Interiors Monthly November 2024

Time is of the essence

The CMA really needs to act far, far quicker

to keep its creditability as retail isn’t slowing down

The Competition and Markets Authority has decided it has had enough of what it judges to be inaction by mattress brand Emma when it comes to online marketing direct to consumers. The CMA is concerned that shoppers will be pressurised into buying if they read that XYZ have been sold and that the deal has just ABC hours left. Don’t miss out, act now before it’s too late is not the message the CMA wants people to see.

However, given how long the CMA has taken to come to its verdict, it’s in real danger of missing its objective and rather undermining future efforts.

In November 2022, the CMA began its investigation into online selling practices (presumably after a lengthy examination to see if the investigation was worth it). In July the following year it told Emma it had concerns and the mattress company had to act. Almost a year later it then tells it that not enough has been done and gives it even more time to change its methods. Only now has it decided enough is enough and applied to the High Court: almost two years after it officially started the process.

If the CMA was convinced of inappropriate behaviour in July 2023 why didn’t it simply give Emma – or anyone else it investigates over this – a much shorter deadline to fix things to the CMA’s satisfaction? We are talking about a website, not a Grade II Listed building, so things can be changed in minutes.

Emma’s website today has no banners that offended the CMA, so part of its work has been successful, but the message this dragged-out procedure sends is simple: keep doing what you are doing. If you get a letter from the CMA, it’ll give you plenty of time not to do anything about it. Agree with the CMA as late as you can and you’ve extended the life of whatever your marketing strategy was considerably.

The CMA is due to get new powers in April, so hopefully with this greater authority comes greater speed: retail doesn’t stand still, so neither can the CMA.

Inglewood Saxony from Cormar Carpet Company. Visit: www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

INTERIORS MONTHLY NOVEMBER 2024

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Flooring sets sales record

CMA takes Emma to court

Victoria eyes £35m of cost cuts

An apple a day

Retail Theatre, time for two

Smooths Triple choice 33 B eds and bedroom

The latest from the sector including Bed I ndustry Awards reaction, Bed Show review and menopause matters

62 Exhibition guide

Plan your Q1 2025

68 Show review

TFS part two, Long Point

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Furniture advertising (North): Jarrod Bird

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Carpet, flooring advertising: Joanne Paull

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Representative in India: Amarjeet Singh Gianni

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Inglewood Saxony by

Flooring sales set record as furniture bounces back

The retail value of flooring sales hit a new high in September, topping the £300m level.

Sales reached £309,240,000, a rise of £59,025,000 on August 2024.

Compared with September 2023 and 2022, sales were 13.2% and 21.7% higher respectively in England, Scotland and Wales. Of the 465 months with comparable ONS data, the previous highest months for revenue were March 2008 (£290,405,000) and March 2022 (£278,130,000).

The value of furniture and lighting sales recovered in September, but was still lower than the past two years.

The value of sales rose by 27.7% to £1,381,775,000 compared with August 2024, but was 12% and 11.6% lower than September 2023 and 2022 respectively.

Of the 465 months with comparable data, September 2024 was the 23rd best performing month.

The figures are not seasonally adjusted, do not allow for inflation and are subject to revision.

Plumb move will ‘streamline’ company

Sarah Plumb, Plumbs md, has bought the re-upholstery, sofa covers and curtains manufacturer in a pre-pack deal.

All but two of the familyowned firm’s 241 employees have been taken on by the new company.

‘This family restructure and investment will streamline

the company ownership to those actively involved in its day-to-day operation and development. It offers the Plumbs brand an opportunity to continue as the only national provider of madeto-measure sofa covers, and reupholstery, in addition to offering bespoke curtains, whilst retaining their UK-

imm Cologne cancelled

January’s imm Cologne exhibition has been cancelled. Organiser Koelnmesse said the decision had been made in the face of falling demand in the German domestic market and reduced spending by manufacturers.

‘Pausing imm Cologne at this point in time is a logical decision, in view of the situation the industry finds

itself in. It was unavoidable in order to show our international customers some consideration,’ says Gerald Böse, Koelnmesse chairman.

‘imm Cologne did not take place three years in a row during the pandemic. This lack of continuity, coupled with the current economic environment, makes it impossible for us as event

wide team and supporting traditional craft skills within British manufacturing,’ says a statement.

Existing consumer orders remain valid.

The company had sales of £25m in 2022, but its most recently available accounts showed a loss of almost £500,000.

FV staff share profit jump

Furniture Village has seen pre-tax profits jump by 28% to £10.1m, and the amount paid to employees through the Family Partnership Profit Share scheme jumped by 77% to £2.25m in the year to the end of June as 1,050 members of staff shared the pay-out.

Although turnover was not disclosed, sales in 2022/2023 were £358.78m. The retailer had seen orders increase by 3% in the first 34 weeks of the 2023/2024 financial year.

organisers to guarantee an attractive range of exhibitors for the retailers in Cologne in January 2025.’

Markus Meyer, German Furniture and Kitchen Retailers’ Association president said he was ‘sorry the industry did not lend better support to its leading international trade fair.’

‘All of the industry’s stakeholders are now urgently tasked with getting together and finding joint solutions. More than ever, we must now concentrate on securing and strengthening our position. The industry needs a strong platform like imm Cologne in order to restructure itself in a way that ensures its future viability,’ he said.

Silentnight leap

Silentnight has seen profits leap in the past year. Pre-tax profits climbed from £6.3m to £10m in the year to 31 January. EBITA rose by 43% to £12.6m.

The increases came on the back of a £32.5m increase in sales, to £143.8m, helped by improved contract sales and ‘a resilient performance’ in consumer sales.

‘Our laser focus on retaining the trust of consumers … while also growing our contract business, delivered strong financial results last year on both the top and bottom line,’ says Tracey Bamber, Silentnight ceo.

Ball & Young’s Cloud 9 underlays are equipped with anti-microbial technologies to protect against fungi and bacteria caused by spills and leaks. This helps prevent unpleasant odours and ensuring a healthier living environment.

CMA takes Emma to court

The Competition and Markets Authority has launched legal action at the High Court against Emma, claiming the mattress brand has failed to take sufficient action to prevent shoppers being misled by its online countdown timers and high demand prompts.

The CMA began an investigation into online selling practices in November 2022, before telling Emma in July 2023 that it had concerns about the use of countdown timers for offers, and claims that consumers might miss out on a deal or product because demand was high. In May it told Emma it would take legal action unless the company changed its methods.

‘Emma Group has not made formal commitments to change its online selling practices and address the CMA’s concerns, and the CMA is accordingly seeking a court order to ensure that consumers are not misled by those practices,’ says the CMA.

‘We have given Emma sufficient opportunity to alter the way it does business to address our concerns. They have failed to make all the changes that we require, which is why we’ve progressed to court action. We are concerned that when sales tactics such as discounts and countdown clocks are used in a misleading way, they can pressure shoppers into making quick purchases and spending more than they otherwise would, for fear of missing out,’ says George Lusty, CMA interim executive director for consumer protection and markets.

Emma can still agree to change its practices by consenting to an order or giving undertakings to the High Court ahead of the case being heard. It is for the court to determine a date for the hearing.

The CMA has been monitoring sales practice across the sector, and in July Simba Sleep agreed to change its online selling practices.

TFR debt: shoppers were owed over £2m

The Floor Room owed shoppers more than £2m in deposits at the time of its collapse, and John Lewis was easily its largest trade creditor (outwith former parent Nestware and sister brand Carpetright).

The statement of affairs for the former John Lewis concession operator shows that 836 consumers had outstanding deposits totalling £2,019,898 at the time of the 9 August administration. John Lewis

has said it will make sure none of the former concession customers are left out of pocket.

The chain was owed £90,799 and is the largest of the trade creditors, excluding Nestware (which has a £10.5m loan outstanding) and Carpetright (£255,000 outstanding), while former sister brand Keswick Flooring is owed £50,000.

PwC has estimated in its first report to creditors that the former The Floor

Room employees are owed £98,000 – which it thinks will be paid in full within six to nine months.

This is despite former John Lewis/TFR staff claiming they are owed tens of thousands – often individually – which may be the subject of legal action.

HMRC is owed £280,000, of which PwC estimates it will receive 22%-52%.

TFR had cash reserves of £655,000 at the time of administration.

Made in London Made.com is to open a series of concessions within John Lewis stores.

The Next-owned brand has opened the first at the department store chain’s revamped Oxford Street, London flagship store, ahead of John Lewis selling Made.com ranges online. The move is part of an overhaul of the home offer at Oxford Steet, with new roomsets and brands, including Ruggable.

Kettle: shipping costs to blame

The failure of cabinet supplier Kettle Home has been blamed on the cost of shipping by its liquidators.

‘The furniture sector has faced some extremely challenging times, and with much of Kettle’s stock imported from Asia, the escalating costs of shipping were simply too high for Kettle Home to be able to continue trading. Other trading costs and the rise in economic costs have meant that the existing business model was not sustainable,’ says Thomas McKay, Begbies Traynor partner.

The firm’s 80 part-time and full-time employees have been made redundant for reasons of insolvency.

Kettle Home began trading after Kettle Interiors went into administration in March 2023, with debts of £16m and the loss of more than 120 jobs. It purchased £2.7m of stock from Kettle Interiors shortly before Kettle Interiors called in administrators.

International affair

More than 20,000 visitors from 35 countries will be at the NEC

As a fellow event organiser, it was a shame to hear that imm Cologne won’t be going ahead this January. Losses to the industry calendar like this reinforce the importance of shows like the January Furniture Show, which will once again solidify its position as the meeting place for the industry.

JFS has always been the UK’s premium trade event for furniture design, manufacturing and retail, but in recent years it has become a truly international affair. For the 2025 edition, 35% of the show floor has been booked by international brands, including himolla, Fama, Nicoletti Home, ALF, Ego Italiano, Marinelli, Kristensen:Kristensen, Aquinos, Furninova, Wiemann, Nolte Möbel, Violino, Hooker Furnishings, La-Z-Boy, Maxfurn, Actona, Skovby, Aleal, SanMartino, Incanto, Bernhardt, 3C Candy, Venjakob, X8 Chairs and Grafu Baldai.

JFS sets the benchmark for exceptional design, attracting a global audience: 20,000 visitors travel from 35 countries to explore more than 500 brands and suppliers. Set out across four distinct sectors – Premium Design; Home & Lifestyle; Living, Dining & Cabinet; and Upholstery & Beds – JFS showcases the best in classic, innovative and contemporary modern design, from standout pieces to accessible, mass-market options. Discover the perfect mix of new and established brands including Ashley Manor, Whitemeadow, Alpha Designs, G-Plan, Tetrad, Widdop & Co, Hartman, High Grove Beds, Premier Housewares, Trampoline, Westbridge, Hill Interiors, Ashwood Designs, Buoyant Upholstery, Scatter Box, Lebus, Shire Beds, Birlea, Willis & Gambier and hundreds more.

