In 2023, the mattress market experienced a setback due to economic uncertainties, inflation, and rising costs. Mattress sales are also expected to continue stagnating in 2024. Between 2023 and 2027, Interconnection Consulting anticipates a slight increase in sales figures of 0.7% per year in the markets analyzed.

In 2023, EU countries faced rising inflation, high interest rates, and an economic downturn, which were further exacerbated by high energy prices stemming from the ongoing crisis between Russia and Ukraine. These factors led to a 3.2% decline in mattress sales in Europe. The furniture industry, particularly the bedroom segment, continues to suffer from weak consumer demand and rising raw material costs.

Additionally, the market has been indirectly affected by a decline in the new construction sector, as there is a correlation between new construction projects and increased demand for furnishings, including mattresses. Although the hotel industry is showing signs of recovery, it is not enough to offset the broader decline caused by economic uncertainty and inflation. Nevertheless, the European mattress market is expected to record minimal growth until 2027, with an average annual growth rate of 0.7%, corresponding to total sales of 48.1 million units. Sales in the markets surveyed are projected to increase by 3.3% per year to just under €12 billion by 2027.

The strongest annual growth rates—2.0% and slightly above—are expected in Switzerland, Poland, and the United Kingdom. Conversely, sales figures in Turkey, Sweden, and Spain are expected to decline by 2027.

Other major markets, such as France, Germany, and Italy, are expected to grow at an average annual rate of 0.5% to 0.7%, compared to the rest of Europe. Positive factors for future growth include improved economic conditions, the recovery of the tourism sector, and growing demand for orthopedic and environmentally friendly options.

Country-Specific Preferences

The mattress market has changed considerably in recent years, influenced by shifting consumer preferences and economic factors. Spring mattresses remain the dominant segment, holding a market share of around 50%. They are followed by foam mattresses with 31.1% and latex mattresses with 12.7%.

Latex mattresses have established themselves as the preferred choice in countries such as France and Sweden, where they are valued for their comfort and sustainability. In Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, foam mattresses dominate the market. Consumer preferences are increasingly shifting towards eco-friendly, smaller, and more affordable mattresses, explains Katarina Kotlarova, the author of the study.

Overall, the market share of orthopedic and medical mattresses is growing strongly and currently stands at 42.7% across Europe. The most important customer segment is the private residential sector, which accounts for around 70% of total sales. Hotels make up just under a quarter of total sales.

Competitive Landscape

The market is dominated by various players. This highly competitive environment requires manufacturers to remain adaptable and innovative in order to meet changing consumer demands. Consequently, many companies are forced to file for bankruptcy due to a lack of economic prospects.

“As the industry adapts to these changes, understanding market dynamics and customer preferences will be critical for companies looking to gain market share and succeed in this evolving environment,” concludes Kotlarova.

The study examined the following markets: Austria, Benelux, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Poland, Hungary, Romania, Sweden, Turkey, and the United Kingdom.

21/11/2024

Copyright: Interconnection, Publication free of charge for coverage regarding the study and InterConnection Consulting.