Beds final 13 issue by Cabinet Maker

BEDS | DESIGN | MANUFACTURE | RETAIL

beds

September 2017 ISSUE 13

z DESIGN z MANUFACTURE z RETAIL z

z THE NBF BED SHOW ISSUE 13 SEPTEMBER 2017

z TICKING TRENDS

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z MATTRESS MACHINERY

z STORE DESIGN STUDIO MEDIUM MATTRESS FROM SILENTNIGHT

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Keely Portway, Editor

RISKY BUSINESS

ow! It’s hard to believe it’s that time of year again already! A whole 12 months ago I was writing the leader for my very first issue of Beds magazine, having spent a lot of time speaking with a number of exhibitors set to take their places at The Bed Show in Telford. It feels like only yesterday! In 2016, however, I was unable to attend the show, so the preparation and build up this year have beIn 2016, however, I was unable to attend the show, so the preparation and build up this year have been doubly exciting for me as I’ll actually be able to see the finished results. As is customary, working on Beds magazine tends to get me thinking about sleep, and this issue is no exception. In fact, I’m not the only one with sleep on my mind, with yet more research published on the subject just recently from the University of Zurich and the University Hospital Zurich. Following a study which monitored 14 healthy male students aged between 18 and 28, researchers at the institutions found that, on sleeping only five hours per night, students were seen to display riskier behaviour in comparison with a normal sleep duration of around eight hours. As part of the research they were given a choice twice a day between obtaining a specified amount of money paid out with a given probability, or playing it safe with a guaranteed lower monetary amount. According to the results, while one night with less sleep didn’t affect the participants’ desire to take risks; of the 14 subjects, 11 exhibited significantly more risky behaviour as the week went on. And the students themselves were not acutely aware of their behaviour, assessing themselves at the same levels of risk taking regardless of the hours of sleep obtained. This, according to professor of neurology and head of the Clinical Research Priority Programs (CRPP) Sleep and Health at UZH, Christian Baumann, is particularly worrying, as it indicates that human beings do not notice their own increased risky behaviour following lack of sleep. Now, we all know how stressful lack of sleep can be, but obviously this is just one sample group of young people and how they responded during that week under those conditions. I have to say that personally, I’ve had periods of sleepless nights before which have never led me to – for example – play chicken at a road junction with an oncoming car; gamble my monthly wage for the chance to ‘double or nothing;’ or stick my fingers in an electrical socket. Obviously I’m not within the research’s demographic, but equally, perhaps I’m a case in point by not recognising my own risky behaviour, in which case ignore me and as you were! Happily, regardless of how we’ve all been sleeping, we have an event coming up which provides no risk to our sensibilities in this month’s Bed Show, as exhibitors and visitors alike can be sure that the UK’s largest bed exhibition is a sturdy platform from which to see, showcase and sell the latest products and developments, network with friends and colleagues and look to the future of the industry. In this issue of Beds magazine we have an extensive preview of the show, alongside interviews and visit write ups with some of the exhibitors. There are even some teasers of what you can expect to see. If you’re planning on attending and would like to meet with the Beds magazine team, we’d be pleased to hear from you, and we wish everybody a busy, productive and, of course, risk free two days in Telford.

Keely Portway, Editor

www.silentnight.co.uk

Editor - Keely Portway email: Keely@cabinet-maker.co.uk News Editor - Dan Squires email: Dan@cabinet-maker.co.uk Graphic Design - Zoe Andrews email: zoe@cabinet-maker.co.uk Sales executive - Kacem Ellabbar 01223 846825 kacem@cabinet-maker.co.uk

beds

z DESIGN z MANUFACTURE z RETAIL z

Publisher - Chris Manning email: chris@cabinet-maker.co.uk Issue no 0013 published by Information Publications Ltd, 1 Grain House, Mill Court, Great Shelford, Cambridgeshire CB22 5LD VAT No: GB 945225521 Managing Director: Debbie Johnson © Information Publications Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording, or any information storage or retrieval system without the express prior written consent of the publisher. We regret we cannot be liable for the safe custody or return of any solicited or unsolicited material. Contributors are advised to keep copies of all materials submitted. The opinions and views expressed in Beds Magazine are not necessarily those of Information Publications Ltd. Being subject to the Advertising Standards Authority guidelines in place at the time of going to press, all data submitted by advertisers and contained in their advertising copy is accepted by Information Publications Ltd in good faith. ISSN pending Registered as a Newspaper at the Post Office.

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CONTENTSS DESIGN ON TREND

Mustafa Yıldırım, general manager at Boyteks Textiles offers advice on the hottest trends for fabrics and ticking.

SET YOUR STORE

Why store design is an important factor in maximizing sales, including a case study featuring Bensons for Beds.

MAGIC EIGHT

MANUFACTURING ON A HIGH

The latest update from UK furniture wholesalers, TCS The Complete Service on its numerous developments in the bed sector.

NEWS

HORSES FOR COURSES Beds magazine reports on a recent a trip to Ireland to visit reigning Bed Manufacturer of the Year, Kaymed; where there were a few surprises in store.

84 PRODUCTS LIGHTS OUT

GROWTH EXPERIENCE

An update from Highgrove Beds on the business’s latest developments and a taster of what to expect from its appearance at the Bed Show.

WITH A SMILE

Sweet Dreams’ sales manager Nick Williams reveals the company’s latest developments, incuding a sneak preview of what it will bring to the Bed Show.

READY TO ROLL

The Shire Bed Company celebrates its 20th year in business, visitors to its stand at The Bed Show can expect a little red carpet treatment plus a host of new products on display.

MAKE IN THE UK

A catch up with the directors at MattressTEK to find out how business has been for the new start up in its first six months.

IN CONVERSATION…

…With Aubane Pattar, sales and marketing director at Furmanac Ltd.

65 RETAIL

PERSONAL SERVICE

MAGIC EIGHT

Liz Colleran, director at Duvalay fills us in on the company’s latest significant investment in manufacture; and move into the home mattress market.

With the doors just about to open on the eighth iteration of the Bed Show, Beds magazine takes a look at why the event continues to provide all the answers to the bed industry.

FROM EXPERIENCE

As a company with a heritage of nearly 180 years under its belt, it was exciting to get the lowdown from Harrison Spinks on what’s new across all brands, and what the business will bring to this year’s Bed Show.

ALL RISE

Kris Wood, head of marketing at Mammoth, offers insight into a number of exciting new developments for the business, including a surprise announcement to be made at this year’s Bed Show.

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NEWS Beds delivers growth at United Carpets as online presence revamped Carpet, floor coverings and beds retail group United Carpets has revealed that its beds segment is gaining traction. Detailed within its preliminary results for the year ended 31 March 2017, United Carpets said that beds sales, which still contribute less than 10% of total revenues, recorded a like-for-like sales increase of 7.2% against ‘tougher comparatives’. During the year the group significantly expanded its beds range with the introduction of Silentnight models, which, the company said has ‘helped to further establish the group’s credentials amongst its target customers’. Floor coverings remain United Carpets main sales driver, with carpet, laminate and vinyl floorings in particular, as like-for-like sales improved 0.8%. The group extended its product mix during the year, adding a premium vinyl tile, which has extended the overall store offer appeal. United Carpets, which saw its store estate reduce from 61 to 57 during the year, has also developed its marketing strategy, investing in a long-term online presence. The group’s website functionality has now been expanded to include a transactional facility with online sales being fulfilled via its store network to the benefit of franchisees. Further ongoing investments are ‘anticipated’ to continue the development of the group’s online capabilities, whilst continuing to support its marketing programme designed to increase footfall across its store network. Commenting within its results, which saw like-forlike sales grow 1.3%, total sales achieve £21.2m and a pre-tax profit of £1.5m, chairman Peter Cowgill said: “United Carpets has a well-positioned store portfolio and a debt free base to operate from. The market environment continues to be unsettled. “The recent general election has done little to change that and the process of Brexit is likely to create ongoing fluctuations in consumer confidence. We expect the group to continue to develop and pursue expansion opportunities on a selective basis.”

Delivery software success at Sharps Fitted bedroom furniture manufacturer Sharps Bedrooms has successfully implemented Maxoptra’s delivery route planning and scheduling software. Sharps is using the cloud-based software to support a nationwide team of installers with the rapid manufacture, dispatch and delivery of any missing or replacement components. Since introducing Maxoptra six months ago, Sharps has saved more than 300 man hours, improved driver efficiency, reduced costs and improved visibility and service and is now able to offer a next day delivery and manufacturing service. Service levels are also reviewed and maintained using the Maxoptra POD app, which captures a signature from the installer once delivery has been made and transmits in real time back to the

office. Andy Turner, national installer support manager at Sharps Bedrooms, said: “When reviewing potential solutions, we were impressed with the Maxoptra offering as well as their way of doing business. The functionality was exactly what we wanted, the costs were evident and we were given an ROI based on our operation and usage.” Stuart Brunger, Maxoptra business director, added: “We have enjoyed supporting Sharps on their journey so far with Maxoptra and are looking forward to working with them to implement new features, such as the recently launched Facebook bot and links to in-cab navigation.”

w www.sharps.co.uk

SATRA responds to furniture safety demand Global research group SATRA has announced that it will repeat its furniture safety seminar following a last month’s successful event. Taking place on 18 July 2017, SATRA played host to a furniture safety event at its technology centre’s facility in Kettering, which highlighted a growing demand throughout the furniture industry for technical information relating to safety. The day consisted of presentations on general product safety for furniture, REACH and an introduction to furniture flammability followed by a tour of SATRA’s extensive testing facilities. Those attending took benefit from a number of practical demonstrations including flammability and furniture structural safety testing in accordance with European and British standards. Following the success of the event, SATRA has confirmed that it will repeat the one-day event later this year on 31 October 2017. Furthermore, as part of SATRA’s wider ongoing training programme, SATRA has also confirmed that detailed seminars on REACH and furniture fire safety will take place on 3 October and on 5 October 2017 respectively. SATRA said: “Comments received after the event confirmed that the REACH presentation in particular was very helpful in clarifying a complex subject. The European REACH regulation concerns the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals. “With 64 entries in REACH Annex XVII and 174 substances of very high concern (SVHCs) it is important that furniture manufacturers have an understanding of their legal obligations under this regulation.” For further information contact furniture@satra.com

w www.satra.com

w www.unitedcarpetsandbeds.com

Beter Bed CEO to leave in November Dutch mattress group Beter Bed Holding has announced that chief executive officer Ton Anbeek will leave the company this year. Taking effect from 1 November 2017, Ton Anbeek will resign from the role after around seven years in the position, with the company confirming that the process for Ton’s successor has already begun. Commenting on his resignation, Ton said: “ Since March 1 2010 I have been CEO with Beter Bed Holding N.V. The decision to leave the group has been difficult, but after more than 7 years I am in for a new challenge.” Chairman of the Supervisory Board Dirk Goeminne, added: “We regret his resignation, but respect his decision. We will start the search for the new CEO.”

w www.beterbed.nl

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NEWS USA mattress firm files UK trademark A new overseas mattress-in-a-box company Tomorrow Sleep has registered two UK trademarks indicating a possible venture into the British market. Tomorrow Sleep, which was launched in June this year by American mattress giant Serta Simmons Bedding LLC, has registered the ‘Tomorrow’ word and logo through the Intellectual Property Office. Although the company has not yet launched an official UK presence, the trademarks could hint at a potential sign to enter the UK mattress market at some point in the future. Atlanta-based Tomorrow Sleep’s new trademarks come under the classification for beds, mattresses, pillows and bed linens under Classes 20 and 24. Commenting on its initial launch earlier this year, Bryan Murphy, founder of Tomorrow Sleep, said: “We created Tomorrow Sleep because we believe in the power of sleep to change lives. “We saw that people are increasingly becoming aware of the importance of sleep as a cornerstone of wellness and there wasn’t a great solution to address that need in the direct-to-consumer space.” The UK trademark also follows a recent registration from Serta Simmons earlier this year. Serta Inc. filed a UK trademark using the phrase ‘Serta Always Comfortable’ on 9 January 2017.

w www.tomorrowsleep.com

Silentnight has TV pillow success Bed manufacturer Silentnight has seen a surge in pillow sales under its new partnership with television shopping channel QVC UK. QVC recently launched a ‘Today’s Special Value’ (TSV) offer on its channel that featured a Silentnight’s Pure Cotton pillows that were exclusively available to customers for a special price on the TV platform. Taking place on 27 July 2017 for a window of 24 hours, QVC sold almost 50,000 Silentnight pillows in the timeframe, with 9,500 sold on advanced orders due to initial stock selling out. No exact amount of sales in cash terms was reported but the pillows were priced at £17.98. Taking the price consideration with the amount sold, the promotion could of potentially raised around £1m. David Johnstone, national account controller for the Silentnight group, said: “We are thrilled with the success of our Silentnight TSV. This is the first big show where Silentnight pillows have been in the spotlight and we are delighted that customers have engaged with the product and the brand. “This is the highest volume of Silentnight pillows we have sold within 24 hours! We are very much looking forward to further success in the near future.”

w www.silentnight.co.uk

Value of UK furniture manufacture growing The total value of furniture produced by all UK manufacturers is rising, says the BFM. According to a review of UK manufacturing performance in 2016 by British Furniture Manufactures (BFM), the amount of UK furniture, by value rose by 9.3% compared to 2015, although imports have grown by 9.6%. The UK market for all types of furniture increased to more than £11.6bn at manufacturers’ prices, up 8.7% on 2015. UK exports also grew in the year by 13.9%, however manufactured sales as a percentage net supply fell from 44% to 43%. By comparison in 2012, UK market share was 49%. The BFM report looked at how the market has changed over the last full calendar year, as well as the value of UK manufactured sales and imports and exports. It also analysed the percentage of the UK market attributable to UK products, the unit price of UK produced items, and a comparison of imported and

exported product prices by weight. Of the 27 furniture product groups covered, 10 sub sectors were chosen which represent typical manufacturing areas within the BFM membership. Sales for the 10 sub sectors combined grew by 11.8% in 2016 to reach nearly £4.8bn. The 10 sub sectors included; upholstery, sofa beds, bedroom furniture, dining, living room, office and shop furniture, kitchen units, mattress supports for bed frames, as well as mattresses with spring interiors and cellular plastics. Jackie Bazeley, BFM managing director, said: “Our review revealed some very interesting findings, with a mix of performances between the sub sectors, some dominated by UK producers and other where importers hold sway.” The full report is available to BFM members only. Contact mikedimond@ bfm.org.uk

w www.bfm.org.uk

Dutch mattress firm delivers another positive quarter Dutch mattress group Beter Bed Holding has reported another positive quarter as revenue increased by €4.8m. According to it latest Q2 figures, total sales rose by 5.3% to €94.6m from €89.8m in Q2 2016, whilst sales excluding the acquisition of Sängjätten increased by 2.9%. In the Netherlands revenue increased by 6.1% in the second quarter, with order intake in comparable stores increasing by 13.1%. Beter Bed said that consumer confidence and propensity to buy remained ‘unabatedly high’ within its Dutch market. In Germany, like-for-like sales totalled to -0.9%, which was in line with revenue development, whilst total sales fell slightly by 0.4% in the second quarter. The group highlighted that sales in Switzerland, Spain and Belgium posted growth of 8.1%, 12.2% and 38.6% respectively, whereas sales in Austria maintained consistent with its performance last year. Sales in Sweden rose by 19.4%. The order portfolio for the group amounted to €19.8m at the end of the second quarter, which is 3.1% higher compared to last year.

