The furniture market - Italy (2024)

1.2 The global market

In ****, the world home furniture market is estimated at $***.** billion. Good growth in the industry is expected in the near future. A compound annual growth rate (***) of *.**% is estimated for the period ****-****, thanks to which the market could reach a total value of more than $*** billion by the end of the period.

Home furniture market World, ****-****, in billions of dollars MordorIntelligence

As for the market breakdown among the different product types, living room and dining room furniture collects ** percent of the total value in ****. This is followed by bedroom furniture with ** percent and home decor also with ** percent. Kitchen furniture stands at ** percent as does the lamp and lighting segment. Furniture market, breakdown by product type World, ****, % ICE Europe's is one of the main segments of the world home furniture market. In ****, the total value of the European market is estimated at $***.** billion, and a compound annual growth rate (***) of *.**% is projected for the foreseeable future, by virtue of which the total value of the market could break through $*** billion. Home furniture market Europe, ****-****, in billions of dollars MordorIntelligence

1.3 The Italian market

The furniture and furnishings sector represents one of the main segments of the Italian manufacturing industry. Between **** and ****, the total turnover of enterprises under Ateco Code ** "Manufacture of furniture" increased from **.** billion euro to **.* billion euro, marking a growth of **.* percent. The trend is positive throughout the entire period with the sole exception of ****, when due to the outbreak of the pandemic and the resulting drop in consumption, total turnover decreased by **.*% compared to ****. Total turnover of enterprises under Ateco Code ** "Manufacture of furniture" Italy, ****-****, in billion euros Istat As for the production of furniture sold, between **** and ****, the total value appears to be growing. During the period analyzed, the value of production sold increased from **.** billion euros to **.** billion euros, representing a growth of **.* percent. In this case, the trend is swinging and characterized by alternating positive changes (***). Value of production sold of furniture Italy, ****-****, in billions of dollars Istat With regard to the segment related to sofas and upholstered seating, both the value of production sold and the volume of production sold are growing between **** and ****. Specifically, regarding the value of production sold in the period analyzed this increased from *.** billion euros to *.** billion euros, marking a ...

1.4 Import - Export

In order to analyze Italy's trade flows related to the furniture segment, the import-export of products under HS Code **** are analyzed.

Italy ranks internationally as a net exporter of furniture. In fact, analyzing the export coverage index, determined by the ratio of exports to imports multiplied by ***, shows values always above *** percent (***). Between **** and ****, the value of household furniture exports increased from $*.** billion to $*.** billion, representing a growth of *.*%. The value of imports is also increasing. Between **** and **** these increased from $*.** billion to $*.** billion, representing a growth of **.*%.

Furniture imports - exports (***) Italy, ****-****, in billions of dollars and % Uncomtrade

In terms of exports, the United States and France are Italy's main trading partners in ****, garnering **.* percent and **.* percent, respectively. This is followed by Germany and the United Kingdom, with shares of l**% and *.*%. This * countries together collect **% of the total export value. Main destination countries for furniture exports (***) Italy, ****, % Uncomtrade Regarding imports, the flows are even more concentrated. In ****, China, Germany and Poland are the main suppliers of household furniture to Italy, with shares of **.* percent, **.* percent and **.* percent, respectively. Main source countries of furniture imports (***) Italy, ****, % Uncomtrade

1.5 The consequences of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict

The outbreak of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict in February **** led to, among other things, a general increase in price indexes. The sector related to home furnishings and furniture is not exempt from such increases. Analyzing the consumer price index for household furniture between **** and **** shows an increase of **.* points. This means that over a **-month period, prices increased by an average of **.* percent. Compared to ****, the increase stands at **.* percent.

Consumer price index for household furniture Italy, ****-****, base ****=*** Istat

The increase in consumer prices is merely a reflection of the increase in production costs. Analyzing the producer price index for furniture manufacturing shows an increase of **.* points between **** and ****, representing an increase in production costs of **.* percent in ** months. Compared to ****, the increase in producer prices is **.* percent. Producer price index for furniture manufacturing Italy, ****-****, base ****=*** Istat

2.1 Demand in Italy

The graph shows the year-on-year percentage change in furniture sales volumes in Italy from **** to ****. There is modest growth in **** and ****, followed by a marked decrease in ****. In ****, there was a significant recovery with a **.* percent increase. However, in the next two years, there is a return to decline, with sales decreasing by -*.* percent in **** and -*.* percent in ****.

