Procurement with Purpose: Meeting Evolving Customer Needs in the Bedding and Upholstery Industry
Posted on: August 27th 2025
By Rasim Karakin, Procurement Manager, Handy Limited
In the world of bedding and upholstery, the right component can be the catalyst for a stand-out product, whether adding functionality, aesthetics, or environmental benefits.
MORE THAN JUST BUYERS
At Handy Limited, our procurement team sits at the core of our operations, responsible for sourcing and supplying over 1,700 components within the Handy range.
Procurement today isn’t just about buying. It’s about understanding what our customers truly need, and putting the right processes and supplier relationships in place to exceed expectations.
We not only source, but work closely with our customers, listening to their needs and offering our expertise and design solutions.
Which component will best support a customer's project? Which material will pass specific regulatory expectations?
GLOBAL SUPPLIER NETWORK
The key reason we work so efficiently with new customer projects, is thanks to our global network of supplier partners, from Europe to the Far East.
This global network is important for many reasons. The vast majority of our suppliers have been partners for over 30 years. We take great pride in this fact.
In today’s global market, customers are asking for components with specific certifications, compliance with different international standards, and may require quicker lead-times, meaning we require strong communications with our suppliers and need to be agile.
CUSTOMERS SEEKING MORE SUSTAINABLE CHOICES.
One of the biggest changes I’ve seen in recent years is the shift toward sustainability.Customers are not only focused on performance, quality or price – they want to know the environmental impact of their choices. That’s a challenge, but also a huge opportunity.
As a team, we actively work with our suppliers to find solutions that deliver on sustainability without compromising on quality. Whether that’s sourcing recycled materials or improving packaging, we’re committed to ongoing progress.
In fact, one of my proudest achievements here at Handy was helping the business switch to 100% recyclable packaging in 2023.
Despite increasing complexity in the industry – rising material costs, geopolitical shifts, and growing regulatory demands – I believe we’re uniquely positioned to support our customers through it. Being named ‘Supplier of the Year’ by the National Bed Federation in 2024 is proof that our approach is working.
Our procurement team doesn’t just respond to change – we drive it. And we’d welcome the opportunity to show new customers how our expertise, network, and passion for components can help support your bedding and upholstery products.
If you’re looking for a partner who understands your market and can help bring your product to life, get in touch with the friendly team at Handy Ltd.
