Big-ticket categories like furniture and appliances also feeling pinch as Covid-19 continues to impact shipments, but shoppers don’t blame retailers About one in 10 shoppers say they elected not to buy a mattress because the product they sought was not available, a new Better Sleep Council survey reveals. Overall, consumers put the blame for product […]
Refreshing Your Memory
Of all the things we’ve lost as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, here’s one that may surprise you — your memory. And it could be impacting your work life, especially if you work remotely. Fast Company contributor Art Markman, author of “Bring Your Brain to Work,” wrote about the phenomenon in January, explaining that […]
Preparing for a CalRecycle Inspection
If you sell beds in the Golden State, here’s how to be sure you are complying with the mattress recycling law The Mattress Recycling Council’s statewide mattress recycling programs, known to retailers and consumers as Bye Bye Mattress, have operated in California, Connecticut and Rhode Island for more than five years, leading to more than […]
Mattress Dollars and AUP Up, Units Down to Close Out 2021, Survey Finds
Retailers say hybrids enjoyed strongest sales growth for the year, rising 33% U.S. mattress retailers saw single-digit dollar growth in December, while unit sales remained in negative territory. But the average unit price was up by double digits, a survey says. Looking ahead, retailers see 2022 as a year of above-average growth, according to Piper […]
Popping the Question
Follow these best practices for inquiring about a potential employee’s Covid-19 vaccination status and avoid paying a fine The tricky question more and more employers are facing as they require vaccinated employees is this: How do I properly ask about a job candidate’s Covid-19 vaccination status without violating human resources laws? Inc.com contributor and HR […]
Something (Not) to Chew On
To avoid turning off customers, here are 5 habits to adopt. First up: Leave the gum at home Chomp. Chomp. Chomp. Chewing gum can keep your breath minty fresh, diminish cravings for food and cigarettes, and burn off some nervous energy. It also can annoy the heck out colleagues and shoppers. You may think your […]
What Consumers Want to Know
When researching mattresses, shoppers look at price, promotions and reviews, according to survey Most consumers do research before they purchase a mattress — and that research is likely to include price comparisons. They also check promotions or sales, and read consumer reviews. Those are the three top sources of information consumers seek when they want […]
BSC Survey: Covid-19 Resurgence Impacts Consumer Behavior
But shoppers are returning to brick-and-mortar stores and are interested in bedding products The Covid-19 resurgence fueled by the Delta variant has consumers reverting back to some attitudes and behaviors exhibited earlier in the pandemic, a new Better Sleep Council survey finds. The BSC’s third-quarter consumer tracker survey, “Inside the Mind of Today’s Mattress Consumer,” […]
BSC Research, Part 5: Is the Price Right?
How much are consumers willing to spend on a mattress? More than they currently are paying, research shows Consumers are spending significantly less for queen-size mattresses than they expect to pay, and they are also spending less than they are willing to pay, according to a consumer survey. The nationally projectible survey was conducted for […]
BSC Study: Consumers More Willing to Shop, Buy in-Person in Q2
A new consumer study conducted by the Better Sleep Council reveals that consumers are showing signs of returning to some pre-pandemic attitudes and shopping behaviors. The latest study in the BSC’s ongoing research initiative, “Inside the Mind of Today’s Mattress Shopper,” reflects consumer sentiment in the second quarter of 2021. Previous BSC tracker surveys looked […]
Buying Behavior, Part 4: The Purchase Experience
Consumer preference for online mattress buying continues to rise, but brick-and-mortar stores remain important, a Better Sleep Council survey shows Consumer preference for purchasing mattresses online has risen sharply in recent years, with almost half of consumers now saying they would purchase online. And an overwhelming majority of respondents ages 18 to 35 now say […]
Retail Survey: Consumers More Interested in Better Sleep
Latest Piper Sandler report also shows shift to higher bedding prices Foam shortages are likely to continue. Mattress advertising dollars are up. Consumers are more interested in better sleep as a key component of their health. And many retailers say the industry is seeing a shift to higher average selling prices. Those are some of […]
BSC’s State of America’s Sleep Survey Finds a Nation Sharply Divided on Sleep Quality
The Covid-19 pandemic played havoc with the quality of sleep for many Americans, significantly increasing the number of poor sleepers and inflicting mental, physical and financial strains on those poor sleepers, a new survey reveals. The “State of America’s Sleep” survey, conducted by the Better Sleep Council, documents a country that is as divided in […]
Mattress Matters
Consumers are almost evenly split on firmness, but softer beds have gained ground, according to research conducted by the Better Sleep Council Consumers are divided in their preferences for firm and soft mattresses, but the Covid-19 pandemic is sparking growing interest in softer mattresses, which are preferred by many younger consumers. A major consumer study […]
Almost Half of Consumers Still Not Getting Good Night’s Sleep
The majority of those who say they are sleeping well recently bought a mattress, according to the Better Sleep Council Q1 tracking survey. Almost half of the respondents in a new consumer survey say they still aren’t getting a good night’s sleep, with insomnia, health problems and stress all taking their toll. But many of […]
Survey: Retail Mattress Sales Up but Product Delays Impacting Business
Retail mattress sales were strong in March, but retailers say product delays and foam shortages are impacting their business, a new survey reveals. More than one-quarter (27%) of the retailers surveyed noted that product delays and foam shortages are having a “significant impact” on their business. And the remainder of the retailers surveyed reported that […]
Sleep No. 1
When it comes to good health, mattress buyers say a good night’s rest is more critical than healthy eating and exercise, according to a BSC tracking survey A new national survey of mattress buyers commissioned by the Better Sleep Council reveals that mattress buyers say a good night’s sleep is even more important than diet […]
The Coronavirus Marketplace
According to a new survey, the pandemic has increased mattress shopping, with emphasis on king-size models and sleep accessories The Covid-19 pandemic has impacted the mattress marketplace in a number of significant ways, a consumer study reveals. Consumers affected by the pandemic are more likely to look for a new mattress, especially a king-size model; […]
7 Keys to Understanding Today’s Retail Mattress Marketplace
BSC survey of mattress purchasers and those who plan to buy identifies trends in shopping behavior A Better Sleep Council survey looked at shopping behavior during the Covid-19 pandemic. The 500 online respondents included consumers who had purchased a mattress within the previous two months (63%), and consumers who planned to purchase a mattress within […]
New BSC Survey: Good Night’s Sleep More Important Than Diet, Exercise
A new national survey of mattress buyers commissioned by the Better Sleep Council reveals that mattress buyers say a good night’s sleep is even more important than diet and exercise when it comes to their health. The survey, “Inside the Mind of Today’s Mattress Consumer,” found that 75% of consumers said a good night’s sleep […]
What Do the Reviews Say?