With registration launching only a few weeks ago, we have had a record number of visitor registrations and look forward to welcoming back top buyers including members of our enhanced VIP Programme who have a combined buying budget of more than £3bn. We look forward to having the likes of Dunelm, Marks & Spencer, Next, Furniture Village, Sofology, Oak Furnitureland, Wayfair, Bensons for Beds, Sainsbury’s, Fenwicks, DFS, ScS and more join us at the show.

Visitors can enjoy multiple networking events across the four days including the Show Party, Happy Hour and the Women in Furniture Network event, making JFS a no-brainer for any retailer, designer, manufacturer, architect or design professional. Visit: www.thefurnitureshows.com

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ALMOST 50% OF ANNUAL SALES IN THREE WEEKS.

[The customer queue to pay went out of the door and down the road!] The whole sales event was conducted as the genuine retirement sale that it was. There is very little stock left, we hit the sales target and we are leaving on a high.”

Pauline Curry, Director, Bests of Honiton. July 2024.

“A GOOD FOUR MONTH’S SALES IN TWO WEEKS!

Your Event Manager was a top bloke – we could not have done it without him. Very Happy!

Paul Mitchell M.D., The Bed Superstore Ltd, Bristol. September 2024.

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Victoria eyes £35m of cuts

Victoria will cut costs by almost £35m across the group to drive margins when demand increases, but profits in the second half of 2024/2025 will be lower than expectations.

Integrated procurement, introduced across the group for the first time, will see significant savings. Each 1% of savings across its £500m purchasing will boost profit by £5m. ‘Meaningful savings have already been secured, although the full impact is heavily weighted to FY2026,’ said the company.

An 18-month reorganisation of its Spanish ceramic tile production will boost profits by £16m-£19m a year. Synergy gains from the relocation of production capacity from Belgium to Turkey alongside cost-cutting in Belgium will save £5m.

‘Victoria's various UK brands continue to be important in market positioning, but the full integration of Balta’s UK carpet business during H1 allowed the company to merge the brands of Balta and Carpet Line Direct, and Victoria and Hugh Mackay, and separately consolidate our underlay operations with immediate savings in rent, logistics and personnel totalling £5m per annum,’ it said.

The group told shareholders that it expects sales of around £580m and underlying EBITDA of £50m in the six months to 1 October: a continuation of the lower demand environment experienced in H2 FY2024 when underlying EBITDA was £64.9m. ‘The company has generally outperformed the market and continued to improve its competitive position – particularly in the UK. The board expects H2 trading to be stronger as a result of the actions taken by management alongside a small improvement in demand, although earnings are likely to be below consensus expectations,’ it warned.

Flooring buying group

Metrohas appointed Graham Harris, former Manx Carpets and Kingsmead executive, as successor to long-time general manager Steve Depport. He will join the group in January, before succeeding Depport at the end of March.

Steve Bakker has succeeded Agnes Zsednai, Woolsafe’s long-standing md. Zsednai, a research chemist by profession, has taken on the role of scientific advisor. Bakker had been global marketing director at the organisation since 2018.

Unilin to recycle laminate

Unilin is to invest €20m in recycling facilities that will see laminate floors recycled. It will license the technology behind the investment so other producers can boost their recycling eforts.

The development builds on Unilin’s 2021 investment which saw the first recycling technology for MDF and HDF on an industrial scale. Since then it has improved the technology at its Bazeilles, France plant so that laminate floors with an HDF core can be recycled.

‘The investment will have a capacity of 70,000tonnes of wood fibres per year, or almost 30% recycled fibres on the production line where the technology is deployed,’ says

Veronique Hoflack, Unilin Panels president.

‘The next step consists of collecting sufficient MDF waste to drive our recycling installation. To collect this waste, we are setting up several take-back programmes with our customers and partners.

‘We also hope to find an ally in the government by recognising the recyclability of MDF, HDF and laminate floors in order to motivate the general public to sort their waste. This way, we hope to avoid the unnecessary incineration of valuable waste streams.’

The new installation is expected to be operational next September.

Tapi turnaround

Tapi Carpets has shown another £10m turnaround in profitability, after generating record sales. Sales grew by 7.9% to £171m in 2023, helped by seven store openings during the year.

An operating loss of £1.7m became a profit of more than £8m – reflecting the £10m

turnaround in 2021 when a loss of £5m in 2020 became a profit of £5m a year later.

Jeevan Karir, Tapi Carpets md says its proposition is ‘winning through’ despite market conditions and consumer concerns over spending. The progress continued into the first half of this year, he says.

Revived Harvey Jones moves into Heal’s

Upmarket kitchen chain Harvey Jones has opened a showroom at Heal’s flagship Tottenham Court Road, London store as its recovery from administration continues.

The chain was bought in a pre-pack administration in February by a fund managed by RBC BlueBay Asset Management. It paid £400,0000 for the business plus agreed to honour £3.6m of customer deposits.

The 7,200sqft showroom features six kitchen and home areas; a pet kitchen; utility installation; and a new collection. The opening follows refurbishment of its Chester and Hove outlets. The chain plans another store by the end of the year.

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1 In a majestic long and wide plank, Cala waterproof wood flooring from Quick-Step brings a sense of grandeur and elegance to large rooms and openplan living spaces. Available in a range of unique, beautiful and soul-warming wood finishes, ranging from Wintry Forest Oak Extra Matt to Cinnamon Oak Extra Matt, the collection has something for every interior style.

Visit: www.quick-step.co.uk

Richelieu Classic bespoke runners are available from just 10 linear metres. Visit: www.louisdepoortere.com

3 Say goodbye to dark corners in the home and bring atmospheric light with you with the new Blossi Table Mini portable lamp from Nuura . The portable version of the iconic Blossi Table lamp makes it easy to set the mood at the coffee table, at impromptu dinners, or by spreading comfortable lighting in a cherished corner while reading a good book.

Visit: www.nuura.com

Visit: www.freifrau.com 1 2

2 Louis De Poortere lets anyone create their own bespoke runner with Richelieu Classic, choosing a bordered design in any two colours from 144 options. The 20,000 combinations will transform any staircase into a striking and personal feature of the home. Available in 60cm, 70cm, 90cm, 100cm and 120cm widths

4 LeoLine Premium is a sheet vinyl floor with a clear difference. From the very first glance, you can tell this floor is something special thanks to its unique surface,

which gives the convenience of a seamless vinyl floor with the premium looks of luxury vinyl. With a deep embossed texture, clear and matt wear layer and high-definition original wood and concrete designs, Premium is a high-quality, costeffective alternative to LVT floors.

Visit: www.leoline.co.uk

5 With Freifrau’s Leyasol you can enjoy outdoor moments of relaxation. Inspired by the design vocabulary of the Leya range of chairs, it features a delicate, weather-resistant wire frame while the comfortable padded cushions are removable and weatherproof. The frame is available in all Freifrau outdoor colours, and, when used indoors, also in the full range of RAL colours.

6 Laabmilano’s Pop-Up lounge chair makes a design statement. With minimal lines defining its inner circular shape and outer squared form, Pop-Up can shine in a modern interior as a significant vintage piece, or attract visitors from every corner with its inviting seat. The base of the chair features a slim brass ring, which adds structure and elegance, while its hidden feet mean it is easily moveable.

Visit: www.laabmilano.com

7 The four new Feel the Difference underlays give homeowners even more choice in dense, premium PU foam underlay that delivers the best in comfort, support and resilience. Retailers can now begin to up-sell homeowners to these new underlays, thanks to A3 hanging samples, A3 card presenters, A4 cards and Feel the Difference branded POS, available from their local Floorwise distributor.

Visit www.floorwise.co.uk

8 Nardi’s Cube and Tiberina is a set of outdoor furniture made of fibreglass resin and aluminium with clean shapes and balanced proportions, featuring slats and lathe-turned legs. Their unique combination plays on the design of the slats of both elements and the curves of the chair, which soften the aesthetics of the set.

Visit: www.nardioutdoor.com

9 Meritalia’s Newcastle sofa offers leather in a smooth finish or a distinctive, refined crinkled effect, which aims to evoke the natural irregularities of stone. It is durable but changes, creases and stretches, evolving with the experience of use.

Visit: www.meritalia.it

10 The Academy for Excellence in Flooring is welcoming the first group of installers to take part in the Moduleo LayRed Master Installer training and accreditation programme. Over two days, they are subjected to an intensive professional training course that tests skills and ensures they are up to the task of installing the engineered vinyl flooring to the highest standard. During the course they tackle subfloor preparation; moisture readings and test equipment; planning and setting out; templating; pattern repeats; straight, herringbone and 45deg installation; and plank replacement.

Visit: www.quick-step.com/en/academy

The right way Richard Renouf

A junior whirlwind and no instructions show understanding and details matter

Customers are sometimes disappointed because of surprising little details. Spotting where things could have been done better is one thing, but taking steps to ensure we do better is another.

Mr H had paid extra for glides to be fitted to his recliner sofa. I wasn’t told how much he had paid, but I imagine they were a profitable add-on for the retailer and the sales team were encouraged to push them as much as possible. When, after a year, Mr H found scratches on his laminate flooring, he was convinced the glides were the issue and, when he looked, of the 10 plastic feet under the frame of the sofa, only eight had glides fitted. Of course, it was obvious, this was the cause of the damage and so the complaint process began.

It was some months later, when the technician sent on behalf of the retailer was unable to be conclusive, that I was called for. I arranged my visit and arrived on a day when Mr H and his wife were looking after one of their grandsons

and the second was due to be collected from school by them later the same afternoon. They weren’t looking forward to that moment: it would be like a whirlwind hitting their home, they said.

They watched as I put tissues under the feet so I could pull out the sofa and turn it on its back to look underneath. I was careful to ensure the glides were shielded by my back as I took a close look at each one, and the two feet where they had not been fitted. The glides were as badly scratched as the flooring, and they were caked in soiling and debris, including grit. The glides were not causing the scratching, but the couple’s expectations had been fuelled by the price of, and promises made about, the glides.

Scroll forwards a few days and I was at another home, this time on the other side of the country. I was already in the area when the call was received and I was able to detour slightly to fit the call in rather than make a special journey

on another day. The complaint was that high gloss laminate flooring had been shredded by the castors on an office chair and there were large patches of exposed HDF where the surface layer had peeled away. The customer knew the damage was where the castors were rolling, but expected the flooring, with its many-year guarantee, to be up to enduring such normal treatment.

As always, I asked the customer some questions. Did the installer leave a copy of the care and maintenance instructions? No. The customer could not, therefore, have been aware of the need to protect the flooring from castors by using a suitable chair mat or perhaps soft castors rather than the hard plastic castors on the chair.

