SMG News - Spring 2018 by SMG Group

SMG News | Spring 2018 | Issue 187 The Official Publication of SMG The National Furnishing Group

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SMG News | Spring 2018 | 2

CONTENTS SMG News | Spring 2018 | Issue 187

NEWS 7

WOOLSAFE ASSOCIATE MEMBER PROGRAMME

ALTERNATIVE FLOORING WIN WITH HOUZZ

YORK WILTON CELEBRATES 25 YEARS

BROCKWAY’S ‘BACK TO NATURE’

AT THE SHARP END

BUSINESS INSIGHT

QUESTION TIME

MEMBER FOCUS

REGULARS Frank Gunn from Cormar Carpets An insight from Richard Renouf Phil Hartley from Victoria Carpets The Little Carpet Shop in Chester

FEATURES

Victoria Carpets - Lasting Impressions, Gauntlet

DID YOU KNOW ABOUT LAWTON YARNS?

INSURANCE INSIGHT

RESTORATION AT ENGLEFIELD HOUSE

PARQUET TAKES THE FLOOR

ON THE COVER: Victoria Carpets

Lasting Impressions, Gauntlet

LUXURIOUSLY COMFORTABLE BEDS AND MATTRESSES HANDCRAFTED IN GREAT BRITAIN

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re delighted to launch our new range of traditional pocket spring mattresses. Expertly created with quality comfort layers, including our Naturals Collection featuring Cashmere, Silk and British Wool.

For more information call 01282 851 111 or visit rest-assured.co.uk

SMG News | Spring 2018

Dear Members, Well 2018 seemed to come in with a whimper but through January momentum was building and February seems to be back to its buoyant self.

This will all be revealed at the Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show in May – so don’t miss out and book your place now at www.bgnfs.co.uk.

January was a whirlwind month for SMG what with Domotex in Hannover and with having an exhibition stand at the January Furniture Show. The Show was well attended and some of the displays there were absolutely breathtaking. The Flooring Showcase, which SMG helped to initiate was situated in a busy area of Hall 2 and with some of the top flooring suppliers in attendance, it was very well received by Members and non members alike. It was good to see so many SMG members there and thank you to those of you who attended, especially braving the snow.

SMG Suppliers are also planning lots of new product and range changes to keep things fresh and match consumer trends. There is a wealth of support for members of SMG, so please do use it and maximise your sales potential. Some new Point of Sale, or a revamp of your display can make all the difference.

This year is shaping up to be a very exciting one for SMG, with lots of new initiatives in the pipeline. Keep an eye on your Monthly Updates for details – we have new suppliers, new ranges and some top secret own brand news.

This spring edition of SMG News features Phil Hartley, Managing Direct of Victoria Carpets facing ‘Question Time’ on the centre pages. His views during this time of immense change at Victoria are very insightful. We have Frank Gunn, Cormar Representative for Northern Scotland answering our questions in the ‘At the Sharp End’ feature on page 11 with some very interesting comments. This February, SMG travelled to The

Little Carpet Shop in Chester – an SMG Member since 2011, to feature them in the Member Focus on page 58, a great retail store which is going from strength to strength. Again, this SMG News is jam packed with news, insights and information to keep you informed and to make for a very interesting read. On behalf of SMG, I’d like to thank our members and suppliers for their continued support and to wish you a very successful 2018 trading.

All the best,

Mike Reed Head of Group Operations

SMG The National Furnishing Group 9 The Markham Centre, Station Road, Theale, Reading, Berkshire RG7 4PE Telephone 0118 932 3832 Fax 0118 930 4515 Email info@smg-group.co.uk Web www.smg-group.co.uk Published by SMG The National Furnishing Group. Printed by Lamport Gilbert Limited, 3 Darwin Close, Reading, Berkshire RG2 0TB

NEWS UPDATE HAT-TRICK OF APPOINTMENTS AT CORMAR One of the UK’s leading tufted carpet manufacturers, Cormar Carpets, has scored a hat-trick with its latest company appointments.

From left to right: Jason Willis and Christopher Holloway

New Tufting Operations Manager Matt Lord

Two new reps, Christopher Holloway and Jason Willis, have joined the Cormar sales team and Matt Lord takes up the new position of Tufting Operations Manager based at Holme Mill in Ramsbottom, Lancashire. Covering North/East Yorkshire, Chris has spent over 10 years in the industry and was previously employed at Penthouse Carpets. Jason joins Cormar from MCD Wales, having spent over eight years with the company, and will cover the South Wales and Gloucester area. Both are familiar with many customers in their region. In a new role at Cormar, Matt Lord is the recently appointed tufting operations manager. With a career spanning over 20 years, he brings a wealth of manufacturing experience, that includes working for a number of leading FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) brands, with three years at both Warburtons and McVities. Matt, who lives in Ashton-Under-Lyne, will be responsible for day-to-day operations with particular focus on quality processes, team culture and improving operational standards and efficiencies.

Said David Judge, MD at Cormar Carpets: “We are delighted to welcome on board our three new recruits and hope they enjoy settling into their roles and being part of the Cormar team.” One of the UK’s leading independent tufted carpet manufacturers, Cormar Carpets continues to produce all its wool and polypropylene carpet ranges from its two production sites near Bury in Lancashire. It also has its own fleet of

VICTORIA CARPETS STRENGTHEN THEIR SALES OFFICE TEAM In their mission for 2018 to improve the service Victoria offer to their customers, they have strengthened their internal Sales & Customer Service team by employing three new Sales Office Administrators to the already competent team. New additions are left to right, Diane Meredith, Laura Davies and Lauren Crowe. By investing in new people Victoria Carpets know that they can achieve their goal of providing excellent service this year.

over 60 distribution vehicles to ensure a top class delivery service to customers, as well as its own team of 28 sales representatives throughout Britain and Ireland.

WOOLSAFE ASSOCIATE MEMBER PROGRAMME FOR CARPET PRODUCERS TAKES OFF WoolSafe have been helping wool carpets look their best and last longer around the world for over 25 years by testing cleaning products and, through the Certification Mark, making it clear to carpet owners and cleaners which products are both safe and effective. WoolSafe have now put together a package of benefits and launched a new Associate Member programme aimed at carpet producers and suppliers. Without exception the initiative has been met with a very positive reception, with dozens of mills signing up already and wide agreement to work closer together with WoolSafe to spread a positive message about the easy cleanability of wool carpets and rugs. The benefits of particular interest to the mills were the different ways WoolSafe is able to deliver care advice direct to carpet owners. Not only does WoolSafe have videos and stain wizards that become available to associates, but WoolSafe UK and their representatives around the globe will field calls and emails from the clients of Associate Members advising them how to keep their carpets spotless.

Causing great excitement among the mills is the award-winning WoolSafe Stain Removal Guide App. They love the ease of use and clear instructions and the way the app connects carpet owners with safe products and the professional cleaners who are fully qualified to help them. Associate members are eligible to customize the app with their own branding, adding a personal touch that shows that they care about their customers post-sale. Many have expressed their interest in taking up the opportunity and in the mean-time are instructing sales and customer support staff to download the existing WoolSafe App.

customisable carpet care advice iFrames. This will ensure that Associate Member’s wool carpets and rugs perform best and look better for longer than any other flooring on the market. WoolSafe are calling on all manufacturers and suppliers of quality flooring to please get on board and support them to spread a positive message about the cleanability of wonderful woolly carpets. A full list of current WoolSafe Associate Members can be found at

www.woolsafe.org/industrypartners

The first wave of associate members in 2017 has seen twenty four brands register on four continents: Asia, Africa, Europe and North America. Several more have confirmed their wish to work more closely with WoolSafe. The package of benefits WoolSafe have put together includes technical support, free and discounted carpet testing, emergency advice hotlines and

CORMAR INVESTS IN ITS COMMERCIAL FLEET Award winning manufacturer Cormar Carpets has expanded its nationwide delivery operation with 10 new DAF trucks.

important offering to our independent carpet retailers and local carpet shops, differentiating us from many of our competitors.”

New to the fleet are eight CF75s with a specialist drawbar chassis to cover the ‘trunking’ of trailers with loaded boxes. The other two are LF55s with the ability to run with demountable bodies.

It was over five decades ago that Cormar decided to make door-to-door delivery

to independent retailers, part of its service. Now from its base in Bury, Lancashire, it delivers right across the UK direct from site and through 27 strategically located collection centres to offer an average 48 hour nationwide turnaround service to customers.

One of Cormar’s new vehicles at their Southern Regional Distribution Centre

In addition, driver cabins have been kitted out with the latest technology such as lane departure warnings and assisted braking. “Such an intensive distribution operation needs high levels of vehicle availability, reliability and service back-up,” said Gary Mitchell, Cormar’s distribution manager. “With over 3,000 carpet deliveries each week, we pride ourselves on our nationwide delivery fleet as it is an SMG News | Spring 2018 | 7

NEWS UPDATE BROCKWAY ANNOUNCES SALES TEAM MOVERS AND SHAKERS From left to right: Paul Crittenden and Dan Milstead

looking forward to seeing some familiar faces and renewing acquaintances.” National Sales Manager Steve Glover added: “This is a great time to be part of Brockway’s success with the roll-out of our superb new collections. Paul will be an important asset to our now 12-strong team.” Brockway has been designing and producing high quality carpets in Kidderminster since 1964. The company combines British craftsmanship using the finest raw materials to ensure the sustainable manufacture of awardwinning carpets, which offer great value for money for any budget and taste.

Brockway Carpets continues to strengthen its sales team with the appointment of Paul Crittenden as a new Area Sales Manager, whilst Dan Milstead moves to familiar territory. Paul joins from Axminster Carpets, and becomes Brockway’s Area Sales Manager for Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and North London. Previously, he managed the flooring department of independent department store Barretts of Woodbridge, where he worked for 18 years. He said:

“Brockway’s expansion has been incredible over the last three years. The portfolio is very relevant to today’s consumer, they really listen to what people want and I’m very excited to join.”

