Fun O2O furniture companies need to change their inherent thinking

As the internet model gains global traction, the success of Jack Ma has shown that the e-commerce era is here. This has encouraged many businesses to shift toward online platforms in order to achieve rapid transformation. However, not all companies have succeeded in this transition. Especially for furniture businesses, many rushed into the O2O (online-to-offline) model without a clear strategy, leading to challenges and even stagnation in growth.

The development of O2O is not as smooth as expected

While the concept of O2O continues to evolve, it ultimately comes back to core business operations. The furniture industry is no exception. Many startups are now entering sectors like services, payments, food, entertainment, and logistics, supported by favorable government policies. Yet, due to limited experience, most companies struggle to make meaningful progress in the O2O space. The gap between digital and physical operations remains a major hurdle.

Two different approaches in O2O strategies

There are two main ways in which the furniture industry is approaching O2O. One is traditional furniture companies expanding their presence online, integrating offline resources with digital tools. The other is new internet-based companies entering the physical retail market, aiming to replicate their online success. Although the difference between online and offline seems small, the reality is quite different. Traditional stores face complex challenges when moving online, such as restructuring existing systems and building new platforms. On the other hand, internet startups bring strong brand awareness and traffic advantages, making their offline expansion more visible and aggressive.

Reimagining the old way of thinking

At the heart of any successful business is understanding customer needs. While traditional furniture companies have been exploring the internet for years, this is often just an initial step. When faced with new market pressures, they tend to be slow to adapt, much like an experienced but cautious elder. In contrast, internet-driven companies like Xiaomi leverage online thinking and fan culture to gain a competitive edge. These companies operate with energy and innovation, putting pressure on traditional players who feel increasingly uneasy.

To truly embrace O2O, traditional furniture companies must rethink their approach. They should avoid blindly following trends and instead find the right entry point. The current e-commerce market in the furniture sector is still relatively small, and entering it is more of a test than a guarantee of success. A clear operational strategy is essential, as confusion can lead to setbacks and detours. Only by clearly defining their position and focusing on real consumer needs can these companies build sustainable growth.

For traditional furniture companies to succeed in the O2O space, they need to establish a clear roadmap for e-commerce development. Whether through improving user experience or using targeted advertising, each stage requires careful planning and execution. There's no middle ground in this transformation—either you win the game, or you risk being left behind.

In conclusion, as the furniture industry moves forward, companies must clearly define their O2O direction and transform their thinking to fully participate in the e-commerce revolution. Only then can they secure long-term development and stay competitive in the evolving market.

For more insights into China’s furniture industry, visit the official website of Xianghe Furniture City ().