Interiors Monthly April 2021

APRIL 2021

LVT

Centre stage

Sweden Design kingdom

Elegance The signature wool-inspired twist, with a new colour bank and an 1,800g pile weight

All your flooring solutions under one roof

FIRST CHOICE FLOORING FOR EVERY ROOM CARPET • VINYL • LVT • LAMINATE • HARDWOOD www.furlongflooring.co.uk Contact sales: Dartford 01322 628 700 • Preston 01772 316155 • Stonehouse 0845 520 0800

EDITOR’S COMMENT

Welcome back to retailing At long last the great re-opening will see consumers allowed to return to stores, in most of the country In just a few days’ time shoppers in England, Wales and Scotland will be allowed to return to ‘non-essential’ retailers. Northern Ireland has to wait a bit longer, with the lockdown restrictions not due to be reviewed until 15 April. As I write this, retailers will be making final preparations to re-open and hoping that they do return.

There have been many suggestions that there will be a boom in retailing as shoppers flock to stores to get their hands on products they haven’t been able to buy over the past few months. Hopefully this is true, as it seems any money set aside for a summer holiday this year is not going to be used for that purpose. But as DFS and ScS – and I’m sure many others – have demonstrated, consumers have been able to buy products: they have bought them online.

The switch to accepting making major purchases online means the belief that people had to sit or lie on a sofa or bed before buying no longer holds true. DFS has an order bank way ahead of what it would normally, despite not having had any stores open for months, and the likes of Emma and Eve (which has been able to get close to break-even) have been enjoying sales success. While DFS is adamant it needs physical stores and online, John Lewis has taken a different view on the growth of Internet sales and plans to close four department stores and four At Home branches. Until the Government finds the courage to resolve business rates, it’s a situation that is likely to be repeated across many more high streets and retail parks.

Retrenchment is certainly not on the agenda at Victoria, which has raised €250m to fund its next acquisitions. And based on its previous deals you can guarantee it won’t pay a penny – or a cent – over the odds for its targets.

The death of Zeev Aram, at the age of 89, ends a link to the popularisation of modern furniture design in this country. In the 1960s Aram went to Milan to discover the products he wanted to sell. Hopefully we’ll all be able to do the same in September.

INTERIORS MONTHLY APRIL 2021

INSIDE THIS ISSUE NEWS 4

DFS expects profits to top £105m

8

Victoria raises €250m acquisition war chest

12 Zeev Aram: 1931-2021

FEATURES 16 New products 22 Service 24 Experiences

Are we nearly there yet?

26 Retail

High summer trends

34 LVT

Inspired, hybrid life, the right stuff, core success

42 Underlay

Long-term thinking, the finish

46 Upholstery

Anticipation, building a bridge, lifeline

52 Rugs

Fabric meets flooring

60 Storage

Making use of wall space

62 Trade products and services

Protection, care, software, sales, training, regulations

80 Design

Stepping up in Stockholm

Editor: Andrew Kidd

T: 01273 930 029 E: akidd@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

APRIL 2021

Furniture advertising (South): Tim Boden

M: 07976 122 150 E: tboden@interiorsmonthly.co.uk LVT

Centre stage

Sweden Design kingdom

Furlong Flooring’s Elegance, the signature wool-inspired twist, has a new colour bank and an 1,800g pile weight.

Furniture advertising (North): Jarrod Bird T: 01565 631 397 E: jbird@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

Carpet, flooring advertising: Joanne Paull M: 07817 624 922 E: jpaull@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

Visit: www.furlongflooring.co.uk

Representative in India: Amarjeet Singh Gianni T: 0091 98390 35458 E: as_gianni@yahoo.co.in

Elegance The signature wool-inspired twist, with a new colour bank and an 1,800g pile weight

Published by Interiors Media Limited Minerva House, Kinnings Row, Bordyke, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1NP E: enquiries@interiorsmonthly.co.uk Registered in England no. 6397722 Print: Knockout Print Design by Truprint Media © Interiors Media Limited ISSN 1756-2236

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

3

NEWS

Stacey expects DFS full year profits to top £105m Despite its stores being closed, DFS still has an order bank £65m higher than normal to work through, reflecting its online success.

DFS sales rose by 21% to £454.9m and profits climbed 35% to £143.2m in the six months to 27 December. Foam shortages and shipping disruption limited sales growth at subsidiary Sofology to 10.3% at £112.6m while profits were up 35.5% to £31.3m. Online sales jumped from 18.4% of sales to 25.7%.

Group pre-tax profits rose from £15.9m to £72.1m, helped by the drop-through effect of high revenue growth, cost control and lower retail rates payments. The group has not used the furlough scheme.

‘This strong first half profit and cash flow performance is a true reflection of the supreme efforts put in by our teams right across the group since the start of the pandemic. Our

business has proven to be resilient throughout the period despite showroom closures and a significant amount of external disruption in our supply chains. The investments we've made in our digital channels have generated exceptional revenue growth. Consequently our order bank remains well above normal levels and, subject to showrooms re-opening by 12 April, our central planning scenario is for an expected full year profit before tax outcome of approximately £105m, with further benefits to be realised in next year's financial results,’ says Tim Stacey, DFS Group ceo.

The group said it planned to increase investment in its UK manufacturing by £12m-£15m over the next two financial years. Its five factories, which employ 950 people, produces a fifth of its orders, with another 20% being produced by other manufacturers.

John Lewis to close four department and four At Home stores John Lewis is to close four of its department stores and four of its At Home stores as it adapts to a lack of footfall and increased online shopping.

The employee-owned chain could see the loss of 1,465 jobs.

The department stores in Aberdeen, Peterborough, Sheffield and York will not re-open, while the At Home stores in Ashford, Basingstoke,

Chester and Tunbridge Wells will remain closed.

‘Given the significant shift to online shopping in recent years – and our belief that this trend will not materially reverse – we do not think the performance of these eight stores can be substantially improved,’ it says.

‘We expect 60% to 70% of John Lewis sales to be made online in the future. Nearly

50% of our customers now use a combination of both store and online when making a purchase.’

The closures are its second round of downsizing, after closing eight department stores eight months ago.

The chain says its remaining 36 branches will begin re-opening on 12 April, with Glasgow opening on 26 April and Edinburgh on 14 May.

BGNFS cancelled again after dates prove ‘unworkable’ The Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show has been cancelled for the second year.

Originally planned for 18-19 May, the organising groups had looked at pushing the show back to the summer, with dates in August being explored. However ‘the lack of certainty and the issue of later available dates running into the summer holidays made this unworkable,’ according to a statement.

Organisers said the event would return in May 2022.

4

The show has not taken place since 2019

Interiors Monthly April 2021

ScS sees profits leap in record first half ScS announced a dramatic turnaround in its bottom line after pent-up demand saw a record first-half performance.

The chain saw sales rise by 13.9% to £182.3m in the six months to 23 January as a pre-tax loss of £600,000 became a profit of £17.7m.

This was boosted by £5.3m from the business rates holiday and £1.3m of furlough payments, which the group will repay by the end of the summer.

It says in-store upholstery sales rose by 11.4% to £146.5m during the period; in-store flooring sales dropped by 3.6% to £18.1m and online sales jumped by 81.3% to £17.7m.

The chain’s order book at the end of January was £90.5m (including VAT), which is £16.8m higher than in 2020.

Summer Furniture Show Advert- IM_Layout 1 11/03/2021 11:56 Page 1

Venue - The International Centre, Telford TF3 4JH

SHOW DATES: Tuesday 15 and Wednesday 16 June 2021 ● Open to all furniture buyers ● Two large exhibition halls with free parking ● Complementary light refreshment lunch ● Comprehensive exhibitor list from all furniture trade sectors

Free entrance, please register at www.thesummerfurnitureshow.co.uk

VENTUS

IGNIS

SPIRITUS

FUNDAMENTALS ® IS THE ESSENTIAL COLLECTION THAT COVERS ALL YOUR CARPET NEEDS.

Fundamentals double page 202101.indd 1

TERRA

AQUA

ANIMO

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED

THE FUNDAMENTALS® CARPET COLLECTION BY AW: ESSENTIAL TO YOUR HOME

FUNDAMENTALS® is the must-have brand for your store - you might say it’s fundamental.

WITH JUST 6 RANGES, YOU’LL COVER THE CARPET WISHES OF ANY CUSTOMER: colours, neutrals & design, plains & heathers, made with polypropylene & polyamide.

The great variation caters to all style demands and the collection comes with WEAR & STAIN WARRANTIES that guarantee DURABILITY and EASY MAINTENANCE. The graphic style is truly unseen in the carpet business: sleek, striking and modern with a touch of sci-fi. This makes FUNDAMENTALS® into an instore show-stopper, appealing to all types of customers.

Share your Fundamentals #carpetyourlife fundamentals-carpet.co.uk

5/01/2021 18:26:43

NEWS

Management changes at Sleepeezee Howard Wilson, Sleepeezee joint md is to retire in the autumn as the bed manufacturer hires a new commercial director.

Wilson is to retire in September after 45 years in the industry, with Steve Warren becoming sole md.

Former Harrods, Habitat and Galeries Lafayette executive David Miller has become commercial director, responsible for sales, marketing and new product development.

‘David’s calibre and breadth of experience in the retail and furniture sectors means he will be a valuable addition to our senior leadership team.

We have ambitious growth plans for Sleepeezee to be the dominant player in the premium bed and mattress sector in the UK, so it is an exciting time for David to join the team to help deliver this vision,’ says Warren.

‘It’s fantastic to be joining a brand with such a strong heritage, industry track record and clear company values, particularly in terms of its commitment to sustainability. There is still room for growth and so I am excited to use my strong background in building brands in an ever-changing retail landscape to realise the company’s full potential. As the retailers and hospitality sector open, I am working closely with the team to ensure that Sleepeezee continues to provide customers with an even better product and service proposition than before,’ says Miller.

Victoria bond boost raises €250m for acquisition war chest Flooring group Victoria has bought back almost three times the level of 2024 bonds it had planned to purchase.

The group bought €127.9m of the bonds after initially planning to buy back €50m. This was then increased to €200m. It paid €1,040 per €1,000 of bond.

The move came after it raised €500m for 2026 bonds from investors, with half the money ‘solely intended to be deployed on high-quality, near-term acquisitions.’ The bonds were more than seven times oversubscribed.

‘We are delighted with the level of support from bond investors. The offer was heavily oversubscribed, enabling us to not only raise the targeted €250m to help fund acquisitions we expect to complete in the near term, but also re-finance €250m of our existing 2024 bonds – extending the duration of our debt to 2026 whilst significantly lowering the interest rate to a very attractive 3.625%,’ says Geoff Wilding, Victoria executive chairman.

‘The demand from investors was reinforced by the group's very strong trading over the last 12 months, which saw record operating profits despite the material impact of the lockdowns in the June quarter. The re-organisation and investment undertaken by the group in 2019 has, as planned, delivered a sustainable margin expansion of more than 300bps and the financial outlook remains strong.’

Headlam resumes dividends, ups trade counters Headlam is to almost double its trade counters as it looks to benefit from retailers’ willingness to click and collect rather than rely on delivery.

The flooring group says it will add 10 sites to its UK network of 53 by the end of the year, with plans to increase this to 90 by 2025.

It reports that UK residential sales rose by 9.3% in the second half of the year, after the first half was hit by lockdown,

Back to bed Bed company Mammoth has extended its partnership with the British Athletes Commission for another year. It has been an official partner of BAC since 2012.

8

Interiors Monthly April 2021

with UK residential sales for the year to 31 December down 10.8%.

Shareholders were told that dividend payments will resume in May, with a ‘nominal’ 2p a share. It expects to pay an interim dividend for 2021 and then return to earnings-related dividends from 2022.

SWFMARF: maybe May The South West Furniture Manufacturers Agents and Representatives Federation hopes to hold its combined furniture and bed show in May. If the UK Government’s roadmap on easing restrictions doesn’t change, indoor gatherings of up to 1,000 people will be allowed from 17 May. The association hopes to hold the show from 25-27 May. Sedgemoor Auction Centre will again be the venue. ‘We have designed the show in such a way that all aisles are a minimum of 2m to give everybody enough space. Dialogue has started with government over what regulations will be required to be in place, and SWFMARF will confirm these in the coming weeks,’ says Andrew Lip, SWFMARF treasurer.

RECRUITMENT If you are looking to recruit staff for your furniture or flooring stores, looking for sales staff or reps for your manufacturing outlet, then INTERIORS MONTHLY offers a great package!

Our online package is just £175.

Your advert will appear in our jobs section on the website until the position is filled or you ask us to remove. Our weekly newsletter, which is mailed every Thursday to 7000 industry professionals, also includes a list of these latest jobs.

If you have both online and quarter page recruitment advert in our magazine, the cost will only be £250!

Costs for larger recruitment adverts are available upon request.

Please contact Jarrod on E: jbird@interiorsmonthly.co.uk T: 01565 631 397

Create Ultimate Impact

Ultra Hygienic

| Ultra Slip Resistant

|

Ultra Durable | Ultra Water Resistant

www.ultragripbybeauflor.co.uk

NEWS

PHOTO: IVAN JONES

Zeev Aram: 1931-2021

Zeev Aram, founder and chairman of modern furniture retailer Aram Designs and furniture designer, died peacefully at home on 18 March. He was 89.

His was a hugely eventful and fulfilling life, escaping to Palestine from World War 2 Transylvania, being part of the King’s Road swinging 1960s design scene, building an important design-led company, receiving an OBE for services to design and architecture in 2014 and the Compasso d’Oro XXV for Lifetime Achievement in 2018.

