The Harrogate show goes from strength-to-strength and expands this year to cover over 300 UK and international brands under one roof, as well as demos, presentations and networking opportunities.
Read all the exhibitor previews, events and highlights – pages 35–56
Seamless style
Contemporary classics combine enduring design elements with modern aesthetics
pages 32–33
Meet the finalists for Harrogate page 20
Underlay excels
Ensure you meet British Standards page 24 Five fine fitters
Carpetright woes
Leading chain under threat Business news – page 28
Pinnacle performance
IVC handles intense use with ease page 19
Social Plastic
LeoLine’s backing eco initiative page 20
Euro focus on carpets
Domotex builds for 2025 showcase page 20
Sub-floor solutions
Getting floors fixed faster page 57–59
Aspire and innovate
Moduleo motivates with Roots page 22
Precision pressure
Explore F Ball’s adhesive expertise page 59
COUNTRY COLLECTION
Image: Studio Designs Ebony Oak Herringbone CLH22
N E W L A U N C H : R E T A I L E R P O R T A L
We are proud to announce the launch of our new retailer portal, designed to streamline your experience and enhance efficiency.
We are committed to providing a simple, convenient platform that meets your business needs seamlessly Scan the QR code or visit customerportal hughmackay co
to register
Meet the team!
FIND YOUR LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE HERE:
Gloria Newell
M: 07718 762236
E: gloria.newell@penthousecarpets.co.uk
Areas covered: All Scottish Regions.
Ian Henderson
M: 07974 141919
E: ian.henderson@penthousecarpets.co.uk
Areas covered: Lancashire, Merseyside, Cheshire (inc SK9, SK10, SK11), Greater Manchester, (inc SK1 to SK8, SK12, SK14 to SK16), Clwyd and Gwynedd.
David Harris
M: 07801 538763
E: david.harris@penthousecarpets.co.uk
Areas covered: Hertfordshire, Essex, North London, West London and East London.
& WORCESTER
Emily Round
M: 07753 983714
E: emily.round@penthousecarpets.co.uk
Areas covered: Gloucester, Avon, West Midlands, Shropshire, Hereford and Worcester.
EAST MIDLANDS & SOUTH EAST
Simon Beeby
M: 07775 913380
E: simon.beeby@penthousecarpets.co.uk
Areas covered: Berkshire (split), Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Leicestershire and Northamptonshire.
John Pringle
M: 07825 991405
E: john.pringle@penthousecarpets.co.uk
Areas covered: Cumbria, Kirby Lonsdale via. Carnforth, Isle of Man, Cleveland, Northumberland, Durham and Tyne & Wear.
Christine Searle
M: 07939 051608
E: christine.searle@penthousecarpets.co.uk
Areas covered: North Humberside, West Yorkshire and North Yorkshire.
Steven Crowhurst
M: 07919 047930
E: steven.crowhurst@penthousecarpets.co.uk
Areas covered: Kent, South London, Central London, Surrey, East Sussex and West Sussex
Guy Legg
M: 07801 357622
E: guy.legg@penthousecarpets.co.uk
Areas covered: South Yorkshire, Sheffield, South Humberside, Grimsby, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Staffordshire, Derbyshire (inc SK13, SK17, SK22 and SK23).
Gavin Walters
T: 07711 353 982
E: gavin.walters@penthousecarpets.co.uk
Areas covered: Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire.
SOUTH WEST SOUTH COAST
Graham Wood
M: 07825 171482
E: graham.wood@penthousecarpets.co.uk
Areas covered: Somerset, Devon and Cornwall.
Herbie Montgomery (Agent)
M: 07774 695333
E: herbiehsm@gmail.com
Areas covered: Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland.
To find out more, please call our sales team on 01706 639 866 or visit penthousecarpets.co.uk
Jason Andrews
M: 07767 213236
E: jason.andrews@penthousecarpets.co.uk
Areas covered: Berkshire (split), Hampshire, Wiltshire, Dorset and Isle of Wight.
James Thomas (Agent)
M: 07932 458032
E: juncture2002@aol.com
Areas covered: West Glamorgan, Mid Glamorgan, South Glamorgan, Gwent, Dyfed and Powys.
EAST ANGLIA, CAMBRIDGESHIRE & BEDFORDSHIRE
Trade Counter locations: Orpington Croydon Basildon Hemel Hempstead Cambridge Bar Hill
SALES: 0845 899 1000
INSPIRING YOUR PROJECTS - COST EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS
Each Elegance Royale Plank has been skilfully created using a new super matt technology (Gra-Matt™Ultra) that makes the floor visually closer to natural wood, unlike many other glossy LVT products. Each design accurately mimics the texture of natural timber while incorporating multitonal variance to give your herringbone floor realistic character and depth.
Coming soon...
New for Autumn 2024, our best selling Universal range will be updated and we will launch a new collection; Universal Design. Coming to UK stores soon.
DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR THE FLOORING TRADE
FLOORINGNEWS
Pinnacle of performance
Made with the new Performance Barrier integrated protection layer, IVC Commercial’s Iperform 70 is the pinnacle of heavy duty heterogeneous vinyl. Making Iperform 70 stronger and more stable than the brand’s previous Concept 70 heavy-duty floor, Performance Barrier also enhances appearance retention for a surface that stays looking good for longer under intense use.
Iperform 70 is also equipped with other features that make it ideal for areas that come under intense use but that also need a design-focused flooring solution. Hyperguard+ reduces scratches and stains while making maintenance easier and Sanitec anti-bacterial protection makes sure the floor stays hygienic – important additions to the functionality of this high-performance floor. Combined with a 0.70mm wear layer that sees a Class 34 rating, these features make Iperform 70 the ultimate heavy duty compact floor.
It’s back, and bigger
The Flooring Show is set to be the biggest event ever. Read our preview of what’s happening in Harrogate this September. pages 35–56
Seamless style
Rita Bancroft explores the enduring appeal of contemporary classics page 32–33
IVC Commercial has delivered on design with plank, herringbone and chevron effects in modern wood tones, terrazzo, concrete, textile and bright all-over colours. But the real highlights are the collection’s endless wood designs that are not only great to look at, but also quick to install and which reduce installation waste: endless wood allows for fitting just as easily as any all-over design. All designs are available in two- and four-metre widths.
Jake Parks, Sales Manager Commercial, says: “Iperform 70 leads the way when it comes to heavy duty compact flooring. Its new Performance Barrier promises great long-term appearance while its wear layer means it can withstand use in the busiest of commercial spaces. What’s more, we’ve made it available in a really wide range of looks, so whether it’s a leisure centre, housing project, entertainment venue, shop, school or care home; you’ll find the perfect design.”
Every Iperform 70 installation has access to IVC Commercial’s Recover programme that takes back installation off-cuts for recycling. Recycled Recover material is used as raw material for new LVT. T 0330 1222 133 • www.ivc-commercial.com
Sustainable showcase
Subfloor success
Don’t let poor sub-floors sink your schedule – there is a better way! pages 57–59
The new Ecorugs display from Louis De Poortere is now ready for stores looking to make the most of the more sustainable rug range.
Made to be recycled thanks to an all-polyester construction, Louis De Poortere’s Ecorugs is unique in the UK flooring industry and gives retailers an opportunity to offer environmentally conscious customers a choice that doesn’t compromise quality or style.
With the launch of a dedicated display unit for Ecorugs, retailers can now make more of the collection in store. The smart and compact unit holds swatch books of Ecorugs, while powerful graphics carry the messages of this pioneering rug offer.
Alan Russell, sales director, Louis De Poortere, says: “Ecorugs is a fantastic opportunity for retailers to engage with their customers who want to make more sustainable buying choices. Bringing attention to the collection that combines its unique messaging with feeler samples, we hope that the new display launches many conversations on why the all-polyester construction and Take Care Program make Ecorugs the better way to invest in a rug.
“We believe that simply creating the possibility for something to be recycled is not enough, you must also give an easy way for it to be recycled. With the QR code and free return of Take Care, we’ve achieved exactly that and it’s something that retailers can use to make a compelling argument as to why an Ecorug is a conscious decision to embrace a more sustainable way of buying home decoration.”
Louis De Poortere’s entire rug collection has been transformed into the Ecorugs 100% recyclable construction, so from now on every rug supplied takes the company one step closer to create a completely circular product. Currently, 20% of every rug uses recycled PET (downcycled plastic bottles) with the manufacturer setting a target of 100% recycled content in 2025. The Ecorugs display is now available to stores across the country. www.louisdepoortere.com
FLOORINGNEWS
LeoLine backs Social Plastic
LeoLine’s textile backed floors use a backing composed entirely from 100% recycled material, including Social Plastic from Plastic Bank.
