Interiors Monthly October 2024

Not just about numbers

No-one likes change so surely that is the perfect time to emphasise service and continuity? Costs can come later.

The decision by Headlam to scrap 31 of the 32 local brands that make up its regional wholesale operation has been a long time coming. Converting those to Mercado will give a uniformity on how things are done across the country and make it easier to move stock from branch to branch while saving oodles in branding costs (something Likewise has done from the start: sell Likewise branded products regardless of the name of the wholesaler). Of course, in these times, another uniformity was found: staffing levels. You might of thought that during the transition period ensuring service was maintained would of encouraged retailers to stick with their existing wholesaler. Some just don’t want to do it on a app.

For many small retailers, social media is their way of giving themselves a cheap online presence, rather than even the most basic of websites. Facebook dominates this space and its Marketplace, once home to stuff you’ve finally decided you can no longer give cupboard space to, is increasingly going the way of the main platform. Businesses are elbowing their way past that greenhouse you haven’t bothered taking down. It’s the businesses pretending to be users that are a pain. The other day I discovered that seemingly everybody in my town had bought a corner sofa, only for a few days later to decide it wasn’t for them. So they appeared en masse on Marketplace. All the same model (from various retailers), all £150 but with different (doctored) photos. Much more of this and it’ll become a reason for people to cut back or stop using Facebook altogether. And then how are those retailers going to communicate with potential customers, especially those aged 18-44?

Congratulations to all the companies who were finalists at the Bed Industry Awards last month, their quality reflecting the performance of a market sector that has outshone others for a while now. Such is the level of competition it is on par with being nominated for an Oscar. Not as great as winning, but still something to be proud of and make a song and dance about.

INTERIORS MONTHLY OCTOBER 2024

Furniture sales steady as flooring jumps

Major boosts for Dunelm

Headlam rebrands wholesale operation

Retail I t had to be

B eds and bedroom BIA winners, upgrade, teamwork 36 LVT

Putting on the style, temperature matters, the big one

42 Outdoor

London calling, mix-and-match, 2025 collection

48 Show review

The Flooring Show, Autumn Fair, Glee

82 Trade products and services

Components, software, protection, images

Editor: Andrew Kidd

New colours coming to Magnificus from Invictus. Visit: www.invictus.co.uk

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

Furniture advertising (South): Tim Boden

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

Furniture advertising (North): Jarrod Bird

T: 01565 631 397 E: jbird@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

Carpet, flooring advertising: Joanne Paull

M: 07817 624 922 E: jpaull@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

Representative in India: Amarjeet Singh Gianni

T: 0091 98390 35458 E: as_gianni@yahoo.co.in

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Furniture sales hold steady while flooring enjoys leap

The retail value of furniture and lighting sales held up in August, while flooring sales jumped.

The value of furniture sales in England, Scotland and Wales fell by 1% to £1,061,338,000 compared with July 2024. Compared with August 2023, sales were down 16%, an improvement on the annual fall seen in July.

Sales were also lower than in August 2022 (£1,203,492,000) and August 2021 (£1,148,378,000).

Of the 464 months since the Office for National Statistics introduced comparable data in January 1986, August 2024 was the 126th best performing month.

The retail value of flooring sales jumped on a monthly and annual basis in August.

The value of sales rose by 7.93% to £250,447,000 compared with July 2024. Compared with August 2023, sales were up 12.75%.

Sales were also higher than they were in August 2022

Dreams edges closer to £400m

Dreams was able to increase sales and gross margin in the past year, with turnover approaching £400m.

Sales rose by 2.2% to £395.4m as gross margin rose from 52.6% to 53.7% for 2023. Like-for-like orders climbed by 4.4%.

Underlying EBITDA before currency movements rose by £1m to £59m. Pre-tax profits were not disclosed.

Likewise ups dividend payment

Flooring distributor Likewise is to boost its dividend to shareholders by 25% to 0.125p a share.

The move comes after it completed the deferred payments of its acquisitions, with payments of £4.27m. Cash generation rose from £1.68m to £2.88m in the six months to 30 June.

Turnover rose by 6.2% to £70.7m, but pre-tax profits fell from £710,000 to £340,000 as the group blamed higher

interest costs. Underlying profit was steady at £1.21m (£1.19m). Gross margin rose from 30% to 31.1%.

It says its existing logistics capability has the capacity to handle sales of £200m ‘and with limited investment can progress much further in 2026 and 2027.’

‘Product launches in Q3, and planned for Q4 2024, are at a significantly higher level than at any time during our short history.’

Furniture sales remained steady at just 1% lower than July 2024

(£211,250,000) and August 2021 (£178,133,000).

Of the 464 months for which ONS data is available, August 2024 was the 20th best performing month.

The date is non-seasonal, does not allow for inflation and is subject to revision.

Deflation eases

Furniture retailers saw the eighth consecutive month of retail price deflation in August, but the rate more than halved.

Prices for household furniture were 1% lower, according to Office for National Statistics data, down from 2.4% in July.

In August 2023 inflation stood at 4.2%.

Garden furniture prices continued to be substantially lower than a year ago, down by 13% compared with July’s 18.1% fall.

Lighting saw prices drop by 2.3% after rising by 2.2% in July.

Furnishing fabrics and curtains saw price rises drop from 4.3% to 2.7% while annual deflation for bed linen fell from 0.9% to 0.8%.

Deflation for table and bathroom linen fell from 2.5% to 0.3%.

Flooring prices up

Retail prices for flooring nudged up in August, ending three months of deflation.

Prices rose by 0.1%, compared with a drop of 0.6% in July, according to ONS data.

Carpets and rugs again led the increase, with prices

0.6% higher, compared with a 0.4% rise in July.

Other flooring saw its ninth consecutive month of deflation, although the rate slowed to its lowest since February, as it fell from 2.5% in July to 0.3% in August.

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.

Dunelm enjoys quintuple hit as it outperforms market

Dunelm enjoyed higher sales, profits, market share, margin and customer numbers in the past year as it outperformed the market.

The chain saw sales rise by 4.1% to £1.7bn in the year to 29 June, as sales volumes grew by 6.2%.

Gross margin advanced from 50.1% to 51.8%, while market share of the homewares and furniture rose by 60pbs

DFS adds La-Z-Boy

Upholstery brand La-Z-Boy and DFS have agreed a partnership that will see UK-manufactured models sold from this month.

The deal will see soft-cover models introduced first, in-store and online, followed by leather. They will be manufactured at La-Z-Boy’s Lancashire factory and bear the Made In Britain mark.

Rob Sundy, La-Z-Boy brand president and cco says he is ‘thrilled DFS will now be a part of the La-Z-Boy family.

‘Our brands are closely aligned in the mission of delivering high-quality, comfortable furniture. We believe that together we will further strengthen the companies, expand growth and bring more products into homes, delivering unparalleled comfort and value to customers,’ he says.

to 7.7% – the chain is eyeing a 10% share in the medium term. Customer numbers rose by 5.1%.

The chain reports that upholstery, backed by quick delivery, has continued to enjoy the ‘strong’ performance seen in the first half of the year.

Dunelm says it has identified opportunities in the lighting and made-to-measure window sectors.

No Domotex until 2026

Next January’s Domotex flooring trade exhibition has been cancelled. The move by organiser Deutsche Messe comes as the show looks for a new direction, incorporating a wider product mix including decoration.

‘In future, visitors can expect much more than the usual variety of floorcoverings. The event’s portfolio will be expanded to include six new product groups for paints, wallpapers, acoustic elements, tiles and outdoor floorcoverings as well as privacy shields and shading elements. From 2026, Domotex will offer exhibitors and visitors a unique platform for trends and innovative solutions in interior finishing every two years, promising valuable synergies for the

trade, skilled trades and architecture,’ says a statement.

‘Following intensive discussions with the exhibiting companies, we have decided to integrate the presentation of Carpets & Rugs into the biennial rhythm of Domotex and to present it in a joint setting with the floorcoverings and interior finishing sectors,’ says Sonia Wedell-Castellano, Domotex global director.

The show was badly hit by the pandemic, followed by the decision of many Belgian companies to stop exhibiting in Hannover in favour of creating Flanders Flooring Days. Heimtextil’s re-entry into the flooring sector was an additional blow for the organisers.

Morris goes direct

Soft furnishings brand Morris & Co has begun selling direct to consumers.

The company is offering its full product offer online.

Shoppers can also find their local stockist through the new website.

The Sanderson Design Group subsidiary has also debuted a bespoke made-to-measure service for custom headboards, curtains, blinds and cushions.

Morris & Co is SDG’s second largest brand, behind Clarke & Clarke, with sales of £19.1m in the year to 31 January (excluding licensing).

Essential meeting

JFS returns with a bigger show, new exhibitors ad more networking

The Furniture Shows team has had a busy few months preparing for the return of the January Furniture Show for its 2025 edition. Poised to again provide the essential meeting place for the furniture industry at the NEC, Birmingham, next year will see a bigger showfloor, an impressive array of new and returning exhibitors and even more networking opportunities to support the industry.

Strategically placed at the start of the crucial Q1 season of 2025 (19-22 January), JFS is committed to delivering value, quality products and brands that represent the broad spectrum of furniture, interiors and lifestyle sectors. It is the destination for retailers, contractors, designers and manufacturers from across the globe to come together for sourcing, connections and trends.

JFS provides a unique platform where the industry unites to forge new connections, strengthen existing relationships and explore potential collaboration all in one place. The 2025 edition will see the Champagne Bar expand in its new location in Hall 2; the Women in Furniture Network host another evening of learning and connections; celebrate with the industry at the Show Party & Awards and network at the Crafting the Future Hub and new social studio.

For the 2025 edition, the team has curated a collection of essential brands presenting styles that will define the year ahead. With 80% of the showfloor already full, and Hall 1 completely sold out, names already confirmed include Qualita, Baker Furniture, SITS, Ego Italiano, Aleal, Fama, Himolla, Buoyant Upholstery, Hooker Furnishings, Lebus, Hill Interiors, Blue Bone, Ashley Manor, Shire Beds, Limelight, Softnord, Ashwood Designs, La-Z-Boy, Whitemeadow, Global Home, Sherborne, Kelston House, Taylors Creative Living, Malini, Kettle, Wiemann, VIDA, Seconique, Welcome Furniture, Alpha Designs, At The Helm, Violino, Incanto, Highgrove Beds, Mammoth, Celebrity Motion, Image, Shankar, Birlea, Bentincks, Westbridge, Alstons, Nicoletti, Carpe Diem, Marinelli, Michael Tyler, Tamarisk, Skovby, Furninova, Tetrad and Carlton.

We look forward to seeing many of you as the team heads out on the road over the next few months for the tradeshow season. Please do get in touch with me to be part of the industry’s biggest furniture show. I look forward to seeing you all in January. Visit: www.thefurnitureshows.com

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Headlam rebrands wholesale network

Headlam is to rebrand its network of 32 regional wholesalers. The flooring distributor will switch to the Mercado brand, offering a unified product selection and pricing across the country.

Mercado is also launching an ecommerce website and app, allowing customers to shop its full product portfolio online.

‘Customers will have access to Mercado’s extensive, and now expanded, product portfolio, serviced by one dedicated sales representative. Its redesigned sales team will operate as a national salesforce, providing local ASMs with the capability to draw on a national network; they will represent specialist teams focused on traditional retail and contract. A local service but on a national scale,’ says the group.

‘To further increase efficiency, all buying operations will be brought together to simplify the purchasing process, creating one national product and price list. In addition to its existing next-day delivery service, the group will be enhancing its trade counter offer so that customers can order and collect products from anywhere. This unification will be reflected in the group’s nationwide distribution network, starting with plans to open a new site in Rayleigh. These changes present a truly integrated, nationwide offering under the Mercado name.’

All customer account changes around Mercado will happen by the end of 2024 and the product brands (Lifestyle, Everyroom, Crucial Trading, Telenzo, Kersaint Cobb, Manx Tomkinson, Kingsmead, Fells, Gaskell, FlorProtec, JHS and Clarendon) are unaffected.

The wholesalers being renamed are: 3D Flooring Supplies; Ashmounts; Baileys Bristol; Baileys Plymouth; Beds Flooring; Central Flooring; Cheshires; Clifford Carpets; DJ Hann; Faithfulls; Florco; Florcraft; GAAS; Garrard Waters; Garrods; Hadfields; Haldon Thompson; Halls; KJC; Matty’s; MCD Culpeck; MCD Kidderminster; MCD Wales; Mercado; Mitchells; Mytton’s; Newcastle; Rackhams; RPS; Solmere; Supertex and Wilkies All Floors.

London opening

MillerKnoll has opened its first major destination outside of the US, in London, as it relocates its New York showroom.

The London site, on St John’s Square, covers 18,300sqft across three floors, with a retail space designed as a home and a workplace floor planned as an office.

Brands include Knoll, Herman Miller and Maharam. The showroom is a short walk from the Muuto, NaughtOne and HAY showrooms.

‘This is an exciting milestone for our collective. We’re thrilled to showcase the full breadth of our design portfolio in such creative and innovative locations,’ says Andi Owen, MillerKnoll ceo.

‘We’re taking the approach of locating brands next to each other based on feedback from design partners, dealers and customers. We look forward to the collaboration these spaces will facilitate as we continue to redefine modern design.’

F&F move

Tesco has introduced a full homewares range to its F&F clothing brand.

The new collection features more than 1,000 products across rugs, dining, bedding, soft furnishings and decoration.

‘Our clothing customers always want to stay ahead of the latest trends and get great value for money, without compromising on quality. With this exciting first foray into homeware, we’re pleased to be able to help deliver this same commitment in the home space,’ says Jan Marchant, F&F Home ceo.

Price-match rivals

Argos, Dreams, Dunelm, Furniture Village, Heal’s and Next are the main interiors price-match comparisons for John Lewis after the chain re-introduced its Never Knowingly Undersold promise.

The retailers are among 25 the group will use to price match branded products.

The promise has been updated for its return, two years after it was axed. It will now include online sales as well.

The other retailers are: AO.com; Amazon (technology); Apple; Asos; Boots; Curry’s; Dreams; The Entertainer; Fenwick; Flannels; Harrods; Harvey Nichols; House of Fraser; Lakeland; Marks & Spencer; Mamas & Papas; Richer Sounds; Selfridges; Smyths Toys and Space NK.