After graduating from Central School of Art and Design, Aram worked in the architect practices of Ernő Goldfinger, Sir Basil Spence & Partners and Andrew Renton & Associates.

Three years later he established his own design practice

Laura Ashley back in-store Laura Ashley’s home offer has been re-launched.

The collection sees the re-introduction of several signature prints and the debut of two new designs. Ranges

will be available online and at 48 Next stores. The move comes 11 months after the chain fell into administration and Gordon Brothers bought the brand.

A flagship ‘store-in-store’ will open in London’s Westfield Shepherds Bush once restrictions ease.

12

‘This is an exciting step in the evolution of Laura Ashley and we look forward to continuing to grow the brand in its new form. The Next partnership is the perfect way to reconnect the brand with its customers and develop new opportunities that will take Laura Ashley forward into new sectors,’ says Tobias Nanda, Gordon Brothers president for brands.

‘We are delighted to see Laura Ashley back in-store.

We are confident our new collection of signature patterns and styles, alongside new designs that draw on our archival heritage, will inspire and excite Laura Ashley fans of old, and new customers too,’ says Poppy MarshallLawton, Laura Ashley head of brand and partnerships.

Interiors Monthly April 2021

Zeev Aram & Associates, designing interiors, furniture, graphics, exhibition and product design.

Opening his furniture and design showroom on London’s King’s Road in 1964 he introduced to the UK market products from Italy by Gavina, Flos, Zanotta and Artemide with designs by Marcel Breuer, A&PG Castiglioni, Le Corbusier, Carlo Scarpa, Vico Magistretti, Archizoom and Superstudio, amongst others.

In 1973 Aram Designs moved to a larger premises in Covent Garden. In the same year Aram met with Eileen Gray who granted him the license to produce and market her designs. He worked closely with Gray and played a fundamental role in introducing her designs to the world market.

Aram was the director of The Aram Gallery for Experimental and New Design, a non-commercial gallery curating shows focused on experimental design. Through his series of graduate shows he introduced many new designers, such as Thomas Heatherwick and Jasper Morrison, who have gone on to become prolific figures in the design industry.

He is survived by his wife Elizabeth, son Daniel, daughters Debby and Karen, and his 10 grandchildren.

‘Our beloved Zeev has passed away peacefully. We are very proud of his many achievements, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him,’ said Elizabeth and Daniel Aram.

LVT replaces Wilton in inflation basket LVT has been added to the group of products used to calculate inflation. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) added the flooring to the list of more than 700 products it monitors for price.

‘The hard flooring consumer market has moved towards LVT, and laminate now tends to represent the shrinking, budget end of the market.

LVT is widely available and anecdotal evidence supports its popularity,’ says ONS.

Wilton and Axminster carpets have been removed from the list, with ONS saying they have become a contract sector product.

‘Research and anecdotal evidence from retailers has indicated this type of carpet is used mainly in commercial premises now. The loss of one of the industry’s main manufacturers has affected availability, and coverage levels (price quotes collected each month) have fallen.’

Sterling sees pre-pandemic £1m turnaround Sterling Furniture Group recorded a £1m turnaround in its bottom line before the coronavirus pandemic hit retail.

Recently filed accounts show that a pre-tax loss of

£713,065 was transformed to a profit of £338,639 in the year to 29 February 2020 for the 13-store chain.

Turnover rose 7% to £55.17m. Gross margin rose from 46.1% to 46.4%.

Generate instant sales & profit for your business...

Greenwood have planned and organised more retail sales events in the UK and Ireland than any other Sales Company.* And, we are seeing better-than-ever sales results due to our new digital marketing.

You can expect to generate from 25% to 100% of your annual sales in a 3-week event, at good margin.

A more accurate sales projection range plus outline costs can be estimated after a brief, FREE telephone consultation.

Why not find out more about holding a Greenwood Sales Event?

Call Bernard or Donald today to discuss how a Greenwood Sales Event could work for your business.

01565 650101 Or, send an email enquiry and we will gladly call you back for your FREE, no-obligation consultation:

sales@greenwoodretail.com

*Over 1000 Greenwood Sales held across the UK & Ireland since 2002.

WATCH T HE F I L M AND DISCOV E R OUR AWA R D WI N N IN G DIS P L AY

Invictus LVT interiors monthly double page 202101.indd 1

Always a trailblazer when it comes to branding, Associated Weavers reinvents the in-store display & brings an experience unseen in the flooring business. With traditional samples and an intuitive digital module, Invictus® luxury vinyl flooring invites the customer on a fun-todo purchasing journey.

Share your Invictus #invictuscarpetflooring

GREAT FLOORING • INVINCIBLE PERFORMANCE

A UK brand since 1964 www.invictus.co.uk

7/01/2021 13:03:09

NEW PRODUCTS

1

4

1 Fritz Hansen’s Maluma pendant features coloured hand-blown glass and a matching suspension. A fusion of frosted glass and smooth curves, Maluma adds a modern expression to any setting. It is available in earthy moss, deep plum and delicate rose, and is the first time the company has used colour in its lighting.

Visit: www.fritzhansen.com 2 Leoline’s Comfytex Deluxe is perfect for time-pressured retailers and homeowners looking to quickly refurbish a room prior to moving house. Thanks to its textile back, Comfytex Deluxe can be installed over a wide range of floors: old ceramic tiles, wooden boards and

16

Interiors Monthly April 2021

2

3

5

thermoplastic tiles can all be given an instant transformation.

Visit: www.leoline.co.uk 3 BerryAlloc’s Ocean+ is its latest collection in laminate flooring and continues the legacy of its pioneering hydro+ technology. The hydrophobic coating is applied to all sides of the plank during the manufacturing process, to repel water away from the joints.

Combined with a secure locking system, hydro+ makes Ocean+ completely water resistant as soon as it leaves the factory.

Visit: www.berryalloc.com 4 The Eternity collection from Balta not only delivers luxuriously soft carpets

with a lifetime of stain-resistance, but also colour palettes perfectly in tune with modern homes. Made from Imprel Finesse SD yarn, Eternity carpets deliver richness and vibrancy in shades from blossominspired pastels through to deep tones of ocean blue, so that every home can enjoy beautiful colour.

Tel: 0032 5662 2211 5 Team 7’s Filigno coffee table transforms into an all-rounder for the living area.

The table top can be lifted and moved towards the user at the same time: perfect for snacking whilst watching TV, or to double as a mobile home office in the living room.

Visit: www.team7-home.com 

I N PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H

DESIGNED IN THE USA

HANDMADE HANDMADE IN THE UK

For further information call 023 80 866111 millbrook-beds.com/chittenden-and-eastman

millbrook sleep technolgy for earth & ocean

297x210mm C&E Trade Press.indd 1

11/03/2021 08:02

VVI C I CTTOORRI A IA TM

TM

Design Design Floors Floors

ss

ss

Mo

Mo

Ston e

Ston e

Chalk

Fossil

te Pew

te Pew

Fossil

Chalk

Tapestry Tapestry consists consists of 20 ofdifferent 20 different tile designs. tile designs.

The The example example below below is toisshow to show the the six colour six colour options options available available within within the the range. range.

r

r

ORS

ORS

VI

C

VI

O

S

O

ET

VICT

S

VICT

LO

R A DIA D N F N F E S I GE S I G LO

RI

ET

C

yx On yx On R I A CRAI A RPCARP TO TO

www.myvictoria.co.uk www.myvictoria.co.uk

Tapes Tape

Now NowAvai Ava

SA SA

E AT E AT

CO CO

N N

.

.

NEW NEW.

.

MI MI O OS O O N GNSG

FromFrom next next month month Victoria Victoria Design Design Floors Floors will be will be rolling rolling out the outsample the sample update update for the forTapestry the Tapestry boards boards on their on their Distinctive Distinctive Flooring Flooring dual dual swing swing arm and arm waterfall and waterfall stands. stands.

Tapestry Tapestry was first was first shown shown to the tomarket the market at at Harrogate Harrogate in 2019 in 2019 where where it won it won the Flooring the Flooring Innovation Innovation Award Award for smooths. for smooths.

Due Due to launch to launch in in spring spring 2020, 2020, the pandemic the pandemic stopped stopped the company the company in itsintracks, its tracks, but they but they are now are now ready ready to start to start to roll to roll out and out can’t and can’t wait wait to see to how see how the market the market reacts reacts to to this stunning this stunning collection. collection.

MadeMade up ofup 20ofdifferent 20 different patterned patterned mosaic mosaic stylestyle tiles,tiles, Tapestry Tapestry comes comes in boxes in boxes of 32, of9”x9” 32, 9”x9” tiles tiles fromfrom which which various various designs designs can be canmade. be made.

As well As well as being as being usedused on their on their own,own, they they can also can also be be mixed mixed and matched and matched with with complementary complementary 9”x9” 9”x9” and 18”x18” and 18”x18” tiles tiles to help to help create create unique unique floors floors for for youryour customers. customers.

TheyThey can even can even be paired be paired with with the Landscape the Landscape Wildwood Wildwood planks planks should should someone someone wantwant to mix to planks mix planks and stones and stones together. together.

James James Caldwell, Caldwell, SalesSales Director Director for Victoria for Victoria Carpets Carpets and Design and Design Floors Floors said:said: We are Wedelighted are delighted that that we can we now can now get out getinto out into the market the market with with Tapestry.

Tapestry.

We know We know it’s been it’s been a a long long timetime coming coming but we butnow we now havehave a fantastic a fantastic

‘‘

newnew product, product, supported supported by our by our national national sales sales team, team, point point of sale of sale supported supported via via our our in-house in-house merchandisers, merchandisers, dedicated dedicated marketing marketing support support andand the the ability ability to to helphelp our our retailers retailers addadd value value to grow to grow theirtheir businesses. businesses.

We’re We’re very very fortunate fortunate that that we have we have beenbeen able able to to growgrow our sales our sales teamteam during during lockdown lockdown and have and have welcomed welcomed threethree new new members members into the intoteam. the team.

NowNow is a brilliant is a brilliant timetime to start to start working working with with Victoria Victoria Design Design Floors Floors and any and retailers any retailers interested interested in partnering in partnering with with us should us should get in get touch. in touch.

‘‘

pestry pestry

PLE PULPEDUPD M M

We currently We currently havehave a promotion a promotion on our ondual our dual swing swing arm stand, arm stand, we can we offer can offer preferred preferred terms terms and are and are passionate passionate about about supporting supporting bricks bricks and and mortar mortar retailers. retailers.

vailable... vailable...

Anyone Anyone wanting wanting to find to find out more out more should should call the call the Victoria Victoria Design Design Floors Floors salessales office office on on 01562 01562 749 300 749 300 or email or email sales@myvictoria.co.uk. sales@myvictoria.co.uk.

www.distinctiveflooring.co.uk www.distinctiveflooring.co.uk

NEW PRODUCTS

6

7

8

6 Colé Italia has extended its A-Line range with the introduction of a side table, an ideal accessory next to the bed as a nightstand but also in the living room or hallway as a supporting surface and storage.

Visit: www.coleitalia.com 7 Tato has reissued Ignazio Gardella’s Paolina lamp in satin white or shiny green polycarbonate and a LED. It can be fixed to the ceiling with a cable or rigid tubular element. The metal components are available in brass, chrome, satin-finished nickel or satin-finished bronze.

Visit: www.tatoitalia.com

9

8 Completing the Quick-Step Master Installer programme at the Academy for Excellence in Flooring helps installers to unlock a range of business benefits. As the only Quick-Step approved installers, professionals holding the prestigious Master Installer card are able to enjoy a range of exclusive business benefits, most notably a manufacturer-backed lifetime warranty on workmanship.

Visit: www.quick-step-academy.co.uk 9 Standing out for its versatility and capability on a wide range of subfloors, Floorwise’s Pro-Screed Gold two-part smoothing and levelling compound leaves a flawless finish ready for floorcoverings in just four hours.

Moisture-tolerant and suitable over DPMs, the system doesn’t require primer, making it even faster to use.

Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk 10 Found on BerryAlloc’s Pure and Style vinyl collections, DreamClick’s innovative 360deg locking system is up to 50% faster to install than other click systems. The four-sided system is more versatile too, so that DreamClick equipped floors can be installed in almost any laying pattern you can imagine.

Visit: www.berryalloc.com

20

Interiors Monthly April 2021

10

SERVICE

Richard Renouf

In the doghouse

What was behind the mysterious scratches?

‘It was my mum who spotted it, about three months after it was laid,’ said Mrs H, pointing to the marks that could be clearly seen in the sunlight flooding through the glass doors at the end of the kitchen. ‘It must be from the dog’s paws, so the flooring is clearly faulty.’

Sure enough, there were some deep scratches in the surface of the click-together LVT flooring. Some were single marks and others looked as if the dog had pawed away at the surface for several minutes. There were also some small depressions which looked as if they were from flakes of grit that had been trodden underfoot.

I’m often asked to look at flooring which is scratching or marking more than the customer thinks is acceptable.

My way of dealing with this is to change my camera lens to one specially made to take pictures very close up (within 12mm of the surface) and then to study these on the computer screen back in my office. I also ask if there is a spare tile or plank left over and, if so, I will take this away with me for testing, to see if it dents or scratches more than other products of a similar type.

A customer’s home will give a general clue about the way a customer cares for a product, but when it comes to flooring, even the most fastidious customers can, inadvertently, do things that cause damage. Not using a door mat (especially for doors to the garden) or not putting felt pads under furniture are common issues. I avoid making subjective judgments based on such observations as much as possible. The more objective information I can obtain, the better.

