History of Friant

Friant manufactures innovative and customizable high-end office systems, at prices unmatched in the industry. Our product lines include two panel systems, wood and laminate casegoods, reception units, conference tables, seating and accessories. In addition, we offer custom manufacturing, built to your specs from our Oakland, California wood shop. With Friant, you can create a beautiful and functional space for less than you’d spend anywhere else.

Started more than 20 years ago by Paul Friant, we've grown into a mid-size company that offers A-grade products at B-grade pricing. Our streamlined manufacturing and distribution channels allow us to keep our overhead costs low, and pass on the savings to you.

Integral to our business philosophy is keeping a fair pricing structure based on our actual costs, not industry standard rates - and we'll continue to do so, even as we grow. It's our commitment to excellence in both product and pricing.

A Timeline of Success

• 

• 1990

  Friant & Associates, a service-based company, is founded by Paul Friant. Services include installation and repair (and just about anything else his customers need).

• 

• 1991

  Demonstrates commitment to excellence in customer service by cleaning 700 Red & White Fleet chairs that were delivered to his lawn (in lieu of warehouse). Read more on our blog .

• 

• 1992

  Thankfully obtains first warehouse in Oakland (2000 sq. ft.) and begins refurbishing furniture by customer request.

• 

• 1993

  Addition of our first workshop by expanding to space contingent to warehouse. Now 4 full time employees.

• 

• 1995

  Expands to larger (30,000 sq. ft.) warehouse. Adds CNC machinery and dedicated fabric shop. 25 Employees.

• 

• 1997

  Moves to current location in Oakland, CA which includes 145,000 sq. ft. warehouse, wood and fabric shop, showroom and office headquarters.

• 

• 1998

  Establishes international partnership that allows for overseas manufacturing and exponential increase in production capacity. Adds night crew in Oakland, California.

• 

• 2000 - 2004

  In response to customer demand, begins manufacturing new product, with launch of the System 2 panel system. Grows from 50 to 100 employees. Begin new product development, including the Tiles panel system and Mesa conference table product lines.

• 

• 2008

  Launches national sales initiative, adding 50 sales associates across the country.

• 

• 2009

  Introduces premier panel system, Tiles and reception line, Willow. Begins "Green" Friant initiative by adding a LEED Associate to staff, switching to waterbased finishes and adhesives and taking other green measures.

• 

• 2010

  Obtains MAS Green Certification for System 2 and Tiles. Adds second warehouse for greatly expanded inventory capacity. Launches new chair line and new Mesa wired conference table. On track for 30% growth despite industry's lackluster sales.

• 

• 2011

  Adds warehouse in Georgia to better serve Southestern customers.