The group’s product brands including Lifestyle Floors are unaffected

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1 The magnetic coupling elements of Alessi’s Tsumiki portable lamp allow the three components – base, bracket and lampshade – to be freely orientated and arranged. The lamp is available in black, blue, red-orange and white and has a touch dimmer. It is powered by a rechargeable battery. Visit: www.alessi.com

2 Abingdon Flooring has entered the LVT, laminate and vinyl markets with the launch of Simply Smooth. Eminence is the LVT plank design, while Artisan is the herringbone range, both available in dryback and click versions with a 0.55mm wear layer and authentic embossed finish. The 8mm Prestige laminate is available in 12 wood effects, with a four-sided bevel. Exquisite offers 48-hour water protection in 10 wood colours. Both Prestige and Exquisite are 1,288mm x 195mm planks. The Urban and Endurance vinyl have eight wood and tile designs. Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

3 In a compact plank size of 1,820mm x 145mm, Amato is the new waterproof wood floor from Quick-Step that opens up narrow rooms like bathrooms and hallways for a maximal feeling of space. Giving rooms sophistication and functionality, the range is available in seven warm wood shades protected with Wood for Life, Quick-Step’s guarantee of an easy-tomaintain, durable, scratch and stain-resistant wood floor. Visit: www.quick-step.co.uk

4 de Sede has introduced the Calita, Kiso, Nadi and Arbi outdoor fabics. The designs range from refined jacquard to semi-plain weaves and velvety velours. The company introduced it first outdoor furniture designs in January. Visit: www.desede.ch

5 As well as being made to be recycled or reused through the Take Care Program, Louis de Poortere’s EcoRugs can be machine washed at 30degC on a gentle spin cycle to remove dirt and stubborn marks that haven’t come out with regular vacuuming and spot cleaning: restoring their appearance and giving more years of use in the home. Visit: www.louisdepoortere.com

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6 Moduleo Moods has been updated with 15 Moods Patterns, using nine shapes in different wood and stone effects for a look that’s anything homeowners want it to be. Moduleo’s designers have explored subtle laying patterns in Rectangle Mono, the ultimate retro vibe in Rectangle Grid Duo and vibrant designs like Hexagon Cluster and Diamond Floral.

Visit: www.moduleo.co.uk

7 With strong growth at the premium end of underlay sales, Floorwise has expanded its Feel the Difference carpet underlay collection. Four new PU foam underlays provide homeowners even more choice in underlays that deliver the best in comfort, support and resilience: Finesse (11mm UHD+), Charm (9mm UHD+), Indulgence (11mm SHD+) and Delight (9mm SHD+).

Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk

8 Available in a palette of 10 colours inspired by heritage paints, LeoLine’s Timberline takes all the fuss out of finding the perfect matching look, or simply gives a stunning paint-effect floor that makes a seriously stylish addition. Each Timberline floor also features LeoLine’s unique endless wood pattern, which creates a great sense of balance in any room size.

Visit: www.leoline.co.uk

9 The solid oak frame of Bolia’s Dive, available in oiled, dark oiled or oiled white pigmented finishes, is supported by four distinctive cigar-shaped legs. A band of full-grain leather, offered in cognac or natural hues, secures the sumptuous, wraparound cushions, which have removable covers. They are available in 36 fabric options,

including wool, recycled fibres, bouclé, flat-woven and rustic fabrics.

Visit: www.bolia.com

10 Time spent at Quick-Step’s Academy for Excellence in Flooring is proven to accelerate career progression. With a range of courses to choose from, installers new and old can find a way to boost skills, improve their knowledge and take another step on the career ladder. For employers looking to upskill their workforce, the Foundation Installer course is the one to choose. The two-day course covers the basics of wood and laminate or LVT flooring installation to give a good understanding of the fundamental principles behind a high standard of workmanship.

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

Three times unlucky Richard Renouf

Sometimes it is the simplest explanations

Three calls in one day is not unusual, but when three customers ask me to look at three different products and the inspections have the same outcome, that’s a one-off.

I started the day looking at some kitchen worktops. I was met by a very concerned man who was pursuing a complaint on behalf of his parents. Their new off-white solid surface worktops seemed to be marking whenever you put anything down on them or dragged it along. He showed me some marks and then went upstairs to continue working from home until I had finished.

On the table was the remnants of a delicious lunch: flatbreads, savoury rice and accompaniments that smelled amazing. By the sink, the washed-up aluminium saucepans were resting to drain on a tea towel. They were of some vintage and had clearly prepared many years’ worth of family meals. And, as I would expect, left silvery marks on any white surface, although the cupboard interiors had been lined with paper, so it was only the marks on the worktops that were noticeable.

Maybe it’s my age, or the fact that aluminium pans have fallen out of favour (air friers are plastic, of course), but I thought everyone knew aluminium left marks on surfaces. I checked, and neither my coffee mug nor anything else at hand left any marks, and the existing marks

came off easily with a microfibre cloth.

Then I went on to look at some doors which were ‘delaminating’. The young couple were very concerned about the bottom edge of two doors and the top edge of a drawer, because it had become uneven and you could see the finish had become detached for a few millimetres. One door was under the sink and right by the place where they replenished the salt for the water softener. Another was the upper door above the cooker panel where steam vented from the oven. The drawer was under the hob where it was exposed to liquids and heat. Oh, and the kitchen was now more than three years old. I thought everyone knew things receive wear and tear in everyday use.

Finally, I arrived at the home of the lady who was making a claim for significant personal injury. Her mattress had collapsed, throwing her out of bed and breaking her shoulder blade and a number of ribs. I couldn’t help but wince – it must have been some fall.

I tested the mattress. It had a consistent resilience all the way from one side to

FITTER OF THE YEAR

the other, even where there was some settlement near the headboard on the side where she slept. The only weak spot – if one can call it that – was that if I tried to rest my test weight right on the edge so it was overhanging, it had a tendency to fall off the bed. She felt that was convincing proof that the mattress was faulty. I thought everyone knew that if you overhang the edge of a mattress you will fall out of bed.

The customer is always right? I’ll leave you to ponder.

Visit: www.richard-renouf.com

Richard Renouf is an independent furnishings consultant

Fitter of the Year, which I was again privileged to help judge, saw Richard Long emerge the winner. He walked away with a cash prize of £2,000 plus a host of vouchers, a selection of tools and equipment kindly donated by the sponsors. The task for the finalists this year was to fit a patterned, woven carpet to a hallway area with a join, as well as a main staircase up to a landing, which all had to be close covered. They also had to produce a runner on the back section of staircase. The carpet had to be pattern matched throughout. There was also a double-stick task where the finalists had to insert a border the size of their choice using two colours of carpet. This year’s competition was one of the most challenging we have done from a planning aspect and very mentally challenging. Well done to the finalists.

The aluminium marks came off easily

Simple wear and tear

Don’t get caught napping - buy from approved NBF members

Our manufacturer members are independently audited to ensure, as far as possible, that they’re complying with regulations on flammability, cleanliness of fillings & trade descriptions.

Amongst other areas, we also look at their health & safety compliance, product safety incident plans and where obligated, their modern slavery reporting.

Compliance with all these areas of a business comes at a cost. So, if you’re offered mattresses or beds at prices that seem too good to be true – ask yourself why that is?

We’re also leading the way on sustainability, launching the “Pledge for Our Planet”, asking companies in the bed industry to take steps in unison that will address global environmental damage.

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

Meant

Born of the pandemic, Knot & Grain is now a reality

Pristine in Manor House

Sometimes things really do happen for a reason. David and Natalie (Nat) Mudd and Sam Carter – co-founders of Knot & Grain, met when they moved with their young families to the same Worcestershire village and bonded during the pandemic. ‘We were thankful to be able to share our love of the outdoors through country walks and garden get-togethers, and later, a few beers at the local pub,’ says David.

Now Knot & Grain has opened its showroom in Worcester, offering wooden floors with a difference.

‘The seed for Knot & Grain was born from a desire for us to get away from the traditional model of shopping

for a floor. Through our experience in our showrooms and selling branded floors online, we learnt that offering thousands of mass-produced, imported floors only leads to inflated pricing and an over-complicated buying experience. We started to develop the idea of offering something different. With a passion for woodwork and timeless interiors, we fell in love with the concept and together we developed and formed Knot & Grain,’ says Nat, Knot & Grain creative director.

‘Knot & Grain simplifies the complexity of choices that shoppers face when choosing their wood flooring. We empower our customers

with the freedom to design bespoke wood flooring that is unique and affordable, without compromising on quality. From plank style to the surface texture we keep things simple with our step-by-step process.

‘We deliver quality bespoke flooring directly to the customer, without the middleman. We don’t mass produce: each floor is made to order, reducing wastage and the environmental impact whilst providing customers with floors that meet their exact requirements. With over 20 years of experience in the retail flooring industry, we have become quite the connoisseurs – we truly cherish every grain and

Heritage in Old Farmhouse

Rustic in Harvest

David and Nat Mudd and Sam Carter

The showroom

honour every knot. We are here to help our customers create their wood floor, exactly the way they want it.’

‘Customers can find us online: they simply click on ‘Build your floor’ to start the design process. The first step is to choose their style – straight plank or herringbone. Then onto which grade of sustainably sourced French oak: Rustic, Classic, Pristine or Heritage. Each grade is characterised by the number of knots, sapwood, grain and colour variation that is naturally present in the wood,’ explains David.

‘The next step is to select colour – we have 20 options to choose from – and then texture: smooth or brushed. Last comes plank thickness – 15mm or 20mm – and finish: oil or matt lacquer. As well as our convenient online service, we’re also here, where customers can watch our production team in action, using state-of-the-art machinery to bring each plank to life. We have a quick turnaround: custom flooring can be delivered within 12 working days.’

With a small team, there is no room for standing on ceremony. ‘Producing and dispatching samples for online orders is the first job each morning. Our finishing machines will fire up and then our production team is set to work, brushing and colouring the flooring for orders,’ says Carter.

‘As directors of a small business, we’re all very hands-on and will most often be the ones answering the phones, advising customers in the design studio and responding to emails. We’re also busy procuring and managing stock whilst our orders continue to grow. Other than that, we are constantly developing new ideas – whether it’s formulating new colours for our collection, pinning ideas

for the next photoshoot or adding new functionality to the online store. There’s never a dull moment: it’s how we like it.’

‘We are all about customisation made simple. Our mission is to empower and educate our customers to design quality

flooring that is unique to them, hasslefree. All our flooring is handcrafted in the UK and we take pride in the materials and machinery. We create beautifully crafted flooring that lasts,’ says Nat. Visit: www.knotandgrain.com

Sending out samples is usually the first job of the day

Customers can visit and see the floors being made

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Double up

Ulster Carpets is boosting Axminster and Wilton production

Ulster Carpets is to double its investment in Axminster production.

Having installed its fourth high-speed loom in the recently constructed High Speed Weaving Building at its Portadown manufacturing site in the summer, work has begun extending the facility where Ulster intends to install four more looms.

The company is already the largest single-site producer of Axminster and Wilton carpets and expects the increased capacity to be in place in six months.

‘This additional capacity will allow us

to meet increasing demands from our customers across the world,’ says Nick Coburn, Ulster Carpets md. ‘All the new looms will be operational by April 2025, giving us the highest Axminster capacity in our history.

‘This is part of a long-term investment strategy to redevelop and upgrade our manufacturing facilities, and displays our ongoing commitment to manufacturing in the UK.’

Construction is expected to be finished by December, in time for the

arrival of the fifth and sixth looms, developed by Ulster subsidiary GTM.

‘We’re looking ahead with confidence,’ says Jeremy Wilson, Ulster Carpets residential sales director. ‘We have just launched six new colours for our popular Habitüs range, and development work on new ranges and colours for 2025 is already well underway. With so much uncertainty in the flooring industry, this announcement provides confidence for our retailers and customers.’

Visit: www. ulstercarpets.com

Habitüs in Strönd Fallow

Construction is underway

Ulster will have eight high-speed looms

F. Ball’s System LVT range is a comprehensive subfloor preparation system that helps you achieve the best results when installing LVT floorcoverings. The range includes the full system of products that flooring installers need to ensure a perfect installation every time. Use the right products from the System LVT range and follow our installation guidance for a lifetime guarantee. Not only is the installation protected but so is your reputation. Find out more: f-ball.com/systemlvt

Simply the best

The Bed Industry Awards again recognised the cream of retail, manufacturing and suppliers

Strictly Come Dancing star Anton Du Beke announced the Bed Industry Awards winners at the annual Bed Show gala dinner and awards ceremony.

Independent panels of judges selected the winners from a shortlist of finalists of qualifying retailers and NBF members.

DFS clinched National Bed Retailer of the Year for the first time.

Despite industry challenges, its beds and mattress category continues to grow impressively, with NBF members contributing the vast majority of revenue. The company’s successes included improved online performance, expanded NBF-member ranges in-store, and robust sustainability initiatives while holding its suppliers and subcontractors accountable. The retailer also has a dedicated NBF Retail Champion webpage to educate customers about the trade association and the importance of buying NBF-approved.

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

MattressNextDay was crowned Online Bed Retailer of the Year for the second time.

The online retailer achieved a remarkable year-on-year increase in turnover and profit while prioritising exceptional customer experience by continually improving website performance and design and investing

in its active social media programme. It demonstrated strong NBF brand support, a solid sustainability programme and impressive corporate social responsibility initiatives for employees and the local community.

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. The Brierley

Hill, West Midlands retailer provides strong online and offline support for the NBF and its member brands, including bespoke POS and a robust marketing and advertising programme. Solid financial markers, a zero-to-landfill policy and fantastic staff training and development, including age-friendly business training and apprenticeships, made Dreamland the worthy winner.

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

DFS collects its award from Anton Du Beke and Tean Dallaway

MattressNextDay

Dreamland Bedding Centre

The Bed Post took home the Large NBF Retail Champion of the Year award for the first time.

The six-store, south-east of England retailer reported healthy sales and profit uplifts across all its branches, with standout online performance and excellent customer satisfaction. It strongly supports NBF brands and has invested in staff training, POS and innovative marketing strategies. The judges commended its social responsibility through fair bed disposal and support for local causes.

Sussex Beds was runner-up.

The Bed Product of the Year was awarded to Silentnight Beds for its Airmesh Air Luxury mattress.

The judges found this mattress to be ‘really comfortable’ and one that ticked all the boxes. Based on extensive consumer research, the manufacturer knows what people want and has set out to deliver it at a realistic price point.

Among a number of entries prioritising temperature regulation, Airmesh had the science and messaging to back it up. The judges described the POS as ‘beautiful, flexible and tactile,’ promising to bring the range to life in-store according to the retailer’s preferences.

The finalists were Sealy UK for its Elevate UltraLux Anniversary mattress and Millbrook Beds for its Opulent Pillow Top 7000.

Harrison Spinks was crowned Bed Manufacturer of the Year.

