Rapid technical innovation, automation and a base of consumers who expect on-demand services and instant delivery are just a few factors impacting and directing today’s marketplace. These factors are also changing the furniture industry by requiring manufacturers to develop sustainable strategies to keep pace with the changing demands of customers.

Replacing Traditionally-Printed Materials with New, Innovative Technology

Digital printing is a growing technology within many industries, and the furniture space is certainly no exception. As print qualities continue to improve, the range of materials becomes larger, and the number of ink sets and dye sets compatible with digital printing grows. Digitally-printed materials are increasingly replacing traditionally-printed materials. This immediately addresses the stock management issues facing production facilities. With digital printing, the only necessary stock are a white rolls of fabric — any design, pattern, image or motif can be printed.

A Custom, Scalable Solution for Orders of all Sizes

Digital printing allows for on-demand workflows and scalable production. This means that furniture manufacturers can produce exactly what has been ordered by the customer — in terms of specifications, design, and quantity.

Naturally, the ability to produce only what is ordered results in more sustainable practices and less waste. Reduced overhead, as well as a more efficient production process allows furniture manufacturers to cut costs and improve their overall bottom line. 

Quickly Fill Custom Orders

Traditionally, customization has resulted in longer production timelines and delays, which is a constant source of frustration for customers looking for a product that meets their exact specifications.  Using design software, you can digitally build out the unique elements of your custom piece. These elements will be sent to a digital printer, then an automated cutter, where the design will be created perfectly to the desired specifications. The speed and efficiency provided by digital printing means that customization is no longer a “show stopper,” since custom orders can be filled nearly as quickly as a standard item in your product offerings.

Providing Furniture Manufacturers with a Strategic Edge

Gerber Technology’s comprehensive offering of hardware and software solutions for manufacturers of upholstered and leather furniture helps maximize material utilization, decreases stock management, minimizes labor requirements, accelerates time-to-market and meets customer demands for multiple color and style options.

Gerber helps automate the entire production process, from design to cutting. Gerber Technology works to improve productivity and material savings, and dramatically decrease lead times.

The Bottom Line

Today’s marketplace is evolving and changing alongside the consumers who occupy it. Gerber Technology’s GERBERcutter Z1, in conjunction with Gerber’s software, can provide your company with the tools it needs to remain competitive and thrive in the digital age.

Download our eBook to learn more about the latest trends and challenges the furniture industry is currently facing.

Experience a complete microfactory at ideation!

Want to see Gerber Technology’s innovative, end-to-end process in action? Join us in NYC October 23-25 to see how a connected supply chain can help you compete and win in today’s on-demand world.  At the conference, attendees will hear from the industry’s best (including Rent the Runway co-founder Jenny Fleiss), gain hands-on experience with the latest technology, and take part in the GRAND OPENING of the brand new Gerber Innovation Center.