Flooring April-May 2014

april / may 2014

RESILIENT

BROADLOOM

CARPET TILE DESIGN IS THE ANSWER.

At Shaw Contract Group we have your commercial flooring needs covered. Our carpet tiles, broadloom and resilient tile and plank collections deliver unmatched durability and value so you never have to sacrifice on style.

SEE PAGE 26 >

www.shawcontractgroup.com.au 1800 556 302

See yourself with an expert finish from the Concrete Specialists

1300 662 599 www.concretecare.com.au KHCCFPCFLOOR042014

incorporating

FLOORS

april/may 2014 | vol 32 no 02 www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Industry News

Special features

Regular Reports

FrontCover

04 Hycraft Carpets congratulates Warrnambool Carpet Court

23 Aged & Health Care

01 Shaw Contract Group

26 Carpet

20 Airstep Retailer of the Month: Simons Design Centre, Tasmania

32 Resilient Flooring

22 Surfaces Today

34 Timber & Parquetry

38 Software

06 A new website for Classic 08 Carpet Court celebrates top stores 10 New members at Choices 12 Kennards Hire supporting Kiwi kids

42 PICFloors 46 Business 47 Exhibition Calendar Advertisers Index

14 ege@irvine 16 New appointments at Shaw 18 Expert advice for facilities managers

Flooring April/May 2014 3

News Hycraft Carpets congratulates Warrnambool Carpet Court Rod McDonald and Adrian Barnes of Warrnambool Carpet Court have won a $15,000 travel voucher courtesy of Hycraft Carpets. The prize was a fitting conclusion to the eight month long Hycraft promotion, drawn at the Carpet Court Pathway to Success conference 2014.

“Rod, Adrian and their partners Yvonne and Debbie were delighted with the win,” said David Mitchell, Hycraft Carpets Business Development Manager.

“Hycraft Carpets are excellent wool ranges for us, not only in our Warrnambool Store, but also in our Portland and Hamilton stores,” said

ELITE PUBLISHING CO PTY LTD ABN: 27 006 876 419 PO BOX 800, Templestowe Victoria, Australia 3106 Ph: + 61 3 9890 0815 Fax: + 61 3 9890 0087 Email: info@elitepublishing.com.au Website: www.elitepublishing.com.au PUBLISHER Vicky Cammiade Email: vicky.cammiade@elitepublishing.com.au GROUP MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Curtis Email: jennifer.curtis@elitepublishing.com.au NATIONAL SALES MANAGER Ashley Cooper Email: ashley.cooper@elitepublishing.com.au CIRCULATION MANAGER Georgia Gilmour Email: georgia.gilmour@elitepublishing.com.au PRODUCTION For artwork and production enquiries please email: production@elitepublishing.com.au PRE-PRESS Prominent Digital PRINTED BY Prominent Group Pty Ltd EXHIBITION ORGANISERS & PROMOTERS Elite Media & Marketing Pty Ltd P O BOX 800, Templestowe Victoria, Australia 3106 Ph: + 61 3 9890 0815 Fax: + 61 3 9890 0087 Email: info@elitepublishing.com.au Website: www.elitepublishing.com.au

4 Flooring April/May 2014

Rob and Adrian on receiving their prize.

“We have been impressed with the popularity, ongoing colour upgrades and point of sale material available, which gives us ongoing confidence in the range. We look forward to expanding and continuing our established partnership with Hycraft.”

Rod, Yvonne, Debbie and Adrian on receiving their $15,000 travel voucher recently.

With their $15,000 travel voucher, Rod and Yvonne are considering a visit to the Kimberley region in Western Australia while Adrian and Debbie like to follow the snow, wherever that may be.

ELITE PUBLISHING CO PTY LTD PUBLISHERS OF: Supplier Woodworking Magazine, Furniture & Bedding Magazine, Flooring Magazine Member of the International Woodworking and Furniture Supplier Magazine Associationt

ELITE PUBLISHING CO PTY LTD (established 1985) All rights reserved – No part of this publication maybe reproduced, transmitted or copied in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording, or any information storage or retrieval system, without the express prior written consent of Elite Publishing Co Pty Ltd. Viewpoints, opinions, claims, etc expressed in articles appearing in this publication are those of the authors. The Publishers accept no responsibility for the information supplied or for claims made by companies or their representatives regarding product performance, etc or for any errors, omissions, misplacement, alterations, or any subsequent changes, or for any consequences of reliance on this information or this publication.

Jennifer Curtis – Group Managing Editor

Ashley Cooper – National Sales Manager

"Your Industry – Your Magazine"

SOMETIMES

SINGLE

IS A LOT EASIER.

THE NEW ARDEX WPM 368 IS HERE SINGLE PART BARRIER ARDEX WPM 368 is the first and only single part, subfloor moisture barrier membrane for flooring applications. No mixing, no wastage and no more risk of mistakes. It even has a built in mechanical key, so no more sand broadcasting.

WPM 368 is water based making it environmentaly friendly and suitable for use in confined spaces. WPM 368 will save you money on materials, save you time on the job and will remind you everyday, that single is a whole lot easier.

For more information, contact ARDEX on 1300 788 780 or visit www.ardexaustralia.com

News

A compassionate employer Carpet Logistics has been awarded a Compassionate Employer award by The Compassionate Friends Victoria for the support and help it provided after a staff member passed away last year.

Over the past 35 years The Compassionate Friends Victoria has been providing peer support to bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents along with educating the community on

the impacts of grief. They have heard a wide variety of accounts from bereaved individuals relating to how they were treated by their employer following the death of a loved one.

Whilst some individuals felt well-supported in their work environment, others recounted particularly negative experiences, to the extent that some felt the only possible solution was to leave their workplace altogether.

All new website for Classic Classic Architectural Group has now released its allnew product website, www. classsic-arch.com.

The team at Classic has been assisting estimators and project managers for more than three decades and has proved themselves as market leaders by keeping at the forefront of the ever changing designscape. This includes continuous improvement of both product ranges and

company literature and media.

Based on feedback received, the company has compiled a completely new, high quality website that is user friendly. With quality product photos and diagrams, detailed product information, case studies, colour guides and installation guides, the website is easy to navigate and makes finding what you need a breeze.

New beginning for Australian Floor Style Australian Floor Style has made a number of changes in the past year including adopting a new managerial structure, moving to a new location, and updating its online presence.

The group has also welcomed three new members since August last year.

Since the resignation of its General Manager in April 2013, the Board of Directors decided to take direct control

of the managerial duties, with each director taking responsibility for certain areas of operations.

Among these are Chairman Lindsay Hunt, who has been a director of Floor Style for the past 19 years, as well as owning and operating his own retail business in Armidale for the past 30 years.

Office administrator, Chris Hunneybell, has been with Australian Floor Style for the last 20 years.

Board of dirtectors John Winter, Chris Hunneybell, Clive Whittacker, Lindsay Hunt (Chairman), Joe Basha and Brian Fitzsimmons.

6 Flooring April/May 2014

Just another Member benefit of being part of the Choices Flooring family Introducing the 2014 edition of Inspiring Choices magazine – 92 pages of the latest trends in carpet, timber, bamboo, laminate, luxury vinyl, tiles and rugs, plus innovative interior design advice from Australia’s leading stylists.

Inspiring Choices 2014 magazine combines stunning lifestyle images and design advice with product information, price range indicators, plus care and maintenance tips, putting flooring inspiration and advice at the customer’s fingertips.

For a strictly confidential discussion about the future direction of your business, please contact: Andrew Lewis Chief Executive Officer Mobile: 0400 400 036 Email: alewis@choicesflooring.com.au

Tim Drew Group Manager - Retail Development Mobile: 0425 751 756 Email: tdrew@choicesflooring.com.au

choicesflooring.com.au

News Carpet Court celebrates top stores at biggest conference yet The outstanding achievements of four Carpet Court stores were recently recognised and celebrated by more than 330 store owners, team members, suppliers and sponsors who attended Carpet Court’s biggest ever conference, held on Hamilton Island in late March.

This year saw the introduction of the awards to recognise Carpet Court stores which have excelled in delivering the ultimate customer experience by completing The Pathway to Success training program and refurbishing their stores.

The Pathway to Success initiative is a training program created to empower each Carpet Court store with tools and systems to consistently deliver on customer expectations including service, value, range and instore presentation.

The following four stores were the recipients of the inaugural awards: • Canning Vale Carpet Court, WA • Barossa Carpet Court, SA • Hoppers Crossing Carpet Court, VIC • Coffs Harbour Carpet Court, NSW

The new awards and record number of attendees highlight Carpet Court’s growth and reconfirms its position as the market leader.

Carpet Court’s CEO, Andrew Brand, said the awards were about recognising the stores that have gone over and above in providing the ultimate instore experience.

“These stores have displayed outstanding commitment to the Carpet Court group through customer service and store excellence,” said Andrew.

“We’re very proud of this year’s winners and look forward to more stores joining the ranks as we continue to build on The Pathway to Success program over the next 12 months.”

In addition to the awards, presentations and workshops were held at the conference including keynote speeches from The Block judge and Carpet Court ambassador, Darren Palmer, as well as in-depth discussions around social media engagement and customer loyalty presented by social media expert, Laurel Papworth, and managing partner of TKP Market Research Consultants, Ron Klein.

