Ex-Display Furniture Explained - Save Hundreds on Top Brands

Buying new furniture is a big decision, especially when you’re investing in respected British brands. But there’s a smart way to enjoy high-quality pieces at a fraction of the price: ex-display furniture. If you’ve ever wondered what “ex-display” really means-or whether it’s worth considering, this guide explains everything and shows you how to make the most of the savings.

 

What Does “Ex-Display” Actually Mean?

 

Ex-display furniture refers to pieces that have been used for showroom display, often placed on the shop floor so customers can see fabrics, colours, comfort levels, or sizing up close.

 

That’s it-they’re not second-hand, they’re not returns, and they haven’t lived in someone else’s home. Instead, they’ve served as demonstration pieces.

 

Because showrooms refresh their displays regularly, especially during seasonal updates-ex-display items are often:

 

• Lightly handled but barely used
• Fully functional, with no structural issues
• Available immediately (no 12–16 week lead time)
• Significantly reduced in price

 

This makes them an excellent way to access premium brands at surprisingly low prices.

 

Why Ex-Display Furniture Offers Such Big Savings

 

The main reason prices are lower is simple:

Once a product has been on display, it can no longer be sold as “new in box.”

 

This creates huge savings for customers-often hundreds of pounds off sofas, chairs, dining sets, and cabinets from well-known British manufacturers.

 

Typical benefits include:

 

Up to 50% Off Premium Brands

 

Furniture from brands such as Ercol, G Plan, Parker Knoll, Sherborne, Alstons and more may be available at a fraction of the standard RRP.

 

Why not view our entire clearance collection

 

No Waiting Times

 

Because these items are already in the showroom, you can take them home far sooner than made-to-order furniture.

 

The Exact Item You See Is the One You Get

 

No surprises-what you view in-store is what you’ll own.

 

Are There Any Downsides?

 

Ex-display furniture almost always offers excellent value, but it’s worth keeping these points in mind:

 

• Minor marks or fabric creases may be present from light showroom use
• Limited quantity-usually just one of each item is available

 

That’s why ex-display shopping rewards those who act quickly when they find a deal they love.

 

Which Brands Offer the Best Ex-Display Value?

 

While all ex-display pieces offer savings, some brands stand out due to exceptionally strong build quality and long lifespans.

 

G Plan

 

Classic British craftsmanship with exceptional comfort-ideal for long-term reliability.

See our ex-display furniture from G Plan.

 

Parker Knoll

 

Luxury recliners and sofas built for decades of use.

See our ex-display furniture from Parker Knoll.

 

Sherborne Upholstery

 

Renowned for supportive seating and superb durability.

 

Ercol

 

Timeless wooden furniture with outstanding craftsmanship.

See our ex-display furniture from Ercol.

 

Alstons

 

Affordable, stylish sofas from one of the UK’s most trusted manufacturers.

See our ex-display furniture from Alstons.

 

These brands retain their value exceptionally well, making ex-display versions outstanding buys.

 

Ex-Display Beds: Premium Comfort for Less (Sealy & Silentnight)

 

Ex-display doesn’t just apply to sofas, tables, and cabinets - it also includes premium beds and mattresses from respected brands such as Sealy and Silentnight.

 

These beds are often lightly used for display so customers can feel the comfort and support in-store. This means you get almost-new quality at a significantly reduced price.

 

Why Ex-Display Beds Are Such Great Value

 

• Same comfort and support as full-price models
• Minimal showroom use
• High-quality mattress technology
• No long lead times – take home immediately

 

View all our beds.

 

Recommended: How to Choose the Right Bed guide.

 

If you’re looking for huge savings on a better night’s sleep, ex-display beds are one of the smartest purchases you can make.

 

How to Choose the Right Ex-Display Piece

 

👉  Read on for our furniture experts' top tips. 

 

1. Check Comfort & Fit

 

Sit on the sofa or chair, inspect the size, and make sure it suits your room.

Recommended: How to Choose the Right Sofa.

 

2. Inspect the Item Carefully

 

Look for small marks, fabric creases, or natural wood variation.

 

3. Ask About Delivery Options

 

We offer quick or immediate delivery for our ex-display furniture, and if you live within 50 miles of our stores, it's completely free.

 

4. Act Fast

 

If you love it, don’t wait. Clearance items sell quickly, especially well-known brands.

 

Why Buy Ex-Display Furniture from Us?

 

At Hi-Sell Direct, we carefully select high-quality showroom pieces from our Gamlingay and St Ives stores to ensure they meet our standards for:

 

• Condition
• Comfort
• Longevity
• Brand reputation

 

Every ex-display item we offer is thoroughly checked and priced to provide the best value for money.

 

Visit Us In-Store to Try Before You Buy

 

📍 Hi-Sell Direct – Gamlingay

📍 Hi-Sell Online – St. Ives

 

Final Thoughts

 

Ex-display furniture is one of the smartest ways to buy premium pieces from leading British brands without the premium price tag. If you’re upgrading your home and want quality that lasts, it’s absolutely worth considering.