| Accounting Policies, by Policy (Policies) | 12 Months Ended |
| Nov. 30, 2013 |
| Accounting Policies [Abstract] | ' |
| Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation |
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| The Company’s fiscal year ends on the last Saturday in November, which periodically results in a 53-week year. Fiscal 2013 contained 53 weeks, whereas fiscal 2012 and 2011 each contained 52 weeks. The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Bassett Furniture Industries, Incorporated and our majority-owned subsidiaries for whom we have operating control. All significant intercompany balances and transactions are eliminated in consolidation. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP"). Unless otherwise indicated, references in the Consolidated Financial Statements to fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011 are to Bassett's fiscal year ended November 30, 2013, November 24, 2012 and November 26, 2011, respectively. References to the “ASC” included hereinafter refer to the Accounting Standards Codification established by the Financial Accounting Standards Board as the source of authoritative GAAP. |
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| For comparative purposes, certain amounts in the 2012 and 2011 financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2013 presentation. |
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| The equity method of accounting is used for our investments in affiliated companies in which we exercise significant influence but do not maintain operating control. Consolidated net income includes our proportionate share of the net income or net loss of these companies. |
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| We analyzed our licensees under the requirements for variable interest entities (“VIEs”). All of these licensees operate as BHF stores and are furniture retailers. We sell furniture to these licensees, and in some cases have extended credit beyond normal terms, made lease guarantees, guaranteed loans, or loaned directly to the licensees. We have recorded reserves for potential exposures related to these licensees. See Note 17 for disclosure of leases and lease guarantees. Based on financial projections and best available information, all licensees have sufficient equity to carry out their principal operating activities without subordinated financial support. Furthermore, we believe that the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the licensees’ operating performance continues to lie with the ownership of the licensee dealers. Our rights to assume control over or otherwise influence the licensees’ significant activities only exist pursuant to our license and security agreements and are in the nature of protective rights as contemplated under ASC Topic 810. We completed our assessment for other potential VIEs, and concluded that there were none. We will continue to reassess the status of potential VIEs including when facts and circumstances surrounding each potential VIE change |
| Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Use of Estimates |
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| The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Some of the more significant estimates include allowances for doubtful accounts, calculation of inventory reserves, valuation of income tax reserves, lease guarantees and insurance reserves. Actual results could differ from those estimates |
| Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Revenue Recognition |
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| Revenue is recognized when the risks and rewards of ownership and title to the product have transferred to the buyer. This occurs upon the shipment of goods to independent dealers or, in the case of Company-owned retail stores, upon delivery to the customer. We offer terms varying from 30 to 60 days for wholesale customers. For retail sales, we typically collect a significant portion of the purchase price as a customer deposit upon order, with the balance typically collected upon delivery. These deposits are carried on our balance sheet as a current liability until delivery is fulfilled. Estimates for returns and allowances have been recorded as a reduction to revenue. The contracts with our licensee store owners do not provide for any royalty or license fee to be paid to us. Revenue is reported net of any taxes collected. |
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| Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 104, Revenue Recognition (“SAB 104”) outlines the four basic criteria for recognizing revenue as follows: (1) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, (2) delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, (3) the seller’s price to the buyer is fixed or determinable, and (4) collectability is reasonably assured. SAB 104 further asserts that if collectability of all or a portion of the revenue is not reasonably assured, revenue recognition should be deferred until payment is received. During fiscal 2013, there were no dealers for which these criteria were not met. During fiscal 2012 and 2011, there were two and four dealers, respectively, for which these criteria were not met and therefore revenue was being recognized on a cost recovery basis. As of November 30, 2013 and November 24, 2012 there were no dealers that remained on a cost recovery basis, and as of November 26, 2011 there were two dealers that remained on the cost recovery basis. As of November 30, 2013 and November 24, 2012 there was no deferred gross profit resulting from the cost recovery method carried on our balance sheet as a reduction of accounts receivable. For fiscal 2013 and 2012, no revenue or cost was deferred during the year under the cost recovery method. During fiscal 2011, revenue of $1,678 and cost of $1,175 was deferred prior to any subsequent recognition due to the transaction meeting the revenue recognition requirements. |
| Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Cash Equivalents |
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| The Company considers cash on hand, demand deposits in banks and all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash and cash equivalents. Our short-term investments, which consist of certificates of deposit, are not considered cash equivalents since they have original maturities of greater than three months. |
| Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Accounts Receivable |
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| Substantially all of our trade accounts receivable is due from customers located within the United States. We maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments. The allowance for doubtful accounts is based on a review of specifically identified accounts in addition to an overall aging analysis. Judgments are made with respect to the collectibility of accounts receivable based on historical experience and current economic trends. Actual losses could differ from those estimates. The majority of our trade accounts receivable and allowance for doubtful accounts are attributable to amounts owed to us by our licensees, with the remaining receivables due primarily from national account customers and traditional distribution channel customers. The percentages of our trade accounts receivable and related allowance for doubtful accounts owed to us by our licensees were as follows at November 30, 2013 and November 24, 2012: |
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| | 2013 | | | 2012 | |
| Portion of trade accounts receivable owed by licensees | | | 50% | | | | 52% | |
| Portion of allowance for doubtful accounts attributable to licensees | | | 64% | | | | 84% | |
| Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Concentrations of Credit Risk and Major Customers |
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| Financial instruments that subject us to credit risk consist primarily of investments, accounts and notes receivable and financial guarantees. Investments are managed within established guidelines to mitigate risks. Accounts and notes receivable and financial guarantees subject us to credit risk partially due to the concentration of amounts due from and guaranteed on behalf of independent licensee customers. At November 30, 2013 and November 24, 2012, our aggregate exposure from receivables and guarantees related to customers consisted of the following: |
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| | 2013 | | | 2012 | |
| Accounts receivable, net of allowances (Note 4) | | $ | 16,080 | | | $ | 15,755 | |
| Notes receivable, net of allowances (Note 2) | | | 632 | | | | 636 | |
| Contingent obligations under lease and loan guarantees, less amounts recognized (Note 17) | | | 3,523 | | | | 1,684 | |
| Total credit risk exposure related to customers | | $ | 20,235 | | | $ | 18,075 | |
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| At November 30, 2013 approximately 27% of the aggregate risk exposure, net of reserves, shown above was attributable to two licensees. At November 24, 2012, approximately 12% of the aggregate risk exposure, net of reserves, shown above was attributable to one licensee. In fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, no customer accounted for more than 10% of total net sales. |
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| We have no foreign manufacturing or retail operations. We define export sales as sales to any country or territory other than the United States or its territories or possessions. Our export sales were approximately $4,603, $4,956, and $5,481 in fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively. |
| Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Inventories |
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| Inventories (retail merchandise, finished goods, work in process and raw materials) are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined for domestic manufactured furniture inventories using the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) method because we believe this methodology provides better matching of revenue and expenses. The cost of imported inventories is determined on a first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) basis. Inventories accounted for under the LIFO method represented 17% and 18% of total inventory before reserves at November 30, 2013 and November 24, 2012, respectively. We estimate inventory reserves for excess quantities and obsolete items based on specific identification and historical write-offs, taking into account future demand and market conditions. If actual demand or market conditions in the future are less favorable than those estimated, additional inventory write-downs may be required. |
| Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Property and Equipment |
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| Property and equipment is comprised of all land, buildings and leasehold improvements and machinery and equipment used in the manufacturing and warehousing of furniture, our Company-owned retail operations and the administration of the wholesale and Company-owned retail operations. This property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets utilizing the straight-line method. Buildings and improvements are generally depreciated over a period of 10 to 39 years. Machinery and equipment are generally depreciated over a period of 5 to 10 years. Leasehold improvements are amortized based on the underlying lease term, or the asset’s estimated useful life, whichever is shorter. |
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| Retail Real Estate |
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| Retail real estate is comprised of owned and leased properties which have been utilized by licensee operated BHF stores, including properties which are now leased or subleased to non-licensee tenants or are currently vacant. These properties are located in high traffic, upscale locations that are normally occupied by large successful national retailers. This real estate is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and is depreciated over the useful lives of the respective assets utilizing the straight line method. Buildings and improvements are generally depreciated over a period of 10 to 39 years. Leasehold improvements are amortized based on the underlying lease term, or the asset’s estimated useful life, whichever is shorter. As of November 30, 2013 and November 24, 2012, the cost of retail real estate included land totaling $3,502 and $4,602, respectively, and building and leasehold improvements of $11,635 and $12,680, respectively. As