But there was something different about Mrs H’s ‘scratches’. The wear layer of the flooring was undamaged.

Whatever caused the marks had not scraped any of the surface away, and this is usually what happens. So I

22

Interiors Monthly April 2021

The surface was seemingly scratched

started looking around at other areas of the flooring. The different types of scratches were present all over, I discovered. Either the family dog had been very boisterous, or I needed to find another cause.

There were no spare tiles, so I asked Mrs H for permission to remove one of

The dog was not to blame

the kitchen plinths and test an out-ofsight area. She agreed, but when I took off the plinth and looked carefully at the area behind, there were even marks where the flooring had been hidden. I couldn’t replicate them even with heavy pressure from a titanium tool or the blade of a knife.

I told Mrs H what I thought, and that I needed to find a sample of the flooring that had never been used. I went straight from her home to the store where she had bought it and asked to see an unopened pack. The first tile out of the pack had the same markings.

LVT flooring is rarely left smooth – it needs a surface texture to provide grip and prevent slips. On wood-effect patterns the embossing is often a woodgrain effect, but for this marble tile design the manufacturer had chosen to simulate the scratches of a pet. It would have quietly done its job, unnoticed, if it wasn’t for Mrs H’s mum.

Visit: www.richard-renouf.com Richard Renouf is an independent furnishings consultant

EXPERIENCES

Are we nearly there yet?

It’s been a long haul but there are better times on the horizon, says our correspondent THE RETAILER Fludes Carpets Where has the past year gone? Has anyone been able to move forward and have we learned anything during the shutdowns?

How has your business performed in the circumstances caused by the pause button that the coronavirus has pressed?

This last period of trading since Christmas has seen a (very slow) increase in sales and in consumer willingness to engage in the process of buying flooring.

We are all probably hoping and expecting things to return to normal quite quickly after we are out of lockdown.

The Government and the Bank of England are suggesting that we can expect a good rate of business growth, which should gain pace during the autumn. We must hope that the vaccine roll-out has an impact and we avoid any further large-scale outbreaks of the virus that could trigger further disruption.

At the moment, although we are still taking sales, our key concern is what happens next – when we take an order and go to deal with ordering the flooring and arranging a fitting date. Are manufacturers in good shape to deal with the potential level of orders – particularly

Will sales blossom after lockdown ends?

24

Interiors Monthly April 2021

in terms of delivery dates and accuracy of the deliveries? We have seen dates being pushed back and wrong items being delivered, and it is difficult to arrange collection notes with suppliers when this happens. Normally our local reps would be able to help, but they are furloughed in the main. It is going to take the manufacturers a fair bit of time to get back to normal, and when they do, there are other hurdles too.

The past few weeks have seen prices going up on most flooring products. This is due to the increased cost of raw materials, delivery and distribution, as well as a rise in production costs. In itself, this is not a bad thing. Inflation will benefit the whole industry and help to improve turnover levels. However, if too many people go for a heavy discounting strategy as a result, to get the orders, the value of the product will decline. It ends up with the customers playing one retailer against another and inevitably the gross profit will be reduced.

Another factor facing retailers is that, for a couple of years now, smooth floors are taking a growing portion of flooring sales.

Many carpet fitters have become carpet and flooring fitters, and some only wish

to fit LVT. There seems to be a shortage of new carpet fitters. Does this mean that we will have a shortage of fitters in future? We all know that, in most cases, the Internet price is for supply only. The customer has to find their own fitter and that will add further incentives for fitters to take on limited work for shops and more work for themselves.

Internet usage has surged over this past 12 months, so it seems sensible to follow the crowd and increase our presence online to encourage people to come to Fludes. We are looking carefully at the option of increasing our sales levels by becoming more prominent online in our catchment area. We have already seen a favourable level of customers wanting to shop locally and support their local family business so this is one area to pursue.

After 12 months of stop-start trading, dealing with customers by appointment and trying to grow sales through a greater online presence, we are edging towards 12 April. We can only hope that this really is it, we’ve survived the past year – and that the year ahead will be as good as predicted.

Andy Laird, Fludes Carpets md

w

NEW FOR 2021 We’re delighted to introduce our new collection, featuring over 1,300 new lines Add a shabby chic touch to a room

with a huge extension to our Accessories

with the Sagar Dining Table. Crafted

collection.

from mango wood, with turned legs, and metal detailing on the top

The teams here have worked hard to

corners and sides, the table would

create, what is, one of our largest ever

look at home in a range of interiors,

new season launch collections to date.

from rustic farmhouse-style kitchens

Taking inspiration from around the world,

to orangeries and conservatories.

this exciting new range covers a number of new trends that has enabled us to

Pair with our Hinks Dining Chairs,

develop products across our categories

now available in our 80 fabric

that we haven’t previously explored.

options, and made to order in our

Never before have we been equipped to

Wiltshire facility with a choice of

say that we are the complete solution

two leg colours to suit any interior.

to home interiors.

Available Av ailable in

80 fabric option op tions tion s

View our full collection online at www.gallerydirect.co.uk

GD Interiors Monthly - 1903.indd 1

Mon 22/03/2021 14:34:58

RETAIL

Easy does it

Habitat has identified four trends for high summer.

Visit: www.habitat.co.uk OUTDOOR Whether a balcony, terrace or green space, customers are turning their attention to exterior design, seeking year-round products that enable them to spend more time outdoors. More and more activities are moving outside, from sitting with a coffee in the morning to working from a garden office, and later watching the sun go down with a glass of wine.

TRENDING: OUTDOOR BRIGHTS ‘Never before have we cherished our outdoor spaces as much as these past few months. An array of bright outdoor furnishings will add a pop of colour to a garden that will shine through regardless of the weather. Retro solar-powered lighting will extend the daylight hours, while

26

Interiors Monthly April 2021

designs such as the nested Ipanema coffee tables can be extended whilst entertaining and neatly stored away when not in use,’ says Dipesh Radia, Habitat senior buyer, outdoor furniture.

DESIGN DETAIL: SLATTED BAR SET, £150  ‘A continuation of the home bar phenomenon, the garden bar is a highly sought-after piece, with online searches soaring by 568% this year already. For those tight on outside space, the Slatted Bar Set exhibits a narrow design, with bar stools that slide neatly underneath. The steel framework and solid acacia wood table top create a contemporary industrial aesthetic which makes for a striking contrast against a leafy backdrop,’ says Radia. 

Welcome Back!

From the team at Hugh Mackay

Hot off the press: New Website New Ranges

Visit our new website to see our online Visualiser & our new Find a Retailer feature. The feedback we have received so far has been very posituve.

Be sure to go online and take a look for yourself at: www.hughmackay.co.uk

We’ve been busy during lockdown, developing new ranges and taking a look at our longstanding options to see how we can update them for 2021 & beyond, watch this space for the latest news...

With the end of Lockdown approaching, we wanted to say thank you to everyone we work with and most of all, welcome back!

SCOTLAND JOHN STUART M: 07860 565 200 E: johnrstuart@btopenworld.com NORTH EAST & CUMBRIA BECKY GIBBONS M: 07970 491 215 E: rebann2@btinternet.com YORKSHIRE JOHN ALSOP M: 07860 572 220 E: alsopagencies@yahoo.co.uk

LANCASHIRE JOHN ROSTRON M: 07973 733 208 E: johnrostronagencies@hotmail.com EAST MIDLANDS STEVE FURNISS M: 07773 384 787 E: furnissagencies@btinternet.com WEST MIDLANDS DEAN STANLEY M: 07572 758 010 E: dssalesagencies@gmail.com

OXFORDSHIRE, WILTSHIRE, HAMPSHIRE ANDREW JEFFERIES M: 07831 457102 E: adj.agencies@gmail.com SOUTH WEST BRENDAN HART M: 07850 130 221 E: ba.hart1@yahoo.com NORFOLK, SUFFOLK, CAMBS, NORTH ESSEX ROBIN SAUNDERS M: 07968 344 892 E: rsagencies2004@aol.com

SOUTH WALES, BRISTOL, & GLOUCESTERSHIRE PAUL POWELL M: 07968 186 150 E: paulpowellagencies@gmail.com SOUTH EAST & SOUTH LONDON MIKE ALP M: 07770 861 441 E: alp.michael@googlemail.com N LONDON & HOME COUNTIES DAVE MARNEY M: 07794 221 443 E: d.marney@sky.com CENTRAL LONDON NICK WOOD M: 07976 945 505 E: nick@essentialflooring.co.uk

C O N N E C T W I T H H U G H M A C K AY

W W W . H U G H M A C K AY. C O . U K

NORTHERN IRELAND GARY O’BOYLE M: 07831 220 675 E: goboyle@ntlworld.com REPUBLIC OF IRELAND LARRY WHITE M: 03862 594 126 E: thelarwhite@hotmail.com SALES DIRECTOR KEITH MORGAN M: 07710 701063 E: keith@hughmackay.com MANAGING DIRECTOR VINCE HOLDEN M: 07900 262 434 E: vince@hughmackay.com

RETAIL

LUXE This look emulates the understated luxury of a boutique hotel, interspersing sumptuous velvet upholstery with flashes of gold, brass and silver. Accessories are key, with elegant objects and layers of soft throws and decorative cushions to convey contemporary glamour and sophistication.

TRENDING: ORGANIC FORMS ‘Customers are turning to plump, rounded upholstery in place of the stark silhouettes and sharp lines of minimalist designs.

This move towards organic, curvaceous shapes that reflect the natural world has gained momentum throughout the past year as we crave cocooning, pillow-like forms that instill a sense of comfort and tranquillity,’ says Rachael Fell, Habitat buying manager, furniture.

MATERIAL MATTERS: CUT VELVET ‘Lustrous cut-velvet cushions add a luxurious finish to a space. Ideal for layering, the timeless taupe and cream palette here is lifted by an elegant sheen and subtle interlocking geometric pattern.

Pair with a sumptuous faux fur throw for the ultimate cosy night in,’ says Anna Cross, Habitat buying manager, home living.

DESIGN DETAIL: DAISY VELVET CHAISE, £350  ‘The distinctive silhouette of the chaise longue has long been associated with grandeur and opulence. As an occasional piece it offers a playful juxtaposition between sophisticated statement design and informal, relaxed use. We’ve revived this iconic form with a modern-day design approach, fusing its luxurious heritage with a simplified aesthetic inspired by Scandinavian principles. The generously curved back sits above sleek tapered legs and, as the name suggests, is created for lounging,’ says Fell. 

28

Interiors Monthly April 2021

Four bar Hexham This variant to the established eight bar Hexham spindle aims to give a cleaner, more contemporary look yet remains also able to cross over into traditional. A winner with painters.

Hexham Eight bar Our highly popular eight bar back plain spindle back chair is where modern meets the best of Victorian simple. Equally at home in town or country dining settings. Available in beech or oak.

Hoop back

Windsor Hoop Carver

An enormously popular and stylish hoop back with elegant good looks and features, robust enough even for contract. This is a quality beech chair that fits many bills.

We have taken a classic Georgian style an adapted it for modern living. The ageless lines evoke their traditional background but also harness a more modern edge.

Great as a stand-alone chair in its own right or a carver complement to our hoop or Hexham’s.

RETAIL

APARTMENT LIVING A continuation of the Spring/Summer 2021 collection, the new cookshop and tabletop collections feature a simple monochrome palette injected with pops of burnt orange. Reflecting Habitat’s mid-century roots with an industrial edge that prioritises the functional, the complementing furniture incorporates tactile textures of warm wood and faux leather.

DESIGN DETAIL: OAK AND METAL BAR STOOL, £50  ‘This timeless piece is made from solid oak and powder-coated matt black metal. As a hard wood, oak is highly resistant and therefore perfect for high-traffic areas like breakfast bars and tall desks. Its timeless quality and natural finish are here made all the more versatile with a minimal metal frame, letting the stool fit seamlessly into many home settings, be it a rustic farmhouse

30

Interiors Monthly April 2021

kitchen or an urban, open-plan space. The seat is grooved for ergonomic comfort, and the frame includes a foot support,’ says Katie Edmundson, Habitat senior buyer, furniture.

DESIGN DETAIL: TWO-TIER COLLAPSIBLE SERVE BOARD, £16  ‘The past year has taught us to enliven our day-to-day routines with small flourishes that enhance our sense of happiness and wellbeing.

We’ve seen increasing demand for serveware items as customers endeavour to keep busy at home by embellishing everyday activities.

Designed to bring a utilitarian slant to this most traditional of rituals, the Two-Tier Serve Board exemplifies two elements crucial to how so many live today: multi-functionality and space-saving.

Inspired by street food market displays, the piece folds down and is easily slotted into a cupboard

or drawer,’ says Denise Moloney, Habitat designer, home and furniture.

TRENDING: SCONCE LIGHTING  ‘Extended time at home has opened our eyes to the impact that different styles of lighting have on different spaces. We’re now seeing far more adventurous shopping in this area as people explore designs beyond pendants and table lamps. Sales of sconce lights have increased by 53%, and surprisingly this isn’t limited to homeowners. There’s high demand for plug-in options that attach to walls, and even clamp lighting for headboards, as renters look to create atmospheric looks without the commitment of rewiring,’ says Hayley Pearshouse, Habitat senior buyer, lighting. 

100% RECYCLABLE SYNTHETIC GRASS AND CARPET Our synthetic grass and carpet have been performing excellently on durability tests for many years.