w www.beterbed.nl

Profits surge at mattress ticking manufacturer Northern Ireland-based mattress ticking manufacturer and printed fabrics supplier R.A. Irwin has reported a growth in sales to almost £9m as profits reached record levels. According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 30 September 2016, total sales rose 7.2% to £8.9m from £8.3m in 2015. The company posted a surge in pre-tax profit, up 475% to £644,800 from £112,099 registered last year. Year-end cash resulted at £1.3m, remaining consistent with 2015, whilst net assets valued at £10.5m. Stated within its report, R.A. Irwin said that despite a difficult trading year, significant efforts were made to reduce costs, which led to the improved performance. Looking ahead, the business said that it expects both its ticking and blinds fabrics sectors to continue growth. R A Irwin was established back in 1951 and currently operates out of its factories in Donaghcloney and Portadown.

w www.ra-irwin.co.uk

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Kids mattress manufacturer secures fresh investment Children’s mattress manufacturer Kit for Kids has secured over £3m of funding from Connection Capital. Kit for Kids has confirmed it is ready to capitalise on its significant growth potential after private investors of Connection Capital LLP, the specialist private client investment business, committed £3.7million of development capital. The investment in Kit for Kids will enable the company to meet increasing demand from existing retail customers for its mattress products and also exploit further significant growth opportunities both in the UK and in export markets. Kit for Kids manufactures health and safety-focussed children’s mattresses and supplies retailers such as John Lewis, Mothercare and Babies’R’Us in the UK, whilst continuing to expand rapidly via leading highend retailers in the Middle East. Luke Matthews, investment director at Connection Capital, who led the investment said: “Kit for Kids has a clear best-in-class product proposition, which is in high demand from leading retailers in the UK and beyond, so this investment will give it the financial firepower it needs to fuel further growth. “Our private investor clients saw this as an attractive opportunity to back an experienced and respected management team to exploit significant opportunities to drive sales and unlock its potential. The fact that its product portfolio is also diversified with its highly profitable educational division was also very appealing.” Jan van der Velde, CEO of Kit for Kids, added: “This investment enables us to ensure we can keep pace with increasing demand from our customers, roll out growth that’s already underway and exploit the wide range of further expansion opportunities that are out there. “We’re delighted that Connection Capital’s clients have seen the value in what we offer and that they are committed to supporting us as we consolidate and expand our presence in the marketplace, both here in the UK and abroad. “As we grow, we aim to continue to be at the forefront of innovation in this area, to ensure we always offer the highest quality, most advanced mattress product range on the market.”

w www.kitforkids.com

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NEWS Amazon technology to boost boxed mattresses? Online American mattress-in-a-box business Tuft & Needle has confirmed it plans to open a new store in collaboration with Amazon. The new Seattle-based store, which brings it store estate to four in the US, will feature Amazon technologies to enhance its customer shopping experience. Already generating 25% of its sales through Amazon, Tuft & Needle has partnered with the online marketplace that will incorporate technologies including tablets throughout the store, Amazon Alexapowered Echos programmes, a one-click purchase option via the app and a two-hour delivery timescale for Prime members. Tuft & Needle currently distributes its mattresses throughout the US and has confirmed it plans to expand outside its native America in the future. Whether the UK features on its list of potential targets, the move to utilise Amazon’s technical approach is another method of trying to differentiate the brand in a crowded boxed mattress market. Rival US brands Casper and Leesa, which have already entered the UK market, could look into the possibility of Amazon technologies depending on Tuft & Needle’s success, as could other players in the online mattress market. Casper has recently toured the UK with its mobile sleep pods with the final stop on its tour set for Edinburgh over the 4th and 6th of August as it continues to push its brand awareness in the UK.

w www.amazon.co.uk

Beds retailer files new trademark Luxury beds and bedroom furniture retailer And So To Bed has had a new trademark published. And So To Bed filed the ‘And So To Bed’ trademark application on 31 May 2017 through the Intellectual Property Office, with the slogan officially published on 9 June 2017. The trademark is an extension to its existing ‘And So To Bed’ mark, which was published in December 1997, and covers an extra four classes including lighting, prints and floorcoverings, adding to its original mattresses, beds and bedding classes. Somerset-based law firm Roger Moore & Associates Limited represented the filing on behalf of Dorest-based And So To Bed, which recently opened a new store in London. And So To Bed recently confirmed the opening of its new store on Hill Street in Richmond, London, with the company also announcing the appointment of Alex Westbury as its new showroom manager for the site.

Furniture World opens new store Independent furniture retailer Furniture World has confirmed the opening its new store. Furniture World’s new store is located at the Coypool Retail Park on Plymouth Road in Plymouth and officially opened on 4 August 2017, taking over a former B&Q outlet. B&Q moved out of the 37,000sq ft premises in January 2017, with Furniture World planning to expand the site by 30,400sq ft to then split the overall 67,000sq ft space into four units. Following approval of the plans, construction works have been underway which will see Furniture World take Unit 3, occupying a space of 22,500sq ft, whilst electricals retailer Woolacotts will take Unit 1 with a floorspace of 30,400sq ft. Beds retailer Dreams has been confirmed to take one unit, with Cornwall-based kitchens firm Kettle Co Kitchens taking the last space. Ryan Long, managing director of Furniture World, said: “This store will be different to our four others in Cornwall.

I want to take our customers on an exciting journey. The key word here is inspiration. “We want people to come in and be blown away by what they see. Our new ranges have been carefully chosen for their quality and reliability as always. But more than that, we’re offering something different, exciting and iconic. “We’ve tended to play safe in the past by offering tried and tested makes and styles. But with this store, I want to take that concept a stage further by inspiring our customers to go for something a little more quirky, fun and unforgettable.” As part of the relocation, which has created 15 new jobs, Furniture World has confirmed that it will consolidate its beds offering to five manufacturers. Ryan said: “These are the five we consider to be the best quality for the price and for longterm reliability. We’ve taken into account swift delivery by the manufacturers in our choices too.” As well as individual room sets, Furniture World revealed that there will be stores within stores featuring

w www.furnitureworld.co.uk

Bedroom furniture group grows sales and profits Sheffield-based bedroom furniture specialist Home Décor has reported a fifth consecutive year of turnover growth, whilst revealing the cost of its acquisition of Optiplan Kitchens. According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 31 December 2016, total sales for Home Decor GB Limited rose 4% to £29.9m from £28.8m in 2015, with sales within its domestic market and Europe experiencing positive growth. UK sales, its core market, rose increased 3.7% to £27.4m from £26.4m, as did sales within the EU, up by 11.1% to £2m from £1.8m. Sales from outside the EU fell 21.7% to £490,305 from £626,740 in 2015. Gross profit rose 12.2% to £10.1m from £9m, whilst pre-tax profits resulted at £579,151, returning to growth following its loss of £521,610 recorded in its previous year. Stated within the report, Home Decor said that the profit turnaround was due to an increase in sales of higher margin products and reduction in sales to less profitable customers. During the year, Home Decor acquired Optiplan Kitchens Limited for a total sum of £6m, which was funded by Home Decor’s majority shareholder, Cerberus Capital Management, alongside a new funding package from HSBC. The acquisition adds to its Manor Cabinet Company purchase, with the two businesses coming together to form a separate kitchen business within Home Decor group. Further still, the acquisition also adds to its Portico takeover made in 2014 for around £4.4m. Home Decor highlighted that exceptional costs of £536,674 were incurred relating to the Optiplan Kitchens acquisition, although this cost has been mitigated by additional income of £500,000 from other investments.

w www.hdhc.com

w www.andsotobed.co.uk

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NEWS Dunlopillo named Best Pillow Brand by Which? Mattress and pillow manufacturer Dunlopillo has been recognised by Which? members as the Best Pillow Brand 2017. Dunlopillo came out on top for Best Pillow Brand 2017 with an overall score of 77%, with its latex Super Comfort and Serenity Deluxe Pillows, from the Dunlopillo Signature Collection, achieving a five star rating in the ‘comfort’ and ‘matched product description’ categories. Consumer champion Which? surveyed over 5,000 Which? members in April 2017, with scores awarded to the brands based on how satisfied Which? members were with their purchases and how likely they are to recommend their pillow or duvet. David Wescomb, Dunlopillo brand director, said: “Our Signature Collection pillows have anti-allergenic properties and are the blueprint for comfort, support and durability – the perfect combination for a good night’s sleep. “We’re extremely proud to be named Best Pillow Brand 2017 by trustworthy Which? members. It gives customers that extra confidence they’re investing in a top quality pillow from a top rated brand.”

eve Sleep to expand Next Home partnership as sales surpass 11m Online mattress-in-a-box brand eve Sleep has reported a growth in revenues during its half year trading update as sales more than double past £11m. According to the 26 week period to 30 June 2017, eve Sleep generated sales of £11.5m, a growth of 126% compared to the same period last year when sales stood at £5.1m. UK revenue grew 107% to £6.3m from £3m, with combined revenue from all other countries in which eve operates increasing by 153% to £5.2m compared to £2.1m in the HY2016. eve Sleep said that the majority of sales are through its website and expects the momentum to continue in the second half of the year as it plans to invest in further marketing spend. The company highlighted that its retail partnerships are continuing to deliver positive results, and revealed that it has reached an agreement to extend its Next Home partnership from three stores to 55 outlets by the end of July 2017. Combined with eve’s presence in selected Debenhams, Fenwicks and Bentalls stores, eve’s UK physical retail footprint will subsequently increase to 63 stores. During the first half of the year, eve also continued its Continental European expansion and is now present in all 14 of its key target European markets, with the focus in the second half of the year to be on progressing the marketing strategies

for each territory. Additionally, eve is also in advanced discussions with a number of selected retail partners in all of its core European markets. There were no figures on its profit or loss accounts. Earlier this year, eve reported a significant growth in losses from -£1.5m in 2015 to an EBITDA loss of -£11.3m in 2016. Jas Bagniewski, CEO, commented: “Our successful IPO in May tops off what has been an outstanding first half for eve, with sales more than doubling in the UK and overseas. The monies raised will be used to support our rapid growth in the £26bn European sleep market. “As the market continues its transition online, eve aims to fully capitalise with its simple and compelling customer proposition, which combined with a step up in marketing, is expected to drive increased brand awareness and market share gains from the traditional operators. “We approach the future with confidence and look forward to delivering for all of our stakeholders.” In May 2017 the Company listed on the AIM market, raising £35m gross proceeds to accelerate its growth strategy. The shares floated at 101p per share, valuing the business, post new money at c.£140m.

w www.evemattress.co.uk

w www.dunlopillo.co.uk

Sales surpass £50m at Steinhoff UK Beds Beds and mattresses manufacturer Steinhoff UK Beds has reported a huge growth in turnover as completed development plans and IT restructuring saw sales surpass £50m. According to its latest filed accounts for the 15 month period ended 30 September 2016, total sales rose 96.5% to £51.3m from £26.1m in 2015, a growth of £25.2m in cash terms. On a comparable 12 month period, revenues stood at £42.2m, a strong growth of 61.8% from 2015’s figure stated above. During the 15 month period under review, Steinhoff UK Beds Limited, a subsidiary of Steinhoff International, stated that it had completed the implementation of its new IT system, which had negatively impacted sales in its previous, but was now contributing to improvements in production efficiencies. Steinhoff said that the strategic decision to move the manufacture of foam mattresses and other product lines from other Steinhoff UK related companies had been successfully completed, which also had a big impact in the surge of turnover growth. Steinhoff UK Beds reported an operating profit and pre-tax profit of £1.5m, marking a significant turnaround from its loss of £2.5m recorded last year.

Sealy retains Best Buy status Bed manufacturer Sealy has retained its Which? Best Buy award status for a third straight year. Consumer champion Which? has awarded Sealy’s Posturepedic Pocket Teramo 1400 with its Best Buy status after once again passing a series of tests that found the mattress scoring the highest within its category out of 28 other products. It has retained its title since 2015, when the mattress was first awarded the accolade, with Which? naming the Teramo ‘as the best and most durable model it has tested in years’. The mattress was also commended for its softness and the solid support it provides, with the tests also revealing that it is very easy to turn over on, while being stable enough to not disturb a partner, as well as highlighting the model’s breathable materials, which include Sealy’s Smart Fibres and Eco-friendly Tencel. Neil Robinson, sales and marketing director at Sealy said: “We’re absolutely delighted that the Teramo 1400 has retained its Which? Best Buy status. It is also fantastic to hear that such a well-respected consumer body hasn’t come across another mattress that can match it – even after more than a year. “It’s certainly a hit with our customers, and its 1400 pocket springs and latex insert make it a comfortable and durable choice. One thing’s for sure, the report will certainly make the difficult task of choosing a mattress much easier. It’s fantastic to have this endorsed by the UK’s largest and most trusted consumer body.”

w www.sealy.co.uk

w www.steinhoffinternational.com

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NEWS AT A GLANCE WHOLESALER EXPANDS HQ WITH NEW WAREHOUSE Bedroom furniture supplier Birlea Furniture has moved in to its new warehouse facility at its headquarters in Castle Donington. Birlea Furniture, which already occupies around 85,000sq ft at its site in the East Midlands Distribution Centre, has located its new 74,000sq ft warehouse alongside its existing premise, helping to expand its online and wholesale furniture operations. After agreeing a deal with property construction specialist CWC Group back in December last year, the project at EMDC Business Park has been completed and officially handed over to Birlea Furniture. Sarah Leach, Birlea’s finance director, said: “As a family run business, we always listen and never lose sight of the things that matter, like supplying innovative products quickly and efficiently, with a service you’ll remember for all the right reasons.”

