HNI grows earnings in Q2 as residential, office furnishings show strength / ABI June 2025: Architecture firm billings remain soft, while inquiries increase / German office furniture maker enters preliminary insolvency / Italian luxury furniture sector braces for heavy toll as US tariffs loom / Office Value Plunge Opens Door For New Conversion Play: Self-Storage / Mapped: The Most Expensive U.S. Cities For Commercial Construction / Return to Office Momentum Will Lift Broader CRE Market / Subtle Luxury, Elevated Design: Davis Unveils New Showroom at THE MART / 33% Of U.S. Office Loans Near Maturity, Threatening Commercial Real Estate Market Stability / NYC Law Firms Are Outgrowing Their Offices / The office isn’t just a space anymore. It’s a strategy to attract talent / Better offices for all as occupiers shift focus away from cost cutting / Return-to-office mandates won’t keep workers in their cubicles – but a lavish workspace can / and much more…

Architecture firm billings have declined for the eighth consecutive month, with a score of 46.8 on the AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index. Despite the decline in billings, inquiries for new projects have increased for the second month, suggesting potential future work. However, the value of newly signed design contracts has dropped for the 16th month in a row.

 

Overall business conditions remained soft, although firms in the South reported a slight increase in billings. Employment in architectural services showed minimal changes, with a slight net gain since January, while inflation rose again in June. Staffing levels indicate that nearly 64% of firms feel appropriately staffed, but about 24% report being understaffed, particularly among smaller firms and those in the Northeast. Conversely, some larger firms have reported being overstaffed. The economic landscape remains mixed, with rising costs in shelter, energy, and food contributing to inflation.

HNI Corporation reported strong second-quarter results for 2025, with net sales reaching $667.1 million and net income of $48.2 million. Year-over-year, total net sales increased by seven percent, driven by volume growth and operational efficiency. The company saw a significant improvement in earnings per share, with GAAP diluted EPS rising to $1.02, a 36% increase compared to the previous year.

 

Key highlights include a robust operating margin of 10.2% and ongoing visibility for earnings growth through 2026, aided by synergies from the Kimball International acquisition and enhancements at the Mexico facility. The Workplace Furnishings segment reported a 7.4% increase in net sales, while the Residential Building Products segment saw a 5.3% rise.

 

Looking ahead, HNI expects low-single-digit growth in net sales for the third quarter of 2025 and a modest increase in earnings per share. The company remains optimistic about achieving double-digit EPS growth for the year, supported by a strong balance sheet and consistent cash flow generation.

The AIA Consensus Construction Forecast for July 2025 provides insights into expected construction spending in various sectors, including nonresidential and institutional categories. Key forecasts indicate that total nonresidential spending is projected at $746.8 billion, with significant contributions from commercial sectors such as office, retail, and manufacturing. Institutional spending, which encompasses health, education, and recreational facilities, is estimated at $359.4 billion. The report emphasizes that forecasts are based on submissions from various industry panelists and highlights the variability in definitions of nonresidential categories. Additionally, it notes that the figures are not adjusted for inflation and are benchmarked against U.S. Census Bureau data.

Subtle Luxury, Elevated Design: Davis Unveils New Showroom at THE MART

Davis Furniture has unveiled an expanded showroom at THE MART in Chicago, showcasing a design philosophy centered on subtle luxury and material sophistication. The redesigned space, which debuted during NeoCon 2025, features a collaborative effort between the design studio Kuchar and Davis’ in-house team, highlighting an immersive environment that reflects the brand’s identity.

 

Key enhancements include an expanded entrance, a new materiality wall showcasing a variety of finishes, and a hospitality zone designed for social interaction. The showroom presents the latest product introductions in curated vignettes, emphasizing comfort and versatility. With the integration of a QR code system for easy access to product specifications, the showroom aims to bridge physical and digital experiences.