Attendees also heard from prominent business advisors and consultants including Bernard Salt, David Staughton and Tom Potter. Former Olympic champion aerial skier, Alisa Camplin also gave a rousing presentation, as did Dr Barbara Dwyer, a specialist in organisational change at The Millennium Group.

“Technology, including social media, now plays a huge part in engaging with and retaining customers so the conference was the perfect opportunity for us to hear from industry experts and share the collective knowledge held by our members,” said Andrew.

ADF GIVES AWAY MAZDA 2 NEO The Advantage Flooring Distributor’s new year started with the giving away of a brand new Mazda 2 Neo Sports at the annual Solomons/Carpet Call Conference, held in Sydney.

This year’s special prize was part of a new promotion Advantage has been running with the stores for the past 10 months. All stores became actively involved and by the time February came around there was a large number of stores in

Rob Fahi, Solomons Kawana; Shanen Chapman, Solomons Tweed; Scott Davies, Mt Gambier and Geoff White Solomons Brendale with Tony Mihan and ADF staff member, Tony Galbraith.

the draw – all eager to win a brand new car.

The winners were Shaun and Tracey Mihan from Solomons Hervey Bay. The night saw a number of other winners take away a token of appreciation. These included Rob Fahi from Solomons Kawana; Shanen Chapman, Solomons Tweed; Scott Davies, Tony Galbraith presenting Shaun Mihan the keys to his new Mazda.

8 Flooring April/May 2014

Another award given away on the night went to Geoff and Kay from Solomons Brendale, who were named Advantage’s Top Store.

At the same event, the Advantage Flooring Distributors’ team was named ‘Supplier of the Year’.

Mt Gambier and Geoff White Solomons Brendale; AFD Staff

“At Advantage Flooring we pride ourselves on our customer

- Tony Mihan; Tony Galbraith)

service and we are humbled by this recognition.”

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THE NAME 

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News New members at Choices Choices Flooring is very pleased to welcome three new members into the Choices Flooring family: Raelene and Daniel Knox in Bunbury (WA), Amanda and Adam Evans in Balgowlah (NSW) and Robyn and Daniel Kuhn in Warwick (QLD).

Choices Flooring Bunbury: With their diverse work backgrounds, Raelene and Daniel Knox make a perfect team. Daniel started installing flooring approximately ten years ago whereas Raelene’s employment experience has been in administration and bookkeeping. Starting out in Perth, they were seeking a sea change for the family and as a result relocated to Bunbury over eight years ago.

“We are very confident that with the help of Choices Flooring Central Office and the invaluable support we have received from the outgoing owners of Choices Flooring Bunbury, Jeannette and Brian Spragg, plus our experienced team flooring consultants, we will be successful,” said Daniel.

Choices Flooring Balgowlah: Adam and Amanda Evans have strong retail experience. Adam worked under the guidance of the previous Choices Flooring Balgowlah owners, Margaret and John Gleave for eight years before taking over the business in April 2014. Amanda’s retail

career at Bunnings Warehouse has also enabled her to gain strong retail experience.

“We are proud to be part of the Choices Flooring family.

Over the past eight years, working at Choices Flooring Balgowlah, I have seen the business grow with the help of the dedicated support team at Central Office,” said Adam.

Choices Flooring Warwick: Robyn and Daniel Kuhn became proud owners of Choices Flooring Warwick in April 2014.

From their first meeting with the Choices Flooring family, they were impressed with the professionalism of the Central Office team and strong network of Choices Flooring members.

“The size and quality of the group, plus the support systems offered to members were enough for us to know that we were joining the right group. Having a dedicated Business Development Manager (Jeremy Naug) is an important resource offered by Choices Flooring that will stand us in good stead in a very competitive industry.”

Celebrating 50 years

Choices Flooring is proud to announce that its member, Choices Flooring by Tru Services Group, this year celebrates 50 years in the retail industry.

Established as a flooring retailer by Joyce and Jim Paterson in 1964, the business is now owned and operated by the second generation of Patersons – Ian, Gavin, Bruce and

10 Flooring April/May 2014

Andrew, who, in addition to flooring, also offer their customers ceilings, plastering and maintenance services.

Choices Flooring by Tru Services Group is a well recognised and well respected businesses in the Albury, NSW region and its 50 years in business is one to be admired and celebrated by all.

Another Welcome Addition to the

Choices Flooring Family

Choices Flooring are proud to welcome Roxanne and Brian Moroney to the Choices Flooring family.

In March 2014, Roxanne and Brian opened their Choices Flooring store in Ferntree Gully (VIC). The showroom inspires customers the moment they step inside and features the new Inspiration Station.

This technological innovation allows customers to match different flooring types to suit rooms and décors, similar to their own, at the simple touch of a screen.

Roxanne and Brian are extremely enthusiastic about joining the Choices Flooring family.

“Every aspect has impressed us, from store presentation, product offering, strategic direction and current Membership. And last but certainly not least, the Central Office team - with their support and structure we know we will see our new venture succeed for many years to come.”

For a strictly confidential discussion about the future direction of your business, please contact: Andrew Lewis Chief Executive Officer Mobile: 0400 400 036 Email: alewis@choicesflooring.com.au

Tim Drew Group Manager - Retail Development Mobile: 0425 751 756 Email: tdrew@choicesflooring.com.au

choicesflooring.com.au

News

Golf day supports Ronald McDonald House Kennards Hire supporting Kiwi kids Kennards Hire and KidsCan has announced the final fundraising figure from the Kennards for Kids campaign in New Zealand, which ran throughout October and November in 2013.

Throughout the two month campaign, Kennards Hire raised a whopping $25,000, which will help Kiwi kids who are less fortunate than others change their lives for the better.

After the fantastic support Kennards Hire has received from KidsCan, the company has decided that the charity will once again be its partner during the Kennards for Kids initiative in 2014.

Kennards for Kids will take place during September and October this year, with $2 from every hire going straight to KidsCan.

The new choicesflooring.com.au Choices Flooring continues to prove customers are at the core of their business with the launch of its updated website – choicesflooring.com.au Among the new updates, the website incorporates advanced search functionalities, 80% of Choices Flooring’s core product range, an interactive room decorator and tile studio, media studio and home decorating and design advice.

Choices Flooring’s Group Manager of Marketing, Jason Verstak said that although they are all proud of the new features, this

12 Flooring April/May 2014

update is just the first step.

“We know how exciting and daunting a decorating project can be. These recent updates will make it easier than ever for consumers to find the right flooring solution for their decorating project,” Mr Verstak explained.

“As technology continues to develop it changes the home decorating experience for consumers, so it is important that we not just keep up with it, but be at the forefront in order to facilitate the best customer experience.”

Each year Carpet Country Traralgon hosts a Charity Golf Day at the Traralgon Golf Club in Victoria. It is one of the best attended golf days of the flooring industry calendar and, as part of the day each year, the company makes a donation to a worthy charity.

This year Ronald McDonald House at Monash was the chosen charity and was selected due to the very personal experience of one of the store’s staff members, who was grateful for the care and attention received by his family during a very difficult time.

In consultation with Ronald McDonald House, Carpet

Country Traralgon decided to replace the floorcoverings in the family lounge room and the children’s play room.

Carpet tiles were chosen as a functional yet stylish option with some bright feature colours for the children included to really brighten the atmosphere.

The total retail value of the job was approximately $4,000.

This could not have happened without the generosity of all who attended and contributed to the Golf Day, especially Signature Floors whose product was installed.

Gilt Edge acquires Tiler’s Mate (NZ) Leading New Zealand flooring wholesale company, Gilt Edge Industries, recently acquired the Tiler’s Mate business in New Zealand from MCK Metals.

Two new distribution outlets in Auckland and Christchurch have been established along with an expanded and experienced sales team to service both islands.

Tiler’s Mate specialises in the sale of tile trims,

Maxisil silicone, tiling tools and cutters, together with a comprehensive range of tiling installation accessories including spacers, wedges, sponges and squeegees, primarily to tile retailers.

Tiler’s Mate is a successful business of longstanding, with a strong brand and loyal client base and will operate as a separate trading entity under the Gilt Edge Industries structure.

Carpet Court launches new concept store First they launched the 3D Design Studio app, then they created a new interactive website and now Carpet Court is bringing its product offering to life with a new concept store in Hoppers Crossing, Victoria.

Already home to a design hub, the 650 m2 showroom has been revamped to display products in simple categorised displays, which include easy-to-read fact sheets so customers can quickly identify the features and benefits of each range.

Store owner, Ron May, said the new concept store has been very well received by both customers and suppliers.

“Our customers love the new layout. It’s a comfortable space for them to browse and it’s much easier for them to find the right flooring solution thanks to streamlined product

information,” said Ron. The new store is part of a wider strategy to introduce technology and revamp staff excellence and training to simplify the flooring purchase process for consumers.

To make sure customers receive the ultimate in-store experience, Carpet Court stores across the country, including Hoppers Crossing, have embarked on a retail excellence program, The Pathway to Success. This is a training program created to

empower each Carpet Court store with tools and systems to consistently deliver on customer expectations including service, value, range and in-store presentation.

Carpet Court’s national marketing manager, Natasha Gallardo, said the new concept store and the Pathway to Success program work hand in hand. “The new store concept creates a sleek and comfortable space within which our team members

can really showcase their new skills and product knowledge with the help of better product displays and interactive design hubs using iPad technology,” said Natasha.

“We’re still in early days but we’re already seeing improvements in customer experience, so we’re really looking forward to seeing more results over the next 12 months.”