Contact Brockway on 01562 828200 or visit www.brockway.co.uk

At the same time, Brockway’s Area Business Manager Dan Milstead moves back to former territory covering Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Northamptonshire. Dan, who has worked for Brockway for 9 years, said: “I’m

NBF EXHIBITED AT NORTHPOINT 2018 The National Bed Federation (NBF) exhibited for the first time at the Northpoint Show in Edinburgh (2830 January 2018) offering visitors the chance to see and find out more about the wide range of services it provides. It promoted its Code of Practice supporter packs which have been developed for retailers to show their support of NBF Approved manufacturers and the Code of Practice scheme. The free POS package includes a large window vinyl with the ‘Proud To Stock Beds Made By NBF Approved Members’ stamp of approval, vinyl logos for internal showroom use, stickers to highlight selected products and pyramid shaped show-cards to explain why consumers should buy beds made by NBF Approved manufacturers. A USB stick, with free marketing material and 8

videos, is also provided. The NBF were also on hand to explain more about the Code of Practice scheme and what it means to retailers and any additional support it can offer including its successful retail sales training courses – Introduction to Beds and the Sleep Sales Academy. Said executive director of the NBF, Jessica Alexander: “We want to spread the word to as many retailers as possible about the work we’ve been doing to raise standards within the UK bed manufacturing industry, and Northpoint was the perfect opportunity for us to do that in Scotland.” The National Bed Federation is the recognised trade association representing UK manufacturers of beds and their suppliers. Founded in 1912, its

members today account for about 75% of the total UK mattress sector turnover.

ALTERNATIVE FLOORING AWARDED BEST OF HOUZZ 2018 Over 40 million monthly users nominated best home improvement and design professionals in the UK and around the world. January 2018 – Alternative Flooring has won “Best Design and Customer Service, award on Houzz®, the leading platform for home renovation and design. This design-led flooring brand was chosen by the more than 40 million monthly unique users that comprise the Houzz community from among more than one million active home building, home improvement and design industry professionals. The Best Of Houzz is awarded annually in three categories: Design, Customer Service and Photography. Design award winners’ work was the most popular among the users on Houzz. Customer Service honours are based on several factors, including the number and quality of client reviews a professional received in 2017. A “Best Of Houzz 2018” badge will appear on winners’ profiles, as a sign of their commitment to excellence. These badges help homeowners identify popular and toprated home professionals on Houzz.

Seagrass Herringbone

Fair Isle in colour Reiko

SMG News | Spring 2018 | 9

NEWS UPDATE CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF YORK WILTON To celebrate 25 successful years of York Wilton, Ulster Carpets are excited to reveal seven new colour-ways, launching spring 2018.

performance nylon, this timeless range is suitable for extra heavy wear making it perfect for homes and commercial projects.

York Wilton is a well loved established treasure to Ulster Carpets and the addition of seven new colourways will see the already extensive colour palette grow to fifty, allowing for great coordination with any interior scheme.

Ulster’s unique Multi Width service, allows York Wilton to come in a variety of set sizes of 5m, 4m, 3m, 2m and 1m widths. This service not only reduces wastage and helps lower their carbon footprint but also proves more cost effective to their customers.

Inspired by trends such as Natural Elements and Artisan Textures, both forecasted for 2018, these fresh additions embrace tones of soft blues and warm greys. The essential make up of York Wilton, exposes the textures by gently twisting an array of plain and heather yarns which add a softer feel to the range by blending similar colours into the twist. By mixing the gentle, warming properties of wool with durable, high

Be sure to watch out for these exciting additions coming soon to Ulster Carpets.

For more information on Ulster’s products please contact their marketing team at marketing@ulstercarpets.com, alternatively call +44 (0) 28 3839 5213 or go to www.ulstercarpets.com

ULSTER’S BEAUTIFUL BOHO COLLECTION With spring just around the corner, what better way to welcome the new season but with fresh colour and design? As you know, the designers at Ulster Carpets are always looking out for new trends, therefore it is of no surprise that they have you covered for Spring/ Summer 2018.

For more information on the Boho Collection please contact their marketing team at marketing@ulstercarpets.com, alternatively call +44 (0) 28 3839 5213 or go to www.ulstercarpets.com

Ulster’s beautiful Boho Collection consists of six designs. These include two delicate leafy patterns, a houndstooth, narrow chevron, herringbone stripe and a stunning plaid. All of which come in a range of inspiring spring colours. The Boho Collection gives once traditional designs, a fresh new feel. Well-known patterns have been reworked to create a contemporary, practical Axminster for the 21st century home. This stunning collection by Ulster is available as part of their unique MultiWidths service, meaning that a variety of set sizes of 4m, 3m, 2m and 1m widths can be ordered. This service not only reduces wastage and helps lower Ulster’s carbon footprint but also proves more cost effective to their customers. 10

Bloomsbury in colour Summer Breeze

Tribe in colour Tea Rose

AT THE SHARP END EACH ISSUE SMG PUTS TEN QUESTIONS TO A SALES REPRESENTATIVE TO HEAR THEIR THOUGHTS FROM ‘THE SHARP END’. Frank Gunn is the Cormar Carpets Representative who covers a large area encompassing the west coast of Scotland and the top of Scotland from Inverness to Peterhead, plus the Highlands and Islands. Frank began working in the flooring industry 30 years ago this summer. Starting with Kosset Carpets after a brief spell selling polystyrene tiles and winning salesman of the year with the DIY store he worked for. Kosset became Carpets International and Frank stayed with them until moving to Cormar Carpets in 2003.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE TRADE? “After working in a DIY store at 18, I was recommended to Kosset by a neighbour of mine just after I got married at 21. They were looking for a good salesman and as I had just won salesman of the year for polystyrene tiles, she thought I’d be right for the job. I joined Kosset in 1988 and haven’t looked back. I joined Cormar in 2003 and I’ll be 30 years in the flooring industry in August.” WHAT HAVE YOU SEEN CHANGE THE MOST IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS? “I have seen a shift towards LVTs and man made fibres in the last five years.” WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PRODUCT AND WHAT SELLS MOST IN YOUR AREA? “I’ve had many favourite products over the years but currently our Sensation Original is mine as it is just one of those products that is universally well received by my customers and also traditional harder polypropylene twists such as Apollo Plus because it is great value for money and affordable for all really.” AS A REPRESENTATIVE WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGES? “I have many challenges but for me personally I have achieved much due

to the amazing support I’ve been given over the years by my customers, so I guess I could say my biggest challenge is competing with myself – which is fine… I would also say customers’ expectations are higher than ever which is also fine but this can also bring many challenges on a day to day basis. Plus the amount of traffic!! Driving is a big part of a salesman’s job but the roads have never been busier.” OF ALL THE RETAILERS YOU VISIT WHAT COMMON DENOMINATOR CONTRIBUTES TO THEM BEING SUCCESSFUL? “Without a doubt it’s the people in their business. Every company I visit that has been successful over the years have great people working for them – it’s the key to success!” WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE KEY MARKET CHALLENGE FOR RETAILERS AT THE MOMENT? “It’s got to be the ‘man in the van’. I constantly hear this from buyers as the man in the van has very little overheads but the retailer has premises with big overheads and so they need to make a higher margin. I would also say the growth in internet shopping as the retailers feel sometimes that they are the showroom for some consumers but end

up not getting the sales after doing all the hard work.” IF YOU COULD ASK RETAILERS TO CHANGE ONE THING WHAT WOULD IT BE? “If they could support the British manufacturers more – in general they do but some retailers would rather buy from abroad to save 50p per sqm.” IF YOU DIDN’T WORK IN THE INDUSTRY WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING NOW? “That’s a really difficult question to answer as I have been in sales nearly all of my working life. I found something at a very young age that I was, let’s say, ‘not bad at’, so I have just stuck with that and it has given me a really great life. But, if pushed, I would say working with cars as when I was at secondary school I was into building go-carts and loved working with engines.” WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN? “When I was 17 I worked in B&Q and one day the store was having a visit from HQ and the director, who was visiting, came up to me and said, “Son, if a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing right...” That has stuck with me all my life and is so so true.”

Cormar Carpets was established in the North of england in 1956 and today ranks as one of the leading British carpet manufacturers in the UK. Throughout the last 50 years it has placed great emphasis on quality, service and reliability, and continues to invest in order to maintain and improve standards - this has led to it being one of the success stories of the British carpet industry. SMG News | Spring 2018 | 11

NEWS UPDATE NEW EASY LIVING LECTERN Manx Tomkinson have launched four new ranges into the Easy Living collection and a new mobile lectern to go with them. The ranges Antigua, Bahamas, Cuba and St Lucia are all soft polypropylene and will complement the other Easy Living products already in the marketplace. The stand unit is on wheels for maximum mobility and costs £50 to purchase. However, any SMG Members who purchase a stand after reading this article in SMG News can purchase the unit at the very special price of £25.

Please contact SMG on 0118 932 3832 to place your order.

RETAILERS: GET SET AND GO FOR NATIONAL BED MONTH The National Bed Federation (NBF) is urging bed retailers and manufacturers to make the most of National Bed Month (March), and giving them the tools to do so. Bed retailers are being encouraged to download, for free, the National Bed Month artwork for use in their sales and marketing campaigns in the lead up to the annual promotional campaign. Available from the NBF website (www. bedfed.org.uk/marketing-support/ art-toolkits/ ) the toolkit includes: a specially designed logo, infographics for social media, posters and animated web banners. Said Simon Williams, NBF marketing manager: “Our National Bed Month

campaign has been running for more than 25 years and each year we actively give retailers and manufacturers the tools to promote the importance of a good comfortable bed, for a great night’s sleep, during March.” Retailers also have access to other supporting materials on the NBF website including videos, leaflets, press releases and Code of Practice supporter packs – free POS that supports why consumers should buy NBF Approved member products. The National Bed Federation is the recognised trade association representing UK manufacturers of beds and their suppliers. Founded in 1912, its members today account for about 75% of the total UK mattress sector turnover.

ADAM CARPETS COLLABORATE WITH THE LITTLE GREENE PAINT COMPANY Adam Carpets are delighted to announce that The Little Greene Paint Company have agreed to coordinate their wonderful paint colours with both their Castlemead Twist and Fine Worcester Twist ranges.

