LAKE JACKSON, Texas—Dow has opened a North American SleepStudio in Lake Jackson, bringing together technical expertise and industry insight to advance bedding design. The Texas studio is the company's second, following the Horgen, Switzerland, studio that opened in 2018.
Dow scientists work with customers on new polyurethane sleep products
Comfort is the most important factor in mattress choice for more than half of purchasers, according to Paul Cookson, global SleepStudio and innovation leader at Dow Polyurethanes. The company's latest polyurethane-based pillows and mattresses with added comfort, coolness and support also are on display.
"Our network of SleepStudios provides a backdrop to test, analyze and customize comfort solutions," Cookson said. "We invite those working across the industry to visit our new facility, seek and create together the next generation of mattresses and pillows."
Within the studio, Dow experts collaborate with brand owners, formulators, manufacturers and retailers to identify market trends and drivers. It has sleep testing rooms to simulate different seasons and geographies, aiding the development of cooler, drier, more comfortable materials.
Pressure points and weight distribution across sleep surfaces also can be tested and modeled. State-of-the-art testing equipment on site allows customers to validate product designs.
"SleepStudio reinforces our commitment to our customers in the region, and provides a unique opportunity for foamers, brand owners and retailers to enhance their competitive edge," said Jessica Chang, marketing manager for North America at Dow Polyurethanes. '"Through partnership, we can better understand how to engineer comfort."