1st July 2026
Thame-based commercial seating manufacturer Rhubarb Seating has been named a Circularity Champion Manufacturer Leader in Design Conformity's 2026 industry report, placing the company among the top-performing furniture manufacturers for sustainability in the UK and Europe.
The report is one of the most comprehensive independent assessments of sustainability in the furniture sector, covering more than 170,000 businesses across Europe. Rhubarb Seating was one of only four UK manufacturers to achieve Leader status, with just 0.1% of companies earning this recognition.
The award follows independent verification of Rhubarb's Cantay and Banquette seating ranges through Design Conformity's Carbon Efficiency platform, which measures environmental impact across a product's full lifecycle, including reuse potential. Both products achieved impressive carbon efficiency ratings, highlighting Rhubarb's commitment to sustainable, circular design.
Director David Matthews said: "Rhubarb has always designed with refurbishment, repair and reuse in mind. Being recognised among the sector's biggest names confirms what we've always believed — good design and sustainable design go hand in hand."
Sustainability is embedded in every stage of Rhubarb's manufacturing process in Thame, from product design to material efficiency. The company carefully maximises the use of timber and fabric to minimise waste, reflecting a strong commitment to responsible manufacturing.
As sustainability becomes increasingly important in commercial fit-outs, Rhubarb's achievement reinforces Thame's reputation as home to innovative, forward-thinking businesses — and we are proud to have them in the town.
