Paul Wray, Managing Director of Modern Outlook Furniture, details how China is a leading global supplier of furniture.
Contemporary & Modern Furniture
Chinese manufacturers produce a vast range of contemporary furniture, including sleek sofas, modular sectionals, and minimalist dining sets. These pieces often feature clean lines, neutral tones, and high-quality materials like engineered wood, metal, and premium upholstery fabrics. Many international brands showcased at Furniture China 2024 (Shanghai) highlighting China’s capability in modern design, and should be no exception to Furniture China 2025 in September showcasing Scandinavian-inspired coffee tables, mid-century modern armchairs, and modular shelving systems using materials such as MDF, plywood, stainless steel, tempered glass, and synthetic leather.
Traditional & Classic Furniture
China is renowned for its craftsmanship in traditional wooden furniture, including Anglo-Chinese export pieces like folding tables made from rosewood or padauk, historically supplied to the UK. These items often feature intricate carvings and durable hardwoods. These consisted of furniture Replica Qing dynasty cabinets, Ming-style rosewood dining tables, and carved console tables, using Solid teak, mahogany, rosewood, and lacquered finishes.
Office & Commercial Furniture
China supplies ergonomic office chairs, modular workstations, and conference tables tailored to UK corporate needs. The Furniture China expo highlights innovations in office furniture, including space-saving designs and smart furniture with integrated tech. Adjustable-height desks, executive leather chairs, and soundproof meeting pods, using materials such as Mesh fabric, memory foam, and powder-coated metal frames.
Outdoor & Garden Furniture
Chinese manufacturers produce weather-resistant outdoor furniture, such as aluminium garden sets, rattan loungers, rattan garden sets and folding picnic tables. These are popular in the UK due to their durability and cost-effectiveness. Powder-coated steel/Aluminium, UV-resistant rattan sofas, and teak benches are produced using PE rattan, rust-proof aluminum, and treated hardwood ideal for the UK market.
Custom & Bespoke Furniture
Many Chinese factories offer custom-made furniture, allowing UK buyers to specify dimensions, materials, and finishes. This includes tailored upholstery, modular kitchens, built-in wardrobes, made-to-order sectionals, personalised headboards/beds, and bespoke outdoor furniture. Factories are able to supply CAD designs, sample approvals, and OEM/ODM services which is making China a go to country to buy furniture for UK buyers.
Upholstered Furniture
China is a major supplier of sofas, recliners, and ottomans, with options ranging from budget-friendly polyfoam to luxury down-filled seating. The FMC China exhibition showcases high-end upholstery fabrics and innovative designs, with products ranging from Chesterfield sofas, reclining loveseats, and convertible sleeper sofas using Top-grain leather, linen blends, and high-resilience foam that meets UK regulations.
Children’s & Nursery Furniture
Safety-certified cribs, bunk beds, and study desks are exported to the UK, complying with EU/UKCA standards (post-Brexit certifications like UKCA are now required), using Non-toxic paints, rounded edges, and sustainable pine.
Sustainable & Secondhand Furniture
With growing demand for eco-friendly options, Chinese suppliers also contribute to the circular economy by refurbishing or producing furniture from recycled materials. Platforms like AptDeco facilitate the resale of pre-owned furniture, including Chinese-made pieces, from Upcycled wooden tables, vintage-inspired cabinets, and reclaimed timber shelves.
Key Considerations for UK Buyers
Certifications: Ensure compliance with UKCA marking (replacing CE for the UK market).
Logistics: Factor in shipping costs and lead times for bulk orders.
Trends: Stay updated on designs showcased at trade fairs like Furniture China.
Modern Outlook Furniture stands ready to support businesses of all sizes in their procurement endeavours from China, offering comprehensive Quality Control services to ensure successful project outcomes. Should you wish to explore how we can assist you in avoiding potential challenges and setbacks, please do not hesitate to contact us.
paulw@modernoutlook.cn / www.linkedin.com/in/paul-wray-79403935/
