Kevin JohnsonPottery Barn is a premier home furnishing store chain and e-commerce company based in San Francisco, California. Paul and Morris Secon founded the company in 1949. By 1968, the two brothers had sold their share of the business to external partners, and the new owners expanded Pottery Barn to 13 stores and sold it to The Gap in 1984.
In 1986, Williams-Sonoma, Inc. acquired Pottery Barn. The company introduced Pottery Barn Kids in 1999, an e-commerce site in 2000, and Pottery Barn Teen in 2009. In Jun 2023, Pottery Barn launched its monthly in-store design class series across the US. Customers can leverage this offering to learn interior décor and design tips and tricks from experts and enthusiasts. [1]
Pottery Barn is a specialty retailer that offers furniture, bedding, bath, window treatments, rugs, tabletop, lighting, and décor accessories. Most of its products are exclusively designed in-house and are available in its catalogs, stores, and website. Pottery Barn operates company-owned stores in the US, Canada, and Australia. Consumers in the international markets can access Pottery Barn’s products via unaffiliated franchisees and e-commerce websites.
In Mar 2023, the company released an outdoor tabletop with Monique Lhuillier to celebrate the 5th year of collaboration with the fashion designer. However, Pottery Barn faces stiff competition from Wayfair, IKEA, Overstock, Urban Outfitters, West Elm, and Amazon. [2]
Here is an in-depth analysis of Pottery Barn’s top 21 competitors and alternatives:
1. Wayfair Inc.
Year founded: 2002
Headquarter: Boston, Massachusetts
Wayfair is an American e-commerce company specializing in furniture and home goods. It operates across North America and Europe. In Jan 2023, Wayfair laid off about 1,750 employees or 10% of its staff. The retailer reduced its workforce by 5% in the first round of job cuts in Aug 2022. These layoffs can help the company save $750 million annually. [3]
The main competitive advantage of Wayfair is its portfolio, including stylish, modern, luxury, classic, and professional interior décor, furniture, and home goods. It offers a comprehensive product variety for every space, style, and budget. As of March 2023, the company had 21.7 million active customers. Wayfair is one of the top competitors for Pottery Barn. [4]
2. IKEA
Year founded: 1943
Headquarter: Delft, Netherlands
IKEA is an iconic global furniture brand that sells its products via online channels and physical stores in over 50 countries. In 2022, IKEA had around 231,000 employees.
The main competitive advantage for IKEA is its ready-to-assemble furniture. In Sep 2022, the company released its world-famous IKEA Catalog with new furniture and décor including the latest collections like IKEA Christmas, MÄVINN, Nytillverkad, SAMMANLÄNKAD, and ÖMSESIDIG. Each option offers specific home products with unique features. IKEA is one of the top competitors for Pottery Barn. [5]
3. Overstock.com, Inc.
Year founded: 1999
Headquarter: Midvale, Utah
Overstock.com is a leading online furniture and home furnishings retailer. Its e-commerce site offers home products at low prices, including furniture, décor, rugs, bedding and bath, and home improvement. In 2022, Overstock.com had over 1,600 employees.
Overstock.com is an online-only home furnishings retailer and doesn’t own or operate any physical stores. As of Apr 2023, the company’s online shopping site featured millions of products and attracted over 10 million monthly visitors. Overstock.com is one of the best alternatives to Pottery Barn for online shoppers. [6]
4. Urban Outfitters
Year founded: 1970
Headquarter: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Urban Outfitters is a multinational lifestyle retailer and one of URBN’s brands. The company offers trendy furniture, décor, and homewares. As of June 2023, Urban Outfitters had over 26,000 employees.
Urban Outfitters caters to young adults and teenagers and competes against Pottery Barn Teen. As of Feb 2023, the company operated 707 stores, up from 685 outlets in 2022. Urban Outfitters is one of the best alternatives to Pottery Barn Teen. [7]
5. West Elm
Year founded: 2002
Headquarter: Brooklyn, New York
West Elm is a global design company owned by Williams-Sonoma, Inc. It offers original and affordable home décor and a selection of local products. In 2023, West Elm operated an e-commerce platform and over 100 stores worldwide.
West Elm and Pottery Barn are part of Williams-Sonoma, Inc. Both participate in The Key Rewards, a free-to-join loyalty program that offers exclusive benefits across the best-in-class brands; however, they compete for customers as independent companies.
