BIFMA asks Administration to reconsider imposing new tariffs / HNI sales dip in Q4; expects lower sales in Q1 / McKinsey Forecasts $800 Billion Office Market Loss / One Of The World's Largest Employers Aims To Make Big Push Into U.S. Facilities Management / Inflation Concerns Resurface as US Public Braces for Higher Prices / In-Office Mandates Drive Office Leasing Momentum /JBG Smith Reports Widening Losses, Falling Occupancy as Trump Uncertainty Looms / JLL Sees 16% Revenue Growth Driven By Office Leasing, Capital Markets Improvements / A longtime furniture industry analyst rings the alarm bell / Designing Workplaces to Tell Your Brand's Story / Is RTO relevant? Why ‘butts in seats’ don’t necessarily equate to business success / Return-to-Office Policies Spark Talent Exodus In Premier Firms / These Are the Companies That Might Cut Space Because of DOGE / and much more…


The Working Space

Monday, February 24, 2025

Industry News

BIFMA begs Administration to reconsider imposing new tariffs
BIFMA, representing the commercial furniture industry, urged the Trump Administration in a letter last week to reconsider proposed new tariffs, emphasizing the importance of free trade and the progress made under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
 
In the petition the organization highlights that the U.S. furniture manufacturing sector significantly contributes to the economy, employing over 65,000 workers and generating substantial exports. Potential tariffs could disrupt established trade relationships, increase furniture prices, and negatively impact market demand, leading to job losses.
 
BIFMA advocates for policies that support domestic manufacturing while maintaining strong regional trade partnerships, urging policymakers to engage in dialogue to find balanced solutions that protect U.S. manufacturers' competitiveness.

HNI sales dip in Q4; expects lower sales in Q1
HNI reported a 5.5% decline in fourth-quarter net sales, totaling $679.8 million, due to soft market conditions in both workplace furnishings and residential building products. Workplace furnishings sales fell 5.7% to $462.9 million, while residential building products decreased by 5% to $179.6 million. Despite the decline in the fourth quarter, the full year showed a 3.8% increase in net sales, reaching $2.52 billion. The CEO highlighted strong full-year results and positive trends in pre-order metrics and backlog levels, suggesting a potential return to net sales growth in 2025. For the first quarter, net sales in workplace furnishings are expected to decrease slightly, while residential building products are anticipated to see modest growth. Overall, HNI expects low-to-mid single-digit growth in net sales for both segments throughout the year.
President Trump temporarily replaced the iconic Resolute Desk in the Oval Office after an incident involving Elon Musk's 4-year-old son, X, who appeared to wipe his nose on it during a live event. In response to the public's concern, the White House stated that the change is not permanent, and the desk is being refurbished. The desk, first used by President John F. Kennedy, has historical significance and has been used by several presidents since. While the Resolute Desk is out for refinishing, the C&O desk, previously used by President George H.W. Bush, has been installed as a temporary replacement.
ISS, a major global facilities management company based in Copenhagen, is expanding its operations into the U.S. market. The company has reorganized its North American divisions to offer comprehensive services, including custodial and workplace services, across three U.S. regions. With over 20,000 employees in North America managing a significant portfolio, ISS aims to compete with larger players like Cushman & Wakefield. The company plans to integrate hard services, such as HVAC maintenance, with soft services like cleaning and workspace management, while also enhancing its food services following a previous acquisition. As many CEOs push for a return to office work, ISS focuses on providing excellent hospitality to improve employee experiences. Recent data indicates that office usage is recovering, with many companies incentivizing employees to return with added benefits.
Concerns about inflation are resurfacing among the U.S. public, highlighting a growing awareness of its potential impact on the economy and interest rates. Recent economic indicators show a combination of stagnant growth, high inflation, and unemployment, leading to fears of stagflation. Treasury yields have reacted to these conditions, with short-term yields rising and long-term yields falling.
 