Survey: Mattress shoppers may be relying less on online reviews than consumers of other big-ticket items Fewer than half of people looking for mattresses use online reviews as part of their shopping journeys, according to new research from the Better Sleep Council, the consumer education arm of the International Sleep Products Association. The survey found […]
Mattress Shopping Market Continues Its Evolution
Comprehensive survey confirms shift to online purchasing and other changes accelerated by the pandemic By David Perry A broad consumer survey conducted by the Better Sleep Council finds growing support for online mattress purchases and declining consumer interest in using store visits as a key source of information for mattress shoppers. The BSC survey documents […]
ISPA Forecast: Declines in 2020, Modest Gains in 2021, 2022
The U.S. mattress industry is expected to see declines in both the dollar value and number of units shipped in 2020, according to the latest forecast from the International Sleep Products Association. The forecast, released in November, expects the number of units (mattresses and foundations) shipped in 2020 to decrease 4.5% over 2019 levels, and […]
Mattress Recycling Council Turns 5
The nonprofit organization founded by the bedding industry marks major milestones as it continues to raise awareness about mattress recycling and make the process easier and more efficient As the Mattress Recycling Council marks its fifth anniversary, it has a lot to celebrate, starting with the fact that it has recycled 6 million mattresses in […]
Marijuana for Sleep Could Backfire
A recent study concludes that using a lot of weed as a teenager can boost the risk of insomnia as an adult Some people rely on marijuana to help them fall asleep. In fact, in a 2018 survey of 1,000 users in Colorado, 74% said they use it as a sleep aid, according to an […]
Retailers Get Ready
Survey shows the COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t disruptedconsumer holiday shopping plans Despite the impact of COVID-19, shoppers do not plan to significantly change their holiday spending, compared with 2019 (remember 2019?), according to a survey released July 8 by Radial Inc., a multinational e-commerce company based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. However, the data did reveal […]
“A New Path Forward”
Jeff Giagnocavo of Gardner’s Mattress & More co-authors book to help independent retailers succeed when facing tough competition “Independent mattress store owners deserve to get the best customers with the best profits with the least headaches,” says Jeff Giagnocavo, co-owner of Gardner’s Mattress & More in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, who has co-authored the new book, “7 […]
Losing Sleep? You’re Not Alone
The 2020 State of America’s Sleep survey sponsored by the Better Sleep Council shows sleeplessness on the rise. Here’s why Editor’s note: As part of the strategic plan of the International Sleep Products Association to provide knowledge and data to members of the bedding community, the Better Sleep Council (ISPA’s consumer education arm) recently conducted […]
Survey Says: Economic Stress Leading to Poor Sleep
Concerns over the economy — both personal finances and the nation’s financial health, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic — contribute to poor sleep for many Americans, according to the State of America’s Sleep report. The survey — conducted by the Better Sleep Council, the consumer education arm of the International Sleep Products […]
Social Butterflies: Personal Relationships and Sleep
If there’s one thing the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us, it’s that humans are social creatures. Forced to stay at home to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus, many have struggled with the lack of contact with friends and family, leading to a boom in virtual meetings, online parties and video chats with loved […]
The Joy of Mattress Shopping
Better Sleep Council research on a buyer’s journey can help retailers guide consumers to a successful purchase that fits their priorities and leaves them sleeping comfortably — even during a pandemic People’s shopping behaviors are changing. The impact of COVID-19 and the attendant stay-at-home orders, as well as consumer safety concerns, have closed many stores […]
Fun and Games: Hobbies, Sleep
We all need a break sometimes, and for many Americans, hobbies that range from reading to watching sports provide a diversion from the stresses of day-to-day life, particularly in the age of the COVID-19 pandemic. But while some hobbies can help people relax and wind down to enjoy better sleep, others might contribute to restlessness. […]
Movers and Sleepers: The Link Between Activity and Sleep
We all know diet and exercise have a major impact on overall health, and those factors can significantly affect sleep, as well. That’s just one of the findings of the 2020 State of America’s Sleep study, fielded by the Better Sleep Council, the consumer education arm of the International Sleep Products Association. The second edition […]
Tips to Combat Insomnia and the Munchies
Having a hard time sleeping during the hard times we are experiencing? Consider these suggestions to be well-rested and less stressed For a number of people, the chronic stress of the coronavirus pandemic has made sleep a little harder to come by. And poor sleep often leads to poor eating habits, according to a March […]
Survey: Financial Worries Causing Sleep Loss
Economic anxiety spikes during coronavirus pandemic as Americans see their incomes decline Nearly one-third of Americans are losing sleep over financial worries, according to a new survey from public radio news program Marketplace and Somerville, New Jersey-based Edison Research conducted in late April and released May 5. The regular poll includes an Economic Anxiety Index […]
Irregular Sleep: A Health Hazard
Older adults with irregular sleep patterns — meaning they have no regular bedtime and wake-up schedule, or they get different amounts of sleep each night — are nearly twice as likely to develop cardiovascular disease as those with more regular sleep patterns, according to a new study funded in part by the National Heart, Lung […]
Nap Time
Tired of someone kicking the back of your seat during a flight? Or tired but can’t rest in economy class? Air New Zealand has the answer: sleeping pods. If we told you sleeper beds might soon be available even when you fly economy, you’d have one question: What’s the catch? Are they in cargo? Are […]
BEDDING MARKET QUARTERLY
Bedding Market Slumped in 2019. Total unit shipments of mattresses, as well as stationary and motion foundations, from U.S. producers and imports rose 2.2% in the fourth quarter of 2019, compared with the same three-month period in 2018, according to Bedding Market Quarterly, a sales trend report published by the International Sleep Products Association. The […]
It’s Coming! Are You Ready?
May is Better Sleep Month, and the Better Sleep Council has a variety of adventures planned to help your customers get a good night’s sleep. The Better Sleep Council, the consumer education arm of the International Sleep Products Association, is preparing for Better Sleep Month this May with a variety of activities planned to help […]
Surface Story: How Long Does Coronavirus Stick Around?
