The Surprising Truth About Where Lazyboy Recliners Are Manufactured
Lazyboy recliners hold a special place in many American homes. With their plush cushions, smooth reclining mechanisms, and durable constructions, Lazyboy chairs seem to represent the best of American manufacturing and comfort. But where exactly are these iconic recliners produced today?
As it turns out, the story of Lazyboy's manufacturing is more complex than you might expect.
The Early Years - Proudly Made in America
Lazyboy was founded in Monroe, Michigan in 1927. The company's first reclining chairs were quite literally designed and built in a garage by its founders. As demand grew, Lazyboy expanded production across factories in the Midwest, employing American workers to hand-craft each recliner.
In the early days, Lazyboy took pride in its identity as a Made in America brand. Its chairs were assembled by skilled laborers in Michigan, Tennessee, Missouri and other US states. This allowed for tight quality control and supported local communities.
A Brief Shift to Overseas Production
In the 1990s and early 2000s, Lazyboy, like many US furniture brands, looked to overseas production to reduce manufacturing costs. The company opened a factory in China that produced some recliner models for export back to America.
However, this abroad production accounted for only a small fraction of Lazyboy's output. Further, by producing chairs overseas, Lazyboy lost some control over quality inspections and materials sourcing compared to their US plants.
Return to American Roots
By the 2010s, Lazyboy recognized the benefits of Made in America manufacturing and pivoted back to relying on US factories. Today, Lazyboy proudly produces its recliners at company-owned plants in Tennessee, Missouri, and Ohio.
Focusing on American facilities allows Lazyboy to leverage generations of recliner-making expertise while supporting domestic jobs. The company sees US production as integral to maintaining quality and building on its legacy.
Advantages of Made in America
So why does Made in America matter for a storied company like Lazyboy?
- Keeps quality control in-house - with US plants, Lazyboy can oversee each step
- Utilizes skilled American labor force
- Provides jobs in US towns where plants located
- Part of brand identity and customer perception of quality
The Careful Manufacturing Process
Lazyboy's American plants combine generations of craftsmanship with high-tech automation. Key steps include:
- Sourcing US-made raw materials like leather, lumber, steel
- Precision cutting and assembly using advanced machines
- Detail-oriented human craftsmanship throughout
- Comprehensive quality checks to meet exacting standards
This meticulous approach ensures every Lazyboy meets the brand's reputation for comfort, reliability and durability.
Lazyboy recognizes overseas competition provides lower-cost alternatives. However, the company remains committed to American facilities, workers, and communities.
By preserving domestic production, Lazyboy upholds its legacy of quality and innovation in Michigan and beyond. So next time you relax into your favorite Lazyboy, know it was proudly Made in America.