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has faced questions about inflation during his congressional testimony, with recent Consumer Price Index data showing a year-over-year increase of 3%. The Fed is currently signaling no immediate changes to interest rates but is closely monitoring inflation trends.
 
Public expectations for inflation are also increasing, with a consumer survey indicating a median expectation of 4.3% price growth for 2025. This shift in consumer sentiment could alter spending behavior, potentially leading to a recession. Reports suggest that a significant portion of Americans are engaging in "doom spending," stockpiling essential items, and making large purchases out of fear of rising prices. Additionally, concerns about higher tariffs have contributed to panic buying, with predictions of a potential short-term rise in consumer prices due to new tariffs.
The recent reductions in the federal workforce are expected to have significant economic repercussions that extend beyond immediate job losses. Tens of thousands of federal workers are facing layoffs and buyouts, which could impact millions of federal contractors and employees in related sectors. An economics professor noted that the effects could reach well beyond Washington D.C., as many jobs depend on the federal workforce's activities.
 
Current jobless claims have increased slightly, but these figures may not accurately reflect the immediate changes due to the timing of layoffs. Over 9,500 federal workers were laid off just before the reporting period, with additional probationary workers also losing their jobs. The potential ripple effects of these workforce reductions could push the economy toward a recession, particularly affecting sectors like housing. As the situation develops, understanding these impacts will be crucial for economic forecasting and strategic planning.

Texas lawmakers are considering a bill to ease zoning regulations for converting vacant commercial properties, like offices and shopping centers, into multifamily housing units. With approximately 25% of offices in the state’s largest metropolitan areas unoccupied and rising home prices, the proposed legislation aims to help address the housing shortage. The bill would prevent cities with populations over 60,000 from requiring rezoning for these conversions, targeting areas in counties with populations exceeding 420,000. The initiative is part of broader efforts by the Texas Legislature to tackle housing costs, as many renters spend over 30% of their income on housing. Additionally, significant office space remains vacant in major cities, leading to substantial financial losses in potential rental income. With a record number of housing units in the pipeline for conversion nationwide, the trend of transforming offices into residential spaces continues to grow. This shift also has a direct impact on the office furniture industry, as converting offices to residential use significantly reduces the demand for desks, chairs, and related workplace furnishings, while potentially creating new opportunities for residential furniture suppliers.

In-office mandates are driving strong leasing momentum in the office sector, with Q4 2024 seeing a post-pandemic high of 56.7 million square feet leased. Demand for high-quality spaces is increasing, while availability is declining, signaling a positive trend despite economic uncertainties. Average asking rents are stabilizing, and employment in office-using sectors is expected to grow, supported by strong economic indicators.
The Department of Government Efficiency has terminated around 100 federal leases, saving $144.6M, with significant cancellations in D.C. The largest lease termination is for 845K SF for the Department of Labor, effective May 14, saving over $7M. This is part of broader federal spending cuts under the Trump administration and Elon Musk's DOGE initiative.
JLL reported a 16% increase in revenue for the fourth quarter, driven by strong performance in office leasing and capital markets. The company's overall transaction revenue rose 22%, with capital markets revenue up 32% and leasing revenue up 14%. JLL's global office leasing reached its highest level since 2019, benefiting from return-to-office mandates. The firm's executives anticipate continued strength in these areas for the upcoming year, projecting a 14% growth in adjusted earnings. While most segments showed growth, the JLL Technologies division experienced a decline in revenue. The company is focusing on its technology investments to enhance its core business and improve profitability in the long term.
JBG Smith, the largest REIT focused on the D.C. area, reported a widening net loss of $60 million in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $33 million in the same quarter the previous year. The company's full-year loss reached $143 million, up from $80 million in 2023. JBG Smith's funds from operations also fell significantly, attributed to declining occupancy rates in both its multifamily and office portfolios. The office portfolio was only 78.6% leased, a decrease of 2.1% from the prior quarter, while the multifamily portfolio was 96.2% leased, down 0.8%. The company faces challenges due to the federal government's efforts to reduce its office footprint and workforce, which could impact JBG Smith's rental income, as a significant portion comes from government leases. 
Jerry Epperson, a respected furniture industry analyst (in contract and residential), warns of a prolonged slump in furniture sales, citing complacency, inventory imbalances, and external challenges like tariffs and shipping disruptions. He sees potential recovery linked to local housing markets and natural disasters impacting residential housing. Positive signs from recent trade shows offer some hope for the industry.

