Interiors Monthly December 2022

Farewell to

bizarre

Its been a rather bizarre year has 2022. Given the political instability, higher fuel bills, the cost of living crisis and the general pig’s ear the UK government has made of the economy, it’s a bit of a surprise that shoppers continued to buy new furniture and flooring to the level they have.

It was interesting to read Tim Stacey, DFS ceo’s comments on recent trading, with it attracting more ‘middle and upper’ earners in recent weeks: ‘We’ve seen a better picture for those consumers who have a reasonable amount of cash and are feeling confident. With employment being strong, those people have come out in September and October, and we’ve seen that trend continue.’

It shows that there are still consumers who are happy to invest in their home without retailers having to hugely discount to attract them.

Well done to Dreams – and anyone else who has done this – for bringing forward its annual pay increase from April to December to help its staff cope better with the cost of living, as well as giving them a package of other benefits including a free out-of-hours GP service and medical appointments. Its executive team isn’t getting a pay rise. Yes, they are obviously better paid than store and delivery staff, but it does send a message.

One surprising thing about Made.com’s demise is that it owed £187m when it was finally put out of business. I expect many suppliers called time on supplying it when the money they were owed got past a certain point, but it does seem that that point was allowed to go on and on before decisions were made. And it does seem that you can run up huge bills with Facebook (£1.4m) and Google (£1.7m) before the credit department does anything, although I expect the experience is somewhat different for the average independent retailer.

A merry Christmas, a happy New Year and a prosperous winter sale to all of you.

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

There are still shoppers keen to invest in their homes without demanding huge

October sales: up and down as volumes fluctuate

The value of retail sales of furniture and lighting in England, Wales and Scotland rose annually in October but was significantly down on 2021, while annual sales volumes also dropped.

Sales were £1.302bn, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This was 2.51% higher than October 2021 but 15.99% lower than September 2022.

Sales were 6.07% lower than October 2020 and 0.62% higher than October 2019.

It was the 24th highest sales figure since comparable records began in January 1986 and the fifth highest in the past 12 months.

According to the volume of sales index, where 2019 is 100: October 2022 was 93.7, up on September 2022’s 89.3.

In October 2021 the figure was 101.8, in October 2020 120.9. The value of retail sales of flooring rose annually but was significantly down on 2021, while annual sales volumes rose.

Sales were £245.2m. This was 13.41% higher than October 2021 but 9.34% lower than September 2022. Sales were 31.73% higher than October 2020 and 76.64% higher than October 2019.

It was the 18th highest sales figure since comparable records began and the fourth highest in the past 12 months.

According to the volume of sales index, October 2022 was 175, up on September 2022’s 154.5. In October 2021 the figure was 168.1, and in October 2020 it was 155.6.

The sales figures are not seasonally adjusted, do not take inflation into account and are subject to revision.

Dreams brings forward support

Dreams has brought forward its annual pay increase for staff as part of a cost of living crisis package. Staff had been due to receive the increase next April, but it will now happen this month as part of a £5m package.

Staff will receive a rise of 4.3%-8.6%, with the chain saying the majority will see the higher increase. Dreams’ executive team will not receive an increase.

Other initiatives being introduced include discounts on high-street food retailers including Asda, Iceland, Tesco and Marks & Spencer; free out-of-hours GP service and

medical appointments, to give greater flexibility and to protect holiday allowances; and free budgeting guidance and debt management advice via The Retail Trust.

ScS sees welcome order uptick

ScS has seen an increase in orders in recent weeks, with orders 1.3% higher in the six weeks to 19 November. Orders in the 10 weeks prior had been down 14.4%.

It is trading ‘resiliently through a challenging period’, it says, and has

gained market share.

It has initiated a new share buy-back programme, after buying 6.5% of its shares for £3.9m. Shareholders had given their blessing to spend £7m, with the unused balance forming the funds for the new scheme.

Staff will continue to be able to claim discounts of up to 60% on Dreams products.

Dreams’ 208 stores will close on 21 December before re-opening on Boxing Day.

‘We know life is getting harder, not easier for people, including our colleagues. Our focus is making sure Dreams continues to be market-leading and here for the long-term. Looking after our fantastic colleagues and putting them first is our priority: they are what makes our business what it is,’ says Jonathan Hirst, Dreams ceo.

Mixed directions

The annual inflation rate for household furniture eased for the second successive month in October.

The rate fell from 14.1% to 13.7%: the lowest rate since December 2021 (12.5%). A year ago the rate was 11.3%.

The rate for garden furniture dropped from 14.2% to 14.1%.

The rate for lighting was unchanged at 7.6%, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS) data.

Flooring saw the annual rate of inflation jump to its highest level since the Spring. The rate jumped from 7% to 8.7% in October, the highest since April (9%) as both carpets and smooth flooring saw higher increases in prices.

Carpets and rugs saw increases rise from 5.8% to 7.5%, while smooth flooring saw the rate jump from 13.6% to 17.3%, the fourth highest rate in the past year.

The overall furniture and furnishing rate dropped from 12.7% to 12.6%.

Dreams’ staff can look forward to a longer Christmas break this year

Made creditors to get less than 2%

Suppliers to Made.com and the company’s customers will receive less than 2% of what they are owed.

According to administrator PwC, the failed etailer has debts of £187m but no more than 1.6% of that will be returned to creditors, before expenses.

Employees and HMRC, which is owed £3.57m, are expected to be paid in full. Made’s main lender, Silicon Valley Bank, is likely to recover nearly all the £3.8m it is owed.

Other major creditors include Google, which is owned about £1.7m, and Facebook, which is owed £1.4m.

About 12,000 shoppers have outstanding orders and PwC previously told them if their order had not been received by 25 November it would not be delivered.

About 4,500 items are expected to be delivered.

PwC says there is £14.5m of stock in warehouses in the UK and Antwerp – the operator of which is owed £1.8m – or in transit to the UK. This will be sold by auctioneer John Pye.

Next paid £3.4m for Made’s brand, IP and website. The etailer had been valued at £775m when it was floated on the stock market last year.

DFS sees upturn

DFS has seen order volumes rise on its 2022 financial year and 2019 since early September.

‘We’ve seen a better picture for those consumers who have a reasonable amount of cash and are feeling confident. With employment being strong, those people have come out in September and October, and we’ve seen that trend continue,’ says Tim Stacey, DFS group ceo.

‘Our consumer segments are the middle and upper segments. DFS is a mass market player and we’re seeing good growth. So, we are benefiting from the targets that we go for. We’re not seeing significant trading down. If anything, average orders are up.’

He says the company is gaining market share and performance is in line with its mid-case trading scenario given to shareholders in September.

Bed shoppers turn to socials while cutting back on spending

Shoppers are increasingly relying on social media for their pre-purchase research when buying a bed.

Research for the National Bed Federation among those who had purchased a mattress in the previous six months, found that across all age groups, social media was used by 18%, up from 7% in 2021.

28% of 16-34-year-olds reported using it as part of their research prior to purchase.

The research also found that the mean price paid for the bed/mattress was £554, down from £613 in October 2021’s findings. Some 45% paid less than £400.

Almost half of the respondents used the

Internet for research, with two-thirds visiting two or three websites and 20% visiting four to five. The top five most popular sites were Dreams, Amazon, Argos, Bensons for Beds and Emma.

When it came to mattress replacement, around 80% were being replaced in less than 10 years and around 40% in less than five years.

Eve relaunched

Bensons for Beds has relaunched Eve Sleep after buying the brand after it went into administration.

‘We know from the feedback we’ve had from customers, they can’t wait for our Eve Sleep website to re-open,’ says Nick Collard, Bensons for Beds ceo.

‘That customer demand has reinforced our view that acquiring the brand will widen our appeal as we continue to build our growing portfolio of in-house brands.’

The premium, original and lighter mattresses – available as hybrid or full foam models –continue to have a one year at-home trial.

New show dates

The addition of a Bank Holiday to mark King Charles’ coronation has seen Long Point and BGNFS reschedule.

The Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show was moving to a Sunday and Monday schedule, designed to increase visitor numbers, but this has been abandoned and the show will now take place on 10-11 May (Wednesday and Thursday).

Long Point has moved to 9-11 May (Tuesday to Thursday).

Online success for CF

The Carpet Foundation’s latest online consumer marketing campaign has proved a success.

Its third campaign, from 10 October to 11 November, saw visitor numbers to its website increase by 225% on 2021. The campaign across homesandgardens.com, idealhome.com, livingect.com and realhomes.com yielded 4,340 responses.

‘Our toe in the water with online advertising has exceeded all expectations. It is interesting, although not surprising, that of the 4,340 responses, 4,322 were new users,’ says Rupert Anton, Carpet Foundation consultant.

Cath Kidston is among DFS’s upholstery brands

6 MONTHS TURNOVER TAKEN IN 3 WEEKS!?

“We achieved over half of a year’s turnover in three weeks… Bang-on Target… Your Event Manager was perfect for us… We had to control the crowds yet, no one got fed up!.. The experience and results have exceeded our expectations”

Paul Robertson, M.D., No.44 Furniture & Fine Things, Surrey.

DISCOVER THE POWER OF GREENWOOD SALES…

Paul and Jayne Robertson hired Greenwood as part of their exit-strategy having decided to retire from retail to pursue other interests. The on-target sales outcome enables them to do so in a profitable and controllable manner. Paul went on to say “Your Event Manager was perfect for us, highly experienced and lead us through the whole event so well. We had to control the crowds. So many people queued to attend, and a queue to pay snaked round the store yet, no one got fed up! I couldn’t believe the number of big special orders. The whole process from first meeting through to the last day of the event was very well done.”

Find out more about the range of Greenwood Sales. For Promotional sales to grow your business or, for Retirement sales, take look at our online brochure at www. greenwoodretail.com or call me, Bernard Eaton today on 07771 700247, or send an e mail enquiry and I’ll explain the exciting possibilities and options we can offer you without obligation.

UK & Ireland’s Leading Experts in Retail Sales Promotion sales@greenwoodretail.com www.greenwoodretail.com

GAIA® - AW’s POLYESTER BRAND

Polyester is the most widely used textile fibre in the world. Polyester is alluring & smooth to the touch

Gaia ® carpet with its excellent colour fastness, rich lustre and 100% virgin pile materia l will certainly enrich your home. And no maintenance issues whatsoever: Gaia ® carpet is bleach cleanable

, Dorado , Tigris , Ganges … names of famous and less well-known rivers. But all are threatened by plastic and other pollution. Start contributing to solve this problem now by buying products containing recycled plastics.

ECO FusionBac is a unique premium carpet backing. It is made from 100% recycled pet plastic bottles.

Lectern Tigris & Ganges

Lectern Dorado & Indus

Headlam warns of weaker seasonal uplift

Headlam has seen a weaker than normal seasonal uplift in November, following lower UK residential sales.

It says trading since its previous results in September has continued the patterns seen then: ‘most notably, the impact of the cost of living crisis suppressing market volumes in the UK residential sector, with growth in the commercial sector helping to partially offset. Continental Europe continued its positive performance across both sectors.

‘As a result of progress made under the company’s growth strategy, including new larger customer wins and the trade counter roll-out, and support from price inflation, the company's revenue was only marginally below the prior year period for the 10 months to 31 October. To date in November 2022, a month heavily reliant on residential orders, the company has seen a seasonal uplift but this is below historic levels and this trend is expected to continue until year end.’

It says it now expects underlying profitability for the year to remain ahead of 2021 but to be marginally below the low end of the range of market expectations [of about £33m].

Smith set for TV return

Former carpet retailer Mike Smith is set to return to TV screens.

Smith, who became a well-known figure in Yorkshire for his appearances in TV advertisements for Mike’s Carpets in the 1980s and 1990s, is to appear in a new campaign for the current revamped store.

Smith put the Branch Road, Leeds building – known for its large ‘as seen on TV’ posters adorning the walls during the 1990s and 2000s – up for lease in July when the directors of MC Carpets retired after a decade. Brothers Furkan and Urfan Sharif re-opened the listed former Methodist Chapel as a flooring store and are using the Mike’s Carpets name.

Now Smith is due to appear in a new TV ad for the store in December.

‘Filming went really well, Mike was in fine form. The idea to bring him back has been a bit of a no-brainer – Mike really never went away. His adverts from the

’80s represent a bygone era where small businesses could advertise on television and make an impact on a regional scale,’ says Furkan Sharif.