YoY change in furniture sales volumes Italy, ****-****, % OsservatorioFindomestic

2.2 Demand drivers

The graph displays criteria for purchasing household furniture in Italy in ****, showing the percentage of the total sample and the youth aged **-** who consider each criterion. Price and quality are the top considerations for both groups. Features, how the furniture looks with the rest of the house, and style also rank significantly but are less critical than price and quality. Sustainability, although valued, is less of a priority. The least important factors are brand and exclusivity, with a particularly low emphasis among the youth for the brand.

Home furniture purchase criteria Italy, ****, as % of total sample GroupMedioBanc

Websites dedicated to furniture and fashion are the most consulted resources, followed by advice from friends and acquaintances. Social networks and web and paper furniture magazines also play a significant role. Traditional means like fairs and trade shows, architect and interior designer advice, and forums and blogs have moderate influence. Influencers seem to have the least impact as a source of research in this industry.

Sources of research on trends, costs and more, on furniture and home furnishings items Italy, ****, as % of total sample Source: ****

2.3 Geographical distribution of demand

In order to analyze the geographical distribution of demand for household furniture, two maps were created: the first depicting the geographical distribution of total consumption for furniture purchase and the second with the average monthly household expenditure on furniture purchase.

Regarding the first aspect, in **** the Northwest of the country collects the highest share of consumption for furniture purchase, accounting for **.* percent of the national total. This is followed by the Northeast and the Center with shares of **.*% and **.*%, respectively. The South participates in **.* percent of total consumption while the Islands stop at *.* percent.

Next, analyzing the average monthly household spending on home furnishings, the same scenario as in the previous case emerges. In ****, the North of the peninsula recorded the highest spending values, averaging €**.** per household spent monthly. This is followed by the Center, where households spent an average of **.** euros per month. Finally, in the South, the average monthly expenditure was **.** (***).

2.4 New demand trends

The growing demand for sustainable furniture reflects a broader environmental awareness and a desire among consumers to contribute positively to the planet through their purchasing choices. This trend is manifested in several trends and practices in the furniture industry. First, there is a strong emphasis on sustainable materials. Manufacturers are moving toward FSC-certified wood, recycled and renewable materials such as bamboo, and environmentally friendly fabrics to reduce their environmental impact. This also includes the use of less toxic and more environmentally friendly paints, glues and finishes. Circular design is gaining ground, with furniture designed to be durable, repairable, and ultimately recyclable at the end of its life, thus reducing waste generation. This approach also promotes modularity and adaptability, allowing consumers to modify or upgrade furniture without having to buy new. Finally, transparency has become crucial. Consumers are demanding greater clarity about companies' sustainability practices, prompting them to disclose information about the sourcing of materials, production, and the carbon footprint of their products.(***)

In ****, the global market for eco-sustainable furniture is estimated at $**.** billion. Sustained growth in the industry is expected in the near future. A compound annual growth rate (***) of *.* percent is estimated for the period ****-**** under which the global ...

3.1 The market structure

In order to analyze the structure of the furniture market in Italy, active enterprises under Ateco Code ** "Manufacture of furniture" are analyzed. In particular, the number of enterprises and the number of employees in the industry as well as the legal form of different activities are analyzed.

Number of enterprises

Between **** and ****, there is a decline in the number of enterprises active in furniture manufacturing. During the period analyzed, the total number of enterprises fell from **,*** to **,***, marking a contraction of **.* percent. The decline appears to be constant throughout the period, and the outbreak of the pandemic in **** does not seem to have significantly affected the population of enterprises.

Active enterprises under Ateco Code ** "Manufacture of furniture" Italy, ****-****, in thousands Istat

Employees As with the population of businesses, the number of employees is also declining. Between **** and ****, the total number of employees decreased by *.* percent, from ***,*** to ***,***. Again, the decline appears to be steady, and the outbreak of the pandemic has had major repercussions on employment in the sector: -*.*% between **** and ****. Employment in active enterprises under Ateco Code ** "Manufacture of furniture" Italy, ****-****, in thousands Istat Legal form Finally, analyzing the legal form of businesses active in the sector, ...

