The outdoor living category continues to fluctuate as economic uncertainty requires retailers to be ready for change on any given day.
While no one has a crystal ball, Polywood has its finger on the pulse on the casual industry — from the e-commerce and commercial sides of the business to full-line furniture stores and independent specialty retailers.
We spoke with Megan Pierson, the company’s executive vice president of business development, to get her thoughts on the state of the outdoor category right now and how it will fare in 2026.
CNN: What opportunities does the casual industry have this year?
Outdoor living has shifted from a seasonal category to a core part of how people live, continuing to drive consistent market growth. Consumers are thinking more long term, creating an ongoing demand for high-quality, low-maintenance investments that will hold up over time.
There’s also a broad opportunity in how outdoor spaces are being used. As outdoor entertaining rises and people spend more time outside, buyers increasingly expect their outdoor spaces to feature the same level of considered design as their home interiors.
CNN: What are the biggest challenges the industry is facing this year?
Fluctuating interest rates and shifting consumer confidence will continue to dictate buying behavior, particularly for larger investments. Simultaneously, consumer expectations are escalating with buyers demanding an optimal balance of elevated design, lasting durability and overall value. While delivering on these fronts certainly adds pressure, it’s also a massive compliment to our industry, underscoring the growing prominence and permanence of the outdoor living category.
CNN: How do you predict the industry will fare this year as a whole?
I expect the industry to remain steady throughout the year. While consumers are being more thoughtful and intentional in their purchasing decisions, demand for outdoor living continues to hold strong.
This category is built on a solid foundation, which supports consistent and reliable performance across the market. Unlike trends that shift quickly, the investment people are making in their homes and outdoor spaces feels lasting. Even as technology continues to reshape many industries, what we offer is inherently tangible. Creating spaces where people gather, relax and connect is something that will always matter.
CNN: What should the industry be paying attention to this year?
A key focus this year is continuing to build on the momentum we’re seeing across the industry. There’s been meaningful progress in areas like supply chain resiliency, stronger domestic manufacturing capabilities and a shift toward long-term value. We’re also seeing a growing emphasis on durability, reliability and products that perform over time, all of which are contributing to a stronger, more stable foundation.
At Polywood, one area we’re especially focused on is how to thoughtfully leverage technology and AI to create more seamless experiences for both our employees and our customers. For us, it’s not about following trends, it’s about removing friction, improving communication and making it easier to do business.
CNN: What are you most excited about this year?
What excites me the most is seeing just how much people truly cherish their outdoor spaces. Buyers are bringing a level of intention and investment to their exterior spaces that feels permanent rather than temporary.
We are also observing a more practical, real-world approach to sustainability taking root. There’s growing recognition that products built to perform over time are part of that larger conversation, which is a positive shift for the industry overall.
