Average Markup on Couches: What to Expect and How to Save

Ever wonder why a couch at one store costs double what you saw online? The main reason is markup – the extra amount a retailer adds to the cost they paid to make a profit. Knowing the usual markup range helps you tell if a sofa price is fair or just inflated.

What Is Markup and Why Does It Matter?

Markup is the percentage added to the wholesale price of a couch before it hits the shelf. If a manufacturer sells a sofa to a retailer for £300 and the store lists it for £600, that’s a 100% markup. Most furniture retailers aim for a markup between 50% and 150%, depending on brand, style, and how much work they do to market the piece.

Several factors push markup up or down:

• Brand reputation: Well‑known brands can charge more because customers trust quality.
• Design complexity: Hand‑stitched details or unique fabrics raise production costs, which the retailer passes on.
• Store overhead: Big showrooms with fancy displays need higher margins to cover rent and staff.
• Shipping and handling: Large sofas cost more to move, adding to the final price.

How to Spot a Fair Couch Price

Here are some quick ways to judge if a couch’s price makes sense:

1. Check the base cost: Look for the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) online. A retail price that’s close to the MSRP usually means a reasonable markup.
2. Compare similar models: Find at least three sofas with the same size, material, and style. If one is 30% cheaper, ask why.
3. Watch for seasonal sales: Retailers often drop markup during summer or clearance events, bringing the price down by 20‑40%.
4. Consider direct‑to‑consumer brands: Online‑only sellers cut out the showroom cost, so their markup can be as low as 30%.
5. Ask about the wholesale price: Some stores will tell you the cost they paid if you ask politely. Knowing that number lets you calculate the exact markup.

For example, a mid‑range fabric sofa might have a wholesale cost of £400. A 75% markup would list it at £700. If you find the same couch for £550 during a sale, the store is only adding about 38% markup – a solid deal.

Remember that a higher markup doesn’t always mean lower quality. Some retailers invest in better customer service, longer warranties, or free delivery, which can justify a bigger margin. Weigh those extras against the price.

In short, most couches sit in the 50‑150% markup range. If a price falls far outside that band, it’s worth digging deeper. Use the tips above, compare a few options, and you’ll end up with a sofa you love without overpaying.

Happy couch hunting!