Biggest changeFor more information about the Restructuring Plan, please see the discussion under Operational Risk Factors beginning on page 16 in Item 1A Risk Factors, and on page 37 in Item 7, Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Biggest changeThe 2024 Plan was expanded in the second quarter of 2024 to include a restructuring opportunity within the Specialized Products segment and in the third quarter of 2024 to include general and administrative cost structure initiatives. For more information about the 2024 Restructuring Plan, please see the discussion under Operational Risk Factors beginning on page 15 in Item 1A.
Among the most important raw materials that we use are: • Various types of steel, including scrap, rod, wire, sheet, and stainless • Chemicals used in foam production • Foam scrap • Woven and nonwoven fabrics • Titanium and nickel-based alloys and other high strength metals • Electronic systems (including semiconductors) We supply our own raw materials for many of the products we make.
Among the most important raw materials we use are: • Various types of steel, including scrap, rod, wire, sheet, and stainless • Chemicals used in foam production • Foam scrap • Woven and nonwoven fabrics • Titanium and nickel-based alloys and other high strength metals • Electronic systems (including semiconductors) We supply our own raw materials for many of the products we make.
Also, our manufacturing employees receive new hire and annual refresher safety training, weekly “tool box” talks regarding safety and training, job-specific safety training based on the job hazards analysis developed from our SafeGuard program, and safety stand down training based on real-time identified and emerging risks, when needed.
Our manufacturing employees receive new hire and annual refresher safety training, weekly “tool box” talks regarding safety and training, job-specific safety training based on the job hazards analysis developed from our SafeGuard program, and safety stand-down training based on real-time identified and emerging risks, when needed.
In general, our competitors tend to be smaller, private companies. 13 Table of Contents PART I Based on certain industry data, we believe we are a leading supplier, in terms of revenue, of the following: • Bedding components and private label finished goods • Automotive seat comfort and convenience systems • Home and work furniture components • Geo components • Flooring underlayment • Hydraulic cylinders for material handling and heavy construction applications • Aerospace tubing and fabricated assemblies We continue to face pressure from foreign competitors, as some of our customers source a portion of their components and finished products offshore.
In general, our competitors tend to be smaller, private companies. 12 Table of Contents PART I Based on certain industry data, we believe we are a leading supplier, in terms of revenue, of the following: • Bedding components and private label finished goods • Automotive seat comfort and convenience systems • Home and work furniture components • Geo components • Flooring underlayment • Hydraulic cylinders for material handling and heavy construction applications • Aerospace tubing and fabricated assemblies We continue to face pressure from foreign competitors, as some of our customers source a portion of their components and finished products offshore.
Some of our most significant trademarks include: • ComfortCore ® , Quantum ® , Eco-Base ® , CombiCore TM , Nanocoil ® , Softech ® , Active Support Technology ® , Mira-Coil ® , and VertiCoil ® (mattress innersprings) • Energex ® , Coolflow ® , ThermaGel ® , EcoFlow TM , and Gorilla Foam TM (specialty foam products) • Semi-Flex ® (box spring components and foundations) • Spuhl ® and Fides ® (mattress innerspring manufacturing machines) • Wall Hugger ® (recliner chair mechanisms) • No-Sag ® (wire forms used in seating) • LPSense ® (capacitive sensing) • Hanes ® (fabric materials) • Schukra ® (automotive seating products) • Gribetz ® and Porter ® (quilting and sewing machines) Product Development One of our strongest performing product categories across the Company is ComfortCore ® , our fabric-encased innerspring coils used in hybrid and other mattresses.
Some of the most significant trademarks used in our businesses include: • ComfortCore ® , Quantum ® , Eco-Base ® , CombiCore TM , Nanocoil ® , Softech ® , Active Support Technology ® , Mira-Coil ® , and VertiCoil ® (mattress innersprings) • Energex ® , Coolflow ® , ThermaGel ® , EcoFlow TM , and Gorilla Foam TM (specialty foam products) • Semi-Flex ® (box spring components and foundations) • Spuhl ® (mattress innerspring manufacturing machines) • Wall Hugger ® (recliner chair mechanisms) • No-Sag ® (wire forms used in seating) • LPSense ® (capacitive sensing) • Hanes ® (fabric materials) • Schukra ® (automotive seating products) • Gribetz ® and Porter ® (quilting and sewing machines) Product Development One of our strongest performing product categories across the Company is ComfortCore ® , our fabric-encased innerspring coils used in hybrid mattresses.