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News Traxx Construction Products goes red

Makinex launches innovative product range in the USA Makinex has launched operations and sales in North America in a strategic move towards growth in international markets.

Australian owned and operated, Makinex has designed and developed innovative construction products to the local market since 2004. With a wealth of industry knowledge and a mandate to ‘make inefficiencies extinct’, Makinex has now successfully penetrated the USA market, and is focusing on the rental and flooring industry as core markets.

The launch was inaugurated at the American Rental Association (ARA) Rental Show in Orlando, Florida in early February 2014 where Makinex, along with 875 other exhibitors showcased its product range.

“Our products are unique and differentiated, allowing customers to do their jobs faster, safer and easier.

They are an asset to any rental fleet, promising a high utilisation rate and maximum ROI. Any operator is at a significant advantage when using our products, and we are confident about that,” said company director, Rory Kennard.

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Traxx Construction Products, one of Australia’s leading brands, and Scanmaskin, now one of Europe’s premier brands in surface preparation, have joined forces in Australia and New Zealand.

Managing Director of Marketing and Sales for Scanmaskin, Paulo Bergstrand said: “We are delighted to have the Traxx team on board with our brand. They cover the entire region of Australia and New Zealand with experienced, talented and motivated sales professionals, supported by a first class team of sales support, repair and logistics specialists”.

Traxx Managing Director, Lloyd Williams was delighted with the new arrangement.

“We have worked with Scan for some time now with an own-branded product but, with Scan’s fast global growth, it makes serious sense to “go red”.

“We are very excited about the future of the Scanmaskin products, knowing what is currently in the pipeline and the ambitions of the company.”

ege@irvine Manufactured in Denmark, ege carpets are now available exclusively from Irvine Flooring in New Zealand. ege, which was founded in 1938, has moved with the times and possesses the carpet industry’s most modern technology. ege carpets are made using processes that minimise the environmental impact with the objective of contributing to a more sustainable world by continually striving to improve how ege carpets handle environmental, social and financial challenges. ege already has an impressive list of international environmental labels and certificates. The company chooses to focus on minimising the environmental impact caused by production – ie, how we use our resources rather than focusing on post consumer re-cycling/ re-use. ege carpets has taken time to attain ECNZ approval since it accepted that ECNZ might not be satisfied by even the most stringent Nordic environmental standards. As a consequence the company agreed to reformulate the backing system of its modular carpets, eventually exceeding the recycled content required for compliance.

Demand for tradies to grow Tradies are expected to become a lot busier over the next year, according to a National Australia Bank (NAB) survey.

The survey of home owners has revealed that almost seven in 10 Australians plan to renovate their property in the next 12 months and intend on spending an average $25,000 on home improvements.

According to the survey: • Almost seven in 10 (68%) current home loan holders intend to renovate their property within the next 12 months. This includes painting and decorating.

• Increasing the value of the property and making the property more liveable were the main reasons given for renovating.

• More than half of those renovating intend to update a bathroom or kitchen.

• The average amount that renovators claim they will spend is about $25,000.

• About three in four renovators (72%) say that they have been putting off their renovations because of financial constraints. On average, the renovations have been put off for about one and a half years.

Dean Pearson, NAB Head of Industry Analysis, said: "With house prices growing across most markets (with particularly strong growth in Sydney and Melbourne) home owners are becoming more confident about investing in their single greatest asset.

"We've also seen that the number of people looking to build new homes rise sharply over the past year." Pearson said.

News New appointments at Shaw Contract Group Shaw Contract Group commercial flooring has appointed two new specification consultants, Vicki Taylor and Damien Morrison, based in Perth and Brisbane respectively. They join an already established team of Shaw specification consultants located throughout Australia.

According to Shaw Contract Group National Commercial Sales Manager, Blair Coventry, both Vicki and Damien have been working within the flooring industry in varied capacities for some time.

“Vicki brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to Shaw, having worked with the Western Australian architectural and design community for over 13 years

Damien Morrison

DesignBUILD 2014 finishes on a high DesignBUILD 2014 finished on a high, giving the design, building and construction industries insight into trending materials and products from both local and offshore suppliers.

The real highlight, however, was the event’s booked-out, Industry Insights seminar program, which delivered 15 engaging sessions and 21 speakers from Australia’s

16 Flooring April/May 2014

running her own business, Architectural Link,” Blair said.

“Vicki will be continuing her role with Architectural Link but will be taking her ability to provide flooring solutions to another level using Shaw’s specialist knowledge and insight.

“Damien has joined us from Formica Laminate flooring where he worked with flooring retailers throughout the Brisbane region for the past three years and now joins Christie Versluys in our Brisbane office,” Blair said.

Shaw’s specification consultants are specialised in modular carpet, broadloom carpet and resilient flooring solutions for the healthcare, hospitality, education, public space, retail and office segments.

Vicki Taylor

leading building associations and architectural thought leaders.

Spanning three days from 2 to 4 April in Melbourne, the event delivered an impressive showfloor that also comprised Innovation Alley, featuring groundbreaking technology and products; Project Next, an in-situ sustainable product showcase and information sessions in support of Sustainability Day. DesignBUILD will return to Sydney in 2015 to the Sydney Showground, Olympic Park from 28 to 30 April.

Interface unveils new factory After the devastating fire of Interface’s original site in Picton in 2012, Interface is looking forward to the official unveiling of its innovative state-of-the-art factory in Minto, NSW on 1 May. The opening will be attended by the Hon. Barry O’Farrell, Premier of NSW; Clinton Mead, Mayor Campbelltown City Council; Bryan Doyle, Member for Campbelltown and Laurie Ferguson, Member for

Werriwa as well as other local dignitaries.

Victoria Carpets urges others to have a go Winner of last year's Premier's Regional Recognition Award in the annual Premier's Sustainability Awards, Victoria Carpets is urging all green flooring manufacturers to enter this year's awards program, saying: "It is a real thrill to be recognised on a state level".

Victoria Carpets won the Large Business category and then went on to win the inaugural Premier's Regional Recognition Award for their commitment to ongoing operational improvements to reduce environmental impact at its Bendigo Woollen Mill.

"Receiving the 2013 Premiers Regional Recognition Award and the Premiers Sustainability Award in the Large Business category is recognition for our commitment to a more sustainable carpet production process," said Phil Smith, CEO, Victoria Carpets.

"The awards recognise and reward the people at Victoria

Carpets who worked so hard to reduce our environmental impact and will draw some attention to our efforts. They are the icing on the cake and are encouraging us to seek ongoing improvement in everything we do," he added.

The Premier's Sustainability Awards showcase organisations, institutions, businesses, community groups and individuals who demonstrate practical efforts to reduce their everyday environmental impact.

This year the awards provide even more opportunities for recognition.

Entries are open in nine categories: Cleaner Yarra and Bay (a new category), Community, Education, Environmental Protection, Infrastructure and Buildings, Innovative Products or Services, Large Business, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Tourism.

Entries close on 2 June.

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News Inspiring Choices Choices Flooring has launched its 2014 edition of Inspiring Choices magazine, a first within the Australian retail flooring industry.

Choices Flooring’s 92 page magazine showcases the latest trends in carpet, timber, bamboo, laminate, luxury vinyl, tiles and rugs, in addition to providing innovative interior design advice from Australia’s leading stylists.

The magazine combines stunning lifestyle images and design advice with product information, price range indicators, and care and maintenance tips.

18 Flooring April/May 2014

Expert flooring advice for facilities managers Flowcrete Australia has produced an educational eBook to help facilities managers reach an informed decision when specifying a new floor.

Entitled "Taking the Headache Out of Flooring Specification for Facilities Managers", the eBook details the key challenges and considerations that arise when choosing a floor for new-build or refurbishment projects in either industrial or commercial locations.

This resource has been designed to allow facilities professionals to make use of advice and in-depth information from a global expert on resin flooring, so that they can better understand the practicalities and benefits of different solutions when going through the specification process.

David McNeece, International Marketing and Business Development Manager for Flowcrete, said: “Every facilities manager wants to know how they can

ensure their buildings are up to the task they face.

And in every situation the choice of flooring can have significant consequences to the operational ability of the building.

“Failing floors can create unhygienic, unsafe surfaces, whereas the right floor will provide a reliable platform, which could even add to the quality of the environment, such as with built in antimicrobial additives, an aesthetic coating or antistatic properties.”

First-ever DOMOTEX to be staged in Turkey The Turkish subsidiary of Deutsche Messe based in Hannover, Germany is launching a new trade fair in Turkey dedicated to machinemade carpets.

The new show will be held in Gaziantep from 26 to 29 May 2014 as the DOMOTEX Gaziantep Machine-Made Carpet Fair, in affiliation with the DOMOTEX parent event held annually in Hannover.

Gaziantep and the Gaziantep Ortadoğu Fair Center venue were chosen due to the city’s role as a major Near East exportation hub for machine-made

carpets. Exhibitors will have the opportunity to showcase their products on approximately 29,000 m2 of floor space.

Alexander Kühnel, General Manager of Hannover Fairs Turkey, pointed out that Gaziantep serves as a major carpet trading hub with a long tradition and a prime location thanks to its close proximity to the Arab world.

He added that: “Gaziantep has become a major centre for the production and global distribution of machinemade carpets. We at the Hannover Fairs Turkey team

are very pleased to stage the DOMOTEX Gaziantep Machine-Made Carpet Fair at the heart of the Turkish carpet scene”.

