In the evolving world of furniture design, wicker continues to be a timeless and versatile option. For wholesalers, retailers, and hospitality buyers, wicker wholesale furniture offers a compelling combination of affordability, durability, and aesthetic appeal. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about wicker furniture in the wholesale trade—from its materials and manufacturing to market benefits, global sourcing, and challenges.
Introduction: Why Wicker Furniture Still Matters in a Modern Market
Wicker furniture, often associated with warmth, comfort, and natural design, has evolved beyond its traditional roots. Today’s wicker is not only stylish but also functional and durable, thanks to advancements in material science and manufacturing.
Wicker refers to the weaving process, not the material. It is commonly crafted using:
- Natural rattan
- Synthetic resin (HDPE/polyethylene)
- Bamboo
- Seagrass or banana leaf (in select markets)
This makes it popular across markets—from beach resorts and cafes to patios, balconies, hotels, and kids’ rooms. Wholesale buyers benefit from a broad customer base, strong resale margins, and flexible supply chain options, especially when sourcing from countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, and China.
Part 1: Understanding the Materials Used in Wicker Furniture
A successful wholesale business begins with understanding the materials used in production. Wicker furniture may appear delicate, but when made with the right materials, it offers strength, comfort, and visual appeal.
1.1 Natural Rattan Wicker
Rattan is one of the oldest and most widely used materials in wicker furniture. Indonesia is the world’s top exporter of natural rattan and provides a global supply of this eco-friendly material.
Advantages:
- Renewable and biodegradable
- Lightweight but strong
- Beautiful natural grain patterns
- Ideal for indoor use or covered patios
Challenges:
- Less resistant to prolonged exposure to moisture or UV
- Needs protective finishing for outdoor use
1.2 Synthetic Wicker (Resin/HDPE)
Synthetic wicker mimics the texture of natural rattan but is engineered for outdoor durability.
Advantages:
- UV-resistant, waterproof, and mold-proof
- Ideal for poolside furniture, cafes, hotels
- Available in multiple colors and patterns
- Low maintenance and fade-resistant
Popular synthetic brands: Viro®, Rehau®, Ecolene®
1.3 Bamboo, Banana Leaf & Other Woven Materials
Some furniture also uses natural weaves like:
- Banana leaf or seagrass for rustic appeal
- Bamboo strips for traditional Asian themes
While attractive, these materials are best suited for indoor use or boutique markets due to their sensitivity to weathering.
Part 2: Wicker Furniture Manufacturing Process
Knowing how wicker furniture is made can help you as a wholesaler assess quality, choose suppliers, and communicate value to customers.
2.1 Frame Construction
Wicker is typically woven over a metal (aluminum or iron) or wooden frame.
- Aluminum frame: Lightweight, rust-resistant, best for outdoor sets
- Teak/mahogany frame: Heavier, elegant for indoor settings
- Steel frame: Strong but must be powder-coated to prevent rust
2.2 Weaving Process
Craftsmanship plays a major role:
- Handwoven techniques ensure authentic look and strength
- Skilled artisans follow tight patterns for consistency
- Synthetic rattan often requires heat treatment to bend and weave properly
Weaving can take 1–3 days per piece depending on complexity.
2.3 Finishing & Coating
Finishing includes:
- UV-coating (for synthetic)
- Varnishing or sealing (for natural rattan)
- Cushions and fabric (Sunbrella®, Olefin, or local materials)
2.4 Quality Control
A good manufacturer performs:
- Frame strength tests
- Weaving tension check
- Colorfastness test
- Cushion material inspection
Part 3: Sourcing Wicker Wholesale Furniture – Where and How
Wicker furniture is manufactured primarily in:
- Indonesia (Cirebon, Solo, Jepara)
- Vietnam (Hanoi, Binh Duong)
- China (Guangdong, Fujian)
3.1 Why Indonesia is the Best for Natural Rattan Wicker
Indonesia is the only country with a natural rattan supply large enough to support mass-scale production. Towns like Cirebon have been wicker hubs for generations.