Not only are LeoLine’s textile backed floors made to bring a floor that’s fast and easy to install, but they also do social good thanks to Social Plastic from Plastic Bank. Under the Plastic Bank initiative, communities across Indonesia, Brazil and Egypt gather unwanted plastic exchanging it against life improving benefits including health, work and life insurance, digital connectivity, grocery vouchers, school supplies and more.
LeoLine purchases this Social Plastic for use in its textile backing alongside other downcycled plastic. So far, Social Plastic has gathered 130,744,449kg of plastic waste and works with over 50,000 members in more than 500 communities. By using Social Plastic in its textile backed floors, LeoLine is stopping unwanted plastic entering the oceans and supporting sustainable economic growth.
The use of Social Plastic comes alongside initiatives helping to reduce the environmental impact of LeoLine flooring. These include the use of wind energy through three on-site turbines at its Avelgem manufacturing site, the use of river water in production cooling to give a 30% increase in energy efficiency and the recycling of post-industrial vinyl waste.
Stuart Reeves, sales and marketing director UK, says: “As a manufacturer, we’re responsible for the impact our product has on the planet and its people and so we are always looking for ways in which we can fulfil our responsibility. The use of Social Plastic lets us achieve social impact and also helps with our commitment to use materials responsibly. It can be found in all LeoLine textile backed floors meaning that every square metre installed in UK homes is contributing to a better life for some of the world’s poorest communities.”
T 0800 032 3970 • www.leoline.co.uk
Euro flooring focus on carpets
Following the keynote theme ‘True Connections. Excellence in Design’, exhibitors from all over the world will be displaying their innovations in Hannover from 16 to 19 January 2025.
In January next year, Domotex will set in motion a new two-year cycle: from 2025 onwards, the Carpets & Rugs Edition will be a central meeting place for the world of carpets at the Hannover Exhibition Grounds in all odd-numbered years.
In 2026, as in all even years, Domotex will once again bring together the entire international floor coverings industry under one roof.
“It was important for us to focus entirely on the needs of the industry,” explains Sonia Wedell-Castellano, Global Director of Domotex. “In close consultation with our top exhibitors and the market, we have developed a strategy to make The Carpets & Rugs Edition as compact and efficient as possible. To this end, we have adapted our supporting programme and planned new special formats and networking opportunities.”
Visitors can look forward to unique designs and exciting live talks that will make their visit worthwhile. In January, the Carpet Design Awards (CDA) celebrate their 20th anniversary. Part of the CDA area will be the exciting ‘Domotex on Stage’. With speakers from the worlds of interior architecture and design, production and retail, the conference programme offers a holistic view of the industry’s future issues.
In the new ‘Trend Café’, visitors can experience tomorrow’s interior trends in one central location and find out about sustainable products. The special display, with its integrated coffee bar and lounge area, is also the ideal place to meet new and existing business contacts throughout the fair.
www.domotex.de
Five line up for fitter finals
The NICF has announced the five top fitters who will battle it out for the title of the Fitter of the Year in September.
Their selection follows the close fought semi-finals at the FITA training centre in Loughborough last month.
This year’s competition focuses on carpet (in alternate years the event switches between LVT and carpet).
The finals are taking place over two days, 15 and 16 September, in The Kings Suite of the exhibition centre during The Flooring Show in Harrogate. The winner will be announced at 4.30pm on Monday 16 September on the competition stand.
The five finalist are (pictured top to bottom) are:
Darren Ash – Alfrick, Worcestershire
Richard Long – Dundee, Angus
Joni Reeves – Skipton, North Yorkshire
Steve Whitburn – Torquay, Devon
Gareth Williams – Launceston, Cornwall
The Stocklists are a proud sponser of the competition and congratulates all five on getting through. Good luck!
www.nicfltd.org.uk/FOTY-Competition
FLOORINGNEWS
Aspirational innovation
Made in Belgium for a floor of exceptional quality made with the latest in technology, Moduleo Roots is a luxury vinyl collection that makes the aspirations of homeowners possible. With 130 different floors that embrace the latest trends and celebrate the classics, Roots brings the ability to combine different styles and bring self-expression to the floor.
Across six different worlds, homeowners can explore design options that connect to nature and bring the outside in, but it is the quality of each and every design that shines through. Oak grooves you can actually feel and cloud-like concrete colours that stir the senses: Roots is a collection that delivers beauty and emotion.
For homes that are looking for the best in realism, then Moduleo’s EIR (emboss in register) mimics texture perfectly, synchronised with the pattern in every grain, knot and marking for a floor that’s true-to-nature.
Soft and silent underfoot, as well as slip and water-resistant, Moduleo floors also come with improved scratch and stain resistance thanks to the ultradurable Protectonite finish. And with 0.40mm and 0.55mm wear layers, homeowners can choose their floor based on durability and area of use.
Moduleo Roots is also made with the environment in mind. Using a mix of old flooring and internally recycled production waste for its backing, Moduleo also harnesses renewable energy sources to power production. And because it’s made in Belgium, Moduleo floors also don’t have far to travel to reach homes right across the UK.
Matthew Brook, national sales manager, Moduleo: “The Roots collection offers UK homes something really different for their choice of flooring. Teaming limestone tiles with classic oak or cloud-like concrete with exotic wenge or walnut, adding borders or using herringbone to zone spaces; there’s just so many possibilities. It’s aspiration, quality and functionality rolled into one.”
The Moduleo Roots collection is available in a range of display options. With strapsets, high and low slot displays and the shop-in-shop, every retail store can welcome the Roots collection and open up a world of flooring possibilities.
T 01332 851 500 • www.moduleo.co.uk
Reliable alternative to plywood
Swap out your plywood for the readily available engineered fibreboard and say goodbye to supply worries and unforeseen shortages says Lion Floor.
With shipping prices from China more than doubling over recent months and competition to secure the best rates high, you may soon experience availability problems with your chosen plywood. But why suffer stock shortages and supply issues when you can make the switch to Lion Floor and enjoy the ready availability of this European sourced and made alternative?
Made in Finland using by-products from the country’s wood industries, Lion Floor has a simpler supply chain that’s less prone to shipping delays and cost fluctuations. This means you can be confident that Lion Floor is always available and less susceptible to unexpected cost increases. Over recent years, Finnish Fibreboard has worked to make the high quality product available at more places and so wherever you are in the country, you should be able to take full advantage of this trusted alternative to BS 8203 plywood.
Peter Jones, Finnish Fibreboard, says: “With independent tests proving its capabilities and a construction that eliminates some of the common issues found in plywood, Lion Floor has got a reputation for being a high-quality alternative to BS 8203 plywood for installers aiming for a first class resilient floor installation. But just because it offers a stronger and more reliable board doesn’t mean it’s more expensive or harder to lay our hands on. It’s quite the opposite in fact.”
What’s more, Lion Floor European origin also reduces the environmental impact of shipping and as its made from waste wood material as opposed to newly felled trees, it has the lowest environmental impact of any equivalent product, including European made plywood .
Thankfully, for everyone keen to make the switch, Lion Floor is also just as easy to install as plywood. As it can be cut cleanly and quickly, it’s arguably even simpler to achieve a high-quality subfloor ready for your LVT or sheet vinyl flooring installation. Lion Floor is also oil-tempered for better protection against moisture, withstands higher point loads than plywood boards and is pre-conditioned so there’s no need for wetting before use.
www.finfib.fi
your space
Exciting brand-new brands being showcased such as our bleach-cleanable, spill, stain and splash resistant Easy Living carpet and our Easy Natural wool range which has been highly praised by customers
FLOORINGNEWS
Ball’s better buckets
F. Ball and Co. Ltd. has refreshed the visual designs of its iconic yellow buckets used for the company’s Styccobond adhesives to aid selection and help flooring contractors assess value when comparing products.
The new designs have been introduced to simplify and modernise the look of the plastic buckets, in keeping with new smoothing compound sacks introduced last year, while the product formulations remain the same.
Product information on the front of the buckets includes the adhesive name, key features and volume, as well as the instantly recognisable F. Ball brand. In addition, the buckets now detail coverage rates to help flooring contractors work out how much of an adhesive they need for a particular project and compare value with alternative products, especially where competitor products are sold by weight rather than volume.
QR codes on the reverse link to detailed technical information and videos demonstrating application, as well as F. Ball’s Recommended Adhesives Guide (RAG), allowing you to easily check the compatibility of the adhesive and chosen floorcoverings.
The buckets, when empty, can also continue to be disposed of for recycling at participating locations, for free, as part of the F. Ball Recycling Scheme.
Commenting on the redesigned packaging, F. Ball sales director Karl Brannigan said: “The idea behind the refresh was to modernise the appearance, in-line with new smoothing compound packaging introduced last year, and help flooring professionals choose the optimum adhesive for a particular project, while retaining the wellestablished F. Ball branding that is familiar to flooring contractors and retailers throughout the country. The addition of coverage rates will also make it easier to identify which adhesives offer better value and save costs without compromising on installation quality.”