In both cases tiny details had resulted in substantial costs, and the biggest cost was the consequential cost to the businesses involved. I have little doubt the customers will think twice in the future, not about making sure they get the full details they need, but about where they (and maybe their friends) should go for their next purchase. Visit: www.richard-renouf.com

Richard Renouf is an independent furnishings consultant

The castors themselves were scuffed

The floor surface was peeling away

Double first

After two years of work, Takt and Beyond Leather Materials have introduced an animal-free upholstery option

Danish furniture brand Takt and Beyond Leather Materials, the manufacturer of Leap, a vegan-certified leather alternative made with apple waste, have announced a strategic partnership. The two Scandinavian brands provide consumers with animal-free upholstery options for eight of Takt’s chair designs, including its bestseller, the Cross Chair. By choosing Leap as an alternative to leather, with 91% USDA-certified biobased content, Takt is expanding its upholstery options while staying true to its commitment to high-quality materials designed to last, as well as its Eco System design principles, which prioritise full transparency when designing furniture with minimal environmental impact.

‘We aim to create furniture that is as good for the planet as for the people, and Leap fits perfectly into that vision,’ says Michael Lysemose, Takt product developer. ‘We wanted to offer an animal-free option that would still be of high quality and would match with our design principles, and Leap delivers on both fronts.’

The collaboration is the first time Takt’s chairs will feature a vegan-certified upholstery option, and the first time Leap is being used in furniture upholstery. Both companies believe in the power of certifications and verifiable impact, ensuring that buyers can confidently

trust their choice when selecting the chair. Each chair upholstered with Leap is certified with the EU Ecolabel, highlighting its contribution to reduced environmental footprint.

The journey to bring Leap to the chairs was not without its challenges, but these challenges were seen as opportunities for innovation within the furniture industry and fulfil Beyond Leather Material’s aim of ‘pushing the boundaries of what’s possible to achieve’. Both brands remained committed to their high environmental standards throughout the process, such as earning the EU Ecolabel, and the two years of effort has led them to introduce an upholstery option that reflects shared standards of design, quality and durability, without sacrificing the chairs’ aesthetics.

As a Certified B Corporation, Takt’s furniture carries the EU Ecolabel, which reflects the genuine dedication to minimising environmental impact, and this vision aligns perfectly with Beyond Leather’s mission to reimagine materials in a way that causes less harm and inspires positive change.

‘It lies within our mission to openly explain the efforts we make at Takt. We believe in transparency and recognised external certifications, to ensure there is substance behind every piece we

create. That’s why calculating the environmental impact and earning the EU-Ecolabel have been essential steps in incorporating Leap into our designs,’ says Lysemose.

‘Our collaboration with Takt is rooted in the shared principle of celebrating transparency all the way through our businesses. We’ve been in conversation for two long years, so it’s exciting to finally see Leap enhancing Takt’s timeless designs as an animal-free upholstery option,’ says Mikael Eydt, Beyond Leather Materials co-founder and ceo. Visit: www.taktcph.com www.explore-leap.com

Leap is an upholstery option for eight of Takt’s chair designs

Our latest collection embraces the essence of autumn and winter with a series of warm, inviting colour palettes. Expect deep reds, burnt oranges complimented with earth-toned neutrals and rich browns, perfectly suited to the cosy atmosphere of the seasons.

The stunning Alda lanterns, crafted from cast aluminum and finished to resemble cast bronze, offer a timeless aesthetic that suits both indoor and outdoor spaces. Its rich, antiqued finish adds a touch of elegance, making them a perfect fit for contemporary global-inspired interiors. Durable and versatile, these lanterns effortlessly enhance any setting.

Theatre

If you want in-store drama, Henge will happily provide it

If you want a gentle, possibly safe environment, then new Henge’s Chelsea store is not for you. If you want drama and plenty of statements that approach in your face but successfully never get there, then this 6,455sqft of Brompton Road is where to go.

It perfectly embodies the Henge style, with every detail meticulously curated by the Henge in-house team to showcase the latest collections and the brand’s iconic pieces. The space features four living areas including two monumental

kitchens, iconic sculptural lights and several boiseries.

Henge is describing it as as important as its Via della Spiga, Milan showroom –no pressure then – and expects it to see customers from central and northern Europe also gravitate to it.

Among the new designs showcased is the Floyds Lights Series, realised in collaboration with Venini and designed by Ugo Cacciatori exclusively for Henge and composed of four blown-glass lights produced in Murano; Opera by Massimo

Castagna, the latest sculptural kitchen embellished with a unique marble stone that plays with volumes; and the Sapiens and Sirius systems and Spectre modular bookcase by Massimo Castagna.

‘This opening marks a major milestone in Henge’s consolidation in the international market. London is an important hub in the design world and also holds significant value as a key link to our esteemed clientele on a global scale,’ says Paolo Tormena, Henge ceo. Visit: www.henge07.com

The store is expected to attract customers from across Europe

Time for two

Mud Australia’s expansion continues as it marks 30 years

Australian homewares and lighting brand Mud Australia has opened its second London store as it celebrates its 30th anniversary.

The Upper Street, Islington branch comes after its London debut last year in Marylebone and restores its global presence to 12, after last month’s closure of the Connaught Village shopping

centre outlet in Westminster.

‘We are excited to open a store in North London and join the extraordinary list of independent design stores. Islington is an area that I’ve always loved because of its vibrant character and independent spirit as well as its proximity to great food, community pubs, music,

theatre and rich local history,’ says Shelley Simpson, Mud Australia creative director and founder.

‘This store opening is particularly special as it’s our 30th year in business and to see Mud Australia continue to grow and welcome new customers globally is incredibly humbling.’ Visit: www. www.mudaustralia.com

Store design, by DesignOffice, has evolved to ’create spaces that are quietly confident and personable’

Mud Australia joins the area’s ‘extraordinary list of independent design stores’

Simpson says she is humbled by the international expansion

The chain has stores in Australia, UK and US

FLOORING INSTALLATION PRODUCTS

LOOKING AFTER FLOORS AND REPUTATIONS FROM

• Enjoy an engaging, friendly, social and fun member event

• Meet our industry leading suppliers who support the group and take advantage of their additional on the day deals and incentives

• Buffet, Supplier Show, Gala Dinner and Casino Evening included for all attending ACG members

• The largest buying group trade show exclusively for it’s members

NOTANACG

1 ACG offers membership without interference and a change in practice.

2 ACG offers its members actual ‘best trade pricing’.

3 ACG members receive all their ‘turnover rebates’ directly from suppliers.

4 ACG members have access to the hugely successful, multi award winning and largest of the group rebrands - Smart Choice.

5 ACG are a friendly, member owned and not for profit buying group.

where’s the catch? Honestly, there isn’t one!

New direction

Simply Smooth is Abingdon’s new LVT, laminate and cushion vinyl collection

Abingdon Flooring’s British-made carpets adorn homes across the country with the company producing 15m sqm a year. This has now been joined by Simply Smooth, a collection of LVT, laminate and cushion vinyl.

The easy, practical nature and wood effects of LVT make it high on the shopping list for open plan living spaces, bathrooms, kitchens and hallways. Abingdon Flooring has introduced Artisan and Eminence, catering for these rooms with a floor in six warm wood colours. Eminence is the plank design and Artisan the herringbone. Both come in dryback and click specifications with a 0.55mm wear layer with an authentic embossed finish for a natural look and feel. Both floors are backed by a 15-year residential warranty.

Laminate is often chosen for its hardwearing qualities that make it particularly suitable for homes with busy families needing a tough, wood-look floor. To cater for this market, Abingdon Flooring has two UK-made ranges: the 8mm Prestige and 12mm Exquisite.

Prestige is available in 12 wood effects, including natural and grey toned oaks as well as rich dark roast walnut. Featuring an AC4 abrasion rating, Prestige is suitable for use in living spaces and hallways, with a four-sided bevel that adds definition to its 1288mm x 195mm planks. The floor comes with a 15-year residential guarantee.

The AC5 rated Exquisite range is feature laden. With 48-hour water protection, it can be confidently used in bathrooms and kitchens and features Pro-Tec floor protection for improved scratch and stain resistance. In 10 authentic wood designs with a synchronised emboss in register texture, including neutral colours such as silver ice oak, Exquisite comes in the same plank size as Prestige. It has a 30-year residential guarantee.

The third element of Simply Smooth is two highly affordable cushion vinyl collections, which are ideal for use

in bathrooms and kitchens needing an affordable and seamless flooring option. Urban comes in eight designs, including herringbone and a stone tile, while Endurance delivers an improved specification and comfort thanks to its 4mm thickness and premium cushion backing. Endurance comes in eight wood and tile designs, including a choice of three herringbone colours.

The collection is presented on a compact display stand for the Artisan and Eminence and dedicated stands for Prestige and Exquisite.

Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

Artisan LVT in Chestnut herringbone

Exquisite laminate in Beachland Oak

Eminence LVT in Brushed Oak

Profiles for a fantastic finish

Get a fantastic finish every time with the floorwise profiles portfolio, Including brand-new brushed space grey and brushed black finishes in high-style Reflections, as well as the Zenith range of wood, laminate & LVT profiles.

• •

Precision extruded aluminium for exceptional value

True chrome plate for enduring luxury

New anodised brushed space grey & brushed black finishes

Anodised brushed steel nickel for a lasting contemporary finish

Oak, dark walnut & grey oak colour-matching wood effects

Traditional matt gold, matt silver, polished & simbrass finishes

Curvable PVC profiles

Solutions for every floorcovering installation

For all residential & commercial projects

BRUSHED STEEL NICKEL

New flagship

Carefree Twist has been relaunched with 16 colours for today

Furlong Flooring has relaunched its flagship Carefree Twist carpet collection, which has been enhanced to meet the demands of today’s homeowners.

Manufactured in the UK by Regency Carpets, the updated ranges include 16 new on-trend colour options designed for a wide range of interior styles and preferences. The colours have been chosen to complement contemporary home aesthetics, while still offering the practical benefits that have made the Carefree collection a household favourite.

The updated collection includes two distinct qualities: Carefree Twist and Carefree Ultra. Both ranges are designed to provide high levels of durability and ease of maintenance, making them a smart choice for busy households. With their robust twist construction, they offer the performance needed in hightraffic areas, providing a long-lasting solution that can stand up to the demands of modern living.

Designed to withstand the rigours of everyday life, from pets and children to general wear and tear, the twist pile construction helps maintain the carpet’s appearance, while the bleach-cleanable fibres make it easy to deal with spills and stains: ease of cleaning is a major selling point for homeowners looking for a carpet that combines aesthetic

appeal with practicality. The mothproof quality of Carefree Twist and Carefree Ultra ensures they remain in good condition over time, providing additional peace of mind for homeowners concerned about long-term carpet care, and will continue to look good and perform well, year after year.

