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The Role of Charities in Furniture Reuse
An important part of office furniture reuse has been the charitable sector. Over the last two decades this sector has grown in size, reach and complexity; a small number have focused exclusively on office furniture, although a great many sold office furniture in an as-and-when fashion. We have tried to examine the size and shape of this market to better understand how it can be further stimulated.
The current economic downturn has affected this sector less than the corresponding commercial furniture market: the dependence on grants has shielded charities from some of the market problems, but this is currently both a risk and a stimulus to change. Some charities, social enterprises and indeed office furniture traders are reporting booming business. A great many others are struggling. The already low value of used furniture is further eroded by removal and storage costs. Many third sector organisations have weak balance sheets and are susceptible to market conditions. Couple this with business models dependent on grants and corporate largesse, and many organisations are scrambling to adapt.
The full findings from the report can be found via the links on the left.