James for Carpets Celebrates 10 Years

10 YEARS OF JAMES FOR CARPETS

James for Carpets continues to go from strength to strength, as it celebrates its tenth anniversary this month.

The Horsham business was founded by James Essex, who worked for his father’s firm of carpet fitters before setting up his own business in January 2011. Since then, the fleet of vans has expanded from one to five, while the office has moved to a larger unit in Foundry Lane with its own warehouse. Yet James has maintained his excellent reputation for customer service, with a five-star, 9.9 approval rating on Checkatrade, based on more than 700 reviews.

James said: “Even though we’ve grown as a business, more than I imagined we would, we are still focused on Horsham District and surrounding areas. In a community like Horsham, word of mouth is vital to the success of a business. So, from the outset, we’ve gone the extra mile. As well as fitting carpets professionally, we arrive in clean, sign-written vans, our fitters wear proper uniform and always tidy up afterwards.”

“All of that effort makes a difference over ten years. Now, we are visiting relatives of customers, as family members have recommended us. It’s nice, as you build a relationship with families and that’s important to us as an independent business.”

James Essex celebrates 10 years in business

©Toby Phillips Photography/AAH

ADAPTING IN 2020

This has been an challenging year for us all, but James for Carpets adapted quickly and even expanded. Hayley and Joanne have joined the office team, while new fitters are on the road too, taking the number of employees up to ten.

To continue working during the pandemic, staff have been protecting themselves and customers by wearing PPE (including masks and gloves) during all consultations and fittings.

James said: “After the first lockdown, there was a huge demand for carpets. People were not able to go on holiday or eat out, and they had time to make improvements to their home. We needed to react to that demand and adapt to the unique circumstances, which we managed to. I wasn’t expecting to be as busy as we have been, to the extent where we’ve added another van to the fleet with experienced fitters joining the team. We also have a keen young fitter joining us on an apprenticeship scheme, as we want to invest in the staff.”

©Toby Phillips Photography/AAH

50 SHADES OF GREY

Since its foundation, the range of lines and fabrics offered at James for Carpets has grown to include vinyl flooring, popular for corporate clients as well as residential properties. Tastes have changed too, with many customers now preferring grey shades to beige.

James said: “When we started out, it was all beige and brown carpets, to complement the magnolia walls. Now, it’s 50 shades of grey! There's also been a shift towards Farrow & Ball colours and pastel tones. Some of the manufacturers we work with have looked at these colour trends and are making carpets with corresponding colours.”

One thing that hasn’t changed is the company’s reputation for excellent customer service. James said: “Some national retailers constantly promote special offers and discounts, but modern customers see through them. They also know that these retailers can’t offer advice as we can, based on the client’s individual needs. The most important element of our work is spending the time to properly inform customers.”

“We visit clients to discuss factors such as colour, insulation, budget and even the make-up of the household. Do children live there? Do you have pets? Some homes are suited to hardwearing, robust carpets, while others want a high-end carpet that will look great for years. It’s about giving each client what’s right for them.”

“Also, as we’re independent, any issues can be dealt with swiftly. I worked as a carpet fitter for 10 years before starting my own business, so have been in this game for 20 years, and can assess what the client needs. That’s key to our success.”

James for Carpets is very grateful to all our customers, past and present. We hope to continue to serve the Horsham District for many years to come.

www.jamesforcarpets.co.uk Call: (01403) 801802