Ask the Expert: Behind-the-Scenes of Air Mattresses with Matt Wagner

  • Jul 2, 2024
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Ask the Expert: Behind-the-Scenes of Air Mattresses with Matt Wagner

This is Part IV of our “Ask the Expert” series featuring insider interviews to give you more insight into the people and processes that influence the Bestway products you enjoy.

 


You may remember meeting Matt Wagner, Bestway’s Product Management Director, Recreation, in a previous “Ask the Expert” feature.

 

Matt, an outdoor enthusiast who oversees the air mattress, air furniture and water sports product categories, gave a behind-the-scenes look at stand-up paddleboards.

 

In this feature, in preparation for all your summer overnight guests and camping adventures, we’re shining a light on air mattresses and sleeping pads.


Air mattresses and sleeping pads bring Matt a great deal of gratification in his role because of his personal connection to the products.

 


Outdoor Journey


“I have a passion for outdoor recreation and camping,” shares Matt. “I take my kids camping so we can test out our products. Whether that’s a backyard campout or backpacking in the wilderness, I try to (literally) sleep on our products as much as I can to get into the customer headspace.”


And that testing begins long before the products are even sampled by our team.


“We have a sleeping pad program where our team is focused on the improvement of the product, the performance and durability of the product and how to improve sustainability,” says Matt.

Fun Fact: Matt’s personal sleeping pad faves are the versatile, one-size-fits-all AlpineLite™ Insulated Mummy Sleeping Pad (best sleeping pad to go anywhere and do anything from winter camping or lightweight summer backpacking) and the ComforTrek™ Self-Inflating Rectangular Sleeping Pad (most comfortable sleeping pad we currently make).

Product Testing


“Most people don’t realize what goes on behind the product you see on the shelves,” shares Matt. “Manufacturing isn’t an automated process. The human element sometimes gets lost, and many people don’t understand the complexity of the process and the amount of human labor that goes into getting that product on retailers’ shelves.”


Even the simplest of products have an intricate manufacturing process.


“We inflate every single air mattress for 24 hours,” says Matt. “Floor to ceiling of air beds for one entire day to ensure they stay inflated.”


While testing our air mattresses and sleeping pads brings joy to Matt’s role, his favorite part happens at the very end.

Favorite Part of the Product Development Process


“It’s so satisfying to present the products at the end of the season to our Sales team,” shares Matt. “I’ve realized over the last few years just how important that part of the process is for me. I love introducing new products and the storytelling that accompanies it. It’s an opportunity to reconnect with what we’re doing and why we’re doing it. Great products are ones that have a great story.” 


That journey to the end-of-season presentation is extremely gratifying for Matt because he knows the path to get there isn’t always an easy one.

 


Challenges and Pain Points


“Dealing with the unexpected in the in-between season is where you can potentially run into problems,” says Matt. “You must acknowledge the hiccups and roadblocks. It’s important to listen to customers’ pain points, maintain flexibility and manage your expectations. Make sure your end reality aligns with what your original intentions for the product were.”


And Matt knows the product development process doesn’t end once the air mattresses and sleeping pads are on retailers’ shelves.

 


Looking to the Future


“We’re always looking at new products to create or add to a product line,” shares Matt. “The possibilities are limitless.”


Matt and his team are constantly keeping their focus on the customer experience. 


“We’re always asking ourselves, ‘How do we provide our customers a better experience?’ shares Matt. “We’ll gather feedback by talking to customers, looking at data, holding focus groups and conducting surveys. We put ourselves in their shoes to understand and differentiate the different needs of customers. Our goal is to make sure no single group is being underserved.”


When you’re looking for a convenient bed for your out-of-town guests or for your next camping trip, look no further than a Bestway air mattress


Stay tuned for Part V in our “Ask the Expert” series coming soon!

 

Bestway

Every article is researched and created by experienced copywriters, product and industry experts and outdoor enthusiasts who want to enrich your life with fun, adventure and happiness!

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