Investing in Furniture is Back in Style: Sales of Domestic Furniture on the Rise in the Czech Republic

Furniture production in the Czech Republic reached a record high last year, increasing by 1.6% year-on-year to a total of CZK 52.83 billion. According to data from the Association of Czech Furniture Manufacturers (AČN), this marks the twelfth consecutive year of growth, released at the 18th furniture fair in Prague’s Letňany district. AČN representatives noted that the proportion of imports in domestic consumption decreased last year for the first time.

While furniture production grew by 7% year-on-year in 2021, last year’s increase was only 1.6% or CZK 0.83 billion higher. “Although the dynamics have slightly decreased – as in other industries – performance has seen growth, which is an important factor,” said AČN Secretary Tomáš Lukeš at a press conference. According to AČN President Martin Čudek, the positive news is that people are once again investing in furniture.

The value of furniture imports also slightly increased, reaching CZK 30.31 billion, 1.7% more than in 2021. Most imports come from Poland, Germany, and China. However, the proportion of imports in domestic furniture consumption decreased from 70.57% in 2021 to 70.49% in 2022.

Lukeš sees this as a turning point and a positive message for Czech manufacturers and believes it is a longer-term trend. The share of Czech furniture manufacturers in the domestic market has slightly increased, reaching CZK 12.69 billion.

Regarding domestic sales, furniture sales increased by 1.8% year-on-year to CZK 43 billion. According to furniture makers, the sluggish sales of particularly cheap furniture are mainly due to problems large chains and online retailers face.

Export figures rose from CZK 39.57 billion in 2021 to CZK 40.14 billion last year. Furniture makers see this as excellent export results but note that the solid Czech crown is slowing sales. Domestic companies mainly export more expensive furniture, particularly to Germany, France, and Slovakia.

The winner of the 14th furniture of the Year award 2023, voted for by the public, was the Aria double bed designed by Pavel Herman of Domestav. The bed has rounded shapes, adjustable fittings, and the option of adding frame lighting.

The Association of Czech Furniture Manufacturers has been in operation since 1997, and comprises roughly 100 members, with 70% consisting of manufacturing companies and the remainder consisting of, for example, schools. It is the guardian of the Czech Quality brand.