By virtue of manufacturers reimbursing much of the advertising expense, mattresses are promoted by retailers regardless of the economic scenario.

Dick Doyle, president and CEO of the International Sleep Products Association, addresses 300 industry execs at the recent ISPA conference in Weston, Florida.

More than 300 mattress industry leaders came together this month in Weston, Florida for the International Sleep Products Association’s (ISPA) 2007 Industry Conference and Exhibition.

Since tracking began in 1984, there has only been one year in which mattress shipments fell (2001). According to presenter W.W. "Jerry" Epperson, Jr. C.F.A. of Mann, Armistead & Epperson, mattress and foundation shipments will reach nearly $7 billion in 2007. Mattress shipments have steadily increased since the 80s despite economic ups-and-downs. Epperson said that, by virtue of manufacturers reimbursing much of the advertising expense, mattresses are promoted by retailers regardless of the economic scenario.

The ISPA meeting addressed today’s market opportunities, analyzed the current economic outlook, discussed challenges with the flammability standard, and offered new ways to reach out to consumers. Top rated speakers discussed with conference participants trends that affect their businesses, and provided ideas for improving operations and reducing bottom line costs that will help them stay competitive and compliant with government rules.

"This event offered a great deal for everyone in the mattress industry," noted ISPA President Dick Doyle. "In such a competitive market, it’s worthwhile to periodically come together as an industry to focus on the issues that affect us all and adjust our perspective on the challenges before us."

The 2008 Industry Conference and Exhibition is slated for November 12-14, at the Omni Orlando Resort in ChampionsGate in Orlando, FL.

Established in 1915, the International Sleep Products Association is the trade organization for mattress manufacturers and their component suppliers around the world.