Depending on location, we offer health, dental, and vision benefits; flexible spending plans and health savings accounts; retirement savings; disability, life, critical illness, accident, and travel insurance; well-being and employee assistance programs; vacation, personal time, and holidays; and discount stock purchase plans. We also provide incentive programs for management employees based on performance.
Depending on location, we offer health, dental, and vision benefits; flexible spending plans and health savings accounts; retirement savings; disability, life, critical illness, accident, and travel insurance; well-being and employee assistance programs; vacation, personal time, and holidays; and a discount stock purchase plan. We also provide incentive programs for management employees based on performance.
For information about antidumping duty orders regarding innerspring, steel wire rod, and mattress imports, please see Competition in Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations on page 39. Seasonality We generally experience some seasonality in our consolidated sales, earnings, and operating cash flows.
For information about antidumping duty orders regarding innerspring, steel wire rod, and mattress imports, please see Competition in Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations on page 42. Seasonality We generally experience some seasonality in our consolidated sales, earnings, and operating cash flows.
We believe our reliable product development and launch capability, coupled with our global footprint, makes us a trusted partner for our Tier 1 and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) customers. 4 Table of Contents PART I P RODUCTS Automotive Group • Mechanical and pneumatic lumbar support and massage systems for automotive seating • Seat suspension systems • Motors and actuators, used in a wide variety of vehicle power features • Cables Aerospace Products Group • Titanium, nickel, and stainless-steel tubing, formed tube, tube assemblies, and flexible joint components, primarily used in fluid conveyance systems Hydraulic Cylinders Group • Engineered hydraulic cylinders C USTOMERS • Automobile OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers • Aerospace OEMs and suppliers • Mobile equipment OEMs, primarily serving material handling and heavy construction markets Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products Segment HOME FURNITURE GROUP Home Furniture WORK FURNITURE GROUP Work Furniture FLOORING & TEXTILE PRODUCTS GROUP Flooring Products Fabric Converting Geo Components In our Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products segment, we design, manufacture, and distribute a wide range of components and finished products for residential and commercial markets, and select markets for structural fabrics and geo components.
We believe our reliable product development and launch capability, coupled with our global footprint, makes us a trusted supplier to our Tier 1 and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) customers. 4 Table of Contents PART I P RODUCTS Automotive Group • Mechanical and pneumatic lumbar support and massage systems for automotive seating • Seat suspension systems • Motors and actuators, used in a wide variety of vehicle power features • Cables Aerospace Products Group • Titanium, nickel, and stainless-steel tubing, formed tube, tube assemblies, and flexible joint components, primarily used in fluid conveyance systems Hydraulic Cylinders Group • Engineered hydraulic cylinders C USTOMERS • Automobile Tier 1 suppliers and OEMs • Aerospace OEMs and suppliers • Mobile equipment OEMs, primarily serving material handling and heavy construction markets Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products Segment HOME FURNITURE GROUP Home Furniture WORK FURNITURE GROUP Work Furniture FLOORING & TEXTILE PRODUCTS GROUP Flooring Products Fabric Converting Geo Components In our Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products segment, we design, manufacture, and distribute a wide range of components and finished products for residential and commercial markets, and select structural fabric and geo component markets.
Our market share is based on estimates using our internal data, information from various industry analyses, internal research, and adjustments and assumptions that we believe to be reasonable. We have not independently verified data from industry analyses and cannot guarantee their accuracy or completeness. 15 Table of Contents PART I
Our market share is based on estimates using our internal data, information from various industry analyses, internal research, and adjustments and assumptions that we believe to be reasonable. We have not independently verified data from industry analyses and cannot guarantee their accuracy or completeness. 14 Table of Contents PART I
Information contained on our website does not constitute part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 14 Table of Contents PART I Industry and Market Data Unless indicated otherwise, the information concerning our industries contained in this Annual Report is based on our general knowledge of and expectations concerning the industries.
Information contained on our website does not constitute part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 13 Table of Contents PART I Industry and Market Data Unless indicated otherwise, the information concerning our industries contained in this Annual Report is based on our general knowledge of and expectations concerning the industries.
To stay competitive with global steel costs, both contract and non-contract innerspring pricing was adjusted in the back half of 2023. We have also reacted to foreign competition in certain cases by developing new proprietary products that help our customers reduce total costs and shifting production offshore to take advantage of lower input costs.
