U.S. mattress sales rose in the second quarter of 2016, compared with the same three-month period in 2015, according to Bedding Market Quarterly (paywall), a sales trend report published by the International Sleep Products Association. Sales of units (mattresses and foundations) increased 0.8% and the wholesale dollar value of those units was up 5.5%, compared […]
MRC Offers Materials and Resources for Retailers
The Mattress Recycling Council offers consumer-education materials and resources for registered retailers at no cost. While stores aren’t required to use them, they are designed to help explain state recycling programs to customers. Included are: Information cards: These smartphone-sized cards, which can be attached to receipts or invoices, direct customers here for information about the […]
Third State Enacts Mattress Recycling Law
New Rhode Island Mattress Recycling program is funded through $10 fee for each mattress, box spring. On May 1, Rhode Island became the third U.S. state to launch a free recycling program for mattresses and box springs. The program, called Bye Bye Mattress, establishes free collection points in cities and towns across the state. Ocean […]
U.S. Wholesale Revenues Set New High in 2015
The U.S. mattress industry in 2015 continued its upward trend in both unit shipments and wholesale dollar values, according to the 2015 Mattress Industry Report of Sales and Trends recently released by the International Sleep Products Association. U.S. mattress manufacturers shipped nearly 39 million units (mattresses and foundations) in 2015—up 4.5% over 2014 levels. Wholesale […]
Forecast: U.S. Mattress Sales to Rise
The U.S. mattress industry is projected to enjoy healthy increases in both units shipped and the value of those shipments for 2016 and 2017, according to a new forecast from the International Sleep Products Association. The forecast, released in May, projects that the number of mattresses and foundations shipped will rise by 3.5% and the […]
Long Hours Can Be Hazardous To Your Health
Does working more hours increase your bottom line? Research says ‘nope.’ Take note, retailers: According to a recent post on Inc.com, working too much can be counterproductive and even lead to health problems. The business website cites various reports and scientific studies that suggest working more than 40 hours a week can have negative physical, […]
How To Train Your Brain to Improve Concentration
As a retailer, you have a lot on your mind. Follow these 3 tips to improve concentration and productivity: During the workday, distractions run rampant—phone calls, emails, interactions with vendors, employees and shoppers. To counteract these productivity speed bumps, try these three tips, offered by David Rock and reported by Nadia Goodman in Entrepreneur.com. Rock […]
Mattress Shopping Isn’t So Bad After All
BSC survey reveals Americans don’t stress over buying a new bed and mattress shopping It’s a familiar headline that tends to say something along these lines—Americans loathe mattress shopping. Or, mattress shopping frustrates consumers. But the notion that mattress shopping stresses out Americans is a fallacy, based on a recent survey from the Better Sleep […]
Why Pillows Are the Solution to Higher Sales
Are you looking for ways to increase your conversation rate? Up your focus on pillows before customers rest-test a single mattress. By Gordon Hecht People in the mattress industry, whether in a full-line furniture store or a bedding specialist, have a unique view of their incoming shopping traffic. Full-line stores often are satisfied with converting […]
High Protein Weight Loss Diet Improves Sleep
People following a high protein diet to lose weight may enjoy a benefit beyond shedding pounds—a better night’s sleep. In a study conducted by Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, 44 overweight or obese adults consumed either a normal protein or high protein diet designed for weight loss and were asked to rate the quality […]
Sleep Loss Boosts Hunger and Really Bad Food Choices
After a rough night of sleep loss, do you tend to wake up with the munchies? According to new research by the University of Chicago Medical Center, there’s a reason why lack of sleep increases unhealthy food choices. The study shows that sleep deprivation produces higher and more sustained levels of a lipid (specifically an […]
Workplace Epidemic: Employees Work Sleepy
A recent survey of more than 1,000 U.S. workers from Accountemps, a staffing firm based in Menlo Park, California, finds that nearly three-quarters of U.S. working employees report working while tired and nearly one-third say they do so “very often.” Younger workers are particularly likely to head into the office feeling less than well-rested. Eighty-six […]
Tired Teenagers Lead to Unsafe Behavior
CDC report finds that lack of sleep among high school students leads to unsafe behavior High school students in the United States who don’t get a good night’s sleep are more inclined to engage in risky behaviors than those who receive sufficient sleep, according to a new report released by the U.S. Centers for Disease […]
Spring High Point Market Bedding News
Ah, beauty, in bedding! Springtime show ushers in freshened products with designer touches ByBarbara T. Nelles and Beth English At this quiet show in bedding, it was the little things that really stood out in bedding showrooms. As we walked the Spring High Point Market, the editors of Sleep Savvy lingered over beautiful details on […]
Millennials Are Savvy Savers, New Survey Says
Millennials could teach older generations a thing or two about saving money, according to a survey from BankRate.com, a personal finance website. Some 62% of millennials say they are saving more than 5% of their incomes—up from 42% last year. By comparison, only 50% of older adults (defined by BankRate.com as age 30 and up) are […]
Financial Stress For Americans Peaks In Midlife
Economic anxiety index: Financial stress for Americans peaks in midlife Squeezed by a mix of personal and professional pressures, middle-age Americans feel the most financial pressure, according to a poll from the national radio program “Marketplace” and Edison Research. In a survey of 1,000 people, respondents ages 35 to 54 reported having the most financial […]
Simmons Beautyrest Black Partners with Quarterback Tom Brady to Promote Luxury of Sleep
Atlanta-based Simmons Bedding Co. LLC made a splash this week when it unveiled a new Beautyrest Black campaign featuring winning quarterback Tom Brady with the NFL’s New England Patriots. The partnership with Brady includes a “rich array of content, including but not limited to new television and digital spots created by global communications agency KBS,” […]
Simmons Helps Stores Step Up Their Technology Game
Editor’s Note: The relationship between retailers and product manufacturers is a critically important one. When they work well together, both enjoy greater success. With that in mind, Sleep Savvy has created Spotlight, an occasional feature. In each Spotlight, we’ll speak with a manufacturer about its latest products and, most importantly, the innovative ways it works […]
Girls Just Want to Have Fun
Art Van Furniture and Indiana radio station host ladies night out—complete with music, treats and, of course, home furnishings offerings Every woman needs a night out once in a while. Warren, Michigan-based Art Van Furniture recently teamed up with radio station Hot 107.9 FM to give gals a fun evening of “entertainment, excitement, pampering and […]
Better Bed Quizzz
The BSC launches a digital tool during Better Sleep Month to help consumers enter the mattress-buying process The Better Sleep Council, the consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association, is introducing a “decision tree” application to help guide consumers through the initial steps of mattress shopping. The launch is in conjunction with its annual […]
News Release: Beautyrest Declares April National Training Month
NEWS RELEASE Beautyrest Declares April Inaugural National Training Month for Bedding Industry (ATLANTA – April 14, 2016) – This April, Beautyrest institutes the bedding industry’s inaugural National Training Month, a campaign aimed at preparing sales associates for the historically busy summer selling season. Throughout the month, Beautyrest will roll out a series of online and […]
CDC Finds a Third of Americans Don’t Get Enough Sleep
More than a third of Americans aren’t getting enough sleep and are suffering related health consequences, according to a report from the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released Feb. 19. (The less-than-scintillating title of the report—“Prevalence of Healthy Sleep Duration Among Adults—United States, 2014”—might help put some of those folks to sleep, but […]
Study Shows Retail Workers Are Satisfied, Engaged in Work
Are you having a good day selling sleep products today? Yes? You’re not alone. A recent study shows people working in the consumer products and services sector, which includes retail, are more engaged in and satisfied with their work than those in other fields. The data comes from “2016 Best Industry Ranking: Employee Engagement & […]
The Economic Cost of Sleep Deprivation
