Date

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July 3, 2008 Natura World Expands Organics Collection to Address All Areas of Sleep… NATURALLY!
June 29, 2008 ChiliPad™! Saves 15% on Household Energy Consumption!
June 28, 2008 Mystic Valley Traders Heads to Vegas, Ready to Show the Market ‘How to Make a Bed’
June 27, 2008 Designer Launches Raksha Bella Handblocked Organic Textiles For a Cause
June 27, 2008 Aireloom Combines “Exceptional Design and Tailoring” With Three Green Introductions at the Las Vegas Market
June 26, 2008 Simmons Futon by Big Tree
June 25, 2008 Spring Air Expanding Operations Into India
June 25, 2008 Inflatable Bedding Leader AeroBed Expands Marketing to Bedding & Furniture Channel
June 25, 2008 Eclipse of Ireland and the UK Wins Award For Bedroom Product of the Year 2008
June 25, 2008 Eclipse and Eastman House Grand Opening at World Market Center - Las Vegas
June 24, 2008 Hollandia to Bring New-Age Designs to 2008 Las Vegas Market For First Time
June 23, 2008 Fifth-Year Competitive Intern Program Nets 20 Students College Scholarships
June 23, 2008 1-800-MATTRESS.com Teams With Simmons And Bed & Breakfast Maven to Offer Pamela Lanier Collection of Mattresses
June 21, 2008 Mattress Giant Names Errol Lebowitz As Vice President of Merchandising
June 20, 2008 Specialty Sleep Association Announces Bart Dehaerne As New Board Member
June 20, 2008

Specialty Sleep Association Unveils New Space At World Market Center

June 19, 2008 ISPA Implements Group Healthcare Program For Members
June 18, 2008 Dormia, Inc. Retail Affiliates File For Chapter 11 Reorganization
June 18, 2008 FabricTech2000 Surpasses 700-Door Store Count With Addition Of New Dealers & Expanded Sales Network
June 17, 2008 Hollywood Bed Announces New Showroom At Las Vegas World Market Center
June 16, 2008 Sleep Therapy’s Logical Gel….Wickline Enters New Gel Technology Arena
June 11, 2008 American Textile Company Adopts Greener Practices
June 10, 2008 DoubleUps for Beds Offer A Peaceful and Comfortable Night’s Sleep
June 4, 2008 New Technologies and Innovations in Sleep Products Demonstrated by BEDROOM Magazine Editor Dale Read on WCCB-TV's "Fox News Rising" in Charlotte, NC
May 28, 2008 Sealy Introduces New Sealy Posturepedic® PurEmbrace™ Mattress
May 27, 2008 Natura World Supports ISPA Consumer Education Marketing Campaign
May 22, 2008 Simmons Introduces Eco-Friendly Mattress Line at J.C. Penney
May 12, 2008 Select Comfort Markets new Sleep Number Beds
May 12, 2008 Outlast® Technology Now Found in Enhanced Sleep Number 7000 Bed
May 12, 2008 SUPERLASTIC PRO: Reaching New Heights In Sleep Innovation
May 12, 2008 Hilding Anders Acquires One of Switzerland’s Leading Bed & Mattress Manufacturers
May 8, 2008 Ergomotion’s Giant Retail Store Presentation: Bedding Shoppers Will Not Miss This
 

Natura World Expands Organics Collection to Address

All Areas of Sleep… NATURALLY!

It may read like a pun; however, if there ever were a company that is a “natural” in developing natural, all-natural and truly up-to-standards organic mattress bedding products , it would be NATURA WORLD. Natura World an international leader in the design and production of natural and organic bedding in North America, will present its newest assortment of organic bedding and accessories at the summer World Market Center Las Vegas furniture market beginning July 28. Expanding upon the success of its Natura Organics Series, the company will present two new organic mattresses as well as 100% organic cotton linens for the whole family.

 

“As the eco-bedding category grows, Natura is the national brand that has created a one-stop shop for retailers,” says Ralph Rossdeutscher, Natura World president. “We’re committed to delivering the finest quality, natural solutions for better sleep for every bedroom in the home.”

 

Natura’s latest organic mattresses, Eco Advantage and Eco Transcend, were designed entirely with earth-friendly materials from the sustainable hardwood frame to the 100% organic cotton mattress covers, luxuriously handcrafted and free of chemicals, pesticides and dyes.

The Eco Advantage provides all the advantages of a healthy, personalized sleep. It features an eight-inch core of all-natural latex which provides deep, whole body support with contouring comfort. A unique, removable cushion top features customizable soft or firm latex inserts, allowing each partner to personalize his/her sleep surface. A layer of organic Natura Grow Wool™ wicks away moisture to create a fresh, temperature-controlled sleep environment that is free of allergens. Luxurious, organic cotton sateen ticking adorns the mattress’ organic cotton cover.

The Eco Transcend slat mattress features all-natural Talalay latex atop ash wood dual slats for a supportive feel that adjusts to the body’s curves. It provides deep, whole body support with contouring comfort. The removable cushion top is filled with two inches of natural latex and a layer of organic Natura Grow Wool™ for a comfortable, temperature-controlled sleep. Both organic models offer the additional benefit of a 100% organic wool fire barrier.

 

In addition, Natura’s Organic Series now features its own set of pure Organic Cotton Sheets. These machine washable, 300-thread count sheets are 100% certified organic cotton that has been naturally grown without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Available in all standard mattress sizes, these soft and cozy sheets are both safe for the environment and feel great against the skin. Natura World is a family-owned business with a unique approach to sleep. They develop innovative products for all areas of sleep, not just a mattress or a pillow. Natura World’s goal is to eliminate common sleep disturbances and help people sleep well in order to live better.

 

Discover how Natura can ReGrooveN8™ your sleep environment by visiting the newly expanded 6,800-square-foot permanent showroom at the July Las Vegas Furniture Market, showroom A-950.

