How long has the retailer been in business? Are they financially stable?

Many years in business and financial stability are an important consideration when selecting an office furniture retailer. Why is it important? If the retailer has been in business a long time it means they have satisfied customers who have returned to them again and again. An office furniture retailer can’t survive on new customers alone -- repeat business is essential.

A newly established office furniture retailer may have limited inventory, if any. They may be on cash terms with their manufacturers. This can result in longer lead times for orders. They may also be on cash terms with freight carriers, which can add delays to shipping times for the order to reach the customer. In addition, freight carriers can sometimes demand payment from the customer if the shipper has not paid the freight bill.

Finally, manufacturer warranties are usually processed by the retailer, not directly by the manufacturer even though the manufacturer is responsible for the warranty. Most office furniture manufacturers today do not have staff levels sufficient to service end-user customers, so the retailer is responsible for processing the initial warranty claim. Date and proof-of-sale receipts will be required. You want to select a retailer who will be around in a few years and who retains complete order records to assist you should a warranty situation arise. Those detailed order records will also be important if you want to purchase matching furniture in the future.

So be sure to check into how long your office furniture provider has been in business. Many years in business suggests they have a large base of satisfied customers and the ability to serve you well into the future.

Modern Office has been in business and located in Eden Prairie, Minnesota for over 30 years. We own our office and warehouse building and keep it stocked with much of our inventory.

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