Steelcase Reports Revenue Declined in the Second Quarter of Fiscal 2024 / Creative Office Resources Acquires OFI / How much does Haworth plan to invest in second India production factory? / What RTO Mandate? Vacancy Rates Keep Rising / Steelcase Partners with Ecomedes to Make Sustainable Product Sourcing Easier / A Story of Noise / Pilots in Practice: Key Insights Shaping the Future of Work / Why Zoom implemented a return-to-office policy / The Secret Incentive to Bring Employees Back to the Office / Will RTO put the kibosh on napping at work? / Work-from-home debate: This unlikely generation is most against RTO / As Return-To-Office Mandates Threaten To Get Serious, Management Scrabbles For Strategy / What should I wear back to the office? Workers are divided in RTO era / and much more…


The Working Space
Monday, September 25. 2023

Industry News

Steelcase Reports Revenue Declined in the Second Quarter of Fiscal 2024
Steelcase Inc. reported Q2 revenue of $854.6 million, net income of $27.5 million ($0.23 per share), and adjusted earnings per share of $0.31. Compared to the prior year, revenue decreased 1% on an organic basis, driven by lower volume but offset by higher pricing. Orders declined 7% compared to the prior year, with a decline in project business but growth in continuing business. Operating income increased by $12.1 million (4.8% of revenue) compared to the prior year, primarily driven by improved gross margin. Gross margin increased by 410 basis points, driven by higher pricing and operational improvements. Total liquidity at the end of Q2 was $314.5 million, representing an increase of $114.6 million from the previous quarter. The company declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.10 per share.
 
The backlog of customer orders was approximately $700 million, 26% lower than the prior year. The company expects Q3 revenue to be in the range of $780 to $805 million, a decline of 3% to 6% compared to the prior year. The company expects adjusted earnings per share of $0.23 to $0.27 for Q3. For fiscal 2024, the company expects a modest organic revenue decline compared to fiscal 2023 and improved adjusted earnings per share of $0.80 to $0.90.
Steelcase stock has jumped 27% on good news, with adjusted earnings per share guidance for fiscal 2024 expected to be 52% higher than in fiscal 2023. However, caution is advised as the increase may be due to cost savings rather than actual margin expansion. The company's backlog remains stagnant, and its profit improvement is primarily based on price increases. "With a history of underperformance and a questionable growth trajectory, investors should consider avoiding Steelcase stock."

Creative Office Resources Acquires OFI

Creative Office Resources (COR) has acquired OFI, a dealership in Connecticut and Westchester County, New York, effective September 15, 2023. The acquisition strengthens COR's position in the Connecticut marketplace with locations in Stamford and Newington. Denise Horn, CEO and Partner of Creative Office Resources, shared her enthusiasm, saying, "Paul, Kevin, and I are thrilled about our ongoing expansion in Connecticut and the transformative impact this acquisition will have on the marketplace. OFI has a distinguished history and trusted brand, and we eagerly anticipate the collaboration of our teams."

Paul Fraser, COO and Partner of Creative Office Resources, added, “OFI, like COR, has been a longstanding partner with MillerKnoll, which will allow us to provide an even higher level of service to our valued customers, industry partners, and the Real Estate community.”

John Michael, President of the Americas at MillerKnoll, conveyed confidence in the merger and its ability to amplify the collective talent and geographic reach of COR and OFI.

OFI will be rebranded as Creative Office Resources throughout 2023. Rick Mills, CEO of OFI, emphasized the alignment of cultures, values, and the mutually beneficial partnership with MillerKnoll. The acquisition brings the necessary scale and resources to serve clients, employees, industry, and communities while upholding a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Candice Gould, Executive VP of Client Services & Distribution, and Kim Pinkerton, COR's Managing Principal of Tri-State, will oversee the integration of OFI into COR's operations in Connecticut.

