Marge Carson Exec Touts Southeast Asia's Manufacturing Growth

Company president highlights region's innovation, craftsmanship, and AI integration during trade mission

Apr. 15, 2026 at 8:52pm

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a polished, geometric metal sculpture in the shape of a robot arm, resting on a clean, monochromatic seamless background, conceptually representing the balance between technology and craftsmanship in the home furnishings industry.A sculptural representation of the integration of automation and technology into traditional manufacturing, symbolizing the balance between innovation and craftsmanship that defines Marge Carson's approach.Clarendon Hills Today

Marge Carson president and CEO Janet Linly recently returned from a three-week trade mission to several Asian countries, including Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Linly noted that Southeast Asia continues to be one of the fastest-growing manufacturing hubs in the world, with countries like Vietnam and Indonesia experiencing consistent industrial expansion and increased foreign investment. She also observed how manufacturers are integrating AI and automation to enhance existing processes and equipment, rather than fully replacing human craftsmanship.

Why it matters

As a luxury furniture brand with a focus on high-quality craftsmanship, Marge Carson is closely watching manufacturing trends in key global markets. Linly's insights from the trade mission highlight how the company is navigating industry disruption by selectively embracing innovation that supports its brand identity and values.

The details

During the trade mission, Linly met with a range of business and government leaders across Asia. She was struck by the region's dynamic economic growth, innovative approaches to modernizing legacy equipment, and the continued emphasis on preserving traditional artisanship. Linly noted that manufacturers are using AI and robotics to improve efficiency and precision, but in a way that complements rather than replaces human skills. In Indonesia and Vietnam, for example, hand-applied finishing techniques remain deeply rooted even in large-scale facilities.

  • Linly visited seven Asian countries over the course of three weeks in 2026 as part of the U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce's Asia Trade Mission.
  • Marge Carson plans to make a major company announcement later in 2026.

The players

Janet Linly

President and CEO of Marge Carson, a luxury furniture brand based in the U.S. with manufacturing operations in Mexico and Indonesia.

Marge Carson

A luxury furniture brand with nearly 80 years of heritage, known for its commitment to high-quality craftsmanship.

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What they’re saying

“Each country offered a distinct perspective, not only culturally, but economically and industrially. What stood out immediately is how dynamic and forward-moving these regions are. Southeast Asia, in particular, continues to be one of the fastest-growing manufacturing hubs in the world, with countries like Vietnam and Indonesia experiencing consistent industrial expansion and increased foreign investment.”

— Janet Linly, President and CEO

“The level of artisanship across the countries I visited is both impressive and humbling. There is a deep pride associated with the work.”

— Janet Linly, President and CEO

What’s next

Marge Carson plans to make a major company announcement later in 2026 that the team believes will reflect the brand's commitment to quality and intention.

The takeaway

Marge Carson's approach to embracing innovation while preserving its luxury brand identity and focus on craftsmanship highlights how some manufacturers are navigating industry disruption. The company's insights from the Asia trade mission underscore the continued importance of balancing technology and tradition in the home furnishings industry.