Companies are turning Trump’s tariffs into a marketing opportunity Companies are leveraging U.S. tariffs as a marketing strategy by promoting sales to encourage consumers to buy before prices increase. Various brands, from auto dealers to clothing companies, have initiated “pre-tariff sales,” highlighting potential savings. This approach not only aims to drive immediate sales but also conveys transparency and solidarity with consumers amidst uncertainty in the market. As consumers anticipate price hikes, many are receptive to promotional offers, creating a unique opportunity for brands to connect with their audience. The effectiveness of these marketing tactics reflects a broader attempt to navigate the challenges posed by trade tensions and changing economic conditions. ***Disclaimer – This information/article above is just summaries of public industry topics and news. Not necessarily the thoughts, opinions or beliefs of Offices by Ace. Thank you

Designing for Connection: How Modern Workplaces Nurture Collaboration and Community Modern workplaces are evolving to foster collaboration and community, recognizing the importance of physical spaces in shaping how teams connect. Effective office designs create environments that promote both productivity and genuine relationships among employees. Three notable projects illustrate different approaches to enhancing workplace connection: SpaceInvader’s Manchester office emphasizes adaptability and human experience; Miro’s Berlin office celebrates local culture while offering diverse collaborative settings; and Creative Debuts transforms corporate spaces into galleries that encourage artistic expression and dialogue among staff. These initiatives highlight that successful workplace design must address both functional needs and emotional well-being, especially in the context of shifting work patterns post-pandemic. ***The views and opinions expressed in this post are those of the original authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Ace Office Furniture. Content is republished for informational purposes only.

A North Carolina furniture company says it doubled sales from last year in large part because of buyers looking to avoid tariffs. :Ben Briscoe NORTH CAROLINA, USA — When you pull into the lot at Carolina Custom Leather, the first sign of change isn’t just the new furniture—it’s the “We’re Hiring” signs out front. That’s good news for workers like Davey Cartner, a local dad providing for his 8-year-old daughter. “We’ve been busy. Really busy actually,” Cartner said. “It’s job security. I love having plenty of work.” It’s part of a manufacturing rebound that industry veteran and artist Bob Timberlake says is tied directly to a growing consumer demand: American-made furniture. “The market—it could not have been better for us,” Timberlake said. He says his American Home furniture line doubled its sales over the past year. He credits that surge in large part to customers wanting to avoid high tariffs by buying products made in the U.S. And every piece Timberlake produces keeps more than just his own company working. For example the batting inside was made at a factory down the road in Hickory. And stuffing came from High Point. Timberlake says it’s not just about furniture—it’s about the future. “It’s going to bring business to America. It’s going to bring industry to America. It’s going to be jobs to America. And it’s going to make us more successful. No question about it.” Back in March, former President Donald Trump said that’s exactly what the tariffs were designed to do. “As an example, North Carolina—they had the grid,” Trump said. “I used to go there to buy furniture for hotels. And it’s been wiped out. That business all went to other countries. And now it’s all going to come back into North Carolina.” But not everyone in the furniture industry is seeing the same success. According to a survey by Furniture Today, 70% of furniture-related businesses say tariffs will have a very significant impact on them. Over half of those companies say they will have to raise prices for customers. Now, that pressure may ease—at least for a while. President Trump rolled back tariffs on goods from China from 145% to 30% for the next 90 days. Still, Timberlake believes the push to “buy American” isn’t going anywhere. “It’s out in the air. I know more about it. You know more about it. Everybody else knows more about it. That’s the good thing,” he said. Because in North Carolina, furniture is more than just a product—it’s part of the fabric of our economy. ***Disclaimer – This information/article above is just summaries of public industry topics and news. Not necessarily the thoughts, opinions or beliefs of Offices by Ace. Thank you