T 01538 361 633 • www.f-ball.co.uk
Uncompromising underlay
With the quality and value of floorwise underlays there’s no need to compromise on proven performance and risk your reputation down the line.
When the pressure to deliver value is on, there is always a temptation to seek out products to satisfy the customer’s desire for the lowest possible installation costs. But floorwise warns this isn’t always the best strategy, particularly when those ‘affordable’ underlays compromise quality and longevity. Often untested in line with British Standards, these products may drive down cost in the short term but at what price to your reputation in the long term?
Recommending a good quality underlay that’s passed British Standards and which is guaranteed to perform will ensure your reputation will never be compromised. floorwise is committed to making sure all underlays – even its most affordable – are tested against relevant British and European Standards to ensure that they deliver superb quality and the best comfort and resilience in every roll.
There are four British Standards that are particularly relevant to carpet underlay. If you don’t want to risk the future of your installation and keep your hard earned reputation intact, make sure the underlay you choose has been tested and proven to meet all of these.
Making sure your underlays meet British Standards is a good way to ensure that the underlay you are recommending to your customer meets their basic needs, but it’s also important to recognise that these are the minimum requirements for any UK carpet installation. Just because an underlay meets British Standards doesn’t mean that it’s up to the task of delivering comfort and durability over the life of the carpet. That comes down to the manufacturing quality, density and thickness of the product.
That’s why floorwise makes sure that right across its underlay range it provides accurate performance data so that they deliver on their comfort and performance promises, so you can meet the expectations of customers and minimise reputational risk.
T 01509 673974 • www.floorwise.co.uk
The Flooring Show 2024 – preview
The Harrogate show goes from strength-to-strength and expands this year to cover over 300 UK and international brands under one roof, as well as demos, presentations and networking opportunities. Read
Joining the NICF has worked really well for my business and me. Customers can find me listed on the NICF website where they can read the reviews of my work, giving peace of mind that the job will be carried out to the highest standard. Getting a big discount on FITA courses helped me improve my skills too.”
FLOORING TRADE
Membership gives clients assurance of quality workmanship
Use of NICF logo — promote yourself as a quality installer
FREE NICF website listing — helps to gain work opportunities
FREE Technical Advice and Business Support Helplines
15% OFF FITA* Standard Training Courses/Workshops: Improve your existing skills, learn to fit new flooring types, learn new fitting techniques and reduce the number of complaints
Discounts on tools and workwear
FREE use of the NICF Guide to Domestic Flooring
FREE annual magazine subscription to The Stocklists and CFJ
nicfltd.org.uk
Tel: 0115 958 3077 E: info@nicfltd.org.uk
TRAINING COURSES — 1 TO 4 DAYS
Carpet Fitting — Basic
Carpet Fitting — Intermediate
PROFESSIONAL FLOORING TRAINING
FITA provides short training courses, workshops and assessments for both commercial and domestic markets. Both our fully equipped training centres at Loughborough and Kirkcaldy are run by seasoned professional instructors with specialist knowledge of the flooring industry.
Cost-Effective Estimating and Planning — Commercial
Profitable Measuring and Quoting — Domestic
Moisture — Preventing Floor Failures
NICF Fitter Rob Fitzgerald
The floor training facility in Stafford includes sub-floor preparation, LVT fitting, wet room installations, wood floor sealing, and resin flooring installation courses. Plus, much more, starting from £75.00 per person.
SCAN THE QR CODE TO FIND TRAINING DATES AND FURTHER INFORMATION OR JOIN THE WAITING LIST
BUSINESSNEWS
Tapi reported to be closing in on Carpetright
As The Stocklists went to press, Tapi was in discussions on a deal to rescue its struggling rival Carpetright, having made a formal bid to purchase the brand name and an undisclosed number of its stores.
According to reports in The Times, Tapi has emerged as the front runner in a move that could save hundreds of jobs but also result in a substantial rationalisation of Carpetright’s 272-store estate.
Carpetright filed a notice of intent on July 12 to appoint administrators but says it is working on plans to secure its way forward with additional investment. The notice protects the business against creditors while sale negotiations proceed, but it expires after two weeks.
“We have begun promising conversations with interested parties that are moving in the right direction, encouraging us that Carpetright has a viable future,” said Kevin Barrett, CEO of parent company Nestware Holdings.
Carpetright has told customers it is not closing down and that it is safe to place orders in store and that existing orders and fittings will take place as usual. However, it has discontinued taking orders online and says it is unable to provide any customer refunds at this time
According to The Times newspaper, talks are understood to be taking place over rescuing as many stores as possible. As well as Tapi, Carpetright is understood to have approached sister company The
Furnishing sales volumes boosted
June saw sales of furniture and flooring rise by over 9% according to debit and credit card data from Barclays.
Analysis of the latest Barclays Consumer Spending Index shows transactions up 9.1% compared to this time last year. The value of sales was marginally down 0.3%, an indication of falling retail price inflation in the sector. This compares to home improvement and DIY stores declining in sales value by 9.4%, with transaction growth down 7.2%.
Carpet imports slump in slow summer
Carpet imports into the UK have seen a sharp decline as slow summer demand for flooring takes its toll on manufacturers in the Netherlands and Belgium.
According to HMRC figures, UK trade buyers brought in £132m worth of flooring in May, down 7.8% year-on-year. Vinyl and wood figures were fairly flat so it was carpet that was responsible for the slump with imports down 13%. The Netherlands saw a hefty 31% fall and Belgium fell 16%. The data negates gains in April when carpet imports showed their first increase (10%) in over six months.
In 2024 to date, total flooring imports, of which carpets are more than half, are down 5.2%.
Martin Harris leaves Tapi Carpets & Floors
Tapi co-founder Martin Harris has left the 170–stores chain a decade after its formation to pursue other interests.
His father, carpet king Lord Harris continues to be involved in the business along with other family members. Martin Harris had already stepped down as CEO of Tapi Carpets & Floors and the company has now confirmed he has resigned from the board.
Flooring Room, the operator of flooring concessions at John Lewis, as well as B&Q owner Kingfisher and others to gauge potential interest.
Any re-structuring plan is likely to involve reducing its 272 store portfolio and re-negotiating rents with landlords. A purchase by Tapi may also attract intervention by the Government’s Competition & Markets Authority which could delay any transaction.
We reported in May that the group was cutting around 70 jobs at its Essex headquarters, equating to more than 25% of head office staff, but the company said at that time that it was “not in planning” for another company voluntary arrangement (CVA). The retailer was forced to turn to a CVA in 2018 to exit over 90 under-performing shops and reduce rents.
Underlying losses before tax for the the 14 months to January 1, 2022 were £23.4 million, an improvement on a previous loss of £53 million.
In addition to more than 270 stores in the UK employing some 2,000 staff, the company has over 100 outlets in Holland, Belgium and Ireland.
Carpetright has been under intensive competitive pressure and was also hit by a serious cyber attack in April. It called in advisers Teneo earlier this year to look at cost-cutting measures.
Carpetright was founded in east London in 1988 by Philip Harris, later Lord Harris, who stepped down as chairman in 2014 and whose son Martin started the Tapi chain that has competed head-to-head with Carpetright ever since. (Martin Harris resigned from the Tapi board earlier this year.).
In a statement to The Furnishing Report, the company said: “Martin Harris agreed to step down as CEO four years ago and stepped down from an executive capacity earlier this year. The business is firing on all cylinders with many of the founders still in the business and Tapi is still very much a Harris business, with Lord Harris and Charlie Harris both in senior positions within the company.”
Housing boost for flooring
A turnaround in housing transactions has boosted prospects for flooring retailers as growth in property sales hit a near two-year high.
According to HMRC data, housing transactions were up over 17% in May, following on from an 8% rise in April. This is the fastest growth in 19 months – year-on-year property transactions were negative every month between December 2022 and March 2024.
People moving house is a key driver of big ticket purchases by consumers such as flooring, furniture and appliances. These purchase trends typically lag housing transaction growth by about six months as new homeowners plan the refurbishment of their new properties.
Labour’s victory in the General Election may add to the optimism in the medium term with the promise of a relaxation of planning constraints to accelerate house building.
United franchise making progress
The 50+ store franchise United Carpets & Beds – the UK’s 3rd biggest carpet retailer – saw sales growth of 3.5% last year in an “ever-tightening” market.
In United’s latest filed accounts for the year ended 28 September 2023, sales rose 3.5% to £27m. Pre-tax profit were £1m, down from £1.5m in 2022, due primarily to investments in warehousing.
your space
In the last five years, Kellars has developed into a powerhouse in the commission-made manufacturing world. With six depots, a dedicated fleet of 51 vehicles - including artics, curtain siders, and lorries - and 113 experienced employees, we have grown significantly. We offer a portfolio of eight Exclusive and recognisable brands. Combined with a wonderful customer base, this has made us truly unique within the wholesale market.
