Makers boost longevity, convenience

	The FTS2209 model from Zhejiang Sopop is adjustable to five positions.

Releases adopt thicker tubes and coated fabrics. Many come with carry bags and built-in holders.

China suppliers of camping furniture continue to emphasize durability and user comfort in recent releases.

To enhance wear resistance, companies apply PE and phthalate-free PVC to seats and tabletops, preventing damage caused by water, dirt and UV rays.

The latest models also boast thicker metal tubes for frames. This improves weight capacity from 180 to 400 pounds.

Steel is a popular choice, ranging in diameter from 13 to 25mm and reaching a thickness of 1.4mm. A typical one-seater adopts 16x0.8mm pipes while thicker versions are used for bigger designs.

Lighter aluminum structures are following this trend as well. Measurements for tubes start at 19x1mm and can reach 25x1.4mm.

Matte anodizing for aluminum frames, which costs $800 to $900, is preferred by most suppliers.

Bright anodizing is available as a less-expensive alternative, with rates about one-half of the former. The process is also not as time consuming, requiring only 30 to 40 minutes to be carried out.

Steel tubes typically undergo powder coating.

For these and aluminum versions, spraying additional layers is also done to create a rust- and scratch-resistant surface.

To expand buyer options, colors besides black are on hand as well. Adopting bright shades on frames to match the fabric is common in camping furniture for children.

Camp Planner International Co. Ltd, for instance, offers chairs with frames powder-coated to complement the animal-themed shape and patterns of the seats.

China’s selection of colored designs is expected to grow in coming months as the cost of these various surface treatments remains stable.

Value features and accessories are incorporated to enhance convenience. Recently released chairs and tables are foldable, and even come in sets with fabric bags.

Camping chairs are equipped with magazine and cup holders, while tables have built-in storage cabinets. Detachable canopies, umbrellas, pillows and padding are also added.

Products are tested to ensure they meet export markets’ required levels of lead and azo in dyes.

Camping chairs and tables from China have fabric and metal components. Prices start at $1 and increase depending on the thickness and material of the frame. The type of textile used is also a determinant.

Most low-end models are promotional items. Powder-coated steel tubes that measure 13 and 16mm in diameter and 0.7 to 1mm thick are employed.

For fabrics, 600d polyester printed with simple patterns is used.

Quotes for chairs reach $4, while tables go for $2 to $6. Both powder-coated steel and anodized aluminum are utilized in midrange seats. The pipes vary in diameter from 16 to 22mm. Thickness is 1 to 1.2mm.

Designs come in different fabrics, including 600d polyester and oxford. Beach, camping and hunting models, in particular, are made of PVC-coated polyester and nylon ripstop, which boast anti-oil, and UV- and water-resistant properties.

Prices in this segment are from $5 to $10 for seats and $7 to $12 for tables.

Quoted at approximately $10 to $15, high-end chairs likewise have steel and aluminum frames. These come in larger sizes and various colors, and can be offered in sets.

Models are also equipped with a great number functional add-ons such as magazine and cup holders, detachable umbrellas and canopies.

Averaging $12 each, high-end tables feature wooden tops or semi- and wholly aluminum versions.

Metal costs are among the key factors determining prices of China-made camping furniture.

Material rates have risen significantly since the previous year. From $660 to $735 per ton, steel tubes are now $800 to $880. Aluminum has reached $2,500 for every ton, a 12 percent increase since April 2009.

With outlay for both manufacturing inputs and labor climbing, makers are predicting a 10 percent jump in quotes.

Suppliers, however, continue to have a positive outlook on exports. Twenty to 30 percent growth is expected in coming months.

There are 600 to 800 makers of camping furniture in China that also include related products such as tents, hammocks, sleeping mats and bags, and umbrellas in their selections.

Approximately 70 to 80 percent of output in the line originates from Zhejiang province. Most companies are based in Yongkang where there is a mature supply chain for metal tubes, fabrics and other parts.

Guangdong and Fujian provinces are also key manufacturing centers. Businesses in the former specialize in metal-framed models. Those based in the latter roll out foldable chairs, tables and benches.

Dominating the industry are small companies, which generate revenue of less than $8 million each year. They employ about 100 to 300 full-time personnel.

With a workforce of 300 to 800, midsize manufacturers have annual sales of $20 million.

Large suppliers’ earnings in a year reach $30 million or more. They typically have as many as 1,500 workers overseeing operations.

Some makers are considering venturing into the production of fitness equipment to supplement revenue from their camping furniture lines.