To stay competitive with global steel costs, both contract and non-contract innerspring pricing was adjusted in the back half of 2023 and fully realized in 2024. We have also reacted to foreign competition in certain cases by developing new proprietary products that help our customers reduce total costs and by shifting production offshore to take advantage of lower input costs.
Spring Specialty Foam Adjustable Bed International Bedding Machinery Our Bedding Products segment has its roots in the Company's founding in 1883 with the manufacture of steel coil bedsprings. Today, we support our customers' needs from raw materials to components to finished mattresses and foundations to distribution and fulfillment.
Spring Specialty Foam Adjustable Bed International Bedding Machinery Our Bedding Products segment has its roots in the Company's founding in 1883 with the manufacture of steel coil bedsprings. Today, we support our customers' product needs from raw materials to components to finished mattresses and foundations and provide distribution and fulfillment capabilities.
Our internal promotion rate over the last three years for corporate officer positions was 91%. We are building on our success in these areas and continue to develop our succession processes to allow us to adapt and grow. Trends in Market Demand and Competition Demand Trends for our Products.
Our internal promotion rate over the last three years for corporate officer positions was 100%. We are building on our success in these areas and continue to develop our succession processes to allow us to adapt and grow. Trends in Market Demand and Competition Market Demand .
Bedding Products Specialized Products Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products North America Canada n n Mexico n n n United States n n n Europe Austria n Belgium n Croatia n Denmark n France n Germany n Hungary n Ireland n Poland n Switzerland n United Kingdom n n South America Brazil n Asia China n n n India n South Korea n Dependence on Market Demand for Key Product Families The following table shows our approximate percentage of trade sales by product family for the last three years, which indicates the degree of dependence upon market demand: Product Families 2023 2022 2021 Bedding Group 42 % 46 % 48 % Flooring & Textile Products Group 19 18 18 Automotive Group 19 17 16 Home Furniture Group 6 8 8 Work Furniture Group 6 6 6 Hydraulic Cylinders Group 5 3 2 Aerospace Products Group 3 2 2 We do not have a material amount of sales derived from government contracts subject to renegotiation of profits or termination at the election of any government.
Bedding Products Specialized Products Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products North America Canada n n Mexico n n n United States n n n Europe Austria n Belgium n Croatia n Denmark n France n Germany n Hungary n Ireland n Poland n Switzerland n United Kingdom n n South America Brazil n Asia China n n n India n South Korea n 8 Table of Contents PART I Dependence on Market Demand for Key Product Families The following table shows our approximate percentage of trade sales by product family for the last three years, which indicates the degree of dependence upon market demand: Product Families 2024 2023 2022 Bedding Group 40 % 42 % 46 % Flooring & Textile Products Group 20 19 18 Automotive Group 19 19 17 Home Furniture Group 6 6 8 Work Furniture Group 6 6 6 Hydraulic Cylinders Group 5 5 3 Aerospace Products Group 4 3 2 We do not have a material amount of sales derived from government contracts subject to renegotiation of profits or termination at the election of any government.
Also, at year-end 2023, 15% of our employees were represented by labor unions that collectively bargain for work conditions, wages, or other issues. We did not experience any material work stoppage related to labor contract negotiations during 2023, and we are not aware of circumstances likely to result in a material work stoppage during 2024.
Also, at year-end 2024, approximately 14% of our employees were represented by labor unions that collectively bargain for work conditions, wages, or other issues. We did not experience any material work stoppage related to labor contract negotiations during 2024, and we are not aware of circumstances likely to result in a material work stoppage during 2025.
We also convert and distribute geo components used for erosion control, subgrade stabilization, and storm water management. 5 Table of Contents PART I P RODUCTS Home Furniture Group • Steel mechanisms and motion hardware (enabling furniture to recline, tilt, swivel, rock, and elevate) for reclining chairs, sofas, sleeper sofas, and lift chairs • Springs and seat suspensions for chairs, sofas, and loveseats Work Furniture Group • Components and private label finished goods for collaborative soft seating • Bases, columns, back rests, casters, and frames for office chairs, and control devices that allow chairs to tilt, swivel, and elevate Flooring & Textile Products Group • Carpet cushion and hard surface flooring underlayment (made from bonded scrap foam, fiber, rubber, and prime foam) • Structural fabrics for mattresses, residential furniture, and industrial uses • Geo components (synthetic fabrics and various other products used in ground stabilization, drainage protection, erosion, and weed control) C USTOMERS • Manufacturers of upholstered and office furniture • Flooring retailers and distributors, including big box retailers and home improvement centers • Contractors, landscapers, road construction companies, retailers, and government agencies using or selling geo components • Mattress and furniture producers and manufacturers of packaging, filtration, and draperies Restructuring Plan and Strategic Priorities In the first quarter of 2024, we committed to a restructuring plan, primarily associated with our Bedding Products segment and, to a lesser extent, our Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products segment (the "Restructuring Plan" or "Plan").
