SELECT COMFORT CORP. Minneapolis, Minnesota; Financial Results Rise And Shine For Supplier Of Air Mattresses.(THE NEW AMERICA)

Byline: MARILYN ALVA

Seems a day doesn't go by without a TV commercial on sleep aids or a study that shows how Americans don't get enough sleep -- or the right kind of sleep.

The growing awareness of the value of a good night's sleep is playing right into the hands of specialty mattress makers.

"They're selling the quality of sleep and the health implications, and people are buying it," said analyst Mark Rupe of Canaccord Adams.

Unlike traditional firms -- which put springs in their mattresses -- specialty manufacturers supply mattresses filled with air or foam.

The nation's top air-bed manufacturer is Select Comfort. Utilizing patented air-chamber technology, its branded Sleep Number mattresses can be adjusted on each side of the bed …