Project Description
Retail & Contract Office Chair Design
Research, Sourcing & Development
Select Brands: Whalen Furniture, Bayside Furnishings, Martha Stewart Home Office, Golden Oak
Retailers: Costco, Staples, Office Depot, Walmart, Sam’s Club
Platinum Record Best-Seller: Costco Metrex Mesh Office Chair
DESIGNED IN SUCCESS
The Challenge
Buying an office chair at mass retail is a matter of selecting which black chair is the least offensive and uncomfortable. The challenge wasn’t getting consumers to buy something new, it was convincing retail buyers (and our clients) that anything but boring, basic black office chair design would actually sell. Through detailed in store year-over-year product research, trends were revealed that showed the preference shift away from black, convincing numbers-driven buyers to take a risk on a new office chair design.
The Solution
Breaking black was an easy solution, but in order to make sure the new alternative materials and warmer colors sold, covertly female features had to be added as well. Flip-up arms to help get closer to the desk; lumbar support that was adjustable or at a lower angle; and a low range on the seat height. The proof is in the sales – outperforming all other category chairs for three years straight – a platinum record for design.
RAVE REVIEWS & TESTIMONIALS
It’s rare that a product lasts at retail more than a season. Tom & Tracy have a pulse on what sells and what sells well year after year.
This chair is durable and has great support. Super comfortable. I ended up ordering three for our office…One problem we had in our office was that we couldn’t find a task chair that could raise up high enough. This one does. For the price you simply can’t beat it.