Bed and mattress manufacturer Steinhoff UK Beds has appointed Richard Naylor as design and development director to drive new product innovation at its manufacturing sites in Huntingdon and Wellington.
Richard brings over 15 years of experience within the furniture and bedding industry, and his full board appointment signals Steinhoff’s intention to cement its position as the UK’s leading bed manufacturer.
Richard’s appointment preceded that of Helen Weaver, who has joined the group's marketing team to enhance the presentation of its five bed brands – Dunlopillo, Relyon, Staples, Slumberland and Mayer's – across all consumer and trade customer touch points. Helen has a wealth of experience in the bedding industry gained with the Silentnight Group and latterly at Harrison Spinks.
"We had identified the need for a senior figure within the business to drive innovation and design across all the brands, and Richard's expertise fitted the profile we were looking for. He will be a great addition to the board and will help realise the potential for the future of our business," says Andy Murdoch, MD of UK manufacturing.
"There is no sense in having a fantastic product portfolio without taking those stories to market. Our customers, whether it be the end consumer or our base of loyal retailers, are all thirsty for information presented in innovative ways. Helen has great ideas and a vast amount of experience in working with a multi-brand portfolio and will be a great asset to the business going forwards."
Steinhoff UK Beds has ambitions to relaunch four of its five brands over the next 12 months, with the Dunlopillo Signature Collection first in line. Imminently, plans will be unveiled for British brands Staples, Slumberland and Myer's.