Understanding how long the coronavirus lives on surfaces can help you keep your store and products clean and safe for consumers Note: This article was accurate, to the best of our knowledge, at the time it was published. However, information about the novel coronavirus and the nation’s response to the pandemic change rapidly. Check CDC.gov […]
Foam Home
National survey finds consumers willing to pay more for certified foam, confirms the importance of a comfortable mattress with quality materials for a good night’s sleep Nine out of 10 recent or upcoming mattress buyers are more likely to purchase a mattress that contains CertiPUR-US-certified flexible polyurethane foam, according to benchmark research conducted through an […]
Millennials Drive Retail Growth
Survey reveals Gen Y are likely to make a major purchase in the next six months. Has the decline of retail been exaggerated? The answer is yes, according to TD Bank’s Retail Experience Index, a biannual survey that tracks consumers’ purchasing habits, focusing on big-ticket items of $500 or more. The survey, released Jan. 24 […]
The Mattress Buyer’s Journey
New research from the Better Sleep Council suggests that how consumers shop for a mattress may affect how well they sleep. While one-touch, in-the-moment online shopping may be all the rage, new research from the Better Sleep Council, the consumer education arm of the International Sleep Products Association, indicates that people who go “old school” […]
Slowing Down the Revolving Door
Does your store suffer from high turnover? Results from a 2019 survey reveal the top 3 factors that lead employees to call it quits. Holy Moses! Why is your store experiencing such an exodus? Excuse the pun — high employee turnover is no laughing matter. If you’re seeing high turnover rates, it may be time […]
It’s That Time Again
The Better Sleep Council has big plans for Better Sleep Month in May. Here’s how you can participate The Better Sleep Council, the consumer education arm of the International Sleep Products Association, is preparing for Better Sleep Month this May with a variety of activities planned to help consumers make the sleep-health-mattress connection throughout the […]
More Sleep, Better Decision-Making
A recent series of studies suggest well-rested entrepreneurs analyze venture executive summaries better than those who sleep less Entrepreneurs are notorious for burning the midnight oil to get their fledgling businesses off the ground. However, a series of studies by Jeffry Gish, assistant professor of management at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida, […]
True Blue
Pantone has selected Classic Blue as the 2020 Color of the Year. The hue (Pantone 19-4052) is “a reassuring presence instilling calm, confidence and connection,” the Carlstadt, New Jersey-based color authority says. “Suggestive of the sky at dusk, the reassuring qualities of the thought-provoking Pantone 19-4052 Classic Blue highlight our desire for a dependable and stable […]
Rich Man, Poor Man
Are you trying to decide if people are rich or poor? Forget about judging them by their clothes. Simply look at their face, research shows You can’t always judge a book by its cover, but can you tell whether a person is wealthy simply by looking at their face? Actually, you can — and with […]
The Buzz That Was
Looking for a refreshing way to start the new year? Clean up your vocabulary by sweeping away tired jargon and shirking the slang In today’s busy-bee society, even the best buzzwords eventually lose their sting. And so it is that we bid farewell to the 15 buzzwords that Inc.com’s Max Totsky said must go in […]
And They’re Off: Consumers Rush Into Holiday Shopping
A record number of consumers shopped in-store and online over long Thanksgiving weekend This year’s holiday shopping season got off to a strong start with a record 189.6 million U.S. consumers shopping from Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday through Cyber Monday, according to a Dec. 3 news release from the Washington, D.C.-based National Retail Federation […]
You’ve Been Talking in Your Sleep
Why do we sometimes chat and walk while we’re asleep? Here’s an introduction to parasomnia and how it affects our sleep habits — and actions 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 […]
The Sleep-Work Connection
New Better Sleep Council research reveals how employment can negatively affect slumber and what workers can do to avoid sleepless nights Americans aren’t sleeping enough. And those with a job seem to have a harder time getting good rest than others. That’s the latest findings from the State of America’s Sleep study commissioned by the […]
Great Expectations: Holiday Shopping Forecast
The International Council of Shopping Centers forecasts total holiday spending to reach $832.3 billion, with 90% of shoppers spending in physical stores The New York-based International Council of Shopping Centers forecasts a 4.9% increase in holiday spending over last year for a total of $832.3 billion. The average adult is anticipated to spend $683 on […]
New Law Expands Mattress Recycling in California
State adds futons to recycling program and will require internet retailers to pick up customers’ discarded mattresses Under new amendments to the state’s mattress recycling law, California is expanding its mattress recycling program to include futons. For the mattress industry, this means manufacturers, distributors and retailers selling futons to California end users must register with […]
Adult Entertainment
Want to add a little levity to your workweek? Classic childhood games can put some pep in your step and a smile on your face via GIPHY What happens when otherwise sane, well-adjusted retail sales associates decide to revisit their childhood and play games such as kickball, dodgeball and hopscotch? Well, in addition to the […]
Is Payday Going Out of Style?
Global survey finds employees want greater speed, security and flexibility in receiving pay, and prefer employers who care about their financial wellness As the world of work continues to evolve, a new survey by the ADP Research Institute, with headquarters in Roseland, New Jersey, has identified a growing demand for new payment options. In a […]
Need a Good Laugh?
Entries into Sleep Savvy’s cartoon caption contest are in, and, wow, do we have some hilarious quips and puns in store for you In the July/August issue of Sleep Savvy, we published this cartoon (see below) and invited readers to write a caption, submit it to the magazine and show off their wit. The staff […]
Don’t Worry, Sleep Happy
Those who see the glass as half full, not half empty, tend to have a sunnier view of life. Now, researchers have found, they sleep better, too. The multiyear study, led by Rosalba Hernandez, professor of social work at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, included more than 3,500 people ages 32 to 51 living […]
NRF Projects Better-Than-Average Holiday Sales
But retail group cautions that predications are hard to make this year Holiday retail sales are expected to increase between 3.8% and 4.2% this year, bringing total spending in the busiest shopping months of November and December to between $728 billion and $731 billion, according to the National Retail Federation. During the past five years, […]
Sleep by the Numbers
How well are you and your customers resting? Check out the following statistics … you might be surprised The discipline of statistics offers a variety of insights into American consumers — how they spend their time, how much they value rest, and what keeps them awake at night. The following three recent surveys caught our […]
Stress, Pain and Money — Oh My!
