Ukrainian Furniture Manufacturers Return to Las Vegas Summer Market

Furniture World News Desk on 7/24/2023

Pictured are images from Tivoli | U-MA | Veko | Garant | Richman

Ukrainian furniture manufacturers will once again showcase their innovative designs at the Summer Market in Las Vegas thanks to the ongoing support provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the USAID Competitive Economy Program (CEP). 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 furniture industry has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years with craftspeople 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.

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. To view images and more information CLICK HERE. 

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 also yielded high-quality and sustainable furniture products.

Rather than solely focusing on maintaining business operations, there has been a notable shift towards export markets. “I visited Ukrainian manufacturers six months ago,” said Jeff Michels, a California-based Hotelier, “and it is incredible to see how the furniture industry has adapted. Many companies are now exporting with a newfound 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."

Jeff said he has recently placed additional orders with furniture and lighting manufacturers for his projects. He is not concerned about production delays or delivery. He says, "when you visit the factories everyone is working as usual. 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.

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 to support the establishment of the Ukrainian Pavilion at Las Vegas Market. 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, participated in other European furniture markets, broadened its customer base, and even engaged with American customers in Europe. Additionally, Tivoli participated in multiple European fairs and won an international design award.

The Las Vegas Market provides a unique platform for Ukrainian furniture manufacturers to showcase their designs to a global audience that continues to witness firsthand the craftsmanship and innovation that has become synonymous with Ukrainian furniture.

Visit the Ukraine Pavilion at Las Vegas Market, Building B/ showroom 200-02

About the Exhibitors:

TIVOLI: A brand leader since 1912, Tivoli is one of the most prominent Ukrainian chair and table producer. The company is based in Stryi town (the western part of Ukraine in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains). Tivoli has experience meeting the needs (quality, quantity, price, delivery terms) of its national and international partners.

GARANT FURNITURE COMPANY: Garant is a substantial mass producer of high-quality case goods. Its experienced staff of professionals manufactures products quickly using high-quality materials and modern technology. Products include a wide range of products that impresses even the pickiest buyers. Their assortment includes sliding wardrobes, modular kitchens, TV walls, furniture for hallways, living rooms, bedrooms and office furniture.

U-MA: Furniture Factory: “UMA ursa major” is a Ukrainian manufacturer of upholstered furniture producing original designs and proven quality.

RICHMAN: The RICHMAN furniture factory was established in Dnipro in 2013 by a skilled team with extensive experience in the furniture industry. The company continuously strives to expand its range and enhance service standards. With nine workshops and 12 production sites spanning an area of 3,500 square meters, the Richman furniture factory can manufacture over 1,000 beds and 3,000 armchairs each month. The furniture is crafted from certified raw materials (solid wood, high-quality metal, plywood and dense foam) sourced from national and international suppliers.

VEKO: Veko Home is a Ukrainian manufacturer of premium upholstered furniture. Since the ’90s the company has combined unparalleled quality with attention to detail for its craft high-end products. Veko Home utilizes materials and technologies that meets international quality standards.