Showtime! Record number of Amish Furniture Manufacturers
Showtime! Record number of Amish Furniture Manufacturers
Gear Up For Annual Show
Gear Up For Annual Show
“A furniture show in every issue.”
Volume 13 | Number One 2025
Jerry Klingerman: Owner, Publisher
Karen Yoder: Publication Coordinator/ Graphic Artist
Meredith Klingerman: Assistant Editor
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Dutch Country Publishing, LLC
P.O. Box 248
Fredericksburg, OH 44627
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Well, the other shoe has dropped. Whatever party/ideology with which you identify, I think we all can agree that it’s nice we don’t have to go through this again for four years! But I’d like to share a few observations:
First, I’ve never, ever — in 20 years in this line of work — seen an electionrelated slowdown as long as the one we experienced this past year. (More on that in a minute.)
Next, the post-election reaction has been very encouraging.
When speaking with customers in December (this magazine has a threemonth cycle, from sales to printing) they shared they have experienced a noticeable uptick in business. When I asked one of the first clients I visited if he’d experienced an increase in orders he said, “Definitely.”
I jokingly added, “On Nov. 6, right?” To my surprise he calmly said, “Yes.” He was serous. But his story wasn’t unusual, rather it was similar to other accounts I heard as I made my rounds.
Again, ideology aside, most people I spoke with were just happy that we knew the results and, in some respects, could predict certain things about the next four years.
Perhaps most encouraging is the fact that among the manufacturers who reported an upswing in orders, they noted that the orders were both for consumers, and retailers who were ordering stock items. One manufacturer reported that he was getting bedroom stock orders. That’s good news.
Anecdotally, just before we went to press, I spoke with a lifelong friend who’s a third-generation car dealer (at a franchised dealership). We shared virtually the exact same thoughts and experiences with regard to our respective businesses. He said they began to slow down last summer, well in advance of the election. He also said that he expects this phenomenon every four years, but that the cycle started much earlier this time.
I couldn’t agree more. The quadrennial slowdown is something I’ve learned to live with. Perhaps you have, too — it’s kind of like the ultimate trickle-down effect: Prior to a presidential election, consumers delay bigticket purchases, stores make do with their current inventory, wood shops have fewer orders and, every business up and down the food chain experiences fewer sales.
That’s just the way it goes.
But I was surprised when my friend laid out the exact same scenario (surprised, but not shocked). He readily admitted that as a result of fewer sales he had been keeping inventory as lean as possible. That served a twofold purpose: Preserve cash, and avoid taxes on inventory.
Maybe you were in the same place. If so, I’m hopeful that you’re now seeing more customers (and buyers) in your respective showrooms and that we all move forward together this year.
From the very traditional to the very modern — in this case, Mid-Century Modern — Wengerd Wood Products has a product lineup that’s sure to please every customer, no matter what their tastes. Shown here is the “Seymour” dining group, which features clean lines, and is centered around a table that built on an attractive, inverted-style base. The table is partnered with chairs that further enhance the overall MCM style.
Show is April 1-2 Ohio Furniture Market includes record number of exhibitors
We’llstart with the biggest news: The 2025 Ohio Furniture Market will feature a record number of exhibitors in more spaces than ever before — This is the biggest furniture show in the Ohio Furniture Guild’s history.
On April 1-2, 2025, furniture manufacturers from Mt. Hope to Maysville; Fredericksburg to Millersburg and points from in between and all around, will gather for an opportunity to greet old friends, make new ones and showcase their latest product offerings.
In the local furniture world this is, if you will, the social event of the season. Manufacturers plan and prepare for months for the opportunity to meet and greet buyers from retail furniture stores all across the USA.
According to OFG Executive Director Kendrick Mullet, 171 companies will exhibit at the event, which is the most exhibitors ever. The event takes place in two buildings on the campus of the Mt. Hope Auction: The Mt. Hope Event Center, and the Dean Beachy Arena. As was the case last year, there will be a pop-up coffee shop/lounge in the Dean Beachy arena, and complimentry meals will be served in the event center (meals are provided on a donation basis, with the
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Ohio Furniture Market
Continued from page 8
proceeds being given to a local charity.
Single location; bright future
This is the second year that the OFM will be at the same location — not quite under one roof, at least not yet, but in the same location, with two buildings adjacent to each other and connected by a weather-proof tunnel.
After a handful of years with the Market being held at two locations, Mullet said 2024 “Marked the first year the Ohio Furniture Market was held entirely at one location in Mt. Hope, and the feedback from both retail store owners and our exhibitors was overwhelmingly positive. For 2025, we’re thrilled to use the same venue, which features two large buildings.”
There is big news to share with respect to the venue: “Looking ahead, the event center plans to expand further, with lots of additional space anticipated for our 2026 Market. This consolidated location not only simplifies logistics for attendees but also enhances the experience by showcasing the full range of what Ohio builders have to offer in one cohesive space.”