Kellars Flooring Brands
Our history:
We started in Stockport with one warehouse, three drivers, three reps, and three warehouse employees. This has expanded to 24 reps, four regional sales managers, and a key accounts manager, enabling us to service the north, south, east, and west from five distribution hubs, totalling over 300,000 square feet of warehouse space.
Establishing our identity, we have invested in our unique brands and developed our portfolio to deliver stylish carpets and flooring. Our commitment to our
customers has led to significant investment in our polyester yarn offerings. With eight of our ranges made from polyester, these products provide the softness of nylon with the durability to withstand bleach cleaning—ideal for family-friendly flooring. Our Easy Living brand combines luxury with practicality, ensuring spills, stains and splashes can be easily cleaned, keeping the flooring looking as good as new.
Where we are now
Over the past five years, we have launched a variety of popular products, many at the Harrogate Flooring Show. Here, we showcased our brands to consumers and received highly positive feedback - possibly helped by Frannie’s Bar and the after-party! The Harrogate Show has been instrumental in our success and our winning this award due to our ability to showcase our full portfiolio and each year, showing our customers our development.
Join us this year on the 15th to the 17th of September at stand A17 for your chance to win some epic prizes on spin the wheel.
Despite the constraints the market faces, we are proud to say we have launched nine new products this year to date, making us the industry leader in new product launches. This includes seven new carpet ranges (all bleach-cleanable), doubled colorways for our Alva (LVT), a brand-new luxury Allora Luxe (SPC), and three new vinyl products.
We have also updated our point-of-sale (POS) offerings with new stand types, which have been highly praised for providing customers with a more seamless experience.
The future
What are we planning on achieving?
• To be one of the largest flooring suppliers in the industry.
• To achieve national coverage across the whole of the UK (currently not supplying to the southwest and south coast).
• To continue developing and increasing our range of natural based products.
• To continue to meet customer demand for design and colour palates, bringing you want you to see in your home.
Finally, from all of us here at Kellars, we want to thank you, our customers, for voting for us as ‘Wholesaler of the Year’ and helping us win this award. Here’s to more bleach-cleanable, family-friendly, luxury flooring!
Marketing insights
The seamless style of contemporary classics
Contemporary classics seamlessly blend enduring design elements with modern styles, creating a timeless fusion of traditional and innovative flooring concepts.
It’s no surprise that some of the most enduring LeoLine designs reflect the demand for versatile styles that seamlessly adapt to interior trends. Take York, for example. This design, inspired by traditional black and white checkerboard tiles, has navigated transitions from classic to retro to contemporary trends. Whether evoking the feel of an American diner or fitting into minimalist interiors, its simplicity makes it a popular choice for those who frequently update their home decor.
Similarly, the herringbone pattern remains a favourite. Rooted in traditional flooring styles, its design is as relevant today as it was in grand stately homes. This pattern can create a sense of space in smaller rooms, while adding an extra layer of interest to larger spaces. This style unadulteratedly plays on its historic parquet roots, but with technology and manufacturing progress, we’re able to offer this design to cope with the modern stresses of home life, ensuring that this style remains a popular, affordable and easily maintained option.
The ability to match classic styles for contemporary interior design schemes ensures longevity, making them a sound investment for retailers and consumers alike.
Aspirational style meets liveable luxury at Karndean Designflooring
This year’s key interior trends combine the sophistication of luxury homes such as the Italian palazzo or New York penthouse with comfort and functionality to create curated spaces to be proud of.
Fleur Carson, managing director at Karndean Designflooring, explained:
“When we consider the concept of luxury design we automatically think of expensive precious materials. But in reality, what our customers really want is a comfortable home that’s both elegant and easy to live with.”
The new Art Select range by Karndean Designflooring offers all the natural beauty of the world’s most opulent floors with the practical benefits of the latest flooring technology. Its largest ever launch sees the introduction of 20 brand new wood designs with endless scope to create expressive and individual interiors.
Fleur added: “Two years in the making, our latest Art Select collection presents some of the most beautiful and rarely available woods, such as English ash and European oak, with the versatility to mix and match laying patterns.
“Take for example our holm oak designs. Inspired by a sample of a 400 year old tree from the Basque region of Spain, we have painstakingly reproduced its richly distinctive grain and interesting burnished knots. Then we added a muted milky wash and a handscraped emboss for an authentic rustic effect. Available in three colourways and a choice of two plank sizes, a full size 56” x 9” plank and 28” x 4.5” herringbone plank, customers can achieve a luxury style that reflects their individuality and suits their lifestyle.”
Stripes are a firm favourite in home decor, celebrated for their versatility and timeless appeal. Their simplicity allows for endless variations in size and colour, making them adaptable to virtually any interior scheme.
One of the practical benefits of stripes is their ability to conceal dirt, making them ideal for high-traffic areas such as stairs. However, their popularity has grown far beyond these spaces as homeowners embrace different scales and hues throughout their homes, from broad, bold stripes to subtle pinstripes.
Wide or narrow, striped carpets have the unique ability to visually elongate and expand a room, whilst providing the perfect colour inspiration for introducing other patterns to the design scheme. Stripes pair particularly well with checks and geometric shapes for a graphicinspired interior but can also provide a stylish contrast to floral designs adding understated elegance and sophistication.
LeoLine, Aspire collection, York
Karndean Designflooring, Clay Artisan Oak
Karndean Designflooring, Summerhouse Ash
Adam Carpets offer three distinctive stripe ranges, each with its own unique character: Pinstripe: This sophisticated tailored stripe stands out with its innovative combination of twist and velvet yarns, creating a smart, clean, and sharply defined pattern. Deckchair: Featuring broad stripes in vivid, playful colours, this design uses a mix of twist and velvet yarns to add textured interest. Panache: This design features a broken stripe effect that blends colours harmoniously. The choice of colour palettes allows you to create a subtle backdrop or a striking statement.
With these diverse options, Adam Carpets ensure that there is a perfectstripe for every taste and interior style, bringing a blend of tradition and contemporary flair to your home. All designs are made in Adam Carpets Kidderminster factory using premium accredited UK wool and available in 4 metre widths.
With award-winning woven textile designer Margo Selby, Alternative Flooring has reinvented the stripe, to create a range of playful carpet designs which turn your floor into a must-see masterpiece. This renowned collection is designed to make a bold statement and the clever use of colour and scale creates a balanced stripe carpet with a contemporary edge. Vibrant, versatile and available in a range of colours, from cheerful and bold multi-coloured designs to tonal ticking stripes, there is a style to suit every interior scheme.
by Rita Bancroft
Rita is Director of Bancmarketing Ltd and has over 30 years of marketing experience with a proven track record in both business to
Founded nearly 30 years ago, Alternative Flooring believes that a carpet is never just a carpet and championing the beauty and variety of carpets, rugs and runners has been their mission from the very beginning. Always priding themselves on their three founding key values: People, Product and Planet.
Manor from Furlong Flooring is an exquisite and easy-to-install herringbone laminate floor that embodies contemporary elegance and modern aesthetic look. Manor’s classic herringbone pattern offers a fresh interpretation of a beloved design, perfect for contemporary living spaces. With herringbone flooring in high demand, Manor stands out with its authentic, matt wood structure, enhancing various interiors.
Designed to allow customers to zone and link areas of the home through an effortless mix-and-match of stripes, carpet can be introduced from wall-to-wall or as a decorative made-to-measure rug or stair runner, via the Make Me a Rug or Runner Service.
Not only beautiful to the eye, this statement collection is also designed to last. Crafted from high-quality 100% wool, that is durable, long-lasting and scrumptiously soft underfoot. .
A key feature of Manor is its Megaloc twin installation system, which eliminates the need for left and right planks, consisting solely of A planks. This innovation simplifies installation, minimises waste, and supports environmental consciousness. Manor can also be installed as a floating floor using a convenient fold-down technique, adding to its flexibility.
Manor offers superb versatility for a range of interior styles, from minimalist settings to luxurious homes. Dynamic patterns can be achieved through lengthwise, crosswise, or diagonal installation, with the herringbone pattern making rooms appear more spacious and inviting.
Available in eight natural colour variations, from light to dark oak tones and an exclusive walnut design, Manor allows for a perfect hue to suit any aesthetic vision. Crafted from FSC-certified wood, Manor aligns with Furlong’s commitment to sustainability.
Furlong Flooring continues to set a high standard in the industry with its commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.