w www.birlea.com

Leesa Sleep raises £17.6m in funding round; appoints new chairman Online mattress-in-a-box retailer Leesa Sleep has raised £17.6m in a Series B funding round led by investment firm One Better Ventures. This second round of funding was led by One Better Ventures and Seventh Generation CEO John Replogle, who also joins Leesa Sleep as chairman of the board. Blake Mycoskie, founder of TOMS, is also a named investor. Peter Graham, who was chairman of Seventh Generation until its recent sale to Unilever, has also been confirmed to join the Leesa Sleep board alongside Mr Replogle. Leesa will use this second round of funding to invest in the brand and to drive growth by launching a series of new products as well as to extend the reach and impact of its partnerships, events and celebrity relationships. This includes continued work with long term ambassadors Michael Phelps and Aly Raisman. Launched at the beginning of 2015 by e-commerce entrepreneur David Wolfe and mattress industry veteran Jamie Diamonstein, Leesa raised £5.4m in its Series A funding in mid-2015 through TitleCard Capital, whose partners include Adam Levine, Jimmy Kimmel and Kate Hudson. Manchester-based Leesa has delivered triple digit growth and positive cashflow since its inception and sales are expected to exceed £152m in the next 12 months. David Wolfe, co-founder and CEO of Leesa, said: “We are humbled and invigorated by the extraordinary response Leesa has received in such a short period of time, and we are excited to use this round of funding to broaden our reach to customers and influencers alike as well as expand into the retail category. “As a company that values its impact on the world as much as its financial prosperity, we are also thrilled to be able to use this success to drive toward our audacious goal of ending homelessness.”

w www.leesa.co.uk

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BEDDING SUPPLIER EXPANDS INTO NEW PREMISES Bedding manufacturer Duvet Pillow & Linen Co has relocated to a new Salford base after securing investment from the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS). The new 95,600sq ft site on Astor Road is the company’s new facility, which is expected to grow sales around 40% over the next two years from its current £7m turnover. Moving from its former Red Bank base in Manchester, the new facility has provided the business with more capacity to improve its production efficiencies and meet its growing demands of increasing contracts. Duvet Pillow & Linen Co, headed up by Amer Khan, is a UK manufacturer and distributor of filled products including duvets, pillows and mattress protectors.

w www.dpl.uk.com

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Julian Charles takes up unit on Trentham Village project

Soft furnishings business Julian Charles has signed up to open a store at the Trentham Estate development. Julian Charles, which specialises in bedding and curtains across its 36 UK stores, becomes the latest business to take on a unit at the Shopping Village in Stoke-on-Trent, along with six other retailers including oak furniture giftware company Gift Company. The two new home furnishing additions complete the homewares section of the site, which also includes bed linen and accessories firm Bedeck and design-led home furnishings firm Trove. The Trentham Shopping Village officially opens on 28 July 2017, although some of the total 78 retailers have already began trading from the 21,600sq ft timber lodge site. The Trentham Estate is owned by the UK’s leading regeneration specialist St. Modwen Properties PLC and has been under a major £100m restoration and regeneration project, which commenced in 2003. Mike Herbert, director at Trentham, said: “Construction is now complete and the lodges along the extended pedestrian area of the Shopping Village look fantastic. This has coincided with us receiving confirmation that all the newly built units have been fully allocated to tenants. “We’d like to thank our existing tenants for strengthening their presence and investment in Trentham, and we’re delighted to welcome new enterprises to the Village. Throughout July shop fit-outs will be underway, and once complete, our homeware, gifting, fashion and accessories categories will all be strengthened.”

w www.juliancharles.co.uk

MEREWAY CONFIRM TREND BEDROOMS APPOINTMENT Tyseley-based kitchen, bathroom and bedroom manufacturer Mereway Group has announced the appointment of Kim Farrell as its new business manager for Trend Bedrooms. Farrell has over 20 year’s experience in the home improvement sector and has held several senior sales roles for kitchens, bathrooms and bedroom manufacturers. Mereway sales and marketing director Graham Jones commented on the appointment: “We have ambitious expansion plans for the bedroom business. We see many opportunities for growth in the sector and are well placed to benefit from these. “Kim brings a wealth of experience and expertise and will provide valuable support

to our bedroom retailers as we expand our network.” Mereway has continued to invest in the business, which has resulted in the production of over 200 units per week as well as growing its active customers to 100, up by 50% on last year. Farrell added: “Mereway is a forward looking business with an enviable reputation for quality and service. I’m really looking forward to this exciting opportunity and to playing a key role in raising awareness of the brand and brining new product ranges to market.”

w merewaykitchens.co.uk

Beds and carpet retail site sold for £3m Investment and development group Rowe Estates has sold a furniture retail warehouse to the Hargreaves Group. Rowe Estates sold the multi-let retail warehouse building on Bourne Way Retail Park in Salisbury, Wiltshire, for a sum of £3.1m. Beds retailer Dreams currently occupies a unit alongside flooring retailer Carpetright, who both let the 13,000sq ft site and agreed new 10 year leases back in March 2017. Lucy Costain of Alder King’s investment team, which acted for Rowe Estates, said: “Our client is delighted to have finalised the disposal of this asset for a sum in excess of the guide price. It is actively looking to re-invest in new Grade A assets or secondary properties that offer opportunities for capital improvement and asset management.” Alastair Skinner, commercial director for Hargreaves Group, said: “This purchase is one of a number that Hargreaves Group is looking to conclude by the summer of 2017 and will provide scope for asset management opportunities. This acquisition once again confirms the appetite and ability Hargreaves Group has to acquire investments in and around its core portfolio.”

w www.rowegroup.co.uk

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PICTURE

Highgrove Beds appoints new sales director West Yorkshire headquartered mattress manufacturer Highgrove Beds has announced the appointment of Andrew Richards as its new group sales director. Andrew, who has more than 20 years experience in the UK bed industry, has previously worked in senior sales positions with Gainsborough and the Silentnight Group. Commenting on the new role, Andrew said: “The massive investment and long term strategic sales and marketing objectives for the Highgrove Beds Group makes this an exciting opportunity that I’m really looking forward to.”

THE SCENE Beds looks back at a selection of industry developments from the last quarter.

Airsprung Beds receives Best Buy award Mattress manufacturer Airsprung Beds has been recognised with a Which? Best Buy award. Airsprung Beds has been awarded the Which? Best Buy endorsement for its Hush premium rolled mattress, which features full size pocket springs. Jim Murphy, managing director, said: “We were clear from the beginning that we planned to deliver something special. It was a challenging process to design a full size pocket spring that could be boxed for next day delivery.”

Casper plots entry into UK retailers Online bed-in-a-box retailer Casper Sleep Inc. has revealed that it has begun discussions with UK retailers in a move to sell its products in high street stores. According to the Press Association, Casper has entered talks with a number of UK retailers, although did not want to reveal who at this stage. The move follows its recent $170m Series C funding round led by American home furnishings retailer Target Corp, bringing its total funding to $240m to date, which has since seen Casper products enter over 1,000 Target stores. Casper co-founder and managing director, Constantin Eis told the Press Association that the move to enter UK shops is part of plans to tap into the UK’s £1bn mattress market and come up against rival’s eve Sleep and Simba.

Kindred strengthens team with triple appointment Bedroom furniture supplier Kindred Living has announced a triple appointment as it strengthens its customer support and after sales teams. John Mallinson has been appointed as installations’ manager, Alison Watson as sales and marketing administrator and Jo Skillicorn has been promoted to become its new business development administrator. David Burchnall, director, said: “These appointments underpin our commitment to delivering exceptional support to our retailers, and their end consumers.”

Boxed mattress awarded Best Buy status New boxed-mattress start-up Emma has been awarded ‘Best Buy’ status by consumer body Which? Which? is known for conducting thorough, independent, robust lab tests on thousands of products every month as they work on behalf of the consumer. Only the top-scoring products in the market are recognised as a Which? Best Buy. The Emma mattress is manufactured in the UK using foam and spring technology. Marc-René Simon, head of international at Emma Mattress commented: “Emma mattress has received similar awards and endorsements in France and the Netherlands so we are really happy that this is happening in the UK.”

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THE BED SHOW

MAGIC With the doors literally just about to open on the eighth iteration of the Bed Show, Beds Magazine takes a look at why the event continues to provide all the answers to the bed industry.

ith its fair share of ups and downs, 2017 could certainly use some sort of oracle to help answer all of the questions surrounding what has at times been far from the easiest period of trading. Happily, the bedding industry has its own magic eight ball to help, in the form of the Bed Show, which is organised by the National Bed Federation (NBF), and which returns to Telford for the eighth year running on 19 and 20 September. Widely renown as the UK’s largest bed exhibition with a unique mix of both British bed manufacturers and component suppliers, the show remains the place to be

The industry is gearing up for the Bed Show

for buyers and commercial specifiers looking for the latest products and developments in the UK bed market, and offers a look into the future in terms of trends and styles. The ‘magic eight’ iteration of the Bed Show will once again take its place at the modern, purpose built Telford International Centre, which is easily commutable from throughout the UK. As Lisa Artis, communications manager at the NBF told us: “Whether you are coming by road, rail or air, the Telford International Centre is easily accessible from all parts of the UK. The venue works for us at the moment. It’s not too big or too small, the three halls flow well together and there are two handy onsite hotels.” All of the biggest names in the industry will be in residence at the Telford International Centre, with companies such as Airsprung (including Gainsborough and Hush-a-Bye), Harrison, Highgrove, Hypnos, Silentnight Group, Steinhoff Group, Sweet Dreams, Vispring and Vogue all taking stands. The majority of these were re-signs from last year, after a particularly successful event, as we were told by a number of exhibitors. Mike Nash, MD, the Foam Co said of the 2016 show: “We were really pleased to be part of the Bed Show this year. It was the ideal platform for us to promote our new brands. The stand was really busy and we were extremely pleased with the positive feedback given by visitors.” Fara Butt, Shire Beds concurred: “We really look forward to the Bed Show. There is a real buzz about it, we work hard preparing for it and it’s great when it all comes together. The gala dinner in the evening is the icing on the cake for us.”

Shakeel Baig, of Bodyease, added: “The Bed Show gets better every year and is the perfect platform to set in motion the trends and innovations of the bedding industry.” Said John Tuton, founder of Mammoth: “We’ve exhibited at the Bed Show for a number of years now and each event proves better than the last.” Liz Colleran, marketing and sales director at Duvalay commented: “The Bed Show 2016 was our most successful to date, with orders exceeding our projections. Feedback on the new launches was positive and very encouraging with current and new retailers listing our latest additions.” And it was not just the exhibitors, visitor feedback was equally positive, as Jerry Cheshire of Surrey Beds was testament to: “I must commend the NBF for organising yet another outstanding show. It’s a ‘must attend’ for anyone associated with the UK

“WHETHER YOU ARE COMING BY ROAD, RAIL OR AIR, THE TELFORD INTERNATIONAL CENTRE IS EASILY ACCESSIBLE FROM ALL PARTS OF THE UK”

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THE BED SHOW

bed industry. I’m already looking forward to the 2017 show.” So, as well as the impressive names you can see under one roof, what else can you expect to enjoy? Well, the NBF Bed Industry Awards will again take place at the

said of the awards: “The awards are a credible celebration of what’s good about the industry and provide a great opportunity for businesses of all shapes and sizes – from big brands to small niche players – to highlight their fantastic achievements.” The National Bed Federation (NBF) has confirmed that the refreshments for this year’s Bed Show have been generously sponsored once again. If all this isn’t enough to tempt you to visit the show – and why wouldn’t it be? – there is an added incentive that any visitor to any exhibition who ha ever purchased food will appreciate, as NBF members John Cotton, BekaertDeslee have once again agreed to help provide complimentary visitor and exhibitor refreshments respectively. On the generous donation, Jessica commented: “Thanks to John Cotton and BekaertDeslee it means both exhibitors and visitors will receive a refreshment voucher to put towards drinks and something to eat.”

Show Info Venue Telford International Centre, St Quentin Gate, Telford TF3 4JH Opening Hours Tuesday 19th September: 9am-5.30pm Wednesday 20th September: 9am-4pm Admission To take advantage of the free admission to the show, visitors must register by visiting: www.bedshow.co.uk.

Phil Tuffnel trials a Sealy bed show this year, with winners and runners up announced at the always popular Gala Dinner on 19 September. The awards are designed to identify and reward manufacturers, suppliers and retailers in the bed sector who are considered ‘Best in Class.’ The Judges’ Choice Award will return for a second year and while the format of this year’s awards remains largely the same, one change for this year will be the splitting of the Bed Manufacturer of the Year category into those with a turnover over £10m and those with a turnover under £10m. Jessica Alexander, executive director at the NBF

It’s a great opportunity to try out all the latest models

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NBF

FLOOR PLAN

F80 Hybed

F70

FIRE EXIT

Shakespeare B

F60

E50

FIRE EXIT

A40

FIRE EXIT

Swanglen

FIRE EXIT

D40

C40

A45

Kayflex

Gainsborough

A30

A35

Siesta Beds

Vispring

E40

Burgess Beds

F50

Highgrove Beds / m

Gateway Systems

F40

C30

Hush-a-Bye Airsprung Group

A32

Highgrove Beds / S

Somnus E30 Monks

D30

Airsprung Beds

E25 A25 A20 Kayfoam Woolfson

Vitafoam

C20 Duvalay / The Hilary Devey Collection

Highgate Beds

E20 D50 Pieters

A18

Apropa Hypnos

Deluxe Beds

Maes E15

D60

B20

F30

Seetall

Latexco

F20

Sleepeezee / Beautyrest Black

FIRE EXIT

Bodyease / Sareer / O

A10

B15

C10

D15

Keen & Able

D10 Salus Beds

Breasley / Uno / You / Amor

Leggett & Platt

Maxi mover

F10

GMS

Retail Systems

YOU ARE HERE

E12

Sweet Dream

E10 Edward Clay

The NBF Village Green B1

NBF

MAIN ENTRANCE

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MPT

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NBF

FLOOR PLAN FIRE EXIT

G80

Hybed

Hyder Living

H70

Dreamland Beds / William Nights / HealthiPosture

G60

FIRE EXIT

The Foam Company / Sleepshaper

Shakespeare Beds

H60

G50

K50

J60

Furmanac / MiBed

Furmanac / Hestia

The Foam Company / Mammoth

Siesta Beds

H50 G40

Highgrove Beds / moresleep

K40

J50

Harrison

Millbrook Beds

J40

Shire Beds Highgrove Beds / Sanctum

Healthbeds

H20

J30

Kaymed

Relyon

G20 H10

odyease / Sareer / Oliver & Sons

FIRE EXIT

G35

Sealy

F37 Rawson Fillings

Vogue / Hampton Bed Company / Sports Therapy Mattress

Dura Beds H30

Deluxe Beds

Dreamworks Beds

Kyoto Futons

Silentnight / Studio by Silentnight

Slumberland / Dunlopillo

J20

Myer's

J15

Sherborne

Palatine Beds G10

Sweet Dreams

Rest Assured

Divan Diner C1 MPT

Carpenter

FIRE EXIT

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EXHIBTION LISTINGS

Airsprung Group A30, A32, A35, A40 & A45 Canal Road Trowbridge Wiltshire BA14 8RQ 01225 754411 www.airsprungbeds.co.uk Apropa Machinery D60 Coburg House 5 Gloucester Road Teddington Middlesex TW11 0NS 020 8902 1114 www.apropa.co.uk Bodyease F20 Savile Business Centre Mill Street East Dewsbury West Yorkshire WF12 9AH 0800 0469901 www.bodyease.co.uk Breasley Consumer Products A10 & B15 Water Lane Wirksworth Derbyshire DE4 4AA 01629 823680 www.breasleyconsumer.co.uk Burgess Beds D40 Knowsley Park Way Knowlsey Road Industrial Estate Haslingden BB4 4RS 01706 212731 www.burgessbeds.co.uk Carpenter C1 Dinting Lodge Industrial Estate Glossop Derbyshire SK13 6LE 01457 892400 www.carpenterconsumer.com. uk Deluxe Beds F30 Beacon Street Birkby Huddersfield West Yorkshire HD2 2RS 01484 427373 www.deluxe.beds.co.uk

