Marshall Furniture's history since opening in 1986 has been marked by opportunity and growth. Learn about our transition from simple roots to our current status as a successful commercial AV furniture manufacturer with an unparalleled and versatile product line.
1980s - THE BEGINNING
In 1986, Marshall Furniture is established, operating out of a small shop using a table saw and pin head router to manufacture.
1986
Marshall Furniture is formed, building wooden rolling carts for corporate boardrooms.
1986
1986
First brochure is issued, promoting wooden rolling monitor carts.
1990s - MOMENTUM
The '90s were marked by progress, with Marshall Furniture making its first move to a larger facility, implementing a 3D drawing service, and expanding the custom product line.
1993
Marshall Furniture moves to Grayslake IL.
1993
Mid 1990s
Marshall exhibits for the first time at InfoComm, featuring fine wood furniture in 10x10 booth.
1993
The first custom lectern is introduced, model MLCT-35, expanding the product line to include standard lecterns.
1993
1995
Complimentary drawing service expands to include 2D drawings shown with equipment in place.
1997
Website is launched.
1997
1998
The Ellipse style lectern is introduced, paving the way for more complex builds in the future.
1998
In response to growing demand, Marshall Furniture moves to larger facility in Grayslake, IL to expand business.
1998
1999
New CAD software is implemented in the design department, allowing complimentary line drawings to now include both 2D & 3D views.
2000s - OPPORTUNITY
The new millennium marked the biggest challenge for Marshall Furniture - moving into a brand new 32,000 square foot facility shortly after 9/11. In the face of an unpredictable economy, Marshall Furniture knew they needed to adapt, so a Quick Ship line was developed in response, which turned into an overnight success. The shifting landscape of the 2000s provided the perfect opportunity for Marshall Furniture to expand into the economy realm, ultimately opening the door to additional markets and customers.
2000
The veneer division is formed to address and manage custom veneer orders.
2000
2001
Marshall Furniture moves to a larger 32,000 sq foot facility.
2001
Marshall Furniture becomes a member of the Architectural Woodwork Institute and begins following their specific, high-quality standards for design and build.
2001
2003
CNC automated machinery is installed, easing the manufacturing process for large volume orders and ensuring precision and efficiency for all orders.
2006
The melamine division is formed, subsequently leading to the product development of the ELCO lectern.
2006
2007
The Quick Ship line is formally introduced and products are advertised with a 30 day lead.
2010s - GROWTH
At the start of the 2010s, Marshall Furniture began to expand rapidly, exhibiting at more tradeshows, implementing more automated machinery, and adding production personnel and staff to the growing sales and design departments.
2010
An in house logo division is formed to offer laser engraving and multi color logos for corporate and school branding.
2010
2010-2012
Additional CNCs are added to keep up with the demand for large volume orders.
2011
Marshall Furniture begins building courtroom technology furniture, further expanding its custom product line.
2011
2011
Marshall Furniture begins using Sketchup to amplify their design services and color rendering capabilities.
2011+
Marshall Furniture expands national trade show presence by exhibiting at CTC, UB Tech, and NeoCon.
2011+
2012
Marshall Furniture begins partnership with the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to offer sustainability sourced material for finished products.
2012
The MWSP-ADA is introduced, a custom, height adjustable, and wheelchair accessible workstation with AV functionality.
2012
2019
The metal department is established, allowing Marshall Furniture to fabricate miscellaneous parts for work orders.
2020s - FUTURE
Marshall Furniture's hard work, perseverance, dedication, and experience has contributed to their success over the last 35 years. As we look to the future, we're excited to continue growing our brand, connecting with customers, and offering unparalleled products.
2020
Marshall Furniture installs a Zoom room, upgrading their video conference capabilities, increasing their outside sales presence, and introducing real-time product demonstrations.
2020
2021
Marshall Furniture celebrates 35 years in business.