This name change/rebrand is something that, Mullet said, “The board began discussing about a year before the official announcement.” He added, “It was a well-thought-out process with input from our diverse membership.”
A growing number of local manufacturers have added fully upholstered furniture to their product lines.
At a mid-2024 meeting held for Guild members, Mullet announced that the planned expansion of the facilities at Mt. Hope is scheduled to begin immediately after the Market.
New name recognizes market changes
This particular event also will be significant because it is the first “Ohio Furniture Market” to be held since the Ohio Furniture Guild rebranded. Gone from both names is the word “hardwood.”
The driving force behind the name change and rebrand is the fact that, “We’ve seen significant growth in other product categories, including poly outdoor furniture, upholstered furniture, mattress and more. We wanted our name to reflect this diversity while making it clear where the furniture is being made: right here in Ohio.”
Indeed, the growth in poly outdoor furniture has been nothing more than remarkable and, as Expressions In Woodcraft reported in Issue 2, 2024, there’s been a solid increase in the number of offerings in the upholstered segment, too. The attraction for retailers is, all of these additional offerings are being produced by craftsmen who are committed to producing more of the high-quality products this region is famous for. Mullet agreed, saying “Upholstery, in particular, seems to be
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Online furniture sales grow Can small retailers compete with online furniture retailers?
Is it possible to compete with online retailers?
“Online furniture sales have significantly impacted retail stores by causing a decline in foot traffic, increased price pressure due to online competition, and forcing brick-and-mortar stores to adapt by offering a more integrated online experience, including features like 3D product visualization and augmented reality to compete with the convenience and vast selection available online; many customers now research furniture online before making a purchase in-store, blurring the lines between online and offline shopping experiences.”
Wow, that’s a mouthful! But that’s the response I received when I Googled, “How have online furniture sales affected retail stores?”
Now that Google has integrated AI into some of the responses to queries, it provides some interesting (if not always entirely accurate) responses. Personally, I’ve found the AI-generated answers to be about 90 percent or higher accurate and helpful. It’s good — and getting better. Such is the amazing learning trajectory of AI.
But this particular response seemed to hit pretty close to home.
We know that Amish-built furniture is different: It’s a superior-quality product that, as we have discussed many times, pushes a lot of buttons for younger buyers. [It support lots of small businesses, is USA-sourced, is built from a highly renewable, sustainable product, etc.]
That’s all well and good.
But…
How do we make it matter when someone can get on their phone, plan out an entire room (changing colors and 3-D views), hit “Buy Now” and have a roomful of furniture delivered to their doorstep within a matter of days?
You can question the accuracy of AI-generated questions and answers, but this is a legitimate question, with no clear answer.
We can, however, take comfort in a key phrase that was included in the answer: “Many customers now research furniture online before making a purchase in-store.”
We’ve reported that in previous issues, and it’s good to know it still holds true. Furniture is a major purchase and, even as online shopping continues to make inroads, consumers across all age spectrums still want to see it up close before making purchasing decisions.
There are other takeaways we can examine: Interestingly, one of the suggestions offered was this: “Physical stores need to enhance the in-store experience with features like design consultations, product demonstrations, and interactive displays to attract customers who are already researching online.”
That’s good advice. But the main point there is “…attract customers who are already researching online.” I’m hopeful this isn’t news to you, but if it is, please take this to heart: Virtually all big-ticket purchases — from houses, to cars, to furniture —
begin online, and it’s been that way for a number of years now. The vast majority of all purchases now begin online. And, for those that technically don’t begin on a website, many originate via an “app,” which is short for application; a computer-based program which is used on a smart phone. Apps aren’t websites, per se, but they use web-based technology.
Two quick examples: Depending upon where you live, you can “Door Dash” (that’s unofficially a verb now!) food from your favorite restaurant or takeout place, and have it brought to your doorstep without having to ever talk to a person.
Next, is grocery shopping. My favorite grocery store is part of regional chain. They have an excellent app that shows me the best deals of the
week, and presents me a list of weekly “BOGOs” (buy one get one free). It also suggests sale items based on my previous purchases. With a few taps here and there, I can automatically create my list so that once I enter the store, there’s no aimless wandering. The app tells me exactly what aisles my respective items are. Although I haven’t taken this next step yet, I can even pay with the app, skipping the cash register.
Both of those are great examples of things that consumers are getting more and more used to that, again, aren’t exactly websites, but they certainly are web-like.
Let’s back up a second…Am I suggesting that you go to the time and expense of creating your own
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Dublin Valley Wood: Four generations of furniture builders — and counting!
The Amish-built furniture industry began simply enough: A neighborhood craftsman — perhaps a carpenter, cabinetmaker or barn builder, constructed a dining room table for his family.