Gateway Systems E40 Unit 3 Northgate Terrace Northern Road Industrial Estate Newark Nottinghamshire NG24 2EU 01636 676194 www.gatewaysystems.co.uk

Dreamland Beds H70 Unit 4 Bertha Road Birmingham B11 2NN 0121 771 3663 www.dreamlandbeds.co.uk Dreamworks Beds K50 7 Brook La Ind Est Westbury BA13 4EP 01373 859913 www.dreamworksbeds.com

Global Material Sourcing E12 Nickson Brandon Court Leeds LS17 8AU 0113 266 6380. www.gmsourcing.com

Dura Beds G40 Kelvin Business Park Grange Road Batley West Yorkshire WF17 6PB 01924 422537 www.durabeds.co.uk Duvalay - The Hilary Devey Collection C20 Camtex House Quarry Road Gomersal West Yorkshire BD19 4HX 01274 877200 www.duvalay.co.uk www.hilarydeveycollection.co.uk Edward Clay & Son E10 Wesley St Ossett WF5 8EX 01924 273994 www.edwardclay.co.uk The Foam Company, Mammoth, Revitalise G50 & G60 Abingdon Oxon OX14 1TR 01235 529148 www.sleepshaper.co.uk www.mammothmattress.co.uk Furmanac, Hestia, MiBed H60 & J60 Unit 71 The Pensnett Estate Kingswinford West Midlands DY6 7FF 01384 880208 www.furmanac.com

Harrison Beds H50, F80 Westland Road Leeds LS11 5SN 0113 205 5200 www.harrisonbeds.co.uk www.harrisonspinks.co.uk Healthbeds J40 Thurcroft Ind Est/Kingsforth Rd Rotherham S66 9HU 01709 561937 www.healthbeds.co.uk Highgate Beds A25 Mill Street East Dewsbury WF12 9AN 01924 454678 www.highgatebeds.com Highgrove Beds F40 & F50 Headlands Road Liversedge West Yorkshire WF15 6QA 01274 878823 www.highgrovebeds.co.uk Hypnos A18 Longwick Road Princes Risborough Buckinghamshire HP27 9RT 01844 348200 www.hypnosbeds.com Kayflex C40 Unit 3 Ravensthorpe Mills Huddersfield Road Dewsbury West Yorkshire WF13 3NA 01924 453331 www.kayflex.co.uk

Kaymed, Kayfoam H20, A20 Bluebell Industrial Estate Naas Road Dublin 12 Ireland 00 353 1 419 2999 www.kaymed.co.uk Kozee Sleep (Midlands) F70 154 Wharfedale Road Tyseley Birmingham B11 2DG 0121 764 4024 www.kozeesleep-beds.co.uk Kyoto Futons H10 Hards Lane Frognall Deeping St James Lincolnshire PE6 8RP 01778 380555 www.kyoto-futons.com Latexco E15 Sint-Amandstraat 7-9 B-8700 Tielt Belgium 00 32 51 401431 www.latexco.com Leggett & Platt C10 Long Royd Park Springs Industrial Estate Barnsley South Yorkshire S72 7GH 01226 707573 www.lpeurope.com Maes Mattress Ticking E20 Blokellestraat 157B Industriezone Breemeers B-8550 Zwevegem Belgium 00 32 56 755262 www.mmt.be Maxi Mover D10 The Old Stables Sudbrooke Road, Scothern, Lincoln, Lincolnshire LN2 2UZ 01673 863300 www.maximover.co.uk

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NBF

EXHIBTION LISTINGS

Seetall Furniture E25 Oaks End Industrial Park Swansea Road Pontlliw Swansea Glamorgan SA4 9DZ 01792 897464 www.seatall.com

Millbrook Beds J50 Calmore Industrial Estate Totton Southampton Hampshire SO40 3XJ 0845 3731111 www.millbrook-beds.co.uk Monks International E30 Grote Molstenstraat 21 B-8710 Wielsbeke Belgium 0032 56 67 16 00 www.monks.be

Sherborne Upholstery J15 Pasture Lane Clayton Bradford West Yorkshire BD14 6LT 01274 882633 www.sherborneupholstery.co.uk

MPT Group B1 New Line Industrial Estate Bacup Lancashire OL13 9RW 01706 878558 sales@mptgroup.com Palatine Beds H5 Stamfordham Road Westerhope Newcastle upon Tyne NE5 5HH 0191 277 2559 or 0191 277 2544 www.palatinebeds.co.uk Pieters Textiel D50 Molstenstraat 42 8780 Oostrozebeke Belgium 0032 56 71 11 11 www.pieterstextiel.be

Shire Beds H30 Unit 3-8 Branch Mills Netherfield Road Ravensthorpe Dewsbury West Yorkshire WF13 3JY 01924 439898 www.shirebeds.co.uk Siesta Beds F60 Mulliners Works, 154 Bordesley Green, Bordesley Green, Birmingham, B8 1BY 0121 773 9969 info@siestabeds.co.uk

ViSpring E50 Ernesettle Lane Ernesettle Plymouth Devon PL5 2TT 01752 366311 www.vispring.com Vitafoam D30 Soudan Street Oldham Road Middleton Manchester M24 2DB 0161 643 1133 info@vcfuk.com Vogue Beds K40 Kingsfield House Arthur Street Barwell Leicestershire LE9 8GZ 01455 841257 www.voguebeds.co.uk

Silentnight Group G10, G20 & G35 Long Ing Business Park Long Ing Lane Barnoldswick Lancashire BB18 6BJ 01282 813333 www.silentnight.co.uk

Rawson Fillings F37 Castle Bank Mills Portobello Road Wakefield West Yorkshire WF1 5PS 01924 373421 www.rawsonfillings.com

Sleepeezee Holdings B20 Knight Road Rochester Kent ME2 2BP 01634 723557 www.sleepeezee.co.uk

Relyon Steinhoff J20, J30 & K5 Station Mills Wellington Somerset TA21 8NN 01823 668200 www.relyon.co.uk Retailsystem.com D5 0131 440 7607 www.retailsystem.com

Sweet Dreams F10 Primrose Mill Martin Street Burnley Lancashire BB10 1SH 01282 830033 www.sweetdreamsuk.com

Somnus C30 Westland Road Leeds LS11 5SN 0113 2055 245 www.somnus.co.uk

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THE BED SHOW

AFTER

HOURS

A look at what to see and do outside of exhibition hours.

EATING out

s the name of the conference centre would hint, there is a wealth of wealth of choice when it comes to dining around Telford and the local area, with tastes from all over the world catered for and a mix of fine dining, easy to navigate chain restaurants, ‘pub grub’ and international cuisine. The area around the Telford International Centre is particularly rich in restaurants and bars with food of all genres to suit all palates. The Southwater Leisure Hub has a selection of international and traditional cuisine with Italian Wildwood Kitchen and Mexican, Chimichanga, alongside favourites such as Zizzi, Nandos, Pizza Express and Harvester. I personally recommend a pulled pork burrito, washed down with a classic mojito at Coal Bar and Grill. In the town centre itself you can find recognisable names such as Frankie and Benny’s or Bella Italia and there is the Dragon Den Chinese Buffet for those with a craving for Asian cuisine. Slightly further out there is a huge selection of Indian restaurants to choose from, with Spiceland (not to be confused with the terrible Spice World movie) in Wellington making the top ranking on Trip Advisor. For those with a taste for more

Beds 13.indb 28

traditional food, there is a selection of English pubs including a Brewer’s Fayre near to the train station and The Ugly Duckling on Long Lane, which caters for a multitude of dietary requirements with vegetarian, vegan and gluten free meals available. If you’d rather stay near to the Teford International Centre itself of an evening, there is always the Olive Tree Restaurant, situated at the Holiday Inn Hotel next door, and the International Centre itself has a number of refreshment options available. Or if you’re of the opposite mindset and would like to get away from the venue

completely of an evening, there is lots to see and do in nearby Ironbridge, and I heartily recommend the Pondicherry Indian restaurant.

A number of food options are available in Telford

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NBF

THE BED SHOW

GALA DINNER &AWARDS

The Gala Dinner is always enjoyed by guests

f course, if you’ve got yourself a ticket to the Gala Dinner, you won’t want to venture too far away from the Telford International Centre on Tuesday night, where there will be a drinks reception in the Foyer, followed by a three course sit down dinner and coffee in the Ludlow Suite and then annual Bed Industry Awards, finished with a card/cash bar* and music and dancing until midnight. The host of this year’s gala dinner is none other than Meera Syal, one of the country’s most popular comic and dramatic performers and writers, who has starred in hit programmes as diverse as Doctor Who and The Kumars at No 42. She made her name on the sketch show Goodness Gracious Me, and as the acclaimed author of Anita & Me and Life Isn’t All Ha Ha Hee Hee. As well as appearing in feature films from Sammi and Rosie Get Laid to Marvel’s Doctor Strange, Meera wrote the screenplay for the critically acclaimed Bhaji on the Beach and also adapted her novels Anita & Me (into a feature film) and Life Isn’t All Ha Ha Hee Hee (into a TV series). Meera’s lengthy list of TV credits include Holby City, Absolutely Fabulous and Drop the Dead Donkey. She has hosted The Travel Show, appeared on Have I Got News For You and traced her Punjabi roots in Who Do You Think You Are? She also collaborated with Andrew Lloyd Webber in the West End production of Bombay Dreams. As part of the Gala Dinner, the industry’s best and brightest will be excitedly hoping to grab a gong at the seventh annual Bed Industry Awards, which are designed to

Beds 13.indb 29

identify and reward manufacturers, suppliers and retailers in the bed sector who are ‘Best in Class’. This year will see the Bed Component Supplier of the Year and Bed Retailer of the Year (both split into two awards –over £5m beds turnover and less than £5m beds turnover) categories remain the same, but with the addition of the Manufacturer of the Year also being split into those with a turnover over £10m and those with a turnover under £10m. The Judges’ Choice Award will run for a second year. Says Jessica Alexander, executive director of the NBF: “Over the years, we’ve lost some categories, added new ones and tweaked them to reflect the changing nature of the industry. What the judges are looking for is who has excelled themselves in the past year

and how they’ve done it – they want cold, hard facts that demonstrate and back up the entry. Good quality, clear entries are key, the judges won’t be fooled by a fancy presentation.” Last year’s winners were Kaymed for Bed Manufacturer of the Year; Vitafoam for Bed Component Supplier of the Year; Mattress Online for Bed Retailer of the Year (over £5m beds turnover); Sussex Beds for Bed Retailer of the Year (under £5m beds turnover); and Dreams for the Judges Choice Award.

Last year’s Bed Industry Award winners

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MANUFACTURING

TCS

ON A

High The latest update from UK furniture wholesalers, TCS The Complete Service on its numerous developments in the bed sector.

The Hillary Devey Diamond Luxe

K furniture wholesaler TCS, The Complete Service has long been proud of how, by bridging some of the gaps in the bedding industry, it has been helping retailers improve on their bottom line. And, as the TCS collection of Royal Coil Mattresses continues to gain market share throughout the UK and Ireland, the company has instigated numerous developments within its bedding sector to complement its long established collections of Italian leather and British made fabric sofas. Since the January Show, for example,

Contemporary Sleep Imperial

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MANUFACTURING

TCS

simple and easy to explain, and our collections meet this criteria. When visitors to our customer showrooms get the opportunity to view and test these collections, they see quality products that sell themselves.” The whole ethos of TCS as a company is to provide products that are exclusive to independent retailers, in order to stand out from the larger furniture multiples that are now stocking beds and mattresses. Mr. Small told us, “We wanted to help mattress retailers improve on their bottom line and these collections not only help retailers stock exclusive product ranges but also actively helps to improve their bottom line.” Being able to offer high quality sleep

Royal Coil Opulence

“WE LIKE PRODUCTS THAT ARE SIMPLE AND EASY TO EXPLAIN, AND OUR COLLECTIONS MEET THIS CRITERIA”

TCS has been proud to be distributing the remarkable line of high-end Hilary Devey mattresses throughout Ireland. This new collection sits perfectly with the already established TCS Royal Coil collections and the company’s exclusive Contemporary Sleep collection. The Hilary Devey collection completes the company’s aspirations of providing retailers with options for good, better and best for pillow and box top with pocket sprung mattress choices to offer their customers. Thomas Small, managing director of TCS explained: “We like products that are

solutions at a range of price points, and in particular hitting mid-market prices was something of a pipe-dream for independent retailers but now they can now hit all price points with higher profit margins. All of this is now possible without retailers having to carry large stock levels, with TCS this year introducing higher stock levels and faster delivery. Coupled with their recently introduced live tracking web system, this means that delivery promises to your customers are kept with TCS.

w www.tcsimports.com

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HORSEfor

MANUFACTURING

KAYMED

COURSE

The new Therma~Phase + Synergy 2000, with Pebble finish base

Beds magazine reports on a recent a trip to Ireland to visit reigning Bed Manufacturer of the Year, Kaymed; where there was the chance to have a look around the facilities, see some of the latest innovations and even a few surprises in store.

s the famous quote attributed to Henry Ford said, of relying on market research alone: “If I’d asked customers what they wanted, they would have told me, ‘A faster horse’!” And, as the first stop in this editor’s tour of Kaymed’s extensive facilities in Ireland was the Kilcullen factory – just a few miles from the centre of Ireland’s horse racing industry – this seems like a good note on which to start the story. That’s not, of course, to say that the incumbent Bed Manufacturer of the Year doesn’t put in the groundwork when it comes to market research – far from it. In fact, it was during my very first meeting with the company at around this time last year, that the results of its recent consumer satisfaction survey were revealed. And the story has now come full circle, as after a

long time in the planning, I was able to see for myself how products are not only made, but designed and developed, and to meet some of the experts – and they are experts – behind them. I have to be honest, I was excited. For the usual ‘factory tour enthusiast’ reasons, yes, but also because it would be my first trip to Ireland (and the evening before, my first time trying Guinness, but I digress) and the first time seeing a foam run. As it turned out, there were a number of other reasons to be excited, but we’ll come to that shortly. Galloping back to Kilcullen, the visit started with a look inside the showroom, in which the latest models ready to launch at this year’s AIS and Bed Shows proudly sat, waiting for sales manager, Terry Bridger; product development manager,