 

To learn more about Natura’s luxurious products or find a retailer near you, visit www.naturaworld.com.

 

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Colder Temperatures – Lower Prices!

Saves 15% on household energy consumption!

 

Now available in Organic Fabrics!

 

Responding to consumer demand, Chili Technology has reduced our temperatures and our prices! Over the past 6 months we have been able to reduce our lowest operating temperature from 68° to 46° while reducing our prices up to 40%. After a successful launch at the Las Vegas Furniture market in 2007, we have leveraged the strong market demand and increasing volumes into better retail values across the board.

 

ChiliPad™ is a revolutionary new product that allows each side of the bed to be independently cooled to 46° (F) or warmed to 118° (F) by using our Single or Dual Zone control systems. By using Thermo Electric Devices we are able to quickly, quietly, and efficiently control any style mattress to a specific temperature with a small amount of conditioned water that circulates throughout micro tubes in a thin mattress pad.

 

By allowing consumers to adjust the mattress to their desired temperature on their side of the bed, ChiliPad™ puts a stop to the fighting over where to set the thermostat at night. By adjusting the temperature on your ChiliPad™ and not your thermostat, ChiliPad™ generates a yearly savings of 15% on your energy bill. A ChiliPad purchased now will be free in a year with energy savings alone!

 

Also new for the 2009 Season is our line of Organic Mattress pads that deliver the same amazing cooling and warming effects but now with organic cotton material. Many consumers are already aware of the negative health effects of electro magnetic fields created by electric blankets or heating pads, while these are ELIMINATED with the ChiliPad, we wanted to go one step further to embrace the growing demand for products made from organic and renewable materials with this new offering.

 

Our ChiliPad technology has been showcased on the Starry Night bed marketed by Leggett and Platt, a clear sign that our patented technology is cutting edge and on it’s way to make a huge impact on the worldwide bedding market.

 

CONTROL YOUR SLEEP TEMPERATURE!

 

For more information call 704-235-6831 or visit us online at www.mychilipad.com

 

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Mystic Valley Traders Heads to Vegas, Ready to Show the Market

‘How to Make a Bed’

 

Inspired Designs Dominate Bedding Ensembles, Coordinating Fabrics

 

Mystic Valley Traders, a leading and award-winning manufacturer of high-end, top-of-bed linens and home furnishings, will uncover their luxury bedding ensembles and fashion-forward fabric offerings during Las Vegas World Market this July. Visitors to space C-607 will discover both classic and contemporary design themes, bold color combinations and surprising coordinate presentations.

 

"For years, our mom told us 'how to make a bed.' Little did she know how much we would take that to heart," said Adam Tager, co-owner of Mystic Valley Traders with his brother Kyle Tager. "'How to Make a Bed' has become our motto at Mystic Valley Traders, where we pride ourselves in providing designers and retailers with an infinite number of luxury options in household fabrics."

 

Mystic Valley Traders offers 300 hand-selected fabrics and trims, in stock for next day shipping. All fabrics from Mystic Valley's bedding portfolio are stocked, available in full yard increments and may be used for window treatments and upholstery.

 

"We take particular pride in having seamlessly expanded our bedding category to include headboards, window treatments and fillers," said Kyle Tager. "You can count on two things at Mystic Valley Traders: The very best in luxury textiles and a quick and efficient product delivery system via our custom bedding or quick-ship bedding programs."

 

LICENSEES

 

Bob Timberlake by Mystic Valley Traders

Mystic Valley Traders is proud to serve as the exclusive Bob Timberlake bedding licensee. Cozy up to the fabric interpretations of this acclaimed North Carolina painter, and fill your home with a new take on art by design. During this summer's Las Vegas market, Mystic Valley Traders will debut a collection of linens that mimic the stunning shades and intricate details of this celebrated artist and designer.

 

Jill Rosenwald by Mystic Valley Traders

Jill Rosenwald, artist and designer of lively and infectious creations, may be best known for her fanciful and funky color pairings and eclectic use of shape to achieve stunning contemporary styling. Mystic Valley Traders is proud to be an exclusive licensee of Rosenwald's dazzling designs and will introduce a stunning assortment of Rosenwald collections during the Las Vegas market.

 

BEDDING ENSEMBLES

 

Boheme Persimmon

Featuring crisp white paisleys contrasting beautifully against bold persimmon hues, Boheme Persimmon is a fresh, clean ensemble, and all items in this collection are washable Coordinating boudoirs and standard/king shams feature intricate border-to-border designs, while euro shams highlight the collection's dominant design element against a white backdrop. Boheme Persimmon is a Jill Rosenwald design.

 

Colefax

Deep indigo hues stand out against lustrous parchment to bring old world elegance to the modern age. Stripes and tonal solids dance effortlessly when paired with larger-than-life graphic prints. Contrast piping and button accents reign supreme in this collection's coordinating neckrolls, shams and boudoirs.

 

Persephone

Goddess-inspired hues of cerulean, bronze and green tea contribute to a collection that can turn any bedroom into an indoor oasis. Silk and cotton threads combine to create fresh plaids, classic stripes and rhythmically repeating monograms. Accents range from square to round, box to self-welt.

 

Turtle Bay Mandarin

Taking cues from the Far East, this collection is muted, yet self-assured. Exaggerated mango borders play off the predominant sand landscape, while accents feature mandarin orange backgrounds combined with clean white prints that truly pop. Details are key as glimpses of mandarin orange peek through the box-pleat bed skirt, and contrast piping and buttons create the perfect finale. Turtle Bay is an eco-friendly collection made from mostly organic materials and non-chemical dyes.

 

FABRICS

 

Apple

Composed of 48% polyester and 52% cotton, apple features a pale green railroad-like pattern for added texture and depth.

