MAISON&OBJET BAROMETER #10

 
 
 
 
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International design in search of agility: anticipating to withstand

 

In a context of economic, geopolitical, and climate instability, Maison&Objet unveils the 10th edition of its biannual barometer, now a key tool for observing and understanding the dynamics shaping the global decoration, design, and lifestyle industry. Conducted in April 2025 among 1,183 professionals (including brands, retailers, and specifiers) from 73 countries, this survey takes the pulse of the market to anticipate change and identify the drivers of resilience.

 
 
 
 

A strategic tool for the entire industry
Launched in 2020, the Maison&Objet barometer is aimed at the entire international design ecosystem with a clear objective: to provide an up-to-date snapshot of the sector, from economic performance and purchasing behaviours to innovation outlooks and current market tensions.


This 10th edition of the barometer, conducted in two phases (before and after the Trump administration's trade tariff announcements), reflects the industry's ability to adapt to international upheavals and confirms an underlying trend: a design world in transformation, more agile, more attuned to its markets, yet as creative as ever.

 
 
 
 
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An industry that shows resilience and drives innovation
 

Over the past six months (October 2024 to March 2025), 65% of respondents reported stable revenue, while 27% saw growth. The Asia-Pacific region is driving the market upward (with 81% reporting stability or growth), followed by the Americas (69%). In Europe, resilience is more mixed (63%), largely due to political uncertainty and cautious investor sentiment.

On the brand side, although rising costs, low-cost competition, and pressure on raw materials remain major concerns, 89% are actively preparing to launch new products by the end of September, a telling figure that reflects a sector in motion.

 
 
 
 
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Specifiers: between residential consolidation and a revival in hospitality
 

Among specifiers (architects, interior designers, developers, etc.), an average of five new projects were signed during the period, with particularly strong momentum in the hospitality sector. Hotel projects have seen a marked increase (+11 points compared to 2024), driven by the rise of experiential luxury, eco-luxury, and gallery-style hotels. The restaurant sector also continues to perform well, with 53% of specifiers reporting the same or more projects. The residential sector is stabilising, with 69% of professionals reporting that they have maintained or increased their project volume, although France is lagging behind (with only 25% growth compared to 39% internationally). However, falling interest rates and a rebound in lending make it a market to watch closely in the coming months.

 

 
 
 
 
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Retail: agile distributors focused on recovery
 

Despite an inflationary context and still fluctuating foot traffic, the retail sector is showing a strong ability to adapt. On average, distributors added 6 new brands to their catalogues between October and March. 95% plan to place orders by September, with over half expecting to order at levels equal to or higher than in 2024.


The best-performing categories among distributors:

Fashion & accessories (+33% in volume)

Kitchenware and gourmet food (+30%)

Gifts (+28%)
 

Stock management is also becoming more streamlined: 57% of retailers now consider their inventory levels "normal," compared to 54% a year ago.

 
 
 
 
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An industry taking proactive steps in the face of uncertainty
 

An unexpected event marked the April 2025 edition: Donald Trump's announcement of increased tariffs. This decision prompted Maison&Objet to re-survey its panel. The result: while concern is tangible (67% fear an impact), 79% of respondents nevertheless expect neutral or positive revenue prospects for the second half of the year. A sign of a market that, though disrupted, is prepared, relying on anticipation, supplier diversification, and strategic agility.

 

In this shifting context, with final decisions on tariffs still under discussion, European players are expected to gain clearer visibility by the end of July, potentially paving the way for new business opportunities for both projects and brands.

 
 
 
 
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A barometer serving an international community
 

Through this barometer, Maison&Objet reinforces its role as a trend catalyst and unifying force within the industry, sharing valuable data to guide professional choices, inspire innovation strategies, and support informed strategic decision-making.

 

 
 
 
 
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