Interiors magazine august

August 2014

Interiors monthly

first for furniture, flooring and accessories

Awards 2014 The winners revealed

The Flooring Show Preview

FURNITURE

FLOORING

BEDS

CARPET

RUGS

ACCESSORIES

CLASSIC BEAUTY CONTEMPORARY DESIGN Upholstery Dining Bedroom

LEADING THE WAY FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE WITH INDEPENDENT RETAILERS AWARDS

tcsimports.com

AWARDS 2011 WINNER 2014 WINNER

Voted Best Customer Service 2014

TCS - Solely Committed to Serving Independent Retailers

UK: 00353 42 9 351 351 Ireland: 042 9 351 351

SERVICE QUALITY VALUE

EDITOR’S COMMENT

Andrew Kidd EDITOR

Encouraging signs While there are indications that consumers have been returning to stores, the summer sunshine may yet play a role in the overall performance There have been some encouraging sales figures from major retailers recently which suggest that consumers are once again spending on their homes.

Admittedly, some of the figures are against weak comparisons because last summer’s weather saw people heading to the beach or lake rather than the retail park, but it’s still encouraging – even if consumers do need a promotion of some sort to convince them.

While GfK's UK Consumer Confidence Index dropped back into negative territory in July, after being positive for the first time in almost a decade in June, it too offered encouragement. The survey of more than 2,000 people found that those thinking it

Interiors

August 2014

Editor: Andrew Kidd

monthly

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

Furniture advertising (South): Tim Boden T: 01732 441 130 E: tboden@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

first for furniture, flooring and accessories

Awards 2014 The winners revealed

The Flooring Show Preview

was a good time to make a big ticket purchase such as furniture or white goods was 18 points higher than a year ago.

As consumers and voters we hear mixed messages on how far economic recovery has spread and a worry is that 2013 will repeat itself, albeit a little later in the summer, if the recent fine weather that most of us have enjoyed recently continues into August.

Will it deter people from following through on those purchase plans? After all, a trip to the seaside or park is a lot cheaper. Anyone for some rain?

Congratulations to the winners of the Interiors Monthly Awards 2014. Their details are revealed from page 25 onwards. These retailers, manufacturers, suppliers, buying groups and others are your winners (with a few new awards this year chosen by me).

My thanks again to everyone who voted.

Well done to all of those involved in supporting the 58th Kidderminster Carpet Manufacturers National Golf Tournament, sponsored by Mr Tomkinson for the first time.

The event raised £8,000 for charity, which was split evenly between The Furniture Makers’ Company and Macmillan Cancer Support.

Furniture advertising (North): Jarrod Bird Sealy: the world’s number one bed brand.

Visit: www.sealy.co.uk

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

Carpet, flooring, lighting and accessories advertising: Joanne Paull T: 01732 441 130 E: jpaull@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

Published by Interiors Media Limited Minerva House, Kinnings Row, Bordyke, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1NP T: 01732 441 130 F: 01732 362 919 E: enquiries@interiorsmonthly.co.uk Registered in England no. 6397722 Print: Knockout Print Design by TSS DIGITAL © Interiors Media Limited ISSN 1756-2236 FURNITURE

FLOORING

BEDS

CARPET

RUGS

ACCESSORIES

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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CONTENTS

The sexiest underlay you will never see

INTERIORS MONTHLY AUGUST 2014

INSIDE THIS ISSUE NEWS 6

Corndell bought but WBH seeks buyer

8

United Carpets sees sales soften after growth

12

Cavendish production move

FEATURES 22

Retail Why online isn’t the route to a fast buck

25

Interiors Monthly Awards 2014 The winners are revealed

98

Sonic Gold Excel wood and laminate floor underlay

EXCEPTIONAL SOUND REDUCTION EXCELLENT IMPACT RESISTANCE EVENS OUT UNEVEN FLOORS Part of the Novostrat range of polyethylene underlays to suit every application and pocket.

From store to floor - there’s no better solution

Sonic range Comfort range HIGH PERFORMANCE UNDERLAYS

Rugs The global influences on Limited Edition

104 Beds and bedroom A different look for iron and a new brand

112 Protection Why service matters

120 Preview The Flooring Show

129 Review Manchester Furniture Show

REGULARS 15

Warranties

16

New products

NEXT ISSUE

TEL: 00353 61-339287 www.novostrat.com info@novostrat.com

Bed Show preview The Flooring Show guide Living and dining focus www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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NEWS

Corndell saved but search goes on for WBH buyer The search for a buyer for failed cabinet company Woodberry Brothers & Haines is continuing while rival Corndell Furniture has been bought out of administration.

Corndell has been bought by Corndell Quality Furniture, a company backed by two of Corndell’s largest suppliers and formed six days before Corndell entered administration. The Witney, Oxfordshire, company had run out of cash and credit.

Administrators FRP Advisory made 31 of Corndell’s 115 staff redundant but was able to retain the rest of the employees as it traded the firm during the sale Caxton’s London bedroom process. It was approached by 30 interested parties and sent information to a dozen of them.

