SELECTED ASPECTS OF INNOVATION IN THE FURNITURE INDUSTRY - EMPIRICAL RESEARCH FINDINGS

A willingness to innovate and develop innovation potential are the basic conditions for competitiveness on domestic, as well as international, markets. The aim of this paper is to explore the perception of innovation within the furniture industry in Poland. Empirical research was conducted in two stages. In the first, based on the findings of analyses published by the Central Statistical Office, the innovation activity of furniture enterprises was evaluated in comparison with that of all Polish industry. The second stage comprised primary research, the aim of which was to collect opinions from furniture manufacturers on certain aspects of innovation activity. The analysis was conducted in 80 medium-sized and large furniture enterprises. The research tool was an interview questionnaire composed of 31 questions. From the primary research it was found that the greatest influence on an increase in demand for furniture was a price reduction of the product. The most significant factor influencing the decision on the part of entrepreneurs regarding the introduction of innovation was its economic justification. The main factor curbing innovation activity in furniture enterprises was a lack of funds.