As part of Arbor Forest Products – one of the largest independent timber importing businesses in the UK – we know that running a successful retail business is about more than having great products on the shelf. That’s a big part of it, but there’s also having a reliable supply chain, consistent quality, marketing support and knowing that the brands you work with will support you just as much as you support them.
Since launching Wood & Slumber, one of our biggest priorities has been building strong relationships with our stockists. We know that bedding isn’t an occasional use product line, it’s something customers rely on every single day, week in, week out. Over the past year, we’ve been proud to see Wood & Slumber bedding finding its way into yards across the UK, and that growth has come through working closely with the retailers who represent us on the ground.
Keeping things simple and reliable
If there’s one thing we’ve heard a lot this year, it’s that quality and consistency is key. Retailers need to be able rely on delivery schedules, product quality and clear communication, especially during busy periods when their customers are restocking regularly. That’s why we’ve focused on building a supply chain that supports quick delivery and plenty of product availability. Our aim is straightforward: help stockists keep bedding on the shelf without long lead times or last-minute surprises.
A great product that earns repeat customers
Of course, the real test comes once our bedding reaches the stable. Our shavings are made from pine and spruce that’s kiln-dried to create a clean, consistent product. It’s highly absorbent and low in dust, helping to support healthy stable environments. Our BETA NOPS accreditation – only one of two small-flake bedding with that label – gives people extra peace of mind on quality and compliance, while sustainably sourced timber ensures responsible production from start to finish. For retailers, what matters is that customers are happy with the quality and come back for more, and we’ve been delighted to hear how yards are responding to our bedding.
Helping our stockists tell the story
Great marketing materials help catch customers’ eyes and make your website, premises and shelves look good to boot! Since our launch, we’ve expanded the marketing support we offer our stockists, introducing new promotional assets designed to make showcasing Wood & Slumber easier. We have website banners, arena signage, point of sale materials and digital resources and these tools are there to help retailers highlight key features clearly and professionally.
Sustainability that customers can understand
Sustainability has become an increasingly important conversation within the equestrian world, and we know that lots of customers are keen for transparency around sourcing and production. Our bedding is produced using timber from sustainably managed forests, with full traceability throughout the supply chain. For our retailers, that means being able to offer their customers a premium product that meets their expectations when it comes to sustainability.
Looking ahead
The response to Wood & Slumber since launch has been amazing, and a lot of that success comes down to the retailers and wholesalers who have chosen to work with us. If you’re already part of the Wood & Slumber network, thank you for being part of the journey so far. And if you’re considering becoming a stockist, we’d love to start the conversation! You can fill out a form (just click here) and we’ll be in touch to answer all your questions.
