A commitment to handcrafting
- Less mistakes are made. With each piece of a collection getting individual attention from an expert, far less defective or broken parts make the cut.
- Each piece is unique. Though the best manufacturers are able to guarantee that all of their pieces are uniform, the fact that each one has been carefully constructed by hand means that your customers get the best of both worlds: unique pieces that fit seamlessly into their collections.
- No cutting corners. Handcrafted products are built to last, with sturdy construction and well-done finishes.
Handcrafted outdoor furniture may not be something that the average consumer can spot with their naked eye, but it’ll still make all the difference for your business: it’ll matter in a year, when customers are writing rave reviews instead of complaining about broken furniture. It’ll matter down the line, when the pieces you’ve sold still look like new, regardless of Florida’s no-holds-barred weather. For quality that your customers can count on far beyond taking their furniture home, opt for handcrafted pieces.
Domestically sourced materials
In addition to sourcing their materials in the United States, a manufacturer should also produce their pieces domestically. This allows them to oversee every step of the production process, which places some weight behind any “quality guarantee” that they provide.
Never skimping on quality (and clearly defining what “quality” means)
The key is to look for a manufacturer who clearly defines what quality means to them. Then, they should be transparent about demonstrating just how they uphold and guarantee that quality in their own processes. For us, that means upholding the standards we’ve already covered: handcrafted pieces, expert manufacturers, and domestically-sourced materials. Define what quality means to you, then look for a manufacturer whose own definition is compatible with yours.
Access to their catalogue
Pleasant partnerships
- How promptly do they respond to your inquiries?
- How transparent are their price quotes?
- How responsive are they about specific questions you have?
- How extensive and easy-to-navigate is their catalog?
- Do they have a good reputation as a collaborator in the industry?
By keeping these questions in mind throughout your initial interactions with a prospective manufacturer, you’ll be evaluating their business acumen as well as the quality of their furniture. In the most compatible business relationships, both will meet and exceed your standards.
