Interiors Monthly December 2023 by Interiors Monthly

DECEMBER 2023

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EDITOR’S COMMENT

The city centre future for Ikea Forget renting stores, just buy the shopping centre: the chain takes on its second as it changes direction As Ikea looks to boost its city centre presence it has again taken the unusual approach of buying a shopping centre to ensure it can have a store there. The group will be the new owner of the Churchill Square centre in Brighton (along with car parks and a block of flats) as it looks to occupy the space Debenhams used to have before its demise. Buying the centre removes potential problems about planning permission and puts it in control of which neighbours it has, but given the former Debenhams store had been empty it seems an odd location to buy when the landlord would have been very keen to have Ikea as part of the mix. The one thing it does show is that out of town isn’t going to be an option for the chain: it abandoned its plans for a store just a few miles down the road in 2021, despite having won the lengthy argument over planning. It seems the city centre is the place to be for Ikea. One thing that it is doing that makes a great deal of sense is its new mattress recycling and reuse schemes. At £40 it undercuts many existing recycling providers and has the potential to see a major increase in the number of mattresses being recycled. It does of course help that it part owns The Furniture Recycling Group, which will be carrying out the recycling. And ensuring returned mattresses are of ‘NHS standard’ before reselling or donating them looks like a winner. Another good move seems to be the appointment of Laura Newbold Breen as Anti-Copying In Design chief operating officer. As head of legal at Magmatic, former owner of the Trunki children’s luggage brand, she was involved in many copying cases and will bring that experience to the organisation - rather than say recruiting a lawyer - and she knows how companies work. There is also a feeling that some potential succession planning is going on. A happy festive period to you all and success in the winter sales.

INTERIORS MONTHLY DECEMBER 2023

INSIDE THIS ISSUE NEWS 4

Sales fall back

Copying victories secured

Bensons returns to the black

FEATURES 12

New products

Experiences Last minute orders

Service Future problems

Sustainability Major move in mattress recycling

Retail Service matters

Rugs US influence

Buyers’ guide Everything you need to know

Preview January Furniture Show, Northpoint, Heimtextil, Domotex, Spring Fair

Review Brussels Furniture Fair

Editor: Andrew Kidd

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

DECEMBER 2023

Furniture advertising (South): Tim Boden

Retail

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NEWS

Sales see monthly drops after September record The retail value of furniture and lighting sales rose on an annual basis in October, latest figures show, but fell back from September’s record level. Sales in England, Wales and Scotland were worth £1,376,914,000 according to data from the Office for National Statistics. This is 2.71% higher than October 2022, but 12.36% lower than the highest ever figure, which was recorded in September 2023. October’s sales rank it the 20th highest month since

Furniture inflation drops again Furniture price inflation fell by more than a third in October as price increases again slowed. The annual rate for household furniture fell from 3.3% to 2.1%. In October 2022 the rate was 13.3%. The rate has been steadily declining for more than a year. The Office for National Statistics says prices for adult beds and dining tables and chairs were lower than in 2022 but prices of two-seater leather sofas were higher.

Flooring helter-skelter continues Inflation in flooring has fallen again, continuing its pattern of rising before falling back and then rising. The ONS says the annual increase for carpets and floorcoverings was 7.7% in October, down from 9.4% in September, but higher than August’s 7.6%. In October 2022 it was 8.7%. Carpets and rugs saw the rate drop from 10.7% to 8.7%. Smooth flooring increases dropped from 6.5% to 3.9%: the lowest in more than a year. In 2022 increases averaged 16.7%.

Interiors Monthly December 2023

the ONS began recording comparable data in January 1986. The retail value of flooring sales dropped in October. The value of sales fell by 15.99% in England, Wales and Scotland compared with September 2023 – the third highest ever recorded – to £230,882,000. This was 0.9% lower than October 2022. October’s sales rank it Furniture sales dropped in October the 42nd highest month. The figures are not seasonally adjusted and do not allow for inflation.

Shareholders back Victoria over accounts Shareholders in Victoria have overwhelmingly backed the group at its general meeting after leading proxy shareholder agencies urged investors to vote against accepting the company’s annual report and accounts. After Grant Thornton issued a qualified audit opinion and raised fraud risk concerns in September for the accounts for the year to 1 April, Glass Lewis and Institutional Shareholder Services advised shareholders to oppose the resolution. However, 96.77% of votes back the adoption of the accounts and 97.68% supported the re-appointment of Grant Thornton.

ACID has new coo Anti-Copying in Design has named Laura Newbold Breen as chief operating officer. She was previously head of legal for Magmatic, former owner of the Trunki children’s luggage brand, which was involved in many copying instances. ‘I am absolutely thrilled to be joining ACID, especially during its 25th year. I know all too well the constant IP difficulties faced by UK designers. At Magmatic, I was deeply involved in the seemingly relentless IP challenges, which gave me the opportunity to learn about IP at grass-roots level and develop a multi-faceted, resourceful approach Laura Newbold Breen to brand protection. Having also been heavily involved in product compliance and quality, I am extremely passionate about UK manufacturing and supporting our precious UK designers and SMEs,’ she says.

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NEWS

Teemo secures Barber and Yale copying cases Cabinet manufacturer Teemo Designs has secured damages from two European retailers that were selling copies of its Barber and Yale designs. The company took legal action in respect of UK unregistered design right infringement and copyright infringement against LRUK (Retail) Limited trading as La Redoute, the French multi-channel retailer, claiming it was selling exact replicas of its Barber range. Through its lawyers, Teemo sent a letter before action asserting its rights. There was extensive pre-action correspondence in relation to the claim in which the defendant was quick to claim independent creation as a defence for most of its products, citing email correspondence from its designers and manufacturers. It conceded, however, relatively early in correspondence on two of its products and provided undertakings not to advertise, offer to sell, and/or sell those products. ‘It became increasingly clear that a settlement was not forthcoming in the matter and in December 2022, Teemo issued proceedings at the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court. The defendant sought various extensions to file its defence and upon filing, it was clear the defendant’s position had changed substantially from that it set out in more than two-years of pre-action correspondence. The defendant, in its defence, disputed it was the proper party to the claim of design right infringement, which was

unexpected given it had engaged substantively with the claim on the basis it was. It claimed that the parent company, La Redoute SAS was the proper party to the claim and that it was not involved in the design of its products and that it simply imports and sells La Redoute SAS products,’ says Kelly Hudson, McDaniels Law director. ‘Shortly before our response to the defence and counterclaim was due to be filed, La Redoute made a Part 36 offer to settle, and we decided to accept this. It undertook not to sell the infringing products and to pay us damages. Under Part 36 rules, it is also liable for some of our costs in line with the court rules which have now also been decided following an application to have them assessed at the IPEC. I am pleased that this was a successful outcome, reiterating our absolute determination to always enforce our IP rights,’ says Nick Green, Teemo md. The company also took action against French company Alice’s Garden (now Sweeek) over its Yale collection. ‘Following some pre-action correspondence, a settlement was reached within two and a half months of the initial correspondence, and resulted in a payment of settlement and signed undertakings from Alice’s Garden. I am delighted that our reputation, in that we will not tolerate infringement of our IP rights, is growing and we will not hesitate to take legal action against any company who attempts to erode our market share through copying,’ says Green.

Ikea buys another shopping centre to create store Ikea is set to open a branch in Brighton after its parent company agreed to buy the city’s main shopping centre. Ingka Group confirmed it will buy the Churchill Square centre and will site the Ikea store in the space previously occupied by Debenhams, a repeat of what the group did at the Kings Mall in

Hammersmith, West London in 2021. The group had planned to open an out-of-town store in the nearby Sussex town of Lancing but abandoned the development. Brighton’s Churchill Square ‘fits perfectly into our global expansion strategy, allowing us to transform a traditional

retail space to a meeting place that is much more than just a place to shop. We’ve proven in Hammersmith that traditional shopping centres have a strong future when they are adapted and constantly evolving to match the real needs of local communities,’ says Cindy Andersen, Ingka Centres md.

SCP opens Rug Room London furniture and flooring retailer SCP has created a dedicated rug area at its Shoreditch store. The company has converted a former office space of about 260sqft in the basement to create the area. About 50 rugs are displayed on racks and plinths.

Kath reveals insights in Jan Kath – The Book Rug company Jan Kath has published a book chronicling almost three decades of its founder, offering insights into Kath’s creative processes and revealing his sources of inspiration. On a road trip through India and Nepal, the young man in his early twenties coincidentally met an old friend of his father. This encounter connected him with deep family roots and back to the world of rugs. Today, Kath is one of the internationally most renowned designers of hand-knotted rugs. His creations are influential in style and are considered to be the ‘antiques of tomorrow.’ The 522-page coffee table book showcases more than 30 collections. Photographer Santosh Chhantyal spent many months documenting the process of creating a rug, resulting in stunning images of remote villages in the Himalayas where materials like Highland wool and Nepalese nettle are gathered, and facilities in Nepal where Kath's designs are translated into textiles, knot by knot.

Interiors Monthly December 2023

‍YOUR 2024

SUCCESS STRATEGY? 5 ESSENTIAL WAYS TO MAXIMISE YOUR SALES AND PROFIT ● ADVERTISING – Most advertising does not work very well. If yours isn’t, don’t blame the media channel, blame the message. Re-write your advertising in a benefitsorientated-style. Call Greenwood for effective copywriting know-how.

Don’t get caught napping - buy from approved NBF members Our manufacturer members are independently audited to ensure, as far as possible, that they’re complying with regulations on flammability, cleanliness of fillings & trade descriptions. Amongst other areas, we also look at their health & safety compliance, product safety incident plans and where obligated, their modern slavery reporting. Compliance with all these areas of a business comes at a cost. So, if you’re offered mattresses or beds at prices that seem too good to be true – ask yourself why that is? We’re also leading the way on sustainability, launching the “Pledge for Our Planet”, asking companies in the bed industry to take steps in unison that will address global environmental damage.

To find out more about how the NBF can help you and for a list of NBF Approved members, visit BEDFED.ORG.UK

● PRODUCTS – Be ruthless with your precious floor space. If a product or collection isn’t performing after being given a fair trial, then clear it and replace it with a faster selling line. Test and measure the selling potential of all your products in a Greenwood Sale. ● SELLING SKILLS – Get good at selling. Most retailers don’t employ a proper retail sales process for big ticket goods. The most successful ones do. Invest time and money in quality sales know-how. Call Greenwood to arrange an effective sales training course for your team. ● COMPETITION – Check your competition to find out what they are offering. Avoid all-out price wars. Outperform your competition on the most relevant beneficial points including choice, quality, value and service. Call Greenwood to mystery shop your competitors. ● PROMOTION – Promote your business effectively. Every good retailer from Aldi to Harrod’s does. Consider using a Greenwood Sales Promotion to increase sales, turn stock into cash and win future market share, while protecting your profit at the same time. Call Greenwood!

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT GREENWOOD SALES... Take a look at our website or call us now on 07771 700247, or, send an e mail enquiry, and we’ll gladly call you to discuss the exciting possibilities we can offer you, without obligation. We are now booking Greenwood Sales right across the UK and Ireland from spring 2024 on a first come first served basis. Book your sales event early to guarantee exclusivity for your business.

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Having AW as a main supplier for our business has just got even better, with their new 3-5 days cut length delivery service and collections, we can only see our partnership growing more. This is a huge step up in service and gives us confidence to show AW products for any order knowing it will be here on time! Khalid Mahmood - Foleshill Carpets, Coventry

With the new improved delivery, portfolio of products and cuts arriving in 3 - 5 days, staff feel very confident ordering. I can only see our business together continue to grow. Lee Thomson - Direct Carpets, Torquay

It’s a great development and puts AW in a much stronger position with the 3/5 days delivery. Our last delivery was delivered on the 4th day. Darren Ball - DT Flooring, Cheshunt

We are happy to say that AW have turned things around massively and are back on form! We have got so much confidence in the company going forward with the improved delivery service. We are looking forward to the customer portal starting up and getting that additional information to make us more efficient. Tom Beard - Tatlow Carpets & Flooring, Lichfield We have always been supportive of Associated Weavers mainly down the vast product portfolio on offer. They have continued to innovate over the years especially with nylon with the likes of Sedna, iSense and Vivendi collections. Now with an improved delivery lead time this is now a huge benefit with the service matching the products. Stuart Davidson - Carpets 4 less, Bedford

“We are immensely grateful to Associated Weavers for their exceptional improvements in deliveries. Their improved service has significantly boosted our business growth and customer satisfaction. It’s a partnership that makes a real difference. Gurwin - New Golden Carpets, Feltham

I ordered 2 cuts of Sirius on a Friday afternoon and they were delivered Tuesday morning. It has made myself and my staff more confident to do more business with Associated Weavers Matt Naden - Bramley Carpets, Stockport

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IMPROVED DELIVERY SERVICE now cut-length deliveries within 3-5 days

7/11/2023 11:41:17

NEWS

Back in the black at Bensons A further quarter of solid sales growth has seen Bensons for Beds end its financial year with sales almost 10% higher. The chain saw fourth-quarter like-for-like growth of 7%, following increases of 7%, 9% and 8%, ending the year to 31 September up 7%. The chain also returned to profitability, although details were not disclosed. ‘The past 12 months has been tough for the retail sector as the cost of living continues to hit consumer spending hard. We planned for this, and alongside last year’s acquisition of eveSleep, this has put us in a strong position to offer a breadth of quality sleep solutions at affordable prices – delivering an even more profitable business through consistent and steady growth,’ says Nick Collard, Bensons for Beds ceo. ‘Going into next year we are conscious that the market will remain challenging, particularly for big-ticket items, but as a business we have confidence that what we are doing is delivering positive results. Bensons is a great brand and we have a massive opportunity to transform it into the

Selfridges move for Arket Furniture, flooring and accessories brand Arket has opened its first concession. The Finnish company opened a 893sqft space at Selfridges, London on 24 November. The third-floor area combines the brand’s signature monochrome palette of soft greys with custom-made tables and objects in terrazzo stone. The lounge area includes restored pieces in a collaboration with Artek 2nd cycle, the platform for pre-loved Artek lighting, furniture and other everyday items. ‘Since the launch of Arket in London in 2017, on Regent Street and in Covent Garden, the city has a special place in our hearts. We are honoured to partner with such an iconic institution as Selfridges and look forward to inviting customers to a new Arket experience,’ says Arket’s Tallinn, Estonia store Pernilla Wohlfahrt, Arket md.