Both ranges offer up to a 10-year wear and stain warranty, highlighting Furlong Flooring’s confidence in the product’s quality. The warranty covers general wear, staining and moth damage, giving homeowners the assurance that they are investing in a product that is built to last.

The relaunch reflects Furlong Flooring’s ongoing mission to deliver durable and stylish flooring that meets the needs of modern homes. While Carefree Twist and Carefree Ultra have been updated with new colours, they continue to offer the same level of craftsmanship that customers have come to expect from Furlong Flooring. Each carpet in the range is manufactured to exacting standards in the UK, ensuring a consistent level of quality across all products.

‘We are excited to bring to the market our signature Carefree range with fresh new shades while upholding the superior craftsmanship our customers know and trust,’ says Ian Collacott, Furlong Flooring sales director. ‘This highlights the

company’s dedication to maintaining the same high standards that have made the Carefree range so popular, while also updating the products to reflect current design trends.

‘The Carefree Twist and Carefree Ultra ranges are versatile enough to be used in various rooms within the home. Whether it’s a living room, bedroom or hallway, these carpets are designed to perform well in different environments. The range offers flexibility in terms of both style and function, allowing homeowners to choose a carpet that suits their personal taste while still delivering the performance they need. Whether a homeowner is looking for a more economical option with Carefree Twist or a premium feel with Carefree Ultra, there’s a product to suit every need.’

The relaunch of Carefree Twist is part of Furlong Flooring’s broader commitment to innovation within the flooring industry. The company is continually looking for ways to improve its products and offer flooring solutions that not only meet but exceed customer expectations, so homeowners can feel confident that they are investing in a product that has been designed with both style and functionality in mind.

Visit: www.furlongflooring.com

Above left: Carefree Twist in Night Sky

Above: Carefree Ultra in Husky

Chacha Oat Fabric

Chacha Dove Fabric

Chacha Ocean Fabric

Chacha Fern Fabric Greige Fabric Hessian Fabric

Invisible danger

Excess subfloor moisture poses a particular threat to the appearance of wood flooring

Achieving a long-lasting, visually attractive finish with timber floors demands that the same basic principles of installation are followed as when installing other types of flooring. However, wood is even more susceptible than textile or resilient floorcoverings to damage from moisture, so deploying a moisture management solution can be vital.

‘If unmanaged, excess subfloor moisture, the result of either rising damp or residual construction moisture, will cause wood to warp and attack adhesives, potentially resulting in the flooring cupping or buckling and, ultimately, complete floor failure.

Safeguarding against excess subfloor moisture is, therefore, an essential step when installing this kind of floor,’ says Tim Green, F Ball training manager.

In addition to ensuring a subfloor is suitably sound, smooth and free of any contaminants, including any old adhesive residues, it is essential to undertake a moisture test to check for subfloor moisture. The only way of measuring levels of subfloor relative humidity (RH) with accuracy, and the method advocated by British Standards, is using a calibrated digital hygrometer.

Normally, a liquid waterproof surface membrane will be required to suppress excess subfloor moisture and prevent

damage to flooring when RH levels are above 75%. However, the maximum permitted figure is 65% where wood floorcoverings will be installed because of their sensitivity to moisture.

‘F Ball has two timesaving options for when a moisture management solution is required. Stopgap F77 waterproof surface membrane is a two-part epoxy resin system, applied in a single coat. It fully cures in as little as three hours and will isolate residual construction moisture or rising damp where relative humidity values are up to 98%. For an even quicker way to create a barrier where RH values are up to 95%, there is

Stopgap F78, a one-component system that is applied in two coats, requiring 15-20 minutes’ curing time for the first coat and a further 30 minutes for the second,’ says Green.

After checking for subfloor moisture and deploying a moisture management solution where necessary, installers can proceed to apply a smoothing compound to ensure a perfectly smooth base for the receipt of floorcoverings, remembering to prime the subfloor beforehand. ‘F Ball usually recommends using a heavy-duty smoothing compound, such as Stopgap 300, prior to the installation of wood flooring because they are better able to withstand the added strain exerted by the natural movement of the wood. Finally, a specialist wood adhesive must be selected to install wood blocks or planks. Utilising the latest technology, flexible wood floor adhesives, such as Styccobond B95, provide an elastic but strong bond, which will accommodate natural movement of wood flooring over its lifetime, ensuring a long-lasting, visually attractive floor finish.

‘If you have any questions about installing wood floors, or any other kinds of flooring installation, F Ball’s technical service department is on hand Monday to Friday, 8.30am-5pm to advise.’

Visit: www.f-ball.com

Styccobond B95 adhesive

Stopgap F78 needs less than an hour’s curing time in total

Beds and bedroom

Bespoke comfort, British design, crafted by Hypnos

Showstoppers

The bed industry crowned its champions and found time for new products

‘Wow! What a show! The NBF team extends a big thank you to everyone who visited and exhibited at this year’s Bed Show at the Telford International Centre on 24-25 September. A special thanks also goes to all our NBF member sponsors – without them, the Bed Show could not be the success it is today,’ says Tristine Hargreaves, National Bed Federation executive director.

The annual Bed Show brings together the best in British and Irish bed manufacturing and their suppliers to showcase their latest innovations and sales support for the UK and Irish market.

‘We are thrilled with the feedback on this year’s show, with compliments on

stand designs, excellent networking opportunities, and many praising the gala dinner and awards ceremony as the best yet,’ says Hargreaves. ‘We are truly grateful for the support of all our organising partners and our generous sponsors: Enkev, GNG Group/Komfi, Harrison Spinks, Highgrove, Hypnos, Sealy UK, Silentnight, Sleepeezee, Sweet Dreams and The Vita Group.’

The Bed Show is the top sales platform for new collections, innovations and marketing plans in the industry. There was something for everyone, covering products at various price points and distribution scales, from both large and small companies. The show encompasses

everything from finished products to the latest advancements in materials, components, machinery and services.

The Bed Show is also home to the Bed Industry Awards. The winners were announced at the gala dinner, hosted by Strictly Come Dancing star Anton Du Beke who, in his own words: ‘before becoming a global superstar’ was a salesman for 2024 retail winner The Bed Post.

DFS clinched National Bed Retailer of the Year for the first time. ‘It’s great to see all our hard work and investment recognised in this way. The last financial year has been challenging, but growth in beds and mattresses has been a success story for us. We’ve launched

The show is a key buying event

The Bed Post won Large NBF Retail Champion of the Year

The gala dinner was a sell-out

BEDS AND BEDROOM

new ranges, many in partnership with NBF members, have extended product presence throughout our retail estate and enhanced our quick delivery proposition. All of this, supported by a passionate and dedicated team, has contributed to increased sales year on year. I’m excited to see what the year ahead has in store,’ says Rachel Nimz Taylor, DFS senior buyer – bedroom.

The finalists were Bensons for Beds, Dreams and Furniture Village.

MattressNextDay was crowned Online Bed Retailer of the Year for the second time. ‘It’s evidence that the hard work and dedication from every member of the MND team has not gone unnoticed, whether ensuring the highest quality customer service, strengthening industry relationships, or improving the wellbeing of our staff. We look forward to another year of providing the nation with the best night’s sleep,’ says Martin Seeley, MattressNextDay ceo.

The finalists were Mattress Online and Simba Sleep, with Land of Beds highly commended.

Dreamland Bedding Centre, a Retail Champion that stocks predominantly NBF-approved brands, won Small NBF

Retail Champion of the Year. ‘Winning the award is profoundly meaningful, as these accolades are the most prestigious in our industry. It stands as a testament to my team’s collective dedication. Witnessing the joy and emotion on [owner] Mike Brown’s face was immensely rewarding. I am elated and deeply moved by the overwhelming support from our supplier partners and fellow retailers,’ says Matthew Randle, DBC general manager.

The finalists were Prestige Beds and The M6 Bed Warehouse, with Linthorpe Beds highly commended.

The Bed Post took home the Large NBF Retail Champion of the Year award for the first time, with Sussex Beds runner up. ‘As a family-run business that has now been trading for more than 37 years, it feels fantastic to have been recognised by such an important organisation in our industry. It is amazing to see our hard work paying off: this is an award for the whole team at The Bed Post. I hope that we can continue to move forward this year and we will enjoy having something to really shout about,’ says Oliver Wright, The Bed Post partner.

Silentnight’s Eco Comfort AirMesh mattress was crowned Bed Product of the Year. Described by judges as ‘beautiful, flexible and tactile,’ the mattress aids breathability, airflow and comfort for hot sleepers and eco-conscious consumers at a realistic price point. ‘This recognition reinforces our position as the UK’s most trusted sleep brand and demonstrates the excellence of our products we work hard to provide for our nation of sleepers,’ says Silentnight.

Sealy UK’s Elevate UltraLux Anniversary mattress and Millbrook Beds’ Opulent Pillow Top 7000 were finalists.

The industry’s most vertically integrated brand, Harrison Spinks, was

crowned Bed Manufacturer of the Year, beating competition from Dreams Manufacturing, Hypnos and Sealy UK.

‘We’re delighted to win, and it couldn’t have been done without a fantastic team effort. It’s incredible to achieve this acknowledgement, as industry recognition supports growth and helps us invest into our comfort innovation and sustainability goals – high priority for us,’ says Nick Booth, Harrison Spinks md. Handy triumphed in the Supplier of the Year category. Judges commended its ‘commitment to ingenious product innovation, clear understanding of its customers’ needs and razor-sharp focus on customer satisfaction, in the knowledge that a slip-up will bring the whole process grinding to a halt.’

The finalists were The Vita Group and Wolf Components.

Nestor Springs’ innovative ValueRest spring won Component Product of the Year. The judges praised the company for creating a luxury component – which uses 30% less steel – at an affordable price that meets customer needs. ‘The recognition reinforces our role as a trusted leader in the bedding industry, committed to providing value without sacrificing performance. ValueRest reflects our mission to offer smart, economical alternatives,’ says the company.

The finalists were Boyteks for its BioCool mattress ticking, Carpenter for its Podz Foam Springs and Handy for its Narrow Woven Wool Tape Edge. John Cotton Nonwovens was highly commended for its Earthkind mattress insulator pad.

‘The NBF is already looking forward to returning to Telford next year with show dates of 23- 24 September, plus the gala dinner and Bed Industry Awards celebrations,’ says Hargreaves. Visit: www.bedshow.co.uk

The DFS team with Tean Dallaway, NBF president

Anton Du Beke

Nestor Spings

MATTRESSES | TOPPERS | PILLOWS | SEATING

PodzTM innovative design offers optimum support and performance when used as a comfort layer in a mattress, as a unique layer in a topper or as part of our comfort cushioning range. They are designed to mimic a metal spring, but without the need to segregate the layers at the end of the product life.