Better Sleep Council research uncovers the factors that keep people awake and help them nod off Sleep is a wonderful, revitalizing and sometimes elusive thing. What makes it easy for some people to snooze and difficult for others? The Better Sleep Council, the consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association, has identified several factors […]
The Sound Sleepers and the Wide Awakers
New BSC research shows male retirees have the best sleep habits, while women — especially moms and students — struggle to get enough rest The Better Sleep Council, the consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association, released its research findings from The State of America’s Sleep study, revealing that nearly six in 10 women […]
Growth Ahead for Bedding Sector
ISPA’s most recent forecast predicts increases in the total U.S. market for mattresses and stationary foundations in 2019 and 2020 Editor’s note: The International Sleep Products Association’s econometric model has been updated to provide two forecasts for mattresses and stationary foundations. The first forecast measures unit shipments and dollar value for the total U.S. mattress […]
Summer Reading List for Retailers
Pack these books for your next trip, business or pleasure Summer is a perfect time to catch up on your reading. We’ve created a list of not-too-taxing books that will help you improve your skills and your business — and maybe spark a new idea or project. Download the audiobooks to your phone, add them […]
Speak the Language
Smart RSAs know their body language is as important as the words they speak to customers. Remember these 5 tips to make sure your verbal and nonverbal communication are complementary Maybe you speak perfect English, but there’s a second language you need to be fluent in for your career as a retail sales associate and […]
Social Media Use Remains Steady
Survey shows that even after concerns about privacy, fake news and censorship, U.S. adults’ use of social media is the same as in early 2018 In 2018, Facebook Seemed to be involved in controversy after controversy — improperly sharing data with Cambridge Analytica, a September security breach and disseminating “fake news,” just to name a […]
BSC Finds That Young Women, Especially Mothers and Students, Are Among the Worst Sleepers in America
The Better Sleep Council, the consumer education arm of the International Sleep Products Association, released its research findings from The State of America’s Sleep study revealing that nearly 6 in 10 women are poor sleepers, compared to 4 in 10 men. When adding school and children into the equation, the incidence of poor sleep increased […]
Exhausted? You’re Not Alone
Annual survey analyzes how well — or poorly — the world is sleeping and what, if anything, adults are doing about it Here’s a universal observation about sleep: Most adults around the world are worn out but don’t do much to help the situation. In fact, according to the findings from a recent annual global […]
Men and Women Search for Jobs Differently
How do women and men differ when looking for jobs? LinkedIn, a business and employment-oriented website with headquarters in Sunnyvale, California, released its Gender Insight Report in March to answer just that question. Based on interactions between companies and job candidates and recruiters on its site, the report noted: Men and women are equally open […]
U.S. Mattress Sales Drop in 4th Quarter
U.S. mattress sales slid in the fourth quarter of 2018, compared with the same three-month period in 2017, according to Bedding Market Quarterly, a sales trends report published by the International Sleep Products Association. Fourth-quarter sales of mattresses and stationary foundations decreased 15.5%, while wholesale values of those shipments dropped 9.2%, compared with the same […]
Oh, My Aching Back
Retail sales associates should try these tips to ease the aches and pains that come with working on your feet While we know sitting all day isn’t healthy, standing all day isn’t much better — as retail sales associates are well aware. Not only does it hurt your back, cause fatigue and stiffen muscle, constant […]
“Sleep Like a Kid”
To celebrate May’s Better Sleep Month, the Better Sleep Council kicks off PR campaign to share sleep advice through the eyes of children This May, the Better Sleep Council, the consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association, is taking a renewed look at sleep — through the eyes of the world’s best sleepers — […]
How to Grow Your Sales of Juvenile Bedding
Start by explaining to shoppers that a kid’s room is no place for an old mattress Hand-me-down jeans and T-shirts are fine for most kids — though they may not relish the idea of wearing their big sister’s or big brother’s old outfits. Hand-me-down bed sets, however, are not a good idea. “If a mattress […]
Commercial Volume Pickup Launches
MRC increases California retailers’ access to no-cost recycling with program providing containers, transportation and recycling of discarded mattresses This month, California retailers can begin requesting pickup of their used bedding units through the Mattress Recycling Council’s Bye Bye Mattress program. The new Commercial Volume Pickup Program provides no-cost containers, transportation and recycling of the discarded […]
Mature Employees Wanted
In a tight job market, consider hiring workers at or past retirement age. You’ll be surprised by the strengths they bring Are you looking for enthusiastic employees who are creative and innovative? Nope, we’re not talking about millennials; we’re referring to their parents and grandparents — baby boomers. Although Generation Y is the largest demographic […]
What Keeps Teenagers Up at Night?
It’s not Instagram. According to the Better Sleep Council, it’s homework, which impedes their sleep and tanks their school performance According to research from the Better Sleep Council, the nonprofit consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association, homework — rather than social pressure — is the No. 1 cause of teenage stress, negatively affecting […]
NRF Forecasts Strong Retail Growth in 2019
Expected gains of 4.4% following a strong 4.6% increase posted in 2018 Retail sales in 2019 will increase between 3.8% and 4.4% to more than $3.8 trillion, according to the Washington, D.C.-based National Retail Federation. The forecast, released in February, comes despite threats from an ongoing trade war, a volatile stock market and the effects […]
Puppy Love
New research suggests women may sleep better with dogs in the bed rather than with human partners A dog may be a man’s best friend, but a dog is a woman’s best sleeping companion, according to a study. The study, published in Anthrozoös and conducted by Christy L. Hoffman, associate professor and anthrozoology program director […]
Diving Into the Hot Hues for 2019
Living Coral Named Pantone’s Color of the Year Do you have a corner of your store that could use perking up? Need a color palette for a new marketing campaign? Every year, color specialists, including the color connoisseurs at Pantone, release their picks for the hottest hues. Here’s a look at a few of their […]
ISPA Releases New Industry Forecast
Analysis projects drop in sales in 2018, followed by modest growth in 2019 and 2020 When final numbers are tallied, the U.S. mattress industry is expected to see declines in the dollar value and number of units shipped in 2018, according to the latest forecast from the International Sleep Products Association. The forecast, released in […]
Smile! Great Photos Help Sell Beds
8 Ways to Improve Your Images and Create Content for Websites and Social Media Instagram. Your e-commerce site. Pinterest. Facebook. Today’s most popular marketing methods are image hungry, demanding an endless stream of photos to catch consumers’ attention. You can rely on manufacturers to provide much of the imagery you need for website product pages […]
Fill Those Online Shopping Carts to the Rim
Add-on sales make e-commerce more profitable Getting customers to click “Buy now” on your e-commerce site is great — and it’s even better if their online shopping cart is chock full of sleep products when they are ready to check out. Increasing the average order value online is much like growing the average sales ticket […]
MRC Launches “Retailer Take-Back” Program
Autumn campaign encourages consumers in California to ask retailers to take back used mattresses The Mattress Recycling Council has launched the 2018 “Retailer Take-Back” campaign, designed to encourage consumers to ask their local retailer to take back used mattresses when purchasing a new one. The eight-week campaign debuted Oct. 1 in targeted markets throughout California. […]
Warning Signs of a Terrible Applicant
Employers share the most outrageous resume mistakes, lies and instant deal breakers in new survey Employers are feeling the heat of the tight labor market as they struggle to find qualified candidates to fill open jobs. While job seekers are getting their attention, it’s often for the wrong reasons. A recent national survey by the […]
Mattress Recycling Council and Bye Bye Mattress Launch ‘Retailer Take-Back’ Campaign
Mattress Recycling Council News Release Campaign encourages consumers to ask retailers to take back used mattresses when purchasing new mattresses or box springs SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The Mattress Recycling Council today announced the launch of the 2018 “Retailer Take-Back” campaign, designed to encourage consumers to ask their local retailer to take back used mattresses when […]
7 Stores That Foretell the Future of Retail
From stores that constantly reinvent themselves to retailers that use facial recognition software, these are bold companies The future of retail includes ice cream sprinkles and next-day home delivery. The insights come from Jeremy Bowman, who recently compiled a list of seven innovative retailers for the Motley Fool’s website. Story: Shoppers never know exactly what […]
No Word-of-Mouth With Empty Wallets
Study finds shoppers don’t want to talk about recent purchases when they feel financially constrained Whether it is two friends talking or a consumer writing an online review, you want people to speak highly of your products. So, we noted with interest research that suggests consumers are reluctant to talk about recent purchases when they […]
Poor sleep can lead to unhealthy eating