Luxury Living Group has announced an agreement with FENDI, part of the LVMH group, to take over the global production and distribution of Fendi Casa furniture and home accessories, effective July 1, 2025. This deal follows the acquisition of Fashion Furniture Design S.p.A., which held the Fendi Casa home license. Luxury Living Group, founded in the 1980s and specializing in high-end furniture, has a long history with FENDI, having launched the first Fendi Casa collection in 1988. The collection is known for its contemporary aesthetic and commitment to Italian craftsmanship. Key figures from both companies expressed optimism about the partnership and its potential for future growth, emphasizing a shared dedication to creativity, quality, and design innovation.

 

The return-to-office trend is gaining momentum, with office traffic reaching 72.6% of pre-pandemic levels, a significant increase from previous years. This rise in attendance is contributing to a decline in downtown apartment vacancy rates, particularly in cities like New York, Miami, Atlanta, and Dallas. Although a full return to five-day in-office work is not expected, companies in the finance and tech sectors are leading efforts to bring employees back to the office. The softening job market is pushing employers to enforce in-office mandates, which is likely to bolster demand for office space and influence various aspects of commercial real estate.

New York City has the highest commercial construction costs at $534 per square foot, followed by San Francisco and Los Angeles. Rising material prices and a shortage of skilled labor are contributing to increased construction costs nationwide. The Sun Belt offers cheaper construction options, while labor shortages persist in major markets. Overall, construction spending is on the rise, but local regulations and labor costs significantly impact prices across different regions.

The current state of tariffs has created confusion and concern within the design industry, as ongoing changes in trade policy lead to uncertainty in pricing and costs. Recent developments include a deal with Vietnam to set tariffs at 20 percent, which has raised concerns but is an improvement over previously announced rates. Despite fears, many industry leaders believe that the effects of these tariffs may not be as catastrophic as initially thought, with a general assumption that the situation will stabilize.

 

Importers have taken various steps, including stockpiling goods and adjusting prices, in anticipation of tariff impacts. As inventory runs low in the fall, there may be significant price adjustments. Some companies are resorting to illegal tactics to navigate tariff costs, particularly smaller businesses with tighter margins. The landscape remains fluid, and the ultimate effects on consumer behavior and industry pricing will become clearer in the coming months.

Ceka, an office furniture manufacturer based in Alsfeld, Germany, entered preliminary insolvency proceedings on July 2, 2025. The Giessen District Court appointed attorney Dr. Michael Lojowsky as the provisional insolvency administrator to stabilize the company’s halted production and deliveries, while salaries for approximately 115 employees are secured for at least two months through insolvency benefit advances. Interim manager Dominik Schiller confirmed continued communication with suppliers and customers, including a recent order from the city of Wuppertal and an upcoming delivery to a major company in the Ruhr region.

 

Ceka is actively seeking strategic investors to preserve its production site and protect jobs, with the Works Council—led by chairman Adem Maden—working closely with the administrator to steer the company toward a stable and sustainable future, aiming for a full production restart in August.

European furniture manufacturers are facing severe economic consequences due to proposed 30% US tariffs on EU exports, potentially leading to job losses and increased prices. Italian industry leaders warn of "industrial desertification," with significant risks to €17.8 billion in SME exports. While the US remains Italy's largest non-EU trade partner, uncertainty in trade policy is complicating business strategies, and any growth in new markets may not compensate for losses in the US.

A financial crunch looms for the U.S. office real estate market, with 33% of office loans nearing maturity, totaling nearly $290 billion. Rising delinquencies and a decrease in loan extensions are forcing difficult decisions for lenders and borrowers. Major cities like Atlanta, Denver, and Chicago face significant risks, while vacancy rates remain high nationally. Some markets are exploring office-to-residential conversions, and job growth in office-using sectors has stagnated, adding to uncertainty in demand.