‘We are taking a leaf out of Mike’s marketing book, going full charge ahead with full faith and confident in the prices of our products and quality of our services. As funny as it sounds, Mike

Brexit difficulties hold back Osborne & Little

Difficulties in delivering to EU customers hit performance at fabric and wallcoverings group Osborne & Little last year.

The manufacturer says ‘the first full year after Brexit had an impact on sales with deliveries difficult in the first four months [of the year to 31 March]. The confidence of customers in the EU appeared to be returning in the final quarter.’

The company has set up a German distributor to ease export issues, but this has hit top-line numbers and margins as sales are at cost. Total sales rose by 7% to £14.86m – if the EU sales had been at normal trade prices turnover would have been 16% higher.

Gross margin fell from 47.4% to 41.3%: at normal trade prices the margin would have been 45.1%. ‘The difference of 2.3% was due to import duties into the EU and the launch of new collections,’ the company said.

Pre-tax losses of £106,000 grew to £132,000, although total profitability swung from a loss of £280,000 to a profit of £1.1m after a dividend of £1.327m from its US subsidiary.

from the ’90s is our friendly giant. He has been amazing in providing us with so much advice, support and positivity. I could not ask for a better mentor.

‘Whilst filming, he put so much of his time and effort into making sure that the final cut will really work. It was so much fun watching him turn back the years,’ added Sharif.

Smith in one of his original TV appearances

Global connections

International presence is increasing, says James Howard, January Furniture Show show manager

The January Furniture Show has been a mustattend date in the diary of professional retail buyers for the past 32 years, and this January’s edition is no exception.

The strong heritage of the show, along with its reputation, has made it the destination for industry colleagues and suppliers to come together to buy and sell, network and share inspiration.

As one of the major trade events in the furniture world, JFS strives to support and nurture its growing community of brands and buyers by helping to facilitate those allimportant connections.

With a keen focus on improving the international offering next month, the team has secured a list of new international brands as well as better facilitating visitors attending from abroad. This injection of new brands to the show floor will ensure that the event continues to diversify its offering.

This is also strengthened by welcoming international pavilions to the show in 2023 representing Vietnam, Portugal and Poland. These pavilions are an excellent way for industry insiders to create new connections with countries and companies they might have not seen previously.

Get your badge now and start browsing the brands online.

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.

January Furniture Show 2023 runs from 22-25 January at the NEC and is the UK’s largest furniture and interiors trade event. Visit www.thefurniture shows.com

Please contact Jarrod on E: jbird@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

T: 01565 631 397

1 Versace Home’s La Dedusa coffee table features a removable top-tray which is a celebration of brand DNA with the La Greca motif in red or black versions.

Visit: www.luxurylivinggroup.com

2 BerryAlloc’s High Pressure Floors bring faultless performance, for a floor that stays looking good. Extremely impact-resistant, AC6 scratch-resistant (the highest protection in EN 13329 Class 34), water-resistant, featuring a patented aluminium locking system and with attached SilentSystem underlay: high pressure floors are ideal for bringing the natural look of wood and stone with the assured performance that comes with the world’s strongest floor.

Visit: www.berryalloc.com

3 Abingdon Flooring’s latest addition to the Wilton Royal collection is Charter Berber Deluxe, a wool-rich carpet that comes in a palette of 20 colours from muted greys to tones of mustard, nutmeg, sage and cinnamon. Each benefits from wool’s superb dye-take for a depth of colour that’s unique to the yarn, with the Berber fleck adding a rustic quality and enhancing natural appearance for a classic country look.

Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

4 Floorwise has released a limited-edition Dolphin knife to mark its 40th anniversary. It comes in an exclusive petrol anodised finish, so you can bring some serious style to your tool bag. The one-off finish is matched by a coordinating hard holster to complete the look.

Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk

5 Alpha Vinyl, the latest innovation from Quick-Step, is now available with an attached underlay, bringing a floor that’s fast and easy to install. The underlay makes installation fast by absorbing minor irregularities, floor joints and more to give a smooth and level base and is suitable for use with poor condition subfloors.

Visit: www.quick-step.co.uk

Richard Renouf

The bed of my dreams

Father Christmas takes action to ensure Sophie is happy

Sophie had walked her parents around the bed department three times and was becoming frustrated. She knew without any doubt that she wanted the bed called the sleigh bed. It was bright red and really curvy. Her brother would be jealous, but it would serve him right for breaking her old one by bouncing on it so much. But Mum and Dad didn’t seem so keen. Ugh! How much longer would she have to wait?

Just now her parents and the salesperson were huddled around the desk and seemed to be unaware of her existence. She wandered back to take another look. Then she climbed onto the bare mattress and lay still to appreciate the comfort.

A man in bright red, with a large white beard, walked in to the shop. He interrupted the discussion at the desk and the salesperson pointed in Sophie’s direction. As he walked across the sales floor towards her she could see he was carrying an enormous sack. She froze. What was Santa doing here? If he saw her lying on the bed, would he be cross? Would she have to forfeit her place on the nice list?

‘Hello, Sophie, let me put these presents down here,’ Santa said, with

a quiet ‘Ho, ho, ho!’ He jumped aboard and called: ‘Rudolf!’ And through the storeroom door came a red-nosed reindeer followed by the whole team, but Sophie didn’t know the names of any of the others. The reindeer slipped into their harnesses and, at Santa’s instruction, began to pull the bed across the shop floor.

The other beds seemed to clear a path for Santa. The shop doors opened and as they turned into the high street the reindeer galloped faster and the bed took to the air. Sophie held on tightly as they cleared the nearby housetops. Soon the lights of the town glistened like stars below them, and the real stars shone brightly above.

Sophie watched Santa intently as he guided the reindeer through the night, but she was too shy to speak, and if he started to turn his head she looked down before their eyes could meet. She had no idea how far they had travelled, nor in what direction.

Suddenly Santa flicked the reins and called ‘Down’ in a firm voice. The reindeer slowed and Sophie’s tummy did a somersault as the bed lurched downwards. It descended below the level of the rooftops and swept towards

a bedroom window.

Before Sophie could understand why the sight was familiar, the whole entourage had shrunk to fit through the window and had parked up in her bedroom, exactly where her old, broken bed had been when she left the house earlier…

‘Sophie! It’s Christmas morning! It’s time to wake up and see what Santa has brought you,’ said the warm, gentle voice of her mother. Sophie slowly opened her eyes to see her mother’s smiling face. She was in the most comfortable bed ever, and the snugness of the duvet made her want to turn over and go back to sleep. But then she noticed the headboard above her was bright red. The rails were curved and it felt like she was still mid-air.

‘Mummy! It’s the bed of my dreams,’ she said.

And later that morning, when she went outside to play, she know it had been Santa when she found a calling card Ho, ho, ho in the snow.

Visit: www.richard-renouf.com

It was a magical Christmas for Sophie… especially when she found Santa’s message

Richard Renouf is an independent furnishings consultant

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.

Where has Christmas gone?

Sales are not following the traditional pattern for this time of year, but one supplier did provide seasonal goodwill

THE RETAILER Fludes Carpets

Here we are at the end of November and we still have room in our fitting diary! Even worse, we can still book measures, and some people are saying that they are not that fussed about having new flooring until the New Year.

It’s a topsy-turvy time. Let’s hope this is not another ‘new normal’, as we have only just got used to the last one.

And what is going to happen when energy prices go up again and mortgages cost more? Will our customers stay away from shops and keep their money in their pockets (or saving accounts)?

Business is still following the pattern of one good week followed by one slow one, with some decent orders saving the day at the end of each week. So far, our customers seem to be continuing with home improvement: long may that continue.

Regular readers will know that I believe price increases are all right if everyone moves their prices up at the same time. There is still a huge selection of carpets and flooring that we can fulfil customer requirements for, with big ticket prices as well as economically priced options. Pushing prices down and giving unnecessary discounts will mean that you will squeeze your own gross profit and could potentially start a bidding war with other local retailers to get the order.

Cashflow is something that we should all be checking on a regular basis. Christmas is coming up and many shops will be closing for two weeks for the Christmas break. It is a time when sales will be low or non-existent. However, we will still be getting the normal bills in from suppliers, property costs and wages. Sir Alex Ferguson had an expression for this: ‘Squeaky bum time.’ Better to work out the cash numbers for the next three months,

which will take us through to the end of January. Cashflow should then return to a more stable basis when customers are back to a normal level.

Isn’t it funny, when business goes quiet, complaint levels increase. During the past month we have received a complaint of pile reversal in a carpet that had been fitted for three years. I asked how long the problem had been evident, and the response was ‘almost immediately after fitting’ – and to prove it some photos were provided. I couldn’t make out the pile reversal from the photos, so I arranged to look at the carpet. It was awful.

My rule of thumb is that if my wife would not accept it, then I shouldn’t ask my customer to do so. But then the problem of timescale came into play. Most suppliers will offer a two-year warranty against pile reversal, and this was over three years. I asked the customer why they had not raised the issue earlier? There was a genuine personal reason why it was not referred to the store, so I asked the supplier to consider this complaint generously, which it did, as a matter of goodwill.

What great service from that supplier. Perhaps Christmas has come early this year. Andy Laird, Fludes Carpets md

Seasonal cheer was provided by one supplier

New investment is seeing a major increase in capacity

One of the UK’s leading recycled materials design studios that supplies the furniture and interiors sector is set for expansion after securing almost £1m in funding.

Smile Plastics has secured £980,000 in equity funding to grow the business and is relocating its manufacturing base to a much larger facility in Swansea. This will enable it to ratchet up production capacity by a factor of three and double the size of its team.

Smile was established in the early 1990s – a time when recycling plastic was a niche interest and the climate crisis a much lower-tier global concern than

Smiletoday. Launched by Colin Williamson and Jane Atfield, it was a small operation, focused on making 100% recycled plastic panels for the design industry.

For two decades, Smile led the way in the drive to reclaim and recycle plastic waste while demonstrating the design potential of recycled plastic – most notably when Atfield’s RCP2 Chair, made entirely of recycled plastic bottles, was added to the V&A’s permanent collection.

The business wound down when Williamson retired in 2010, and would have been consigned to history were it not for circular-material specialist Adam Fairweather, who had met Williamson

while at university and collaborated with him on a coffee-waste bioplastics project, and psychology student turned jewellery designer Rosalie McMillan.

In 2014, a time when the necessity of environmental preservation and the threat of climate change were becoming increasingly urgent, McMillan and Fairweather saw that Smile had the potential to fulfil a growing need for sustainable, designable material solutions for the creative sector, and approached Williamson with a proposal to revive the dormant business. He gave them his blessing, and they set about reimagining the business for the modern age.

Above left: Rosalie McMillan and Adam Fairweather of Smile Plastics Above: Raw materials are blended

Fairweather adds raw material

Join us at Stand E20 for an exclusive first look at our stunning new SS23 Collections, launching exclusively at January Furniture Show. Introducing new additions to our popular collections, like the Wycombe collection, which will now include a display unit and media unit made from a combination of the finest solid oak and veneers. Available in both a classic oak or stunning black finish, sure to enhance any interior.

With an offering of over 6,000 lines in our collection across seven categories, we’re proud to say we’re the complete home and outdoor supplier.

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

Having developed new processing techniques and low-energy manufacturing technology that allowed them to produce recycled-plastic panels via a continuous batch process, Smile was relaunched in 2015. In the past seven years, the business has expanded, developing a committed international customer base alongside ever more advanced production methods and technology, and an always-growing range of products, in all sizes – as well as a popular custom manufacture service.

The company’s distinctive, terrazzolike surfaces have become a regular sight at major global design events, thanks to an ongoing programme of collaborations with designers and creative studios, as well as in high-profile commercial, retail and hospitality spaces worldwide.

Smile taps into the waste streams of more than 60 local businesses, which supply the factory with materials ranging from drinks cups and cosmetics bottles to yoghurt pots and used plastic packaging. Having sorted them by colour, Smile selects from these ingredients depending on the colour and pattern desired.

Shredded, heated and pressed into sheets, combinations of different plastics

create a variety of surface patterns –from the natural stone mimics like Grey Mist and Alba to vibrant, maximalist styles such as Kaleido, in which you can still glimpse traces of the barcodes from the products that formed it.

Any waste plastics or substandard materials generated during manufacture are shredded again and returned to the beginning of the process, so production is as close to zero-waste as possible.

Depending on the materials mix, the sheets can be thermoformed into 3D structures, CNC-milled, cut, edged or jointed to suit their intended purpose, whether it’s a table top, a washroom counter, a wall panel, a piece of signage, a storage box or furniture.