A recent study finds link between sleep loss, nighttime snacking, junk food cravings and obesity Nighttime snacking and a craving for junk food may contribute to unhealthy eating behaviors and represent a link between poor sleep and obesity, according to a recent study from Tucson-based University of Arizona Health Sciences. The study was conducted via […]
Bedding Market Quarterly: U.S. Mattress Sales Drop in 2nd Quarter
U.S. mattress sales fell again in the second quarter of 2018, compared with the same three-month period last year, according to Bedding Market Quarterly, a sales trend report published by the International Sleep Products Association. Sales of mattresses and foundations fell 7.9% and wholesale revenues decreased 3.5%, compared with the same quarter in 2017. The average […]
Men more likely than women to buy big-ticket items online shopping
More than one-quarter of online shoppers have bought a big-ticket item, but men are more likely than women to drop big bucks while doing digital commerce, according to an NPR/Marist Poll released June 7 (NPR/Marist Poll complete findings PDF) The poll found that 27% of shoppers have spent $1,000 or more online, but men (36%) […]
Cost of sleepiness too pricey to ignore
PR campaign encourages employers to educate employees about the dangers of sleeplessness and its impact on workplace safety, productivity and health Getting insufficient sleep and working while fatigued have become commonplace in the modern 24/7 world, with more than 37% of workers sleep deprived. Overworked and overtired employees experience cognitive declines and present employers with […]
How to respond to sexual harassment at work
Survey finds 72% of employees who experience unwanted advances do not report the incidents As accusations of sexual misconduct at work continue to rise, it’s not surprising CareerBuilder.com, an employment services website, commissioned a survey on the topic. The survey, conducted online in late 2017, found that the majority of those who said they had […]
No signature required
Because of more secure financial technologies, credit card companies no longer require consumers to sign on the dotted line Good news, retailers: Credit card signatures on sales transaction receipts are going the way of rotary phones, floppy disks and eight-track tapes. Four major credit card companies—American Express, Discover, MasterCard and Visa—no longer require customers to […]
Mattress sales stumble in first quarter but are expected to regain footing
U.S. mattress sales dipped in the first quarter of 2018, compared with the same three-month period in 2017, according to the Bedding Market Quarterly, a wholesale trends report published by the International Sleep Products Association. But the most recent ISPA forecast predicts sales will rebound and finish up for the year. Unit sales of mattresses […]
‘A Mini Field Guide to the Mattress Shopper’
The BSC and Sleep Savvy team up to create a fun, interactive infographic to give retailers insight into their customers and help generate more sales Looking for helpful, easy-to-understand information to gain insight into today’s consumers? The Better Sleep Council and Sleep Savvy have just the ticket for you. In May, this publication and the […]
Better Sleep Council research finds men earn bragging rights when it comes to bedtime performance, women fall short
Better Sleep Council news release ALEXANDRIA, VA – May 1, 2018 – Today the Better Sleep Council, the consumer education arm of the International Sleep Products Association (ISPA), released its findings from a new survey on America’s bedtime performance as it relates to sleep regimen, finding that men outperformed their female counterparts, but both have […]
Atlanta mattress shop has supporting role in TV series
An Atlanta-based mattress store has a cameo in the first episode of the Netflix reality series, Queer Eye, a reboot of the hit “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy.” The new series features the same format as its predecessor: A team of five gay guys sweeps into the life of a man in need of […]
Desperately seeking customer reviews
Experts in soliciting consumer testimonials say a key to earning praise is to ask early These days, mattress retailers crave rave online customer reviews and five-star ratings as much as swinging store doors because they know glowing testimonials help drive customers into their stores. How can you grow your business by accumulating all-important online customer […]
Mattress sales end year down
U.S. mattress sales (mattresses and foundations) fell 10.6% in the fourth quarter of 2017, compared with the same quarter in 2016, and the wholesale dollar value of those shipments dropped 4.2%, according to the Bedding Market Quarterly, a quarterly sales report from the International Sleep Products Association (paywall). The average unit price for mattress sales […]
Americans not eager to spend tax refunds
Many of those expecting to get money back are earmarking it for savings or debt repayment This year, Americans are more inclined to hold onto their tax refunds than go on a spending spree, according to an annual survey from the Washington, D.C.-based National Retail Federation. “Tax return season is a time when consumers plan […]
Better Sleep Council kicks off Better Sleep Month campaign May 1
Better Sleep Council news release The attention-grabbing Better Sleep Month campaign, “Are You Better in Bed Than …?” tunes into sleep as a status symbol ALEXANDRIA, VA—April 3, 2018—As part of its ongoing effort to help consumers understand the importance of a good night’s sleep, the Better Sleep Council (BSC), the consumer-education arm of the […]
Can’t sleep? Count your to-dos instead of sheep
Jotting down your to-do list for tomorrow can help you fall asleep more quickly tonight, according to researchers at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Researchers studied 57 university students, asking half the group to spend five minutes writing down what they needed to do the next day on a to-do list and asking the other […]
Why women are tuckered out
The list of reasons they can’t sleep is enough to keep anyone awake From stress to physical discomfort, a host of things are keeping women from getting a restorative full night of sleep, according to a survey from Thrive Global, a media and technology company focused on behavioral change founded by Arianna Huffington. The New […]
Home sharing is becoming more popular
One-third of American adults are participating in a trend called ‘doubling up’ Adult children moving back in with their parents. Parents living with their adult children. Friends or siblings cohabitation, or home sharing, as roommates. Whatever the configuration, the number of adults sharing a home with other adults with whom they aren’t romantically linked is […]
Help wanted: Retailers seek more workers for tech roles
With the continued rise in online and omnichannel shopping, retailers in the future will have less use for traditional staff like cashiers and even sales associates but more need for tech-savvy workers who can do everything from crunch data to manage websites. Experts in creating outstanding customer experiences also will be in high demand, says […]
Better Sleep Council introduces sleep blog
Content emphasizes the importance of sleep and quality sleep products The Better Sleep Council has launched a new, consumer-facing blog. The BSC blog, which is posted twice a month, offers content that can be used to spread the word about the importance of sleep and, ultimately, the importance of having quality sleep products. The BSC […]
Later school times could help economy
It’s no secret that teens love to stay up late and sleep in thanks to biological shifts in their sleep-wake cycles. For the past few years, organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association have recommended that high school and middle school start no earlier than 8:30 a.m. to accommodate […]
Winter wonderland of rest
Better Sleep Council survey reveals cold weather is the perfect time to sleep, snuggle and smooch A little more than half of Americans (51%) sleep more in the winter and 42% find winter the best sleeping season, according to a new survey from the Better Sleep Council, the nonprofit consumer-education arm of the International Sleep […]
U.S. mattress sales dip in third quarter of 2017
U.S. mattress sales dropped again in the third quarter of 2017, compared with the same three-month period of 2016, according to Bedding Market Quarterly, a sales trend report published by the International Sleep Products Association. Sales of mattresses and foundations fell 10.3% and wholesale revenues decreased 6.4%, compared with the same quarter in 2016. The […]
U.S. at its highest stress level yet, poll shows
Nearly two-thirds of Americans say the future of the nation has them freaked out—and is keeping them awake at night Are you losing sleep over the state of the United States? You’re not alone. Nearly two-thirds of Americans (63%) say the future of the nation is a very or somewhat significant source of stress, slightly […]
The Better Sleep Council launches new sleep blog on BetterSleep.org
News release ALEXANDRIA, VA – February 13, 2018 – To continue helping consumers start every day with a good night’s sleep, the Better Sleep Council (BSC), the consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association, is unveiling the Better Sleep Council Blog on February 13. The blog will serve as a resource to educate and […]
BSC gains new leadership with Julia Rosien and Brent Limer
Rosien appointed chair; Limer accepts vice chair position The International Sleep Products Association has named Julia Rosien, brand director for Buffalo, New York-based Restonic Mattress Corp., and Brent Limer, chief sales officer for Latexco LLC, headquartered in Lavonia, Georgia, to the leadership of the Better Sleep Council, the consumer-education arm of ISPA. Rosien is serving […]
Keep these 5 insights in mind when creating your plan for healthy retail sales in 2018
You’ve heard it before—e-commerce is disrupting traditional brick-and-mortar retailing in a big way, ushering in tremendous change. From Bloomberg Businessweek to The Wall Street Journal, 2017 was filled with doom-and-gloom on the coming “retail apocalypse.” The number of stores that closed last year was the highest ever, with estimates ranging from 7,000 to 8,700 shops […]
Are you keeping up with your new year’s resolutions?