As of 2015, the show will be staged as DOMOTEX Turkey, in a September/ October timeslot. The new DOMOTEX Turkey will then cover the sum total of everything on display so far at DOMOTEX Middle East and DOMOTEX Gaziantep.

In this way, Turkey will boast an outstanding international showcase for carpets, floorcoverings and related goods and services.

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Retailer of the month

A family affair Simons Design Centre, Burnie, Launceston, Devonport and St Helens, Tasmania

S

imons Design Centre is a Tasmanian owned business that has been selling floorcoverings for 26 years across Northern Tasmania. There are now four stores in the group located in Burnie, Launceston, Devonport and St Helens.

Owned by Robert and Kaye Milne, Simons Design Centre is very much a family business with Robert's brother, Keven and his son-inlaw Mark with his wife, Tatum, all involved in the day-to-day running of the stores.

"All our stores offer a large range of carpet, timber, vinyl and laminate.

20 Flooring April/May 2014

Plus, each individual store has the flexibility to offer additional products and services such as carpet cleaning, tiles, furniture, rugs and window fashions," explained Keven.

"We have been a part of Carpet One retail co-operative for over 15 years and a part of the Tile People for three years. Carpet One has 40 stores in Australia and is affiliated with Carpet One America, the largest retail co-operative in the world.

"We find being part of a cooperative has many benefits," he added, "not least of which is that members share in the profits as well as having a say in what they sell.

We get to pick and choose what products to stock to suit our particular businesses and clientele.

"With having four stores we can also move stock from one to the next to suit the individual clientele of that particular store. All the stores are located in the north of Tasmania but they do have quite different requirements. We service both large and small towns as well as rural communities."

The business itself provides for both the domestic and commercial requirements of the region and offers a variety of products and services including an interior design service for its customers.

"Because we stock such a wide range of products, we have interior designers in each store to help our customers make their choice. They are among over 30 staff employed by the four stores including those in sales, administration, warehousing and installation."

The Burnie store is the head office for the business and has the largest warehouse; however, all the other stores also have their own warehouse space, with the one at St Helens, the newest store, the smallest. In recent years all the showrooms have been remodelled to update the business' profile with its customer base.

"While times were tough and business was quiet, the owners Robert and Kaye

decided to keep everyone busy by remodelling," he explained. "It was a good move because it kept the team members positive and reflected well on the business with our customers.

"Our window displays are always changing and we make them as interesting and diverse as possible. One of them is currently full of artificial plants – a product we display in all our stores. They add life to the store displays and are another add-on sales item, which has proved very popular.

"We always try to keep abreast of the times with social media including both a Facebook page and Twitter and that way we can keep our customers informed of changes or new products."

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Make a lasting impression

Remove, retain, release, reduce Karndean Designflooring’s new Pedigree Entrance Zone is designed to capture soil and moisture passively as people walk across it. This is because most visitors to a commercial building have little time to stop and wipe their feet where traditional mats are used.

Pedigree Entrance Zone is an effective entrance system that can either be a loose fitted runner over a hard floor, set into a large mat well or fully installed to the subfloor like a carpet and abutted to other types of floorcoverings.

Pedigree Entrance Zone: • Removes – special nylon scraping fibres wipe your feet as you walk over Entrance Zone, which provides a passive barrier to soil and moisture from being trafficked further into the building; • Retains – the special nylon absorbing fibres temporarily retain liquids and this, in combination with the impervious backing and general hiding ability of the surface pile, retains and hides dirt until the next cleaning cycle;

22 Flooring April/May 2014

• Release – the special construction of Entrance Zone releases moisture and dirt easily using conventional carpet cleaning equipment. This makes it a breeze to clean and provides maximum appearance retention in busy entrances; • Reduces – the dense solution dyed nylon pile of Entrance Zone captures and holds over five litres of water per square metre; consequently this keeps your other flooring investments inside the building looking better and lasting longer with significantly reduced maintenance costs.

Pedigree Entrance Zone comes in two designs and a total of 12 colourways.

When used as a permanent ‘walk-off-zone’ glued to the subfloor, Entrance Zone has an overall thickness that allows it to be easily abutted to all other types of floorcoverings such as carpet, ceramics, timber and vinyl. This makes Entrance Zone complementary and adaptable to other interior floor coverings without any trip hazards.

The PrintPlush Logo Mat is an economical solution that offers the best of high impact decor with unparalleled floor protection.

The custom-created PrintPlush Logo Mat is very well suited to high traffic areas including hotels, retail stores and supermarkets

where the logo or design uses many different colours and, in some cases, blended colours or vignette effects.

The PrintPlush Logo Mat is printed via state of the art computer controlled jet printing and is available with a range of backing options.

Flowcrete unveils artistic resin range Identity Matters’ ClearStep Flowcrete has announced the launch of a new range of artistic resin floor finishes targeting contemporary retail brands and commercial sector clients.

The Expressions range features three new systems in a total of 20 new colourways offering a choice between solid and multi-dimensional marbled colour tones or, alternatively, a striking galvanised metallic effect to offer a high artistic design finish on the surface of the floor. It offers clients a durable, seamless and easily

maintained floor finish albeit with a unique decorative edge.

Each system is intricately trowel applied by hand through Flowcrete’s approved applicator network, using a number of creative techniques, to deliver a oneof-a-kind surface that can never be fully recreated.

The range includes both polyurethane and polyurea technology and is available in a variety of subtle colourways and with a choice of decorative effects to create a real talking point at groundlevel.

Health&AgedCare

A perfect combination for aged care Amaroo Interiors of Thornbury, Victoria don’t just supply and install commercial floor coverings; they go the extra mile for their customers and offer bespoke flooring solutions, which includes interior design recommendations by combining options from different suppliers and manufacturers.

This is a very useful service for those clients who are simply refurbishing and require unbiased expert advice in the absence of a professional specifer.

One of Amaroo Interiors recent projects was the total flooring refurbishment of Aberdeen Aged Care’s 128 bed facility in Aberdeen Road, Reservoir, just 12 kilometres north of Melbourne’s CBD. Here the existing Flotex was over 10 years old and it and all the other original flooring had to go in the planned overhaul of the nursing home’s interiors last October. It was an open book what to use next, but the Flotex had done its job well for easy and low cost

cleaning and was Aberdeen’s preferred brand to go with for the main areas.

Amaroo Interiors recommended various flooring packages but, for the hallways and rooms they came up with the very innovative combination of using 1,500 m2 of Flotex sheet with 600 m2 of Karndean Designfloors LVT for the borders, thus

creating the look and feel of a private hotel.

Flotex sheet and Karndean Designfloors LVT are the same height and require no door bars or cover strips when used together in different locations; for example, where the dining area (LVT) meets the passageways (Flotex) across archways or doorways.

Aberdeen Aged Care in Victoria used a stunning combination of Flotex sheet in the hallways with Karndean Da Vinci vinyl woodplanks for the borders. Both products have compatible thicknesses when used in combination in the same location or across doorways entrances.

Introducing Pedigree Entrance Zone • Scraping fibres remove dirt and moisture with every footstep • Captures and holds over 5 litres of water per square metre • Easy to clean with standard vacuuming equipment Designed to capture soil and moisture passively as people walk across, Pedigree Entrance Zone adds function, enhances appearance and will save you money. At entrances, the choice of colours and patterns add style and function whilst further into the building, Entrance Zone keeps other floorcovering investments protected against unsightly and abrasive soil, and therefore looking better and lasting longer.

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Carpet

Shaw has your commercial needs covered Understanding that every project requires a unique flooring solution, Shaw Contract Group offers an extensive collection of products to make it easier to select the perfect floor covering every time.

As the world’s largest carpet manufacturer and recycler, Shaw Contract Group offers an extensive carpet tile and broadloom collection as well as a growing collection of resilient flooring options.

“At Shaw Contract Group we understand that no one job is the same and boast a portfolio of products and optional features that reflects this,” said Blair Coventry, National Commercial Sales Manager of Shaw Contract Group.

“We are well known for our huge variety of carpet tiles but our offering extends far beyond that to include broadloom and resilient floorcoverings and, combined, cater for every segment – office, education, health and aged care, hospitality, public spaces and retail.

“Our products are also suited and guaranteed to perform in a range of environments including the most demanding, ranging from high traffic corridors and lobbies to aseptic areas such as hospital operating rooms and labs,” Blair said.

Installed in office, education and health care facilities across Australia and the globe, Shaw’s carpet tile range includes square, plank and hexagon design inspired collections through to budget-focused collections developed specifically for retrofit and base build projects.

“Beyond colour and pattern though we also offer a number of different carpet tile backings to suit your client’s needs.

“These include our popular 100% PVC and bitumen free, Cradle to Cradle

26 Flooring April/May 2014

Certified CM EcoWorx backing and our EcoLogix backing that’s ideal for use in environments such as primary schools,” Blair said.

Shaw’s extensive broadloom collection includes EcoWorx broadloom as well as EcoWorx® Performance broadloom, which is designed specifically to perform in the health and aged care segments.

“With the frequency of accidental spills, incontinence and rigorous cleaning in healthcare settings, seepage can lead to trapped moisture beneath the flooring system, promoting infection and fostering mould and mildew build-up.

“Our EcoWorx performance broadloom with its impermeable moisture barrier eliminates this problem with a non-flowthrough polymer backing that prevents moisture from ever reaching the subfloor.

