The importance of hardware in home design is undeniable, yet the high-end home hardware market and profitable brand sector in China are largely dominated by foreign companies. For a long time, hardware has remained an invisible part of the industry, but now it's stepping into the spotlight. In the past, low-price competition, imitation, and OEM production were common strategies, but these have become outdated as the industry evolves. With increasing competition, companies must now focus on product innovation, independent R&D, and strong branding to ensure long-term success.
Many manufacturers that once focused solely on OEM production have built up strong product quality through years of exporting. However, the key challenge now is shifting from a "heavy production, light branding" mindset to a more strategic approach that emphasizes brand management and corporate image. This shift will help them secure their rightful place in the market. As domestic industries like cabinets and sanitary ware grow, more companies are turning their attention to the vast domestic market. Exporting is no longer the only goal—domestic sales have become a central part of their strategy.
Home hardware companies are increasingly aware of this trend and are already planning to enter the high-end domestic market. The current situation, however, shows that many companies struggle with limited resources, making it hard to invest in better design and technology. As a result, some rely on copying or taking overseas orders just to survive. This leads to a lack of high-end domestic hardware options. Meanwhile, the industry is flooded with low-cost products, leading to fierce price competition and thin profit margins. Companies often find themselves barely breaking even, unable to reinvest in development or innovation.
With the rise of smart homes, hardware is also evolving. Features like automatic temperature control, card locks, sensor switches, and smart doors are becoming more common. These innovations reflect the growing trend toward intelligent home solutions. People today value comfort and convenience more than ever, and hardware must adapt to support a more modern, efficient lifestyle. This is especially true in the cabinet industry, where hardware makes up 35% of the components. High-end cabinets now feature smart pumping systems, handleless designs, and advanced damping and slide rails that improve durability and performance.
Home hardware is not just about function—it also needs to be aesthetically pleasing and match the overall design of the home. Materials like stainless steel, black, bronze, and pearl nickel are now popular, and there’s a wide variety of styles to suit different tastes. Even luxury brands are pushing boundaries, like the Good International Group, which introduced a diamond-encrusted handle at a major trade fair. These developments show that the home hardware market is moving toward greater sophistication and personalization.
Hardware accessories may account for only 5% of the cost in furniture, but they contribute to 85% of the user experience. They come in general and specialized categories, with hinges, slides, and locks being the most commonly used. As consumer expectations continue to rise, the demand for higher-quality, more functional hardware is growing. In fact, it’s often said that with the right hardware, even the most complex and multi-functional furniture can be created. This highlights the critical role hardware plays in shaping the future of home design.
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Foshan Extrlux Co., Ltd. , https://www.extrlux.com