Bulgarian furniture output reached 556 million dollars in 2023. This was a 5% decline year on year: production was valued at 585 million dollars in 2022 and almost 600 million dollars in 2021, Vasil Zhivkov, chairman of the Bulgarian Branch Chamber of Woodworking and Furniture Industry, told the Capital Weekly.
Declining consumption
During the COVID-19 pandemic the furniture sector experienced growth in furniture purchases. However, in 2023 there was a decrease of approximately 9 million dollars compared to 2022, when domestic consumption stood at 465 million dollars.
"In 2023 the demand for furniture decreased across Europe, where the market is dominated by large retailers. We expect a slight decline in real demand in 2024, with growth to resume in 2025," Zhivkov commented.
According to the business association, price remains the primary factor for consumers in Bulgaria when choosing furniture. The origin of furniture is not a key criterion for the general public. "However, we are noticing a growing share of clients interested in the sustainability of products and the materials used, preferring Bulgarian furniture for its quality and warranty. Unfortunately, imported products dominate the local market, while Bulgarian furniture is mostly exported to Western Europe," Zhivkov added.
Imports and exports
China retains its position as the top furniture exporter to Bulgaria, despite a 2% decrease in 2023. Chinese furniture accounts for 26% of the total furniture imports in the country. In 2023 Turkey held almost a 15% share, moving up to second place and surpassing Poland, which dropped to third position with a 14% share. Other notable exporters included Germany (8.4%) and Romania (7.7%). Vietnam entered the top ten, displacing Denmark, according to chamber data.
Bulgaria ranked 24th in Europe in furniture exports in 2023 and 39th globally, according to the industry organization. The top destination for Bulgarian furniture exports is Romania, with a share of 16.2%. It is followed by Greece (11%), Poland (8.3%), France (6.8%), the Czech Republic (6.4%), Germany (6.3%), Italy (4.2%), the Netherlands (4.2%), the United Kingdom (3.5%) and Serbia (3.4%).
"Our country is the second largest furniture importer in Albania and the third largest in Greece," said Zhivkov. According to him, Bulgarian furniture is known for its good quality and offers excellent value for money. Internationally, chairs, upholstered furniture, mattresses and kitchen furnishings are the most sought-after Bulgarian products.
Outlook
"Globally, we are witnessing a decline in production, which inevitably affects our country," explained Zhivkov. He added that furniture companies in Europe are facing significant challenges due to reduced demand, economic downturns and stagnation in the construction sector. "These trends reach us with a slight delay and difficulties are likely to arise in 2025," he predicted.
According to the chamber, many companies continue to struggle with high timber prices. "As a result, some enterprises are operating at reduced capacity, a situation that has persisted for two years now," noted Zhivkov.
The future of the furniture industry is also tied to new rules for eco-friendly product design. The regulation, set to take effect in 2028/29, requires the development of standards for sustainable products. It includes 20 key parameters, such as extended lifespan, reliability, repairability, maintenance, reuse potential, inclusion of recycled materials, recyclability, reduced energy consumption, fewer harmful substances and a lower carbon footprint. The European directive also mandates a digital passport for every product entering the market. This document will provide information on materials, energy efficiency and safety.
Bulgarian furniture output reached 556 million dollars in 2023. This was a 5% decline year on year: production was valued at 585 million dollars in 2022 and almost 600 million dollars in 2021, Vasil Zhivkov, chairman of the Bulgarian Branch Chamber of Woodworking and Furniture Industry, told the Capital Weekly.