‘We proceeded with an offer from Corndell Quality which is backed by two of the largest suppliers to Corndell. While the suppliers in question suffered their own losses due to the failure of Corndell Furniture, they recognise the underlying value in the business and were keen to invest to take the ongoing business forward. We are aware that key customers and suppliers are supportive of the acquisition which sees the long-term future of Corndell secured,’ says Geoff Rowley, FRP Advisory partner.

Steve Jackson, Corndell Quality director, says: ‘The past weeks have been challenging but thanks to our loyal staff and supportive retail partners we continue to trade as normal, fulfilling our strong order book. Under new ownership we now have the financial strength and stability to build a stronger and more profitable business.’

Corndell Quality’s board is made up of Jackson and Cyril Fogel, both former directors of Corndell Furniture, and David Hudson.

Brand new director G Plan Upholstery has recruited Stephanie Hildon as its first brand director.

Hildon has spent her career mainly in the fast moving consumer goods industry,

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working on brands including Johnson & Johnson, Cadbury, Colgate, Allianz and Bupa.

Ian Oliver, G Plan and Parker Knoll chief executive, says: ‘Stephanie has a wealth of experience that G Plan will benefit from immensely.’

Interiors Monthly August 2014

Administrators for Woodberry Brothers & Haines say they have received ‘numerous’ expressions of interest but had yet to secure a buyer for the cabinet company.

The owner of the Caxton, Bath Cabinets and Woodberry Bathrooms brands appointed PricewaterhouseCoopers as administrator on 2 July after failing to find a buyer or secure investment.

WBH made a pre-tax loss of £986,385 from sales of £12.18m in the year to 31 December 2012, according to its most recent accounts. This compares with a loss of £1.66m from sales of £13m the previous year. It finished 2012 with just £267 in the bank and bank loans and overdrafts of more than £2.18m.

All but 12 of its 175 employees were made redundant.

‘Since appointment the administrators have worked hard with the support of certain key customers and suppliers to fulfil some outstanding orders from finished goods stock using the few remaining employees. This has been done to enable discussions to take place with parties who have expressed an interest in acquiring the business and assets, which have been numerous. So far, despite interest shown, no investment into, or sale of the business, has been concluded,’ says a PricewaterhouseCoopers spokesman.

Meanwhile, the administrator of Paul Simon has hired Metis Partners to sell the failed chain’s brand and other intellectual property after being unable to find a buyer.

Metis has previously been involved with the IP assets of Allders, Ortak, Land of Leather, Johnson & Johnson and MFI. IP assets in the Paul Simon sale include a broad range of domain names, goodwill in the brand and reputation and the ecommerce website content.

Upswing for Carpetright Carpetright saw ‘small but steady improvements’ in UK sales growth in May and June, ‘with this trend accelerating significantly during July, assisted by weak comparatives in 2013,’ says the company.

Like for like sales were up

6.1% and total sales rose by 5.2% in the 13 weeks to 26 July. ‘Implementing marketbeating promotions’ meant gross profit margins fell by 2.6%. This will see full year margins drop by between 0.5% and 1%.

NEWS

United optimistic despite seeing spring sales soften Sales have softened in the past quarter for United Carpets following a major increase in profits.

The chain saw like for like flooring sales fall by 2.2% in the 16 weeks to 17 July and bed sales by 3.6%, with an overall drop of 2.3%. This compares with a rise of 2.2% in the year to 31 March. During that year pre-tax profits were £940,000, compared to £250,000 in the six months to 31 March 2013 because of United’s change of year end. Sales were £55.7m.

United continued to close weak branches during the period, with numbers reducing from 64 to 59. Two more have closed since March and a further five which are underperforming or where agreement cannot be reached with the landlord, are likely to close within nine months.

Peter Cowgill, chairman, says the chain ‘is no longer held

back by a significant tail of weaker stores which historically have impacted heavily on profit margins and demanded a disproportionate amount of management time.’

Lease renegotiations saw rent reductions, improved break clauses or the elimination of significant, potential, historic dilapidation commitments, or from a combination of all of these on 52 of the stores. The chain is also looking to trial a smaller store format.

‘Our base is stronger. We have removed the majority of the weaker stores from our portfolio, we have no debt and an improving balance sheet. Trading has been a little patchy but we believe the overall picture is generally moving forward, underpinned by higher levels of employment and a more active housing market,’ Cowgill adds.

Five for January Furniture Show

ColourMatch bentwood chair

Mix and match range for Argos Argos has a new interiors brand – Heart of Home – launched with its latest seasonal catalogue. It offers more than 1,200 products so shoppers can coordinate across the home.

The exclusive ColourMatch range offers more than 700 products available for all rooms in the house in a choice of 16 shades across pastels, neutrals and brights, plus spots and stripes.

Habitat remains a major brand for the chain in its 50th anniversary year, with 1,300 products.

