Thinking of Buying a Furniture Hire Business in Australia? Here Are 3 Vital Questions to Ask

The Australian furniture hire industry, part of the broader furniture, appliance, and equipment rental sector, generated approximately $6.3 billion in revenue in 2025 across 8,159 enterprises, employing over 21,700 people nationwide. Average profit margins are around 7.2%, reflecting a moderately competitive but capital-intensive market.

After several years of decline, the sector is forecast to recover gradually, growing 0.9% annually through 2031 to reach $6.7 billion in revenue. Demand for furniture hire is driven by population growth, housing mobility, urbanisation, and short-term leasing for relocations, staging, and events. However, competition from low-cost retail chains and second-hand marketplaces continues to pressure rental prices.

1. Is the Business Financially Resilient in a Competitive, Capital-Intensive Market?

Why It Matters

Furniture hire requires significant investment in inventory, logistics, and maintenance. Profitability depends on achieving high utilisation rates, managing depreciation, and balancing short-term contracts with long-term rentals. Financial resilience also hinges on adapting pricing to match intense competition from cheap retail and online alternatives.

What to Check

• Profit margins – Compare performance against the industry’s 7.2% average.

• Capital management – Review asset replacement schedules and depreciation rates.

• Revenue mix – Assess exposure to event, residential, and corporate furniture hire segments.

• Cash flow – Examine seasonal fluctuations and reliance on large-scale contracts.

2. Does the Business Have Strong Market Positioning and Brand Differentiation?

Why It Matters

The market remains fragmented, with thousands of small operators and few dominant brands. Success depends on reputation, design quality, and service reliability. Companies offering bespoke packages, fast delivery, or eco-friendly furniture stand out in a crowded space. A strong online presence is increasingly critical for residential and event clients who book digitally.

What to Check

• Client base – Review balance across residential staging, corporate leasing, and events.

• Brand reputation – Assess online reviews, repeat contracts, and partnerships with real-estate agents or event planners.

• Customer service – Evaluate delivery times, product presentation, and installation quality.

• Digital presence – Check for an optimised website, online booking, and social-media engagement.

3. Is the Business Positioned for Future Trends in Sustainability and Urban Living?

Why It Matters

Environmental awareness and compact living are reshaping the hire market. Renting furniture supports circular-economy goals, appealing to eco-conscious clients. Urbanisation and the rise of short-term rentals and flexible living spaces also favour businesses offering compact, multifunctional furniture and sustainable materials. Companies that align with these shifts will capture long-term demand.

What to Check

• Sustainability credentials – Review sourcing of materials, reuse programs, and recycling policies.

• Product range – Ensure inventory includes compact, modular, and energy-efficient designs.

• Technology adoption – Confirm digital inventory management and automated booking systems.

• Market adaptability – Evaluate readiness to service emerging markets such as relocations, student housing, and eco-friendly corporate fit-outs.

Ready to Invest in a Thriving Furniture Hire Business?

With modest recovery ahead, supported by housing mobility, urbanisation, and sustainability trends, furniture hire remains a promising niche within Australia’s rental industry.

Success will depend on strong capital management, digital engagement, and alignment with green, flexible living solutions.

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