MCCONNELLSVILLE, NY – Harden Furniture Co. has announced plans to install an estimated $3 million in new technology as part of the residential and contract furniture and casegoods manufacturer's lean manufacturing initiatives.

Occurring in multiple phases, upgrades at the 450,000-square-foot sustainable manufacturing facility will include new software, a Holz-Her CNC machining center, part of the company's batch one manufacturing cell, and a Weinig optimizing rough mill system. Plans call for the first phase to be operational by year's end.

According to Greg Harden, company president and CEO, the investment in technology enables Harden to extend its lean manufacturing practices to product lines in addition to the upholstery frame and dining table production, while continuing to offer custom options.

In a statement, Harden said, "we had an opportunity to proactively apply technology in a manner that will improve our manufacturing performance and broaden our appeal to consumers who continually ask for more custom options.”

In addition to allowing customers to customize hardwoods and finishes, other anticipated benefits also include "shorter production lead times, an increased ability to customize existing designs, and reduced operating costs."

Harden added the investment will “establish Harden as one of the few furnishings manufacturers world-wide that has “one off” and true custom capabilities. This will significantly leverage our existing product line while providing dramatic improvements in all aspects of our operations.”

Vertically integrated, the privately held Harden Furniture was founded in 1844 and is the oldest family-owned furnishings manufacturer in North America.

Click here to read more about Harden's furniture manufacturing operation

Watch a video from Harden Furniture's factory