A neighbor, seeing the beauty of it, asked if he could create one for his family. Word spread throughout the community, and soon the craftsman found himself in the furniture business! That may sound simplistic, but it’s a pretty accurate description of the organic origins of Ohio’s Amish-built furniture industry.
One local family definitely can fill in some of the blanks of that story: The Mast family of Fredericksburg. In the case of the Mast family, from the “Dublin Valley” area between Mt. Hope and Fredericksburg, the individual who first began hand-crafting furniture was Levi Mast, and he started doing so in the 1930s, more than 90 years ago.
Every successive generation since then has done the same; while also tending to the family’s 56-acre farm. The Masts run a turn-key shop, performing every step of the furniture construction process, including finishing.
Today, Adam Mast is the steward of the family business, having recently purchased it from his father, Ivan. Furniture definitely runs thick in the Mast family blood! Another of Ivan’s sons builds furniture in partnership with his father-in-law, and another recently ventured into a finishing shop business with a partner. Son Sam worked in the family business until about five years ago, when he starting a sporting goods just a short walk from the family farm. That business grew quickly, and now Sam devotes attention to Mid-Ohio Sporting goods full time.
Currently, three Mast sons representing the fourth generation work in the business.
If you visit, you’ll most likely run into a few of Adam’s children — some of whom probably will become the fifth generation of furniture-building Masts.
Adam speaks passionately and intelligently about the furniture industry, and as he shares new designs with a visitor — designs he has created the old-fashioned way, with drafting paper, rulers and pencils — he talks about the need to stay current with new styles — while also keeping an eye toward tradition. That will be more evident when the new Dublin Valley Furniture catalog premiers. Adam is hard at work on the catalog and says it should be ready to share with clients and friends in time for the upcoming Ohio Furniture Market. Be sure to look them up at booth #N-551.
app? No. The point I’m trying to make is this: Shopping of all kinds has changed a great deal. It doesn’t seem that long ago, but the Apple App Store was launched 17 years ago, in 2008. The Google “Play” app store came four years later in 2012. Depending on what demographics you want to consider, we have at least one generation (Gen Z) that has known little else but using apps. The one just before them also uses lots of apps.
All of these things don’t just enhance the shopping/buying experience, they make them a great deal easier — that’s a huge part of the bottom line: Making it easier for customers to research your products, and then buy from you.
So, at the very least (perhaps as a starting point to competing with online retailers) you have to examine how you can enhance the in-store experience you offer customers. How can you make that experience easier, and overall positive?
It’s completely understandable that most retailers who feature Amish-built furniture won’t offer direct online purchases. That’s OK! Just look at other areas where you can give them a positive experience. Whenever I have a negative shopping experience, either in-person or online, I always ask myself, “Why is this company making it so difficult to do business with them?”
Here are a few areas to look at:
Website
Is your website up to date? Is it specifically designed to detect the platform the user is on, and is it optimized for mobile devices? Fact: Somewhere between 60-65% of all web traffic now comes from mobile devices. Keeping your website up to date and making it mobile friendly is critically important. If consumers perceive your website as a “Web 1.0” site, or if it’s difficult-to-impossible to view on their phone, they will leave quickly, and never come back. That might sound brutal, but it’s the truth.
Social Media
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tik Tok and Pinterest are the “Big 5” of social media apps. YouTube also is
extraordinarily popular, and is now the secondlargest search engine. Read that last sentence again. A lot of people skip Google or other search engines and begin their searches on YouTube, making it the second-largest search engine, next to Google.
Interacting on social media is no longer optional. If you can’t do it yourself, hire someone. The marketplace is full of “social media managers” who can post regularly on any of your selected platforms. Look at it this way: This is an advertising expense. A lot of small businesses look at advertising as an optional expense or worse, a necessary evil. But it isn’t. Advertising should be a line item in your budget, and web-based marketing should most definitely be a big part of that.
Also, keep in mind that (with rare exceptions) your current target audience isn’t going to see a print ad. Fact: Only three to four percent of adults aged 18-49 read newspapers. Even the 50-64 age segment is abandoning print, with just 11 percent reporting that they read or subscribe to newspapers.
Advertising revenues tell an even clearer story: In 2023, online advertising generated $223 billion. That figure is expected to reach $357.5 billion by 2028.
In contrast, newspaper advertising was only about $10 billion in 2023. Year-by-year readership has dropped steadily since peaking in the 1990s, and even online versions of newspapers are struggling to find an audience. According to a Pew Research study, newspaper adrevenue peaked at approx. $50 billion and has been in a freefall since then. Digital ad revenue also far surpasses even TV advertising. In 2023, TV advertising totalled $60 billion. Again, nowhere near online advertising revenues.
