Sleep Retailer Is Shuttering Its Print And Digital Operations

Furniture World News Desk on 7/22/2022

After nearly three decades of covering the bedding and mattress industry, Sleep Retailer has announced that it is shuttering both its print publication and digital outlets. The long-standing B2B publication has helped bedding and mattress retailers succeed by providing in-depth insights, news and product updates for 27 years. 

Founded in 1995, Sleep Retailer was first known to the industry as Bedroom Magazine. Chris Schriever acquired the publication in 2008, bringing with him extensive professional marketing experience in the healthcare, life sciences and real estate industries. Leveraging this expertise, he successfully revived the legacy publication’s stagnating advertising program and set the stage for continued growth in the years to come. 

In 2012, Gretchen Kast joined the team as Managing Editor, taking a dedicated and thoughtful approach to the publication’s editorial direction. In addition to spearheading the rebrand to Sleep Retailer, she expanded the magazine’s digital presence, enhanced its popular cover story program and developed a range of new content opportunities including weekly email newsletters and podcasts. Elaina Hundley came on board as Marketing Manager in 2017, bringing added creativity to the publication’s marketing partnerships and programs.

Under their leadership, Sleep Retailer grew to be a dynamic resource for the ever-changing retail market. Today, the publication continues to be both popular and profitable—with a readership of more than 13,180 retailers, 3,475+ opt-in digital subscribers and newsletter open rates of nearly 30%. 

“Throughout the tenure of Sleep Retailer, I have always been proud to do things a little differently,” said Chris Schriever, owner and publisher. “Being industry outsiders allowed us to look at the inner-workings of the sleep industry perhaps more critically. This presented us with an opportunity to spotlight more unique products, talk about different aspects of the business and evaluate everything from a consumer's perspective. In some ways, it feels like our experience was mirrored within the industry itself, as we’ve watched newcomers shake up the status quo and legacy brands start looking for inspiration in unexpected places.” 

“Though we may be stepping away from our place in the bedding industry, we are excited to see how it will continue to grow and change,” Schriever continued. “I will always be grateful for our time in this great space, the amazing people we’ve met, as well as the continued kindness, appreciation and loyalty shown by so many.”

The summer 2022 issue of Sleep Retailer will be its last. The publication’s website and email newsletters will continue to be updated through August.
 
For more information, visit sleepretailer.com.