Whether for sports fields, gardens, terraces or interior decoration, Lano stands for an exceptional lifespan.

With our ecological product range we go one step further: we give the artificial turf and carpet a second life. All products bearing the sustainability label are 100% recyclable.

Introducing 4

synthetic grass ranges: ORGANIC

Discover more at www.lano.com/enso

ROSEMARY

VINCA

WILDER

Venetiëlaan 33 - 8530 Harelbeke-Belgium Tel. +32 56 65 40 00 - Fax +32 56 65 40 09 marketing@lano.be - www.lano.com/enso

RETAIL ARTISAN Marrying a playful array of tactile materials with a harmonious palette of soft, earthy hues, the Artisan collection encourages an eclectic yet relaxed approach to styling.

Characterised by embroidered textiles, lightweight woven rattan and artisanal steam-bent furnishings, the handcrafted feel of the collection shapes a calming and comforting interior.

TRENDING: RETRO REVIVAL ‘Stepping away from the sleek minimalism of previous years, customers are increasingly opting for nostalgic, retro-inspired pieces that channel casual comfort and champion natural materials. 1970s-inspired designs have seen a huge resurgence in recent months with rattan and bamboo favoured for their ability to balance sleek lines with a rustic, handcrafted look,’ says Fell.

DESIGN DETAIL: HALDEN DRINKS CABINET, £300  ‘As we continue to carve out spaces in our home not only to work but also to relax and unwind, pieces that enable us to channel our favourite bars and restaurants are in increasing demand. Within the sleek Scandi exterior of the Halden Drinks Cabinet is compact storage for cocktail glasses, bottles and bar tools. A contemporary take on a classic 1970s item, the cabinet features a chic chevron inlay design and recessed handles. Slim wooden legs lighten the piece, and the simple flat-top design creates storage ideal for smaller settings,’ says Andrew Tanner, Habitat design manager, home and furniture.

32

Interiors Monthly April 2021

Train with us At the Karndean Designflooring Training Academy we have courses and workshops for fitters of all abilities, whether you’re aiming to improve your basic skills or looking to learn more sophisticated floor laying techniques.

The perfect fit Our 3-day fitting courses cover floor preparation and installation of all Karndean flooring formats.

We also offer one-day workshops for an intensive guide to the preparation and installation of floating floors, Heritage Collection installation and the creation of bespoke motifs and designs.

Discover more at karndean.com/training

To book any of our training courses, workshops or for general enquiries, please phone 01386 820170 or email training@karndean.co.uk

KD6117UK_Training Academy Advert.indd 1

11/03/2021 15:45

LVT

Above left: Rustic Oak Brown Above: Rustic Oak Dark Grey Below: English Oak

Inspired

Tarkett’s latest collection has been developed for the UK market Though you may not be aware, Tarkett is one of the leading suppliers of LVT throughout Europe. Even in the UK it’s likely that people walk on a Tarkett floor more often than they realise as it provides

34

Interiors Monthly April 2021

LVT for many of the best-known national retail outlets and supermarkets.

Tarkett’s Inspiration UK collection is manufactured in mainland Europe and stocked in the UK for fast turnaround

projects. Featuring a commercial grade 0.55mm wear layer and offered in a specially selected range of oak and mineral colours ideal for UK consumer taste preferences, Inspiration brings together 12 colours all available in either standard size or a 10cm x 50cm mini plank for creating herringbone and other decorative effects.

‘The double format in terms of tile and plank sizes allows us to further address the trend for creative blends of colours and textures present in the commercial market that we see gaining popularity with consumers today,’ says Stephen Kemp, Tarkett UK & Ireland residential sales director.

‘There are many different flooring design layouts which are made possible with the Inspiration collection – various ideas for creative options that can be realised to remarkable effect. The colours and formats are designed to work harmoniously alongside one another.

‘Tarkett UK and our distribution partners have committed to having stock on the ground in the UK at this difficult time, which should help us all respond to the market recovery that we all hope will be very soon indeed.’

Visit: www.tarkett.co.uk

Core Collection LUXURY DESIGN TILES NEW Inspiration By Tarkett Commercial LVT now in stock 0.55 commercial wear layer Planks, tiles and herringbone formats Samples and brochures available now MADE IN EUROPE, STOCKED IN UK

Created specifically for the UK market, Inspiration

by Tarkett is a dynamic collection of 12 ‘dry back’ LVT colours in rich wood and natural stone designs.

It offers the perfect combination of style and performance for any commercial or residential setting.

All 12 designs are held in stock at participating stockists and in our own UK warehouse, available in both plank and mini plank formats.

Speak to your local Tarkett representative or contact us today: www.tarkett.co.uk or E: marketing@tarkett.com T: 0800 328 2115

Available from stock

tar.gas.210820_Adverts_x3_P4.indd 2

07/09/2020 11:57

LVT

Transform Classic Oak

Transform Jura Stone

Hybrid life New work patterns will see a shake-up of homes As the world gradually gets closer to normality, spring signals a change in the air and brings fresh impetus for renovation, DIY and general interior design projects. This in turn means consumers will be seeking products to transform their homes into enticing new spaces.

Alongside, we can expect to see a shift to hybrid working following the easing of lockdown measures, with people dividing their week between the home and the office – and the need to accommodate work space in homes could also see a shake-up of living space in general as rooms are repurposed for new functions.

LVT gives homeowners the opportunity to get creative and choose from a range of different styles, patterns and colours when adapting their home.

Moduleo’s Transform is the company’s best-selling collection thanks to its versatility, with the range offering several shades in both stone tile and wood plank designs. Scratch and stain resistant, these floorcoverings make spring cleaning a dream and boast

36

Interiors Monthly April 2021

benefits that customers will enjoy throughout every season.

Designs such as Transform Classic Oak and Chester Oak offer a traditional timber plank style in lighter and darker shades. Suitable for bedrooms, office spaces and hallways alike, these planks also come with the added benefit of a soft and warm feel, excelling in

acoustic comfort and complete with a protective wear layer.

Transform Jura Stone lightens a room and provides a more contemporary feel.

This tile style can complement both the bright, striking colours of feature walls as well as the more subtle tones found in bathrooms and kitchens.

Visit: www.moduleo.co.uk

Transform Chester Oak

IT MAKES MORE SENSE TO MAKE IT MODULEO

®

The affordable choice in luxury vinyl flooring, Moduleo® offer an impressive and inspiring choice of designs and colours. Providing the style, durability and ease of maintenance customers want plus the extensive support retailers value and appreciate, choosing Moduleo® makes a lot of sense all round.

MORE MORE MORE DESIGNS COLOURS AFFORDABLE

7608 Moduleo Retailer Interiors Monthly 297x210mm.indd 1

Discover more at moduleo.co.uk

08/02/2021 15:07

LVT

The right stuff

F Ball’s Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS pressuresensitive, temperature-tolerant adhesive is used to install LVT in a room with full-height windows, which may result in solar gain

Pressure-sensitive adhesives are ideal for the installation of LVT When installing LVT it is useful to have the benefits of pressure-sensitive adhesives, which afford high initial tack and a long open time. Now, thanks to innovations in adhesives technology, pressure-sensitive adhesives are available with a range of additional features that help maintain the appearance of flooring installations over time.

Pressure-sensitive adhesives are ideal for the installation of LVT because they form an instant grab upon contact, so once positioned, tiles or planks won’t move about as fitters work. They also offer an extended open time, reducing the risk of late placement and making them ideal for where more complex designs or patterns are being created.

These adhesives are typically allowed to dry to a permanent tack before placing the flooring. They are designed to give both a strong initial tack and high bond strength, which increases as the floorcovering is subjected to traffic. The fitter can go over the adhesive with a roller pre-coated with adhesive, to flatten the ridges formed by trowel application,

38

Interiors Monthly April 2021

reducing the incidence of serrations shadowing through thin vinyl flooring.

High temperatures or extreme temperature fluctuations can cause floorcoverings to expand and contract significantly. This can be the case in conservatories or rooms with floor-toceiling windows that are subject to solar gain. This can lead to unsightly tenting and gapping at the edges of LVTs. When installing floorcoverings in such areas, a temperature-tolerant adhesive should be used. These develop the high bond strength required to hold floorcoverings securely in place when subject to extreme temperatures and temperature fluctuations. However, temperature-tolerant adhesives have traditionally been wet-lay, and flooring professionals requiring this type of adhesive have had to forgo the advantages of pressure-sensitive adhesives.

In recent years, advancements in hybrid polymer adhesives enabled the UK’s leading manufacturer of subfloor preparation products and adhesives for floorcoverings, F Ball, to create

Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS, a highperformance vinyl adhesive that combines both pressure-sensitive and temperature-tolerant characteristics.

Styccobond F49 is a water-based vinyl adhesive that develops the extremely high bond strength and dimensional stability required to hold vinyl floorcoverings firmly in place in areas exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations: from minus 20degC to plus 60degC. Whilst providing high initial tack, the adhesive allows floorcoverings to be lifted and repositioned in the initial stages of drying, making it a great choice for installing tiles and planks, intricate patterns and bespoke designs that need precise alignment.

Since its launch, Styccobond F49 has also been approved for installing vertical flooring accessories such as skirting, capping and coving. An alternative to contact adhesives, this means it allows you to use one adhesive to install both floorcoverings and flooring accessories.

Unlike contact adhesives, the hybrid adhesive only needs to be applied to one

LVT Left: The high compressive strength and self-levelling properties of heavy-duty levelling compounds such as F Ball’s Stopgap 300 HD will create a perfectly smooth base for LVT

surface, and the same properties that make it ideal for creating intricate designs allow for the repositioning of vertical flooring accessories during the early stages of drying. Styccobond F49 is also resistant to water, allowing it to be used in areas subject to water and high humidity, including wet rooms.

It is highly recommended to check the compatibility of particular floorcoverings and adhesives. Fitters should consult the adhesive manufacturer’s Recommended Adhesives Guide or see the floorcovering

manufacturer’s instructions.

Just as important for ensuring flawless results when installing LVT is subfloor preparation, and the first step in any floorcovering installation should be to make sure that the subfloor is suitably sound, smooth and dry. This should involve a moisture test to determine relative humidity levels. Where relative humidity levels within the subfloor are above 75%, a moisture management solution, such as a waterproof surface membrane, will be required to prevent

excess subfloor moisture attacking floorcoverings and adhesives, causing the LVT to de-bond. This is still the leading cause of floor failure.

Following this, the application of a heavy-duty levelling compound with high compressive strength and excellent self-levelling properties is recommended to create a perfectly smooth base for the installation of LVTs, preventing imperfections in the subfloor shadowing through floorcoverings.

In most cases, the priming is required beforehand to promote adhesion of the chosen levelling compounds and stop the rapid drying of levelling compounds when applied over absorbent subfloors.

It also prevents pinholing, caused by tiny bubbles resulting from the slow escape of air from the subfloor, which burst on reaching the surface, leaving small pinholes or craters as the levelling compound cures. This can affect the final appearance.

Only after following these steps should floorcoverings be installed using a chosen adhesive.

Visit: www.f-ball.com

F Ball’s Styccobond F48 PLUS temperature-tolerant adhesive is used to install floorcoverings in a conservatory

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

39

LVT

Core support

Above left: Karndean Designflooring Van Gogh Grey Brushed Oak Above: Karndean Designflooring Salvaged Barnwood

Simplicity of fitting could see a boom in rigid core products Karndean Designflooring is forecasting a trend for rigid core formats as homeowners continue to renovate post-lockdown.

‘With independent retailers about to re-open their doors this month, we are expecting rigid core formats to offer a lifeline of support to retailers facing pressure to service the demands of consumers looking to achieve a beautiful floor ahead of the summer,’ says Stella Coyle, Karndean Designflooring national retail sales manager.

‘Being a familiar click-and-lock installation method, it means all levels of installers can fit rigid core floors and not just those with specialist glue-down experience. It also gives homeowners the option to avoid the major upheaval of extensive subfloor preparation and enjoy an attractive LVT floor sooner.’

Karndean’s rigid core format clicks and locks into place without the use of adhesive and its K-Core technology means it can be fitted over most existing subfloors, floorboards or ceramics. With a range of colour-matched scotia designs to add the perfect finishing touch, rigid

40

Interiors Monthly April 2021

fall in love with our homes again. Cosy core also offers enhanced acoustics to living is a trend to look out for postreduce sound transfer to rooms below. lockdown and we expect to see more Karndean has recently updated its sophisticated parquet flooring which Van Gogh collection to introduce a new brings a guaranteed sense of elegance. flexible multi-format approach with Now available in a new Van Gogh rigid full-length plank designs available in core format, herringbone floors can be both a rigid core and glue-down fitting achieved in less time even when faced format. This includes four new smallwith challenging subfloors,’ says Coyle. plank (708mm x 177mm) herringbone Visit: www.karndean.com designs: Grey Brushed Oak, Warm Brushed Oak, Golden Brushed Oak and Salvaged Barnwood – available in a mix of warm wood and cool grey tones.

Its click-and-lock rigid core portfolio also includes Korlok in a popular 457mm x 600mm tile inspired by the understated tones found in natural limestone.

‘The increased time spent at home during the pandemic and the current role of the home as a hub and sanctuary space has Karndean Designflooring Van Gogh Golden Brushed Oak left many of us looking to

FLOOR LINE METAL EDGINGS & ACCESSOR IES

BY BALL & YOUNG

Our self-adhesive, stick down metals are now available in 90cm lengths as well as 2.7m. The door strips come in a variety of profiles, in silver or gold colours for that professional finish.