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KAYMED Donal Heagney; and marketing manager, Jeremy Navrady to make any final tweaks or approvals. Yes, I was actually allowed to be there to see this happen. What’s more, I was able to test out each of the models that will potentially feature on stand H20 in Telford – they were all very comfortable, by the way! The big launch for the company at the show will be the new Therma~Phase™+ range. Therma~Phase™+ as you might imagine, is the next generation to the company’s existing Therma~Phase™ range – which features an in-house manufactured high density visco-elastic material infused with unique phase-change gel crystals to maintain the ideal sleep surface temperature. Therma~Phase™+ has the additional inclusion of copper particles. So, while the phase-change crystals work by

“THE RANGE HAS PROVED TO BE ENORMOUSLY FRUITFUL FOR OUR STOCKISTS AND OFFERS REMARKABLE LEVELS OF REPEAT BUSINESS” material is the only real way to achieve it, and we own the patent but there is still much hard work to do.” The range of eight beds to feature Therma~Phase™+ technology will include both pocket sprung and all foam mattresses, with both traditional drawerdivan and low-profile base on leg options. The collection will also benefit from an extended colour range with the addition of

This camaraderie was something of a theme for the whole visit, and I was treated to a number of stories from the group’s history of working together that impressed and made me laugh in equal measure. But what happens in Kilcullen stays in Kilcullen I’m afraid! Back to the products, and something else that visitors to this year’s Bed Show will be able to try out is Response Gel™,

Visitors will be able to try out the new Response Gel™, a fusion of Kaymed’s instant response open cell material and patented MicroSupport™ Gel Beads constantly absorbing and releasing body heat, the copper infusion works as a superfast conductor, quickly moving heat to and from the mattress surface as required. Jeremy Navrady explained why Therma~Phase™+ is the only material able to maintain sleep surface temperature available in the UK bedding market and how it can redistribute heat much faster than other solutions. “We launched Therma~Phase at the Bed Show in 2014. The temperature regulating category was becoming more of an issue, and now we have driven it forward. The phase changing

Denim and Pebble for 2018. As fascinating for me as seeing the products themselves, was the chance to be a fly on the wall for the final discussions, and it was clear that, whilst the company listens to its customers, when it comes to R&D these guys really know their stuff. It’s also abundantly clear that they are very much on the same wavelength! To use one example, Terry Bridger was weighing up a change to one of the models to take to the show, and told Donal his thoughts. Without missing a beat, Donal replied that he’d already made the change.

which is a fusion of Kaymed’s exclusive instant response open cell material and patented MicroSupport™ Gel Beads which delivers the feel of latex combined with cooling gel technology, for a scientifically proven smarter, more comfortable sleep. And of course, let’s not forget the company’s highly popular Mighty Bed® range with reinforced spring system and extra-strong divan base which will also be on display. Jeremy explained: “The range has proved to be enormously fruitful for our stockists and offers

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KAYMED

Product Test I call this a product test, but the only testing thing about it – or so I thought – would be getting the pillow home on the plane (which as it turns out, and as Jeremy predicted, was much easier than I thought it would be). Now I’ve not historically got on with foam pillows as I have a tendency to wake with a stiff neck, but this model was designed to accommodate both back and side sleepers comfortably, with punched holes to allow more airflow and more give. As advised, I trialled the pillow the first night on its own – I’m usually a two-pillow sleeper. I have to be honest, I slept right through the night, waking with no stiff neck, just feeling refreshed. To be certain that it wasn’t just the after effects of travelling and two days of very kind hospitality, I vowed to make sure over a period of nights and different scenarios before putting pen to paper. Using it the next night, once again on its own, and I experienced the very same levels of comfort. It’s funny, because while I can’t say I instantly felt the heat physically drawing away from me, I felt like that was exactly the point - it was comfortable for my sleeping style, and I imagine that had I felt it noticeably doing its thing, I’d have focused on that sensation rather than actually going to sleep! Having tried the pillow for a couple of nights on its own, I decided to see how it fared with one of my usual pillows beneath it. It took a little getting used to at first, having become accustomed to and comfortable with the height. It was fantastic for the period where I like to read before dozing off but, for sleeping, one pillow was enough for me with this model. I look forward to seeing the final version at the Bed Show.

The highly popular Mighty Bed

remarkable levels of repeat business.” Having seen the products, it was time to move the visit to the Bluebell factory in nearby Dublin, where CEO David Moffit kindly spared the time to speak to me about how the foam had developed to what we know from the business today, and showed me yet more fantastic Kaymed hospitality. This was also the venue for my first view of a foam run, and I wasn’t disappointed. Seeing the foam so quickly expand from what is affectionately referred to as McDonalds milkshake (other fast food brands are available) to the huge blocks from which the mattresses are eventually made was a revelation - as was the knowledge that there is virtually no waste at all. Equally impressive to me was the sheer precision which had to be displayed when inputting all of the ingredients – much as one might when baking a cake, but with messier consequences on the off chance that something should go awry. Of course this is also how the company is able to develop its offering with the addition of ingredients such as the new copper particles. Which brings us back to the launches for show season, and a new pillow using the Therma~Phase + technology. Returning also to the market research question, and this editor was delighted to be asked by Donal to conduct a product test on the pillow before the final design reaches the

“THE PHASE CHANGING MATERIAL IS THE ONLY REAL WAY TO ACHIEVE IT, AND WE OWN THE PATENT” shows. You can see my thoughts in the box section within this feature, but to view all the latest products for yourself, make sure you’re first past the post by going to see Kaymed at the AIS Show in Solihull on 13 September or on stand H20 at the Bed Show in Telford on 19 and 20 September. Having seen it all first hand, I can tell you now you won’t be disappointed, either with the products on show, or the generous welcome you’ll receive.

w www.kaymed.co.uk

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DESIGN

BOYTEKS

TREND

Mustafa Yıldırım, general manager at Boyteks Textiles offers some advice when it comes to the hottest trends for fabrics and ticking.

hile we were ringing in the changes brought about by the end of the 1990s and the start of the new millennium, fabric and ticking manufacturer, Boyteks, was making some changes of its own, with the introduction of mattress ticking production. Having now also manufactured yarn in its own facility since 2003, the company is able to complete all processes from yarn to fabric production in its own fully integrated facilities within the company’s own ERP system. With a range of colors, structures, and designs to meet all manner of sleep needs, Boyteks is well placed to keep abreast of the latest trends, as Mustafa Yildirim, general manager explained: “Although trend and fashion determines people’s use of or desire to dominate for a specific amount of time; it is possible to see it as a magical mirror where societies, traditions, events and technology are reflected. So, what does the fabric manufacturer see as the biggest style trends when it comes to fabrics for beds? Well, according to Mustafa, there has been a definite shift toward whites for a pure look, established on style, curves and creativity. “The trend for wonderland whites is about staying away from exaggeration and being stark,” said Mustafa. “It’s the art of living with little and unvarnished, making one feel more serene and freer, and succeeding in hiding beauty in the details and standing out with less.” Conversely, Boyteks has also recognised a gravitation towards darker

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shades, with black and grey proving to be particularly popular. Mustafa explained: “Tones of night light, stained cold greys, grey primary and lower tones, and shades of metal provide a more modern view. It’s not difficult at all to touch the stories of the fabric and comprehend their romantic side without allowing pattern overflow, in a season that includes any kind of design and rendezvous of colours.” Then there is a trend collection referred to as ‘Evergreen,’ which evidences a love of classic contemporary, with modern designs reflecting a link to the traditional. Mustafa offered his thoughts: “With local and indigenous trends increasing, even if people have adopted where they live as opposed where they are from, traces of the past are still there. With a modern approach, a connection is found with the old.” A love of neutral tones has also been picked up by the company, however, this is combined with today’s technology to create

designs with modern lines, yet offering simplicity, with neutral pinks and pastels the order of the day. And the ‘back to basics’ doesn’t end there, with inspiration also taken from nature, with the ‘Ocean Legend’ trend collection reflecting the sea and the sky in deep blues, water greens and dark navies, As Mustafa said, when it comes to the ocean “let us all leave ourselves to its force and get rid of all the rules!” The influence of nature is extended with collections reflecting a love of the great outdoors, in what Boyteks refers to as ‘Beyond Imagination Garden.’ Mustafa elaborated: “We extend an invitation to life scenes that flirt with nature, floral karma to our space. We are one step closer to shedding our city dweller shell and sliding into the country life we yearn. The codes of this life are hidden in the details calling for the rawness, the

Boyteks completes all processes from yarn to fabric production

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BOYTEKS

The company has seen a number of hot trends in ticking fabric defectiveness and the naturalness.” But, there is also a feeling of looking to the future, and this is demonstrated in the trend for a more futuristic, space age design, known as Cosmic Wave. “Mystery and universality are two important words,” explained Mustafa. “The movement area in this journey that is being transported to the days to come with futuristic lines is much freer now. It is like an especially blended solution to those looking for universality and open space. Minimal and maximal styles are side by side with modern age technologies.” Whilst Boyteks is unarguably investing in the development of its designs and staying ahead of the trends, it is not just the look that is important to the company, as this year has seen the launch of seven new products, designed to contribute to a healthier and higher quality of quality sleep, the first of which, interestingly, made use of magnetic therapy. “In today’s time,” said Mustafa, “especially the people living in metropolitan cities are becoming more and more alienated from the natural life. Therefore the immune system is getting weaker and weaker and defenceless resulting in the reduction of the energy levels of individuals. “It is a proven fact that confined metal frames such as concrete structures; vehicles and lifts disrupt the magnetic field. These hitches result in natural magnetic field deficiency in individuals and the natural magnetic field deficiency weakens the muscles, lowers our energy levels, slows down the blood flow, thus paving the way for unprovoked pains and ailments. Today, magnetic therapy centres and magnetic products are used for the treatment of this deficiency. We

are bringing this therapy into homes with Boyteks Magnerest mattress ticking. The fabrics are created by threads with magnetic properties, offering magnetic therapy to users at home as well as cosiness and comfort.” Conversely, alongside this natureinspired development, technology also features, with what Mustafa described as a ‘smart fabric’ launch in the Customood, which allows the response to various sleep

requirements within the same bed. Mustafa continued: “We are inspired by Biomimetic (Bio-simulation) technology. Our product functions exactly like the human skin. The product demonstrates the feature of opening and closing depending on the extent of humidity and temperature, thus enhancing the air permeability and providing more comfortable sleep through its rapid drying property. On the other hand, in cold and dry environments, fabric tissues get closed accordingly. We can offer a customised sleep environment for users thanks to this smart fabric technology.” Other new developments include BreathEasy ticking with eucalyptus and menthol content, and the natural mineral containing YogaRhythm. What really stood out for this editor in particular, was the business’ work for the South America regions to help combat disease. Mustafa explained more: “We have developed our AntiZika fabric to help the fight against the Zika virus, which is prevalent especially in South America regions. Aedes mosquitos spread the Zika fever. Our product is developed for the purpose of expelling this mosquito species away from the bed and thus helping decrease the diseases.” And last but not least, ThermaTone, which changes colour according to body temperature, and CopperTech mattress ticking with copper content are among some of the other innovations for this year for Boyteks. Mustafa concluded: “Boyteks innovations shall continue to be the source of inspiration for our partners and users. We will be increasing and improving the accessibility of our products used in more than 100 countries with a market share of approximately 10% in this field within the relevant sector. Our investments in this arm are increasingly continuing.”

w www.boyteks.com

Boyteks products are used in more than 100 countries

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RETAIL

MAMMOTH

ALL

RISE

Prepare for a surprise announcement

Kris Wood, head of marketing at Mammoth offers some insight into a number of exciting new developments for the business, including a surprise announcement to be made at this year’s Bed Show.

017 has been an exciting and successful year so far for the team at health and wellbeing group, Mammoth. Successes and good news stories have numbered many and, in the face of an industry trend for falling sales, the company has enjoyed an increase in sales, year-on-year. Kris Wood, head of marketing at Mammoth, is also very excited to make an announcement at the show, including partnerships news and more innovative technology developments. Using the Bed Show as the perfect opportunity to catch up with existing retailers, meet potential new retail partners and to showcase the company’s new products and ranges, the Bed Show is always a highlight of the Mammoth calendar. “The Bed Show is a very important date in our year,” explained John Tuton, owner and managing director at Mammoth. “The team works very hard all year to ensure we have excellent

offers, deals and news stories to share with our retail partners at the show. Mammoth has taken huge strides forward in the mattress industry in recent years and we’re very excited to be able to continue this with exciting new developments involving partners and our technology innovation programmes. I can’t say more at the moment, because there are still preparations to be made but, needless to say, our announcement will create a great deal of buzz around stand G50 this year. “In addition to these developments, we’re delighted to be able to show off our new product ranges, including the ottoman bedstead collection, which will enable our retailers to offer a new slice of Mammoth luxury and performance to their customers heading in to 2018. The stand will include our complete range of bed products, including mattresses, divans, headboards and pillows. We’ll also be introducing our new marketing

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RETAIL

MAMMOTH

“HELPING OUR RETAILERS TO ATTRACT FOOTFALL TO THEIR STORES IS OF PARAMOUNT IMPORTANCE TO US” on the Mammoth stand at this year’s show to explain how a Mammoth mattress has contributed so much to his training, rest, and Mammoth is very proud of its array of ambassadors: a varied range of top-level athletes and sports people who sleep on Mammoth mattresses and have been so impressed with the difference they’ve made to their rest, recovery and performance that they’ve been only too pleased to stand up and tell the world about them. One of the latest ambassadors to come aboard is threetime Olympic Gold medallist rower, Pete Reed. Pete is part of GB’s incredibly successful rowing team and was awarded the MBE in in the 2009 New Year’s Honours List, as well

as an OBE in 2017, in recognition of his services to rowing. Pete is a keen advocate of the many benefits of a Mammoth mattress, attributing a great deal of his rest, recovery and performance successes to the sleep and rest he’s achieved as a result of sleeping on a Mammoth mattress. He’s delighted to be on the Mammoth stand at this year’s show to explain how a Mammoth mattress has contributed so much to his training, rest, and recovery regimes. Mammoth is looking forward to inviting new and existing customers to its stand at the Bed Show, to try out the company’s Medical Grade™ Foam collection. Visitors will hear about the many benefits of

The Bed Show is a highlight of the Mammoth calendar

assistance and point of sale material for retailers.” Mammoth is very proud of its array of ambassadors: a varied range of top-level athletes and sports people who sleep on Mammoth mattresses and have been so impressed with the difference they’ve made to their rest, recovery and performance that they’ve been only too pleased to stand up and tell the world about them. One of the latest ambassadors to come aboard is threetime Olympic Gold medallist rower, Pete Reed. Pete is part of GB’s incredibly successful rowing team and was awarded the MBE in in the 2009 New Year’s Honours List, as well as an OBE in 2017, in recognition of his services to rowing. Pete is a keen advocate of the many benefits of a Mammoth mattress, attributing a great deal of his rest, recovery and performance successes to the sleep and rest he’s achieved as a result of sleeping on aNew Mammoth mattress. He’sand delighted to bewill launch at the Bed Show marketing assistance POS material