Feature

Graphic Packaging International's redesigned Atlanta headquarters showcases its brand through storytelling in design, emphasizing early collaboration, multi-sensory experiences, material selection, and interactive spaces to enhance employee and client engagement.
Design trends to rehumanize workplaces include color drenching, curated collectables, sensorial design, natural imperfections, shy technology, and activated comfort, all aimed at enhancing human connection and well-being in an AI-driven environment.

Workplace News

Incorporating smart humor at work can reduce stress, strengthen team bonds, and improve workplace culture. Strategies include using humor in onboarding, creating spaces for levity, and gamifying frustrations, ultimately making work more bearable during challenging times.
Return-to-office mandates are causing a 14% increase in employee turnover, particularly among women and senior staff, while also extending hiring times by 23% and reducing hiring rates by 17%. Companies must adopt flexible work models to retain talent and remain competitive.
Employees feel that workplace wellbeing initiatives are falling short, with key factors like nutrition, focus spaces, and commute issues impacting their experience. Companies need to rethink office environments to enhance employee satisfaction and productivity, emphasizing quality food options and outdoor spaces for mental wellness.
The debate over Return to Office (RTO) policies versus remote work highlights that location may not significantly impact organizational performance. Recent data from McKinsey suggests that employee experience and core work practices, such as collaboration and mentorship, are more crucial to productivity than simply mandating RTO. Many employees report feeling detached from their work due to inadequate support and poor management, which affects their engagement. Experts recommend that instead of focusing solely on RTO, companies should prioritize genuine skill development, foster intentional collaboration, and rethink the overall workplace experience. Employers like Citigroup exemplify this approach by investing in flexible work environments that promote connection and purpose, rather than just filling office seats. Ultimately, meaningful work and opportunities for growth are essential for maintaining employee engagement and performance, regardless of physical location.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), overseen by Elon Musk, is scrutinizing HUD programs and has raised concerns about the stability of $12 billion in CMBS loans. There are indications that federal office leases for private-sector buildings may also be subject to reassessment. Analysts from Barclays Plc have highlighted potential indirect effects on corporations due to the administration's aggressive approach to spending cuts. While the legality and duration of these measures remain uncertain, the current climate introduces risks for specific companies and sectors.
The return-to-office trend is creating a divide in remote work opportunities, favoring higher-paid positions in tech and finance while lower-income workers face mandatory returns. Many employees, especially working mothers, prefer remote roles for better work-life balance, highlighting a growing inequality in the workplace. Hybrid work models are gaining interest among younger job seekers.

Trends

The outlook for global design trends in 2025 emphasizes the importance of experience, artificial intelligence (AI), and sustainability in shaping workplaces, retail environments, and mixed-use developments. Key trends include a focus on people-centric design that enhances well-being and social interaction, as well as the integration of AI and advanced technology to improve design processes.
 
Significant attention will be given to creating seamless 'street to seat' experiences that connect urban environments with workplaces, thereby attracting talent and revitalizing cities. Social connections and community building will also be vital, as organizations aim to foster collaboration and engagement among employees.
 
The trend towards adaptive reuse and retrofitting existing buildings will continue, driven by sustainability demands and the need for innovative design solutions that address health, well-being, and community impact. Additionally, AI tools will play a crucial role in advancing 'science-led design', enabling better decision-making and integration of data into the creative process.
 
