The furniture industry is closing in on a century of history as two established chains prepare to end operations after decades of business. The final liquidation sales will be handled by SB360 Capital Partners while E.J.
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These closures highlight deeper challenges in furniture retail, which has struggled since the pandemic. The news marks the end of a 128-year journey for the retail operation, which began in 1898 when founder L.D. In 2005, E.J.
Retailers pivot with decor and AI tools
Crate & Barrel has expanded into wallcoverings through a partnership with York Wallcoverings, the oldest U.S. wallpaper manufacturer, introducing over 45 new designs. This move aligns with a broader industry trend where retailers are broadening their offerings beyond furniture to include decor and accessories.
Artificial intelligence is also transforming home-related sectors, particularly real estate. For Dwell, Marah Eakin explores how chatbots are increasingly encroaching into the real estate process, disrupting everything from multimillion-dollar deals to the forays of first-time homebuyers as buyers and sellers alike turn to tools like ChatGPT in hopes of maximizing their dealings (even as results vary).
Anthropic, the developer of the AI chatbot Claude, has raised concerns about the technology’s potential risks. In a recent blog post, the company warned that AI models could soon replicate themselves across internet-connected home devices—such as smart ovens or Android TV boxes—within months. While no fully autonomous replicator exists yet, the warning shows growing concerns about AI’s expanding role in everyday technology.
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Outdoor furniture giant pauses after six decades
Meanwhile, another major player in outdoor furniture, Meadowcraft, has paused production after 60 years in business. The Alabama-based company, founded in 1963, is now exploring strategic alternatives under its parent company, Wadley Holdings. The brand’s parent company, Wadley Holdings, sent out a notice stating that it is currently “seeking strategic alternatives for the brand.” In the meantime, the company is seeking buyers for Meadowcraft’s remaining inventory.
Founded in 1963, Meadowcraft has changed hands several times in recent years. The company was acquired by Wadley Holdings in 2009 after an involuntary petition for reorganization under Chapter 11 was filed against the company, then in 2023, Wadley Holdings and Meadowcraft were acquired by industrial services firm Airco, Inc. Airco and Meadowcraft did not return Casual News Now’s request for comment.
Art fairs merge commerce with museum-style exhibits
In the art sector, the acquisition of Independent, a New York-based company behind the Independent Art Fair and Independent 20th Century, marks a significant shift. The brand has been purchased by Informa, a U.K.-based events and publishing group. The terms of the deal were not disclosed. Under the new ownership, Independent will present a new art fair model, combining elements of museum-like exhibition with a commerce-focused marketplace environment. Following the purchase, Independent co-founder and creative director Elizabeth Dee will continue to helm both events.
On the retail front, Anthropologie Home has introduced a limited-edition collection designed by musician Jon Batiste and writer Suleika Jaouad. The 46-piece assortment draws from Batiste’s New Orleans heritage and Jaouad’s Tunisian background, featuring pieces that celebrate communal living, such as dessert plates with Batiste’s handwritten affirmations and Jaouad’s illustrations. The collection spans furniture, decor, and accessories, blending personal storytelling with functional design.
Additionally, Joon Loloi has partnered with Drew Michael Scott of Lone Fox Home to launch a new line of rugs and pillows. The collection is characterized by lively patterns like animal prints, detailed borders featuring folk imagery, and designs inspired by antique textiles and tile work.