Alternative Flooring, Margo Selby Stripe Frolic Westbrook Carpet
Furlong Flooring, Walnut Manor
Adam Carpets Panache and Deckchair stripes
Entries are now open to the iconic Flooring Innovation Awards
The national Flooring Innovation Awards set out to identify products and services that are genuinely new and exceptional in the sector. Award categories cover not only flooring products, but also recognise achievements in service, technology and marketing. The awards scheme website gives full details of all the categories for 2024/2025 and has an entry form for companies to make their submissions to the judges or for readers to suggest their favourite innovation products.
The flooring show is back and bigger!
From 15-17th September, the UK’s market leading trade event dedicated to the flooring industry will be taking over the Harrogate Convention Centre for three days of business, innovation, and celebration. This year’s show is bigger than ever with 30% more exhibitors and extra floor space with the expansion into Hall Q.
Across the three-day show, visitors will be able to meet face-to-face with hundreds of new and established flooring suppliers offering carpet, laminate, LVT, wood, vinyl, cork, grass, underlay, tools and accessories for the contract and retail markets. Buyers will be able to get hands on with products before making decisions and the busy programme of features on offer will ensure all visitors are up to date with the flooring industry’s latest advancements, techniques, and trends. The Flooring Show is free for industry professionals, and you can register for your free ticket at theflooringshow.com today.
the biggest exhibitor list in the business and represents an unrivalled networking opportunity for the trade.
• A T Industries Ltd B17
• Abingdon Flooring Ltd A25
• Adam Carpets Ltd C69
• AFT Aerosol K14
• Alliance Flooring Distribution A35
• Alsa Flooring Q44
• Anglo Flooring Ltd M15
• Anhui Aolo New Materials C20 Technology Co.,LTD.
• Anhui Huaisu Building Materials M49 Co., Ltd
• Artisan Luxury Flooring A5
• Associated Carpet Group C11
• Associated Weavers C44 & C63
• Axminster Carpets Ltd C40
• AYM Syntex Ltd King Suite Lounge
• Baglinox C56A
• Ball & Young Limited M27
• Balta Floorcoverings Limited M23
• Betap Reading Room
• Bjelin UK Q86
• BMK A8
• Bostik Limited B24
• Brampton Chase B39
• Brintons C71
• British Wool C70
• Brockway Carpets C8
• Campen Machinery A/S C67
• Canopy Flooring Company M63
• Cardinal Global Logistics Q32
• Carpenters Limited M38
• Carpet Recycling UK A45
• Carpetline Direct A33
• Cavalier Carpets Ltd C32
• CD Support Ltd kings Suite Cafe
• CFJ B14
• Changzhou Baosheng Wood Q20
• Changzhou Cosyhome New B54
Materials Technology Co., Ltd
• Changzhou Dege Decorative K19 Material Co., Ltd.
• Changzhou Lingda Special Fibre M48 Co., Ltd.
• Changzhou Shangjiaju Wood C57 Industry Co.,Ltd
• Changzhou Surdecor Material C37 Co.,Ltd.
• Changzhou Yee Decorative B18 Material Co., Ltd.
• Chiping Jiahua Plastics Co., Ltd. B45
• Classis BVBA The Billiard Room & The Regency Suite
• Ibexx Flooring Group B.V. Buxton Suite/ Majestic Hotel
• iDEAL Bath Suite Majestic Hotel
• Innov8 | Realitex Q10
• Instarmac Group Limited B50
• Interfloor Limited B22
• Interiors Monthly C36
• J2 Flooring B26
• Jaspa Woven Limited C39
• Jiangsu Langyue New K17 Materials Technology Co., Ltd.
• Jiangsu YMK Floor Co., Ltd. Q76
• Jiangsu ZhenRui Furniture Q56 Material Co., Ltd
• Jiangsu Zhongxinhe New Material K5 Technology Co.,Ltd.
• Juvern LLC C45
• Kährs UK M12
• KDF Co Ltd K10
• Kellars A17
• Kerlux M39
• Kingsmead & Telenzo C30/42
• Kraus B9
• Lano N.V. M24
• Lifestyle Floors B29
• Likewise Floors M28
• Make an Entrance C10
• Mapei UK Ltd B5
• MasterPiece Systems Ltd C76
• Mattex M50
• Measure Square Ltd C14
• Melrose Interiors M41A
• Mercado B61
• Metro Group M53
• Modema C65
• Nanjing Mgm New Materials Co. Ltd C16A
• Nicola Edwards Bespoke C55 Carpet Edging
• Ningbo Narts Import & Export Corp Q54
• O Jia He Home Textile Co., Ltd. Q28
• Packexe Ltd B53
• Penthouse Carpets Ltd C7
• Peri Uk Q94
• Pet Rebellion Limited C24
• Plusfloor Outside Royal Hall
• Proglobal Products/Tailor C23 Made Grass
• QEP Co UK Ltd B9
• Rainbow Whipping Limited Q12
• Rakata Technology Q64
• Ravanda Hali Tekstil San. Ve Tic.ltd.sti. M47
• RBV Flooring Ltd A37
• Rinos K14
• Roberts B9
• Roomvo B58
• Rowlson Industrial Sewing C31
- Rylands Flooring
• Sarva Foam Industries Pvt. Ltd B40
• Satra Technology Centre M9
• Shandong Mingzun New C16 Material Co., Ltd.
• Sichuan Zhongsu Polymer Q98 Materials Co., Ltd.
• Spotnails Ltd B46
• SpringBond C9
• Stairrods UK Ltd B42
• Stroolmount Uk Ltd B44
• Supreme Rugs M1
• Suzhou King Decoration C61 Material Co. Ltd
• Suzhou Swan Lake Felt Co.,Ltd Q58
• T E Displays Uk Ltd C35
• Tailor Made Grass C23
• Tarkett Ltd C12
• T-Build C46
• Terratsa New Material (Liaoning) Q70 Co., Ltd.
• The Flooring Academy @ CP C64 Assessments
• The Stocklists A7
• The Vintage & Modern Rug Company A3
• The WP Group C59
• Tover Srl C56
• Tramex Meters B8
• TRF B56
•
•
•
•
• UK Display Stands M52
• UK Industrial Tapes Limited Q46
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
• Westex Carpets C41
•
•
•
•
•
• XPS Foam B9
• Yangzhou MG Textiles Co., Ltd. M49A
• YTD C22
• Zakmore Independent B41
• Zhangjiagang Yihua Rundong New Q48 Material Co.,Ltd
• Zhejiang Ballun Ecological House Q30 Technology Co., Ltd.
• Zhejiang Eco New Material Co.,Ltd. C60
• Zhejiang Hoy Technology Co.,Ltd. C17
• Zhejiang Kingdom New Material M25 Group Co., Ltd
The line-up of leading flooring companies The Flooring Show, Harrogate, has
UNMISSABLE SHOW HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2024
Next month sees the largest ever edition of The Flooring Show return to its beloved home in Harrogate. To help you make the most of your visit and plan your schedule, here’s some of the key features at the industry event of the year.
Largest line-up
The Flooring Show’s exhibitors span the breadth of the flooring industry, attracting manufacturers and suppliers of carpet, laminate, LVT, wood, vinyl, cork, grass, SPC, as well as underlay, adhesives, software, machinery and tools. The names that visitors know and love will be returning to support the three-day show, and there are plenty of newcomers joining the event this year.
Designer Spotlight - new for 2024
This year The Flooring Show are introducing the Design Spotlight, in response to the demand from architects, interior designers, property developers, and specifiers in search of the most unique, design-oriented residential and contract flooring solutions on the market.
Event Director, Alex Butler, says: “The Design Spotlight is a feature we’ve wanted to introduce for a couple of years now, and the expansion into Hall Q allows us to do just that. We want architects and interior designers to know that The Flooring Show caters for them as much as it does for our contractors and fitters.”
The Wool Trends Centre
Every year there’s a showcase of new developments within the wool carpet sector and this year the feature promises something exceptional. The focus remains on science backed messages regarding the benefits of using wool as opposed to synthetic fibres but they will be presented in a totally new manner.
Chairman of the Wool Carpet Focus Group and Council Member for the Campaign for Wool, Martin Curtis, promises something for the whole family to enjoy and get involved with.
Demo Zone
As always, the Demo Zone, run by the Flooring Industry Training Association (FITA) and supported by the Contract Flooring Association (CFA) and National Institute of Carpet & Floorlayers (NICF) is back in Hall B to impart more wisdom on the latest techniques and insights into working with the newest products on the market, via their live demonstrations..
The full programme of demonstrations will feature in our September issue.
Carpet Fitter of the Year 2024
The much-anticipated final of the NICF Fitter of the Year 2024 (Carpet) will be taking place in the King’s Suite across the Sunday and Monday. This is floor fitting at its finest so don’t miss this nailbiting competition as the five finalists put their carpet installation skills to test - see page 20 for details of all the contestants.
