Japan Office Furniture Market

Japan Office Furniture Market Size and Share:

The Japan office furniture market size was valued at USD 1.57 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 2.08 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.26% from 2025-2033. The rising focus on sustainability, along with technological advancements, is significantly driving the market in Japan. Companies are opting for eco-friendly, durable materials and smart furniture solutions that integrate technology to enhance productivity, which is catalyzing the Japan office furniture market share. Besides this, the demand for compact, flexible furniture is increasing due to urban space redesigns and limited office space.

Technological progress is greatly impacting the market by bringing forth new designs and functionalities. Intelligent office furniture like desks that include charging ports and USB connections are increasingly being added to the furniture. Incorporating technology into furniture promotes improved connectivity and increases productivity in contemporary office settings. Desks that adjust in height featuring electric motors or programmable settings allow workers to effortlessly switch between sitting and standing. Additionally, office furnishings are progressively integrating ergonomic elements, such as lumbar support and posture tracking to enhance health and comfort. Producers are incorporating wireless charging options into desks, creating a tidy work environment while improving convenience. With the increasing reliance on technology in businesses, furniture is being created to support digital devices, such as computers, tablets, and interactive whiteboards. Some manufacturers are utilizing augmented reality (AR) to provide virtual furniture customization, aiding clients in visualizing their workspaces.

As more people move to urban areas, the demand for office spaces in cities increases significantly. This surge in urban office construction has led to greater requirements for modern and efficient office furniture. Businesses are opting for compact, modular furniture solutions to maximize limited urban office space. The trend toward open-plan offices and flexible workspaces is further increasing the need for adaptable furniture. Furniture designs are shifting towards multifunctional and space-saving solutions to meet the evolving needs of modern offices. The rise of coworking spaces is also contributing to an increase in demand for versatile office furniture. Office space redesigns are focusing on creating collaborative and ergonomic environments to foster employee productivity and well-being. Companies are prioritizing furniture that supports the integration of technology, such as desks with cable management and built-in charging ports.

Japan Office Furniture Market Trends:

Growing emphasis on health

Increased emphasis on health is significantly catalyzing the Japan office furniture market demand. Companies place a strong emphasis on employee wellness, which greatly increases the need for ergonomic furniture in offices. A considerable transition to ergonomic chairs and desks is occurring because of the recognition of physical issues stemming from poor posture. These products offer comfort by minimizing physical stress and facilitate appropriate and healthier realignment. As per an NIH research study, there is indication that women who spend over 7 hours a day being sedentary face a risk of breast cancer (BC) the hazard ratio (HR) is 1.36. Considering this and numerous other research studies, adjustable desks, particularly sit-stand versions, are being more widely implemented in work environments. This flexibility enhances comfort while also avoiding the persistent issues caused by a prolonged sitting posture. Furthermore, the existence of office furniture equipped with built-in lumbar support and adjustable heights reduces the occurrence of back and neck pain experienced by numerous office employees. The office's shift towards a healthier atmosphere is evident in the rise of stress-relieving furniture, such as balance chairs and recliners.

Expanding workforce

According to OECD Employment Outlook 2024, an increasing number of women are entering the workforce in Japan. Female employment has increased up to 73.7%. The same has seen growth over the last two decades. Simultaneously, the unemployment rate is likely to decline to 2.4% in 2025. The increasing workforce in Japan is acting as a driving force for the office furniture market. As the workforce grows, companies expand their offices to accommodate more employees, which leads to increased furniture demand. New office spaces require desks, chairs, storage cabinets, and meeting tables, all of which are considered basic. Businesses also invest in ergonomic furniture to ensure employees' health and productivity, especially large teams. Startups and small and medium enterprises are highly contributing, with demand for affordable, functional, and space-efficient office furniture solutions. A diverse workforce has fueled the growth of coworking spaces, thus increasing modular and flexible furniture demand. Apart from this, growth in the IT, finance, and manufacturing sectors creates a need for customized furniture for particular workplace requirements. Increasing remote and hybrid workers further increased the demand for home office furniture. Companies are now providing their employees with ergonomic setups to make them comfortable and efficient, even outside the traditional offices.