“It is great news that we have started to work with The Little Greene Paint Company.” said Eamonn Prescott, Sales & Marketing Director at Adam Carpets. “They have recommended paint colours to coordinate with each of the 125 carpet colours that make up our

Castlemead and Fine Worcester ranges, meaning a luxurious, soft floor can be a true focal point for interior designers.” There are three colour suggestions for each of the colours. They represent: • A ‘neutral’ • A ‘tonal’ • A ‘you might consider’ Adam Carpets have produced a handy guide that enables customers to see the coordinated carpets and paints side by side. These guides will be available from retailers stocking Adam Carpets ranges. David Mottershead, Managing Director at Little Greene said “The synergy made it an obvious and innovative project to undertake together. As fellow manufacturers, we understand Adam Carpets heritage and share a similar pedigree, so it was very satisfying to see how beautifully our products can be combined to further enhance one another”.

Coordinated in association with

Adam Carpets are a family owned carpet manufacturer which has been making carpets in Kidderminster since 1869. 225096 Little Greene-Adam Carpets (CC2018).indd 1

17/01/2018 16:26

ULSTER’S UNIQUE RUG MAKING SERVICE Ulster make every effort to help their retailers via a wide range of services available. Their contemporary display of back to back lecterns has revealed a rise in interest in Ulster’s unique rug making service. By presenting the ranges efficiently in this way, it has become easier for our retailers to up sell Ulster’s products by helping the consumer visualise their many options. To make it simple for your customers to enjoy an Ulster rug, they have combined this process into three easy steps. Step 1: Measurements; Deciding which is the best sized rug to suit the space. Using Ulster’s clever Multi Widths system you can calculate the right amount of carpet required, ensuring minimum waste and better value. Step 2: Choosing the carpet; Pattered, plain or textured? With a wealth of Ulster design options available, including

cosy plaids, contemporary textures and luxurious plains, your customer is sure to be spoilt for choice. Step 3: Styling; Ulster’s sophisticated border options come in a range of high quality textures which will be carefully seamed and mitred to the chosen carpet. With 43 colour options available, you can use the handy guide, developed by the experts, to match your choice to a coordinating border.

Ulster’s bespoke quality rugs, contact your local sales representative or the marketing team at marketing@ulstercarpets.com, alternatively call +44 (0) 28 3839 5213, or go to www.ulstercarpets.com Braeburn in colour Estuary

On certain designs such as plaids, Ulster’s designers will create a PDF mock up of how the rug will look. Your customer will then have the opportunity to sign off the final design before placing the order. This unique rug service allows consumers to link their interior schemes together by connecting a carpeted room to one where perhaps they have alternative flooring.

For more information on

SMG News | Spring 2018 | 13

NEWS UPDATE BROCKWAY’S ‘BACK TO NATURE’ COLLECTIONS ARE FASHION FOR FLOORS Beautifully hand crafted by British craftsman and created with the country’s leading designers and colourists, Brockway’s latest carpet collections are the ultimate fashion for your floor. More and more people are choosing natural wool carpets to create an organic feel in the home and bringing natural materials indoors is a big interior design trend for this year. Brockway’s latest Galloway collection is the ultimate in super chunky loop pile wool carpet. Quite simply, Galloway is pure wool, pure style and pure luxury. The four-ply, undyed, 100 per cent wool yarn used to make Galloway creates a soft and sumptuous, finest quality loop pile carpet that feels fantastic underfoot. And it adds a cool and laid-back air of low-key luxury to your interior styling. Because wool is naturally durable and easy to keep clean this carpet will stay looking good too. Three gorgeous textural designs in six Galloway Luce in colour Osprey

modern, naturally blended colours give plenty of choice for a wide range of interior moods and styles that would suit a restful rural retreat or a chic city apartment. Brockway’s Portofino is a clever combination of high/low loop with stripes in a great collection of eight colours. Inspired by the vibrant sophistication and elegant luxury of the Italian Riviera, Portofino is a pure wool loop pile carpet with the essence of la dolce vita in its clever colour and textural designs. With a palette created to conjure the pastel coloured houses, brilliant, sun-warmed seas and walks in gentle seasonal sunshine, the timeless stripes in rich and harmonious colours make a fabulous statement throughout the home. And it’s particularly suited to the demands of life in halls, stairs and landings. The three-ply yarn used to create the finely detailed design

structure is hard wearing and easy clean, as well as giving a tight, neat finish to the loop pile. As ‘the home of wool carpets’, Brockway has been designing and producing premium quality, hand finished carpets in Kidderminster since 1964. The company combines British craftsmanship using the finest raw materials to ensure the sustainable manufacture of awardwinning carpets, which offer great value for money for any budget and taste.

Web: brockway.co.uk Tel: 01562 828200

BUSINESS INSIGHT IN A REGULAR FEATURE RICHARD RENOUF HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANT BUSINESS ISSUES TO HELP MEMBERS STAY UP TO DATE!

“

Underfloor heating is increasing in popularity because it’s cheaper, faster and less intrusive than radiators. Electrical systems are usually reserved for ceramic tiles and should be avoided under textile, wood and resilient floor coverings. Wet (‘hydronic’) systems can be used, but here are some guidelines to help you avoid problems. 1. The instructions of the underfloor heating manufacturer and the flooring manufacturer must be complied with. If there is conflict (eg the UFH manufacturer says their system is suitable for a specific type of flooring but the flooring manufacturer says not) take the course that doesn’t contradict either manufacturer’s instructions.

moisture meters. A hygrometer box will give the most accurate readings but of course this takes additional time. 5. The heating should be commissioned before flooring is laid. It should be switched off 48 hours before and after flooring installation and then re-commissioned with a maximum temperature rise of 5° every two days up to normal operating temperature. It should also be switched off for 48 hours before, and whilst, any moisture readings are taken.

4. Underfloor heating pipes can cause false readings when using scanning

8. Pipework is usually laid so there is a gap around the perimeter for fixing gripper, but it can run through doorways. It’s normally safe to nail gripper in place, but not doorbars. And even for gripper, glue may be the safer option. A metal detector is useful to avoid mistakes. 9. When sticking floorcoverings of any kind, high-temperature adhesive should be used. 10. Underfloor heating isn’t the only source of heat. Direct sunlight, even through glass, can raise the surface temperature of flooring above 60°C on a hot day.

2. The screed above the underfloor heating pipes should be at least 25mm thick to disperse the heat effectively. 3. Screed takes just as long to dry as concrete: allow at least one day per mm up to 40mm and more for thicker screeds and include screed and concrete below the heating system in this calculation. Commissioning the heating may speed up the drying but always take moisture readings before you begin to lay wood-based, resilient, or stuck-down floor coverings.

Tog values can be obtained from flooring and underlay manufacturers, but remember to include all layers in the build-up, including overlayments and underlays.

6. The surface temperature of the subfloor should not be allowed to exceed 27°C at any time. A sensor in the floor linked to the thermostat is preferable to a room-stat. 7. Every underfloor heating manufacturer will specify a maximum tog value to be laid over their system.

If you encounter problems with an installation that includes underfloor heating, don’t assume it’s the heating that’s at fault. It’s more likely to be moisture, poor adhesive application, or unsuitable flooring products. Underfloor heating manufacturers provide very good information on their websites. They also provide excellent – and free - help and support before and after flooring is installed.

”

Richard has worked in floorcoverings and furniture retail for more than thirty years. His experience includes independent family businesses and a major national retail chain. In 1992 Richard established the Qualitas Conciliation Service (now the Furniture Ombudsman) to help resolve disputes about furniture and floorcoverings and is now working as an independent consultant and is a consultant member of the Contract Flooring Association.

SMG News | Spring 2018 | 15

Introducing Lawton Yarns

Lawton Yarns, an internationally renowned spinner, has been producing best-in-class woollen yarns for the carpet industry since 1902 and has recently started working with SMG to champion the natural benefits of wool carpet. Based in Dewsbury, Yorkshire, the company is the biggest supplier of woollen yarn for carpet manufacturing in the world, helping manufacturers create the highest quality carpet. To celebrate the benefits of wool and demonstrate the creative possibilities of wool as a carpet fibre, Lawton Yarns recently opened a dedicated showroom at its 130-year old premises at Ravens Ing Mills. Manufacturers, retailers and students alike are all welcome to the showroom to learn more about the natural benefits of wool. The space features a magnificent ‘wall of colour’ with an array of coloured woollen yarn poms and a range of inspiring displays showcasing how wool can be used in interior design – both in a commercial and domestic setting – to create a fashionable, sustainable and unique finish. The showroom designed and curated by Joanna Ramsden, is the culmination of the company’s £7.7 million investment in the spinning facility over the past three years. The showroom was officially opened in August 2017 by Charles Lawton, the great-grandson of Fred Lawton, who was the original founder of Huddersfield’s Fred Lawton & Son LTD, which merged with Ravensthorpe’s W S Graham to form Lawton Yarns in 2012 and then again in 2015 with the Spin Group. Leading names from across the industry, including British Wool Marketing Board CEO Joe Farren, were in attendance for the grand opening. Lawton Yarns’ sales director, Peter-Guy L’Amie, says: “If you look at our history it is full of pioneering people who have constantly stayed ahead of the game 16

with new technologies and ways of doing things. This market is tough and it has always been that way, as a result we have sadly seen many great yarn manufacturers in the UK and Europe close. The main ingredient for our longevity and success is investment, investment, investment, which has enabled us to consistently innovate and re-invent ourselves to create a worldclass spinning facility.”

WOOL - THE NATURAL WONDER MATERIAL: Wool is renowned for sustainability, fire retardancy, combating noise pollution, absorption of volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) and its ability to keep its original appearance, which is particularly useful in carpets because it avoids tuft retention issues or flattening which is seen in other raw materials used in carpets. L’Amie adds: “There is a need to reinform the market on the benefits of wool so that the industry can grow. We have the best fibre right on our door step which provides all kinds of benefits, but we need to ensure this is properly communicated to the market place so they can make an informed decision on flooring materials.” “The investment in a new showroom demonstrates how strongly we believe in a bright future for woollen yarns and how passionate we are about what we do. We are an extremely proud company and everybody who works here believes in what we are making. You can see this by the long length of service at Lawton Yarns.”