We also convert and distribute geo components for erosion control, subgrade stabilization, and storm water management. 5 Table of Contents PART I P RODUCTS Home Furniture Group • Steel mechanisms and motion hardware (enabling furniture to recline, tilt, swivel, rock, and elevate) for reclining chairs, sofas, sleeper sofas, and lift chairs • Springs and seat suspensions for chairs, sofas, and loveseats Work Furniture Group • Components and private-label finished goods for collaborative soft seating • Bases, columns, back rests, casters, and frames for office chairs, and control devices that allow chairs to tilt, swivel, and elevate Flooring & Textile Products Group • Carpet cushion and hard surface flooring underlayment (made from bonded scrap foam, fiber, rubber, and prime foam) • Structural fabrics for mattresses, residential furniture, and industrial uses • Geo components (synthetic fabrics and various other products used in ground stabilization, drainage protection, erosion, and weed control) C USTOMERS • Manufacturers of upholstered and office furniture • Flooring retailers and distributors, including big box retailers and home improvement centers • Contractors, landscapers, road construction companies, retailers, and government agencies using or selling geo components • Mattress and furniture producers • Manufacturers of draperies, specialty packaging, filtration, and automotive upholstery 2024 Restructuring Plan In the first quarter of 2024, we committed to a restructuring plan, primarily associated with our Bedding Products segment and, to a lesser extent, our Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products segment (the “2024 Restructuring Plan” or “2024 Plan”), which is expected to be substantially complete by the end of 2025.
We believe that worldwide supply sources are available for all the raw materials we use, except for semiconductors as explained below.
We believe that worldwide supply sources are available for all the raw materials we use, as explained below.
For more information regarding our acquisitions, please refer to Note Q on page 113 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Divestitures 2023 We did not have any divestitures of businesses in 2023. 2022 In February 2022, we sold our South African bedding innerspring operation for a cash purchase price of approximately $2 million.
For more information regarding our acquisitions, please refer to Note R on page 119 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Divestitures We did not have any divestitures of businesses in 2024 or 2023. In February 2022, we sold our South African bedding innerspring operation for a cash purchase price of approximately $2 million.
Sourcing components and finished products from us allows our customers to focus on designing, merchandising, and marketing their products. 3 Table of Contents PART I P RODUCTS Bedding Group • Steel rod • Drawn wire • Specialty foam chemicals and additives • Innersprings (sets of steel coils, bound together, that form the core of a mattress) • Proprietary specialty foam for use primarily in bedding and furniture • Private label finished mattresses, often sold compressed and boxed • Ready-to-assemble mattress foundations • Static foundations • Adjustable beds • Machines that we use to produce innersprings; industrial sewing and quilting machines; mattress-packaging and glue-drying equipment C USTOMERS • We used about 2/3 of our wire output to manufacture our own products in 2023, with the majority going to our U.S. innerspring operations • Various industrial users of steel rod and wire • Manufacturers of finished bedding (mattresses and foundations) • Bedding brands and mattress retailers • E-commerce retailers • Big box retailers, department stores, and home improvement centers Specialized Products Segment AUTOMOTIVE GROUP Automotive AEROSPACE PRODUCTS GROUP Aerospace Products HYDRAULIC CYLINDERS GROUP Hydraulic Cylinders Our Specialized Products segment designs, manufactures, and sells products including automotive comfort and convenience systems, tubing and fabricated assemblies for the aerospace industry, and hydraulic cylinders for the material handling and heavy construction industries.