3.2 The value chain

3.3 The main manufacturers

Furniture manufacturing

Friul Intaglia Industries s.p.a: is a leading Italian company in the furniture industry, known for producing high-quality wood components. Founded in ****, it has distinguished itself over time for innovation and excellence in the design and manufacture of complex furniture parts, panels and accessories. Based in the heart of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, this company combines the rich local craftsmanship tradition with state-of-the-art technology, positioning itself as a leader in the international market. Its commitment to sustainability and production efficiency makes it a reference model in the wood and furniture sector, testifying to the excellence of Made in Italy in the world.

Poliform s.p.a: is a leading international designer furniture company, which stands out for its production of furniture systems and complements for every area of the home: from closets to kitchens, from sofas to living room furniture, to bedroom and bathroom solutions. Founded in **** in Inverigo, in the province of Como, Poliform represents the excellence of Italian design, combining craftsmanship and advanced technology to create contemporary luxury products. Its corporate philosophy places a strong emphasis on research and innovation, aiming to meet the needs of a demanding and cosmopolitan clientele. With a widespread presence in ...

3.4 A focus on distribution

Between **** and ****, the total number of businesses active in household furniture retailing (***) appears to be decreasing. During the period analyzed, the number of businesses decreased from ***** to *****, marking a contraction of *.*%. The trend is negative during the entire period and the individual annual changes show homogeneous values, indicating a gradual decline in the sector.

Active enterprises under Ateco Code **.**.* "Retail trade of household furniture" Italy, ****-****, in thousands Istat

the following is a list of the main players in the distribution of household furniture in Italy :

Ikea(***): founded in Sweden in **** by Ingvar Kamprad, is a global giant in home furniture and accessories, known for its modern and functional design at affordable prices. In Italy, IKEA has a significant presence, with more than ** stores scattered throughout the country, cementing its reputation as a benchmark for home furnishings. Among the various products offered, IKEA is particularly renowned for its wide range of sofas and armchairs, which stand out for their style, comfort and adaptability to different environments and tastes. These items, available in a variety of patterns, colors and materials, are designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind, always keeping an eye toward innovation and sustainability.

Mondo Convenienza (***): part of Iris ...

4.1 Type of the offer

The furniture market includes a wide variety of products, which are summarized below (***):

Beds and mattresses Upholstered sofas and armchairs Tables, desks and bedside tables Chairs Bathroom furniture Kitchen furniture Storage units: bookcases, cupboards, cabinets Home accessories: pillows, rugs, mirrors, pictures, vases, lamps, chandeliers, lighting, etc.

In addition, these products can have different styles:

Classic furniture: antique furniture, preferably handmade, or at least modern reproductions of antique pieces. Rustic furniture: furniture made of nonprecious woods and exposed brickwork reminiscent of old country houses. Decorative furniture: knick-knacks and paintings are dominant elements that are recalled and fill every space. Modern furniture: synthetic materials and technological surfaces make this furniture quite cold but very clean in its lines. Contemporary furniture: clean lines and light colors with references to the Nordic style; modern style but with a fusion of stone or wood elements. Designer furniture: set of furniture elements designed by well-known architects and the subject of conferences and fairs including the "Salone del mobile" in Milan

The armchairs in Italy are a symbol of comfort and design, essential in every home to create personalized relaxing corners. They vary greatly in terms of style, functionality and materials, adapting to different uses and contexts.

Traditional ...

4.2 The prices

In order to analyze the prices of home furniture in Italy, consumer price indexes for different types of products between **** and **** are considered

Regarding the consumption of home furniture in general, there is a marked increase in the price index between **** and ****. During the period analyzed, the value of the index increased by ** points, equivalent to an average increase in consumer prices of ** percent. Specifically, while between **** and **** the increase was *.* percent, between January **** and February **** prices grew by an average of **.* percent.

Consumer price index for household furniture Italy, ****-****, base *****=*** Istat

Prices for living room and dining room furniture shows a similar trend to the previous case. Between **** and ****, the consumer price index shows an increase of **.* points, or a price increase of **.*%. Again, the increase is concentrated in the period ****-**** (***).

