by Several manufacturers are showing product at the July 30-Aug. 3 Las Vegas Market, highlighting their resiliency and dedication during extremely challenging times
Ukrainian furniture manufacturers are significantly impacting the international market by showcasing their innovative designs at the summer market in Las Vegas. This event, July 30-Aug. 3, brings together industry professionals and pioneers worldwide. Thanks to the ongoing support provided by the United States Agency for International Development and USAID Competitive Economy Program, in particular, Ukrainian furniture manufacturers are poised to become key players in the global furniture industry.
The Ukrainian furniture industry has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, with craftspeople skillfully combining traditional techniques with modern aesthetics to create sophisticated and functional furniture. The new designs being unveiled at the Las Vegas Market are a testament to the creativity and fearlessness of Ukrainian artisans.
The Las Vegas Market provides a unique platform for Ukrainian furniture manufacturers to showcase their designs to a global audience. Industry professionals and buyers worldwide will have the opportunity to explore the latest offerings from Ukraine and witness firsthand the craftsmanship and innovation that has become synonymous with Ukrainian furniture manufacturers.
They are set up for success with vital support from the USAID Competitive Economy Program in Ukraine, recognizing the potential of the Ukrainian furniture industry, which has partnered with the top furniture manufacturers in the country to support its growth and development. Ukrainian furniture factories have received technical assistance and access to international markets through USAID’s Competitive Economy Program. This support has not only boosted the exports of Ukrainian furniture but has also facilitated the
exchange of knowledge and enhanced capacity building within the industry.
The Ukrainian manufacturers are showing in space WMC B-200. They include U-MA, upholstery/sofas; Tivoli, chairs and tables; and Garant, home and commercial furnishings. The other manufacturers, new to the mission this season, include Richman, home and commercial furnishings; and Veko, upholstery/sofas.
Ukraine, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and skilled artisans, has witnessed a remarkable transformation in its furniture industry in recent years. Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing war, the Ukrainian furniture sector has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, evolving to meet the demands of an ever-changing market.
The impact of the war on the Ukrainian furniture industry cannot be overlooked. The conflict has disrupted supply chains, caused significant economic instability and created an uncertain business environment. Nevertheless, Ukrainian furniture manufacturers have managed to navigate these challenges, making commendable strides toward growth and development.
One of the key drivers of this transformation has been the industry’s commitment to innovation and modernization. Ukrainian furniture companies have embraced cutting-edge technologies, incorporating automation and advanced production techniques. This has not only enhanced efficiency and productivity but has also yielded high-quality and sustainable furniture products.
The Ukrainian furniture industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience despite the ongoing invasion. Rather than solely focusing on maintaining business operations, there has been a notable shift toward development, growth, efficiency, competitiveness and global furniture market penetration. Despite the challenges imposed by the war, the Ukrainian furniture industry has displayed determination and resilience, undergoing a significant transformation in recent years. Ukrainian furniture manufacturers have proven their ability to thrive amidst adversity by adopting innovation, expanding globally and embracing sustainability. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, they continue to contribute to the growth and development of the industry, both domestically and internationally.
Jeff Michels, a California hôtelier, has firsthand experience collaborating with Ukrainian furniture manufacturers on hospitality projects. He became convinced that Ukrainian furnishings hold strong potential for exporting to the North American and Latin American markets.
“Ukrainian furniture manufacturing spans several sectors from wholesale, retail, hospitality, residential, kitchen and bath, lighting and more,” Michels said. “Most designers and consumers outside of Ukraine are unaware of the incredible quality and design available by Ukrainian manufacturers at reasonable prices that rival other producers.”
Michels has traveled to Ukraine despite the ongoing war to visit the home furnishings and lighting industry.
“I previously visited Ukrainian manufacturers six months ago, and it is incredible to see how the industry has adapted,” Michels said. “Many companies are now exporting with a new-found focus on incorporating international design trends and shortening the lead times to delivery. The Russian aggression war in Ukraine is bringing together Ukrainians across the furniture manufacturing cluster to become a more cohesive industry that is sharing best practices and determined not to allow their economy to suffer at the expense of the fighting on the front line in the East. Within the furniture manufacturing industry, most of the companies are located around Lviv and Kyiv, which are considered to be largely safe.”
Michels said he has recently placed additional orders with furniture and lighting manufacturers for his projects and is not concerned about production delays or delivery.
“When you visit the factories everyone is working as usual,” he said. “You can see a very high level of precision, skill and team effort. Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of visiting these producers firsthand is the communal pride in their work and the result of the products. My mission alongside USAID CEP Ukraine is to bring greater awareness of the furniture manufacturing industry to new markets and help the companies with product adaptation and new orders to support their entrepreneurial efforts and the employment of their skilled workforce.”
The international community has played a crucial role in supporting the Ukrainian economy by implementing zero taxes on Ukrainian goods worldwide and promoting Ukrainian products. Notably, the furniture industry has become the seventh-largest export industry in Ukraine, with the total value of exported goods surpassing that of 2021, reaching an impressive $806 million in 2022. These figures are
commendable, considering the country’s ongoing conflict.
International institutions, such as USAID, have played a crucial role in supporting Ukrainian businesses through grants for trade missions, exhibitions and equipment upgrades, which are vital for production.
An excellent example is the collaboration between Tivoli and EEPO, where three Las Vegas markets were organized for Ukrainian furniture manufacturers. Two of these events received support from USAID’s Competitive Economy Program. Such assistance has enabled companies to continue operations, preserve employment opportunities, gain insights into the North American market and expand their business networks, which is of utmost importance during times of conflict.
Mebus, a winter Las Vegas Market participant, also participated in other European furniture markets, broadened its customer base, and even engaged with American customers in Europe. These efforts have resulted in increased business opportunities. Additionally, Tivoli participated in multiple European fairs, nominated one of their chairs for an international design award, and emerged as the winner, highlighting Ukrainian companies’ strength, resilience and innovation.
Ukrainian industrial design has not only received international recognition but has also gained appreciation from customers worldwide. Furthermore, the Ukrainian furniture industry has also expanded its international presence. Ukrainian furniture manufacturers have successfully entered global markets despite the ongoing war, leveraging their unique craftsmanship and competitive pricing. By exporting their products to countries worldwide, Ukrainian furniture companies have generated revenue and bolstered the country’s image as a hub of quality furniture production.
The Ukrainian furniture industry has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, driven by a rising demand for sophisticated, high-quality furniture. USAID’s involvement in this collaboration is expected to boost export opportunities for Ukrainian manufacturers, attract foreign investments and help establish long-term business relationships with international buyers.
The Las Vegas Market provides a unique platform for Ukrainian furniture manufacturers to showcase their designs to a global audience. This renowned event offers an opportunity for industry professionals and buyers worldwide to immerse themselves in the latest offerings from Ukraine and witness firsthand the craftsmanship and innovation that has become synonymous with Ukrainian furniture.
Kiko Gaspar is a communications consultant working to help tell the story of the Ukrainian furniture industry and various Ukrainian manufacturers participating in the summer Las Vegas Market.