Celebrations

Hypnos celebrated 120 years of British bedmaking in style

Hypnos has been at the heart of British handcrafted bedmaking since 1904 and so the Bed Show saw celebrations to mark its 120th year, including sponsorship of the Bed Industry Awards reception drinks and glittering gala awards evening.

Even before visitors stepped into the show, Hypnos showed how it is living out its mission to do the right thing for the wellbeing of people and the planet. A result of the brand’s partnership with logistics supplier DFDS, its first Volvo electric articulated lorry with the new Hypnos livery was on display outside Telford International Centre, before it begins deliveries as part of the fleet.

Inside, retailers discovered new products including two new adjustable mattresses; its range of pillow tops, now in two tensions; fabric collaborations with leading British design houses, and a new approach to Hypnos’ Project Zero – representing the future direction of beds for 2024.

For this year’s Project Zero, the Hypnos team looked to pressing social issues, aiming to take positive action in reducing sleep poverty among children. With 11% of children in the UK having to share a bed or sleep on the floor in the past year, sleep poverty affects an estimated 894,000 children, impacting their performance at school, mood and mental health.

The launch of My First Hypnos sees the bedmaker start a new partnership, with the aim for ‘zero’ sleep hours lost to child poverty. Hypnos and Barnardo’s

are working in partnership to change children’s lives. 5% of the wholesale proceeds of My First Hypnos mattresses and bed sets will be donated to the charity. To start the relationship, Hypnos has committed to supplying 200 beds.

The new collection has been designed for ages five and above and is aimed at an entry market. Awaken and Arise are made with sustainable materials including British Responsible Wool Standard wool and are free from FR chemicals. The open storage base and headboard is available in a choice of eight Easy Clean fabrics.

Hypnos also previewed the adjustable Reviva and Restora Pillow Top mattresses, available with an easy-to-use adjustable divan base. The mattresses are designed to ergonomically contour to the base thanks to the use of ReActiveForm pocket springs. Both are available in medium and firm tensions and combine ReActiveForm with British RWS wool, natural latex, eOlus and Adaptiv comfort springs. They also feature a two-row hand side-stitched border and chemicalfree 100% viscose sleep surface. The Pillow Top Collection was also updated with a new firmer tension.

Keeping Britishness at the heart of its stand, Hypnos teased retailers with collaborations with some of Britain’s most admired fabric companies, including Sanderson, Timorous Beasties, Harlequin and Hainsworth. Showcased on beds and with swatches, the show was an opportunity to preview and gather feedback on the patterns and

trends before release in February.

‘I am incredibly proud of our progress this year and all the hard work that the Hypnos team have made, preparing and strengthening the business for the next 120 years. Our new management structure, investment in new systems and our approach to sustainability throughout the business, not just in our products, are aimed at improving our customers’ experience of the brand and delivering Hypnos comfort with integrity. Our new partnerships with Barnardo’s and DFDS are proof that progress happens when people and organisations work together – indeed this has resulted in £130,000 to date going to support the work of the Eden Project: partnership is leadership,’ says David Baldry, Hypnos group md.

‘As a renowned bespoke luxury bedmaker, Hypnos is in a great position to be able to support British products, craft and design. We have introduced the Responsible Wool Standard to British farms and are proud to partner with other British suppliers and brands.’ Visit: www.hypnosbeds.com

My First Hypnos will support Barnardo’s

The company celebrated 120 years of bed making at the Bed Shoow

Hypnos’ Pillowtop Collection

Triple score

Sleepeezee showed its commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation

For Sleepeezee, the Bed Show was a celebration of the brand’s rich 100-year history, filled with exciting highlights and industry-leading designs.

The event saw the company highlight its commitment to craftsmanship, innovation and style as it showed off an array of products, including four new collections. These included a refreshed Campaign for Wool range and ActivFlex Response, Cool Refresh and Graphite Memory ranges that boasted a host of unique and innovative sleep solutions.

From luxurious materials to the latest in sleep technology, each product demonstrated why Sleepeezee remains at the forefront of the bed manufacturing industry and demonstrated its ongoing commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation.

The show also offered a valuable opportunity to connect with retail partners, both new and existing, in a collaborative and celebratory environment. The interaction further strengthened the close partnerships that have been crucial to Sleepeezee’s continued success over the decades.

‘The Bed Show was the perfect platform to showcase not only our latest innovations but also to celebrate our rich 100-year history with our valued partners. The feedback we received on our new collections has been incredibly positive, and we’re excited to continue driving the future of sleep technology while staying true to the craftsmanship and quality that have defined Sleepeezee for a century.

‘Our successful presence at the show is a testament to our enduring legacy and vision for the future. As the company embarks on its next century, it remains

committed to delivering innovative, high-quality sleep solutions that meet the evolving needs of its customers,’ says Amy Curtis, Sleepeezee head of marketing.

Visit: www.sleepeezee.com

Sleepeezee celebrated its heritage and new collections

Quality comfort, naturally

Hat-trick

Harrison Spinks showed it is cut from a different cloth

Fifth-generation luxury bedmaker Harrison Spinks secured its third Bed Manufacturer of the Year award at the Bed Industry Awards.

The family-owned company secured the award for its continued productrelated initiatives and development, after previously winning the award in 2022 and 2015. The judges commended the business for its financial performance, its revised export strategy and the retelling of the Harrison Spinks story and brand ethos, as well as its commitment to sustainability, including the company’s focused environmental achievements, helping it earn a third King’s Award for Enterprise.

‘We’re delighted to win this highly respected award once again, which couldn’t be done without a fantastic team effort and everything that goes on behind the scenes. It’s incredible to get this recognition for all our hard

work, and winning this is testament to what goes into making each and every bed Harrison Spinks produces, from the expert craftsmanship that goes into hand-stitching our mattresses and sewing each piece of fabric, to the unwavering commitment to product innovation and development – and of course, manufacturing everything responsibly and sustainably. This is why we believe we are cut from a different cloth,’ says Nick Booth, Harrison Spinks md.

‘Achieving this win is an acknowledgement of our standing in the luxury sustainable sleep market, while maintaining our ethos of using responsibly and ethically sourced natural materials, allowing each product to be recycled at end of life and ensuring exceptional quality for our customers.’

The Cut from a Different Cloth message was prominent across the company’s stand at the show on retailer

signs and lightboxes. A trio of new luxury Somnus mattresses were showcased, alongside 15 new handcrafted Harrison Spinks models, including a special Limited Edition Pearl mattress to celebrate 30 years of the Bed Tailor collection, all featuring the brand’s homegrown hemp and 100% recyclable Cortec spring system.

Designer Patrick Grant, judge of BBC’s The Great British Sewing Bee, was also at the show, promoting a collection of headboard styles in collaboration with Harrison Spinks, incorporating a range of exclusive fabrics designed by Grant.

The Ha Ha Baah pop-up bar was transported from the Harrison Spinks farm, with Liam McPartland, farm manager, explaining how the natural fillings are grown and giving out the brand’s tote bags woven in-house from the hemp.

Visit: www.harrisonspinks.co.uk

Above, from left: Graham Astle, Harrison Spinks sales director; Tean Dallaway, NBF president; Sarah Womersley, Harrison Spinks marketing director and Nick Booth, Harrison Spinks md

Liam McPartland

Patrick Grant

The Harrison Spinks team celebrate

Cut from a different cloth

We are incredibly proud to be awarded ‘Bed Manufacturer of the Year’ at the 2024 National Bed Federation Awards. This prestigious recognition comes as a result of our ongoing product innovation and development, with the judges praising our compelling brand narrative, and strong commitment to sustainability.

We’re passionate about making luxury mattresses and beds in the most responsible way. It’s why we grow comfort fillings on our Yorkshire farm, weave naturally FR Chemical Treatment Free fabrics in-house and make our own award-winning springs.

Our unique approach to luxury bed making makes us different. It’s why each and every one we lovingly handcraft is proudly cut from a different cloth.

HARRISONSPINKS . CO .UK

Taking sides

GNG has expanded its Komfi range with Infinity’s customisation options

GNG’s Komfi Infinity collection has been met with widespread enthusiasm from retailers and consumers alike, thanks to its exceptional comfort and customisation capabilities. At the heart of Infinity is the combination of TrueGel and TrueAir foam technologies, designed to adapt to body movements while delivering outstanding airflow and cooling. These advanced materials work together to cradle pressure points, providing targeted support and maintaining an ideal sleeping temperature, even for those who tend to overheat. The breathable cover further enhances airflow, ensuring a comfortable, refreshing night’s sleep.

The Infinity range introduces a zip-and-link system that allows a single mattress to feature two distinct firmness levels within the same bed. This customisation is especially appealing to those with differing sleep preferences, as each side of the bed can be tailored to an individual’s preference. Whether one prefers a softer feel and the other a firmer one, Infinity seamlessly combines both options for a personal sleep experience.

Following their debut at the Bed Show, GNG’s latest Komfi collections, especially the Infinity range, capture attention for their commitment to luxury and personalised comfort. Infinity represents a new level of premium sleep experience, with its advanced materials and flexible design answering the growing demand for

tailored, high-quality mattresses.

GNG’s new Harmony collection has also gained attention for its eco-conscious design. Harmony’s Ocean model, created with sustainable Seaqual covers made from recycled ocean plastics and GNG’s Ecofoam, underscores the group’s commitment to creating responsible yet affordable products. Harmony not only aligns with the company’s carbonneutral status but is also offered at a price point that makes sustainable comfort accessible to more consumers.

The KomfiMed range features a new luxurious quilted cover. And the latest GelMed Hybrids integrate the same

medically proven foam and True Gel technology, with the addition of pocket springs, creating a sleep solution that combines comfort, pressure relief and temperature control. With a range of offerings to support different body types and sleep styles, KomfiMed and GelMed exemplify GNG’s dedication to healthfocused, innovative sleep products.

‘The response to Infinity and our new ranges has been phenomenal. Our goal has always been to deliver tailored solutions that address individual sleep needs, and the customisability of Infinity does exactly that. By offering adaptable support options and luxurious materials, we’re redefining how customers think about sleep quality,’ says Richard Gretton, GNG commercial director.

‘Retailers can expect short lead times and high availability on Komfi products as GNG’s manufacturing facilities are in Yorkshire, a significant advantage in today’s supply chain landscape. With an established hierarchy of offerings from entry-level to premium, Komfi’s portfolio is designed to serve a broad range of preferences and price points, reinforcing GNG’s position as a leader in sleep innovation.’

Visit: www.komfi.com

Infinity offers a zip-and-link option

Infinity 8000 revealed

and

Please contact your local agent for more information

Chris Lester All of Ireland.