This acquisition plays a pivotal role in advancing COR's initiatives in Connecticut and ensures the continued delivery of exceptional products and services to customers. Creative Office Resources is a WBENC-Certified WBE and one of the largest MillerKnoll Certified Dealers in North America. With over 35 years of experience, COR builds productive environments designed to empower people. OFI, with over 50 years of industry experience and two locations in Connecticut, offers a full range of professional services to support project teams. They have been recognized as one of the "Best Places to Work in Connecticut" by the Hartford Business Journal.

Offsite prefab construction company celebrates Arcosanti design at Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale

Falkbuilt, a manufacturer of offsite prefabricated digital construction components, has taken over the Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale, AZ to showcase their latest innovations. This is the third year that Falkbuilt, a Canadian-based construction company, has held the Falkbuilt Family Reunion at the Valley Ho. The event brings together more than 300 team members to network and share best practices.

Falkbuilt CEO, Mogens Smed, who is a fan of Mid-century Modern architecture, enjoys bringing the team to the Valley Ho. He appreciates the architectural history of the hotel, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright's student, Edward L. Varney. The Family Reunion this year celebrates the heritage of Arizona design.

After visiting Arcosanti, Falkbuilt's interior designers and architects created a booth inspired by the experimental community in Paradise Valley that explores the combination of architecture and ecology. The booth is on display at the Valley Ho before it will be shipped to New Orleans for a healthcare trade show.

"We were inspired by what we saw at Arcosanti," says Smed. "The bold vision and innovation align with Falkbuilt's values." During the Falkbuilt Family Reunion, Smed will award Cosanti creations to team members.

Haworth plans to invest $10 million in a second manufacturing plant in India, expanding its total space to 113,000 square feet. The new facility will focus on exporting products to other markets, particularly North America and Europe. This move marks a change in the company's plans as it previously had no intentions to export products. India is now the third-largest market for Haworth, following the U.S. and France.
Airtame and Orangebox have partnered to showcase their collaboration solutions in Orangebox's New York City showroom. The collaboration aims to provide seamless communication and collaboration tools for educators, administrators, and organizations. Airtame's technology, including Airtame Core and Airtame Hybrid, offers digital signage capabilities, wireless screen sharing, and flexible hybrid conferencing. Paired with Orangebox's Smartlearning Spaces, these solutions enhance education environments and support in-person and hybrid collaboration. The showroom features various spaces designed for social connection, focused work, and virtual collaboration. The partnership emphasizes flexibility, engagement, and flow in shared workspaces.
Office usage in 10 metro markets tracked by Kastle rose to 50.3% after the Labor Day weekend, marking the first time it surpassed 50% since July. The increase is partly attributed to seasonal factors and corporate policies demanding workers to return to the office. New York City saw the biggest surge in occupancy, followed by Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and San Jose. Houston remained the most-occupied market at 61.6%. The rise in office usage after the Labor Day weekend is significant, as it is the first time it has surpassed 50% since July. Kastle, which tracks office occupancy in 10 metro markets, reported that the increase can be partially attributed to seasonal factors and corporate policies mandating employees to return to the office. Although the evidence for the impact of these policies is inconclusive, several corporations have implemented such mandates. Grindr Inc., for example, experienced a significant loss of staff after attempting to enforce a return-to-office mandate.
Steelcase has partnered with Ecomedes to make it easier for architects, designers, and customers to access product sustainability information. Through the Ecomedes platform, users can specify environmentally preferable products and generate project evaluations based on environmental goals and third-party standards. Steelcase now features 294 office solutions on the Ecomedes website, providing users with eco-conscious choices. Additionally, Steelcase lists products on other sustainable databases and leads the industry with the most BIFMA LEVEL®-certified products.
According to data from Cushman & Wakefield, office rents in the suburbs have outpaced those in the urban core in several cities. In Portland, suburban office rents grew by 16% compared to 3.7% in the urban core, while in Seattle, office rent growth decreased by 5.9% in the city core but only 1% in the suburbs. The trend of suburban office rents following residential rents could be due to factors such as the location of major employers and the strength of the city's central business district. However, the correlation between office and residential rent growth varies by city and is influenced by factors such as housing costs, office vacancy rates, and the availability of housing stock. Suburban office markets are becoming more attractive to companies and workers and will continue to be an important market to watch.
A second wave of sublease space in Dallas-Fort Worth is causing challenges for landlords and putting properties at greater risk. The sublease availability has reached a new peak, with about 60% of the sublease market vacant. Landlords are facing competition with market-rate direct space and are offering discounts and incentives to attract subletters. The chain of subleases increases the risk for both landlords and tenants, and it can impact a building's value and the ability to refinance. The sublease trend is raising concerns among lenders and investors.