Top advantages:
- Ethical rattan sourcing (SVLK-certified)
- Skilled handweavers with decades of experience
- Export-ready factories with FSC/BSCI
- Global shipping experience (USA, Europe, UAE, Australia)
3.2 Finding Reliable Suppliers
Steps to find the right supplier:
- Use trusted directories (Alibaba, GlobalSources, Made-in-Indonesia)
- Request certifications (SVLK, BSCI, FSC)
- Visit trade fairs (IFEX Jakarta, IFFINA, China Import Expo)
- Communicate with export staff (Ensure language clarity and timelines)
3.3 Understanding Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ)
Typical MOQ:
- 1×20 ft container (~80–150 pieces)
- Mix styles allowed
- Some offer sample orders for initial quality check
Pro tip: Choose vendors that allow product customization and private labeling (OEM/ODM).
Part 4: Wholesale Wicker Furniture Applications
Wicker furniture is extremely adaptable across industries and use cases:
4.1 Outdoor Living & Patio Sets
Best-selling in the USA, Europe, and Australia:
- Lounge chairs
- Coffee tables
- Dining sets
- Modular sofa sets
Synthetic wicker is preferred for these due to weather resistance.
4.2 Indoor Rattan Furniture
Popular in minimalist, boho, coastal designs:
- Accent chairs
- Bed frames
- Bookcases & cabinets
- Kids’ furniture
Natural wicker offers the perfect rustic and handcrafted vibe.
4.3 Hospitality & Commercial Projects
Hotels, resorts, and cafes use wicker for:
- Lobby lounge sets
- Balcony sets
- Poolside seating
- Rooftop dining areas
Buyers can request fire-retardant fabrics and commercial-grade construction.
Part 5: The Business Benefits of Selling Wicker Furniture
5.1 Profit Margins and Demand
Wicker furniture provides excellent margins:
- Low production cost compared to hardwood
- Retail markup up to 4x or more depending on brand positioning
High demand in:
- Coastal and tropical markets (Florida, Bali, Mediterranean)
- Urban minimalist and Scandinavian interiors
- Sustainable living niches
5.2 Lightweight for Lower Shipping Costs
Unlike bulky solid wood, wicker is:
- Light and stackable
- Lower in CBM (cubic meter usage)
- Cheaper to ship per piece
This benefits eCommerce businesses and container optimization.
5.3 Customization for Brand Differentiation
Wholesale buyers can request:
- Exclusive patterns
- Color-matching cushions
- Logo embroidery or laser engraving
- Unique packaging with brand labeling
This makes it ideal for building private-label furniture brands.
Part 6: Common Challenges in Wicker Wholesale Business
6.1 Inconsistent Weaving or Finishing
Especially with handwoven products, inconsistency may occur if:
- Factory lacks skilled labor
- Quality control is weak
- Too much production pressure
Solution: Partner with vendors who provide sample QC reports and welcome third-party inspection.
6.2 Durability in Harsh Climates
Even synthetic wicker can degrade under extreme sun or humidity if not properly treated.
Solution: Confirm UV ratings and warranty periods for outdoor products.
6.3 Supply Chain Delays
Natural disasters, political events, or raw material shortages can affect timelines.
Solution: Plan inventory with a buffer of 30–60 days and communicate shipping deadlines clearly.
Part 7: Tips for Scaling Your Wicker Furniture Business
7.1 Leverage Digital Channels
Use platforms like:
- Shopify or WooCommerce for DTC (direct-to-consumer)
- Wayfair, Overstock, or Houzz for dropshipping/retail
- B2B portals for wholesale buyers
Invest in SEO-rich content around “chair-natural-rattan-frame/">rattan chairs”, “wicker patio furniture”, and “boho furniture”.
7.2 Work with Influencers and Interior Designers
Wicker is highly visual. Showcase your collection via:
- Instagram collaborations
- Pinterest boards
- Interior design firms for hotel projects
This boosts reach and establishes brand authority.
7.3 Create Seasonal Collections
- Summer: Outdoor patio, pool lounge
- Fall: Indoor accent pieces, cozy rattan armchairs
- Holiday: Gift bundles, nursery wicker
Creating seasonal themes can boost sales cycles and match consumer trends.
The Future of Wicker Wholesale Furniture
Wicker furniture combines natural beauty with modern durability. For global wholesalers, it offers a smart, sustainable, and design-forward product line that continues to thrive in both residential and commercial spaces.
Sourcing from countries like Indonesia ensures access to skilled craftsmanship, ethical materials, and scalable production. By understanding the manufacturing process, market trends, and potential pitfalls, you can position your business to grow profitably in the wicker wholesale segment for years to come.