‘Plastics are considered a modern, even unnatural material, but they have a primeval history, rooted in the living world. In some ways, plastics can be considered as old as stone – there’s an embodied value in that. Our mission is to encourage people to recognise that value and therefore waste less. We do this by re-imagining end-of-life materials into beautiful new products that tell a story and that people can connect with,’ says Fairweather.

The investment recognises Smile’s closed-loop, full-circle ecosystem –currently delivering over 500 tonnes of CO2 savings each year compared to conventional methods of making plastic. This funding is being used to purchase a new larger factory space in Swansea, obtain new machinery to establish parallel production lines, and expand the staff. This means Smile Plastics will be producing 100% recycled, recyclable plastic 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and will be able to deliver outputs of a size and scale never possible before. In the next financial year, Smile is on track to divert 1,500 tonnes of plastic waste from landfill into valuable products.

McMillan and Fairweather say the Smile model of turning nearby waste streams into products via local microfactories to support local economies is a template for a new approach to manufacturing as an entirely circular system of sustainable, hyperlocal making, with the potential to be deployed anywhere in the world.

‘We are looking to start building a distributed network of micro-factories, taking local waste streams and transforming them into panels and products for local markets around the world. The past seven years has proven that the ecosystem we have developed is viable; now we are excited to see how far the Smile Plastics model can go. We are planning a potential site in Europe for 2023, paving the way for a continental production line. We can envisage a world in which every major city has its own micro-factory,’ says McMillan.

Smile’s Classics range is made from post-consumer and post-industrial recycled plastics including rHIPS, rPET and HDPE and clients include Another Country, Mercedes-Benz, Ganni, Christian Dior and Selfridges.

Visit: www.smile-plastics.com

The end of the production process sees a full sheet leave the line

Production is relocating

Double winner

Glasswells scooped two awards at the Bed Show

The Bed Show saw Glasswells confirmed as the leading independent bed retailer, with the NBF Awards judges awarding it Large Retail Champion to go with its Outstanding Bed Store of the Year award, after a mystery shopping test at its Bury St Edmunds flagship store.

As well as Bury St Edmunds, it has a retail-park store in Ipswich, high street stores in Saffron Walden and Haverhill, and a discount outlet in Sudbury.

The bed and bedroom department occupies 20,000sqft of the 100,000sqft Bury St Edmunds store, with more than 70 beds on display. The department has six experienced members of staff, which Paul Glasswell, Glasswells md says is key to its success.

‘They have years of experience in the industry. The manufacturers shout out to tell the different stories have about their different spring systems, which makes it quite a complex product to learn about, so it does make quite a difference if you have someone who has been in the trade for a while. They can absorb those different stories to find the right bed for the customer, matching up the comfort levels and the price points quickly.’

Relyon is the chain’s bestselling brand, followed by Harrison Spinks and Hypnos.

‘We are very much in the considered purchase by a second-time buyer market,’ says Glasswell.

‘Since 1946, the Glasswells’ philosophy has been to provide the widest choice of quality furniture at the very best value, paired with outstanding customer service: a service that stands out from the crowd, is true and is trusted. We strive to put our customer first, by listening to feedback and providing choice and value, with the widest variety of fresh designs that inspire and appeal to all.’

One recent change has been greater interest in adjustable beds. ‘Traditionally,

adjustable beds were a solution for those who struggled with mobility and required extra care. However, nowadays they are more of a luxury for those who want something a little more high-tech.

‘We always invest profits back into the business to make improvements to the overall shopping experience, be it store refurbishments, investment in staff training and technology or switching to eco-friendly alternatives. We offer customers a place that they can

Julie Valentine, Glasswells bed buyer collects the Outstanding Bed Store of the Year award

The Bury St Edmunds store covers 100,000sqft

browse comfortably for a few hours, with immaculate displays and expertise.

‘We are working on refurbishing the atrium area at our Ipswich store, inspired by the extensive work already completed at Bury St Edmunds. The design will include a feature wall to showcase products across all our home furnishing departments, incorporating digital display screens, improved lighting and refined signage. First impressions are very important, and this investment is sure to create a real wow-factor when customers enter the store.’

During the summer the company invested in new members of staff to join

its web and digital marketing team, to maximise online opportunities and grow its skill base in-house.

‘This has allowed us to communicate with customers, and potential customers, more regularly through emails, blogs and social media, generating more visitors to the website. Our web team works hard to persuade a customer that it is worth coming to visit one of our fabulous stores, by ensuring our website and social channels showcase the huge choice, value and expertise we offer.

‘We are always on the look-out for the next expansion opportunity. We are keen to open another Glasswells home

department store within the East Anglia region, as well as requiring a larger warehousing facility to increase our commercial storage business in the not too distant future.’

When it comes to the environment, the company is no slouch. It installed its first solar panels in 2014, has four electric car charging points at the Bury St Edmunds store, and has abandoned bubble wrap in favour of shredded cardboard created from suppliers’ packaging. It has also partnered with Clearabee to offer its customers a discounted furniture recycling scheme. Visit: www.glasswells.co.uk

Above: Staff at the Bury St Edmunds store celebrate the two NBF awards Below: Paul Glasswell, Glasswells md

With an edge

The new collection from Layered invites you to take A Walk in the Park

Artist Evelina Kroon

Quality comfort, naturally

Layered showed at Stockholm Design Week in collaboration with renowned Scandinavian artist Evelina Kroon. The collaboration explores the boundary between art and interior design. With references to traditional female craftsmanship, the four rugs – Berry Rain, Afternoon Sky, Fern Garden and Ochre Fields – balance tight graphic expression with a colour palette that dares to challenge. The result is a collection that conveys both timelessness and a confident modern statement.

Founded in 2015 by Malin Glemme, Layered has long combined a bold contemporary expression with

genuine craftsmanship and sustainable materials, growing to become one of Scandinavia’s most talked about interior design brands. Drawing on inspiration from different creative fields, Layered has always explored the interplay of art, fashion and interior design, with many acclaimed collaborations as a result.

A Walk in the Park gives the impression of a park in transition, from beautiful flowers and spring rain to the changing shades of autumn.

‘It is introduced with the hope of a collection that will remind us of how interiors design can be fun, challenging and beautiful, and where tradition,

history and present are woven together in a collection that will stand the test of time,’ says Glemme.

‘At Layered we take pride in combining great handmade quality with designs that make a statement. The Scandinavian design heritage is such a treasure, and our aim is to use the knowledge built up over time and push it further: to challenge and keep it interesting. Scandinavian elegance, with an edge.’

The rugs are available in 180cm x 270cm, 250cm x 300cm and 300cm x 400cm sizes.

Visit: www.layeredinterior.com

From left: Berry Rain, Fern Garden, Afternoon Sky and Ochre Fields

Ochre Fields

Berry Rain

Afternoon Sky

Rebranding

The

Metro marketing team’s latest job was a big one

In the 40 years since Metro conceived the concept of pooling buying power to compete against the national chains, a lot has changed in the marketplace. No longer just looking to achieve the best terms and prices, Metro has been expanded dramatically to also assist its members to sell the best performing products in the marketplace at a profit.

Metro’s marketing service has a distinct advantage: it is completely bespoke. Metro understands that retailers work in differing marketplaces and locations, so having access to a whole host of marketing resources means that Metro members have a wealth of experience and facilities custom made to suit the independent flooring retailer’s needs.

Some members use the Metro marketing service more than others, and one of the most prolific is The Carpet

Stop. Its latest project is the revamp of the previously branded CFS branch in Cheadle, near Manchester. With a keen new manager at the helm with positive and creative ideas, the marketing team was briefed with replacing the exterior signage with a new up-to-date look: a perfect example of how Metro’s marketing service can help members develop their business.

The total amount of signage worked on was 60sqm and it is fitted to metal and brick surfaces. There were a lot of problems to overcome with this project, including access over a conservatory (as the building had been a glazing showroom previously). Plus, of course, the signs required a lot of space to manufacture due to their sheer size, even before the job of removing the previous ones, which had been applied

over the old glazing showroom signs.

The new signs used CNC cut-foam PVC letters that were both surface fixed and offset from the surface using locators, to add depth to the signs, and all were framed in milled aluminium. The fascia sign also had a 6m trough light.

The project was added to with a lower 14m-wide sign which covered existing windows and drainage and featured a combination of flooring types but mainly Amtico and Karndean.

Once the signs were complete, replacement window graphics finished the job on the shop windows and also the conservatory windows, making a feature of the building.

The results created a completely new look for the business, much more in keeping with the local marketplace.

Visit: www.carpet1st.co.uk

The Cheadle store got a completely new look

Reborn

Menu has relaunched the iconic Elizabeth chair

The Elizabeth chair is arguably Ib Kofod-Larsen’s most iconic design. Created in 1956, it initially went under the name U-56. It was not until Queen Elizabeth II purchased a pair during a visit to Copenhagen in 1962 that it became known as the Elizabeth chair.

Well-proportioned and well designed, the Elizabeth chair is an outstanding example of Danish Modern furniture design, profiling a majestic elegance. Its sculpted armrests, leather-upholstered low seat and sleigh-like back offer reclining comfort. The chair’s slender silhouette, shaped from wood using traditional craftsmanship techniques, is a testament to Kofod-Larsen’s ingenuity.

Menu’s relaunched Elizabeth chair is a reverent iteration of the original design, offered in natural oak or walnut, and dressed in soft leather in a choice of several timeless colours.

Visit: menuspace.com

A step into the future

Traditional measuring could be a thing of the past

Team 7 has taken a step towards ending conventional room measuring when installing its living room, dining, kitchen, bedroom and children’s furniture.

The manufacturer is trialling Amrax’s Metaroom technology. The app makes it possible to digitise customers’ rooms in just a few seconds on an iPhone or iPad. This allows employees to concentrate on the essentials: designing living spaces according to individual customer wishes.

Measuring tapes, folding rules and electronic measuring devices can be put away and number errors when taking measurements should be history. After scanning, the app generates a true-to-scale 3D model. In addition to room dimensions, windows, doors and furniture, the digital twin contains important information regarding the

colours and textures of the scanned room. This can then be opened in common CAD programs. Now redesign of the room can be started directly, with no limits to individual wishes.

As soon as a design has been created, it can be shared directly with the customer in the app and brought to the screen. Team 7 makes all of its furniture to order and customisation requests can be made easy and efficiently, and quickly presented to the client. The result is a win/win situation: maximum Team 7 customer satisfaction thanks to the simple workflow and a reduction in returns or complaints.

‘Digitalisation is an important trend that influences and changes our lives and economies every day. In the furniture industry, we need to drive automation

and digitalisation in order to remain efficient and competitive in the long-term. With Amrax, we have found a partner who will lead us as a pioneer into a new era of furniture planning,’ says Georg Emprechtinger, Team 7 owner.

‘We conduct research and development in the field of digitisation and design of spaces for the interior design sector. In doing so, we use mobile devices such as smartphones and develop artificial intelligence methods, in particular machine vision. Our results for digital spatial understanding, coupled with artificial intelligence, enable new interactions and additional touchpoints with customers. We are pleased to have found Team 7 as our first pilot customer and a sustainable, innovative partner for collaborative exchange. Through the high quality of our collaboration, we are creating attractive solutions and the know-how of the future,’ says Martin Huber, Amrax ceo. Team 7 began testing the app with its own employees and is planning to extend this to other stockists.

Visit: www.team7-home.com www.amrax.ai

Metaroom can measure a room in seconds

January Furniture Show

Countdown has begun

JFS will soon return at its traditional time

The January Furniture Show team has been busy preparing to provide the furniture and interiors community with a stand-out edition of the UK’s premium furniture show. It has been carefully selecting the best UK and international brands for visitors to source from across four sectors: Premium Design; Interior Accessories and Furniture; Living, Dining and Bedroom; and Furniture, Upholstery and Beds.

From 22-25 January the NEC will host the latest furniture and interiors accessories for visitors to touch, feel and shop, products that are guaranteed to help any store stand out from the competition. Explore innovative design concepts from the likes of Baker Furniture, CIMC, Seconique and Smart Occasional, plus the most stylish interior

accessories from Furninova, iONE360, Jaipur Furniture, Pacific Lifestyle and Yearn Glass, along with a host more.

