1. Introduction
The bedding that we sleep on plays an important role in the quality of our sleep. Being on a mattress with an inadequate firmness level for a long period of time can result in lower back pain as well as causing other painful pressure points. It is also important that the mattress has adequate size. Mattresses which are too small will be sharing with a partner, will require them to be in close physical contact as they must squeeze into a smaller space. This close physical contact might cause discomfort and affect their quality of sleep. Based our literature review, size is an important factor consumers take into account when buying mattresses. Hence consumers would be inclined to purchase China size mattress due to the larger variety of options available.
It is essential for adults to have at least seven hours of soundf sleep in order for them to get up feeling refreshed and ready to take on their day. Adults who are well rested are also at a much lower risk of both mental and physical health problems which will in turn reduce the burden on the demand for medical resources. This also means that adults can have an increased level of productivity as they will be more mentally alert. Despite this fact, many adults have poor sleeping habits due to poor bedding choices.
1.1. Background and Significance
Based on the stiffness measurement results, our analysis showed that the overall stiffness of the parkverbot 011 CSM was softer than that of small single mattresses that support dual-firmness stiffness design, and this overall difference was mainly reflected in the stiffness distributions of the contour section. The linings of parkverbot 011 CSM were the most rigid factor for the overall significant difference in the specific contour stiffness distribution. The study found that rigorous testing provides empirical evidence debunking false performance accusations. With our significant findings, researchers and manufacturers or retailers can utilize this study’s takeaway to better form recommendations to the general public and parents.
The mattress is an essential component of contemporary sleep systems, with use in developing regions such as China growing in the past decade. As living standards improve in China, sleep comfort has become a topic of interest that is not only a luxury for some. Hence, this study aimed to carry out a comparative analysis of china size mattress in singapore (CSM) and dual-firmness small single mattresses, which is a special-sized mattress that was developed in an attempt to meet the needs of children aged seven to nine between twin mattresses and single mattresses. We selected parkverbot 011 mattresses available at one of Singapore’s online platforms as the representative CSM for our analysis. With the help of a three-year-old girl, stiffness testing was conducted for this mattress and a typical small single mattress using both the abstract and customized stiffness test procedures.
1.2. Research Objectives
The first objective of this project is to compare the biomechanical and comfort performance of Dual-firmness mattresses against China-sized mattresses for the elderly population in Singapore. The researcher is interested in investigating whether Dual-firmness mattresses can significantly reduce discomfort felt by the elderly and lead to improved quality of sleep and mood. The second aim of this study is to compare elderly back sleepers and elderly side sleepers in their biomechanical and comfort performance on selected mattresses. The findings of this part of the research will also contribute to design recommendations for mattresses. An identification of elderly sleepers’ specific requirements for mattresses may contribute to a mattress consumer market.
A survey conducted in Singapore indicates that 64% of the existing mattress users have poor sleep quality. Do consumers find the mattresses available unsatisfactory? What do they look for in new mattresses? Are the available mattresses in the market adequate in terms of fulfilling the expectations? Regardless of the source of mattress selection-related information, decisional processing which goes beyond recognition level does not occur. Thus, an extensive comparative study between two types of mattresses available in the market is warranted. This research focuses on comparing two types of mattresses, namely China size mattresses and Dual firmness mattress in the Singaporean market.
2. China Size Mattresses
Dual firmness China size mattresses are only available in selected brands with selected models. The prices differ by approximately SGD100. If the dual firmness evaluation of sleeping comfort yields similar ratings between single or dual firmness grades, then it can be surmised that there is a possibility that non-dual firmness models may yield higher ratings. However, only China size mattresses provide this single firmness or dual firmness model option. Single firmness models with one firmness level have been popular for many years, whereas dual firmness models are slowly gaining popularity in the Singaporean market. Therefore, this study aims to answer if there indeed is a tangible difference in sleeping comfort performances between China size dual firmness adjustable mattresses and single firmness adjustable models from two established brands.
