This outdoor dining set from Wicker World utilizes HDPE wicker.

Durability and cost efficiency are prompting companies to turn to plastic alternatives such as PE, PVC and HDPE.

India suppliers of outdoor wicker furniture are increasingly adopting synthetic materials as these are stronger, and more resistant to fading, UV rays, moisture, scratches and stains than natural counterparts. Releases in artificial inputs are also less costly, washable and possess a distinct gloss. Most makers prefer PE, PVC and HDPE because of their resemblance to natural wicker. A number of companies employ imported materials to ensure quality. Some combine plastic and plant fibers for increased toughness.

Wicker World sources plastic granules from Germany. The manufacturer turns these to HDPE, which the company utilizes for its models. The materials are entirely made of virgin plastic.

For the frames, mild and stainless steel, and aluminum are the common options. The metal alloys are sturdy and withstand corrosion.

Furniture in natural materials, however, are still available. Cane and bamboo are the popular choices because these are lightweight, breathable and fast-growing, which allows for quicker replenishment. The states of Assam and Andhra Pradesh, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands boast abundant cane and bamboo resources.

To separate themselves from industry rivals, many makers are improving visual appeal. Apart from the traditional square, rectangular and semicircular releases, suppliers are launching pieces in novelty shapes and stacking sets that double as large home accents. The majority of products come with a metallic powder coating, including copper, bronze, and varying shades of brown, gray and black. Some are enamel-painted in white, pink, blue or green. Others have a smooth finish.

India's selection of outdoor wicker furniture includes sofa, dining and bistro sets, patio swings, pool lounge chairs, and bar cabinets and stools. The first four categories dominate the line. Most models come with unupholstered foam cushions. Quotes start at $150 and can exceed $500. The material, construction and set inclusions are the main price differentiators.

Many low-end models are dining or bistro sets, consisting of a table and four chairs. They utilize PVC wicker and mild steel frames. Pieces may have lacquer-polished or enamel-painted finish. Tables are 3 to 4ft in length and come with 5 to 6mm-thick tempered-glass tops. Patio swings, rocking chairs, loungers and low stools are also offered. Products go for $150 to $250.

Sets of one table and two two- or three-seater sofas or 4 to 6ft dining tables and four to six dining chairs constitute the midrange segment. Designs adopt PE or PVC and powder-coated aluminum frames or are made entirely of cane and bamboo. Most have UV-coated finish. Prices are between $260 and $400.

The most expensive releases use PU- and UV-coated HDPE, cane or bamboo. The last two, together with powder-coated aluminum, are also utilized for the frame. Many come in metallic shades. Sofa sets withtwo or three two- and three-seater chairs and a coffee table, dining sets with a 5 to 8ft-long table and six to eight chairs, and bistro sets comprise the selection. Quotes are above $400.

Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Delhi and Mumbai are the main manufacturing hubs of outdoor wicker furniture in India. These areas benefit from abundant material sources, large pool of skilled artisans and solid infrastructure. The US and Europe remain the top export destinations but makers are also exploring Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Central and South America.

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Indonesia furniture sector recovers on strong sales to new markets

Product gallery

Ambience Interior Solutions
Model: 1
MOQ: 10 pieces
Delivery: 60 days
Price: $500
Description: Sofa; HDPE; powder-coated aluminum frame; UV-coating, metallic brown finish; 6ft length; 28in depth; thick weave

Global Corp.
Model: 1
MOQ: 5 sets
Delivery: 60 days
Price: $400
Description: Bistro set; 34in-diameter center table, four chairs; natural wicker; cane frame; natural lacquer finish

Global Corp.
Model: 2
MOQ: 5 pieces
Delivery: 60 days
Price: $350
Description: Three-seater sofa; natural wicker; cane frame; powder-coated; thick weave with braided borders; 5ft length; 24in depth

One Step Furniture
Model: GGS-302
MOQ: 5 pieces
Delivery: 30 days
Price: $200
Description: Patio swing; PE; white powder-coated stainless steel frame; round base; egg-shaped swing; foam cushions

Wicker World
Model: LCOD 109
MOQ: FEU
Delivery: 60 days
Price: $700
Description: Dining set; 100x100x75cm table, four 59x60x96cm chairs; HDPE; aluminum frame; UV-coated, dark metallic brown finish

Wicker World
Model: LCOD 165
MOQ: FEU
Delivery: 60 days
Price: $630
Description: Dining set; 100x100x75cm table, four 61x64x87cm chairs; HDPE; aluminum frame; UV-coated; light brown