Contact the sales office for further details T: 01536 200502 E: bysales@ballandyoung.com www.ballandyoung.com Proudly made in the UK

UNDERLAY Duet

Esteem

Long-term thinking Products can be green in more ways than one ‘Many people think about the impact the carpet they choose might have on the environment, but not always the underlay. Fortunately, there are options on the market that can help retailers to get homeowners thinking about the impact of their underlay selection too, by bringing products that use recycled materials,’ says Richard Bailey, Floorwise md. ‘ Made in the UK from post-industrial recycled foam, the Floorwise PU underlay collection is a sensible choice for homeowners considering the impact of their purchases. Other underlays make a great option too, with the brand’s Vigour and Champion using recycled car tyres, Duet using recycled rubber and wool felt, and Symphony – another wool felt – delivering recycled materials.

But it’s not just UK manufacturing and recycled content that marks these out as environmentally aware products.

‘One of the biggest environmental challenges facing the retail flooring industry is in the disposal of unwanted products. With homeowners generally only changing their carpet when it becomes worn, it is important to realise that the underlay can make a huge difference to the longevity of the carpet.

Extending the life of the carpet by as much as 40%, a good quality underlay keeps the floor out of the waste stream for longer.’

Regardless of material composition, density is an indicator in long-term performance, with higher density products providing better long-term resilience. So, for the ultimate in carpet

longevity or in areas exposed to high footfall, SHD+ or UHD+ options in Floorwise’s PU or rubber crumb line-ups are the best option. Under heavyweight carpets, recycled rubber and felt products provide the support needed to ensure the carpet doesn’t ruck as the underlay compresses over time.

‘The underlay’s role is not solely comfort: it has an important part to play in the long-term value of the carpet by guarding against premature replacement because of wear. Made in the UK from recycled materials where possible, and with plenty of density options to extract maximum performance from any budget, Floorwise underlays can help homeowners towards a better long-term flooring choice,’ says Bailey.

Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk

Lift

Esteem

42

Interiors Monthly April 2021

The ultimate underlay collection With solutions for carpet, wood, laminate and LVT, the floorwise underlay collection delivers comfort comfort, longevity, quality and value with every step.

floorwise rewards promotion

register now to collect

floorwise-rewards.co.uk

•

PU foam, crumb rubber, sponge rubber, felt & combination carpet underlays

•

Acoustic wood, laminate & LVT underlays in rubber, PE foam & fibreboard

•

Underlays for underfloor heating

•

Commercial rated underlays for double-stick and stretch-fit

•

Plywood, hardboard & paper felt underlayments

•

Solutions for every floorcovering installation

Stay in touch @floorwisehq

Get the new underlay brochure at distributors across the UK & Ireland.

Visit www.floorwise.co.uk/distribution or contact us by phone +44 (0)1509 673974

UNDERLAY Underlay can significantly extend the life of a carpet

The finish

Palladium

Underlay can provide the feel and performance homeowners want Interfloor’s premium high-density PU foam underlays, including the awardwinning Tredaire Palladium, were introduced to meet demand for firmer and more luxurious products and quickly became a top choice for professional installations in all areas of the home.

‘Tredaire Palladium 10mm and Chromium 9mm have a high performance Textron backing for more dimensional stability and cleaner cutting during installation, plus exceptional “shock absorber” properties to help give carpets a longer life. The superior heat insulation properties of Tredaire, together with its luxurious feel underfoot and high acoustic ratings to reduce noise make it the perfect installation Gripperrods Premium POS is designed to help retailer upsell When it comes to creating the luxury finish that today’s homeowners demand, Interfloor’s quality British-manufactured flooring accessories deliver. Its Tredaire underlay collection is renowned for comfort. First released in 1958, the range of predominantly PU foam has grown to become the number one consumer underlay brand in the UK.

44

Interiors Monthly April 2021

for all areas of the home. Both Palladium and Chromium are 180kg per cum, offering superior protection that is longer lasting and better performing, significantly extending the life of the carpet,’ says Gary Cowley, Interfloor sales director.

‘Customers are always keen on finishing touches that can turn a good installation into something exceptional.

Gripperrods Premier edgings are perfect for retailers keen to demonstrate their commitment to the details which can make all the difference. Premier metal edgings have been a huge success with everyone since their launch. Our POS makes it very easy for retailers to offer their customers a choice of trims and upsell this luxury option. We’ve been delighted with the feedback to date.’

The edgings are a high-end addition to Interfloor’s existing Gripperrods range.

They are available in a brushed steel nickel or a bright chrome finish that complements current interior design trends. Both finishes are available in six specialist trims designed to provide the solution for all types of materials.

Visit: www.interfloor.com

UPHOLSTERY

Anticipation

Leather will become an option on Roma (above), Keswick and Albany from May

Sherborne has new products for re-opened stores Sherborne Upholstery is eagerly awaiting the re-opening of furniture stores in England on 12 April, providing this goes ahead as scheduled. After the tremendous level of sales achieved last autumn following the lockdown, the company is confident that pent-up consumer demand will fuel another mini boom period in the weeks ahead.

Like all upholstery companies, it faced unprecedented material shortages in the autumn, which caused disruptions to its production plans, with the lack of foam in particular necessitating a full week’s factory closure – at a time when the company had a record order book to fulfil.

‘One of the other difficulties has been the mounting cost of raw materials, with major increases in foam, hardwood, MDF and recliner actions being the chief issues. The cost of foam increased four times in the space of three months, Below: Keswick Right: Albany

46

Interiors Monthly April 2021

amounting to a total increase of approximately 30%, all relating to the rapidly escalating cost of the two main constituent chemicals. I am pleased that this issue has been highlighted in the press and raised in the House of Commons, with the hope that when the chemical prices fall again we shall see a rapid and significant reduction in the price of foam,’ says Chris Fort, Sherborne Upholstery chairman and joint md.

‘The cost of recliner actions has also rocketed of late, with a near 35% overall increase due to cost hikes in the price of steel. More recently we have encountered severe container delays which could have jeopardised the arrival of recliner actions, but thanks to prudent planning this has not affected delivery times in recent weeks.

‘In view of the much-anticipated upsurge in demand we have been

working rapidly through the large order book to bring down lead times and ensure that customers will receive much faster delivery once shops re-open.

‘We have also been busy developing exciting new products and enticing new fabrics for introduction in May. These include, by popular demand, leather versions of the successful Roma, Keswick Classic and Albany ranges. In addition, a completely new recliner/suite range will be launched to enhance our already extensive selection.’

A new generation of eco-friendly Aquaclean covers has been developed and Sherborne has chosen a crosssection of these to add to Aquaclean display carousels.

Three further ranges of chenille fabrics will also be added to the selection, which use a high percentage of recycled materials.

Visit: www.sherborneupholstery.co.uk

E XC I T I N G N E W P RO D U CT L AU N C H E S !

Roma

Keswick Classic

Devonshire

5Guarantee Ye a r ON ALL ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS, ACTIONS & FRAMES

Alongside coping with all the trials and tribulations of the last twelve months we have been ‘beavering away’ in the background to bring you a number of exciting new product launches this spring.

These include, by popular demand, new Leather versions of our successful Roma, Albany and Keswick Classic ranges and will also feature a brand new product range.

Albany

Many vibrant new covers are also being introduced including three new ranges of eco-friendly Aquaclean fabrics, so please check our website from the end of May for full details.

Sherborne Upholstery Limited Telephone: 01274 882633 sales@sherborne-uph.co.uk www.sherborneupholstery.co.uk (including Product Customiser to view all Fabrics and Leathers)

Sherborne Interiors Monthly FP Ad March.indd 1

04/03/2021 15:04

UPHOLSTERY

Building a bridge

Petra and Vernon Gadsby

A new online service links upholstery clients with specialist craftspeople Trying to draw together technology with traditional craft comes with significant challenges. But it has not fazed founders of upholsta.com Petra and Vernon Gadsby, who believe that the upholstery and soft-furnishing sector can greatly benefit from a little technology injected into its heart.

The idea to create upholsta.com came to light in 2017 after Petra, who trained as an AMUSF upholstery student with the British School of Upholstered Furniture, started her own upholstery and soft-furnishing business. Specialising

in the more traditional side of the craft, she soon began getting enquiries that were beyond the areas she wished to pursue, and quickly realised that these requests would be of value to other local upholsterers working in those specialist areas. From that the upholsta.com concept of bringing potential clients and highly skilled craftspeople together was born. The website allows consumers to find how they can have chairs or sofas re-upholstered or re-covered by local upholsterers.

‘The primary focus was to develop a system that directly supports local upholstery and soft-furnishing businesses, alongside reducing unnecessary landfill waste and carbon footprints, by re-using and re-upholstering existing furniture. Potential clients wanting upholstery work completed instantly saw the benefit of such a The website connects upholsterers and consumers system. Not only did it

48

Interiors Monthly April 2021

make them feel good about “doing the right thing” for the environment, it also reduced the complexity of trying to find upholsterers for specific work,’ says Petra.

‘The real challenge was breaking down the deep-rooted resistance to the use of technology and the importance of an online presence in tandem with the traditional craft. It quickly became apparent that the system could not be intrusive but had to be complementary to the systems that upholsterers were already using. And it has.

‘Since its launch in September last year, upholsta.com has proven to be a wonderful alternative to traditional marketing channels, by focusing specifically on the sector’s target audience – 25% of which moved online in 2020 alone. It’s the only specific upholstery and soft-furnishing marketing funnel in the UK, a place where clients and craftspeople who are passionate about quality can interact and look to future-proof treasured items for the next generation to enjoy.’

Visit: www.upholsta.com

Monthly_Interiors 3.pdf

U

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1

25/03/2021

11:45

UPHOLSTERY

Lifeline

Each FibreFill Blue cushion uses 100 bottles

Fibreline has developed a cushion filling using recycled plastic In the past 70 years the world’s consumption of plastic has increased dramatically: half of all plastics ever manufactured have been made in the last 15 years. In 1950 the world had a population of 2.5billion and produced 1.5million tons of plastic. In 2016 the

world had grown to more than seven billion people and produced over 320million tons of plastic. This is set to double by 2034.

Bottled water is a significant source of plastic waste, along with single-use straws, cutlery, food containers and

Encore Fibre

50

Interiors Monthly April 2021

other items. Fortunately Fibreline has found a way to convert the equivalent of 100 plastic bottles into a cushion: FibreFill Blue.

Plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues of the day, as increasing production of

FibreFill Blue

UPHOLSTERY

Encore Feather

disposable plastic products overwhelms the world’s ability to deal with them.

Plastic pollution is most visible in developing Asian and African nations.

However many developed countries have low recycling rates and have trouble collecting discarded plastics.

Plastics made from fossil fuels are just over a century old. Production and development of thousands of new plastic products accelerated after World War II, so transforming the modern age that many areas of life would today be unrecognisable without them. Plastics revolutionised medicine with life-saving devices, made space travel possible, lightened cars and jets – saving fuel and pollution – and saved lives in the form

of helmets, incubators and equipment for clean drinking water.

The conveniences that plastics offer, however, led to a throw-away culture that reveals the material’s dark side: today single-use plastics account for 40% of the plastic produced every year.

Many of these products, such as plastic bags and food wrappers, are utilised for a matter of minutes, yet they may persist in the environment for hundreds of years.

Fibreline hopes it can help in some small way by offering manufacturers an eco-friendly alternative.

Following on from Encore Fibre and Encore Feather fillings, Fibreline’s latest breakthrough in foam cushions is Encore Foam. Fibreline believes Encore Foam

Encore Foam

to be the ultimate foam cushion. It is constructed from 100% foam and achieves its remarkable properties through a combination of different foams and a very clever interior profile.

Encore Foam was developed in conjunction with customer feedback.

On the back of the success of Encore Fibre and Encore Feather, customers wanted to see a similar quality step in a 100% foam cushion. They wanted the uniform look and recovery of foam but with the soft sit of fibre.

Traditional foam core seats have relied on high-loft polyester wadding to add plumpness and a soft sit. But this inevitably results in the fibre flattening over time and causing bagginess in the cover. Fibreline developed a 100% foam topper with a CNC cut profile to provide loft and softness as well. The removal of any fibre from the product produces a very uniform look, with a soft sit, but with great recovery performance. As with Encore Fibre, Encore Foam was put through rigorous testing at FIRA before being awarded the FIRA Gold award.

‘We feel we have completed the trinity of upgrade cushion fillings,’ says Richard Prudhoe, Fibreline md.

‘Now with FibreFill Blue, manufacturers have a great choice. And remember, Encore cushions are made here in the UK, in Yorkshire. We like to think we are at the forefront of cushion production technology, and our production line now includes robot technology, never before used by a foam converter, which allows production to be even more cost effective.

‘Demand for Encore cushions continues to grow exponentially. More and more retailers are seeing the advantages and are demanding cushions containing Encore for their ranges.

‘With the increasing pressure on all within the supply chain to operate lean businesses, working on just-in-time deliveries, our ability to supply all three main filling components required for a sofa means that customers can place one order, with one supplier, and receive one delivery, with one delivery note and one invoice to process. This leads to efficiencies for the customer, and also enables us to offer very competitive pricing across all fillings, as they arrive on one vehicle.’

Visit: www.fibreline-ltd.co.uk

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

51

RUGS

Togetherness

Suminagashi

Riviere and Zoffany have combined to create the fabric company’s first rug collection Taisho

Riviere and Zoffany had used each other’s products in photo shoots for years and established a relationship based on a shared appreciation of contemporary luxury design. Riviere was given exclusive access to Zoffany’s archive and over the past year created six designs.

