Matthew Randle, General Manager at independent bed retailer Dreamland Bedding Centre and sustainability guru, shares insight into his career so far, why retailers need to invest in their staff, his admiration for a fellow sustainability expert and the continued consumer shift towards natural products.
Let’s start with you. Can you share a bit about yourself and your background?
I have held management roles from an early age, having been entrusted with leadership responsibilities since 18. A commitment to ongoing education has complemented my professional journey. I returned to formal studies in my mid-20s and again in my mid-30s to refine my expertise across crucial business domains such as training and development, marketing, procurement, and finance. I hold an undergraduate degree in business enterprise, with a concentrated focus on marketing. I am pursuing a Level 7 apprenticeship in senior leadership and completing an MBA.
What is your current job role and key responsibilities?
I serve as the General Manager of Dreamland Bedding Centre, a position I have occupied since January of last year, though my tenure with the company spans nearly 14 years. In this capacity, I oversee the strategic direction of the business, which includes critical decision-making in procurement, financial strategy, and operational excellence. Moreover, I am deeply involved in shaping our marketing approach and fostering sustainable business practices. My role also encompasses enhancing customer satisfaction and cultivating a positive workplace culture, ensuring that all facets of the company operate harmoniously.
What do you love about your job?
The most fulfilling aspect of my role is the opportunity to influence and create a meaningful impact on multiple fronts. I take pride in offering staff opportunities for professional development, training, and volunteer work within the business, fostering personal and organisational growth. I also find great satisfaction in ensuring that customers are provided with products that meet their needs while upholding our ethical standards. Furthermore, my involvement in community programs allows me to bridge the business with the local community, contributing to social cohesion and corporate responsibility.
What time is your alarm clock set for?
I do not rely on an alarm clock — my 15-month-old daughter assumes that role! Mornings are invariably hectic, but despite the inevitable chaos, it’s a routine I wouldn’t change for the world.
Why did you choose to work in the furnishing industry?
My foray into the furnishings industry began quite serendipitously when I took on a part-time role as a sales assistant while completing my undergraduate degree. My parents required that I work if I wished to live at home, and a weekend sales position was available. Given my natural aptitude for interpersonal communication, I excelled in the role. Upon graduation, Mike, the owner of Dreamland, extended a competitive offer, and over the years, I have undertaken nearly every position within the company. This experience has provided me with an invaluable understanding of the intricacies of each department and the overall business.
Who do you most admire in the industry and why?
There are several esteemed figures within the industry whom I hold in high regard. Richard Naylor stands out as a paragon of sustainability expertise; his depth of knowledge is matched only by his genuinely kind and approachable demeanour, which makes his insights even more impactful. I also deeply admire Steve Adams and Steve Pickering for their visionary, commercially astute leadership, which has consistently fostered innovation and advanced forward-thinking strategies across the industry.
The individuals at Prestige Beds, whose professionalism is underscored by a warmth and collegiality rarely encountered—they are, without doubt, some of the most exceptional people I’ve had the pleasure to meet. Stewart Walker’s refined communication style and Vicky Golding’s meticulous approach resonate deeply; Vicky’s endeavours, in particular, seem to achieve a level of precision and elegance that is truly inspiring. I could, without hesitation, continue at length, as the industry is enriched by an array of professionals whose dedication and acumen inspire me continuously.
Have there been any special moments during your career?
Throughout my career, I have been privileged to experience numerous pivotal and gratifying moments, each contributing to my professional evolution. Among these, one of the most remarkable has been Dreamland’s achievements at the National Bed Federation (NBF) Awards. In 2023, we had the honour of reaching the finals, and this year we ascended to claim the title of Small NBF Retail Champion of the Year. This recognition is profoundly meaningful, not as a mere individual accolade but as an acknowledgment of the collective dedication, resilience, and shared vision within our entire team. The win embodies our relentless pursuit of excellence and commitment to industry leadership.
On a deeply personal level, the moment was rendered even more significant by sharing it with Mike, the owner of Dreamland. Mike’s mentorship has been instrumental in shaping my professional path, and witnessing the emotion on his face as we celebrated this esteemed recognition was unforgettable. It was a rare and powerful reminder of the depth of shared purpose and the impact of our journey together—a testament to his enduring influence and our united aspirations. This moment stands as a beacon, illuminating both our past efforts and our future ambitions.
What is your favourite item of furniture you own and why?