 

Bridle

A leathery tan hue dominates this 100% polyester fabric, which includes sage green thread and fringe accents.

 

Canopy Charcoal

Grounded in elegant black, Canopy Charcoal is 97% polyester and 3% SBR. A stylish floral motif is comprised of merlot and silvery white threads.

 

Hibiscus Mandarin

The epitome of a tropical vacation on fabric, this 40% cotton and 60% linen option combines a daring mandarin orange shade with refreshing white.

 

You can find Mystic Valley Traders at the Las Vegas World Market Center in space C-607. For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact:

Lauren Rivers, Rivers Agency

Phone: (888) 784-8477

Email: lauren@riversagency.com

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Duvet Covers With a Conscience? Designer Launches Raksha Bella Handblocked Organic Textiles For a Cause

 

San Francisco-based Designer, Carrie Peters, Launches Wholesale Raksha Bella Bedding Line To Enthusiastic Retailers

 

As part of its spring launch, RAKSHA BELLA handblocked organic textiles recently debuted the RAKSHA BELLA Classic Collection for sale at select retailers up and down the California coast beginning in June 2008. For founder and designer, Carrie Peters, the decision to create a line of eco-luxe bedding was a spiritual one.

 

While on a self-discovery trip to India, the former designer witnessed severe poverty, destitution and depression and learned of the recent plight of cotton farmers whose ancient farming practices and livelihoods had been destroyed by modified cottonseed. But it was the finely handcrafted decorative arts that most resonated with the artist. Peters recognized with what great skill and pride the artisan community in India was creating beautiful handblocked textiles. Wanting to restore wealth and dignity to the farmers she was inspired to launch a line of organic, hand-printed organic cotton textiles manufactured in India.

 

“As a designer, I feel it’s my responsibility to create sustainable solutions to the things we consume every day,” said Carrie Peters, Founder RAKSHA BELLA. “With a handcrafted approach to the Raksha Bella line I want to show the interconnectedness between product and person.”

 

RAKSHA, pronounced (ra-k-sha), means “protection” in Sanskrit. BELLA is Latin for “beautiful.” Together, RAKSHA BELLA, elegantly communicates the brand’s philosophy which is “protecting what is beautiful with handmade organic textiles.” RAKSHA BELLA works with the industry’s foremost innovative manufacturing pioneers in India to ensure the employ of fair labor practices, quality GOTS and SKAL-certified organic cotton, and the use of AZO-free low impact dyes in all their fabrics.

 

The RAKSHA BELLA Classic Collection includes duvet covers, quilts, shams and pillowcases in King and Full/Queen sized sets. Patterns include the Indian Rose, available in Dusty Cedar, Cress Green, and Indigo; the Tree of Life, in Canton/Mimosa; and the Raj Paisley in Rum Raisin. Each hand-woven textile features a 225-thread count. Suggested retail price for a Full Queen duvet cover is $390.78. Pillowcases start at $89.32, Euro shams at $123.26 MSRP.

 

Available at retail in Los Angeles and the Bay Area. A list of retail outlets is available by request.

 

Buyers should call (510) 847-4616 or email info@rakshabellaorganic.com if interested in learning how they, too, can carry the Raksha Bella Classic Collection.

 

About RAKSHA BELLA

Established in 2007, RAKSHA BELLA Organic Textiles offers a sumptuous line of hand made organic bedding and fabrics, hand-printed with hand-carved wooden blocks in India. Their palette and patterns are a subtle and contemporary interpretation of traditional designs. All RAKSHA BELLA textiles use only all GOTS and SKAL-certified organic cotton farmed in India, AZO-free low impact dyes and fair labor practices to ensure health and beauty both inside and out.

 

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Aireloom Combines “Exceptional Design and Tailoring” With Three Green Introductions at the Las Vegas Market

 

This July Aireloom will be debuting exceptional collections of environmentally responsible hand made luxury bedding – “Inspired by Nature” - that will combine growing consumer awareness toward living a "greener" lifestyle with the tradition and style that encapsulates the Aireloom name. Aireloom will be showing three levels of natural sleep systems; two eco – friendly collections and one truly organic luxury sleep collection. The new Aireloom Green products were designed under the direction of Earl Kluft. Mr. Kluft is famous for exceptional design and tailoring and his team of artisans have produced new sleep systems from extensive amounts of research in order to combine the necessity of eco - friendly materials with uncompromising and incomparable luxury. The end result is a product that is respectful of the environment, while providing the sleeper with the ultimate in personal well – being, support, durability and comfort. Prices range from $1,299 to $25,000.

 

The collections include:

Luxury Eco - Friendly Models

Aireloom Hybrid – Complete with Forestex luxury covers, premium Bio – Foams and sustainable forest lumber.

 

Aireloom Bamboo – Includes Natural Bamboo luxury covers, premium bio foams, natural talalay latex, and sustainable forest lumber.

Luxury Organic Aireloom Green Models

Aireloom Natural – The Finest in organic luxury sleep systems,

 

Aireloom Natural utilizes:

Organic cotton tickings,

Natural talalay latex,

Certified organic wool,

Certified organic cotton,

Luxury organic cashmere,

Imported horsehair,

Natural flax,

Sustainable forest lumber.

 

Aireloom green is sure to be one of the most exceptional attractions in the bedding world at the Las Vegas Market, and an enormous success at the retail level as the demand for eco - friendly products begin to grow at a rapid pace.

 

Aireloom will also be showing its extraordinary Luxury Latex sleep systems, having become an immediate success following the Las Vegas Market in January 2008. Aireloom Luxury Latex provides the finest in pressure relief and support, while offering customers a natural product built to Aireloom's exacting standards, attention to detail and quality.

 

Tradition and history encompasses the luxury that is Aireloom, and the company will also be showing its original hand crafted side stitched products, as well as other finely crafted luxury sleep systems that offer JOMA wool, Staple Cotton, Cashmere, Belgium woven damasks and English nested pocketed coils.