Better Sleep Council survey: U.S. adults spend $5 billion in cost to compensate for not getting enough rest American adults spend more than $5 billion annually trying to compensate for poor sleep, according to new research from the Better Sleep Council, the consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association. Eighty-two percent of U.S. adults […]
Shifts in the Shopping Landscape and Consumer Attitudes
Trends expert predicts four ways consumer attitudes will change. If you think it’s increasingly difficult to predict the tastes and behaviors of your potential customers, you’re not alone. But that doesn’t make the effort any less important to your success. One reason it’s so challenging is that consumers themselves feel like balls in a pinball […]
Ending the Bedtime Battleground
Recommended by a pediatric sleep expert, a sleep pass can turn your bedtime battleground with your children into a peaceful experience. BY TERRY CRALLE Editor’s note: Savvy mattress retailers want to do everything they can to help their customers sleep better, including offering them sound advice and tips. Feel free to share this great guidance […]
Rhode Island Approves Mattress Recycling Program
Statewide mattress recycling program to begin May 1 The approved plan requires that retailers add a $10 recycling fee to each new or renovated mattress and box spring sold to Rhode Island consumers, who will see the charge as a separate line item on their receipt. Retailers and other businesses selling mattresses will remit those […]
Las Vegas Market Report: ‘The Perfect Storm’
Bedding vendors unleash blizzard of boxed beds and bases, snowy fabrics and fluffy pillows—all designed to warm up retail sales. BY BETH ENGLISH AND BARBARA T. NELLES Bedding buyers who traveled to the Winter Las Vegas Market Jan. 24-28 at the World Market Center were treated to an array of new products in what has […]
The High Cost of Better Sleep
NEWS RELEASE Contact: Mary Helen Rogers 571-482-5436 mhrogers@sleepproducts.org Kristen J. Gough 914-837-8912 kgough@marcusthomasllc.com THE HIGH COST OF POOR SLEEP New Better Sleep Council Research Shows Economic Cost of Sleep Loss in the Billions ALEXANDRIA, Virginia – March 3, 2016 – American adults spend more than $5 billion annually trying to compensate for poor sleep, according […]
Reverie Develops ‘retainer-less’ adjustable bases
News release REVERIE DEVELOPS INDUSTRY’S FIRST “RETAINER-LESS” SYSTEM TO HOLD MATTRESSES IN PLACE ON ADJUSTABLE BASES WITHOUT RETAINER BARS NEW PROGRIP™ BAR-FREE RETAINER SYSTEM TO DEBUT AT LAS VEGAS MARKET BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Michigan Jan. 24, 2016 – Reverie, the leading manufacturer of adjustable foundations, is bringing a huge innovation to the market with the introduction […]
E.S. Kluft & Co. Honors Founder King Karpen
NEWS RELEASE E.S. KLUFT & CO. HONORS AIRELOOM FOUNDER & INDUSTRY PIONEER KING KARPEN WITH NEW 75TH ANNIVERSARY COLLECTION RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA – To celebrate the 75th anniversary of its Aireloom brand, E.S. Kluft & Company, America’s premier luxury bedding manufacturer, is debuting a new collection named for Aireloom founder and sleep products industry […]
Customatic Introduces $599 Adjustable Base
NEWS RELEASE CUSTOMATIC WILL INTRODUCE $599 FAIRMONT ADJUSTABLE BASE NEW “ECONOLINE COLLECTION” COMBINES QUALITY & VALUE AT BEST PRICES IN INDUSTRY NATICK, MA – Customatic Adjustable Bedz, a retail solutions provider dedicated to the advancement of custom sleep products, announced its taking the industry lead in introducing a value-packed adjustable base starting at $599, queen […]
Customatic Adjustable Bedz Moves Into Mattresses
NEWS RELEASE Customatic Adjustable Bedz Making Move Into Mattresses NATICK, MA – Customatic Adjustable Bedz, a retail solutions provider dedicated to the advancement of custom sleep products, announced it will unveil a new division and mattress brand, myContour, at the upcoming Winter Las Vegas Furniture Market, Jan. 24th -28th. The new line is the company’s first […]
Dormeo Unveils Storage Base
NEWS RELEASE DORMEO N.A. PUTTING MORE UNDER THE MATTRESS MANUFACTURER WILL INTRODUCE FIRST STORAGE BASE AT VEGAS MARKET PLANO, TX – Whether a consumer lives in a mansion or a studio apartment, the one thing they share in common is a belief that they don’t have enough storage space. In response to increasing consumer demands […]
OMI Broadens Organicpedic Earth Line
NEWS RELEASE OMI RESPONDS TO GREATER DEMAND BY RETAILERS TO BROADEN ORGANICPEDIC EARTH LINE YUBA CITY, CA – Organic Mattresses, Inc. (OMI), the nation’s number-one manufacturer of organic mattresses under the Organicpedic™ brand, will introduce its new Pinnacle at the upcoming Las Vegas Furniture Market, Jan. 24th-28th. Debuting as the most expensive model in the […]
Kingsdown Updates Sleep Smart
NEWS RELEASE KINGSDOWN PRESENTS UPDATED “SLEEP SMART” MATTRESS AT WINTER LAS VEGAS MARKET SLEEP SYSTEM USES INFORMATION FROM MORE THAN A DECADE PLUS OF SLEEP RESEARCH TO PROVIDE HEALTH BENEFITS TO CONSUMERS MEBANE, NC – Premium mattress manufacturer Kingsdown, Inc., announced it will showcase its remodeled Sleep Smart system at the Winter Las Vegas Market […]
Tempur Sealy Announces Increased Advertising Commitment
NEWS RELEASE Tempur Sealy Announces Significantly Increased Advertising Commitment to Support Powerhouse Brands 2016 Marketing Plans Intended to Drive Retail Traffic and Consumer Demand LAS VEGAS, Jan. 22, 2016 – The excitement being generated by Tempur Sealy International, Inc. is not limited to the launch of the new TEMPUR-Breeze™ line and the redesigned 2016 Stearns & Foster® […]
Stearns & Foster Reserve Collection Debuts at Las Vegas Market
NEWS RELEASE Brand Known for Finest Beds Made Embraces Modern Design as Stearns & Foster Debuts Redesigned 2016 Collection New Reserve Collection Debuts at Las Vegas Furniture Market LAS VEGAS, Jan. 22, 2016 – Stearns & Foster® announced today a new chapter in the brand’s history with the debut of its redesigned mattress line-up, including the […]
New Tempur-Breeze Features Cooling Technology
NEWS RELEASE New TEMPUR-Breeze™ Line Features Best-in-Class Cooling Technology to Deliver Transformative Sleep New Line Launched to Help the Nearly Half of Consumers who Describe Themselves as ‘Hot Sleepers’ LAS VEGAS, Jan. 22, 2016 – Building on its worldwide reputation of developing proprietary, innovative products to unlock a transformative night’s sleep, Tempur-Pedic announced today the introduction of […]
Beautyrest Builds On Luxury Success With New Beautyrest Black
NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BEDDING TRADE ONLY Beautyrest Builds On Luxury Success With New Beautyrest Black – Integrated SmartMotion base provides custom sleep tracking, tips, smart alarm and more for personalized sleep support – (ATLANTA – January 24, 2016) – After a year of record-setting sales, Beautyrest® is set to debut twelve new […]
Spring Air Chattam & Wells ‘Throne’ Bed Has European Grandeur
NEWS RELEASE Spring Air Brings European-Style Grandeur to Las Vegas Market With Chattam & Wells ‘Throne’ Bed BOSTON—Simultaneous with the company’s 90th Anniversary and the North American launch of a new 2016 Chattam & Wells collection in Las Vegas, Spring Air will showcase at market a dramatic and “uber luxurious” international version of the […]
Malouf to Debut Scented Pillows with a Unique Twist
NEWS RELEASE Malouf to Debut Scented Pillows with a Unique Twist LOGAN, Utah JAN. 19, 2016 – Upscale bedding accessories provider Malouf unveils three scented pillows with included essential oil spritzers offering the unique ability to refresh or customize its fragrance. This innovation enhances the sleep experience by customizing the aromatic environment surrounding a pillow […]
Vispring Launches Three Products at Las Vegas Market
NEWS RELEASE VISPRING ANNOUNCES THREE NEW PRODUCT LAUNCHES AT LAS VEGAS MARKET, JAN. 24-28 PLYMOUTH, United Kingdom Jan. 19, 2016 — Vispring will be launching three new products at Las Vegas Market, taking place January 24-28. Combined, the headboard collaboration with designer Staffan Tollgård, the limited edition Europa bed, and the new Oxford model will […]
Thomashilfen Offers New ThevoRelief Models
News release Thomashilfen North America to Offer ThevoRelief Models in Consumer-Friendly Softer, Medium and Firm Choices at the Winter Las Vegas Market SEATTLE, WASHINGTON Dec. 4, 2015 – Responding to valuable information from both consumers and mattress retailers, Thomashilfen, North America has expanded its scientifically proven and tested therapeutic bed line to address the comfort […]
Teamex Shows ‘Sleepleasant Soothing Waters’ Heated Topper
News release Teamex To Show the Sleepleasant “Soothing Waters” Heated Mattress Topper at Specialty Sleep Showroom C-1565 in Las Vegas December 7 , 2015 – Fairfield, NJ – With the ever expanding demand and opportunity for accessories or aftermarket products designed to enhance sleep comfort, Teamex Corporation (Teamex) of Fairfield, NJ will be introducing their […]
Therapedic Debuts Four New Collections
News release FOUR NEW COLLECTIONS TO DEBUT AT THERAPEDIC INTERNATIONAL SHOWROOM AT THE JANAURY LAS VEGAS MARKET Princeton, New Jersey Jan. 20, 2016–The Therapedic International space plans to be a hotbed of activity with the release of four new product collections at the January Las Vegas Market. The company recently moved into a newly renovated […]