INVESTMENT AND INNOVATION: Innovation and creativity are key elements to the success of Lawton Yarns, which remains the biggest woollen carpet spinner in the world according to

L’Amie. The company has the capacity to produce 400 tons of carpet yarn per week, which accounts for approximately 450,000 sqm of carpet every seven days. However, with facilities covering 500,000 sqft, Lawton Yarns’ future investment is focused on innovation rather than expansion. L’Amie comments: “During the last 10 years we have heavily invested to be a one stop shop for the woollen carpet industry. We produce the best yarns for tufting, Axminster, Wilton, printing, hand tuft, contract and residential markets. To to do this we have invested in the best machinery and people to service those markets. For example, our dye house is now completely kitted out to service the demanding contract market, and we have bought the latest heat-setting machinery to provide the best cut piles for the residential market. We are also producing chemset yarns suitable for printing and superb felting yarns using Periloc machinery for the high-end rug market. “These markets are supported by a great product development team helping our customers to create new and existing products, so we are not just a supplier but a partner to our customer base.” L’Amie continued: “We sell our yarns to the four corners of the world with the main markets being the UK, Europe, Scandinavia, Switzerland, Australasia and USA. Wool is part of people’s DNA in the UK and is therefore our biggest market. All the different markets require diverse needs, but we have experts based in multiple locations around the world to ensure we meet the customer’s needs.” ”Lawton Yarns’ Superba TVP3 machines are evidence of its innovation and with the latest tech the company are well prepared to react to the up-to-the-

Continued on the next page >>

minute trends in the industry. Recently, blends of wool and man-made fibres has reacted quickly in order to generate more revenue from the trend. An example of recent innovations has been in response to a demand for softness. Lawton Yarns have created beautiful wool-based yarns blended with bamboo, Tencel, Grilon and alpaca. All of these various blends bring about their own unique advantages. They have a fantastic product development team with years of experience and knowledge, which gives them a major advantage. The wool industry is notorious for using traditional manufacturing processes. L’Amie insists Lawton Yarns never turns away from the chance to benefit from innovative technology, but man power and expertise remains its number one priority. The company’s workforce is made up of resident’s local to Lawton Yarns’ Raven Ing Mills factory. Generations of families have worked for the company and the hardship of the industry makes them proud and passionate to work harder and

for longer, according to L’Amie. But a skills shortage is a concern to the firm, who trains workers internally through apprenticeships to continually raise standards in the industry. Attracting young employees to replace an ageing workforce is problematic, but the new fashionable showroom is hoped to encourage new talent to enter the industry. However, robotics – a technological innovation which has arisen from the development Industry 4.0 – could provide support in the future.

SUSTAINABLE OPERATIONS: Those customers, particularly from the contract market, are increasingly concerned about the environment and the sustainability credentials of the materials they use. Sustainability is therefore a key priority for Lawton Yarns to appeal to current and future customers. “We are investing in environmental areas such as re-generating the water we use in our dye-house, which will dramatically reduce our water consumption,” adds L’Amie. “However, investing in people is

a very important part of the plan and we have several initiatives that we are currently putting in place to improve health and safety, improve our impact on the environment and improve the quality of our yarns. Our people are the most important asset and I’m proud to say that we have some of the best in the industry. We have a very high length of service within the management team and workforce which is a testament to Lawton Yarns.” “Looking at the bigger picture we will continue to invest and get closer to that end goal of creating a perfect circular economy – one that contributes to people’s lives and gives back. We will continue to invest and promote the benefits of wool, which comes back to the reason why we have opened the showroom – a launch pad for the next era of Lawton Yarns Ltd.”

To find out more about the natural benefits of wool and the heritage behind Lawton Yarns please visit www.lawton-yarns.com

Above: Lawton Yarn’s showroom at their manufacturing facility in Dewsbury SMG News | Spring 2018 | 17

Perfect match Interfloor is proud to be associated with the success of the National Furnishing Group, SMG as one of the leading member organisations in the UK. As Europe’s largest manufacturer of carpet underlay and flooring accessories, Interfloor continues to enjoy business success with the group, through offering a diverse range of underlays including polyurethane foam, sponge rubber and crumb rubber, as well as installation accessories such as carpet gripper, floor edgings, flooring adhesives, tapes and tools. Interfloor’s John Moodie says: “Our goal is to be the supplier of first choice for SMG members by providing better products, better brands and better service to enable them to be even more successful.” Luxurious interiors never go out of style, and now more than ever before customers are looking for a combination of comfort, luxury and cosiness for their homes. The right underlay can give their carpet choice an even more sumptuous feel.

Chromium

One hugely popular underlay is Tredaire Colours Red, Interfloor’s thickest, densest sponge rubber underlay which gives unrivalled heat and sound insulation. Its excellent shock absorber properties also help carpets look new for longer. When combined with Gripperrods Professional Gripper, it’s perfect for a top quality finish. For a flawless flooring finish, Gripperrods Professional Gripper is the UK’s finest, with a specification that exceeds all others in the marketplace. Its improved specifications include wider strips (27.11mm and 24.03mm), and more floorholding pre-nails and precision pins per length. For high quality installations with a thick underlay such as Tredaire Colours Red, Gripperrods Professional is the perfect match.

Palladium

An alternative option is Interfloor’s highest density PU range, Tredaire PHD which offers superior protection for carpets that is longer lasting and better performing. They are also made from 100 per cent recycled foam. The PHD Chromium 9mm, the standout PU underlay in the range, has high performance Textron backing to give it more dimensional stability and cleaner cutting during installation as well as exceptional ‘shock absorber’ properties to help give it a longer life. PHD Titanium 8mm and PHD Palladium 10mm have a polyethylene with reinforcing scrim backing, as featured on Tredaire Titanium, Flamecheck and FR7. This backing also helps increase dimensional stability, is resistant to tearing and is easy to cut and trim.

Titanium 18

Introducing a unique new contract woven carpet concept…

from

First to roll out! The first order to roll off the production line was a bespoke eight row axminster created from the AXfast palette for a Masonic Hall in Andover, Hampshire (pictured below).

“AXfast colour30 is exactly what the contract market has been crying out for. At Cavalier we are now able to offer total design flexibility using a unique colour palette. With thirty colours available to choose from, the designer can create design solutions with less need for compromise. This along with competitive price points and superior yarn count will give us an advantage in all areas of the hospitality sector” Steve Joyce Contract Sales Director

Imagination can run wild! Cavalier Carpets recognise that sometimes their customers need a rapid turnaround on orders for woven Axminster carpet. To meet this requirement they have developed their ‘AXfast colour 30 system’. This carefully selected yarn palette of thirty colours provides a swift solution to projects where extensive and time consuming custom yarn dying is not an option. Now Cavalier Carpets can work flexibly with clients, taking any design and utilising up to twelve colours from the palette, which are certain to work with anything from traditional to the most contemporary of schemes. Once design prints and samples are approved a bespoke, quality, Axminster carpet can be on its way to site within a matter of weeks. Cavalier Carpets offer a range of specifications from 6 to 10 row qualities, in a choice of widths and price points to suit any project. The focal point of the AXfast system is the colour pom selection box. This gives designers the perfect tool for choosing tone and hue combinations to work with other elements of the scheme they are working on, including fabrics and other surface finishes.

A designer’s eye view ‘We really wanted to design a unique carpet rather than looking for a stock product. With only a relatively small quantity required our options were very limited as very few manufacturers will produce a bespoke carpet under 300m2, whereas with AXfast we can order from 100m2. When Cavalier presented their AXfast colour 30 to us it was exactly what we were looking for. We developed a unique design with Cavalier. The palette of 30 colours offered us a great choice of multiple tones allowing us to create something that fitted our brief perfectly.’ Simon Tyas Hospitality Designer at JDMA

SMG News | Spring 2018 | 19

WOOL CARPET FOCUS GROUP MARTIN CURTIS IS CHAIRMAN OF THE WOOL CARPET FOCUS GROUP AND HAS WRITTEN THIS ARTICLE IN SUPPORT OF WOOL:

“

Some people are surprised that I am still involved in the wool industry - some, indeed, might be disappointed that I am! On the other hand, a lot of people understand my reasons and perhaps appreciate them. My father married my mother immediately after the Second World War. She came from Yorkshire and in those days the wool industry was a thriving part of the economy. Bradford, once the capital of the wool world, still had a rich wool heritage and there were many wool merchants, scouring and combing companies and a whole army of linked trades that supported it. Bradford was blessed with naturally soft water, essential for washing wool and had local manufacturers of textile machinery and customers like spinners, weavers and tailors. Unfortunately, in the 1950s and 60s the wool industry met with increasing competition from synthetic fibres and all sorts of petrochemical products were developed and flooded the market. In actual fact, there was absolutely nothing wrong with wool; it was just a massive advertising campaign by the synthetic fibre conglomerates that overwhelmed it. We were told that synthetics were the future, oil was plentiful and cheap and in actual fact people exaggerated hugely about the benefits that some synthetic fibres were supposed to have. I remember being told by a senior manager of one company that they used to heat wool carpet in an oven to dry it to the bone so that it would burn for the demonstration they were giving! I hate false advertising! I am not keen on those snake-oil salesmen who come out with false claims like a carpet is bleach cleanable! Bleach is not a cleaning agent, it is a strong and effective disinfectant. Its active ingredient, sodium hypochlorite, denatures protein in micro-organisms and is therefore effective in killing bacteria, fungus and viruses. So use it in your lavatories, kitchens and drains but don’t put it on

your carpets because if you do and you don’t neutralise it it will stay there and can be harmful to children and pets. So the next time a salesperson says this carpet is bleach cleanable you should smile and ask them if they pour bleach on their carpets? In actual fact most carpet people I speak to all prefer wool carpets and they clean very well and very easily! Drying out wool carpets in an oven to make them burn is quite a hideous thing to do. Can you imagine? The fact is that wool needs more oxygen than exists in our atmosphere in order to burn. Everything can be made to burn but that is not the point. Wool will self extinguish itself if a candle, or a match or a cigarette or a burning ember from the fire lands on it. Perhaps there is an electrical fault? It will char, singe and it will form a barrier which stops the flame from spreading and from going through the carpet into the underlay. It can slow the spread of a fire in your home, hotel, block of flats or wherever it is fitted. I think we all recognise the singeing smell of wool, it isn’t the same as the black acrid toxic fumes that come from oil based synthetics! Synthetics melt and if you are wearing something plastic and it catches fire heaven help you! Wool won’t melt and stick to your skin... So, put to one side the throw away comments made by the synthetic fibre people, take a closer look and see what other benefits we seem to have forgotten about that wool has in bundles! We have called these special attributes Woolabilities! We wanted to be able to describe them in memorable terms and hopefully in a single word with a simple but honest meaning - I confess we did invent one or two of them ourselves! The first was that wool has Bouncebackability! Wool has natural crimp, curls along its length just like a spring. When wool is pressed down it has the ability to bounce back to its original shape. This leads to the carpet looking better for longer. We invented the word Unflammability! Flammable and inflammable mean the same thing which we felt was a little confusing so we made it perfectly clear ~ wool has natural resistance to fire which makes me feel safer for one.