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston announced an ambitious plan to convert 4 million square feet of vacant office space into affordable housing for middle-income residents, a move that may help revitalize downtown but also signals a sharp reduction in future demand for office furniture. With fewer offices comes fewer desks, chairs, and workstations—bad news for the contract furniture industry. In his 2025 State of the City address, Johnston emphasized the urgency of addressing public safety concerns and meeting the city’s housing needs, estimating a requirement of 5,000 new housing units per year. The plan includes a new middle-class housing program offering tax exemptions to developers building rental units for households earning between $60,000 and $100,000, and is part of a broader $570 million economic stimulus initiative. Johnston also introduced the Denver Permitting Office to streamline approvals and speed up housing production. However, the city’s projected $200 million budget shortfall in 2026 raises questions about how all of this will be funded.

Tourbineau Real Estate Partners is leading a growing trend of converting vacant office buildings into self-storage facilities, starting with its first project in Raleigh, North Carolina, and eyeing additional sites nationwide. As office property values have dropped 23% over the past three years, self-storage has emerged as a financially attractive alternative, with rising demand and increasing sale prices. But this shift comes with a hidden cost to the contract furniture industry: every office turned into a storage facility means one less space filled with desks, chairs, and collaborative workstations. Zoning challenges and structural adjustments still pose hurdles, along with community resistance that often requires developers to offer public benefits in exchange for approval. However, places like Montgomery County have begun easing zoning restrictions, paving the way for more conversions. The movement reflects a pragmatic, if sobering, response to a softening office market—one that trades in cubicles for corrugated roll-up doors.

The Los Angeles office market is experiencing a significant slowdown, with only 1.7 million square feet under construction and no new projects started in Q2. Expected office completions for the year are at a low of 516,000 square feet, reminiscent of post-GFC levels. High construction costs and reduced tenant demand are hindering new developments, although some projects, like JMB Realty's Century City Center, are exceptions due to committed tenants. The overall vacancy rate is 24.1%, with negative absorption of over 596,000 square feet, indicating a challenging market ahead.

As the legal industry continues to expand in New York City, several prominent law firms, including Kirkland & Ellis, Goodwin Procter, and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, are actively seeking additional office space in Manhattan. This trend reflects a broader national increase in leasing activity within the legal sector. Orrick, Herrington and Sutcliffe is also in the process of constructing a new reception area for its upcoming office in the city.

Post-pandemic, companies are rethinking office spaces as strategic tools to attract talent, emphasizing the importance of creating environments that reflect their identity and values. High-end commercial real estate is evolving into cultural hubs that prioritize employee well-being and connection, with features like outdoor spaces and wellness amenities. This shift positions the office as a vital part of employer branding, where the experience provided can enhance productivity and loyalty among employees, making it essential for companies to focus on the kind of experience they create for their workforce.

Companies are investing heavily in luxurious office spaces to attract employees back to the workplace amidst a rise in remote work. Examples include Alger's new headquarters with modern amenities and JPMorgan Chase's upcoming skyscraper. The trend reflects a shift in the perception of offices from mere workspaces to cultural destinations, emphasizing aesthetics and employee inspiration. Despite high vacancy rates in some areas, there is a competitive market for premium office spaces that cater to the desire for an attractive and engaging work environment..

A global shift in workplace strategy prioritizes portfolio optimization and better office environments over cost reduction, with 73% of corporate real estate leaders focusing on this change. Office utilization rates have increased to 54%, and companies are investing in technologies and modifications to support hybrid work. The average space per person has decreased, while sit-stand desks and wellness areas are becoming standard. Despite tracking workplace usage, only 7% of organizations rate their data collection as effective, indicating a significant capability gap. Sustainability remains a priority, with 74% of organizations linking occupancy planning to waste reduction and employee wellbeing.

Mergers and acquisitions often focus on financial, legal, and technological aspects, but the success of these endeavors heavily relies on human factors such as culture and talent. Studies indicate that a significant percentage of mergers fail due to cultural incompatibility. To address this, organizations should strategically leverage real estate by identifying redundancies, aligning workplace design with the new company’s vision, and treating real estate as a dynamic asset that supports business objectives. By prioritizing the human equation and transforming physical environments, companies can enhance employee integration, engagement, and productivity, ultimately driving long-term value creation.