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Mammoth’s innovations and technologies, and discover how they can benefit retailers and their customers alike. “We are very excited to showcase our new products, ranges and offers at the Bed Show, as well as greeting all visitors with a chance to receive some fantastic gifts just for visiting our stand,” continues Kris. “We’re definitely hoping to create quite a buzz at the show this year and, as always, we look forward to discussing the many benefits of our products with new and existing retailers alike. Helping our retailers to attract footfall to their stores is of paramount importance to us, which is why we work so hard to provide new and innovative technologies in our products as much as possible.” Mammoth’s Medical Grade™ Foam is an innovation, right at the centre of the company’s product lines, derived from healthcare origins. It is an incredibly effective material for achieving comfort and has been highly commended by NHS Innovations in the field of pressure relief. For more information on Mammoth and

w www.mammothcomfort.co.uk

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MANUFACTURING

HIGHGROVE BEDS

GROWTH EXPERIENCE An update from Highgrove Beds on the business’s latest developments and a taster of what to expect from its appearance at the Telford Bed Show.

ounded in 2002, this year sees fast growing bed manufacturer, Highgrove Beds Group celebrate its 15th Anniversary and there are undoubtedly many more reasons to celebrate, with rapid year-on-year growth ensuring that the company today has a turnover in excess of £20m and employs 185 people. The reason for this success has to be largely attributed to the company’s dedication to inject profits back into the business, and indeed, its 20 acre Liversedge site has benefited from major investment totalling more than £3m since it was acquired in 2015, making it one of the UK’s biggest and most efficient bed manufacturing facilities in the UK. In the past year alone, the final phase of the site development, has seen a further £1m invested in a new 25,000 sq ft warehouse extension with the building of a further 50,000 sq ft of manufacturing space set for completion. These new facilities will enable the company to reach its target of doubling its turnover in the next 3/5 years and maintain its unrivalled customer service in delivering 98% of all orders within 7 days via its FasterSleep nationwide Express Delivery service. But it’s not just the production facilities that have benefited, the brand and product development have seen a great deal of time and investment too, as head of marketing, Shane Harding explained: “Historically, Highgrove was seen as a

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‘value’ brand, mainly targeting the budget end of the market and finding it difficult to penetrate the mid to up-market sectors. The strategic business and marketing objectives became clear – create a seamless portfolio of brands enabling Highgrove to take on the well-established manufacturers with clear differentials in specification and brand positioning.” Highgrove has now successfully completed phase one of this plan, with three distinct brands, each with their own identities and product stories now launched under the Highgrove Beds Group umbrella, all of which will feature in the group’s biggest presence yet at The 2017 Bed Show on Stand F40 – F50. moresleep Featuring predominantly Bonnell opencoil spring units, the brochure collection has already established itself on shop floors. The brand features a wide selection of stylish

Sanctum is a traditional hand-crafted brand cover and comfort options, ranging from hand-tufted knitted stretch fabrics combined with memory foam to versatile guest beds in traditional damask. It has its own website which went live earlier this year: www.moresleepbeds.co.uk

Highgrove’s impressive head office and factory

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HIGHGROVE BEDS Highgrove The flagship brand has been completely ‘re-invented’. In addition to creating a wide range of Pocket specifications, the brand name has also undergone a major makeover so that it now truly reflects its quality, midmarket position. The Highgrove Bed Collection provides bed retailers with the opportunity for high margins and exceptional service. All Highgrove models are available in a wide range of size, storage and base cover options and with price points to meeting virtually every consumer need. Several new models are set to be unveiled at The Bed Show, including Anniversary, which marks Highgrove’s 15

Highgrove’s manufacturing processes have seen significant investment

The Comfort King Gel... years of manufacturing operation in 2017. Anniversary will feature luxurious natural fillings and visitors to Telford can benefit from a special Show offer. Continued Shane: “Following months of strategic development, the new logo style with associated high impact POS will feature at The Bed Show 2017. The Highgrove brand aims to be seen as different and innovative, and this is reflected in the launch trade advertising campaign. It doesn’t feature yet another bed, or woman lying asleep – but reflects the multi-cultural characteristics of UK consumers.” Another important POS development for the Highgrove brand is the launch of a new, high impact modular in-store display, which will be made available free of charge to key stockists and this will feature on the stand. The flexibility of the new displays mean that these can easily be tailored to match store floor models – whether they be Natural, Cool Gel, Latex or Memory specifications.

...and the Highgrove Radiance-Memory And of course, the website has been refreshed to help retailer customers: www.highgrovebeds.co.uk.

Sanctum - Tailor Made Tranquility Sanctum is a traditional hand-crafted brand featuring up to 10,000 pocket springs and has also received British Wool Platinum accreditation. Targeted at the Premium price sector, Sanctum benefited from the introduction of in-store displays in 2017 and is looking to appoint new stockists throughout the UK with exceptional deals for new floor models. The new Sanctum website has recently gone live and provides a wide range of useful product information for both retailers and consumers: www.sanctumbeds.co.uk.

“THE HIGHGROVE BRAND AIMS TO BE SEEN AS DIFFERENT AND INNOVATIVE, AND THIS IS REFLECTED IN THE LAUNCH”

The Majestic Embrace 10000 All three websites have been designed with password protected trade sections that allow stockists to download any information they need, including brochure images, logos and spec sheets. Additional features include a Warranty and Bed Care section, which provides some useful tips on looking after a new bed, but also allows the consumer to register their purchase online. Come and meet the team and see collections from all three brands at this year’s Bed Show on Stand F40 – F50.

The Sanctum brand was well received at the Minerva show

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w www.highgrovebedsgroup.co.uk

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DESIGN

STORE DESIGN

Prepare for a surprise announcement

SET YOUR

STORE

je+1 started working with Bensons for Beds in 2012

Beds magazine finds out from John Evans, director at je+1, why store design is an important factor in maximizing sales, with a case study featuring Bensons for Beds.

ohn Evans has been creating classiccontemporary interior design for more than 35 years, and his John Evans Interior Architecture + Design business has been around for nearly 20. In 2013, sister company je+1 was launched to provide more clarity over what was being offered, alongside a clear identity and focus for retail. “I felt that because of the work we carry out on large scale residential interiors we needed to bring more definition to the retail offering,” he explained. “I cannot remember not being involved in retail. Growing up working in and living over my parents’ DIY shop gave me the incentive to open my own shop selling Furnishings and design related items together with offering advice on Interior design. This was an enormous learning curve in which I quickly realised the importance of how a product was presented directly affected sales. Offers to take my skills into the exhibition sector opened up resulting in me designing furniture stores for DFS furniture, a client we have retained to this day. “I would say that one of the biggest challenges that has affected retailers with physical stores is technology. Store based retailers shouldn’t be scared of technology,

they need to embrace it. I feel they have an advantage particularly in the furniture sector. Customers are going to look on the internet to see what is available but it is difficult to choose furniture without seeing it, sitting on it and touching it. So retailers need to have a strong internet presence followed by a store that lives up to expectations. “The difficulty they face is that it is relatively easy to photograph a piece of furniture in a way that makes it look great using back drops and accessories to help, but if the furniture doesn’t look as good in the store they won’t buy it and it alters the perception of that retailer in the customers mind. Stores need to make sure their products are presented in the right way to maximise sales.” So, how does je+1 go about helping retailers to do this? The first step is gaining an understanding of the client’s business and what they are trying to achieve, with research into the product they are selling and their market place. The company also looks at competitors to analyse what they are doing including strengths and weaknesses. “We look at what the client is doing

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DESIGN

STORE DESIGN at this point in time to see how we can improve and strengthen the customer’s perception of their offering,” explained John. “We produce computer generated models of their stores so that we can look at the customer journey and plan the store to enhance the experience and maximise sales. “Within these models we place the client’s stock, we look at current technology and see how this can enhance the customer experience and offer an additional tool to the retailer. Our findings and conclusions are added to the model. We work on the ceiling treatments in conjunction with our recommended lighting. These are all added to the model together with walls and flooring recommendations, building a complete store model that can be animated so that, in effect the client can walk around the store before it is built. This is incredibly useful and enables us to fine tune the interior.”

Case Study: Bensons for Beds Je+1 began working with Bensons for Beds in 2012 and has since opened/refitted 240 stores. The challenge was to create a large format store which allowed a larger focus on the brands available, redeveloped the ‘Comfort Station’ concept, created new specialist product departments and redefined how the company’s core values were communicated throughout. “At the heart of the store,” said John, “we took the existing ‘Comfort Station’ feature and expanded it to provide a mattress testing area that includes a range of mattress types alongside their ‘Adaptive Bed’ system where mattress firmness can be adjusted digitally within a single unit. Leading with bed function at the start of a customer journey, we provided a digital platform which allows exploration of beds most suited to them in store, while also including accompanying products and bedding to be browsed within the same area.

“Following on from that we wanted to create brand specific spaces throughout the store which tell their own story to customers in a format that displays varying forms, materials, function, price range and mattress technologies. Each brand space was given its own aesthetic and unique way of communicating their product.” Alongside these were a new furniture department with furniture design hub, which includes range information and wardrobe finish choices with a platform for digital bedroom design configuration. Additional features were included to physically showcase other new product types such as a developed Kids Zone, Bed-in-a-Box and Pillow displays. Throughout the store are also stations to provide interactive digital applications, allowing further exploration of products available as an extension of the ranges in store. “In response to the success of our

“IN RESPONSE TO THE SUCCESS OF OUR ORIGINAL CONCEPT DESIGN, THE CLIENT EXPERIENCED A 40% UPLIFT IN SALES ACROSS TRIAL STORES” Trial stores experienced a 40% uplift original concept design, the client experienced a 40% uplift in sales across trial stores,” said John. “We have since worked closely with the client to continually evolve their stores, ensuring that they remain current and encompass all developments within the day to day retail operations. “With the majority of their store estate having received the initial concept treatment in various formats, we have recently been working with Bensons for Beds to create a new concept for larger format ‘megastores’. There are four Megastores now open with a further three stores planned.” And finally, what is John’s single most important piece of advice for retailers in today’s market? “Don’t get left behind,” he said firmly. “Too often we see established retailers that fail to see that the market place is changing, and by the time they realise it can be too late.” The company has worked with Bensons for Beds on the opening/refurbishment of 240 stores

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w www.jeplus1.com

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MANUFACTURING

SWEET DREAMS

With a

SMIL

Hipster from the Funky Boutique collection, with Floral inset

Beds Magazine catches up with Sweet Dreams’ sales manager Nick Williams to find out about the company’s latest developments and gain a sneak preview of what to expect at this year’s Bed Show.

hen last we spoke to Sweet Dreams’ Nick Williams it was in the wake of the announcement that a snap election would take place in June. The interview sticks in my mind because of the honest yet confident stance taken by Nick on the subject, with his view that the industry is robust and moving forward in a positive way. Three months on, we were interested to see if his outlook is still an encouraging one, and we were very excited to find out more about what the business has planned for the upcoming NBF Bed Show. At the time of this interview, figures had pointed to a rise in retail sales for June and, if the national press were to be believed, a tentative feeling of confidence in the air. I asked whether this had begun to translate to Sweet Dreams customers. “’Cautiously optimistic’ about sums it up,” explained Nick.

“The next six months of trading will be very important as we strive to meet last year’s record sales – and yes, we do feel positivity from our customers, even if it’s hedged with conditionals. However, we have noticed certain areas where the economy is definitely holding its own, and that’s at the luxury end of the market. Our top-end ranges, most especially those featuring pocket spring beds, have proved real high points, with performances improving as the year develops.” But the business, as evident from the flexible approach which has served it so well over its impressive 29-year heritage, is not one to rest on its laurels, and while its existing ranges are doing well, there has been much development in new offerings to help retailer customers. Nick was happy to reveal all: “First and foremost, we have a new collection

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MANUFACTURING

SWEET DREAMS

MILE New Gwen Cashmere 1000 from the Enchanted collection

“WE HAVE NOTICED CERTAIN AREAS WHERE THE ECONOMY IS DEFINITELY HOLDING ITS OWN, AND THAT’S AT THE LUXURY END OF THE MARKET”

Princess from the Royal Pillowtop collection, with a new base colour

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of British-made beds called Funky Boutique! We hope the products, as well as the name, will bring a smile to your face. The frames and headboard trims are upholstered in a choice of three colours and come in two styles, Hipster and Expression.” But it is the headboards which really set the Funky Boutique range of beds apart, as they feature a patterned inset, in a choice of four fabric designs (or customers can opt for a matching plain). Each design comes in a further choice of three colourways which complement the colour of the frame, and there are two leg options, to boot. “Lots of colour – lots of choice,” stated Nick. “It’s our invitation to be creative and have the bed take a starring role in bedroom décor rather than a standalone extra.” And the innovation doesn’t end there. “We’ve also introduced more colour choice in the bases of our top-end divan collections, and entirely refreshed the Enchanted collection. So there will be plenty to check out at the show.” The show to which Nick refers to is, of course, the Bed Show, organised by the National Bed Federation (NBF), which

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MANUFACTURING

SWEET DREAMS takes place at the Telford International Centre on 19 and 20 September. Sweet Dreams has made no secret of the fact that this is possibly the most important event in the business’s calendar. “There are lots of benefits,” said Nick of the show. “In some ways, the greatest benefit is the obvious one; getting the chance to present our new products to our customers and to potential customers. Yet it’s also fabulous to get feedback on every aspect of our service, not to mention current trends and the overall state of the market. Perhaps the thing we enjoy the most, though, is meeting people – old friends, new contacts, long-lost colleagues, industry glitterati – it’s always a pleasure.” This year’s show sees Sweet Dreams increase the floor space of its stand, from which all of its latest bed developments will be showcased. “We’ve always wanted more space at this most crucial of shows, so of course we seized it when it was offered,’ explained Nick, adding a hearty: “Thank you, NBF! We have so much to show that’s new as we launch our range for 2017-18, so extra square meterage is a boon that we’ll eagerly exploit to the

New Marcella, a Pocket Spring bed

“WE EXPECT THINGS WILL CONTINUE TO DO WELL FOR US AS WE FOCUS ON SERVICE AND RESPONSIVENESS AS WELL AS QUALITY AND INNOVATION”

Sovereign 6000 Royal Pillowtop in new base colours maximum. “Funky Boutique we anticipate doing very well, while the new choices in coloured bases for our luxury divans are going to enable us to take a step up. And yes, there is more, and it will be revealed in the new brochure that we launch at the Bed Show.” As well as Telford, Sweet Dreams is a supporter of the AIS events, having exhibited earlier this year at the spring show and, more recently, the autumn show, which took place at the Cranmore Park Exhibition Centre over 30 and 31 August. “The spring show was exceptional,” enthused Nick. “We’ve opened more AIS accounts and we do increasingly more busi-

ness with those accounts month by month. As a result, we look to develop more models especially for the AIS market and that pays dividends. Year-on-year, our AIS sales figures are very encouraging indeed. For autumn, we launched a limited edition range of AIS-exclusive beds – and they’re really very nice! We expect things will continue to do well for us as we focus on service and responsiveness as well as quality and innovation.” With a strong heritage of investment back into the business and the industry at large, I was keen to know if there have been any further recent developments in this area that Nick could share: “This year we’ve been concentrating on enhancing our high end offer with our luxury ranges, so investment has been in product development and in

