How Has COVID-19 Transformed The Furniture Rental Industry?

The pandemic has not only impacted the furniture industry, it has had its effects on the Toronto furniture rental industry, also. As a result, fluctuations in demand, an increased emphasis on e-commerce solutions, material shortages, and shipping disruptions have all influenced consumer and retailer behaviors. Despite the challenges and difficulties that many industries have been struggling with since March of 2020, the furniture rental industry has witnessed an increase in revenues in many areas.

This is especially true for retailers that have quickly adapted to new consumer needs and restrictions. Things have started settling down as numerous businesses and their patrons have returned to their normal daily activities. However, many changes and improvements were made throughout the industry during the pandemic. Consequently, this will most likely continue to have an influence on the Toronto furniture rental industry for many years to come. Most people are unsure about buying furniture as it is a long term investment but are looking for flexible furnishing options such as renting furniture.

So how have furniture rental companies adapted to the pandemic? Suffice it to say, the overwhelming number of lockdowns and restrictions took an immediate toll on company profits and forced them to adapt quickly by developing a strong online presence. Many companies developed apps and launched websites while curbside pick-up became a common option to consider as well. With completely disinfected furniture pieces and care about the hygiene and deep cleaning of each piece became important.

For example, many apps are taking advantage of Augmented Reality (AR) features that allow the user to picture how a piece of furniture might look inside their homes, thereby reducing his or her reluctance to rent an item without seeing it in person. Another factor that eased the online rental process was to include a live salesperson in the transaction. The primary reasons an individual chooses to visit a Toronto furniture rental outlet is so they can physically see the item and speak with a knowledgeable salesperson.

We’ve also seen store layouts evolve as well. Indoor shopping has bounced back now that many restrictions have been lifted over the past several months. However, the typical purchasing process has changed significantly. In the past, the consumer would visit a furniture rental store to see what was currently available. But today, they’ve done most of their research in front of a computer and are visiting these furniture rental stores to see the item as a last step before signing the rental contract.

As a result, many Toronto furniture rental companies, like Elite Furniture Rental, have adapted their in-store layouts and websites to accommodate the consumer. To learn more about how we’ve adapted post-pandemic, call us today at (855) 477-9767.