Symbol Launches New Brand ID, New Lines
News release SYMBOL® MATTRESS LAUNCHING NEW BRAND IDENTITY, RETAIL-FOCUSED BUSINESS OBJECTIVES AND NEW PRODUCT LINES IN MAJOR LV INITIATIVE RICHMOND, Va. Jan. 20, 2016—Symbol Mattress is re-introducing itself to retailers in Las Vegas, bringing to the winter market a new brand identity, retail-focused business objectives, several new product lines, plus the first phase in a renovation […]
Serta Redesigns iComfort for 2016
News release Serta Redesigns its iComfort® Mattresses for 2016 New collection includes both all-foam and hybrid models with Serta’s most advanced technologies HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS (December 9, 2015) – Serta, the leading mattress manufacturer in the industry, announced today that an all-new collection of iComfort mattresses will be unveiled at the Winter 2016 Las Vegas […]
Spring Air 90th Anniversary Products and Events Headline at Market
News release 90th ANNIVERSARY PRODUCTS, EVENTS AND NEW, ‘REDEFINED’ CHATTAM & WELLS COLLECTION LEAD SPRING AIR’S LAS VEGAS MARKET CHARGE BOSTON Jan. 20, 2016— Spring Air® International will commemorate its 90th birthday during the Las Vegas Market, launching a 90th Anniversary bed collection dressed in contemporary tuxedo looks, plus a number of themed promotions, contests, advertising […]
Specialty Sleep Association Showroom Product Lineup and Floor Plan
News release New Companies fill out the SSA Showroom’s Show-within-a-Show innovative product lineup 31 Bedroom exhibitors all in one spot makes it a must-see for retailers Friant, CA – Dec. 10, 2016 – The Specialty Sleep Association ( SSA) has once again sold out the space in their Building C, fifteenth floor mattress and bedding […]
Pure Talalay Bliss Stakes Out ‘Modern Luxury’ Brand Position
News release PURE TALALAY BLISS™ TO STAKE OUT IN LAS VEGAS DRAMATIC NEW ‘MODERN LUXURY’ BRAND POSITION IN ULTRA HIGH-END BEDDING SEGMENT SHELTON, Connecticut Jan. 20, 2016—In a move to drive the distinction between Talalay latex and other latex, pure LatexBLISS™ has been re-branded and re-concepted as Pure Talalay Bliss™–the new symbol of modern […]
PureCare Introduces Technical Textile Enhanced Sleep Collection
NEWS RELEASE PureCare – Technical Textile Enhanced Sleep Collection FAIRFIELD, New Jersey – December 14, 2015 – Over the past decade, PureCare has redefined health and wellness in the top-of-bed category, fusing innovative products and enhanced technical textiles to craft a complete collection of wellness-focused sleep products. Today the company offers its retailers and consumers […]
Noctova Introduces Memory Foam Beds and Accessories
NEWS RELEASE Noctova Sleep To Reach Retailers at Las Vegas Market with “Real Value” Story New Products Featured in SSA Showroom C-1565 SAINT LOUIS, MO Dec. 2, 2015 – Leveraging off of both unanticipated, but well received growth and a strong consumer marketing message that Price Plus Quality Equal Real Value, Noctova® Sleep will be […]
Naturepedic Launches Chorus Organic Mattress
NEWS RELEASE Naturepedic Launches Chorus Organic Mattress Chorus incorporates universal comfort and organic design at an entry level price point CHAGRIN FALLS, Ohio – Naturepedic, manufacturer of certified organic mattresses and sleep accessories for the luxury adult market, will launch the Chorus organic mattress at the 2016 Las Vegas Market. This entry-level mattress is ideal […]
Leggett & Platt Eliminates Retention Bar, Adds Features to 2016 Prodigy Adjustable Base
NEWS RELEASE LEGGETT & PLATT® ELIMINATES BAR RETENTION, EXPANDS FEATURES ON NEW 2016 PRODIGY™ ADJUSTABLE BASE Redesigned Prodigy features MicroHook™ retainer system for a streamlined look. CARTHAGE, Missouri, Jan. 17, 2016 – Leggett & Platt® Adjustable Bed Group has reinvented the Prodigy base, adding its exclusive MicroHook™ mattress-retention system to eliminate retainer bars often seen […]
King Koil Introduces New World Luxury Models, Direct-Ship Program
NEWS RELEASE NEW WORLD LUXURY™ SERIES’ BEDS, NEW DIRECT SHIP AND SLEEP DATA-COLLECTION PROGRAMS ON TAP IN KING KOIL LAS VEGAS SHOWROOM A-538 WILLOWBROOK, Ill.—King Koil® will be launching in Las Vegas several new options related to its World Luxury line of beds, along with a new sleep data collection technology and a new […]
Forever Foundations Introduces New Bed Foundation Accessories
NEWS RELEASE FOREVER FOUNDATIONS INTRODUCES A FULL LINE OF BED FOUNDATION ACCESSORIES AT THE LAS VEGAS MARKET ‘WE ARE RE-INVENTING THE FOUNDATION ‘TO MAKE IT YOURS!’ December 8, 2015 – Irvine, CA – Leveraging off of the exploding growth of the mattress / bedding accessories market, offering total sleep solutions to retailers and consumers, Forever […]
Fashion Bed Group Unfolds Future With SNAP Bed
NEWS RELEASE FASHION BED GROUP® UNFOLDS THE FUTURE OF BED DESIGN New Series Makes Shipping, Set-up and Style a SNAP! CHICAGO, December 17, 2015 – With Fashion Bed Group’s new SNAP™ Beds, set-up and shipping have never been simpler. These revolutionary bed designs from the leading U.S. retail supplier of bedding accessories literally “snap” together […]
Fashion Bed Group Unveils New Bedding Support Options
NEWS RELEASE FASHION BED GROUP® OFFERS STRENGTH AND FUNCTIONALITY WITH NEW BEDDING SUPPORT OPTIONS New Platform Bed Frame Offers Storage Options and Eliminates Box Spring CHICAGO, Ill., December 17, 2015 – Inspired by the adage that it’s what’s underneath that counts, Fashion Bed Group® (FBG), the leading U.S. retail supplier of bedding accessory products, is […]
Fashion Bed Group Adds New Pillow Offerings
NEWS RELEASE PILLOW TALK: NEW OFFERINGS FROM FASHION BED GROUP® FEATURE INNOVATIVE COOLING AND COMFORT TECHNOLOGY CHICAGO, Ill., December 17, 2015 – Keep your cool – and get a better night’s sleep – with new memory foam bedding accessories from Fashion Bed Group® (FBG), the leading U.S. retail supplier of bedding accessory products. Building on […]
Fashion Bed Group Offers On-Trend Headboards
NEWS RELEASE HEADBOARDS HEADLINE MARKET HIGHLIGHTS FROM FASHION BED GROUP® On-trend Upholstered Offerings Blend Versatility and Value CHICAGO, Ill., December 17, 2015 – Open any home décor magazine or website and you’ll find them. Upholstered headboards are all the rage. Fanning the flames of this hot design trend, Fashion Bed Group® (FBG), the leading U.S. […]
Fashion Bed Group Unveils Five New Bed Designs
NEWS RELEASE FASHION BED GROUP® KICKS OFF 2016 IN STYLE Category Leader to Unveil Five New Bed Designs in Las Vegas CHICAGO, Ill., December 17, 2015 – Resolve to make 2016 the most stylish year yet with new beds and accessories from Fashion Bed Group® (FBG), the leading U.S. retail supplier of bedding accessory products. […]
Ergo Sleep Centers Introduces Ergo Majestic Mattresses to Retailers
NEWS RELEASE Ergo Sleep Centers to Introduce Full Line of Ergo Majestic Mattresses to Retailers at the SSA Showroom, C-1565 in Las Vegas at the Winter 2016 Market CLARKSTON, MI – December 14 , 2015 – Ergo Centers, LLC, dba Ergo Sleep Centers, a fast-growing retailer of ergonomic and symptom-specific sleep products, will be showing […]
Englander Spotlights Expanded E-Gel Bed, Modernized Showroom
NEWS RELEASE ENGLANDER® TO SPOTLIGHT EXPANDED NEW E-GEL™ BED COLLECTION FROM FULLY RENOVATED, MODERNIZED LV SHOWROOM CHICAGO—Retailers visiting Englander Sleep Product’s showroom during the Las Vegas Winter Market will find that the producer has completely reconfigured, revamped and modernized its C-1596 space—eliminating walls, clearing windows, increasing light and flow, and adding a second entrance. […]
Diamond Mattress Returns to LV Market With Bed-In-Box Program
NEWS RELEASE DIAMOND MATTRESS RETURNS TO LAS VEGAS WITH NEW, MADE IN USA BED-IN-BOX PROGRAM OFFERING MULTIPLE DESIGN OPTIONS, CUSTOMIZATION RANCHO DOMINGUEZ, CA—Diamond® Mattress—the largest, independently owned mattress manufacturer in California—is returning to Las Vegas for the winter market to launch a major new U.S.-made, bed-in-box program from its C-1552 showroom. The fourth-generation family-owned […]
Soft-Tex Launches Dream Smart Pillow Fitting System, Mattress Protectors
NEWS RELEASE Soft-Tex International announces the launch of new Dream Smart™ products WATERFORD, New York (January 18, 2016) – Soft-Tex International has partnered with Ultra Shield to introduce the Dream Smart ™ Pillow Fitting System as well as a complete line of Dream Smart ™ mattress protection products at the upcoming Las Vegas Market. The […]
Boyd Revamps My Mattress Now Program
NEWS RELEASE BRICK-AND-MORTAR STORES TO ENJOY MAJOR COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE OVER ONLINE DEALERS WITH BOYD’S REVAMPED MATTRESS SHIPPING SERVICE ST. LOUIS—Boyd Specialty Sleep has redesigned its My Mattress Now™ program and will re-introduce the unique shipping service to current and prospective brick-and-mortar retail customers at the Las Vegas Market, announced company president Denny Boyd. First made available […]
Boyd Specialty Sleep Offering Multiple Product Introductions
NEWS RELEASE BOYD PLANNING MULTIPLE LV INTRODUCTIONS UNDER POPULAR BROYHILL CONSUMER BRAND; NEW PLATFORMS, ADJUSTABLE BASES ALSO ON AGENDA ST. LOUIS—Making the Broyhill® brand the centerpiece of its introductions for Las Vegas, Boyd Specialty Sleep® plans to launch at market two new Broyhill mattress collections, new Broyhill bed-in-box concepts, plus three new Broyhill toppers. […]
