Guide
Furniture stores in Atlanta: what Canadian retailers and designers should know
Atlanta is one of the busiest furniture cities in the US, with retail furniture stores, discount outlets and Atlanta Market at AmericasMart, a major wholesale trade show for furniture and home furnishings. For Canadian retailers and designers, it's worth understanding what each offers before planning a buying trip.
Part of the wholesale furniture suppliers series.
What types of furniture stores are in Atlanta?
| Type | What you'll find | For trade buyers |
|---|---|---|
| Independent showrooms | Curated ranges, local makers | Inspiration; some offer trade pricing |
| National chains | Broad mainstream ranges | Retail pricing |
| Outlets and clearance | Discounted overstock and floor models | One-offs only |
| Design district showrooms | Trade-focused brands | Trade accounts |
| Atlanta Market (AmericasMart) | Manufacturers and wholesalers | Trade orders |
What does Atlanta Market offer?
It's a trade-only show where retailers and designers place orders with manufacturers. It's usually held twice a year, in January and July, and is useful for spotting trends and meeting new suppliers.
What should Canadian buyers factor in?
Freight back to Canada, GST or HST on import, possible duty depending on where the furniture was made, customs brokerage and the exchange rate. See furniture import duties and brokerage and the outlet buying checklist.
How do you plan a buying trip?
List what you need and your landed-cost limits, book appointments with showrooms that offer trade pricing, arrange freight in advance and keep receipts and product details for customs.
Which furniture is worth buying in Atlanta?
One-off statement pieces, trend research and new supplier relationships. Core retail stock is usually better sourced in Canada for reorder speed and cost.
What's the alternative at home?
A Canadian trade account avoids cross-border costs. Artisan stocks 1,710 handmade designs in Brampton, Ontario, with 25% off MSRP for trade, up to 50% for bulk wholesale and free delivery to residential addresses in all 10 provinces. See wholesale furniture by category.
Which organizations and publications cover the US market?
The National Retail Federation, ASID and Furniture Today cover US furniture retail and design.
How do Atlanta stores compare with Canadian suppliers?
| Atlanta stores and outlets | Canadian trade supplier | |
|---|---|---|
| Range | Very wide | Focused |
| Pricing | Retail or one-off discounts | Trade discount off MSRP |
| Repeat supply | Varies | Yes |
| Delivery to Canada | Your responsibility | Included (Artisan, residential) |
| Taxes and customs | Import tax, possible duty, brokerage | Domestic tax only |
For one-off pieces and inspiration, Atlanta can be worth the trip. For stock you need to reorder or projects that need matching pieces, a Canadian supplier is usually simpler and cheaper overall.
Related
Frequently asked questions
What are the best furniture stores in Atlanta?+
Atlanta has a wide mix of independent showrooms, national chains, discount outlets and, for trade buyers, the Atlanta Market wholesale show at AmericasMart. The best fit depends on whether you're buying one-offs or placing trade orders.
How do you find affordable furniture in Atlanta?+
Outlets and clearance centres offer discounts on floor models and overstock; trade buyers get better repeat pricing through wholesale channels.
What styles are popular in Atlanta furniture stores?+
Transitional, modern farmhouse and contemporary styles are widely stocked across US retailers.
When is Atlanta Market held?+
Atlanta Market is usually held twice a year, in January and July. Check the organizer's website for exact dates.
Can Canadian businesses order from Atlanta Market exhibitors?+
Yes, but orders ship cross-border, so factor in freight, tax on import, possible duty, brokerage and exchange.