And because the seams are welded together at installation, fluids stay on the surface for a more thorough cleanup,” Blair said.

In the way of resilient flooring, Shaw’s tile and plank collections combine to deliver a full range of high performance, low maintenance resilients manufactured in modern designs for the toughest commercial conditions.

The collection includes Quiet Cover, a revolutionary floating luxury vinyl plank that replicates the look of natural hardwood and installs quickly, reducing the time and costs associated with traditional glue down LVT making it ideal for hospitality and retail.

The luxury vinyl tile collections Crete and Jeogori are designed to withstand heavy traffic in retail, healthcare and hospitality and other commercial installations and are inspired by aged

leather, industrial stained concrete and luxurious silk garments.

More than 90% of Shaw’s product range is Cradle to Cradle Certified CM and achieves the highest level of GECA certification (GECA 50-2011), which means they are also Level A rated according to the Green Building Council of Australia’s Green Star rating system.

Shaw’s Cradle to Cradle Certified CM products include EcoWorx product platforms, EcoWorx tile, EcoWorx broadloom and EcoWorx performance broadloom , which are 100% PVC and bitumen free and form part of the world’s first Cradle to Cradle Certified CM Silver flooring product.

This also includes the company’s “In Stock. In Australia.” collection of ready to despatch carpet tiles.

Pictured (from top): Papamoa College, New Zealand; Quakers Hill Nursing Home, Western Sydney; BP Footscray, Melbourne

introduci

n

g WoolSet are proud to introduce The International Wool Collection, a new and exclusive collection of premium wool carpets.

From the finest wool manufacturers, The International Wool Collection features six fashionable designs in 75 beautiful colours, providing customers with the perfect wool carpet to complement both their dĂŠcor and lifestyle.

Over 20 stores across Australia The International Wool Collection is exclusive to WoolSet stores, for business opportunities contact Andrew Verstak General Manager Mobile: 0499 828 000 Email: andrew@woolset.com.au

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Carpet

Next generation of carpet tiles This year Pro Tile introduces the new Economy Class Collection and the revised and updated Business Class Collection with EcoTx backing.

Pro Tile was introduced to the Australian market in 2010 and has continued to grown since then by updating its colours, designs and patterns to keep up with the needs of the industry.

Its new and existing collections have been selected based on the needs of architects, designers, specifiers and end users. To make the decision easier, new sample folders and new brochures have been developed as well as a fresh look to the website.

Pro Tile is available from QEP..

New Danxia range from Ontera Inspired by the unique global geological phenomenon known as Danxia landform, Ontera’s Danxia range is a rich combination of colour, design and texture that aims to evoke calmness, serenity and well being by connecting working spaces with distinctive natural beauty.

Danxia –which means red sunset – is not a place but the name of an extraordinarily unique type of landform.

Found solely in several locations throughout China and often referred to as the Rainbow Mountains, Danxia landform is characterised by spectacular

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28 Flooring April/May 2014

red cliffs, incredibly colourful mountain ranges, contrasting forests, winding rivers and majestic waterfalls.

Formed by stratified layers of reddish sandstone and minerals, the terrain has, over time, been eroded into a series of mountains surrounded by coloured earth and unusual rock formations.

Now listed amongst World Heritage sites, Ontera wish for this amazing and beautiful landform to provide creative inspiration for the design professional.

Ontera’s Danxia range of modular carpets presents designers with eight designs, each in six distinct colours.

The next generation of carpet tiles

New Economy Class Collection Revised Business Class Collection New & Improved website Extensive stock available

Contact us P: 1300 737 155 F: 03 9797 1878 E: salesaust@qep.com W:www.pro-tile.com.au

Carpet

Beyond the Fold The lastest commerical flooring collection from Shaw Contract Group Australia, Beyond the Fold, takes its inspiration from architecturally constructed forms.

The designs of the new plank tile and broadloom collection employ origami techniques, angles and facets, interlocking segments and pleated dimension to create depth on the floor.

“An evolution of our popular 18x36 On the Edge plank tile collection, Beyond the Fold allows you to define an edge while carrying colour and pattern throughout a space,” said Paul McCosker, General Manager of Shaw Contract Group Australia. “Colour ebbs and flows through the

collection with a palette of eight foundation shades accented by neutrals and brights.

“The whole collection comprises a system of coordinating patterns and colours designed to work together, transitioning seamlessly from one design to the next so you can add pleated proportions and faceted details to an otherwise two-dimensional surface, he said.

Beyond the Fold is Cradle to Cradle CertifiedCM Silver and uses premium Eco Solution Q fibre. All tiles feature EcoWorx backing, which is certified with the highest level of GECA certification and a Green Star Level A product rating according to the Green Building Council of

Australia. EcoWorx carpet tiles are 100% PVC free and are backed with an environmental guarantee for reclamation and recycling.

Improved indoor air and striking design Desso is providing architects, interior designers and consumers with the ‘best of both worlds’ with the extension of its patented Desso AirMaster carpet collection.

The global carpets, carpet tiles and sport pitches company is introducing Desso AirMaster Elements and Desso AirMaster Blend for the commercial

30 Flooring April/May 2014

market and Desso AirMaster for Home to offer a wider variety of stunning patterns and textures – with all the great functionality of the original Desso AirMaster range.

Proven to reduce the concentration of fine dust indoors, the new ranges contribute to people’s health and wellbeing – as well as providing them with striking interiors. In fact, according to a Californian study by William Fisk from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory[1], improved indoor air quality can also boost productivity. His research showed an increase by 0.5 to 5%, with estimated savings of $12 to $125 billion per year in the US. Desso AirMaster Elements consists of four different products –­ Atmos, Cosmo, Oxy and Sphere – all of which are available in six neutral colours ranging from warm beige to deep slate. The range moves away from the linearity of the original AirMaster designs to create a smooth, flawless appearance with non-directional

organic patterns where each product offers its own personality and style.

AirMaster Atmos is a structured and tactile loop pile carpet tile, while the textured loop pile, AirMaster Oxy, offers a subtly organic and irregular pattern similar to that of dried clay. AirMaster Sphere has a handmade feel inspired by rustic natural materials and elements adding warmth and texture, whereas AirMaster Cosmo has an understated linear design with a natural feel.

The second new range, Desso AirMaster Blend, offers linearity that complements the universal designs of the original AirMaster collection. Combining lighter shades against a darker backdrop, the tile is available in six carefully blended combinations including blues, browns and greys, to provide a warm yet professional look.

Desso AirMaster for Home is specially designed for residential use: a robust loop pile carpet with a natural appearance. In combination with improved indoor air quality AirMaster

for Home fits perfectly with contemporary Scandinavian design where simplicity, functionality and nature are the basis.

Alexander Collot d’Escury, CEO at Desso, commented: “The new Desso AirMaster ranges epitomise our drive towards healthier indoor spaces.

They offer a built-in functionality that reduces the amount of fine dust in the indoor air, combined with feel-good inspirational design”.

The product ranges AirMaster Elements and Blend, contain Econyl, a yarn made from 100% regenerated nylon.

As part of Desso’s ongoing commitment to making a positive impact on health and wellbeing, the company has joined Healthy Seas[2], an initiative to help clean up the seas, founded by ECNC Group, Aquafil and Star Sock.

[1] William J. Fisk and Arthur H. Rosenfeld of the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in Berkeley in California, US. [2] http://healthyseas.org/

Pacific The latest addition to Shaw’s In Stock carpet tile range.

Designed specifically for Australia and New Zealand, the collection delivers on value and style taking inspiration from the Pacific’s most beautiful black sand beaches.

Design is local.

250,000m2 OVER 50 STYLES

IN STOCK NOW

Contact us to find out more or to order an ‘In Stock’ swatch of carpet tiles today.

1554

Australia 1800 556 302 shawcontractgroup.com.au

New Zealand 09 574 0640 jacobsens.co.nz

ResilientFlooring

Luxury planks and tiles from Signature Signature Floorconcepts has launched Moduleo Transform – a modern and sophisticated new luxury vinyl plank and tile range at the forefront of innovative performance technology.

A large range containing 32 classic and contemporary wood designs, and four concrete tile designs, most of the Transform Wood designs are stocked in two different plank lengths and, additionally, in two application types – stick and click – all in stock.

Modern manufacturing technologies have allowed Signature’s Moduleo Transform to currently be the largest planks offered on the market. The short plank measures in at 132 cm and the long plank at 149cm, offering an incredible three times larger pattern repeat than any other products currently on the market – giving a new meaning to real true-to-nature look.

Intensive research and development has been invested to advance the long side click system and new patented double lock profile for the short end. Once clicked into place the planks are also vertically secured, so that the whole floor is tightly

32 Flooring April/May 2014

fit without the edges ‘lifting’.

Moduleo Transform Click system can be laid over most existing floors, it is easy to repair and can be completely removed if need be. Laying a new Moduleo Transform Click floor requires no intense subfloor preparation making it quick and easy, it can even be walked on right after installation, saving time and money especially for commercial projects.

If a click system is not suitable there is always the stick option available as all colors are also stocked in Transform Stick. Stick offers added benefits for areas exposed to continuous sun and is ideal for large commercial areas with excessive foot traffic, trolley jacks and the usual commercial rough and tumble.