of November 30, 2013 and November 24, 2012, accumulated depreciation of retail real estate was $4,834 and $4,547, respectively. Depreciation expense was $484, $501, and $876 in fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively. As of November 30, 2013, the cost and accumulated depreciation of our property in Henderson, Nevada has been removed from retail real estate and the net carrying value of $1,401 is classified as held for sale and included in other current assets in the accompanying balance sheet. The carrying value reflects the net selling price for which the property was under contract for sale as of November 30, 2013. The sale of the Henderson property was closed on December 26, 2013. Impairment charges related to retail real estate totaled $416 for 2013 and $3,953 for 2011 and are included in retail real estate impairment charges in other income, a component of non-operating expense in our Consolidated Statements of Income. There were no retail real estate impairment charges in 2012. |
| Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Goodwill |
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| Goodwill represents the excess of the fair value of consideration given over the fair value of the tangible assets and liabilities and identifiable intangible assets of businesses acquired. The acquisition of assets and liabilities and the resulting goodwill is allocated to the respective reporting unit: Wholesale, Retail or Investments and Real Estate. We review goodwill at the reporting unit level annually for impairment or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that assets might be impaired. |
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| In accordance with ASC Topic 350, Intangibles – Goodwill & Other, the goodwill impairment test consists of a two-step process, if necessary. However, we first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test described in ASC Topic 350. The more likely than not threshold is defined as having a likelihood of more than 50 percent. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, we determine that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then performing the two-step impairment test is unnecessary and our goodwill is considered to be unimpaired. However, if based on our qualitative assessment we conclude that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, we will proceed with performing the two-step process. Based on our qualitative assessment as described above, we have concluded that our goodwill is not impaired as of November 30, 2013. |
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| The first step compares the carrying value of each reporting unit that has goodwill with the estimated fair value of the respective reporting unit. Should the carrying value of a reporting unit be in excess of the estimated fair value of that reporting unit, the second step is performed whereby we must calculate the implied fair value of goodwill by deducting the fair value of all tangible and intangible net assets of the reporting unit from the fair value of the reporting unit. This second step represents a hypothetical application of the acquisition method of accounting as if we had acquired the reporting unit on that date. Our impairment methodology uses a discounted cash flow analysis requiring certain assumptions and estimates to be made regarding future profitability of the reporting unit and industry economic factors. While we believe such assumptions and estimates are reasonable, the actual results may differ materially from the projected amounts. |
| Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Impairment of Long Lived Assets |
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| We periodically evaluate whether events or circumstances have occurred that indicate long-lived assets may not be recoverable or that the remaining useful life may warrant revision. When such events or circumstances are present, we assess the recoverability of long-lived assets by determining whether the carrying value will be recovered through the expected undiscounted future cash flows resulting from the use and eventual disposition of the asset. In the event the sum of the expected undiscounted future cash flows is less than the carrying value of the asset, an impairment loss equal to the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value is recorded. Fair value is determined based on discounted cash flows or appraised values depending on the nature of the assets. The long-term nature of these assets requires the estimation of cash inflows and outflows several years into the future. |
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| When analyzing our real estate properties for potential impairment, we consider such qualitative factors as our experience in leasing and selling real estate properties as well as specific site and local market characteristics. Upon the closure of a Bassett Home Furnishings store, we generally write off all tenant improvements which are only suitable for use in such a store. |
| Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Income Taxes |
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| We account for income taxes under the liability method which requires that we recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amount of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. |
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| We recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. Despite our belief that our liability for unrecognized tax benefits is adequate, it is often difficult to predict the final outcome or the timing of the resolution of any particular tax matters. We may adjust these liabilities as relevant circumstances evolve, such as guidance from the relevant tax authority or our tax advisors, or resolution of issues in the courts. These adjustments are recognized as a component of income tax expense in the period in which they are identified. |
