In propelling the mattress industry forward in India, the government assumes a multifaceted role, wielding influence through strategic interventions and foresighted policies. Recognizing the burgeoning potential in sectors like education, healthcare, hostels, hospitals, and hotels, the government can significantly impact the trajectory of the mattress industry.
One pivotal area where government involvement is trying and can make more difference is in recognizing and supporting the specific needs of mattresses in hostels, hospitals, hotels and circular journey of mattresses.
As the education and healthcare sectors witness substantial growth, the demand for mattresses tailored to these environments becomes increasingly pronounced. Government initiatives that facilitate dialogue between industry stakeholders and provide targeted support can catalyse innovation and market expansion.
Aligned with its mission to foster self-reliance, the government is not only targeting a reduction in foam imports but also eyeing other sectors, including rail wheels.
Make in Bharat initiative
The “Make in Bharat” initiative orchestrated by the Indian government takes centre stage, casting a transformative spell over diverse industries, including the nuanced realm of mattress manufacturing. Unveiled in 2014, this visionary campaign endeavours to weave India into the global manufacturing tapestry, threading together self-reliance, innovation, and international competitiveness.
Apparently, at the heart of “Make in Bharat” lies a resolute call for domestic prowess in manufacturing, a resonating echo in the mattress industry. The allure of indigenous production is not just an economic strategy but a bold assertion of self-sufficiency, diminishing reliance on imports and bolstering the homegrown mattress manufacturing landscape.
In a significant development, the government has unveiled plans to launch Vande Bharat sleeper trains in the coming year reflects a forwardthinking approach. The pivotal aspect of the government’s involvement is manifested in its commitment to bolstering infrastructure and advancing transportation initiatives.
In addition to that, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) becomes the whispered melody in this economic sonnet, drawing international partners into a dance of collaboration within the mattress industry. Technological tango and knowledge waltz find expression as global investments foster innovation, propelling the sector toward modernization and heightened global relevance. “Make in Bharat” is a grand overture, and the mattress industry is not a mere player but a virtuoso in this economic concerto. Through this initiative, the government is not just encouraging production but composing a narrative where the Indian mattress industry resonates globally. Sustainability emerges as a guiding light, a conscious refrain in this economic symphony. The initiative encourages the mattress industry to embrace eco-friendly practices, aligning production methods with global environmental sensibilities. The result is not just a mattress but a testament to responsible manufacturing, an offering that echoes the ethos of a sustainable future,” Dr. Chandra Prakash Tripathi, Professor of Economics, Allahabad University
Bedding Standardization in Diverse Hospitality Sectors
Stats speak that, over the past 4-5 years, a notable transformation has been underway, ushering in a new era where the emphasis on bedding comfort and the quality sleep experience has taken centre stage. This shift in paradigm is palpable as small boutique service apartments witness a surge, and hotel proprietors display a keen interest in investing in top-tier bedding.
This trend is underscored by the heightened awareness among guests, who now seek not just accommodation but a sanctuary where the mattress plays a pivotal role in their overall satisfaction and well-being.
Simultaneously, the growing sectors of education and healthcare amplify the potential for mattresses in establishments such as hostels, hospitals, and hotels. As these sectors burgeon, a pressing question emerges: is there a need for standardization among them? The intricate balance between evolving consumer preferences and the unique requirements of each segment necessitates a nuanced approach. The critical role mattresses play in hospitality settings, coupled with the increasing demand for environmentally friendly, sustainable, and health-conscious products, suggests a potential avenue for standardization. Aligning the right mattress selection with the evolving expectations of guests becomes paramount, contributing not only to individual satisfaction but also enhancing the overall brand experience for hotels.
The growing sectors of education and healthcare amplify the potential for mattresses in establishments such as hostels, hospitals, and hotels. As these sectors burgeon, a pressing question emerges: is there a need for standardization?
With the synergy of trends and opportunities, the call for standardization reverberates, presenting an avenue for the mattress industry to navigate the diverse landscape of hostels, hospitals, and hotels. The convergence of comfort, sustainability, and well-being in bedding becomes a common thread that stitches together the varied segments, underscoring the need for a unified approach to meeting the evolving demands of a dynamic and discerning consumer base.
Hostel mattresses should balance durability with comfort and easy maintenance. Hospital mattresses require specialized features to meet medical standards and ensure patient well-being. Hotel mattresses, on the other hand, focus on providing a luxurious and personalized sleep experience for discerning guests. Understanding these nuanced requirements is essential for mattress manufacturers to meet the diverse needs of hostels, hospitals, and hotels effectively. Notably, the pandemic has heightened guests’ preferences for quality bedding, emphasizing their inclination towards establishments that boast high-quality beds and mattresses. The discerning eye now seeks out hotels with bedding upholstered in healthier ticking or damasks, reflecting a conscientious choice that aligns with the contemporary focus on hygiene and cleanliness.
However, the situation in government hostels is different. The government calls for tenders once in several years for mattress replacements in hostels. The lowest bidder gets the opportunity to supply mattress to government hostels. Speaking to Comfort Times, an official from the social welfare department of Karnataka says that it is very rare that the government thinks about comfort and durability when they buy mattresses. “Governments work on the rule book. We cannot buy mattresses directly from the market. We do call for tenders for mattress supplies. Such tender calls will happen once in 5 or 6 years. The lowest bidder will get the order.”
We have specifications for mattress procurement. Like size, thickness, and other parameters. The tender is open to all companies. Those who participate and the best price and meet the requirement will be allotted the tender, he adds.