Tel: 00353 87 7779993 chrislester2000@gmail.com

Edward Bacon North West & East Midlands. Tel: 07976 061173 edward.bacon@icloud.com

Graham Dickinson North East & Yorkshire. Tel: 07734 853473 grehamd@aol.com

Alan White Scotland. Tel: 07733 883611 alan.arredi@btinternet.com

Jason Hillier South East & East Anglia. Tel: 07876 508913 rosethornagencies@outlook.com

Nigel Hillier South West, South Wales & West Midlands. Tel: 07971 484550 nigel@nhillier.co.uk

komfi.com A division of the GNG Group. NHS Approved Supplier www.gnggroup.co.uk

Email: richard.gretton@gng-group.co.uk Telephone: 01924 950 300

Tour success

Wiemann has been on the road

German bedroom manufacturer

Wiemann built on a summer of awardwinning success with a busy autumn of trade exhibitions. The company was delighted to earn the accolade of Best Overseas Manufacturer in the Interiors Monthly Awards and since then has enjoyed visits to Long Point, the Bed Show and Autumn Furniture Show.

‘Wiemann has a long history of producing top quality, contemporary bedroom furniture, being particularly known for clever design which offers a total bedroom solution for any size or style of home. The recent shows have given us more opportunities to

successfully demonstrate that versatility,’ says Simon Hewitt, md of Litmus Furniture, Wiemann’s sole agent for the UK and Ireland.

Wiemann and Litmus have partnered for more than 20 years and it is a partnership that has seen the UK and Ireland become well established as Wiemann’s largest export market. ‘Wiemann is a tried, trusted and reliable brand, qualities that are so important in today’s climate and that we value highly,’ says Hewitt.

Wiemann is known for its VIP ranges, which bring quality and design to every bedroom. ‘Our current VIP high-flying

collections include Denver, Lagos and Monaco. Customers love Denver’s urban chic decking-effect panel on slider doors for an on-trend look, and Lagos has been a market star since its launch. The Monaco system continues to be a solid bestseller, with new accessories added all the time,’ says Kai Schwenke, Wiemann export manager.

Collections can be viewed at Wiemann’s permanent showrooms at Harlow, Essex, and Long Eaton, Derbyshire by appointment. The Long Eaton showroom has recently undergone an extensive refit.

Email: enquiries@wiemannuk.co.uk

Denver

Monaco in Pebble Grey

Lagos

enquiries@wiemannuk.co.uk | www.wiemannuk.co.uk

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Peter Blell, Christies Furniture & Devon Beds

Lagos from Wiemann

Global scale

Jay-Be’s folding beds are sold in more than 20 countries

Jay-Be recently showcased its latest folding beds at the Valencia Feria Habitat Furniture Show, as it continues to expand the brand into more international markets.

Known for their compact design and comfort, the British manufacturer’s folding beds are gaining popularity across the globe as the demand for space-saving solutions rises. The company’s emphasis on blending innovative, sustainable design with improved functionality has firmly positioned it as a leader in this niche sector.

To support the new range, Jay-Be has invested in lifestyle photography and enhanced video content, available to retail partners.

‘We’ve proudly manufactured folding beds in the UK for more than 50 years, and this range is our most exciting yet. One of our biggest challenges has always been the complexities and limitations of traditional manufacturing. With our latest designs, we have reinvented the folding bed and its manufacturing process, allowing us to scale up quicker and incorporate more automation as demand increases. We’ve also used innovative recycled materials within the designs and made sure they’re fully recyclable at the end of their life, aligning with our brand’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing,’ says Roger Durrans, Jay-Be ceo.

Jay-Be’s folding beds are selling in over 20 countries as they cater to consumers seeking versatile, space-efficient options, particularly in urban settings where space is at a premium. ‘The beds not only offer convenience but also increased durability and ease of use compared to traditional guest beds,’ says Durrans.

‘To penetrate new international markets, we have formed major partnerships and strategic collaborations with retailers and distributors across key regions, including Germany, Spain and the USA. We are also in preliminary discussions with potential partners in India, South Africa and South America.’ Email: sales@jaybe.com

Jay-Be has invested in lifestyle photography and enhanced video content for retail partners

We are thrilled to announce that Jay-Be has been honored with the prestigious Best Bed Manufacturer (Adjustable) Award for 2024

Moving forward

John Cotton’s latest technological innovation Earthkind is a major breakthrough, allowing the use of recycled materials

Ever since the possibility of reusing materials to make new mattress products emerged, there have been two major obstacles holding back development: making sure the materials were suitably clean, and the cost. Now John Cotton has made a major breakthrough in that process with Earthkind. The first Earthkind product is an insulator pad made from 50% recycled materials, and its development required months of collaboration with several high-profile recycling companies and mattress brands.

Until recently, limitations in the processing techniques made it difficult to provide a cost-effective solution for removing unwanted contaminants and metal components. However, the company has now developed a system using a technically refined re-fibrisation process and high pressure through air heat treatment, allowing penetration to all fibres. This has enabled it to produce materials fit for reuse within a mattress as an insulator pad that adhere to the cleanliness standards of BS 1425 as well as a general-purpose bioburden test for a range of bacteria.

Made from 50% used mattress materials and post manufacturing waste,

Earthkind is designed to be the blend of choice when companies consider their environmental impacts, as it has a carbon footprint 75% lower than virgin materials and is 100% recyclable at the end of life.

John Cotton is the only component supplier of mattress fillings to offer this type of product to the market. Until recently the white insulator pads used

in mattresses have been manufactured from post-manufacturing waste, such as the edge trims of mattresses. Although these products offer a way to re-use this waste, Earthkind is now offering mattress manufacturers a chance to include materials from used mattresses, which is helping to tackle the challenge of mattress circularity within the industry. The company has high hopes for the treatment as only properly cleaned materials can be reused in mattresses and when some products can contain 70% to 80% recycled plastic bottle fibres, the need for such technology is obvious.

The company is constantly striving for innovation and finding ways to produce products that reduce the harmful impacts on the environment at an economic price. Recently this has been elevated higher up the agenda due to the targets set by the UK Government and customer requests to help design products that can reduce their carbon emissions and contribute towards a circular economy.

The innovation behind Earthkind was recognised at the Bed Industry Awards when it was named as a finalist in the Component Product of the Year category. Visit: www.johncotton.co.uk

Simon Chorlton, John Cotton sales manager receives his Bed Industry Awards finalist certificate from Tean Dallaway, NBF president

The insulator pad contains 50% recycled materials

Earthkind

Earthkind contains 50% used ma ress materials and post manufacturing waste and is helping tackle the challenges of ma ress recyclability within the industry.

Earthkind is the blend of choice when considering your environmental impacts. With a carbon footprint of 75% less than virgin materials, and 100% recyclable at the end of life.

Using a high pressure through air heat treatment, allowing penetration to all fibres, Earthkind adheres to the required cleanliness standards of BS 1425 and a general-purpose bioburden test looking at a range of bacteria.

Pillow talk

Purecare has introduced a trio of models

Purecare’s success reached new heights at the Bed Show, where the brand showcased its innovative products to buyers. The event was a major triumph, serving as the perfect platform to introduce three advanced cooling pillows, each designed to elevate the sleep experience.

The pillows bring cutting-edge cooling technology to the forefront, raising the bar for sleep comfort. The Nano memory foam pillow features memory foam crumb and PureCool thermo-regulating fabric, delivering optimal comfort and advanced temperature regulation. The Groove contouring memory foam pillow is designed for front sleepers, offering adaptive support with a thinner core and strategic zoning. Combined with advanced airflow technology and a cold-to-the-touch cover, it ensures a truly restorative sleep experience. The Wave pillow integrates dual layers of gel memory foam and memory foam to provide targeted pressure relief for side and back sleepers, supporting the

head, neck and shoulders.

As Purecare celebrates these achievements, including the success at the Bed Show and earning Good Housekeeping Institute approval, the brand remains dedicated to delivering superior sleep products. The next opportunity to experience Purecare’s award-winning solutions will be at January Furniture Show.

The highlight of the year was Purecare’s OmniGuard Advance mattress protector earning the prestigious Good Housekeeping Approved Award 2024. This accolade underscores Purecare’s commitment to producing innovative sleep products that meet the highest industry standards. The Good Housekeeping Institute’s rigorous evaluation considered aspects such as durability, effectiveness and ease of use, with the mattress protector excelling in liquid repellence, allergen resistance and quality maintenance even after multiple washes.

OmniGuard Advance provides comprehensive coverage to shield

the top and sides of the mattress from moisture, stains, allergens, dust mites, mould and mildew. It fits like a fitted sheet, making it suitable for various mattress depths and adjustable bases, helping to create a healthier sleep environment while extending the life of the mattress.

‘It’s been an extremely positive year and we are overwhelmed with the positive reaction from retailers towards Purecare and our products. The Bed Show has been another great opportunity to connect with the market. We’re very pleased that the launch of our new advanced cooling pillows has been met so positively by retailers.

‘Combining this with the Good Housekeeping Institute recognition, we are pleased that the first year has been filled with positives,’ says the company.

‘Purecare has achieved remarkable success this year, marked by significant milestones and growing recognition in the bed industry. The journey began with the brand’s launch at January Furniture Show, setting the stage for continued growth.

In May, Purecare joined the Minerva buying group as an approved supplier, enhancing our reputation as a trusted partner for retailers.

‘The debut at the Spring Furniture Show was met with high praise, and the brand’s expansion continued as an official supplier to the AIS buying group, receiving enthusiastic support from retailers.’

Email: sales@purecarehome.co.uk

Nano features PureCool thermo-regulating fabric

Groove is designed for front sleepers

Groove, Nano and Wave pillows

Greener

The Bed Show saw a greater emphasis on sustainability

Sustainability in mattresses and beds has been a more obvious part of new product development in recent years, with each edition of the Bed Show seeing more manufacturers realising this is where the market is heading, and those who were at the launch of the shift making greater strides. Be it

the use of raw materials such as hemp, creating new technologies to recycle products once thought unrecyclable, or eliminating the use of other materials, the major part of the sector is unrecognisable from where it was just a few years ago.

This is not a message that has been

set by the manufacturers alone: the National Bed Federation has been instrumental in getting most of the industry to read from the same hymn sheet, if not sing loudly, and ensure that products produced by members are safe and are what they say they are.

Vita Group celebrated its 75th anniversary with further evidence of its sustainability drive bearing fruit, with several ranges at the show. Chief amongst these were Origin, a next-generation foam developed using plant-based polyols; Novus, which is reconstituted foam blocks constructed through a process of bonding postindustrial foam offcuts; and Orbis, Europe’s first flexible polyurethane foam made by incorporating polyols sourced from recycled post-consumer foam.

