Michael “Mattress Mick” Flynn is one of Ireland’s most recognisable characters—a
businessman, entertainer, marketing maverick, and a national treasure. But long before the
big hair, the viral videos and the dancing mattresses, there was simply Michael Flynn: a hard-
working Dublin lad with a knack for spotting opportunities where others saw none.

Born in Dublin in 1951, Mick grew up around the family drapery business in Pearse Street
and learned early the value of family, hard work and community. He has tried his hand at
everything – property, furniture, markets, retail; if it could be sold, Mick would figure out a
way to sell it.

He was always a hard worker. As a young man, he worked during the week in a bank and at
weekends he worked on a stall in the Dandelion Market. (He used to hang out with Bono
there and they both sported similar hairstyles!) After a couple of years he left his secure job
in the bank to take over the running of the family business. At the time, drapery businesses in
Dublin were losing customers to larger stores so Mick saw the opportunity to move into the
furniture business instead. He grew the furniture business and opened new stores around
Dublin.

In 2008, when the recession hit Ireland hard, Mick faced a huge challenge. Business was
slow, customers were scarce and people weren’t spending money. He lost almost everything.
Most people would have given up but Mick didn’t.

Instead, he reinvented himself. He created “Mattress Mick”, a larger-than-life, over-the-top
persona designed to bring a bit of craic back into retail. He put on the trademark red jacket,
the sunglasses, the outstretched arms and the rest is history.

With no money to spend on advertising he adopted guerrilla marketing tactics. With
homemade videos, catchy jingles, and a fearless approach to promoting mattresses, Mick
became a viral sensation. He became the subject of the award-winning documentary
“Mattress Men” and a new book about his life has just been published – aptly named
Bouncing Back – Memoirs of a Mattress Salesman.

But behind the humour is a genuine, community-driven businessman who always puts
customers first. Mick loves people and remains deeply involved in Dublin life. He has helped
countless people furnish their homes affordably, supports local events, clubs and charities,
and is a friendly face known in every corner of Dublin.