As one might expect, my favourite item of furniture is a bed. Though it has yet to arrive in my home, I’m eagerly awaiting a luxurious model from Enchanted House, which I consider one of the finest I’ve ever encountered. This exceptional mattress, crafted with meticulous attention to detail, represents a standard of quality distinct from anything else we’ve ever carried at Dreamland. Having observed the intricate process behind its creation, I was captivated by the artistry and precision involved—a true testament to Enchanted House’s dedication to excellence. Even before its arrival, this piece has already claimed a special place in my life as an embodiment of comfort and elegance.
What do you think is trending within the industry at present?
While it may be challenging to determine whether this is an industry-wide phenomenon or something more specific to our business, we have observed a notable shift toward natural products. Many customers who purchased foam mattresses during the lockdown period have expressed dissatisfaction and are now gravitating towards more sustainable, natural alternatives.
What would you change in the industry?
My initial thought would be to address product sustainability within the industry; however, I believe we are already undergoing a transformation. I would like to see more of a commitment from retailers to invest in their staff, not just through traditional training but by offering educational pathways and opportunities for volunteering. The industry has the potential to impact many lives positively, and we should be leveraging that capability to its fullest extent.
Can you share an insight into your future plans?
Looking ahead, I am actively exploring opportunities to diversify our supplier base, intending to expand our product portfolio and deliver greater value to our customers. I am also working on initiatives to provide placement opportunities for T-level students, supporting the next generation of industry professionals. Furthermore, I have been invited to serve as a trustee for several charitable organisations, which I find highly compelling. However, I intend to complete my current studies before fully committing to these roles.
What do you enjoy most outside of work/free time?
Free time is a rare luxury these days! However, I make time for a weekly pub gathering with friends every Thursday. I also enjoy attending music festivals, though I’ve had to forgo them recently due to the responsibilities of raising a young child.
What might someone not know about you?
An interesting fact that may surprise people is that I am an advanced scuba diver — yet I have never learned to ride a bicycle.
If you had a different career, what would it be?
If I were to pursue a different career, it would likely be in either training or finance. Both fields have always captivated my interest and have been integral components of my career thus far.
Finally, if you were an item of furniture, what would it be and why?
If I were to embody a piece of furniture, I would most likely be a bookshelf. It is a piece that is seldom occupied or disturbed. Yet, it serves as a knowledge repository, constantly offering something new to explore — much like my passion for continuous learning.
5 Fun Q’s
If you could hack into any one computer, whose computer would you choose and why?
If I could hypothetically hack into any computer, I’d be curious to access the archives of the British Library or the Vatican Library. The thought of uncovering restricted historical texts, confidential manuscripts, or centuries-old documents not available to the public is fascinating. These repositories hold untold pieces of history and knowledge that could offer profound insights into our past, shedding light on everything from ancient civilizations to more recent guarded secrets. It would be an extraordinary opportunity to peer into humanity’s hidden narratives and preserved mysteries.
What fact amazes you every time you think of it?
The sheer number of mattresses that end up in landfill each year never ceases to amaze me. The volume is so vast that it could fill Wembley Stadium five times over. An astonishing statistic underscores the importance of sustainability efforts within our industry.
What’s the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?
My most spontaneous adventure arose from a profound familial bereavement, which catalysed a pivotal shift in my perspective on life and the importance of seizing the moment. In response, I made the audacious decision to book several months off work and purchase a one-way flight to Thailand. With no definitive itinerary, I embarked on a transformative journey that led me through Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. I embraced the inherent unpredictability of travel, securing accommodations on a day-to-day basis and fully immersing myself in the rich tapestry of cultures and experiences. This venture not only allowed me to traverse diverse landscapes but also served as a poignant reminder of the transient nature of life, reinforcing the necessity of living authentically and cherishing each moment as it unfolds.
What is the most important object you own and why?
One of the most important objects I own is a watch that belonged to my father before he passed away. It holds immense sentimental value.
What did you think was cool when you were young but isn’t cool now?
In my youth, I was captivated by the allure of flip phones, believing their sleek, clamshell design and customisable ringtones to epitomise modern sophistication. The tactile satisfaction of snapping a flip phone shut after a conversation and the ability to personalise it with the latest ringtones created a sense of ownership and style that felt cutting-edge at the time. Yet, as technology has evolved, these once-coveted devices have become antiquated relics, overshadowed by the multifaceted capabilities of today’s smartphones. Reflecting on this, it’s fascinating to consider how swiftly our perception of innovation and ‘coolness’ shifts with technological advancements.