As the Eames House reopens and The Met restores a lost 1975 film, Charles and Ray Eames reemerge as humanist futurists. Discover how their work still shapes design, museums, and culture today.

Delta Airlines is ramping up its use of AI-driven dynamic pricing, planning to expand from 3% to 20% of ticket sales by the end of the year, with full implementation on the horizon. The move is part of a broader trend that could soon sweep across other sectors, as companies look to leverage consumer data to optimize profits in real time. Critics warn this could open the door to algorithmic price gouging, especially in industries like hospitality and retail, potentially souring the consumer experience and heightening the urgency for stronger data protection.

 

But here’s a thought: why should airlines have all the fun? This kind of AI-powered pricing tool would be a pretty nifty bit of software for contract furniture manufacturers to add to their arsenal. Imagine being able to tweak pricing based on demand patterns, client behavior, or even project urgency—just like the airlines do when they spot a business traveler booking a last-minute flight. Used responsibly, dynamic pricing could offer new margin opportunities while keeping the sales team sharp and the product pipeline flowing.

More than half of employees at Fortune 100 companies are now required to work in the office five days a week, marking a significant shift from previous hybrid work policies. This change reflects a trend towards increased in-person attendance, with companies like JPMorgan Chase, Amazon, AT&T, Salesforce, and Google implementing stricter office mandates. The momentum for full-time office requirements is growing, with limited signs of flexibility in the current corporate environment.

Three tenants in Los Angeles shared their leasing decisions, highlighting varying needs but common considerations like cost and location. West Monroe, a consulting firm, upgraded to a larger, modern office that enhances collaboration and offers a great value. Amanecer Community Counseling Services expanded their existing space, valuing affordability and a supportive landlord relationship, while Savills unified its offices in a newly renovated location, prioritizing an appealing work environment over traditional geographic preferences. Each tenant aimed to create spaces that attract employees and foster collaboration.

A FlexJobs study reveals that 83% of job seekers prefer remote roles, with remote job postings rising by 8% across various fields, including education and social media. Job seekers should utilize remote-specific job boards and networks, develop essential skills for remote work, and ask pertinent questions during interviews to ensure the role meets their needs. The future of remote work looks promising for those who stay informed and strategically prepare for opportunities.

Gen Z employees are struggling to determine appropriate office attire after the pandemic, with 94% seeking style guidance from managers. This confusion is attributed to their lack of experience and the evolving workplace dress codes. Experts suggest young workers take cues from their superiors, express themselves with restraint, and avoid overly revealing clothing. The pandemic has shifted norms, leading to a need for clearer guidelines from employers to help employees balance self-expression with professionalism.

A report by MITIE reveals that poorly designed workplaces in the UK could be costing the economy up to £71.4 billion annually due to lost productivity. Workers lose over an hour weekly to workplace inefficiencies, translating to a significant salary cost. The study highlights a strong link between workplace satisfaction and employee retention, with 89% of satisfied employees also content with their employer. Key factors for job satisfaction include workplace safety and proper tools, while poor maintenance is a major dissatisfaction driver. Interestingly, social amenities are less valued than opportunities for colleague interaction.

Research indicates that many younger workers in the UK are taking on second jobs to cope with rising living costs, with over half of Gen Z and 70% of Millennials seeking additional income. Financial stress is affecting their concentration at work, with nearly 20% of Gen Z already holding a second job and 11% of Millennials considering it.

Thoughtful office design can foster a sense of belonging by supporting diversity, neurodiversity, and accessibility. Modern workplaces should allow employees to bring their whole selves to work, moving away from one-size-fits-all approaches. Key design elements include open-concept offices, configurable furniture, social zones, and sensory-conscious environments. Leadership plays a crucial role in creating a culture that values diverse input and encourages authentic communication, ultimately enabling employees to feel emotionally and physically supported in their workspaces.

