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Simmons names Ling to product innovation post

David Perry -- Furniture Today, March 9, 2003

Atlanta — Simmons has created a new position to recognize a key executive on its product development team. Kurt Ling, formerly vice president of Beautyrest brand management, has been named vice president of product innovation.

Ling, who played a key role in the development of Simmons' one-sided line of mattresses in 2000, the Olympic Queen bed, and an expanded line of luxury products, will focus on developing what Simmons officials describe as "the next best right answer" in products that deliver better sleep to consumers.

"Simmons has made tremendous progress by focusing on what the consumer is looking for in a better night's sleep, translating that into product and communication innovations that have helped our dealers grow their average unit selling price and profitability in a tough retail economy," said Don Hofmann, senior vice president of marketing.

Hofmann said Simmons has re-engineered its Beautyrest and BackCare programs while adding new products. The company's focus will be to continue growing these brands while identifying new opportunities, he said.

To carry out this mission, Simmons has reorganized its marketing department.

Tim Oakhill, vice president of BackCare, will oversee the continued evolution of BackCare, BackCare Advanced, BackCare Kids and Living Right products.

Lori Imhoff, formerly director of advertising, has expanded her responsibilities to director of communication, recognizing the opportunities for innovation in dealer advertising and in-store communications.

Anne Kozel has been promoted to assistant brand manager.

A new Beautyrest brand manager will be hired to fill Ling's former position.

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