The industry’s most vertically integrated brand goes from strength to strength. Judges commended its financial performance, rebrands and retelling of the Harrison Spinks story, all with a forensic focus on sustainability, earning the company its eighth Queen’s/ King’s Award. With exclusive sustainable ranges for John Lewis and Dreams, the

company also introduced a new Bed Tailor Collection. Additionally, its revised export strategy has resulted in significant growth in North America.

The finalists were Dreams Manufacturing, Hypnos and Sealy UK.

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.

‘The in-depth appraisal required to select a winner from amongst a strong field of competing companies, all of whom are coping admirably with the change management challenges required to stay in the game, is an inspiration. The industry should be proud to have so many world-beating companies in the UK, leading the way in financial performance, innovation, new technologies, sustainable practices and investing in their employee and customer experience,’ says Jonathan Hindle, a Supplier of the Year and Bed

Manufactuter of the Year judge.

Nestor Springs won the Component Product of the Year award for its ValueRest spring.

The judges praised the company for creating a luxury component at an affordable price that meets customer needs. The innovative design features an increased spring diameter, which was developed based on customer feedback and is now a patented product. The new spring configuration uses 30% less steel, with a significant impact on the overall product. It provides comfort while being cost-effective and highly functional.

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 industry-renowned awards are a valued opportunity to recognise the standout companies and individuals in the UK and Irish bed sector.

Congratulations to all the worthy winners and finalists and those who put themselves forward to be judged,’ says Tean Dallaway, NBF president.

Visit: www.bedshow.co.uk

The Bed Post

Silentnight Beds

Harrison Spinks

Nestor Springs

Handy

Triple lock

Komfi’s latest designs focus on luxury, innovation and sustainability

GNG Group solidified its position in the bed industry by unveiling additions to its Komfi range at the Bed Show, focusing on luxury, innovation and sustainability.

Infinity, which represents the pinnacle of Komfi’s luxury and innovation, combines the cooling benefits of TrueGel with the breathability of TrueAir foam. The luxurious materials not only offer superior airflow and pressure relief but are also tailored to adapt to the body’s movements, ensuring comfort throughout the night. A standout feature is adaptability through a zip-and-link option, allowing a mattress to offer two distinct feels, making it suitable for partners with different sleep preferences.

Sustainability is another key theme for GNG’s product launches. Ocean, the Harmony collection’s highlight, combines

eco-friendly Seaqual covers made from recycled ocean plastics, with GNG’s signature Ecofoam, crafted from 100% recycled materials. This sustainable yet affordable mattress delivers comfort without compromising the environment, or the consumer’s budget. A carbonneutral mattress from a carbon-neutral manufacturer, Harmony continues to reflect GNG’s dedication to both quality and environmental responsibility.

GNG also elevated the KomfiMed collection by introducing a new quilted cover, adding an extra touch of elegance.

The GelMed Hybrid model, designed with TrueGel technology, medically proven foam, and pocket springs, ensures enhanced pressure relief, spinal alignment and temperature regulation. The combination is designed to create

a mattress that supports various sleep styles while offering luxurious comfort, appealing to a broad consumer base.

One of the key messages that GNG aimed to convey at the show was that Komfi is not just an entry-level brand. With its comprehensive range, GNG offers a hierarchy of products designed to meet the sleep needs and preferences of all consumers, from those seeking affordable, eco-conscious options to those in the market for premium, luxurious sleep experiences.

The Komfi Unity collection continues to expand as well, offering retailers short lead times, UK manufacturing and delivery options. This means retailers can stock up without the burden of container costs or tying up capital in inventory. Visit: www.komfi.com

Infinity zip and link

GelMed Hybrid

Unity Supreme Classic

Please contact your local agent for more information High

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

Pledge

Sleepeezee reinforced its commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and style

Sleepeezee enjoyed a highly successful appearance at the Bed Show, an event filled with exciting highlights, industryleading designs, and a celebration of the brand’s rich 100-year history.

The show provided an exceptional platform for Sleepeezee to unveil its latest collections. The stand, which garnered significant attention from visitors and industry experts alike, was a true reflection of the company’s commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and style.

The display showcased an array of products, including four cutting-edge new collections, all designed to enhance the comfort and wellbeing of customers.

This included a refreshed Campaign for Wool; ActivFlex Response; Cool Refresh; and Graphite Memory ranges that boasted a range of unique and innovative sleep solutions.

The Sleepeezee stand had a celebratory feel reflecting on the company’s 100-year history, drawing in guests from across the industry. Visitors had the opportunity to experience firsthand the quality and craftsmanship that has defined Sleepeezee over the past century. From luxurious materials to the latest in sleep technology, each product demonstrated why Sleepeezee remains at the forefront of the bed manufacturing industry.

This year’s show was particularly special for Sleepeezee, as it provided the perfect occasion to celebrate the brand’s anniversary. The centenary celebrations were a key part of the event, and Sleepeezee was delighted to mark this milestone with its retail partners, colleagues, and supporters in attendance. Reflecting on the company’s heritage and looking toward the future, the show was a fitting tribute to Sleepeezee’s 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. Sleepeezee’s team engaged in productive discussions, sharing insights on future trends, sustainable initiatives, and product innovations while receiving invaluable feedback from retail partners. 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 and colleagues. 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,’ says Amy Curtis, Sleepeezee head of marketing.

‘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.’

Visit: www.sleepeezee.com

Slepeezee celebrated its heritage and new collections

Quality comfort, naturally

Performance matters

Partnerships with Premier League clubs provide opportunities and scrutiny

‘When a club like Tottenham Hotspur selects an official bed supplier, it prioritises several factors, with quality, versatility and sleep recovery at the fore. The club needs to ensure that the beds at Spurs Lodge, its 40-bedroom player and staff accommodation at the club’s training complex, provide the highest standard of support and comfort, as these directly impact the players’ vital rest and recovery. Versatility is important – the beds must be adaptable to the varying needs of players, who all have unique body types, sleep preferences and evolving requirements due to injuries or changes in training intensity. The goal is to create optimal sleep conditions that enhance players’ recovery, concentration, decision-making and overall well-being, which are crucial for peak performance on the field,’ says Kevin Slade, Duxiana director of growth.

Central to this is the High-Performance Sleep System, which has been refined over 90 years. ‘At the heart of this system is the DUX deep sleep mattress, engineered to minimise movement and prevent disruptions during deep sleep. DUX users attain the deep sleep stage faster but also sustain it longer resulting in enhanced concentration, sharper decision-making and improved overall well-being – benefits that are critical for professional athletes. DUX beds feature a unique continuous coil system within the spring design, responsive to both pressure and weight,’ says Slade.

The beds are equipped with the DUX Pascal system, a customisable mattress

topper with interchangeable spring cassettes. This allows the bed to be precisely tailored to each player’s unique needs, adjusting for variations in weight, height, shoulder width, hip density and musculature. ‘Such customisation is vital for ensuring optimal comfort and support, especially for players recovering from injuries or facing specific physical challenges. This attention to detail in tailoring each player’s sleep experience reflects a level of care that may not have been previously considered by the club.

‘While the publicity of being an official supplier to Tottenham Hotspur is valuable, Duxiana gains far more from this partnership. It allows us to validate and showcase the effectiveness of the sleep systems in a highly demanding environment. This association with an elite sports team not only strengthens

Duxiana’s credibility but positions the brand as a leader in sleep technology.

‘The partnership also enables us to gather real-world feedback from top athletes, which can be used to further refine and innovate our products. This continuous loop of improvement is vital in maintaining Duxiana’s market edge.

‘Both Tottenham Hotspur and Duxiana have high expectations for the outcomes of this partnership. For the club, the goal is to ensure players are enjoying the best possible sleep, leading to improved recovery, heightened concentration, sharper decision-making and overall well-being. The feedback so far suggests that Duxiana’s mattresses and customised sleep systems are helping the players and, we hope, contributing to their performance on the pitch.’

Visit: www.duxiana.co.uk

Kevin Slade with former Spurs players Ossie Ardiles and Ledley King

A suite at Spurs Lodge

Continuous spring system

Add warmth

Opt for seasonal colours to add a touch of Autumn

Now is a great time to add a touch of warmth to rooms with the use of autumnal colours. From furniture and upholstery to decorative pieces, textiles and wall decor, Gallery Direct offers a range of products for the season.

For large pieces, look at tan, brown and rust-coloured upholstery. Gallery’s Dalton sofa offers a combination of traditional and contemporary design with its button detailing on the arms, seat and back, paired with the slim, straight arms and slender feet. As well as the tan leather version, there is a moss green fabric option. The Cortona armchair gives a touch of retro design to a room. The seat and back cushions are upholstered in a choice of brown leather or moss green fabric, both of which pair with the wooden frame.

Richly grained or a deep finish on wooden furniture is beautiful all year round but helps add warmth to a room in Autumn. Gallery’s Craft collection of living, dining and bedroom furniture features oak and oak veneers with two finishes, natural and smoked, which both allow the grain detail of the wood to show through. The collection is crafted using traditional techniques, such as finger joints and dovetail joints.

To complement autumnal colours in furniture or just to add a more subtle touch to rooms, decorative accessories,

wall decor and textiles can be used. They can be functional or purely decorative. Lanterns, votives and candles offer warm, subtle lighting and are perfect for adding ambience to rooms. Mirrors with gold, bronze or deep wood frames add touches of Autumn colour.

Gallery’s Half Flow wreath features faux mushrooms and toadstools alongside berries, fern leaves, pinecones and delicate flowers on a woven wreath, while the Dry Flower Rust wreath is full of texture and colour with dried foliage highlighted by delicate, golden orange Chinese lanterns. Both are designed to add a quick and easy seasonal accent. Gallery’s artificial flowers and plants collection has a selection of sprays and stems that are ideal for Autumn,

including feathered and dry look, which can be used to create bouquets.

Cushions and throws can be used to add warmth, colour and texture to rooms, and are perfect for snuggling up to relax as the evenings get colder. From rich, deep colours to more subtle Autumn shades, and from chunky knits and faux furs to bouclés and chenilles, Gallery’s collection offers a wide choice, including the tan Pino cushion and some pumpkin design cushions, such as the Embroidered Pumpkin cushion, to add a fun touch to an interior.

Visit: www.gallerydirect.co.uk

Left: Dalton sofa and Cortona armchair with Craft furniture Above: Dry Flower wreath and Half Flow Rust wreath

Pino cushion in Tan

Embroidered Pumpkin cushion

Moods enhancement

Moduleo has updated its luxury vinyl collection with new patterns and colours

The long-running Moods collection has helped Moduleo become a leading luxury vinyl floor brand for designconscious homeowners. Exploring prescribed patterns or with the freedom to create their own signature style, Moduleo Moods redefined how homeowners interact with their floor.

The collection has now been updated with 15 Moods Patterns using nine shapes in wood and stone effects, for a look that’s soft and subtle, bold and daring – or anything they want it to be. In the new patterns, Moduleo’s designers

have explored subtle laying patterns in Rectangle Mono through to the ultimate retro vibe in Rectangle Grid Duo and vibrant designs like Hexagon Cluster and Diamond Floral. Of course, with Signature, homeowners are also free to design their very own floor from any of the Mood shapes and every single design in the Roots collection.

‘With the launch of Roots, our designers explored fresh ideas alongside reimagining classics from the original collection. The result is an impressive range of over 140 SKUs that give

homeowners superb choice. We’ve now brought the 12 best of these designs into Moods Patterns with four shape options, in a creative collection that’s accessible and available from stock,’ says Matthew Brook, Moduleo national sales manager.

‘Whether just starting out exploring flooring patterns or seasoned pros looking for something one-off, new Moods makes it easier than ever to play and create a unique flooring look that celebrates the individuality of expression.’

The 70 Moods pattern and colour combinations use Moduleo’s EIR technology for a realistic texture that’s in sync with the design. With a natural look and feel and a new lifetime warranty, these made-in-Belgium floors are designed to stand the test of time in busy family spaces. ‘With excellent water, stain and scratch resistance, as well as being warm and silent, Moduleo Moods is designed for life,’ says Brook.

When it comes to installing Moods, Flex Pro self-adhesive underlay offers a hassle-free way to fit its multiple shapes. No matter how complex the pattern, Flex Pro is mess-free and fast: simply roll out the underlay and remove the protective foil as you go – no need for primer, levelling compounds or adhesives.

Moduleo Moods is available now and comes supported by an inspiration photobook and sample folders, together with display boards and sample stickers. Visit: www.moduleo.co.uk

Rectangle Grid 664

Chevron Duo 607

Rectangle Drops 659

Creative designs

The new-look Moduleo Moods lets your customers experiment with over 70 pattern and colour combinations to make their floor a design statement and expression of personal aesthetic.

Feeling the heat?

Major fluctuations in temperature mean the correct adhesive is vital

Temperature-tolerant adhesives have been developed for installing resilient floorcoverings, such as LVT, in areas where temperatures have the potential to fluctuate. This is frequently the case in heavily glazed areas that are subject to solar gain during the day, such as conservatories, which then rapidly cool at night. Over time, this can lead to unsightly tenting and gapping at the edges of floorcoverings, particularly between adjacent LVT tiles or planks. The solution is temperature-tolerant adhesives that hold floorcoverings firmly in place and ensure installations maintain their aesthetic appearance for years.

‘There is sometimes confusion about why a temperature-tolerant adhesive is required to install LVT in conservatories but not always over underfloor heating,’ says Andy Mees, F Ball technical service officer. ‘This is because temperature fluctuations as a result of underfloor heating systems are much more gradual and less extreme than changes in temperature resulting from solar gain, which can result in swings of 60degC. To meet British Standard guidelines of resilient and textile floorcoverings, underfloor heating systems should not exceed 27degC at the bond line. Temperature-tolerant adhesives are therefore only always necessary where there are heavily glazed areas,

including conservatories and areas with floor-to-ceiling windows, such as extensions fitted with bi-fold doors.’

F Ball’s full range of adhesives can be used over all kinds of underfloor heating.

Wet-lay temperature-tolerant adhesives are available where LVT is being installed in areas that will be exposed to high temperatures and are available with a range of additional properties. ‘Styccobond F48 PLUS, for example, is a fibre-reinforced, hightemperature grade adhesive for installing a range of LVT. Fibres in the adhesive allow it to offer high initial grab to hold the flooring securely in place while fitters are working. It is also fast drying, and as a one-part solution there’s no mixing required before application,’ says Mees.

‘When installing LVT tiles and planks, it is useful to have the benefits of pressure-sensitive adhesives, which form an instant grab upon contact, ideal for installing flooring featuring intricate patterns and bespoke designs that need precise alignment. They also offer a long open time, reducing the risk of late placement.