Visitors will be able to enjoy the show’s distinctive international flair, with brands coming to exhibit from around the globe so they can connect with UK buyers. Discover new pieces from international brands including ALF, Amarotto, Aquinos Sofas, Atlas Furniture, Bontempi, ET Elimex-Ivan Radevski, FIM Jiangsu, Furninova, Gwinner, Merlino International, Pathfinder Cutting Technology, UAB Lyra Group and more.

The show will see the return of the Furniture Talks stage, where visitors will be able to enjoy a host of masterclasses, panel discussions and interviews with renowned makers and designers from all corners of the industry. This will be an

excellent opportunity for visitors to learn from the experts, listen to industry trailblazers and look ahead to 2024 with recognised thought-leaders.

Alongside this, the Furniture Awards will also return. A panel of industryleading judges will crown the industry’s best across four categories: Sustainability, Global Player, Best of British and Design Innovation. Visitors will also be able to meet the rising stars of the furniture industry in the Young Furniture Makers presentation, in collaboration with The Furniture Makers’ Company. This will celebrate those already making waves in the sector and visitors can be the first to discover their leading-edge designs and pieces, perfect for buyers looking for new and fresh products.

Visit: www.thefurnitureshows.com

The show is set to return to its traditional place in the calendar

Our trade showroom is home to many different ranges all of which are running on 8 weeks or less as a lead time, below are just a small selection of what is available to view. Find us at 23-27 king St, Brighouse, West Yorkshire, HD6 1NX

ARC – With precision at the forefront of all products the results are quality engineered ranges that look fantastic! Available in many finishes including ceramic, many wood finishes, glass and gloss. Made in Portugal, delivered in 6-8 weeks. Brendan says, ‘Having such detailed design whilst being so robust makes for an amazing end result’

BIZARTO – High spec, design lead. European manufacturing.

Extensive range of fabrics, with great selection of range options. Delivered in 6-8 weeks. Brendan says ‘It’s very rare that you find a company that offers so much detail and design across all of their ranges.’

X8 CHAIRS – 6 – 8 week lead time, extensive range of fabrics and colourways, Chairs built to contract standard rarely seen in the UK domestic market. Bespoke options available across the board. Brendan says ‘Never before have I seen a solution for dining chairs that is as good as this!’

KRISTENSEN & KRISTENSEN – When it comes to solid wood dining and occasional furniture Kristensen certainly stand out. Offering solid Oak or Ash fur niture available in a number of different stains and finisshes. Huge choices in table sizes, thickness and leg style with just as much choice around wood finishes. Kristensen specialise in industrial, Scandi or farmhouse across their ranges. Brendan says, ‘The beauty of these amazing woods is highlighted in everything that Kristensen do, everything possible is done to honour the quality of the timber whilst creating stunning ranges and products.’

January Furniture Show

In it together

Increasing skills can boost add-on sales while gaining rewards

‘The January Furniture Show has often been a perfect time to access and review opportunities for the year ahead. With the challenges facing the economy, 2023 may prove to be a year that retailers need to focus to maximise every sale,’ says Gowsh Shan, Protect-A-Bed national sales manager.

‘Protect-A-Bed has helped multiple retailers significantly grow sales in the bedding department. The success of the Platinum Club rewards programme has been well documented and this January would be a perfect time to join if not already a member. A visit to our stand Hall 5 could pay dividends.

‘We continuously build frameworks

that are simple for retailers to implement to achieve extremely high sales within the category. The Platinum Club is an in-store rewards programme designed to build, recognise and reward this success. We create energy in a category often overlooked, and our ability to turn this into sales growth is phenomenal.

‘The Platinum Club is only one element. Every Protect-A-Bed protector also includes a 10 to 15-year product guarantee and, when bought with a mattress, a 10 to 15-year anti-stain guarantee. Protect-A-Bed will have the mattress professionally cleaned to the customer’s satisfaction or buy them a new one if it fails and the mattress was

bought with the protector. This promise is significantly powerful and is at the core of our philosophy.

‘It’s in both the store’s and the customer’s interest to purchase ProtectA-Bed protectors. Our speciality is driving in-store performance, so linked mattress and protector sales are extremely high. The customer benefits from a healthy and hygienic sleep zone while the store benefits from increased sales revenue.

‘We can upskill your team and increase your sales revenue by maximising every sales opportunity. We can manage every step of the process and build a reward scheme through the Platinum Club.’

Visit: www.protectabed.co.uk

January Furniture Show

Options

La-Z-Boy is to launch new leather and fabric options at the show, while the Furnico brand will return

La-Z-Boy UK is getting ready to launch new leather and fabric upholstery options, aimed at making its furniture accessible to a wider number of customers.

Its new Calda leather collection will Initially be available on its new Paris range, which is also being shown at the event. However, if the leather option is as popular with consumers as La-Z-Boy

anticipates, it will be offered as a choice on its existing collections in the future.

The Calda leather is La-Z-Boy’s most competitive leather and split offering, with a smooth grain surface and a feel on a par with more premium finishes. The introduction of the upholstery option, which includes a number of new and exclusive vibrant colours, will give

retailers more flexibility over price points.

The Calda is a slightly thicker leather and has a matt finish, which will appeal to consumers not looking for a sheen leather surface. It is being launched alongside the competitively priced fabric upholstery option Anivia.

In addition, another new fabric option is being introduced across all La-Z-Boy

Harrison corner unit and (above) Harrison chair

ranges manufactured in the UK, and will be available in at least five different colours.

The Paris range, which will be the first to be available in both Calda and Anivia, has compact arms, curved lines and pocket sprung seats. It includes two and three-seater sofas plus a chair with manual and power recline options available alongside static models.

Harrison is a contemporary off-thefloor power recliner range. Its stylish low silhouette would work well in both urban and mid-century inspired interiors. However, its appearance is deceptive, as it includes both an adjustable headrest and a hidden footrest, allowing consumers to lay back, relax and forget about the world around them.

The show will also include a new collection manufactured at La-Z-Boy UK’s factory in Lancashire, part of its

Made in Britain range.

The company’s stand will also feature an NFL-themed sports den for relaxation. This mock interior will be the centrepiece of the stand and will offer visitors to the show a comfortable escape from the hustle and bustle around them.

The sports den will include Spectator chairs, framed NFL shirts and a widescreen television. Designed to offer inspiration to people who might want to create their own sports den at home, the theme celebrates La-Z-Boy’s threeyear deal with the NFL, which included being the official furniture partner at the three NFL games in London in October.

Spectator rocker recliners first went on sale in the UK in September, and were available from selected retailers. Created to cater for sports fans wanting to enjoy the action in the comfort of their own home, the chair comes in five leather

colourways and features the patented La-Z-Boy handle recline with a choice of angles. It also includes two cup holders to keep food and drink handy, ideal for watching matches or films or for TV marathons.

Alongside La-Z-Boy, the Furnico brand will be back at the January Furniture Show in 2023, displaying eight of its sofa ranges, including four new products. Furnico was acquired by La-Z-Boy in October 2021 and became the furniture brand’s first European manufacturing site.

The Lancashire firm has continued producing its own white-labelled products for retailers in the UK and the Republic of Ireland, as well as manufacturing La-Z-Boy’s branded Made in Britain collections. New products within the Furnico brand range will include three off-the-floor models, as well as a more traditional to-the-floor range with a mixture of scatter-back and cushion -back designs.

All four new Furnico sofa ranges will come with their own collection of fabric swatches, meaning each product will have its own distinct look and style.

Before the acquisition by La-Z-Boy, Furnico had manufactured the worldfamous recliners under licence, starting in 2008. The launch of La-Z-Boy Manufacturing UK saw all 285 employees already working across two factory sites in Nelson and Colne move to the new business.

Developing a number of Made in Britain collections allowed La-Z-Boy UK to invest in the local economy and become less reliant on unpredictable international supply networks. Visit: www.la-z-boy.co.uk

January Furniture Show

Paris will be available in fabric and leather

Spectator chairs will feature in the sports den

Otta - Featuring pocket sprung seats for a supportive sit, a high back to cushion your neck and head, plus power head tilt. Choose your favourite high quality leather or fabric colourway with selected shades featuring contrast piping. Available as a power recline three seater sofa, two seater sofa, chair or corner group.

Otta

January Furniture Show

Statement

Alpha Designs will reveal its Spring 2023 collection at the show

Alpha Designs is a progressive UK upholstery manufacturer at the forefront of design and fabric, which it will once again show with the new Spring collection launching at January Furniture Show.

These new Spring 2023 ranges, designed and developed with a leading furniture designer, will continue the growth of Alpha Designs in the marketplace alongside its current successful commercial ranges.

Offering a breadth of styles, with total flexibility on all fabrics available across all models, from a company with a can-do attitude, it makes for an extremely enticing proposition.

Tel: 01902 492 937

Farah chaise

Merchant sofa

January Furniture Show

Taking the strain

Tracking deliveries and communicating with customers can be simplified

‘It’s that time of year again. Suppliers’ cut-off dates have come and gone, and now you need to deliver on your promises for pre-Christmas delivery. The challenges begin with being able to effectively monitor your incoming deliveries. Have they been acknowledged? Yes. Has a delivery date been confirmed and then updated in your system? Yes. But there’s more: has the customer been informed of that delivery date? And what if there is a delay on a particular delivery or container: have you been able to efficiently pass that information to your affected customers? How do you advise the customers when the goods are in –and what about collecting balance payments, booking customer deliveries and managing the delivery vehicles and routes?’ says Darren Lee, Ordorite business development director.

‘Ordorite simplifies that process and takes the strain. If, for example, a container is going to be late or a supplier has a fabric shortage that has pushed back the delivery date, Ordorite identifies all affected orders and enables you to quickly and easily send a personalised email or text message to the customer with one click.

‘This information is passed seamlessly and in real time to Ordotrack, an online portal that allows each customer to follow the progress of their order and

gives them as much information as you want them to have. That’s still only half the story though.

‘So much of a retailer’s time is taken up contacting their customers to arrange delivery. The missed calls and call-backs mean you often have several staff fielding calls to arrange dates and take balance payments. Your system should be able to advise your customers that their goods have arrived and enable them to pay the balance online whilst booking the delivery date themselves.’

Ordorite will send out a unique payment link to each customer via text, email or online tracking. Once they have securely paid the balance online, Ordorite will offer a date for delivery.

‘Obviously, this will depend on a combination of customer location and

vehicle capacity, but the sophisticated algorithm keeps things straightforward for your customer. They simply choose from the days offered to them and that delivery is booked. A huge reduction in incoming and outgoing calls. That delivery sits in a list ready to be picked, loaded and dispatched. That’s paperless, of course, simply scanning the boxes as the items move through the process.

‘The most efficient routing is generated for the delivery team and the Ordorite app guides them to the home, where the customer digitally signs, automatically closing the circle and setting that item as delivered.

‘If the run-up to Christmas feels fraught rather than festive, maybe you should let Ordorite take the strain.’

Visit: www.ordorite.com

January Furniture Show

Debut

NEC visitors will see Wiemann’s launches first

German bedroom manufacturer Wiemann is heading for the January Furniture Show where it will reveal new and updated products. With imm cologne not taking place until June, this will be the first time that retailers will be able to see the 2023 launches.

The new products, on show in Hall 4, Stand C50, will complement Wiemann’s premium VIP ranges including Monaco and Quito, which all show commitment to driving increased value for retailers.

Monaco, which comes in four ranges –1000, 2000, 3000 and 4000 – is a previous award winner at the show and continues to consistently head Wiemann’s bestseller list.

Look out for updates and accessories across six ranges, including Monaco, reflecting the latest trends and designs.

‘We have some fantastic new products lined up for launch in January 2023, plus some updates to existing collections. All Wiemann products are known for their

excellent design, quality and value, and are backed up with our five-star customer support service,’ says Simon Hewitt,

md of Wiemann’s sole agents for the UK and Ireland, Litmus Furniture. Visit: www.wiemannuk.co.uk

Quito

January Furniture Show

Complementary

Gwinner is returning to the NEC

‘When you choose a Gwinner product, you are opting for furniture that has been awarded the RAL Golden M mark of quality, tested as per RAL-GZ430. Our standards are reflected throughout the production process, in the materials chosen, the careful processing and, ultimately, in the finished product,’ says Tim Robinson, Gwinner UK agent.

‘High-quality veneers are used for modular furniture and tabletops. Skilled veneer specialists demonstrate many years of experience and craftsmanship when selecting veneers. Carefully chosen trunks from sustainable and managed local forests are used to produce veneer sheets, and our matt silk lacquered surfaces are manufactured using the latest environmentally friendly technology. Demonstrating the highest standards of technical perfection and craftsmanship, our products are developed and produced entirely in Germany and come with a five-year warranty.’