See www.theflooringshow.com for more details and to register in advance
OPENING TIMES
Sunday 15th September: 9.30am – 5.30pm
Monday 16th September: 9.30am – 5.30pm
Tuesday 17th September: 9.30am – 3.00pm
“The footprint of this year’s show is 30% bigger and full to the brim with world-leading names that you know and love, alongside manufacturers exhibiting at the event for the first time.” Alex Butler, event director of The Flooring Show.
Coming soon...
New for Autumn 2024, our best selling Universal range will be updated and we will launch a new collection; Universal Design. Coming to UK stores soon.
Abingdon Affordable and sustainable
This year’s show is promising to be a big one for Abingdon Flooring as the UK carpet manufacturer brings new entries into the market and introduces colour updates that keep its StainFree, Love Story and Wilton Royal carpets at the forefront of stylish affordable carpets for today’s home.
On a new-look stand, Abingdon Flooring will show retailers how its reputation in great value remains at the heart of its new market entries as well as how it is responding to the growing need for carpets that provide a more sustainable buying choice.
Charlotte Coop, head of marketing, Abingdon Flooring, says: “We’re more excited than ever about Harrogate as we’re really taking on the market with our new entries. For a long time, our carpet families have been considered as the benchmark of value that doesn’t compromise on everyday usability. We’ll be using The Flooring Show to show how that’s exactly the same for all floors from Abingdon Flooring and also how we’re looking towards creating a better future with products that are more sustainable.”
Of course, no appearance by Abingdon Flooring at The Flooring Show would be complete without some trial products, exclusive reveals and updates to popular ranges. So, if you’re making the trip to The Flooring Show this September make sure that Abingdon Flooring is your first visit.
Hall A Stand 25 • 01274 655 694 • www.abingdonflooring.co.uk
Associated Weavers Anniversary and innovation
Founded in 1964, this year will be one to celebrate as AW turns 60!
Associated Weavers (AW) is one of the leading European manufacturers of tufted wall to wall carpet and a challenger to be reckoned with in the world of luxury vinyl flooring, with its award-winning brand: “Invictus”.
With headquarters in Ronse, Belgium and the iconic Dean Clough Mills in Halifax, the company over the years has built strong and lasting relationships with its partners worldwide, exporting to over 55 different countries.
Always a leader in innovation, their highly anticipated ReVerse range will be one of many exciting products being showcased at this year’s show.
Hall C Stand 44 & 63 • 01422 431100 www.associated-weavers.co.uk
ACG Comfortably competitive
ACG are a not-for-profit, non-intrusive, member owned national buying group made up of over 315 member stores. Membership is by association, and you are not required to change any of your current inhouse processes or place orders through central hubs.
Consisting mainly of independently family run businesses, ACG uses the combined buying power of its member stores to broker the best trade pricing from the industries main suppliers. With access to the hugely successful, multi-award-winning group rebrand Smart Choice, our retailers can secure more orders and comfortably compete with high street, online and man in a van price comparison, without fear of eroding their margins.
ACG offers an outstanding portfolio of member benefits beyond just best pricing. With over 26 annual supplier turnover rebates which are paid directly to member stores, the group further negotiates annual product and unitary promotions, marketing, financial partnerships, subsidised social events, and the groups very successful, Platinum Supplier Trade Show,
Hall C Stand 11 • www.acgcarpets.com • www.smartchoicecarpets.co.uk
Country Herringbone in Paloma
Betap
Accessible style, durable choices
Hugh Mackay Passion for design
Hugh Mackay is set to make a significant impression at the upcoming flooring show in Harrogate this September.
They will unveil five exciting new Axminster collections, crafted in partnership with esteemed interior designer and TV personality Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen. These ranges have been curated to reflect Laurence’s passion for design and explores new dimensions of interior aesthetics. Visitors can expect to experience firsthand the quality and creativity that define Hugh Mackay Carpets, reaffirming their reputation as leaders in the industry.
Other highlights on the Hugh Mackay stand this year will include their latest wool collections: Natural Living, which comprises ten plains and four stripes in a tight loop, and Natural Dwelling, a high-low textural loop design. Both ranges utilise the same contemporary colour palette.
Hall A Stand 44 • 01429 892555 • www.hughmackay.co.uk
Discover flooring that does more than just look good. At Betap in Genemuiden, they blend traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to produce highquality floor coverings for homes and businesses. For over a century, Betap has dedicated itself to creating innovative products that are recognized globally, all at the best possible prices.
Its mission is clear: “To make innovative flooring solutions accessible to everyone.” Betap believes that top-notch quality should be accessible to all. The focus is on delivering products that meet and exceed the aesthetic and functional expectations of its customers while maintaining the lowest possible prices.
Betap’s is constantly improving its production processes to make them more efficient. Its aim is to provide products that offer excellent value, helping customers make stylish and durable choices without breaking the bank.
Carpenter is the world-leading producer of PU foam carpet underlay. Their ultra-durable, high-quality underlay products make carpet soft, luxurious and resilient.
They produce and distribute a range of top-quality carpet underlay designed to help reduce impact noise and insulate floors. Carpenter underlay is widely used in all kinds of domestic installations, cruise ships and marine applications, care homes, hotels, offices and many other places. Their wide range of products can suit any purpose.
Made of repurposed materials, their carpet underlay is guaranteed for the life of the carpet. Once removed, the carpet underlay can be 100% recycled where facilities exist, making it an excellent choice to protect both your customer’s carpet and the environment
Carpenter will be launching their new POS board, specially designed to support any retailer that is looking to explore upsell opportunities on underlay. The board is designed to enhance the consumer experience and is customisable to each retailer’s specific choice, which can then be used as a centrepiece to discuss the topic with consumers. Hall M Stand 38 • 01457 861141 • www.carpenter.com
Natural Living, Morning Dew
Come and meet the team
The Tredaire-nauts will be landing at The Flooring Show in Harrogate this September.
They’re here to show you how our pioneering campaign is bringing the UK’s favourite underlay brand to new audiences yet to discover the incredible feeling of Tredaire’s product range.
Feels like nothing on earth.
National TV and radio campaign
A dynamic trio of TV, radio and digital advertising to educate consumers about the inimitable feeling of Tredaire underlay.
Groundbreaking retailer support
Propelling POS into a new dimension with brand new sample range designs, display units, banners, floor mats, window stickers and much more!
Don’t miss out Contact your Territory Manager for more information and your mission pack.
Carpet Line Direct Nationwide business is BEST
Carpet Line Direct are a regional flooring distribution business based in the North East of England. Owned by Victoria PLC, Carpet Line Direct have the capacity and logistics to take the business nationwide.
The new nationwide business will also see the launch of BEST room. BEST room is CarpetLine’s collection of entry level ranges that will service the price sensitive sector of the market.
On the stand this year visitors will be able to experience the vast array of products that Carpet Line offer at competitive prices in order to support the independent retailers.
With three large distribution hubs across the U.K and backed by the number one flooring distribution delivery team, Alliance Flooring Distribution, Carpet Line Direct is excited to be the new name in national distribution.
Hall A Stand 33 • 01429 892500 • www.carpetlinedirect.co.uk
F. Ball & Co Adhesives in action
Condor Carpets
Proven partnership, rapid response
Condor’s R&D and sales team is excited to present the Group’s new collections which will be a mix of affordable classics, new products in stunning designs and a wide palette of sustainable collections.
For decades, Condor Group has been known as a solid partner with a long history in carpet. It can guarantee short delivery times and high quality thanks to full inhouse production. The family-owned company has proven to be able to respond quickly to its partners and leads the way in its sustainable development.
This year at the Flooring Show, Condor Group will be represented at the Majestic Hotel by Condor Carpets, VEBE, Timzo and Condor Grass, among others. All members will showcase their latest innovations and sustainable solutions and they look forward to seeing you in the Drawing Room.
Visitors to the F. Ball stand at will be able to watch live demonstrations of Stopgap 1400 and other F. Ball products delivered by the company’s training department on the stand’s live demonstration area.
Stopgap 1400 is a two-component smoothing compound, with superior flow and self-smoothing properties. Stopgap 1400 is walk-on hard from just 90 minutes after application and ready to receive floorcoverings from 12 hours. This makes it ideal for where flooring contractors need to work quickly and efficiently, perhaps across multiple areas.
Also debuting at the show will be new designs for F. Ball’s iconic yellow buckets used for its Styccobond adhesives.The new designs have been introduced to modernise the look of the plastic buckets and simplify product selection, in keeping with new smoothing compound sacks introduced last year. The buckets now detail coverage rates to help flooring contractors work out how much of an adhesive they need for a particular project.
EXPLORE –YOUR WAY TO WIN
Furlong Flooring Transform your space
Furlong Flooring offers a diverse range of products to meet every flooring need. Their carpets are designed for comfort and style, including options that combine luxury with durability.
The laminate flooring selection features water-resistant options ideal for high-traffic and moisture-prone areas.
