What does it mean to be certified? Sometimes, not much. “Certification” can be an empty promise of quality. On the other hand, a certification can mean the difference between a job well done, and a waste of money.
That’s how hotel furniture manufacturers who are certified by the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI) see it.
So what does such certification entail? What follows is an overview that shows how important these genuine pledges to deliver quality are to hotel furniture manufacturers and their customers.
The Benefits of Working with a Certified Hotel Furniture Manufacturer
By working with manufacturers who comply with certification standards, hoteliers important benefits, such as:
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Proven record of quality and service
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Streamlined production and delivery
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Clear timelines
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Compliance with principles that enhance hotels’ image
FSC Certification: A Promise to Conscientiously Work for Sustainability
The FSC is all about working toward an environment that is both cleaner and safer. For manufacturers, this mean the workplace and the wood products used and made meet high standards.
A non-profit organization with worldwide reach, the FSC starts its work at the source by certifying the forests themselves. Certified forests, according to the FSC “meet the highest environmental and social standards.
In other words, not only are they managed for sustainability. They’re also managed to protect indigenous peoples and other stakeholders.
Manufacturers who work to meet FSC guidelines obtain their products from sources that offer FSC-labeled materials. These products carry one of three labels: 100%, FSC Recycled or FSC Mix, which allow for the use of post-consumer waste. Certification entails complete chain of custody, from forest to end-user, to ensure compliance with FSC standards.
Hotels that purchase furniture from FSC-certified manufacturers uphold a commitment to sustainability that customers appreciate. They also benefit from working with manufacturers whose dedication to high standards has been clearly established.
AWI Certification: Ensuring High Quality and Efficient Processes
Leading the way in setting standards and providing educational opportunities, the AWI helps give participating hotel furniture manufacturers the tools they need to offer the best possible quality and service.
Formed in 1954, the AWI was founded by members of a custom millwork operators’ trade association.
Among their goals are two of particular importance:
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“Creating, publishing and continually improving Standards for architectural woodwork and related interior finishes”
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“Providing education and opportunities for industry stakeholders to participate, collaborate, share resources and engage through AWI”
In working toward these goals, the AWI has aided certified manufacturers in their efforts to make and install their products according to proven industry standards.
The results of these efforts, especially in combination with FSC standards, include:
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Better, faster, more economical delivery with less in-transit damage
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Reduced environmental impact because of sustainability efforts
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More durable finishes based on research and development
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Longer warranties because of increased durability
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Faster, simpler re-ordering with improved processes
In Search of a Hotel Furniture Manufacturer?
Look for AWI and FSC certifications.
When the Forestry Stewardship Council and Architectural Woodwork Institute appear on a hotel furniture manufacturers literature and website, they are symbols of an ongoing commitment to the highest standards of quality and service.
They’re not given lightly but stand for an acceptance of responsibility to the industry, their customers and the environment.
In other words, FSC and AWI certification are, by themselves, pretty good recommendations. Of course, there a many other considerations in choosing a manufacturer, but certification seems like a good place to start.
