Sleep specialist Raskelf Group has appointed a national sales manager following the completion of a million-pound factory extension.
James Appleyard brings over 20 years of experience in bed sales – having held senior roles with several leading NBF member manufacturers, the most recent being Deluxe Beds.
A product design graduate from Huddersfield University, James will focus on developing new ranges and strengthening the group’s long-term growth strategy.
“I was impressed by the family dynamic at Raskelf, and I am excited by the opportunities we have to shape the future of this sector,” says James. “Our goal is to maximise the potential of the materials we are working with while designing strategically and efficiently, so production remains smooth. We want to give retailers what they need, at the right price with the right margin.”
James’ appointment comes as the group celebrates the completion of a 16,000 sqft two-storey extension at its Heckmondwike factory, delivered by Radcliffe Construction.
Commercial director Thomas Colleran confirmed that site capacity has increased by +30% with the introduction of new machinery and processes.
“This project marks a major step forward in our drive to become more vertically integrated,” says Thomas. “Now that we have greater control over quality, costs and lead times, it felt like the right moment to bring in a national sales manager to develop new lines and expand our market presence. With his background in product design and wealth of sales experience, James really stood out and the whole team is looking forward to working with him.”
The role completes the senior management team at Raskelf Group.
Thomas adds that the Colleran family, who rose to fame on Dragons’ Den with their patented Duvalay Memory Foam Sleeping Bag, were keen to make an appointment locally.
“Yorkshire is the epicentre of bedmaking in the UK, and we wanted someone who is as proud of that heritage as we are,” he says. “In James, we consider ourselves fortunate to have found someone who can operate at the highest level nationally, right on our doorstep in Huddersfield.”
Raskelf Group is the parent company of a diverse portfolio of established brands including Duvalay, Summerby Sleep, Nursery Connections and Raskelf Contract Beds. In his new role, James will work across all brands – managing and growing key accounts with leading national retailers, distributors and commercial partners. He will also represent the group at major industry events and trade shows.
“My focus is on driving Raskelf forward and I am proud to play a part in its next chapter,” says James, who sits on the marketing committee of the National Bed Federation. “This industry is all about relationships, so I’m especially looking forward to reconnecting with existing contacts and building new ones.”
Pictured: Thomas Colleran, sales and marketing director Liz Colleran, and James Appleyard