Some 10,000 prices have been reduced or held in the latest catalogue.

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Interiors Monthly August 2014

The January Furniture Show will have a fifth hall, the organiser has confirmed, after the event sold out halls 1, 2, 3 and 3A at the NEC. As Interiors Monthly reported in March, organiser Furniture Fairs will expand the 13-15 January show into the Pavilion hall to accommodate manufacturers and suppliers on the show’s waiting list. Halls 4 and 5 of the NEC are unavailable.

The show is to be officially opened by Stephen McPartland MP, chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Furniture Industry Group.

The 2016 event will revert to a weekend opening, with the possibility of The Lighting Show returning.

Sister event, the Manchester Furniture Show, is to opt for a three-day schedule next year, running from Sunday to Tuesday. The intention is to concentrate visitor footfall across the three days rather than the current four, which has

low visitor numbers on the final day.

Meanwhile, buying group AIS has confirmed that its January furniture event will overlap the January Furniture Show next year.

There had been rumours circulating that the NEC event’s decision to move to a mid-week schedule to avoid clashing with IMM Cologne meant that AIS’s Cranmore Park exhibition venue was already booked.

But, David Standing, AIS commercial director told Interiors Monthly that The Furniture Show would run alongside the NEC event, as it has done in previous years.

‘It is sensible for us to overlap as many visitors will want to do the shows at the same time and ours has some exclusive exhibitors,’ he says.

Monday 12 January will be for AIS members only and 13-14 January for members and non-members.

Trade website for Green Tree Flooring distributor Green Tree Distribution has launched a trade commerce website, as part of its expansion plans. www.greentreedistribution.co.uk will allow customers to access exclusive products and prices.

‘The launch of the new trade website is another development in reaching out to our customers, providing them with 24/7 access to our products and services, as well as company news and developments ’ says Kevin Lapthorn, Green Tree md.

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inspire the consumers décor planning around the floor. Combining top performance backed by a 20 year stainaway warranty and a 20 year wear guarantee. Seven of the fourteen colour options are brand new to Associated Weavers and make Distinction distinctively different in choice and consumer appeal.

Be one of the first to make your mark with Distinction ­ ask your Associated Weavers sales manager for samples today.

New colours. New Sales.

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

Fashion trends are ever evolving and each year we see new fashion colours that often do not transfer to the floor. Associated Weavers like to give its best selling core ranges a ‘fashion update’ every two years. Not only do we introduce the new exciting colour trends of the day but also dispense with the colours of yesterday. It also gives us the opportunity to refresh tired hard worked sampling to give that new and exciting come and buy me look and feel. Look out for the new Associated Weavers fashion updates so far this year. Tuftex Twist, Everest Twist , Santorini and Temptation have all had the fashion make over and are now available to buy. As well as the colour trends of 2015 these ranges are all part of our Stainaway warranty programme giving more reasons to be the choice of todays fashion conscious buyer.

Next Day Sampling Service Available on all ranges for Associated Weavers direct accounts With total room make-overs becoming more and more popular our next day sampling service is being used by even more Associated Weavers retailers.

• Next day delivery by 1 st class post on all orders received by 2.00pm.

• Up to four 10cm x 10cm samples are labelled with your range name and colour.

• Details of your store are sent with the samples for the customer to return and make a purchase.

• Helping your customer select their carpet and match fabrics, paint and wall coverings.

Please use the following contact details: Email: samplesbypost@associatedweavers.co.uk Fax: 01422 431107

NEXT DAY SERVICE

Distinction Luxury and colour merged together

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Distinction alongside Everest Twist and Santorini gives you the ultimate Good,

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NEWS

Cavendish Upholstery is moving production of its independent sector models to sister company Collins and Hayes.

The switch is part of a plan for Cavendish to concentrate on its multiple and online markets.

Production of some of the company’s bestselling models, such as Pandora and Carlo, has already switched from Chorley, Lancashire to St Leonards on Sea, East Sussex, with the aim of all of the independents’ models coming from the Collins and Hayes factory by September.

The products will retain the Cavendish name and will cater to exactly the same area of the market as currently. Collins and Hayes’ offer will remain unchanged.

Martin Huggins, Collins and Hayes md, says the move signifies a renewed focus on design, delivery and service.

‘Collins and Hayes has a reputation for the highest quality and service which we are delighted to bring to the

Cavendish’s Amethyst

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Interiors Monthly August 2014

Cavendish brand. Over the coming months Cavendish customers will see exciting new designs developed and we hope they will be impressed by our commitment to outstanding delivery and service,’ he says.

Mark McCann, Cavendish md, says: ‘We are delighted that Collins and Hayes has taken on our long-standing independent customers and will continue to provide the level of quality and service required in this important sector.’

He says the move has freed up resources in design and development, production capacity and relationship management within Cavendish to ensure the digital and multiple customers it supplies are provided with the highest levels of service and quality they have come to expect.

‘This strategic move will give Cavendish the platform to help secure its long term future and strengthen the growth of UK upholstery manufacture,’ he adds.