Signature Floorconcepts’ Moduleo Transform collection is extremely durable and dimensionally stable, rated an R10 for slip resistance and protected with Protectonite to guard against scratching. What makes this collection so unique is the two fibreglass layers used, which enhance the product’s stability and minimise shrinkage and expansion.

High definition printing contributes to the collections effortless natural look, and the advantage of being printed on vinyl instead of paper makes it more resistant against humidity and light.

More than €100 Million Euro was initially invested to build a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility that ticks all of the environmental boxes our modern society now requires. This purpose build “green factory” in Europe manufactures in an

eco-friendly way using water based inks and lacquer, using controlled origin raw materials, increasing reliance on natural refrigerants and manufacturing some products consisting of up to 50% recycled content such as Signature’s Moduleo Transform.

Accredited with ISO 14001 for integrated environmental system management, the production is primarily powered by the wind, with an intention to have 100% wind energy used for production by 2015.

Choosing a floor for fitness Choosing a floor to meet the latest fitness trends is now even easier with Regupol’s Essential Guide to Rubber Flooring.

As well as new products and new colours, the guide provides information to enable the right choice to be made on flooring for fitness, sports and leisure applications.

Available in eight distinctive colour ranges,

Regupol’s everroll rubber flooring will complement any environment whilst maintaing a safe and durable surface.

This Good Environmental Choice Certified product is made from high quality post-consumer and preconsumer recycled materials.

The combined benefits and material composition makes everroll a flooring brand committed to improve every environment.

TRITON FLOORING’S

WINTERBOND

ADHESIVES

Gerflor hosts design professionals Gerflor hosted an intimate evening in its showroom to enable some of its key design partners to hear first hand about some important developments in products as well as changes to AS 45862013 Slip standards.

Guest speaker, David Lake, General Manager of Advanced Technology Testing and Reseach (ATTAR) delivered an informative session on slip accident investigations and compliance with new Australian slip standards.

Gerflor’s Sustainability Manager, Wendy Davis shared information on new technology surface treatments that

challenge traditional notions of hospital maintenance and have the potential to deliver significant savings in the healthcare sector.

A colourful limited edition range of Taralay Premium Brazilia, aptly themed as Macaron, added the flavour and inspiration throughout the evening capped off with a decadent macaron tower from South Yarra dessert specialist LuxBite, The Gerflor showroom is now open to design, trade and retail partners and offers a comprehensive overview of all flooring solutions within the Gerflor portfolio.

With the winter months fast approaching, now’s the time for using Triton’s range of Cool Climate Carpet & Vinyl Adhesives.

Tested in conditions as low as 3 degrees oC WITH: • New and Improved Formulation • Increased Bond Strength • Faster Tack Off Time • Faster Installation Times • Competitively Priced

CALL THE SALES TEAM AT TRITON RIGHT NOW

(03) 9357 8265 TRITON’S WINTERBOND ADHESIVES

FOR FLOORING PROFESSIONALS

Australian Made for Australian Conditions Don’t forget to visit our website

www.tritonflooring.com.au

Timber&Parquetry

VDF fusing architecture, design and art Victorian Designer Floors is fusing architecture, design, art and new product innovation to offer customers and supply chains in the building and construction industry a significantly different experience and value proposition than traditional timber flooring suppliers.

Key stakeholders in the construction sector such as builders, renovators, project managers, architects and interior designers will benefit from the new timber flooring products that were launched

by Victorian Designer Floors on 10 April 2014 at its Eltham showroom in Melbourne. The official launch was conducted by Craig Ondarchie, Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier of Victoria and MLC for Northern Metro region.

“The event provided key stakeholders in the building and construction industry with web 2.0 information portals, images, samples, a new showroom and the customer service they need in order to make the timber flooring component of building projects as seamless, risk free, affordable and enjoyable as possible,” said Ordan

The new, expanded showroom.

Andreevski of Victorian Designer Floors.

“No matter what their profession, everyone in the building and construction industry supply chain needs to have access to quality information and expert advice on the latest trends in timber flooring and innovative products that can make a significant reduction to the cost of installation and construction,” John Beleski, Director of Victorian Designer Flooring said.

“Our new timber flooring collection and acoustic adhesive will significantly lower the cost of installing quality designer timber flooring in domestic and commercial projects. Savings of up to 20% are within reach.

This can translate to tens of thousands of dollars in reduced

Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier of Victoria, Mr Craig Ondarchie, together with the Consul General of Macedia, Beti Korunovska and John Beleski, Director of Victorian Designer Floors.

34 Flooring April/May 2014

costs in some instances.”

According to Professor Tihomir Stojkov, Dean of the faculty of Architecture at Arhitektonski fakultet Skopje in Macedonia, there is a positive and significant relationship between architecture and timber flooring across Europe, Asia, North America and Australia.

“Parquetry and timber floor boards have been used for centuries to decorate palaces, temples, museums, hotels, galleries and residential dwellings. Timber flooring enriches architectural projects by adding value, style and comfort to rooms and buildings,” he said

FWPA and Grand Designs On 6 April, across Australia, television viewers were greeted by award-winning architect Peter Maddison, host of Grand Designs Australia, promoting wood for Planet Ark and Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA).

The commercial, produced under Planet Ark’s Environmental Edge brand and co-branded Wood. Naturally Better returns to free-to-air and pay TV in metropolitans and major regional markets in a short, targeted schedule.

“Tracking research has indicated excellent increases in awareness of our key messages from the previous campaigns with 74% of respondents saying the points

in the ad were believable.” said Ric Sinclair, Managing Director of FWPA. “Our market research also shows this ad is effective in helping people’s understanding of the environmental benefits of wood – and indicates that Peter, our presenter from Grand Designs Australia is doing a great job. I look forward to this campaign continuing to create good results for our industry.”

In the commercial, Peter Maddison explains that wood stores carbon and that carbon is better locked away in wood than free in the environment.

He ends by suggesting that by choosing wood, viewers are doing good.

New

1800 mm long board

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*Photos are for illustration only, colour may vary to the actual product.

Bordeaux II Series

The look and feel of a wooden floor Tel: 1300 866 800 or 03 9460 3800 www.goldenfield.com.au

Timber&Parquetry

New Provincial Lane timber range Carpet Court and Darren Palmer have teamed up to create the Provincial Lane Timber range.

Carpet Court’s exclusive Provincial Lane range by Darren Palmer has been expanded with the addition of the Stained Oak Timber collection, offering renovators and DIYers a stylish and durable hard flooring option.

Following the initial launch of the full Provincial Lane range in 2013, Darren has again drawn inspiration from nature collaborating with Carpet Court to create the exclusive timber oak range which reflects the textures and colours of the outdoors.

36 Flooring April/May 2014

Carpet Court ambassador and judge on The Block, Darren said that nature heavily influences his interior design work.

“The new timber is both on trend, affordable and reflects the beauty of natural elements. The rich colours and durable surface achieve a balance between homely, liveable and stylish – the perfect mix most renovators try to achieve,” Darren said.

The new Provincial Lane timber oak boards are available in the light and textured tones of cashew, hazelnut and macadamia as well as the dark, grey tones of

chestnut and pistachio.

With all the style of European Oak, the Provincial Lane Stained Oak boasts style and sophistication as well as superior durability. The range has a lightly brushed surface

to bring out the natural texture and is easily installed with using a Uniclic system.

Beautifully proportioned, these long and wide planks will add warmth and character to any room.

The only Australian made hardboard ✔ 5.5mm thick ✔ Supports Australian jobs ✔ Preferred by installers ✔ Easy to install ✔ Tough, durable and stable ✔ Flexible and resistant to cracking or fracturing

✔ Highly resistant to indentations Available at your local Roberts Distributor AFS - VIC NSW ACT 1, 25-27 Olive Grove Keysborough, VIC 3173 Tel 03 9797 1820 or 02 9756 4681 afscustomerservice@qep.com

AUSSIE FLOORCOVERINGS 1/10 Macadam Place, Balcatta, WA 6021 Tel 08 9344 8448 ausmats@isnet.net.au

GLENDENE 10 Coglin Street, Brompton, SA 5007 Tel 08 8346 0900 glendene@bigpond.net.au

FLOORS OF TASMANIA 33 Montagu Street, Invermay, TAS 7284 Tel 03 6334 3455 floorsoftasmania@bigpond.com.au

GEORGE LOW 114-118 Woodlands Drive, Braeside, VIC 3195 Tel 03 9587 4222 sales@georgelow.com.au

PR FLOORS 19-23 Computer Road, Yatala, QLD 4207 Tel 07 3807 4422 sales@prfloors.com

Software

Using KPIs to improve your engine What needs improvement in your business? Are you measuring it?

There are many things that you could measure but in a sales organisation the logical place is to start with sales.

Your salespeople are the engine room of your business – if they are not performing or they are performing poorly then it will be having an effect on your business. Setting Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for salespeople is a powerful way to improve the performance of your engine room.

More often than not salespeople in the flooring industry don’t have targets and they don’t know how well they are performing.

Most of us believe that we are performing better than

we actually are and we need information to help us have a more accurate view. You need to provide that information for your employees and, particularly, for your salespeople.

In many businesses, however, that information is not readily accessible.

Even when a business can access the data it can be time consuming to get and even then not of much use because it is either out of date or inaccurate.

Implementation of KPIs can transform a business but there is thought that needs to go into setting them.