Features

In this article, the importance of workplace pilot programs is highlighted, emphasizing the need for innovative trials and observational findings to support the shift towards a hybrid work model. Strategies and considerations for executing a successful workplace pilot are outlined, including the importance of transparency, balance between self-reported data and observational insights, setting clear intentions, and integrating measurement methods into the design. The document also discusses the significance of focus in the workplace, the value of direct engagement with employees, and the importance of context in understanding preferences and effectiveness. Designing a pilot program is described as a combination of creative and analytical thinking, with the need for adaptability and active engagement with users throughout the process.
Trust is crucial for business success, especially in today's complex challenges. Workplace interactions play a unique role in building trust, with empathy, authenticity, and logic being key components. A workplace built for trust should provide spaces for face-to-face conversations, foster an environment where people can bring their whole selves to work, and showcase the progression of reasoning. Trust is essential for cultivating innovation, promoting constructive disagreement, and ensuring the authenticity of interactions in a world where virtual communication can be compromised.
Acoustic imbalance is a pressing problem in the modern workplace. The volume of ambient noise has increased over the centuries, but our tolerance for noise has changed. Noise has become a social marker, and the fight against noise pollution has become a daily battle. However, the discomfort is not fundamentally about decibel levels, but about the conflicting use of office spaces. Most employees are not satisfied with the acoustic performance of their workplaces, which leads to decreased productivity. Good acoustics are recognized by leading certification platforms like LEED and WELL. Providing a range of settings and using acoustic products can help create well-balanced acoustic environments and improve the well-being of people in the workplace.

Workspace News

While napping at work has long been stigmatized, experts argue that quick power naps can boost productivity and well-being. A study from MIT found that daily afternoon naps improved productivity and psychological well-being. Some companies, like Zappos and PriceWaterhouseCoopers, encourage napping, but for most organizations, it is still not encouraged. However, organizations should be mindful of allowing regular breaks for employees to prioritize self-care. Open dialogue with supervisors is suggested for those who want to nap at work and ensure accommodation.
Despite being a foundational tool for remote work during the pandemic, Zoom has implemented a return-to-office policy. After surveying employees and realizing the benefits of in-person collaboration, the company settled on a two-day-a-week in-office arrangement. The response from employees has been largely positive, with the power of in-person work evident in the identification of product enhancements. However, some employees who had gotten used to working fully remotely expressed frustration over commuting. Zoom aims to accommodate their needs and remain flexible. Additionally, some employees will remain fully remote, as the company prioritizes talent regardless of location.
The article discusses the challenge of bringing employees back to the office and reducing office vacancies. It highlights the importance of commuting time and experience in incentivizing employees to return. Research suggests that longer commutes result in higher wages, and improving mass transit systems could act as a wage boost and encourage workers to return. The article emphasizes the need for public-policy solutions to improve transportation and create a safer and more efficient commuting experience.
Data shows that workers are not returning to the office in large numbers, indicating a new normal of remote work. London office occupancy in September was around 33%, and the trend of reduced office usage is expected to continue. Demand for office space is likely to decrease, with tenants seeking smaller, high-quality buildings in prime locations. This shift is causing a widening gap between the best and the rest of the office market, leading to falling values for older office buildings. However, some investors are still making big bets on high-quality office spaces. Overall, the real estate industry needs to adapt to this new reality of remote work and changing office demand.
Trust is crucial for business success, especially in today's complex and isolated world. Building trust in the workplace requires authenticity, logic, and empathy. Face-to-face interactions play a unique role in fostering trust, allowing for better empathy and understanding. A workplace built for trust should provide spaces for confidential conversations, celebrate authenticity, and showcase the progression of reasoning. Trust is essential for cultivating innovation, promoting constructive disagreement, and ensuring the security and peace of mind of individuals.
According to a survey by Fiverr, baby boomers are the generation most interested in working from home, with 40% preferring remote or flexible work. Surprisingly, only 29% of millennials and 32% of Gen X respondents expressed the same preference. The main reasons cited for wanting to work from home were saving time and money on commuting and finding office spaces distracting. Additionally, a significant number of workers believed they could complete their workload in a four-day workweek. However, workers preferred in-person meetings over virtual ones, with 59% expressing a preference for face-to-face communication.
A survey by International Workplace Group (IWG) found that hybrid work has transformed office fashion, with 79% of respondents saying they dress differently now. Comfort is a priority for 53% of hybrid employees, while 31% believe it's acceptable to be pantsless at the office. One hopes that means wearing something else, but alas, the survey did not specify. For those looking to stay on the safe side, the trend of quiet luxury, characterized by high-quality fashion and a minimalist approach, is recommended.