Based in the Black Forest region, the company remains a family-owned business and is now under the leadership of the fourth generation of the family.

The furniture is designed to complement contemporary lifestyles, and many units feature cable management for TV and audio equipment, and perforated flaps for sound bars. TV lowboards of different heights and widths are available in many collections and range from 50cm to 260cm widths using one continuous cover panel. Display cabinets of various heights, glazed or with doors and drawers, enhance the room setting.

The recently introduced Brera combines modern lacquer colours in matt and high gloss, with veneers in satin, terra and wild oak. Metallic gold or silver are available as accents.

Showing for the first time in the UK is the Linera collection, which is available with and without real moss accent wall panel inserts, which have acoustic and moisture-absorbing properties.

Visit: www.gwinner.de

Media Concept in Fango lacquer and Honey Oak timber

Brera in Natural Wild Oak and matt and high gloss white lacquer

Calea in white lacquer and Satin Natural OakAtena in Anthracite lacquer and Natural Walnut

We are extremely proud to build over a century’s worth of knowledge, experience and quality into every piece of furniture we make.

www.buoyant-upholstery.co.uk

January Furniture Show

A legend returns

Loose covers will star with Tetrad

The re-birth? The comeback? Whatever you want to call it, loose covers are back! This January Furniture Show will play showcase to Tetrad’s latest designs and fabrics, paying homage to its heritage with hand-antique leathers, its Chesterfields with a twist and the refresh of its Loose Cover collection. You’ll see classics reimagined and some

promising future favourites.

‘We’ve always been known for our Loose Cover collection with the success of the legendary Havana, the Vivaldi and the Alicia over the years, but it was time to really reinvigorate the range for a more modern and diverse look,’ says Chris Fletcher, Tetrad sales director.

‘Vistors will also be able to fall back

into the allure of Spink & Edgar by Tetrad, with the promising top star, the Hayworth, just as glamorous as its namesake, with elegant, fluted detailing and a sultry range of velvets. With new styles and silhouettes ready to stun, our stand at the January Furniture Show is one you don’t want to miss.’

Visit: www.tetradsofas.co.uk

Circularity rules

The show has identified four key themes for 2023/2024

This edition of Heimtextil explores four key routes to circularity. As part of the technical cycle, Make & Remake considers how we can extend the lives of existing materials. Continuous highlights

MAKE & REMAKE

innovative approaches to closing the loop, alongside zero-waste and lowimpact lifecycles. As part of the biological cycle, From Earth explores textile design that reconnects us to nature, revisiting

Make & Remake rejuvenates existing resources such as second-hand and scrap material. This theme celebrates the transformation of pre-used, dead stock and remnant textiles into beautiful, desirable products. Designers are encouraged to let their imaginations run free, using creative, unexpected processes and applications to repurpose the wealth of reusable materials already available. Techniques such as overprinting, overdyeing, bricolage, collage and patchwork create a maximalist, joyful mix of colour, print, pattern and texture. The aesthetics of repair come to the fore as contrast joinery, stitching and patching become features in their own right and encourage visible rejuvenation. The ingenious approach of Make & Remake has a joyous, energetic appeal.

A palette of nuanced brights represents colour that has been recycled and reclaimed. These saturated hues feature added complexity that suggests the effects of age and wear. Challenging assumptions that conscious colour must be muted, this palette boasts vibrancy and dynamic contrast.

CONTINUOUS

natural fibres and dyes. Nature Engineered reveals how nature and engineering come together to create materials that are smart, functional and planet-kind. Visit: www.heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com

Continuous celebrates zero-waste, closed-loop production that sees materials recycled into new products again and again. Technically advanced reclamation processes allow designers to achieve an elevated, refined aesthetic, as materials retain their original quality. Designers are keeping low impact front of mind, aiming at mono-materiality (single materials are easier to recycle than blends). Modularity and design for disassembly (products that are easy to take apart and repurpose) are also key techniques. The Continuous aesthetic doesn’t flaunt its eco-credentials. It is practical, pared-back, utilitarian and timeless, reflecting a sense of essentialism and longevity. Its impact is sophisticated and subtle, with universal appeal. This theme extends beyond design: transparency builds trust here, and communicating the Continuous message clearly and simply reinforces that trust.

A pared-back palette celebrates modern, essential hues. From bright white through a series of warm greys and sage into sophisticated blues and complex near-blacks, it elevates the classics with nuanced undertones and added complexities.

FROM EARTH

From Earth is focused on the natural world and its wellbeing benefits. There is a deep respect for materials and a desire to reconnect with nature. Designers are exploring the potential of diverse natural resources, emphasising the warmth and softness of organic materials and the astonishing diversity of natural dyes. The existing beauty of Earth’s materials is highlighted as they collaborate with nature rather than controlling it, embracing natural variation. Imperfection is preferred over standardisation, and raw finishes are sought after. From Earth uses crafting techniques to add textural, tactile richness. This theme gives ecological, earth-born aesthetics a welcome new vibrancy.

An earthen palette reflects organic matter and natural dyes. Warm, soft and muted, these botanical hues of plant origin range from complex takes on olive and lime to warm beige and pink and bold indigo. This palette celebrates the beautiful natural variation and nuance of organic colour.

Muted Lime

Pantone 14-0636 TCX

RAL 100 85 30

Capulet Olive Pantone 18-0426 TCX

RAL 100 40 20

Cornstalk

Pantone 16-1315 TCX

RAL 070 60 20

Sunburst Pantone 13-1030 TCX

RAL 075 85 40

Mellow Rose Pantone 15-1515 TCX

RAL 030 80 20

Cowhide Pantone 19-1533 TCX

RAL 030 30 40

Green Sulphur

Pantone 16-0742 TCX

RAL 085 60 60

Blue Indigo Pantone 19-3928 TCX RAL 270 30 20

NATURE ENGINEERED

Nature Engineered elevates organic material through mechanical means, redefining our concept of ‘natural’. Designers and makers work sympathetically with regenerative substances, using cutting-edge techniques to process them into sophisticated, smart and functional textiles and materials. Clean lines and engineered forms and surfaces are honed and perfected. This highly considered design direction allows designers to focus on sustainability from start to finish, from sourcing through processing to end-of-life considerations. A warmer, accessible take on utilitarianism, a focus on elevating the performance of natural materials gives Nature Engineered the potential to disrupt sectors such as architecture, automotive, interiors and more.

A fresh and enlightened take on an architectural palette sees a complex spectrum of modern neutrals replace the cold, hard grey of an urban landscape. These engineered natural hues have a clean, refined quality, from warm beiges and tan to green-brown and brown-green.

Toasted Almond

Pantone 14-1213 TCX

RAL 060 80 20

Moth

Pantone 13-0611 TCX

RAL 095 85 20

Indian Tan

Pantone 17-1328 TCX

RAL 060 60 30

Twill

Pantone 16-1108 TCX

RAL085 70 20

Beetle Pantone 19-0312 TCX

RAL 130 40 10

Beluga Pantone 19-0405 TCX

RAL 7043

Bison Pantone 18-1027 TCX

RAL 050 40 20

Teak Pantone 19-0617 TCX

RAL 060 40 10

EFE returns

Export Furniture Exhibition will be significantly larger

Export Furniture Exhibition is the signature event of the Malaysian Furniture Council, the sole national body representing all the 13 state furniture associations of Malaysia, which plays an active role in the development and betterment of the Malaysian furniture industry. Working closely with the government, it strives to drive the industry to greater heights and increase the country’s furniture exports.

The show has now taken a big step forward with its expansion, made possible by Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre’s expanded venue space.

EFE 2023 is 28% larger compared to the previous show in 2019. More than 400 exhibitors from Malaysia and the

ASEAN region will occupy 45,000sqm to welcome quality buyers from over 140 countries and regions. 2019 saw 8,639 international buyers, a 10% increase over 2018, and 5,198 local visitors, a 15% increase. Next year’s show is expected to attract even more. Malaysian wood-based furniture is much sought after by home, resort and property project owners around the world. The use of high-quality materials and timber such as rubberwood, balau, kembang semangkok, nyatoh, dark red meranti and acacia is combined with high-tech manufacturing and designs. An exhibition by the industry for the industry, EFE has created good business

and networking opportunities for thousands of participants as quality exhibitors from Malaysia and the region and buyers from all over the world converge on this global stage.

Next year’s event will take place from 7-10 March as the show takes its place in the annual furniture fair chain of South East Asia and Asia during the same month, including: MIFF (Malaysia), VIFA (Vietnam), IFEX (Indonesia), 3F (China), IHGF Delhi Fair (India) and CIFF (China).

This will help international visitors arranging trips to visit all the fairs in the chain to do so more easily.

Visit: www.efe.my

The show will be almost 30% larger than the previous edition

Buyers’ guide

Eyes down

Know your loops from your tufts? How about freize? Take a closer look

The vast majority of carpet – well over 90% – is tufted, and created by inserting yarn into a backing fabric to create loops or tufts. The yarn may be man-made or natural, and the tufts may be left or cut. The underside is then given a heavy adhesive coating to hold everything in place and a second backing is attached for extra strength. This can then be used to create a variety of carpet styles.

The most common cut pile carpet is known as ‘twist’. The yarn is tightly twisted into the backing and then heatset to fix the twist. The result is a textured finish that’s particularly suitable for plain,

rather than patterned carpets.

Saxony cut pile carpets are created in a similar way, but the twisted tips are more defined, and give a more sophisticated finish. Saxonies show vacuuming marks and footprints, and therefore not best suited to areas of heavy traffic.

Another variation on the twist is frieze carpet, which is a popular choice for homes. The yarns are even more tightly twisted, resulting in a coarse, dense texture. Frieze carpets are among the most durable and hard-wearing. They tend not to show footprints or dirt,

making them ideal for busy family rooms, hallways and landings.

For sophistication, it's hard to beat a velvet carpet. Velvets are cut pile, sheared to create a smooth finish. Unlike Saxony and frieze, the yarns in velvets have little twist so they blend together more. The downside is that as the yarns lie in different directions they reflect light unevenly, creating the impression of shading.

Then there are the loops. Looped Berber carpets are made from thick yarn to provide comfort underfoot, like the bulky, handmade wool carpets made by the North African tribes where they originated.

Level loop carpets, as the name suggests, have loops of uniform height, to create a natural appearance and provide durability, but for areas of high footfall, multi-level loop carpet is generally preferable, since the random loop heights are better at disguising stains. An even more practical combination is a combination of cut and loop pile, which enables the creation of a whole variety of textures and patterns and is excellent for hiding marks and footprints.

Shag pile carpet sees pile heights of up to 5cm (2in), with a loose and casual texture, although longer piles are prone to flattening.

ABINGDON FLOORING

Abingdon Flooring creates high-quality carpets for today’s homes. With wool carpets in Wilton Royal, the super-soft yarns of Love Story and the unbeatable performance and value of StainFree, it offers a huge choice of style, colour and value-added features. With every carpet, it stands by its belief that everyone should be able to choose their flooring with style and comfort in mind. Many of its carpets are made right here in Britain too, so you can always trust its quality. Abingdon Flooring has always committed to an ongoing testing cycle. Along with top quality materials, this means its carpets remain at the very forefront of performance.

Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

CONDOR CARPETS

Since it was founded in 1992, Condor Carpets has grown to become one of Europe’s largest carpet manufacturers, supplying wall-to-wall carpets for residential and contract applications. It is optimising its production process through continuous innovation, motivated by a drive to achieve the goal of operational excellence and the objective of offering the most sustainable product at the best price/quality ratio in the market. With a broad and constantly developing product range, Condor Carpets ensures that its customers can respond to local trends quickly. Look out for its exciting new sustainable ranges in 2023.

Visit: www.condor-group.eu

BALTA

Balta is back – better and stronger. It provides its customers with better service and an even stronger product offer. With the revival of the Made in Heaven polyester collection, the Woolmaster by Balta collection and its ever-popular Stainsafe collection, it ensures its customers can offer carpet that meets the needs of today’s homes. Under the ownership of Victoria, Balta further improves the long-held reputation for superior service without compromising the value throughout its carpet collections. Now able to benefit from high levels of UK stock and nationwide distribution through the Alliance network, Balta customers can receive their most popular carpets next day.