Talking about being safe, I think we are beginning to learn more and more about the air we breathe and the environment in which we live. One of wools least know properties is that it is able to filter Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s) from the air we breathe and lock them safely and permanently into its core. We call this Breathability and it also describes how wool actually absorbs and releases moisture which makes it more comfortable to wear, sleep on or under and live with. Following from the environmental benefits above we have to mention the much underrated sheep itself. I coined the phrase that sheep are “the original free range animal”. They are able to graze the hills and dales and keep the countryside neat and tidy. They fertilise the land, naturally. They grow a fleece during the spring and summer that protects them from the autumn and winter weather. They produce lambs, another fleece and the cycle continues. They provide us with protein and in some countries they are milked. We really should appreciate these wonderful animals more as we should their wool! We have called this natural cycle Sustainability. One leading industry expert has told me that wool carpets actually clean better and look better after cleaning than synthetics and without the use of harmful chemicals. I have personally seen him demonstrate the removal of a whole spilled glass of red wine from a light beige carpet and it never left a trace. Without more of a do we call this Cleanability. If we were to bundle all the benefits of owning and living with a wool carpet or rug we would use the word Wearability. It says it all. Wool wears better, it is better for you, it looks better, feels better and by golly it is better! I have rambled on a bit but I hope some honest truths will get home the message that wool is the best fibre for your carpets and rugs and many many other products too for that matter. I am delighted to say that Dr Mike Madden of ENco would be happy to discuss all the above with you and verify that there is true science behind the woolly stories. Perhaps this is what keeps me interested and enthused about this wonderful wool industry and why I am still hanging around...

”

INSURANCE INSIGHT IN THIS ISSUE MATT GOWING GIVES AN OVERVIEW OF THE SMG INSURANCE SOLUTIONS POLICY

“

In this article I want to look again at the SMG Insurance Solutions policy and why it is a great benefit to you as members of SMG. Not only do we guarantee to beat your current insurance premium by a minimum of 10% if you haven’t made any claims within the last 5 years, we also offer a number of additional Insurance covers which are not included within a standard commercial insurance policy. With our specialist SMG insurance you only need to buy one policy. I have spoken to a number of members over the last 12 months who purchase both a shop policy to cover stock, contents, plant & machinery, Public & Employers Liability, and then a separate policy to cover work away from the premises for carpet & flooring fitting and the use of subcontractors. The SMG Insurance Solutions policy is all inclusive, providing options for stock, contents, computer equipment, buildings, tenant’s improvements, stock in transit, money, employers & public/products liability and commercial legal expenses as standard, plus the policy can include cover for work away from your premises, such as carpet and flooring fitting, as well as your use of subcontractors. The policy includes, as standard, a number of enhanced covers exclusive to members of SMG and I’d like to outline and discuss these extensions in further detail.

Loss of Customers’ Keys

During the course of your business you may at times need to use a customer’s keys to enter their premises, perhaps to measure up or to fit carpet or flooring whilst they are not there. If you or your employees were to lose the keys whilst they are in your custody or control the policy will provide cover up to £75,000 for the cost of replacements and/ or the alteration of keys or affected locks, including any consequential loss suffered by the customer through being unable to gain access to their premises. Failure to secure customers’ premises

In the unfortunate event of you or your employees failing to secure your customers’ premises, which results in damage to or theft of their property, this extension will provide cover up to £75,000. Cleaning Cover to Items Being Worked Upon

Cover is provided under the policy to protect you in the event of the incorrect application of cleaning products to a customer’s flooring, soft furnishings, carpets, curtains or upholstery up to the limit insured under the Public Liability section of the policy (£5million any one occurrence as standard). Professional Indemnity

Provides cover for professional advice provided by you, or on your behalf, in connection with your business. The limit of cover provided under the policy is up to a maximum of £250,000 in any one

policy period. The cover is provided on a ‘claims made’ basis, so will only apply if the claim is incurred on or after the start date of cover and is reported during the current period of insurance. Financial Loss

This is an extension to the Products Liability section of the policy. It provides for situations where there has been no physical damage or injury caused by products supplied by you (the usual trigger for products liability claims), but instead they have caused a financial loss to the third party. Again this is on a ‘claims made’ basis, as described above, and the limit of cover provided is up to a maximum of £250,000 in any one policy period. This does not cover product recall, however we can arrange separate cover if this is required. All of the cover extensions mentioned here are automatically included at no extra cost so, in short, the SMG Insurance Solutions policy gives you insurance cover that is designed specifically for your business whilst saving you money. In addition to this we can also provide competitive quotations on a range of Insurances including Motor Fleet, Commercial Vehicle, Property Owners, Directors & Officers, Cyber Liability and many more, please do get in contact on the number below and I will be happy to assist.

”

SMG News | Spring 2018 | 21

Things started on April 4th, 1928 when Karst de Lange founded “Bedrijf E. de Lange & Zn. handel in matten en biezen” in a building on the Kruisstraat in Genemuiden. On this location, rush mats were produced by hand. It turned out to be a successful product, which quickly made expansion necessary. By using machines, at a later stage, it was possible to produce coconut mats as well as roughly shaven car and doormats for domestic markets and export. With the growing competition from low-income countries and the decreasing demand for these types of products, in 1959 a transition was made from sisal and coconut to broadloom woven carpets of woollen and synthetic yarn. In 1968, Edel invested in the first tufting machine in Genemuiden and in 1974, the first backing line was a fact.

de Lange harvesting rush used to make rush mats

In 1985, the next generation moved into leadership positions and they further grew the company through the acquisition of Telenzo in 2002, Yarnco in 2009 and further expansion through extrusion among others. 2015 was the end of the “de Lange” era due to selling the activities to a private equity firm. The “Edel” carpets collection now consists of distinctive synthetic and woollen carpets for middle and high-end market segments. The development, production and sales all take place in house. Edel Carpets is known for its innovative constructions and progressive designs, in which quality and service are highly valuated. The outstanding quality and excellent price-for-value ensures satisfied customers across the globe for decades. 22

Gron-verkkanto

SMG News | Spring 2018 | 23

FORMER GLORY At Englefield, they take their role as custodians of the built and natural environment very seriously. Englefield House is a Grade II listed building and there is an annual maintenance and restoration programme in place to ensure that the historic fabric of the house is conserved. This year the custodians of the house embarked on a project to restore parts of the Drawing Room. While Engleield House is a family home, the state rooms are also used for private events and as filming locations. Therefore, they receive a considerable number of visitors and guests and as a result of this, parts of the room and its furniture had over time sustained some damage, while others were showing signs of gradual deterioration. After 100 years of wear and tear, the Drawing Room’s beautiful and intricately patterned 45ft carpet needed to be replaced. The carpet was originally produced by Axminster Carpets on a chenille loom that made it possible to weave a complete seamless carpet and to use a wide range of colours in the pattern. To maintain the integrity of the room, an exact replica was required and once again they commissioned Axminster to undertake the work. The history of Axminster Carpets goes back to 1755 when Thomas Whitty

started making carpets in the Devon town of the same name. Antique Axminster carpets grace the floors of Chatsworth House and Brighton Pavilion and were bought by George III and Queen Charlotte who visited the factory in the 18th Century. The process of replacing the carpet started with a site visit from Axminster experts to examine the carpet, investigate how it was originally manufactured and decide how the intricacies of the design could be replicated. Gary Bridge, Innovation and Design Director, explains: “Working in collaboration with each client, we always carefully consider the complexities of each project and create a working group to examine all the options in detail. The entire production and design process is re-engineered to ensure the detail and finished carpet is accurate. Once the product and weave are confirmed the design process can begin.” Creating the design of the new Drawing Room carpet involved one of the Axminster team copying the original design by hand. The sketch goes far beyond the carpet design and includes all architectural room features. For this project it meant that the fireplace and window recesses were replicated on the illustration and designs altered accordingly to incorporate those features.

Adding further authenticity, the illustration was then translated to the computer by hand. This part of the process is time-consuming but is essential to retain the detail, the essence and the beauty of the original carpet. From this, samples were produced and the Axminster team returned to Englefield House to compare them against the original carpet. At this stage edits are often made to ensure the colour is accurate, sometimes this means a new bespoke colour having to be created, drawing inspiration from the sketches to capture the age of the original carpet. For the Drawing Room carpet the colours needed to be tamed as the carpet couldn’t look too ‘new’ as it needed to blend in authentically with its surroundings. Once the colour sample was agreed, the carpet was produced on the loom at the Axminster factory under the watchful eye of the Axminster team. The entire process from initial meeting to installation took almost 12 months and the team at Englefield House were truly delighted with the result. “Attention to details is very important and Axminster Carpets is a manufacturer who will change the weaving to ensure the product replicates the original carpet as precisely as possible.”

SMG News | Spring 2018 | 25

FORD MOBILE SERVICE

W E â&#x20AC;&#x2122; L L CO M E TO YOU Whether you run a small or large fleet, you can now benefit from our Ford Mobile Service, including vehicle servicing, general maintenance and warranty repairs, all at a location that suits you. Ford Mobile Service is available now from participating dealer locations nationwide. To find out more visit ford.co.uk/mobile-service

Ford Motor Company Limited Eagle Way, Brentwood, Essex CM13 3BW 01277 251654, www.sampleford.com

Changing the Game – Wools of New Zealand Wools of New Zealand’s mission is to change the game. The farmer owned company supplies carpet and textile mills in the UK and Europe with clean white wool from its farms in New Zealand. Under a new brand licencing scheme, only products that carry authentic Wools of New Zealand fibre may carry the famous Wools of New Zealand or Laneve logo.

being Glacial XT, a new wool scouring process that significantly increases the whiteness and lustre of wool, even further, without compromising the environment or fibre quality. Glacial XT delivers a new colour space for wool. Expect to see some exciting new products in 2018. Continuing on the ‘Change the Game’ theme WNZ have announced a partnership with DuPont to create a new generation of products for textiles that will offer enduring performance characteristics with a sustainable, renewable and eco-friendly profile.