Real estate leaders are encouraged to adopt a people-centric approach, utilize data in design strategies, and forge new partnerships that connect design investments to broader outcomes such as talent attraction and operational efficiency.

Design

Gamification can enhance workplace design for Gen Alpha by incorporating elements like badges for cross-department visits, digital leaderboards for training, and interactive dashboards for company culture, creating immersive, customizable environments that promote collaboration and engagement.
The discussion highlights the challenges organizations face in repopulating workplaces, particularly regarding collaboration spaces. As companies shift back to in-person work after the pandemic, many are repurposing collaboration areas into individual workstations to accommodate more employees. However, this approach undermines the fundamental goal of fostering collaboration and interaction among staff. The emphasis on collaboration spaces is essential for promoting teamwork and creativity, which are vital for productivity and innovation. The need for a balanced workspace that supports both individual focus and collaborative efforts is crucial for modern workplace design. Investing in collaboration areas, rather than reducing them, can lead to better employee engagement and business performance.
Generation Alpha, the first generation to grow up entirely in the 21st century, is entering the workforce with unique expectations shaped by rapid technological advancements and social changes. They are true digital natives, influenced by their tech-savvy parents, and often favor entrepreneurial paths over traditional office settings.
 
As they begin to join the labor market, businesses will need to adapt their workplace strategies to meet their preferences for flexibility, personalization, and community. This generation expects work environments that support creativity, autonomy, and continuous learning, moving away from the conventional 9-to-5 model.
 
Moreover, Gen Alpha places a strong emphasis on mental health, wellness, and social responsibility, requiring companies to design spaces that reflect these values. They will also demand seamless technology that enhances productivity and supports their unique needs.
 
Ultimately, the workplace of the future must prioritize user-centric designs that foster connection and engagement, creating environments where Generation Alpha can thrive both personally and professionally.

Green / Sustainability

Spactrum, a Chinese architecture studio, repurposed construction materials and tools to furnish its Shanghai office, celebrating the often-overlooked elements of building construction. The office features tables made from floor decking and refractory bricks, showcasing the beauty of construction narratives rather than just finished designs.

Latest Product News

Allseating introduces a new mesh back option for its Innate collection, enhancing comfort and breathability with three mesh patterns. The ergonomic design supports user wellness and is available in both fully upholstered and mesh options, catering to modern workspace needs.
LD Seating has expanded its award-winning Arcus series of task chairs, designed by Martin Ballendat. The new additions include four conference chair models and an updated ATS synchronous mechanism for the task chair, enhancing both form and function. The conference models feature a distinctive curve for easy handling and are available with various base options, including stackable designs to optimize storage. The upgraded Arcus task chair maintains its lightweight and modern aesthetic while offering intuitive adjustments through the new ATS mechanism, which adapts to the user's weight. 
The TOOL Table, designed by Carlos Tíscar for Sellex, is a multifunctional and versatile piece of furniture that serves as a folding table, meeting table, lectern, drawing table, and whiteboard. Its minimalist design makes it suitable for various professional and collaborative environments. The table is stackable, allowing for efficient space management, and can accommodate different user needs by transforming into several configurations. With the ability to adjust the tilt of its top, the TOOL Table supports comfortable use for working, drawing, or presentations. It offers up to seven different combinations and is available in two heights. Constructed with a steel frame and aluminum legs, the table comes in various finishes, including White, Grey, Black, or Oak Melamine.
Fredericia has launched the Jota Lounge Collection designed by Jasper Morrison, which features a lounge chair and sofas in two sizes. The collection showcases clean lines and exceptional craftsmanship, reflecting Morrison's admiration for Børge Mogensen while incorporating modern details. Produced in Svendborg, Denmark, the pieces offer removable cushion covers and a variety of EU Eco label-certified textiles, promoting sustainability. Fredericia, established in 1911, is known for its timeless designs and commitment to quality, collaborating with renowned designers to create functional and elegant furniture.
HON introduces its 2025 Color Palettes, a collection of finishes and materials inspired by 10 vibrant cities worldwide. Each palette captures the essence of its location through a thoughtful selection of colors, textures, and materials, enabling designers to create dynamic and immersive environments. Notable palettes include one inspired by Honshu, Japan, featuring lively patterns and warm wood accents, and another reflecting the serene mountain scenery of Zermatt, Switzerland, with alpine blues and pine greens. These palettes aim to evoke emotions and reflect brand identities, offering a fresh approach to workspace design.