‘Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS is a water-based adhesive with the familiar characteristics of a pressure-sensitive adhesive, which develops the extremely high bond strength and dimensional

stability required to hold LVT firmly in place in areas exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations from minus 20degC to 60degC. Whilst it provides high initial tack, the adhesive also allows contractors to lift and reposition floorcoverings in the initial stages of drying.

‘Styccobond F49 has also been approved for installing vertical flooring accessories, such as PVC skirting, capping and coving, meaning it offers an alternative to traditional contact adhesives. However, unlike contact adhesives, the hybrid adhesive only needs to be applied to one surface. It is also water resistant, allowing it to be used to install floorcoverings in damp and humid environments, such as kitchens and bathrooms.’

The suitability of any adhesive for a particular flooring product should always be checked. F Ball produces its Recommended Adhesives Guide (RAG), listing adhesives recommended for use with more than 6,000 products produced by over 200 manufacturers. A continually updated version can be found on the company’s website and as a free app. It is also available as an A5 printed booklet. F Ball’s technical service department is also on hand from 8.30am-5pm on Monday to Friday.

Visit: www.f-ball.com

Fibres in Styccobond F48 PLUS allow it to offer high initial grab to hold the flooring securely in place while fitters are working

Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS provides high initial tack while allowing fitters to lift and reposition floorcoverings in the initial stages of drying

Desire

Introducing Desire, our latest carpet sensation that stole the spotlight at the 2024 Harrogate Flooring Show!

Crafted for comfort and luxury, Desire features a soft, toe-hugging texture that delivers a cloud-like feel underfoot. With its dual back construction, this carpet offers durability and longevity, making it perfect for both busy households and serene spaces. Engineered with a 1/10 gauge and 2-ply yarn, Desire boasts a lush 20mm pile height, ensuring maximum softness while maintaining resilience. Made from 100% polyester, it’s as stylish as it is practical, offering both stain resistance and easy maintenance.

To upgrade your home for ultimate comfort and design, choose Desire; the carpet that everyone’s talking about!

sales@kellars.co.uk , 0161 443 0970

The big one

XL-End combines all of COREtec’s benefits with a 2.1m plank

Available now from UK stock, XL-End is the most realistic, most hard-wearing and largest plank that COREtec has produced – so realistic that even experienced customers have mistaken it for the real thing.

XL-End still retains all the benefits of COREtec: it’s 100% waterproof; low maintenance; offers great acoustics

and is quick and easy to install.

With an unprecedented 15mm thickness, extra-durable 0.8mm wear layer and enormous 2.1m x 228mm plank size, each board has ultra-realistic registered embossing, high-definition designs and is backed with 3mm of sustainable cork underlay.

As with all COREtec floors, XL-End

also offers the security of a lifetime warranty together with the back-up of a complete suite of waterproof matching accessories.

COREtec XL-End is presented on a dramatic retail display wall unit, designed to complement the existing suite of in-store displays.

Email: discover@coretecfloors.co.uk.

Egmont 50

Wall display

Left: Windsor 50 and (above) a detail

Capital attraction

Ethimo has joined the London set

Ethimo has become the latest global brand to open a showroom in London – just its third outside Italy and its seventh in total.

The Clerkenwell space, covering about 3,230sqft, extends over two levels: the first level, with its large windows, faces on to Old Street, while the lower level offers a second display area.

The display spaces on the ground floor are flooded with natural light, and thanks to large skylights this continues in the basement. The light filtered through the windows, apart from creating a connection with the outdoors, prompts a perception of the environment and the furniture that changes during the day, affecting the colours and atmosphere.

The showroom hosts the latest designs along with some of the Italian company’s most iconic collections, chosen to appeal to the UK market –although being its most northerly it is likely to attract visitors from further afield, given the sheer number of furniture companies in the neighbourhood.

Visit: www.ethimo.com

Natural light from the large windows gives the 3,230sqft showroom different looks through the day

The Clerkenwell Old Street showroom

Looking forward

Maze’s forthcoming collection blends new materials, options and comfort

Known for its fusion of style, comfort and durability, Maze is set to launch its 2025 range of outdoor furniture, designed to blend innovative designs with practical elegance.

The new ranges promise to elevate outdoor spaces with contemporary aesthetics, featuring materials like rope weave, wood-wrapped aluminium and versatile mix-and-match options.

Rope weave has become a huge trend in outdoor furniture, and Maze is set to take this trend to the next level. The rope weave designs in the upcoming collection combine tactile

texture with long-lasting strength, ensuring the furniture withstands the elements while adding a natural, woven charm to outdoor spaces, providing a sophisticated, laid-back aesthetic that blends perfectly with nature.

The incorporation of heat-transferred wood-effect wrapping on aluminium is another standout feature of the new range. This combines the warmth and classic appeal of wood with the modern, low-maintenance qualities of aluminium. The wood effect gives an organic, earthy look, while the aluminium core ensures that the furniture remains

lightweight, rust-resistant and highly durable: perfect for those who want the charm of natural wood without the upkeep. Expect to see this material on dining tables, lounge and sofa sets that are perfect for hosting summer barbecues and gatherings.

A new feature of Maze’s upcoming collection is the introduction of mixand-match options, allowing customers to curate their garden furniture to fit their personal style and space. This feature provides the freedom to choose different table and chair combinations, letting shoppers tailor their outdoor dining or seating arrangements exactly as they want, creating a unique outdoor set-up. Whether the preference is for sleek, contemporary aluminium chairs paired with a rustic wooden table, or rope-woven chairs combined with a more modern glass-topped table, the possibilities are vast.

The new collection will also introduce a diverse range of options, including modular furniture sets, enhanced pergola features and striking new colour palettes. Each piece is meticulously designed to blend aesthetics with functionality, to seamlessly extend living spaces outdoors.

Crafted from durable, weatherresistant materials, Maze has designed the collection to make outdoor areas stylish and comfortable havens, perfect for year-round enjoyment.

Visit: www.maze.co.uk

Shoppers can mix and match

Havana rope weave

Milan rope weave

Transition

Make the most of your space

Outdoor furniture plays a crucial role in creating a welcoming and functional outdoor area, extending the living space of the home and encouraging spending more time outdoors. With a wide range of styles available, outdoor furniture can be tailored to suit any aesthetic and provide a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living or to add a contrasting style.

Gallery Direct’s catalogue includes a wide range of outdoor furniture for relaxing, dining and entertaining, from compact bistro sets to large lounge and dining sets, along with tables, sun loungers and a range of seating. The

collection varies from traditional to contemporary, in a variety of materials to suit different requirements, including teak, rattan and aluminium, with some innovative designs that offer added functionality and practicality.

Its 2025 collection was recently previewed to customers at its At Home event. Among the new lines is the Hvar sofa and swivel chair, made from pale rattan paired with natural-coloured cushions. The design offers a modern twist on rattan furniture, with the chair’s swivel mechanism providing an unusual but luxurious function for outdoor seats. The range also includes a dining chair.

Another contemporary range in the new collection is Rialto. Crafted from wood, the range offers oval and round dining tables and matching chairs, along with a side and coffee table. The bases of the tables feature gently sloping wood slats that create a design feature. These are complemented by the slatted table tops and the seats and backs on the chairs.

For added practicality, Gallery’s new Porto sofa features a fold-down armrest in the centre of the sofa (normally concealed by the middle back cushion), as well as a hinged seat with a lined base below for storage of the cushions. The simple style, in rattan with pale natural-coloured cushions, is designed to suit a wide range of outdoor spaces.

To add a splash of colour to an outdoor area, the Siena chair is made from wood with a painted finish in a choice of bold blue, rich deep red or sage green. It is perfect for relaxing with its gently sloping seat and back.

Gallery’s wide range of designs, from small and compact to expansive and luxurious, ensures there is something suitable, whether customers are looking for furniture for a bijou area or for a large patio. And its outdoor accessories, such as umbrellas, mirrors, lanterns and fire pits, allow much more to be made of the outdoor experience.

Visit: www.gallerydirect.co.uk

Hvar

Rialto

Siena

Telling stories

Heimtextil Trends 25/26 offers a visionary perspective on the far-reaching significance of textiles

Textiles tell stories. They carry memories, reflect identities and document social changes. A look into their past enables a deeper understanding of the status quo and revives forgotten practices. Heimtextil Trends 25/26, curated by Alcova for the first time, takes the theme of ‘Future Continuous’, offering a visionary perspective on the farreaching significance of textiles. It shows their central role in technological, cultural and ecological developments. Alcova conducted six interviews with international designers, textile researchers and representatives of associations and institutions, who shed

light on various aspects of the textile industry. These stories interweave tradition and innovation, craftsmanship and modern technology – and invite us to explore new ways for the textile future.

Textiles are much more than just fabrics: they are deeply embedded in history and culture. Even the word ‘text’ comes from the Latin texere, meaning to weave, and shows that textiles served as a means of expression and communication long before writing. They link narratives, interweave storylines and have been a central component of our technology for thousands of years, as Janis Jefferies, a pioneer of textile

research, makes clear. Spinning and weaving was the first human technology and the basis for architecture and mathematics. Today, textiles are the focus of a new, sustainable way of thinking: away from pure recycling, reducing and reusing, towards regenerative agriculture and a vocabulary that speaks of restoring, renewing and replenishing.

In the middle of the fast-paced, digital world, a movement is growing that is leading back to the physical, tangible aspects of life. Textiles play a central role in this: they connect people with their cultural heritage and create a contrast to virtual existence through their

Woven sounds. Sax+Brush+Swarm Techtiles recording, 2006, Tim Blackwell, Janis Jefferies. The woven sound algorithm forms each stream to a linear thread, with samples mapped to pixel values. Here: layers of saxophone (curves) and brush sounds (lines).

Eugenia Morpurgo and Olivia de Gouveia, Digital Wax Print 2, 2017. A project exploring the relationship between digital fabrication and the manual technique of wax-resist dyeing.

Wellbeing Collection, StudioIlse x Nanimarquina, 2019

DESIGNED FOR THE FURNITURE AND FLOORING TRADE

TRENDS

tactile quality. In the current throwaway culture, which favours short-lived, often irreparable products, textiles and craftsmanship stand for authenticity, sustainability and genuine values. They create a moment of mindfulness in a world dominated by screens – and give the feeling of being able to really touch something again.

Ilse Crawford, interior designer and StudioIlse founder, emphasises that in an increasingly digital and disembodied world, there is a deep need for physical connection. Natural fibres such as hemp, jute, flax and nettle – valued for centuries for their durability and comfort – are making a remarkable comeback.

Christine Ladstätter, Salewa innovation manager, points to a trend towards greater appreciation of local materials and techniques. Her projects emphasise the growing importance of craftsmanship. The focus is on promoting local agriculture and preserving traditional pastoral landscapes.

The importance of care and foresight is becoming increasingly apparent – even in the textile industry. The sector is on the brink of change: towards a sustainable, connected and transparent future. Dirk Vantyghem, Euratex director general, emphasises that the EU textile sector is at the centre of attention, not least thanks to the European Green Deal. In a time of global uncertainty, the need for durable, functional and sustainable products is

growing. Many manufacturers use terms such as ‘sustainable’ or ‘circular’ arbitrarily. This is why the European Parliament is campaigning for more traceability in the supply chain: to combat greenwashing and enable consumers to make more informed purchasing decisions.

Simone van der Burg and Lucas Evers, WAAG Future Lab group leaders, emphasise the importance of open and co-creative production. Their approach aims to use local resources such as dyes and fibres from natural sources. The focus is on the democratisation of processes: designers and creatives are given access to open-source tools and resources to experiment freely – without high costs.

Italian designer and lecturer Eugenia Morpurgo calls for a fundamental rethink of agricultural practices in textile production and a move away from petroleum-based materials. She warns against economic models that favour disposable products over long-lasting alternatives. Her project Syntropic Materials investigates regenerative

agriculture as a sustainable solution for textiles and food. The aim is to improve soil health and biodiversity. She emphasises that the true costs – from resource consumption to long-term soil fertility – must be taken into account.

From Naturally Uneven Green to End of Petrol and Imperfect Pink, Heimtextil Trends 25/26 presents a colour palette that Alcova has interpreted both visually and linguistically. Inspired by the six interviews, the colours interweave the ideas and concepts that came up in discussion. Natural, unbleached tones meet dynamic, vibrant colours and reflect the tension between tradition and innovation. This contrast represents an active balance that is constantly evolving, characterised by renewal, growth and a forward-looking vision that goes beyond mere sustainability.

The Trend Booklet can be accessed online and Heimtextil Trends 25/26 will be presented in the Trend Arena at Heimtextil, 14-17 January.

Visit: www.heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com

Fabric waste sorting

Heimtextil Trends 25/26 colour palette

Green source code, 2007. Mutation of Ava Maria and MIT source code worked though Point Carre software, Mixed satin, cotton jacquard Ilse Crawford

NEW LAUNCH: RETAILER PORTAL

We are proud to announce the launch of our new retailer portal, designed to streamline your experience and enhance efficiency.

We are committed to providing a simple, convenient platform that meets your business needs seamlessly.

Scan the QR code or visit customerportal.hughmackay.co.uk to register

Access Anytime, Anywhere, Any Device:

The new portal will allow you, as a valued customer, anytime access to your account on any device, empowering you to manage your interactions with Hugh Mackay at your convenience.

Live Pricing Information:

Stay up to date using our live pricing feature, providing real-time pricing information to make informed purchasing decisions. Additionally, accessing invoices on the portal will simplify financial management.

Real-Time Stock Checking:

You will be able to check real-time stock levels effortlessly, ensuring accurate information to make informed decisions when placing orders.

Order Tracking:

Streamlined

Order Placement:

The portal will streamline the order placement process, allowing you to place orders quickly, ensuring flexibility and efficiency in transactions.

The portal will offer enhanced order tracking functionalities, allowing you to monitor the progress of orders seamlessly.

ADORE YOUR FLOOR

On the up

The second edition of VIFA ASEAN had more than 220 exhibitors

The second Vietnam ASEAN International Furniture and Home Accessories Fair (VIFA ASEAN 2024) attracted 224 exhibitors, including 64 from 13 countries outside Vietnam. The show was a mix of 67% furniture; 8% furnishings; 5% handicrafts and 20% machinery, equipment, raw materials, and supporting services.

