ZEELAND, MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Jul. 11, 2025) – A Zeeland business institution for nearly a century is closing its doors.
Officials with Howard Miller announced on Thursday that it will end manufacturing operations at the end of the year, citing the tariff situation, uncertainty in the furniture industry, and other economic factors in making the decision. Efforts to find a buyer have been unsuccessful thus far, but the company will still entertaining offers.
Howard Miller, the son of office furniture maker Herman Miller, set off on his own venture in 1926 as a clock maker. The company expanded into producing high-end cabinets and desks, and eventually acquired a Grand Rapids furniture company and a upholstery manufacturer.
The decision will mean the closing of factories in Zeeland, Traverse City, and North Carolina, with workers receiving a severance package and job placement support. Howard Miller will still stay open for retail operations into 2026 in order to sell off inventory.
The Howard Miller Foundation will continue despite the closing, according to company officials.
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