Online reviews
We’ve reported for years now that younger buyers trust online reviews more than recommendations from family and friends. There’s hard data to back that up: According to Newswire, “Fifty-four percent of consumers are putting their trust in online reviews first, outweighing the opinions of friends and family (24%), company claims (18%), social
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<<<At home in either your corner office or home Office, the DC55 chair Buckeye Rocker is long on comfort and style. Padded surfaces all around are paired with a classic design, for a chair that is sure to please for — See ad on page 62
>>>Timberside Woodworking introduces a fresh new look to the classic “hutch on desk.” Featuring clean, MidCentury Modern styling, the #2109 desk is shown here in White Oak. With frosted glass doors that swing up to open. The drawers and doors are inset, enhancing the minimalist style. Sharp! — See ad on page 24
<<<Meadow Wood Furni ture knows that storage solution for jewelry and accessories can be a challenge. So why not combine it with an ractive fulllength mirror? The Trolley Chevel Mir ror is the perfect choice! It offers lots of storage in a small footprint, with a wroughtstyle rail door. — See ad on page 45
(Below) With its attractive metal base, and chairs with clean, spindlestyle legs and slats, the Tulip Dining set from Deer Valley Woodworking draws heavily from the MidCentury Modern period. The table is available in a variety of sizes, and is sure to be a hit with customers who appreciate the clean, simple lines of this popular style. — See ad on page 7
<<<The Kinglet Chair from has two major things going for it: First it’s a stylish, exceptionally comfortable design that nues to be a hot seller. Next, by keeping the price down, it’s also a great value!
has just been upgraded with a new style lift! It features plenty of storage space for accessories, and conveniently closes for storage. This item, which measures which measures 21” x 62” x 29 ½” high is a very functional piece of furniture and is available in a variety of wood species and stains. Give us a call to receive our latest catalog. — See ad on page 29
>>> The Nexus Table from Kidron Table does a wonderful job of combining traditional and modern styling. From the top, it appears to be a classic solid top table. But the first surprise is, it opens up for ad ditional leaves. Next, a quick look at the base reveals that this model is anything but traditional! The inverted triangle design in the legs is nicely ac cented by the center piece. — See ad on page 13
— See ad on page
The Lew Modern Bedroom Collection is the latest bedroom collection from Nisley Cabinet. It’s shown here shown in Brown Maple with OCS
101
S2 stain and 55276
BBZ pulls.
29
Ridge View Woodcraft just intro duced the brand new Harrison set, an exciting new collection that fea tures a bar height table and chairs. The set is accented by a twotone ish, with complementing rubthrough on the chairs and table base, a table top with rounded edges and chairs with a slightly bowed top. Shown in RoughSawn QSWO and OCS 113.
— See ad on page 21
Quad M Rustics is excited to release its new ee bar! Shown here is inch model in Aspen, it’s also available in inch size. Outstanding features include a trash can drawer, and a power outlet. Log characteristics vary, so each piece is unique! — See ad on page 28
tells us that thier
>>>The Woodbury Firebox TV stand from Y&T Woodcraft is the perfect centerpiece for your Great Room. You can enjoy real heat and the soft glow of a fire while you watch your favorite programs. Shown here in the 70inch model with two doors, in Brown Maple and OCS 117 finish. — See ad on page 20
(Below) The Arco chair from Wengerd Wood Products features a curved top, two
Looking for something dif ferent? How about an occa sional table that is also a conversation starter? The Madison Stand from Supe rior Woodcrafts definitely fits that bill! The character grade wood on the top shelf attracts your atten which is then drawn to the unique design of the frame and the stairstep style shelves. It all combines for a truly unique look! — See ad on page 36
>>>The Centre Co Wood Products is an excellent solution for eliminating countertop clutter — and easy access for your morning coffee. It features sleek inset drawers designed for KCups, a trash can in one door and storage on the left side. Need a phone charge? There also are two handy USB ports! — See ad on page 40
showcases timeless Amish craft
in a stunning Craftsman style. Featuring clean lines, natural wood grains, and durable mortiseandtenon joinery, this collection is built to last for generations. Its smooth catalyzed finish enhances the wood’s beauty, blending traditional design with functional appeal for elegant, heirloomquality furniture. — See ad on page 37
>>>The Rock Creek Bedroom Collection by Brookside Home Furnishings
smanship
>>>The Ventura TV Stand with Fireplace by Ashery Oak is a great addition to any living space, combining excellent functionality with an electric fireplace that provides real heat! The open shelf area provides plenty of space for A/V components, and there are two cabinets for additional storage. — See ad on page 11
>>> Y&M Chair continues to introduce exciting new designs. The Avocet Dining Collection is a sleek, stylish modern design that grabs your atten tion immediately. The collection is a collaborati between Y&M Chair and Kidron Table. The table fea tures thick angled legs,and the chairs definitely chan nel MidCentury Modern. This set is sure to get attention on your sales floor. — See ad on page 59
>>>The Coastal Chair from Hidden Hollow Wood and Upholstery is a comfortable, modern and stylish design. The cushioned seat offers maximum comfort, while the angled legs make for an eyecatching design. — See ad on page 58
<<<The LWakefield desk from A&L Furniture continues to be a popular choice, and it’s easy to see why: It has a clean look, and a large surface on the desktop, which provides lots of room to spread out your projects (or multiple monitors).