Danican Unveils Private-Label Program
NEWS RELEASE DANICAN MAKES PRIVATE LABELING EASY FOR U.S. RETAILERS Retailers Do Not Need to Be a National Chain to Have Their Own Brand ATASCADERO, CA, Jan. 12, 2016—EverRest Inc., dba Danican, the US subsidiary of EverRest ApS, based in Aahrus, Denmark now offers their expertise in private label manufacturing for a collection of superior-quality […]
Blu Sleep Launches Pillow Selection Program, ‘Cool’ New Identity
NEWS RELEASE BLU SLEEP PRODUCTS CREATES A NEW “CHOOSE YOUR PILLOW PROGRAM” AND INTRODUCES A NEW, “COOL” IDENTITY MARKETING CAMPAIGN POMPANO BEACH, FL – December 11 – 2015 – Blu Sleep Products is launching both a new Umbrella Marketing program around the theme of “Cool Engineering” and an easy and convenient consumer and retailer “How […]
A Guide to Bedding Exhibitors at Winter Las Vegas Market
If you will be attending the Winter Las Vegas Market Jan. 24-28, we’ve compiled a couple of helpful lists of sleep products exhibitors for you, using the World Market Center’s exhibitor-search tool. Download a PDF of bedding exhibitors: Alphabetical Listing of Bedding Exhibitors By-Building Listing of Bedding Exhibitors In addition, take an advance look at some market […]
Spring Air Hosting 90th Anniversary Cocktail Party Jan. 24 at Las Vegas Market
News release SPRING AIR® HOSTING 90TH ANNIVERSARY COCKTAIL PARTY ON OPENING DAY OF LAS VEGAS MARKET Celebration to include AmEx Dining Card Giveaways BOSTON Jan. 18, 2016—Commemorating its 90th anniversary during the Las Vegas market, Spring Air® International is hosting a celebratory cocktail party on opening-day Sunday, Jan. 24, from 4 to 6 p.m. […]
Pantone Color of the Year choices evoke tranquility, wellness
Color trend forecast blends two shades—Rose Quartz and Serenity For the first time, Pantone Inc., the leading color trend forecaster, has selected two shades for its Color of the Year—Rose Quartz and Serenity. The pale pink and light blue colors reflect consumers’ desires to seek mindfulness and well-being as an antidote to modern stress, according to […]
Mattress Sales Jump in November
Mattress sales rose 4.9% in November 2015 over the same month in 2014, according to the latest Bedding Barometer (paywall), a monthly report of U.S. mattress sales published by the International Sleep Products Association. Additionally, the wholesale dollar value of those units grew by 6.5% and the average unit selling price increased 1.6%, compared with […]
News Release: California Mattress Recycling Program Debuts
NEWS RELEASE December 30, 2015 Contact: Julia McDowell Office: (703) 888-4146 Cell: (703) 582-0428 jmcdowell@williamswhittle.com STATEWIDE MATTRESS RECYCLING PROGRAM DEBUTS IN CALIFORNIA Allows In-State Retailers No-Cost Drop Off at Participating Recycling Facilities ALEXANDRIA, VA – Today, California’s Mattress Stewardship Plan will take effect, making it the second state in the nation to launch a statewide […]
Get in the know on the latest sleep research
Kids: For a good night’s sleep, turn off, tune out Study finds 20% of teens awake up at night to check social media More than one in five teenagers say they “almost always” wake up during the night to look at or post messages on social media, according in some of the latest sleep research from […]
Does Your Store Have a Unique Value Proposition?
Stand apart and be noticed. When you establish a value proposition to distinguish your store from the competition, it gives consumers a reason to buy from you. Here’s how to create yours BY CARLOS ARNAVAT 4 Value proposition—isn’t that a slogan or positioning statement? Why do I need one? And how will it increase my bottom […]
Sleep Savvy magazine is born and more mattress industry history
This year, the International Sleep Products Association, which publishes Sleep Savvy, is celebrating its centennial. In researching ISPA’s first 100 years for an anniversary series in our sister publication BedTimes, we’ve found plenty that is of interest to mattress retailers. Here we share some news and trends from the period 1991 to 2015. We might […]
California Mattress Recycling FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the California recycling program I am a mattress retailer, and I want to be compliant with this new law and program. Where can I learn more? The Mattress Recycling Council has a toll-free support line, dedicated email, written guidelines and a step-by-step video to assist the mattress industry with registering through www.mrcreporting.org. […]
Mattress Recycling Fee Collection Begins Dec. 30 in California
The California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery has approved a budget and recycling fee for mattress recycling. Fee collection will begin Dec. 30. The Mattress Recycling Council proposed the budget and fee to fund its California Mattress Recycling Program, which will be known to consumers as Bye Bye Mattress. MRC is a nonprofit organization […]
Connecticut Mattress Recycling Off To Strong Start
The first state mattress-recycling program took effect in Connecticut in May. Six months into the program, here are some of the results: Ninety towns and 65 other entities (retailers, nonprofits, boarding schools, a submarine base, etc.) have enrolled in the program. In the first five months, the Mattress Recycling Council has kept nearly 50,000 mattresses out […]
Spreading the mattress recycling word
The Mattress Recycling Council has been busy keeping mattresses out of landfills and spreading the word about what its staff does. Here’s an idea of what it has been up to: In Connecticut, the site of the first statewide mattress-recycling program, MRC has launched a series of public service announcements. In September, MRC provided a […]
In High Point, Smaller Mattress Players Shine, Accessories Get Adventurous
BY BETH ENGLISH AND BARBARA NELLES When it came to mattress introductions at High Point Market Oct. 17-22, the starring roles at this contracting bedding market were played by the industry’s boutique brands and regional factories. The editors of BedTimes and Sleep Savvy particularly enjoyed taking a closer look at new offerings because of their […]
September Mattress Sales See Strong Growth
Mattress sales climbed 8.7% in September, compared with the same month in 2014, according to the Bedding Barometer (paywall), a monthly report of U.S. mattress sales published by the International Sleep Products Association. The wholesale dollar value of those sales grew 13.6%, compared with September 2014, while the average unit selling price increased 4.5%. Total […]
Mattress Sales Increase in july
U.S. bedding sales again posted gains in July, according to the Bedding Barometer, a monthly report of mattress sales published by the International Sleep Products Association (paywall). Mattress and foundation sales grew 4.2% compared with the same month in 2014, the wholesale dollar value of those units rose 6% and the average unit selling price increased […]
News Release: BSC Welcomes New Leadership and Members
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 29, 2015 Contact: Jasmine Wood (703) 683-8371 BSC WELCOMES NEW LEADERSHIP AND MEMBERS: Mark Hobson, chair; Dan Schecter, vice chair; and new members Marcus Baffoe-Bonnie, Julia Rosien and Don Wright (Alexandria, VA) – The Better Sleep Council, the consumer education arm of the International Sleep Products Association, today announced several leadership […]
Fleetzen survey says same-day delivery can make the sale
Retailers of large items—everything from big-screen TVs and barbecue grills to sporting equipment and furniture—are losing sales if they don’t offer same-day delivery, according to a new survey from Seattle-based Fleetzen. Fleetzen, it should be noted, has a vested interest in the subject: Instead of moving people, the Uberlike startup, along with Los Angeles-based Buddytruk, […]
New from SleepSells.com
Check out recent additions to SleepSells.com, an information hub that connects retail sales associates with the Simmons brand, part of Atlanta-based Serta Simmons Bedding LLC. “Elephant in the showroom”: This campaign invites RSAs to submit their trickiest “sticky situation” with consumers. (Retail sales associates can submit their stories directly to submissions@SleepSells.com. “Sell yourself, sell the […]
California approves MRC mattress recycling budget and fee
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 2015 Media Contact: Amanda Wall Office: (571) 482-5431 Cell: (713) 829-7748 awall@mattressrecyclingcouncil.org CALRECYCLE APPROVES MATTRESS RECYCLING COUNCIL’S RECYCLING BUDGET & FEE MATTRESS RECYCLING FEE COLLECTION BEGINS DECEMBER 30, 2015 ALEXANDRIA, VA – Today, the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) approved the budget and recycling fee that the […]
The 60s and 70s, happening times in bedding
As the International Sleep Products Association digs into its archive for a series of BedTimes magazine articles celebrating its 100th anniversary, the association has discovered a lot of interesting tidbits for mattress retailers, too. ISPA, which also publishes Sleep Savvy, is happy to share with you some of the news and trends from the period […]
Where did accountability go?
