Interior design is not just about furniture. Features like glassware, vases, tablecloths, textiles, scented candles, lamps and wall decorations are just as important.
– Our sector is very sensitive to economic fluctuations. We are often the first in – but also the first out of a downturn, says Johan Sjöstedt, who will discuss the industry’s challenges in a panel discussion at Möbelmässan, the Gothenburg Furniture Fair.
He believes that a focus on attractive features can put us on an upward curve.
The gift and retail sectors are close to the furniture industry, and they are interdependent.
– There is a natural connection and many of our customers are furniture stores, says Johan Sjöstedt, CEO of Happynest Interior and chairperson of PUFF, the Swedish Association of Gift Wholesalers.
He’ll be participating in the panel discussion at Möbelmässan Gothenburg on 12 September, with the tough economic situation and future issues in focus.
Very boring without decorative features
The importance of decorative features for interior design cannot be overestimated, says Johan:
– Even if you have the most beautiful sofa and coffee table in the world, it will be a very boring environment without the right details.
– The natural follow-up question is: how can furniture and interior design shops become interesting enough to attract new customers?
He compares it to the explosive growth in online shopping.
– There is competition between them, of course. But maybe also some kind of synergy. I believe that we have to accept and adapt to the new situation. In order to maintain a vibrant retail sector, I think it is becoming increasingly important to find your own niche.
More exposure can boost the industry
From his vantage point at the wholesale level, he has seen a marked increase in retail bankruptcies in 2022 and 2023.
– In the retail sector, we noticed a slowdown as soon as the war in Ukraine broke out. The situation has been exacerbated by rising interest rates and inflation.
Nevertheless, he sees a silver lining: retail is impacted early in the economic cycle, but it is also usually the first sector to feel the upswing.
– That’s why I think it’s important for stores to act now and make the environment inspiring by giving greater exposure to attractive detail items. This can attract sales of more capital-intensive goods and help to boost the industry as a whole.
Looking forward to the debate
Johan welcomes the programme of seminars and panel discussions, which will be held for the first time this year at Möbelmässan Gothenburg.
– This is very positive. We really need to communicate more, talk to each other, share experiences, challenge opinions and open up to different points of view. I’m looking forward to it!
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