Sourcing components and finished products from us allows our customers to focus on designing, merchandising, and marketing their products. 3 Table of Contents PART I P RODUCTS Bedding Group • Steel rod • Drawn wire • Innersprings (sets of steel coils, bound together, that form the core of a mattress) • Specialty foam chemicals and additives • Specialty foam for use primarily in bedding and furniture • Semi-finished mattresses (a subassembly including innersprings and foam) • Private label finished mattresses, often sold compressed and boxed • Mattress accessories, such as pillows and toppers • Static foundations • Adjustable beds • Machines that we use to produce innersprings; industrial sewing and quilting machines; mattress-packaging and glue-drying equipment C USTOMERS • We used more than 60% of our wire mill output to manufacture our own products in 2024, with the majority going to our U.S. innerspring operations • Various industrial users of steel rod and wire • Manufacturers of finished bedding (mattresses and foundations) • Bedding brands and mattress retailers • E-commerce retailers • Big box retailers, department stores, and home improvement centers Specialized Products Segment AUTOMOTIVE GROUP Automotive AEROSPACE PRODUCTS GROUP Aerospace Products HYDRAULIC CYLINDERS GROUP Hydraulic Cylinders Our Specialized Products segment designs, manufactures, and sells products including automotive comfort and convenience systems, tubing and fabricated assemblies for the aerospace industry, and hydraulic cylinders for the material handling and heavy construction industries.
Acquisitions 2023 We did not acquire any businesses in 2023. 2022 In August 2022, we acquired two businesses. First, we acquired a small U.S. textiles business that converts and distributes construction fabrics for the furniture and bedding industries for a cash purchase price of $2 million. This acquisition became part of our Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products segment.
In August 2022, we acquired two businesses. First, we acquired a small U.S. textiles business that converts and distributes construction fabrics for the furniture and bedding industries for a cash purchase price of $2 million. This acquisition became part of our Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products segment.
As such, our business is not materially dependent upon governmental customers . 9 Table of Contents PART I Distribution of Products We sell and distribute our products primarily through our own personnel. However, many of our businesses have relationships and agreements with outside sales representatives and distributors.
As such, our business is not materially dependent upon governmental customers . Distribution of Products We sell and distribute our products primarily through our own personnel. However, many of our businesses have relationships and agreements with outside sales representatives and distributors.
We convert fabrics into components used by bedding and furniture manufacturers and other markets such as filtration, packaging, and automotive applications.
We convert fabrics into components used by bedding and furniture manufacturers and in other applications such as filtration, hospitality, automotive, and packaging.
Our products in these foreign locations primarily consist of: Europe • Innersprings and specialty foam for private label mattresses and mattress applications • Lumbar and seat suspension systems for automotive seating and actuators for automotive applications • Seamless and welded tubing and fabricated assemblies for aerospace applications • Select lines of private label finished furniture • Hydraulic cylinders for material handling and heavy construction equipment • Machinery and equipment designed to manufacture innersprings for mattresses China • Lumbar and seat suspension systems for automotive seating • Cables, motors, and actuators for automotive applications • Recliner mechanisms and bases for upholstered furniture • Work furniture components, including chair bases and casters • Innersprings for mattresses • Hydraulic cylinders for heavy construction equipment Canada • Lumbar and seat suspension systems for automotive seating • Fabricated wire for the furniture and automotive industries • Work furniture chair controls and bases • Geo components Mexico • Lumbar and seat suspension systems for automotive seating • Motors and actuators for automotive applications • Adjustable beds • Innersprings and fabricated wire for the bedding industry • Select lines of private label finished furniture 8 Table of Contents PART I Geographic Areas of Operation As of December 31, 2023, we had 135 manufacturing facilities in 18 countries; 85 located in the U.S. and 50 located in foreign countries, as shown below.
Our products in these foreign locations primarily consist of: Europe • Innersprings, specialty foam, and finished mattresses • Lumbar and seat suspension systems for automotive seating and actuators for automotive applications • Seamless and welded tubing and fabricated assemblies for aerospace applications • Select lines of private-label finished furniture • Hydraulic cylinders for material handling and heavy construction equipment • Machinery and equipment designed to manufacture innersprings for mattresses China • Lumbar and seat suspension systems for automotive seating • Cables, motors, and actuators for automotive applications • Recliner mechanisms and bases for upholstered furniture • Work furniture components, including chair bases and casters • Innersprings for mattresses • Hydraulic cylinders for heavy construction equipment Canada • Lumbar and seat suspension systems for automotive seating • Fabricated wire for the furniture and automotive industries • Work furniture chair controls and bases • Geo components 7 Table of Contents PART I Mexico • Lumbar and seat suspension systems for automotive seating • Motors and actuators for automotive applications • Adjustable beds • Select lines of private-label finished furniture Geographic Areas of Operation As of December 31, 2024, we had 119 manufacturing facilities in 18 countries; 71 located in the United States and 48 located in foreign countries, as shown below.
In 2023, over 40% of our ComfortCore ® innersprings in the U.S. had the Quantum ® Edge feature. In 2022, we launched two new products called the Quantum ® Edge Enhanced Profile with Eco-Base ® and Caliber Edge ® Enhanced Profile with Eco-Base ® .
