Our History
The International Sleep Products Association was established in 1915 when the industry came together to face threats they couldn’t tackle on their own. It was time to work together in order to elevate the image of the industry and its products, fight for manufacturers’ common interests and disseminate vital information. Though our name has changed, our mission of advancing the interest of the sleep products industry has never waivered.
ISPA’s Journey Through Time
The First Mattress Meeting
Mattress manufacturers gather at the Great Northern Hotel in Chicago to find a way to work together. National Association of Mattress Manufacturers was formed, soon to be renamed National Association of Bedding Manufacturers.
Sleep Receives Its Due
Medical authorities recognize the importance of sleep. “… one cannot relax completely without a proper set of sleeping equipment, a good mattress and a good pillow…” wrote the editors of The National Bedding Manufacturer.
DC Office and Association Direction
The Association sets the primary goals of the new Washington, DC office.
“Do not remove this tag”
NAMB works with the FTC to crack down on companies that mislabeled components and construction methods or employed pricing schemes. The Association of Bedding Law Officials works with NABM to create a uniform law label for bedding that contains all new materials.
BedTimes First Published as Bedding Merchandiser
Industry renews public-relations efforts with bold marketing programs [Invest in Rest logo]. The Sleep Show rebrands as Better Bedding Time, an event to showcase manufacturers. NABM publishes Bedding Merchandiser for members to offer to retailers along with a sales kit. The publication name was later shortened to Bedding and then renamed BedTimes.
Water? In a Bed?
Waterbeds make waves as they enter the industry.
The Sealy Wars
The “Sealy wars” erupt.
Federal Flammability Standards
The federal mattress flammability standard (now known as the CFR Part 1632 cigarette flammability standard) goes into effect.
Open Flame Standard
Constance Newman, commissioner on the US Consumer Product Safety Commission tells the industry it should develop more expansive flammability guidelines “in advance of government intrusion”.
“Sleep Better, Live Better” Slogan Launched
Better Sleep Council launches with the slogan “Sleep Better, Live Better”
Sleep Better Month Debuts
The “May is Better Sleep Month” campaign launches.
From NABM to ISPA
The National Association of Bedding Manufacturers changes its name to the International Sleep Products Association (ISPA) to reflect the global nature of the industry.
Sleep Product Safety Council is Created
The Sleep Product Safety Council is created [SPSC] to advise the public of the risks associated with sleep products and to generate funds for the support of fire safety research and education.
Mattress Recycling Efforts
Recycling and mattress disposal efforts launch.
The First Woman Leads ISPA
Gigi Giersch of Restonic Carolinas becomes the first woman to lead the International Sleep Products Association’s Board as Chairwoman.
World Bedding Conference
The first World Bedding Conference is held.
First Issue of Sleep Savvy published
First issue of Sleep Savvy publishes for March/April, aimed at mattress sellers.
The First Supplier Serves as ISPA Board Chairman
Don Wright of Wright Global Graphics becomes the first supplier to serve as ISPA Board Chairman.
Mattress Recycling Council Founded
Mattress Recycling Council created.