Consumer price index for living and dining room furniture Italy, ****-****, base *****=*** Istat

The same is true for bedroom furniture. Between **** and ****, the consumer price index shows an increase of **.* points, indicating an average price increase of **.* percent. In this case, the increase recorded between **** and **** is even more pronounced: over the **-month period analyzed, prices grew by an average of **.*%. Consumer price index for bedroom furniture Italy, ...

4.3 Focus on armchairs and ottomans

Armchairs and Poufs

4.4 New supply trends: circularity

The supply of secondhand furniture is booming, fueled both by the growing interest in sustainable consumption and the search for unique pieces with character and history. This trend reflects an increased ecological awareness and a desire to give objects new life, while reducing waste generation and encouraging the circular economy. Secondhand furniture ranges from vintage and antique pieces, which appeal to design and decoration lovers with their uniqueness and history, to newer modern furniture that can be purchased at bargain prices. Buying used furniture is not only an eco-friendly choice, but also offers the opportunity to personalize home environments with original pieces that cannot be found in conventional stores.(***)

In ****, the global second-hand furniture market reached a total value of $**.* billion. As in the case of eco-friendly furniture, sustained growth is also expected in this sector. A compound annual growth rate (***) of *.** percent is estimated for the period ****-****, under which the world market could reach a value of $**.* billion by the end of the period.

Second-hand furniture market World, ****-****, in billions of dollars MordorIntelligence

5.1 General regulations

There are several bodies responsible for the development of standards projects:

CEN (***) in Europe ISO (***) worldwide

cEN and ISO are responsible for developing European and worldwide standards in line with market needs, but there is a standards body for each country. Worldwide, ISO has already developed nearly **,*** international standards and continues to publish just over a thousand new standards each year. Each standard is dedicated to a specific attribute of furniture, such as its impact resistance or stability, which generates a very large succession of different standards. Here is a non-exhaustive list for a better look.

ISO **** focuses on the resistance of surfaces to cold liquids, wet and dry heat, and impact. ISO **** and ISO **** determine the strength, durability and stability of storage units. ISO **** determines the stability of a table, as does ISO **** for chairs of all types and stools. ISO **** determines the strength and durability of chairs and stools. ISO **** determines safety requirements for fixed and folding children's beds. ISO **** and ISO ***** deal with safety requirements for bunk beds and folding beds. ISO **** assesses the ease with which upholstered furniture (***) can be lit like a lit cigarette or lighter.

There are standards that regulate the characteristics of furniture products: ...

5.2 National, regional and municipal regulations

In Italy there are furniture regulations that apply nationwide. Regions and municipalities often act at their own discretion.

At the national level there are numerous laws, rules and decrees that deal with issues such as environmental cleanliness of furniture and fire hazards. The following is a non-exhaustive list:

Presidential Decree No. *** of **/**/**** regulation updating Directive **/***/EEC on materials for furniture Ministerial Decree No. *** of **/**/**** and No. *** of **/**/**** as amended and supplemented classification of flammable materials for furniture or other materials that may cause fire Law No. ***/**** rules updating Article ** paragraph ** of **.**.** on outdoor installations

Regional and municipal regulations vary. The following are examples of some standards concerning furniture in Tuscany:

UNI EN ***- B**/**** refers to the color fastness of fabric furniture upholstery (***) UNI *****-*/**** refers to the strength of tables and table-like structures UNI ****/****+A*/**** refers to the flammability of upholstered furniture UNI ****/**** refers to the maximum load capacity (***) of outdoor furniture

In municipalities and townships, the Landscape Authority may implement standards at its discretion. For example, in the municipality of Viddalba, in the province of Sassari, outdoor fountains, metal benches and window blinds must be painted a dark green tone. Houses can only be painted one of the following ...

6.1 Segmentation

Furniture manufacturers

Manufacturers of sofas and armchairs

• Natuzzi s.p.a
• Poltrona Frau s.p.a
• Minotti s.p.a
• Friul Intaglia Industries s.p.a
• Poliform s.p.a
• Imab Group s.p.a
• Giessegi Industria Mobili s.p.a
• Cassina s.p.a
• Gruppo Turi s.r.l
• Ikea (Ikea Italia Retail s.r.l)
• Iris Mobili (Mondo Convenienza)
• Maisons du Monde