How Altispace Beams and Acoustic Baffles Created A Masterpiece Boardroom
Altispace has transformed a newly renovated office boardroom by integrating Altispace Beams and Acoustic Baffles to achieve a perfect balance of sophisticated design and functionality. The installation features Beams that run seamlessly from wall to ceiling, utilizing flush-mount hardware and a Unistrut suspension system for a modern look. These lightweight materials not only reduce installation time but also enhance durability and aesthetics.
 
The design of Altispace Beams significantly influences the room’s perception, providing various sizes and color options that add depth and warmth. Acoustic Baffles are strategically placed to control sound in the large boardroom, minimizing noise and echo, while ensuring the space remains productive with proper lighting through Illuminated Acoustic Baffles. Designed for versatility, 
The DPF desk panel series offers versatile solutions for various applications, featuring standard and customizable options, including a new anti-collision variant to prevent damage during movement, making it a favorite among designers for its classic look and functionality.

Industrial Design

Fifty years ago, Bruce Hannah and Andrew Morrison designed the Morrison Hannah task chair for Knoll, which was celebrated for its sleek aluminum frame and comfortable cushioning, offering "ergonomics without ego." Despite its innovative design, it faced resistance in a corporate culture that prioritized hierarchical aesthetics. Today, the re-edition of this chair reflects contemporary needs, emphasizing comfort and style in an era of remote work. Hannah highlights the chair's ergonomic features, which are subtly integrated without overt branding. The collaboration between Hannah and Morrison, built on objective design principles and mathematical adjustments, aimed to infuse joy into office environments, a sentiment that remains relevant.

Trends in Commercial Projects from Around the Globe

Edelman’s new Los Angeles office, designed by Gensler, reflects a mid-century modern aesthetic that promotes functionality and flexibility. Located in Hollywood, the 25,000 sqft space includes various meeting and amenity areas, such as a café, wellness room, and multiple meeting rooms, all designed to enhance employee well-being and client interactions. The design incorporates elements that encourage collaboration and creativity, like informal meeting spaces and multimedia production areas.
L'Oréal has unveiled its new headquarters in London, designed by Gensler, which combines Parisian beauty heritage with London's cultural diversity. The facility includes the L'Oréal Academy, a flagship training center aimed at shaping the future of the cosmetics industry. Spanning 120,000 sq ft, the HQ prioritizes employee well-being and collaboration, featuring various workspaces, a multi-faith room, and a community café. The academy is designed to emulate a salon and aims to train over 10,000 professionals annually. It includes multiple hair studios and flexible spaces for content creation. The design reflects L'Oréal’s commitment to sustainability and inclusion, achieving a BREEAM Design Stage rating of Outstanding. The building incorporates eco-friendly features such as solar-controlled glass and recycled materials.
The new headquarters of Butternut Box in London has been designed with a focus on creating a dog-friendly environment that enhances both employee morale and productivity. The design firm Thirdway has integrated features such as the Park Events Hub, which fosters social interaction among employees and their pets, while also ensuring a modern and functional workspace. Key elements include acoustic glass for noise reduction, ergonomic design, and dedicated spaces for dogs, such as hooks for leashes and areas for bowls and beds. The overall aesthetic reflects the playful and vibrant nature of the Butternut Box brand, with thoughtful integration of colors and materials that resonate with the company’s identity. Feedback from employees has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the office's reflection of their culture and values.
Bessemer Venture Partners has created a new office space in New York City designed to attract and retain talent while addressing the needs of both young and experienced staff. The 12,000-square-foot office, located near Grand Central Station, features an open layout that promotes movement and connection, with a lively café area and ample natural light. Sustainable design choices, such as recycled materials and chemical-free finishes, support occupant health and wellness. Feedback from employees has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the effectiveness of the design in fostering collaboration and bringing staff back to the office. The project showcases a commitment to innovation and employee engagement, further enhancing BVP's brand identity.
In Wyoming, a former Kmart has been transformed into the headquarters of EMIT Technologies by CLB Architects. This adaptive reuse project consolidates four manufacturing facilities into a high-tech hub featuring a distinctive weathered-steel facade. The design emphasizes a collaborative environment with common areas for both employees and the local community, including amenities like a coffee shop, auditorium, and basketball court. The headquarters incorporates custom features designed and fabricated by EMIT, showcasing their craftsmanship. A unique sculpture called FILTER, created in collaboration with CLB and EMIT, reflects the company's identity and commitment to quality. The new facility is already attracting attention and interest from potential employees due to its innovative design and community-focused approach.