News release from the Better Sleep Council A study from the Better Sleep Council says better sleep may be the key to making 2018 goals stick ALEXANDRIA, VA – January 9, 2018 – While it’s no secret Americans struggle each year to keep their New Year’s resolutions, one key toward helping them stick to their […]
Let sleeping dogs lie—in the bedroom
Mayo Clinic study finds people sleep better with their pets nearby but not in the bed with them Pet owners have strong feelings about allowing their pets to sleep with them or not. For those on the pro side, here’s a piece of good news—a recent study by the Mayo Clinic shows it’s just fine […]
Sleep expert to offer consumer tips
Sleep Savvy will begin posting weekly rest suggestions in December from Terry Cralle for retailers and retail sales associates to share with customers Beginning Dec. 1, be sure to check Sleep Savvy’s social media platforms each Friday for advice on getting a good night’s sleep from sleep expert Terry Cralle. Feel free to share her […]
MRC hires Northeast program coordinator Kate Caddy
The Mattress Recycling Council, which operates Connecticut and Rhode Island’s Bye Bye Mattress recycling programs, has hired Kate Caddy as Northeast program coordinator. She replaces Justine Fallon, who recently was promoted to MRC’s operations manager. Based in Connecticut, Caddy serves as the primary point of contact for Connecticut and Rhode Island collection sites and recycling […]
Retailers plan to increase employment and pay
More employers to hire permanent and seasonal staff in the fourth quarter, survey finds Retailers are expecting another busy shopping season and are becoming more competitive in terms of what they are willing to pay seasonal workers, according to a fourth-quarter forecast by CareerBuilder, a Chicago-based employment services company. Half plan to hire seasonal workers […]
7 tips to survive the holiday selling season
Follow these 7 tips from the retail floor to get through the hustle and bustle of the end-of-the-year selling season with a smile As the holiday shopping season heats up, so does the craziness of fussy customers, new hires, high sales targets and long hours. Monster Worldwide, a global employment services company based in Weston, […]
‘Tis the season to sleep, snuggle and smooch
Better Sleep Council study says Americans stay warm in bed during the coldest months ALEXANDRIA, VA, Nov. 6, 2017 – A little more than half of Americans (51%) sleep more in the wintertime, and 42% find winter the best sleeping season, according to a new survey from the Better Sleep Council (BSC), the nonprofit consumer-education […]
MRC concludes first industrywide survey
Survey responses offer suggestions for improving recycling access, communications The Mattress Recycling Council received 165 responses to its first industry survey, which it conducted last summer. The retailers that participated helped the nonprofit organization understand how MRC is perceived and how it can better communicate to this segment of the industry. “With all the Bye […]
Some parents ignore infant sleep guidelines
A distressing new study finds that less than half (44%) of mothers intend to and consistently follow sleep guidelines that recommend infants be put to sleep on their backs. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends parents place newborns and infants on their backs to sleep to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. The […]
Ontario knows the value of sleep
Residents of Ontario are the best sleepers in Canada, according to a survey conducted by online mattress brand Douglas. That said, none of the provinces are as well-rested as they could be. Only 17% of Ontarians report regularly getting eight hours or more of sleep each night, according to a news release. Residents of British […]
A lack of sleep can make arguments between partners more hostile and less productive
Most of us know the adage that tells couples never go to bed angry. Well, researchers have found that a lack of sleep can make arguments between couples nastier. So, maybe we need a new saying: If you’re fighting, get some sleep and talk again in the morning. It’s not as pithy, but it might be […]
Welcome to the evolution of retail shopping
Is brick-and-mortar retail dying? No. It’s going through a much-needed metamorphosis It has been a rough year for retail. Traditional retailers of all types are shuttering locations, with many reorganizing under bankruptcy protection and some going out of business forever. Analysts are calling it the worst year for retail since the Great Recession. (We hope […]
How much do you value sleep?
BY LISSA COFFEY A lack of adequate sleep can make you—and our whole society—less healthy, less productive and less safe 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 […]
Sleep positions indicate revealing facts
Research from the Better Sleep Council uncovers how you sleep may reveal more than you think A new survey conducted by the Better Sleep Council, the consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association, suggests sleep positions may reveal important aspects about people, including their health, age and even education level. Most people sleep in […]
Hitting the mark with email marketing
Follow these email marketing suggestions to create e-newsletters consumers will look forward to reading With social media algorithms leaving businesses scratching their heads, email newsletters are coming to the forefront as a dependable way to reach consumers. “The question isn’t whether or not you should start an email newsletter; it’s how can you create a […]
How to recycle mattresses in MRC program states
The Mattress Recycling Council’s Bye Bye Mattress program provides no-cost recycling for public and private entities that discard mattresses and box springs that were used and discarded in the state. If you sell mattresses directly to consumers in California, Connecticut or Rhode Island, here’s how to recycle units from customers. California Directly drop off at […]
MRC issues 2016 California Annual Report, shows Bye Bye Mattress program success
Initial results of Golden State’s Bye Bye Mattress program show early success In its inaugural California Annual Report, the Mattress Recycling Council reported it diverted 955,059 units and more than 29 million pounds of material from landfills in 2016. Approximately 40% of the mattresses collected for recycling were obtained from retailers and other large-volume users […]
Bedding Market Quarterly report 2nd-quarter sales decline
U.S. mattress sales dipped in the second quarter of 2017, compared with the same three-month period in 2016, according to Bedding Market Quarterly, a sales trend report published by the International Sleep Products Association. Sales of mattresses and foundations tumbled 8%, and wholesale revenues fell 6.8%, compared with the same quarter last year. The average […]
Does bad press affect hiring?