In 2024, over 40% of our ComfortCore ® innersprings in the United States had the Quantum ® Edge feature. In 2022, we launched two new products called the Quantum ® Edge Enhanced Profile with Eco-Base ® and Caliber Edge ® Enhanced Profile with Eco-Base ® .
For example, we produce steel rod that we make into steel wire, which we then use to manufacture innersprings and static foundations for mattresses. We supply a substantial majority of our domestic steel rod requirements through our own rod mill. Our wire drawing mills supply nearly all of our U.S. requirements for steel wire .
For example, we produce steel rod that we make into steel wire, which we then use to manufacture innersprings and static foundations for mattresses. Our domestic wire drawing mills purchase nearly all of their steel rod requirements from our rod mill. Our wire drawing mills supply nearly all of our U.S. requirements for steel wire .
We supply components used by home and work furniture manufacturers to provide comfort, motion, and style in their finished products, as well as select lines of private label finished furniture. We produce or distribute carpet cushion and hard surface flooring underlayment.
We supply components used by home and work furniture manufacturers to provide comfort, motion, and style in their finished products and manufacture select lines of private-label finished furniture. We produce carpet cushion and hard surface flooring underlayment for residential and commercial use.
Our Ability to Attract, Recruit, and Retain Employees We operate in competitive labor markets, and accordingly, we attract, recruit, and retain employees through competitive compensation and benefits, learning and development programs that support career growth, and employee engagement initiatives designed to foster a strong, inclusive culture. Compensation and Benefits .
At year-end 2023, we had approximately 19,300 employees. Our Ability to Attract, Recruit, and Retain Employees We operate in competitive labor markets, and accordingly, we attract, recruit, and retain employees through competitive compensation and benefits, training and development programs that support career growth, and employee engagement initiatives designed to foster a strong, inclusive culture. Compensation and Benefits .
Our Specialty Foam business formulates many of the chemicals and additives used in the production of specialty foams for the bedding and furniture industries. These branded, specialty polyols and additives enhance foam performance by reducing heat retention and improving mobility, support, and durability.
Our Specialty Foam business formulates many of the chemicals and additives used in the production of specialty foams for the bedding and furniture industries. These branded, specialty polyols and additives enhance foam performance by reducing heat retention and improving mobility, support, and durability. Our innovations enable us to produce high-quality, differentiated compressed mattresses.
Customer Concentration We serve thousands of customers worldwide, sustaining many long-term business relationships. In 2023, our largest customer accounted for less than 6% of our consolidated revenues. Our top 10 customers accounted for approxima tely 31% of t hese consolidated revenues.
Customer Concentration We serve thousands of customers worldwide, sustaining many long-term business relationships. Our largest customer represented less than 8% of our 2024 consolidated revenue. Our top 10 customers accounted for approxima tely 32% of t hese consolidated revenues.
Also, historically, our operating cash flows have been stronger in the fourth quarter, primarily related to the timing of cash collections from customers and payments to vendors, and lower in the first quarter, when annual cash incentive payments are paid and as inventories typically increase.
Also, historically, our operating cash flows have been stronger in the fourth quarter, primarily related to the timing of cash collections from customers and payments to vendors, and lower in the first quarter, when annual cash incentive payments are paid and as inventories typically increase. However, supply chain disruptions, inflation, and other macroeconomic factors have impacted seasonality in prior years.
The loss of one or more of these customers could have a material adverse effect on the Company and respective segment in which the customer’s sales are reported. 10 Table of Contents PART I Patents and Trademarks As of December 31, 2023, we had 1,345 patents issued, 505 patents in process, 1,031 trademarks registered, and 38 trademarks in process.
The loss of one or more of these customers could have a material adverse effect on the Company and the respective segments in which the customer’s sales are reported. 9 Table of Contents PART I Patents and Trademarks As of December 31, 2024, we had 1,281 patents issued, 503 patents in process, 1,007 trademarks registered, and 57 trademarks in process.
Our Automotive business designs and engineers lightweight components that help reduce overall vehicle weight and improve fuel efficiency (and thus reduce noise and greenhouse gas emissions), while maintaining performance, safety, and functionality. These products help auto manufacturers meet emission standards and their environmental goals.
Our Automotive business designs and engineers lightweight components that help reduce overall vehicle weight and improve fuel efficiency (and thus reduce noise and greenhouse gas emissions), while maintaining performance, safety, and functionality.
