MillerKnoll Bundle
What is MillerKnoll?
MillerKnoll is a global leader in modern design, formed by the 2021 merger of Herman Miller and Knoll. The company provides a wide range of furniture and services for various environments, including offices, homes, and healthcare settings.
This union brought together two companies with deep roots in innovation and a shared vision for enhancing the human experience through thoughtful design. Their combined legacy shapes the contemporary design landscape.
What is the brief history of MillerKnoll?
Herman Miller, originally the Star Furniture Co. founded in 1905, pioneered modern design. Knoll, established in 1938, also championed a design philosophy that integrated furniture with architectural spaces. For a deeper understanding of the external factors influencing the company, explore the MillerKnoll PESTEL Analysis.
In fiscal year 2024, the company achieved net sales of $3.6 billion, followed by $3.7 billion in fiscal year 2025. As of August 13, 2025, its market capitalization was $1.42 billion.
What is the MillerKnoll Founding Story?
The MillerKnoll company's rich history is a tapestry woven from the distinct founding stories of two influential entities: Herman Miller and Knoll. Each brought unique philosophies and innovations that would eventually shape the modern furniture and design landscape.
Herman Miller's Transformation
The journey began in 1905 as the Star Furniture Company in Zeeland, Michigan, initially producing traditional bedroom suites. A significant pivot occurred in 1923 when Dirk Jan De Pree, with his father-in-law Herman Miller, acquired the company, renaming it the Herman Miller Furniture Company. Facing hardship during the Great Depression, a pivotal meeting with industrial designer Gilbert Rohde in 1930 steered the company towards modern design, a move that redefined its product offerings and business direction.
- Founded as Star Furniture Company in 1905.
- Renamed Michigan Star Furniture Company in 1919.
- Acquired and renamed Herman Miller Furniture Company in 1923.
- Shifted focus to modern design in 1930 under Gilbert Rohde's influence.
Knoll's Design-Centric Foundation
Knoll, Inc. was established in New York City in 1938 by German businessman Hans Knoll. A transformative partnership formed when Hans married architect Florence Schust in 1946. Their collaboration merged Hans's business acumen with Florence's visionary design approach, deeply influenced by the Bauhaus and Cranbrook Academy of Art. Florence Knoll's pioneering Knoll Planning Unit revolutionized office interiors by introducing concepts of efficiency and integrated design, setting new standards for the modern workspace.
- Founded in New York City in 1938 by Hans Knoll.
- Florence Schust joined and later married Hans Knoll in 1946.
- Embraced Bauhaus philosophy, integrating furniture with architecture.
- Collaborated with renowned designers like Eero Saarinen and Harry Bertoia.
The combined legacy of these two companies forms the foundation of MillerKnoll's enduring impact on design and business. Understanding the Revenue Streams & Business Model of MillerKnoll provides further insight into their strategic evolution.
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What Drove the Early Growth of MillerKnoll?
The early growth of the company that would become MillerKnoll was characterized by a significant embrace of modern design principles and strategic expansion. This period laid the groundwork for its future influence in shaping interior environments.
Herman Miller's Modern Design Shift
Following Gilbert Rohde's influence, the company debuted its first modern furniture line at the 1933 Chicago World's Fair. Under D.J. De Pree and later Hugh De Pree, the company expanded its residential furniture offerings.
Designer Collaborations and Innovation
Key partnerships with designers like Charles and Ray Eames began in 1946, and George Nelson joined as design director in 1947. The establishment of the Research Division in 1961 led to the 'Action Office' line in 1964, introducing the cubicle concept.
Knoll's Foundation and Expansion
Knoll's expansion was driven by its commitment to modern design and a 'total design planning' approach. After Hans Knoll's death in 1955, Florence Knoll led the company, moving production to Pennsylvania in 1950 to support growth.
The Formation of MillerKnoll
On July 19, 2021, Herman Miller completed its acquisition of Knoll, Inc. for $1.8 billion, creating MillerKnoll. This merger established one of the largest modern design companies, aiming to transform home and office environments and enhance efficiency across its brands. This strategic move is detailed further in the Marketing Strategy of MillerKnoll.
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What are the key Milestones in MillerKnoll history?
The MillerKnoll company history is a narrative of design excellence, marked by iconic product introductions and strategic adaptations to market shifts. From the mid-20th century, the company has been at the forefront of furniture innovation, shaping modern workspaces and homes. This journey, while celebrated for its creative output, has also involved navigating significant economic challenges and implementing forward-thinking strategies to ensure continued growth and relevance in the global market.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1956 | Herman Miller introduced the Eames Lounge Chair and the Marshmallow Sofa, both becoming design classics. |
| 1968 | Herman Miller revolutionized office design with the introduction of the 'Action Office,' the precursor to the modern cubicle. |
| 1990s | The Aeron chair was launched, setting new standards in ergonomic design and material innovation. |
| Ongoing | Knoll's designs, including the Barcelona Chair and Tulip Chair, have earned significant recognition, with over 40 pieces in the Museum of Modern Art's permanent collection. |
The company's legacy is built on a foundation of groundbreaking design, exemplified by products that have redefined interior spaces and user experience. Innovations like the Aeron chair, which utilized advanced materials and ergonomic principles, showcase a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what furniture can be. This dedication to pioneering design is further evidenced by the extensive presence of its brands' creations in prestigious museum collections, reflecting a profound impact on the design world.