PHOTOGRAPHS: JAMES CHAMPION

Cavendish in production move Kit Shadbalt with his Ease design

Douglas Pulman with his Brace design

Young talent Two young furniture designers have won awards at this year’s New Designers show.

Kit Shadbalt from Bucks New University’s contemporary furniture design course, won the John Lewis award for Design Excellence and Innovation for his Ease Trestle, a table designed to be changed and adapted to save space.

It was praised by the judges as ‘a beautiful and innovative interpretation of a traditional trestle design, well-resolved and ready to manufacture. Kit is a clearly very talented designer.’ He won £1,000 and a meeting with John Lewis.

Douglas Pulman, from Plymouth University’s 3D design course, won the 100% Design award for his Brace furniture range.

‘The focus for this range is in the use of design engineering to create the bracket mechanism. We also felt that the use of contrasting materials led this product to be visually appealing and commercially compelling,’ said the judges.

‘I use a design process that starts with the development of the bracket or brace before naturally developing the furniture piece from there. I use the properties of the materials to their full and am pleased that people can appreciate my approach and relate to the work despite its simplistic style, says Pulman.

He won stand space at 100% Design’s Emerging Brands section.

Charles Occasional Items in Oak Effect Veneer with Walnut Trim

Tempo Two Seater Dark Brown Fabric

Corona

Charles Occasional

Prado 4’6” Bed in Dark Brown Fabric Shown with Regent Bedroom Items

Panama

Lollipop

www.seconique.co.uk For further information or to request a catalogue contact us on 0121 506 4888, sales@seconique.co.uk or vist our extensive showroom in Wednesbury. We are open Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm (4:30pm Cash & Carry) COMPREHENSIVE PRODUCT RANGE - FIRST CLASS SERVICE - OUTSTANDING VALUE

We now provide a SAMPLE CUTTING SERVICE Contact: 01827 831434 to order

www.manxcarpets.co.uk Natural shades & pinstripe is a refined tailored low level loop with an elegant understated appearance with colourations inspired by the earth itself. Natural Shades has the ability to enhance the decor of any room creating a modern or classic setting. There is also the potential to mix & match with Natural Plain Twist to create special areas of interest.

Watch our amazing film showing EasyLiving and a food stain simply wiping away.

CARNABY

Let your imagination run wild with Multi Width Stripe 1m, 4m & 5m an ideal choice that is cost effective and a more economic option for those narrow areas.

With 10 stunning colours from Light Creams to Seductive Reds, the Carnaby range is sure to suit any dĂŠcor.

Come and have a look on our stand (Hall C stand C10) at the National Flooring Show this September.

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CONTACT NUMBER

EMAIL

Simon Hastings

SL, WD, EN, CM, N, HA, NW, UB, E, IG, RM, SS, CO, HP, LU, MK, SG, CB, IP, NR.

07799 772992

simon.hastings@manxcarpets.co.uk

Rob Shergold

SW, SE, EC, TW, DA, BR, KT, SM, CR, TN, GU, RH, BN, CT, ME, PO, SO.

07974 310952

rob.shergold@manxcarpets.co.uk

Paul Brown

WR, DY, WV, B, WS, CV, NN, LE, PE.

07973 783532

paul.brown@manxcarpets.co.uk

John Binnie

TD, DG, KA, ML, EH, PA, G, FK, KY, PH, DD, AB, IV, KW, ZE, HS.

07976 844792

john.binnie@manxcarpets.co.uk

Martin Yates

SY, TF, LL, ST, CW, SK, CH, WA, L, M, WN, BL, OL, PR, BB, IM, FY.

07778 260763

martin.yates@manxcarpets.co.uk

Gordon Ballantyne

RG, SN, OX, GL, BS, BA, BH, DT, HR, NP, CF, LD, SA.

07976 641368

gordon.ballantyne@manxcarpets.co.uk

TBA

LS, HX, HD, WF, DN, HU, S, DE, NG, LN.

07793 944160

John Pringle

BD, HG, YO, LA, CA, DH, TS, SR, NE, DL.

07779 140781

Tony Owen (agent)

TR, PL, TQ, GY, JE, EX, TA.

07971 362087

Norman Gray (agent)

BT.

07860 495649 home and fax 02890 794667

john.pringle@manxcarpets.co.uk

WARRANTIES

Your questions answered Helen Kershaw, Guardsman head of marketing, answers your questions on product protection

Q

One of my best customers is distraught at the damage that has been done to her home while she was away.

The family was on a six week holiday and had arranged for what they thought were trustworthy people to house sit for them. However, when they arrived back home they found that the house had been trashed. It’s obvious that the house-sitters had a very large party and there are wine stains, beer stains, cigarette burns, paint, food stains, excrement stains, broken glass, and scratches on the carpets, upholstery, beds, curtains and furniture. According to the neighbours, who complained about the noise, the party was held soon after the family went away and they think the house-sitters left after that.