Meanwhile, Usman Khwaja- a warden from a minority hostel in Bangalore says that they do not get any support from the government for buying mattresses for the hostel. “We buy on our own. We get 3 quotes from the market and the best quotation will get the order,” he says.
Meanwhile, Government Hospitals do get support from the Health ministry. “There will be a certain budget allotted to hospital equipment and essential requirements. Mattresses play a very important role in patient recovery. Government hospitals procure comfortable and durable mattresses regularly. Also, old mattresses will be destroyed regularly”, says Dr Manjunath from the government hospital in Karnataka. Further, he says that the hospitals usually procure standard size of mattresses.
A hospitality mattress, tailored for hotels, is meticulously crafted to fulfil the distinct requirements of the lodging sector. Engineered to offer comfort, support, longevity, and cleanliness, these mattresses accommodate the diverse needs of hotel patrons.
The current trajectory of the hotel mattress market is optimistic, and poised for substantial expansion in the forthcoming years. Factors propelling this growth encompass the burgeoning tourism and hospitality sectors worldwide, the uptick in individuals’ disposable incomes, and a heightened awareness among hotel proprietors regarding the significance of delivering a superior sleep experience to guests.
Furthermore, with continuous advancements in mattress technology like memory foam and hybrid constructions, hoteliers are presented with a plethora of choices to cater to their guests’ varied preferences. These innovations in mattress design and materials not only enhance sleep quality but also mitigate motion transfer and offer improved temperature regulation, augmenting the overall comfort of hotel patrons.
According to Reliable Research Report, emerging trends in the global mattress for hotel market include the increasing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable products, as hotels aim to attract environmentally conscious guests. Another trend is the growing popularity of smart mattresses that incorporate technology to enhance comfort and personalize sleep experiences. Additionally, there is a rising preference for mattresses that offer cooling properties, as guests seek a refreshing and comfortable sleep environment. Furthermore, hotels are recognizing the importance of a good night’s sleep and are investing in high-quality mattresses that prioritize comfort and support. Overall, the global mattress for hotel market is witnessing a shift towards innovation and sustainability to meet the evolving demands of modern travellers.
Where Government can support mattress industry
Governments can play a role in the circular journey of mattresses. Since Sustainability is very important, EOC (end-of-cycle) mattresses pose major environmental issues. It is almost ironic. Something that endows ‘sweet dreams’ sleep for years could become a nightmare for the planet in its last stages. However, sustainable solutions to this problem have been in experimentation for more than a decade now and are gaining serious attention from many governments.
With almost 75 percent of mattresses being collected and recycled, the Netherlands is spearheading the recycling revolution not just in the EU but on a global scale. Similarly, the UK government recycle 20% of mattresses it sells every year.
Meanwhile, Australia discards 1.8 million mattresses annually, of which surprisingly enough 60 percent are collected by a recycling facility. Soft Landing, a national social enterprise operating in Victoria, Western Australia, ACT, and NSW, is a household name by now. Besides offering collecting and recycling services at minimal costs, they also have a wide network of drop-off locations. Many government-backed databases and organisations like the Australian Bedding Stewardship Council (ABSC) are working relentlessly to optimise the processes.
Governments can play a role in the circular journey of mattresses. Since Sustainability is very important, EOC (end-of-cycle) mattresses pose major environmental issues. It is almost ironic. Something that endows ‘sweet dreams’ sleep for years could become a nightmare for the planet in its last stages. However, sustainable solutions to this problem have been in experimentation for more than a decade now and are gaining serious attention from many governments.
With almost 75 percent of mattresses being collected and recycled, the Netherlands is spearheading the recycling revolution not just in the EU but on a global scale. Similarly, the UK government recycle 20% of mattresses it sells every year.
Meanwhile, Australia discards 1.8 million mattresses annually, of which surprisingly enough 60 percent are collected by a recycling facility. Soft Landing, a national social enterprise operating in Victoria, Western Australia, ACT, and NSW, is a household name by now. Besides offering collecting and recycling services at minimal costs, they also have a wide network of drop-off locations. Many government-backed databases and organisations like the Australian Bedding Stewardship Council (ABSC) are working relentlessly to optimise the processes.
“India should consider implementing a new initiative focused on mattress recycling. Currently, there are no government policies or guidelines to inform consumers about mattress recycling. As a result, most consumers are unaware of the sustainability efforts being made by the mattress industry. Despite this, ISPF along with the industry, is actively working to unite consumers, retailers, and manufacturers in a circular approach to mattress lifecycle management. ISPF has introduced this initiative in several Indian cities. Government involvement in this initiative would greatly enhance its effectiveness and reach, says S Sundaresan, Secretary, ISPF.
Governments can play a role in circular journey of mattress. Since Sustainability is very important, EOC (end-of-cycle) mattresses pose major environmental issues. It is almost ironic. Something that endows ‘sweet dreams’ sleep for years could become a nightmare for the planet in its last stages
Amidst this alarming environmental situation, the world is waking up to the pressing need for mattress recycling as a crucial step towards sustainability. The reasons for these unusual developments aren’t hard to decipher. Global warming has ceased to be a topic only subjected to yearly reports by national agencies. It is a phenomenon that keeps on becoming more real every day, with its consequences being felt more viciously by all the countries now. But better late than never. Elevating awareness and a solution-based approach is gaining momentum amongst all industry stakeholders.