 

For more information on Aireloom and E. S. Kluft & Company contact: Sean Bergmann (909) 373-4211, Ext. 230 sbergman@aireloom.com

 

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Simmons Futon by Big Tree

One of the biggest names in bedding has partnered with the biggest name in futons. Simmons Bedding and Big Tree Big Sleep Futons have joined forces to form Simmons Futons by Big Tree. The licensing agreement combines the strength of the Simmons brand name and sleep technologies with the fashion forward styling of Big Tree Big Sleep's futons, frames and covers.

By combining the passion, creativity, and technology of the two leading-edge companies, they will continue to drive innovations that help retailers, e-tailers, and the end consumer.

 

Simmons Futon by Big Tree provides both frames and mattresses. Our frames range from promotional looks to exquisitely designed high-end frames. The frames come in different wood species and utilize our reliable EZ Fold mechanism. Keeping with current trends, we use popular finishes provided by some of best names in business, such as Sherwin Williams.

 

What truly sets us apart from other futon manufactures is our line tufted designer mattresses. We take a fashionable upholstery grade cover and tuft it directly onto an innerspring or memory foam mattress.

 

We will also have the unveiling of Beautyrest Futons. The Beautyrest Futons will utilize the popular and comfortable Pocketed Coil system, which has been a proven value to the bedding category.

 

Our sophisticated frame designs combined with the tufted mattresses give our futons a sofa-like appearance. This appearance adds to its perceived value and allows our sets to compliment almost any room's decor.

 

Since 1981 we have always looked to improve our vast product selection with innovative, practical, and stylish designs. The upcoming July 2008 Las Vegas Furniture Market will mark the official hard launch of the new Simmons Futons by Big Tree program.

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Spring Air Expanding Operations Into India

Licensee Plans 3 New Plants and 30 Retail locations By 2010

The Spring Air Company said today that it would enter the $400 million retail bedding market in India through its Middle East licensee. W.J. Towell & Co., in association with Ashok Sharma, a well-known bedding professional and CEO of Spring Air Middle East, have created a joint venture called Spring Air India that will result in the company having three manufacturing facilities producing 500 pieces a day and 30 Spring Air branded retail showrooms in the country by 2010. The first plant will open in September 2008 just outside New Delhi. By end of 2009, Spring Air in India will also set up manufacturing facilities in the western part of the country near Bombay and also in the south near Bangalore. The retail showrooms will be going on line as manufacturing capability is added. The company said that at present, 7-percent of the retail bedding market in India is innerspring product and was expected to reach 25-percent over the next five years. While some international brands have entered the region, few have captured any significant share of this market.

 

“This is very exciting news, both for our licensee and for our company as it gives us a great footprint in one of the fastest growing consumer markets in the world,” said Spring Air CEO Bob Hellyer. “W.J. Towell has been a great business with us and we look forward to sharing in the success of this new venture with them.”

 

Spring Air Middle East is a fully owned venture by W.J. Towell & Co., a 135-year-old leading business enterprise from Oman with sales of more than $1 billion. Founded in 1926, The Spring Air Company is one of the world’s largest mattress manufacturing and distribution companies. Its well-known consumer brands include: Back Supporter Classic, Back Supporter Four Seasons, Nature’s Rest and Chattam & Wells.

 

For more information on Spring Air visit: www.springair.com

 

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Inflatable Bedding Leader AeroBed Expands Marketing

to Bedding and Furniture Channel

 

AeroBed Re-defines Temporary Bedding Category with a “WHOOSH”

 

Aero Products International, Inc., makers of the original AeroBed, today continues to market key products through furniture and bedding outlets nationwide. The company is once again showing with the Specialty Sleep Association at the World Market Center (WMC, Building C-1350) , further strengthening its leadership position in the temporary bedding category with the bedding, mattress and home furnishings industry.

 

As the category leader in product innovation, comfort and reliability for more than 15 years, AeroBed’s move into the furniture and bedding channel will provide consumers with the opportunity to purchase the most comfortable night’s sleep possible – wherever they shop. The focus of this initiative are AeroBed’s Premier line of products (Comfort Zone, DuraSuede, and Raised Comfort Zone), which are designed to provide the best in comfort and ease to people looking to “turn any room into an AeroBed room.”

 

“Our commitment to providing consumers with a quality night’s sleep has challenged us to expand our presence in these newer channels of distribution where we can best showcase our products,” said Tim Horne, CEO of Aero Products International, Inc. “We believe that AeroBed’s recent move into furniture and bedding outlets is just a natural progression that will provide consumers with a quality temporary bedding option in a traditionally higher priced marketplace.”

 

To support their presence in this retail channel, Aero Products has showcased its temporary bedding innovation – the Raised Comfort Zone bed – at the Las Vegas Market. The Raised Comfort Zone bed features a 24-inch-high sleep surface and AeroBed’s exclusive, patented pump and valve technologies so guests feel more at home than ever before. The Raised Comfort Zone beds are available in twin ($199), full ($259) and queen ($299) sizes.

 

Aero Products International, Inc., is a privately held company and does not share sales information or annual revenues. The raised, temporary-bedding category is currently the fastest growing in the industry, and Aero’s raised bedding business has been its fastest growing segment for the past few years. In an effort to meet rising consumer demand, Aero will continue to adapt product lines to offer more elevated and raised bedding options. The quality, dependability and portability of AeroBed products make it possible to turn any room into an AeroBed room.

 

For more information on Aero’s entry to the furniture/bedding segment, please visit booth C-1350 at the Las Vegas Market or visit: www.aerobed.com.