The company previewed a number of products last year but the portfolio is now gaining traction. The company is also pushing its sustainability drive, which has involved the creation of a dedicated sustainability team

featuring both legal and scientific roles. Stemming from this is the lifecycle analysis tool that allows Vita’s clients to meet their own targets on sustainability.

Carpenter highlighted its Podz foam springs, a finalist in the Bed Industry Awards Component Product of the Year category, combining innovation and sustainability as they allow entire mattresses to be recycled. Different grades and lengths of foam provide different feels to mattresses, providing bespoke options to retailers. The company’s Celsius+ graphite foam and Aurora+ graphite foam offer 8% and 14% heat transfer respectively.

Shire Beds used the show to highlight its white label options and its

BEDS AND BEDROOM

investment in hand side-stitching.

Highgrove highlighted its new fiveyear guarantee and warranty products on Highgrove beds and five-year guarantees on adjustable beds as it showcased its ErgoMatic adjustable beds and Fastersleep service, which aims to deliver orders to retailers within a week.

Mattressgard continues to attract new stockists following the departure of Protect-A-Bed. The Copper Comfort mattress protector, which provides a therapeutic, ‘positive energy experience’ thanks to the copper in the protector, and a bed care kit were its latest additions.

After a busy year with the Uno brand, Breasley’s focus was on the upper-market Salus offer. The show saw the Exclusive Collection expanded to five models with the 8,000 spring Monteverde, 10,000 spring Daintree and 12,000 spring Sequioa. A further two mattresses are in development ahead of a 2025 launch.

Enkev showed the latest additions to the Pure range and highlighted its support for farmers, building a network and paying a fair price to encourage good animal welfare.

Sweet Dreams’ key message was its rebranding. More than 40 new models and price points were on show, with the Astridge 4500 with its wool mattress described as a bed you sleep in, rather than on. Other introductions included the orthopaedic Wagner Firm 2000. Visit: www.bedshow.co.uk

HANDY: OVERCOMING CHALLENGES TO DELIVER INNOVATION

As well as winning Supplier of the Year in the Bed Industry Awards, Handy was a finalist in the Component Product of the Year category for its woven wool tape edge.

Its development was driven by the demand from the market to create a narrow-woven mattress tape edge that embraced natural, eco-friendly properties. The tape edge also needed to be fire retardant, without the use of harmful chemicals.

Narrow weaving looms are designed primarily to work with polyester, polypropylene and similar man-made fibres. These yarns either require flameretardant chemical treatment and/or emit toxic chemicals if exposed to fire. Cotton, a natural and loom-friendly thread, was a non-starter as it is highly flammable. Narrow weaving with wool, which is

inherently flame retardant, presented challenges as wool is normally knitted rather than woven. Wool yarn that offered the strength of man-made yarns and was appropriate for weaving was therefore needed.

Bespoke modifications to the looms needed to be made and weaving speeds moderated. Overcoming the fibrous nature of wool yarn involved investing in extraction facilities around the loom to combat the constant build-up of wool fibres as the loom was in operation. A dedicated production area, well away from the man-made yarn tape production looms needed to be created to further contain the wool fibres.

Wool yarn can be dyed in relatively small batch quantities of about 20,000m, enabling the company to offer its customers the option of tape edge in bespoke colours with much smaller minimum orders than synthetic yarns. Only organic dyes are used in this process with Global Organic Textile Standard certification.

Health matters

Menopause impacts all women, but lifestyle and bedding options can improve sleep

‘Menopause can start as early as a woman’s thirties, impacting every woman at some point in her life. In an era where a good night’s sleep is invaluable, the discussion of supporting sleep during menopause couldn’t be more timely,’ says Christabel Majendie, a sleep therapist who offers guidance and treatments for various sleep issues, and ambassador for Naturalmat. With a passion for educating others on best practices for achieving restorative sleep, she actively promotes the crucial role sleep plays in maintaining overall health and well-being.

‘In the lead-up to menopause –perimenopause – there are changes to several hormones in the body and this can cause sleep disruption and night sweats. Progesterone plays a direct role in maintaining sleep, while oestrogen helps to maintain a steady body temperature during the night. There are changes to neurotransmitters, chemicals in the brain that transmit messages, and these can directly and indirectly affect sleep. For example, disruption to serotonin and dopamine levels not only affects the brain circuits

involved in sleep but also leads to mood changes and heightened anxiety, which can negatively impact sleep. Other sleep disorders besides insomnia are also more common at this time, such as restless legs and the sleep-related breathing disorder, sleep apnea.

‘Lifestyle changes can make a real difference. Exercise not only helps to regulate mood but can improve sleep quality; healthy nutrition is associated with better sleep quality; stress reduction and relaxation can help with anxiety and get you in a good state of mind for sleep. Minimising your alcohol and caffeine intake can also help.

‘There are many myths surrounding sleep and menopause and here are a few I regularly come across (but there are plenty more):

‘“Waking in the night means I don’t get good quality sleep”; sleep does change with age but that doesn’t mean it is a problem. If you wake once or twice briefly in the night and can get back to sleep easily, don’t be concerned – it’s likely to be in-between a sleep cycle.

‘“I have to put up with poor sleep because of the menopause”; there are so many things you can do to improve your sleep, but there’s unlikely to be a silver bullet that solves it.

‘Take a holistic approach: assess your sleep environment, your behaviours and lifestyle, your biology and psychology. Take a look at what you’re sleeping on. Duvets, pillows, blankets and mattresses made from natural fibres are much better at regulating body temperature and reducing night sweats. This is because they can absorb more heat and moisture than synthetics, drawing both away from the body, thereby keeping you cool and less sweaty. Equally, in cool temperatures, natural fibres are better at keeping you warm as they hold more pockets of air than synthetics and these insulate the body against heat loss.’

Visit: www.christabelmajendie.co.uk www.naturalmat.co.uk

Duvets, pillows, blankets and mattresses made from natural fibres are much better at regulating body temperature and reducing night sweats

Christabel Majendie

Why Partner with Emma?

LEVERAGE A GLOBALLYRECOGNISED BRAND NAME

Emma Sleep is recognised worldwide for delivering high-quality sleep products.

As an Emma-branded store, you'll benefit from our brand’s strong market presence and appeal, attracting customers who value premium sleep solutions.

GROWTH POTENTIAL IN EVOLVING MARKETS

The sleep market in the UK and Ireland is poised for growth, with increasing consumer awareness and demand for innovative products. By being among the first to open an Emma-branded independent store, you position yourself at the forefront of this expanding market.

FULL SUPPORT FROM DAY ONE

We o er comprehensive support to our partners, including assistance with location selection, construction, and store setup. Our network of experts in real estate and build management ensures your store launch is smooth and successful.

Emma Sleep is expanding in the UK and Ireland, and we’re seeking partners to open Emma-branded stores. Known for our commitment to quality and cutting-edge products, Emma o ers a unique opportunity for retailers to align with a globally-recognised brand and elevate the sleep retail experience locally. Limited number of

PROVEN SUCCESS, LOCALLY RELEVANT

Emma-branded stores in other markets have consistently exceeded expectations, combining product excellence with tailored local strategies. This is your opportunity to replicate that success and establish a thriving business that resonates with your community.

Powerhouse

£1bn MIFF is heading for another sell-out five months out

Five months ahead of its 31st edition, the Malaysia International Furniture Fair is 85% sold out, with visitor registration for 2025 now open.

The show, which will fill 17 halls at Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre and World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, takes place from 1-4 March.

This year’s event generated orders worth US$1.28bn (£983m) during the show.

‘As a pivotal event in Asia’s furniture calendar, MIFF is the gateway for business and cross-border opportunities for global growth. Our plan is to elevate the experience to the next level for buyers and exhibitors that evolves around their needs. We want to inspire more fun on the aisles and get more

business done – this is where it all happens,’ says Kelie Lim, MIFF general manager.

‘The innovative approach of the show has kept it resilient, and it continues as a vital platform for Malaysian furniture makers to engage face to face with buyers and prospective partners from all over the world. We will keep strengthening our product offerings and variety to meet the changing consumer preferences,’ says Steve Ong, Muar Furniture Association president. The Muar area accounts for 60% of the country’s furniture exports.

A new buyer referral initiative will be introduced in 2025 to add to the existing Valued Buyer Privilege programme, offering complimentary hotel

accommodation to first-time visitors.

MIFF continues to champion young designers through the xOrdinary Showcase and the MIFF Furniture Design Competition, which encourages emerging talent to pursue careers in the furniture industry: FDC 2025 will have the theme ‘The Fashion Inspired Furniture’. Visit: www.miff.com.my

The 2023 show generated almost £1bn in orders during the event

Vistawood

Seow

Elk-Desa

Record breaker

VIFA EXPO 2025 is set to be the largest furniture exhibition seen in Vietnam

Vietnam’s oldest and most significant trading and export event for the furniture industry, VIFA EXPO – Vietnam International Furniture & Home Accessories Fair – is also a key part of the annual south-east Asia furniture exhibition series which kicks off in March.

Despite being subject to space limitations VIFA EXPO 2024 had more than 600 exhibitors from Vietnam and 17 other countries covering 36,000sqm. The event drew over 13,000 visitors, including 5,200 international buyers from 72 countries as more than 75% of exhibitors secured orders during the four-day event.

As global demand for furniture trading continues to rise, next year’s

VIFA EXPO will be significantly expanded as it looks to attract a larger number of international buyers. The show is poised to be the largest furniture industry exhibition seen in Vietnam and will be about a third larger than this year.

The 16th edition of the event will be held at two of Ho Chi Minh City’s largest exhibition centres: SECC and SKY Expo Vietnam from 5-8 March.

As the first-choice furniture trade exhibition in Vietnam, VIFA EXPO 2025 has seen a significant surge in demand for space from exhibitors. Within just a few months, almost the same space the entire 2024 show occupied has been booked by more than 400 exhibitors from 19 countries. These include Koda,

Woodnet, Scancom, Fine Scandinavian, MFC, PMA, Savimex, Lyprodan, Eurofar, Master Pacific, Mega Home, Wood Concept and Global Home.

A high frequency bus shuttle will operate between the two venues and from official hotels to the show. Buyers’ support packages will also be available from December.

VIFA EXPO 2025 is the second show in the series of furniture exhibitions held across south-east Asia in March, after MIFF, Malaysia (1-4 March) and EFE, Malaysia (2-4 March) and before IFEX, Indonesia (6–9 March); 3F, China (15-19 March) and CIFF, China (18 –21 and 28-31 March).

Visit: www.vifaexpo.com

Spring Fair

Celebrations

Spring Fair will celebrate its diamond anniversary

Spring Fair sparks connections, broadens horizons and enables opportunities for the wholesale home, gift, fashion and everyday retail communities to thrive. 2025 sees the show celebrate its diamond anniversary from 2-5 February at the NEC.