Wools of New Zealand specialises in growing white wool whereby the wool growers know the final destination of their fibre often before the lambs are born. An example is Ulster Carpet’s Open Spaces, Auckland and Queenstown, two elegant loop pile carpets, designed in the UK in colours that are only possible using pure white fibre.

DuPont works with customers across a wide range of industries to make products and industrial processes more efficient and sustainable. In recent years DuPont have re-invented themselves to focus on renewables and have values and a purpose that align extremely well with Wools of New Zealand’s strategy.

Wools of New Zealand continues to innovate and has revealed a number of game changing developments the 1st

Bringing together their world-leading Laneve traceability and technologies like Glacial XT with DuPont’s global leadership in bio-sustainable, high-

Palliser Ridge – The first Wools of New Zealand farm to be accredited with the Responsible Wool Standard

performance materials inspired this collaboration of expertise and products, scheduled for release in 2018. “Wools of New Zealand is truly a leader in responsible wool supply. This level of care, along with their devotion to innovation and quality control is exactly what we at DuPont seek in partners,” said DuPont™ Sorona® Global Segment Leader John Sagrati. “They occupy a premium position in their market and have a proven track-record of performance and sustainability with the unique capability to deliver consistent, tailored fibres.” Wools of New Zealand’s farms operate under strict rules governing animal welfare and land management. They have partnered with some major global retail brands to help create a new benchmark, the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS). This standard is operated by the Textile Exchange who created the Responsible Down Standard. Wools of New Zealand already have farms delivering wool into products under this new global scheme that will be in UK retailers in 2018.

SMG SMG News | Spring 2018 | 27

Do you have a sixth sense all around your home? That must be iSense.

Create your own Suspense in a nice warm bedroom We certainly have a sixth sense at Associated Weavers. We were one of the first manufacturers to predict the recent rise in demand for softer carpets, which is why we created the iSense collection. We never compromise when it comes to technological innovation either â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and Suspense is the proof. A super-soft saxony thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been around long enough to prove its worth.

First impressions count with Serenity in the front room So you want to make a good impression on visitors in the most frequently used room in the home? Serenity is everything the name suggests to give visitors that endearing feeling of tranquility that comes with a super-soft carpet. A heavyweight 100% polyamide, it has a range of 14 warm shades, all with a 2.10 tog rating for cosy winter days in.

Look for the Butterﬂy

Associated Weavers Sales: 01422 431100 Email: salesuk@awe.be

Comfortable loft living should come as no Surprise Why should the humble loft be denied a luxury carpet? More and more people are opening up their roof areas as living spaces these days, so why not opt for the unique sparkly Surprise collection to help make a potentially dingy room come alive? It’s a lighter and more economical saxony with a weight of 1520gm, but its Fusion Bac keeps all the warmth in.

Enjoy the feel-good factor of an Obsession in your bedroom At Associated Weavers we’re obsessed with perfection in every room of the home. Our iSense yarn not only incorporates supersoftness and superior durability, but it’s also designed to spring back to its original pristine appearance when it’s been squashed under the bed legs for months on end. And Obsession is one of the results of this unique achievement in carpet technology.

The wisdom of Discretion to enhance the dining room As the most cherished room for social occasions, doesn’t the dining room deserve something more special? Discretion is another style manufactured with our unique 100% polyamide ‘bounce back’ fibre, designed to always look fresh and new. The iSense range will appeal right around the house for its superb softness and adaptability to any conditions. It’s common sense to choose iSense, so contact your area manager today on 01422 431100, and he’ll talk sense.

SMG News | Autumn 2017 | 29

QUESTION TIME PHIL HARTLEY MANAGING DIRECTOR AT VICTORIA CARPETS

In this issue of SMG News we thought it would be a good opportunity to catch up with Phil Hartley, Managing Director of Victoria Carpets. This company has undergone some big changes over the past year with moving their manufacturing and introducing a new computer control system and Phil has been overseeing all of this and now feels Victoria has got their supply chain and logisitics just right. Phil has been with Victoria since May 2016 after previously working for Gaskell, Whitestone Weavers, Telenzo Carpets, and Courtauld Group – a bedding and mattress fabric manufacturer. After 38 years of working in textiles of one form or another, he brings a wealth of experience to his role at Victoria Carpets and we looked forward to putting the usual questions to Phil in this ‘Question Time’ feature. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE VALUES THAT HAVE MADE VICTORIA SUCCESSFUL? “Focus on the market, no complacency, valuing our customers and doing all we can to support their success. A willingness to embrace the need for change, recognising it as a positive driver in an ever dynamic market.” WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU ARE CURRENTLY FACING AS A MANUFACTURER? “To re-establish Victoria Carpets Limited

as the leading UK manufacturer of quality floor coverings to the retail market place.”

ASIDE FROM VICTORIA WHICH OTHER MANUFACTURER DO YOU MOST ADMIRE AND WHY?

INDEPENDENT RETAILERS ARE ALSO FACING MAJOR CHALLENGES, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER THEM?

“There are several strong competitors out there that I respect, but I’m not telling you who they are unless they pay me!”

“Since 2008 as an industry, manufacturers and retailers alike have all proved to be far more robust against on-going concerns than I think we give ourselves credit for. We should recognise this in a balanced way and take heart from it. My respectful advice is to continue to support those that support you.” IF YOU COULD ASK RETAILERS TO CHANGE ONE THING WHAT WOULD IT BE? “Remove all competitors’ POS!!” HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE THE INDUSTRY CHANGE IN THE FUTURE? “Recognise that whilst price is a key aspect in a purchase, that it is not the only ‘value factor’ when purchasing a carpet. I also want to continue with my colleagues in the trade, to promote the increasing use of a range of quality fibres be they Wool or synthetic. There’s room for both!” WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE VICTORIA PRODUCT?

WHAT ARE YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHTS? “Joining the Victoria Group in 2016.” OUTSIDE OF WORK, WHAT ARE YOUR PASSIONS? “Family, friends, walking and a wide range of sports.” IN YOUR WHOLE LIFE, WHAT MAKES YOU MOST PROUD/WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST ACHIEVEMENT? “Predictable answer, but so true, my two wonderful children, Dominic and Isobel.” DO YOU HAVE ANY REGRETS? “I turned down 2 exec tickets to see the Eagles in Italy in 2015. Turned out to be one of Glenn Frey’s last concerts before he died. Gutted about that one!” WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE EVER BEEN GIVEN? “Remember... family, friends and fresh air are all free... enjoy and cherish them!”

“First Impressions (Diamonds from the Diamonds & Pearls collection!)”

SMG News | Spring 2018 | 31

flare noun noun: flare 1. a sudden burst of flame or light • a sudden burst of intense emotion • extraneous illumination • a blaze of light used to illuminate or identify

verb

verb: flare 1. shine with sudden intensity • to shine or glow

www.adamcarpets.co.uk

SMG News | Spring 2018 | 32

ETERNAL UNDERLAY COLLECTION

Product Name

ETERNAL

Comfort

Technical specifications ETERNAL

Warmth

ETERNAL

Resilience

Product Image

Packaging

Primary features

Type

Sponge Rubber

Crumb Rubber & Felt

Crumb Rubber

Thermal resistance

0.80 Tog

1.70 Tog

1.55 Tog

Impact sound reduction

42 dB

30 dB

31 dB

Thickness (mm)

8.30

11.00

9.20

Roll area (m²)

10.96

Nominal Square Weight (g/m²)

4238

2500

4000

Density (kg/m3)

510

227

435

Loss in thickness after dynamic loading (BS4502)

2.5%

6.8%

2.1%

Loss in thickness after static loading (BS3939)

3.0 %

11.1 %

2.8 %

BS Classification

Luxury Use

Heavy Contract Use

Flammability

Hot metal nut test (tested in Interfloor laboratory) Low radius of effects of ignition BS 4790 & BS 5287

Hot metal nut test Low radius of effects of ignition BS 4790 & BS 5287

Reaction to fire classification Cfl-s1 Tested to ENISO9239-1 &11925-2, rated to EN13501-1

Russian GOST FR Test Classification KM5

Underfloor heating Sound insulation Comfort Carpet longevity

Comfort Carpet longevity Heat insulation Seamed carpets Made from 73% recycled material

Guaranteed

10 year wear guarantee

When you choose a Westex underlay to complement your new Westex carpet we will guarantee the whole installation for 10 years. Simply register online at www.westexcarpets.co.uk. With your retailer’s name and address to hand. The end use must be for residential installations only. All terms and conditions are available on our website.

Protection from wear Comfort Sound insulation Made from 65% recycled rubber

Look what’s new for

2018

Better service. Better logistics. And even better point-of-sale. 2018 will see more and more investment

Innovation.... That’s our ethos for

in new production equipment to increase

2018, as we look back on a year of

output and ensure that more rolls are

continuing successes with our market

available from stock. All this will speed

leading luxury tufted broadloom carpet ranges.

its way to you via improved transport facilities and, when it arrives at your store, superb lecterns, wall stands and tombolas will guarantee continued interest

At Associated Weavers, softness was all the

in all that Associated Weavers has to

rage last year. We predicted the increasing

offer to our selected retailers in 2018 and

demand for super-soft carpets and invested in

beyond.

new technology to ensure beautiful products for not only the bedroom, but also every room in the home. iSense led the way, enabled by our unique 100% polyamide ‘bounce back’ fibre.

Spring then saw the launch of Vivendi, featuring

revolutionary tenth-gauge solution-dyed fibre.

a completely new yarn developed by our

A perfect combination of superb comfort and

designers. iVivo is the new tenth-gauge solution-

practicality. StainAway’s bleach-cleanable 100%

dyed nylon fibre that satisfies the need for

polypropylene construction continued to prove

versatility coupled with superior stain resistance,

popular. Boasting 10-, 15- or 20-year stain and

offering stressfree performance all around the

wear warranties, we dramatically recoloured

house.

much of the range to ensure its continuing appeal.