A substantial majority of the rod mill's output has been used by our two U.S. wire mills that have supplied virtually all of the wire consumed by our other domestic businesses. We also supply steel rod and wire to trade customers that operate in a broad range of markets.
Approximately half of the rod mill's output is used internally by our wire mills to supply virtually all of the wire consumed by our domestic innerspring operations and other businesses. We also supply steel rod and wire to trade customers that operate in a broad range of markets.
Our Employees At year-end 2023, we had approximately 19,300 employees, of which 14,100 were engaged in production and 10,900 were international employees. Of these employees, 6,000 were in Bedding Products, 7,600 were in Specialized Products, and 4,900 were in Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products, with the remainder in other roles.
Our Employees At year-end 2024, we had approximately 17,700 employees, of which around 11,500 were engaged in production and around 10,200 were international employees. Of these employees, approximately 5,400 were in Bedding Products, 7,000 were in Specialized Products, and 4,500 were in Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products, with the remainder in other roles.
In early October and mid-December 2022, we acquired two Canadian distributors of products used for erosion control, stormwater management, and various other applications for a cash purchase price of $7 million and $13 million, respectively.
In early October and mid-December 2022, we acquired two Canadian distributors of products used for erosion control, stormwater management, and various other applications for a cash purchase price of $7 million and $13 million, respectively. These acquisitions became a part of our Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products segment and expanded the geographic scope of our Geo Components business unit.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions, inflation, and other macroeconomic factors have impacted seasonality in prior years. Governmental Regulations Our operations are subject to various federal, state, local, and international laws and regulations, including environmental regulations. We have policies intended to ensure that our operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Governmental Regulations Our operations are subject to various federal, state, local, and international laws and regulations, including environmental regulations. We have policies intended to ensure that our operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
ComfortCore ® represented over 65% of our U.S. innerspring units in 2023. A number of our ComfortCore ® innersprings contain a feature we call Quantum ® Edge. These are narrow-diameter, fabric-encased coils that form a perimeter around an innerspring set, replacing a rigid foam perimeter in a finished mattress.
ComfortCore ® represented 70% of our U.S. innerspring units in 2024. Our ComfortCore ® innersprings can be further enhanced with Quantum ® Edge and Eco-Base ® features. Quantum ® Edge units are narrow-diameter, fabric-encased coils that form a perimeter around an innerspring set, replacing a rigid foam perimeter in a finished mattress.
We also will continue to prioritize our people, promote employee resource groups, increase communication to our stakeholder groups, and focus on supplier diversity. Our Workforce Health and Safety We are dedicated to the health and safety of our employees through prevention, education, and awareness with the objective of mitigating workplace injuries through accident investigation and process safety.
Our Workforce Health and Safety We are dedicated to the health and safety of our employees through prevention, education, and awareness with the objective of mitigating workplace injuries through accident investigation and process safety.
Our innerspring, specialty foam, and finished product development and production capabilities allow us to create value at each point, from raw materials to private label finished goods and delivery to the consumer. We operate a steel rod mill in the U.S. with annual capacity of approximately 500,000 tons.
Our industry-leading innerspring and specialty foam technologies, innovative product development, and vertical integration allow us to create value for our customers at each step, from raw material to end consumer. We operate a steel rod mill in the United States with annual capacity of approximately 500,000 tons.
The business was sold for a cash purchase price of approximately $7 million. 7 Table of Contents PART I Foreign Operations The percentages of our trade sales related to products manufactured outside the United States were 36%, 35%, and 39% in 2021, 2022, and 2023, respectively.
This business was reported in our Bedding Products segment. Foreign Operations The percentages of our trade sales related to products manufactured outside the United States were 35%, 39%, and 40% in 2022, 2023, and 2024, respectively.
We believe we attain a cost advantage from efficient manufacturing methods, internal production of certain raw materials, large-scale production, and purchasing leverage.
We strive to understand what drives consumer purchases in our markets and focus our product development activities on meeting end-consumer needs. We believe we attain a cost advantage from efficient manufacturing methods, internal production of certain raw materials, large-scale production, and purchasing leverage.
We are a major supplier of adjustable beds, with North American manufacturing and distribution, and global sourcing capabilities. We also produce machinery used by bedding manufacturers in the production and assembly of their finished products. Our range of products offers our customers a single source for many of their component and finished product needs.