Visitor experiences in workplaces need a redesign to reflect a more hospitality-oriented approach. First impressions are crucial, and companies should streamline check-in processes, enhance signage, and integrate technology to create a seamless experience. Observing visitor interactions can reveal gaps in the experience, and ownership of the entire visitor journey is essential for accountability and improvement. Ultimately, the goal is to make guests feel welcomed and valued, similar to a high-quality hotel experience.

Artificial intelligence is transforming office design by analyzing how employees use space to enhance productivity, collaboration, and satisfaction. AI can predict layout performance and improve building health by optimizing air quality, leading to better decision-making. Companies are increasingly adopting modular setups based on AI recommendations, allowing for quick adjustments to workspace configurations. This shift is driven by the need for efficient use of space and shorter lease terms, enabling firms to analyze potential layouts before committing to leases.

Keen Footwear eliminated "forever chemicals" from its products ahead of new regulations, focusing on transparency and industry collaboration. The company achieved zero PFAS by 2018 and is now targeting other harmful chemicals, including solvents. Keen aims for all footwear to be free of toxic substances by 2030, employing innovative construction methods to enhance durability and reduce chemical use.

A study shows strong support for mandatory Lifecycle Assessments (LCAs) in the UK’s built environment to combat greenwashing, with 86% of professionals believing they are essential for trust in environmental claims. Younger professionals are more optimistic about the sector's role in sustainability, while many organizations are hesitant to communicate openly due to fears of reputational damage. The research highlights a need for better training and robust data to effectively identify and address greenwashing.

KFI Studios has launched a new line of sustainable side and coffee tables, including the Tumble table, which is made from recycled textiles and features a wooden base inspired by the tumble-dry symbol. This design emphasizes sustainability and craftsmanship, creating a unique aesthetic suitable for various commercial and hospitality settings.

Hightower has expanded its Flote Collection with 20 new models, emphasizing purposeful design that supports sustainability, comfort, and adaptability for diverse user needs. The collection features various seating options, including chairs and sofas, designed for both individual and collaborative use. Flote has received multiple industry awards and is backed by a 10-year warranty, highlighting its commitment to quality and environmental stewardship.

Versteel updates its Companion seating collection, originally launched in 1996, to enhance sustainability, comfort, and design. Key improvements include in-house production of urethane armcaps for better durability and customization, and sourcing wood components from a local American manufacturer to strengthen supply chains. These refinements aim to maintain the collection's legacy while adapting to modern needs in various public and educational spaces.

Herman Miller introduces the Pawson Drift Sofa Group, a new lounge collection designed by architect John Pawson, featuring generous cushions, a solid wood frame, and sustainable materials. The collection emphasizes comfort and aesthetic appeal, with options for customization in fabric and wood types. It incorporates over 80% natural components, including plant-based latex foam, aligning with Herman Miller's commitment to sustainability. The sofa group is available for purchase in stores and online.

The Casa chair collection by Aceray features a blend of comfort and versatility, designed by E & P Ciani Design in Italy. Its soft, circular form and durable materials make it suitable for various settings, with multiple base options available to match different aesthetics. Casa serves as both a functional seat and a character piece that enhances interior spaces.

The Thor Collection by emuamericas combines durability with elegant design, featuring powder-coated steel construction and stackable seating options suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Designed by Chiaramonte/Marin, it offers a versatile architectural profile with vibrant finishes and optional comfort enhancements, making it ideal for commercial environments that require both resilience and style.

Shaw Contract has launched the Radiant Custom Collection, a luxurious selection of broadloom and rugs inspired by light and celebration, designed for hospitality interiors. The collection features customizable options across three construction platforms, allowing designers to create immersive environments that enhance mood and experience. Emphasizing sustainability, Radiant aims to reflect the joy of gathering while positively impacting people and the planet, making it ideal for luxury hotels and other hospitality spaces.