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| We evaluate our deferred income tax assets to determine if valuation allowances are required or should be adjusted. A valuation allowance is established against our deferred tax assets based on consideration of all available evidence, both positive and negative, using a “more likely than not” standard. This assessment considers, among other matters, the nature, frequency and severity of recent losses, forecasts of future profitability, the duration of statutory carryforward periods, our experience with tax attributes expiring unused and tax planning alternatives. In making such judgments, significant weight is given to evidence that can be objectively verified. See Note 11. |
| New Store Pre-Opening Costs [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| New Store Pre-Opening Costs |
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| Income (loss) from operations for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011 includes new store pre-opening costs of $671, $371 and $90, respectively. Such costs consist of expenses incurred at the new store location during the period prior to its opening and include, among other things, facility occupancy costs such as rent and utilities and local store personnel costs related to pre-opening activities including training. New store pre-opening costs do not include costs which are capitalized in accordance with our property and equipment capitalization policies, such as leasehold improvements and store fixtures and equipment. Such capitalized costs associated with new stores are depreciated commencing with the opening of the store. There are no pre-opening costs associated with stores acquired from licensees, as such locations were already in operation at the time of their acquisition |
| Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Shipping and Handling Costs |
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| Costs incurred to deliver wholesale merchandise to customers are recorded in selling, general and administrative expense and totaled $15,685, $13,548, and $13,680 for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Costs incurred to deliver retail merchandise to customers are also recorded in selling, general and administrative expense and totaled $10,855, $9,957, and $7,452 for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. |
| Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Advertising |
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| Costs incurred for producing and distributing advertising and advertising materials are expensed when incurred and are included in selling, general and administrative expenses. Advertising costs totaled $14,750, $13,296, and $10,399 in fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively. |
| Liability Reserve Estimate, Policy [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Insurance Reserves |
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| We have self-funded insurance programs in place to cover workers’ compensation and health insurance. For the period from July 2011 through June 2012, workers’ compensation was covered under a guaranteed cost program. These insurance programs are subject to various stop-loss limitations and are partially re-insured through a captive insurance program. We accrue estimated losses using historical loss experience. Although we believe that the insurance reserves are adequate, the reserve estimates are based on historical experience, which may not be indicative of current and future losses. We adjust insurance reserves, as needed, in the event that future loss experience differs from historical loss patterns. |
| Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Supplemental Cash Flow Information |
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| In addition to the amounts paid, net of cash acquired, for the acquisition of licensee stores reported under investing activities in our consolidated statements of cash flows, the majority of such acquisitions were funded primarily through non-cash transactions in which receivables due from the licensees were settled in exchange for certain inventory and property and equipment of the licensees as well as the assumption of certain liabilities. There were no such acquisitions during fiscal 2013, and the value of the non-cash portion of such transactions was $1,592 and $2,298 for 2012 and 2011, respectively. |
| New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] | ' |
| Recent Accounting Pronouncements |
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| In February 2013, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2013-02 (ASU 2013-02), which updates the guidance in ASC Topic 220, Comprehensive Income. The objective of ASU 2013-02 is to improve the reporting of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income. The amendments in ASU 2013-02 seek to attain that objective by requiring an entity to report the effect of significant reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income on the respective line items in net income if the amount being reclassified is required under GAAP to be reclassified in its entirety to net income. For other amounts that are not required under GAAP to be reclassified in their entirety to net income in the same reporting period, an entity is required to cross-reference other disclosures required under GAAP that provide additional detail about those amounts. This would be the case when a portion of the amount reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income is reclassified to a balance sheet account (for example, inventory) instead of directly to income or expense in the same reporting period. This guidance became effective for us prospectively beginning with our second quarter for fiscal 2013. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact upon our financial position or results of operations. |
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| In July 2013, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2013-11 (ASU 2013-11), which updated the guidance in ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes. The amendments in ASU 2013-11 generally provide guidance for the presentation of unrecognized tax benefits when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists at the reporting date. The guidance requires an unrecognized tax benefit to be presented as a decrease in a deferred tax asset where a net operating loss, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists and certain criteria are met. This guidance will become effective for us as of the beginning of our 2015 fiscal year and is consistent with our present practice. |
