From Factories to Facebook: How Grand Rapids Buys Furniture Now

Grand Rapids once led the world in furniture production, but as factories closed, locals turned to new sources for their home furnishings.

Grand Rapids: Former Furniture Capital of the World

Grand Rapids was once defined as the furniture capital of the world, but those factories have since left West Michigan. Several factors contributed to their closure, including changes in the furniture industry, economic downturns, and the rise of new manufacturing centers.

Furniture company Berkey & Gay went bankrupt, Knoll closed, Steelcase closed several manufacturing plants, but it still makes office chairs in Grand Rapids.  Sligh Furniture and Hardin Furniture both moved operations out of Grand Rapids. Hekman Furniture is the sole survivor and is still making furniture in Grand Rapids.

Read More: Inside Michigan’s Town That Doesn’t Officially Exist

Where Do Locals in Grand Rapids Buy Furniture?

With most furniture builders now gone, where do locals get their furniture from? Several locals chimed in with suggestions on Grand Rapids Reddit page.

Our company works with Talsma and they are great to work with and care about the community.

If you don't mind used furniture, sometimes you can get a great deal on Facebook Marketplace.

Talsma once again showing their ability to work with the clients needs.

I'll have to take this posters word for it since I'm not a member of Costco and have never been to their store.

Looks like there is a new place to shop for furniture in Grand Rapids.

There are lots of options to purchase furniture in Grand Rapids with a few more locations in nearby towns on the thread as well.

👇BELOW: Michigan Furniture Shops: 1900-1950👇