 

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Eclipse of Ireland and the UK Wins Award

For Bedroom Product of the Year 2008

 

Eclipse of Ireland and the UK, Natural Sleep Ltd., won the prestigious 'Bedroom Product of the Year 2008' award for its newly launched 'Nature's Touch' pillow-top bed. The award was presented at the recent Furniture & Home Accessories Fair, in Dublin, Ireland.

 

The 'Nature's Touch' pillow-top bed features the patented Eclipse Spinal Zone Sleep System.

 

 

Commenting on his win, James Hayes (center of picture), owner and founder Eclipse of Ireland and the UK, Natural Sleep Ltd., said "This award represents the culmination of our significant investment in customer research, new product and brand development and new technology."

 

For more information please visit: www.eclipsemattress.com

 

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Eclipse and Eastman House Grand Opening

at World Market Center - Las Vegas

 

On July 28, 2008, Eclipse International and Eastman House will be hosting the grand opening of their exhibit at the World Market Center. Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, the World Market Center is a dynamic new showcase for the home and hospitality contract furnishings industry. It is a state-of-the-art facility with exceptional market representation, ultra-convenience, easy access, cutting edge technology and unprecedented amenities - all in a city with an unrivaled reputation for fun, excitement and hospitality.

 

The Eclipse International and Eastman House exhibit will be located in Building C, Space 1350, Exhibit C42.

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Luxury Sleep Manufacturer Hollandia to Bring New-Age Designs to 2008 Las Vegas Market For First Time

 

Hollandia International, a growing and expanding international mattress/bedding manufacturer, that positions themselves as “manufacturers of the world’s most luxurious sleep systems,” will exhibit for the first time since launching their brand in the U.S. in 2006.at the July Las Vegas Furniture Market.

 

Located in the Specialty Sleep Association’s new showroom in building C on the 13th floor (#C1350), Hollandia will display their newest designs including their fully loaded Elite Bed, Lounger, an assortment of different PLATINUM-LUXE™ bases, a demo base for all to see the inner workings of their beds and an array of pillows as well.

 

“For the past few years we’ve placed an emphasis on extending our worldwide brand into the U.S. market and strategically opening new showrooms,” said Hollandia CEO Avi Barssessat. “This is the perfect time to introduce our new PLATINUM-LUXE™ Advanced Sleep Systems to retailers.”

 

Hollandia will showcase their newest model – the ELITE SAFE-T bed system ($50,000/King). Featuring a retractable Flat Panel HDTV, state-of-the-art Sony Bravia Theater System, DVD/CD changer, 5-Speaker Surround Sound System, Subwoofer and an iPod Docking Station, the new ELITE SAFE-T is upholstered in red fabric with matching nightstands and boasts two heavy-duty safes built right into the bed. Measuring 8”x10.6” and with a depth of 4.3”, the safe is located in the head joint of the bed base, right beneath the mattress. With an elegant, modern design and over 200 fabrics to choose from, the ELITE works with every décor and lifestyle.

 

The new Lounger ($6,000) introduces a modern twist on the common chair or daybed - providing unlimited sleeping, sitting and reclining positions. Featuring a Vita Talalay Latex mattress and two powerful yet silent massage motors with 12 different settings, the Lounger is the preeminent, functional piece for both comfort and style.

 

PLATINUM-LUXE™ bases ($6,000-$11,000) use the most advanced technology available and can be used with any Hollandia bed frame. Offering an 11-year warranty, their models include a Mobile Bed System that easily helps move the system, a Total Safety System that stops the bed’s movement for safety purposes, Pneumatic Remote Control, Back sliding system, Flexible Shoulder Zone and Telescopic head support. The height of the mattress can vary as well depending on what model is chosen.

 

Overseas, Hollandia’s PLATINUM-LUXE™ Advanced Sleep Systems have long been considered the definition of luxury. Drawing upon an unparalleled heritage of more than 27 years of perfecting sleep systems, the company creates a unique customer experience by combining superior service with the highest quality materials - assuring luxurious rest and relaxation.

 

In addition to their PLATINUM-LUXE™ Advanced Sleep Systems, Hollandia manufactures a full range of complementary Sleep Essentials such as plush pillows, fitted sheets, blankets and mattress protectors. Committed to innovation and technology, Hollandia also offers custom-made Style Essentials such as a daybed or ottoman that can easily transform into an extremely comfortable guest bed.

 

Hollandia International now operates in more than 120 locations throughout the world. Headquartered in Israel, Hollandia opened its first American retail location at The Marketplace Design Center in Philadelphia, and now has showrooms at the King of Prussia Mall and The Mall at Short Hills in Northern New Jersey.  The company has plans to open additional luxury retail centers, as well as partner with other like-minded luxury retailers and wholesalers.

 

Through the years, Hollandia has won numerous industry awards and accolades for design, innovation and customer service. They are the epitome of advanced sleep engineering, using their vast technological knowledge to exceed consumers’ expectations and bring them the most advanced product possible in comfort and quality.

 

For more information please visit: www.hollandiainternational.com

 

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Fifth-Year Competitive Intern Program Nets

20 Students College Scholarships

 

PENCIL, a non-profit organization that builds and supports customized relationships between business leaders and principals and 1800mattress.com, the nation’s leading tele-retailer of mattresses and bedding accessories, have partnered to provide 20 students at Newcomers High School an internship that promotes creativity, teamwork, organization and time management skills.

 

PENCIL’s mission, to inspire innovation and transform public schools, coupled with 1800mattress.com’s unique “Apprentice” style internship provides the students real world experience and a stage to compete for scholarship money to continue their education.

 

“We pride ourselves on not only servicing our customers, but also to provide a service to the community in which we live and do business,” said Napoleon Barragan, founder and CEO. “Since 2005, we have awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to students through the PENCIL program.”

 

More than 80 students from Newcomers High School have taken part in the program with 1800mattress.com. This year’s program, which runs from February through June, consists of 20 students from nine different countries that are divided into four teams of five.

