Retail rather than bespoke.
WHAT CHANGES
You make or buy before anyone orders.
WHAT THAT RISKS
Stock that does not sell.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
What actually sells, from records.
WHAT TO PRODUCE OR STOCK
Designs that have sold, in sizes that sell.
WHAT TO TEST
New designs in small quantity.
WHAT TO MEASURE
What sells, by design, size, finish and price.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT SLOW STOCK
Clear it.
WHY
It occupies space and capital, and furniture styles date.
WHAT DISPLAY REQUIRES
Space enough to see pieces properly Lighting Arrangement suggesting use
WHY LIGHTING
Timber and finish appear entirely different under poor light.
WHAT TO PROVIDE
Information: dimensions, materials, finish, price.
WHY DIMENSIONS
Customers cannot judge whether it fits their space.
WHAT TO OFFER
Delivery and assembly.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT CUSTOM ORDERS FROM DISPLAY
What variations are possible and what they cost.
WHAT TO BE CAREFUL WITH
Promising finishes or sizes you have not produced.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT RETURNS
Whether you accept them, and on what terms.
WHY
Furniture returns are expensive to handle and frequently damaged.
WHAT TO STATE CLEARLY
That made-to-order items are not returnable.
WHAT TO TRACK
Stock turnover by design Margin by design How long items sit
