Susan Kemp, co-owner of Sloom, an online-only bed company that sells South Africa’s first and only modular mattress, shares the inspiration behind starting Sloom and offers her advice for choosing the ideal bed.
What inspired you to start Sloom, and how did you identify the need for an online-exclusive sleep brand?
Sloom was founded in 2016 with the goal of simplifying the mattress-buying experience, which was often seen as overwhelming and frustrating due to high-pressure sales tactics and confusing options. By adopting a direct-to-consumer model, Sloom eliminated the need for physical stores, allowing customers to purchase mattresses online and try the different options in the comfort of their own homes. This approach not only reduced costs but also provided a more convenient and transparent shopping experience. The inspiration behind Sloom was to create a brand that offers high-quality, customisable mattresses while removing the complexities associated with traditional mattress shopping.
Can you walk us through your design process for creating the perfect sleep products? What key factors do you consider to ensure quality and comfort?
The design process at Sloom is centred around innovation, quality, and personalisation. The Sloom mattress, for instance, is South Africa’s first and only modular mattress, allowing users to adjust the firmness by rearranging the foam layers to their preference. Key factors considered during the design process include the quality of materials, user comfort, and the longevity of the product. Sloom uses pure, high-density foams without fillers, ensuring durability and support. The modular design not only allows for easy customisation but also helps in addressing various sleep needs, such as back support and pressure relief.
How has your personal approach to sleep and wellness influenced the products and brand philosophy of Sloom?
Sloom’s approach to sleep and wellness is deeply influenced by the belief that quality sleep is essential to overall well-being. This philosophy drives the brand’s commitment to offering products that promote a healthy sleep environment. The brand’s customisable mattresses and pillows reflect a personal understanding of how individual sleep preferences and health needs can vary, making flexibility and personalisation central to Sloom’s offerings. Additionally, Sloom’s products are designed with durability and sustainability in mind, ensuring they contribute positively to both the user’s health and the environment.
What challenges did you face when launching Sloom, and how did you overcome them to build a successful online business?
Launching Sloom as an online-exclusive brand presented challenges, particularly in building consumer trust without the traditional in-store experience. Overcoming this involved offering a 100-night trial, allowing customers to test the mattress in their own homes with the assurance of a full refund if unsatisfied. Another challenge was ensuring product quality while maintaining competitive pricing, which was addressed by partnering with experienced local manufacturers and focusing on direct-to-consumer sales. This approach not only reduced costs but also allowed for better quality control and customer service.
What tips would you offer to someone in the market for a new bed?
When shopping for a new bed, consider your personal comfort preferences, such as firmness and support. It’s also important to evaluate the quality of the materials used in the mattress, as this will affect its durability and comfort over time. If you’re unsure of what firmness level is right for you, a customisable mattress like Sloom’s, which allows you to adjust the firmness at home, could be an excellent option. Finally, take advantage of trial periods offered by online brands, as this allows you to test the mattress in your home environment to ensure it meets your needs.
Looking ahead, what are your future goals for Sloom, and are there any new innovations or product lines that you’re particularly excited about?
Sloom’s future goals include expanding its product line to offer more comprehensive sleep solutions, potentially incorporating advanced materials and technologies that further enhance sleep quality. The brand is also focused on sustainability, exploring eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes to minimise its environmental impact. Additionally, Sloom is excited about the potential to expand its presence both within South Africa and internationally, bringing its innovative sleep products to a broader audience.
Visit https://sloom.co.za
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