Major management changes Two of the country’s largest upholstery producers have seen significant senior management changes. At TCM Living, parent of Alstons, Alexander & James, AMX Design and Ashley Manor, Andy Kennaugh has been promoted from Alstons md to group ceo. He succeeds

Jonathan Fearn. At Belfield, owner of Westbridge, Tetrad, Belfield Home & Leisure and Clinchplain, Rachael Nevins has stepped down as ceo for personal reasons after joining in October 2022. Tom Prestwich, who joined as coo in April, becomes group md.

Interiors Monthly December 2023

The new Yeovil store

ultimate sleep solution specialist that caters to today’s and tomorrow’s consumer. In 2024, we will continue to focus on the areas that are in our control, building our reputation for delivering great value through excellent customer experience and stylish, quality products at affordable prices, matched to all types of sleepers.’

Second prosecution for Exclusive Oriental Classics A furniture etailer has been prosecuted over health and safety failings for a second time. Exclusive Oriental Classics and director Kian Hoo Tay were fined £67,145 and ordered to pay £10,000 in costs after pleading guilty at a hearing at Luton Magistrates Court, after an employee fell from racking at its Bedford warehouse last year. On 1 March 2022, environmental health officers at Bedford Borough Council were alerted to a potentially life-threating workplace accident at the warehouse. An employee had fallen approximately 3m from racking, sustaining lifethreatening injuries. Investigations identified multiple health and safety failings and significant failures to manage risks to the health and safety of employees. In particular

failings were identified in relation to the installation, inspection, maintenance and use of the racking. Failures were also identified in the inspection and maintenance of a forklift truck used at the warehouse. Employees had also been directed to undertake work at height without adequate safety measures being implemented to protect their safety. The court found that the company had failed to implement recognised industry standards and allowed these breaches to persist over a significant period of time. The Health and Safety Executive prosecuted the company in October 2022 over the accident after it emerged that the company had failed to renew its Employers’ Liability (Compulsory) Insurance, which expired in May 2021.

WOW 9. – 12. 1. 2024

FRANKFURT/MAIN

Carpets and rugs at heimtextil! JOIN THE WOW: Forge international contacts in the new Carpets & Rugs segment at the world’s largest and most influential trade fair for home and contract textiles. Discover a diverse and fascinating range of products from all over the world – from hand-woven and machine-made carpets to woven rugs, runners, bedside rugs and doormats. Don’t miss out: Subscribe to the Heimtextil

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NEW PRODUCTS

1 Destiny is the first roll-only carpet from Abingdon Flooring’s Love Story family of ultra-soft carpets. The carpet is available in 4m rolls in eight colours and has a 10-year wear warranty. Made from solution-dyed polyester, Destiny offers excellent stain resistance and bleach cleanability. Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk 2 Quick-Step’s Alpha Vinyl comes with Hydroseal and Uniclic (Unizip for herringbone patterns) technologies for a 100% waterproof luxury vinyl floor. Marks and spills don’t cling to the surface of Alpha Vinyl, and with excellent stain-resistance, cleaning has never been so easy. The floor is also fast to

install and with its integrated underlay, it can be laid across a range of subfloor conditions and types. Visit: www.quick-step.co.uk 3 Moduleo’s Roots is defined by trendshaping flooring looks that appeal to design-savvy homeowners wanting to create beautiful interiors that reflect their unique style, and is backed by an elevated buying journey, with online inspiration and the shop-in-shop concept bringing consumers into Moduleo’s world. Visit: www.moduleo.co.uk 4 With a solid, yet elegant appearance, the tabletop of Thonet’s 1545 appears to float above the aluminium or wooden

legs, which taper slightly towards the floor. Although primarily designed for living spaces, modern media technology and cables can also be discretely integrated into the tabletop if necessary to add a ‘working’ capacity. Visit: www.thonet.de 5 The 100% recyclable Craft Collection from Ecorugs by Louis De Poortere brings striking geometric rug designs that echo the quality of papercut and linocut art techniques. Each jacquard flatweave design is made in Belgium in a range of colours and sizes, as well as a circular form, and each is hand finished to guarantee quality. Visit: www.louisdepoortere.com 

Interiors Monthly December 2023

Merry Christmas

& Happy New Year

from

myvictoria.co.uk Natureborn - Pure & Simple, Stile

NEW PRODUCTS

6 Comfytex Deluxe Pro is one of LeoLine’s Luxatex-backed floors. Fast to install with no need for gluing down, it’s the ideal floor for fast room makeovers. The 19 Comfytex Deluxe Pro decors can be installed without glue in areas up to 36sqm: large enough for most family rooms. Visit: www.leoline.co.uk

7 Versatility is at the heart of MisuraEmme’s Puzzle, with the option for custom sizes and a selection of finishes and crosspieces to compose your own geometric design. Puzzle is the answer to the needs of those who seek a balance between aesthetics and practicality. Visit: www.misuraemme.it 8 With the independent service that’s the hallmark of every depot, Floorwise offers retailers, installers and contractors the best in flexibility. Each Floorwise depot prides itself on understanding its customers and their needs and is able to respond to the unique challenges of business in the area it covers, while utilising the group’s buying power. Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk 9 With the beautiful natural texture of cork, Granorte’s WALLTrend panel collection comes in 16 designs ready to transform interiors. From the classic look of Grain to the vibrant Twist, rustic Country and organic Primus, the collection is full of unique looks that will lift interiors out of the ordinary and bring the magic touch of cork to walls. Visit: www.granorte.pt 10 The Quick-Step Master Installer programme from the Academy for Excellence in Flooring gives consumers trust in their purchase, backed by a lifetime warranty on workmanship – and gives Master Installers a regular stream of genuine enquiries from customers who appreciate the advantages of using a highly skilled professional. Visit: www.quick-step-academy.co.uk

Interiors Monthly December 2023

Season’s Greetings to all our Members & Suppliers

We thank you for your on-going support, and wish you all a happy and prosperous 2024. Find out why we’re the largest flooring buying group in the UK,

info@smg-group.co.uk

0118 932 3832

www.smg-group.co.uk

EXPERIENCES

Cutting things fine Last-minute orders can bring unexpected benefits, says our correspondent THE RETAILER Fludes Carpets For those of you retailers who are in any doubt, Christmas is not far away. It seems that the late rush could be exceedingly late this year. The run-up to Christmas has been the same for a while now, in terms of low numbers of customers and sales. Last year, on Monday 12 December, we had a customer looking to carpet a house that he was due to move into on Monday 19 December. He was very surprised when we said that, providing the carpet he chose was in stock, we could measure up the following day, ring him with the quote and if he was happy with it we would get the carpet in on Thursday and fit it on Friday 16 December. Okay, he said, let’s do it. He chose the carpet and our supplier had it in stock and could deliver on the Thursday. We measured the house and priced the job at 10% off, which was the promotion we would be offering after Christmas. We booked the fitters, emailed the quote and

then called the customer. The next half-hour was like the Spanish Inquisition. Every item was questioned. Why did he need so much carpet? The estate agent’s plan showed that the main room was 20sqm and we had quoted for 24sqm. We explained that the shape of the room meant we needed more carpet to avoid a join. He then told us we hadn’t quoted for enough underlay, and we explained we’d been able to make savings on the underlay by planning it tightly. ‘Okay,’ he said. ‘I’ve just got one more quote to get and I will ring you back tomorrow morning. I said that the order had to be with us by noon to allow us to get the delivery in on time. The next day the customer was waiting on the doorstep. ‘I will order this carpet if you take £300 off the price,’ he said. I told him we could not improve the price by £300 but we would meet him in the middle and reduce the cost by £150. ‘Right then,’ he said, ‘I will buy it online and you can fit it for me. Can you give me the plans so that I can order the right sizes?’ I explained we did not fit carpet we had

not sold. He disappeared out the door. About 11.45am he returned, looking crestfallen. ‘Can you still get the carpet on time?’ I made the call to the supplier and the goods were available. To be honest, part of me wished they’d been out of stock – but an order is an order no matter how awkward the customer. On Thursday afternoon the carpets arrived and on Friday the carpet was fitted. We shut up for Christmas and went home to celebrate. A couple of days after Christmas, Mr Awkward came in and said: ‘Thanks for arranging my carpets. I know I was a bit late in ordering. The house is my mother’s new home, so I wanted everything to be just right, which it was. It looks great and your fitters did a brilliant job. They cleaned and tidied and took away all the offcuts.’ He then said: ‘I am moving house myself in eight weeks’ time so I had better get the carpets sorted quickly. Can you go round and measure up for me?’ Funny how things work out. Andy Laird, Fludes Carpets owner Expect some surprises in the run-up to Christmas

Interiors Monthly December 2023

Interiors. Design. Style. Interiors. Design. Style. Interiors. Design. Style. Interiors. Design. Style. Interiors. Design. Style. Interiors. Design. Style. Interiors. Design. Style. Interiors. Design. Style. Interiors. Design.

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Future problems

Installation at the wrong time will only lead to complaints from new residents ‘Christmas is coming! We need you on site as soon as possible.’ Rav’s tone was urgent. ‘We’ve got to get this job finished so we’re carrying on installing flooring, but the problem is still happening.’ I arranged to visit two days later. As I turned into the road a scaffolder’s lorry was offloading poles and an erector was busy adding a level to the scaffold. I drove around and squeezed my car into a tiny space between the builders’ vans and lorries that were occupying most of the area within a quarter of a mile. The ‘newly built flats’ I had been asked to take a look at were still a building site. As I parked, another cement lorry did a seven-point turn to reverse into the site. I lugged my inspection kit to the site gate. I took some photos of the state of the building and the site conditions. I called Rav – his ‘I’ll be straight down’ took five minutes and he welcomed me with the words: ‘Haven’t you brought any

It was still a building site…

Interiors Monthly December 2023

PPE?’ Fortunately he mistook my shoes for safety boots – deliberately, of course – and I was able to borrow a hi-viz and hard hat so I could be taken to the site office for my induction and then on to inspect the flats. There was no heating and no lighting. The lift was not operational and the stairs were occupied by various tradespeople fitting wiring, dry-lining plasterboard or fixing door linings and architraves. On every floor all I could see was corrugated sheeting protecting the flooring, which had already been laid. I realised four other people were trailing me as Rav led me onwards over plywood-plank bridges, under Acrow props and past stacks of building materials waiting to be installed. The inspection didn’t take long. British Standards and manufacturers’ installation instructions insist that a building is fully operational before flooring is installed.

