As the summer months come to a close, we reflect on the current state of the furniture industry in France with Victoire Dauviau Lambert, head of communications and marketing at the French brand Akante. We also look ahead to future opportunities and their participation at the upcoming Maison&Objet fair in Paris.
Victoire Dauviau Lambert.
Current market conditions
Akante has been facing a stagnant summer, particularly within the French market. Victoire candidly shares, 'This is a quieter period for our customers as people prefer to save their money for their holidays. The French market is particularly difficult right now with a decline of around 5%. That's why we rely on international markets and we're looking to expand our business more to other countries. We think that activity will pick up in September with events like Maison&Objet and other furniture shows.'
Victoire attributes the downturn to the broader economic challenges facing France. 'Inflation is impacting the French economy, leading to rising prices. As a result, consumers are more cautious with their spending, preferring to save money or spend it on holidays rather than on furniture. This has led to a stagnation in the market. However, we think that situation will improve in the autumn.'
When asked about the potential positive impact of the Olympics in Paris, Victoire remains skeptical. 'We haven't noticed much of an uptick in the market due to the Olympics. In fact, the market has tended to stagnate over the last two or three months.'
Akante's new capsule collection made from recycled oyster shells.
Expectations for Maison&Objet
Looking ahead, Akante is preparing for the Maison&Objet fair in Paris with high expectations. 'We're excited to introduce new products that will arrive in August. One of our highlights is a new ceramic colour, Travertine. As if now we have around 12 colours of ceramics, which is quite rare and sets us apart from the competition. Additionally, we're introducing a new dining table with organic shapes, which are very much on-trend right now.'
Another ongoing trend is sustainability. Victoire explains: 'We saw at various shows that responsibility is crucial, and we want to be better in that department. We're launching a new product made from recycled oyster shells, crafted in France. It's like a terrazzo material, with a white base and speckled points, paired with our contemporary flared legs. However, it's challenging because producing in France comes at a higher cost. There's a balance we're trying to strike—customers want products made in France, but aren't always willing to pay the premium price. This new capsule collection will test whether our clients are interested in such sustainable offerings.'
Looking to the future
After Maison&Objet, Akante has a busy schedule ahead. 'We're preparing for several upcoming events, including EspritMeuble, and Feria Hábitat València where we'll be launching the brand in Spain. We'll also be returning to M.O.W. Germany and Brussels Furniture Fair where we plan to showcase new mechanisms for our coffee tables. Our design office is working hard, and by then, we'll be ready to reveal these new products.'
Visit Akante at Maison&Objet at Hall 6 — Stand K101.
More information:
Akante
45/1 Avenue de Flandre
59290 Wasquehal, France
+33 (0)3 20 90 34 18
[email protected]
www.akante.com