Sealy, the world's leading mattress brand and one of the best known within the UK industry, has joined The Furniture Makers' Company, the City of London livery company and charity for the furnishing industry, as a corporate member as part of its re-emergence in the UK market.
In May 2020, in the midst of Covid disruption, former parent company Silentnight announced that it would be closing its Sealy manufacturing plant in Aspatria, Cumbria, as part of cost-cutting measures. On hearing the news, Sealy Joint Ventures (comprising Tempur Sealy International and Dyer Holdings) stepped in and, just six months later, the purchase was completed.
Since then, Sealy UK has transformed itself in the hands of its new independent owners and following large-scale investment in the business, it is now seeing rapid growth. Over the last three years, it has fully ‘re-invented' its brand as well as transforming the Cumbria plant with the installation of three new spring machines and the reinstating of five others, re-skilling the 240-strong team and launching an entirely new range of products.
CCO of Sealy UK, Mark Tuley (formerly sales director of Silentnight Group), said: "As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, Sealy is in a fantastic position to once again establish itself as a leader in the UK mattress industry. With our new owners having invested millions in our Cumbria manufacturing site and following the successful launch of our all-new product range, the decision to join the furniture industry's historic livery company marks another important step in our resurgence.
"We've seen significant growth over the last six months, and are now keen to raise our profile and once again become more vocal within our sector. Joining the Furniture Makers' Company is a positive move for the business, giving us great opportunities for networking and increasing understanding of Sealy UK's journey among peers, suppliers and retailers, as well as supporting our programme of charitable initiatives."
He continues: "We are extremely fortunate in the UK to have such a unique collective which brings together and represents all parts of the industry. Being a member of the Furniture Makers' Company is a badge of honour and we are proud to support it."
Sealy will be formally welcomed as a corporate member at an admission ceremony in March at Furniture Makers' Hall, London. Mark Tuley, CCO; and Nichola Pass, marketing director, will be admitted as corporate liverymen and personally welcomed by the Master of The Furniture Makers' Company.
Amanda Waring, Master of The Furniture Makers' Company, said: "It's great to see such a well-known name in the UK mattress sector overcoming challenges and re-positioning itself within the market. The business recognises that corporate membership can help support its ambitious growth vision, and has also taken up the mantle of playing an active role in the industry and contributing to its future."
Corporate membership provides opportunities for leading businesses from the trade to support the Company's charitable activities, get involved with civic events and network with other members.