[ [

sourcing,” he explained. “For example, in our fabric suppliers, rather than in property or plant. In the last few years we made sure we had the space and the resources to focus on products and service and now it’s a case of putting them to good use.” So, what can we expect to see from Sweet Dreams going forward? Well, the same levels of support for the industry certainly seem to be a given, alongside a special celebration! Nick concluded: “We continue to support the January Furniture Show and AIS, and this September we’ve also launched an exclusive bed range for Minerva members. We’ll be exhibiting that at the Autumn Furniture Show held by Minerva in late September, which we hope will be as exciting and as successful as our Minerva show debut earlier this year. We’re also looking forward to celebrating our 30th birthday next year – watch this space!” You can see Sweet Dreams on Stand F10 at the NBF Bed Show, September 19-20.

w www.sweetdreamsuk.com

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MANUFACTURING

SHIRE BEDS

READY TO

ROLL

Boutique Elegance

As The Shire Bed Company celebrates its 20th year in business, visitors to its stand at The Bed Show can expect a little red carpet treatment plus a host of new products on display.

he Shire Bed Company has been working hard to bring its hottest new developments to the NBF Bed Show 2017, including its next generation Active Response and Roll & Rest collections. Launched at last year’s Bed Show, the Roll & Rest range of vacuum packed mattresses has been so successful for the business, that Shire now has a division dedicated to readymats production. Fara Butt, marketing director said: “The Bed Show is the highlight of our year and we are delighted to be attending once again. We’re passionate about our product quality and are looking forward to launching a range of new products, including Pillow Talk, a collection of specialist pillows recently trialled by elite Yorkshire athletes. “We will also be showing the new Glitz collection of luxury velvet headboards and bases – available in 14 modern shades from on-trend chartreuse to classic post-box red, ideal to complement any bedroom décor. Visitors to our stand can also expect an exciting new product - our ‘big reveal’. “Our business is continuing to grow allowing us to make further investment into

the company to offer customers an even more comprehensive selection of products.” Shire’s new Pillow Talk range compromises Elegance Combi, a 300 thread count jacquard cotton cover with a high density memory foam insert; Memory Lux Combi, a traditional shaped memory foam pillow; Therma Response comes with fabric that adjusts to the body’s changing temperature and a filling that offers upper-body support; and Support Plus, designed for people who need support for their neck but want the softness of microfibre. The company’s second generation Active Response collection now includes four mattresses with performance finish covers, offering retailers a comfortable, restful option for end-users with a busy lifestyle. The 3000 pocket sprung Active Fresh comes with climate and moisture management at 37 degrees and Active Care contains a Tencel finish. Active Breeze optimises the body’s natural thermoregulation through smart fibres and the 2000 pocket sprung Active Cool has moisture wicking properties. Shire’s eagerly anticipated, boutiqueinspired Glitz beds offer a luxurious collection

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MANUFACTURING

SHIRE BEDS

Daisy 13.3

“THE BED SHOW IS THE HIGHLIGHT OF OUR YEAR AND WE ARE DELIGHTED TO BE ATTENDING ONCE AGAIN”

Online content will also provide news announcements, product launches and latest innovations, plus updates on its work with partners Yorkshire County Cricket Club and Leeds Rhinos on its Sleep4Sport project. Said Fara: “This is a particularly exciting year for us as, along with factory expansion and new head office facilities, we are also celebrating 20 years in business.” Now one of the most successful bed manufacturing businesses in West Yorkshire, the past 12 months alone has seen Dewsbury-based Shire invest nearly £2.5 million expanding its manufacturing facility. Around 66,000 square foot of the site, which once housed a traditional wool dye-house, has been renovated to incorporate the modern new office facilities and a large new of velvet bases with soft closing drawers as standard, a range of headboard styles to match and high quality pocket sprung mattresses. Also being launched to coincide with the Bed Show is a new website, giving customers an easy-to-use portal for up-todate information on its products and services. Featured ranges include Shire, Eco, Active, Contract and Roll & Rest collections. The updated site also invites visitors to learn more about the company and the community it supports.

Pictured and above left, Iris 12.5 ottoman,

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The Spencer mattress showroom area. The company is planning a number of exciting activities to mark the anniversary and celebrate the opening of its new HQ. The company has also invested in new machinery to increase production while the flow of the factory has been reengineered to further improve output. Innovation remains at the forefront of the company’s ethos, along with its passion for its Yorkshire roots and origins. As well as emblazoning Yorkshire slogans across its pink distribution fleet, Shire formed significant partnerships with the county’s sporting elite: Yorkshire County Cricket Club and Leeds Rhinos. It is working with both clubs on its Sleep4Sport project, to develop an innovative new sleep enhancing product, based on research into the players’ sleep patterns. Some of the players are trialling beds from Shire’s Active Response range and it will use feedback, together with advice and guidance from the coaches, to produce a bed that will give customers a night’s sleep fit for top sports stars. The family-run business has been supplying the trade since 1997 and today the company’s range of beds, mattresses and divan bases are supplied nationally and internationally to major retailers and the contract sector including education, care and hospitality. You can see the latest developments for yourself on stand H30 at the Bed Show.

w www.shirebeds.co.uk

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MANUFACTURING

MATTRESSTEK

Made in the

MattressTEK’s indexing conveyor

Beds magazine catches up with the directors at specialist machinery manufacturer, MattressTEK to find out how business has been for the new start up in its first six months.

hen it comes to starting a new business it is arguably not ideal when something that provokes a period of uncertainty rears its head right as you’re getting set up. This is exactly what happened however, with the announcement of the snap election as the directors of specialist machinery supplier to the bedding industry, MattressTEK were poised to launch their new venture, but speaking to them six months on, it doesn’t seem to have done the business any harm at all. Founded in March of this year by Shaun Peel and Michael Birtwistle, who between them have more than 30 years’ industry experience, the business is underpinned by its principles of producing British-made machinery for the mattress industry, built on rock-solid foundations, using in-house manufacturing facilities and the latest stateof-the-art machinery equipment. This allows the business full control over every aspect, from machine design to testing and PDI. With a team of expert in-house CAD designers who use the latest Solidworks software, quality and reliable machine

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UK designs are ensured, which in turn, allows MattressTEK to develop long-term relationships with customers, providing extensive support and technical expertise. MattressTEK prides itself on being a team of designers, engineers and problem solvers who love what they do and take great pride in the ability to deliver integrated and dedicated solutions for the mattress machinery industry. The company seems to be such a ‘well oiled machine’ (do you see what we did there?) that it is easy to forget that it began its life only six months ago. So how has business fared in what has admittedly been a tough time for trading? Well, according to the directors: “The initial reaction from customers has been great, providing us with some really good positive feedback and complementing our current production range. In fact, even at this very early stage the business has not had to go searching for customers and orders, as I found out. “The majority of customers who have placed orders and shown interest in our machinery have come direct to us, via word of mouth from other customers, online searches and

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MATTRESSTEK advertising in the Cabinet Maker,” said Michael and Shaun. (Well we do our best!) They continued: “The first six months have been better than expected because customers acknowledge that we have the experience, infrastructure and backing to satisfy the largest and smallest requirements.” The company’s biggest success to date has to be the supply of complete lines, incorporating all the types of equipment offered in its range. This was achieved by using the extensive experience of the team, who acknowledges that listening to customers and operators directly was a huge help in developing innovative, machines that are driven by the customer. According to the directors: “This, coupled with our UK based manufacture has provided us with the ability

I was interested to know if there had been any other developments in machinery since last we spoke, and was not entirely surprised that the answer was ‘yes’! “We are always producing new and innovative machines,” revealed Shaun and Michael. “One of our recent additions is a handle/label attaching machine, for which we use only the highest quality brand ‘Brother’ sewing head. This manufacturer of sewing machines is well known in the industry, so customers can be assured that the construction and reliability of this machine comes with the benefits of one of the world’s largest sewing machine manufacturers.” That’s not all. MattressTEK has also recently added a handle making machine to its portfolio, which is designed to be robust,

with a very quick but quiet guillotine cutter. What’s more, there are two further additions in the pipeline, including a panel cutting machine and a fabric roll slitter, which the company is looking to release later in the year. As well as its machinery, MattressTEK has also invested back in its people and production processes – not bad for a six-month old business! The last six months have seen the business double the number of drawing office staff to bring newly developed machines to the market more quickly to meet customers’ demands, whilst the factory production/ assembly area has been increased by 8,000 sq ft, allowing more space for the extra shopfloor engineers to meet current

“YES, UPFRONT COST ON NEW EQUIPMENT IS A BIG FACTOR BUT IT IS JUST AS IMPORTANT TO BUY QUALITY IN ORDER TO REDUCE BREAKDOWNS AND, IN THE EVENT OF A FAILURE, TO HAVE QUICK AND RELIABLE BACKUP FROM THE MANUFACTURER” to produce high quality parts and machines in a quick timescale.” In fact, it was revealed to Beds magazine that MattressTEK has recently taken on a six-figure contract for a full range of machinery, with the proviso that it had to be manufactured in seven weeks. This was only achievable thanks to the in-house manufacturing capabilities. It’s for this reason that the company believes it is so beneficial for British mattress manufacturers to purchase from a UK machinery manufacturer that offers factory based servicing. It allows direct access to factory resources with quicker turnaround on parts and machinery, etc., and it is also becoming more important when balancing the capital cost of equipment with machine downtime.

The Tape Tek tape edge machine production demands. As the interview drew to a close, I wanted to know what the company would say is the most important piece of advice to manufacturers looking to purchase machinery, and the answer made perfect sense: “Consider the lifespan of the machine. Yes, upfront cost on new equipment is a big factor but it is just as important to buy quality in order to reduce breakdowns and, in the event of a failure, to have quick and reliable backup from the manufacturer.”

w www.mattresstek.co.uk The factory production/assembly area has been increased by 8,000 sq ft

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MANUFACTURING

FURMANAC

IN CONVERSATI With Aubane Pattar, sales and marketing director at Furmanac Ltd.

Aubane Pattar

ow has 2017 been so far for Furmanac? It has had its challenges but so far, so good! We have been kept very busy this year by a number of things such as revamping and reintroducing some of our product ranges, putting in custom galleries for our customers and recently, this summer we partnered with a new national retail chain. In an ever-competitive market, how do you go about ensuring the company stands out from the crowd? Our ability to continually stand out from the crowd stems from both our capacity and capability to innovate. Having been in the industry for almost 50 years, our wide knowledge is the foundation for creating new products. To remain innovative, we are always looking for ways to incorporate new materials and technologies and thankfully due to the scale of operations and our dedicated development team we have the ability to trail new concepts almost as soon as the lightbulb moment strikes. To remain competitive, we also invest in our infrastructure. Whether it is in machinery, resources to recruit a new skill set or a new tool to work help us more efficiently, if there is a justifiable case for it we are always willing to invest in our family

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The Opus Hestia VR 3000 HR business. Most recently we purchased a new quilter that will increase the range of designs we can create. Finally, being customer focused is one of our core values and I truly believe that this is one of our key strengths in being able to stand out from the crowd. We work with our retailers to create custom point of sale items that can range from one poster to working on a complete gallery. Ultimately we understand that no two stores are the same and that is why we have always been so willing to work with our customers on their displays. What would you say are the biggest issues facing your customers at present? And how are you helping to support them? I believe Brexit is still causing a great deal of uncertainty in the market and that it is

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The Hestia Motion Salisbury

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MANUFACTURING

FURMANAC

TION

The Polly MiBed

“IN OUR USUAL TRAILBLAZER APPROACH, WE WILL BE SHOWCASING A NEW SELECTION OF FABRICS THAT WE BELIEVE WILL BE THE NEXT HIGH STREET FAVOURITE AT THE NBF SHOW.” ultimately reducing consumer confidence and to support our retailers during this difficult period we offered a number of summer promotions across all of our ranges. And your thoughts on the current state of the industry in general, do you think that the remainder of 2017 will be challenging? It has been an interesting year, and whilst we have been hearing that the industry as a whole is not growing at the consistent rate it had been, we are optimistic for the future. Readers can catch up with Furmanac at the NBF Bed Show, why would you say this is such an important show for you? The NBF Bed Show is a great platform for us as it only invites accredited bed manufacturers. Year on year we pass our NBF audits with an ‘A’ grade, which means that retailers and consumers alike can have complete confidence in the quality of products we hand make in our midlands based factory. In addition to this, the NBF show is quickly becoming one of our biggest shows of the year with last year breaking all previous sales records. More importantly, it provides a great opportunity to catch with our existing customers outside of our respective offices as well show case the range to prospective clients we have been speaking to. Finally, we consider the NBF show to be

one of the best ways to showcase the new products we have been diligently working on. And are you able to give us a hint as to what you will be showcasing at the Bed Show? As you may have seen from our advert, we are trying really to keep the specifics of the new products a secret! But what we can promise you are new designs, new fabrics and new unique product features in all of our adjustable beds, divan beds and upholstered bedframes. Are there any other future plans for the business that you can share with our readers? Shows are a huge platform for Furmanac, and so we invest a considerable amount to exhibit in excess of five shows a year. If you miss us at NBF (we really hope you don’t because we have some amazing product launches planned) you can then find us at JFS Show, AIS Show, Trade Days and Manchester Show to name a few. In terms of product development, this is a continuous cycle for us, last year at the NBF show we revitalized the entire MiBed range and introduced nine new models. By the following January we had revamped our entire lift and recline chair collection and now NBF is here again and we have so much more in store for our visitors. What changes in trends, if any, do you see happening within the industry over the next 12 months? Fabric is a constant change, just like fashion. More recently our plain velvets have proven to be extremely popular, however, we are anticipating some changes in the fabrics people will want in their homes. In our usual trailblazer approach, we will be showcasing a new selection of fabrics that we believe will be the next high street favourite at the NBF show. Come and visit us at stand H60 and J60!! We promise you won’t be disappointed.

w www.furmanac.com

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MANUFACTURING

DUVALAY

PERSONAL SERVICE

he first incarnation of bed manufacturing brand, Duvalay came about back in 2003, after husband and wife team Alan and Liz Colleran hit upon the idea of an innovative, superior, comfort-enhancing mattress-topper for the caravan market, harnessing the posturesaving luxury of emergent memory-foam technology, in order to fill this very noticeable gap in the market. The started out, working from the living room of their home, with an extensive design process, testing and re-testing numerous styles and materials until Duvalay’s lightweight, portable memory-foam was born. Having already experienced rapid growth in the sector, the brand became something of a household name in 2011 when Liz and Alan brought the Duvalay memory foam sleeping bag to the Dragons’ Den panel of investors. This quickly led to national brand-awareness and the pair won an investment by ‘Dragon’ and Pall-Ex empire founder, Hilary Devey, who recognised the brand’s appeal. Following the company’s Dragon’s Den experience, it quickly outgrew its original factory and eventually moved on to its latest Gomersal site, complete with drop-in showroom, which has recently benefited from a significant investment. Having come such a long way since 2003, I was intrigued to know what director Liz Colleran believes is the biggest reason for the company’s success. “Innovation, resilience and always putting our customers’ needs first,” she told me. “We work closely as a team to explore new trends and develop the latest products which helps us to stay ahead of the game. “We invest a quite a lot of time and expense on marketing and product design and we add small, detailed finishes to our products, ensuring they all have a high quality look and feel which helping to reassure the customers at the point of purchase. As a family business, we tend to be able to react quickly too, and our customers know that they are able to pick the phone up and talk to us.” “We’ve also recently moved into the

The Rosalia Collection will launch at the Bed Show

Beds Magazine catches up with Liz Colleran, director at Duvalay to find out more about the company’s latest developments, including significant investment in manufacture; and a move into the home mattress market.

