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In recent years, as consumer demands have evolved, the expectations for hardware accessories in home products have significantly increased. "In the furniture industry, the quality and overall feel of furniture largely depend on the choice of hardware components. Many usability issues with furniture are often caused by poor or insufficient hardware selection," said Luo Baihui, an association member. He added that with the right hardware, even complex multifunctional furniture can be easily manufactured. While hardware components may only account for 5% of a product’s cost, they contribute to 85% of the user experience, highlighting their critical role in modern furniture design.
Traditionally, home hardware focused mainly on mechanical performance, rust resistance, moisture resistance, and the durability of moving parts. However, today’s consumers are not just looking for functional hardware anymore. With rising demands for personalization and aesthetic integration in home design, hardware must now blend seamlessly into the overall interior style while offering visual appeal.
Take the common door handle, for example. Today's market offers a wide variety of finishes—such as black, bronze, light chrome, and pearl nickel with transparent paint—and diverse shapes like European, Chinese, or custom styles, all aimed at meeting the growing diversity of consumer preferences.
As smart homes become more prevalent, the role of home hardware has expanded beyond basic functionality. Modern lifestyles emphasize comfort and convenience, pushing hardware to be more intelligent and user-friendly. For instance, smart cabinets now feature no-handle designs, automatic closing mechanisms, and advanced damping systems that allow heavy drawers to open and close smoothly without rebounding or leaking.
In the integrated bathroom sector, innovations like temperature-adjusting faucets, card-activated locks, and sensor-based switches are transforming daily routines, paving the way for smarter living spaces.
Despite its importance, the high-end home hardware market in China is still dominated by foreign brands such as Blum and Hettich. These European companies have set the standard for quality and innovation, making their hardware a key selling point in premium furniture and cabinetry. In fact, up to 35% of cabinet production relies on imported hardware solutions, especially when it comes to advanced features like electronic pumping systems that enable sleek, handle-free designs.
However, domestic manufacturers are starting to take notice. Many companies that once operated as OEMs for international clients are now aiming to capture a larger share of the domestic high-end market. They recognize that simply copying designs won’t be enough—they need to build strong brand identities, invest in R&D, and improve their strategic positioning to compete effectively.
In the past, many domestic hardware companies struggled with low profit margins due to price wars and a lack of differentiation. This led to a cycle of imitation, weak branding, and limited innovation. As a result, the high-end market remained out of reach for most local players.
But with the right brand strategy, the industry can transform. Companies are beginning to shift from export-focused models to a dual approach that emphasizes both domestic and international markets. This transition has already begun to show positive results, with the domestic hardware market experiencing rapid growth and a renewed sense of confidence among manufacturers.
While challenges remain—such as high operational costs, inventory pressures, and the difficulty of maintaining product uniqueness—brands that adopt a more holistic and innovative approach stand a better chance of success. Whether through specialized single-product brands or comprehensive system brands, the future of the home hardware industry looks promising, driven by a stronger focus on quality, design, and brand value.
Brand Strategy Promotes Home Hardware Industry Development