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Insights on the Used Office Furniture Market - September 2025

As businesses adapt to shifting economic conditions, the demand for quality office furniture remains strong. Office Busters, a leading provider, has compiled its September 2025 Used Office Furniture Index to offer insights into market trends and customer preferences. This monthly report aims to inform both corporate and individual clients about evolving dynamics in the industry.

Market Overview

In the latest index, the vacancy rate across the major five districts dropped to 2.68%, a decrease of 0.17%. Concurrently, rental prices have seen a slight uptick of 65 yen. This trend indicates that vacancy rates continue to decline, approaching pre-COVID-19 levels. However, significant changes in employment metrics have emerged, with the effective job openings-to-applicants ratio decreasing to 1.20 and the unemployment rate settling at 2.6%. These figures demonstrate the ongoing challenges in the job market, impacting the office space environment.

As companies navigate through these transitions, many are struggling to find ideal properties for relocation. Comments such as "It's tough to find the perfect space" have been frequently noted, especially as firms prepare for possible organizational changes leading into the end of the year. The combination of a tight rental market and fluctuating job statistics suggests a cautious approach to office movements and setups.

Category-Specific Trends

• - Chairs: Sales prices increased by 1,132 yen from the previous month but fell by 1,351 yen compared to last year. Mid-range chairs are experiencing a surge in sales, reflecting a growing preference for earth-tone colors.
• - Desks: The average price of desks decreased by 853 yen from last month but increased by 76 yen year-on-year. The demand for free-address desks remains high, though stock for standalone desks is continuously dwindling in the used market.
• - Storage: There has been a notable decline, with prices dropping by 1,299 yen this month and 1,369 yen compared to last year. Increased sales of low cabinets have contributed to this price reduction.
• - Lockers: Prices saw a major reduction of 2,386 yen from last month and 1,399 yen from last year. Interest in larger lockers (for more than six people) has waned, while inquiries for four-person lockers have risen.
• - Tables: In contrast, prices for tables increased by 2,055 yen from last month, although they were up by only 56 yen from the previous year. September saw a rise in larger table stock, reflecting greater demand for work tables.

September Observations

This year's September appeared more subdued than usual, with a steady state and minimal price fluctuations compared to previous years. The reduction in office vacancy rates has led to a shift in focus from new openings to internal layout changes within existing offices. As relocation rates remain low, it is expected that the supply of used furniture in the market may decline in the coming months.

Research Overview

• - Survey Period: September 1-30, 2025
• - Methodology: Office Busters’ proprietary research utilizing in-house sales data.
• - Segments Covered: Chairs, desks, storage units, lockers, and tables.

For more inquiries regarding our products and services, please contact the Marketing Committee at Office Busters.

Contact Information

• - Headquarters:

1-1-7 Uchikanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan

• - Phone: 03-6262-3155
• - Kansai Branch:

2-6-11 Honmachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka City, Japan

• - Phone: 06-6258-0231