Believe it or not, employees want to be held responsible for their performance. Here are four keys to turn this watchword into a successful practice BY DOUG STEWART “I WILL HOLD YOU ACCOUNTABLE.” In every cubicle and on every sales floor, the word “accountability” strikes fear in the hearts of employees, but shouldn’t accountability be a […]
Mattress sales jump in June
Mattress sales advanced 8% in June compared with the same month in 2014, according to the Bedding Barometer, a monthly report of U.S. mattress sales published by the International Sleep Products Association. The wholesale dollar value of those units sprang up 12.2%, while the average unit selling price increased 3.9% compared with June of last […]
An education in sleep
Better Sleep Council spokeswoman Terry Cralle offers these back-to-school suggestions for an A+ year Editor’s note: Savvy mattress retailers want to do everything they can to help their customers sleep better, including offering them sound advice and tips. Feel free to share this great guidance from Better Sleep Council spokeswoman Terry Cralle with your shoppers (with […]
Mattress shoppers favor decorative displays
Survey reveals consumers are less drawn to plainly dressed beds Seven in 10 consumers say they are more drawn to elaborate top-of-bed displays than more plainly dressed mattresses, according to a survey commissioned by Colonial LLC and released earlier this year. A slightly higher number—75%—say they expect “top-quality brands” to have more attractive displays than […]
How does your customer service rate?
Mattress retailers could be doing better—and could be doing worse When it comes to providing good customer service, mattress retailers are fair to middling, according to a new ranking from Consumer Reports magazine. In a rating of 22 types of stores, industries and services, mattress retailers stand solidly at No. 11, with a score of […]
BSC examines schooltime sleep routines
The Better Sleep Council conducted a survey that looked at the sleep routines of families with school-age children. Of 2,500 parents surveyed, 90% had children in grade school. Eighty-three percent of households were dual parent and among those, 40% of parents said they share responsibility for waking their children up for school. Parents said their children’s school start times have […]
Mattress retailers urged to attend Las Vegas seminar on complying with state mattress recycling laws
[sc:responsive-in-post] The Mattress Recycling Council, formed by mattress industry trade group the International Sleep Products Association, based in Alexandria, Virginia, will host a Las Vegas Market seminar, Tuesday, Aug. 4 at 1 p.m. (Building B, 16th floor), for retailers, manufacturers and other market attendees. The discussion will cover California, Connecticut and Rhode Island mattress-recycling laws and other […]
Why you should create customer profiles
Customer confidential: Creating buyer personas can help you draw specific shoppers to your store BY CARLOS ARNAVAT 4 Truly knowing and understanding the customers you want to serve play a major role in the success of any mattress retailer, whether you’re a furniture or department store, specialty sleep shop or online seller. Creating buyer personas—fictional representations […]
How retailers can make the most of online reviews
More than likely, people are critiquing and rating your store and sharing their opinions with countless consumers on the Internet. Here are ways to make those conversations work for you BY LIN GRENSING-POPHAL In a world where mobile devices, social networking sites and other means of connecting with the masses are now commonplace, how can mattress […]
Americans’ love-hate relationship with sleep
Sleep—wasted time or welcome rest? New BSC sleep research sheds light on Americans’ love-hate relationship with slumber Sleep research conducted by the Better Sleep Council shows Americans are conflicted about sleep: A majority of people understand sleep is necessary to recharge, restore and refresh, but their feelings toward sleep are split. The survey, conducted in […]
Bigger (bedding) is better
This year, the International Sleep Products Association, which publishes Sleep Savvy, is celebrating its centennial. In researching ISPA’s first 100 years for an anniversary series in our sister publication BedTimes, we’ve found plenty that is of interest to mattress retailers. Here we share some news and trends from the period 1941 to 1965. The era […]
Bedding Barometer: Mattress sales climb in April
[sc:responsive-in-post] Mattress and foundation sales rose 2.5% in April, compared with unit sales in the same month of 2014, according to the Bedding Barometer, a monthly statistical analysis of U.S. mattress sales published by the International Sleep Products Association. The wholesale dollar value of mattresses and foundations grew by 4.7% and the average unit selling […]
Rooms To Go creates mattress-buying guide
Furniture and mattress retailer Rooms To Go, based in Seffner, Florida, has created a mattress buying guide at www.roomstogo-mattress.com. The guide to choosing and buying a mattress provides information about mattress sizes, comfort levels, construction methods and more. It also includes information about sleep and a list of the retailer’s best-selling sleep sets. In addition, […]
Till Sleep Do Us Part
Why more couples are sleeping separately GUEST POST BY TERRY CRALLE Sometimes a good night’s sleep can be hard to come by—the neighbor’s barking dog, a car alarm, or a teething baby all seem to conspire to keep you awake. But add a restless bed partner who snores or steals the blankets, or who prefers […]
News release: Sleep, waste of time?
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Mary Helen Uusimaki 571-482-5436 mhuusimaki@sleepproducts.org Polly Ryder 216-533-2006 pryder@marcusthomasllc.com SLEEP – WASTE OF TIME OR WELCOME RESPITE? Better Sleep Council Research Shows Americans Are Torn on Feelings about Sleep ALEXANDRIA, Virginia – May 12, 2015 – Sleep research recently conducted by the Better Sleep Council (BSC) shows Americans are conflicted about sleep. […]
Save the date: Mattress Recycling Council information session at Las Vegas Market
[sc:responsive-in-post] The Mattress Recycling Council is hosting an information session about state recycling programs during summer Las Vegas Market. Where: World Market Center B-16 When: Tuesday, Aug. 4, 1 p.m. Attendees will learn about the Bye Bye Mattress program, the proposed fee and plans for California and Rhode Island, and get an update on the progress of Connecticut’s implementation. […]
Punctuality pointers
Time not on your side? These nine solutions can help you beat the clock Are you one of those people who battle the clock every day? Being chronically late not only is annoying to and inconsiderate of others, but it’s also bad for business. Making co-workers—or even shoppers—wait because you couldn’t find your keys doesn’t […]
Sleep news for May
Picking sides Survey of bedside practices: Where Americans lie down affects sleep quality, relationships Could something as simple as picking the right side of the bed actually make a difference in how people sleep? It may, according to a new Pick Your Side survey that looks at the bedside practices of Americans and their impact […]
Better Sleep Month is born
This year, the International Sleep Products Association, which publishes Sleep Savvy, is celebrating its centennial. In researching ISPA’s first 100 years for an anniversary series in our sister publication BedTimes, we’ve found plenty that is of interest to mattress retailers. Here we share some news and trends from the period 1941 to 1965. Annual public-relations […]
Seven deadly sins of social media, part 2
SOCIAL GRACES | Sponsored by Restonic Thou shalt not do that again! BY JULIA ROSIEN Got a social-media strategy or are you winging it and praying it all works out? We’re all guilty of cutting corners once in a while, but if you’re engaging in the deadly sins of social media, you’re on a crash course […]
10 ways to transform your store’s culture
I ♥ my job! Google Inc. is known for fostering a work environment where creativity and productivity thrive. In his recent book “Work Rules! Insights from Inside Google That Will Transform How You Live and Lead,” Laszlo Bock, Google’s senior vice president of people operations, reveals secrets about how one of the world’s most successful companies has achieved this enviable […]
Connecticut debuts nation’s first statewide mattress-recycling program
Plan requires those who produce, sell or renovate mattresses to collect a recycling fee on each mattress and box springs sold On May 1, Connecticut’s Mattress Stewardship Plan took effect, making it the first state in the nation to launch a statewide recycling program for used mattresses and box springs. The program is administered by […]
2015-16 mattress forecast
International Sleep Products Association predicts continued gains in U.S. bedding sales, dollar values The U.S. mattress industry is expected to see continued gains in both the dollar value and number of units shipped in 2015 and 2016, according to the latest forecast from the International Sleep Products Association. The forecast, released in April, expects the […]
Celebrating mattress industry history
This year, the International Sleep Products Association, which publishes Sleep Savvy, is celebrating its 100th anniversary The research team poring over old documents for a series of articles in our sister publication BedTimes has come across a trove of trivia and trends about mattress retailing that we know you’ll enjoy, too. Like the stories we […]
Hollywood Bed hosts congresswoman
U.S. Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard paid a visit to the Commerce, California, headquarters of Hollywood Bed Frame Co., which in the previous 12 months has doubled the size of its workforce. The congresswoman toured the bed-frame, base and hardware supplier’s plant and learned more about the company’s recent growth from Hollywood Bed Chief Executive Officer Larry […]
Seven deadly sins of social media, Part 1
SOCIAL GRACES | Sponsored by Restonic Thou shalt not do that again! BY JULIA ROSIEN I try to live a good life, free from temptation and sin. I try to do what’s right online, too, but that’s tricky some days. Why can’t there be a shortcut to some of this social collateral we’re working so hard […]
Sleep 411, your sleep-information directory
GUEST POST BY TERRY CRALLE Sleep comprises a substantial part of our lives and is an integral component of our overall functioning. The hours we spend sleeping impacts virtually every aspect of our 16 waking hours—everything from health to mood, outlook, weight, decision-making, memory and relationships. You name it, sleep impacts it. Sleep is a […]
Bedding Barometer: Mattress sales, values spike in December
Unit sales of mattresses and foundations increased 15.1% in December, compared with bed sales in the same month of 2013, according to the Bedding Barometer, a monthly sales report published by mattress-industry trade group the International Sleep Products Association. The wholesale dollar value of mattresses and foundations sold in December grew 25.1%, compared with December 2013, and […]
News from the Better Sleep Council
BSC, Diabetes Influencers team up BSC spokeswomen, health educators to participate in podcast, Twitter chat party to promote Better Sleep Month To help promote its annual “May Is Better Sleep Month” campaign, the Better Sleep Council is partnering with Diabetes Influencers to raise awareness about the relationship between sleep and health. The BSC is the […]
The power of internal innovation
Keynote speaker tells ISPA Industry Conference attendees the keys to business success are in their own backyard Inspired by his business book of the same name, John Spence’s “Awesomely Simple” keynote at the International Sleep Products Association’s 2015 Industry Conference March 4-5 in St. Petersburg, Florida, offered this important takeaway—for business success, companies must focus […]
Marketing workshop: Content really is king
From educating to storytelling, today’s successful creative marketing strategies are all about winning the hearts of consumers BY CARLOS ARNAVAT 4 The days of advertising exclusively on billboards and in newspapers are coming to an end. While it was commonplace back in the 1970s for consumers to be exposed to 500 ads a day, today […]
Sleep news for March
Shifting to daylight saving time Five tips from the Better Sleep Council for springing forward On Sunday, March 8, most Americans will move an hour from the morning to the evening, adding an extra 60 minutes of sunlight to the end of the day—and wreaking havoc on their sleep habits. To help ease the transition, […]
