In October 2018, Mattress Firm made headlines when the company filed for bankruptcy. The mattress retailer, which had over 3,500 stores across the United States, cited financial struggles and an over-saturation of the mattress market as the reasons for their filing. This news sent shockwaves through the mattress industry and sparked concerns for the future of the company.1. Mattress Firm files for bankruptcy
As part of their bankruptcy restructuring, Mattress Firm announced plans to close approximately 700 stores. This decision was met with mixed reactions, as some saw it as a necessary step to save the company while others were concerned about the impact on employees and customers. With the closure of these stores, Mattress Firm aimed to focus on their remaining locations and strengthen their position in the mattress market.2. Mattress Firm closing hundreds of stores
The bankruptcy filing and store closures shed light on the financial struggles that Mattress Firm had been facing for some time. The company had accumulated a significant amount of debt, and their rapid expansion in recent years had not translated into profits. These challenges forced Mattress Firm to re-evaluate their business strategies and make changes in order to stay afloat.3. Mattress Firm facing financial struggles
Shortly after the bankruptcy announcement, Mattress Firm announced that their CEO Ken Murphy would be stepping down from his position. Murphy had been with the company for less than a year, and his departure was seen as a sign of the company's need for new leadership. Mattress Firm appointed Steve Stagner as their new CEO, who had previously served as the company's CEO from 2010 to 2016.4. Mattress Firm CEO steps down
In an effort to revive their sales and improve their image, Mattress Firm announced a new marketing strategy. The company shifted their focus from promoting discounts and sales to highlighting the quality and comfort of their mattresses. This change in approach aimed to attract customers who were looking for a better mattress rather than just a good deal.5. Mattress Firm announces new marketing strategy
In a surprising move, Mattress Firm announced a partnership with Tuft & Needle, an online mattress company. This partnership allowed Mattress Firm to offer an online mattress option to their customers, something that they had previously been lacking. The partnership also provided Tuft & Needle with access to Mattress Firm's extensive retail network, helping them to expand their reach.6. Mattress Firm partners with online mattress company
In November 2018, Mattress Firm faced backlash when a lawsuit was filed against them for false advertising. The lawsuit alleged that the company had engaged in deceptive marketing practices, such as inflating their regular prices to make their sales seem like better deals. This controversy further damaged Mattress Firm's reputation and raised questions about their credibility.7. Mattress Firm accused of false advertising
In an effort to appeal to environmentally-conscious consumers, Mattress Firm launched a new line of eco-friendly mattresses. These mattresses were made from sustainable materials and aimed to provide customers with a more eco-friendly sleep option. This move not only showed the company's commitment to sustainability but also helped them stand out in a crowded mattress market.8. Mattress Firm introduces new line of eco-friendly mattresses
Despite their new marketing strategy, Mattress Firm still offered discounts and promotions, especially during the busy holiday shopping season. In 2019, the company announced huge discounts on mattresses for Black Friday, with some models being sold for as low as $9. This aggressive pricing strategy aimed to attract customers and boost sales during a crucial time for the company.9. Mattress Firm offers discounts on Black Friday
In 2020, Mattress Firm launched a controversial ad campaign that received widespread backlash. The ads featured mattresses being delivered to people's homes by individuals dressed as mattresses themselves, causing many to criticize the ads as being insensitive and tone-deaf. The company later issued an apology and pulled the ads, but the damage to their reputation had already been done. In conclusion, Mattress Firm has been making headlines in recent years due to their financial struggles, store closures, and controversial business decisions. However, the company continues to adapt and evolve in the competitive mattress market, and only time will tell if they can successfully bounce back from these challenges and regain their position as a top mattress retailer.10. Mattress Firm faces backlash for controversial ad campaign