Based on this, and the dates of the post, we think the stains have been untreated for about five weeks. My customer is covered by household insurance but some of the items have sentimental value. Is there anything that can be done after this length of time?

Oh dear, this really does sound like your worst nightmare. The key issue in these situations is not the length of time that has elapsed, but whether any attempt has already been made by the householders to try to deal with the damage themselves. This is particularly the case with staining as general cleaning solutions might mix with the stains or spread them around further and people often rub the fabric rather than blotting which can damage the fibres.

Left in the hands of experts such as the Guardsman Furniture Technicians and Safeclean Cleaning Specialists this should be a redeemable situation. This is achieved either by individual stain removal, expert overall cleaning, smart cosmetic repairs, replacement parts or workshop repairs.

These are all areas within our expertise and knowing how distressing this situation must be, Guardsman would be happy to provide some of our technicians to take a look at your customer’s treasured items and see what we can do to help.

A

OPTIMISE YOUR NEXT BIG SALES EVENT… “Fabulous sales of 27% of total turnover during the three week event. Your people were very efficient and did a great job. If you embrace the Greenwood way, you get the results!”

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Martin Fairbairn, MD. Fairbairn’s Berwick upon Tweed, 2014 Don’t wait for business to walk in the door. Do something to bring in crowds of eager customers.

Trust Greenwood to help you realise the optimum potential of your next big sales event.

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George House, 3 Royal Court, Tatton Street, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 6EN sales@greenwoodretail.com www.greenwoodretail.com

NEW PRODUCTS

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1 Avenue’s fast and simple sample facility is a great way for retailers to show they can offer fantastic levels of service. With up to three samples sent free of charge to a customer’s home, a rapport can be built, safe in the knowledge that you will be the first point of call when their decision is made.

Visit: www.avenue floors.co.uk

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2 Available in four styles, Balta Broadloom’s Big Hit is presented in a powerful folder that punches well above its weight. In a striking yellow with bold graphics, the Big Hit folder can be hung next to the rolls for maximum impact.

Tel: 00 32 5662 2211

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3 T&R Floor Covering Distributors’ Fusion Flooring range has 11 wood plank designs, spanning from Royal White Oak to deep-toned Willow Brown Oak and four stone tile designs. All feature a bevel effect on all four sides, which adds depth and detail to the finished look. To add further definition, Fusion Grouting, Marquetry or Feature Strips can be laid.

Tel: 0115 925 7711

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4 Leoline has introduced a free sample service on its website, allowing retailers to offer service to customers while maintaining displays and sample books. The company is building sample stocks and up to three samples can be ordered each time.

Visit: www.leoline.co.uk 5 Already a major supplier to the domestic market, UK Flooring Direct has launched a range of offers and services exclusively for trade customers to meet growing demand from the industry. Services include a faster delivery service: now down to less than 24 hours, and access to an unlimited free sample service.

Tel: 0844 327 0000

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Interiors Monthly August 2014

Kingsmead Carpets Relay Park, Relay Drive Tamworth, B77 5PR. UK

Incorporating

Tel: +44 1827 831424 Fax: +44 1827 831425 info@kingsmead-sales.co.uk www.kingsmeadcarpets.co.uk

Come and visit our stand C13/27 to see the latest Wool and Clean Easy Offers as well as the 'Cave' offering discounts off regular and discontinued roll ends

NEW PRODUCTS

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9 6 Kersaint Cobb’s Silk Touch is made from bamboo fibres and is divinely soft to the touch. Bamboo fibre is prized for its hypoallergenic qualities and humidity regulating properties.

With its silky look and luxurious underfoot comfort, it adds a touch of elegance to any bedroom.

Tel: 01675 430 430

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Interiors Monthly August 2014

7 Started in 2001 by Rosario Parrinello, Made a Mano is based in Caltagirone, Italy specialising in working and processing clay and lava stones. Lava stone doesn’t change shape or deform with a change in temperature. It doesn’t retain impurities nor is it damaged by the use of acids or abrasive substances. It doesn’t stain and has a high thermal performance.

Visit: www.madeamano.it

8 Sandringham Carpets has added the long pile Palm Beach to its Inspiration collection. It is available in 2m, 3m, 4m, and 5m widths and 12 shades, including Rob Roy (pictured).

Tel: 020 8800 8880 9 Team 7 has updated its classic Mobile range of childrens’ bedroom furniture with more finishes.

Mobile’s chemical free natural wood products have been a source of trust, safety and fun in children’s bedrooms for more than 30 years.

Visit: www.team7.at 10 Arketipo’s Miss Malice chair is characterised by thin metal legs and has a vintage look, especially when covered in leather. The roundness of the padded seat and back gives a soft and cosy line to the chair.

Visit: Arketipo.com

100 Years of International Trade Fair for Producers of Upholstery, Window & Wall Coverings Moving to the gorgeous Hall 5, the Patio and Hall 8

moodbrussels.com facebook.com/moodbrussels twitter.com/moodbrussels

The Finest Fabric Show is in Brussels, September 9 -10 -11, 2014

Results and Profits!

