India's Furniture Economy
The Furniture Market in India
An overview of India's furniture market, why most furniture is still made by local carpenters, and how housing growth and branded players are changing it.
India’s furniture market is large and mostly unorganised.
Local carpenters
Most furniture has been made by local carpenters or small workshops, often custom-made.
Branded players
Branded companies like Godrej Interio, IKEA, Nilkamal and online sellers are growing.
Demand drivers
- Housing growth.
- Urbanisation and smaller families.
- Rising incomes.
Exports
India exports furniture from clusters like Jodhpur, though it trails China and Vietnam.
Challenges
- Wood supply.
- Quality consistency.
The custom bed
A family in Lucknow orders a wooden bed from a local carpenter, who builds it at their home.
Thinking furniture is mostly bought from stores
Local carpenters still make much of it.
Key takeaways
- India's furniture market is mostly unorganised.
- Local carpenters make much furniture.
- Branded players are growing.
- Housing drives demand.
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