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Mattress collections are manufactured to meet retailer demands on behalf of their customers

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MANUFACTURING

DUVULAY home mattress market and we’re about to launch our second collection. We’ve been lucky enough to get some great retailers on board who have worked closely with us to develop collections that really resonate with consumers.” It’s great to hear such positivity at a time where, there’s no escaping the fact that

“TIMES ARE MOVING FAST, BUT THE NATURE OF OUR PRODUCT MEANS IT’S ALWAYS BEST TO TRY IT OUT BEFORE BUYING, ESPECIALLY FOR SUCH AN IMPORTANT PURCHASE”

The Hillary Devey Collection is Good Housekeeping Institute approved

“Times are moving fast, but the nature of our product means it’s always best to try it out before buying, especially for such an important purchase. We do everything we can to support our customers with PR, social media and marketing to drive customers into their stores.” We now move on to the exciting developments for the business going forward, starting with a trip to Telford for the Bed Show, and the new product launches that visitors can see there. “The Bed Show is a fabulous time to meet up with retailers and buyers, giving you opportunities to show case your products,” enthused Liz. “It’s the number one event for our industry and it is THE time to be able to show what you are about. “We’ll be showcasing our HD collection, along with the new Rosalia Collection. We’re really excited about this collection,

Liz and Alan Colleran things have been somewhat tricky, tradingwise. In fact, 2017 has seen the business thrive, for Duvalay, as Liz continued: “This year has seen us expand our stockists and really excited about expanding our product offering which we’ll be launching at this year’s bed show. We’ve expanded our manufacturing capabilities by investing in a new, 30,000 sqft factory for the mattress side of the business. “The leisure side of the business is also doing extremely well, having continued to innovate and it has seen us launch the Duvalay FreshTec version of our sleeping bag.” Not only that, but the Hilary Devey Collection has received approval from the Good Housekeeping Institute, something of which the company is particularly proud. “As such a recognised brand for quality, it was amazing to get such feedback and score an impressive 9/10,” said Liz. That’s not to say of course that the business is unaware of the current challenges, but is facing them head on with a positive approach. “UK manufacturing is definitely bouncing back,” stated Liz, “but probably the biggest challenge we face is a shortage of people with the skills we require. Learning artisan bed making techniques takes years and there aren’t as many around anymore. “There is obviously the price of materials as well, as we’ve seen the pound weaken over Brexit fears. Wherever possible, we try and source products as locally as we can to keep costs down so we don’t have to pass these on to our retailers and consumers. The

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The luxury Diamond mattress dramatic fall in the pound is obviously very challenging for the industry as a whole at the moment, as is ensuring we maintain the possibility of employing skilled staff from Europe if the business requires.” However, on the issue of skills, as with so much else, Duvalay takes a pragmatic approach to training and upskilling its some 50-60 staff members (the number depends on how busy the company is and, of course, the time of year) “We have offered apprenticeships in the past and we train in house as much as we can, pulling unskilled employees out and giving them useful skills not only for us but for their future,” Liz told us. As we are all too aware from media reports, it isn’t just manufacturing that has had a number of challenges thrown at it this year, but retailers such as Duvalay’s customers as well. And it’s clear that the company keeps abreast of such issues in order to help in any way. “E-commerce can be a tricky one for our customers,” said Liz.

it opens up our premium mattresses to a wider audience and has such a fresh, contemporary feel to it.” The business also has plans outside of Telford and indeed, outside of the UK, with a move to bring the brand’s benefits to an international audience, as Liz shared: “We are working towards introducing our brand into exciting new territories such as North America and China and have signed an agreement with a well recognised, highly successful partner company to help facilitate this.” Watch this space! You can see the new launches and meet the Duvalay team on stand C20 at the Bed Show.

w www.duvalay.co.uk

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MANUFACTURING

HARRISON SPINKS

FROM

EXPERIENCE

As a company with a heritage of nearly 180 years under its belt, it was exciting to get the lowdown from Harrison Spinks on the latest developments across all brands, including what the business will bring to this year’s Bed Show.

stablished in 1840, fifth-generation family business, Harrison Spinks unarguably has the experience behind it to lend weight to its description as one of Great Britain’s most established and innovative bed makers. The business today has more 600 people in employment, spanning from the farmers who rear the company’s prize sheep, to the craftsmen who still hand side-stitch

This advert perfectly displays the company’s heritage

Wensleydale Sheep on the Harrison Spinks farm the mattresses in-house. It’s probably little surprise then, to discover that the business is constantly developing, something clearly evidenced by its vertically integrated status – from field to factory to store. Most recently, the company has focused on its products, ready to launch at the upcoming NBF Bed Show, at which it is set to unveil a new Somnus adjustable sleep system. The luxury lifestyle adjustable model has been specifically designed with today’s busy lifestyles in mind. The bed provides the ultimate in comfort and support and can be adapted according to a consumer’s preferred relaxing or sleeping position. This is thanks to two handmade recliner mattress options, which allow consumers to create their own sleep sanctuary. A selection of design-led headboards are available to complement the superior sleep system, with consumers also having the option to upholster their new bed in a range of stylish, trend-led fabrics. In addition to the sleep system, Somnus will be showcasing its limited edition Royal Britannia mattress at The Bed Show, which has been created to celebrate 65 years since Somnus proudly supplied the world-famous Royal Yacht with mattresses ahead of its maiden voyage.

The Royal Britannia model features 10,000 Somnus Sensa Intelligent pocket springs, which gently respond to the sleeper’s body, dissipating weight and providing better postural support. These springs are complemented by the finest natural fillings including cotton, mohair and silk, as well as British wool. Also found inside the mattress is plush and resilient Wensleydale Eco Wool from Harrison Spinks’ flock of rare Wensleydale sheep, reared on the bed maker’s own 300-acre farm in Yorkshire. Jason Lowdon, sales director at Somnus, said: “As well as being the ideal place to meet with both new and existing retailers, the NBF Bed Show provides the perfect platform for us to launch our latest innovations and new technologies. We look forward to returning to the show in 2017 to give retailers a first look at Somnus’ new luxury lifestyle adjustable sleep system, while also showcasing the limited edition Somnus Royal Britannia.” Excitingly in this, the digital age, and in addition to the Somnus beds, Harrison Spinks’ Harrison brand will offer attendees the chance to take a tour of it’s Leeds-based factory and Yorkshire farm, thanks to the latest virtual reality technology.

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MANUFACTURING

HARRISON SPINKS

“OUR VIRTUAL REALITY TECHNOLOGY WILL TAKE ATTENDEES ON A JOURNEY AROUND OUR FARM AND FACTORY, ALLOWING THEM TO EXPERIENCE FIRST-HAND HOW OUR MATTRESSES START LIFE AND THE IN-DEPTH PROCESSES INVOLVED IN MAKING EACH ONE OF OUR BEDS” The virtual reality tour will give stand visitors the opportunity to explore Harrison Spinks’ factory, where they’ll see how each of the bed maker’s mattresses are manufactured – from blending natural fillings and drawing the wire for the award-winning spring technology to the construction of the spring systems and final assembly of the mattresses. Visitors can also find out more about the company’s 300-acre farm via the virtual reality headset, meeting the bed maker’s sheep and understanding why the company uses natural fillings in its mattresses. Steve Brougham, sales director at Harrison, said: “Our virtual reality technology will take attendees on a journey around our farm and factory, allowing them to experience first-hand how our mattresses start life and the in-depth processes involved in making each one of our beds. It’s a great opportunity for them to learn about the fillings we use in each of our mattresses, as well as finding out more about how we manufacture our revolutionary spring technology. “The virtual reality tour also acts as a useful training aid and sales tool, encouraging

The Somnus Special Edition 2017 - Royal Britannia bed

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more retailers to visit and experience the Harrison Spinks farm and factory first-hand to assist in improving sales – it’s certainly not to be missed.” And coming directly from the factory itself to the show is a brand new brand under the Harrison Spinks umbrella, the Hybed - a range of truly hybrid mattresses, featuring the very best combination of mattress components. Each mattress will combine a natural sleeping surface, of course some of which is sourced from the Harrison Spinks’ farm, along with layers of their world-leading patented pocket spring technology, latex and memory foam to offer the ultimate in sleeping experiences. This unique formula is designed to transform the meaning of ‘hybrid’ in the mattress industry, as the company readies itself to disrupt hybrid beds in their current guise with the ultimate incarnation – a truly hybrid mattress. Simon Spinks, managing director of Harrison Spinks, explained: “Our continuous innovation, quest to become ever more vertically integrated and mission to change the way the world sleeps by being the leaders in sustainable mattress and comfort innovation has inspired the launch of our latest range. “The development of a truly new hybrid mattress will also allow us to establish Harrison Spinks in a very different sector of the market compared to our current Harrison and Somnus ranges. Headed up by sales director, Steve Truswell, we’ll be looking to engage with both new and existing retailers at the NBF Bed Show to establish this exciting new range with independent bed shops.” The company invites you to come and say ‘Hy’ on stand F80, take a virtual tour on stand H50, and see the new Somnus Adjustable on stand C30 at the NBF Bed Show in Telford.

w www.harrisonspinks.co.uk

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products CHECK OUT ALL THE LATEST PRODUCTS

TCS

Bodyease

2017 marks the launch of the re-designed and reworked Contemporary Sleep collection within the Royal Coil range. With three new pocket sprung mattresses with breathable hypo-allergenic soft touch fabrics and the latest comfort layers, the range is available in orthopedic or luxury choices at remarkable price points.

Introducing our stunning new range of smart adjustable beds. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve combined the ultimate in comfort and style with the latest technology to create a sumptuous selection of beds that you are guaranteed to fall in love with. www.bodyease.co.uk

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SHERBORNE UPHOLSTERY

Kaymed

Of the three Sherborne Adjustable Bed ranges, the original Dorchester is still the most popular. Featuring two memory positions on the Head-and-Foot model, all models offer a large, sturdy drawer and a generous 28-stone weight limit. They are also the easiest beds to assemble (along with the Hampton and Regency designs) as they are supplied in two parts only with absolutely no tools required.

Kaymed will be launching Therma~PhaseTM + at Septemberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s AIS and NBF shows. High density visco-elastic material is infused with patented phase change crystals and super conductive copper, ensuring mattress surface temperature is maintained within a few degrees Celsius. Therma~PhaseTM + is the only genuine temperature regulating mattress available in the UK.

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www.kaymed.co.uk

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LIGHTS OUT

PETER BETTERIDGE

Name: Simon Spinks resident Job Title: Manager/P inks/NBF Company: Harrison Sp o.uk/ www.harrisonspinks.c www.bedfed.org.uk How did you get involved with the NBF?

Harrison Spinks has been a member of the NBF since back in 1912. Billy Rhodes, the owner of Somnus at the time, was a founding member and Peter Spinks, my father, was actively involved on the council. Back then we were a small business and it was unusual for a president to come from a company of this size. In my teens I used to give Patrick Quigley, then NBF chief executive, a lift to the Northern Section meetings where we often discussed all things NBF so, I was well aware of the issues and challenges within the industry back then.

What have you brought with you from your first stint as president?

When I was last president in 2012, the NBF celebrated its centenary and we published a history of the association taking a detailed look at why the NBF was set up. We discovered it was originally founded to challenge bad practice and monitor the use of unhygienic second-hand materials as mattress fillings. The challenges we face today are not too different from this. To my mind, the NBF is there to bring the industry together so we can respond to national issues like the 1988 Woolworths fire, where the NBF was instrumental in guiding the government towards FR standards. Today we are likely to see recycling responsibility become a big priority and we want to be there to guide and create workable solutions.

What was your first duty as president this time?

My acceptance speech after being elected at the NBF Forum! Fortunately, it’s only a couple of minutes long.

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Any big plans for the association during your presidency?

The importance of the NBF’s Code of Practice and the independent audits that underpin it cannot be emphasised enough. It’s a work in progress that we are constantly striving to improve, and of course bring all our members along with us. What is frustrating is the number of rogue traders and manufacturers getting away with selling fake products. It’s unfair competition for the companies spending time and money doing things properly and honestly. I’d really like to focus on raising awareness of this problem, and if enforcement authorities don’t have the resources to pursue these rogue traders, maybe there’s more we can do as an association to shine a light on them.

Have there been any notable changes to the industry since your first time as president. The lines between supplier, manufacturer and retailer in the supply chain are rapidly becoming more blurred – retailers are manufacturing their own beds, manufacturers are retailing directly online and component suppliers are making and selling beds or mattresses. The internet is having a major impact on the distribution channels for the industry. Customers are also becoming more aware of the importance of compliance, transparency, traceability, safety and honesty when looking to buy.

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The NBF Bed Show is on the horizon, but what else is happening at the NBF?

We are fortunate that the mattress sector has been more resilient to imports compared to other areas of the furniture industry. We are currently working with flammability test laboratories on best practice guidelines, which would reduce the current level of variability we can get from testing different samples at different times and in different labs. This should be finalised by the end of this year. We have a new committee on the Circular Economy working on all things to do with recycling, eco-design and resource efficiency. The team will work with government and industry departments on setting recycling/ landfill diversion targets. We are in the process of developing a register of approved mattress recyclers, as this is also a sector with its fair share of cowboy operators! With such an emphasis on technical matters, we’re very excited to have a technical manager joining the NBF executive team. This will really boost the support we give our members when it comes to improvement and our active input into the development of any new standards and regulations, especially in the light of Brexit.

Any longer-term future plans? We are still engaged in promoting the benefits of a good night’s sleep through The Sleep Council. Getting sleep on the public health agenda, alongside diet and exercise, is a key aim – watch out for a big launch next year! We will also be working more actively on the future of the industry; getting involved with apprenticeships and skills development, while promoting our industry to the workforce of tomorrow.

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