Visit: www.balta-carpets.com

CORMAR CARPET COMPANY

Award-winning British carpet manufacturer Cormar Carpet Company has expanded its wool carpet collection with Pembroke, a classic, heavyweight wool twist. Made from pure new wool and available in 4m and 5m widths, this exciting new range offers a strong palette of 18 contemporary colourways, including classic neutrals alongside some bolder autumnal tones. Durable, resilient and luxurious, Pembroke combines the natural beauty of wool with long-lasting looks. With the benefit of being moth resistant, the range also comes with a 10-year wear warranty for added peace of mind.

Visit: www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

LIKEWISE

Likewise’s eco-friendly New Dawn rug collection is now available, with two premium ranges in five neutral colourways, handwoven with a luxury, soft wool-effect pile. The Jaya rugs have a dense boucle loop pile and the Nila rugs have a chunky basketweave pile. These ranges are produced from PET yarns, produced from recycled plastic drinking bottles. Each rug produced prevents plastic waste from both landfill and our oceans, so not only do they add of touch of style to homes, they are helping look after the environment too. Both ranges are available in 170cm x 120cm and 230cm x 160cm sizes.

Tel: 01787 372 988

OBJECT CARPET

Neoo is the first completely circular carpet made from a mono-material. Object Carpet, with its Dutch partner Niaga, has spent eight years developing the first fully recyclable carpet to be made exclusively from polyester, enabling it to be recycled in a single piece. Its reverse backing technology uses a binding agent for the fibres that’s made of 100% polyester. The hot-melt technique removes the need for pre-coating, and joins the upper surface to the supporting material through application of the Niaga polyester adhesive. This enables the carpet to be fully recycled in an energyefficient process when it reaches the end of its useful life.

Visit: www.object-carpet.com

MILLENNIUM WEAVERS

It has been another busy year at Millennium Weavers. Product-wise it continues to produce and develop residential carpets that meet the demands of the UK market. Recognising the tough economic times that lay ahead, it has introduced a new yarn system that gives excellent value for money: Artemis is a 1,900g per sqm polypropylene luxury feel that will meet all modern demands, and Ares is a 1,200g per sqm polypropylene at exceptional value. Watch this space for more developments from this yarn system in 2023. Other big news is the revamp of the jewel in its crown: Obsession, and the new addition, Obsession Twist. Both products are being produced in exciting new matching colours that will hit all current fashion trends.

Visit: www.millenniumweavers.eu

VICTORIA CARPETS

Victoria Carpets prides itself on quality, innovation and style. By making sure every range launched brings something new and fresh to the market, the company continues to create demand. Any new products launched have contemporary, on-trend colours, well thought-out specifications and above all deliver the quality that everyone expects from Victoria Carpets. Every product in the portfolio earns its place either through its value proposition, luxury offering or colour and design and each range is available on dedicated POS.

Visit: www.myvictoria.co.uk

Life support

A comfortable bed is the ultimate retreat, a place to refresh and re-energise

Try-at-home, once a buzzword in the world of beds, is now commonplace, with many retailers offering consumers the opportunity to test their purchase at home for 60, 100, 200 days or in some cases even a whole year, and return it if unsatisfied.

But there’s still plenty that can be done in-store to encourage the consumer to consider the look and feel they require in a bed. There is no substitute for lying on mattresses when making a selection. Encourage them to remove their coat and shoes and lie on the bed for as long as they like – and leave them to it, don’t hover. Encourage them to adopt their normal sleeping position and lie on their side as well as their back. If the bed is for two, make sure both are happy with the choice: individuals could have different needs.

Correct support depends on weight, height, build and preferred sleeping position. Ideally the mattress should mould to the shape of the body while remaining supportive. When lying on your side your spine should be horizontal and you should be able to turn fairly easily.

Most manufacturers offer firm, medium and soft options. There is no industry-wide standard for firmness ratings so encourage customers to try them out. For partners of differing size

and weight, different mattresses may be required. Some manufacturers make double beds from two single mattresses zipped together, which can be differing tensions. Others combine different degrees of firmness in one mattress.

To check if a bed is too soft, too hard or just right, you can lie flat and slide your hand into the hollow of your back. If it slides in too easily, the bed may be too hard for you, leading to pressure on your hips and shoulders. If it’s a struggle to slide your hand under, the bed is probably too soft. If you can move your hand with just a little resistance, the bed may be just right.

The majority of mattresses in the UK have spring interiors, which provide the core support. Changing the spring construction, thickness (gauge) of the wire, the number of coils, height of each spring and the quantity alters the tension, feel and weight distribution. They can also be zoned: across the middle to give extra support for heavier hips and shoulders; half and half, to provide different tensions on each side; or around the edge for extra rigidity.

Open coil or open sprung mattresses are the most common. The springs are arranged in rows and connected, top and bottom, by a spiral wire, with an outer rod strengthening the perimeter. These are most used in lower cost mattresses.

Continuous spring units, priced in the mid-market, are made from a single length of wire shaped into a series of interwoven springs, which run up and down the bed and are linked vertically. The gauge of wires is softer and the size of the coils smaller than open coil, giving a higher spring count and a more responsive feel.

Pocket spring mattress have small, softer springs that work independently, adjusting to body contours and helping to eliminate roll-together. Mini spring mattresses use small (under an inch) springs and offer an alternative to more traditional fillings in providing a highly resilient comfort layer. They can also be stacked to form a very soft mattress core.

Of non-spring mattresses, latex foam is a premium quality material from the sap of the rubber tree. It has a distinctive, resilient feel, is very durable and has antimicrobial properties that benefit many allergy sufferers. Its natural elasticity means it recovers its shape immediately.

Visco elastic/memory foam mattresses respond to shape and pressure, have good pressure-relieving properties and are offered a variety of qualities and densities, while polyurethane (PU) foam mattresses use a synthetic, petroleumbased foam, with performance and price varying according to density and quality. Visit: www.bedadvice.co.uk

KOMFI

The Komfi collection is part of GNG Group’s plan for a greener and more sustainable future, including the development of carbon-neutral mattresses. The Komfi ranges have been developed in line with its drive towards more ethically designed products which can be fully recycled at the end of their natural life, rather than going into traditional landfill. It also uses innovative materials such as its unique Ecofoam, which is made from 100% recycled and re-engineered foam, and this features throughout the ‘Active’ range. The Komfi range has undergone a major redesign to offer the latest innovation and technologies to a broader customer base.

Visit www.komfi.com

NECTAR SLEEP

Nectar Sleep is experiencing a rapid increase in distribution in the UK and a higher conversion rate because of its amazing new sales strategy. Nectar’s strategy is simple but effective. It drives pre-sold customers to partners’ stores from its website when they express an interest in trying a product before they buy. It offers a 365-night trial on great products to give the customer confidence to purchase, and it allows retailers to make the margins they would normally expect to make in-store. With Nectar, everyone is a winner. Stock the range to join the latest furniture-sector innovation.

Visit: www.nectarsleep.co.uk

MATTRESSGARD

There is no better protection than Mattressgard mattress protectors and pillow protectors, whether your requirement is for a luxury quilted mattress protector or a cooling mattress protector or a super-soft pillow protector. All its products meet exacting production and quality standards and are guaranteed for 10 years. The Premium Bed Care Kit includes a fabric protector, dust-mite inhibitor and freshener. Mattressgard provides the most comprehensive range of mattress protectors in the UK, providing consumers with the best protection for their mattress, and retailers a great opportunity to offer the very best products to customers.

Visit: www.mattressgard.co.uk

PROTECT-A-BED

Protect-A-Bed is the global specialist in mattress protection. With state-of-the-art TV display bays, professional sales training, a 15-year guarantee programme and award-winning customer service, Protect-A-Bed is proven to increase sales and profits. The January Furniture Show is the perfect opportunity to add new ranges to your store’s offering. On display will be its innovative Therapeutics range, featuring wellness mattress protectors made with copper, charcoal and graphene. Additionally, exclusive show offers will be available through the Protect-A-Bed Platinum Club. To discuss sales growth opportunities, visit stand J50 in Hall 5.

Visit: www.protectabed.co.uk

SILENTNIGHT

Founded in 1946, Silentnight is the UK’s most trusted sleep brand. Its mission is to use its passion, product knowledge, exceptional quality and sleep expertise to provide sleep solutions for a nation of unique sleepers. All its mattresses and upholstered beds are handmade in its UK factory and rigorously tested in its in-house SATRA-approved testing lab. Silentnight takes sustainability seriously and is committed to improving the environment. As the first sleep brand to sign up to the Climate Pledge (committing to achieve net zero carbon by 2040), it is proud to pave the way for others in the industry to work towards a sustainable future.

Visit: www.silentnight.co.uk

SONLEVO

It’s hard falling asleep stressed. It’s even harder when you’re uncomfortable too. Sonlevo helps people float off to sleep. All of its products are designed to offer a cooler night’s sleep, greater support and advanced pressure relief, helping create the feeling of weightlessness in body and mind as you drift off. Its full range is recommended to its members by the Football Medicine and Performance Association. All of Sonlevo’s products offer correct posture support and ultimate comfort, paramount in achieving the best sleep and, as a consequence, the best performance. Visit the website to discover the revolutionary TrueGel Range.

Visit: www.sonlevo.com

SLEEPEEZEE

Sleepeezee has been handcrafting mattresses in Britain since 1924, using a combination of luxury materials, innovative designs and traditional techniques to perfect the formula for a good night’s sleep. Every detail of each mattress is diligently checked for consistency and quality, so customers can be satisfied that the bed they are investing in will provide them with the best night’s sleep possible. Sleepeezee is proud to have been a Royal Warrant holder for more than 30 years.

Visit: www.sleepeezee.com

STAINGARD

Staingard remains the UK’s leading supplier of value-added products:, so whether your customer is buying a new bed, a fabric or leather sofa or cabinet furniture Staingard has the answer to care and maintain for their investment, keeping it looking beautiful for years. The offer includes five-year insured care plans; fabric, leather, cabinet and carpet care kits; mattress protectors; furniture glides and pads, and Staingard fabric protector.

Visit: www.staingard.co.uk

Home Care

Smooth talking

From natural-look LVT to fashion vinyl, there are options to suit everybody

Luxury vinyl tiling (LVT) has rocketed in popularity in recent years because it offers an easy, long-term flooring solution that has the appearance of a natural material. It’s perfect for busy family homes, as it’s easy to clean, making it ideal for messy moments. It is more durable than most wood flooring, and much warmer underfoot than stone – the perfect half-way house for a modern home.

Dry back and click LVT are the two most popular types of LVT. Dry back must be glued to the floor, while click uses a mechanical joint system for assembly prior to installing on the subfloor. Extremely easy to lay, it’s also easy to maintain as individual tiles or planks can be replaced without taking up the entire floor.

Under the umbrella of what is often

referred to as ‘smooth flooring’, laminate is another popular choice, offering the aesthetics of a real wood or stone floor without the price tag or need for specialist fitting. Layers of composite material – generally wood fibreboard and melamine resin – are topped with an ‘image’ layer, followed by a clear vinyl for durability.

Laminate can be used in the majority of rooms in homes and commercial buildings, thanks to its versatility, durability and the ease with which it can be both installed and maintained. Underlay is recommended as it will prevent vapour from reaching the lower laminate layers. It will also help with soundproofing and insulation.

Vinyl is most commonly chosen for kitchens and bathrooms, but in fact it is the great all-rounder of flooring and

suitable for almost every room. It’s warm and soft to the touch so it’s ideal in bedrooms and living rooms. And for those who like to update their living space frequently to reflect the latest trends, it’s a relatively low-cost option that is simple to lift and replace.

While LVT and laminate flooring are dominated by wood effects, vinyl offers a multitude of designs from patterns and abstracts to contemporary and rustic, along with wood and stone. Its multiple layers include a top layer of polyurethane lacquer for scuff protection and easy care, a wear layer, a printed design layer, a glass-fibre layer, a PVC layer and a foam or felt backing.

In smaller rooms it can even be laid without adhesive, as long as no furniture will be repeatedly moving to and fro across it, such as chairs.

LVT is a practical, hard-wearing option

BEAUFLOR

Beauflor produces cushion vinyl rolls for both residential and commercial applications. It believes that everyone should be able to benefit from quality floors at affordable prices. That’s why it has in-house research and development teams, participates in open innovation, learns from sectoral organisations and keeps a close eye on market trends. The result is that it is able to offer you a wide variety of stylish floors that are suitable for different rooms and easy to maintain and install. They’re also water and stain resistant, absorb sound extremely well and maintain indoor air quality.