The 27-30 August show, held at the SECC, Ho Chi Minh City, was a significant export event for furniture products in Asia as the first in a series of furniture exhibitions in the region, including KOFURN (Korea), MFFM (Malaysia), Maison Shanghai, Furniture China Shanghai, CIFF (China), and IFFINA (Indonesia). The event attracted more than 7,128 visitors, including 1,835 international visitors from 60 countries, primarily China, Japan, Taiwan, USA, South Korea, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong and The Philippines. Support programs for visitors included seminars including Greeneco with Net Zero, FSC certification and carbon credits; a factory visit tour to Binh Duong province; international visitor support services at Tan Son Nhat Airport and a free shuttle bus service.

VIFA ASEAN 2024 was not only a trade event but also a crucial bridge for Vietnamese businesses to trade, cooperate, and promote their brands internationally and demonstrated the growing position of the Vietnamese

furniture industry and contributed positively to the development of the Southeast Asian furniture industry.

Following the success of VIFA ASEAN 2024, the 16th Vietnam International Furniture & Home Accessories Fair, (VIFA EXPO 2025) - the largest and longeststanding international trade event for furniture exports in Vietnam – will take place on 5-8 March at two of Ho Chi Minh City’s largest exhibition centres: SECC and SKY EXPO Vietnam.

VIFA EXPO 2025 is set to grow by a third. Until now 2,000 spaces were

used by 400 companies from 19 countries including brands such as Koda, Woodnet, Scancom, Fine Scandinavian, MFC, PMA, Savimex, Thinh Viet, Lyprodan, Eurofar, Hiep Long, Cattie, Master Pacific, Mega Home and Wood Concept. Now this will grow to 3,000 spaces.

The show will offer a comprehensive program to support international visitors with accommodation and transportation throughout the four-day event. Visit: www.vifaexpo.com

Fabingdon

Abingdon Flooring reinforced its reputation for value and entered new markets at The Flooring Show, as Jane Common reports

As ever with Abingdon Flooring at The Flooring Show, there was a buzz of anticipation as to what would be revealed, and visitors were not disappointed.

‘We can’t get near the lecterns it’s so busy,’ Charlotte Coop, Abingdon Flooring head of marketing explained.

Two new Love Story ranges were introduced: Soft Whisper and Hidden Depths, as the collection nears its 10th anniversary next year. Both offer a stain-free for life guarantee, an impressive 10-year warranty and come in 2.5m, 4m and 5m width options. Soft Whisper offers 14 colours, while Hidden Depths offers the ultimate in underfoot comfort, also in 14 colours.

This is the first time any of our customers have seen it. It’s really popular,’ says Coop.

Also drawing a crowd was the Rustique Ultra (part of the Rustique family), a hybrid version with the quality and density of 1/10th gauge Stainfree Ultra combined with the bestselling colours of Rustique. This 16-strong colour collection adds another dimension to the nation’s original easy clean carpet family.

‘Rustique is one of our most popular ranges and a lot of people have asked for a heavier version. Here it is. People really buy into the Rustique brand so we’re always improving and adapting it.’

And, for something completely different there was entry into laminate and LVT, while Softstep branded vinyl joined the Abingdon Flooring ranks as part of the Simply Smooth debut.

‘Laminate and LVT isn’t something we’ve done before and we know it’s a competitive market, but we want to build on our reputation for quality and value by extending our product

offer. In the laminate we have an 8mm and a 12mm – the 12 mill has a 48-hour water protection so it can be used in bathrooms and kitchens and it’s sourced from sustainable forests in Scotland and recyclable. In LVT, we have two ranges – a dry-back and a click. We’ve been busy and really excited for this range to launch,’ says Coop.

Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

Love Story celebrates 10 years in 2025

Chestnut Herringbone laminate

Spellbound

‘Magicians’ gave Balta a younger and fresher look

It was a family affair on Balta’s stand with a bright, contemporary rebrand and products grouped into families to simplify the offering for retailers and consumers. Flourishing green plants were a striking visual, emphasising the fresh new look.

The rebrand sees Balta’s logo depicting a ball of wool knitting a cosy home. All the imagery is new with a new website launching later in the autumn with the same look and feel. Lecterns were also made more compact to pack a punch in terms of retail space with the new ‘halo unit’, a clever piece of POS that houses five lecterns with an illuminated backboard, taking centre stage.

Polypropylene products, formerly branded as StainFree, are now gathered under the Finishing Touch banner, while Made in Heaven encompasses polyester and nylon products. The WoolMaster brand and branding of a ball of yarn and a shepherd’s staff have been retained.

‘With the new families and rebranding, the stand has a much younger look. The energy is much fresher. The idea is that the presentation is more logical, so that a consumer or retailer will understand immediately: Finishing Touch, a polypropylene product,’ says Wim Verest, Balta, sales director.

‘I’m very happy with it. The marketing team are magicians, rebranding everything in a very short time.’

Visitors saw new POS, branding, collections and product sectors. There were new products too, including two retail-focused, embossed laminates –Elevation and Craftsman – available from stock. ‘We have taken so many orders for these here,’ says Verest.

Cushion vinyl is also part of the new offering for Balta: the 2mm Foundations and 4mm Timberland have 20 designs between them and both come with a five-year residential warranty.

‘We have production, warehousing and administration now in the UK. The reactions on our new, more retailfocused strategy have been very positive here and we are ready to go.’

Visit: www.baltafloorcoverings.co.uk

Jan Van Damme (left), Balta md and Wim Verest, Balta sales director

Visitors saw new POS, branding, collections and product sectors

Celebrations

Associated Weavers had plenty to celebrate as it combined anniversaries with launches

Associated Weavers celebrated its 60th anniversary at The Flooring Show with gold bunting and balloons proudly displayed across its stands.

The company has been busy over those 60 years, never more so than the past decade: it’s 10 years since it launched iSENSE supersoft carpet, nine since the launch of Invictus carpets and five since the introduction of Invictus LVT. And only one year ago, it opened its cut-length operation in Northampton.

The company isn’t just looking back, however: it is looking forward too.

‘We’ve always innovated at Associated Weavers,’ says Gavin Pugh, Associated Weavers md. ‘In 1964 we were one of the first companies that produced printed tufted carpets. Innovation and design have been one our strengths for 60 years – being the market leader in product development. We are certainly pushing forward with product development for the end of 2024 and into 2025, and customers here at the show are genuinely excited about that. It’s been

exceedingly busy – both carpets and LVT.’

Carpet-wise, in a nod to its heritage, AW is venturing back into wool with its Cambrian and Grampian collections.

‘It’s been a long time since we’ve had any wool products,’ says Pugh. ‘And we’re highlighting the sustainability story of wool by combining it with ECO FusionBac made from 100% plastic

bottles. It’s had a fabulous response.’

AW’s new Sarno collection will be growing in 2025 after a successful launch in 2024.

‘We launched Sarno earlier this year and already we’ve introduced two new designs. It’s a unique polyester yarn that has an incredible but durable touch. Customers say: “It’s wool.” It’s got that

luxury feel but it’s very family friendly as it can be cleaned with any cleaning products, and it will not peel. And we’re hitting a different price point to wool –it’s the best of both worlds.’

Semi-clad Adonises heralded new Invictus ranges: Ohana (family in Hawaiian) and Mahalo (hello in Hawaiian) will launch in January.

‘They’re 1/10th gauge polypropylene twists – a heavy, dense product. I’ve been in the flooring industry a long time and I am genuinely excited to launch these products next year. The reaction here has been superb and it’s where the market is heading, going back to twist ranges with a durable but clean finish. And it’s something different for us. We’re known for weighted Saxonies, so to be able to bring a dual weighted 1/10th gauge twist out is exciting as it shows we can create all types of quality carpet.’

The INVICTUS flagship product Magnificus will receive a refresh this month, closely followed by Sirius and Orion with colour updates early in 2025, leaning to warmer tones.

Innovative products deserve intuitive display units and AW, winner of Interiors Monthly’s 2024 award for Best Retail Display/POS, knows this better than most with its black and bronze colour-scape. Its new tower stand with 20 display boards, showing 63 skus, developed for customers with limited floor space in their showrooms, launched at Harrogate.

‘The autumn is coming, which is naturally a busier period, and into 2025 we know the housing market is moving forwards and interest rates have fallen, so people will start spending again. The outlook for the trade, AW and INVICTUS Floors is looking very positive,’ says Pugh. Visit: www.associated-weavers.co.uk

New dawn

As well as updating its retail package, Computers for Flooring is moving into wholesale

For many visitors to Computers for Flooring, with its Carman cloud-based business management system, there was a new dawn to witness: CfF’s move into distribution.

‘We’ve had an exciting few years. Very controlled growth, and then we saw the gap in the wholesale market and said: “We’re ready now and we know our product is really good – let’s do it.” Our stock control system was at a point where we were confident that, however much stock a company had, we could manage it,’ says Paul Williams, CfF technical director.

‘Wholesale is different in that products move very quickly so wholesalers need a system that is really on it. If a retailer rings up asking about stock, you want to give them an immediate answer – none of this wandering around the warehouse saying: “Yeah, I think I have a couple of rolls of that somewhere.” In terms of the sales process, though, it’s much easier to manage than retail from a system point of view as you don’t have all the steps to go through.’

CfF’s 10-strong team develops all its software in-house in Cardiff. The company began in 2010 when a gap in the market for selling software to flooring companies was spotted, and as with any tech company, an ability to move with the times is key to its success. Its Carman system – the name is a portmanteau of ‘carpets’

and ‘management’ – operates from a central dashboard, giving an overview of customers, suppliers, stock, finance, sales and staff performance. From here, the whole process from initial customer order to delivery and fitting can be managed. Customers can be kept up to date with Carman’s integrated fitter diary, and invoice and payment trackers enable seamless integration into other financial software.

‘I like the flooring industry. There are lots of family businesses and many characters. People buy from people, and when you’re dealing with family

businesses you can have a really great relationship lasting over many years. We look after our customers and grow together,’ says Williams.

As for the show, CfF’s 14th, James Beckett, CfF technical operations director says: ‘It’s been very good – even more successful than last year, with some great leads. People are here to do business.’

‘We’ve also had useful feedback from customers,’ adds Williams. ‘”I tell you what would be great,” they say. “If the software did this and that.” And we’ll implement their suggestions.’

Visit: www.computersforflooring.com

Profiles for a fantastic finish

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BRUSHED STEEL NICKEL

New heights

Cormar returned to Harrogate with another launch and a new look

Cormar Carpet Company returned to The Flooring Show this year, showcasing its award-winning trade portal and building on the strength of key bestselling ranges to further extend their appeal to consumers.

Once again, Cormar exhibited at the front of Hall A, unveiling its newly refreshed stand featuring eye-catching LED screens and updated graphics highlighting the ongoing commitment to sustainability and emphasising eco-friendly practices and innovations within the company.

In addition to an extensive product portfolio, Cormar’s fifth range launch of the year, Zenith, was previewed at the show. Made from new and exclusive Ultralux polypropylene, Zenith is a heavyweight, 1/10th gauge carpet offering unparalleled comfort and style. Durable and hardwearing, it is manufactured by Cormar in a collection of 18 plain and heather shades, to meet the demands of both contemporary and traditional interiors, with versatile shades designed to elevate any space.

Cormar’s most recent addition to its wool loop collection, Shetland, also enjoyed the spotlight at the show. Made with 100% pure new wool, this long-lasting loop carpet comes in

10 trend-leading, heathered tones, blending style and practicality.

The team were on hand to offer live demonstrations of the trade portal, with visitors able to explore its latest features, designed to streamline ordering and enhance the user experience.

With significant investments made this year in developing new ranges; enhancing its manufacturing capabilities; and expanding the delivery fleet,

Cormar demonstrated to visitors its commitment to advancing its position as leaders in the industry.

‘We were delighted to attend The Flooring Show once again this year, offering us the opportunity to meet and connect with our valued customers and suppliers. With a selection of exciting new ranges on show, including Zenith, the newest addition to our easy-clean offering, we were able to demonstrate our continued investment in product development and new range launches, which has kept us at the forefront of carpet manufacturing for the last seven decades,’ says David Cormack, Cormar marketing director. Visit: www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

Shetland in Hilltop Haze

The refreshed stand

Zenith in Highcliffe

Delivering

Likewise caught the trends and stayed ‘Pawsitive’

‘What we’re seeing this year in carpets is a shift away from greys to natural colours,’ says Sandra Carter, Likewise Floors sales and marketing manager.

And when it came to displaying the à la mode earthy tones at Harrogate, Likewise’s stand was delivering. A collection of premium carpet ranges branded around ‘The Classics’ was showcased under the Floors by Lewis Abbott brand on two new quality units with a green floral motif – simple and sophisticated. The Classics ranges include pure new wool, loop piles, nylon luxury velvets and flat woven contrast loops, while the perennially popular herringbone range has been relaunched with five additional colour options.

Five new carpet ranges were displayed on lectern units from Associated Weavers’ Invictus and Stain Away collections.

Sleek display was also order of the day for the Floors by Lewis Abbott LVT ranges, with a stand for Chester Square and Holland Park with lighting to pick out the classic plank and parquet designs.

The Cotswold Wood Company is a new premium collection of engineered wood designs with a 14mm thick plank and 3mm top layer. A total of 18 options is available with lengths ranging from 300mm to 1,500mm.

In laminate there are two new ranges: the 8mm Vitality Style and water-resistant Vitality Aqua, in 10 modern decors.

As part of her role, Carter designed a new range of doormats. Some are fun –a terrier in psychedelic colours with the message ‘Stay Pawsitive’ – and others pretty, including a triptych of lavender pots and seasonal autumn leaves.

‘They’re eco-friendly as they’re 100% sustainable, produced from renewable coir with a natural rubber backing.’

Rugs were not to be left out. Silk Road features new traditional Persian designs printed onto super-soft polyester, with the practicality of being machinewashable. Tokyo, in traditional and contemporary designs, includes three new additions to the range.

With carpet, laminate, LVT, engineered wood, rugs and doormats, variety is the spice of life for Likewise, which has won the Interiors Monthly Editor’s Choice Award for Outstanding Performance (Flooring) two years running.

Visit: www.likewiseplc.com

Left: Likewise’s product diversity attracted visitors Above: Lake Geneva

Telling a story

Kellars urged visitors to be the authors of their own success

‘An empty room is a story waiting to happen, the floor is your author,’ read the panel on the Kellars stand.

Kellars was the author of its own fortune at the show. 2024 has been the company’s most successful year across all areas of the business and the team were in celebratory mood, with A17 (the show’s biggest stand) boasting Frannie’s Bar, a wheel of fortune, new launches aplenty and orders flowing in.

The big news for the country’s largest independent flooring supplier, which has six depots from Glasgow to Dartford and more than 100 staff, was the launch of the Easy Living brand.

‘We soft-launched at our Blackpool roadshow in April and had a fantastic reception from our customers,’ says Mike Davey, Kellars head of creative and brand.