7 Legal Workplace Trends: The Evolving Landscape of Law Firm Design The legal industry is evolving rapidly, with advancements in technology and changing workplace dynamics reshaping how legal professionals operate. While the core functions of law firms remain the same—the way legal professionals work is changing. From AI-driven efficiencies to shifting perspectives on office culture, law firms are rethinking their spaces to attract top talent, enhance productivity, and build stronger organizational cultures. 1. Office First: A Return to In-Person Collaboration The office-first approach continues to be what most law firms want, particularly for professional staff, and firms are leveraging workplace design to create compelling environments. The goal? To enhance collaboration, reinforce firm culture, and ensure the legal profession remains competitive. Law firms build culture through relationships—mentorship, teamwork, and shared institutional knowledge all play a crucial role in professional growth. Many firms are now embracing an “office-first” mindset, particularly for professional staff. Having employees physically present strengthens firm culture, enhances long-term career development, and fosters organic collaboration. Now legal firms are developing new trends that support their people, process, and place. While hybrid work remains prevalent, leading firms are ensuring that time spent in the office is meaningful. High-quality ancillary spaces with intentional design provide opportunities for informal interactions, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing that drive career progression and firm success. 2. AI and Technology: A Game Changer for Legal Work Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the legal industry. AI-driven tools are enhancing productivity, automating routine tasks, and enabling attorneys to focus on strategic analysis rather than administrative burdens. Most attorneys expect new legal professionals to have at least a basic familiarity with AI upon hiring, with 57% of lawyers expecting associates to have AI experience. This shift is particularly beneficial for mid-sized firms, allowing them to compete more effectively with larger firms by improving efficiency and output. However, as AI tools become more sophisticated, law firms are also grappling with new challenges—including data security, ethical considerations, and the need for skilled professionals who can oversee and integrate AI technologies effectively. As AI continues to evolve, firms must create workplace environments that support both legal expertise and technological proficiency. Woman Sitting at Masters Series Desk 3. The Workplace Creates a Hub for Well-Being A well-designed legal workplace offers a range of spaces that accommodate different work needs. Private offices for focused legal work, collaboration areas for teamwork, and wellness spaces for relaxation all contribute to a workplace that fosters productivity and well-being. By designing environments that support a diverse workforce, firms create spaces that attract and retain top talent. 4. Attracting Talent with New Skills Legal teams are no longer made up solely of attorneys and paralegals. The increasing reliance on AI, IT infrastructure, and data protection has expanded the skill sets needed within law firms. Cybersecurity experts, data analysts, and AI specialists are becoming essential members of legal teams, ensuring that firms can manage sensitive client information and maintain compliance with evolving regulations. As a result, law firms must rethink their office environments to accommodate these diverse roles. Tech-enabled workspaces, secure collaboration areas, and flexible office layouts are key to supporting an evolving workforce. 5. Space and Location Matter More Than Ever For top law firms, location remains a key differentiator. Firms continue to invest in premium real estate, choosing locations that offer lifestyle benefits alongside professional advantages. Proximity to courts, business hubs, and prestigious addresses still matters, but so does access to amenities, transportation, and vibrant neighborhoods that support a balanced work-life experience. Inside these offices, firms are prioritizing best-in-class spaces with hospitality-driven amenities. High-end conference rooms, social lounges, wellness areas, and top-tier dining options all contribute to an environment where legal professionals can thrive. The goal is to create a space that feels both prestigious and functional—one that reflects the firm’s stature while supporting the evolving needs of its workforce. 6. The Experience of Work: Building Loyalty from Day One Employee loyalty begins the moment a candidate walks through the firm’s doors. Workplace experience plays a critical role in shaping perceptions, from recruitment to long-term career growth. Savvy firms are leveraging workplace design to enhance their culture, reinforce their brand, and create environments where employees feel supported and engaged. This means designing offices that reflect the firm’s identity, provide a seamless blend of collaboration and focus spaces, and prioritize comfort and well-being. A well-designed office doesn’t just attract talent—it nurtures it, ensuring professionals feel connected to their firm and its mission. 7. Sustainability: A Growing Priority for Legal Workplaces Sustainability is becoming a key focus for law firms—particularly as younger professionals seek employers with a strong environmental commitment. Many firms are integrating sustainability initiatives into their workplace strategies, incorporating energy-efficient design, sustainable materials, and wellness-driven spaces into their office environments. Law firms are also increasingly seeking to recruit lawyers with expertise in environmental law, renewable energy, and sustainability to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. A commitment to sustainability is not just about reducing a firm’s environmental footprint—it’s also about creating a workplace that aligns with employee values. From LEED-certified buildings to green spaces and biophilic design, law firms are recognizing that a sustainable workplace is a competitive advantage in attracting top-tier talent. By collaborating with suppliers who prioritize sustainability, firms can further enhance their commitment to creating eco-friendly and appealing office environments. The legal workplace is adapting to new challenges, technological advancements, and shifting workforce expectations. Law firms that embrace these trends—by investing in high-quality office spaces, integrating AI-driven efficiencies, and prioritizing sustainability—will be well-positioned for long-term success. By creating environments that support both legal professionals and the broader team members who enable their success, firms can reinforce their culture, enhance collaboration, and ensure they remain competitive in an increasingly dynamic industry.

Designing for Connection: How Modern Workplaces Nurture Collaboration and Community Modern workplaces are evolving to foster collaboration and community, recognizing the importance of physical spaces in shaping how teams connect. Effective office designs create environments that promote both productivity and genuine relationships among employees. Three notable projects illustrate different approaches to enhancing workplace connection: SpaceInvader’s Manchester office emphasizes adaptability and human experience; Miro’s Berlin office celebrates local culture while offering diverse collaborative settings; and Creative Debuts transforms corporate spaces into galleries that encourage artistic expression and dialogue among staff. These initiatives highlight that successful workplace design must address both functional needs and emotional well-being, especially in the context of shifting work patterns post-pandemic.

