Upmarket shift still going strong in camping chairs & tables line

	Hangzhou Keviny offers foldable camping tables with aluminum tops and frames.

Rising costs and other challenges are spurring the development of functional and attractive designs.

China suppliers of camping chairs and tables are improving selections to move the sales mix toward midrange and high-end models. Contrary to the strategy they adopted during the economic slowdown, most companies are opting to offer differentiated products instead of getting orders primarily on price.

Many enterprises actually began going up the value chain in 2010, when raw material and labor costs started climbing and threatening their price advantage. The appreciation of the yuan against the US dollar was an added pressure, trimming margins to the point where several makers could no longer absorb additional expenses.

During the first half of 2011, price adjustments at most companies ranged from 10 to 20 percent to account for surging outlay and the exchange rate. Some suppliers raised their quotes by 30 percent.

Among the key drivers of the increase were steel tubes, a key option for frames. The cost of the material ranged from $905 to $925 per ton in June, 5 to 15 percent higher than levels the same period in 2010. The yuan, meanwhile, rose 3 percent against the US dollar during the first six months of the year.

Substituting current materials with less expensive alternatives and taking shortcuts in the manufacturing process are not viable solutions to the industry’s two major concerns. This is because more clients now require makers to present guarantees of performance or certificates of compliance with safety requirements such as those of the Oeko-Tex Standard 100.

Consequently, the shift upmarket is gaining momentum, resulting in the adoption of materials that will ensure designs pass third-party testing for azo and lead content, and durability. For instance, while frames with 0.8mm-thick stainless steel pipes are suitable for adult camping chairs, makers still prefer steel and aluminum versions to ensure models meet requirements.

With regard to surface treatment, three or more layers of protective coating are being applied on steel frames to improve their durability in various environments. Aluminum variants undergo a longer anodization period for better corrosion resistance.

For enhanced functionality, features that promote user comfort and convenience are being integrated. These include detachable umbrellas or canopies, cooling pads for the backrest, drink holders and storage bins.

A number of suppliers are also paying attention to aesthetics. Recent releases boast brighter colors and new patterns. Some of the latest combinations are yellow and purple, and blue and brown.

China-made camping chairs and tables have foldable or collapsible designs. Most makers combine metal and fabric in their selections.

Steel and aluminum tubes with a thickness ranging from 1 to 1.5mm are the main options for the frames. These measure 16 to 25mm in diameter.

Steel frames often have at least two layers of powder coating to protect these against scratches and outdoor elements. Aluminum versions are typically anodized.

For seats and tabletops, canvas, oxford and ripstop made of polyester or nylon top raw material choices. The fabrics are coated with PVC, PU or PE for improved resistance to dirt, water, oil, and UV rays.

Aluminum panels are used in some designs. PP and wood are also options.

With regard to add-ons, choices include drink holders, cooler and storage bags, detachable pillows and pads, and adjustable backrests.

Chairs are priced starting at $2.50. Models not exceeding $8 consist mostly of promotional single- to 3-seaters, while higher-priced variants include benches or lounge chairs for multiple users. Designs are available in sets consisting of two or four chairs and a table.

For tables, quotes begin at $3 and increase depending primarily on the materials adopted. All-aluminum versions range from $20 to $35.

Most suppliers intend to keep prices stable for the rest of 2011 after having raised quotes during the first half of the year. Further, as raw material costs are already high, they believe the chance that outlay will significantly increase during the period is slim.

Camp Planner International Co. Ltd

Model: 2006158SLT-B
MOQ: 1,000 pieces
Delivery: 50 days
Description: Camping chair; 600d PE-coated polyester; 16+15x0.8mm steel tube frame;with shade; 84x54x43/86/124cm

Hangzhou Keviny Co. Ltd

Model: 102200
MOQ: 1,000 pieces
Delivery: 30 days
Description: Camping chair; oxford; powder-coated aluminum frame; 63x96x81cm

Hangzhou Keviny Co. Ltd

Model: 102402
MOQ: 1,000 pieces
Delivery: 30 days
Description: Foldable camping table; aluminum top and frame; oxidized finish; 70x70x70cm

Hangzhou Keviny Co. Ltd

Model: 106010
MOQ: 1,000 pieces
Delivery: 30 days
Description: Foldable lounge chair; PVC-coated polyester; powder-coated aluminum frame; 143x58x100cm

Shanghai Bi-Lotus Import & Export Co. Ltd

Model: ZQ242
MOQ: 560 sets
Delivery: 60 days
Description: Camping furniture set; 122x70x70cm table with MDF top; four 30x25x40cm aluminum stools

Shanghai Bi-Lotus Import and Export Co. Ltd

Model: HS-2011
MOQ: 2,000 pieces
Delivery: 60 days
Description: Camping chair; 600d polyester; 16x0.8mm steel tube frame; with drink holder; 52x52x86cm; 210d carry bag

TMC Joy Sports & Leisure Products Co. Ltd

Model: BC2009
MOQ: 1,000 pieces
Delivery: 35 days
Description: Camping chair; 600d polyester; PVC backrest; 16mm steel tube frame; 53x53x85cm

TMC Joy Sports & Leisure Products Co. Ltd

Model: BC2027
MOQ: 1,000 pieces
Delivery: 35 days
Description: Camping chair; 600d polyester; PVC backrest; 16mm steel tube frame; with umbrella; 150x53x85cm