One of the most frequent questions we receive is about the country of origin of our massage chairs. Historically, maufacturing location often shaped perceptions of product quality, yet with massage charis becoming increasingly common in private homes, many people are unaware of where they are made.
In this week’s episode, Paweł explains common misconceptions about manufacturing locations and reveals where the world’s largest massage chair factories are actually based. He also answers a frequently asked question: Are massage chairs manufactured in Poland?
Countries Where Massage Chairs Are Manufactured
The majority of the world’s massage chair production is concentrated in a select few countries. The largest manufacturing facilities are located in China, Taiwan, and Korea, with a few factories also operating in Japan. This concentration in Asia is no surprise, given that the region is the birthplace of massage and that massage chairs are a common household appliance there. Beyond Asia, massage chairs are also produced in the United States, though production is increasingly moving to China, and in one European country. Unfortunately, this country is not Poland.
Japanese massage chairs
The Japanese are renowned for their accuracy, reliability, and precision in producing a wide range of goods. It’s where the most famous massage chair brand, Fujiiryoki, has its headquarters. They were the first to create and mass-produce the massage chair. Japanese models are known for incorporating advanced technology, supported by years of expertise. These products deliver exceptional effectiveness, offering a truly therapeutic massage, all built with perfect, robust construction. In summary: perfection in every detail, though at a price.
Korean massage chairs
As you know, South Korea is one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world. Renowned for their leadership in innovation, Koreans seamlessly blend cutting-edge skills with a rich cultural heritage, continually investing in research and development. Consequently, Korean massage chairs are distinguished by unique high-tech solutions and ultra-modern designs. The Koreans were the first to use bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) in a massage chair. Thanks to this innovation, the Bodyfriend Davinci massage chair can measure and assess the user’s current body composition to select the optimal massage program.
Massage chairs made in China
China remains the leading country for the production of massage chairs, hosting the largest factories where many of the world’s top brands outsource manufacturing. It is also the hub for developing new models and integrating innovative features into massage chairs.
Until a decade or so ago, there was a negative global perception of products manufactured in China, but a lot has changed since then. China, once known for its cost-effective workforce, is now one of the largest economies in the world.
China offers high-quality production at competitive prices. With its vast and modern industrial infrastructure, along with careful control of the production process, Chinese factories are capable of delivering superior standard products. Just as brands like Apple and Mercedes have harnessed Chinese manufacturing to achieve excellence, the same holds true for massage chairs. The Chinese brand iRest, for example, has won global recognition and become a leader in the industry.
It’s important to acknowledge that some Chinese manufacturers prioritise budget-friendly, and at times disposable, massage chairs over quality. Therefore, while caution is advised, the question remains: where should production be outsourced, and at what cost?
It’s safe to say that chairs professionally manufactured in China frequently surpass their counterparts in other countries in terms of innovation and functionality. It was in China that innovative features, such as Zero Gravity, SL-shape, heating, and foot massage rollers, were first introduced to the market. Through continuous development and their integration into successive chair models, we now enjoy a much more precise, and above all, more enjoyable and relaxing massage experience.
At this point, it’s important to mention that since 2009, our Massaggio brand of massage chairs has relied on a partnership with a Chinese manufacturer. We take great pride in the quality of our massage, the craftsmanship of our chairs, and their reliable performance.
Massage chairs made in the United States
Massage chairs have been manufactured in the United States; however, American brands are increasingly outsourcing production to Asia. As a result, their chairs are designed to suit the preferences and lifestyles of American clients.
Massage chairs made in Europe
In Europe, massage chairs are manufactured in a single location: Alicante, Spain. The Keyton brand combines the finest natural leather with walnut or oak wood in its designs. These are the only fully customisable models on the market, offering a selection of materials and colours to suit individual style choices. The massage experience provided by Keyton chairs is unique, authentically European, and specifically designed to prioritise relaxation and enjoyment.
There has been much discussion around frequent claims that massage chairs are manufactured in Germany and Poland, but we have yet to find any documentation to support this. These suggestions may be intended to divert attention from the actual country of origin. Why? It’s unclear, but perhaps sellers are unsure about their product or hoping for a quicker sale.
VERIFY THE COUNTRY OF ORIGIN FOR YOUR MASSAGE CHAIR
When considering the purchase of a massage chair, the most important factor is knowing where it was manufactured. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to ask the retailer for the CE certificate. This document is issued for each massage chair and confirms that the equipment meets European safety standards. Additionally, it specifies the country of origin.
Ultimately, the most significant aspect is the massage itself. In most cases, whether the chair was made in China or Spain doesn’t matter as much as how you feel in it, how you enjoy the massage, its design, and, of course, the quality of its craftsmanship. If you’re curious about the specific country of manufacture for our massage chairs, you can find this information in the product specifications. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Transcription
Paul, where are massage chairs produced?
Production is concentrated in only a few countries in the world. Let me go into detail.
Massage chairs were invented in Japan 70 years ago. Only a few factories remain in business. They are well known because of their experience, advanced manufacturing technology and premium quality. Although they do not have the largest share of the market, they have a good reputation for using parts which are sourced and assembled only in Japan.
So, who produces the most chairs? China?
The majority of the World’s supply of massage chairs are produced in factories in China, Taiwan and Korea. Massage chairs are a common household appliance in Asian countries, and therefore local demand is higher than international export needs.
Some people question the quality of products from some of these countries. What are your thoughts?
I wouldn’t be concerned about the quality of massage chairs which originate from China, for example. If Apple uses products from China, why shouldn’t massage chairs? The quality will depend on the brand and the price, so I would advise that you research these first.
There is a well-developed market in Korea, which promotes the high standard of their own technology, which is called K-tech. It is well known for its innovativeness and focus on superior quality.
What about production in Europe?
It is our understanding that Spain is the only country in Europe that manufactures massage chairs. The factory in Alicante produces a stylish furniture design. The founder first saw them in Las Vegas in the 1970’s and although he was a fan of the technology, he was not inspired by either their design or colour. So he decided to focus on a specific style, along with a choice of personalised colours and materials.
We have heard of massage chairs being produced in Germany and Poland, but we have never seen any documentation to support this. Primarily, the majority of European companies buy OEM models from Chinese factories. For example, the brand could be from Switzerland, but the actual product could be manufactured anywhere. If you care about the country of origin, it is important to ask about certification before you purchase. A CE certificate is required and should show the original manufacturing country.
What about the USA?
The USA have their own brands, but are currently not very popular in Europe and we are aware that they outsource production to Asia.
Massage chairs are available globally, but the production of them is limited to just a few countries. What is important to note is that each manufacturing country has a specific focus. With Japan it is an advanced type of technology; the European producer concentrates on design and personalisation and the USA was known for making wider chairs for watching TV, like the one Joey uses in the sit-com ‘Friends’.
