In order for companies to truly be successful, sustainable even, they must be able to adapt with the times. Steelcase is a leading example of such a company. Founded in 1912 Steelcase has been a leader in office furniture for almost a century. Steelcase offers a rich history coupled with unparalleled credibility that makes them an ideal company for architects, planners, and designers around the world. In addition to their practical use, Steelcase is known for their cutting edge aesthetics and unique blend of materials. Owning their furniture (people have a special fondness for their chairs) is like owning a piece of art. Steelcase has transformed standard, industrialized furniture into something people covet, with some of their early pieces going to collectors for thousands of dollars. We admire Steelcase for their relentless spirit of innovation; and for continuing to stay true to their goal of making furniture with integrity.

Steelcase is also joining the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Climate Leader's program, a partnership between industry and government aimed at "developing long-term comprehensive climate change strategies." Kathleen Hogan, Director of EPA's Climate Program Partnerships Division applauds Steelcase's involvement with their Climate Leaders program saying that Steelcase is demonstrating "a serious commitment to corporate social responsibility." Keeping in line with their environmentally friendly practices, Steelcase launched the Think Chair in 2004, the first product to ever receive Cradle to Cradle Product Certification from McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry's (MBDC). The joy of the Think Chair can be found not only in its environmentally conscious design, but also in the fact that the chair intuitively adjusts to the way you sit, making your daily work experience more comfortable, and therefore, happier. The chair can be disassembled in about five minutes using basic hand tools (hammer, screwdrivers, etc), and is 99% recyclable. In addition to the chair's sustainable materials, the factories where the chairs are made are powered by renewable electricity from sources like solar panels and wind turbines. Companies looking to make the green leap have a lot to learn from Steelcase, as environmentally sound chairs are particularly difficult to engineer.

Steelcase is able to produce furniture that's environmentally friendly while at the same time keeping it attractive and trustworthy, as illustrated in the 2006 Source Guide by Contract Magazine. Contract Magazine recently announced that Steelcase was the top ranking company in seven categories of the Source Guide. Results of the Guide are found using a survey made up of 900 architects, designers, and managers who are asked to name the top three manufacturers they consider when purchasing or recommending office furniture. This show of dedication between business and customer is one that makes it easy to see why Steelcase has been so successful. Steelcase's success includes over 800 independent dealers worldwide and a 2005 fiscal revenue of $2.6 billion. Steelcase proves that when companies make products that encompass more than profit, everyone wins. We like to think that good things happen to good people.