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When it comes to purchasing leather furniture, helping your customers make informed decisions is essential. Leather furniture not only adds style and luxury to any space but also represents a long-term investment. To ensure they choose the perfect piece, it’s important to consider several key factors.
Here are the critical aspects you should discuss with every customer before they make their purchase.
1. Application and Traffic:
Usage Considerations:
Determine How the Furniture Will Be Used:
Your customer needs to consider the intended use of the furniture. Will it be placed in a high-traffic area like a family room? Will it be used frequently? Or is it meant for a quieter area such as a study?
Select the Appropriate Leather Type:
Performance Leather:
For areas that see a lot of activity, performance leather is the ideal choice. This type of leather is treated to be more resistant to heavy use, spills, and everyday wear and tear, making it perfect for family rooms or other busy spaces.
Natural Leather:
If your customers prefer a more traditional and luxurious look, natural leather may be the way to go. However, they should be aware that it may require more care and is better suited for low-traffic areas.
Types of genuine leather available at Crest:
Whether your customers need vibrant colours, soft hues, or distinctive textures, our comprehensive range has the ideal options to bring their vision to life! We offer a wide selection of over 430 colours available in three markets, UK, USA & South Africa, each suited to various preferences and applications.
Aniline:
This high-quality leather is dyed to reveal the natural grain and unique traits of the hide, providing a soft and luxurious texture that develops a rich patina over time. It does require maintenance, as it may fade with exposure to sunlight and is prone to staining.
We produce over 15 Aniline articles across three different markets, with Newcastle being a customer favourite, as seen in a barn conversation transformed by Residential Interior Design. Our Newcastle Burgundy, and Newcastle Green leathers were among the preferred choices for this project, as they contributed to the opulence and beauty of this project.
Semi-aniline:
This type of leather preserves the natural grain but includes a thin protective layer. The applied finish enhances its durability and stain resistance, making it more resilient than aniline leather. It’s more resistant to sunlight and water damage compared to an Aniline leather finish, and is also an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality leather with less frequent maintenance.
We offer over 15 semi-aniline leather options across three different markets, so you’re sure to find the perfect leather for your needs. One of our most popular leather collections is Altara, upholstered on an luxurious Chesterfield sofa by Sofas by Saxon. Explore more of our premium Altara Hellbraun leather!
Pigmented:
This leather is treated with a layer of coloured finish to achieve a uniform and sleek appearance. Following this, a textured pattern is embossed onto the surface, ensuring a consistent look and feel. This process also provides additional advantages such as improved light fastness and stain resistance.
Vele is a popular pigmented range at Crest, as seen in the project for Sofas by Saxon. The leather elevates any residential setting with its enduring charm and elegance!
The Vele range is a part of our UK Performance Collection, a refined selection of leathers which includes over 140 beautiful colours that are lightfast and stain-resistant. This collection is designed for high-traffic seating, offering both durability and style.
Price Point:
Genuine leather furniture can sometimes be more expensive than faux leather and some fabrics, so it’s important to explain to your customer the benefits in relation to price.
While it may come with a higher price tag, the investment is justified by its superior longevity and the unparalleled quality you receive. Essentially, with genuine leather, you’re paying for a product that delivers lasting beauty and comfort.
However, if we’re comparing with Faux, it tends to be relatively cheaper. Studies show that it does not stand the test of time, as with proper care, good-quality faux leather can last between 2 to 5 years, while genuine leather can last from 20 to 40 years.
2. Location:
Placement Considerations:
Avoid Direct Sunlight:
Let your customers know that where they position their leather furniture can greatly influence its lifespan. Some Aniline leathers, in particular, are susceptible to fading and degradation if they are exposed to direct sunlight or left near windows for long durations.
Therefore, you can advise them to chose a location which has less frequent lighting, and ensure that they are purchasing the correct type of leather for the perfect area. Knowing this key information from your customer will help maintain the finish alongside of their furniture.
3. Longevity:
Investment Considerations:
Think Long-Term:
Compared to many other types of fabrics, leather is often considered a more durable and long-term investment. While fabrics may show signs of wear and tear more quickly, leather tends to be much more resilient. It has a ability to withstand daily use and age gracefully, developing a unique patina over time.
However it’s not just fabric, as a recent survey by Which? revealed that over 4,200 respondents identified faux leather as the most damage-prone material for their sofa! This discovery has led many to recognise genuine leather as a superior material.
A Lasting Addition:
Remind your customers that this purchase is not just a short-term upgrade, as leather furniture can be a timeless addition to their home, offering both beauty and functionality.
Sustainability:
Genuine leather can offer significant sustainability advantages when managed responsibly. As it is a byproduct of the meat industry and, if sourced from well-regulated, ethical farms, it represents a more sustainable use of resources.
Aftercare:
The appropriate aftercare is crucial for maintaining the beauty and longevity of your leather furniture. Even after purchasing, regular cleaning and conditioning help preserve the leather’s natural state, keeping it resistant to any potential cracking. By correctly cleaning your leather, it ensures that your furniture retains its luxurious appearance and durability over time. Investing in aftercare not only enhances the furniture’s lifespan but also keeps it looking as elegant!
Unsure how to clean your leather upholstery? We’ve got your covered – click here!
By taking into account usage, placement, and longevity, your customers can make a smart and satisfying choice when buying leather furniture. Remind them that with the right considerations, leather furniture can be a timeless, durable, and stylish investment that enhances their home for many years to come.