That means it’s at a normal – live-in-able – temperature and humidity level and that there won’t be severe drops in temperature or changes in humidity overnight. It was a mild November day and the temperature was just over 16degC. But the ‘dewpoint’ – the temperature at which condensation would form – was 9degC, and night-time temperatures were already below this. The cause of the swelling joints was clear and I needed only enough time to get some pictures and moisture readings so I could prepare my report. The need for haste was pressed on me several times during my visit. When I declined to comment on what I had found it was mentioned again, as if I should be pressured into a hasty decision or unguarded comment simply to suit their timetable. As I left the site I noticed the external sales board on the site hoarding. ‘Available Spring 2023’ it said. The build was clearly more than six months overdue and the floor-layers had fallen for the builder’s demands that the work had to be done at all costs, even though the delays were nothing to do with them. The cost was now going to be considerably higher, and the work would take much longer, because the flooring would need to be replaced. My report was sent over within a couple of days. I suspect the other works are still unfinished and the site is still not ready for flooring to go down, but I also expect my comments will be disregarded and the new owners who will have waited over a year for completion will be raising complaints about the flooring in a few months. Happy Christmas, everyone! Visit: www.richard-renouf.com Richard Renouf is an independent furnishings consultant

For Every Home The UK’s Best Rug Supplier T: 01782 747 713 E: info@thinkrugs.co.uk www.thinkrugs.co.uk

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SUSTAINABILITY

More than 6million mattresses are disposed of every year, according to NBF data

Circular

Ikea has introduced mattress recycling and reuse schemes Ikea has launched a mattress removal and recycling scheme, giving UK customers a convenient and sustainable way to recycle their old mattresses, ensuring that valuable raw materials are fed back into the economy and reused. ‘Our customers can book a collection for their mattresses, either online or in-store for £40 per item. Following collection, mattresses are transported to a dedicated recycling facility operated by Ikea partner, The Furniture Recycling Group. TFR Group diverts 100% of the mattresses it collects or receives from landfill by deconstructing them manually using specialist cutting tools, enabling the materials to be separated into their component parts, which are then sanitised for onward processing,’ says Greg Lucas, Ikea UK sustainability manager. Since 2012, TFR Group has recycled more than 3.5million mattresses, with 30,000 tonnes of material flowing back into the economy.

Interiors Monthly December 2023

In 2022, RetourMatras, a Netherlandsbased mattress recycling company that is co-owned by Ingka Investments – the investment arm of Ingka Group, the largest Ikea retailer – acquired TFR Group. This investment has enabled

the business to triple its dismantling capacity, which now stands at 1.5million mattresses per year. ‘Beyond recycling, we also plan to use TFR Group’s mattress rejuvenation service in the near future, which 

Greg Lucas

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SUSTAINABILITY

The Furniture Recycling Group can recycle 1.5million mattresses a year

involves a bespoke sanitation process for returned mattresses. This ensures returned mattresses do not go to waste and instead are cleaned to NHS standards and verified to be of as-new quality via robust quality assurance checks – ready for resale at discounted prices or redistribution to support local communities. ‘The launch of the new mattress removal and recycling scheme strengthens our existing sustainable services offering. This includes in-store areas, now known as “Re-shop and Re-use”, where we can recycle and give products a second life, offering free spare parts and an attractive range of affordable goods including discontinued items, ex-display articles and pre-loved furniture – traded back to us through the BuyBack & Resell service. BuyBack & Resell encourages customers to sell back eligible pre-loved goods in exchange for store credit, so these pieces can then be purchased by a new customer. ‘We’re very excited to have our new mattress removal and recycling service up and running in collaboration with TFR Group, which is transforming old mattresses that would otherwise go to waste back into valuable raw materials that can be used again and again. Partnerships like this are crucial to

Interiors Monthly December 2023

Mattresses are deconstructed manually

overcoming long-term environmental challenges like mattress waste and advancing our People and Planet Positive journey, while supporting as many customers as possible in living a more sustainable life at home. ‘A cumbersome and bulky waste stream, mattresses are manufactured using up to around 19 different materials, making them notoriously difficult to recycle. In the UK, around 6.4million mattresses were disposed of in 2020, according to the National Bed Federation, with the majority ending up in landfill. This represents thousands of tonnes of waste – which is taking up space in refuse centres nationwide and damaging the environment. Recycling a mattress also saves 76kg of CO2 emissions, as compared to incineration. This means that if the mattresses disposed of in the UK were recycled, more than 485million

Recycling a mattress saves 76kg of CO2 emissions

kg of CO2 emissions could be saved.’ Alongside expanding recycling capacity in the UK, RetourMatras and TFR Group are working together to make mattress recycling more efficient by optimising transport, dismantling and material recoverability – ultimately working towards a fully circular mattress value chain. ‘We are proud to support Ikea UK, helping to further strengthen the business’s sustainability offering through our mattress removal and recycling service. By stripping each mattress back and recycling its component parts, we are together able to contribute to the circular economy and ensure that a bulky waste stream is diverted from landfill, delivering long-term environmental benefits,’ says Nick Oettinger, TFR Group ceo and founder. Visit: www.ikea.com

To find out more about how the NBF can help you and for a list of NBF Approved members, visit BEDFED.ORG.UK

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RETAIL

Marshalling service

Norman Marshall

1.30am rises saw a move into flooring and beds Marshall’s has been selling flooring, then furniture and then beds in Worthing, West Sussex since 1991, when Norman Marshall bought his own store after working for a multiple and joint-ventures. What began as a former bank has grown as neighbouring properties were acquired. And competition is right next door. ‘We started with just this small shop here (what forms the second of the

Interiors Monthly December 2023

store’s spaces). It used to be Lloyds Bank, and we still have the safe in there, and the walk-in strongroom. We started with virtually nothing, just a few samples and a few remnants. With good customer service and good deals, and the reason that local competition couldn’t do a lot of business with every supplier, we increased our offer and then joined SMG so I could get access to pretty much anything I want,’ says Marshall.

‘The shop next door became empty and that’s when we went from strength to strength as we could stock roll carpet. Suddenly reps were interested if I wanted to buy six rolls. We had a very good relationship with the Lano rep and that made us even stronger, and other big Belgian manufacturers. Vinyl was really good – we’ve still got some down from 30 year ago. If you bought rolls it was really cheap. Cormar started 

RETAIL

The beds showroom was the most recent property acquisition

supplying us with rolls, rebranded under the SMG label (something long replaced with Cormar POS). The shop on the other side – a pharmacists – came up so I bought that, which now has the LVT showroom in. And at virtually the same time the shop on the other side came up – which freaked me out a bit, so I thought I’d better have that. As there is a flooring store next door I didn’t want to put flooring into it, so that’s how the beds story started. ‘Due to the Internet and how retailing has changed, the furniture side dropped off. It wasn’t anything to do with price – we kept an eye on prices – it’s the whole way people buy things that has changed. People would come to look, but say we’ll think about it and two weeks later buy it online at 9pm from a retailer in Scotland

Marshall’s is an SMG member

Interiors Monthly December 2023

for the same price or possibly £100 more because they couldn’t be bothered to come out the house again. So, three years ago we put in the LVT showroom with the premium carpets and mainly man-made in the others which has worked really well. ‘All the buildings are Victorian, and there were alleys between them so we’ve had to do a lot of work expanding them including adding the warehousing.’ The day to day management of the store is handled by Dan Kelly, Matt Foan and Jason Beck. Marshall’s route into flooring came via a dislike of early mornings. His father was a greengrocer in Bognor, so trips to a London market meant a 1.30am start. ‘I got really fed up what that, two or three days a week you were getting up at

1.30am and you had to start at 7am anyway even if you weren’t going to the market, and you’d go to nightclubs and fall asleep: it wasn’t a job for a young person unless you didn’t want to go out, and I got quite fed up with it. My dad died when I was young and I had a neighbour who became a senior manager at Harris Carpets, he was like my dad. When I was 18 I went and saw him and said “Do you think I’d be any good selling carpets?” He said only if there is a job available – and there was at Commercial Road, Portsmouth. This was really exciting for me as there was lots going on. Basically, I’m a Londoner, I was born in London and I like the vibrancy of London, Portsmouth and Brighton.’ Marshall moved to other stores, becoming assistant manager at 

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RETAIL

There is a separate showroom for LVT and premium flooring

The store combines, flooring, beds and bedroom

20 and manager at 21, but being ‘a workaholic wanting to be busy, busy, busy’ left to set up on his own two years later. A four-store chain in the south of England was the result, which he later sold to his business partner. A year in financial services – ‘which bored me senseless’ – saw a return to Commercial Road selling remnants and low-cost carpets (selling samples as doormats was the top-seller). Lloyds Bank’s closures included Bognor, which he missed out on and the estate agent offered him the Worthing branch – in the same street his father had previously had a store. Some things are meant to be. ‘We’ve built the business on customer service. A lot of our customers are three

Interiors Monthly December 2023

or four generations that come here as we looked after the first generation. It’s almost like a family. People knew if they came to us, they would get the right price and the service. Now getting service is very difficult: I’m trying get things done like a fire alarm or new shop front and you have to ring them for the price. We pride ourselves that generally we’ll provide the quote, written out properly, in 48 hours. One of the most important things is to not think is any customer is not good enough or not going to spend enough. I want them to spend £60 a sqm, £100 would be better but if they only have £8 I don’t want to send them out without selling them something. We’ve just put some cheap carpets in. Everybody is just as important

and we try to cover the whole range.’ Average sales tend to be between £20£40 per sqm, with 80% of customers being in a 15mile radius. Despite having a flooring store next door, Marshall says it is rare that shoppers do price comparisons – the two are in different buying groups: ‘We promote the actual real name as we sell it for a really good price.’ On beds, Marshall’s concentrates on Dura Beds and Vogue Beds. ‘We concentrate on value for money. Our beds are not expensive. Our dearest bed is probably £2,000. That same bed would be priced elsewhere in the town at £3,000.’ The focus on service and value across the interiors sectors has delivered, and given Marshall less very early wake-ups. Visit: www.marshallsuk.com

Essentials BY MILLENNIUM

Click & Dryback LVT available now. To request a copy of our LVT brochure email marketing@baltafloorcoverings.co.uk Or give us a call on 03303 411 410 Essentials is the registered trademark for Millennium Weavers LVT, a subsidiary brand of Balta Floor Coverings UK Ltd.

BEDS AND BEDROOM

Centurial success

Centurial 01

everyone. By focusing on high quality sustainable materials within the mattress, the Centurial can be 100% recycled at the end of its life to avoid landfill. Each mattress features a chemicalfree Damask cover to provide a cleaner sleeping environment, with Sleepeezee’s ‘S’ embossed into the tick. As well as rows of genuine hand side-stitching – in homage to the traditional techniques used in mattress making when Sleepeezee was first established – the mattress is finished off with high quality

gold embroidery of the Sleepeezee brand and Royal Warrant, alongside the special 100-year logo markings to commemorate the occasion. A dedicated POS package is available for the new collection demonstrating the luxurious natural fillings that go into this collection for consumers. Sleepeezee will be planning a number of exciting activities and events during the next 12 months in celebration of its centenary. Visit: www.sleepeezee.com

Natural fillings are at the heart of Sleepeezee’s newest collection Sleepeezee’s new Centurial collection, named and designed in celebration of the company’s upcoming 100-year birthday and recently launched at the Bed Show, has received an incredibly positive response from retailers who have bought the range. Topping the collection, the Centurial 03 was named Bed Product of the Year at the Bed Industry Awards. Named to highlight Sleepeezee’s century of making handmade pocket spring beds, Centurial is made using 100% natural fillings including multiple layers of British wool, soft alpaca wool and Talalay latex, which are all hand layered and not glued. It features up to 7,000 individually pocketed springs, as well as firmer rows of springs on the sides of the mattress to further reinforce the support given and reduce any rolloff. Talalay latex is derived from the sap of the rubber tree, and each year these trees help convert over 90m tons of CO2 into oxygen, making this filling not only extremely comfortable and supportive but also planet friendly. Each model is made available in either a medium or a firmer tension, ensuring there is an ideal comfort feel for

Interiors Monthly December 2023

Centurial 02

A century of quality sleep

RUGS

Across the pond

Above, L-R: Jessica Jubelirer’s Selene and Vesta

US influences have crossed the Atlantic Architectural Digest selected eight leading emerging design studios from its past New American Voices honourees to create two exclusive rug designs each for the Ruggable x Architectural Digest collection. Known for the machinewashable functionality of its products, the company has also introduced a 7mm tufted version of the designs. Inspirations range from old craft techniques and textures to bold fashion brands with bright magnetic colours, as well as nature-inspired earth tones in a variety of original abstract designs. ‘At AD we understand the importance of supporting talent from the ground up, so we tapped eight interior design studios from our honourees to collaborate on the Ruggable x Architectural Digest

David Quarles’ Nerissa

Interiors Monthly December 2023

collection. Inspirations came from art, architecture, and nature – and the result is 16 beautiful floorcoverings in a range of styles,’ says Alison Levasseur, Architectural Digest interiors and garden editor. ‘We’ve been thrilled to work with Architectural Digest and the New American Voices designers and take this opportunity to bring a new flavour to our portfolio. Our design ethos is all about celebrating originality, feeling confident and bold with interior design, and empowering our customers in their personal taste. With the Ruggable x AD collection, our goal was to capture each designer’s unique aesthetic and showcase what extraordinary impact a rug can make in any space. It proves you can have a livable home that still

Quarles’ La Joie

embraces sophisticated design,’ says Emily Simmons, Ruggable creative director. Jessica Jubelirer’s Selene features a grid-like design, complemented by an unconventional chequered pattern and playful stripes. The warm neutrals, cinnamon brown, sage green, mustard yellow and taupe are accented by a soft oatmeal background. Her Vesta design fuses rich, natural motifs and vibrant patterns to showcase artisanal-styled artwork. The pinwheel-blocked design comes to life with alternating pops of taupe, sage, soft blue, blush pink and mustard on a warm neutral background. David Quarles’ Nerissa depicts a moonlit night at the edge of a lush forest, packing a punch with intricate details. Teal and gold hues are 

Christmas MERRY

AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR

FROM ALL AT ABINGDON FLOORING

Get in Touch

Panache

sales@abingdonflooring.co.uk www.abingdonflooring.co.uk 01274 655 694

RUGS

Above: Matt McKay’s Topo and (right) Maren

Above: Michael Hilal’s Monolith and (right) Mushroom Dreams

complemented by jewel greens and blues, and coral accents that pay homage to Quarles’ larger-than-life personality. His La Joie rug draws inspiration from artists such as Kehinde Wiley, Dali, Frida Kahlo and Basquiat and is a visual storytelling of the Garden of Eden. Its colourful display of figures, nature and animals weaves a folky, patchworked composition, exuding a joyful ambiance.