For those looking for eco-friendly choices, the sustainable wood flooring options provide both beauty and environmental responsibility. Additionally, their resilient flooring solutions are perfect for commercial spaces, offering long-lasting performance and easy maintenance.
With these versatile collections, Furlong Flooring ensures quality and functionality for both residential and commercial environments.
Hall A Stand 22 • 01772 316155 • www.furlongflooring.com
Greendale Carpets & Flooring Debut of interior design brand
Greendale aims to consistently progress, and its award-winning brand is being complemented further by the launch of the new iD collection.
This comprehensive and unique collection comprises a variety of ranges available in a portable presentation case, swatches and 18 x 18 samples.
In addition to rebranding the top ranges at the best prices Greendale has a unique offering. As well as the user-friendly online portal, rebranding and exclusive member territories, Greendale provides dedicated customer services, one account and one bill as well as a bespoke warehouse facility.
The Greendale community is a strong network of independent retailers coming together to share experience and knowledge through member events, online forums and social gatherings. We are seeking new members, so visit the stand and have a chat about the plethora of benefits being part of this long-established group can offer.
Hall C Stand 66 • 01432 852000 • www.greendalecarpets.co.uk
Cormar Carpet Co. Investing in inspiration
Cormar Carpets will be displaying their wide range of contemporary floorcoverings, including the latest addition to their wool loop collection, Shetland, alongside their recently relaunched Inglewood Saxony range. For this year’s show, Cormar will be launching an innovative new range for the Autumn, a welcomed addition to their award-winning product portfolio.
With significant investments made this year in developing new ranges, enhancing their manufacturing capabilities and expanding their delivery fleet, it’s clear Cormar Carpets remain committed to advancing their position as leaders in the industry.
Once again, Cormar look forward to welcoming visitors to their stand at the front of Hall A. The team will be providing live demonstrations of their award-winning trade portal, with over 65% of Cormar’s customers now benefitting from the online service. Visitors will be able to see first-hand the latest features, with the opportunity to register during the show.
Hall A Stand 28 • 01204 881234 • portal.cormarcarpets.co.uk
New iD brand with Eamonn Prescott
Furlong’s Encanto
Inglewood Saxony in Venetian Marble
Interfloor To boldly go into a new era of Tredaire
The Tredaire-nauts are landing at this year’s Flooring Show on their mission to bring luxury and comfort to homes across the universe.
Their bold mission to put the Tredaire name at the forefront of customers’ minds continues. The Tredaire-nauts will guide you through the dynamic TV, radio, and digital advertising campaign, heralding the beginning of a vibrant new era for the Tredaire brand.
The campaign invites retail customers to explore the latest sampling and POS materials available for their stores, featuring brand-new sample range designs, display units, banners, floor mats, window stickers, and more.
Visit Commander and his crew at the Interfloor stand to learn how Tredaire can elevate your customers’ experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to bring the luxury and comfort of Tredaire underlay to your store. Hall B Stand 22 • 01706 213 131 • www.interfloor.com
Balta Attracting consumer attention
Since Balta was last at Harrogate, it has streamlined its portfolio by introducing three main families, creating an easier shopping experience for the consumer. Finishing Touch consists of all the polypropylene products, so called because they are the perfect finishing touch to any room. Made in Heaven are Balta’s man-made polyester products. These feel like heaven for your feet; very soft, very gentle. And thirdly is Woolmaster, which is exactly as it sounds, the wool and wool mix ranges.
And what a perfect way to showcase these collections with the new collection of POS. Balta’s new style lecterns are slimline and easy to move. The Halo stand creates an illuminated wall unit behind the lecterns to draw customers in. And finally, Balta’s book stand is the perfect space saver for those with little floor space as this hold 8 pattern books and turns to allow easy access.
Hall M Stand 23 • 03303 411410 • www.baltagroup.com/
Lano Busy building an even better portfolio
One thing is for sure, Lano are not sitting still at the Belgian carpet manufacturer and that will certainly be seen on their stand at the show.
The launch of the evergreens Star Twist and Heather Twist has been a success. These qualities, which have been running at Lano for more than 30 years, have been given a modern touch without compromising their classic look.
Scala has been a well-known name in the industry for years and the addition of the unique Scala Combinations concept to the already existing Scala Solutions has taken the quality family to a new level. With the Scala Combinations, Lano shows that carpet can be really fun. You can combine to your heart’s content and the designs are very contemporary. Scala Combinations comes with 2 different finishes, a standard backing but also an impervious backing especially for healthcare.
The high-end segment X A touch of luxury was also officially launched this year with a unique suitcase and matching POS. Quality and colour are key here and the diversity in qualities ensures there is something for everyone. The collection also introduces 3 ensō qualities, 100% recyclable, and the special ecological felt backing makes this quality easy to cut as a rug.
Super Twist Cafe Au Lait
Lano Star Twist
Mapei There’s a buzz about
Likewise Launch pad for new ranges
Likewise are delighted to be back at the Flooring Show this year to showcase some fantastic new ranges.
Many new carpet ranges will be displayed in contemporary greys and muted beiges as well as exciting modern fresh accent colours – from great value essentials to plush saxony’s and luxurious twists.
Launching a brand new ‘Lakes’ collection laminate range, available in 8, 10 and 12mm thickness in the latest modern decors. Designed to look like real wood using the latest innovative technology, the new ranges offer a great alternative to real wood with the benefits of being hardwearing, moisture resistant, easy to fit and suitable for both domestic and commercial installations with up to 15 years wear guarantee.
Also showcasing new designs from their bestselling HardCORE Rigid SPC flooring range. three new on trend colours in both plank and herringbone varieties.
And, brand new carpet, laminate and luxury vinyl tile display units will be on show, including Floors by Lewis Abbott premium Luxury Vinyl Tile unit. Displaying their best selling Holland Park and Chester Square ranges. A superb compact, yet eye catching unit which displays the product really well.
Hall M Stand 28 • enquiries@likewisefloors.co.uk • www.likewiseplc.com
Mapei UK is set to showcase innovation at The Flooring Show and throughout the threeday event, live demos will feature full flooring systems from its resilient flooring range, as well as new Mapeheat, Profilpas and UltraCare products. Visitors are also challenged to join a Buzzwire competition, with prizes to be won throughout the event.
Mapei’s comprehensive programme of demos will span best-selling repair, levelling and smoothing compounds, hydraulic binders, moisture-resistant primers and adhesives. Featured substrate preparation products will include Planiprep Fix, Planipatch Xtra, Latexplan No Ammonia, Mapeproof One Coat and Topcem. Latest Mapei adhesives featured will include Ultrabond Eco V4 Evolution and Mapecontact Plus, along with finishing products Mapesil AC, Mapesil AC ECO silicone sealants and UltraCare Smooth Silicone - a smoothing product for finishing sealants from Mapei’s Zero Line of carbon offset products. System models will also showcase product build-ups for a range of scenarios, from Mapei’s resilient, wood and sports flooring lines.
New innovations on show will include a working demo of Mapeheat Membrane Maxi – a waterproofing, uncoupling anti-fracture heating membrane, click system profiles, along with skirting boards and stair nosings from Mapei’s Profilpas range.
Hall B Stand 5 • 0121-5086970 • www.mapei.co.uk
Metro Group Invest in your business
Metro is a multi-award-winning group, formed by retailers for retailers in 1979. Members retain 100% of their independence but improve their profitability.
There are 200+ Carpet1st ranges and a unique, bespoke Merchandising Service which can design, print, manufacture and install everything from a business card to a shop front. Every member gets a free allowance of £720 a year to spend against this service. This is truly unique because Metro wants you to invest in your business.
Other business services like phone, broadband and credit card deals and a range of group stands is also available. There are optional local meetings twice a year you can attend. The Group Central Order Service allows members to order from suppliers they do not deal with.
Everything the group provides is optional, you decide because it is your business. Visit Metro at Harrogate – there is nothing to lose and a lot to gain.
Victoria Carpets & Design Floors New offers excite interest
As always, there will be lots to see on the Victoria stand this year where they will showcase their newly updated LVT which is absolutely stunning.
The new offer consists of an updated colour bank of the popular Universal products. This is a 0.55mm collection consisting of plank, herringbone and tile designs, all available in both dryback and click.
Then there is a brand-new range: Universal Design – a collection of dryback-only designs across plank, fishbone (chevron) and parquet range which contains lots of warm, rustic tones that really highlight the beauty of wood. This range is also a 0.55mm but comes with an emboss-in-register for a more realistic finish.
Victoria Carpets have recently launched Easi Sisal – its first range that can be used both indoors and outdoors, allowing you to extend your interior design seamlessly. This is a collection of 12 woven carpets across a bank of four colours. It’s a Sisal design, but made from polypropylene, so it’s perfect for busy homes.