Work Has Seismically Shifted, But the Workplace Has Not Kept Pace The workplace has undergone significant changes over the past two decades, transitioning from traditional office environments to more flexible and agile settings. Despite some improvements post-pandemic, many employees still feel that their workspaces do not meet their current needs, with persistent challenges such as meeting room availability and noise levels. A majority of the global workforce prefers non-traditional work environments that are nature-connected and creative. Research indicates that a positive workplace experience is crucial for employee engagement, motivation, and talent retention. Moving forward, workplaces must adapt to evolving expectations, providing employees with a sense of purpose and agency to enhance their overall work experience. ***Disclaimer – This information/article above is just summaries of public industry topics and news.  Not necessarily the thoughts, opinions or beliefs of Offices by Ace. Thank you

Humanscale Living debuted at Salone del Mobile 2025 Humanscale introduced Humanscale Living at Salone del Mobile Milano 2025, showcasing a collection of exclusive designs that emphasize ergonomic innovation and minimalist aesthetics for the home. The collection includes new product categories such as stools, tables, and lounge seating, designed for a flexible lifestyle. Key highlights include the Diffrient Lounge Chair, featuring a bespoke recline mechanism and integrated USB charging, and the eFloat Quattro sit/stand desk that promotes healthy movement. Other notable products are the Sedeo stool, the Freedom Headrest with a self-adjusting recline, and the Trea Task Lite, recognized for its design and sustainability. The collection aims to redefine home comfort and integrate workspace functionality seamlessly into home environments.

The Office Market’s Newest Foe: Tariffs and Trade Wars The office furniture industry was just starting to exhale after a stretch of solid leasing activity and a nice boost in CEO confidence — but then tariffs entered stage left, and suddenly everyone’s holding their breath again. The introduction of new import duties has thrown a wet blanket over what was shaping up to be a promising rebound in the commercial real estate market. Now, deals that were once steaming ahead are being iced, as companies rethink their office leasing strategies with a wary eye on potential recession signals. For office furniture makers, this uncertainty is more than just a mood killer — it’s a logistical nightmare. Tariffs on imported materials and components could mean higher production costs at a time when clients are already nervous about capital investments. That big office refresh? Might be scaled back. That new HQ? Maybe next fiscal year. Even though demand for top-tier office space is still very much alive, the spaces themselves often need significant upgrades to attract tenants — and if outfitting them suddenly gets more expensive, everyone starts to second-guess. There’s also a push to convert underused office buildings into housing, which sounds innovative but doesn’t exactly spell boom times for task chairs and meeting pods. The silver lining? While long-term plans may be stalling, short-term needs for quality furniture in hybrid setups and high-performance spaces still exist. The key for the industry will be navigating these tariff tremors while staying flexible — and maybe brushing up on domestic sourcing options, just in case the trade policy rollercoaster picks up speed. ***Disclaimer – This information/article above is just summaries of public industry topics and news. Not necessarily the thoughts, opinions or beliefs of Offices by Ace. Thank you

Trump’s tariffs create the ‘Wild West’ on Wisconsin’s factory floors KI, a contract furniture manufacturer based in Green Bay, is navigating the uncertainty surrounding tariffs and trade policy changes that are affecting U.S.-Canada commerce. The company produces the majority of its products in its five U.S. plants but also operates a factory in Ontario, which generates approximately $50 million of its total $800 million in annual sales. A significant portion—90%—of those sales from the Ontario plant are exported back to the U.S., making the company particularly sensitive to any shifts in trade regulations between the two countries. Brian Krenke, CEO and president of KI, described the current trade environment as highly unpredictable, with new policies and adjustments being introduced every couple of weeks, making long-term planning difficult. Like many manufacturers, KI is grappling with rising costs due to tariffs on raw materials such as steel and other components, forcing the company to reconsider its pricing strategies. To offset these rising costs, KI is implementing a two-pronged approach. First, the company is raising prices across its product lines to account for increased expenses related to raw materials. Second, it is introducing a “tariff surcharge” for select products as part of its pricing strategy. This means that certain high-end product components, such as premium office chair mechanisms imported from Italy, will be offered at an additional cost, allowing customers to opt for the premium version at a higher price or select a more budget-friendly alternative. Krenke emphasized that these rapid changes in trade policies create a challenging environment for manufacturers, particularly those with international operations. The fluctuating landscape makes it difficult for businesses like KI to plan ahead or develop a consistent response strategy. Despite these challenges, the company is working to adapt, ensuring that it remains competitive while managing the financial impact of tariffs on its supply chain and pricing structure. ***Disclaimer – This information/article above is just summaries of public industry topics and news. Not necessarily the thoughts, opinions or beliefs of Offices by Ace. Thank you

Is the Furniture Industry Failing to Connect the Dots? The furniture industry is facing significant challenges in connecting the various impacts of its activities on social, environmental, and health fronts. Despite the presence of innovative solutions, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding of how these factors are intertwined. Key issues include significant information gaps due to outdated and unreliable data, opaque supply chains that obscure the origins and conditions of raw materials, and a linear production model that neglects the broader lifecycle impacts of furniture. The industry contributes notably to carbon emissions and environmental degradation, yet struggles with transparency in data reporting and accountability. There is a pressing need for industry stakeholders to collaborate in generating reliable data, improving supply chain transparency, and adopting circular design principles. A holistic approach is essential to address the interconnected nature of environmental, health, and socio-economic impacts, ultimately moving towards a more sustainable and responsible furniture industry. ***Disclaimer – This information/article above is just summaries of public industry topics and news. Not necessarily the thoughts, opinions or beliefs of Offices by Ace. Thank you