Undoubtedly though, award-winning Invictus

And to top it all, Interiors Monthly magazine

was our hero brand in 2017, enhanced by two

duly awarded us with the year’s Best Customer

major additions to the range – Centaurus and

Service Award. Roll out the red carpet for

Magnificus. For the first time in the Invictus

Associated Weavers this year. StainAway,

range, we introduced our unique iVinci SDO

iSense, Invictus and Vivendi could all be

StainAway construction, comprising our

contenders for more plaudits coming their way.

Brands you can trust

Stain Away Collection

Ring in the New See what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got lined up for you this year. Come along to the NEC Furniture Show and find out on Stand 2G FS5 in the Flooring Showcase section. Seeing is believing!

Associated Weavers Sales: 01422 431100 Email: salesuk@awe.be

Look for the ButterďŹ&#x201A;y

We specialise in exqu

Please contact us to find ou

for more details please contact: Andr t: 01744 851515 m: 07802 262108

quisite fabric design and curtain manufacture.

ut how easy it is to add a curtain department to your store.

drew Carstairs Sales Director e: andrew.carstairs@enashaw.co.uk

SMG News | Spring 2018 | 37

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15 NEW MOORLAND COLOURS

Moorland Twist Trends Barle - 1406/75000

Axminster Carpets are excited to be announcing the addition of 15 new colours to its popular tufted, Moorland collection, available from March 1st 2018.

Moorland Twist Trends

Baskerville - 1408/75000

Bilberry - 1405/75000

Bowland - 1410/75000

Mountain Hare - 1407/75000

Moorland Twist Trends

Quail - 1409/75000

Storm - 1404/75000

Wagtail - 1412/75000

Purbeck - 1401/75000

The new colours have been expertly developed to capture the interior trend for a stronger colour palette. Bolder colours such as deep blues and dark greys combine with soft, earthy organics to deliver a beautifully crafted floor. The refresh of the Moorland collection includes six new colours in the Twist and Tweed range including Cobble, Mizzle and Castle White, as well as nine new trend colours in the Moorland Twist range. To accommodate these additional products and as part of range rationalisation, some colours and variations are being discontinued in our current portfolio affecting the following ranges: Devonia, Dartmoor Plain, Super Dartmoor Plain, Moorland Twist and Moorland Tweed. Where a product is discontinued we believe an alternative exists within our ranges. Our team of ASM will be visiting your showrooms over the next 2 months and updating the POS.

Moorland Twist

Castle White - 1402/75000

Cobble - 1411/75000

Mizzle - 1403/75000

Moorland Tweed

Castle White - 1402/50000

Cobble - 1411/50000

Mizzle - 1403/50000

All the changes will be effective as of the 1st March 2018 with the following items being discontinued with immediate effect: MoorlandTweed - Belstone and Grouse and Moorland Twist - Rubea. If you have any questions in the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact your dedicated ASM or our customer service team.

UK Head Office Axminster Carpets Ltd Axminster Devon England EX13 5PQ Tel: 01297 32244 Email: sales@axminster-carpets.co.uk

SMG News | Spring 2018 | 39

Stand out from the crowd. New display ideas from British Wool. At British Wool we understand how hard brands have to work to grab consumers' attention in competitive retail environments. That's why we're supporting manufacturers and retailers with a striking new range of merchandising and displays designed to clearly communicate the benefits of buying British wool. To find out more call us on 01274 688666 or email marketing@britishwool.org.uk

Meet Richard.

Meet Richard. He’s a fourth generation farmer who grows the wool used to make carpets. When you make something you have a choice: be cheaper or be better. We think better is more worthwhile. That’s why carpets made from British wool keep their shape, are more durable and won’t end up in landfill. We like that a lot, so does Richard as it provides a living for him and thousands like him. Always insist on British wool - look for the Crook mark.

British wool carpets Beauty & style. Naturally.

Why choose carpets made from British wool? FIRE RESISTANT Wool carpets are naturally fire resistant, which means safety for loved ones and peace of mind for you. HARD-WEARING A British wool carpet will bounce back quickly and keep its shape for longer than any other carpet. Ideal for busy areas in your home. EASY TO CARE FOR Wool carpet is easy to maintain offering natural resistance to spills so there’s no need to use harsh chemicals for cleaning. SUSTAINABLE Wool is grown, not made in a lab so won’t end up in landfill, we like that a lot and hope you will too. HYPOALLERGENIC Wool acts as a natural air filter which means it’s perfect for anyone suffering from allergies or breathing conditions.

FIRE RESISTANT HARD-WEARING EASY TO CARE FOR SUSTAINABLE HYPOALLERGENIC

britishwool.org.uk

Ingredients: sun, rain, grass, sheep.

He’s a fourth generation farmer who grows the wool used to make carpets. When you make something you have a choice: be cheaper or be better. We think better is more worthwhile. That’s why carpets made from British wool keep their shape, are more durable and won’t end up in landfill. We like that a lot, so does Richard as it provides a living for him and thousands like him. Always insist on British wool - look for the Crook mark.

British wool carpets Beauty & style. Naturally. FIRE RESISTANT HARD-WEARING EASY TO CARE FOR SUSTAINABLE HYPOALLERGENIC

Ingredients: sun, rain, grass, sheep.

britishwool.org.uk

Fine Worcester TwistÂŽ achieves the highest British Standard rating available for carpet, LC5 Luxury. It also has the highest rating by European Standards of 5 crowns.

www.adamcarpets.co.uk

Fine Worcester TwistÂŽ - 5-star luxury by any standard 41

MINI LECTERN

Talk to your local sales representative about our amazing lectern deal! The Ultimate SHOWROOM Mini Lectern Collection includes 5 lecterns and 14 swatch books.

SPECIAL OPENING OFFER

Â£POA

WILTON ROYAL MINI LECTERN Charter Supreme Gold

MULTI-WIDTH MINI LECTERN Stainfree Berber Deluxe

STAINFREE SAXONY MINI LECTERN Stainfree Soft & Silky

LOVE STORY MINI LECTERN Lasting Romance

PREMIUM TWIST MINI LECTERN Stainfree Rustique

SWATCH BOOKS Charter Supreme Gold Welsh Collection New Royal Windsor

SWATCH BOOKS Classic Collection Stainfree Tweed Stainfree Berber Deluxe

SWATCH BOOKS Stainfree Majesty + Royale Stainfree Soft & Silky

SWATCH BOOKS Deep Feelings + Lasting Romance Loving Touch + Soft Caress Pure Indulgence Secret Affair

SWATCH BOOKS Stainfree Rustique Deluxe + Rustique Stainfree Arena Plus

Please contact your representative about the great package offers we have available or call our marketing team on 01274 655668 www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

SMG News | Spring 2018 | 42

NEW

LECTERN PACKAGE

Purchase both the Country Life and Grandé mini lecterns

Country Life

£POA

GRANDÉ INTRODUCING THE NEW

VINYL LECTERN

£POA

A new collection of quality cushion floor vinyls in a variety of styles, colour options, widths and specifications. SoftStep Panama Amazon Cuba

Tri-Tex Tex-Star Tex-Max Tex-Pro

Please contact your representative about the great package offers we have available or call our marketing team on 01274 655668 43

www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

NEW

MARMOLEUM, THE MOST SUSTAINABLE FLOOR COVERING, GOES MODULAR Forbo Flooring Systems has revitalised its modular offering of the market’s most sustainable floor covering Marmoleum, introducing new colours, structures and embossed designs to help specifiers create simple, yet contemporary flooring schemes. Manufactured from 88% natural raw materials, 76% of which are rapidly renewable and with a 58% recycled content, Marmoleum Modular is the ideal collection for projects where sustainable design is at the top of the agenda. The natural raw materials, such as linseed oil and flaxseed, which are harvested from annual crops, has resulted in Marmoleum having a naturally low carbon footprint, as well as being phthalate free – contributing to a healthier indoor environment. The refreshed collection is now available in three tile and plank sizes (100x25cm, 50x50cm and 50x25cm) in over 50 colourways, across the following ranges: Lines, Shade, Colour, Marble and the two new embossed ranges Textura and Slate, which bring a deeper dimension to the offering. The Slate range features a naturally inspired texture that exudes sophistication, offering the timeless aesthetic of stone, with the warmth and purity of linoleum. Whereas Textura provides specifiers with realistic wooden aesthetics, featuring embossed grains Marmoleum Modular in colours Lakeland Shale and Newfoundland Slate

that run along the entire width of the plank – the first time that embossed finishes have been applied to the Marmoleum Modular format. In contrast, the Colour collection now offers a succinct palette of brighter colour pops, combined with a nonmarbled structure, delivering pure colour options. Janet Lowe, Head of Marketing UK and Ireland at Forbo comments: “Sustainable design is still an important issue in all sectors, with more people becoming conscious about choosing the right products to help raise the green credentials of a project, as well as those that contribute to the health and well-being of the buildings’ occupiers. However thanks to advancements in Marmoleum, specifiers can incorporate truly sustainable floor coverings within their projects, without compromising on the design.

“In fact, whether it is subtle nuances or stark contrasts, tonal progression or bold and vivid expressions of colour that is required, specifiers will certainly be able to create unique interior designs with the world’s leading sustainable modular floor covering, Marmoleum Modular. “The modular format of the collection also means that specifiers can combine different colourways and plank sizes easily to create unique and bespoke flooring schemes. Furthermore, incorporating Marmoleum Modular within a project will award specifiers with credits towards the international LEED certification for sustainable buildings.” What’s more, modular floor coverings are easier to transport, store and handle on site. They can also be quicker to fit and produce less installation waste. Marmoleum is made of renewable natural materials, it is PVC-free, does not contain any phthalates or other plasticisers and is naturally bacteriostatic. Marmoleum also carries the Allergy UK approval certificate, as well as the acknowledgement of internationally recognised environmental labels such as the Blue Angel, The Nordic Swan and Nature Plus. It really is the only truly environmentally friendly floor covering.