Majority Of American And Canadian Workers Blame Their Workplace For Recent Respiratory Illnesses, According To Survey By Fellowe
According to a survey by Fellowes, 55% of American and Canadian workers attribute respiratory illnesses they've contracted in the past year to their workplace, ranking the office as the top culprit for virus spread. The survey also revealed concerns about indoor air quality, with only 29% of respondents characterizing their workplace air as "very clean." Workers expect employers to prioritize clean indoor air, with 91% believing it should be a fundamental right. Leading organizations recommend air purification systems with HEPA filters to improve air quality. Fellowes offers the Array system, which provides real-time insights and visual proof of air quality improvement.
As return-to-office mandates are being implemented, employees are still waiting for a clear case or concrete plans from CEOs and management to justify the need to return. Some firms may be ordering employees back to reduce headcount. The effectiveness of recent mandates is unclear, as companies are not providing specifics on the impact or enforcement of the policies. Real estate will play a significant role in this transition, but the ultimate policy positions and implications remain uncertain. The debate about returning to the office is polarized, but most companies are likely to find a balance between in-office and remote work. As corporations struggle to find a solution, resistance to returning to the office will likely increase.

Other News

RTO is having a negative effect on the sale of pet treats. General Mills reported a double-digit sales decline in cat-and-dog treats and wet food due to pet parents being away from home. The company does not anticipate a significant rebound in its pet business for the rest of the year. This adds to the overall gloom in the pet business, which has been impacted by weaker discretionary spending and rising demand for value-based options in food. Despite this, General Mills remains optimistic about the long-term outlook for its pet business.
As more companies enforce return-to-office mandates, some employees are choosing to quit instead of complying. This includes workers at companies like Grindr, Facebook Meta, Google, Amazon, and Zoom. Reasons for quitting range from family and commuting expenses to being required to relocate. Workers are concerned about the impact on individuals with disabilities or primary caregivers who may struggle to work from the office. Experts argue that rigid policies risk losing top performers and diversity. Workers are pushing back through letters, walkouts, and resignations. Providing flexibility and choice is seen as a more effective approach.