“The total sales for the event was ÂŁ200k over what was budgeted for, and this was achieved thanks to the hard work of your sales co-ordinator, Mr. Ray Lewis, who again was outstanding and tireless in his efforts to achieve a successful event.â€?

Robert Chrystie Chrysties Furnishing Centre, 30th May 2014

“This is the third event that you have managed for us, and indeed, we have used the competition in the same industry. We will certainly be knocking on yours and Mark’s doors when we are ready for the next event.�

Andy Burgess Furniture & Bedding Superstore, 30th May 2014 MoOD is organised by Textirama vzw, Poortakkerstraat 90, BE-9051 Gent, Belgium Phone +32 9 24 38 450 - fax +32 9 24 38 455 email: info@moodbrussels.com

! /

“I would like to thank you and your team for the superb job that you did in managing our closing down sale. The sale achieved results substantially above my expectations and it was “mission accomplished�. This success was largely due to the endeavors of your sale co-ordinator, Kevin Boast.�

Alex Wyllie Wyllie & Mar,, 29th May y y 2014

Contact us for details and receive a special, 100th anniversary commemorative gift. Plus, if you hold a Lynch Sale during 2014 you’ll become eligible for our Grand Prize of a trip for two to Ireland!

! " # $

$ % $ !! $

! $ # & $ ! ' " ( ) * * ++ ,- , . ! $ !

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Contact Gareth Price • Tel: +44 (0) 7974 209761 www.LynchSales.co.uk Copyright 2014 Lynch Brothers Licensing Corporation

NEW PRODUCTS

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11 Axil’s Mythos bed combines round lines of the headboard and the simplicity of the base. The padded headboard and frame give a soft and visual use. Leg finishes include ash, wenge, grey, white or beige open-pore stained.

Visit: www.axil.it 12 Emporium’s polypropylene Drum floorlamp is pearly white with a choice of red or blue decoration.

Visit: www.emporium.it 13 Softhouse’s wide Tobia sofa has enveloping and seductive lines covered with dove-grey velvet, with the shaped back increasing the feeling of welcome and comfort.

Visit: www.softhouse.pisa.it

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14 Seams is a collection of five large ceramic containers designed by Benjamin Hubert for Bitossi Ceramiche. Slip casting allows it to create massproduced products with one-off details without a secondary decorating process.

Visit: www.bitossiceramiche.it 15 Influenced by the 1950s, Munna’s Sophia sofa has a wingback design and cone-shaped feet available in brass, nickel or copper. In fabric or leather, the collection includes a coordinating armchair.

Visit: www.munnadesign.com

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Interiors Monthly August 2014

Perfect performers and famous for bringing pure luxury, warmth and comfort to the home, Tredaire underlays are designed to keep carpets looking good and feeling fabulous for longer.

The Tredaire range features outstanding levels of comfort and performance so every carpet gives that ‘on air’ feeling. That’s why Tredaire is the UK’s biggest selling underlay brand - the market leader!

01706 238 810

interfloor.com

@interfloor1

RETAIL

Above: UK Furniture Direct sends out thousands of samples a month Left: Country Oak

No fast buck Online retailing requires significant investment 22

Interiors Monthly August 2014

‘There is a common misconception that online selling is an easy way to make a fast buck, but the reality is quite different. Retailing online is full of complexities, regulations and difficulties that mean entering it must be seriously considered, weighed up and analysed,’ says Josh Ashby, UK Flooring Direct commercial director.

The first thing to consider is the website itself. The complex nature of flooring, where there are many different selling options for one SKU, means that popular template-driven platforms aren’t really useful and so a bespoke ecommerce environment needs to be created. This requires significant investment, developing a platform and

systems to deliver the experience the customer requires is hugely expensive.

Ashby says one of the biggest obstacles to overcome is the tactility of flooring as purchase. Consumers like to be able to see, touch and explore the actual product. Photographs are not adequate as a decision maker for most purchasers. Therefore, sampling is a necessity. The per unit cost of this is surprisingly high, particularly given that free sampling is part of the service consumers expect and that squares of wood or vinyl are not that cheap to post.

‘At UK Flooring Direct we offer each customer three free samples, multiply that by several thousand requests a month and it becomes a sizeable operational overhead, but a completely necessary one to the success of the website,’ he explains.

The Internet is a highly competitive marketplace and it is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain a prominent position on search results.

Google is now too powerful for the simple tag workarounds of old and significant investment is required to keep websites towards the top of the rankings, says Ashby.

Search Engine Optimisation now involves multi-media, social media, blogging, working with other websites and more. It requires full-time staffing and a dedicated strategy with firm goals in mind. Plus, there are the costs of online advertising and digital marketing.

There is no natural pull from a high street

RETAIL

Above: Holding stock is vital for the retailer Right: Galleria Heritage

‘We have to be very aware of how we present to and treat our customers throughout the entire purchase process’ or out of town retail development location: each customer has to be earned and hard fought.