‘Our roadshows are integral to us as a company. They’e proper events – parties, really. But that’s us as a company. There’s

no point following everyone else. We are creating something different at Kellars. This has been an unreal year and it’s only going to continue. We are thinking

big and growing fast. We can see Easy Living developing into a brand that will have real recognition in our customers’ minds.’

2024 has been Kellars’ most successful year

Easy Living was the central attraction

Easy Living’s main selling point is its functionality for families: stain-free and designed to withstand spills and stains in rooms with high foot traffic.

At the top end of the Easy Living range, Opulence and Desire were winning plaudits. In 4m and 5m widths with a 20mm pile height, they are twoply polyester yarn and 1/10th gauge. Polyester Envy and Fiorentina and polypropylene Affluence complete the line-up: Affluence with a 18mm pile height, Envy 15mm, Florentina 10.5mm.

In Easy Naturals, the wool version of Easy Living, Chatsworth and Sheringham will bring country-house living to

customers. Chatsworth is 80/20 with a 9mm pile height, 1/10th gauge and two-ply yarn, while Sheringham is 100% wool with 5mm pile height and two-ply yarn. January will see Chatsworth sport a lighter weight.

‘We’ve been taking orders across the board,’ says Davey. ‘There’s been so much positive feedback about Easy Living now people are seeing it all in its glory. It will be a massive attribute to us.’

Other introductions for Harrogate included a Lux upgrade for Allora, with the new range featuring 8mm SPC, a 5G click system for simple installation, compatibility with underfloor heating

and increased durability. Award-winning LVT collection Alva has also been expanded with 28 colours now available. Visit: www.kellars.co.uk

Visitors were encouraged to take a

Kellars again had the show’s largest stand

spin

Allora saw an upgrade

Fruits of the new loom

The results of investment in production were clear to see

The fruits of Ulster Carpets’ fourth high-speed loom – another four are to join it – were on display at Harrogate, and for the winner of last year’s inaugural The Flooring Show Sustainability Award it was all about colours.

‘What we’ve seen over the past few years is cold greys ebbing away and a move to warmer neutrals,’ says Andrew Gicquel, Ulster Carpets retail sales manager.

In line with this, Ulster used the show to highlight six new colours in its tufted loop, 100% British/New Zealand wool

range Habitüs. In Croft, Marram (earthy green with flecks of gold) and Orchard (a darker sage green) stole the show. In the tufted loop Strönd, the two-tone green Fjord and gold and cream Fallow stood out.

The strength of Ulster's extensive Axminster range was clearly evident, including popular heavy patterns and a wide variety of plaids.

The results of Ulster’s collaboration with Roomvo were also on display, as customers tried out the new home

visualiser software displayed on a large screen on the stand.

‘You take a photograph of your space and – the clever bit – it automatically maps the floor area. And you can swipe between two carpets to compare them. It couldn’t be simpler,’ says Jeremy Wilson, Ulster Carpets residential sales director.

Meanwhile a new website is currently being developed – to showcase Roomvo – hopefully launching at the turn of the year.

Visit: www.ulstercarpets.com

Ulster had plenty to tell – and show – customers

Got it covered

Carpet, LVT and engineered wood were all on show

For a company founded in 1895, Victoria Carpets and Design Floors moves with the times and this year’s offering at the Flooring Show did not disappoint. The focus was hard flooring with its refreshed LVT and new engineered wood ranges in pride of place.

‘LVT isn’t going anywhere,’ says James Caldwell, Victoria sales director. ‘The plan with our carpet, LVT and engineered wood flooring is, to really live up to the slogan: Whatever your floor, Victoria has it covered.’

The new Universal Design range is design driven across plank, fishbone and parquet. Available as dryback only, Universal Design is a 0.55mm range with a lifetime warranty. This is a collection that looks like real wood: the tones have returned to softer, warmer shades with a mix of both rustic, knotty designs and much simpler, gentle graining.

The Universal range, consisting of plank, herringbone and tile designs, has been updated with new, softer colours. Universal is also a 0.55mm range, available in dryback and click.

There was a new launch in engineered wood: European Grade, tongue and groove available in both 14mm and 18mm, plank and herringbone. ‘Solid wood moves and heaves, groans and

cracks: engineered wood doesn’t do that. I’ve never had wood in my own home before but I’m considering this. It’s so strong,’ says Caldwell.

Not forgetting its roots, Victoria also debuted two carpet ranges at the show: Easicare Grace – a twist in soft, muted colours with the company’s first fleece backing, and 10-year wear warranty.

And Easi Sisal, the indoor/outdoor range, winner of the Editor’s Choice Innovation of the Year (Flooring) award in the Interiors Monthly Awards 2024. The range of 12 carpets, with a 20-year warranty, is made from waterproof yarn and UV protected – so sturdy it can even be jet-washed but looked right at home indoors on the stand.

Visit: www.victoriacarpets.com

The focus was on hard flooring

Easi Sisal looked right at home on the stand

ABINGDON

As ever with Abingdon Flooring at The Flooring Show, there was a buzz of anticipation as to what would be revealed, and visitors were not disappointed. New carpets, LVT, laminate and vinyl competed for buyers’ attention, including two Love Story ranges; an update to Rustique and the Super Smooth branded LVT, vinyl and laminate. Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

ADAM CARPETS

‘Great colours, great style and great quality: that’s the Adam Carpets’ ethos,’ says Chris Adam, Adams Carpets md. And the mantra was on display at Harrogate with a new range, in six colourways, of fine 1/10th gauge loop in 100% New Zealand wool and with Total Insect Protection, rolling out in stores over the next couple of months. Visit: www.adamcarpets.com

Direct from Harrogate

The industry turned out in force for The Flooring Show 2024

ASSOCIATED CARPET GROUP

The buying group – members have 315 stores and growing – was planning its spring break and summer holiday at the show. It is relocating its Supplier Show to St George’s Park, Staffordshire, where England’s Three Lions and Lionesses train – and, to celebrate its 40th anniversary, a trip to Majorca in July. Visit: www.www.acgcarpets.com

ASSOCIATED WEAVERS

Associated Weavers celebrated its 60th anniversary at the show with gold bunting and balloons. The company has been busy over those 60 years, never more so than the past decade: it’s 10 years since it launched iSENSE supersoft carpet, nine since the launch of Invictus and five since the introduction of Invictus LVT. In 2023 it opened its cut-length operation in Northampton.

Visit: www.associated-weavers.co.uk

EcoLuxury EcoFriendly EcoFelt

5 reasons why you should buy Penthouse EcoFelt underlay:

• Manufactured using our own virgin carpet waste

• Cares for our carpets & the planet

AXMINSTER CARPETS

The new Woven to Order service was the headline on Axminster’s stand. Ready in four to five weeks, the service provides a more sustainable method of production. Ranges included are Myth & Moor, Hazy Days, Havana and, in selected independents, NEW Modern Classics. Visit: www.axminster-carpets.co.uk

BALTA

It was a family affair on Balta’s stand, with a bright, new contemporary rebrand and products grouped into families to simplify the offering for retailers and consumers. There were new products too, including two retail-focused, embossed laminates and a move into the vinyl market. Visit: www.baltagroup.com

BALL & YOUNG

Ball & Young used the show to highlight the environmental aspects of its underlays, including the market-leading Cloud 9, and the drive for sustainability at the heart of parent The Vita Group, including its ECOVADIS Gold rating success. It is committed to, and invests in, reuse of raw materials, and conserving natural resources in pursuit of a net zero footprint.

Visit: www.ballandyoung.com

BETAP

Visitors enjoyed a tour of the world with Betap, from the Bombay heavy felt in seven colours through the 100% polypropylene Dartmoor to Hawaii’s Sequia: a 100% structured boucle wool weave in 10 colours. Visit: www.betap.com

BROCKWAY CARPETS

An interactive stand for Brockway Carpets saw lots of action in new launches, including Lakeland Herdwick in loop and flatweave designs, alongside a Rare Breeds loop. Brockway is committed to helping sustain populations of Britain’s rarest hill sheep. Alongside the launches, there are additions to existing ranges including Tiffany and Gatsby.

Visit: www.brockway.co.uk

C ARPET RECYCLING UK

CRUK used the show to promote recycling and reuse of textile flooring waste and encourage waste prevention within the industry. Visitors heard the latest on EPR plans, how to responsibly manage waste, and CRUK’s new online database, which allows consumers to locate their local authority recycling centre to safely dispose of carpet and textile flooring waste. Visit: www.carpetrecyclinguk.com

CARPENTER

Carpenter wishes to thank everyone who visited the stand where the underlay team was promoting its stylish POS underlay presentation boards. They are customised to each retailer’s preferences, to help encourage conversations about underlay and ensure consumers get the right product to fit their needs.

Visit: www.carpenter.com

CAVALIER CARPETS

Cavalier officially launched its Wool Tweed range in a tri-tone palette at Harrogate – plain from a distance but a closer look reveals it is patterned. And it’s felt-backed, to make life easier for the fitters. ‘It’s a little bit different but people at the show really like it,’ says Hans Lowe, Cavalier Carpets sales director. ‘We’ve high hopes for it.’

Visit: www.cavaliercarpets.co.uk

CLASSIS

Classis Carpets made itself at home at the Majestic Hotel’s billiard room, where the carpets matched the sumptuousness of the surroundings. The company focused on its new PET and recycled polyester ranges. Alexandria, a fine twist 1/10th gauge polyester and Ravello, a soft, deep polyester, were on show alongside Gemini, Polaris, Phoenix, Tonga and I Feel Luxury. Visit: www.classiscarpets.com

CONDOR CARPETS

The patterns of Condor’s carpets – hot off the press of its new LCL machine – received praise at Harrogate’s Majestic Hotel, especially when customers realised that if they ordered enough square metres, they could design their own. Condor is also turning the tide on plastics with a collection made from waste collected by Thai fishermen. Visit: www.condor-group.eu

COMPUTERS FOR FLOORING

Visitors to Computers for Flooring, with its Carman cloud-based business management system, witnessed a new dawn: CfF’s move into distribution. ‘We saw a gap in the wholesale market and said: “We’re ready. Our product is really good – let’s do it.” We were confident that, however much stock a company had, we could manage it,’ says Paul Williams, CfF technical director. Visit: www.computersforflooring.com

CORETEC

COREtec doubled the size of its stand to highlight XL-End: the most realistic, hardest-wearing and largest plank it has produced. With an unprecedented 15mm thickness, extra-durable 0.8mm wear layer and 2.1m x 228mm plank size, each board has ultra-realistic registered embossing, gorgeous high-definition designs and is backed with 3mm of sustainable cork underlay. Email: discover@coretecfloors.co.uk

CORMAR

Cormar Carpet Company showcased its award-winning trade portal, building on the strength of key bestselling ranges. Its fifth range launch of the year, Zenith, was previewed. Made from new and exclusive Ultralux polypropylene, Zenith is a heavyweight, 1/10th gauge carpet, offering unparalleled comfort and style in 18 plain and heather shades.

Visit: www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

FELLS CARPETS

Founded in 1915, Fells Carpets is renowned for its commitment to innovation and long-standing partnerships with independent retailers. Fells Carpets continues to combine heritage craftsmanship with modern techniques that deliver affordable, durable carpets for homes across the UK.

Visit: www.fellscarpets.co.uk

F BALL

F Ball and Co used the show to highlight the latest in flooring installation products, including high-flow smoothing compound Stopgap 1400. A two-component smoothing compound, it is walk-on hard from just 90 minutes after application and ready to receive floorcoverings from 12 hours. Visitors were treated to live demonstrations and a Monday afternoon drinks reception.

Visit: www.f-ball.co.uk

FLOORWISE

For Floorwise its updated premium Feel the Difference underlays were the focus. Finesse (11mm UHD+), Charm (9mm UHD+), Indulgence (11mm SHD+) and Delight (9mm SHD+) now provide more comfort and durability for carpets. All made in the UK, they are also the first Floorwise underlays to have been tested against ISO 16000 for VOC emissions.

Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk

SHOW REVIEW

FURLONG FLOORING

It was all clicking into place for Furlong Flooring, with its ethically sourced Universal Clic engineered wood range bridging the gap between laminate and wood flooring. In carpet, the Timeless wool collection has names that catch the mood of the space customers want to create – Light and Airy, Calm and Cozy, and Deep and Dramatic. Visit: www.furlongflooring.com

HUGH MACKAY

Hugh Mackay returned with its wool portfolio, including its latest additions: Natural Living, a traditional wool loop in 10 contemporary colours and four co-ordinating stripe designs; and Natural Dwelling, offering the same palette in a high-low textured loop. There was also plenty to see on the contract side, along with the Infinity custom Axminster service. Visit: www.hughmackay.co.uk

GREENDALE CARPETS AND FLOORING

It was all about the smart new ID sample box on the Greendale stand. Each of the swatches contained in the box showcases something special and, judging by the reaction in Harrogate, the 50 boxes being sent out initially will be very well received.

Visit: www.greendalecarpets.co.uk

I NTERFLOOR

Spacemen had landed on the Interfloor stand – Tredaire-nauts on a mission to show consumers, through TV, radio and digital advertising, that Tredaire underlay feels like nothing on Earth. Retail customers can invite the Tredaire-nauts to their stores, with POS materials including display units, banners, floor mats and window stickers.

Visit: www.interfloor.com

KELLARS

‘An empty room is a story waiting to happen, the floor is your author,’ read the panel on the Kellars stand. Kellars was the author of its own fortune at the show. 2024 has been the company’s most successful year across all areas of the business and the team were in celebratory mood, with the show’s biggest stand boasting Frannie’s Bar, a wheel of fortune, new launches aplenty and orders flowing in. Visit: www.kellars.co.uk

LIKEWISE

With carpets, laminates, LVTs, engineered woods, rugs and doormats making their debut, variety was the spice of life. A collection of premium carpet ranges, ‘The Classics’, was showcased under the Floors by Lewis Abbott brand on white POS units with green floral motif – simple and sophisticated. Products included pure new wool, loop piles, nylon luxury velvets and flat woven contrast loops. Visit: www.likewiseplc.com

LANO CARPETS

Revamp was the keyword on the Lano stand in Harrogate, with Living Colours enjoying its third iteration, set to enter the market in January accompanied by a new display unit. ‘SmartStrand is a unique, bio-based 21st-century fibre with all the benefits of the other fibre types but none of their negatives,’ says Gary Alp, UK/Eire residential sales director. Visit: www.lano.com

MA NX TOMKINSON

Manx Tomkinson announced the upcoming launch of six lustrous colourways for its popular Puerto Rico range. Inspired by the sun-drenched landscapes of the Caribbean, the add-ons will bring fresh, versatile design options to the market this month. Made from 100% polypropylene fibres, the range blends muted sand tones with hardwearing, stain-resistance. Visit: www.manxtomkinson.co.uk

SHOW REVIEW

MASTERPIECE SYSTEMS

There was lots of new tech on the MasterPiece stand to solidify its offer to support the retailer end-to-end, including the ability to generate a ballpark quote within a minute of the customer entering the shop and answering a few questions; the unique aptitude to split the fits if two different fitters are handling the work, and a sales-without-measure facility.