China size mattresses are a unique variation of mattress sizes found in some East Asian countries (China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, and Malaysia). Unlike their European or American counterparts, the sizes are unique, both in mattress lengths and widths. The conventional Single, Super Single, Queen, and King size mattresses are slightly larger in length and width compared to the China sizes single, Super Single, Queen, and King. The size differences of mattresses available in the Singaporean market vary from the size specifications from 54 mm shorter, 25 mm narrower for the CRBS and KRCB but 68 mm longer and 134 mm narrower for the KLSB. Adult size mattresses are available in two variations, the single firmness design and dual firmness design.
2.1. Definition and Specifications
The definitions of CSM or China Size mattresses often come with negative connotations in Singapore as these owners believe that they are likely to sleep on a mattress which is of low-quality standard. This problem arises from the inconsistent perception towards a CSM flat. However, such sentiments cannot be conclusive unless there is further statistical evidence obtained from the various manufacturers who are producing such mattresses, i.e., in various locations. To justify and substantiate the claims, we have approached the big players, who are more prominent in the mattress industry, offering different bedding solutions.
The specification of CSM comprises of two Cs: China Size and a mattress, while the DFM specification comprises of Dual Firmness and a mattress. A CSM refers to a mattress with dimensions specifically designed to fit on China Size bed frames. However, being a regional standard, the exact dimensions may differ among bed frame manufacturers. Nevertheless, most bed frame manufacturers generally produce beds that are approximately 190 cm long and 180 cm wide. DFM refers to a mattress with two distinct firmness levels. It refers to mattresses specifically designed to cater to those with different sleeping desires and needs. Consumers who purchase a DFM mattress would benefit from selecting a fixed firmness that they enjoy and desire to get a good night’s sleep.
2.1. Definition and Specifications
In this section, we review the definitions and specifications of both CSM and DFM mattresses.
2.2. Advantages and Disadvantages
Dual firmness mattresses are beneficial in a shared bed or dual-purpose applications, such as an around bed mattress or a couch cushion, as it is divided into two distinct firmness layers with two different hardnesses on a mattress. However, the two sides of the few of the firmnesses sleeping sector are still divided. In other words, this mattress, if there is no distinct diversity between the individual body and one’s mate, can only be especially suitable for couples who do not have children. With further distribution throughout the sales of the best mattress size, the buyers’ decision-making process would be made more effective. Although a dual firmness mattress can be utilized as a cooling agent for a couple, it leaves space for defining the partners.
The advantage of the China size mattress is that it is 3.14 square ft larger than the Queen size mattress at the same price, resulting in a longer lifespan of deep growth which is beneficial for long-term sleep. Another advantage of the China size mattress is that the bigger size of the mattress allows the customer to move freely without disturbing the sleep of the partner. Since a China size mattress is 60 x 84in in size, which is 4in wider and taller than a Queen size mattress, for sleepers measuring 1.7m or taller, this mattress is perfect. The disadvantages of this mattress size include limited designs, low availability in Singapore because it may not require most of the brand owners to carry on stock in Singapore, and being inadequate when consumers buy fitted. Furthermore, the sales of this size in Singapore are more complicated and less effective on how they can be conveyed. There is no standard of superiority for the mattress from a specific provider.
3. Dual Firmness Mattresses
The Sealy Soybean Foam-Core Crib Mattress has a dual purpose of providing not just an infant but also a toddler with two sides to sleep on as they grow. It is designed with the soy-enhanced foam core with rounded corners and comes with square-cut edges. This CertiPUR-US Certified high-density foam offers secure support, while a high-density soy foam lifespan with a cotton cover and waterproof barrier confirms the baby can sleep comfortably and develop soundly. This mattress has been put through a Greenguard and an air quality program for children and school certification. It is made in the USA and tested for durability. Winix limits VOC emissions for safe air too. At 13lbs and with dimensions of 51.63×27.25×5.5, it will fit perfectly in a standard crib of the same size.