‘Delivery too is fraught with complexities and with our straight from stock business model, which facilitates fast UK-wide delivery, we hold huge amounts of flooring at our Coventry warehouse and headquarters. It is absolutely necessary for us to hold our flooring in stock, where a high street retailer can still give a good customer experience with very little, if any, stock at all,’ he says.

He stresses that delivery partners must be reliable. Unlike smaller packages, which can be left with a neighbour or redelivered, flooring requires someone to

be in. A purchaser may well take a day off work, so a failed delivery must be avoided.

‘Working closely with delivery partners and looking at areas that can be improved is a continual part of our business strategy,’ says Ashby.

He reckons that regulations for online retailing are far tougher than for its physical counterpart.

The Distance Selling Regulations enforce a minimum seven-day coolingoff period for any purchaser. The goods do not have to be faulty to be returned, consumers can just change their mind and the company is obliged to take the flooring back and refund them the cost of their purchase.

‘How often does this happen in a high street or out of town store?’ he asks. ‘We are also closely monitored in terms of how we present and advertise pricing, sales and more. In short, we have to be very aware of how we present to and treat our customers throughout the entire purchase process.

‘While we have become one of the UK’s fastest growing companies, it has not been just because we entered online retailing and have ridden the wave. It is because, like any successful business, we have invested heavily in our operations and are committed to reinvestment and development to keep us at the forefront of Internet flooring retailing,’ adds Ashby.

Visit: www.ukflooringdirect.co.uk

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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Axminster Carpets™ feel for any interior décor.

Sealy Hybrid Pocket Ultima 2800

AWARDS

After months of voting, the winners of the Interiors Monthly Awards 2014 have been decided.

The companies listed below are among the finest retailers, manufacturers and suppliers in the interiors industry. Over the following pages you can read more about the category winners chosen by you, and some new Editor’s Choice awards. Covering all aspects of the industry, they are united by their desire for excellence. Congratulations to all the 2014 winners.

Best Furniture Retailer (1-2 stores): Ponsford Best Flooring Retailer (1-2 stores): Milners Best Furniture Retailer (3 plus stores): Glasswells Best Flooring Retailer (3 plus stores): Martin Phillips Best Online Retailer: Loaf Best UK Furniture Manufacturer: Westbridge Furniture Best UK Flooring Manufacturer: Furlong Flooring Best Overseas Furniture Manufacturer: Wiemann Best Overseas Flooring Manufacturer: Balta Broadloom Best Customer Service (Furniture): TCS Imports Best Customer Service (Flooring): Ulster Carpets Best Carpet Manufacturer: Cormar Carpets Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer: Natuzzi Best Laminate Manufacturer: Quick-Step Best Fabric Upholstery Manufacturer: Ashley Manor Best Rug Supplier: Think Rugs Best Recliner Manufacturer: Ekornes Best Underlay Manufacturer: Ball & Young Best Bed Manufacturer: Sealy UK Best Solid/Engineered Wood Manufacturer: Kährs (UK) Best Luxury Vinyl Supplier: Karndean Designflooring Best Children’s Furniture: Gautier UK Best Vinyl Manufacturer: IVC Best Accessory Supplier: Gallery Direct Best Accessory Supplier (Flooring): Interfloor Best Fabric/Soft Furnishings Manufacturer: Prestigious Textiles Best Bedroom Manufacturer: Rauch Best Home Entertainment: Jual Furnishings

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Interiors Monthly August 2014

Best Living Room Manufacturer: G Plan Cabinets Best Dining Room Manufacturer: Willis & Gambier Best Furniture Buying Group: AIS Best Flooring Buying Group: SMG Best Furniture Wholesaler: Julian Bowen Best Flooring Wholesaler: Floorwise Group Best Marketing Support (Furniture): Silentnight Best Marketing Support (Flooring): Wools of New Zealand (UK) Best Furniture Exhibition: IMM Cologne Best Flooring Exhibition: The Flooring Show Best Furniture Website: Silentnight Best Flooring Website: Balterio Best Software Supplier: RetailSystem.com Best Finance Provider: Creation Best Supply Chain/Logistics Company: CEVA Logistics Best Business Support (Furniture): Vale-Bridgecraft Best Business Support (Flooring): Flooring One Best New Supplier: Arkana Innovation of the Year: Wool Owners Warranty EDITOR’S CHOICE Innovation In Furniture: Re-Vive Recliner, Natuzzi Innovation In Flooring: iSense, Associated Weavers Flooring Brand 2014: Brintons Furniture Brand 2014: Ercol Furniture Sustainability (Flooring): Moduleo Sustainability (Furniture): Hypnos Outstanding Performance: Adam Carpets Best Furniture Export Support: Polish Foreign Trade

AWARDS

Glasswells Best Furniture Retailer (3 plus stores)

Since Jerry Glasswell and his son Leslie opened the first Glasswells store in Bury St Edmunds in 1946, the Glasswells’ philosophy has been to provide quality furniture through an amazing service, a service that stands out from the crowd and one that is true and trusted.