Visit: www.masterpiece-system.com

NICOLA EDWARDS

Nicola Edwards celebrated its return to The Flooring Show with two new display stands for stockists of its bespoke carpet edgings, with new and existing retail partners placing orders. The company is also celebrating moving to larger premises and boosting staff numbers.

Visit: www.nicola-edwards.co.uk

METRO

Metro highlighted the benefits retailers could take advantage of if they became members. The stand sported several examples of POS created by the group’s in-house marketing team: members receive £600 worth of marketing support a year for free.

Visit: www.carpet1st.co.uk

PENTHOUSE CARPETS

All the colours of the rainbow on Penthouse Carpets’ stand celebrated the addition of nine new shades to the Crofter cut pile Berber 100% wool range, taking the total number to 18. With the Seasons 80/20 range also being expanded, Penthouse’s Life in Colour branding was right at home.

Visit: www.penthousecarpets.co.uk

RBV FLOORING

It was the second year at Harrogate for RBV Flooring with, the team reflected, heavier footfall than last year. So much so that the company says it is doing a lot of business and opening lots of doors. The new Moroccantile inspired launch Vanguard drew the crowds.

Tel: 01274 670 011

TARKETT

‘We’ve expanded our offer this year, with a focus on new brochures that reflect the expanding range,’ says Steve Urwin, Tarkett UK/Ireland marketing manager – retail. ‘We are showcasing a new range of accessories, Finishing Touches, to enhance and customise our Victorian tile offering, and have launched a new ad campaign: Inspiration by Tarkett.’ Visit: www.tarkett.co.uk

STROOLMOUNT

The new flatpack wooden counter display stand introduced this year proved a huge success. ‘It was great to see everybody at what proved a busy show to mark our 19th year in the industry,’ says Gill Finch, Stroolmount md. ‘Thanks to everyone who has supported us over the years.’

Visit: www.stroolmount.co.uk

TELENZO

Telenzo unveiled Delft Square, Herringbone in New Zealand wool. Made with the greatest attention to detail and a capsule, cool-to-warm, eight-colour palette, Delft Square, Herringbone sits comfortably in city interiors and country-style homes. Available in 4m and 5m widths, it has a 1.3 tog rating and Class 23 (Heavy Domestic) and Class 33 (Heavy Commercial) ratings.

Visit: www.edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk

SHOW REVIEW

ULSTER

The fruits of Ulster Carpets’ fourth high-speed loom –another four are going to join it – were on display at Harrogate. For the winner of last year’s inaugural The Flooring Show Sustainability Award it was all about colours, including six new colours in its tufted loop, 100% British/New Zealand wool range Habitüs.

Visit: www.ulstercarpets.com

WESTEX

Westex debuted several products including the luxury Elysian Velvet Collection. Independents’ imaginations were also fired by a new collaboration with Fired Earth, taking 18 shades from its paint chart and replicating them in carpet – a velvet, a loop and a twist – with accompanying eye-catching display stands and promotional materials.

Visit: www.westexflooring.com

VICTORIA CARPETS AND DESIGN FLOORS

For a company founded in 1895, Victoria Carpets and Design Floors moves with the times – just like the dog whose journey visitors followed on Victoria’s stand from an adventurous puppy showcasing Pioneer to an adult dog in Ultimate Impressions. There was plenty of puppy love for the stand, which was crowded from the moment the show opened. Visit: www.victoriacarpets.com

WOOLSAFE

With Steve Bakker taking over as md and a new colour restorer on the market, things are looking bright for cleaning industry service provider WoolSafe. The WoolSafe Academy also took the opportunity at the show to shout about its training courses, with sisal now coming under the students’ scrutiny.

Visit: www.woolsafe.org

Doing their job

Buyers were buying as Autumn Fair attracted new visitors

Autumn Fair enjoyed an increase in buyers actively looking to source and buy new products, and a significant rise in new buyers.

The 1-4 September event saw a 6% increase in buyers actively looking to source and buy new products; a 20% rise in the number of buyers with sole or joint purchasing responsibility, and 30% more brand-new buyers.

‘50% of the buyers who attended are business owners who take the time away from their store to buy and source new products at Autumn Fair, which underlines the importance of coming. They love and value the community the show offers, and they trust in it to provide the newness they need for their

valued customers,’ says Soraya Gadelrab, Autumn Fair event director.

The show had more than 800 exhibitors.

Some 85% of attendees had sole or joint responsibility for purchasing, and 40% of attendees came with a planned spending budget of between £25,000 and £100,000. Returning buyers demonstrated continued purchasing power, with 87% making purchases.

There were increases in visitors from the South East, the Midlands, South West, North West and London.

Jeff Banks, who is collaborating with Candlelight, says the entrepreneurial spirit and dedication of independent retailers impressed him. ‘I have been on

the Candlelight stand all day meeting customers who purchase the Jeff Banks candle collection and have witnessed a seismic shift in retail. I have met retailers across the country who are single stores, but have been expanding into the shop next door, and the one next to that and next to that. With the demise of many department stores, they are filling this gap on a local level by introducing new product sectors into their stores to the benefit of the whole business and their high streets. The people that own them are buying with their own money and sell with passion and conviction. They are sharing the brand stories and training their sales teams, it has been incredible to see such

Left: Buyers were keen to source products Above: Bioneurodesign

ambitious retail once again and possibly the department stores of the future – it is how they started,’ he says.

‘To those brands who aren’t here, we have written as many orders in one-anda-half days as we wrote in four days at the last Autumn Fair. The attendance and quality of buyer have been excellent. We will be back at Autumn Fair next year,’ says Mike Winch, Candlelight founder.

‘It is a really great opportunity to launch our Spring/Summer collections and we have space here to showcase them, so it gives us some really positive vibes about what we have created. We write orders at the show and take a lot of quotes as well. 90% of the key buyers we expected to see have been to the stand. Overall, it’s been a really positive experience and everybody we have seen has been very happy to be here,’ says Helen Marshall, director of soft furnishings producer Walton & Co.

Sister show Source Home & Gift seems firmly set to become a catalyst for positive change in the retail industry.

‘We know that customers want to be more conscious and more responsible in their purchasing, and expect the businesses they use to lead by example, and so we want to help those businesses. Source Home & Gift really brings together the suppliers and retailers, and helps everyone understand what that journey is. I’ve wandered around the halls and I’m so impressed at the creativity and the wonderful craftsmanship,’ says Andrew Goodacre, BIRA ceo.

‘I would say to any retailer looking to find something to differentiate

themselves from the competition, a trip to Source Home & Gift is absolutely crucial. I’ve had some brilliant discussions and met bags of ethical producers who are brilliant at what they do. I know I’ll leave here and think I could have learned more, could have done more. So that’s why I will come back next year.’

‘The definition of Source is “where things originate”, and we believe that creating beautiful, well-made products begins in partnership with the people that you source from. We champion ethical and sustainable manufacturing, elevating exhibitors who embody these principles and share their unique stories. This is a place where doing good business goes hand in hand with creating exceptional quality products,’ says Suzanne Ellingham,

Source Home & Gift event director.

‘Our mission is to connect the global sourcing community, bringing together innovative makers and artisans and manufacturers who care about how products are made, under one roof – and connecting them to brands and retailers looking to buy and source better products, who want to work with businesses whose values align with their own. Source Home & Gift is where responsibility meets style, connections turn into collaborations, and where your ideas can be brought to life.’

‘We sell new goods in our charity shops to raise funds for the RSPCA. Coming to Source Home & Gift is so important to us as we’re always looking to find new and exciting products and new suppliers to meet the demand of our customers. It’s really important that we’re trying to be environmentally friendly and that we’re sourcing things that aren’t going to harm the planet. As a charity we’re part of the green and circular economy – that’s an important part of who we are and our ethos. So to be able to find new suppliers who align with that is great,’ says Lesley Kennedy, RSPCA retail development manager.

Bioneurodesign debuted at Source Home & Gift with creations that embody Portugal’s rich heritage and craftsmanship. ‘We wanted to showcase our new range of products to the UK market, and we knew this provided an excellent opportunity. We’ve established some great leads already and still have more of the exhibition to go,’ says Julio Felix, Bioneurodesign ceo.

Partnership

A

major tie-up for the show was with sourcing platform Faire

‘We’re the world’s leading online wholesale marketplace. We facilitate brands meeting and help them with running their business. As an independent retailer, which is what our platform is designed for, I can come to Faire and buy from brands like the ones at Autumn Fair at low minimum order values with 60-day payment terms so that I’ve hopefully got the chance to sell through that product before I’ve paid for it and manage my cash flow in that way. If a brand doesn’t work out for whatever reason, and I’ve never tried it before, I can return that for free and Faire covers the cost. All of that is designed to take the risk out of wholesale buying and ultimately improve the end retailer experience,’ says Charlotte Broadbent, Faire UK country manager.

‘Faire has 50,000 retailers buying in the UK alone and millions globally. They tend to be the more tech-savvy retailers because they’ve been early adopters of the online way of doing things. We recognised that while there’s probably

a huge overlap in that buyer group [with Autumn Fair], by pooling those buyers together, we were going to be growing the pie overall for suppliers in our world.’

To encourage buyers Faire offered visitors a discount off their first order and free delivery, while the 250 exhibitors already using the platform could write orders straight to it.

‘One of the things that we want to be able to do as a show is bring in new retailers. We know our clients have a long list of customers they’re looking to meet and they’ll get those in. Where we can add value is how can they meet new retailers? That has been one of the biggest stories for us at this show: the amount of new business orders that our clients have taken at the show compared to previous years and compared to other shows. That is large part in due to this partnership,’ says Jackson Szabo, portfolio director, retail group at Autum Fair organiser Hyve.

‘Faire’s typical retail base is more tech savvy than a Spring or Autumn

Fair legacy visitor, so trying to introduce trade shows to them as a good opportunity whilst they’re doing online buying as well is really important, and it’s important for our exhibitors. That has been a massive plus. That partnership has helped drive new retailers to the show that have never come to the event before and they’ve come to buy.’

‘A lot of our core audiences launched websites during Covid because they needed to. When we came out of Covid, they closed those down because they didn’t have the skill set: “It’s too time consuming, I’m going to get back to what I know.” Their passion is in products, a physical product and putting that out and creating the experience in a shop. What we have to do is educate them on how can you enhance that core proposition you’re trying to develop by looking at omni-channel strategies, both in person and online,’ says Broadbent.

‘Buyers are more time-poor than ever as well, especially on the independent side. When they come to a show,

Faire was on hand to help retailers

they want to be able to quickly identify the things that are going to be relevant for them. Buyers on Faire tend to be able to buy for just £100 or £200 minimum order values, which allows them to place that first order at much lower risk than they might have if they were just going direct, and see if it works in the shop and then top up throughout the season. Particularly going into Christmas, this can be really important for retailers.

‘The partnership alludes to the fact that trade shows need to expand. We need to become more experiential. We need to think about beyond the four walls of the show – how do people feel when they when they leave the event? How do they feel before the show? Do they get excited when they browse the products through Faire and they’re looking at how they can shop at the show? Is that something that inspires them? When they get there, do we deliver on that?’ says Szabo.

‘What we heard from customers is that we can bring the benefits of Autumn Fair 365 days a year. Our buyers are shopping on Faire in the bath at night, or in bed with a cup of tea. That’s the way that independents are shopping in that “always on” way, and being able to combine these things to help them

with that is fantastic,’ says Broadbent.

‘We want to be a central pillar and play a more active role: one of the things that we’re focusing on, going into Autumn Fair next year, is that independent retailers are vital for this show and a lot of them are bricks-andmortar businesses. We understand that bricks-and-mortar businesses in this environment are struggling. Rather than us just watching that, we want to play an active role, so we’re partnering with Save the High Street. We’ll be celebrating the Great British high street going into next year. That’s our focus, that’s our core.

‘We feel that with the platform that we’ve got and the legacy that we’ve got and the relationships, we can do something to move the needle there and that is going to be the focus. We don’t want to be a passive trade show: we want to be an active member of the community, a pillar of the community that enables these businesses to grow, not just by bringing them together,’ says Szabo.

‘We’re doing our bit as Faire for that, and that we have a programme called Open with Faire, which provides up to £20,000 in payment terms specifically to people who are about to open a

store or have opened the store in the past year. The banks and the credit card companies don’t want to give these guys money to open, but we see it as our role to encourage new entrants, as well as supporting the existing community to grow that pie overall. That is why working together is really important,’ says Broadbent.

Visit: www.autumnfair.com www.source-homeandgift.com www.faire.com

Charlotte Broadbent and Jackson Szabo

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Game changer

The increasing popularity of gardens and a change of date saw Glee bloom

Glee marked its 50th anniversary with an increase in visitors and buyers from across the retail spectrum. The move from June to September gave the show a better position in the buying cycle, with an increased presence of owner/ operators; category buyers and buying teams; buying groups and retailers, all eager to discover the latest trends and place orders.

Noticeable was the number of buyers from outwith the traditional garden centre sector, with Dunelm, Robert Dyas, John Lewis, B&Q and QVC among those looking to meet the growing consumer interest in gardens and gardening.

‘From the second we cut the ribbon to officially open the show, the energy was electric. One exhibitor summarised it perfectly as “The buzz is well and truly back in the aisles,” and that’s all due to

the enthusiasm and willingness of our visitors and exhibitors. Glee has become the ultimate platform for growth and innovation, opening dialogue on those opportunities and challenges shaping our industry, and this September this role felt more relevant than ever.

‘With hundreds of new and returning brands in the spotlight, Glee 2024 was a true celebration of all things garden, home, leisure and lifestyle. Innovation was everywhere and buyers responded in kind, placing substantial orders and fuelling an atmosphere of growth and excitement. The passion and optimism that filled the aisles and exhibition stands, and a bulging floorplan for the 2025 show, mark an exciting tipping point for Glee and the wider garden retail sector,’ says Matthew Mein, Glee event director.

The 2025 event will see a new hall

layout at the NEC – halls 8-12 – providing more opportunity for expansion as the show returns from 16-18 September. Visit: www.gleebirmingham.com

Joining

Membership gives clients assurance of quality workmanship

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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.

