High-end mattress maker Harrison Spinks, with headquarters in Leeds, England, has been commissioned to produce a range of its bespoke Herdwick wool beds for three Cumbria-based hotels owned by Wildsmith Hotels. Harrison Spinks will supply mattresses for 56 bedrooms at Hipping Hall, the Ryebeck and the soon-to-open Forest Side, using wool from Herdwick sheep—an animal synonymous with the surrounding Lake District region of England.
“As a hotelier, I am keen to champion British wool,” said hotel owner Andrew Wildsmith. “I believe in supporting this local, iconic breed and, in turn, the craftspeople who turn this unique product into something practical, comfortable and totally sustainable.
“Farming locally reduces carbon usage and wool is fully recyclable at the end of a product’s life, a factor which is extremely important in the hospitality industry given we regularly need to replace beds and other soft furnishings,” Wildsmith added. “If we can use natural materials as much as possible, we will be supporting both our local economy and helping to maintain our beautiful landscape.”
According to a news release, Herdwick wool is more springy and supportive than other wool, with anti-microbial, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal qualities, making it ideal for asthma or allergy sufferers.
Harrison Spinks has earned two Queen’s Awards for Enterprise in Innovation and Sustainable Development for its spring technology and for growing natural fillings on its 300-acre farm. These fillings are used throughout its product range. The mattress maker sells under the Harrison, Somnus and Spink & Edgar brands, and it manufactures private-label beds for major U.K. retailers.
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