Six drawers offer a large amount of storage, and shelves on the bottom of each side provide easy access to additional items you want to keep handy. A&L reports that they customize this desk quite a bit, so make sure your customers know they can customize it to their needs. — See ad on page 24
^^^This attractive piece is the WC 2660 Library Desk, which is part of the Winchester Collection by Dutch Valley Woodcraft. It measures 26” deep by 60” wide and 30.5” high. Shown here in Brown Maple with Sandy Moon stain, it also has inset drawers and excellent tapered legs. A perfect solution for home or office! — See ad on page 20
^^^ Maple Hill Woodworking builds an affordable Library with Ladder that can be customized in every way to fit your tastes! Shown in Sap Cherry with FC42000 Almond and FC11047 Ebony Ladder. This model shows the optional raised panel sides. It’s also available with doors — the possibilities are endless! — See ad on page 28
^^^If space is at a premium, or if you just want to maximize your storage options, consider the #3612 Spacesaver Bed from North End Woodcraft. The headboard has three goodsized drawers on either side, while the base provides three large drawers on both sides. Great for everyday use, or storing seasonal clothing. — See ad on page 40
Farmside tion
styled storage chest. The bold legs and thick top provide a sturdy appearance, while the burnished edges give a timeworn look. The twotone finish shown here combines Brown Maple and Elm. — See ad on page 33
>>>New for 2025! Country Comfort Woodworking has just introduced two new styles of bar stools! Your customers are sure to love the extra deep scoop in these new models: The Cambia Square, and Cambria Round. Both models are available in 24inch height and 30inch height, and combine sturdy construction with maximum comfort and style. — See ad on page 16
^^^The Cali chest of drawers from Veraluxe Furniture combines clean lines with function. The drawers look like they are inset, but actually rest along the edges. It’s a unique, attractive look that combines storage with style. The insets on the top drawers complete the sleek, modern look. — See ad on page 37
If your dining space demands style and comfort, look no further than the Athens Chair from Hickory Lane Woodworking. With plenty of padding on the seat and back, your family and friends will be happy to sit and enjoy conversation long after the meal is done — See ad on page 37
<<< Rustic Barrel Design uses its signature barrelmade furniture to create a wine rack/server. The top and sides curve gently downward to cradle the barrel, which holds plenty of wine bottles. It’s a unique storageandserver combo that is sure to get lots of attention.
— See ad on page 25
>>>Five Star Tables presents the Buckeye Single Ped table. This piece draws you in with its large tulipstyle base and twotone finish, but perhaps the most impressive feature is the fact that the base and top are solid wood all the way through! — See ad on page 36
The Auburn Dining Collection from Dublin Valley Wood is shown in LO stain and Brown maple, and features a classic trestle table that is reminiscent of mortiseandtenon construction, while the center support bows gently to add a splash of style. The collection is available with a matching bench. The chairs feature a curved back and scooped seat for comfort, all of which creates a set that will be popular for generations. — See ad on page 17
grandma or a new mom to enjoy the oldtime comfort of the High Back Mission Glider from Miller Gliders, LLC (new name; same comfort you’ve enjoyed for years!) Thick cushions and a timetested glider mechanism combine to make this a chair everyone in your home will want to experience. — See ad on page 61
>>>There are a lot of design elements at work in the new Bowerston occasional collection from Troy Lane Woodcraft. The appealing combination of inset drawers, thick tops, a storage shelf in the base and truly unique legs are sure to make this collection a hit. The collection includes sofa, coffee, chair side and end tables. — See ad on page 44
<<<The Zion Dining Table from Kountry Knob Tables has a look all its own. The “elongated oval” construction of the top is carried through to the base, which has a reed style. It’s a sleek, modern look that should appeal to younger buyers who want both high quality and cuttingedge design. Shown here in Rustic Hickory in FC Almond finish. — See ad on page 41
The striking twotone finish of the Meggison model by Hermie’s Table Shop is the first thing that catches your eye. From there, you’ll see the intriguing base, with legs that angle inward, and then, gently curve back out. It’s a beautiful combination that will look great on your sales floor. — See ad on page 5
Farmstead Acres Wood has just introduced the “Maria” chair, a beautiful design that features alternating slats and spindles in the back; all of which curve. This is accented by the design of the top, and the way the slats insert into the base of the top. The spindle style is carried through into the base. Shown in Brown Maple and cappuccino stain. See ad on page 3
^^^While Finishing Designs offers a number of quickship dining set, they are, first and foremost, a fullservice finish shop that custom finish services for dining furniture. They are conveniently located just off St. Rte. 241 between Millersburg and Mt. Hope, for easy access. Contact them today to see how thier expertise can fit into your plans. — See ad on page 41