Survey finds most U.S. workers would not apply for a job at a company experiencing negative publicity or bad press Negative publicity not only damages a store’s brand, but also its ability to recruit talent. According to a recent survey by CareerBuilder.com, 71% of U.S. workers would not apply for a job at a company […]
Forecast: Mattress sales to continue gains in 2017, 2018
U.S. mattress sales are expected to grow a bit more robustly in 2017 and 2018 than they did in 2016—itself a rather solid year, according to the latest ISPA Mattress Industry Forecast. Released in June, the mattress industry forecast for 2017 (paywall for non-ISPA members) from the International Sleep Products Association calls for a 3.5% increase […]
New ISPA Annual Trends Report shows solid growth
Mattress manufacturers shipped more than 41 million mattresses and foundations in 2016 The mattress industry continued a pattern of healthy growth in 2016 (paywall for non-ISPA members) posting gains in three key measurements, according to the ISPA Mattress Industry Trends Report released in June by the International Sleep Products Association. U.S. mattress manufacturers shipped more than 41 […]
Why snoring drives partners from the bedroom
Australian study reveals that women are bothered more by sleep disorders than men A new study from Australian researchers suggests that men and women are affected differently by sleep disorders. Results show that women are more likely than men to have more severe symptoms of depression, trouble sleeping at night and excessive daytime sleepiness. Women […]
News release: BSC sleep positions survey
News release from the Better Sleep Council, the consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association Does Sleep Position Indicate Intelligence? Research from the Better Sleep Council uncovers how you sleep may reveal more than you think ALEXANDRIA, Virginia – August 11, 2017 – New research suggests the position you sleep in may tell you […]
Give Your Opinions About Mattress Recycling Programs Through a Short Survey
The Mattress Recycling Council has released an industrywide survey that will help the nonprofit improve its customer service and communication efforts. Take the short survey. MRC asks retailers and manufacturers doing business in MRC’s Bye Bye Mattress programs in California, Connecticut and Rhode Island to rate their experience with MRC and its resources. Those in […]
MRC expands public education
Recycling program launches interactive booth tour in California The Mattress Recycling Council recently launched an interactive booth tour in California to further reach and educate consumers about its Bye Bye Mattress program and the benefits of recycling. Activities are fun for all ages: a maze, matching game and computer challenge to save as many mattresses […]
Why Americans Value the Role of Sleep
According to a national survey, a whopping 97% of Americans think a good night’s sleep improves their quality of life and is important to help them perform at their best. The study, conducted online by Harris Poll among more than 3,000 U.S. adults 18 and older, was commissioned by Herobed, a hybrid boxed bed launched […]
How to be a well-rested trendsetter
BY LISSA COFFEY Try these latest sleep aids and apps to catch up on your zzz’s at home, work or anywhere. 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 […]
BSC Survey Uncovers Americans Still Believe Myths About Sleep
For Better Sleep Month, the Better Sleep Council Debunks Myths and Launches New Site ALEXANDRIA, Virginia – May 9, 2017 – Americans have trouble separating fact from fiction about sleep, according to a new study from the Better Sleep Council (BSC), the nonprofit consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association (ISPA). To coincide with […]
Why Retailers are Shuttering Locations and Laying Off Employees like the Great Recession
While the overall U.S. economy remains robust, the retail sector is showing worrying signs of seriously ill health. Recent articles published by Bloomberg tally the latest declines. “Year-to-date store closings are already outpacing those of 2008, when the last U.S. recession was raging, reports Credit Suisse Group AG analyst Christian Buss. About 2,880 have been […]
How Nature, Naps and Showers Are All Key to Good Sleep
New research shows you can reset your ‘clock’ with a camping trip Having trouble getting good sleep? Grab your tent and head for the great outdoors. According to new research, a weekend spent outdoors can reset out-of-whack circadian rhythms and restore healthy sleep patterns. Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder conducted two studies with volunteers who […]
How Sleep Changes from Infancy to Old Age
How much rest we need changes over time, as do the things that keep us up at night. Here are tips for a lifetime of good sleep: 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 […]
BSC research says shoppers understand a good mattress means a good night’s sleep
Exclusive Better Sleep Council research: Sleep-mattress link clear In the final installment about the Better Sleep Council’s 2016 study, Sleep Savvy examines consumers’ attitudes toward sleep, accessory shopping habits and demographic profiles. Download a PDF of the entire three-part series here. BY JULIE A. PALM Everyone wants to be healthy, and the majority of consumers […]
New BSC Research: What Moves Consumers to Replace Their Mattress?
BY JULIE A. PALM Recent research from the Better Sleep Council indicates health, comfort, deterioration, new technologies and product choices all play a role in shoppers’ willingness to head to retail stores and websites to buy a new bed set. And many plan to take that step sooner rather than later. Retailers get ready: Four […]
The Healing Power of Sleep in Cancer
While inadequate rest increases the risk of cancer, restorative sleep is an essential part of its treatment and recovery 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 from Better […]
What Kind of Sleep Animal are You?