Rising focus on sustainability

Businesses are progressively embracing environmentally friendly practices, driving the demand for sustainable furniture crafted from recyclable or renewable resources. Producers are utilizing certified timber, bamboo, and reused metals to lessen environmental effects and appeal to customers. The government's eco-friendly initiatives are inspiring companies to invest in sustainable office furniture options. Companies are increasingly choosing modular furniture, which encourages reuse and minimizes waste by allowing flexibility. Eco-friendly office furniture typically features sturdy designs, reducing the frequency of necessary replacements. The increasing recognition of corporate social responsibility (CSR) encourages companies to select environmentally friendly furniture choices. Eco-friendly certifications are increasingly becoming essential in furniture buying choices. Companies are progressively choosing furniture brands that emphasize sustainability, which is fueling competition and innovation within the industry. The emphasis on minimizing carbon footprints has driven manufacturers to implement energy-efficient production methods. Additionally, corporate events such as ORGATEC Tokyo showcase trends, such as circular materials and versatile designs. It introduced its third edition in May 2024, emphasizing sustainable and innovative office furniture options. Leading Japanese firms displayed their newest offerings. The expo seeks to transform contemporary workspaces through the incorporation of innovative and adaptable design ideas. It serves as an essential venue for industry experts to discover new opportunities in office furnishings and design.

Japan Office Furniture Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the Japan office furniture market, along with forecasts at the country and regional levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on material, product, and distribution channel.

Analysis by Material:

• Wood
• Metal
• Plastics
• Others

Wood is a preferred material in office furniture due to its aesthetic appeal, durability, and versatility. It conveys a professional and sophisticated look, increasing its demand in executive offices and high-end corporate spaces. Wood’s natural texture and warmth also enhance the office environment, contributing to employee well-being. Moreover, wood is relatively easy to maintain and can be customized to suit various designs.

Metal is widely used in office furniture due to its strength, sturdiness, and modern appeal. It is particularly favored for structural components like frames, legs, and supports because of its ability to handle heavy loads. Metal furniture is durable, low-maintenance, and resistant to wear, making it suitable for high-traffic environments. It also offers a sleek, industrial look that fits contemporary office aesthetics.

Plastics are gaining traction in the office furniture market due to their lightweight, cost-effectiveness, and design flexibility. Plastic materials can be molded into various shapes, allowing for creative and innovative furniture designs. They are often used in seating, desks, and accessories, providing affordable options for businesses. Plastics are resistant to moisture and easy to clean, which adds to their practicality in office environments.

Analysis by Product:

• Meeting Chairs
• Lounge Chairs
• Swivel Chairs
• Office Tables
• Storage Cabinets
• Desks

Meeting chairs are a crucial segment of the office furniture market, designed for comfort during extended meetings. These chairs offer ergonomic features that provide support for various body types and postures. The demand for meeting chairs has increased with businesses prioritizing collaborative work environments. They often feature adjustable heights, armrests, and swivel capabilities to enhance comfort during long discussions. The rise in hybrid work models, where meetings can be held virtually or in-person, is leading to greater customization options.

Lounge chairs are in huge demand as companies focus on creating comfortable and relaxing spaces within offices. They are designed for informal meetings, break rooms, or relaxation zones, helping to foster creativity and employee well-being. The demand for these chairs has surged as businesses aim to improve employee experience and retention by providing comfortable areas for socializing or unwinding. Lounge chairs often feature soft upholstery, cushions, and recliner mechanisms for added comfort.

Swivel chairs are commonly used in offices owing to their versatility, comfort, and ease of movement. These chairs allow employees to rotate and access different parts of their workspace without straining. The ergonomic design of swivel chairs, which includes adjustable features like height and tilt, enhances productivity by providing comfort during long hours of work. As offices become more dynamic, swivel chairs are favored for flexible workstations and collaborative spaces. They support better posture, reducing strain on the back and neck.

Office tables are a fundamental part of the office furniture market, essential for workspaces like desks, conference rooms, and collaboration areas. They serve as functional surfaces for employees to perform tasks, whether individual work or team collaboration. The demand for office tables has evolved with the shift toward open office spaces, where desks are designed to be more modular and adaptable. Office tables are also being integrated with technology, such as smart features, cable management systems, and built-in charging ports.

