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Herman Miller Launches Aeron Refurbished

In an inspiring move towards sustainability, Herman Miller has launched the Aeron Refurbished program, aimed at breathing new life into previously owned chairs across the United States and Canada. This initiative not only promotes environmental consciousness but also aims to make the iconic Aeron chair more accessible to a broader audience. With over 9 million Aeron chairs sold globally, this program emphasizes the need for quality and performance without compromising on design excellence.

The introduction of Aeron Refurbished follows Herman Miller's efforts in reducing the carbon footprint of its original designs. The company has adopted lower-carbon materials over the last three years, resulting in a 12% decrease in the chair’s global average embodied carbon.

"When we talk sustainability, it's not just about how a product is made—it's about how long it performs," explained Gabe Wing, Vice President of Sustainability at MillerKnoll. This sentiment underscores the essence of the Aeron chair, built for durability and designed to last.

Four-Step Refurbishment Process

To maintain the high standards Herman Miller is known for, the refurbishment process consists of four meticulous steps:

1. Inspect and Test: Each pre-owned Aeron chair undergoes a thorough inspection to identify any damage or missing components. Technicians assess all features to ensure functionality.
2. Clean: All components are carefully disassembled and washed using gentle methods and safe cleaning agents, ensuring thorough hygiene without damaging the material.
3. Service and Touch Up: Technicians service the chair by replacing broken or missing parts and performing necessary adjustments to restore the chair to nearly factory condition.
4. Calibrate and Test Again: Before certification, the chair is adjusted to factory settings and rigorously tested for quality assurance.

This method ensures that buyers receive a product that meets the original performance and quality expectations, giving not just a chair but the full Aeron experience at a lower price point.

Expanding Access and Supporting Sustainability

Herman Miller's commitment to accessibility extends beyond private consumers. The Aeron Refurbished program is designed to collaborate with various sectors, including enterprise, government, and educational institutions. By revitalizing surplus inventory, Herman Miller helps organizations that no longer require their furnishings while contributing to sustainable practices.

Debbie Propst, President of Global Retail at MillerKnoll, remarked, “By giving new life to an iconic product, we’re able to expand access to the brand and reinforce the enduring value of great design.” The program contributes to the broader MillerKnoll rePurpose initiative, which has successfully diverted over 23 million pounds of furniture from landfills since its inception in 2009.

The Future of Furniture

Herman Miller has consistently been at the forefront of design and innovation, establishing critical relationships with visionary designers for over a century. The Aeron chair is a testament to that legacy, and Aeron Refurbished highlights the brand’s dedication to quality, sustainability, and accessibility.

Aeron Refurbished is now available for purchase online, allowing consumers to enjoy the benefits of responsible design while experiencing the comfort and support that only a genuine Aeron chair offers. This innovative program revamps not only the chair but also signifies a shift in retail strategy for the renowned brand.

In a world increasingly aware of its environmental responsibilities, Herman Miller’s Aeron Refurbished program sets a high standard where good design meets sustainable practices, paving the way for future innovations in the industry.