Omni-channel furniture retailer proves that eco-friendly operations can co-exist with business growth
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Sean Flanagan
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MANCHESTER, Conn. – August 15, 2019 – Bob’s Discount Furniture, one of the largest furniture retailers in the United States, was recently recognized as a leader in sustainability by both the environmental-impact non-profit Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC) and the National Wildlife Federation (NWF).
As the company, which now boasts 121 stores nationwide, continues to rapidly expand its business across the United States, sustainability has been a core focus across all business practices. In addition to utilizing responsible wood sourcing, Bob’s is committed to recycling mattresses and packaging materials. In 2018 alone, the company recycled 68,292 pieces of bedding, 377 tons of foam, and 634 tons of plastic film.
Carol Glaser, executive vice president of merchandising at Bob’s Discount Furniture, stated, “We are honored to be recognized by the Sustainable Furnishings Council and National Wildlife Federation. At Bob’s, our goal is to continue to make environmentally-sound initiatives a priority, whether it’s through sustainable wood sourcing, materials recycling, or donating furniture to local non-profits.”
SFC analyzes the environmental and health impact of home-furnishing products and assists companies in adopting eco-friendly practices. In addition, they are a resource to consumers, serving as an information clearinghouse and providing an environmental “symbol of assurance.” SFC members lead the industry in best practices throughout their supply chains and demonstrate a commitment to a healthy future, inside and out.
Susan Inglis, SFC’s Executive Director, said, “SFC is proud to recommend companies like Bob’s Discount Furniture who show their commitment to offering pro-planet furnishings by adopting and implementing a robust wood sourcing policy. Like our organization, Bob’s recognizes that consumers want to shop with brands that not only meet their needs for style and value, but also, eco-responsibility.”
To be assessed by SFC and NWF, Bob’s provided data points on several of its in-flight sustainability practices, such as responsible wood sourcing, mattress recycling, furniture donations, foam and plastic recycling, and chair box recycling. Bob’s provides more details on the Social Responsibility page on its website.
About Sustainable Furnishings Council
The Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC) is a coalition of manufacturers, retailers and designers dedicated to raising awareness and expanding the adoption of environmentally sustainable practices across the home furnishings industry.
SFC’s mission is to help companies reduce their environmental footprints as they grow, and to help consumers find healthy furnishings. To accomplish these lofty goals, SFC provides the best education, promotion, and networking opportunities available, while raising consumer interest in environmentally safe furnishings. The SFC and its members work to address sustainability and social issues, and offer clear information to consumers, the media, and other partners. Connect with SFC on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.
About Bob’s Discount Furniture
Founded in 1991, Bob’s Discount Furniture is one of the fastest growing furniture retailers in the country. Keeping true to its founding principle that everyone deserves quality furniture, Bob’s provides unsurpassed value with honesty and integrity. Through all the work that happens behind the scenes, Bob’s engineers this value, offering its discount on a wide variety of stylish, quality furnishings, mattresses, and home accents.
With 121 furniture stores across 18 states, the Manchester, Connecticut-based company has become the 12th-largest U.S. furniture chain and proudly holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. In 2019, Bob’s was recognized as a leader in sustainability by both the Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC) and the National Wildlife Federation (NWF), and listed as a top scorer on the Wood Furniture Scorecard 2019. Bob’s also offers a unique and enjoyable shopping experience, featuring cafes in each store with complimentary gourmet coffee, ice cream, cookies, and candy. The company is committed to supporting local communities through a variety of charitable giving efforts. Bob’s Discount Furniture Charitable Foundation has anchored the company’s philanthropic work for more than 20 years. Additionally, the Bob’s Outreach program was created as a separate entity to help schools and children-related charities. The company donates more than $2.75 million to charities through these programs each year. For more information on Bob’s charitable programs, visit Bob’s Cares, and follow Bob’s on Twitter @MyBobs, on Facebook, and Instagram.