Designtex introduces Ethos, its first coated textile made with biobased polyurethane, featuring 12% biobased content verified by third-party testing. Ethos is free from harmful substances and meets various sustainability standards. With a soft texture and 32 color options, it combines high performance with sustainability, utilizing recycled materials and biobased fibers. Designtex has a history of innovation in biobased textiles, starting from the 1960s, and continues to develop sustainable solutions in the industry.

Coronet LED launches Taskbar, a glare-free desk-mounted luminaire designed for focused task lighting, featuring high-efficiency optics, customizable options, and integrated dimming control, ideal for modern workspaces.

Sportwear brand On has established a new London headquarters in collaboration with M Moser, designed to meet the needs of its team. Founded in Zurich, On is rapidly growing in the global market, holding a significant 40% share in the Swiss running shoe sector and positioning itself as a premium alternative to established competitors.

USM, the Swiss manufacturer of modular furniture, is relocating its London showroom from Clerkenwell to Marylebone in response to growing demand for steel furniture in private homes. This move aims to broaden the brand's audience and challenge the perception that their products are only suitable for office spaces. The new showroom is designed as a curated journey, showcasing USM’s furniture in residential-inspired settings, including a kitchen zone and a home cinema. The design reflects adaptability and functionality, catering to modern living needs while highlighting exclusive collaborations and a rotating art program. Overall, the Marylebone store enhances the immersive experience for visitors, emphasizing USM's commitment to sustainable and versatile furniture solutions.

Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan's new headquarters, designed by Gensler, emphasizes wellness, sustainability, and flexibility, featuring three ecosystems: Strength, Nurture, and Energy. The design promotes collaboration through open spaces and reduces hierarchy by minimizing assigned office areas. Key elements include the Downie Wenjack Legacy Space for Reconciliation, inclusive design features, and a focus on employee experience, which earned OTPP a Leesman+ certification for top-tier workplaces.

Monsieur Pixel is a French tech content creator known for his engaging videos, photography, and digital products. He focuses on reviewing the latest technology, including smartphones, gaming devices, and electric cars, while maintaining a friendly and minimalist approach. Active on multiple social media platforms, he has built a strong community and encourages interaction with his audience.

The USDA plans to relocate around 2,500 employees from D.C. to various cities across the country, vacating three buildings, including the historic South Building. This move aims to reduce operational costs and bring the department closer to the communities it serves. The South Building, which has significant deferred maintenance and is underutilized, presents redevelopment opportunities, potentially for mixed-use or museum purposes.

Clear Street has expanded its headquarters to nearly 88,000 square feet at 4 World Trade Center, securing a long-term lease for the entire 45th and 46th floors. The building, which is 97 percent leased, hosts major tenants such as Spotify and Duolingo. The expansion reflects Clear Street's growth in New York City, coinciding with a strong leasing market in Manhattan.

Zylo+ Wins Gold and Innovation Awards at NeoCon

Zylo+ has won Gold for Best Task Light and an Innovation Award at NeoCon 2025 for its unique combination of continuous desktop sanitization and high-quality lighting. Utilizing patented technology, it kills 99.8% of pathogens without chemicals or UV light, making it suitable for shared workspaces. The product offers natural white light with a high color rendering index, enhancing visual comfort and reducing eye strain. Zylo+ addresses hygiene challenges in flexible work environments and is proven effective in reducing SARS-CoV-2 in certified settings, all while being environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

OFS Announces New Sales Leadership Team

OFS has appointed a new sales leadership team to enhance growth and customer experience, including Molly Menke Prior as Senior Vice President of Sales and Experience, Matt McCormick as National Sales Manager, and regional leaders Rachel Deane and Brandy Mills. These changes aim to unify sales and customer initiatives, strengthen dealer relationships, and foster a human-centered approach to selling, reflecting OFS's commitment to service and excellence.

