Delayed Gratification: Long Lead Times
Imported textiles from Jim Thompson Fabrics worth the wait
Designers expect lead times when ordering custom, high-end products, but lately, the delay and estimations have been abnormally long. The design industry was affected along with every other industry in the early days of the pandemic. We expected delays. However, as we slowly emerge and recover from Lockdown, long lead times remain and, in some cases, worsened. Understanding the logistics and factors behind this shift can help your firm grapple with the increased workload and navigate client expectations.
Foam Production
There are many steps behind manufacturing custom furnishings and the pandemic impacted the line of production. The housing boom and extreme climate conditions also contributed. Even if pieces are American-made, some elements come from other countries, such as certain fabrics; lockdowns all over stalled production. COVID also caused a decrease in factory employees and truck drivers returning due to various pandemic-related reasons, which has made the hunt for skilled labor and keeping it a challenge.
The high demand for furniture and building materials has skyrocketed, resulting in a limited supply of wood and other materials. And they now come at a higher cost. Foam is one of the materials with the most significant shortages. Components of foam production occur off the Gulf Coast and production halted when the big ice storm hit in February.
Immediate gratification, buying antiques and vintage. Photo of Epoca SF
So how does the design industry manage these uncontrollable variables? One solution is to source more vintage and antique pieces. What is in stock is available and can be acquired quickly; this is usually true whether sourcing from an antique dealer or an online platform like Chairish or 1st Dibs. This renewed appreciation for antiques and vintage is the silver lining of the current situation.
Seeing your workload increase, but not necessarily your pipeline can be confusing. But realizing the complexities occurring behind the scenes can make this phenomenon less of a mystery for your team and your clients. One thing we can control is maintaining good relationships with collaborators, vendors, and manufacturers. It goes a long way, especially during these unusual times.