We also produce machinery used by bedding manufacturers in the production and assembly of their finished products. Our range of products offers our customers a single source for many of their component and finished product needs. These innovative proprietary products and our efficient vertical integration have made us one of the largest U.S.-based manufacturers in many of these businesses.
Second, we acquired a leading global manufacturer of hydraulic cylinders for heavy construction equipment for a cash purchase price of $61 million (and 6 Table of Contents PART I $29 million of additional contingent consideration to be paid in cash at a later date).
Second, we acquired a global manufacturer of hydraulic cylinders for heavy construction equipment for a final purchase price of $88 million ($61 million cash plus additional contingent consideration). This business has manufacturing 6 Table of Contents PART I locations in Germany and China and a distribution facility in the United States, and operates within the Specialized Products segment.
Continuing Education and Training Developing our talent continues to be part of our ongoing, long-term strategy, which is focused on growing talent, including technical/skilled positions, supervisory and management levels, and other future leaders. We believe that the first step toward achieving our long-term strategic business goals is to maintain a culture of employee development at all levels of the Company.
Finally, we offer part-time jobs, flexible hours, and remote and hybrid working, where applicable. Training and Development Programs . Developing our talent continues to be part of our ongoing, long-term strategy, which is focused on growing talent, including technical/skilled positions, supervisory and management levels, and other future leaders.
Many of our other businesses are engaged in product development activities to protect our market position, support ongoing growth, and help our customers achieve their sustainability goals. 11 Table of Contents PART I Human Capital Management Our success depends on our ability to attract and retain diverse talent, foster a culture of inclusion, diversity, and equity, provide a safe and healthy work environment, train and develop our employees, and ensure productive succession planning efforts.
Human Capital Management Our success depends on our ability to attract and retain talent, foster a culture of inclusion, respect, and equal opportunity, provide a safe and healthy work environment, train and develop our employees, and ensure productive succession planning efforts.
Finally, we offer part-time jobs, flexible hours, and remote and hybrid working, where applicable. Employee Engagement and Satisfaction . We analyze employee satisfaction to better enhance engagement. At many of our locations, we collect data on employee satisfaction, feedback, and turnover through surveys, employee focus groups, and turnover analysis.
Employee Engagement and Satisfaction. We analyze employee satisfaction to better enhance engagement. At many of our locations, we collect data on employee satisfaction, feedback, and turnover through surveys, employee focus groups, and turnover analysis. From this data, we develop plans designed to improve engagement and reduce turnover. We rely on a stable workforce to deliver our operating results.
We continue to foster a culture in which everyone is respected, valued, and has an equal opportunity to contribute, thrive, and advance. Our commitment is to maintain our focus on building a workforce that represents the many customers we serve and the communities in which we operate around the world.
Our Ethics Hotline helps ensure that the voices of our employees are heard. 11 Table of Contents PART I Our Culture of Inclusion, Respect, and Equal Opportunity We continue to foster a culture of inclusion in which everyone is respected, valued, and has an equal opportunity to contribute, grow, thrive, and advance.
From this data, we develop plans designed to improve engagement and reduce turnover. At all locations, we also have a grievance-reporting mechanism where employees can express concerns, confidentially and anonymously, regarding possible violations of ethics, law, or our policies. Turnover . We rely on a diverse, stable workforce to deliver our operating results.
In 2024, our turnover rates in the United States were reasonably comparable to average voluntary turnover rates of the manufacturing industry in the United States. At all locations, we also have an Ethics Hotline where employees can express concerns, confidentially and anonymously, regarding possible violations of ethics, law, or our policies.
In 2023, we launched our new combination pocket unit that combines perimeter edge innersprings and specialty foam to create a fabric-encased innerspring and foam column that minimizes motion disturbance from a sleeping partner and improves airflow.
In 2023, we launched CombiCore TM , a semi-finished mattress featuring fabric-encased perimeter edge innerspring and specialty foam columns that minimize motion disturbance from a sleeping partner and improve airflow. In 2024, we launched our pre-foam encased product, which features foam rails automatically attached to an Eco-Base ® innerspring set during the innerspring production process.
Developed with a more mindful approach, Quantum ® Edge and Caliber Edge ® Enhanced Profile with Eco-Base ® integrates a robust fabric that replaces base foam. To maintain mattress profile, innerspring coil height is increased by one inch.
Our Eco-Base ® products feature a robust polyester fabric attached to the bottom of a ComfortCore ® unit, eliminating non-value-added base foam in a finished mattress and saving customers time and labor. To maintain mattress profile, innerspring coil height is increased by one inch.