As the UK’s leading and largest retail event, the show attracts more than 38,000 visitors with a combined budget of £2.25bn. Over 1,200 exhibitors in 12 buying destinations dedicated to Home, Gift, Fashion and Everyday, and over 1million products with 38% available exclusively at Spring Fair, means there’s endless opportunities for retailers to find their next bestsellers.

The 2025 anniversary edition promises to be one of the most highly anticipated in the event’s history, featuring industryleading brands alongside hundreds of newcomers. This milestone event will bring the retail community together under one roof, creating an all-encompassing place for home, gift and fashion brands to meet buyers face to face, to trade, inspire and learn.

‘It’s been incredible to feel and see the momentum build for Spring Fair 2025. The desire for brands to take part in this milestone event is palpable. And it’s not just the Gift destination seeing extraordinary growth. The Home destination is over 85% sold out and The Summerhouse has expanded by 30% – with many brands increasing their stand size to showcase bigger collections. In Moda, we’ve seen a surge in fashion accessories and jewellery brands. There are so many reasons to

be part of Spring Fair’s 75th edition,’ says Soraya Gadelrab, Spring Fair event director.

In the Home destination, which includes the sought-after curated edit of premium high-end furnishings, decor and gifts in The Summerhouse, more than 250 exhibitors will showcase their latest designs. This destination goes from strength to strength, with growth across homeware and houseware textiles, and a host of exciting new brands set to be unveiled soon.

Home to the most beautiful, brand-led homeware and gifts, The Summerhouse is a must-visit sector showcasing unrivalled design, taste and elegance from international and UK brands.

Buyers will discover lovingly sourced and crafted products from exclusive brands at Morgan Wright, the latest soft furnishings from Malini, as well as new designs from Ian Mankin, John Spencer, Bedeck, Weaver Green, Garden Trading, The Libra Company, Hug Rug, JJ Textile, The Braided Rug Company, Shepherd of Sweden, Sofia Toscano, Bronte by Moon, Bloomingville, Captivate Brands, Casa Grande, inis – energy of the sea, Gallery Direct, Art Marketing, Hot Tomato, Nila Parmar Designs, One Dot World, Pacific Lifestyle, Pavilion Rattan, Stoneglow Candles, Casa Verde (Terrace & Garden), Treelocate, Weaver Green, Deluxe Homeart, and more.

Home, Living & Decor will welcome Coach House, Hill Interiors, Richmond Interiors, Kaemingk, Waltons of Yorkshire, House of MV, Turner Bianca, Skinnwille,

Tweedmill Textiles, Riva Paoletti, Lands Down Under, Vitaelux, So Cosy, Caldeira, Oejbro Engros, Deyongs, Peggy Wilkins, Hanlin, Indra Importer, Ulster Weavers, Aquarelle Home, Ascalon Design, Bedeck, Bravo Lighting, Burgess Reclamation, Dutch Imports & Daughters, Edge Company, Floralsilk, Harwood Textiles, Hines Of Oxford, Kiln Fired Pottery, London Ornaments, Lows of Dundee, McGowan & Rutherford, Nordic Style, Otters Brook Collection, Present Time, Quirky Barn, Sincere UK, Trampoline, and many more.

The show’s heritage extends to its content stages, featuring retail luminaries such as Karen Brady, Mary Portas, Zandra Rhodes and Theo Paphitis. Every year buyers have the chance to gain insights from their expertise and vision. The show is also designing a programme of business solution masterclasses to help buyers and business owners to grow their retail know-how. A focus on future trends also ensures retailers stay ahead of the curve and meet consumer demands. Visit: www.springfair.com

Majestic

Classis Carpets looked to the past and the future with a host of debuts

Classis Carpets made itself at home in the Majestic Hotel’s billiard room where the carpets matched the sumptuousness of the surroundings.

The company focused on its new recycled polyester ranges, many of which are 1/10th gauge, along with recycled PET ranges.

On show were a fine twist 1/10th gauge polyester and a soft, deep

polyester which attracted the attention of buyers alongside existing ranges.

The company has also refreshed its off-the shelf Wilton package with 10 collections.

Shrink yarns were also in evidence, with Classis proving it is a professor of the science with three designs.

Also on display was a new collection in three styles: plaid, herringbone and

criss-cross, as the company sought to add contemporary looks.

An ability to remember the cycles of fashion was also demonstrated with a polypropylene plaid design. After a previous period of popularity for herringbone the mood switched to plaid, and Classis is keen to be ahead of the trend.

Visit: www.classiscarpets.com

Classis had a selection of new ranges, including shrink yarn and recycled yarn designs

When it comes to transforming your home with a modern, stylish look while keeping practicality in mind, Kellar’s Easyliving is the go-to choice. This innovative range of carpets is designed to provide a seamless blend of contemporary elegance and unmatched functionality, making life easier for busy households.

Bleach Cleanable for Ultimate Convenience

The standout feature of Kellar’s Easyliving is its bleach-cleanable properties, giving you peace of mind in knowing that spills and stains can be effortlessly removed. Whether it’s a glass of wine or a muddy footprint, you can tackle life’s little accidents without worry. Kellar’s unique stain-resistant technology ensures that the carpet looks as good as new with minimal effort.

Family Friendly for Busy Homes

Families need flooring that can withstand the daily hustle and bustle. Kellar’s Easyliving carpets are designed with family-friendliness in mind, providing a durable surface that’s soft underfoot but tough enough to handle pets, kids, and everything in between. The two-ply yarn construction ensures resilience, giving you long-lasting wear and comfort.

Stylish and Modern Design

Not only is Kellar’s Easyliving carpet practical, but it also offers a modern and stylish aesthetic that enhances any home’s interior. The sleek design and contemporary color options add a touch of elegance to your floors, complementing both classic and modern décor styles. You no longer have to choose between functionality and style—Easyliving gives you both.

Innovation showcase

F Ball showed its latest products and design introductions

F Ball used this year’s The Flooring Show to showcase the latest innovations in flooring installation products, including recently launched, best-in-class high-flow smoothing compound Stopgap 1400. A two-component smoothing compound, with superior flow and self-smoothing properties, Stopgap 1400 is walk-on hard from 90 minutes after application and ready to receive floorcoverings from 12 hours. This makes it ideal for installers who need to work quickly and efficiently, perhaps across multiple areas, including new-build developments.

Visitors to the stand were able to see live demonstrations of Stopgap 1400 and other F Ball products from the

company’s training department.

Also debuting at the show were new designs for F Ball’s yellow plastic buckets for its Styccobond adhesives.

The new designs for the iconic yellow buckets have been introduced to modernise their look and to simplify product selection, in keeping with new designs for the company’s smoothing compound sacks introduced in 2023. While they retain the F Ball branding, the buckets now detail coverage rates to help flooring installers work out how much of an adhesive they need for a particular project.

Empty buckets can also continue to be disposed of for recycling, for free,

at locations participating in the F Ball Recycling Scheme.

Visitors from across the flooring industry also came together for a drinks reception at the stand on the Monday of the show, to celebrate the launch of Stopgap 1400.

‘There was a great atmosphere at this year’s The Flooring Show, with many people commenting that they were looking forward to the next 12 months. We were delighted by the positive reception to Stopgap 1400, as well as new designs for the yellow buckets. We look forward to returning next year,’ says Darren Kenyon, F Ball md. Visit: www.f-ball.com

DivineElegance

Kellars Allora Lux, the latest in flooring innovation. Crafted with 8mm SPC for exceptional durability and water resistance, it’s perfect for any room. The 5G Valinge Click System ensures easy installation, while the Built-In Underlay reduces noise for a quieter home.

Its painted bevel texture and registered embossed finish creates a stunning, authentic wood look. Plus, it’s compatible with underfloor heating, making it a smart, stylish choice for any modern space.

With Allora Lux, you don’t have to choose between aesthetics and performance – you can have it all.

Dynamic duo

Bjelin’s innovations aroused interest

Bjelin brought stunning contrasts and a modern take on a timeless classic to The Flooring Show.

The engineered wood Contrast Collection, which leverages the hues and tones of natural wood to create striking contrasts, is made from

Spačva oak and is available in the XL size. Spačva, sustainably sourced from Croatia with FSC certification, is renowned for its stunning beauty and distinctive grain.

Suitable for residential or heavy traffic commercial environments, it uses Woodura surface technology, which makes Bjelin’s hardened wood floors three times stronger than traditional engineered wood options, providing enhanced resistance to water and dents. With the leakproof 5G Dry floor locking system, it ensures lasting durability and boasts a class 33 pro matt

lacquer: Bjelin’s toughest to date.

Woodura Herringbone 2.0 is a durable herringbone floor featuring larger panels, which deliver three times the strength of traditional wood options and can be easily installed with click technology. It also features Woodura technology for improved impact resistance and the 5G solution, developed by sister company Välinge Innovation, for easy installation.

‘The practical benefits of our Woodura hardened wood flooring, including durability and impact resistance, combined with elegance and contemporary appeal, are really resonating with the market now. Harrogate provided a great showcase for us, and we hope to be back next year with more new products,’ says Simon Darbyshire, Välinge Innovation UK md. Visit: www.uk.bjelin.com/en

RECRUITMENT

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

Our online package is just £175. Your advert will appear in our jobs section on the website until the position is filled or you ask us to remove. Our weekly newsletter, which is mailed every Thursday to 7000 industry professionals, also includes a list of these latest jobs.

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

Costs for larger recruitment adverts are available upon request.

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

Woodura Herringbone 2.0 in Misty White

Refined polish

Buyers at Long Point found plenty of upholstery and cabinet debuts

For Iain James, Long Point was an opportunity to showcase new collections of occasional furniture in Cluster oak and Burr elm, which met with particular success. Both ranges feature square-edged profiling along with the addition of a refined polished finish, to complement classical and contemporary upholstery.

Polish family-owned upholstery company Ramaro has set its sights on the UK and Irish markets with its modern and contemporary soft cover styles. France, Germany, Belgium, Austria and the Netherlands are its main export markets for its modular and fixed models.

A key story for Hartmann was its environmental message. As one of the leading manufacturers of solid wood and lacquered cabinet and dining furniture in Europe, it is conscious of its responsibility for the environment and future generations. Each year it plants

about 7,000 trees to replace those used in production. It generates its own electricity, with more than 5,000 photovoltaic modules saving over 700tons of CO2 every year. Waste wood is used to heat its production facilities, saving another 950tons of CO2.

Wiemann has recently refurbished its Long Eaton showroom, which gave the opportunity to highlight the latest accessories for the bestselling Monaco, part of its VIP collections, and discuss its installation service.

Visit: www.longeatonguild.co.uk

Hartmann

Wiemann

Ramaro

Iain James