KLW case study: Girsberger – Remanufacturing for a sustainable furniture future

Initial situation:

The furniture industry faces the challenge of meeting the growing demand for furniture while minimizing its environmental impact. Worn furniture is often disposed of, which leads to a considerable environmental impact.

Challenge:

How can you extend the service life of furniture, reduce waste and at the same time meet the aesthetic and functional requirements of customers?

Solution approach:

Girsberger, a renowned company with a long tradition, has launched the remanufacturing program. Instead of disposing of worn-out furniture, it is refurbished and upgraded. This process includes refreshing colors, renewing upholstery and rebuilding surfaces. Even the product properties can be optimized. This approach not only conserves resources, but also offers a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new equipment. Girsberger even won the German Sustainability Award 2023 for its efforts in the area of remanufacturing.

Inspiration:

Girsberger shows that it is possible to combine quality and sustainability. The following considerations may be helpful for you:

1. Appreciation of existing resources: Which products or materials in your company could be reused or upgraded instead of being disposed of?

2. Customer loyalty through quality: How can you meet your customers’ needs by improving existing products instead of replacing them with new ones?

3. Innovation in sustainability: What new techniques or processes could be implemented to extend the life of products while minimizing their environmental impact?