Look beyond financial KPIs There are activities that can be measured that are

indicators of and contributors to achieving sales. Amongst these are samples issued, number of measures and number of quotes. By measuring these you and your salespeople can get a good indication of whether or not the sales KPI will be met.

Accuracy and consistency Reporting on KPIs must be accurate. If your salespeople don’t have faith in the numbers they won’t participate in the process.

Consequences

KPIs are only effective if they are linked to an outcome.

Salespeople who achieve or exceed their KPIs should be recognised and rewarded.

Those who fail to achieve their KPIs need to be assisted and they also need to understand what the consequences of continued failure might be.

Visibility

To be really effective salespeople need to be able to see for themselves how they are tracking. If they can see their written and delivered sales in real

time then they can use that information to drive their sales behaviours.

The biggest obstacle to implementing an effective KPI program is access to data. Ideally you should have an IT platform within your business that allows you to pull the required information in minutes. If you have to spend hours on the exercise it will become a chore that is onerous and difficult to keep consistent.

RFMS is a fully integrated software solution for your flooring business and it has the tools that can help you set and measure KPIs within your business.

Every successful business sets targets and then breaks those large targets into goals for staff to achieve.

Fundamentally it is a simple process but it needs thought, planning and ready access to your business data.

Chris Ogden is a consultant and Managing Director of RFMS Australasia. Chris has extensive experience at all levels of the flooring industry and he can be contacted at cogden@rfms.com.

"To be really effective salespeople need to be able to see for themselves how they are tracking. If they can see their written and delivered sales in real time then they can use that information to drive their sales behaviours."

38 Flooring April/May 2014

Trying to put the pieces together?

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The Flooring Software leader for more than 26 years Clients in Australia and NZ since 1999 More than 50 flooring businesses in Australia and NZ (8000 world-wide) Out of the box-requires no development Configured to your exact requirements

Australia: 800 229 427 New Zealand: 0800 643 012 www.rfms.com cogden@rfms.com

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Software

The key to quick quotes and sales The retail flooring industry is recognising that the longer it takes to get a quote into the hands of a customer the less likely it is that you are going to make the sale.

As a result we are seeing a concerted move on the part of many retailers to close the deal in the home. Of course this is easier said than done.

In order to close you have to be able to quantify but few salespeople have the skill and the confidence to do that in the home.

In many businesses the salesperson doesn’t visit the home – that work is done by a specialist measurer,

40 Flooring April/May 2014

who may also quantify but in other shops the quantifying is done by the salesperson off the measurers plan. All of which can add days to the process of getting the quote into the customer’s hands.

Specialist flooring software can speed this process up. Regardless of how you currently manage the process quantifying software tools such as Measure by RFMS can shave days off the time taken to get a quote out. Let’s take two scenarios: 1. Salesperson does the measure. Using Measure Mobile on a tablet device the

salesperson can measure, quantify and quote in the home on the first visit. If the deal is not closed then at least the salesperson leaves the customer with a price and they can start the follow up process the next day to close the sale.

2. Specialist measurer. Again using Measure Mobile on a tablet device the measurer can complete the measure and quantify the job.

Immediately upon doing so the plan and the quantities are available for download back at the store; the measurer doesn’t need to go back to the store.

Measure Mobile is fully integrated with Measure Standard and Measure Premier (PC versions of Measure). Measure Mobile is designed to be simple and easy to use with only the tools that you need to measure and quote on site. If you need the added functionality of the PC versions your Measure Mobile plans are easily available to the PC versions.

There are many ways that Measure by RFMS can be deployed in a store but, however it is used, it is guaranteed to make the sales process quicker, more accurate and more professional.

The Best Just Got Better!

Tramex, the moisture meter specialists, are proud to announce the release of the new concrete moisture meter

Heading into the clouds?

Cloud computing has already changed the world around us, geographical barriers are almost non-existent, you can talk to a loved one across the globe with no more than a click of the mouse. But, with all this innovation in our personal lives, how is it affecting us in business? Is it sustainable? And, more importantly, is cloud commerce a safe and secure option for small businesses?

Cloud commerce is software available via the internet with data stored at a remote location. Usually to access these services you pay a monthly subscription, which will allow you a certain amount of space and abilities.

Cloud commerce, in terms of upfront costs, is cheaper than paying for a program and is available to you at any place or any time.

Most accounting software like Xero is available on smart phones and devices. These describe themselves as ‘accounting software on the go’.

Although all software has minimum computer requirements, it’s just that, minimum. So unless you’re rocking a Commodore 64, your computer systems should be able to handle it.

However, it can be frustrating if you live in an area with slow internet access. So if you find you are repeatedly slamming your head onto your keyboard, it may be a good idea to check out some better internet options before doing some permanent damage.

Practically all of the online accounting systems are integratable with other software and systems, and have pre-fill abilities, which frees up some more of your valuable time. Most even have add-ins that are like apps for your accounting software. You could go as far as saying accounting is becoming more exciting! Xero can be likened to an iPhone, with its minimalistic styles and colour schemes; the lifestyle

promoted is that of modern technology, easy, available, and chic.

They also allow for real time reporting and information, so you can see exactly how you’re travelling this month, week, day, hour, minute. This allows you to be able to see how much a client owes you at the exact moment you walk through the door to visit them.

Cloud computing has really gone from strength to strength and, with that, has come improved processes and speeds, along with greater security.

This would be the biggest concern in relation to cloud computing in general, the best way to mitigate this is to do your homework and choose a reputable company. Do your research into the location of the data (as many are located offshore in countries with more relaxed privacy laws) and if there have been any major issues in the past. The big programs are known for their ‘bank level’ security and, being remote, you don’t have to worry about backing up data and storing it somewhere else in case the office burns down!

Probably one of the biggest advantages of cloud computing is the green aspect. Companies love showing off their corporate social responsibilities (CSR) achievements, and what’s a better one than environmentally friendly. Of course it’s a good thing to be doing, but it doesn’t hurt to bolster your own CSR standings.

Cloud commerce is greener than traditional methods because there is no production, packaging, or freight. This can also allow some staff members to do more work from home, which not only helps to lower carbon emissions, but keeps your staff happy in their flexible workplace.

CFO On-Call is a team of Financial and Business Advisors, who work with open-minded people committed to business growth and achieving success.

with

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Don’t waste time and money waiting up to 72 hours for a moisture test when the slab is not ready! Check it first with a Tramex CMEXpert II.

For more information contact Tel: 02 9418 1002 Fax: 02 9498 8576 Email: sales@cornell.com.au

www.cornell.com.au

PICFloors

Sika delivers flooring upgrade at fish markets Sika has provided a complete flooring refurbishment solution for the iconic Sydney Fish Market. Installed during a live trading period, the eight stage project delivered a new food-grade standard floor that withstands heavy traffic and excess water.

The Sydney Fish Market is the largest working fish market in the southern hemisphere, trading 50 tonnes of seafood each day. It is also home to six seafood retailers, a bottle shop, grocer, restaurants, gift shop and deli.

As part of a large facility upgrade, Sika and Danlaid Contracting Sydney were appointed to refurbish the fish market’s deteriorating floor. The project required the new floor to meet food grade standards, withstand heavy foot and forklift traffic, and tolerate excess water on its surface. As an added challenge, the floor had to be demolished, prepared, regraded and laid in stages while the market continued to trade.

“Despite several previous upgrades, the existing floor was in a poor state, which was impacting trading conditions,” said Anthony Lewis, Market Field Manager, Flooring at Sika.

“To remedy this, the floor was hydro demolished to depths of up to 50 millimeters to provide a sound substrate on which to re-build. The floor was then re-graded to create positive falls for water displacement. An epoxy sub-fill mortar was used to re-create the levels.”

Sikafloor 22 PurCem, a low VOC water-based polyurethane screed, was selected to finish the floor. Certified for the food industry, it is slip resistant, heat resistant and is easy to maintain and clean. It is particularly suited to food and beverage processing plants, wet or dry process areas, freezers, coolers and thermal shock areas.

“The job faced a host of unique challenges,” said

Matthew Dall of Danlaid Contracting Sydney, the contractor appointed to the project. ”This was our most difficult project ever. Upgrading the floor during a live trading period meant effective project management was critical.

It was also important to use a flooring solution that minimised disruptions to trading operations.”

To allow trading to continue, the existing floor was cordoned off in sections and the upgrade was completed in eight stages. As a fast application solution, Sikafloor 22 PurCem allowed each section to be re-commissioned quickly and efficiently, reducing down time.

“Each completed section was quickly re-opened for trading, which meant the floors were constantly wet as seafood was moved around

the markets. Sikafloor 22 Purcem is able to tolerate high levels of moisture in the concrete, making it ideal for this project,” said Dall.

“We also had to consider how the upgrade could impact customer experience. As a low odour product, Sikafloor 22 Purcem didn’t taint the fish and customers didn’t experience smells that could impact sales.”

The floor refurbishment formed part of a larger and more complex overall facility upgrade, so meeting project budgets and timelines was critical.

“Sika was able to deliver a high volume of stock on time and on budget. By offering the whole system, I had the convenience of a single point of contact without needing to work with multiple suppliers,” said Dall.

Kennards Hire scan for safety and convenience Kennards Hire* has solidified its position among the leaders in the hire and rental industry with the availability of QR Code technology into its specialist businesses including Concrete Care, Lift and Shift, Pump and Power, Traffic and Rail.

Already a major success in the general hire branches, Kennards Hire is the only company utilising this latest technology innovation to help make a job safe, efficient and professional.