Matt McKay’s Topo offers calming beauty inspired by topography and photography of natural phenomena, such as snow-capped mountains and the flow of rivers through rocks. His Maren demands that you picture yourself in the rhythmic ebb and flow of the ocean, influenced by tides and the everchanging forces that shape them. Michael Hilal’s Monolith references

Alexis Tompkins and Leann Conquer of Chroma, with Dissolve

Interiors Monthly December 2023

Chroma’s Breakout

brutalist architecture, inspired by Louis Kahn’s Salk Institute and Lloyd Wright’s Prairie style. His Mushroom Dream combines inspirations from Eastern Asian Art Deco textiles, French Art Deco Kilim rugs and 1970s motifs, with silhouetted mushrooms on warm taupes and greys for a modern, luxurious look. Breakout, designed by Chroma (Alexis  Tompkins and Leann Conquer)

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RUGS

Above, L-R: Hema Persad’s Nisa and Ananda

Monet Masters and Tavia Forbes with Kasi

Forbes Masters’ Maha

layers high-contrast silhouettes with magnetic colours to embody a spirit of daring experimentation. Bold shapes, deep teal and bright chartreuse create a dynamic play on form and technique. Dissolve is a mix of modernised colour shifts, striking shapes and new-age composition. Inspired by hybridisation and intricate form, this blend of teal, purple and chartreuse transforms the space into a vibrant work of art. Hema Persad’s Nisa explores the moody side of Moroccan design, drawing on Beni Ourain Moroccan rugs, and features authentically organic line work and asymmetric patterns. Rustic earth tones against a dark charcoal background add warmth. Inspired by Moroccan textiles and architecture, Ananda features earthy tones, organic lines, irregular motifs and colour blocking. Soft warm neutrals with deep terracottas, ochres and pops of blue and red against a light cream background radiate a vibrant and playful energy.

Taking a modern approach to parquet patterns is Maha, by Forbes Masters (Tavia Forbes and Monet Masters). The bold, unconventional composition features organic inlays and dynamic

Interiors Monthly December 2023

Light and Dwell’s Molly Kidd and Aymee Kuhlman with Harvest Stripe Brown

plays on perspective, while the naturaltoned and olive-green design creates a statement that is both vivid and calming. Parquet also influences their Kasi: a cream background sets the stage for the bold yet organic charcoal shapes and structured motifs, with playful pops of blues and coppers. The Yates Check Brown Rug, by Light and Dwell (Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd), remixes classic elegance with a modern twist. Its chequered design boasts lush textures, while the natural imperfections add character to its structured appearance. The rich chocolate brown hues stand out against a sand background. The woven, jute-like material is made from up to 180 recycled plastic bottles per rug, recycled and virgin polyester, and polyurethane. The bordered pinstripe of their Harvest Stripe Brown Rug is accentuated by a bounty of woven textures. Visit: www.ruggable.co.uk

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CARPET Hampstead

Traditional and modern

Milano

Reducing environmental impact is key GoodWeave certified for the promise of ethical production that supports local communities, Riviera Home crafts natural carpets by hand with a conscious effort to minimise environmental impact. For nearly four decades, Riviera Home has been making carpets in India’s

The company has been adopting a low-impact approach to production for nearly 40 years

Interiors Monthly December 2023

historic city of Panipat, known as ‘the city of handcrafted weavers’. Using traditional techniques, its carpets are still made by hand using natural yarns, including undyed wools, bamboo and Tencel, which is made with wood pulp from sustainable forests. GoodWeave International is a nonprofit organisation and the leading institution working to stop child labour in global supply chains. As a GoodWeave business, every handmade carpet from Riviera Home is produced without child labour and supports education and decent work for communities. ‘We’ve been hand-making carpets using natural yarns since we were founded, so we’ve been adopting a low-impact approach to production for nearly 40 years. Still as a family-run company, we’re conscious that the way we make carpets does not just have minimal impact on the climate and the environment, but it also the supports the communities around us. Our GoodWeave certification is an example of this in action, as it’s our promise to

produce carpets fairly and ethically, to support education and ensure that no child is forced into labour,’ says Kuldeep Singla, Riviera Home UK chairman. While Riviera Home’s by-hand approach to making carpets is the antithesis of mass production, it still draws on modern practices to lower its environmental impact, such as only using Oeko-Tex approved chemicals; generating 20% of its electricity from its own solar field, and conserving water through its own treatment and recycling plant. ‘While our ways of craft may be traditional and passed down through generations of families, it doesn’t mean we can’t look to modern innovations to reduce the impact of what we’re doing. It’s important to us that our carpets are not just considered for their fine quality, but also because they offer a better way of making carpets through a lower environmental footprint,’ says Richard Moore, Riviera Home UK sales and marketing director. Visit: www.rivierahomeuk.co.uk

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Buyers’ guide

BUYERS’ GUIDE

A fresh take How well do you really know your carpets? What’s the difference between a Saxony cut-pile and a freize? How long is shag pile? And exactly how is a carpet manufactured? Well over 90% of carpet is tufted, where yarn (man-made or natural) is inserted into the primary backing fabric to create loops or tufts, which may be left or cut. The underside is given a strong adhesive coating to hold it all in place and a second backing is attached for extra strength. This can then be used to create a variety of carpet styles. Twist is the most common cut-pile carpet, with the yarn tightly twisted and heat-set to retain the twist, producing a textured finish that’s very suitable for plain carpets. Saxony cut-piles also have heat-set twisted yarns but the tips are far more distinct for a sophisticated finish. As

Interiors Monthly December 2023

they show vacuuming marks and footprints they have traditionally been recommended for rooms that receive less usage, although those with more texture variations are more versatile. Freize carpets are akin to Saxony but the yarns are even more tightly twisted, creating a dense, low pile surface with a coarser texture. Freize styles are particularly suited to areas of high footfall thanks to their durability – they tend not to show footprints or dirt. Velvets are the glamour player of cut pile, with a sheared pile to create a smooth finish. Unlike the three previous carpets, the yarns have little twist so they blend more, enhancing their luxurious look. The downside is that as the yarns lie in different directions, they reflect light unevenly, creating the impression of shading.

The loose and casual texture of shag pile carpet can see pile heights of up to 5cm (2in). The downside of the longer pile length is it’s prone to flattening. Looped Berber carpets resemble the bulky, handmade wool coverings made by the North African tribes after which they’re named. The loops are made from thick yarn for comfort underfoot. Level loop carpets have loops of uniform height which create a natural appearance and provide durability. The tight structure is good at hiding marks. Multi-level loop carpet scores well for high footfall areas, with the random loop heights adept at disguising stains. A combination of cut and loop pile, meanwhile, allows for the creation of a variety of textures and patterns. These carpets are ideal for well-used rooms as they excel at hiding marks.

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BUYERS’ GUIDE

ABINGDON FLOORING

BALTA

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 their quality. It has always committed to an ongoing testing cycle. Along with top quality materials, this means its carpets remain at the very forefront of performance.

Balta is back – better and stronger, providing 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 the ever-popular Stainsafe collection, it ensures customers can offer carpet that meets the needs of today’s homes. Under ownership of Victoria plc, Balta further improves the long-held reputation for superior service without compromising value throughout its carpet collections. Now able to benefit from high levels of UK stock and nationwide distribution through the Alliance network, Balta ensures faster delivery and closer proximity for cuts and rolls.

Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

Visit: www.balta-carpets.com

BROCKWAY

CONDOR CARPETS

New from Grosvenor Wilton comes an exclusive collection of premium quality, design-led wool carpets that stand out for all the right reasons. The collection marries the best of traditional British craftsmanship with striking colours, patterns and textures. The Grosvenor Wilton Studio has styled this coordinating designer collection that’s perfect for fashion-conscious, design-savvy consumers. Featuring eye-catching stripes, zigzags, sumptuous rich plains and textures with an edge. The complementary carpet shades allow you to mix and match across the ranges to create a cohesive look.

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 2024.

www.grosvenorwilton.co.uk

Visit: www.condor-group.eu

Interiors Monthly December 2023

Lakeland Herdick

Naturals by Brockway® This carefully curated selection of styles marries the best of traditional British design and craftsmanship with the comfort and practicality of wool. Beachcomber, Galloway, Padstow, Rare Breeds, Helvellyn and the iconic Lakeland Herdwick are all part of this collection.

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BUYERS’ GUIDE

CORMAR

HUGH MACKAY

Award-winning British carpet manufacturer Cormar Carpet Company has expanded its easy-clean collection with Kingston, a value-orientated, 1/10th gauge carpet, offering improved pile density and performance. Made with 100% Excellon polypropylene and available in 4m and 5m widths, this exciting new range offers a strong palette of 15 popular plain and heather shades. Durable and resilient, Kingston comes with a 10-year stain and wear warranty, providing the perfect hard-wearing solution for busy homes.

Award-winning manufacturer Hugh Mackay has been at the forefront of the industry for more than 120 years and prides itself on quality and innovation. With premium wool collections in its offering, such as the latest Deco Collection and Natural Origins, alongside the upcoming soft-touch Finesse collection from Q by Hugh, the portfolio is full of statement designs and textures. With the custom design Infinity Axminster service, consumers can design their own bespoke carpet, or customise an existing archived design, for a minimum of only 20sqm, produced in eight weeks and at an affordable price.

Visit: portal.cormarcarpets.co.uk www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

Visit: www.hughmackay.co.uk

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LANO

VICTORIA CARPETS

Since 1929 Lano has been in carpet manufacturing. With the ability to produce broadloom carpet, rugs and artificial grass, Lano’s product offering extends to include a spectrum of Axminster woven carpets, as well as tufted floor coverings, designed to provide solutions for both residential and hospitality markets. Lano’s reputation for unique quality and top design has been built on an integrated production system that allows it to control quality precisely and completely at each stage of production and delivery. It is proud in 2023 to receive an innovation award for its new recyclable concept Enso. Look out for more exciting developments during 2024.

Victoria Carpets prides itself on quality, innovation and style. Each range brings something new and fresh to the market, which is why the company continues to create demand. Any new products 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 through its value proposition, luxury offering or colour and design, and each range is available on dedicated POS.

Visit: www.lano.com

Interiors Monthly December 2023

Visit: www.myvictoria.co.uk

BUYERS’ GUIDE

Just right As the fairytale heroine discovered, beds can be too soft, too firm or they can be perfect… Comfort, as a sleepy Goldilocks discovered, is very subjective. Some of us like the sensation of being cocooned in a bed, perhaps under a weighted blanket. Others prefer just a sheet and the blast of night air from an open window. Back sleepers may want a firmer mattress than those who sleep on their side. And we may not have the same requirement as our sleep partner. Most mattress manufacturers offer firm, medium and soft options, but there is no industry standard to compare firmness ratings – it’s a matter of trying them out. Correct support depends on the sleeper’s 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. To check if a bed is too soft, too hard or just right, lie flat and slide your hand into the hollow of your back. If your hand slides in too easily, the bed may be too hard for you, which will lead to pressure on your hips and shoulders. If it’s a struggle to slide your hand under your back, the bed is probably too soft. If you can move your hand with only a little resistance, the bed may be just right. That’s only the first hurdle. Now to decide on construction. The majority of mattresses in the UK have spring interiors providing the core support. Variables such as the number of springs, their height, the thickness (gauge) of the wire and the number of coils dictate the tension, feel and weight distribution of the mattress. Mattresses 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 construction. 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 the body’s contours and helping to eliminate roll-together. Mini spring mattresses use even smaller springs – under an inch – 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.