Déjà Vu Dual Firmness Infant/Toddler Foam Mattress is made in the USA. This foam mattress has an egg-carton design on one side, or infant side, providing an extra firm sleeping surface for your infant. The reverse toddler side of this mattress has been designed for the toddler’s growing body, providing a more comfortable sleeping surface. The Déjà Vu Dual Firmness Infant/Toddler Foam Mattress easily wipes clean with warm water and a mild soap. Tightly fitting sheets should be used. This mattress weighs about 4.5kg and comes with dimensions of about 115x58x15cm. It has been awarded the APMA seal of acceptance and might just be the mattress your little one is looking for. With a few different attractive features that it has over the China-made Dual Firmness mattresses, it should be a consideration when deciding which dual firmness mattress to purchase.
3.1. Definition and Features
It is very difficult to relate a topic with an industry, which is not known or seen by a customer. But when you think deeply about the topic, we come across several industries. The sleep, mattress (latex and spring), baby cot, comforters, bed sheets, bed concepts such as the dual firmness, mechanism of a rotatable mattress, and mechanism of a pillow-top mattress on the bedding sector are having technological evolution, fashionable, and striving to satisfy the market demand. These new ideas are directly related to the international standards-developing organization for a standard. With the increasing fashion, marketing, choice, competition, liberties in mattress, the standard is 1) costly, 2) may not meet all functions (and may not be desirable), 3) may only be satisfactory in a general way, and/or 4) may be replaced by standards specifying a particular type, category specification, or labeling.
During the course of our extensive market study of the Singaporean bedding retail market, we found a number of unique-sized mattresses apart from the regular single, super single, queen, and king-size mattresses. Two of these sizes stand out predominantly. One is the China-size mattress and the other is the dual firmness mattress. These mattresses are unique in their design and application and are non-standard to the regular or standard mattresses. We feel that both of these mattresses have unique ergonomic and design features compared to the standard size mattresses, which can provide different sleep experiences to the users.
Comparative analysis of China-size mattresses and dual firmness mattresses in the Singaporean market
3.2. Benefits and Limitations
The limitation of these two-piece mattresses is that they are not perfect for spine alignment. There are more complaints from less elastic mattress users waking up daily from poor sleep. When zipping up the two pieces of mattresses, the most noticeable disadvantage lies in the thickness variation or size reduction. The convincing result is that the two pieces used individually are thinner and smaller, while a couple sleeping together can easily roll over during sleep and unintentionally occupy a smaller mattress. This possibility of space restriction is particularly relevant for couples considering moving from queen-size to king-size.
An obvious advantage of China-size mattresses is that they are cheaper than conventional king-size mattresses. Indeed, one can purchase two pieces that are zipped together at relatively low prices. Another possible advantage is that such mattresses offer variations in tactile sensations to both users as they can choose different mattress surfaces for a low price. To illustrate, companies selling mattresses with different hardness can offer such mattresses to facilitate not only co-sleeping between a husband and a wife, but to attract people who possess the habit of lying in bed watching television, or who spend some economic time on the bed reading or doing some other work. Another possible advantage of purchasing China-size mattresses is that one can create dual side usage with slight hardness differences. The two mattress pieces can also be combined for families with newborn babies who require more comfortable sleeping surfaces for optimal sleep development. Families who are keen to move beds from room to room can also benefit.
4. Market Analysis
A market analysis results in interesting observations with respect to the place of origin of sellers of the mattresses, the firm size, and mattress material. With the objective of better understanding these variations in market shares, a qualitative research method that examines the Unique Selling Propositions (USPs) of sellers of China size mattresses is applied. The findings indicate that the popular channels of sales for China size mattresses comprise the warehousing model, the online model, the home factory model, and the showroom model. Data from the market analysis and interviews are then employed to compute and perform logistical regression analysis on the variables of popular channels. While theoretically this study is beneficial for both academia and industry, it also has some limitations.
In 2015, the H2O industry in Singapore was estimated to be worth S$26 million, constituting a significant local market for firms that produce mattresses. While H2O firms in Singapore offer mattresses featuring a variety of features, certain classifications of mattresses are observed to be noticeably less common. Specifically, both dual firmness mattresses and China size mattresses appear to be significantly underrepresented in the Singapore market. In response, this study aims to compare the popularity of China size mattresses and dual firmness mattresses through a comparative analysis of the availability of these types of mattresses from H2O firms that operate in Singapore.
