26 Mar 2008
Renowned in their field, Desser prides itself on producing good quality furniture, perfect for conservatories and lounges. And it's good to know that no environmental sacrifices are made for good products. As Desser's website says, “Much of the quality rattan used in the manufacture of Cane Furniture comes from Indonesia, which is the world's biggest supplier.
Mention the name 'Desser' to customers and you're likely to be met with blank faces, despite the fact that they are likely to have sat on many a Desser chair in their lifetime. But that's all about to change. With roots firmly planted at their base in Manchester, a solid reputation in the furniture industry and a proud heritage that stretches right back to 1919 – Desser is all set to go the next step, spreading their status into the homes of consumers, so that when they think cane; they ask for Desser.
It all started with the legendary Isaac Desser back in 1919 when as a young British soldier, he was posted to Belgium, where he worked with Flemish craftsmen who produced various types of basketware. Realising the commercial potential, on returning home, Isaac setup a company importing baskets from Belgium to sell over here. Soon, his brother Simon joined the enterprise, which was then run from the front parlour of Isaac's mother-in-law's house in Cheetham. From then, the baby grew and the company is now Britain's leading importer and distributor of cane furniture and wickerware, providing hundreds of retail outlets with hand made, quality conservatory furniture.
For many of you contemporary types, 'cane' is a word with many connotations. Perhaps a tad old fashioned, rickety even – but with Desser, this is not so. Whilst keeping their morals and values from 1919, have also worked hard to bring things forward, making classy, contemporary furniture. The new ranges are comfortable, durable and will look good in any home, no matter the décor.
Desser continues extending their original concept and the basketware range has expanded over the years, that now includes modern wooden & rattan drawer units, occasional adult and children chairs, a collection of very stylish table and floor lamps – the whole works. And of course, it's all completely natural.
At a period of time when keeping green is so important with the looming threat of climate change, Desser's products hit the spot exactly. Much of the quality rattan used in the manufacture of Cane Furniture comes from Indonesia which is the world's biggest supplier, accounting for nearly 70 percent of the world's trade. So, why is it such a perfect crop? It grows so fast, up to 6 metres a year, in areas which cannot support other land products – such as those which remain under flood waters for long periods of time. But the real beauty as far as conservation issues are concerned, is that rattan can only grow amongst existing trees such as fruit orchards and rubber estates, so it can accurately be claimed to encourage the preservation of forests. It “hugs” the trees and saves them from the logger's axe by providing equal or more benefit than the companion tree, without disturbing the natural habitat.
Ecologically, rattan is very important. It grows in degraded forests and in marginal soil. It can also be introduced artificially in natural forests without disturbing the existing structure and balance. The social significance of rattan is no less. Ideally suited as a smallholder crop, it provides sustainable income to some of the poorest people living in and on the fringes of forests. Rattan is increasing in popularity because it is easy to work with, requiring only simple tools and low-cost machines. It lends itself to uncomplicated balour-intensive processing and thus generates diverse employment. With all Desser furniture produced in accordance with Government Controlled Environmental Legislation, the company also promote Fair Trade and provide low Carbon Emission Products.
Conservatories are not just a summer thing now, we're providing for an all year round, all over the house arena now – and with our designs reflecting our interest in the younger markets, as well as the more traditional products, we hope to provide for everyone. Indeed, if there's one thing that ensures the company retains is reputation, it's the continued spirit that runs throughout. Dedication to doing their forefathers proud, the current generation of Dessers are still working to find the best prices, the satisfaction of suppliers, wholesale customers and, most importantly, the ultimate purchaser. Combining an environment friendly product, with its roots embedded in Desser history, the future has much in store for the next generation to follow.
www.desser.co.uk
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For further information & high res pictures, please contact Mark Stewart Tel: 0161 830 5528 Email: mark@desser.co.uk
