Shoppers should look local during IKEA mattress shortage says Inverness-based Highland BlindCraft chief Heather McDonald
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With a mattress shortage hitting the nation the head of Highland BlindCraft is urging shoppers to look to local manufacturers in the UK to help them get a good night’s sleep.
Heather McDonald, Inverness-based Highland BlindCraft's executive manager, made the statement following the news that IKEA stores across the country are finding their mattress stocks depleted – with no immediate signs of recovery.
She said: “Sleep plays a huge role in looking after our physical and mental wellbeing. Finding the perfect mattress, that will allow you to get the 40 winks you need, is really important – especially with all the extra stresses we have been facing over the last two years.
“Shoppers who have purchased an IKEA bed, however, may find themselves struggling to source a mattress elsewhere due to the retailer’s non-standard sizing. In cases like this, local manufacturers often have the ability to create items in bespoke sizes.
“For over a century, Highland BlindCraft has been hand making mattresses in our factory in Inverness – and we can make them to order in any size required. Our team is ready and waiting to help anyone out there struggling to find the mattress of their dreams.”
For 140 years, Highland BlindCraft has been producing high quality mattresses and divans from its factory and showroom in the Highlands. Each item is produced by hand by a team of skilled craftspeople – all of whom are living with visual impairments or other disabilities – providing training and jobs to the local community.
Mrs McDonald said: “As we continue to work towards post-pandemic economic recovery, supporting small businesses throughout the UK has become more important than ever. These companies are the backbone of our country, providing a wealth of training and employment opportunities to people from all walks of life.
“By shopping locally, you are not only helping to secure employment in the UK; you also have the added bonus of access to a high level of craftsmanship, often at more affordable prices.”
Founded in 1881, Highland BlindCraft is a manufacturer and retailer of high quality mattresses and divans, with all items handmade in its factory in Inverness. As the only organisation of its kind in the Scottish Highlands, the company provides training and employment to individuals living with visual impairments and other disabilities.
