Earlier, we published two posts about the Berkline Leather Recliners carried by some Costco warehouses. Certainly we would like to do some research about this furnishing brand since we never own a piece of Berkline furniture. Here’re some interesting findings about the Berkline that you might also want to know if you had a plan to purchase one of these recliners.
First, we checked that both recliners, Berkline Reclining Leather Loveseat and Berkline Reclining Leather Sofa could not be found on Costco online. Neither are found on www.berkline.com. This is pretty understandable as manufactures normally send slightly different version or package of product when they contract with Costco. But there is an interesting popup while we clicked NOT FINDING YOUR BERLIN PRODUCT? at the bottom left of the page.
What… why would Costco carry product line from a company filed bankruptcy? Who is backing up my purchase? But check the bottom right. Berkline is now under Ashley Furniture Industries, which is one of the most reputable furniture company. Following quote is from their ABOUT US,
In August of 2011 the Berkline® name was purchased by Ashley Furniture Industries, Inc. Ashley Furniture Industries, Inc. strives to provide the best products, at the best prices, accompanied by the best service in the industry.
That makes a lot sense. We felt a relief, but would still like to know more about the product. By searching “Berkline Recliner” on Google, here is the frustrating results,
We read through all of them. Five out of the “Top 6 Complaints and Reviews about Berkline Funishings” are dated after the Ashely acquisition. 34 out the “59 BERKLINE complaints and reviews @ Pissed Consumer” are posted after 2012. Although several complaints were filed against previous purchasing, it still looks pretty bad. They’re all about the poor quality and warranty services. Worth mention that most of those complaints were not related to Costco purchase except one.
Searching the consumer reports.org, we don’t see any recall on this product. But we do see one recall on Berkline Heated Massage Recliners Sold Exclusively at Value City Furniture and American Signature Furniture Stores.
Should I buy or not? We’ll leave the decision to you, but provide you with all the information we found.