A Global Supply Chain
“Global supply chain” was not a normal part of the average Americans’ vocabulary prior to the coronavirus pandemic. But the global shutdown caused by coronavirus has brought this term to the forefront of the American consciousness. Due in large part to the scramble to source personal protective equipment (PPE). But it is not just the medical industry that relies on a global supply chain. Most furniture sold in the United States also relies on a global supply chain. While coronavirus has exposed some of the weaknesses of modern furniture manufacturing, perhaps the largest weakness is the primary value of modern furniture manufacturing: cost. The dominant question the furniture industry has been asking is, “How can furniture be manufactured as cheaply as possible?”
One of our company’s values is sustainability. Our question has been different, “How can furniture be manufactured in a sustainable way?” Therefore, instead of relying on a global supply chain like most furniture stores. We provide our customers with furniture that relies on a domestic supply chain. This provides a good opportunity to highlight three important elements of the handcrafted furniture supply chain.
1. Handcrafted, hardwood furniture is a renewable source
Hardwood forests in the United States have grown substantially the last fifty years. In the latest update, The United States Department of Agriculture reported that the U.S. hardwood stock has increased by over 130% from 1953 to 2012! Hardwood forests are replenished far quicker than trees are being harvested. Hardwood furniture manufacturers are committed stewards of our forests. This commitment makes the future of hardwood furniture sustainable.
**Info from the American Hardwood Export Council
2. Handcrafted, hardwood furniture is sourced in the U.S.A
The material for handcrafted furniture comes from forests right here in the United States. Local is the buzzword in the food industry. It’s time the furniture industry got on board as well. The energy required to move furniture across vast oceans is a massive waste of resources. On the contrary, handcrafted furniture cuts out global transportation making it a more environmentally friendly choice.
3. Handcrafted, hardwood furniture manufacturing produces minimal waste
All the way from the forest to your home, the handcrafted furniture process produces virtually no waste. Wood scraps are used for heating furniture production facilities. Furthermore, hardwood furniture is normally transported using the blanket wrapping method. This utilizes reusable blankets which eliminates tons of packaging waste. Finally, hardwood furniture is constructed to last longer which means less energy consumption. “Throw away” furniture results in an endless manufacturing cycle. Which is exactly what the furniture industry wants in spite of its negative impact on the environment.
A Domestic Supply Chain
Handcrafted furniture is sustainable because it is harvested domestically, is a renewable source, and produces minimal waste. If you’re interested in furniture that supports a domestic supply chain and relies on a sustainable manufacturing process. Visit one of our two Sarasota showrooms today.
-Timothy Miller