70 years of innovation and comfort. Discover the history and development of the Progress Chair and the Sebel Furniture legacy.
From 1986 to 2025
At Sebel, creating comfortable and durable furniture has always been at the heart of what we do. For over 60 years, we’ve been trusted by schools, universities, venues, and community and religious spaces to deliver furniture that not only performs but stands the test of time. The Progress Chair is one of the proudest examples of this legacy – a true icon that combines innovation, ergonomics, and longevity.
The story of the Progress Chair began in 1986 with its predecessor, the Program Chair. At the time, it was nothing short of revolutionary. Featuring Sebel’s patented flex technology, the Program chair introduced a flexible backrest design that allowed users to enjoy superior comfort without sacrificing durability. This groundbreaking innovation redefined what a chair could offer, setting a new standard in the industry.
Over the years, Sebel continued to evolve and refine this concept, creating the Progress Chair – a testament to the ingenuity of the original design. By combining decades of research and development with real-world feedback, we created a chair that’s not just functional but also timeless.
A defining feature of the Progress Chair is its durability. In spaces where chairs need to withstand heavy, everyday use, the Progress Chair has proven itself time and time again. Whether it’s a bustling school assembly, a packed community hall, or a busy venue, the Progress Chair delivers unparalleled performance and reliability. Its sturdy aluminium legs and high-quality polypropylene seat shell ensure it stands strong, year after year.
From the 1980s to today, the Progress Chair continues to embody Sebel’s commitment to innovation, quality, and ergonomics. It’s more than just a chair – it’s a testament to our history of listening, learning, and designing furniture that works for the people who use it every day.
Designed to fit into almost every environment, it’s equally as at home in a classroom as it is in a conference space. The chair’s flex-back technology provides users with comfort and support, no matter the setting. It’s why generations of students, educators, organisations, and communities have relied on Sebel to provide furniture they can trust.
While we celebrate the incredible legacy of the Progress Chair, it’s time to look to the future. As we retire this iconic chair, we’re excited to introduce a new era of seating innovation. Our latest chair builds on the same principles of ergonomics, durability, and innovation that made the Progress Chair a household name. Featuring a fresh, modern design, our latest innovation uses post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials and will be available in five on-trend biophilic colourways, making it a sustainable and stylish choice. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting innovation.
Explore our iconic Progress range.
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