The collection, which is hand-knotted in Nepal using Tibetan wool and botanic silk, can be customised in any colours, sizes and shapes.

Suminagashi’s undulating pattern was inspired by an original document from the archive. Representative of the ancient Japanese art of marbling with ink on plain paper, its name translates to ‘floating ink’. Its combination of 

52

Interiors Monthly April 2021

Premium quality. Guaranteed

Condor Carpets bv Euroweg 3, 8061 SB | P.O. Box 21, 8060 AA | Hasselt, The Netherlands T (+31) 38 477 89 11 | F (+31) 38 477 89 22 | info@condorcarpets.nl

W W W . C O N D O R - G R O U P. E U

RUGS Jigsaw (on wall) and Moon Silk (on floor)

Kanoko

colours and pattern induces a calming effect that will transform any space into a relaxing retreat.

Taisho is one of Zoffany’s most popular designs, and the rug features lavish lotus leaves intricately hand-woven in 150knot quality using a wool and silk mix. The result showcases the complexity, depth of colour and beauty of hand-crafted rugs.

Kanoko is an abstracted and softened zigzag design inspired by a 1930s’ Japanese Shibori document from the archive. The striking pattern creates a true statement piece to enliven and create a focal point in an otherwise neutral scheme.

Jigsaw is an interpretation of the Zoffany monogram, broken into jigsawlike pieces and placed to create an abstract artwork. The beauty lies in the simplicity of this design: the minimalist pattern is highlighted with the play of pile heights and textures. The low loop Tibetan wool and silk background juxtaposes raised hand-trimmed wool and silk cut-pile.

With Moon Silk, transparent clouds slightly obscure a full moon – a design originally created using highly pigmented pastels laid down in layers and then sanded to create a textural ground. It is woven in a combination of textures to create delicate painterly

54

Interiors Monthly April 2021

shadows and silken highlights.

Tumbling Blocks is an historical patchwork pattern contemporised with artistic brushstrokes. Finely shaped cubes

elevate the original Zoffany wallpaper, creating the illusion of movement and irregularity, replicated in the rug.

Visit: www.riviererugs.com Tumbling Blocks

Find out more about becoming a member :

Carpet Recycling UK | +44 (0) 161 440 8325 | www.carpetrecyclinguk.com

WOOD AND LAMINATE

A new story

Timba Floor 5G is available in a variety of designs

Stories Flooring has added Timba to its offer Stories Flooring has introduced a 5G engineered wood collection to its product range. The Timba Floor 5G collection is one of the sector’s latest innovations, and is offered in some of the most sought-after colours and designs on the market.

The 5G installation system is the leading feature of this range, with the easy-to-fit mechanism ensuring a fast and simple installation. It can also be installed alongside underfloor heating, creating a warm and comfortable feel underfoot.

Available in multiple widths, the planks are 14mm thick and are tough enough to be used in commercial and domestic environments. They also come in a beautiful choice of designs, ensuring there is something to suit every room.

The collection is also environmentally friendly. Constructed in Europe, the planks are made from locally sourced

56

Interiors Monthly April 2021

materials. Their durability is credited to a selection of high-quality finishes: customers can choose from stained, brushed, lacquered and oiled surfaces.

The Leeds-based supplier, formerly known as Lifestyle Flooring UK, offers an online trade account.

Visit: www.storiesflooring.co.uk

Transform Chester Oak

BUSINESS SOFTWARE

INCLUDES FREE UNLIMITED USER LICENCES

INSTALL AND USE ON ALL YOUR COMPUTERS AT NO EXTRA MONTHLY COST

COMPLETE PACKAGES R E TA I L & C O N T R A C T ON-SITE & ONLINE CONSULTANCY & ADVICE TRAINING & SUPPORT MAINTENANCE & HOSTING TELEPHONE & EMAIL HELP

the REAL DEAL FURNITURE & FLOORING SOFTWARE Company Dynamics Software helps businesses take control of sales and manage customer service, freeing up more time to concentrate on growth

GROW IN-STORE & ONLINE THE AFFORDABLE SOLUTION THAT WORKS THE WAY YOU DO

Using our fully integrated, flexible stock control system and business management so�ware, will give you all the tools you need to make your company more efficient. Providing access to vital customer informa on, can help make you more profit and save me. All our business systems, large and small, feature unlimited user licences, along with affordable payment op ons.

Our business advisors and support team have assisted many different types of company throughout the UK and Ireland. We have the exper se to suggest a be er way of working using our flexible so�ware. There are many unique features and reports, built into our so�ware, that can help make your people more efficient, and give them the right tools to perform their job, be er. A complete business solu on, including website integra on & B2B, job cos ng, CRM and work in progress. It handles all types of product, including items, packs, rolls, op ons and make to order.

Why buy a costly second rate system?

www.CompanyDynamics.co.uk

)

ENHANCE YOUR BUSINESS

Is your company keeping up? Don’t lose out to the compe on.

Making your business easier to control and managing your customer experience, is key to success and the difference between first and last place. Whether your business is online or in-store.

08000 72 85 39

BEDS AND BEDROOM

The Therapeutics range features charcoal, copper and graphene

Add on

Mattress protection can add vital extra sales ‘Now is the perfect opportunity to grow retail sales in your bed department. With the UK Government’s plans to re-open non-essential retail this month, focusing on every customer who walks through the shop door has never been more important. Maximising every sale is vital,’ says Paul Lake, Protect-A-Bed national sales manager.

‘As a business we are constantly looking to help drive sales for all of our retail partners. Protect-A-Bed mattress protectors offer a perfect opportunity to increase the average order value and grow sales. It’s in the interest of both the store and the customer to purchase Protect-A-Bed mattress protectors due to our unique 10 to 15-year clean-or-replace product guarantee. Put simply, if one of

our protectors fails, Protect-A-Bed will professionally clean a mattress to the customer’s satisfaction or buy the customer a new mattress, as long as the mattress was bought with the protector. This promise is significantly powerful and is at the core of our philosophy. Our speciality is driving in-store performance through the Platinum Club, so linked mattress and mattress protector sales are high.

‘Since launching the Platinum Club reward system the results have been excellent. Both existing and new partners have joined and are benefiting from the focused approach to growing sales. In addition we are focused on advancing the mattress protection category to new levels

Protect-A-Bed POS

58

Interiors Monthly April 2021

of innovation. Our innovative TV display bays and the Therapeutics range are perfect examples.

‘The Therapeutics range features copper, graphene and charcoal embedded within the protector to increase and enhance the sleeper’s wellbeing. It combines materials known to help many with joint relief and relaxation, mineral absorption, a healthier immune system and heart health, as well as anti-ageing properties.

‘The range is a must-have for our existing partners and bed retailers who want to offer their customers the best possible sleep experience.’

Visit: www.protectabed.co.uk

LAUNCHING THE NEW THERAPEUTICS RANGE

Including Cooling ling Copper, Soothing Graphene and Purifying Charcoal Mattress Protectors... ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Professional Sales Training & Motivational Programme Best in Class Product Innovation and Cooling Technology Genuine 15 Year Guarantee Programme State of the Art Dynamic Display Bays Award Winning Customer Service & Claims Resolution Proven To Increase Profit Next Day Service

Contact Protect-A-Bed ® to unlock your full sales potential. sales@protectabed.co.uk | 02087310020

STORAGE

Shelf confident

A wide selection of styles are on offer

Make the most of wall space Core Products may be best known for its flat-packed furniture but for more than 30 years it has built an enviable reputation as one of the UK’s foremost suppliers of shelving and storage products.

‘Natural wood shelving remains as popular as ever with a wide variety of great value styles. Every one is made from sustainably sourced natural pine, supplied pre-sanded ready for easy finishing to the consumer’s preference.

In addition to a range of shelf and cube wall kits there is a selection of handy

60

Interiors Monthly April 2021

storage products such as shoe benches and storage shelving, ideal for garages or hobby rooms, and even shelf boards for the keen diyer. All are supplied individually wrapped in protective film and come with all the fittings you need,’ says Mike Rowley, Core Products ceo.

For a more contemporary look Core offers a vast selection of shelf kits in hardwearing finishes including wood, gloss, matt and metal effect. Each one is supplied complete with brackets and even wall fixings suitable for most uses.

Bathrooms and kitchens are catered for with tempered glass shelves that feature chrome-effect clamp fixings.

‘Our selection of versatile wall furniture offers more imaginative ideas, with a

varied selection of display shelves in metal, nautical and industrial styling.

Shelving kits are more popular than ever as they offer a variety of cubes and shelves, enabling endless display configurations all in one affordable pack.

Customers can also use multiple kits to create their own stylised wall display,’ says Rowley.

Tel: 01738 630 555

TRADE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Onward PremierCare has been refreshed and new regulations prepared for ‘As we approach the lifting of the UK pandemic lockdown, the whole of the furniture industry is hoping for a return to normality, as well as having hundreds of customers visit and purchase new items. With a fair wind and no further disruption to retail operations, we are all praying for a good trading performance for the rest of 2021,’ says Martin Napper, Castelan ceo.

During the last few months Castelan has been preparing its clients for the changes in FCA regulation that will impact the sale of furniture insurance products going forward. With the reporting of Value Measures commencing on 1 July, it is imperative that all furniture insurance schemes reflect good value for customers. This means excellent coverage, very high claim acceptance rates, higher average claim values and very few customer complaints.

‘All of the improvements we have made will provide your customers with an excellent insurance product – one that your sales team will love to sell. All of the above changes are achievable because of our fully integrated IT systems, which provide a market-leading online claims handling process. We now have over 84% of claims submitted online, with claimants booking appointments

PremierCare has been made easier for consumers to understand

directly into our technician diaries within minutes of submitting their claim.

‘We have also taken this opportunity to refresh the PremierCare brand across our

Castelan has introduced new care kits

62

Interiors Monthly April 2021

literature – making it cleaner, clearer and simpler to explain and, more importantly, for the customer to understand. To complement the insurance product, we have a new and refreshed range of leather, fabric, cabinet and carpet care kits, further enhancing the value proposition for you and your customers.

‘May I take this opportunity to wish the whole of the furniture sector, and beyond, all the best for 12 April and the rest of 2021. Castelan stands ready to support you in delivering a range of fully compliant Insurance products and services that will see us continue to be your trusted partner of choice.

‘We are providing our clients with the best furniture protection programme in the market place – providing your customers with the best levels of coverage and excellent customer value.’

Visit: www.castelangroup.com

PREMIERCARE for furniture

Furniture protection Simply the best furniture protection programme giving the highest levels of cover and customer value.

To find out how we can help your business call our Business Development Team on 07748 100 254 or email sales@castelangroup.com

Your customers love us too!

TRADE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

The company has developed its customer portal and website

Evolved

The pandemic created an opportunity to refocus Last year was a struggle for many businesses and the progression into 2021 hasn’t seen much of a let-up, but David Evans, Guardsman sales director, couldn’t be prouder of his team. ‘It has been incredible to witness how rapidly and effectively the whole company adjusted to home working. Within just one day we had more than 60 team members working remotely to continue providing quality support to our customers and retail partners,’ he says.

Like many businesses, Guardsman had to review, revise and create several new processes to adjust to the new way of working. This, coupled with a reduced team after staff were furloughed, meant it had to refocus. It would have been easy for the group to down tools and lie low until normality resumed, but instead it seized the chance to develop and evolve.

The past few months have seen the furniture protection plan provider develop innovative, intuitive new platforms. It took the opportunity to further invest in a new customer-facing claim portal, as well as a brand-new web platform.

‘I’m very happy to say we used the

64

Interiors Monthly April 2021

lockdown wisely. We really took the time to assess the customer journey and our newly developed portal is just one of the initiatives that has enabled us to make significant improvements to the user experience. We’re sure that the new platform will give our retail partners even more confidence in us as their partner of choice.’

The new customer portal will not only allow customers to access their insurance documents and change personal data, but it also brings them 24/7 access.

Through the portal, customers will be able to log new claims, receive ongoing updates and even settle a claim. ‘We have recognised our customers’ needs and reacted to bring them a platform that delivers,’ says Evans.

‘Alongside the portal comes our revamped website, making it the place to go for all things furniture care. The website showcases a new, contemporary aesthetic,

and features specialist care products, care tips and furniture buying guides,’ he adds.

‘The new digital initiatives show our commitment to meeting customers’ needs. It’s widely known that our mission is to be the protection plan partner of choice for furniture retailers and we are confident that our investment into improving the customer experience proves our dedication to achieving this.

It is our job to make the retailer’s job easier and we are committed to taking all the steps to accomplish that.’

Visit: www.guardsman.co.uk

Making a claim with Guardsman has become child’s play...

...come and see what else is new.

01235 444 700 | info@guardsman.co.uk | guardsman.co.uk

TRADE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Maximise margins

Staingard has a range of care products, mattress protectors and care plans

Manufacturing in-house brings advantages ‘As the country heads towards the end of lockdown, and with the predicted retail boom on the horizon, there has never been a better opportunity to partner with Staingard to maximise your business margins. Regardless of your offer, value-added products with tangible purpose can enhance every sale and keep customers’ furniture looking great for years to come,’ says Paul Aiston, Staingard md.

‘Unlike many care kit suppliers to the furniture industry, we manufacture our own care kits at our UK factory, ensuring continuity of supply, consistency of quality and flexibility of design. Staingard care kits are available for leather, fabric,

66

Interiors Monthly April 2021

carpets, cabinets and mattresses, plus our outstanding care kit for headboards and upholstered bed frames. We can tailor the kit to suit your needs, and for that personal touch we can manufacture not only to your brand but to your complete design.