Storage cabinets are an essential component of office furniture, providing organization and storage solutions for documents, supplies, and personal items. They help maintain a clutter-free workspace, improving productivity and efficiency. The rise of digital documentation is influencing the design of storage cabinets, driving the market toward versatile and secure options for both physical and digital file management. With businesses moving toward agile and flexible workspaces, the demand for modular and movable storage solutions has increased.

Desks are a cornerstone of office furniture, providing employees with a designated workspace for performing tasks. With the growing focus on ergonomics, desks are designed to enhance comfort and support productivity. Adjustable desks like sit-stand options, are a sought-after office furniture as businesses seek solutions to improve employee health and well-being. The rise in remote and hybrid work models has spurred demand for home office desks, which are often compact and multifunctional. The design of office desks has also evolved to accommodate technology, with built-in features like cable management, charging ports, and space for multiple monitors.

Analysis by Distribution Channel:

• Direct
• Indirect

The direct distribution channel allows manufacturers to sell office furniture directly to end customers, bypassing intermediaries. This approach enables companies to retain control on the complete sales process, providing customized customer service and tailored solutions. Direct channels often include company-owned stores, online platforms, and sales teams. This model is particularly beneficial for businesses seeking to establish strong relationships with customers and gather valuable feedback. Additionally, direct sales allow manufacturers to showcase their full range of products and offer customized solutions for specific client needs.

The indirect distribution channel involves third-party intermediaries like retailers, wholesalers, and dealers who sell office furniture to the end customers. This channel allows manufacturers to reach a wider audience by leveraging the existing networks and market reach of intermediaries. Retailers often have physical stores, showrooms, or online platforms where customers can experience and purchase furniture. Indirect channels are cost-effective for manufacturers as they reduce the need for investment in distribution infrastructure.

Regional Analysis:

• Kanto Region
• Kansai/Kinki Region
• Central/ Chubu Region
• Kyushu-Okinawa Region
• Tohoku Region
• Chugoku Region
• Hokkaido Region
• Shikoku Region

The Kanto region, encompassing major urban centers like Tokyo and Yokohama, is a key market for office furniture due to its large business population and high demand for office spaces. Being the economic and political hub of Japan, it hosts numerous multinational corporations, government offices, and startups, driving a significant need for office furniture. Moreover, Kanto's infrastructure supports a large retail network for office furniture, making it accessible for businesses. The region is also known for its cutting-edge design trends, influencing the demand for modern and ergonomic office furniture.

Kansai, which includes cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, is one of Japan’s economic centers, contributing to a steady demand for office furniture. The region is home to many manufacturing, retail, and service sectors, creating a diverse range of businesses that require specialized office solutions. As a major hub for both traditional and contemporary businesses, Kansai also shows a demand for high-quality, innovative office furniture. Furthermore, the region's historical and cultural significance encourages the incorporation of unique design elements into office furniture.

The Central or Chubu region, with cities like Nagoya, is an industrial powerhouse in Japan, with a significant presence of automotive, manufacturing, and tech industries. These sectors require durable and functional office furniture to support large workforces. The region's demand for office furniture is primarily driven by corporate offices, factories, and research centers. As Chubu is also known for its robust export industry, many businesses in the region are investing in modern and efficient office spaces to improve productivity. The presence of multiple multinational corporations also leads to a preference for international office furniture brands, expanding market opportunities.

The Kyushu-Okinawa region, with cities like Fukuoka, is experiencing rapid urbanization and economic growth, contributing to increased demand for office furniture. Kyushu hosts a variety of industries including electronics, automotive, and agriculture, driving the need for specialized office solutions. Fukuoka, being a major business hub, is seeing a rise in coworking spaces and flexible workspaces, spurring interest in adaptable office furniture. The Okinawa region, with its growing tourism and service sectors, has seen demand for furniture that reflects a more relaxed, resort-style office environment.