Trends

The shift to hybrid and remote work is causing significant changes in city workplace hubs. Office buildings are being devalued, co-working spaces are rebounding, and the fabric of city centers is being reshaped. The future of work is about creating structures that support collaboration and excellence, and ICT leaders play a crucial role in supporting hybrid workers. Smart offices, flexible building designs, and rethinking network infrastructure are key considerations. True dialogue and a pragmatic exchange of views are needed to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the new world of work.
Coworking spaces are evolving into social clubs, places of genuine belonging, thriving hubs for connection, and homes for creatives. Transactional spaces that focus on renting desks and offices will be left behind as people seek spaces of connection and humanness. The future of coworking is community and human-focused, with a shift towards transformation rather than transactions.

Design

The Studio Lab is an experimental approach to transform the workplace by engaging employees in the decision-making process. Through discovery and engagement, the lab identified key insights and opportunities for improvement in the current studio environment. The concept of the Studio Lab involves providing a variety of zones and space types to enhance different activities, allowing users to choose the environment that works best for their needs. After testing and gathering feedback, the lab has seen positive outcomes in colleague connections and usage of different areas, but there is room for improvement in reinforcing ideal behavior and accommodating different needs. The learnings from the Studio Lab have enabled Gensler Dallas to better understand their clients' perspectives and apply the methodology to external projects.
The changing ways people use the office have led to a rethinking of office design. The "hybrid enablement challenge" has resulted in a shift towards creating experiences for employees that complement the comforts of home. This includes creating dynamic spaces, using technology to support hybrid video meetings, and focusing on comfort and acoustics. Workplace redesigns are also focused on offering something employees can't get at home, such as increased collaboration space and a stronger social strategy. The future of the workplace involves a sharing economy, connections with local neighborhoods, sustainability, and adaptability.
In this article, Melissa Fisher and Hana Kassem explore how a cultural anthropological understanding can inform architectural design to create more human-centric, inclusive, resilient, healthy, and sustainable work environments and cultures. They discuss the significance of cultural anthropology in studying workplace environments and highlight the importance of ethnography in understanding employees' worldviews, behaviors, and workplace culture. The article also emphasizes the role of architects in shaping work environments that enhance productivity, well-being, and collaboration, while aligning with the unique needs of organizations and society. The authors suggest incorporating anthropological methods and analysis into workplace design to create more inclusive environments and strengthen a sense of community and belonging. They also discuss the connection between workplace culture and the broader socio-cultural and economic context, as well as the potential for architects and ethnographers to collaborate in designing culturally sensitive and effective workspaces.

Coworking

DivcoWest is suing WeWork for $30M after WeWork abandoned a leased space in Manhattan and stopped paying rent. WeWork's lease at 311 West 43rd St. was supposed to run through 2032. WeWork has been renegotiating leases and expressed doubts about its ability to stay in business due to losses and an underperforming office market.

AI

AI is revolutionizing office space design by utilizing data analysis to create efficient layouts and enhance employee satisfaction. It can suggest designs based on employee movement and interaction, repurpose underutilized spaces, and provide advanced visualization tools for remote team members. AI also improves the employee experience by adapting climate control systems and gathering feedback. However, challenges remain in translating AI-generated designs into architecturally accurate plans.
AI is a valuable tool in the design process, allowing designers to access inspiration and explore possibilities more efficiently. It does not replace creativity but enhances it by generating diverse design concepts. AI helps in curating solutions and speeding up the design process. The use of AI in a company-wide charrette resulted in compelling final products, demonstrating how AI expands the design process without replacing human creativity.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to have a significant impact on the real estate industry in the coming years. However, it is seen as an evolution rather than a revolution, as proptech innovations have already laid a solid foundation for incorporating AI technologies. AI is being used for decision-making, creating tailored property listings, and generating content. The digital transformation in real estate began decades ago with software and tools for property management, customer relationship management, and financial analysis. The number of proptech start-ups has tripled in the past decade, and AI-powered proptech has raised significant capital. Early adopters are already benefiting from AI, such as improving energy efficiency and HVAC operations. However, concerns about regulation, cybersecurity, and data security need to be considered.

