In 1893, Abraham and Samuel Shifman established a company dedicated to manufacturing superior quality bedding. Founded in Newark, New Jersey, A. Shifman & Bro. Mattress Company began a tradition of excellence in bedding that has endured for generations.

Twenty-three years later, Samuel bought out his brother's interest and brought in his three sons, Milton, Simon, and Arthur, changing the company name to Shifman Bros., Inc. In 1918, the company moved to its present location at One Mott Street in Newark.

As the years passed, Shifman's business grew to become the second largest bedding producer in New Jersey. After World War II, Samuel's grandsons, Burton and Robert, joined the company, with Burton in charge of production and Robert in charge of sales.

Although still producing the finest quality handcrafted bedding, the company was slow to adjust to changes in the industry, with consumers wanting firmer bedding, more fashionable covers, and brand name recognition created by advertising.

Michael Hammer, a bedding professional with over 22 years' experience in sales and manufacturing, first with Simmons and later with Stearns and Foster, entered the picture in 1985. After touring the factory and witnessing firsthand the tremen dous quality built into a set of Shifman bedding, Michael was anxious to purchase the operation. He pledged to continue the legacy of Abraham and Samuel Shifman and maintain the superior standards of quality, excellence and integrity on which the company's reputation was built.

Since 1985, Michael has instituted a variety of improvements to its manufacturing procedures while maintaining the Shifman tradition. The results have shown remarkable growth year after year with fine furniture and department stores.