Martin Gill, MD of Vispring, sits down with Big Furniture Group in an anniversary special.
The Vispring story began in 1899 where James Marshall, a British engineer living in Canada, crafted the world’s first pocket-spring mattress to bring comfort to his wife during a period of illness. Two years later, that innovation arrived in the UK and Vispring was born. By 1912, Vispring mattresses were aboard the RMS Titanic, furnishing its First Class cabins.
Today, its philosophy has remained core for over a century with the business one of the only UK manufacturers to produce its own springs. Vispring products are built to last, backed by a 30-year guarantee and crafted using natural materials.
So, why is 2026 a landmark year for Vispring?
We’re marking our 125th anniversary throughout the year, not as a single moment, but as a thread woven through everything we do. We’ve already begun sharing our story across our key social channels and we have a number of significant milestones planned across the year, each chosen to honour our heritage while firmly looking forward.
Can you share some key moments?
Capturing 125 years of history in a few words is no easy task! There have, however, been several pivotal moments that have defined the brand’s direction, resilience and long-term success. Vispring has a rich heritage, its mattresses have graced the first-class cabins of legendary ocean liners, including The Titanic and Queen Elizabeth II, and can be found today in the suites of the world’s most prestigious hotels, such as London’s The Dorchester as well as the Beverly Hills Hotel, Park Hotel Vitznau and Bvlgari Hotel in Beijing.
We recently received the King’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade Category and I had the honour of accepting the Award on behalf of Vispring from His Majesty the King at Windsor Castle.
What makes Vispring truly special, however, is not just our history, but our people. Every Vispring mattress is still handcrafted in our Plymouth workshop by skilled artisans whose knowledge and expertise have been passed down through generations. The result is a rare balance of precision and artistry – products designed not only to endure, but to become better with time. At its core, Vispring is more than a brand; it is a community built on care, craftsmanship and pride in doing things the right way.
How has business been over the last 12 months?
The broader market has undoubtedly faced headwinds over the past few years, shifting consumer confidence and a challenging retail landscape have tested many businesses across our sector. And yet, the ultra-luxury segment has demonstrated a notable resilience, and Vispring has been no exception.
As we enter our 125th anniversary year, we do so from a position of strength. Our strategy has been consistent: remain true to our core values, continue to invest in the brand, in our people and in our product, and resist the temptation to chase short-term gain at the expense of long-term integrity. That discipline has served us well.
What we are seeing is that consumers at the top end of the market are not stepping back, they are becoming more discerning. They are buying with greater intention, seeking brands with genuine provenance, transparent practices and an uncompromising commitment to quality. That is precisely the space Vispring has occupied for 125 years, and it is why we remain confident in both our position and our trajectory.
What plans are in place for the year ahead?
2026 is a significant year for Vispring, and our business strategy reflects that. We begin at Salone del Mobile in Milan this April, where we will present a new line of Luxe fabrics, an expanded product offering, and a designer collaboration that has been in development for some time, one that speaks directly to Vispring’s heritage, craft credentials and design authority.
Beyond Milan, we are the official bed partner at WOW!House at the Design Centre Chelsea Harbour, bringing us directly in front of the design community. We will close the year with the publication of a new coffee table book, a considered piece of brand storytelling that marks our 125th anniversary with the depth it deserves.
Each of these moments forms part of a broader strategy to deepen Vispring’s cultural relevance and ensure that, as we enter our next chapter, we do so with real momentum.
What would you say is trending in the industry?
Luxury has always been about touch. And the industry is finally catching up. In an increasingly digital world, the pendulum is swinging back to physical experience – today’s luxury consumer doesn’t just want to buy, they want to feel a brand; its craft, its values, its world. The brands investing in exceptional in-store environments are the ones building lasting loyalty.
For Vispring, 2025 reflected exactly that shift. Alongside a new website and comprehensive brand refresh, we significantly expanded our global showroom footprint – opening new spaces across the U.S., Milan and the UK. In 2026, that momentum continues, with further openings planned across Asia, the U.S. and other key global markets.
How does it feel to reach such an amazing milestone?
It’s a moment of real pride for me personally, and one that belongs to far more than just the brand. It belongs to the global community of people who have shaped Vispring over the years – our craftspeople, colleagues, suppliers, retail partners, and, of course, our customers who welcome Vispring into their homes.