In May 2023, West Elm collaborated with Finnish design house Marimekko to create a limited-edition summer-inspired collection. West Elm is a worthy alternative to Pottery Barn. [8]
6. Amazon.com
Year founded: 1994
Headquarter: Seattle, Washington
Amazon is a tech and retail company that operates the world’s largest e-commerce platform. Consumers can rely on Amazon’s Home department to access furniture, home décor accents, appliances, and accessories. In 2023, Amazon had over 1.5 million employees.
Amazon is an all-in-one online retailer, while Pottery Barn is a specialty furniture and home furnishings chain store. In Apr 2023, Amazon offered several new furniture deals on Amazon Prime Day. Shoppers saved 52% on living room, bedroom, and office furniture from brands like Christopher Knight and Nathan James. Amazon is a formidable competitor for Pottery Barn. [9]
7. Ashley Furniture
Year founded: 1945
Headquarter: Arcadia, Wisconsin
Ashley Furniture is an American furniture manufacturer and retailer. The company sells its products across North America under Ashley HomeStore. In 2022, Ashley had over 35,000 employees and operated more than 1,000 stores globally.
Ashley offers furniture for the living room, dining room, bedroom, and home office. In Jun 2023, the company recalled more than 260,000 power sofas, loveseats, and recliners because of potential fire hazards. The recall undercuts Ashley’s competitive advantage over Pottery Barn. [10]
8. Havertys Furniture
Year founded: 1885
Headquarter: Atlanta, Georgia
Havertys is a full-service home furnishings retailer. The company operates 123 showrooms in 16 Southern and Midwestern US states. In 2022, Havertys surpassed $1 billion in annual sales for the second year. [11]
Havertys provides quality merchandise in the middle to upper-middle price ranges. In May 2023, the company celebrated 25 years of service in greater Washington, DC. The company commemorated over 125 years of business in Texas with an exclusive art collection. Havertys is one of the top competitors for Pottery Barn in the Southern and Midwestern regions. [12]
9. RH
Year founded: 1979
Headquarter: Corte Madera, California
Formerly known as Restoration Hardware, RH is a homeware and luxury furniture company. The retailer sells its products online and via physical stores in the US and Canada. As of June 2023, RH had around 6,200 employees.
RH is best known for selling pricey furniture, including $5,000 dining tables and $10,000 couches. In May 2023, RH CEO Gary Friedman admitted that the company’s pricing was too aggressive. The CEO plans to lower the prices of its new collection, RH Contemporary. RH is one of the best alternatives to Pottery Barn for high-end luxury furniture and homewares. [13]
10. Walmart
Year founded: 1962
Headquarter: Bentonville, Arkansas
Walmart is the world’s largest brick-and-mortar retailer. The retail giant offers furniture and home furnishings, including tables, kitchen cabinets, décor pieces, beds, mattresses, and sofas. In 2022, Walmart operated over 4,700 stores across the US.
The main competitive advantage of Walmart is its strong market presence and all-in-one offering. Customers can purchase its MoDRN furniture collection or furnishings from global and local brands under one roof.
In 2023, Walmart adopted AI-powered robots to help shoppers select products and improve shopping experiences. Walmart is one of the top Pottery Barn competitors. [14]
11. H&M HOME
Year founded: 1947
Headquarter: Stockholm, Sweden
H&M Group is a Swedish multinational clothing company. Its H&M HOME brand offers bedding, pillows, vases, cushion covers, mugs, serving bowls and platters, bed sets, lamps and lampshades, seasonal accent pieces, and more at affordable prices. In 2022, H&M had over 107,000 employees and around 4,800 stores in 75 markets globally.
H&M is best known for its fast-fashion clothing for all genders, but it competes against Pottery Barn through H&M HOME. In Jan 2023, H&M HOME released its Spring Season Collection with new and refreshing interior pieces, vases, lamps, and textiles. H&M HOME is an affordable alternative to Pottery Barn. [15]
12. Parachute
Year founded: 2014
Headquarter: Los Angeles, California
Parachute is a direct-to-consumer (DTC) home brand founded by Ariel Kaye. The company initially focused on creating high-quality bedding and later ventured into loungewear, bath products, home décor, and bedroom furniture. As of June 2023, Parachute operated more than 25 stores across the US.