Do you sleep like a bear, dolphin, lion or wolf? According to Michael Breus, a sleep specialist and author of the new book “The Power of When,” there’s a reason why our daily activities and sleep habits vary—our biological clocks tick differently. To help understand these variations, he categorizes four chronotypes, or classifications, based on […]
Mattress Recycling Council Program Celebrates 1 Million Recycled Mark
With a successful first year of mattress-recycling programs in California, Connecticut and Rhode Island, the Mattress Recycling Council has kept more than 1 million mattresses out of landfills, officials said during a program Jan. 24 at the Winter Las Vegas Market. The steel, foam, fiber and wood removed from these products have been given new […]
Parents Report Daylight Saving Time Negatively Affects Their Kids
NEWS RELEASE Better Sleep Council Offers Tips to Help Parents Get Kids Back to Sleep ALEXANDRIA, Virginia – March 6, 2017 – Half of all American parents say Daylight Saving Time (DST) affects their kids and more than one-quarter (29%) report it’s more difficult to get children to sleep after the time change, according to […]
2017 Retail Forecast: Confident Shoppers, Growing Sales
Retailers should enjoy a healthy 2017, thanks to growing employment, higher wages, and continuing gains in housing and business investment BY PHILLIP M. PERRY For retailers looking to enjoy a profitable 2017, the economic stars are shifting into happy alignment. Consumers are expected to have more spendable money over the next 12 months, thanks to […]
Napflix Aids Sleep with Purposefully Dull Videos
Can’t sleep? Napflix to the rescue! Ordinarily, sleep experts recommend removing screens at least an hour before bedtime. But what if a screen could provide the perfect antidote to insomnia? According to a Nov. 4 article on Geek.com, Victor Guitérrez de Tena and Francesc Pérez created Napflix.tv, a “Spanish siesta video platform” that finds users […]
Infants and Parents Should Share a Room to Prevent SIDS
Babies should sleep in the same room as the parents—but on a separate surface—for at least the first six months of life to prevent SIDS, according to a recommendation by the American Academy of Pediatrics. The policy statement, based on new research, encourages parents to keep their newborn in a crib or bassinet in their […]
Drowsy Driving as Risky as Drunk Driving
A study from AAA finds sleeping less than seven hours a day doubles the dangers of crashing Drivers who miss between one to two hours of the recommended seven hours of sleep in a 24-hour period and are drowsing driving nearly double their risk of a crash, according to research from the AAA Foundation for […]
5 Suggestions for Increasing Teamwork Efficiency
Go, team, go! In today’s retail climate, one way to do more with less is through the efficiency of teamwork. Follow these 5 suggestions for making the most of your staff: Two heads are better than one, the saying goes. But that doesn’t take into account how to make three, four or five heads work […]
5 Recipes that Give You a Better Night’s Sleep
Kitchen cures for insomnia For years, families have passed down home remedies and recipes to help folks fall asleep. Here are a few time-honored classics: BY LISSA COFFEY 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 […]
Bedding Market Quarterly says Third-quarter Mattress Sales Down
U.S. mattress sales dipped in the third quarter of 2016, compared with the same three-month period in 2015, according to Bedding Market Quarterly, a sales trend report published by the International Sleep Products Association. Sales of mattresses and foundations decreased by 4.7%, and wholesale revenues dropped 2.5%, compared with the same quarter last year. The […]
BSC Survey Finds Consumers Adopting Savvier Shopping Habits
Exclusive Better Sleep Council Research – Download a PDF of the entire three-part research series here. BY JULIE A. PALM A 2016 study from the Better Sleep Council, the consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association, reveals changes in bedding-shopping behavior, including shorter replacement cycles, an expectation of higher ticket prices, a commitment to brick-and-mortar […]
Go Ahead, Nap, If You Can at Washington D.C. Sleep Boutique
Meditation and sleep boutique offers 20-minute respites in troubled times. In the middle of a stress-filled fall election season, a savvy Washington, D.C., entrepreneur opened a meditation and sleep boutique called Recharj in the heart of the city. An Oct. 13 headline in The Washington Post read, “Would You Pay for a 20-Minute Nap? This […]
Reducing the Stress, Achieving the Bliss of this Holiday Season
May visions of sugar plums… How to reduce stress and achieve the bliss of sweet slumber during the hectic holiday season BY LISSA COFFEY 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 […]
New BSC Research Tracks Changes in Mattress Shopper Behaviors
Exclusive Better Sleep Council Research A 2016 study from the Better Sleep Council, the consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association, on what motivates today’s mattress shoppers reveals changes in bedding-shopping behavior, including shorter replacement cycles, an expectation of higher ticket prices and the influence of technological trends on research and purchasing habits. Download […]
Mattress Recycling: A Success Story
Three years after California, Connecticut and Rhode Island passed mattress-recycling laws, statewide programs are flourishing under the management of the Mattress Recycling Council BY JULIE A. PALM Collectively, new statewide recycling programs in California, Connecticut and Rhode Island have recycled 1 million mattresses and box springs since the first program in Connecticut got underway just […]
Web Campaigns for Mattresses Defy Tradition
Numbers show bedding advertisers approach TV and digital quite differently in their web campaigns While TV advertising for mattresses spikes every summer from Memorial Day through Labor Day, that ad spend does not appear to correlate with the industry’s ad spending on the web, according to “Mattress Advertising: Seasonality in TV and Paid Search,” a […]
Risk of SIDS Continues in Unsafe Environments
A new study finds that caregivers still are putting babies to sleep in unsafe environments While many parents know the “Back to Sleep” tagline, a recent study finds that parents still are putting their babies to sleep in ways that raise the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. The study, published in the Aug. 15 […]
Interesting Sleep Trivia to Tell Your Shoppers
BY LISSA COFFEY Not-so-trivial pursuit Sleep trivia you never knew that you never knew: a collection of interesting tidbits to share with shoppers 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 […]
California’s CalRecycle Conducts Site Inspections
CalRecycle visits stores to verify that retailers are in compliance with the state’s mattress-recycling program Staff members of California’s Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) are conducting inspections to verify that retailers and other parties are complying with the Used Mattress Recovery and Recycling Art, reports the Mattress Recycling Council, a nonprofit organization created […]
Bye Bye Mattress and No-cost Mattress Recycling
Thousands of mattresses are recycled each month in California, Connecticut and Rhode Island as a result of Bye Bye Mattress, the Mattress Recycling Council’s consumer-facing program. Retailers in these states are eligible for no-cost recycling through Bye Bye Mattress. Here’s how to receive these services: California: MRC works with various recyclers throughout the state. Retailers […]
A Remedy for Women’s Sleep Shortfalls
BY LISSA COFFEY Women and sleep If you are a woman, you’re probably well aware that you have more difficulty snoozing than men. Here are simple steps to remedy resting shortfalls: 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. […]
U.S. Veterans and Their Families Suffer from Sleep Disorders
U.S. veterans with sleep disorders on the rise A study by researchers at the University of South Carolina in Columbia reveals that sleep disorders in veterans has increased six-fold over an 11-year period. A sample of more than 9.7 million U.S. veterans seeking care in the Veterans Health Administration between 2000 and 2010 showed the […]
How a Fatty Diet Leads to Daytime Sleepiness
If you’re sleepy during the day, take a look at the amount of fat in your diet. Researchers at the University of Adelaide in Adelaide, Australia, examined the food intake and sleep habits of more than 1,800 men over the course of a year. They found that those who ate a high-fat diet were more […]
Medical Association Offers Guidance to Reduce Harmful Effects of LED Streetlights
Carefully lighting the way As cities replace streetlights with more energy-efficient LEDs, decisions about the type of LED lights selected should be taken into consideration, doctors say. The American Medical Association adopted a community guidance report at its annual meeting this summer to help communities select lights that will have the least amount of human […]
U.S. Mattress Sales Tick Up Slightly in Second Quarter
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, 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 with the […]
Infographic: American Workers Are Sleep-Deprived
According to this infographic published by the Safety Management online degree program at Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond, Kentucky, U.S. employees are short on sleep and it’s affecting their performance on the job, and causing more workplace injuries than ever before. Studies show that American workers are sleeping one to two hours less per day than […]
U.S. Mattress Sales Revenues Rise in Second Quarter
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, […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
Strike a Yoga Pose for Better Sleep
Making these five postures part of your bedtime routine will help you drift easily to sleep. BY LISSA COFFEY 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 Lissa Coffey […]
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 […]
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 […]
5 Steps to Better Sleep
Help customers resolve to sleep better in 2016 BY LISSA COFFEY TO LEARN MORE If you’d like more sleep tips, check out the Better Sleep Council’s website BSC spokeswoman Lissa Coffey’s videos can be viewed at YouTube. Editor’s note: Savvy mattress retailers want to do everything they can to help their customers sleep better, including […]
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 […]
How to put sleep on holiday shopping lists
This year, give your loved ones what they need most—a good night’s rest BY LISSA COFFEY 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 Lissa Coffey with […]
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 […]
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 […]