Publisher Column: Summer 2020
In the months between our spring issue and now, we’ve seen the bedding industry really step up and adapt in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. This includes waves of relief strategy, with donations of both money and personal protective equipment, mattresses and factory space—and manufacturers fulfilling healthcare needs at cost to keep workers employed. This ability to pivot on short notice has allowed companies to offer vital support in a time of great need. Receiving ongoing updates about charitable donations and new relief programs has been a poignant reminder of what a caring and courteous industry this is.
While the following is not a comprehensive list, we wanted to highlight some of companies that have contributed to valiant relief efforts during this unprecedented crisis: BEDGEAR, Corsicana, Customatic, Diamond Mattress, Eclipse International, Gold Bond, Hickory Springs, Naturepedic, PureCare,ReST, Reverie, Spring Air, Therapedic and many more.
Not only does the bedding industry care and give back—it’s also resilient and solution-oriented. As retailers begin to cautiously reopen, companies continue to step up with inventive ecommerce strategies, new cleanliness protocols and tools to safely facilitate in-person and online selling.
We honed in on a one such brand for the cover of this issue. Over the past two years, Corsicana has underwent a show-stopping rebrand. This sense of momentum has not been hindered by the onset of the pandemic. In addition to supplying PPE and hospital beds to organizations in need, the company continues to support retailers with consumer insights, comprehensive ecommerce solutions and high-style affordable luxury lineups. Read more about the sense of vitality, teamwork and value inherent to the Corsicana brand in our cover story.
Throughout the past few months at home, we’ve also been taking some time to catch up with industry leaders. The pandemic has impacted nearly every aspect of life, both personal and professional. We were curious to hear how company presidents have been taking care of themselves and their teams. Read more about what executives had to say in our Q&A and also listen to our podcast series “Motivating During The Pandemic” at Sleepretailer.com.
Finally, as consumers continue to weather financial uncertainties in the coming months, we thought it might be useful to highlight financing solutions in this issue’s Product Focus. These days, there are a number of innovative new programs that retailers can use to encourage shopping and take the strain off consumers who might be low on cash up front. In times of economic anxiety, sleep continues to be an essential part of life—and these financing solutions ensure that everyone has access to the products they need to get the rest they need.
We know the coming months will continue to be uncharted territory for the bedding and mattress industry and broader retail category. But we also know that when faced with challenges, time and time again this industry steps up with smart solutions and a lot of heart. //
—Chris Schriever