Its flagship 100,000sqft Bury St Edmunds store is the largest home furnishings store in East Anglia and it has a large store in Ipswich and smaller stores in Haverhill and Saffron Walden.

Glasswells’ brands read like a Who’s Who of the furniture, flooring and homewares sectors and the company remains at the heart of the communities it serves by supporting local charities such as East Anglian Air Ambulance and St Nicholas Hospice.

The company has installed almost 1,000 solar panels on the roof of the Bury

St Edmunds store in one of the largest rooftop solar PV installations in East Anglia. ‘The panels should significantly reduce the amount of electricity we consume from the national grid. We have another large store in Ipswich and a 76,000sqft warehouse on the east side of town, which could both be considered for the same sort of thing in the future,’ says Paul Glasswell, Glasswells md.

‘This is a large investment for the company, however, the long term benefits to the environment and the reduction in our carbon footprint over the next 30 years are certainly worth the initial outlay. This venture identifies Glasswells as a forward thinking, progressive and environmentally responsible organisation within East Anglia,’ he adds.

Visit: www.glasswells.co.uk

Since Harry Ponsford opened a shop in the front room of his house in the Sheffield suburb of Heeley in 1893, the company has been family-owned.

‘Business is going from strength to strength – the days of furniture stores are not numbered in the face of online competition,’ says Adrian Ponsford, Ponsford md and Harry’s grandson.

‘We own our premises and are financially sound.’

Ponsford covers 60,000sqft and has tens of thousands of products on display.

Adrian is particularly proud of the care taken with deliveries. All

products are unpacked and inspected – regardless of how good the packaging is – and then repacked in Ponsford’s own packaging. ‘I don’t want any complaints.

I want customers to come away with a good feeling,’ he says.

Visit: www.ponsford.co.uk

Glasswells through the ages

Ponsford Best Furniture Retailer (1-2 stores)

Ponsford covers 60,000sqft in two buildings

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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AWARDS

Martin Phillips Best Flooring Retailer (3 plus stores) Value is the central message in Martin Phillips’ marketing

Milners Best Flooring Retailer (1-2 stores)

Milners’ Ashtead store

Loaf Best Online Retailer

Souffle sofa

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Interiors Monthly August 2014

In 1981 the late Martin Phillips opened his first carpet store in Newtownards, County Down.

There are now seven Martin Phillips stores making it the largest independent flooring retailer in Northern Ireland.

In 2007 it opened a dedicated wood flooring and rug store in Newtownards to complement the carpets and vinyls already sold there and also increased the wood flooring products in the other six stores, which now also stock rugs.

Although Phillips passed away in 2006, his vision and commitment to customer service continues.

‘Thanks to our staff we were still able to implement the processes he created. We have been able to grow and develop the brand year-on-year because we have recognised what our customers want and have reacted to it,’ says Donald Mercer, Martin Phillips md.

Visit: www.martinphillipscarpets.co.uk

Milners began selling from a van in 1991 before opening a small store in the affluent village of Ashtead, Surrey. The company now sells curtains from that store with flooring and waterbeds sold from the larger premises across the road.

Last year the company marked the 10th anniversary of it joining the Greendale buying group, and Garry Milner, Milners md, remains as convinced of the benefits of membership as he was when he joined.

‘All the staff are geared up to sell Greendale. You can’t go wrong really, it’s a debranded buying group and we’ve only got one other member close to us so it makes sense as we get a better margin. We choose to have quite a lot of Greendale products but there are a lot

we don’t take if we don’t think it fits with the store. We are a mid to top end retailer, we’re not budget end. We start at £12.99 for our carpets and sell lots at over £50 a sqm.

‘Greendale is our largest supplier. We do well over £100,000 a year with Greendale, it’s grown every year since we joined,’ he adds.

Visit: www.milners.com

‘Following on from our enormous success in the online market, we now want to establish a physical presence to complement our etail offer. While Loaf has experienced rapid sales growth year on year since our 2008 start-up, we want our customers to be able to interact with our growing range of products, while retaining our unique approach to retailing,’ says Charlie Marshall, Loaf founder.

Online furniture and homewares retailer Loaf is to target showrooms of 4,000sqft – 12,000sqft as it looks for 10 outlets in London and the South East.

The retailer wants to open five branches in ‘prominent south-west

London locations’ in the next three years and five more in the South East by the end of 2017.

It wants to uphold its reputation for non-conformist retailing by setting up Loaf Shacks, breaking from the traditional formal setting by launching large, informal showrooms. ‘The Loaf Shacks will operate in a manner that reflects our products: relaxed and easygoing, but without ever compromising on the high quality standards that define Loaf as a brand,’ he adds.

Marshall sold a minority stake in Loaf to Monsoon founder Peter Simon in January.

Visit: www.loaf.com