Latest In Real Life WFH

Luke Netti, a web designer in New York, emphasizes creativity through routine and enjoys the flexibility of working from home, allowing him to spend quality time with his family. His workspace includes essential tools like an Apple Studio Display and Logitech MX Master 3S mouse.

Interviews

Prof. Katja Thoring, a Professor of Integrated Product Design at the Technical University of Munich, emphasizes the importance of an interdisciplinary approach in design, integrating product, space, architecture, and technology. She advocates for human-centered design by engaging with potential users before starting architectural projects. In her research, she explores creative workspaces and how different environments can influence productivity and creativity. Thoring collaborates with various disciplines, including robotics and computer science, to develop innovative solutions for modern workspaces. Her work includes projects focusing on flexible office environments and the challenges of desk sharing, highlighting the need for personalized spaces even in shared settings. Additionally, she addresses the growing trend of home offices and the design of multifunctional furniture that can adapt to limited spaces. Thoring believes that while informal workspaces encourage communication, they cannot fully replace the collaborative learning that occurs in traditional office settings.
Chad Nord, Vice President of Operations at Indiana Furniture, discusses the company's nomination for the Conexus Indiana Manufacturing Innovation Award. Indiana Furniture, celebrating its 120th anniversary, specializes in wood furniture for the contract office market. Nord highlights the company's commitment to quality and customer trust, differentiating it from competitors. He addresses the challenges of evolving in a changing industry and notes recent successes, including consolidating manufacturing to one site. The nomination stems from the company's innovative use of technology, specifically autonomous mobile robots, which have significantly improved operational efficiency. Nord expresses pride in the recognition and looks forward to the gala event celebrating innovation in Indiana.

Upcoming Industry Events

NeoCon 2025 / DesignDays 2025
June 9-11, 2025 | 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.  Joining at the same time, in Fulton Market is DesignDays, a compatible show that now hosts more than half of the largest office furniture manufacturers. Hint: See both.

Clerkenwell Design Week
May 20-22, 2025 | London, UK
 

Clerkenwell Design Week (CDW) returns to London’s EC1 from 20–22 May 2025 for its 14th edition, marking its largest event yet with the addition of three new exhibition venues. These include the historic Charterhouse and Charterhouse Square featuring a new public artwork by Alex Chinneck, St Bartholomew the Great (London’s oldest parish church), and Studio Smithfield, a Grade II* listed building above Smithfield Market. Together, these new locations will create a vibrant southern district within the festival.

Industry Briefing

FMG's Nick Camp Promoted to EVP, Operations and Strategic Growth
Nick Camp has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Operations and Strategic Growth at FMG. In this new role, he will oversee sales and operations for teams located in Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, El Paso, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. The organization anticipates that Nick will continue to significantly contribute to sales growth and maintain high-quality service for all customers.