‘Staingard care plans, with the most comprehensive terms and conditions of any policy in the UK, can provide that complete peace of mind for your customers, with varying levels of cover to suit your business.

‘To complement the care plans, or to be used as a stand-alone product, Staingard protectors offer reassurance for the owners of carpets and fabrics

within a busy home environment.

‘Mattressgard, our extensive mattress protector range, has been developed with specialist textile producers around the world, and substantial stock is held at our distribution centre for rapid delivery, as is our Floorgard range with the ever popular “recliner cup”, a product that makes moving heavy recliners simplicity itself.

‘By manufacturing care kits in-house, and working closely with manufacturers in the industry, we have ensured that we can supply products at costs where outstanding margins can be achieved, yet the retail price remains competitive.’

Visit: www.staingard.co.uk

Back to Business As the end of lockdown approaches and your stores reopen, with Staingard you can maximise your profit on every sale, with outstanding, value added products.

Staingard, market leaders in the provision of care plans and care products for the furniture, beds, flooring and automotive industry.

gliptoneeurope.com

leathermasteruk.com

mattressgard.co.uk

floor-gard.com

staingardsanitisers.co.uk

For more information call 01244 888 658, email sales@staingard.co.uk or visit our brand new Staingard Group website - www.staingard.co.uk Rated ‘Great’ on

TRADE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

All together

The Iconography team (pictured before coronavirus) has developed OMNIS

Integration is vitally important ‘We are fortunate to work with many of the most successful independent furniture retailers in the UK. However, for many of our clients the integration between their increasingly important ecommerce website and their legacy back-office retail system is an ongoing struggle. The most forward thinking are looking for new solutions,’ says Wayne Robbins, Iconography director.

‘In response we have developed and launched a new unified commerce software platform, OMNIS, which provides ecommerce, EPOS, CRM and a suite of retail management functionality.

The key is that OMNIS is a single coherent entity using one database, which does not require integrations to move data (product, price, promotion, stock, lead times, customer orders, goods received etc) between online and offline retail systems. Removing the need for integration creates so many operational advantages for retailers.

‘Unified commerce delivers agile and progressive retailing for the 2020s and consigns to the dustbin the day-to-day integration-related issues and limitations we know many retailers experience. We have worked with the legacy software providers in the furniture sector. Here are just a handful of the issues raised: ‘Can you check from your end if we have the same issue as earlier in this ticket? It’s

68

Interiors Monthly April 2021

just we uploaded a lot of items yesterday that haven’t reached the website. I’ve noticed X software automatically patched last night and am wondering if the patch has affected the file sent to the web?’

‘The lead times on merged products are not pulling through and it is only taking the lead time for one of the products in the merge. I have used the Y chair as an example. I would need the different colours for the chairs to pull through as they all have different lead times.’

‘Just realised we have a separate function in place to send in-store payment directly to X software, however it is X software that is rejecting the order with the following message being returned: Sales order number – 432942 Delivered’.

‘I enabled new ranges yesterday afternoon. I notice the feed has updated twice since I enabled these ranges and yet they still haven’t come through to the website. I will upload screenshots of the ranges from X software so you know what names to look out for.’

‘We have a couple of items that for some reason are showing the out of stock lead times on the product page (and also on overlays), but they have free stock in both X software and CMS.’ ‘I have come in this morning and all the main categories and subcategories have been disabled – please can someone re-enable them asap? And explain why

this has happened?

‘Orders have stopped coming down to X software from our website. You will need to contact X as to why they are not downloading. I’ve attached the XML for each order to this ticket if that’s useful.’

‘The above is a snapshot of our client support portal – just some of the dayto-day difficulties that fragmented and disjointed systems cause furniture retailers. Dealing with frequent integration issues wastes time, reduces morale, may mean disappointment for the customer, and certainly distracts staff from more productive activity. As a retailer you will have higher operational costs – you will need more staff, more user licences, more support and so forth – just to stand still. All this because your legacy software was never really designed to cope effectively with retail in 2021,’ says Robbins.

Visit: www.iconography.co.uk

The company’s offices

by

TRADE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Future times

Your staff must be one team, not two

Are you ready for the next phase?

‘As a retailer you must be willing and ready to make significant changes and investment to position your retail business for its next phase. You must have people that can do this. You also need the right technologies, and to meet the customer wherever they wish to engage with you,’ says Jesse Akre, RetailSystem president.

‘Unfortunately, most retailers have taken a relaxed posture towards regular technology investments – this is where most need to really dig in with the right EPOS and website platform. You don’t need to break the bank, but you do get what you pay for. There is no “go cheap and expect miracles” option. Identify the must-haves and be realistic when it comes to your budget. It is perfectly possible for even the smaller retailer to get something good for a reasonable monthly investment.

‘Be cautious of companies that offer a solution that “does it all”: like unicorns, such a thing does not exist. Understand your needs and measure your choices

70

Interiors Monthly April 2021

against that – don’t let shiny and exciting lead you off the path. Also, be wary of companies that seem to have all the right words and say all the right things yet have no-one on staff that has ever worked in your industry. How can they really understand or relate? Their business is tech, not retail, and they often won’t know what questions to ask. But you do know your business. Stay true to what you know and let them talk technology. I have been doing this for 21 years in the furniture and bed industry and have unfortunately seen too many retailers duped by big words.

‘Always be looking forward where technology is involved. The chances are that the EPOS you just selected – or that web platform – was the right choice, but develop the mindset of maximising that investment and making it core to the future viability of your business.

Start looking at your website as a consumer would look at it, not as the business owner. Pick 10 items that you might aspire to purchase if you were

a customer. What does that entire experience look like? Where do you get stuck? What doesn’t work smoothly? All of it matters. Would you be put off by anything? Most consumers start online but will hopefully end up in store,’ advises Akre.

‘Too many retailers have a “store staff” and then “the web people”. Guess what, you have one team and they should all be fully versed in your entire business. I am primarily speaking about the shop floor. Does your sales team in-store know your website and all the things on it and promoted there? Does your web team do all it can to reflect what is happening in-store? Omnichannel – or whatever you want to call it – also applies to the store and its staff. There is not online and offline – that is a legacy mindset. There is a digitally empowered retailer, meeting the customer wherever, whenever, with the tools and training necessary to engage and delight and convert. And you can be that retailer.’

Visit: www.retailsystem.com

Smart software for furniture retailers

Put the power of the awardwinning RetailSystem EPOS to work, at a price that works for you Optimised for furniture and bed retailers. Specific tools and features that will help you to grow your omnichannel business • Cloud-based EPOS. No painful software installs and updating. Get the latest updates and improvements automatically • Real-Time Activities. Run your day across all your users and locations knowing it all is happening real-time • Any device. Anywhere. Anytime. Never worry about needing the right device to access RetailSystem

Awarded ‘Best Software Supplier to the Furniture and Bed Industry’ for 12 consecutive years 2009-2020 www.retailsystem.com/uk/

0131 440 7607

info@retailsystem.com

Love will tear us apart?

Or will the coming together tear us apart?

The fact is that flooring and furniture are foes, not friends.

While opposites attract, if you love your flooring, it’s best to keep a little distance between them.

At Stroolmount our Protect & Care range of specialist protection features a heart sign. This symbolises the care needed so that when flooring and furniture cosy up together, they don’t rub each other up the wrong way: only scrapes, scratches and scars can come of that.

So at Stroolmount, our superior Self-adhesive felt is 5mm thick protection, more than double the protection of some skin flints.

Our interchangeable Quickclick glide system makes it easy to swap over protective glides for different flooring types.

Our ingenious Move-it Pads can save back muscles, the hassle of insurance claims and £1000s in expensive repairs.

Our Furni-glides mean heavy furniture moves across hard floors and carpet like magic – making cleaning and redecorating a breeze.

From the best Rug Underlay to Repair Kits and Radiator Pipe Rosettes, Stroolmount has it all to keep your floor flawless.

Love your floor? See stroolmount.co.uk or visit to see Stroolmount at:

Thursday 1st July 2021 - online

Manchester Furniture Show July 18-20th 2021 - Stand A2

The Flooring Show September 19-21st 2021

TRADE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

New direction

Greenwood has changed its model for attracting crowds since the pandemic, with improved results

The pandemic has prompted a fresh approach to sales events In July 2020, when the first lockdown ended, sales promotion company Greenwood Retail launched its first Covid-era sales event, ‘with some trepidation I’ll admit,’ says Bernard Eaton, Greenwood Retail md.

‘Considering the fear and uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, plus the fact that Greenwood sales are all about crowds within stores, the issue wasn’t just the social distancing, it was whether people would even be willing to attend a busy indoor sales event. So, I have to say, it was with great courage that our client James Fraser, Blackbridge Furnishings md chose to proceed with the sale at its Elgin, Moray branch.’

Eaton felt sure the Covid-modified marketing campaign would work – he just did not know how well. So it was with cautious optimism that he estimated the sale might generate about 80% of a normal sale target. What happened

74

Interiors Monthly April 2021

took both the client and the Greenwood team by surprise. Instead of generating 80%, the sale raised 150% of the normal, pre-Covid-era Greenwood sales target.

‘To make 90% was the most we had

dared to hope for. To beat the usual, normally very impressive Greenwood results by another 50% on top was incredible,’ says Eaton.

Greenwood had been forced to

TRADE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

re-design its marketing model, especially around the busy launch phase, to create and maintain a steady flow of customers over the launch days rather than having the usual crowds appear all at once. The result worked, despite having a slower moving and less dense footfall, and it also provided very useful information on how to improve flow and sales ratios.

‘I was a bit nervous and really didn’t know what to expect. I wasn’t too optimistic, but it really exceeded all our

expectations. At the store entrance we had hand sanitiser and hand towels; we had a one-way system round the store which was clearly marked with arrows spaced at 2m intervals. There was a real appetite for the sale: customers hadn’t had their retail therapy for a few months.

We did nearly six months of our turnover in the first five days,’ says Fraser.

‘With all the usual safety precautions in place, the customers seemed quite happy and comfortable coming into the

store and spending again – and spend they did. The retail rebound that all retailers saw during that period no doubt helped sales along too, but this does not explain the truly extraordinary uplift that we recorded over the next four months,’ says Eaton.

‘Between July and October 2020 we worked on eight different sales projects, all of which recorded similar results over the normal Greenwood target. This was no fluke. This was a discovery about how slowing the customer flow down can increase conversion ratio and average order value.

‘The lessons learned have now been crystallised into Greenwood marketing campaigns going forward. It is proof perhaps that the forced innovation and invention necessitated during times of war or pandemic precipitate forward leaps in performance of all kinds.

‘Couple that with the latest digital marketing methodology – which it has taken years to work out how to apply in a truly powerful, direct-response way – and we believe we have a winning formula, ready for the coming postpandemic digital retail era.

‘People love a good sale. They always have and they always will.’

Visit: www.greenwoodretail.com

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

75

TRADE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

A pre-pandemic training course

Skills

Selling isn’t a matter of the right patter ‘In a Gallup poll in January, nurses topped the “most trusted profession’” chart for the 19th year in a row, earning a record score of 89%. At the low end of the chart, politicians and car salespeople tied at 8%. This depressing insight mirrors a HubSpot survey in which a group of people were asked to imagine they were shipwrecked on a desert island with 20 strangers from different professions.

Their first task was to vote for a leader, and the doctor won comfortably – but the politician, salesperson and lobbyist all drew for last place, with only 1% of the votes each. So, what steps can salespeople take to build trust?’ says Adam Hankinson, Furniture Sales Solutions founder.

‘The old adage is that it is a “show” room, not a “tell” room, so before launching into a big pitch about the product that earns you the most money, ask great questions of your customer that enlighten you to their situation, their needs, wants, desires and problems, so that you can prescribe the right

76

Interiors Monthly April 2021

solution: much as a good doctor would take the time to understand the full nature of your symptoms before prescribing the right treatment or cure.

‘Empathy is a leading characteristic in nursing – that innate ability to understand how it might feel to be in the patient’s situation. Likewise, the best salespeople have a way of getting inside the mind of their customer to see things from their point of view, which enables them to use their expert sales knowledge to match the problem with the most appropriate solution.

‘How often have customers asked you the same questions? And how have you responded? Each customer is genuinely asking that question because they have a query or concern that needs answering to their satisfaction before they can proceed in the buying process.

The feeling of really being listened to – not just humoured – instils an inner warmth, the sense that the listener genuinely cares. Picture, if you will, a conversation with the most important

person in your life when they were at their most vulnerable, with you being there for them.

‘In 2000, a programme was launched at Michigan University to help doctors improve communication with their patients. By 2010, claims against the doctors had dropped by 36%, and lawsuits by 65%. Special focus was placed on doctors educating patients using tonality – especially by lowering their tone, and by the use of humour in their conversations. Talk with your customers and explain why you are recommending products or services,’ recommends Hankinson.

‘Doing all of this is likely to create a deep and meaningful conversation, not just a transaction – a unique interaction between two equally vested parties, the type of interaction that creates both trust in you and loyalty in your brand.

Trust is the secret to recommendations and referrals, and loyalty the secret to creating customers for life.’

