THE SAME SOFTNESS, JUST A DIFFERENT NAME

"SLOWDOWN" strengthens its position in foreign markets - from now on it will be called "Slowdown"

“SLOWDOWN”, a 16-year-old manufacturer of beanbags in Lithuania, is changing the name of the company brand. From now on, the beanbags and other products of the company, which have become synonymous with soft furniture, will be called "Slowdown". The main reason for changing the brand is the company's determination to further expand into the international market.

"With the annual increase in export volume, it was necessary to strengthen the global recognition of the brand. The Lithuanian name "SLOWDOWN" is well known in Lithuania, Estonia, and Sweden, but it is not sufficiently understood by citizens of other foreign countries, and when heard, it is difficult to write it down. What's more, it does not create strong associations with the products we produce for residents of other countries", says the founder and general manager of the company, Remigijus Balciunas.

According to him, the new name "Slowdown" symbolizes the quality of life and the opportunity to relax in this insanely fast routine.

"In the busy rhythm of life, we want the brand to allow you to breathe, hang out, meditate and find time for yourself, family and friends. We say "slow down" and finally enjoy a comfortable rest", R. Balciunas explains the meaning of the name.

According to him, the new trademark is intended to maintain the continuity of the former name, but at the same time reflects the company's values of striving to make people's lives more convenient.

Along with the brand, the company's slogan is also changing - from "Create Happiness" to "Enjoy the Moments".

A decision made at the right time and place

The history of "SLOWDOWN" in Lithuania began back in 2008, when R. Balciunas, looking for furniture of exceptional design and comfort for his home, did not find anything similar.

"In Lithuania, the market for this type of furniture was quite small, and sending it from abroad was quite expensive, so I decided to make it myself and test their comfort. Not only me, but also everyone who tried them liked the furniture very much, so I decided to quit my salaried job and start my own business", recalls the interviewer.

At the beginning of our life, our furniture was very colorful, used a lot of bright colors, and over time it adapted to the needs of the target audience, matured and became more delicate and suitable for various interior styles.

"We have over 7 thousand unique products by type, fabric and color. The products are made for both indoor and outdoor use and are also made from non-flammable fabrics and recycled plastic bottles. The company also produces additional goods, such as cushions, bean bag covers, tables, towels for beach and terrace bean bags," says R. Balciunas.

Soft furniture quickly gained great popularity in Lithuania - they were chosen not only by private buyers for their homes, but also by businesses: catering establishments, hotels, offices, so the need to expand into the international market naturally arose.

Foreign consumers also recognized it

4 years after the establishment of the business, in 2012, the company started exporting its products to 6 countries: Latvia, Estonia, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Germany.

"Working in different markets, we felt that some products or types of beanbags are more popular in some countries, while others are more popular in others. Therefore, our job was to create an interesting, convenient, and attractive product that would appeal to everyone. Little by little, we increased our customer base, entered new markets, and currently we can enjoy good indicators - more than 60 percent. our products are exported", says R. Balciunas.

Today, “Slowdown” furniture is enjoyed by residents of countries such as the United States, Japan, Chile, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Israel, St. Martin Island, Bahrain, Turkey, etc. We currently export to 39 countries.

"With the entire team, we are determined to accelerate the growth of the company and develop the brand worldwide. The changes we have undertaken will allow us to better identify our activities and contribute to the implementation of the set goals", says R. Balciunas.

Unique furniture for everyone

The founder and manager of "Slowdown" says that details are especially important for the products they produce, so they are also thought of. "For example, beanbags have inner bags with a hidden zipper that are harder for children to pull off." We also produce specialized beanbags on which you can put a special print or unique embroidery," says R. Balciunas.

The company has also won the international “Archiproducts 2021” award for the “Cocoon” beanbag, which is distinguished by the fact that you can not only sit down softly, but also wrap yourself up warmly.

"We believe that this is not the last evaluation of our products. This year, we have created a new beanbag "Clip clap", the design of which is exclusive and extremely functional", R. Balciunas shares the news.

In 2023, UAB "Pupt", which owns the trademark "Slowdown", had a turnover of more than 2.4 million. euros. The company has 33 employees.