Sleep Retailer eNews | September 9, 2021
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Checking The Pulse Of The Bedding Industry
Initially expected to be the bedding industry’s big return to normal, the summer Las Vegas Market was once again muted by the ongoing pandemic. In the weeks leading up to the show, the risks of the Delta variant prompted many people to cancel their plans—the Sleep Retailer team included. Thankfully, we’ve all become nothing short of old pros at virtual meetings over the past year and a half and were able to catch up with a number of bedding companies both during and after market. And while the product introductions and program updates may have varied, we heard similar insights from many different brands. No matter where you are positioned in the industry, the issues remain the same: supply chain and logistics continue to cause the biggest headaches—but there is hope for the future. In reflecting on the summer market, we’re considering the future of market, uncertainties around consumer demand, solutions manufacturers have implemented to address the ongoing logistics nightmare as well as what’s next for the industry
Understanding The Labor Shortage & How It Impacts The Bedding Industry
If you’ve been out and about lately, you’ve probably seen the signs—“Help Wanted.”The United States is currently seeing a labor shortage so vast, it’s been deemed the “Great Reassessment.” It’s hit the retail and hospitality sectors the hardest, but nearly all of the job categories that require in-person work have been impacted—especially low-wage or hourly positions. That includes factory and warehouse workers and delivery drivers, which—along with the retail market—has created a ripple effect that can be seen across the bedding industry. The debate about how to rectify this issue has been divisive, with solutions varying from cutting the additional unemployment benefits to offering steep signing bonuses, but experts predict that low job numbers will remain for years to come—and may even significantly alter the work landscape. Understanding the scope of this issue and the predictions for how it will evolve will be key for retailers as they try to navigate the years ahead.
The Enduring Value Of Sleep Technology That Works
Why sleep technology is a hot investment that just keeps getting hotter
With 70 million Americans suffering from chronic sleep problems and increasing research pointing to sleep loss as a key contributor to other health problems, it’s no surprise that sleep has become a desirable, if elusive, commodity. For this reason, investors, researchers and manufacturers are pouring time, money and energy into developing scientifically proven sleep products that help consumers sleep better and support their overall health. From smartbeds and sleep trackers to healthier and more effective sleep aids, the market for sleep products continues to grow and expand. We’ve rounded up some recent developments in the science-backed sleep industry that are seeking to promote better, safer and healthier sleep support—and also utilize sleep products to promote health beyond the bedroom.
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