Parachute and Pottery Barn offer bedding, bath products, home décor, and accents, and both companies operate online and offline businesses. In 2022, Parachute launched its living room furniture collection. This segment includes crafted coffee tables, sofas, and lamps. Parachute is one of the fastest-growing competitors for Pottery Barn. [16]
13. Target
Year founded: 1902
Headquarter: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Target is one of America’s largest retail chains. The company offers in-house furniture and home furnishings brands, including Project62, Hearth & Hand, and Opalhouse. In Jan 2023, Target had around 440,000 employees and over 1,950 stores across the US.
Target is a big-box department store, while Pottery Barn is a furniture and home furnishings specialist. In 2022, Target invested $100 million to boost its e-commerce capabilities and supply chain hubs.
The retail giant collaborates with iconic designers and décor gurus to create stylish furniture. Target is one of the top competitors for Pottery Barn. [17]
14. Lulu & Georgia
Year founded: 2012
Headquarter: Los Angeles, California
Lulu & Georgia is a high-end home decor and furniture brand. Its product catalog includes rugs, fittings, sofas, tables, beds, bedding, and accessories. In 2022, Lulu & Georgia’s first-time buyers increased by 133%
Lulu & Georgia and Pottery Barn operate online furniture businesses, but Lulu & Georgia only ships to consumers in the US. In 2022, the company partnered with retail specialist Bluecore to scale its digital marketing efforts. Bluecore helped the brand increase repeat purchases by 229%. Lulu & Georgia is a fast-growing competitor for Pottery Barn. [18]
15. ZARA Home
Year founded: 2003
Headquarter: Arteixo, Galicia, Spain
ZARA is a Spanish multinational retail chain specializing in fast-fashion clothing, shoes, beauty products, and perfumes. The company also offers bedding, pillows, throws, decor items, and kitchen accessories under its ZARA Home brand. In 2022, ZARA operated around 2,000 stores globally.
ZARA Home is an affordable store for home goods. The brand is more similar to H&M HOME than Pottery Barn because it operates in the fast-fashion and home products markets. In Apr 2023, ZARA Home introduced its new Editions Collection inspired by the pleasure of traveling. As a division of ZARA, ZARA Home has enough resources to poach some customers from Pottery Barn. [19]
16. Anthropologie
Year founded: 1992
Headquarter: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Anthropologie is an American retailer and a subsidiary of URBN, which owns Free People, Urban Outfitters, BHLDN, and Terrain. The brand offers clothing, jewelry, home furniture, decorations, beauty products, and gifts. In 2022, Anthropologie operated in the US, Canada, and the UK.
Anthropologie is renowned for its boho chic fashion and home decor design. In May 2023, the retailer reshuffled its top management team as it preps for growth. The company seeks to expand its e-commerce platform and store footprint in 2024. Anthropologie is one of the best alternatives to Pottery Barn for stylish home products. [20]
17. One Kings Lane
Year founded: 2009
Headquarter: New York City, New York
One Kings Lane is a luxury home decor business. Its online shopping site offers furniture and home accessories. In 2020, CSC Generation Holdings, Inc. acquired One King Lane.
One Kings Lane and Pottery Barn offer aesthetically pleasing and classy home furnishing and decor items, but One Kings Lane also provides interior design services. Customers can rely on its website and blogs for tips and tricks for creating comfortable and stylish home offices, living rooms, bedrooms, and other spaces. One Kings Lane is a worthy alternative to Pottery Barn. [21]
18. Costco
Year founded: 1983
Headquarter: Issaquah, Washington
Costco is a members-only wholesale retailer. The company serves consumers in eight countries with paid Costco membership cards. In Dec 2022, Costco had 847 stores globally and plans to open 24 more locations in 2023. [22]
Costco is the go-to warehouse chain for low-cost products. It offers high-quality furniture, appliances, housewares, and home furnishings from reputable brands at subsidized prices. In 2022, the company upgraded its stores and refreshed its offerings to attract new customers. Costco is a budget-friendly alternative to Pottery Barn.
19. Joss & Main
Year founded: 2011
Headquarter: Boston, Massachusetts
Joss & Main is a contemporary home brand owned by Wayfair, LLC. The company offers furniture and home furnishings, including indoor and outdoor goods, interior décor, lighting, and linens. In May 2023, Joss & Main opened its second retail store at the Oakbrook Center in Oak Brook, Chicago, Illinois. [23]
Joss & Main is renowned for its contemporary and classic styles. In 2023, the business released its Refined Retreat Summer Edit offering the brand’s take on coastal blue and white. As a subsidiary of Wayfair, Joss & Main has adequate resources to compete against Pottery Barn.