Visit: www. www.beauflor.com

QUICK-STEP

Alpha Vinyl, the latest innovation from flooring pioneer Quick-Step, is now available with an attached underlay, bringing a floor that’s fast and easy to install. Alpha Vinyl features quality in every layer for a high-performance rigid floor. It is also fast and easy to fit – an installer’s dream. Its secret lies in its multi-layer construction, which brings multiple benefits. With a high-performance 5S wear layer, authentic decor layer, flexible comfort layer, antitelegraphing and impact-resistance rigid composite core, along with its high-quality attached underlay, it’s a construction that’s really the sum of its parts.

Visit: www.quick-step.co.uk

BERRYALLOC

Guided by trends and the latest technological improvements, BerryAlloc offers an impressive array of laminate, wood, HPF and LVT floors that respond to the installation, style and liveability worries of homeowners. Its design teams capture the very latest looks, drawing inspiration from the natural environment and home interior trends to create collections with diverse appeal. From country timbers and classic oaks through to terrazzo and concrete, it’s a collection that can deliver a stylish floor in any home. Alongside full shop-inshop concepts, BerryAlloc has also introduced ‘brand corners’, for a display that works perfectly in any store.

Visit: www.berryalloc.com

VICTORIA DESIGN FLOORS

Victoria Design Floors provides a one-stop shop for LVT. Offering 0.3mm, 0.55mm and 0.7mm product ranges on bespoke POS. Refreshed branding and easy-to-navigate board labelling ensure that there is something for every buyer and every location. The products offer a mix of classic wood and stone finishes alongside more contemporary and multi-tonal designs. If you are looking for something truly bespoke, Tapestry offers the perfect mix-and-match solution.

Visit: www.myvictoria.co.uk

Years on years

Extend the life of any flooring with the right choice of underlay

What makes a huge impression to any room yet is invisible to even the keenest observer? Underlay.

Having devoted time and attention to deciding on the type and colour of a new floor, the benefits of underlay are something that consumers often need explaining to them.

Quality underlay can last 25 years and will extend the life of the flooring it supports. It also improves thermal insulation – a major selling point in

these times of rising energy prices – and it boosts sound insulation. And from your point of view as a retailer, it will also provide you with improved margins on the sale.

Polyurethane is the most popular underlay, made from recycled foam offcuts. Advantages include high levels of comfort and performance, and a multitude of thicknesses and densities to choose from, so you can find the right product for that floor and fitters will

thank you for its light weight.

Crumb rubber is the most durable underlay and well suited for high footfall areas, whereas sponge rubber will offer more in the comfort/durability mix.

Felt underlays are made from recycled fibres including wool and jute to produce a dense pad with high thermal insulation.

If a customer has opted for a hard floor, underlay is still as important, protecting it from subfloor imperfections and reducing noise.

Underlay will dampen the sound from hard floors

BALL & YOUNG

For a greener footprint. With a commitment to zero waste, all Ball & Young PU underlays are manufactured from re-purposed trim, which can again be recycled at the end of their usable life. The company you can trust with over 25 years of sustainability and innovation. It’s in its DNA. Scan the QR code to see the sustainability story. Visit: www.ballandyoung.com

CARPENTER

Carpenter is the world-leading producer of flexible PU foam carpet underlay, committed to making the world more comfortable, safe and healthy, with an extensive product portfolio manufactured in the UK. These ultra-durable, highquality underlay products help make carpet soft, luxurious and resilient, and make all the difference to how carpet performs. Carpenter produces and distributes a range of topquality carpet underlays designed to help reduce impact noise and insulate floors across the UK and Europe. Made of repurposed materials, its carpet underlay is guaranteed for the life of the carpet and can itself be 100% recycled. Visit: www.carpenterunderlay.co.uk

FLOORWISE

With recycled PU, rubber sponge, rubber crumb, wood and laminate, combination felt, acoustic, underfloor heating and LVT, Floorwise has one of the widest underlay collections, giving retailers and installers a quality option for any work and the perfect start to a fantastic floor. It has worked hard to develop unique specifications that ensure great quality at every price point, so whether a budget recycled MD+ PU like Initio or a premium UHD+ rubber crumb option such as Champion, Floorwise underlays always deliver great bounce-back ability. The collection provides options to keep everyone happy in terms of choice and also in long-term performance. Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk

INTERFLOOR

Interfloor is Europe’s largest manufacturer of underlay and flooring accessories and supplies to flooring retailers, distributors and contractors in the UK and around the world. Its diverse range of products includes the three most popular forms of underlay: PU foam, sponge rubber and crumb rubber. Its proudly British-manufactured brands include Tredaire underlays, synonymous with underfoot comfort, and Duralay hard-wearing underlays, ideal for the contract market. Duralay also includes specialist underlays for use with underfloor heating, LVT and hard flooring. New acoustics brand Sonixx significantly reduces sound transmission. Visit: www.interfloor.com

No limits

Joining a buying group can free your business to reach new highs

Be honest, as an independent retailer how much of your time do you spend on admin unrelated to retailing?

A legal query crops up, and without the back-up of a company legal department you may spend a disproportionate amount of time researching the solution, or money engaging someone to do this for you.

You want some simple signage to draw customers in – but what’s the going rate? Who do you know who can pull it together? And they want how much to install it!

What buying groups offer has grown over the years to include business and support services such as legal helplines, marketing, membership of trade associations, deals on utilities, insurance, credit card processing and training.

That's quite aside from the financial incentives. The concept of a buying group is a simple one: pool the buying

power of independent retailers so they can secure better terms with suppliers to compete with their multiple rivals.

The furniture sector has two main buying groups: AIS and Minerva, while the flooring sector has six: ACG, BRM, Flooring One, Greendale, Metro and SMG.

Regardless of sector, the principle of pooling buying power is central. What varies from group to group is how this is achieved: through a simple discount on products or a rebate on certain sales levels. There is also variation on how rebates are paid: payment can be direct to the retailer from each supplier or combined from all suppliers the retailer deals with as part of its membership and paid via the group.

A concern frequently voiced by independent retailers who are considering joining a buying group is how much control they may lose. Yet

all buying groups are quick to stress that they have no desire to control how an independent retailer runs their business. The decisions remain with you. Still not convinced? Many members highlight the benefits of being able to talk to other retailers about issues such as complaints, supplier relations and business problems such as the state of trade without worrying that they will use such information to their commercial advantage: retailers have set geographic areas and members do not see themselves as rivals. Groups hold regular regional events allowing retailers to meet and many even host their own exhibitions.

Each buying group will be stronger in some aspects compared to others and in turn offer fewer benefits in other areas, so examine each group to see which one offers you the mix that maximises your membership.

There are regular networking events

Collaboration can achieve impressive results

Working together builds a community

ACG

During these challenging times many retailers are rethinking their future but are unsure about the buying group experience. They value their independence and often think they are already receiving top terms. ACG brokers the best trade deals with the industry’s leading suppliers. Combined with an offer of over 23 rebate schemes, it is confident you will receive the maximum returns for your business against your subscription investment. It continues to invest in the best possible future for its members by raising the standard on profitability, presentation and promotion.

Whatever the financial climate, ACG continues to offer strength in numbers.

Visit: www.acgcarpets.com

METRO GROUP

Joining a buying group will get you better buying prices and improved profitability. Many have an own-branded offer –Metro’s is Carpet1st, and it has a central ordering system for group suppliers you don’t have accounts with. A non-profit organisation, Metro is owned by retailers, for retailers. Your independence is protected and valued. Every member gets a free allowance for Metro’s unique marketing service every year, which can design, print, manufacture and install everything you need to market your business at its best: from a business card to a shop front, whether you’re going it alone or a multi-site retailer. Carpet Stop, Cheadle (pictured) opted to have rebranded signage designed, manufactured and fitted.

Visit: www.carpet1st.co.uk

GREENDALE

Greendale Carpets and Floorings is a 130-store, memberowned, not for profit co-operative, stocking 2,000 rolls of carpet from top British and Continental suppliers. Based in Hereford, It offers 200 ranges which are all own-labelled to colour level. Members have their own geographic areas and its products are not sold online. This offer is complemented by savings on manufacturer-branded ranges giving members enhanced margin. Other support includes a website, advertising and in-store ticketing plus membership of the British Independent Retail Association, which offers a range of support services for members.

Visit: www.greendalecarpets.co.uk

SMG

SMG is the largest independent flooring retail group in the UK. It guarantees members preferential pricing, substantial rebates and promotions, as well as the opportunity to buy from any of its suppliers without the need for a direct account. SMG supports members in promoting the leading industry brands or, if they prefer, the opportunity to ownbrand as little or as much as they like with its exclusive ‘Pure’ branded ranges and unitary. Truly retaining independence but gaining the strength and buying power of numbers has meant that SMG has been the industry leader for the past 50 years. Find out how much it can increase your profit.

Visit: www.smg-group.co.uk

Good practice

Making customers aware of care issues saves disappointment all round

There can be few scenarios more dispiriting for a furniture retailer than a disappointed customer returning a quality item damaged by poor care in the home. ‘But I didn’t realise…’ and ‘Nobody told me!’ they cry – but if the manufacturer’s care instructions have been overlooked, or perhaps not supplied, it is often out of your control.

Let aftercare become second nature in-store by highlighting some basics to customers in advance. For example:

• Avoid exposing furniture to direct sunlight and/or heat, whether direct or indirect, for long periods of time as this may result in fading or degradation.

• Lightly vacuum upholstery on a weekly basis (for feather-filled cushions this can be done less often).

• If the product has reversible cushions regularly turn them and interchange

their positions. Fibre or feather cushions should be plumped often to get air into them so they retain their shape/comfort.

• Pets’ claws, jewellery, buckles, zips and studs are all potential snagging hazards. Loose threads should be trimmed, not pulled out.

• Leather should only be cleaned in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Using cleaning products on items they are not intended for could damage the surface.

• Don’t put pressure on unsupported panels of upholstery such as outside arms and backs – and avoid sitting on the arms.

• If accidental spillage or damage occurs, take professional advice. Never wash or dry-clean the fabric of your furniture unless the manufacturer’s instructions explicitly state that this can be done.

Cushions need regular turning

ALPHA DESIGNS

Alpha Designs is a progressive UK manufacturer at the forefront of design and fabric, which it will once again show with its new Spring collection. These new 2023 ranges, which have been designed and developed with a leading furniture designer, will continue the growth of Alpha Designs in the marketplace, alongside its current successful commercial ranges, by offering a breadth of styles, with total flexibility on all fabrics available across all models. From a company with a can-do attitude, it makes for an extremely enticing proposition.

Tel: 01902 492 937

• A zip at the rear of a cushion cover does not necessarily mean that it can be removed for cleaning…

• Velvet pile may look as if it is crushed when new: sweeping with a velvet or clothes brush will rectify this. Over time it will crush: it’s a natural characteristic.

FURNITURE IN SCOTLAND

With more than 40 years of marketing experience, Gavin Douglas covers Britain with the UK’s favourite adjustable beds, mattresses and chairs from Varimatic, custom built in Denbigh, North Wales. Supporting this portfolio, Douglas also covers Scotland with Staingard’s warranty and furniture care products; Core Products’ huge selection of easy-toassemble cabinet ranges and Call Salotti’s leather and fabric upholstery (pictured), manufactured in Italy to order.

Douglas is organising the Northpoint exhibition in Edinburgh in April 2023. This will be a perfect showcase for Scottish furniture representatives presenting Scottish and North England retailers with their offerings for 2023.

Email: gavin@furnitureinscotland.co.uk

Make it personal

Effective software can enhance the customer’s experience and your reputation

From fast food to furniture, in just a few years, it seems, on-screen ordering has become the norm. Customers participate in the online order process, selecting sizes, colour variations and fabrics. There is little in an interiors retail store you can’t find a software package to handle. Even so, computers can’t completely replace people.

The quality of your software offer can still set you apart in the customer’s eye by making tasks easier, quicker and more professional. Some can be used on the move on a tablet, giving instant access to stock availability as you accompany a customer around the showroom. Online payment and delivery scheduling will help to seal the deal –and you can even plan the delivery route or leave essential notes for drivers.

Not that long ago such facilities were the stuff of dreams for logistics managers and finance directors: giving high-level service, keeping costs down and stockists happy.