The Tohoku region, known for its rural landscape and smaller cities, has a different demand pattern for office furniture. Although less dense than regions like Kanto, Tohoku’s industrial sector, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing, requires practical and durable office furnishings. Regional government initiatives for economic revitalization have spurred infrastructure development, contributing to the growth in office furniture demand. Additionally, Tohoku’s preference for more functional and cost-effective furniture solutions leads to steady demand for value-oriented products.

The Chugoku region, which includes Hiroshima and Okayama, has a diverse economy with a strong industrial base in automotive, steel, and heavy industries, creating a demand for office furniture tailored to these sectors. The presence of several large corporations and small businesses also drives the need for versatile office furnishings. As businesses in this region modernize and embrace new office environments, there is a growing interest in ergonomic and flexible furniture solutions. Moreover, the region's proximity to major trade routes stimulates the demand for both locally produced and imported office furniture.

Hokkaido, with its cold climate and unique geographical features, presents a distinct demand for office furniture, especially for industries related to tourism, agriculture, and research. The region's offices tend to require furniture that is more resilient to colder environments. Moreover, with the expansion of tourism and services in cities like Sapporo, there is an increasing demand for aesthetically pleasing and functional office furniture to accommodate diverse businesses. Hokkaido’s developing tech and agricultural sectors are also driving demand for modern, ergonomic office setups.

Shikoku, Japan’s smallest main island, is home to a range of industries including agriculture, textiles, and machinery, creating steady demand for practical and durable office furniture. While the region is less densely populated than others, the growing infrastructure and business expansion in cities like Takamatsu are contributing to an increasing demand for office furnishings. The region’s demand for office furniture is driven by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) looking for functional and cost-effective solutions.

Competitive Landscape:

Key companies drive the market through product diversification, offering a wide range of office furniture solutions. They focus on incorporating ergonomics into designs, responding to rising demand for health-conscious office setups. They are leveraging technological advancements by creating smart furniture that integrates with modern office setups. The shift towards remote and hybrid work models has prompted them to design versatile, adjustable furniture for home offices. Corporate players also consider sustainability while focusing on using green material for the furniture-making industry. Recently, Kokuyo Co., Ltd., a leading player in office furniture, embraced the adoption of REAMIDE-a material recovered from discarded fishing nets in November 2024. These will be incorporated in chair products that emit approximately 85% less CO2. Increasing demands for customization drive companies to design and develop modular, flexible furniture for companies. The key players are investing in research and development (R&D) to remain ahead of the game by bringing about innovative features in office furniture. Also, they have adopted digital tools, thereby helping them to better the customer experience through online processes of customization and ordering.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the Japan office furniture market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Haworth Inc.
• Herman Miller Inc.
• Itoki Corporation
• KOKUYO Co. Ltd.
• Okamura Corporation
• Steelcase Inc.
• Uchida Yoko Co. Ltd.
   

(Please note that this is only a partial list of the key players, and the complete list is provided in the report.)

Latest News and Developments:

• December 2024: Japanese furniture retailer Nitori announced about its plan of expanding its international presence by entering the Indian market. The company plans to provide affordable and stylish furniture, tapping into India's growing demand for home decor. This move marks a significant step for Nitori, which has seen success in Japan and other Asian countries.
• May 2024: KOKUYO Co., Ltd. showcased its innovations at Orgatec Tokyo 2024 from May 29-31 at Tokyo Big Sight. The theme, "Let’s, to the next Workstyle," focuses on personalized work styles. Visitors can explore KOKUYO's three brands: Any way, SAIBI, and DAYS OFFICE. This exhibition was co-presented with ACTUS Corporation, a KOKUYO Group company.
• March 2024: TDK and Onward Corporate Design collaborated to upcycle old work uniforms into office furniture. This collaboration aligns with their shared commitment to sustainability. The new office furniture will be featured at the TDK Technical Center, contributing to eco-friendly initiatives.
• January 2024: IKEA opened its new store in Maebashi, Gunma Prefecture, Japan, marking the 10th store in the country. This new location aims to serve the surrounding region, home to over 7 million people. It is designed to be the most sustainable IKEA store in Japan, focusing on sustainability and reduced operational climate footprint.

Japan Office Furniture Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the Japan office furniture market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the Japan office furniture market.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the Japan office furniture industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.