Meet the Australian-owned furniture business with sustainability and social responsibility at its core

Consumers and specifiers seeking sustainable pieces in the design industry are well-versed in artisanal furniture, ethical material sourcing and embracing recycling and the circular economy. Over the past decade, there has been a trend towards brands with a solid commitment to sustainability and ethical values, such as B2C Furniture. Using sustainable hardwood, recycled plastics and natural fabrics, B2C Furniture can assist in creating interiors that combine aesthetics and sustainability, with each piece of furniture lasting long enough to tell a meaningful story.

“I felt a shortfall in the furniture industry where the big players focused on fast furniture to promote recurring revenue,” says Anesley Clarke, Founder and CEO of B2C Furniture. “[By starting B2C Furniture] I made the conscious decision to debunk the notion that responsibly sourced furniture was unattainable and unrealistic.”

Despite always being interested in business, Anesley began his professional career as an Aerospace Engineering graduate before launching B2C Furniture in 2012. The goal was to provide affordable and accessible sustainable pieces, which led to the creation of their sustainable hardwood collection. The collection houses contemporary pieces manufactured with sustainably sourced Malaysian rubberwood harvested from renewable plantations, available online and in-store at their Sydney and Melbourne showrooms.

During the initial stages of the business, Anesley personally managed all aspects of the supply chain. “You must wear every hat: sales, marketing, warehousing, merchandising, customer service; you name it, I did it. Some may outsource immediately, but I genuinely believe there is no better way to understand your customer – and your business – than to be on the frontline,” says Anesley.

Despite the success of his business, Anesley wishes to expand his reach to include commercial clients and make a greater contribution to his local community. “Platforms such as ArchiPro have enabled us to be discovered by businesses we have not previously had the luxury of working with, such as restaurants, offices and other commercial fit-outs.

“We are also emphasising returning to our roots and supporting more community and charity work where possible. Most recently, we have worked with Circonomy to repurpose and redistribute returned items and donated furniture to Odyssey House NSW’s new Family Recovery Centre –  supporting the rehabilitation and reunion of families in dire circumstances,” adds Anesley.

Putting heart at the core of sustainability is key to producing quality furniture design that meets consumer demand. With businesses like B2C Furniture now offering their support within the community, environmentally and socially responsible furniture design has a bright future.

“I will never forget when we donated several bunks to a charity organisation called Cottage By The Sea. It was at this point that I realised the potential of the business and how we could help enrich the communities that we are involved with,” says Anesley.

View the extensive sustainable wood furniture range at B2C Furniture.