 

Midway through the internship, the groups interview various executives from within the company and come to a consensus on a topic for their group research project. The team then works on researching information for an essay and a live presentation delivered in front of their colleagues, teachers, mentors and families.

 

The essay, slideshow and presentation are evaluated by a panel from 1800mattress.com that rate the various teams on their work. The top team’s members each receive $1,500 scholarships and the other teams receive $1,000, $750 and $500, respectively.

 

The top prize went to a group whose presentation was Web site focused entitled "Chronology of the 1800matrress.com website and practical recommendations." The five student group received $1,500 college scholarships each and the students hail from China, Myanmar, Mexico, Bangladesh and Ecuador before moving to the United States.

 

“The partnership that 1800mattress.com has developed with Newcomers High School over the last five years exemplifies that commitment to education and the long-term development of future business leaders,” said PENCIL president Michael Haberman. “It serves as a model for the hundreds of other partnerships in our network by demonstrating the unique value of experiential learning opportunities.”

 

“We have kept in contact with many of our past interns and they have related how their experience has helped give them a leg up in their desired field,” said Daniel Aguirre, internship program director. “Three students have completed the program and have come back to work for the company and we feel confident that number will increase over time. We are providing these students with the business needed to succeed in business.”

 

Founded in 1976, 1800mattress.com is the leading national, multi-channel (internet, chat, call center and showrooms) retailer of mattresses, box springs and bedding products. Its award-winning customer service is well chronicled in thousands of media articles and books.

 

For more information, please visit: www.1800mattress.com.

 

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1-800-MATTRESS.com Teams With Simmons And Bed & Breakfast Maven to Offer Pamela Lanier Collection of Mattresses

 

1800mattress.com, the nation’s leading tele-retailer of bedding products and accessories, is teaming with bedding manufacturer Simmons and bed & breakfast industry expert Pamela Lanier to offer an exclusive luxury mattress that reflects the nostalgia and romance of the inn experience.

 

Lanier has worked for several months with designers, engineers and marketing executives at Simmons and 1800mattress.com to create a sleep experience reminiscent of environments she has helped create for leading inns.

 

The Pamela Lanier Bed & Breakfast Collection Mattress by Simmons, available exclusively through 1800mattress.com, will offer an 800-pocketed coil construction, with luxurious fabrics and a touch of visco memory foam for added comfort and support. The pocketed coil construction reduces motion transfer between sleep partners. The new mattress retails for $1,199 in queen size.

 

 

“In a world of busy lives, we all long for the feeling of a casual afternoon without schedules, and the peace and calm that can often exist only in dreams from special vacation escapes and romantic weekends,” said Lanier. “Our new mattress lets you bring the special feeling of a romantic bed & breakfast escape to your own home.”

 

According to John O’Connell, senior vice president of merchandising and retail for 1800mattress.com, the new collection offers far more luxury and features than found in many of the popular hotel beds on the market today, at very competitive retail prices.

 

“By working closely with Pamela, I believe the new collection really captures the uniqueness of the bed & breakfast culture, one of understated elegance, luxury and relaxation,” he said.

 

Founded in 1976, 1800mattress.com is the leading national multi-channel (internet, call center and showrooms) retailer of mattresses, box springs and bedding products. It features products by Sealy, Serta, Simmons, Tempurpedic, and King Koil among others from its 30 beds and mattress menu, including custom sizes, futons, and adjustable and organic beds. Its award winning customer service is well chronicled in thousands of media articles and books. The company was also the first mattress retailer to introduce a two-hour delivery window, and fast national and international delivery of its products. Its business-to-business sales division supplies schools, hospitals, hotels and other institutions.

 

For more information, please visit www.1800mattress.com.

 

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Mattress Giant Names Errol Lebowitz As VP of Merchandising

Industry Veteran Assumes Newly Created Position

Mattress Giant Corporation announced today that Errol Lebowitz has been promoted to vice president of merchandising. Lebowitz joined Mattress Giant after their 2007 acquisition of Mattress Expo. An industry veteran, having held key positions in buying and merchandising capacities at leading retailers, Lebowitz will serve as the primary contact with bedding manufacturers.

 

Steve Kyger will continue as director of merchandising and will report to Lebowitz.

 

“Errol is uniquely qualified for this position based on his vast knowledge and experience in the retail bedding industry as a buyer and as a retailer”, said Barrie Brown, chief executive officer, Mattress Giant. ”This unique combination will be especially important for us as we continue our strategy for rapid growth.”

 

Together with David Shapiro, Lebowitz co-founded Atlanta-based bedding retailer, Mattress Expo in 2000. The company grew to 24 locations before being acquired by Mattress Giant in December 2007.

 

“After 15 years in the bedding industry, it is my great pleasure to be associated with such a great company,” said Errol Lebowitz, vice president of merchandising, Mattress Giant. “I believe there is tremendous opportunity for growth going forward and I’m excited about working with our supply partners to maximize our mutual opportunities.”

 

About Mattress Giant

Mattress Giant Corporation, based in Addison, Texas, is one of the fastest growing mattress retailers in the United States. Mattress Giant is experiencing enormous growth due in part to its intense focus and commitment to sales training, customer service, and engaged employees. With more than 340 locations nationwide, Mattress Giant has positioned itself as the ultimate mattress specialty retailer. Each store offers the greatest selection to consumers through innovative design, pricing, and national brands.

 

More information can be found at the company’s Web site, www.mattressgiant.com.

 

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Specialty Sleep Association Announces Bart Dehaerne

As New Member Of the Board Of Directors

 

Expert In Specialty Sleep Category to Add Insight to Non-Profit Organization

 

The Specialty Sleep Association (SSA) announced that Bart Dehaerne, President of Deslee Textiles, USA, has joined the Board, according to Dale Read, President, SSA.