^^^ The Albany set from Hillside Chair features a lumbar support in the back, making it a very comfortable selection. The rear legs are flared, and the top shows a slight curve, while the slats are angled slightly in toward each other. This stylish model goes with nearly any table choice and is sure to be a customer favorite! — See ad on page 57
<<<The Millcreek Chair
Pioneer Woodis a best seller, and it’s easy to see why. It features a clean, stylish design and goes with almost any table. Plus, it has a great price point. It can nished to match a table, or pro vide a contrast. See ad on page 59
on is made up of clean, pleasing lines that will appeal to every generation. You’ll love the angled base on the table, and the upholstered seats offer hours of comfort. — See ad on page 51
^^^ Woodside Poly is creating outdoor poly furniture that challenges traditional notions of how these types of products should look. For example, the set shown above features rounded legs on the table, as well as the diningstyle chairs. The chairs also feature a curved back for added comfort. — See ad on page 55
(Below)The Harrisburg chair from Horseshoe Bend Chair is loaded with features that your customers are sure to enjoy. The eyecatching roughsawn look is first on that list, but quickly followed by the deepscooped seat, and the curved lumbar support in the back. While it’s sturdy, and ruggedlooking, the Harrisburg is a very comfortable chair to sit in! — See ad on page 18
>>>The Hollywood collection is a popular pub collection for your showroom floor, and a great seller for Countryside Tables. It is eye catching with its stylish pedestal and plate at the bottom. It is shown here in Brown Maple, and is available in any wood species. This model also is also available without an apron and mul ple different edges. Dining heights available. — See ad on page 47
<<<Talk about outdoor comfort! The Reclining Day bed from Siesta Outdoors offers a thick cushion (with numerous fabric choices) as well as a number of reclining positions — all built on an allweather Poly lumber frame! Available in twin, full and queen sizes, and all of our products fold for easy storage as well. — See ad on page 53
— See ad on page 55
^^^New from Amco Outdoor Lawn Furniture is the Poly Barrel Table and Chairs. The barrelshaped table is accented by chairs of the same shape. The design is sure to be a conversation
starter, and the weatherresistant materials last for generations.
media influencers (2%), and media reviews (2%). Notably, 77% of respondents stated that they find online reviews to be ‘mostly’ trustworthy.”
Translation: When it comes to product and service recommendations, people trust the word of perfect strangers more than any other source.
Dealing with negative reviews
The double-edged sword here is negative reviews. In general, people aren’t looking for 100 percent perfection when they read reviews. A single negative review out of dozens of positive reviews isn’t going to sink you, but you should have a process in place to deal with the occasional negative review. That includes how you address it internally (what caused the negativity) or how to deal with it online, if the negative review is unwarranted. The bad news is, it can be difficult to get negative reviews removed, so sometimes the best you can do is respond with your version of the story, and be as polite as possible.
Unfortunately, negative reviews don’t always make sense — sometimes, people haven’t even made a purchase. Case in point: A number of years ago a client of mine who works in the home improvement sector was doing very well with ads and reviews on a popular home improvement review website. Then, all of a sudden everything dropped dramatically. The cause: A single negative review. The problem was, the client had never done business with her and didn’t recognize the name.
I was tasked with researching this, and discovered that the individual was upset because she supposedly had tried to contact the business and received no response. After a little back-and-forth, it was only the mention of legal action that prompted her to remove the review. The website, by the way, was no help: They considered the review her property, and steadfastly refused to get involved.
If you’re in the retail space you already know this, but it’s worth considering here: Probably 90-95 percent of people are good, decent folks who are quite reasonable. But then…there’s a handful of people who are just negative, and tend to spread their negativity like…fertilizer…wherever they go. You’re not going to make everyone happy, and sometimes you’re going to get a bad review. Savvy consumers will see that for what it is. If you can effectively address negative reviews, you should. But unfortunately, whether it’s valid or not, they are going to happen.
The bottom line here is this: The world has changed. Your potential clients are online, reading online reviews, social media, websites and apps, all of which contribute to eventual purchase choices.
The end goal is still to get customers through your door and write an order. But everything that happens before that has changed. Yes, you can compete with online retailers, but it requires a different set of tools than in the past.
—Jerry Klingerman, Publisher
Ohio Furniture Market
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leading the way in growth, with increasing demand for custom-built sofas, chairs and other upholstered pieces. Additionally, many of our builders are innovating in areas like hospitality furniture, cabinetry, commercial projects and outdoor structures, expanding their reach and meeting evolving market needs.”
