OUR STORY &
BUSINESS ROOTS

Ron Shovlin and Kara Shovlin are a husband and wife duo who own and run the business. Formerly known as “The Mattress Factory,” the business was founded by Brian Strell in 1972. Marlene and Richard Shovlin, Ron’s mother and father, eventually bought the business as their own in 1987.

The Shovlins had been a part of The Mattress Factory long before taking ownership—prior to becoming CEO, Marlene had been running the office. Meanwhile, a teenage Ron worked there part-time while attending high school, starting at age 13. The business was originally based in Garwood, New Jersey, but moved to Fanwood in 2007. Not long after, its name was changed from The Mattress Factory to the eponymous Shovlin Mattress Factory® and Ron became the sole owner of the flagship store. Swing by our store that’s now been operating for over 50 years! You'll likely meet Ron. Standing 6'7" he's hard to miss.

What's your role? Vice President of Sales

What is something new you’ve learned since working at Shovlin? What it takes for real craftsmanship in a product. The crew in our factory are so skilled and have so much pride for each mattress they build, it really is a marvel to watch them work.

What’s the strangest place you’ve ever accidentally fallen asleep? Having the TV on. It’s a bad habit that I started years ago. My wife hates it.

What’s one thing you enjoy showing or explaining to people who visit the showroom? The adjustable base! It changed my life so much after the Marine Corps, I know the benefit and how much it can truly help people.

If you had to pick: firm, soft, or somewhere in the middle? Medium, definitely. While everyone needs support, the biggest mistake people make is going too firm. Too firm is equally as bad as too soft.

Do you prefer staying up late or waking up early? Early! My wife and I are up at 5:30 to get to the gym or go for a walk. Let’s get the day started!