A fresh start: how to monitor office supplies efficiently in 2025?
Did you set a New Year’s resolution for 2025? Maybe you chose a word of the year or set an intention?
However you kicked off the new year, if your professional goal is to be more organised, you’re in good company. Studies show that organised workplaces boost productivity, reduce stress, and improve overall job satisfaction—and let’s be honest, we could all use more of that.
At Buro, we like to start our resolutions in February. Now, I know what you’re thinking—isn’t that too late? But actually, it’s the perfect time! The holiday rush is over, the kids are back at school, and you’ve had a month to see what’s working (and what’s not).
Monitoring office supplies is a great way to start if getting your office in order is on your to-do list. Knowing what you need, where to get it, and how to track it efficiently will reduce waste, improve organisation, and create a more productive workplace.
First things first: What supplies do you need for an office?
A well-equipped office balances efficiency, comfort, and productivity. And that means having the right mix of furniture, technology, and everyday essentials.
Office furniture is the backbone of any workspace
- Office chairs – Comfort, style, and support are paramount. For an affordable ergonomic option, the Mondo Soho and Mondo Mistral provide comfort for everyday use. For a premium office chair, the Buro Roma 3 Lever High Back delivers long-term durability and adjustability.
- Office desks – From open-plan spaces to individual workstations, a well-designed desk enhances efficiency. The Mondo Lypta Desk offers a sleek, functional design.
- Office pods – Need a quiet zone? Koplus soundproof pods create distraction-free spaces for focused work and private meetings.
Technology, gadgets, accessories: You’re not a modern workspace without ‘em!
Tech includes high-use items like computers, monitors, keyboards, and printers, as well as anything that enhances seamless connectivity, like wireless chargers and docking stations. And don’t forget smaller details, such as cable ties, that help keep workstations clear and clutter-free.
Stationery, consumables, and the other little items that keep things moving
That means must-have office supplies like pens, notebooks, printer paper, sticky notes, and industry-specific supplies, from whiteboards to label makers to specialist tools. Plus all the kitchen essentials: coffee beans, mugs, dish tabs—everything you need to keep your team fuelled.
Where to get office supplies?
Now that you know what you need, where do you find it?
For office furniture…
It won’t shock you that our go-to for high-quality office chairs, desks, and pods is Buro. (Pssst… that’s us!)
We design office furniture that prioritises comfort, productivity, and style. High quality furniture that delivers an excellent ROI. Durable office furniture with options to suit every budget. With retailers across New Zealand and Australia, finding what you need is easy—check out our Where to Buy guide.
For everything else…
When it comes to tech, stationery, and coffee, here’s how to find the best suppliers:
- Stick with what works – Once you find a reliable supplier that fits your budget, stay with them. Why fix what isn’t broken?
- Office supply stores and bulk suppliers – Great for everyday essentials and large orders.
- Tech specialists – Find a retailer that provides the right computers, software, and accessories for your needs.
- Direct-from-manufacturer options – Ideal for custom tech solutions or bulk business orders.
Having reliable suppliers keeps your office efficient and ready for anything—no last-minute stationery runs required!
How to monitor office supplies efficiently
Keeping track of office supplies isn’t just about avoiding shortages, it’s also about cutting costs, reducing waste, and keeping your team productive. So, what’s the best way to stay on top of everything?
1. Start with a supply audit
Before ordering anything, review what you already have.
- Categorise your office supplies – Separate daily essentials from less frequently used items.
- Identify high-usage products – Office chairs, desks, and stationery often see the most turnover.
- Check for outdated or damaged items – Replace old tech, worn-out chairs, or broken accessories.
2. Establish a tracking system (and assign responsibility)
Monitoring inventory efficiently will prevent shortages and streamline reordering—but someone needs to own it.
- Assign a team member or office manager to track inventory.
- Use spreadsheets or cloud-based tools to monitor stock levels.
- Consider office management software to automate tracking.
3. Reduce waste and optimise supply usage
Being organised is also sustainable. Mindful ordering prevents overstocking while investing in long-lasting furniture reduces replacements and landfill waste.
Don’t forget the financials
Keeping your office stocked is one thing—knowing how it fits into your business finances is another. So you may be wondering…what type of account do office supplies fall under?
Office supplies are typically classified as operating expenses since they’re everyday costs that keep a business running.
However, larger office purchases—we’re talking office chairs, desks, office pods and tech—may be recorded as capital expenses if they meet a certain cost threshold.
Using Xero? Everyday supplies are usually coded under ‘Printing & Stationery’ (461), while furniture and high-value equipment may fall under ‘Office Equipment’ (710) if they qualify as an asset.
Speaking of assets…what type of assets are office supplies?
The classification depends on whether they’re short-term consumables or long-term investments.
- Current assets: If you bulk-buy supplies like printer paper and pens but expect to use them within the year, they may be recorded as current assets before being expensed.
- Fixed assets: Bigger-ticket purchases—like ergonomic office chairs, desks, or high-value tech equipment—fall under fixed assets, as they provide long-term value and may be depreciated over time.
Not sure where your purchases fit? Check with your accountant to make sure your office supplies are categorised correctly.
Ready to take the guesswork out of monitoring office supplies?
If streamlining your office is on your to-do list, now’s the perfect time to make it happen. A well-stocked cupboard is a great start, but regularly monitoring office supplies goes further, creating a workspace that runs smoothly, saves money, and keeps your team happy.
At Buro, we’re here to help you optimise your workspace with high-quality office furniture that blends style, functionality, and sustainability.
Explore our range of ergonomic seating solutions or chat with our team today to create a more organised, efficient workplace.