Understanding luxury shoppers
How can you keep this misidentified demographic coming back? Every year, luxury brands experience something no retailer wants to confront—a loss of more than half of their top customers. New research from Epsilon and the Luxury Institute shows this loss comes from not understanding who those top customers really are and failing to give them […]
Mattress sales climb in January
The Bedding Barometer, a monthly statistical analysis of U.S. mattress sales (paywall) published by the International Sleep Products Association, shows that mattress sales climbed a healthy 7.8% in January, as compared with January 2014. ISPA says the wholesale dollar value of mattresses and foundations sold in the U.S. in January grew 12%. The average unit selling […]
U.S. mattress sales see modest increase in November
Unit sales of mattresses and foundations in the United States increased by 0.5% in November 2014, compared with unit sales in the same month of 2013, according to the International Sleep Products Association’s Bedding Barometer (paywall). The wholesale dollar value of those units also grew 2.5%, compared with November 2013, and the average unit selling price […]
Mattress retailing, the early years
A look back at bedding sales trivia and trends from 1915 to 1940 This year, the International Sleep Products Association, which publishes Sleep Savvy, is celebrating its 100th anniversary. The research team poring over old documents for a series of articles in our sister publication BedTimes has come across a trove of trivia and trends […]
March mattress-recycling updates
Connecticut approves recycling plan Mattress Recycling Council program to begin May 1 The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has approved the Connecticut Mattress Stewardship Plan developed by the Mattress Recycling Council, a nonprofit organization created by the mattress industry to develop and manage mandated statewide mattress-recycling programs. The approval Dec. 31 makes Connecticut […]
Seeing red
Color of the year is red and it reflects more confident U.S. consumer sentiment According to the nation’s top color forecasters, the color red will take center stage in home décor this year. The Milwaukee (Wisconsin) Journal Sentinel recently noted the nation’s three major color predictors selected red—or a related pigment—as the hot hue of 2015: […]
Park Place names new president, VP
Mattress producer Park Place Corp. has named Jason Kelley as president and promoted Jerry Burgess to vice president of sales. The Greenville, South Carolina-based company was founded in 1931 and is the King Koil licensee for the south and mid-Atlantic regions. Kelley, who joined Park Place in 2012, is responsible for providing “a strategic plan […]
Retailers, the ISPA Industry Conference is for YOU
You’ve earned it. Get away from the cold and snow to the magnificent Vinoy Renaissance Resort and Golf Club in St. Petersburg to the ISPA Industry Conference AND … Sharpen your store’s competitive edge. Our keynoter, bestselling author, publisher and entrepreneur Rich Karlgaard will give you a roadmap to gaining a leg up on the competition. […]
PFA clarifies proposed EPA ruling on flexible polyurethane foam safety
The Polyurethane Foam Association, based in Loudon, Tennessee, announced today it has prepared the position paper “What Regulators Need to Know” to clarify the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s recently proposed Significant New Use Rule pertaining to toluene diisocyanate use in consumer goods. TDI is a raw material used in the manufacture of flexible polyurethane foam. […]
At Pinterest, check out some Las Vegas Market introductions
Here is a Pinterest board of some of the new products on display at this week’s Las Vegas Market. Our full report from the show will be in your hands with the next issue of Sleep Savvy and BedTimes magazines.
Sleep Savvy tours mattress showrooms at Las Vegas Market Jan. 18-22
This week the editors of BedTimes and Sleep Savvy magazines are at the Las Vegas Market Jan. 18-22 touring bedding showrooms. Follow our progress on Twitter (@bedtimesmag, @sleepsavvymag)–we’ll be posting photos and commentary as we go–and check out our Vine videos. A complete report on all the news and trends in mattresses and sleep accessories is coming […]
A centennial celebration to remember
Retailers are invited to celebrate ISPA’s 100th anniversary at its 2015 Industry Conference The International Sleep Products Association turns 100 this year, and retailers are encouraged to attend a one-of-a-kind centennial celebration at the 2015 ISPA Industry Conference March 4-5 at the Vinoy Renaissance Resort and Golf Club in St. Petersburg, Florida. ISPA will honor the […]
Content & social media—a winning marketing formula
SOCIAL GRACES | Sponsored by Restonic I’ve been using social media for business for more than 10 years. I think a sustainable social media strategy always will be about relationship building, but the foundation always has been about content. And once that content is created, repurposing it can give it longer life—and reduce your workload. ✔ […]
Connecticut statewide mattress-recycling plan approved
BedTimes magazine reported today that the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has approved the Connecticut Mattress Stewardship Plan developed by the Mattress Recycling Council. The plan goes into effect May 1. MRC is a non-profit created by the mattress-industry trade group, the International Sleep Products Association, headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia. Connecticut is the first state to […]
Sleep news round-up
Nightmares, demystified What’s the difference between a nightmare and a bad dream and what can you do about them? Antonio Zadra, a professor of psychology at Université de Montréal and director of the school’s Dream Laboratory, answered a few questions about nightmares in the October issue of Real Simple. O What exactly qualifies as a nightmare? […]
U.S. mattress sales rise 5.8% in October
Unit sales of mattresses and foundations increased by 5.8% in October, compared with unit sales in the same month of 2013, according to the International Sleep Products Association’s Bedding Barometer. The wholesale dollar value of those units grew 9.3%, compared with October 2013, and the average unit selling price increased 3.3%. Year-to-date unit sales and […]
Generation Z—coming to a store near you
A recent national survey from Boston’s Northeastern University reveals that members of Generation Z—those born in the mid-1990s or later—are highly self-directed, demonstrated by a strong desire to work for themselves, study entrepreneurship and design their own programs of study in college. According to the survey, 63% of the respondents—all between the ages of 16 and […]
Hiring for the long haul
Smart hiring managers use a variety of methods to find employees who will stick around. Tom Gimbel, founder of LaSalle Network, a nationally recognized staffing firm based in Chicago, shares these strategies at Fastcompany.com: 1. Always be interviewing. The right time to be interviewing is before you are in need of a new employee, Gimbel […]
MRC staff grows with two hires
The Mattress Recycling Council has hired a program coordinator and a marketing and communications coordinator. Mark Patti has been named MRC’s Southern California program coordinator. He will work with municipalities, retailers and other generators of mattresses, as well as transporters and recyclers, as the MRC develops and implements its mattress-recycling program in the state. “We […]
Poll: Millennials less invested in recycling
Conventional wisdom that Millennials are more eco-conscious than their parents and grandparents may not be accurate—at least when it comes to recycling, according to a Harris Poll conducted in November for the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries. The online survey found that younger adults (ages 18 to 34) are significantly less likely to always recycle—just […]
Gov. Brown signs bill to tweak California mattress law
California Gov. Jerry Brown recently signed a bill that adds specificity and assurances that preserve regulatory oversight to mattress-recycling legislation that was originally signed in 2013. The International Sleep Products Association supported the changes to the law, which were introduced through legislation in August and signed by Brown in September. The Mattress Recycling Council, a […]
Three lessons from the Apple Store
Some furniture stores are segregating or creating entirely different sleep shops solely focused on sleep. Many specialty-sleep stores use multimedia to educate consumers while they are in store. Other retailers help prequalify a shopper’s desired comfort/firmness by having her try preselected mattresses in different firmness levels to further reduce confusion and streamline her shopping experience. […]
Mattress store by day, dance studio by night
Discount Mattress Outlet outside of Columbia, Missouri, has something of a secret identity. “It’s a mattress store by day, dance studio by night,” Linda Vorce told KBIA Mid-Missouri Public Radio. She co-owns the store with her husband Steve. During the day, mattresses occupy the central floor space. But every Tuesday and Thursday, mattresses are moved […]
Spring design trend
From chandeliers to garden gates, in “Reduce, reuse, redecorate,” BedTimes reports on the myriad ways old bed springs and metal frames are being reused–and reimagined–into stylish products for the home: At a time when mattress-recycling legislation is making headlines and states begin addressing the problem of keeping old beds from clogging local landfills and entangling heavy […]
California says new furniture flammability labeling doesn’t apply to mattresses
The California Bureau of Electronics & Appliance Repair, Home Furnishings & Thermal Insulation, which regulates mattress safety in California, has issued a new document, “Senate Bill (SB) 1019 Frequently Asked Questions, which reiterates that mattresses are not subject to the state’s new FR chemicals labeling requirements for furniture, enacted this year in SB 1019. The […]
ISPA expects gains in bedding unit shipments, wholesale values in next two years
The U.S. mattress industry is projected to enjoy healthy increases in both units shipped and the value of those shipments for the next two years, according to a new forecast from the International Sleep Products Association. The forecast, released in October, projects that the number of mattresses and foundations shipped will rise by 2% and the […]
Mattress news from High Point Market
Excerpt from BedTimes magazine, “Mattress showrooms mellow, upbeat at High Point Market“: The fall weather at High Point Market Oct. 18-23 was gloriously sunny and warm, perfect for leisurely strolling. “Leisurely” also is a good way to describe the tenor of the fourth major mattress market of 2014. This was a minor show in terms […]
Social PR—the medium is the message
Ten years ago when a manufacturer or retailer had something newsworthy to share, it hired a public relations agency that then got the information into the hands of a senior writer or editor. Successful PR agencies understood how to get honest, helpful product or service reviews without crossing the line into advertorial. It was almost […]
Retailers invited to ISPA Industry Conference
Forbes publisher will serve as keynote speaker Bedding retailers are encouraged to attend the 2015 ISPA Industry Conference March 4-5 at the Vinoy Renaissance Resort and Golf Club in St. Petersburg, Florida. The conference is sponsored by the International Sleep Products Association. The Better Sleep Council is the consumer-education arm of ISPA. Entrepreneur-turned-publisher, columnist, author, […]
Real Simple offers on-point, mattress-shopping advice
Article has useful tips for buying new bed When consumer magazines advise their readers on buying a new mattress, the editors at Sleep Savvy often hold our breath as we read along: We’ve encountered too many articles that tell consumers foundations are a rip-off and that there’s little difference between mattress brands or technologies. A […]
Shifman Mattress to launch retooled Masters Collection at High Point Market
Luxury mattress manufacturer Shifman Mattress Co. is adding drama to its bedding floor at High Point Market Oct. 18-23. The Newark, New Jersey-based company will launch the “next-generation” Masters Collection, which combines signature damask panels with contemporary, upholstery-style, quilted borders, and lots of elegant trim. Many of the mattress set’s design innovations are based on an […]
Stand up straight—and smile!