In terms of non-spring mattresses, the main options available are latex foam, memory foam and polyurethane (PU) foam. 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 anti-microbial properties that benefit many allergy sufferers. Its natural elasticity means that it recovers its shape immediately. Visco elastic/memory foam mattresses also recover their shape well. They have good pressure-relieving properties and are offered in a variety of qualities and densities. Polyurethane (PU) foam mattresses use a synthetic, petroleum-based foam, with performance and price varying according to density and quality. Visit: www.bedadvice.co.uk

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BUYERS’ GUIDE

KOMFI

KOMFIMED

Part of GNG Group’s ongoing commitment to a greener future, the Komfi range has been developed in-house to provide a more sustainable option, offering a choice of carbon-neutral mattresses. Many models, from its affordable, vacuum-packed Unity range to its Rhea and Active Kids mattresses, feature GNG’s innovative Ecofoam, which is made from 100% recycled and re-engineered foam and is able to be fully recycled when a mattress reaches the end of its life. Combining British quality with the latest green technology, the Komfi range is the natural choice for retailers and consumers. Visit www.komfi.com

The latest addition to GNG Group’s Komfi range, KomfiMed offers something unique: medically proven foam combined with TrueGel technology, plus the environmental benefits of Ecofoam. The range delivers excellent pressure relief while minimising motion transfer and regulating temperature to provide a peaceful night’s sleep. An approved supplier to the NHS, GNG has developed the range using its medically proven foam to give excellent spinal alignment and relieve stress on joints. A highly advanced material known for its therapeutic benefits, it offers a supportive sleep surface while conforming med to the body’s contours. Visit: www.komfi.com TrueGel Technology

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Medical Grade Foam

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komfi footmatt 1370 x 400 final.indd 1

NECTAR SLEEP

PROTECT-A-BED

A 365-night trial means your customer can never make the wrong choice. Nectar Sleep is one of the largest mattress brands in the world. Each of its mattresses is informed by real customer insights and designed to meet the demands of modern living with comfort, quality and style. Led by a global team of industry experts, Nectar Sleep is changing the way people find and fall in love with their mattress, night after night. Discover how your business can benefit from its exclusive range. Email: darren@nectarsleep.co.uk

Protect-A-Bed is the global specialist in mattress protection and is proven to increase in-store sales. The company is exhibiting at January Furniture Show with its innovative Therapeutic ranges, featuring wellness mattress protectors made with copper, charcoal and graphene. Additionally, exclusive show offers will be available through the Protect-ABed Platinum Club. To discuss sales growth opportunities make sure you visit Protect-A-Bed at Hall 5, Stand J50. Visit: www.protectabed.co.uk

Interiors Monthly December 2022 2023

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BUYERS’ GUIDE

SHIRE BEDS

SLEEPEEZEE

The Capri and Ravello ranges by Shire Beds come in pocket spring counts of 1,000 right through to 9,000. They are a high quality, high specification, hand-crafted, hand side-stitched range of mattresses. The higher spring counts are available as a pillow top. Since their launch this year they have achieved excellent sales. The high specification mattresses have seen tremendous success in the mid-market. Shire Beds has been able to increase its share of the market and move into the higher end market through increasing the quality of offering whilst still keeping a close eye on costs. Shire Beds is a quality manufacturer that offers added extras of own-label, successfully being the brand behind the brand. Visit: www.shirebeds.co.uk

Sleepeezee has been handcrafting mattresses in Britain since 1924, using a combination of luxury materials, innovative designs, and traditional techniques to perfect the formula of 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 and will be celebrating a century in bed making during the next year. Visit: www.sleepeezee.com

SONLEVO

SWEET DREAMS

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

December sees the launch of the new and improved Sweet Dreams Online offer. All its products have been imaged in all sizes, colours and storage options with lifestyle and cut-out shots. An exclusive range of mattresses, complemented by a full range of divans, headboards, upholstered beds, sofa beds and sofa suites are available. A comprehensive datasheet provides dynamic links to all images, which makes onboarding the Sweet Dreams Online products simple and easy-to-use. Sweet Dreams offers a best-in-class DHD service to ensure products reach your customer in quick time and in perfect condition. Tel: 01282 830 033

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BUYERS’ GUIDE

In it together It’s possible to strengthen your position while retaining independence From the simplest of concepts – pooling buying power to secure better terms with suppliers – the offer of buying groups has evolved and expanded over the years into a comprehensive, and invaluable, service to today’s independent retailer. Group membership can now encompass business and support services such as legal helplines, marketing, membership of trade associations, deals on utilities, insurance, credit card processing and training. All buying groups stress that they have no desire to control how an independent retailer runs their business. Instead, members highlight the benefits of being able to talk to other retailers about issues such as complaints, supplier relations, business problems and the state of trade without worrying that they will use such information to their 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 host their own exhibitions. Each buying group will be stronger in some areas 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 membership the most. The flooring sector has six main buying groups: ACG, BRM, Flooring One, Greendale, Metro and SMG, while the furniture sector has two: AIS and Minerva. Regardless of sector, the principle of pooling buying power in order to compete with the multiples 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.

Interiors Monthly December 2023

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT One area that groups are not renowned for is training. 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. More than 20 courses are on offer to individuals at every level, from beginner to those with years of experience seeking to upskill. NICF members receive a 15% discount.

BUYERS’ GUIDE

ACG

GREENDALE

ACG is a not-for-profit, non-intrusive, member-owned national buying group. Consisting predominately of 320 independently family-run businesses, ACG uses the combined buying power of its members to broker the best trade pricing and rebates from more than 23 of the industry’s main manufacturers. This ensures that its members can comfortably compete with high street, man in a van and online price comparisons without eroding margins. In addition, it offers a compelling package of marketing support including the multi-award-winning Smart Choice own-label option and access at discounted prices to ACG’s design agency for signage, branding and Internet marketing.

Want to be part of an established and credible buying group that offers the very best prices from all the industry’s leading suppliers? Greendale is a not-for-profit, mutual trading company owned by a growing community of more than 100 independent flooring retailers located throughout the UK. It brings the benefits of large business to all of its members. Its ability to buy in bulk and stock 2,800 carpet rolls in its warehouse means that members benefit from lower prices as standard. These low prices are passed directly to members all year around. Greendale is much more than a buying group. Visit: www.greendalecarpets.co.uk

Visit: www.acgcarpets.com

METRO GROUP

SMG

Take it for granted, joining a buying group will get you better buying prices and improved profitability. Many will have an own-branded offer: Metro’s is Carpet1st. Metro has a central ordering system for suppliers you don’t have accounts with. It is a non-profit-making organisation, owned by retailers, for retailers. Your independence is protected and valued. Metro’s unique proposition is the marketing service: it can design, print, manufacture and install everything you need to market your business at its best. From a business card to a shop front. Every member gets a £600 plus VAT-free allowance to spend on this service every year. Kings Carpets in Barnstaple chose to spend some of its 2023 allowance on internal POS.

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 own-brand as much or little as they like with SMG’s exclusive ‘Pure’ branded ranges and unitry. Truly retaining independence but gaining the strength and buying power of numbers has meant SMG has been the industry leader for the past 50 years. Why not find out how much SMG can increase your profit?

Visit: www.carpet1st.co.uk

Visit: www.smg-group.co.uk

Interiors Monthly December 2023 2023

BUYERS’ GUIDE

Future-proof

A little forethought can minimise the risk of complaints Occasional faults and the odd awkward customer are the nature of retail. With upholstery, however, the after-sales experience on both sides of the counter is far from a matter of chance. Taking time to ensure the customer is fully informed about every aspect of their purchase will pay dividends. If the manufacturer provides care instructions, it’s essential the customer receives these and is aware of their

importance. Most problems arise not from faults in a product but how the customer looks after it. Typical points to highlight include: Avoid exposing furniture to direct sunlight and/or sources of heat for prolonged periods as this may result in fabrics fading or degrading. Lightly vacuum upholstery on a weekly basis (less often in the case of feather-filled cushions). 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 comfort and shape, and any creases smoothed out to prevent them becoming permanent. Never wash or dry clean furniture fabric unless the manufacturer’s instructions explicitly state this can be done. In case of accidental spillages, take professional advice to ensure the stain is dealt with properly. The use of cleaning products on surfaces they are not intended for could cause further damage. Leather, in particular, should only be cleaned in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t put pressure on unsupported upholstered panels such as outside arms and backs of sofas and chairs, and avoid sitting on the arms. Beware snagging hazards such as pets’ claws, jewellery, buckles and zips. Velvet will catch the light in different directions as the pile moves. The pile may look as if it is crushed when new: sweeping with a velvet brush or clothes brush will rectify this.

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BUYERS’ GUIDE

ALPHA DESIGNS

ELITE CONTRACT FURNITURE

Alpha Designs is again proud to be exhibiting in Hall 1 on Stand C20, the home of great design at January Furniture Show. You will find an exciting collection of Great British upholstery, made in its factory in the Midlands. It will be introducing eight new designs teamed with glorious new fabric collections. You will also see its bestsellers reignited. Embracing new trends of show-wood features and soft and tactile fabrics whilst staying true to its core values of excellent comfort, broad appeal and value, there will be something for every customer. Email: sales@alpha-designs.co.uk

Elite Contract Furniture has been helping businesses across the UK create comfortable, practical spaces since 1954. Its extensive range of the finest furniture combined with decades of design experience makes it the perfect partner for any business looking for a refurbishment. Browse its vast selection of furnishings, accessories, lighting, flooring and wallpapers. Its experienced sales team can create cohesive, creative design schemes just for you. It offers a range of services including design mood boards, floor planning, site measures and installations to provide a seamless service from start to finish. Elite is ready to help your business grow. Visit: www.elitecontractfurniture. co.uk

FURNICO

LA-Z-BOY UK

Kinsley is an elegant, British-manufactured sofa range with attractive curved lines, rolled arms and a tufted back. With its vintage style, attractive wooden legs and plush, comfortable seats, this off-the-floor model doesn’t look like your typical recliner. However, customers can choose between a static sofa and one with a discreet power recline function for total relaxation. The Kinsley was first introduced by Furnico at the 2023 January Furniture Show, along with three other new products: Longton, Buxton and Cantwell. Furnico manufactures all its upholstery at its factory in Colne, Lancashire, where its skilled workforce finish the sofas by hand. Visit: www.furnico.com

La-Z-Boy UK’s Paris is an entry-level price model with add-on options and its own exclusive leather and fabric ranges: Calda and Anivia. With compact arms, curved lines and pocket sprung seats, Paris combines traditional La-Z-Boy luxury with the ultimate in comfort and support. It includes two and three-seater sofas plus a chair with static, manual and power recline options. Paris gives retailers more flexibility over price points but its fabric and leather options are designed to look and feel like more premium finishes. La-Z-Boy is famous around the world for its iconic recliners but the brand also produces a wide range of suites and static products. Visit: www.la-z-boy.co.uk

Interiors Monthly December 2023 2022

BUYERS’ GUIDE

LEBUS UPHOLSTERY

LEOLUX

As one of the UK’s leading manufacturers, the Lebus Upholstery philosophy is to offer luxury sofas with quality and value in mind: this is more relevant than ever in this market environment. Lebus Upholstery is looking forward to welcoming new and familiar faces at the January Furniture Show. Customers will have a chance to walk through a large open-plan stand whilst viewing an impressive range of new sofa collections. All the sofas have been carefully handcrafted in the UK by its dedicated design and development team over the past few months. Visitors can find Lebus in Hall 5, Stand E10.

The Lunetta sofa puts you in control, shaping itself to your tastes, position and style. It’s a marriage of extremes: soft yet hardwearing, geometrical yet informal. It is contrasts like these that make life so exciting and the Lunetta so incredibly relaxing. Lunetta is designed for relaxation, shaping itself to your position and fitting with your lifestyle. When you sit down, it embraces you like a blanket, with the loose-filled arm cushions adapting instantly to your body. It’s extremely comfortable, in a nonchalant kind of way. Visit: www.leolux.com

Email: sales@lebus.co.uk

MINOTTI

ZANOTTA

The instinct for the continuity of shapes and lines and consistency of language and style typical of Minotti’s modus operandi is embodied in the Dylan modular seating system. A multifaceted and versatile lexicon in which the rigour of forms is combined with its ability to accommodate. Refined and articulated volumes come together to bring to life a system expressed in three variants, capable of meeting different areas of taste and as many ways of experiencing the domestic and hospitality spaces.

Bumper is a soft sculpture: a presence plied out of polyurethane with painstaking care for details, and quality workmanship capable of enhancing the value of the curves. It is built on three overlapping levels of comfort – base, seat and backrest – which determine the distinctive stylistic feature of the design. It can easily be fitted in the middle of the room, thanks to the three-level concept that continues also at the rear, making this sofa appear and feel utterly comfortable.

Visit: www.minotti.com

Visit: www.zanotta.it

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BUYERS’ GUIDE

ICONOGRAPHY

ORDORITE

Leading B2C ecommerce specialist Iconography is now working with B2B clients to help raise the bar with its INTUS B2B ecommerce platform. Some of the main initial benefits include a significant reduction in costs; an improved user experience for both customers and back-end users by making it easier to make changes on the website thanks to the flexibility of INTUS, and a significant improvement in profitability.

Established in 2006, with offices in the UK and Ireland, Ordorite is a cloud-based retail order management software solution designed specifically for the furniture, bed and related retail sectors. The Ordorite software solution allows retailers to manage their entire business in one place, integrating in-store and online sales and stock for supply-to-order retailers, improving management reporting, reducing operational costs. This allows Ordorite customers to manage their businesses end-to-end, delivering a ROI within the first year.

