"WE HAVE SEEN CONSIDERABLE SUCCESS IN SELLING LEATHER-LIKE FABRICS"

With its foray into the Indian market yielding positive results, HTL Group, the leading sofa manufacturer and leather tannery operator, is optimistic about its growth in the country. In an interview, Phua Yong Tat, Co-Founder of HTL Group of Companies, shares his outlook on India as a potential market for furniture manufacturing, innovating new fabric ranges, emerging trends, capacity expansion plans and the impact of Industry 4.0 on furniture manufacturing.

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Tell us in detail about your journey so far. What kind of response you have received from the market over the years for HTL Group? 

From being the largest sofa producer to the top leather upholstery specialist in the world, our journey has been remarkable and rewarding, and one that we will cherish. Beginning from the creation of a single sofa to establishing an entire business dedicated to crafting sofas, we have pursued our passion.

Over the years, we have expanded HTL’s footprint to 53 countries and is ambitious to propel further.

The market for sofas and furniture has undergone a tremendous change as individuals have grown increasingly concerned with the interior design of their homes and the use of premium quality furnishings. HTL has built its reputation over the years on its commitment to quality, comfort, affordability, and customer service.

Give us an overview of your business performance and growth in 2022. What is your outlook for 2023?

Our business has been prospering and is highly favourable. HTL has shown a growth of 25 per cent overall in 2022. Looking ahead to 2023, we hold a positive and promising outlook, especially with our entry in the Indian market. The Indian market has shown significant expansion with respect to furniture and sofas. HTL setting up its manufacturing facility and providing services in India will significantly benefit our retail partners and enable us to cater to the Indian audience with the best quality and service.

What are the key trends shaping the furniture manufacturing segment?