These additions also add to a kind of “one-stop shop” capability for retailers who want Amish-built hardwood furniture, mattresses, poly furniture and upholstered furniture. Mullet said, “If you’re looking to buy directly from U.S. manufacturers, this is the ideal starting point. Our builders offer a wide range of price points and are highly adaptable to your specific needs, whether it’s custom designs or bulk orders. With a strong network of transportation companies, delivery to your store is seamless. No
matter your store size or style, we have manufacturers ready to help you grow your business with high-quality, American-made furniture.”
All of this buttresses the notion (as we’ve said many times) that there is huge growth potential for products from this region. Mullett heartily agrees, and said “Consumers today value authenticity and quality, which our Ohio furniture builders exemplify. Unlike imported options, our builders offer unparalleled craftsmanship, affordable customizability, and the ability to adapt to market trends. Many of our members are multi-generational businesses with deep supply chain connections within the community, enabling them to handle large orders and scale production. This positions us well for robust growth.”
For more information and/or to register for the Ohio Furniture Market, please visit www.ohiofurnitureguild.com
This year’s Ohio Furniture Market will again include the “Showcase House,” where local builders have competed to place all the furniture items in a sample home. The Showcase House involves the talents not only of the builders, but also designers, color consultants, etc. It’s a great opportunity to discover the latest/upcoming trends.
A journey in rebranding Manufacturers throughout the region update logos/branding
Changeis a constant, even in Ohio’s Amish Country, where life moves at a little slower pace. As businesses get bought, sold or passed on to the next generation many owners find it’s a good time to look at branding.
Succession and sales aren’t always the reason for rebranding, but Expressions In Woodcraft recently took a look at a handful of businesses that have updated or changed their name and branding, and we found that a change in ownership is most often the catalyst.
But, in Miller’s case, the change was a matter of necessity. He explains, “When we went to file our LLC papers, we discovered that someone else had the name, “Wildwood Designs.” So, “We had to come up with a new name — and really fast!”
Miller said one of his children was looking around the shop, and saw the word “Siesta” on some materials. A conversation ensued, and, Miller says, “It was basically the kids who chose the name for the business.”
Even if it’s a transfer from one generation to the next, changes can occur — out of necessity, or just a desire to update/ upgrade marketing-related items.
Or…as in the case of the former “Wildwood Designs,” branding changes might be made for a completely different reason!
Sugarcreek-based Jerry Miller, who launched a unique line of comfortable, highly portable poly outdoor furniture in 2016, changed the original name from “Wildwood Designs” to “Siesta Outdoors.” The update included a fresh new logo that conveys the comfort that Miller’s products provide.
A lot of businesses could benefit from input like that from their children! Miller’s business is one of the newer ones in the area. On the other end of the “age” spectrum is Dublin Valley Furniture, which is located in the Fredericksburg/Mt. Hope area, in the heart of the furniture district. Owned by the Mast family since the 1930s, Adam Mast — the fourth generation of Masts to build furniture at this location — recently purchased the business from his father, Ivan. One of the changes Adam made was a fresh new logo.
You might think that the name/logo change was the result of a savvy marketing consultant’s advice.
He’s already incorporated the new logo into the business’ signage, and will put it in a brand-new catalog that’s in the works. (If you’re attending the Ohio Furniture Market, Mast plans to debut the new cata-
log at the show.)
Not far from Dublin Valley’s location on Township Road 606, you’ll find County Road 200. Head east on 200 for a few miles and then turn north on TR 659, and you’ll find Miller Gliders, LLC.
Miller Gliders, LLC actually has been through two name changes in recent years. Kenneth Troyer, who now owns the business along with his cousin, Nicholas Miller, explained that their grandfather started the business in 1989. Back then, and for a long time, it was known as “Miller Cabinets.”
cently purchased Miller Bedrooms (which was located between Berlin and Winesburg). In recognition of the expanded product line, the name and logo have been updated. Owner Alan Troyer said, “After many years, rebranding was a difficult decision for us, but after extensive testing and feedback, we recognized the need for a name that reflects both our heritage and the evolving tastes of our customers.”
Then, just a few years ago, in 2021, Kenny and Nick’s respective fathers (Reuben and Ivan) changed the name to “Gliders by Miller,” to better represent their core product line (glider rockers).
Fast Forward to late 2024, and Kenny and Nick purchased the business from their fathers, and decided to change the structure from an “S Corporation” to an LLC. So, another name change was in order.
He continued, “‘Brookside Home’ embodies the warmth, beauty and comfort central to Amish craftsmanship while appealing to modern styles. Our new logo symbolizes this vision — bringing together Brookside and our recently acquired Miller Bedrooms under one roof. Home is at the heart of what we do, and this name ensures our legacy continues with strength and purpose.”