For more information, please visit www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/ marmoleummodular

Marmoleum Modular in colours Delta Lace, Liquid Clay and Cornish Grey

BALTA INTRODUCES SOFT NOBLE DELUXE Soft Noble Deluxe is the latest StainSafe® addition to the Balta collection, bringing excellent value and permanent stain-resistance in four and five-metre widths. The elegant 5/32” cutpile style comes in a 10-strong palette featuring sophisticated greys and timeless neutrals, making it an incredibly versatile quality that’s ready to bring the warmth and comfort of carpet in any home. “Continuing the graceful look of Soft Noble, but in a heavyweight 1,800g/ m2 pile, Soft Noble Deluxe brings a premium feel thanks to its indulgent 15mm pile,” explains Geert Vanden Bossche, marketing director, Balta. “That said, it still offers the excellent value that has been a hallmark of StainSafe® styles since the very beginning.” Rated suitable for Heavy Domestic use, Soft Noble Deluxe can be used throughout the home with confidence. The carpet’s two-ply 100% PP yarn ensures resilience and wear resistance enough for a lasting 15-year wear warranty, making it a great option for homes looking for a lasting quality that’s also extremely cost-effective. In both four and five-metre widths and with Actionbac for better stability and easier fitting, Soft Noble Deluxe is a super-thick style that brings all the performance of StainSafe® carpet to homes looking for a welcoming and luxurious carpet.

For further information, contact Balta on +32 56 62 22 11 or marketing@baltagroup.com

SMG News | Spring 2018 | 45

MARVELLOUS MIRRORS Leading furniture supplier, Kettle Interiors, has introduced a new collection of mirrors for 2018, each individually boxed for convenience and flexible delivery. Available in four styles influenced by Baroque, Art Deco and Victorian, these new mirrors are available in a variety of rectangular sizes, with the grand Leaner style perfect for dressing and making rooms feel more spacious. Each mirror is available in aged silver or gold effects, with selected styles also available in white.

All styles are available individually as part of any Wholesale, Stockist or Container order from Kettle Interiors. Mixed with furniture, or as a complete collection, these mirrors are supplied direct from UK stock and feature bevelled glass to enhance the quality feel.

FR BEDROOM The FR Collection is brand new for 2018 and sees a brave new French country style from Kettle Interiors. Finished in an exquisite grey-wash oak finish, this stand-out range comprises 15 items perfectly proportioned for todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bedrooms. Elegantly styled and with aged black metal handles and aluminium metal drawer runners, this is a quality bedroom furniture collection that is sure to turn heads. With three different chests, two wardrobes and a low-end bed in three standard sizes, FR has something for every size room, from grand suite through to guest bedroom. Particular highlights include the upholstered fabric headboard and dressing bench, adding a real sense of elegance to the collection. Available from UK stocks and with free delivery on orders of ÂŁ500 or more, the FR Collection can be supplied as part of any Container, Stockist or Wholesale order.

For further information contact Kettle Interiors Agencies on 01536 444960 or email sales@kettleinteriorsagencies.com SMG News | Spring 2018 | 47

PARQUET TAKES THE FLOOR Parquet flooring was born in the grandest of settings and has been associated with prestige ever since. Not only does it evoke a traditional feel, but by bringing wood of various shades and details together in beautiful patterns, it’s truly inspired by nature. As interior design has evolved to seek inspiration from the past, parquet has found a new calling. And in 2017, we saw this trend truly take hold. The style’s popularity has soared, sought after for its traditional warm shades and now even more so in light, contemporary designs. Natural oak is loved for its steadfast, homely feel while whites and greys have brought parquet into modern settings. OUR STATS TELL THE STORY We’ve seen a huge level of engagement with the Woodpecker collection of Goodrich Coffee Oak

Goodrich parquet floors. Our top 11 most saved Pinterest images are of Goodrich parquet and the most popular (Goodrich Whitened Oak) has been engaged with more than 45,000 times. Our most ‘liked’ Instagram post is Goodrich Coffee Oak and ‘parquet’ has been the most popular search term on our website since the start of 2017. We’ve also recorded a staggering 184% year-on-year increase in sample orders for Goodrich floors with Whitened again the most popular, showing the biggest increase out of the range. And this translated to a 60% increase in revenue from the collection throughout 2017. The classic Natural and Coffee shades were up there in the top 3 for sales but it was Whitened that once again made the biggest contribution. With sales for this product more than doubling yearon-year from 2016, the elegant shade has become one of the most desirable designs in our catalogue. It reflects the

trend for light, modern homes that mix classic design with a contemporary twist. And it’s not just at Woodpecker that we’ve spotted this trend. Along with many interior design experts, Pinterest have recognised herringbone flooring as one of their top 100 trends for 2018, after seeing a 131% increase in searches for ‘herringbone patterns’ last year. Google tells the same story, with searches for ‘herringbone flooring’ increasing 83% from 2016. Parquet is without a doubt on-trend and we’re confident that it’ll be an even stronger contender in our catalogue this year. THE GOODRICH COLLECTION Our parquet collection offers a diverse range of traditional warm oaks, contemporary light shades and rustic finishes. Expanding the range, the grey Feather Oak, Haze Oak chevron and sawn blocks were introduced in Autumn last year and are already showing signs of becoming some of our best-selling parquet floors. Boards are brushed to enhance the natural beauty of oak’s character and matt lacquered for enduring protection. Tongue and groove allows for traditional fitting methods and gives the flexibility to create single or double herringbone designs.

Find out about more about Goodrich floors and display options by getting in touch at info@woodpeckerflooring.co.uk, or call 02920 888223

Goodrich Whitened Oak

SMG News | Spring 2018 | 49

HEAVENLY SENT SUPERSOFT SHOWCASE The striking Made in Heaven display by Balta is now rolling out to retailers across the UK. Featuring two eco-friendly, supersoft polyester styles in Angelic and Aurora, the display presents a bold look that is sure to stand-out in store. Using a new design finished in attractive purple and beautiful angel imagery, the compactfootprint Made in Heaven lectern brings a new dimension to carpet and flooring shops. “With its large 22x22” samples, this new look lectern really allows the softness and gorgeous colour palette of Made in Heaven to shine while delivering maximum visual impact,” says Geert Vanden Bossche, marketing director, Balta. “Made in Heaven, with the elegant ‘beautifully soft carpet with a hidden strength’ strapline, has been created to capitalise on the heaven-like luxury of the polyester yarn and to offer a less masculine approach to carpet branding. We’re confident these new lecterns offer something different and will help retailers by clearly communicating the benefits of this fibre that’s rapidly growing in popularity.”

Made in Heaven carpets are bleach cleanable and offer really impressive stain-resistance. In a resilient two-play yarn, the eco-friendly polyester fibre is also resilient, with a 15-year wear warranty on the 2,000g/m2 Angelic. Both Angelic and Aurora are rated Heavy

Domestic and come in a palette of 12 timeless neutrals and subtle pastels.

For further information, contact Balta on +32 56 62 22 11 or marketing@baltagroup.com

FLAIR RUGS DEMONSTRATES DEPTH AT DOMOTEX For the first time in its history, Flair Rugs exhibited at the world’s largest flooring exhibition, Domotex, developing business from across Europe. Presenting the stunning styles of Luxmi and the Inspired by V&A Collection, alongside selected designs from the Simplicity and Core ranges, Flair Rugs demonstrated its commitment to export business in a significant move. “Our attendance at Domotex provided us with an opportunity to show the breadth of our portfolio to retailers from across Europe, and the rest of the world,” explained Sinead Donohoe, head of marketing, Flair Rugs. “Growing export business is part of our long-term business strategy and we are delighted to receive such a warm response to our rugs from retailers visiting the show.”

Showcasing great-value styles relevant to the European region, including the outdoor-ready Florence, flatweave Verona and the bold Infinite collection, Flair Rugs also demonstrated its ability to create premium styles with Solitaire, from the Luxmi collection, certainly catching the eye of many visitors. Featuring recycled silk yarns, the style has a Scandinavian feel and is handtufted by skilled artisans.

“With exclusive designs and unique application of materials, our collection is almost entirely developed in-house; a major advantage when it comes to responding quickly to trends and developing exclusive lines. As one of the few UK-based rug suppliers presenting at the exhibition, we were able to use Domotex to reaffirm our standing as a supplier with plenty to offer to the whole of Europe.”

The supplier also revealed preview qualities from its Inspired by V&A collection SS18 launches, underlining the strength of British design found in the Flair Rugs portfolio.

For further information contact Flair Rugs on 01457 850660, sales@flairrugs.com, or go to www.flairrugs.com

“There is no doubt that Britain has a world class reputation for design and we were able to capitalise on this throughout the show,” continues Sinead.

SMG News | Spring 2018 | 51

BRING YOUR

WITH BRINTONS CARPETS

At Brintons, we believe that a carpet is never just a carpet. For over 200 years we’ve seen it as a way to bring your home to life, helping you to express yourself, in ways that you never thought possible. To discover more, visit our residential website brintons.co.uk

INTRODUCING

Paradise Available in 10 gorgeous contemporary whisper-soft tones The ultimate in both comfort and durability • Action backing • Available in 51oz • 4m or 5m widths

Calypso

Driftwood

Garland

Hidden Cove

Island Life

Lazy Days

Shell

Soft Sand

Tahiti

White Water

To find out more, speak to our sales team or contact your local representative:

Call 01706 639 866 or visit penthousecarpets.co.uk

Luxury Vinyl Tiles The simple route to fantastic looking flooring

Our stunning LVT collection sits perfectly alongside our engineered wood, hardwood, laminate ranges and the Design Elements vinyl collection. LVT is warm to the touch, possesses excellent heat & sound insulation properties, is easy to clean, hygienic and moisture resistant – making it ideal for all rooms. With improved wear levels and durability – LVT is scuff, stain & scratch resistant – perfect for day-to-day life.

NEW SIroNa ay PoS dISPllE avaIl absigns)

Available in dryback or click for easy installation – the tile or wood planks are textured to look & feel completely natural. To find out more about our LVT offer, contact us today.

tic de

(20 fantas

www.furlongflooring.co.uk

Sales: Preston - 01772 696 787

Dartford - 01322 628 707

News | Spring 55 I SMG Gloucester - 08452018 520 |0800