It’s that time of the year again, the ramp up to changing our clocks forward an hour for Daylight Savings Time.
I love spring, but the leap forward in time is always the trickier of the two time changes for me. For the dog, not so much, as I think he has remained steady on the time we’re set to return to. Who knows? It could work in my favor.
Either way, sleep is top of mind this week as we march toward the change, and a recent Gallup poll tells us that Americans are not getting enough sleep. According to the poll, 57% of Americans say they don’t get sufficient sleep, and only 26% managing the recommended eight hours per night.
More women than men say they don’t get enough shut eye, and they report higher stress levels, too.
For sleep retailers, these insights present a unique opportunity to address consumer needs by promoting products and services that enhance sleep quality. Here are a few thoughts to consider as you welcome a sleep-deprived customer into your store.
Understand the sleep-stress connection: The Gallup poll indicates a correlation between insufficient sleep and elevated stress. Individuals who feel they need more sleep are more likely to experience frequent stress. This relationship suggests that improving sleep quality could be a key strategy in stress reduction.
Mattress retailers can play a pivotal role by educating consumers on how quality sleep products can mitigate stress and enhance overall well-being.
Tailor solutions for women under 50: Women under 50 are disproportionately affected by sleep deprivation and stress, according to the survey. Retailers can cater to this demographic by offering products designed to address their specific needs.
For instance, mattresses with advanced temperature regulation can alleviate discomfort from night sweats associated with hormonal changes. Additionally, adjustable beds can provide customizable support, accommodating various sleep positions and reducing physical discomfort.
Keep in mind that consumers put off buying a new mattress until their current one is no longer helping them sleep. Consumers have been out of the market for eight, 10 or even more years, and some of these technologies are brand new to them. Take the time to educate them on what the new products can deliver.
Leverage technology and innovation: Incorporating technology into product lines can appeal to tech-savvy consumers seeking innovative sleep solutions. Smart mattresses equipped with sleep tracking capabilities can provide users with insights into their sleep patterns, enabling them to make adjustments for improved rest. Offering products compatible with smart home systems, such as adjustable bases controllable via smartphone apps, can also enhance the sleep experience.
Again, these are all new technologies that weren’t mainstream in the marketplace a decade or so ago.
Create a stress-free shopping experience: Recognize that the purchasing process itself can be a source of stress and strive to create a seamless and supportive shopping environment. This can include risk-free trial periods and financing options to alleviate financial concerns.
Well-trained staff who can provide personalized recommendations based on individual sleep needs can further enhance the customer experience.
Build market strategies with consumer insights: The findings of the Gallup sleep poll underscore a growing public health concern that retailers are uniquely positioned to address. By offering tailored products, educational resources and a supportive purchasing environment, retailers can meet the evolving needs of consumers. Embracing a proactive approach can enhance business outcomes, but also contribute positively to the well-being of the community.
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