Participants discussed the formation of a national mattress industry sustainability initiative focusing on reducing the environmental impact of used mattresses.

Leaders of the International Sleep Products Association, (ISPA) representing mattress manufacturers and their suppliers, met with representatives of leading mattress retailers on February 7, 2008 in Naples, FL. to explore opportunities to work together to expand the market for mattress sales.

"Our goal for [the 2008 ISPA Mattress Industry Leadership Summit] was to discuss the advantages of establishing a closer working relationship among the major sectors of the mattress industry value chain to expand the total market for mattress sales," stated Charlie Eitel, CEO and chairman, Simmons Bedding Company, and ISPA chair. "Based on the discussions that took place at the Leadership Summit, we plan to formulate recommendations for the ISPA Board's consideration in March that will greatly benefit the entire mattress industry," he added.

There was also extensive discussion on two major initiatives designed to enhance the overall industry. First, building on BSC's successful public relations efforts, participants explored the viability of embarking on an industry-wide marketing campaign to expand mattress sales. Second, under the leadership of Perry Davis of Leggett and Platt, participants discussed the formation of a national mattress industry sustainability initiative focusing on reducing the environmental impact of used mattresses. Health issues related to the sale of refurbished mattresses were also discussed.

"Our Board will now review ISPA's options at their meeting in March, and develop a game plan for moving ahead to the benefit of all mattress manufacturers, their suppliers and our valued retailers," said Dick Doyle, ISPA president and CEO.