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Delivering

Innovation and service are key

For more than five decades foam and fibre conversion specialist Peak Converters has been delivering market-leading products and customer service to upholsterers across the UK. With a commitment to innovation, the company focuses on minimising waste by optimising the use of raw materials to maximise product output at its factory in Wirksworth, Derbyshire. This often involves collaborating with customers on product design and development to create cost-effective and inventive solutions.

A recent example is the development of a new fibre-encapsulated sprung cushion in partnership with Wade Springs: together the two companies

have created an innovative design that simplifies separation and recycling. The cushion’s fibre contains recycled material sourced from plastic bottles, and every component is designed for easy disassembly and recycling at the end of its lifecycle. This versatile cushion is suitable for any sofa design and in terms of longevity and comfort offers comparable benefits to traditional foam or fibre cushions.

‘We appreciate that upholstered furniture is a key investment for many and are proud of the part we play in helping upholsterers to create something special for the consumer. The development of the new cushion is testament to our innovative

approach and the knowledge and expertise of our team,’ says Mike Crowshaw, Peak Converters md.

Peak is also one of the UK’s largest suppliers of upholstery kits to the trade, despatching thousands of kits up and down the country every month. The kits save upholsterers time and effort by providing all the necessary materials in one package and typically include: foam padding, which comes in various thicknesses and densities, giving shape and comfort to the piece; cushioning material that is placed between the foam and the outer fabric, which helps to smooth out any irregularities and gives the upholstery a more polished appearance, along with optional bespoke accessories such as tape or dipryl.

‘Our job is to keep furniture makers in production. Our upholstery kits can be tailored to the requirements of each customer. We pride ourselves on our quick turnaround time and the high quality of our kits. Our return rate is a fraction of a percent.’

As part of its commitment to offering competitive lead times the company has, this summer, undertaken a machine refurbishment programme on every piece of machinery in the factory. This included further work to speed up the upholstery kit assembly process by introducing new technology, so that customers receive their orders quicker. Visit: www.peakconverters.co.uk

Upholstery kits save upholsterers time and effort

Peak has been developing products with Wade Spring

sales@peakconverters.co.uk

+44 (0) 1629 823680 www.peakconverters.co.uk

Triple score

Presti AI can transform product photography in seconds

Furniture companies traditionally spend significant time and resources on photoshoots or CGI to produce high-quality product imagery. However, Presti AI is transforming this process by enabling users to upload a simple product image and stage it in any environment within seconds, attracting more than 100 companies eager to use its capabilities for generating lifestyle photos quickly and affordably.

‘The creation process takes just seconds, with no alteration to the product and at a fraction of the usual cost,’ says Hamza Bennis, Presti AI co-founder.

‘This approach benefits retailers and manufacturers in three significant ways: rapid scene creation; accurate preservation of product features, and cost-effective image generation. With Presti AI, companies can generate scenes in various styles – from vintage and Scandinavian to bohemian and modern – while ensuring that even challenging textures like velvet and rattan are accurately depicted.

‘The speed of the process is allowing companies to update their website imagery more frequently, leading to seasonal refreshes for Spring, Summer, Halloween, and Christmas.’

Presti AI recently secured a US$3.5m seed funding round, led by Partech and Y Combinator, known for backing companies including Airbnb and Dropbox. This funding will enable Presti AI to expand its reach and enhance its technology, including the introduction of new features including fabric and colour customisation.

The team is also exploring the potential of video.

James Ward, FW Homestores director says Presti AI is the best solution for creating lifestyle images, easily generating more than 200 lifestyle images for both print and digital material in a month.

Retailers will be able see the software in action at the Autumn Furniture Show this month.

Visit: www.presti.ai

The software can create lifestyle images from basic product photography

Furniture imagery in seconds

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New chapter

Guardsman UK has a new home and strengthened its team

The Guardsman UK team has recently reached a significant milestone with its move to new, modern office premises. This relocation marks more than just a change in scenery: it symbolises the start of a new chapter filled with opportunities for growth, innovation and collaboration.

‘Our new office space has been designed to foster collaboration and teamwork. The open-plan workspaces and inspirational meeting rooms create an environment where ideas can flow freely and teamwork can thrive. This

move will enhance our working environment and inspire our team to reach new heights in delivering excellent products and services to our customers,’ says Mark Potter, Guardsman md.

In addition to the office move, the warehouse operations are also relocating to a larger, more advanced facility.

‘The new warehouse will significantly increase our capacity, allowing us to store more care products and manage dispatches more efficiently. This move ensures we continue delivering the

excellent service our customers and partners expect,’ says Keith Durham, Guardsman warehouse manager.

The Guardsman team saw additions and promotions during the summer: Chris Whelan and Mandy Coates joined as head of claims and insurance services and compliance manager respectively; Zeyn Kassam was promoted to commercial director; Richard Oloyede to head of sales and key partnerships, and Paul Jennings to head of sales and development UK/Europe.

‘These promotions reflect the exceptional skills and dedication of these individuals. By investing in our people, we ensure continued growth and success as a company. I couldn’t be prouder of our team. Their dedication and innovation during this transformation period have been remarkable. With our new premises, warehouse relocation, and the addition of talented team members, the future holds even greater achievements,’ says Potter.

Visit: www.guardsman.co.uk

Mark Potter

Zeyn Kassam

Guardsman’s new home

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It says it can reduce costs for retailers, increase productivity, and free up valuable time to focus on the core business.

M-Solutions’ approach is designed to alleviate your team’s administrative burden while offering deeper financial insights through tailored management reporting.

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streamlined processes, efficient software integration and expert advice.

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Email: info@m-solutions.co.uk

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M-Solutions

Cutting the cost of your in-house accounts team for the furniture industry

WHY CHOOSE US?

At M-Solutions, we specialize in providing comprehensive bookkeeping and financial management services exclusively for furniture businesses across the UK and Ireland. Our expertise spans from VAT returns and payroll to EPOS system support, including Ordorite, Retail Systems, and Omnis, ensuring your financial processes run smoothly.

We are also experts in accounting software like Xero, QuickBooks, Sage, and Twinfield, ensuring your business is always compliant and efficient. By working with us, you’ll reduce costs, increase productivity, and free up valuable time to focus on your core business.

OUR APPROACH

Our approach is designed to alleviate the administrative burden on your team while offering deeper financial insights through tailored management reporting. Whether it's payroll, VAT, or bookkeeping, we make sure every detail is handled with precision.

Cost-Saving Benefits

M-Solutions helps you save both time and money through streamlined processes, efficient software integrations, and expert advice.

CUSTOMER REVIEW

M-Solutions saved us both time and money. Their expert team made the setup far easier than expected, and I highly recommend them. Their service is truly 5-star.

~ Peter Blell, Christies Furniture & Devon Beds

We look forward to helping you achieve your financial goals with ease and efficiency.

Free Consultation Offer

Call us at +(44) 117 4411 746 or email info@m-solutions.co.uk to arrange your free appointment.

Experience the future of Bookkeeping with M-Solution sWhere Expertise Meets Reliability

We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your specific business needs. Whether face-to-face or via video, we are here to help. 122 St George's Street, Bristol, BS1

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“UKAS accredited testing laboratory specialising in flammability testing. LTS Ltd follows a business philosophy that is the soul of our company. It incorporates our mission and vision, high professional business ethics and values.”

Integration

Boost performance and customer satisfaction

Ordorite understands the need for retailers in the furniture, bedding and related industries to adopt the right tools to streamline operations, enhance customer experience, and ultimately drive profitability. As an award-winning software provider, Ordorite’s technology is changing the way retailers run their businesses. Its comprehensive software integrates every aspect of a business into a single, real-time system.

‘Ordorite’s intuitive POS system is more than just a tool for processing transactions: it’s a powerful sales enhancer. Retailers can easily cross-sell and upsell products, with the system automatically prompting staff to suggest complementary items, significantly boosting average ticket values. Ordorite customers report that cross-selling can increase sales by up to 20% and profits

by 30%,’ says Stephen Connolly, Ordorite Software Solutions ceo.

It also allows for easy creation of bespoke, made-to-order products, with features like a tile builder for customising colours, fabrics, sizes and styles. The system captures detailed customer information, ensuring that future interactions are personalised and targeted. Sales staff can also check real-time stock availability, helping them respond instantly to queries and even sell incoming stock. By connecting the whole retail operation, Ordorite’s technology helps retailers not only make sales but maximise them, all while improving the customer experience.

According to recent studies, 73% of consumers consider delivery the most important aspect of their shopping experience, and 52% prioritise

guaranteed delivery dates over free shipping. Ordorite’s delivery and logistics planning solution ensures retailers meet these expectations, offering a complete overview of all deliveries, collections and stock transfers across all locations.

With features including route optimisation, real-time dispatch tracking and comprehensive scheduling, Ordorite helps retailers minimise time on the road, reduce costs and ensure timely deliveries. This keeps customers happy and also builds long-term loyalty, setting retailers apart from the competition.

‘As technology shifts towards mobile, so do we. Ordorite’s suite of mobile solutions empowers retail staff to manage essential business tasks from any location. From stocktaking and proof of delivery to managing pick lists and stock transfers, the Ordorite mobile app boosts staff productivity and operational efficiency,’ says Connolly.

‘Staff can access inventory details on the go, while the ability to capture and report faults instantly means customer service issues are addressed promptly. We are transforming the furniture and bedding retail industry with our all-in-one software, connecting every part of your business in real time. With powerful POS features, streamlined logistics and mobile solutions, Ordorite helps retailers increase sales, improve operational efficiency and deliver an exceptional customer experience.’

Visit: www.ordorite.com

Retailers can track performance, including on the go

Customers place great value on accurate delivery information

People matter

Fibreline is investing for its and the industry’s future

The furniture industry’s foundation is built on people and relationships. These relationships are not only between customers and suppliers but also within the businesses themselves. As a labour-intensive sector, furniture manufacturing – and the production of its essential components – faces significant challenges. Among the most pressing is the need to attract young talent into a environment that is often overlooked by the younger generation.

Fibreline understands this challenge well. A key supplier of upholstery kits

and cushions to UK sofa manufacturers, the company has a long history of investing in technology to enhance product quality and streamline processes. At the same time, it also recognises that the future of the industry hinges on having a flexible, skilled and engaged workforce.

Fibreline employs almost 250 people, collectively boasting over 1,500 years of experience in manufacturing comfort solutions. The company’s private ownership – it is a family-owned and managed business, now in its fourth decade – allows it to make decisions with a focus on long-term objectives. With the third generation of the family now involved in the business, Fibreline remains committed to the continuous development of its team.

In 2019, Fibreline became an early adopter of the Degree Apprenticeship programme. This four-year scheme offers an alternative to traditional university education, allowing school leavers to work in the business four days a week while studying and attending university on the fifth day. This model enables participants to earn a degree without incurring debt. So far, two employees have graduated with a 2:1 degree, and seven more are enrolled in the scheme.

The company is a strong supporter of initiatives such as the British Furniture Manufacturers’ Future of Furniture campaign, emphasising the need to work together to attract young talent. The furniture sector offers a wide range of career opportunities in areas such as design, operations, distribution, sales, marketing and finance. More must be done to highlight these opportunities and make the industry an attractive career choice for the next generation.

Recognising that formal qualifications are not always the best fit for every role, Fibreline is developing Cushion College, an in-house training programme. This initiative is designed to ensure that the company’s skills remain strong and up-to-date, particularly in areas like the cutting and sewing department.

‘I am looking forward to seeing future graduates of Cushion College take the business to new heights, further cementing our reputation as a leader in comfort within the furniture industry. The company’s commitment to employee development is not just about maintaining current standards: it’s about driving the industry forward and ensuring a bright future for the next generation,’ says Richard Prudhoe, Fibreline md.

Visit: www. www.fibreline-ltd.co.uk

Fibreline participates in the Degree Apprenticeship scheme and is developing its own in-house training programme

Think testing

SATRA‘s furniture and floorcoverings testing facility is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for assessing the safety, quality and durability of retailers’ and manufacturers’ products.

For the flooring industry, it offers a wide range of testing including slip, chemical and artificial light resistance testing as well as flammability and light reflectance testing. It tests carpets, rugs and matting for a variety of domestic and contract applications, and a wide variety of resilient floors, both for suitability and level of use determinations. It also offers a comprehensive suite of in-situ and laboratory-based UKAS accredited floor safety tests, alongside pendulum and SATRA Pedatron testing.

Assessing furniture products for the UK domestic market, where all domestic upholstered furniture must meet the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations, is a key part of SATRA’s service. The durability and safety testing of products including seating, tables, wardrobes, cabinets and beds has seen a surge in enquiries in 2024. This reflects the growing importance that manufacturers and consumers alike are placing on product quality and longevity.

SATRA’s dedicated furniture test laboratory can assess a wide collection of products to a range of standards including domestic, contract, outdoor and educational.

In addition to the physical and flammability testing capabilities, SATRA

also boasts an extensive chemical testing laboratory to assist with customers’ restricted substances testing, and to help demonstrate compliance with legislation such as Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) and Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs).

SATRA will present a furniture flammability seminar on 24 October at its Kettering headquarters: an event beneficial to companies importing upholstered furniture and furnishings. It will provide an overview of current legislation with information on the tests required, demonstrations, labelling, record keeping, and what the forthcoming legislation could entail. Visit: www.satra.com

Associated Weavers are expanding and looking for 4 new Retail Sales Managers across the country.

CARPET RETAIL AREA MANAGERS UNITED KINGDOM

Associated Weavers - are celebrating 60 years of being at the forefront of broadloom carpet manufacturing.

Our strengths are our passion for carpets, forward thinking innovation, an eye for interior design and of course our award winning branding, over the years we have built strong lasting relationships with our partners nationwide and we feel the time is right to continue our success story, building for the next 60 years.

We have opportunities for Carpet Retail Sales Managers for the following areas:

• West Yorkshire

• South Wales

• East Anglia

• West London

Job Description & Main Responsibilities

-To maximise sales on your area with both roll & cut length customers.

-To achieve monthly, quarterly and annual sales targets.

-To sell point of sale display into new and existing customers.

The ideal candidate will possess the following skills

-Excellent communication, dedication, initiative and enthusiasm.

- Self-motivation, good planning and organisational skills.

- General IT awareness and a full driving licence.

The Package

Competitive salary, sales related bonus structure, pension scheme, company car, laptop & mobile phone.

Interested applicants should send their CV and covering letter to stephen.kaye@associatedweavers.co.uk

UNDERLAY FOR MODERN LIVING