Mattress Firm, one of the largest mattress retailers in the United States, has been making headlines for all the wrong reasons lately. The company, which has been in business for over 30 years, has been facing financial troubles that have led to a series of breaking news stories. From bankruptcy filings to controversial ad campaigns, here are the top 10 developments in the Mattress Firm saga.Mattress Firm: A Company in Crisis
In October 2018, Mattress Firm announced that it was filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing a heavy debt load and declining sales. This news sent shockwaves through the retail industry, as Mattress Firm had over 3,300 stores across the country and was considered a major player in the mattress market.1. Mattress Firm files for bankruptcy
As part of its bankruptcy restructuring plan, Mattress Firm announced that it would be closing approximately 700 stores. This move was met with mixed reactions, as some analysts saw it as a necessary step to streamline the company's operations, while others questioned whether it would be enough to save the struggling retailer.2. Mattress Firm closing hundreds of stores
In November 2018, Mattress Firm CEO Steve Stagner announced his resignation, stating that he wanted to "pursue other interests." This came just a month after the company's bankruptcy filing and added to the overall sense of uncertainty surrounding the future of Mattress Firm.3. Mattress Firm CEO resigns amid financial troubles
In December 2018, a group of former Mattress Firm employees filed a lawsuit against the company, accusing it of fraudulent and deceptive practices. The lawsuit claimed that employees were encouraged to inflate sales numbers and create fake customer accounts in order to meet sales goals set by the company's corporate office.4. Mattress Firm accused of fraud by former employees
In January 2019, Mattress Firm launched a new ad campaign that sparked controversy and outrage among consumers. The ads, which featured a cartoon character named "Mattress Mack" who was portrayed as an aggressive salesman, were deemed offensive and insensitive by many viewers.5. Mattress Firm faces backlash for controversial ad campaign
In February 2019, Mattress Firm released its fourth quarter sales report, which showed a significant decline in sales. This news caused the company's stock to plummet, with shares dropping by over 50% in just one day.6. Mattress Firm stock plummets after poor sales report
Following the lawsuit filed by former employees, Mattress Firm came under investigation by multiple state attorneys general for its sales practices. The investigation is ongoing and could have serious implications for the company's future.7. Mattress Firm under investigation for deceptive sales practices
In an effort to boost sales and stay afloat, Mattress Firm announced a partnership with online mattress company Purple in March 2019. This move was seen as a way for Mattress Firm to tap into the growing online mattress market and reach a younger, tech-savvy demographic.8. Mattress Firm partners with online mattress company to stay afloat
As part of its restructuring plan, Mattress Firm closed several stores in low-income areas, leading to accusations of discrimination. The company defended its decision, stating that the closures were based on financial performance and not demographics.9. Mattress Firm faces backlash for closing stores in low-income areas