Aeron office chairs were once a status symbol. Some versions of the sleek, aerodynamic piece cost $1,000 and reveal the sitter to be both important and employed by an important company. But what happens when the Masters of the Universe no longer need to come to the office?
Aeron maker Herman Miller announced last week it would acquire rival Knoll, best known for its modernist tables, for just under $2bn. In hip offices, both brand names are known for stylish products that ooze prestige.
The two companies are running into each other’s arms to head off trouble. Work from home is the present, and hybrid models of working are the future. Even Jamie Dimon, boss of JPMorgan Chase, a typical skyscraper-occupying bank, concedes less space will be needed per worker. They will presumably need less fancy furniture too.