Miller said the two name changes in recent years might have confused some folks, but a quick explanation usually takes care of it. When the newest generation decided to change the type of business “We had to close down the S Corp., and change the name.” A new logo has been introduced, too.
Next, we travel from the very tip of northeast Holmes County, deep into Wayne County. Here, between Apple Creek, Kidron and Orrville, Brookside Wood Products has just completed a rebranding that includes a name change. It’s now Known as “Brookside Home Furnishings.”
In this case, the name change is due in no small part to the fact that Brookside Wood Products re-
Finally, our rebranding journey takes us to just outside Navarre, OH in southwest Stark County. A handful of Amish families and businesses have begun to migrate to this area, largely due to the skyrocketing cost of real estate in “central” Amish Country. One of those businesses is “blu furniture.” blu stands for: “bold, luxurious (and) unlimited.”
That name is the brainchild of David Miller, who, in September of 2022, combined portions of two businesses to create blu: The former “77 Woodcraft,” and the occasional line of Mt. Eaton, OHbased “Weaver and Sons.”
From our perspective here at Expressions In Woodcraft, it’s good to see these kinds of things being examined, no matter what the reason. It’s a positive step forward and we congratulate the businesses and owners mentioned here, and wish them well.
Themilk jug you drink from today could be the beautiful Adirondack chair you sit on tomorrow.
Well, truth be told, the turnaround from jug to chair won’t be that quick, but the rest is true. Since it first hit the market roughly 25 years ago. poly lumber furniture has exploded in popularity.
Part of the reason the Ohio Furniture Guild recently rebranded itself from Ohio Hardwood Furniture Guild was the fact that new products built by the region’s Amish Craftsmen have not only been introduced to the market, but also are enjoying significant growth, in terms of sales volume and the number of builders involved.
As OFG Executive Director Kendrick Mullet recently said, “Outdoor poly furniture continues to enjoy significant popularity, and we expect it to continue, as consumers prioritize durability and eco-friendly products.”
In terms of the product itself, it makes complete
sense for the outdoor furniture market to migrate from wood to poly lumber.
Aside from the striking wide array of colors, there is the obvious fact that poly lumber is rot-resistant. If you cover it, or bring it in during winter months, that’s great — but it’s not entirely necessary. Some — not a lot, but some — fading might occur over time, but that’s negligible when compared with what happens to real-wood outdoor furniture that’s left unprotected.
In addition, maintenance is negligible. You can pressure wash it once a season and…that’s it. Again, compare this to real wood, which must be sealed and/or restained at various intervals. Even if you take really good care of wood outdoor furniture, in the end, it has a definite life cycle. The simple fact is, exposure to direct sunlight and other elements takes its toll on wood outdoor furniture and, no matter how well you maintain it, the longevity, ease of maintenance and retention of the original look can’t compare to poly lumber furniture.
That being said, there still is a market for wooden outdoor furniture, and there probably always will be. But poly lumber has stormed into the marketplace, and now dominates it.
No doubt one of the attractions to poly lumber furniture is that it’s extremely environmentally friendly. Make no mistake: Wood is, too, because it’s a highly renew-
Poly
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able resource, and almost every part of a harvested tree is used, from bark to sawdust and everything in between.
The distinction is, poly lumber furniture keeps plastic out of the waste stream. Estimates vary a bit, but it’s generally agreed upon that a poly lumber Adirondack chairs is made of more than 300 recycled milk jugs. The average bench is made up of a staggering 2,000+ jugs. Plus, the process is pretty straightforward: The jugs are cleaned, smashed and ground up into tiny pieces. From there, they are melted, and then colors are added before the mixture then is injected into molds. Along the way, UV protectants and/or mold inhibitors also may be added. Again, it’s a pretty straightforward process.
The ”green” nature of poly outdoor furniture may or may not be a decision influencer for some people, but as younger generations move into their power buying years, it definitely will be a positive point.
(Above) Amco Outdoor’s product line includes this model, which has a nice curve in the seat to comfortably accommodate two people. It’s accented by a curved back for additional comfort, plus it glides!
(Below) Siesta Outdoors specializes in poly outdoor furniture that is sturdy and comfortable, but that also stores easily. Shown are the Caribbean Folding Love Seat and Chair.
Here in Ohio’s Amish Country Furniture District, local craftsmen have not only embraced these products, but — in typical fashion — introduced a huge variety of styles.
For retailers, if you’re not yet stocking poly furniture, consider this: Poly lumber furniture is the per-
where these attractive, colorful items can be display. Or, even better if you have a porch or other space where people (read: otherwise-bored husbands) can sit and enjoy these items. It’s an easy add-on, and a lot of retailers have had solid success with adding poly furniture. You could be next!
