication with people who have used a manufacturer’s products for a long time. While website reviews exist, they can be manipulated or filtered, making direct user feedback the most trustworthy metric for quality.
The advantage of direct manufacturer purchasing
Ordering directly from a manufacturer removes the intermediary and reduces overall costs, especially for large purchases. This path also allows for custom made furniture that fits the specific conditions and dimensions of the office space.
Why the supplier choice outweighs the product choice
Choosing the wrong supplier can cost a business over 30,000 dollars through project delays and replacement costs. A poor supplier may deliver incorrect items or fail to handle warranty claims, which creates significant operational disruption for the business.
How to finalise your furniture selection
Visit the Kilsyth or Knoxfield showrooms to test chairs and see materials in person. Progressive Office provides free CAD space planning to ensure the furniture fits the floor plan before any money changes hands.
Frequently asked questions
Is second hand commercial furniture a viable option?
High quality second hand pieces are worth considering for budget conscious businesses and startups. Inspect chair mechanisms and desk surfaces carefully before purchasing.
When should I buy office furniture online?
Online purchasing is best for accessories, supplementary items, or repeat orders of known products. Avoid buying bulk workstations or chairs online without seeing them in person first.
What is the benefit of using a full fitout company?
A fitout company integrates furniture supply with design and construction. This ensures the construction is designed around the furniture and provides a single point of contact.
Questions to ask your supplier before you buy
- Does this piece have a specific commercial warranty and usage rating to distinguish it from residential grade?
- How will you use my floor plan to ensure these pieces work in my specific space rather than just looking good in a showroom?
- What steps do you take to prevent delivery delays that could hold up the entire fitout project?