 

Bart’s insight and expertise in his work internationally in the field of bedding are a tremendous assist to our organization,” said Read.

 

Prior to joining Deslee Textiles as President in 2005, Dehaerne, he worked in FMCG. He holds a degree in commercial engineering from KU Leuven, one of Europe’s top universities, and an MBA from the University of Chicago. A native of Belgium, he has lived extensively throughout the Americas.

 

“Deslee Textiles USA has made a conscious decision to focus primarily on the specialty sleep segment of the bedding industry, as was noted by our decision to specialize in the production of stretch knits,” said Dehaerne. “Our goal is to bring innovations to this growing segment of the industry.” As we are part of a global group with headquarters in Belgium, Deslee Textiles is linked to a variety of industry groups which will further benefits the group’s involvement with the SSA, including the European Bedding Industry Association (EBIA), which has been trendsetting in establishing an industry-wide “eco label” in the form of Oekotex.

   

Since the new SSA Board took office in January 2008, the organization succeeded on a number of fronts including securing permanent space at the World Market Center (WMC) and leasing almost that entire available space, attracting new members to its group including Leggett & Platt, 1-800-Mattress, Hollandia, Englander, Lilly Management, Comfortaire, Latex International, Tempur-Pedic, Therapedic and others; raising awareness of the specialty sleep category via media placements to promote the “Future of a Better Night’s Sleep” in such markets as Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C. and Charlotte as well as national print and online media outlets, and attracting new members to the SSA Board.

 

Founded in 1995, the Specialty Sleep Association (SSA) is a national not-for-profit advocacy and education association of retailers, manufacturers and suppliers who develop, manufacture, market and sell innovative, new technology mattress and bedding products including visco-elastic memory foam, latex rubber, air, flotation, gel, adjustable, futons and convertible beds, (green) all-natural and organic beds made from soy, bamboo, wool, 100% cotton as well as bed frames, pillows, sheets, comforters, duvets, body pillows, fabric guards and more.

 

Retailers and manufacturers interested in membership in the SSA should contact SSA Executive Director Tambra Jones, (559) 868-4187 or (559) 676-8639. Visit www.sleepinformation.org  

 

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Specialty Sleep Association Unveils New Space At World Market Center

PERMANENT 15,000-SQ. -FT. SPACE IN BUILDING C

For the first time ever, the Specialty Sleep Association (SSA) will unveil its own 15,000 sq. foot permanent showroom space in Building C (C-1350) at the World Market Center (WMC) , beginning with the opening at the July 2008 Market. The group’s theme --- “The Future of Sleep” --- will be reflected by the innovative companies and products exhibiting in this space.

 

“Specialty sleep is the fastest growing segment of the bedding industry,” notes Dale Read, President, SSA. “With consumer and retail acceptance on the rise, we jumped at the opportunity to better showcase and promote our members’ products to retail buyers.”

 

“The future of the bedding industry with the latest technology is now under one roof,” said Read. “It feels like Disneyland for bedding with everything from memory foam, latex, air, and gel to water, adjustable, natural and organic bedding products all at one site.” Specialty sleep bedding uses the most innovative technologies to provide comfortable cushioning of the body with the support necessary for proper alignment during sleep.

 

Since the new SSA Board took office in January 2008, the organization has succeeded on a number of fronts including securing permanent space at the World Market Center (WMC), attracting new members to its group including Leggett & Platt, 1-800-Mattress, Hollandia, Englander, Lilly Management, Comfortaire, Latex International, Tempur-Pedic, Therapedic and others; raising awareness of the specialty sleep category via media placements to promote the “Future of Sleep” in such markets as Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C. and Charlotte as well as national print and online media outlets, and attracting new members to the SSA.

 

Founded in 1995, the Specialty Sleep Association (SSA) is a national not-for-profit advocacy and education association of retailers, manufacturers and suppliers who develop, manufacture, market and sell innovative, new technology mattress and bedding products including viscous-elastic memory foam, latex rubber, air, flotation, gel, adjustable, futons and convertible beds, (green) all-natural and organic beds made from soy, bamboo, wool, 100% cotton as well as bed frames, pillows, sheets, comforters, duvets, body pillows, fabric guards and more.

 

Retailers and manufacturers interested in membership in the SSA should contact SSA Executive Director Tambra Jones, (559) 868-4187 or (559) 676-8639. Visit www.sleepinformation.org

 

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ISPA Implements Group Healthcare Program For Members

 

Exclusive new benefit to reduce bottom-line costs

 

As of June 1, 2008 the International Sleep Products Association (ISPA) offered a new major member benefit—the ISPACare™ Member Health Program. This new group healthcare program, available exclusively to U.S. ISPA members with two or more employees, is part of the association’s ongoing work to help its members reduce bottom-line costs and improve profitability.

 

“Our research shows that many ISPA members will save 10% – 15% or more through this new program, compared to their existing healthcare plans,” noted VP of Marketing and Member Services, Debi Sutton. “We have been working on this program for quite some time and are excited to offer ISPACare™ as a means of helping our members save money, and provide a quality health plan.”

 

Fully insured by certain underwriters at Lloyds, London, the plan includes: a comprehensive Group/Dental/Vision Program that covers physician services, hospitalization, surgery, prescriptions and preventative care; flexible plan designs with choice of office visit co-pays, deductibles, coinsurance levels and prescription drug options; and over 25 PPO networks nationwide to choose from.

 

"This new member benefit represents ISPA's ongoing commitment to provide services that help member companies further control their overall expenses,” noted Martha Worley, president of the WorleyBeds.  “As a Board Trustee of the ISPACare™ Member Health Program, I am excited about this great new offering from our association."

 

ISPA is working with Affinity Benefit Services LLC of Chicago, IL, to offer the ISPACare™ program. ABS specializes in developing proprietary association healthcare programs for national and regional trade associations.