Visit: www.iconography.co.uk

Visit: www.ordorite.com

GALLERY DIRECT

KRISTALIA

With its extensive selection of furniture, Gallery Direct is one of the largest furniture suppliers in the UK. Its fantastic collection includes sofas and chairs, living and dining, bedroom and occasional furniture, featuring a wide variety of styles to suit different interiors. The SS24 collection will expand the offering still further, adding a host of exciting new designs.

Elephantino is Kristalia’s first chair with a structure made of post-consumer recycled and recyclable plastic: the latest addition to the Elephant collection, a Kristalia bestseller designed by Eva Paster and Michael Geldmacher. The polypropylene structure with armrests recalls that of the armchair, echoing the characteristic reinforced ribbing of the hide version, inspired by the backbone of an elephant. The closed structure can be fully or partially upholstered. Both versions are available with four legs, a wooden base, slide frame base, swivel trestle base or with castors, or with five spokes with castors.

Visit: www.gallerydirect.co.uk

Visit: www.kristalia.it

Interiors Monthly December 2023

BUYERS’ GUIDE

All the difference The choice of underlay shouldn’t be an afterthought The benefits of underlay are something consumers often need explaining to them. Having devoted often considerable time and care to choosing the style and colour of new flooring, the issue of underlay is often an afterthought. But it benefits both customer and retailer to regard it as part of the decision-making. Quality underlay can last as long as 25 years and will extend the life of the flooring it supports. It improves thermal insulation – a major selling point in

Interiors Monthly December 2023

these times of rising energy prices – and it also boosts sound insulation. And from your point of view as a retailer, it will also provide you with improved margins on the sale. If a customer has opted for a hard floor, underlay is still just as important, cushioning subfloor imperfections and significantly reducing noise. 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 insulation.

BUYERS’ GUIDE

F BALL

FLOORWISE

The UK’s leading manufacturer of subfloor preparation products and adhesives for floorcoverings, F Ball and Co has a track record of innovation focused on creating the next generation of products, to help flooring professionals meet ever higher customer expectations. The F Ball guarantee assures that its products will perform for the entire lifetime of an installation, as long as the advised subfloor preparation and installation procedures are followed. Industry-leading customer support is provided by a team of regional technical representatives and dedicated retail support staff, while the technical service team is on hand Monday to Friday to answer your questions.

Floorwise delivers premium quality and great value flooring installation products and accessories through a nationwide network of independent distributors. With Floorwise you enjoy fast and local access to carpet, wood and laminate underlay; profiles; grippers; tools; adhesives; screeds and stair nosings. Chosen by fitters for their quality and ease of use and loved by customers for their value and quality, Floorwise brand products are the start of fantastic floors. Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk

Tel: 01538 361 633

INTERFLOOR

STROOLMOUNT

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 includes the three most popular forms of underlay: polyurethane 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, with specialist underlays for use with underfloor heating, LVT and hard flooring. Its acoustics brand Sonixx has a core range of specialist underlays to significantly reduce sound transmission.

Stroolmount, winner of the Interiors Monthly Award for Best Product Protection (Flooring) for the past five years, is a family-run specialist protection company that prides itself on the quality of its products and the quality of its service. Since 2007 it has remained true to one simple formula: being 100% committed to supplying the very best products and accessories and giving the same level of service as if you were part of the family. Stroolmount has flooring protection needs covered for retailers, manufacturers, architects and interior designers. If you haven’t joined the family, there is no time like now. Visit: www.stroolmount.co.uk

Visit: www.interfloor.com

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BUYERS’ GUIDE

LEOLINE

MODULEO

For more than three decades, LeoLine has been providing a diverse collection of cushion vinyl floors to homes across the UK and Ireland. Designed and made entirely in-house in Belgium, the LeoLine name has long stood for great-looking floors that offer superb value and quality. Now, LeoLine’s smart new brand has a vision to make cushion vinyl the contemporary and savvy way to create the floor you want. The playful brand inspires consumers to think differently about their choice of floor and how the flexibility, simple fitting, functionality and durability of cushion vinyl can be the start of a new story for their home.

The Roots luxury vinyl collection from Moduleo has been created with the future in mind – floors that embrace the newest interior trends and are manufactured with the latest technology. Comprising six distinct themes and a choice of 130 different SKUs to appeal to a broad variety of tastes, Roots offers floors designed for self-expression that are appealing, aspirational and in tune with nature. Each comes with its own unique aesthetic and feel, with the ability to combine different styles. Belgium, the company’s home, is a country with design-orientated people at its roots, and this comes through in the manufacture of Moduleo luxury vinyl flooring. Visit: www.moduleo.com

Visit: www.leoline.com

QUICK-STEP

VICTORIA DESIGN FLOORS

Quick-Step is a quality flooring brand produced by Unilin. On-going research and innovation along with a strong focus on quality have made Quick-Step one of the top players in the flooring industry. The brand, known for its patented glueless Uniclic installation system, has evolved from being an affordable alternative to wood to a category in its own right, bringing a wide variety of design floors that are swift and easy to install and maintain in every situation. Today, Quick-Step is a global engineered wood, laminate and luxury vinyl flooring brand active in more than 100 countries. A true leader in design, innovation and quality.

Victoria Design Floors offers a one-stop shop for LVT. Featuring 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.

Visit: www.quick-step.co.uk

Interiors Monthly December 2023

Visit: www.myvictoria.co.uk

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January Furniture Show, 21-24 January, NEC Birmingham

PREVIEW

JFS returns

New exhibitors and an enhanced VIP programme await The UK’s largest furniture exhibition returns to the NEC on 21-24 January, boasting the best brands, latest products, and a host of new additions. January Furniture Show provides a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of sourcing the latest trends on the market, all under one roof. Whether sourcing for the new season or looking for inspiration, JFS has something for everyone. Set across four halls, visitors will be able to explore more than 400 brands across the show’s four sectors: Premium Design; Interiors, Accessories and Lifestyle; Living, Dining and Bedroom, and Upholstery and Beds. 2024 will see an enriched visitors’ experience that emphasises how JFS is the meeting place for the industry as it fosters the perfect atmosphere for

Interiors Monthly December 2023

building connections and networking. The show’s new Champagne Bar in Hall 1 is the perfect destination for client meetings and mingling, away from the confines of the stands. The new Festival Food Court also offers visitors and exhibitors a place for a well-earned break to enjoy cuisine from around the world. Visitors and exhibitors will be able to continue to network at the Show Party on Sunday evening; on Monday evening, the Women in Furniture Network will be hosting its Speedy Networking event uniting women from across the industry in a supportive and empowering atmosphere, followed by a Happy Hour on Tuesday evening. Hall 2 will be transformed into an aspirational marketplace as the Home & Lifestyle Show co-locates with JFS. The

Home & Lifestyle Show shines a light on thousands of hand-picked interior accessories, lighting, furniture pieces, homewares and lifestyle products, all curated into an on-trend collection of must-haves featuring Asiatic Carpets, Blue Bone, Crystal World, Dannells, Febland Group, Final Touches Trading, Gallery Direct, Kelston House International, Malini, Premier Housewares, Scatter Box, SHH Interiors and more. JFS has an international streak that culminates in the new International pavilions, featuring brands from Poland, China, Turkey, Portugal, Romania and Vietnam. Visitors will be able to explore international brands including 3C Candy, Agile Cubic, ALF, Ersan Madeni, Fama Sofas, Furninova, Idzczak Meble, Incanto Italia, Digio’ Leather by Sofitalia, Kristensen & Kristensen, Mlily, New Trend Concepts and OT Furniture Co. New for 2024 is the Crafting the Future Networking hub, which offers a space to conduct business meetings, while showcasing the work of Young Furniture Makers. There will be workshop sessions and experiential stations here from The Furniture Makers, ACID, BIRA and FIRA, offering visitors a chance to gain valuable insights and enrich their knowledge from industry leaders. 2024 will also see an enhanced VIP programme, with access to the VIP Lounge where visitors can relax and enjoy complimentary refreshments and lunch, private parking, entrance and cloakroom, and early show access. Visit: www.thefurnitureshows.com

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January Furniture Show, 21-24 January, NEC Birmingham

PREVIEW

Harrison

Be lazy La-Z-Boy is revamping its marketing message Taking time out to relax and enjoy a lazy moment is the central message behind a rebrand by La-Z-Boy UK. According to the company, Long Live the Lazy is the brand’s ‘biggest marketing campaign yet and aims to reignite interest in La-Z-Boy UK and its products both within the furniture industry and among consumers’. Market research showed that while consumers are aware of the La-Z-Boy name and know that it is a recliner brand, they are less aware of the company’s sofas and static furniture. ‘In a world where everyone is being encouraged to do more, La-Z-Boy UK is standing up for people’s right to sit down, take a break and recharge their batteries mentally and physically. This time of year in particular can be very stressful and busy, so we’re pleased to be championing the message that rest, comfort and selfcare play an important part in our lives,’ says Adam Morley, La-Z-Boy UK head of marketing and operations. ‘We’re excited to launch our Long Live

Interiors Monthly December 2023

the Lazy campaign and have lots of plans for 2024, so watch this space. This is the biggest investment in the La-Z-Boy brand to date and we are really looking forward to hearing the thoughts of retailers, stockists and consumers.

‘The main focus of campaign will be making sure La-Z-Boy UK is front of mind when people think about comfort. We will be embracing innovative new ways of showcasing our new collections and making sure that when people think Paris

PREVIEW

Above: Kenzie Below: The new branding replaces Live Life Comfortably

about taking a lazy moment, they think about La-Z-Boy.’ Retailers and stockists will be given new branding assets along with comprehensive guidance and support on how to introduce them in their showrooms, stores and websites. The aim of the campaign is to celebrate relaxation, rest and self-care. Highlighting the comfort that La-Z-Boy products offer consumers, the campaign is designed put the brand at the front of people’s minds when they are looking for furniture to enjoy their own lazy moments in. The Long Live the Lazy tagline will replace Live Life Comfortably, which was introduced in 2018. The fresh, new brand identity will highlight the transformational power of comfort and will see the La-Z-Boy brand is presented in a consistent way across the world. The campaign has already launched successfully in the US and in other countries. In the US, three models of a prototype known as The Decliner were created, with the AI-powered recliner generating cancellation excuses when users pulled the handle, allowing them to get out of social occasions and stay

at home. They were later offered as prizes in an online contest after a social media campaign encouraged people to embrace the ‘joy of missing out’. The Long Live the Lazy branding and concept will be on show at La-Z-Boy UK’s stand at the January Furniture Show. The event will also see a number of new ranges unveiled. The brand’s website and social media

platforms are undergoing a refresh to reflect the campaign, with the new branding to be incorporated into future La-Z-Boy UK advertising and sponsorship deals. As well as being the official furniture partner for the NFL London Games, La-Z-Boy UK sponsors Burnley FC, which is seven miles from its Colne, Lancashire factory which produces the brand’s Made in Britain ranges. The Long Live the Lazy logo will be added to the stadium ribbon and LED boards at the club’s Turf Moor stadium. ‘Long Live the Lazy will reclaim the brand’s legacy as the furniture company which first introduced the concept of comfortable recliners to the world in the 1920s. La-Z-Boy was originally founded in 1927 in Michigan, United States, by two cousins, Edward M Knabusch and Edwin J Shoemaker. The pair created the world’s very first recliner back in 1928, using orange crates to produce the initial prototypes and inventing an innovative reclining mechanism. Their folding wood-slat porch chair followed the contours of the user’s body, allowing them to both sit and lean back comfortably. At a time when most furniture was upright and formal, this innovative idea took the world by storm and La-Z-Boy has been producing recliners and refining its designs ever since. ‘The campaign’s mission is to bring La-Z-Boy into the cultural conversation and promote its USPs of comfort by design and motion furniture to today’s consumers,’ says Morley. Visit: www.la-z-boy.co.uk

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THE ORIGINAL RECLINER

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January Furniture Show, 21-24 January, NEC Birmingham

PREVIEW

Preparation German bedroom manufacturer Wiemann is putting the finishing touches to new and updated products to unveil at the January Furniture Show. The hotly anticipated new ranges will be contemporary and stylish. Prototypes for two new VIP ranges have already been enthusiastically received at the MoW Show in Germany, and as with all

Wiemann products, they will offer a total bedroom solution to suit any home. The new collections, on show in Hall 4, Stand C50, will complement Wiemann’s premium VIP ranges, including award winners Monaco and Denver, which all show commitment to driving increased value for retailers. ‘We have some fantastic new products

Above left: Denver Above: Monaco

for launch in January 2024 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 agent for the UK and Ireland, Litmus Furniture. Visit: www.wiemannuk.co.uk

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See what’s new from Wiemann. January Furniture Show, NEC, January 21-24 2024, Stand 4-C50 Bedrooms of distinctive style, quality and value

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Interiors Monthly December 2023

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January Furniture Show, 21-24 January, NEC Birmingham