Landscape Forms Welcomes Christen Brooke as New Business Development Representative for Washington and Alaska
Christen Brooke has been appointed as the new Business Development Representative for Landscape Forms, covering most of Washington state and all of Alaska. With a degree in Interior Architecture from the University of Oregon, Brooke has extensive experience in the architecture and design industry. She expresses enthusiasm for joining Landscape Forms, emphasizing her connection to the outdoors and the company's commitment to creating beautiful, sustainable outdoor spaces. Brooke plans to work closely with designers and architects to fulfill clients' outdoor design needs. 

Global Furniture Group, USA adds to its growing team in the Northeast
Global Furniture Group, USA has expanded its team in the Northeast with the addition of Rebecca Williams as Healthcare Regional Sales Manager. Rebecca brings over 20 years of experience in creating healthcare environments that improve patient and provider experiences. She previously worked for Kimball International, where she excelled in market expansion and sales growth. Rebecca is recognized for her leadership in healthcare interiors and holds the Evidence-Based Design Accreditation and Certification (EDAC).

Integra Seating Now Represented by Cor Group in Five States
Integra Seating has announced a partnership with Cor Group to represent its high-performance lounge seating solutions in five states: Washington, Oregon, Alaska, Idaho, and Montana. This collaboration aligns with both companies' commitment to sustainability and high-quality products. Shirley Aldaba from Cor Group highlighted the importance of Integra's dedication to both environmental stewardship and client support. Integra Seating is known for its ergonomic and aesthetically pleasing products that focus on durability and minimal environmental impact. The partnership aims to enhance the selection of furniture available for commercial environments, including hotels and schools, and expand Integra's market reach.

Steelcase Announces New Chief Legal Officer and Secretary
Megan Blazina has been appointed as Steelcase's new chief legal officer and secretary, effective March 17, 2025. With over 24 years of experience, she will oversee legal services, compliance, corporate strategy, and more, reporting to CEO Sara Armbruster. Blazina previously held a leadership role at Whirlpool Corporation and is set to drive impactful change at Steelcase.

Office Images unveils new butterfly sculpture in Landon Park
Office Images unveiled a 12-foot butterfly sculpture named Transform in Landon Park, honoring E. Zimmermann Boulos for his community contributions. Created by artist Matthew Placzek, the sculpture symbolizes rebirth and the importance of pollinators, aiming to enhance community engagement and appreciation for public art.
From left, Bryan Roberts, CEO of Office Images, John Peyton, President of Gate Petroleum and former Jacksonville Mayor, Madelen Salter, Market President, Office Images, and E. Zimmermann Boulos, Community Honoree
Clerkenwell Design Week is launching the CDW 2025 Product Awards to recognize innovative interior design products in various categories, including furniture, lighting, and sustainability. The awards are open to exhibitors and aim to elevate brands on a global stage through partnerships with prominent design platforms. A distinguished jury will evaluate submissions, and finalists will gain significant industry exposure, culminating in a celebratory event during Clerkenwell Design Week 2025. All entries must be submitted by March 28, 2025.
Find the best Contract Furniture Industry jobs and hire the best talent.
A former VP of Sales shares how proactive job searching, including submitting resumes to competitors, led to a successful new position. Stephen emphasizes that the best jobs are often unadvertised and encourages job seekers to keep their resumes updated and explore various opportunities.
The Proposal Manager provides leadership, direction, and subject matter expertise in the management of the Flatwater Group proposal process. This includes proposal scheduling, technical writing, review processes, pricing functions, and on-time delivery of completed proposals. Works closely with business development lead to qualify opportunities, develop solutions, and craft compelling proposals to win new business with federal, tribal, and non-federal customers.
The Pricing Analyst will work with the Business Development team, Proposal manager, along with Contracts and Operations departments in developing a price and cost analysis in support of our bid response.
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