Scott Birnie, Director of Banff-based independent bed retailer The Good Sleep Company, talks about expanding its store space, the need for better balance and future own label plans.
Meet Scott
I’m the Director of The Good Sleep Company – but also do a bit of everything, from sales, buying, loading and unloading deliveries. I basically try to be a jack of all trades and I love my job.
Recent investments?
Our most recent investment has been to move to a new property along the street from our old home. The entire space needed renovation and has new lights, carpets and decor installed.
It’s allowed us to get more furniture in and to display things better. It’s enabled us to have things like a dedicated adjustable bed department and a better bedding offering as well.
We also have dining tables, chairs and sofas, and it’ll also give us more flexibility to try different things in the future as well.
Future plans?
We plan to incorporate a bigger focus on growing our own brand mattress labels.
What is your mission?
Our mission is to establish ourselves as a one-stop-shop for home furnishings.
On sustainability, what is your business doing on this topic?
We recycle as much as possible and as part of our recent renovation we installed low energy LED lights.
How has recent business been? What trends are you noticing?
Business has been challenging, as always, but challenging times keep you on your toes and alert to good deals to pass on to your customers.
What would you change in the industry?
There seems to sometimes be an imbalance with customer service from a public viewpoint. It can be frustrating that, as a retailer, we are never far from the threat of a bad review. However, if a supplier lets us down, we have to take full accountability. It would be great to see more accountability from suppliers to help us retailers when customer service issues arise that are out of our control. We always strive to help our customers and engage with suppliers as best we can and serve as a bridge if an issue ever surfaces.
I would also change the public’s perception that buying from the multiples is better than choosing an independent when a local furniture store can normally offer quicker lead times, better service, lower prices and greater flexibility of choice.
What challenges do you currently face and how are you overcoming these?
Definitely fixed costs! The move to own brand mattresses and away from the big brands has allowed us to increase our margins without compromising on quality.
Do you have any staff you would like to pay special thanks or recognition to and why?
Gordon Macfarlane is my all-round hero who has been here since day one! Delivery driver, solver of problems and ‘work dad’, I’d be lost without him. However, my whole team is fantastic and we wouldn’t be here without them.
Why do you think customers choose your business?
At The Good Sleep Company, we believe that a great day starts with a great night’s sleep. That’s why we offer a carefully curated selection of high-quality mattresses designed to suit every sleeper’s needs.
We’re knowledgeable, competitive and we support the local community whenever we can.
