Sleep Group: A South African Heritage of Innovation

This Heritage Month, Sleep Group stands as one of South Africa’s most remarkable success stories. The company’s roots go back to 1939, when the Metz family launched a small bedding business in Johannesburg — initially delivering products by horse and cart.

Over the decades, the company evolved from Metz Furniture to Metz Bedding, before rebranding as Sleep Group, today southern Africa’s largest integrated bedding manufacturer.

Vision, Growth, and the Birth of Restonic

Under the leadership of Michael Metz in the 1980s, the business sharpened its focus on beds and mattresses. The turning point came in the early 1990s, when the family introduced the Restonic brand to South Africa.

“We had no budget for big advertising campaigns, so we built the brand retailer by retailer, partnership by partnership,” recalls current CEO Michael Borcherds, who joined on the day Restonic launched.

Today, Restonic is one of the country’s most trusted mattress brands, with production powered by modern factories, automation, and relentless investment back into the business.

Becoming Sleep Group

In 2015, Metz Bedding joined the JSE-listed KAP Limited, paving the way for larger-scale growth and the creation of a fully integrated bedding powerhouse. Now operating under two verticals — mattress brands (Restonic and Genessi) and raw materials (foam, textiles, and components) — Sleep Group also supports the wider furniture industry across southern Africa.

The group recently expanded into Botswana with the acquisition of Gaborone Bedding, strengthening its regional presence.

People, Passion, and Purpose

Sleep Group employs nearly 2,000 people, making it one of the largest employers in its sector. With over 80% of recent promotions awarded to upskilled staff, the company places training and development at the centre of its culture.

“These values — passion, hard work, and commitment to people — are deeply ingrained in our DNA, even as we’ve grown into a corporate business,” says Borcherds.

Innovation and Sustainability

Sleep Group continues to look forward with bold moves, including the relaunch of Genessi into the premium mattress market with advanced sleep technology. Its five-year strategy aims to double the size of the business, balancing growth with sustainability through investments in:

• Recycling and energy-efficient production
• Community upliftment through donations and cultural initiatives
• Healthcare and sleep research via the Restonic Ezintsha Sleep Clinic

A Heritage that Inspires the Future

“For us, being proudly South African means more than just manufacturing locally,” says Borcherds. “It’s about creating jobs, investing in people, supporting communities, and building a sustainable future. Our heritage is our foundation — and it inspires our vision for the future.”