When it comes to selling mattresses, your body language matters as much as your well-rehearsed sales pitch Depending on which research you believe, somewhere between half and virtually all communication between two people is nonverbal. We’ll let the experts quibble about the particulars, but it’s clear that things like how you stand, the expression on […]
Six tips for furniture stores to increase mattress sales
The ‘96 percenters’: For furniture stores to increase their share of the bedding market, they need to become mattress destinations. Here are six ways to do just that BY GORDON HECHT Editor’s note: This article is designed for owners and managers of furniture stores that sell mattresses. Mattress specialty retailers, even though you already know […]
Simmons 30-second videos give the SIMple Facts
For retail sales associates, it can be tough keeping up with the new technologies constantly appearing in mattresses, the latest sleep research and other advancements. As one piece of a three-part tech package to educate RSAs and consumers, Atlanta-based Simmons Bedding Co. has created a series of short, fast-paced videos it calls SIMple Facts. Each […]
North Carolina honors mattress maker Kingsdown
Local dignitaries, community leaders and employees of Kingsdown Inc. gathered Friday at the company’s Oakwood plant in Mebane, North Carolina, to celebrate 110 years in the mattress-manufacturing business. “Kingsdown remains the only home-grown, home-bred industry we have left,” said Mebane Mayor Glendel Stephenson, who, along with North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory, proclaimed Sept. 12, 2014, […]
Mattress Firm acquires Sleep Train
Houston-based retailer Mattress Firm announced it is acquiring employee-owned Sleep Train Inc., with headquarters in Sacramento, California, the parent of sleep shop chains Got Sleep?, Mattress Discounters, Sleep Country USA and Sleep Train, for $425 million. Sleep Train operates 312 storefronts in California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon and Washington state. “This unique and transformational opportunity […]
MRC releases educational videos on mattress recycling
The Mattress Recycling Council, a nonprofit organization formed by the International Sleep Products Association, has released three videos that provide retailers in Connecticut, California and Rhode Island the basic information they need about new recycling laws as preparations for launching mattress-recycling programs in those states move ahead. Connecticut is the first state to implement its […]
Experts to tackle guidelines for optimal sleep
How much sleep is too much or too little? A panel of medical specialists and researchers, funded in part by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hopes to find a more definitive answer to that question, according to a story published Monday in The Wall Street Journal. Experts tapped by the CDC, the American Academy […]
The right bed for your BMI
GUEST POST BY TERRY CRALLE No matter what your weight or body type, a comfortable mattress is a key component in healthy weight management. Traditionally, weight management has been equated exclusively with diet and exercise, yet, recent research demonstrates that sleep quality and sleep duration are equally important. With more than one-third of U.S. adults, […]
Mattress and sleep tips for managing arthritis pain
BY TERRY CRALLE The term arthritis can refer to many different rheumatic diseases and conditions, the most common being osteoarthritis. Arthritis is characterized by joint stiffness, swelling, pain and inflammation and affects approximately 52.5 million Americans. According to the CDC, it is the most common cause of disability. People who suffer from arthritis tend to […]
How to deal with angry mattress shoppers
Kill ’em with kindness. What to do when an irate customer stomps into your store? Here are seven ways to defuse angry people IN RETAIL, IRATE CUSTOMERS are a fact of life and dealing well with them takes planning and practice. It also is important to understand that a mattress purchase is a stress-inducing task for […]
Consumers share mattress-shopping concerns
BSC research reveals confusion, hesitation about buying a new bed set The Better Sleep Council’s latest research uncovered reasons why consumers hesitate to shop for and purchase a new mattress. Understanding the consumer mindset can help retailers sell the value of better sleep that comes with a new quality mattress set, says Mary Helen Uusimaki, vice […]
Mattress recyclers to the rescue
The International Sleep Products Association maintains a mattress recyclers locator for the United States and Canada. To find a recycler in your area, visit the Bye Bye Mattress Recycling Locator. Recyc-Mattresses Corp. Headquarters: Montreal Founded: 2007 Principals: Eric Castro and Pascal Cohen Mission statement: “Recyc-Mattresses’ commitment is to help protect the environment.” Fees: Fees vary depending on the […]
Retail Road Trip: Mattress Gallery in Lafayette, LA
F. Mark Hubbard makes mattress buying fun Like singer Pharrell Williams, the owner of Mattress Gallery in Lafayette, Louisiana, is a happy guy, and his ‘cruise director’ approach to bedding is downright contagious—business has more than tripled in the past five years BY DOROTHY WHITCOMB PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HUBBARD There are people who would giggle […]
Bedding Barometer: Revenues up in April
According to the International Sleep Products Association’s Bedding Barometer (pay wall), a monthly sales report on the U.S. mattress industry, unit sales of mattresses and foundations decreased 1.2% in April, as compared with the same month in 2013. The wholesale dollar value of those units grew 3%, as compared with April 2013. The average unit selling […]
‘Socialnomics’ 2014
Erik Qualman video presents 19 social media facts every retailer should know By now, most retailers realize that social media isn’t going away anytime soon. In fact, Erik Qualman, author of the best-selling book Socialnomics and the creator of a series of videos by the same name, recently released a new clip that highlights staggering […]
Internet-only Casper offers solution to ‘terrors’ of mattress shopping
What happens when today’s connected Millennials have bad experiences at mattress retailers? Sure, they vent in social media, but some—like the founders of new mattress brand Casper Sleep—take things a step further. They attract $1.6 million in venture capital and start their own e-commerce mattress brand, targeting dissatisfied Gen Y-ers. Watch New York-based Casper Sleep’s […]
Mattress sales up 2013-2015
ISPA report and forecast show moderate growth; now available to retailers According to the “2013 Mattress Industry Report of Sales and Trends,” published by the International Sleep Products Association, the mattress industry continued its upward trend in 2013 in unit shipments and wholesale dollar values. U.S. mattress producers shipped nearly 35.9 million units, and wholesale revenues grew […]
BSC consumer research: They like you–they really do!