20. Home Depot
Year founded: 1978
Headquarter: Atlanta, Georgia
Home Depot is one of the leading home improvement retailers. The company offers furniture, bedding, lighting, throw pillows, and home accents. In 2022, Home Depot operated about 70 distribution centers across the US.
The main advantage of Home Depot is its product variety. Customers can purchase powered tools, construction materials, outdoor and indoor fittings, furniture, and home furnishings, all in a single store.
In 2023, Home Depot recorded a drop in demand for big-ticket appliances, patio furniture, flooring, and kitchen accessories. Home Depot is the go-to retailer for home improvement products. [24]
21. Serena & Lily
Year founded: 2003
Headquarter: Sausalito, California
Serena & Lily is a furniture and home goods store. The company offers bedding, wallpaper, rugs, furniture, lighting, upholstery, and accessories. In 2023, Serena & Lily operated several stores in Georgia, Birmingham, Michigan, Massachusetts, California, Illinois, Texas, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut.
Serena & Lily and Pottery Barn have similar design styles and price points for furniture and housewares. In Mar 2023, Serena & Lily opened a new 5,500-square-foot shop in Roslyn, Long Island. The company now operates 18 stores across the US and is an emerging competitor for Pottery Barn. [25]
References & more information
- Pottery Barn (2023, Jun 16). Pottery Barn Launches Free In-Store Decorating Class Series across Full Fleet of Stores. Yahoo Finance
- Pottery Barn (2023, Mar 31). Pottery Barn Celebrates 5th Anniversary of Monique Lhuillier Partnership with Launch of Outdoor Tabletop Collaboration. Business Wire
- Singh, P. (2023, Jan 20). Wayfair stock climbs after online retailer lays off 1,750 workers. CNBC
- Wayfair, LLC (2023, May 4). Wayfair Announces First Quarter 2023 Results, Achieves Considerable Progress on Roadmap toward Profitability. PRNewswire
- Nordstrom Staff (2023, May 12). IKEA Catalog 2023 and News. TheNordstrom.com
- com, Inc. (2023, Apr 13). Overstock Scheduled to Release First Quarter 2023 Financial Results. Globe Newswire
- Trefis Team (2023, Feb 7). What’s happening with Urban Outfitters’ Stock? Forbes
- West Elm (2023, May 1). West Elm and Marimekko launch a second limited-edition collection for the summer 2023 season. Business Wire
- McMahon, C. (2023, Apr 23). Amazon Dropped So Many New Furniture Deals This Weekend. People.com
- Russell, T. (2023, Jun 9). Ashley recalls more than 260,000 motion upholstery pieces because of potential fire hazard Home News Now
- Lester, T. (2023, Feb 21). Havertys breaks $1 billion for the second consecutive year. Furniture Today
- HVT (2023, May 4). Havertys said “Thank You” for 25 years in the Greater DC area with a new art collection for locals. PRNewswire
- Hanbury, M. (2023, May 31). Upscale homeware brand RH admits its pricing was ‘arrogant.’ Business Insider
- Caminiti, S. (2023, Mar 27). How Walmart uses AI to make shopping better for its millions of customers. CNBC
- H&M Staff (2023, Jan 5). H&M HOME Presents Spring News 2023. HM.com
- Dennis, R. (2023, Jan 25). Get to know Parachute: The home brand designing effortlessly chic pieces for your space. CNN Underscored
- Repko, M. (2023, Feb 22). Target bets on e-commerce by investing $100 million in hubs to speed delivery. CNBC
- Bluecore (2023, May 24). Lulu & Georgia sees a 229% increase in Repeat Customers with Bluecore. Business Wire
- HB Staff (2023, Apr 13). Zara Home Evokes the Pleasure of Traveling with Editions Collection. Hyper Beast
- Walk-Morris, T. (2023, May 1). Anthropologie Group shuffles leadership team as it preps for growth. Retail Dive
- OKL Staff (2023, Jan 20). Create a Comfortable and Stylish Home Office. One Kings Lane
- Tobin, B. (2022, Dec 8). Costco plans to open 24 stores this year. Business Insider
- Home Textiles Staff (2023, May 18). Wayfair adds to brick expansion by opening the 2nd Joss & Main store. Home Textiles Today
- Bourque, C. (2023, May 23). Home Depot’s 14-year streak is over. Business of Home
- Genn, A. (2023, Mar 29). Serena & Lily opens in Roslyn. LIBN
- Featured Image by Stocker LL
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