Scullin

"Polling data indicates that happiness has declined in the U.S. in recent years, and during the same time period, sleep problems have been widespread," said principal investigator Michael Scullin, who has a doctorate in psychology and is an associate professor of psychology and neuroscience at Baylor University in Waco, Texas.

Scullin noted that experimentally increasing sleep improved these positive attributes, which are at the core of well-being and among the underpinnings of prosocial behaviors.

"Subtly increasing sleep increased people's gratitude, resilience and feelings of flourishing in life," Scullin said.

The new factory will allow the company to meet increasing demand; Mr. Scullin says that it has had thousands of inquiries from potential clients.

The automotive industry also offers a huge opportunity, since, Mr. Scullin said, car manufacturers are the second-largest-user of leather, after footwear.