Environmental

Zero Emissions Day 2023: Humanscale’s Commitment to Planet Positivity
Humanscale demonstrated its commitment to sustainability on Zero Emissions Day, September 21, 2023. The company sets ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, aims for suppliers to have science-based targets, and certifies 70% of its products as "planet positive." Humanscale's initiatives include using recycled ocean plastics, installing solar panels, conserving land, supporting communities, and planting trees. Their approach highlights the importance of actively enriching the environment rather than just offsetting harm.
According to a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, fully remote workers could produce less than half the climate-warming emissions compared to those who work in offices. Working from home full-time may reduce a person's carbon footprint by over 50%, while hybrid schedules of remote work for two to four days a week could cut emissions by 11 to 29%. The study emphasizes the need for careful configurations of lifestyle, home, and office, as well as coordinated sustainable practices and incentives to realize the environmental benefits of remote work.
A study from Cornell University, sponsored by Microsoft, reveals that fully remote workers can have a 54% lower carbon footprint compared to fully in-office workers. Hybrid workers who work from home two to four days per week can reduce their carbon footprint by 11% to 29%. Factors such as non-commute travel, seat sharing, and housing choices also impact carbon footprint. The study emphasizes the need for lifestyle and workplace improvements to maximize the environmental benefits of remote and hybrid work.

Latest Products

Scandinavian Spaces’ curated furniture line now includes Nomad, a carefree spirit made to wander. The occasional table series is fit for the engaging workplace. Easy to move around, the sizes and shapes included in the collection allow the pieces to mix, match, and pair together. Multiple tables can create sculptural interest to engage user interaction within a space. The seamless, geometric form is possible due to its impeccable craftsmanship. Available in solid ash, solid oak, or various trendsetting steel colors, Nomad’s elegant style and functional bliss leave a lasting impression.

Nomad pairs well with Crest, the modular sofa system developed for the radical, changing workplace. Crest’s deep-seated cushions contrast beautifully with its stylized steel frame, clean lines, and modern build. Combining the table series and sofa system creates a dynamic and enticing workspace.

Formaspace has launched RGX modular casework, a new type of casework that revolutionizes workspace design in the life sciences field. RGX offers a fresh perspective on lab space furnishing and design, integrating with traditional millwork and cutting down installation times. It provides flexibility and convenience with its ability to accommodate plumbing and sinks in any configuration. With faster lead times and shorter depreciation, RGX is a cost-effective solution for startup labs. For more information about RGX Modular Casework, visit here or follow Formaspace on social media.
The Good Company Table, designed by Loll Designs, is known for its sustainability practices and unique sculptural base. Available in dining and bar height sizes, it comes in bold colors and is made from durable recycled materials. Designed for outdoor use, it is flat packed in eco-friendly packaging and made in the USA.
To celebrate the 60th anniversary of Hans Wegner's CH07 Shell Chair, Carl Hansen & Son is releasing a special edition of the chair in Rosewood and Oak. The chair features a reclining structure and a distinctive double frame for stability. They are also offering an upholstered version using organic Danish cattle leather. The anniversary edition will be available from October to December for a limited time.
PurOptima has launched Revolution 54 Plus, a high-performance glass wall system that offers adaptability and excellent acoustic performance. The system can be easily switched between single- or double-glazed options and integrates seamlessly with generic drywall. It is manufactured with low embodied carbon aluminum, Hydro CIRCAL, and is fully reusable. Revolution 54 Plus achieves impressive acoustic ratings and can accommodate deflection in modern office buildings. The system is available in two distinct designs and is part of PurOptima's commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon footprint.
The Playtime Collection from Concertex is a vibrant and playful upholstery collection that encourages us to embrace the joy of play. Comprised of nine patterns, including Arcade, Confetti, and Doodle, the collection offers versatile and high-performance fabrics that are both fun and functional. With its colorful designs and durability, the Playtime Collection invites us to indulge our imaginative sides and incorporate playfulness into our everyday lives.
EF Contract introduces the Kasuri & Kimono carpet tiles, inspired by traditional Japanese textile design. The collection combines different textures and utilizes cutting-edge fiber technology. Kasuri features a subtle visual, while Kimono has an all-over pattern. The colorways are inspired by nature, with options for neutrals and brighter tones. The collection is made with 100% Encore SD Ultima Nylon fiber for rich texture and sustainability. Suitable for corporate interiors, public areas, retail spaces, and higher education.
A Japanese company has developed a vertical sleeping pod called "Giraffenap" for people who want to take a quick nap while standing up. The cylindrical device, available in two designs, takes up minimal space and allows users to rest in an upright position. The pods, priced at around 3 million yen ($20,300) each, will be released this winter. The company hopes that businesses will use the pods to improve employee performance by encouraging power naps.
The Lie Down Laptop Stand is a strange and under-designed product being sold for $120. It lacks stability and has questionable usability for both the laptop and the user. The product copy even suggests leaving the wireless mouse on the floor. Despite its flaws, the seller claims that 100 trees are planted with each purchase.

