It goes without saying that we prefer to simply fulfill the promised delivery time - that is always our intention. But unfortunately we also experience more and more uncertainty about production and shipping times. However, inquiries within the furniture sector showed that we are not alone in this, on the contrary. Virtually everyone experiences delays that can sometimes be extremely severe. How this comes?
- First and foremost, the industry has seen a sharp increase in demand for furniture - still a result of the frequent lockdown measures that have been, or still are, in place worldwide. This expanded demand for finished products has also increased the demand for raw materials, which in turn directly affects transport capacity and logistics density between production hubs, distribution centers and you, the customer.
- In addition, Covid-19 is still operationally throwing a spanner in the works in certain regions. For example, port officials often have to quarantine for a very long time, as a result of which certain workflows and time schedules are interrupted, or at least a lot slower to execute.
- Moreover, the current geopolitical uncertainties do not help either, of course. Both the war in Ukraine and the recent frictions around Taiwan are causing global tensions that do absolutely no good for container transport.
- Finally, the prevailing energy crisis - which is partly related to this - often does the rest. Unpredictable twists and turns in the supply and pricing of commodities often give the final push and create a context in which promising clear timing is almost impossible.
We understand better than anyone how extremely annoying such delays are for you. Not only are you more than likely looking forward to giving your new furniture a place. But sometimes external parties are also engaged, for example to arrange a move, to carry out an assembly or to bring an installation to a successful conclusion.
It is therefore logical that we are also very disappointed by the sometimes unclear and uncertain communication that we have to provide to you. If only we could just come back with concrete info!
However, know that - despite the force majeure that we often have to undergo - we do everything we can every day to inform you as quickly, accurately and transparently as possible about the status of your order.
If we fail, despite all efforts and good will, we would like to sincerely apologize for this, and thank you in advance for your understanding and empathy!