Woburn, Massachusetts-based bedding manufacturer and licensing group Spring Air International convened its fifth annual North American licensee summit in Boston to preview new products, promotions and plans for the brand’s 100th anniversary, which will be celebrated throughout 2026.
According to a news release, more than 30 attendees participated in 17 sessions covering a range of topics, including the launch of a new accessories program; enhancements and introductions to new and existing sub-brands; digital marketing; promotions; and the growth of its hospitality business.
The Winter Las Vegas Furniture Market in January will kick off Spring Air’s centennial anniversary. Attendees were briefed on plans for special promotions and products that will be roll out throughout 2026, the news release said.
“What always makes our meetings so exciting is the engagement our licensees have in working together to make Spring Air so successful. Each of our factories are run by independent, experienced businesspeople. But when you put them in a room together for an intensive day of work, something special and unique in our industry happens — the collaboration is electric,” said Spring Air International President Nick Bates. “Next year is going to be very exciting for us and we have big plans for our customers to benefit from the celebration. Not many brands reach the 100-year milestone with the strong tailwind propelling our success.”
Bates said that since its founding in 1926, Spring Air has brought quality, luxury, comfort, and innovation to the mattress industry through well-known sub-brands like Back Supporter, Four Seasons, Nature’s Rest and Chattam & Wells.
“Our brand has contributed so much to the industry over the past century and for many retailers and customers is viewed as offering more value at every price point than other major brands,” Bates said. “But we will be introducing many new dynamic initiatives in Las Vegas that will take the brand forward for the next several decades.”
Bates’ enthusiasm was shared by many summit participants.
“This meeting was exceptional. I have been in the industry for a long time, but I have never experienced the best practices and knowledge sharing that goes on here. It is at a very high level and very impressive to be a part of,” said John Larsen, CEO of Sound Sleep in Seattle, Washington, Spring Air’s newest licensee.
Jan Wettergren, CEO of Hialeah, Florida-based Biscayne Bedding, echoed that sentiment. “The quality of the people in the room is remarkable. I’ve been a part of a lot of groups, but the amount of experience here is enormous,” he said. “I am very impressed with the new products I am seeing, particularly the new accessories. Nick and his team work really well with all the licensees and contribute to making our businesses stronger.”
Longtime licensees also emphasized the value of the summit.. Ken Clapp, owner of Grand Rapids Bedding in Michigan, said his company has been a licensee since its launch in 1926.
“These meetings are absolutely critical. We strategically plan as a group, sharing and enhancing ideas to make us all better operators. Working together we share common business goals,” Clapp said. “Nick is very collaborative, and his leadership is what Spring Air needs to be successful for the next 100 years.”