4.1. Availability in Singapore
However, dual firmness mattresses are not easily available in the Singaporean market. Some market players offer customization services at an additional cost. The cost varies from $100.00 development fees to $200.00 additional charges. Factories take the order and make mattresses according to requirements, such as sizes, thickness, and firmness. There are a lot of other limitations on designs, cover, texture, quality, price, and chemicals in the foam. It is customized based purely on the available foam sheets in stock. Not all furniture shops in the industry are aware of dual firmness mattress standards.
Sleepwell.sg, the official European brand representation in Singapore, is a Europe Direct Representative. Sleepwell.sg supplies European products such as mattresses, pillows, beddings, and accessories in Singapore. They are authorized dealers for market leaders such as Sleepwell (Belgium), Nill Spring (Germany), Nill (Austria), Aquila (France), and other related products from Europe. European sizes with Belgium origin mattresses are available in different retail outlets such as Qoo10, lazada.sg, Bigbox, Robinson, Pramode Plaza, Laundry Mart, Bedlinen, and Sleepwell. Majority of China size mattresses are popular in local furniture shops or factory sales. Different industry stakeholder groups are already aware of housing demand and supply in the market. Various retailers are ready to keep China size mattresses.
4.1. Availability in Singapore
Comparative analysis of China size mattresses and dual firmness mattresses in the Singaporean market
4.2. Consumer Preferences
Now, concerning the level of information that consumers had about the product, a chi-square analysis was also performed. It was found that consumers who knew about the product before its launch were more interested in having the opportunity to buy it than those who were previously unaware of the product. Actually, the more informed just presented less interest because the group which stated that they knew the product well also had to do with the fact that the higher value consumers if compared with the other group (they searched the internet to find out about the product). Only 26% of the entire sample has already used a mattress before. However, through the contingency tables, it was only possible to ascertain that men tend to use mattresses more often.
The sample was thus divided artificially into two segregations in order for different preferences to be examined amongst various groups. Table 4.3 presents the demographic characteristics of consumers. The entire sample was asked what type of mattress they need. A chi-square analysis was performed between “Dual Firmness” or “China Size” consumers and the association knew a mattress well. Concerning the mattresses that they used, the analysis leads to the interpretation that the consumers who found the need for the November 2005 offered product earlier and appreciated the opportunity more.
5. Conclusion and Recommendations
To maintain their position, the domestic furniture cluster should introduce niche strategies and specialist production to carve out profitable shares of the mattress market, focusing on aspects such as quality control. Considering the Singaporean trend of consuming bulky but not expensive end-products, we also recommend that the domestic mattress should focus on the higher-end market. The downward-sloping trend of unit prices for the dual-firmness mattresses disproves the extended life cycle, and hence we advise that the industry should focus on its next product. To the Chinese investor, apart from entering the Singapore domestic market which offers lucrative returns, i.e. average annualized returns of approximately 89% for China experienced investors, increased cooperation tactics on domestic manufacturers can lead to long-term gain, especially if it invests in potential clusters of interest such as attenuated-absorptive Thin Cluster (OEM) and large size-nucleating Independent Cluster (Mattress Packaging).
This paper uses a comparative approach to assess the competitiveness of China-sized mattresses in the Singaporean market compared to their dual-firmness counterparts. Based on the Five-Forces framework and Porter’s Diamond, the presence of Chinese multinational corporations (MNCs) in the household durables industry suggests that they are faced with intense rivalry. However, in practice, the behavior of the MNCs shows that they attempt to carve out niche markets and partially cooperate with their domestic partners. Our econometric results show no significant differences between the three categories for the demand and supply influencing factors, hence signifying that there is fierce competition even between the China-sized and dual-firmness mattresses. The finding that China-sized mattresses have a cost advantage also supports the backward linkages present in specialized clusters (Mattress Packaging).
