EBIA General Assembly 2025 in London
Innovation for the Future of Bedding
On September 18–19, 2025, London hosted the 26th General Assembly of the European Bedding Industry Association (EBIA), welcoming manufacturers, suppliers, and industry leaders from across Europe to the London Marriott Hotel Regent’s Park. Every year, the EBIA General Assembly represents a cornerstone for the bedding and mattress industry, creating a unique platform to discuss innovation, sustainability, and the market’s future directions.
This year’s edition featured two days of high-level presentations, strategic updates, and networking opportunities, culminating in a memorable Gala Dinner at the House of Parliament. Cultural and leisure activities around Regent’s Park further enriched the experience, making the event both professional and inspiring.
Key Highlights from the General Assembly
Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Industry
Carlo van de Weijer, Director of the Eindhoven Artificial Intelligence Systems Institute, captivated the audience with “A future with AI, who’s at the wheel?”. His talk explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping production, engineering, and consumer markets, challenging companies to embrace innovation responsibly.
Sustainability and Market Trends
Giulia Taveggia of CSIL presented valuable data and insights on sustainability, competitiveness, and global mattress trade flows. Her research highlighted the importance of anticipating change and preparing for an evolving market with sustainable strategies.
Economic Outlook and Consumer Behavior
Julien Lafargue, with a strong background in equity strategy at Barclays and J.P. Morgan, analyzed global economic dynamics in his session “From Markets to Money Markets: London’s Journey as a Commercial Powerhouse”. His message underscored the resilience of UK innovation and its impact on consumer behavior within the bedding industry.
The History and Art of Sleep
Richard Naylor from Yumi Mattresses took participants on a fascinating journey through 77,000 years of sleep history. His presentation, “The Art of the Mattress”, revealed how cultural shifts, scientific discoveries, and material innovations have influenced mattress design from prehistory to the present day.
Inspiration for the Future
Ruud Veltenaar, concluded the Assembly with “What We Owe the Future – Unapologetically Hopeful”. Addressing moral leadership and mindset, he shared a powerful vision of how industries like bedding can contribute to a fairer society.
Looking Ahead: Innovation with Italian Style
At Stellini Textile Group, as a textile manufacturer for the global bedding industry, we are proud to be part of this collective journey. Since 1947, we have been committed to bringing Italian style to mattress ticking around the world – and moments like the EBIA General Assembly reinforce the importance of collaboration, shared vision, and continuous progress.
The General Assembly once again confirmed the strength and dynamism of our industry. We look forward to continuing this journey with our partners and collaborators, confident that together we can create a more innovative and inspiring future for bedding.
See you at the next EBIA General Assembly in 2027!