Momentum Announces Retirement of Sales Director Karen Wehner

Karen Wehner, Director of Western Sales at Momentum Textiles & Wallcovering, will retire in August after over 40 years with the company. She played a crucial role in building the sales organization, mentoring team members, and founding the Comfort Quilts program. Her leadership and dedication have significantly contributed to Momentum's success and culture.

Watson Furniture Welcomes Donna Sheahan as National Sales Manager

Watson Furniture has appointed Donna Sheahan as National Sales Manager to enhance its strategic expansion in the commercial furniture market. With extensive experience in sales leadership and business development, she will lead national sales efforts and strengthen market presence. Donna previously served as Regional Sales Manager at Calyx by Claridge and has expertise in various sectors, including healthcare and education. She is excited to join Watson and contribute to building customer relationships and supporting partners nationwide.

Carrier Johnson + Culture Names Marin Gertler as Design Principal and Firmwide Head of Design

Marin Gertler has been appointed as Design Principal and Firmwide Head of Design at Carrier Johnson + Culture, overseeing design strategy across multiple studios. With over 20 years of experience, he aims to integrate cultural context with technical excellence in projects. Gertler's notable work includes the One Paseo development and the Research and Development District in San Diego. He is also recognized for his leadership in the industry and has received several awards, including the Global ULI 40 Under 40. Gertler holds degrees from the Rhode Island School of Design and has taught at various institutions.

Eaton Fine Art Welcomes Art Curator

Eaton Fine Art has appointed Kimbra Elgin as Art Curator to enhance its art collections for diverse clients in hospitality and corporate sectors. With over 20 years of experience in hospitality design, Elgin aims to create impactful art that enriches guest experiences. She expressed excitement about joining the firm, known for its strong reputation in the industry. Eaton Fine Art, established in 1992, specializes in curating art for hotels and has collaborated with major brands globally.

Modern Your Way With Heller’s New “Made to Order”

Heller has launched a Made to Order program allowing designers and architects to customize their rotationally molded furniture in any of 35 colors with a minimum order of 4 pieces. The program promises delivery in about 4 weeks and emphasizes the brand's commitment to being microplastic-free and regenerative. Early adopters, like Windham Mountain Club, have praised the product's quality and suitability for harsh conditions. Heller furniture is made in the USA, BIFMA certified, and recyclable, making it ideal for various environments.

ORGATEC 2026 reports strong results at end of early bird phase

ORGATEC 2026, set for October 27-30, 2026 in Cologne, has seen a significant increase in registrations, with 8% more space booked and 25% more exhibitors compared to the previous edition. The event will feature a refined trade fair concept, including themed areas and the Wherever Whenever - Work Culture Festival, emphasizing innovation and networking opportunities in modern working environments. The strong interest reflects ORGATEC's relevance in the industry, despite challenges facing the furniture sector in Europe.

A sales rep is uncomfortable with his new boss's strong cologne, which causes nausea during work-related travel. He contemplates addressing the issue but fears it may jeopardize their relationship. The advice suggests either adapting to the smell or politely claiming sensitivity to scents, as many people may not share his discomfort. It's emphasized that awareness of fragrance sensitivity is important in the workplace for both employees and customers.

MergeWorks is seeking a Regional Sales Manager for the western US to grow sales and manage Independent Representatives. Responsibilities include developing sales strategies, training reps, collaborating with marketing, and resolving customer service issues. Candidates should have 5-10 years in the contract furniture industry, strong communication skills, and be willing to travel 30% or more.

As a District Sales Manager, your responsibilities would include business development, promotion, support, and training activities targeted towards designated Dealerships, A & D Firms and End Users in the Dallas market.

OFS is seeking a dynamic and experienced Market Resource Manager who will be responsible for the overall performance and operations of the showroom, ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction, optimizing sales, and maintaining the visual standard of our product displays.