Trends in Commercial Projects from Around the Globe

NELSON Worldwide designed a customized and magnetic office space for Sinch in Chicago. The office features separate entrances for guests and employees, departmental zones, and a variety of workspaces. The design incorporates social gathering spaces, a wellness room, a cafe, and a casual game room. The office reflects a circular theme and creates a comfortable and human-centered atmosphere. Environmental graphics by Four Four Design add to the overall brand experience.
La Marzocco's Accademia del Caffè Espresso, located in the hills behind Florence, is a cultural center that showcases the coffee machine company's commitment to innovation and design. The interior of the Accademia is furnished with a variety of Magis products, including bar stools, sofas, chairs, and tables, creating a cohesive and stylish atmosphere. The collaboration between La Marzocco and Magis reflects their shared values of craftsmanship, experimentation, and innovation. The Accademia offers visitors a comprehensive coffee experience, featuring a museum, historical archive, coffee plantation, training lab, and more.
Organized like a co-working space, tech startup Jeff's Valencia office doesn't only support the collaborative exchange of its own employees but also that of other entrepreneurs and businesses that it hosts.
Video gaming company pioneers a global hybrid-work strategy in its new Silicon Valley headquarters

Upcoming Industry Events

EDspaces 2023
November  7-9, 2023 | Charlotte, NC
 
There has never been a better time to move forward; to reset the places where teaching and learning happens, and to create inspiring spaces for better experiences and learning outcomes.If you play a part in the learning process, from educator/administrator, architect or interior designer, to distributor, integrator, or supplier, EDspaces is the can’t miss event driving the expectations for what the learning experience will be in the future.

Clerkenwell Design Week 2024
May 21-23, 2024 | London

Clerkenwell is home to more creative businesses and architects per square mile than anywhere else on the planet, making it truly one of the most important design hubs in the world. To celebrate this rich and diverse community, Clerkenwell Design Week has created a showcase of leading UK and international brands and companies presented in a series of showroom events, exhibitions and special installations that take place across the area.

NeoCon 2024
June 10-12, 2024 | Chicago, IL
 
NeoCon has served as the world’s leading platform and most important event of the year for the commercial design industry since 1969. A launch pad for innovation—NeoCon offers ideas and introductions that shape the built environment today and into the future.  

Orgatec 2024
October 22-26, 2024 | Cologne, Germany

Orgatec is the International trade fair for office and property equipment. Held in Cologne, Germany.

Industry Briefing

Three H Promotes Shawn Popovich to Regional Sales Director - Canada & NE US

Shawn Popovich has been promoted to Regional Sales Director at Three H, demonstrating the company's commitment to excellence. In this role, Shawn will collaborate with North American manufacturing representatives to enhance Three H's brand awareness by utilizing the company's service offerings and product portfolio.