PREVIEW

New direction Iconography is expanding into B2B Leading B2C ecommerce specialist Iconography is now working with B2B clients to help raise the bar. ‘With our background in B2C ecommerce, working with furniture retailers such as Fishpools, Aldiss, Glasswells and Cookes, we are sometimes taken aback with the gap between B2C and B2B ecommerce platforms – both in terms of platform functionality and client-side expectations of what an ecommerce website can deliver,’ says Wayne Robbins, Iconography director. ‘Recently an experienced ecommerce manager who had moved from furniture retailing, using our platform, into B2B ecommerce was looking to seriously overhaul the ecommerce operation. Having worked with us for more than a decade he called us in to help move ecommerce operations forward by building a new website on our INTUS B2B ecommerce platform. We asked about some of the main day-to-day issues he wanted resolved and these included high costs of pay-per-click

Interiors Monthly December 2023

that were impacting the company, so improving site SEO could allow them to reduce this cost; the incumbent agency taking too long or charging too much for small changes on the website as the company struggled to access and make changes to the website; and having to pay for issues created by outsourced experts. ‘There were further issues with integration to on-site legacy systems and ERP systems posing a risk of disconnecting and shutdowns. He wanted a flexible platform to help grow and keep up with trends in a profitable manner. Some the main initial benefits of using us were a significant reduction in costs; an improved user experience for both customers and back-end users by making it easier to make changes on the website, and the flexibility of INTUS allowing the constant changes that were needed to be made using the content management system. ‘We got to know the company and found a way to fit with it – rather than

the other way around – by providing custom bespoke coding. This saw a four-fold increase in profitability. We spent a lot of time on-site, learning about the company and its processes before offering a solution. We worked alongside multiple decision makers and board members to ensure the message and effectiveness of the ecommerce solution, resulting in a robust, reliable and featurerich platform which is fit for purpose and very easy for people to learn, removing the need for lots of experience to be able to jump in and use the systems. ‘We were able to make changes in a couple of hours, rather than a couple of weeks with previous solutions: this is key in a fast and changing industry where pricing, stock or offers need to be updated quickly. ‘We will be at the January Furniture Show – in Hall 1 on stand G25 – where we hope to meet with furniture and interiors-focused retailers, manufacturers and wholesalers.’ Visit: www.iconography.co.uk

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January Furniture Show, 21-24 January, NEC Birmingham

PREVIEW

Add-on

In-store rewards can help boost sales The January Furniture Show is the perfect time to assess and review after the winter sale. Protect-A-Bed, the award-winning specialist in mattress protection, will have helped multiple retailers throughout the sale period to grow sales. ‘The Platinum Club has been extremely successful since its creation. We continuously build frameworks that are simple for retailers to implement in order 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 and excitement in a category that is often overlooked, and our ability to turn this into sales growth is phenomenal,’ says Gowsh Shan, Protect-A-Bed

Interiors Monthly December 2023

national sales manager. ‘The Platinum Club is only one element. There are some significant differences between Protect-A-Bed and other mattress protectors: every Protect-A-Bed protector also includes a 10-15 year product guarantee and, when bought with a mattress, a 10-15 year anti-stain guarantee. Protect-A-Bed will have the mattress professionally cleaned to the customer’s satisfaction or buy the customer 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 the interest of both the store and the customer to purchase Protect-ABed mattress protectors. Our speciality is driving in-store performance, so linked

mattress and mattress protector sales are extremely high. The customer benefits from a healthy and hygienic sleep zone, while the store benefits from increased sales revenue. Every customer who walks through the door, if buying a mattress, needs to buy a mattress protector – for many reasons. ‘We can upskill your team and increase your sales revenue by maximising every sales opportunity. We can manage every step of the process for you and build a reward scheme through The Platinum Club. Visit our stand – Hall 5, Stand J50 – at the January Furniture Show to see our advanced Therapeutics range, TV display bays and find out how we can significantly grow sales for your store.’ Visit: www.protectabed.co.uk

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January Furniture Show, 21-24 January, NEC Birmingham

PREVIEW

Efficiency gains

Improving warehouse efficiency creates a better customer experience

Warehouse operations can be transformed Since 2006 Ordorite has been providing the furniture, bed and interiors retail industry with software to help business run efficiently and successfully. More than 92% of Ordorite users report immediate efficiencies in their business after implementation of the software. One of the key features of Ordorite is its warehouse management functionality. Ordorite allows retailers to achieve fully digital warehouses, meaning that they can access stock movements; barcoding and box management; multi-warehouse configuration; warehouse pick and loading lists; product lifecycle traceability and stock taking at the touch of a screen. Ordorite is cloud-based and can be accessed anytime, anywhere, so that business owners and managers can look after their businesses on the go. Ordorite’s warehouse management features give retailers the opportunity to set up automated triggers, replacing manual processes and bringing an abundance of benefits to organisations

Interiors Monthly December 2023

that previously employed lengthy administration processes for tasks such as sending purchase orders, updating approved purchase orders and reallocation of stock. Ordorite is capable of automating multi-step processes so that maximum operating efficiency can be reached. Warehouse automation is just one timesaving and process-driven aspect of Ordorite that has resulted in gross margin increases for 80% of businesses using the Ordorite end-toend business management software. Ordorite takes the stress out of reporting with hundreds of report configurations available, such as warehouse management insights, including top selling and least selling product reports and replenishment forecasting reports. Managers can see at a glance how the warehouse is performing so they can make accurate decisions to drive business performance. Ordorite is a simple-to-use system that provides users with an interactive

KPI dashboard and customer heat maps, further assisting with effective warehouse management. More than 90% of Ordorite users have observed an improvement in stock accuracy since using the software, according to the company. ‘Ordorite has over 20 years of experience in furniture retailing. This allows us to work closely with our customers both on-site and remotely, with a deep understanding of their business operations and how Ordorite can be implemented to improve processes within furniture retail businesses. Warehouse management is one core area of the Ordorite software, and we hear, time and time again, how this functionality has transformed the operational efficiency for retailers’ warehouse teams,’ says Darren Lee, Ordorite sales director. Ordorite will be exhibiting at January Furniture Show, Hall 4, stands A2 and 12. Visit: www.ordorite.com

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January Furniture Show, 21-24 January, NEC Birmingham

PREVIEW Como

Festive times

Pre-Christmas delivery is still available before Core returns to JFS Maximising sales in the run-up to the festive season is more important than ever, especially for customers who want quick delivery for a room refresh in time for Christmas visitors. Core Products carries a substantial inventory of award-winning flat-packed bedroom, living and dining furniture, with stock listing easily accessible so you can check availability, and with orders placed up to 18 December available for delivery in time for Christmas.

Linea

Corona

Interiors Monthly December 2023

Entertaining at home is growing in popularity due to the cost of eating out, and is already influencing demand for tables and chairs this year. Core offers a variety of affordable casual and formal dining sets, including its Corona grey dining set which is available in a choice of sizes and a variety of seating options including chairs and benches. Made entirely from solid wood, with an antique wax finish with contrasting grey waxed underframes, this set is solid, sturdy and great value for money. Also available is a full range of upholstered dining chairs to create a more relaxed dining experience.

Vegas

The festive season is an ideal time to boost your sales with wine cabinets: Core Products offers a variety of styles, including Vegas. Made from easy-toclean melamine-faced board in a bleached oak effect with contrasting grey doors and real metal hairpin design legs, the unit features a bottle rack and glassware storage behind a glass door, and plenty of storage in the base for bottles too. Impress overnight visitors with an affordable bedroom makeover. Core Products offers a wide selection of different styles and finishes for the customer to choose from. The Como range offers a variety of Shaker styled bedroom furniture pieces, all available in a choice of white, grey or dark blue painted finish with chrome-effect handles. For an even simpler makeover, the Options range of bedside cabinets are available in the same finishes for a quick and easy room refresh. Optimise storage in a spare bedroom with the Corona cabin bed, made from solid wood and available in a choice of antique, grey or white waxed finish with three storage drawers beneath a raised, solid slatted wood bed base. A full range of matching furniture ideas to complete the look is also available. Visit: www.coreproducts.co.uk

Northpoint, 23-25 January, Edinburgh

PREVIEW

Bigger and better Northpoint will return to its traditional place in the calendar The Northpoint Furniture Show returns to its traditional January place in the calendar next month. For more than 30 years, the agents and representatives of the furniture industry at the SFRA have shown the latest models to furniture retailers throughout Scotland, Ireland and the North of England at the Royal Highland Show Centre at Ingleston, Edinburgh. Although interrupted by the pandemic for 18 months, the show has been enjoyed as a relaxed arena to see all the latest key manufacturers’ products, with time to discuss every aspect with their agents and representatives. There are already over 40 manufacturers being represented, with more promised. These include Koyoto Upholstery, whose Scottish agent, Alan White says: ‘This is an important show for Scotland and

Interiors Monthly December 2023

All product sectors will be represented at the show

the North of the UK and we have some fantastic new products which we are looking forward to showcasing to Scotland and its retailers.’ Other upholstery companies include Divania, Call Salotti, Sherborne, Celebrity

and West Midlands Upholstery. Sleepeezee also return with their very latest models and innovations. ‘We had an excellent show in Edinburgh last year and a great response from Scottish retailers,’ says Daryl Drylie, ID Agencies sales director. Other bed manufacturers will include Highgrove, Sweet Dreams, Silentnight, Dura Beds, Shire Beds, The Bed Frame Company, Breasley, Scotch Beds and Wheatcroft. Cabinet will be shown from Weimann, Core Products, GFL, Taylors and Annaghmore. Weimann offers a huge selection of contemporary and built-in wardrobes, and other manufacturers that are showing offer contemporary and traditional cabinet furniture, from living and dining to a full range of bedroom cabinets and products. Other suppliers will include Abacus, Protect-ABed, Staingard and Mattressgard. ‘The show has been ongoing for more than 40 years, and for over 30 years at Ingleston. The RHS is a great hub for us to show a comprehensive range of furniture in a relaxed atmosphere, and everyone enjoys the surroundings, being easy to reach from all parts of Scotland, Ireland and North England. This year’s President’s Dinner will coincide with the show on the Monday night, and will once again bring together SFRA and the charity SFTBA,’ says Gavin Douglas, Northpoint show organiser. ‘Visitors can register easily online, and ample parking and refreshments are available.’ Visit: www.thenorthpointshow.co.uk

www.northpointshow.co.uk

A DATE FOR YOUR DIARY

MORE BRANDS THAN EVER BEFORE

NORTH 28TH - 30TH JANUARY 2024 2024

Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh

T HE FU R N ITURE A N D IN TERIORS EXH IBITION FOR NORTHE RN UK

IMAGE: SPOTT TRENDS & BUSINESS FOR HEIMTEXTIL

Heimtextil, 9-12 January, Frankfurt

PREVIEW

New sensitivity

Kvadrat Clearview and Apo Reflections by Lise Vester

Innovations and changes in the composition of textiles will be highlighted at Heimtextil Textile transformation is the focus of Heimtextil Trends 24/25, where three approaches will show ways to a more sensitive world of textiles: the plant-based production of textiles, the support of textile cycles by technology and the bioengineered use of natural ingredients. Under the title New Sensitivity, the focus is on innovations and changes in the composition of textiles, in addition to aesthetic aspects. ‘In this context, sensitivity means considering the impact on the environment when making a decision or creating a product. Understanding how natural ecosystems work and prioritising balance as the default are key,’ says Anja Bisgaard Gaede, SPOTT trends and business founder. How does New Sensitivity translate

Interiors Monthly December 2023

into something concrete in the lifestyle industry, and what does having a sensitive approach to design and products mean? Also the adoption of Artificial Intelligence is transforming current times. AI has the potential to bring innovative solutions and help tackle significant challenges in the textile industry also. However, AI can have the opposite effect on society. AI needs the mindset of New Sensitivity that helps simplify complexity, expand creativity and find unseen solutions, also within the world of textiles. Plant-based textiles utilise fibres that are derived from something that grows rather than being synthetically produced. The sustainable advantage is that their origin is natural and, therefore, more

able to recirculate in existing ecosystems. They can be divided into two groups. The first group of textiles are made from plant crops. New resilient crops like cactus, hemp, abaca, seaweed and rubber offer new sustainable textile solutions. Because of mechanical extraction, they can grow despite climate changes and require fewer chemicals in their development. The second group consists of textiles made of plant by-products – leftover raw materials from production, such as banana, olive, persimmon and hemp. Technology can support the transformation of textiles through the use of different methods: upcycling and recycling, textile construction  and textile design. Due to