In recent qualitative research, the Better Sleep Council studied the thoughts, feelings and behaviors of a group of sleep-deprived mattress shoppers. In the process, the BSC uncovered this myth-buster—most study participants thoroughly enjoyed their interactions with retail sales associates. Despite feeling overwhelmed by store choice and massive selection, despite anxiety about high prices and trepidation […]
BedMart assists Portland’s homeless
Pacific Northwest sleep-shop chain BedMart Mattress Superstores, with headquarters in Portland, Oregon, has partnered with Tempur Sealy in the donation of 206 new Tempur-Pedic beds to a network of eight homeless shelters in the Portland area. The eight nonprofits—Central City Concern, Janus Youth Programs, Jesuit Volunteer Corps Northwest, Luke-Dorf, Macdonald Center, New Avenues for Youth, […]
L&P’s Cornell among American Furniture Hall of Fame 2014 nominees
The American Furniture Hall of Fame Foundation Inc., based in High Point, North Carolina, has announced its 2014 nominees. On the list is Harry Cornell Jr., chairman emeritus of Carthage, Missouri-based mattress industry supplier Leggett & Platt, as well as five other furniture industry notables—Hershel Alpert (Alpert’s), Bernard Castro (Castro Convertibles), Donald Dreher (DMI Furniture), […]
Restonic Facebook contest salutes dad’s changing role
Just in time for Father’s Day, mattress-licensing group Restonic, with headquarters in Buffalo, New York, is hosting a dad-themed contest on its popular Facebook page, www.facebook.com/restonicbeds. Restonic friends and fans are invited to share a picture of dad and “tell us why you love him,” for a chance to win (do we know how many?) […]
True colors: What is your logo saying?
Before they set foot in your store, consumers have formed an impression of your company based on your logo or, more specifically, your logo’s colors, according to an article posted March 31 on FastCompany.com. For logos, many mattress retailers favor blue or red—or a combination of both. Blue makes sense: It’s traditionally associated with peacefulness, […]
The well-dressed RSA
To rework a phrase, it’s the clothes—plus a few other things—that make the retail sales associate It takes people just seconds to form an impression about someone they’ve just met. In fact, a set of Princeton University psychologists found in 2006 that it takes less than one-tenth of a second! For retail sales associates wanting […]
Better Sleep Month targets consumer confidence, purchasing indecision
Join the push to ‘Get on Top’ this Memorial Day A NEW awareness campaign to encourage Americans to “Get on Top of a New Mattress” kicked off May 1 as part of the Better Sleep Council’s annual Better Sleep Month. The BSC is the consumer education arm of the International Sleep Products Association. Get on […]
Bedding Barometer: Mattress sales slide in February
U.S. mattress sales declined in February, as compared with the same month of the previous year, according to the Bedding Barometer (pay wall), a monthly sales report published by the International Sleep Products Association. Unit sales decreased by 3.4% , while the wholesale dollar value of those units decreased by 0.9%. The average unit selling price […]
Industry leaders give specifics on recycling programs
Fees, education, legislative outlook top ISPA EXPO session The International Sleep Products Association announced several important updates regarding recent mattress-recycling laws at ISPA EXPO, March 26-29 in New Orleans. Legislation was passed in 2013 in Connecticut, California and Rhode Island. The session included the following information for bedding retailers: Point-of-purchase recycling fee According to Mike […]
$175,000 mattress honors the royal bedchamber
London-based luxury mattress manufacturer Savoir Beds has launched a limited-edition mattress retailing for $175,000 in conjunction with its sponsorship of “Secrets of the Royal Bedchamber” exhibition at Hampton Court Palace March 27 to Nov. 3. The exhibit explores the bedchamber of the 17th- and 18th-century royal court. The mattress takes more than 600 hours to […]
Pillow Talk: Social media and your intern
Bringing interns into your company is a smart move for you, your staff and the interns. They can free up resources, deliver serious return on investment on social media and even train other staff how to engage in this medium. But you might want to think twice before you hand over your social media strategy […]
‘Get on top of a new mattress’
BSC launches new Better Sleep Month Campaign “Get on top of a new mattress and get to the bottom of making the right purchase” is the theme of this year’s Better Sleep Month, which begins May 1 and is sponsored by the Better Sleep Council, the consumer education arm of the International Sleep Products Association. […]
Bedding Barometer: U.S. mattress sales increase slightly in January
U.S. mattress sales increased in January, as compared with the same month in 2013, according to the latest Bedding Barometer (pay wall), a monthly sales report published by the International Sleep Products Association. Unit sales rose 1.2%, while the wholesale dollar value of those units remained flat. The average unit selling price decreased 1.2%, compared with the […]
What’s in a product label?
A lot, thanks to the marketing efforts of mattress makers Mattress manufacturers are sharing more information—and making it easier to present and sell their products—via the creative use of tags and printed labels. It’s a trend Sleep Savvy has noticed while reporting on new products at recent bedding shows. Labeling is a way for individual […]
Managing employee rivalries
Dueling staff members are disruptive in the workplace and corrupt the attitudes of other employees. Consider these 5 steps to eliminate or lessen their negative impact BY BARBARA JAUREQUI Child psychiatrist David Levy introduced the term “sibling rivalry” in 1941. Self-explanatory in its terminology, the concept of sibling rivalry is easy to grasp. The mechanism of […]
Today’s Bed envisions tomorrow
Twin Cities area sleep shop chain, owned and operated by two industry veterans, sets a new course for mattress retailing BY DOROTHY WHITCOMB PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN WAGNER When Scott Michelsen and Tim Sommer met for the first time seven years ago, there almost was an air of inevitability about the whole encounter. Both men were […]
Tip Sheet: Rev up your RSAs
YOU’VE HIRED THE RIGHT PEOPLE AND TRAINED THEM WELL, but in a showroom filled with mattresses where traffic may ebb more than it flows, how do you prevent that urge to “lie down on the job”? Is it possible to keep retail sales associates energized and performing at their peak, ready for the next customer […]
Mattress recycling facilities in the United States and Canada
Use this Mattress Recycling Facilities Locator to find a recycler in the United States or Canada.
Go to jail
Notorious slammers turned into luxurious hotels If a night in jail is on your bucket list, well, that’s just weird, but thanks to a trend of converting old jails and prisons into upscale boutique-like hotels, you can still have a good story about a night behind bars—with no inconvenient criminal activity required. The Charles Street […]
New beds blend technology and better sleep
Some mattress manufacturers have jumped on board the “quantified-self movement,” offering consumers tech-filled beds and mobile apps that allow you to measure, monitor and — hopefully — improve your sleep. It was a trend that the editors of Sleep Savvy spotted at the winter Las Vegas Market Jan. 26-20. The goal is to offer just […]
Pillow Talk: Measuring social media
How do you measure your social media marketing efforts? How did you measure that billboard you paid someone to put up at the local hockey arena? How did you measure your last radio spot? At a time when the average person faces more than 400 advertisements daily, the modern marketer’s ultimate challenge is making a message […]
Retailer happily loses big in Super Bowl wager
Family-owned Harkness Furniture in Tacoma, Wash., is reimbursing customers close to $70,000 after the Seattle Seahawks won the Super Bowl. Prior to the game, the retailer ran a special promotion promising to refund all furniture and mattress purchases made Thursday through Sunday before the big game—if the Seahawks managed to return their opening kickoff for a […]
Magazine issues bedding review
Consumer Reports’ analysis delivers mixed bag In its annual review of mattresses, the March issue of Consumer Reports provides a four-page package of mattress scores, retail store ratings, purchasing advice, mattress myths and insights into better sleep. The magazine evaluates 12 innerspring and 12 memory foam models through a series of comprehensive testing, yielding its […]
The right hook–How to create advertising that works
BY CAMA MCNAMARA It’s 2014, and if you’re still selling mattresses like you did a decade ago, your sales are suffering. Just as the technology in mattress components has advanced over the years, so have opportunities for advertising and marketing. Today’s ever-evolving media mix offers a plethora of opportunities to reach consumers. From seniors to […]
Bedding Barometer: U.S. Mattress sales see modest gains in December
U.S. mattress sales rose in December, compared with the same month in 2012, according to the Bedding Barometer (pay wall), a monthly sales report published by the International Sleep Products Association. Unit sales (mattresses and foundations) increased 4.8%, and the wholesale value of those units rose 7%, compared with the same month in 2012. For the same […]
Mattress-recycling levels reach 1 million pounds for West Virginia retailer
Mattress retailer Innovative Mattress Solutions recycled more than 1 million pounds of mattress material in 2013. The Winfield, W. Va.-based company does business as Mattress Warehouse, Sleep Outfitters and Mattress King in West Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee and Alabama. According to Spring Back Mattress Recycling, an award-winning mattress recycler based in Nashville, Tenn., IMS […]
6 tips for a more creative retail business
The 21st-century workplace faces many challenges, including a diverse and multigenerational workforce, limited resources and ineffective leadership. Employees want leaders who recognize their abilities and make them feel valued and respected. They also want a challenging workplace that encourages experimentation. Glenn Llopis, in an article recently posted on Forbes online, offers these six tips for […]
Her Bed Post: Selling to women
Motivating factors While purchasing decisions ostensibly may seem straightforward, those made by women often are driven by profound psychological factors and behaviors. To understand those subconscious drivers, Insights in Marketing, a Chicago-based marketing research firm, developed five female behavioral insight profiles to help retailers comprehend the motivations behind women’s buying habits. The FBI profiles were […]
5 ways to get comfortable being uncomfortable
The rewards of risk taking BY WALT GRASSL Early in Karl’s career, he had no problem accepting a promotion from retail sales associate to the mattress store’s sales manager. But a few years later, when asked to be store manager, self-doubt became his constant companion. He agonized over the decision for days. He had trouble […]
5 tips for skillful succession planning
BY LOIS LANG When it comes to family business succession planning, one of these three things is certain: Most family business leaders don’t do it, they don’t do it well or they wait to do it until it’s too late. While the longevity of chief executive officers in nonfamily businesses is an average of six […]