Visit: www.furnituresalessolutions.com

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT FOR FURNITURE RETAILERS

WANT MORE SALES? WITH OVER 35 YEARS IN THE FURNITURE INDUSTRY, WE'LL FIND THE PERFECT SOLUTION FOR YOU GUARANTEED*

Adam Hankinson

SALES - SERVICE - MANAGEMENT - LEADERSHIP - STRATEGY

"Every member I speak to says their service is fantastic, real world, tangible, applicable, and produces immediate results".

Arron Nicholson

Partnership Manager | AIS

"Every session that we have re-energises, focuses, and motivates the team.

We've had numerous examples of orders we've secured, that we wouldn't have, without some of our new selling skills.

"We were introduced to Adam, of Furniture Sales Solutions, by another retailer who had sung his praises. With his completely relevant furniture retail experience and ability to help us deliver exceptional results, in a way that compliments our culture and values, we now view him as a trusted and integral part of our senior team and growth strategy".

Robert Bianchi

The team really enjoy the training and we really benefit from it".

Kevin Robertson

Managing Director | Arighi Bianchi

Sales Director | Glasswells

FEEDBACK FROM DELEGATES "Thanks Adam. Most relevant and informative course I have been on in my 15 years or so. I have been made to feel extremely comfortable and had the BEST time. I would highly recommend this course to everyone.

Thank you again 10/10."

"This was a great 2 days and Adam is very good at what he does. He is very easy to listen to. I have been in retail about 14 years and I have had a lot of training and this was the BEST!"

Dara

Keith

"I found it very refreshing.

Adam is a breath of fresh air with a genuine talent for teaching/coaching. It's great that he knows what we 'the sales guys' are up against.

Pleasure is all ours."

Carol-ann

*Guaranteed 10% improvement in sales and profitability or your money back!

www.furnituresalessolutions.com

Dom: +44 (0)7548 354738 Adam: +44 (0)7703 371 190

TRADE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Changing standards

Regulations are expected to diverge over time

Brexit will see divergence on key regulations Phil Reynolds, SATRA Technology divisional manager for furniture and floorcoverings predicts an uncertain future for standards and regulations affecting the furniture and floorcoverings sectors.

‘Now that we have left the EU, many of the key regulations affecting furniture, such as the General Product Safety Regulations and the REACH Regulations, have been transposed into UK law. At the moment, the key requirements of the UK versions of these regulations are very similar, but we fully expect there to be divergence over time as more chemicals become restricted under the EU REACH Regulations and more standards become harmonised under the EU General Product Safety Regulations.

‘These changes will not automatically be mirrored in UK law, which means we could easily be in a position where we have different requirements to our biggest trading partner, and to some extent, to Northern Ireland,’ he says.

78

Interiors Monthly April 2021

‘On top of this, we are aware that the UK Government is working on a replacement to the Furniture & Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations, which have been largely unchanged since 1988. The current proposals suggest the new regulations will be radically different from the existing ones, moving away from specific tests for each component to risk assessments based on Essential Safety Requirements for the product, a structure similar to the Toys (Safety) Regulations. The current aim is for a public consultation to be launched in early 2022, with the new regulations going before Parliament by the end of that year.

‘Moving to floorcoverings, we have some similar issues with the Constructions Product Regulations being transposed into UK law. A new UKCA mark has replaced the CE mark for construction products, which covers carpets and flooring. Existing products carrying the CE mark can currently be sold in the UK, but from next year all products sold in

mainland Britain will need to carry the UKCA mark, with the same product requiring the CE mark if sold in Europe.

Again, whilst the requirements are currently very similar, this increases costs, and it’s possible that the requirements will diverge over time.

‘The one certainty we have is that SATRA will be here as a reliable and competent technical partner, making sure that you are aware of any changes to the legislation so you can make key decisions on products, ensuring their compliance with the latest regulations in both the UK and Europe.’

Visit: www.satra.com

SATRA hex advert 03_2021v2_Layout 1 24/03/2021 08:22 Page 1

SATRA supporting you We know that these are difficult times for manufacturers. The costs of raw materials and logistics are all increasing, not to mention the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

At SATRA we’re dedicated to supporting the furniture industry and want to help ease the cost burden for manufacturers. That’s why we are offering 20% off seating product testing until 31st May. With over 20 years of furniture testing to domestic, office, outdoor and educational standards, our international reputation means we can help you show that your products are up to standard and fit for purpose.

adva To take nta offer ge of thi furni ture@, email s s quot atra.com ing S

ATR A

202

1

www.satra.com furniture@satra.com Tel: +44 (0)1536 410 000

DESIGN

Zero expanded the Compose series with Compose Rails, in a choice of straight or round rails. All the shades and colours of the pendants can be combined to each unique setting. Visit: www.zero.se

Bolon’s Emerge collection consists of one textured design in six neutral colours in shades of blue, green, grey, brown and beige. The flooring comes in roll form, 50cm x 50cm tiles and as Bolon StudioM tiles, allowing for even greater individualisation. Visit: www.bolon.com

Massproductions’ BAM! sofa is reduced to basic geometry with two blockshaped volumes creating a seat and back. Chris Martin, Massproductions co-founder and designer was influenced by Pop Art culture when designing the sofa, and as the name suggests, the sofa leaves the spectator with a sudden and distinct first impression. Visit: www.massproductions.se

Stepping up

While the Stockholm Furniture and Lighting Fair suffered its second cancellation, various elements of Stockholm Design Week were able to go ahead, and a Summer Design Week is planned for 23-29 August, before the show returns in 2022. Visit: www.stockholmdesignweek.com Kasthall’s introductions included adding Ravel and Swan to the wool and linen Feather. Visit: www.kasthall.com

Astrid debuted raw natural linen and hemp; a new take on its flame-retardant Firenze with new colours and a dense version in the same natural look; new colours in the structured upholstery fabric Mons, and the results of its first trials of natural dyeing. Visit: astrid.se



80

Interiors Monthly April 2021

30 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

IN

WE B

ER

Y

BIN

G

UP

STOCKINETTE

OTTOMAN MECHANISMS WORKING TOGETHER

VENTILATORS CASTORS

FRAME DECORATIVE

NAIL TRIM

TRUST WATER BASED GLUE

ZIP

E VATIV

INNO

CHROME LEGS

PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT LINKING SYSTEMS

HEADBOARD BOLTS POLYFOAM PROFILES

SURPASSING EXPECTATIONS QUALITY

S LE

BEDDING

S

L HO

Q

INSERTS EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

BES POK E PAC KAG ING

NE

ZIP GAS PISTONS

HEADBOARD

T ED

ED

FOAM CONVERSION

Y

R TE

Y

IT

L UA

HOT MELT GLUE

SEAT SUSPENSION AEROSPACE

WOODEN LEGS COM

FLOOR PROTECTION

TIVE

MIT

BACK

ORNER LABELSAUTOMOTIVE CPROTECTION

BED BASES

POR

BOLTS & HINGES BUTTERFLY SPRINGS

S

TUFTING PRODUCTS

SUP

VELCRO

BUTTON SUSPENSION COVERING BUCKLES DIVAN

CORNER BRACKETS

TACKING STRIP

NT

TY

M AC H

LI

NE

AER OSO

SA TI

ES

PO

TS

SS RE

R

M

U T-N

T AT VE

BUTTONS

EDGE TAPE

M

CO

LS

SUPPORTING ALL OF YOUR BEDDING AND UPHOLSTERY MANUFACTURING NEEDS

DRAWER CO M P O N EN T S

RESPONSIVE

TWINE

FASHION SILK FILM

NAME

TEA

MS PIR IT

TH

RE

AD

PLATES GUEST

BED LEGS

TUFTING ASSEMBLY CUSTOMER NEEDS

GLIDES STAPLES & GUNS

Visit our new website today at www.handyltd.co.uk 020 8805 8050 salesadmin@handyltd.co.uk .

UPHOLSTERY • BEDDING • FOAM CONVERSION • AUTOMOTIVE, OFFICE & AEROSPACE • FASHION

HAN1309 Interiors Monthly Mag advert A4 v4.indd 1

23/03/2021 09:30

DESIGN

Presence and innovation The Inside Swedish Design – Presence and Innovation event was presented by Interior Cluster Sweden together with Beckmans College of Design, in collaboration with Swedish Wood, Swedish Design Movement and Stockholms Auktionsverk.

The event saw 26 of Sweden’s leading players in the design industry together with young designers who are alumni from Beckmans College of Design showcase selected objects – both design icons and new pieces, with some auctioned at the end of the event. Abstracta, Albin i Hyssna, BAUX, Blå Station, Bolon, DUX, EFG, Fabrikant, Folkform, G.A.D, Gärsnäs, Gemla, Green Furniture, Johanson Design, Källemo, Lammhults, Mylhta, Nola, Offecct, Ogeborg, Steel by Göhlin, Stolab, Storängen Design, String Furniture, Välinge Innovation and Zero were the companies taking part.

Prima Vista chair by Marit Stigsdotter and Staffan Lind for Stolab

Ono chair by Pierre Sindre for Källemo

Chair No1 by Pontus Lomar for Steel by Göhlin

82

Interiors Monthly April 2021

Dandy chair by Pierre Sindre for Gärsnäs

Work Lounge outdoor stool by SuperLab and Charlotte Petersson Troije for Nola

Space rug by Sundling Kickén for Ogeborg



DESIGN

Barr chair and table by Sofie Örnvinsson for Fabrikant

84

L’Art Plissé table lamp, lamp by Folkform, pattern by Roland Hjort for Folkform

Artisan by Bolon in Denim

Pinot by Mika Lindblad, a collaboration with Swedese

Roots table and stool by Sofie Örnvinsson and Johan Örnvinsson for Fabrikant

Interiors Monthly April 2021

Honken X chair by Thomas Bernstrand for Blå Station

MYVICTORIA.CO.UK

Sales Representatives x2 Earnings Potential £50k+ East Scotland North East England / Cumbria

Area Sales Manager NORTH EAST

Victoria Carpets & Design Floors house an extensive portfolio of both carpet and hard flooring (LVT) solutions.

We are looking for an enthusiastic, results driven individual to strengthen our UK sales force.

The ideal candidate must be able to demonstrate: • The ability to build and maintain strong customer service relationships • Be self-motivated • The ability to multi-task, manage time effectively and produce IT based data on time, every time.

• Display a ‘can do’ attitude • Residential based customer facing sales experience

Benefits of the role include a competitive basic salary, uncapped bonus, company car, phone, tablet and expenses.

Applicants should send a CV and a covering letter to Mark Paice at mark.paice@myvictoria.co.uk

Abingdon Flooring is one of the leading carpet manufacturers in the UK with some of the most recognisable brands in the industry, supplying quality carpets to the retail, contract and wholesale trade in the UK. We are currently enjoying an unprecedented level of growth and therefore are looking for enthusiastic individuals who can help develop the full potential of these established areas.

The ideal candidates will be tenacious, organised and professional with a willingness to develop and will have knowledge of the trade from retail or territory sales experience, however we do encourage applicants from other industries who are keen to get a foothold in this fantastic trade.

An above average salary, car, phone and unlimited commission package is available together with the benefits you would expect from a blue-chip company.

These roles are for a flooring industry insider who knows these regions and the potential that can be realised as well as somebody who wishes to develop a fantastic long-term career within our team.

Please send your CV and covering letter summarising your relevant skills and experience to: Laura Cole - HR Assistant Abingdon Flooring, Pen-y-Fan Industrial Est, Newport, NP11 3XG. Or email to laura.cole@abingdonflooring.co.uk Closing Date: 25.04.21

F. Ball and Co. Ltd. The UK’s leading manufacturer of flooring adhesives and preparation products for the contract flooring industry.

We have TWO exciting opportunities for North and South

RETAIL REPRESENTATIVES

who will be responsible for the development of our business within the retail flooring sector.

You will be responsible for promoting F. Ball products into the retail market, maintaining relationships with existing customers and actively growing the business in line with agreed targets.

Candidates must be highly motivated self-starters with proven success in a sales and merchandising role.

Experience within the flooring industry would be an advantage. Ideally you will be located centrally within the M62 corridor (North position) or east of the M4 corridor (South position).

The successful applicants will receive a competitive salary, company vehicle and comprehensive benefits package.

Please send your CV with covering letter to: Mrs J. Walker, F. Ball and Co. Ltd. Churnetside Business Park, Station Road, Cheddleton, Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 7RS, UK or e-mail: joy.walker@f-ball.co.uk Closing date for applications: Friday 30th April 2021. Applications made through agencies not accepted.

24TH - 27TH MAY 2021 The Long Eaton Guild invites you to visit undoubtedly the most important furniture exhibition of 2021, featuring the leading UK and International brands of Upholstery C abinets, Bedroom and Lifestyle accessories SEE THE LATEST COLLECTIONS FROM THESE 27 LEADING BRANDS AT THE UK’S MOST ENJOYABLE AND UNIQUE FURNITURE EXHIBITION Ashwood Designs

Alexander & James

Ashley Manor

Ar tistic Upholster y

The Ar t Group

Baker Furniture

Bluebone Furniture

Buoyant Upholster y

Carlton Furniture

Collins & Hayes

David Gundr y Upholster y

Duresta Upholster y

Gascoigne Designs

G Plan

Hunter K night

Iain James Furniture

Orbital Vision

John Sankey

Parker K noll

Sherbourne Upholster y

Siren Furniture

Spink & Edgar

Steed Upholster y

Tamarisk Designs

Tetrad

Westbridge Furniture

Wiemann Bedroom

LOCATION OF EXHIBITORS AND HOTELS ARE ALL LISTED ON OUR WEBSITE w w w.longeatonguild.co.uk OR CALL OUR HELPLINE 0115 973 4481