Furniture retailers can unite accounts, warehousing, online and marketing to make life much simpler and more productive. Manufacturers are still passing on frequent price increases and woe betide a retailer who misses updating their prices as a result. Let the

Sales staff are no longer desk-bound

software sort it for you, rather than manually change every price online. And to find out what is stopping a customer completing their online order, you’ll need software to track what happens to their baskets and then to contact them to politely encourage pursuing the order.

MASTERPIECE

MasterPiece Cloud runs on Android, iPad, Windows and Mac, to suit both the on-site estimator and in-store operations. As well as providing measuring and planning, MasterPiece supports the selling process towards closure via costing, emailed estimates, reduced wastage and application of discounts. The Advanced Costing module provides further automation of costing and selling, to give consistency across team members. Minimum charges are applied automatically, rules for HSL charges configured and labour charges kick in automatically. Terms and conditions are automatically emailed, with estimates and customer signatures taken on-screen.

Visit: www.masterpiece-system.com

ORDORITE

Award-winning Ordorite software is a world-class EPOS, stock control, distribution and business intelligence solution specifically designed for furniture and bed retailers. It is cloud-based, offering a comprehensive solution for single or multi-site retailers. Easy to use at the point of sale, via tablet or desktop, it gives you a real-time view of stock and sales across all channels. It has multi-currency functionality for container planning and ordering; an app-driven warehouse management system; online customer payment and delivery scheduling and delivery route planning. Manage online with easy and robust web and accounts integrations. Ordorite’s technology drives profits.

Visit: www.ordorite.com

For the greater good

Not-for-profits are taking the lead for the industry and its members

Associations form a vital part of the interiors industry, looking after the interests of their members while striving to improve standards across the sector.

The National Institute of Carpet & Floorlayers and Contract Flooring Association founded the Flooring Industry Training Association to provide specialist training for the floorcovering industry. FITA is an independent, not-for-profit organisation – by industry, for industry. It has specialist training centres at Loughborough and Kirkcaldy with fully equipped practical and lecture areas.

Carpet Recycling UK is a not-for-profit membership association working to reduce the amount of carpet waste being sent to landfill. Its mission is to promote the diversion from landfill of textile flooring in the UK to resource for sustainable use. It does this by working with businesses in the supply chain,

government and academia to foster collaborations and networks to achieve viable market-based solutions, encouraging design for recyclability. Members include businesses and organisations from every stage of the carpet supply chain, together with recyclers and equipment providers.

Since its foundation in 2008 it has diverted the equivalent of 105,132 football pitches of carpet.

Its core funders are taking a lead because they recognise that producer responsibility for the product at the end of first life is essential for building a sustainable business model.

NICF

The National Institute of Carpet and Floorlayers (NICF) promotes excellence and ethical practice within the field of domestic flooring installation. It provides support to members with a range of benefits and services to make running their businesses as simple, profitable and stress-free as possible, and promotes assurance of quality of workmanship to the public. Its online directory allows consumers to search for local floorlayers and leave reviews.

Visit: www.nicfltd.org.uk

CARPET RECYCLING UK

Carpet Recycling UK is an independent, not-for-profit membership association helping the textile flooring supply chain to find better uses for unwanted materials. Its network offers opportunities for reuse and recycling, sustainable raw materials for manufacture and innovations in materials processing. Its 120-strong membership includes 63 flooring suppliers and 16 manufacturers who take voluntary producer responsibility for products they bring to the market: Balsan, Betap, Brintons, Condor Group, Cormar Carpets, Ege Carpets, Furlong Flooring, Gradus, Headlam Group, IVC Commercial, Likewise Floors, Milliken, Modulyss, Rawson Carpet Solutions, Shaw and Tarkett. Find out how it can help you.

Visit: www.carpetrecyclinguk.com

Enthusiasm abounds

Sustainable products and processes were at the fore

The 54th edition of IHGF Delhi Fair Autumn saw enthusiastic exhibitor and buyer activity at the India Expo Centre and Mart, New Delhi. Visitors from 98 countries had access to 3,000 exhibitors from across India, spread across 16 halls and 12 display categories, reflecting India’s diversity in hand-crafted skills.

Among products were housewares, home furnishings, furniture, gifts and decorative items, lamps and lighting, Christmas and festive decor, carpets and rugs, bathroom accessories, garden accessories, handmade paper products and stationery.

Sustainable products and processes were at the fore, a trend reflected with lines in innovative, inspirational and forward-thinking products as well as traditional processes. A Regional Crafts Theme Pavilion showcased artisans from all over India, with product lines from primary producers from far-flung craft villages as well as innovations

from EPCH’s Integrated Design Development Projects.

While exhibitors demonstrated the extra effort to create unique and outstanding displays to engage and entice buyers, new product innovations established more business as many added to their buyer lists. This edition proved to be a refreshing change for many IHGF visitors, who returned after a break of a few seasons. They appreciated the inclusion of artisans and upcoming entrepreneurs alongside the big and established players.

Eco-friendly and natural ranges in home and lifestyle products such as selected basketry and home utility made from jute, hemp, coarse riverside grass, cane and bamboo were sought after. European buyers sourced interesting furniture pieces, home accents, gift products, houseware, bags and Christmas accessories, among other home products. Takers for textiles liked

the variety of home furnishings as well as kitchen linen. Gifts items, paper products and hardware, and components too, offered good choice to buyers.

The 55th Spring edition of IHGF Delhi Fair is scheduled from 15-19 March 2023. The organiser is working towards making this a bigger and more spectacular show, structured with a larger display by exhibitors, themed as well as collective displays, several curated lines and design affirmations. Expect more sustainable products in all segments of home, fashion, lifestyle, textiles and furniture. Visit: www.ihgfdelhifair.in

We only sell to the trade

Sign up and gain extra sales as you’ll be listed on our website and we’ll point sales in your direction.

Sign-up as a stockist for free and gain all this:

Free advertising: your shop’s address, website and contact details promoted.

Free advertising to create consumer demand

More traffic: we’ll link our site to yours to improve your Google ranking.

Instant contact: customers can click straight through from us to you.

Free Google maps: customers can see where you are and contact

Never throw away a sale… Don’t direct customers to DIY stores for floor and furniture protection. Stock Stroolmount.co.uk products: when they buy replacements, show them your new furniture and flooring.

Champagne moments

A

record number of entries fought for the Balthazar accolade

The Brussels Furniture Fair’s annual Balthazar design competition has long been a reliable guide to the best at the show and a coveted accolade. This year’s competition attracted a

record 110 entries, including 65 from non-Belgian companies.

This gave the judges a new challenge, and it took the panel two days of viewing and four hours of deliberations

before deciding who would take home the prizes – and 12 litres of champagne – including a new award for promising design talent.

Visit: www.meubelbeurs.be

‘What a table, what a construction, what ingenious reuse! The pedestal opens up like the flower of a budding tulip. The tabletop sits on top of the two leaves. It’s worth bending down a little to take a closer look. Then you see how sublimely these are veneered, in two directions. Their interior

construction remains a secret. The tabletop is veneered with wide slats in a mosaic/patchwork pattern. This is so meticulously ingenious that there is absolutely no waste

‘If you opt for the extendable table then you can safely store the loose leaves in a special protective bag. Why

is it so special? Because the materials come from dormant stock, for example fabrics that have been out of the collection for some years. This chimes perfectly with the sustainable ethos.’

LAUREATES: Theuns Napoli MichelDenolf Ritmo

BEST INTERNATIONAL – WINNER: KLER CHEERS

‘What a metamorphosis. What a sturdy sofa. Am I with the right firm? Yes, you absolutely are! With this sofa you are making a statement. The essence of this new design range is a refined minimalism, based on two basic trigonometric shapes: the cylinder for the arms and the cube for the seat. How can these be so

simple and yet so soft? You feel secure, have a feeling of relaxation, of ultimate calm. The model is all about softness and comfort. The result is impressive. Sit down and enjoy.’

LAUREATES: Cacio Woodland EgoItaliano Pongo

BEST OF BELGIUM – WINNER: MOBITEC BLOSSOM

KLER CHEERS

CACIO WOODLAND

EGOITALIANO PONGO

MOBITEC BLOSSOM

THEUNS NAPOLI

MICHELDENOLF RITMO

‘So far, so good, so the best for our future. A circular sofa concept with a service model and take-back system. A sofa that can grow or downsize along with you throughout your life: you can always exchange the base for a larger or smaller size, and the cushions work

with a “plug and sit” system.

“The sofa consciously opts for monomaterials. The cushions are upholstered with zip-up covers, for example 100% pre-washed linens. Dirty? Simply throw them in the washing machine. Fed up with the colour? Swap for new ones. The

interior is comprised of cradle-to-cradle pocket springs: the pockets are not glued but spot-welded. After all, this sofa’s end of life is a long way in the future.’

LAUREATES: Topstar Outdoor Toon de Somer Edo

‘You see it and spontaneously want to take a closer look, study it in detail, touch it from top to toe. How artfully can wood be shaped? How intriguing and imposing can craftsmanship be? Everything revolves around the rounded posts. These run all the way through, supporting both the cabinets and the bed. They start out as a leg and end in the tops of the cabinets. This is precision work. Here you recognise the eye of the furniture

craftsman. In the bed, the posts flank the headboard. And the bedside table? You lift it up and then… you’re holding a small table on which to enjoy breakfast in bed. What a wonderful, feel-good invention! Incidentally, this design is carried through into all kinds of furniture for the bedroom and living room.’

‘Adults find it special, so beautifully designed, like a decorative object. But what are you supposed to do with it? Leave that to the kids. They’ll immediately be engaged. Tipping, turning, pushing, climbing inside, wobbling. How do you dream up such a piece? It’s actually very simple: you put yourself in a child’s shoes. Or better still, you take a child and observe what they get up to. How they freely create their own fantasy world. This is completely in line with the Montessori philosophy. This children’s furniture is wonderful in any interior, and it grows with your child. As the years go by, they’ll always know what to do with it. And you’ll never want to part with it.’

INNOVATION – WINNER: SOFAR SO FAR SO GOOD

LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT – WINNER: THE BEDS POLA

LAUREATES: Passe Partout Plectrum

Kler Emotion

SOFAR

THE BEDS POLA

BOUKJE ADRIAENSEN LILI

PASSE PARTOUT PLECTRUM

KLER EMOTION

TOPSTAR OUTDOOR

TOON DE SOMER EDO

JOIN THE INVICTUS LVT FLOORING TEAM

AREA SALES MANAGER NORTH OF THE THAMES AND NORTHERN HOME COUNTIES

We are looking for a motivated & committed Area Sales Manager to join the team and enable the company to drive forward in the fast-growing Luxury Vinyl Flooring market. We have an opportunity in the North of the Thames and Northern Home Counties area.

INVICTUS Flooring is part of Associated Weavers family and has quickly become a serious contender in the UK LVT market in since its launch in 2019, this is an opportunity to join a dynamic forward thinking company at an exciting period in its development.

Interested applicants should send their CV and covering letter to jonathan.davies@invictus.co.uk

The ideal applicant will have proven detailed experience of Luxury Vinyl Flooring with a good understanding of the market, ideally living on the territory, you will be required to visit existing INVICTUS floors customers as well as sourcing new customers selling display stands, managing their Luxury Vinyl Flooring account and of course building the brand.

The role is suited to someone who is a great communicator with good sales, IT and planning skills, you must be driven to succeed and enjoy working hard, you will also hold a full driving licence.

A competitive salary, attractive bonus structure, pension scheme with a company car, laptop & phone will be offered to the successful applicants.

Area Business Manager

South East

Brockway Carpets are a well established manufacturer of stylish, high quality tufted wool carpets supplying product across the UK to the retail, wholesale and contract trade.

We are now looking to recruit an additional field sales member to join the Brockway team, ideally with carpet knowledge and experience.

Candidates should be able to demonstrate;

• A proven track record in the retail sales environment

• Strong self motivation, enthusiasm & organizational skills

• Solid IT skills and digital market understanding

• Ability to strengthen the Brockway brand on territory through POS placement

• The ability to develop and maintain strong customer relationships

• Sound commercial awareness and time management skills

• A full UK driving licence

Ideally living within the Reading area, the candidate will be responsible for a territory encompassing Berks, Middx, Bucks, parts of Beds, Hants, Surrey & Herts, West/North West and parts of SW London.

Benefits of the role include; a competitive basic salary, company car, mobile phone, tablet, expense account and sales bonus scheme.

Applicants should forward a current CV and cover letter confirming ‘why you would like to join the Brockway team’ to; steve.glover@brockway.co.uk

Closing date for applications 22nd December 2022.