Shawn will leverage his experience to develop sales strategies, identify market opportunities, set sales targets, and create action plans. His ability to identify unique opportunities and build relationships within the A&D community will help drive sales revenue, increase conversion rates, and implement customer feedback effectively.

Gary Hierlihy, VP of Sales & Marketing at Three H, recognizes Shawn's previous contributions as the Toronto Sales Manager and believes that his dedication to building and maintaining strong client relationships will lead the brand towards new directions in the Canadian and American markets.

Shawn will be based in the Toronto corporate office and showroom. Prior to joining Three H, Shawn gained valuable business development skills during his tenure at Workplace Resource (Herman Miller) in Toronto.

Keilhauer Expands Marketing Leadership Team
Keilhauer has expanded its Marketing department with the addition of Susan Anderson as VP of Marketing & Customer Experience and Sarah Lostracco as Senior Marketing Manager. Anderson brings 15 years of experience in brand building, previously serving as VP of Marketing & Brand at Mastermind Toys. Lostracco joins from McCann Canada, where she worked for over 15 years as Group Account Director. Anderson will oversee multiple departments, while Lostracco will be responsible for day-to-day marketing and PR initiatives.

COE Distributing’s J.D. Ewing Honored with Prestigious Top Workplaces Leadership Award
J.D. Ewing, Chairman and CEO of COE Distributing, has been honored with a prestigious Leadership Award from the Top Workplaces program for his exceptional rating from employees in company leadership. Under Ewing's guidance, COE has been recognized as a Top Workplace for four consecutive years. Ewing's hands-on management style and commitment to employee growth have contributed to the company's success and positive workplace culture. COE's Core Values and employee engagement initiatives have resonated with its workforce, and the company has also partnered with the Pittsburgh Penguins to enhance employee engagement. Ewing's leadership extends beyond COE, as he serves on the board of directors for industry organizations and advocates for the improvement of furniture divisions in mid-market dealers.

Three H hires new Canadian Sales Manager - Toronto & Southwestern Ontario
Three H has hired Johnny Picklyk as the Sales Manager for Toronto and Southwestern Ontario. Johnny will focus on nurturing industry relationships, supporting the Dealer and Architecture & Design network, and elevating brand awareness. 

PureOptima Expands its Presence Along the East Coast
PurOptima, a sustainable glass partition and wall systems manufacturer, announces the addition of Eureka Metal & Glass Services as its Project Delivery Partner for Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey. This partnership aims to introduce high-quality, sustainable glass wall solutions to the U.S. market. The company's expansion into Philadelphia follows its successful entry into the New York City metropolitan market. PurOptima's products now utilize low-carbon aluminum, reducing their carbon footprint and aligning with global efforts towards Net Zero 2050.
Find the best Contract Furniture Industry jobs and hire the best talent.
Dear Stephen, I am an in-house HR recruiter for a large furniture manufacturer. I have a lot of different responsibilities, but my primary function is to identify candidates for my company across the country. (Yes - to avoid having to use an outside recruiter like you).
MOD, a leader in power and lighting components for furniture in the workplace, hospitality, education furniture industry is seeking an energetic and motivated individual to join our team as a Territory Sales Representative.
Working with our education sales & design teams, we are currently seeking an interior designer to provide software & design expertise in presenting furniture solutions for today’s classrooms.
TREMAIN is rapidly growing in the US market and in need of experienced sales reps for several different markets across the country.
We are currently looking for a Business Development Executive to join our sales team. This position will have new business development responsibilities for San Antonio, TX.
The Senator Group has an immediate career opportunity for a Territory Sales Rep in the Baltimore/Washington DC area.
Our product offering is ideally suited to Rep Groups who have strong A&D relationships with a focus on project sales cycles.

Indoff is expanding and in need of experienced outside sales professionals in your area. If you’re tired of missing out on money due to low commission rates or you’re sick of quotas, then Indoff is the perfect solution for you.

The Regional Sales Manager will be responsible for the sales and sales growth of The Senator Groups products in the region of the country outlined.
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