Sealy's manufacturing and inventory strategy was key to its survival during the recession and beyond. From 2008 to 2011 , Sealy's lean manufacturing successfully reduced its inventory costs by 12%, or $7.6 million. This reduction enhanced the company's operation and made it an attractive acquisition target. In 2012, rival Tempur-Pedic purchased Sealy for $1.3 billion to create one of the companies in the competitive bedding industry.