Iconic Product Design
The introduction of the Eames Lounge Chair and the Marshmallow Sofa in 1956 established a benchmark for mid-century modern design. These pieces continue to be highly sought after for their aesthetic appeal and comfort.
Workplace Revolution
The 'Action Office' system, launched in 1968, fundamentally changed office layouts by introducing modular workstations, a concept that evolved into today's cubicles.
Ergonomic Advancement
The Aeron chair, released in the 1990s, represented a significant leap in ergonomic seating, utilizing innovative materials and a design focused on user health and adaptability.
Design Heritage
Knoll's significant contributions, including the Barcelona Chair and Tulip Chair, are recognized globally, with numerous designs held in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
Intellectual Property
The combined entity holds over 400 active utility and design patents in the U.S., underscoring a continuous commitment to innovation and proprietary design.
Sustainability Commitment
A new sustainability strategy, detailed in the 2024 Better World Report, aims for net-zero carbon emissions and 100% recycled or bio-based materials by 2050, with significant progress already made in reducing carbon footprints and increasing recycled content in products.
The company has faced considerable challenges throughout its history, including periods of financial distress and more recent economic headwinds. Macroeconomic factors such as rising interest rates and a cooling housing market have impacted its retail segment. For fiscal year 2024, net sales saw a decrease of 11.2% year-over-year, reaching $3.6 billion. Furthermore, the third quarter of fiscal year 2025 reported consolidated net sales of $876.2 million, falling short of expectations, with adjusted diluted earnings per share at $0.44, a slight dip from the previous year.
Economic Headwinds
The company has been affected by macroeconomic conditions, including higher interest rates and a slowdown in the U.S. housing market, which have influenced its retail performance.
Sales Performance
Fiscal year 2024 reported a net sales decrease of 11.2% to $3.6 billion, and the third quarter of fiscal year 2025 saw consolidated net sales of $876.2 million, missing forecasts.
Margin Pressures
The company is experiencing margin pressures, partly due to the impact of tariffs on its operations and product costs.
Strategic Adjustments
In response to these challenges, the company is implementing strategic measures such as targeted price increases, supply chain optimization, and focused cost-reduction initiatives to improve financial performance.
Investment in Growth
Despite economic pressures, the company continues to invest in new product development, expanding its retail footprint, and enhancing showroom experiences to stimulate order growth and maintain market presence.
Sustainability Goals
The company has set ambitious sustainability targets, including achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and eliminating PFAS chemicals, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility alongside business objectives. This aligns with the broader Mission, Vision & Core Values of MillerKnoll.
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What is the Timeline of Key Events for MillerKnoll?
The MillerKnoll company history is a rich tapestry woven from the legacies of two design pioneers, Herman Miller and Knoll. This journey is marked by significant innovations and strategic growth, culminating in the formation of the modern entity.
| Year | Key Event |
|---|---|
| 1905 | Herman Miller was founded as Star Furniture Company in Zeeland, Michigan. |
| 1923 | The company was renamed Herman Miller Furniture Company. |
| 1930 | Gilbert Rohde was hired, initiating a significant shift towards modern design. |
| 1938 | Knoll was founded by Hans Knoll in New York City. |
| 1946 | Florence Schust established the Knoll Planning Unit, revolutionizing office design. |
| 1956 | The iconic Eames Lounge Chair was introduced by Herman Miller. |
| 1968 | Herman Miller invented the 'Action Office,' the precursor to the modern office cubicle. |
| 1970 | Herman Miller went public. |
| 1994 | The Aeron Chair, a breakthrough in ergonomic seating, was launched by Herman Miller. |
| 2021 | Herman Miller completed its acquisition of Knoll, Inc., forming MillerKnoll. |
| 2025 | MillerKnoll unveiled its new sustainability strategy and 2024 Better World Report, targeting net-zero by 2050. |
| 2025 | MillerKnoll reported Third Quarter Fiscal Year 2025 results with consolidated net sales of $876.2 million. |
| 2025 | An expansive Chicago flagship was unveiled at Fulton Market Design Days 2025. |
| 2025 | Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2025 results were reported, with full fiscal year net sales of $3.7 billion. |
Financial Performance and Outlook
For fiscal year 2025, MillerKnoll anticipates net sales to exceed fiscal year 2024 levels. Adjusted diluted earnings per share are projected between $2.10 and $2.30. The company reported strong Q4 FY2025 revenue of $961.8 million and adjusted EPS of $0.60.
Strategic Growth Initiatives
Investments are continuing in digital platforms, showrooms, and new product development. These efforts aim to foster growth and provide robust support for the company's extensive dealer network.
Sustainability Commitments
MillerKnoll aims for 100% renewable electricity by FY2026 and the global elimination of PFAS by FY2027. The company also plans to divert 10 million pounds of furniture waste from landfills by FY2027.
Market Position and Future Projections
As of August 13, 2025, MillerKnoll's market capitalization is $1.42 billion. Analyst forecasts suggest MLKN stock could reach an average price of $10.45 in 2025, with longer-term projections indicating significant growth. Understanding the Competitors Landscape of MillerKnoll is key to appreciating its market standing.
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