Furniture manufacturers in the UK could be tempted to emulate a new initiative in New Zeland that is aimed at encouraging people to buy local produce.

The Furniture and Cabinet Making Association said its tradespeople are suffering because shoppers are purchasing flat-packed items for their home instead of traditionally-made pieces from artisans nearby.

So, it has decided to bring in peelable labels or seals that will be applied to pieces of furniture if half of the employees of the company that made them has a recognised qualification.

It is hoped that people will see how they can put money back into the community by buying these products, instead of opting for cheap imports.

Chairman of the organisation Blair McKolskey told TVNZ the printed labels will highlight what consumers should look for when buying things like coffee tables, including better durability.

Mark Harris from Goodwill Industries in the US recently told the Toledo Blade he is seeing more people shopping in thrift stores in a bid to come across goods that are useful and well made.

Denny Bros Ltd, 16 August 2011