 

For more information on ISPACare™, please visit www.ISPACare.com.

For information on ABS, contact Cliff McConville, President at 312-212-4581.

 

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Dormia, Inc. Retail Affiliates File For Chapter 11 Reorganization

 

Parent Company, Classic Sleep Products, Unaffected By Move

 

Dormia, Inc. and several affiliated companies with retail stores operated under the same name, today filed for voluntary reorganization under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code here. Classic Sleep Products, Dormia’s wholesale mattress manufacturing business, is not affected by the move and continues to service its customers as usual.

 

Dormia currently has 20 stores in nine states, including: New York, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, New Jersey and Ohio. The company plans to use the reorganization process to determine strategic options for the locations and approximately 50 employees working in the division. All stores will remain open for business during this process and will maintain its high standards of customer service.

 

To enhance its liquidity, Dormia stores has received a commitment for a debtor-in-possession facility from The CIT Group.

 

Beginning in 1999, Classic began to open retail stores under the Dormia brand in higher-end regional shopping malls throughout the country. The stores only sold its own line of high-end visco-elastic memory foam and latex mattresses that contour to your body.

 

Classic Sleep Products are among the fastest-growing segment of the bedding market, and the parent company, which operates awholesale manufacturing business, has continued its growth into 2008. That business is not affected by the Chapter 11 filing.

“Like other specialty sleep manufacturers who entered the direct-to-consumer business over the past few years, we saw this as an opportunity to create another retail channel and to provide broad exposure for our brand,” said Classic Sleep Products President and CEO Mike Zippelli. “While some of the stores performed well over the years, we were never able to open enough locations to leverage the advertising and operational support in multiple markets.”

Zippelli said that after the company made the move in order to refocus attention on growing its wholesale business, which is experiencing a more than 15-percent increase in 2008 sales compared to last year.

“Classic is doing very well, and we did not want to negatively impact that business by supporting an unprofitable stores division,” he added.

Classic Sleep Products, which sells Dormia sleep systems. are designed to help customers receive the maximum benefit out of each night’s sleep. Its mattresses are constructed with the finest components in the world including: all natural covers, New Zealand lambs wool, visco-elastic memory foam, unique tri-zone latex core and solid wood foundations. The company offers enhanced features such as a quilted mattress top and deluxe combination models that are comprised of memory and latex foam, as well as adjustable beds that allow each person to maximize their own sleep comfort. All Dormia bedding products are manufactured in the United States using hand-made craftsmanship and custom embroidery. Dormia products are the highest-quality sleep products available in the market today.

To learn more, please call 800-679-3519 or visit www.dormia.com.

 

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FabricTech2000 Surpasses 700-Door Store Count With Addition Of New Dealers & Expanded Sales Network

 

FabricTech2000, the nation’s leader in bringing advanced technology and comfort to the sleep products protection industry, recently surpassed the 700 door count with the addition of the Mattress4You chain in Atlanta. They join Sleepy’s, RC Wiley, Value City Furniture and Ashley Home Stores as the flagship retailers carrying the company’s patented products nationwide.

 

“Dealers are positioning our product as a premium solution for mattress and pillow protection in their stores,” said FabricTech2000 President Arnold Hershbain. “Because we provide exceptional training and support to the dealers and their retail sales associates, there is usually an attractive spike in accessory sales after our products reach the floor.”

 

Hershbain said that new technologies offered in their products make the FabricTech lineup a favorite for consumers purchasing higher-end bedding and, in particular, visco latex products.

 

“The unique construction of our products provides the ultimate in protection, without altering the feel of the mattress in any way. This is particularly important in visco and latex products. The consumer is making the purchase based on a particular feel when they demo a mattress in the store. In many cases, with other mattress pads, they would be dissatisfied with the mattress when they get it home because most pads interfere with the temperature sensing properties of the foam and alter the mattress’s overall comfort.”

 

Hershbain also said that over the past few months the company has added national sales executives in Tennessee, Florida and California to better service dealers throughout the country.

 

All FabricTech2000 products prevent skin particles and moisture from reaching a mattress, using a three-step approach. OmniGuard® Ultra’s breathable PolyKnit™ outer layer absorbs perspiration, moisture and stains, while the waterproof InnerShield™ membrane protects them from reaching the mattress. It wicks moisture away instead of creating an uncomfortable “puddle” effect. This also prevents mold and mildew from forming. OmniGuard® Ultra is naturally stain and water resistant, and is made with no added chemicals, so it is safe for children and pets. The products are waterproof, quiet and cool, unlike noisy, sticky vinyl. The InnerShield™ membrane also safeguards a mattress manufacturer’s warranty since it can be voided if there is a stain on a mattress –regardless if your claim is for another reason.

 

Founded in 1992, FabricTech2000 provides consumers with a safer and healthier sleeping environment by utilizing the most advanced technology, the finest materials and highest quality workmanship. In addition, all FabricTech2000 products are proudly made in the United States and adhere to strict medical guidelines. FabricTech2000 is the exclusive provider of mattress protection products for The Style Network.

 

For more information about FabricTech2000 visit www.fabrictech.com or call (800) 758-8563.

 

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Hollywood Bed Announces New Showroom At Las Vegas

World Market Center

Hollywood Bed & Spring Mfg. Co., Inc. will open its new showroom at the Las Vegas World Market Center in July. The permanent showroom, which is located in Building C at C-1278, will showcase the company’s extensive line of superior quality bedding support products.

 

Designed with Strength, Versatility and Durability in Mind

Among the items on display at the Las Vegas showroom will be Hollywood Bed’s Elite Holly-Matic®, Lev-R-Lock & Atlas-Lock line of bed frames which boasts the strength of heavy duty high carbon rail steel side rails and solid rivet construction with a level of quality that is unmatched in the industry. These bed frames with patented locking designs offer unique features and benefits.