Traditional craftsmanship and innovation in seating furniture

Meubelfabriek De Valk is a name that stands for simplicity, quality and flexibility in furniture production. An archetypal Dutch company with a rich history, where traditional craftsmanship and modern innovations go hand in hand. We spoke to Peter Steur, director of Meubelfabriek De Valk, about the company's origins, core values and vision for the future.

From ice skating to furniture production

"De Valk was originally a traditional company that produced ice skates," Peter Steur explains. "Due to market forces, it eventually evolved into a factory that produces chairs and tables for various industries and occasions. Traditionally, we market our products through dealers." This development is typical of De Valk: continuously responding to changing market demand and new opportunities.

Core values that stand the test of time

According to Sturgeon, simplicity, quality and flexibility are De Valk's core values. "Our furniture is distinguished by durability and versatility. Our chairs and tables are used in public spaces, schools and the medical world. We always say: wherever people stand, they also want to sit, and we can provide that."

Production process: a mix of craftsmanship and innovation

De Valk's production is a combination of traditional handwork and modern technology. "Besides robotisation, manual work still plays a major role in our production process," says Sturgeon. "We produce almost everything in-house: sawing, bending, welding, powder coating, assembly and upholstering. Only the moulded wooden seats we have produced externally. Our factory covers more than 10,000 square metres and provides space for both production and innovation."

Strict quality control

Quality is paramount at De Valk Furniture Factory. "Craftsmanship is guaranteed by the experience of our employees, some of whom have been working here for more than 30 years. We also apply extensive quality control at every stage of production. If something is not satisfactory, it simply goes back into the factory," says Sturgeon.

Innovation and market developments

Although innovation has traditionally been less highlighted within De Valk, this has changed in recent years. "We are increasingly looking at new models and designs. Whereas we used to only adjust colours and upholstery, we now focus on developing products that match contemporary demand," Steur explains. "For example, we have developed chairs specifically for the medical sector, including some hospitals. Our powder coating line, which we also use for external parties, is another example of an innovative step we are proud of."

Sustainability and circular design

Sustainability plays an increasingly important role within Meubelfabriek De Valk. "We use filters to reduce welding fumes and will soon install an internal cooling system for our injection moulding machines," says Sturgeon. "We are also looking at energy-efficient machines and are working with a specialised party to accelerate the sustainability process."

Circular design also receives attention. "We refurbish used chairs and tables by recoating or reupholstering them. This way, we extend the lifespan by at least 25 years and reduce the need for new production."

Customers and markets

Furniture factory De Valk mainly supplies public spaces, schools, the medical sector, and all areas where people sit. "We are flexible and can deliver quickly," Steur emphasises. "Although we produce in series, we also offer customisation for special projects, such as extremely long tables or deviating heights."

Vision of the future: automation and market orientation

In five to 10 years, Steur sees furniture factory De Valk still in the same location, but with a better balance between automation and manual production. "We continue to respond to market developments by maintaining closer contact with customers. Our account managers are trained to be involved earlier in projects so that we can advise proactively."

Why choose Meubelfabriek De Valk?

Working with furniture factory De Valk means reliability, quality and flexibility. "We do what we promise: short delivery times and high-quality products," says Sturgeon. "We remain one of the few primal Dutch furniture factories where 95% of the product is made in-house."

Are you looking for durable and high-quality seating solutions for your company or organisation? Contact Meubelfabriek De Valk and find out what we can do for you!