Relax The Back Company Profile

Background

Overview

Relax The Back, established in 1984 by an osteopathic physician, is a specialty retailer dedicated to providing wellness solutions that alleviate and prevent back and neck pain. With a mission to enhance customers' quality of life through ergonomic and therapeutic products, the company has grown to over 70 stores across North America. Their product range includes ergonomic chairs, mattresses, massage chairs, and other wellness items designed to support spinal health and overall well-being.

Mission and Vision

The company's mission is to help individuals live healthier and happier lives by offering best-in-class ergonomic and wellness products. Their vision encompasses a holistic approach to health, focusing on relieving pain, improving health, and fostering well-being through the transformation of daily routines and living spaces.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Relax The Back aims to be the leading provider of specialty health and wellness products that address back and neck pain. Their strategic focus includes:

Product Diversification: Offering a wide range of ergonomic and therapeutic products tailored to various customer needs.

Customer Education: Empowering clients with knowledge about ergonomics and posture to make informed decisions.

Personalized Solutions: Providing concierge services to guide customers in selecting products that suit their individual requirements.

Primary Markets

The company targets individuals seeking relief from back and neck pain, including those with medical conditions, professionals requiring ergonomic office solutions, and consumers interested in wellness and preventive care.

Financials and Funding

Acquisition

In November 2016, Interactive Health, Inc., the parent company of Human Touch®, acquired Relax The Back Corporation. This acquisition aimed to integrate Relax The Back's retail presence with Interactive Health's product offerings, enhancing their position in the spinal health care market.

Pipeline Development

Product Offerings

Relax The Back continually expands its product line to address evolving customer needs. Key product categories include:

Ergonomic Office Solutions: Chairs, desks, and accessories designed to promote proper posture and reduce workplace strain.

Sleep Products: Mattresses and pillows engineered to support spinal alignment during sleep.

Massage Chairs and Recliners: Devices that provide therapeutic massage to alleviate muscle tension and improve circulation.

Fitness and Therapy Products: Tools and equipment aimed at enhancing physical health and aiding in recovery.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

While Relax The Back primarily curates products from various manufacturers, they emphasize offering items that incorporate advanced ergonomic designs and therapeutic technologies. Their selection includes products featuring:

Zero Gravity Technology: Recliners that position the body to reduce pressure on the spine and improve circulation.

Memory Foam Materials: Mattresses and pillows that conform to the body's shape, providing customized support.

Massage Mechanisms: Chairs equipped with multi-functional massage systems to address various muscle groups.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

David Wood: Serving as the CEO of Interactive Health, Inc., David Wood assumed responsibility for Relax The Back following the 2016 acquisition. He brings extensive experience in the health and wellness industry, focusing on integrating product innovation with retail strategies.

Robert McMillan: As the CFO and head of Operations for Relax The Back, Robert McMillan oversees financial management and operational efficiencies, ensuring the company's growth and stability.

Leadership Changes

In December 2016, Dick Palfreyman, the then CEO of Relax The Back, retired. David Wood, CEO of Interactive Health, Inc., took over the responsibilities for Relax The Back, marking a significant leadership transition aimed at aligning the company's strategic direction with its parent organization.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The health and wellness industry is experiencing significant growth, with increasing consumer awareness about the importance of ergonomic products in preventing and alleviating musculoskeletal issues. The market for ergonomic furniture and wellness solutions is expanding, driven by factors such as the rise in remote work and an aging population seeking comfort and pain relief solutions.

Competitor Analysis

Relax The Back operates in a competitive landscape that includes:

The Healthy Back Store: Offers a range of ergonomic furniture and back care products, focusing on solutions for back pain relief.

Back Store: Provides ergonomic chairs, mattresses, and accessories aimed at improving posture and comfort.

Office Depot and Staples: While primarily office supply retailers, they offer ergonomic office furniture and accessories catering to consumers seeking workplace comfort solutions.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Relax The Back collaborates with medical professionals who refer patients to their stores for ergonomic solutions. This partnership enhances the company's credibility and positions it as a trusted resource for back and neck care products.

Operational Insights

Franchise Model

Relax The Back operates primarily through a franchise model, allowing for localized management while maintaining brand consistency. This approach enables the company to expand its footprint effectively and adapt to regional market demands.

Customer Experience

The company emphasizes a personalized customer experience, with trained consultants providing tailored recommendations based on individual needs. This strategy fosters customer loyalty and differentiates Relax The Back from competitors.