Inside Sherrill Furniture:
A Deep Dive into Sustainable Practices
At our core, we are committed to sustainability. We recognize the importance of preserving our environment and safeguarding its resources for future generations. Through conscious decision-making and innovative practices, we strive to minimize our ecological footprint while maximizing positive impact. Our dedication to sustainability extends beyond mere compliance; it is ingrained in our ethos. We believe that by prioritizing sustainability, we not only contribute to a healthier planet but also foster resilience and prosperity for all.
All Sherrill Brands Under One Roof
We have now consolidated all 7 brands that make up the Sherrill family under one roof in our High Point showroom, minimizing our overall carbon footprint in the downtown area. This move allows us to show the breadth of our offerings and inform visitors about our extensive history handcrafting furniture for over 80 years. Our skilled technicians take pride inpracticing time-honored manufacturing techniques with the highest quality materials to hand-build each piece of furniture for your home, ensuring both durability and environmental responsibility.
A little fun fact: Sherrill Furniture was among the first manufacturers to request that all our suppliers eliminated and abstained from using any PBDEs in the flammability treatment of our polyurethane foam products.
It All Started with Precedent
Sherrill’s sustainable story started with its launch of the Precedent Furniture brand over 30 years ago. Every piece of Precedent upholstered furniture has been meticulously and sustainably crafted to help preserve limited resources. The story began there, but our commitment to sustainable practices doesn’t end there.
Advanced Cushions & Textiles
Regarding our latest advancements in cushions and textiles, Tom Zaliagiris,Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Precedent, reveals, "Our cushions now incorporate foam technology from Cargill’s Bioh Polyols. This groundbreaking approach replaces 20% of the petroleum typically used with soybean oil, contributing to a reduced environmental impact." Additionally, all padding utilized in the seat deck, outside arms, and backs is composed of 100% recycled polyester, with the internal polyester fiber sourced from 80% recycled material. Underlining our steadfast commitment to sustainability, Tom emphasizes, "The adhesive used to secure frame components is water-based." He notes, "Moreover, the majority of Precedent's packaging and shipping materials are recyclable. Each year, we endeavor to diminish our environmental footprint by partnering with suppliers who share our sustainable mindset."
Our Commitment to Environmental Stewardship
As a company, we recognize the multitude of ways in which we can uphold our responsibility as environmental stewards. One such endeavor is highlighted by William Smith, vice president of operations at Sherrill Furniture Company, who sheds light on our SmartPath program with Duke Energy. Through this initiative, we were able to modernize an aging manufacturing plant with new energy-efficient LED lighting, roof systems, and HVAC equipment, resulting in $44,721 in annual energy cost savings.
Saving energy is just one example of the strategies available to factories aiming to control their carbon footprint.
Saving energy is just one example of the strategies available to factories aiming to control their carbon footprint.
Our Approach to Renewable Resources
We are committed to utilizing renewable timber resources. At Sherrill, our ongoing efforts aim to enhance material yield and bolster the structural integrity of our products through the advancement of CNC frame construction. Our material selection process is meticulous, in order to avoid the procurement of materials that could jeopardize the future of the rainforest.
Exploring best practices at manufacturing facilities is our passion. We have implemented various programs such as recycling cardboard, polyester fibers, and office paper. One notable initiative involves utilizing sawdust from our operations to fuel our Hickory White facility, underscoring our dedication to sustainability in all aspects of our operations.
Lumber
In our lumber selection process, we prioritize specific species: poplar, walnut, and soft maple sourced from Appalachian hardwood region. Emphasizing proximity in product sourcing is crucial in our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint.
Shorter transportation distances lead to decreased fuel consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions associated with transportation methods like trucks, ships, or airplanes. Moreover, local or regional sourcing supports smaller-scale producers and businesses, fostering economic sustainability and resilient local communities. Prioritizing shorter distances in our sourcing practices not only mitigates our environmental impact but also contributes to the development of more sustainable and resilient supply chains.
Air Quality
At Sherrill Furniture, sustainability is an ongoing commitment integrated
into how we design, manufacture, and operate. Our approach focuses on
responsible practices that protect the environment, support employee
well-being, and strengthen long-term business operations. A key component
of this commitment is improving air quality through the transition to
compliant finishing materials and chemicals, significantly reducing
volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous air pollutants. These
efforts support healthier indoor environments while minimizing emissions to
the surrounding community.
In 2024, a new high-efficiency dust collection system was installed at the
Hickory White facility, representing a major investment in cleaner
manufacturing. The system captures fine particulates generated during
production, improving indoor air quality for employees and reducing
airborne emissions. Beyond equipment upgrades, Sherrill maintains a
compliance-driven sustainability program supported by routine monitoring,
employee training, and proactive environmental management. By creating
cleaner, safer production environments, Sherrill reinforces the
craftsmanship, quality, and care that define every piece we produce.
Recycled Materials
For years, our commitment to local fire departments in Catawba, Burke, and
Caldwell Counties has involved supplying wood pallets, aiding their
operations, and reducing costs. This assistance extends to institutions
like the CVCC fire academy and WPCC fire training center, where donated
materials are crucial for "live fire training," including recruit
exercises. Typically, about 24 pallets are utilized to simulate burning a
1500 sqft. house.
At Sherrill Furniture, we take pride in supporting our firefighters'
training and preparedness by donating wood pallets and factory waste,
yielding significant sustainability benefits. By diverting materials from
landfills, we foster community projects such as DIY furniture and garden
beds. This approach not only prolongs usability and reduces the need for
new resources but also cultivates a culture of reuse and resourcefulness
within the community. These initiatives underscore our dedication to
environmental stewardship, resource conservation, and community engagement,
essential for a more sustainable future.
Hickory White has recently implemented a comprehensive recycling program
for plastic bottles and aluminum cans. This initiative is expected to
divert approximately 30,000 water bottles and aluminum cans from landfills
annually while promoting responsible material recovery. In addition,
Hickory White continues to actively evaluate and expand recycling
opportunities to further strengthen its commitment to environmental
sustainability.
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As a Creative Director, my commitment to eco-consciousness is rooted in a belief that design can be a positive force for change. In a world where environmental sustainability is increasingly imperative, I see my role as an opportunity to not only design aesthetically pleasing products, but to contribute to a more sustainable and mindful future. In my vision, sustainability is not merely a trend but a responsibility.
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