The availability of the QR Codes will be an important

42 Flooring April/May 2014

feature for trade and industry professionals as the innovative technology allows operators, foreman, and safety inspectors to have easy access to service and maintenance history. This ensures the machinery and equipment is all in safe and meticulous working condition.

Additionally, test and examination certification, maintenance schedules and user manuals can also be accessed with the quick scan of a smart phone. Worksite efficiency and safety are some of the core benefits customers

can also expect to reap with QR Codes allowing for quick on-site compliance and safety checks on all Kennards Hire Concrete Care equipment and machinery.

To utilise the technology, all customers need to do is download a QR code reader for their smart phone, scan the code on the Ready for Hire label and then browse the plant portal, which has all the information readily available.

Alternatively, customers can enter the plant number via the Kennards Hire Plant

Portal site to access the information.

The introduction of the QR code technology to the Concrete Care range of equipment means Kennards Hire Concrete Care is the safe and reliable option for all concreting and flooring projects. *Kennards Hire Concrete Care offers specialist equipment and machinery to help with everything from surface preparation, floor leveling mixers and pumps to demolition, stripping, drilling and cutting, through to surface cleaning.

PICFloors

Making floor removal easy The award-winning Makinex Jackhammer Trolley (JHT) has recently been re-designed for improved ergonomics.

Since its first release in 2006, the JHT has been a popular Makinex product both locally and overseas, with more units sold incrementally each year.

The JHT quickly gained acceptance due to its ability to reduce labour time by as much as six times and has been widely used in the flooring industry, from tile removal to demolition and surface preparation.

New improved features of the JHT include: • better grip and traction

when pushing the trolley via sheet metal burst holes on the foot plate; • less force on the user when adjusting the trolley height due to a more rigid cable release system; • assembly of hammers and block sets made easier with clear instructional sticker; • new improved brandspecific block kits for Hilti, Makita, Bosch, Hitachi and Dwalt.

The JHT is manufactured from steel components and is made up of a main frame, base frame, handle and hammer clamp. Optional attachments such as a wide

chisel and tile smasher are also available to suit specific applications in flooring.

In line with the Makinex mandate to ‘make inefficiencies extinct’, the JHT will continue to evolve enabling operators to work smarter, safer and faster.

Grind right to the edge Now more than ever flooring needs to be made functional and reliable, along with the ever growing need for design and appearance. To get this right preparation is the key.

All Preparation Equipment is an Australian innovative supplier in the industry that brings new ideas, concepts and inspiration on how to prepare floors smarter, not harder.

The Schwamborn DSM250 offers the perfect solution for all floor preparation projects including grinding right to an edge.

It remove glues, paints, epoxies, coatings and prepare concrete completely dust free. The edge of the shroud has a wheel protection to provide extra protection for sensitive walls during grinding.

Multipurpose diamond grinding shoes The Schwamborn DSM250 comes with a wide range of tools for nearly all grinding tasks. Diamond grinding shoes are available from 16 grit through to 3000, PCDs

for epoxies, coatings and thick resins or glues, as well as an adaption plate to convert it to resin bond pads for honing and polishing.

Built up to a high standard, the DSM250 is a German built ‘rental tough’ machine giving you higher productivity standing up, opposed to being down on your hands and knees trying to grind right to an edge.

44 Flooring April/May 2014

30 Brands Become one: master Builders solutions

With more than 100 years of experience, BASF can help you to realise nearly every project you plan. To simplify things further, all brands of construction chemicals by BASF have been combined into one: Master Builders Solutions.

Innovative products, long-term experience, specific solutions finding reliable support for your projects has never been easier. call us today on 1300 227 300 (1300 BasF 00) or visit us at: master-builders-solutions.basf.com.au

Business

Using numbers to grow sales, profit and cash Most business owners seeking improvement are looking for business growth plans and strategies, and all kinds of small business growth advice is available.

It’s important to focus on the product/ service that you sell and the market for it. What’s also vital to understand is the impact of the numbers in your business – the numbers that guide you to the desired outcome ie. sustainability, profit, good cash-flow and business value improvement.

If you want to overcome small business growth challenges, you need to know what your targets are to ensure you achieve improved profit as well as sales growth.

If you want to sell or exit your business, those doing due diligence will want to see numbers to substantiate a price, borrowings etc. They will want to see that business financial controls are in place.

If numbers are so important, the next question is, which numbers? Numbers are often thought of as typical financial reports such as profit and loss and balance sheet. These are ‘results’ based numbers. The numbers that are more interesting and arguably more useful are those that ‘drive’ the results. They are the ones that set the framework for business growth strategies.

Numbers in business relate not just to financial results, they relate to every aspect of a business as follows:

Product/service

• number of products/services sold • number of enhancements/upgrades • number of products added/deleted

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Intaglio Sculpture Plank.

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46 Flooring April/May 2014

• number of quotes issued • number of jobs in progress

• Number of Work Health and Safety events

Marketing/sales

Customer service

• number of dollars spent on marketing • number of leads/enquiries generated • number of prospects in your pipeline • roi of marketing spend i.e. how much did each enquiry cost to create • number of website visits, social media followers, likes, tweets, re-tweets, blog posts etc.

• number of leads generated from each marketing tactic e.g. open rate of email marketing messages and engagement with prospect • numbers of deals done as a result of enquiries or sales conversion rate • sales growth percentag e operations/finance • number of products produced • number of productive/unproductive labour hours • number of hours spent on rework • number of raw materials wasted • number of jobs finished on time • number of jobs without defects • number of jobs finished on budget • number of work in progress days • number of inventory days • cost of goods percentage • overheads percentage • number of days customers take to pay • number of bad debts • number of days taken to pay suppliers

Human resources

• staff turnover • staff sick days • number of staff required to achieve growth • number of contractors required to get work done • Number of staff training events attended/hours

• number of new customers • number of current customers • number of customers by class, eg, A,B and C class – focus attention on As • number of major clients visited • number of compliments • number of complaints • customer retention rate • number of referrals from customers • number of customer testimonials Above are just some of the numbers you can use to drive efficiency and improvements in business. They are generally referred to as KPIs (key performance indicators). The challenge for you is to decide on a maximum of say 10 of these (any more becomes too onerous). Consider if you were away from your business for a while, what would be the ten key things you would want to know to be confident things are on track?

Focus on these numbers helps to drive a business in the right direction and keep things on track. Most of these numbers can be measured in good business systems.

Once they are set up right and targets entered, you can manage by exception i.e. look only at those that fall outside the acceptable criteria. If you have small business growth and development in mind, you simply cannot have your eye on every single transaction, so you need to find ways to be more efficient and effective in order to reach your goals.

CFO On-Call is a team of financial and business advisors who work with open-minded people, committed to business growth and achieving success. For help on deciding your business KPIs call us on 1300 36 24 36 or visit our website www.CFOonCall.com.au

"Consider if you were away from your business for a while, what would be the ten key things you would want to know to be confident things are on track?

Focus on these numbers helps to drive a business in the right direction and keep things on track."

Advertisers Index

Exhibitioncalendar

2014 Exhibitions

MAY 2014 19-22 INDEX Interior Design Show 2014

Dubai, UAE www.indexexhibition.com 22-25

SIDIM 2014 Montreal International Interior Design Show

Montreal, Canada www.sidim.com 28-30

DesignEX 2014 Architecture, interiors, flooring, kitchen & bathrooms, textiles & furnishings and contemporary workplace design Sydney, Australia www.designex.info/

JUNE 2014 4-6

Interior Lifestyle Tokyo 2014 Interior Lifestyle Living International Furniture Fair Tokyo. Ambiente Japan / Heimtextil Japan / HomeDesign Japan Tokyo, Japan www.interior-lifestyle.com 9-11

NeoCon 2014 Exhibition of contract furnishings for the design and management of the built environment

Chicago, USA www.neocon.com/

19-22 HIA Sydney 2014

Home Show

Sydney, Australia www.sydneyhomeshow.com.au/

Advantage Flooring Distributors

8

Agnews Water Putty

38

Airstep Australia

20 & 21

Archquip

JULY 2014

Ardex Australia

5

10-13

BASF

45

Furnitex and Decoration + Design 2014

Melbourne, Australia http://informaexhibitions.com.au/

AUGUST 2014

Carpet Court

Choices Flooring

20-23 IWF 2014

Atlanta, GA, USA www.iwfatlanta.com

Gibbon Group/Intafloors

36

Dunlop Flooring

Floorsafe International

41 19 18

17

GMK Logistics

Golden Field Corp

GTP Australasia

10 35 14, 28 & 46

Karndean International Kennards Hire

23

2 & 48

Laser Measure Australia

SEPTEMBER 2014

Protect Crete Australia

7-9

QEP

*** For more information on the fairs or to confirm dates, please check the individual websites.

24 & 25

Cornell Group

NYICS 2014 New York International Carpet Show

New York, United States www.nyics.com

7, 11 & 27

Classic Architectural Products

6-9 AWISA

Brisbane, Australia www.awisa.com

Wood Tech India 2014 Exhibition on Wood & Woodworking Industry including flooring and Parquetry

Chennai, INDIA www.woodtechindia.in

15

DuraCore

22-24

6

43

9 29 & 37

RFMS Australasia

39 & 40

Shaw Contract Group Triton Underlays Underlay King WoolSet

Front cover & 31

33 13 27

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