Consumer >> CEO Interviews >> March 17, 2004
BARRIE BROWN is the president of Mattress Giant. Mr. Brown began his
professional career in 1984 with Ryder System, Inc. Employed by Ryder
Systems from 1984-1997, he moved from Account Manager Lease through the
ranks to become General Manager of Ryder's largest geographic Customer
Business Unit. Mr. Brown's responsibilities included the management and
development of commercial and consumer rental, employees and revenue.
While working with customers like Coca-Cola, Eagle Hardware (acquired by
Lowe's), and General Motors, he also handled contract operating and
capital lease employees, customers, and profitability. Mr. Brown moved
to the Washington-based company Sleep Country USA in February 1997 and
was actively involved in Sleep Country's distribution, warehousing,
labor challenges, and the initial set up of Sleep Country Canada's
distribution. From 1997-2000 he served as Vice President of Operations,
overseeing distribution, inventory, real estate selection and
construction, customer service, human resources, auditing of financial
statements, and facilities. In 1998, Brown lead acquisition discussion
and due diligence, including data room, with Bain Capital and Fenway
Partners. Upon acquisition of Sleep Country USA by Fenway Partners,
Brown was named President & COO, leading the company from February 2000
to October 2002. After acquiring Sleep Train Northwest in May 2000,
Brown transitioned the Sleep Train stores to a new retail concept and
brand strategy then converted the locations to Mattress Gallery. Under
Mr. Brown's leadership, Sleep Country USA was recognized as the region's
dominant bedding retailer in market share, sales, operations, delivery,
and advertising. Sleep Country grew from 19 locations to 50 locations
and revenue increased 275% in five years. Mr. Brown joined Mattress
Giant in 2002 as President & CEO. He has lead the company to become the
second largest specialty bedding retailer in the U.S by steadily
increasing sales and added retail locations. At Mattress Giant, Mr.
Brown has spearheaded an initiative that has resulted in improved
customer service, higher employee satisfaction and lower turnover. Brown
continues to revitalize all areas of Mattress Giant, including store
design, customer service, sales force training, advertising and
distribution. Profile
Mr. Brown: The company was founded in 1991 in South Florida and has
grown from five stores to 256 stores since 1991. And