Europe’s leading responsible sourcing show

SS005071 SOURCE H&G A4 PRESS ADVERTS AW.indd 1

24/11/2023 11:16

ALL IMAGES: SPOTT TRENDS & BUSINESS FOR HEIMTEXTIL

PREVIEW

Bacteria can produce textiles and inspire colours

Bananatex

decades of production, textiles are now a material available in abundance. Developing technologies for recycling textile waste and methods for upcycling textiles increases the circular usage of existing textiles. Old textile construction techniques also offer pathways to sustainable solutions: for instance, using knitting technology for upholstery produces less fabric waste; alternatively, weaving technique allows the creation of several colours using only a few coloured yarns. Textile Design Thinking is another method that addresses critical issues such as energy usage and durability of natural fibres and enhances these through technological textile advancement. To a certain degree, bio-engineered textiles represent a fusion of plantbased and technological textiles. Bio-engineering bridges nature and technology and transforms the way textiles are made. It can take one of two directions, creating fully bioengineered or bio-degradable textiles. In the production of fully bio-engineered

Interiors Monthly December 2023

textiles nature-inspired strategies are adopted. Instead of growing plants and extracting their fibres, textiles are made from the protein, carbohydrates or bacteria in corn, grass and cane sugar. Manufacturing involves a bio-molecular process that creates filaments which are made into yarn. The sustainable advantage of bio-engineered textiles is that they can have some of the same functionalities as synthetically produced textiles, while still being biodegradable because of their natural origin. Biodegradable fibres can be added to conventional textiles like polyester to enhance the conventional textile’s ability to revert to materials found in nature and hence bio-degrade in natural environments such as water or soil. Although not bio-degrading completely, these bio-enhanced textiles will bio-degrade up to 93% compared to conventional textiles. A sensitive approach to colouring methods is expressed by a dynamic yet subtle colour palette created through natural pigments deriving from the

earth, as traditional colouring processes are brought to the next level through innovative bio-engineering technology. In pursuit of creating colours that evoke emotions in our senses while at the same time respecting our values in protecting the environment, we see colour bacteria growing pigments, generating hues with great richness and depth. This New Sensitivity includes acceptance of natural colour flows, as colours may fade with time or morph into new colourways. The colourways for Heimtextil Trends 24/25 are inspired by natural colours deriving from avocado seeds, algae, living bacteria, antique pigments such as raw sienna, and bio-engineered indigo and cochineal. The high black component in most colours allows for widespread application and a greater variety of combinations. The punchy, saturated accents enhance our senses as they lift our spirits. In contrast, the grounding neutrals in different shades of grey, terra and even dark purple allow for calmness and tranquillity. How are regenerative textiles and materials defined? Regenerative design is dedicated to developing holistic creative practices that restore or renew resources, have a positive impact on the environment and encourage communities to thrive. For Heimtextil 2024, which takes place from 9-12 January in Frankfurt, design futures consultancy FranklinTill is curating a showcase of cutting-edge textiles and materials to illustrate the principles of regenerative design and recognise pioneering designers, producers and manufacturers who are at the forefront of regenerative design. Visit: www.heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com

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Domotex, 11-14 January, Hannover

PREVIEW

Green again Domotex will retain its focus on sustainability Domotex will again focus on sustainability, circular economy and environmental protection in the carpet and flooring industry. ‘In a world where resources are becoming scarcer and the consequences of the climate crisis are starting to hit us more frequently, sustainability must become an integral part of everything we do. That is why we have made the decision to maintain and expand our value-based keynote theme Floored By Nature and the special display The Green Collection,’ says Sonia Wedell-Castellano, Domotex global director. ‘Extraordinary presentations and innovative products, current research projects, a haptic material show as well as an inspiring conference programme – that’s what visitors can expect at The Green Collection in Hall 23. In

The focus will again be on sustainability

Interiors Monthly December 2023

collaboration with TFI Aachen and the material database raumprobe, The Green Collection is staging the megatrend of sustainability for visitors to experience.’ ‘We are looking forward to the continuation of our successful collaboration and will carry on with our well-established approach of providing information on current research and regulatory measures in the field of sustainability. We will also be adding the important aspect of “advanced training”,’ says Jacqueline Lemm, TFI Aachen director and chairwoman of the jury of this year’s Green Collection Award. The highlight of the special display will be the Green Collection Award ceremony. An international jury of experts will review the submitted exhibits and make a pre-selection, which will be exhibited on The Green Collection area

throughout the entire show. The four award categories all focus on sustainability, each one addressing a different aspect of sustainable products or production processes. Eco-friendly Products focuses on organically and ethically produced materials, as well as recycled and upcycled raw materials; Healthy Products focuses on the production of carpets and floorcoverings with low-emission products; Sustainable Production covers alternative, energy-saving and other sustainable production processes of the flooring industry and the corresponding products and Social Responsibility reflects the active commitment against child and forced labour, and intends to certify manufacturers who produce in an exemplary manner without exploiting their employees. The show takes place in Hannover from 11-14 January. Visit: www.domotex.de

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Spring Fair, 4-7 February, NEC Birmingham

PREVIEW

Forefront Celebrate the magic of discovery Inspiring retail’s creators and curators, Spring Fair is the show that puts thousands of new products for home, gift and fashion at the forefront of UK retail. This year’s show is focusing on the magic of discovery. Offering 13 product sectors across home, gift and fashion, the variety of products from big brands through to artisan makers is unmatched. From furniture and textiles to gifts and greeting cards, cookware and candles to an enormous array of licensed products, Spring Fair is the launchpad for new collections, offering endless opportunities for sourcing the newest, most innovative products and retail’s

Interiors Monthly December 2023

next bestsellers for 2024 and beyond. Highly inspirational, exclusive and sought-after, The Summerhouse will be brim full of beautiful, style-led and on-trend furniture, homewares, lifestyle products and gifts from One.World, Gallery Direct, Art Marketing, Garden Trading and Pacific Lifestyle, and The Libra Company will be introducing Laura Ashley collections. The hand-picked and curated selection of brands, many of which have increased their stand space, also includes Malini, StoneGlow, Inis, HugRug, Jellycat, Chive, Weaver Green, The Braided Rug Company, Wikholm, Bloomingville, and Blooms by Samuel Baker. Buyers on the

hunt for textiles will discover Ian Mankin, John Spencer Textiles and Remony. Exhibitors at visitors to Home, Living & Decor will include Coach House, CIMC, Hill Interiors, Chic Antique, Quirky Barn, Nordic Style, Hines of Oxford, PEB Imports, Febland, McGowan & Rutherford, Walton & Co, Ivyline, Piffany Copenhagen, FiftyFiveSouth, Dutch Imports & Daughters, Searchlight, Kaemingk, Bizotto, Kunstindustrien Edge Company, Minster Stylish Living, Hanlin, Ascalon, Artko, Dottypix, Artifex Natura and Lows of Dundee. The growth in textiles continues with Bianca Fine Linens, born too…, Dorma, Hyperion, Content by Terence Conran, Catherine Lansfield, Matthew Williamson, Pineapple Elephant, Riva Home, Voyage Maison, Sanderson, Morris & Co and Sassy B among the brands. Bringing all the latest innovations and trends to the table, Housewares features the latest kitchenware, cookware, tabletop decor and dining ideas from brands including PureTableTop featuring Kew, Olly Smith and Joules, Ekau Homewares, T&G Woodware, David Mason Design, Ulster Weavers, Dunlevy Distributors, International Cookware, Citylook Imports, and Captivate Brands with Mary Berry, Yvonne Ellen and Catherine Lansfield amongst others. Visit: www.springfair.com

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REVIEW

Best of Brussels

Theuns won the Innovation award with Sento

An optimistic mood and look to the future was on show The Brussels Balthazar Awards again recognised the best at the Brussels Furniture Fair. Saunaco’s Ron was the unanimous choice of the judging jury in the Best of Belgium category. ‘Ron is 100% Belgium made by Saunaco and designed by Studio Segers. This naming of the designers is quite unusual. The collection is modular, so can be personalised in numerous ways for modern interiors in both small and large spaces. The design is characterised by a consistent interplay of lines. This extends through from the fronts, across the rounded corners, and into the structured glass. Only the practised eye could discern that the fronts are not veneered. The ribbed profiles are milled in MDF and finished

Saunaco’s Ron

Interiors Monthly December 2023

with a powder coating. Ron represents Saunaco’s DNA,’ says the jury. Laureates went to Robur for the Taku chair and Passe Partout for the Bahia chaise longue. In the Innovation category, Theuns won the award with Sento. ‘The entire Sento collection puts innovation in a totally new perspective. This is innovation that harks back to the past, to furniture craftsmanship par excellence, and distances itself from the high-tech race. Sento upholds the value of craftsmanship in an innovative design with a strong focus on details. Where do the limits of carpentry lie? With the Sento cabinets, the answer lies in a magical, budding flower in the solid wood fronts. And with the tables, in

the masterful extension mechanism, since that too is crafted from 100% solid wood. The only technical concessions are the metal reinforcement profile and the screws. Solid wood? It is surprisingly easy for one person to expand, or rather widen, the table. A wider table ensures a more intimate, cosy experience than a longer table,’ says the jury. Laureates went to Herleven for the Wave upholstery system and Ecolife for its Eco Agave bed. The Love at First Sight award went to Maxdivani for Abbracci. ‘The design triggers your curiosity: what’s going on here? Here the “opposites attract” dynamic applies. A symbiosis of symmetry and asymmetry. Will you sit separately, or together? Together they form a stylish sofa or a communicative tete-a-tete whole. The solitaire arrangement exerts a magnetic pull. What is the other half – the mirror image – doing? Abbracci invites playfulness. How would you like to sit in your element? In which configuration would you like to sit together? Nothing is fixed; anything is possible,’ says the jury. Laureates went to Dienne for its Petra upholstery and De Toekomst for its Kelp table collection. The Best International award was won by Innovation Living for the Nolis sofa bed. ‘Nolis is a timeless and legible design. What you see is what you get. It makes no secret of its multi-functionality: on the contrary. The day bed is a strong stand-alone presence in the 

JOB OPPORTUNITIES Riviera Home UK seek motivated Sales Agents to join their team in the world of Naturally Luxurious Carpets and Rugs We create sustainable, innovative carpets and rugs for the interior design community and high-end flooring market with a distinctive point of difference. We have a significant vertically integrated manufacturing business in India, allowing us to create innovative, high-quality products.

Commission Sales Agents

Interior Design Sector Sales Agents

1. Northern Ireland 2. Scotland (including the Highlands & Islands) 3. West Midlands (including Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, Staffordshire & South/Mid Wales)

Covering territories within the UK

•

Possess strong connections in the Interior Design market.

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Have experience selling soft furnishings or other home décor items to Interior Designers.

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Have existing network of Flooring specialists & Interior Designers.

Have existing network of Interior Designers and Architect Specifiers.

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The ability to develop new trading channels for high-end flooring.

Be able to develop new trading opportunities within the Interior Design market.

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Be self-motivated, well organised with good IT skills.

Experience and knowledge within the carpet and flooring industry would be an advantage.

Riviera Home UK provides an excellent commission structure and has an active programme of exciting new range developments planned. This is an excellent opportunity to join our growing and successful company. To learn more about this opportunity, please write in complete confidence to:

Richard Moore Sales & Marketing Director

Riviera Home UK Limited

Email:

Suite 12, Gemini House, Stourport Rd, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY11 7QL

richard.moore@rivierahomeuk.com

www.rivierahomeuk.co.uk

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REVIEW

The Trends Corridors

room, serving as an autonomous piece on which to sit, relax, chill and lounge. The sleep function is not in-your-face, but is there. The mechanism is aesthetically designed and visibly integrated into the sofa. This speaks for itself. Both day and night configurations offer equally

Interiors Monthly December 2023

harmonious comfort. Nolis has all the hallmarks of a design classic.’ Laureates went to himolla for 1462 and Polden for Dixon. The Young Designer award went to Caroline Van Hoeck for the Vlak table and chairs. ‘Above all, Vlak is playful:

creating a fascinating graphic play of planes, lines, shadows and colours. The name alludes to geometric shapes and furniture panels. But also to the colourblocking. Every block is different. The chair is a balanced mix-and-match of a diamond, a hexagon and a rectangle. This configuration invites more playful sitting positions, ranging from slightly right to left-oriented. The shape of the table is equally liberating. This too invites playfulness. All the shapes come from a single, flat panel. Vlak is a statement: this is just the beginning. Vlak and its planes will be continued,’ says the jury. The show’s Trends Corridors, where the latest ideas from the interior design sector are linked to the finest products on display at the show, were a real source of inspiration for numerous people. Many of the so-called ‘traditional furniture’ manufacturers were putting even greater energy and resources into refining their ranges. The focus on made-to-measure and modular furniture had become increasingly evident in previous years and in addition to this, it was the ever-growing concern for aesthetics that stood out. There was an array of streamlined designs pushing the limits of woodworking techniques: without losing the warmth that is intrinsic to a piece of furniture. The difference between ‘disposable furniture’ and that born of craftsmanship was increasingly noticeable. The new dynamism truly came to the fore in the Design Academy and the vigorous energy of ‘Trendwolves’, where young people, arguments at hand, engaged in dialogue and shared their vision and solutions for a hopeful future with everyone: a vision of the future that is full of discoveries, and founded on optimism, design and realism. Visit: www.furniturefairbrussels.be

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