Hall A Stand 20 • 01562 749300 • www.myvictoria.co.uk
Tarkett
Digital design excellence
Inspiration by Tarkett had a great year in 2023 at Harrogate – expect much more this year.
Veeuze GmbH Show, inspire, sell
Materialo by Veeuze GmbH is the perfect tool for flooring professionals to enhance sales and engage customers with stunning product visualizations. This user-friendly software presents flooring options — carpets, hardwood, vinyl, tiles — in a realistic and interactive way using advanced AI technology and high-quality room images. With over 150,000 products and with the flexibility of adding your own, Materialo offers a comprehensive catalog featuring the latest collections from top manufacturers. Customers can explore a wide range of flooring visualized in their intended environments, from traditional to contemporary designs.
Materialo is great for online, in-store, and mobile shopping experiences. Seamlessly integrating into your website and digital marketing channels, it allows customers to visualize flooring options anytime, anywhere. This realistic preview boosts customer confidence and speeds up decision-making, leading to increased sales and satisfaction.
Empower your business with Materialo and showcase your products in the most compelling way possible.
Hall Q Stand 87 • 020 3307 9993 • www.veeuze.com
With a larger stand in the same Hall C position, again the LVT pavilion – stand C12, you can expect to see the latest in digital design flooring excellence.
New products and genuinely exciting new promotional developments for the Inspiration by Tarkett brand will be on show.
Hey, we know ‘exciting’ is a much over-used word these days, but trust us, you need to see this.
And once again Tarkett promises to provide refreshment for any weary retail traveller who stops to say hello, plus goodies for anyone who follows us on social media.
Hall C Stand 12 • 0800 328 2115 • www.tarkett.co.uk
Universal Herringbone in Flint Grey
Forest Oak Nutmeg Herringbone
Fitter of the Year 2024 – Carpet The Grand Finals
The semi-finals for the competition took place in June, with five fitters progressing to the finals. The standard of fitting at the semifinals was once again excellent, making it challenging once again for the judges to choose the top five.
The grand final will showcase the skills, craftsmanship and knowledge of the UK’s top carpet fitters. The winner will receive some great prizes including £2,000 cash, a selection of tools, NICF Master Fitter membership free for one year plus the winner’s trophy.
Come along to the Fitter of the Year stand in the King’s Suite and support the finalists on Sunday 15 and Monday 16 September.
The prize giving ceremony to announce the winner takes place on the stand at 4.30pm on Monday 16 September.
Meet the finalists on page 20.
King’s Suite • 0115 958 3077 www.nicfltd.org.uk/FOTY-Competition/
Cavalier Carpets
New wonders in wool
NICF Installation excellence
The National Institute of Carpet and Floorlayers (NICF) is the home of professionals working in the domestic flooring trade. It is a highly respected organisation within the domestic flooring industry and is active in promoting the skilled floorlayer.
The aims of the NICF are to:
• Promote excellence and ethical practice within the field of domestic installations of carpet, laminate, luxury vinyl tile flooring, naturals, sheet vinyl and wood.
• Promote understanding and awareness of the British Standards Codes of Practice for the installation of floorcoverings.
• Promote assurance of quality of workmanship to the general public.
The NICF provides advice and resources for the professional floorlayer to help make running a business as simple, profitable and stress-free as possible.
Hall B Demo Area • 0115 958 3077 • www.nicfltd.org.uk
The centrepiece of the Cavalier stand this year will be the latest development in their award winning wool rich twist line-up, an exciting new subtle 1/8th gauge tufted graphics, ‘Companions’.
Cavalier will also be introducing no less than three new loop pile qualities: Coastal Loop, Hawk Loop & Owlet, all made using the finest un-dyed, 100% wool yarns to the highest specifications.
Each range has its own unique texture and appearance which will surely find a place in the current trend for natural decor. Also, be amongst the first to see our newly enhanced point of sale graphics options.
Hall C Stand 32 • 01254 268 000 • www.cavaliercarpets.co.uk
FLOORINGNEWS
Carpet challenged on microplastics
The carpet industry is “neglecting the problem” of harmful microplastics according to detailed research by the University of Portsmouth.
In a new report entitled “Microplastics in our homes – Our carpets’ hidden secret”, the university researchers, working with sustainability consultants SB&CO, say that the flooring industry’s focus is only on sustainability and that none of the 24 major manufacturers they studied has a policy on microplastics reduction.
MasterPiece Going end-to-end
MasterPiece can now support a retailer from initial conversation with customer, through estimating and quoting in home, to revisions, acceptance, scheduling, ordering and stock control.
“It is becoming apparent that microplastics may impact human health and we need to understand how to limit our exposure. The flooring industry needs to play its part and consider new ways to reduce the release of microplastics from carpets,” says the report, written by Dr Fay Couceiro, Reader in Biogeochemistry and Environmental Pollution at the University of Portsmouth and published in May this year.
Retailers can pick up just on-site measuring planning and estimating initially and then incrementally add modules knowing that they will all integrate seamlessly.
Pre-visit modules include:
Fibres are of particular concern regarding inhalation as they can cause problems with lung health and a recent study showed that having carpet in your house can double the number of microfibre plastics in the air.
• Quick quote ballpark for speed and salesperson confidence
• Import of Right Move floorplans for take-off & quoting from customer own measure
“Carpet companies are heavily promoting the shift to using recycled plastics as a more environmental and sustainable solution, but are not yet considering the impacts of microplastics. Instead, durability, cleanability and low prices are the key selling points,” says the report.
• Scheduling, measure, visit and handling simple in-shop sales
Post Acceptance modules include:
• Managing payments from customer, to align with the accounts system such as Xero
It notes that the apparel industry is taking the issue seriously and exploring new initiatives. This may be because microplastics in clothing get into watercourses through the discharge from washing machines and have therefore become part of the higher-profile issue of microplastics in rivers and oceans.
• Split Fits facility: makes providing accurate info to warehouse & fitter easy for each Part Fit
• Scheduling fitting events; each fitter has own diary to capture customer signature and photos
In its conclusion, the report says that the carpet industry should start prioritising research to determine which products are producing the most microplastics, and in which environments. Part of this could include which polymer types and weaves are the best performing, and how different coatings can impact microplastic numbers and their toxicity.
• Managing ordering from suppliers and stock control
MasterPiece runs on Android, iPad, Windows or Mac, to suit both on-site estimator and in-store operations. It is easy to pick up and run with, via 60 minute ‘hands-on’ familiarisation over the phone.
Hall C Stand 76 • 01737 355831 • www.masterpiece-system.com
“Is it time for more transparency and collaboration?” asks the report. “Researchers, industry and government need to work together to solve the problem.” www.port.ac.uk/news-events-and-blogs/features/microplastics-in-our-homes
FLOORING FOCUS
Don’t let sub-floors sink your schedule
Time flies when you’re fitting floors, especially if sub-floors conspire against you to make life more challenging than you anticipated, wrecking the schedule and causing knock-on effects on your installation diary.
But when the going gets tough, the top innovators in the industry get going – there’s a wide range of solutions out there to keep you on spec and on time. And it’s not all about adhesive.
The fastest-drying smoothing compound on the market is Stopgap Fast-Track 30 by F Ball which is walk-on hard from just 30 minutes and ready to receive floorcoverings in as little as 45 minutes after application so it is a real ally for installers in a hurry. But there are other solutions to consider that get less attention than they deserve.
“Conversations around fast-track subfloor preparation products and flooring adhesives often centre around fast-setting, fast-drying formulations,” says Steve Boulton, Technical Services Manager at F. Ball and Co. Ltd.
“Sometimes overlooked are products that eliminate the need for certain processes and procedures, thereby dramatically reducing the time it takes to install floorcoverings.These include smoothing compounds that can be applied directly over old adhesive residues, avoiding the need for mechanical removal or priming.
“Thixotropic primers, such as F. Ball’s Stopgap Fill and Prime, which flow freely when stirred but set to a gel-like consistency to fill gaps between raised access panels, can also be applied to flooring grade chipboard prior to the application of a recommended smoothing compound to remove the need for over-boarding with plywood.
“Surface reinforcement systems can also be used to repair weak or friable screeds rather than having to completely remove and replace them at significant cost,” adds Steve.
“Sometimes overlooked are products that eliminate the need for certain processes and procedures, thereby dramatically reducing the time it takes to install floorcoverings.”
The popularity of Pro-Screed Gold has made it the best-selling floorwise subfloor preparation product ever and with a newly expanded range, the Pro-Screed name is set to become a firm favourite with contractors, retailers and installers looking for a range of versatile smoothing and levelling compounds.
Setting new standards in moisture-tolerant smoothing and levelling, Pro-Screed Ultra is rapid setting and can be walked on in just 80-minutes. It is capable of receiving resilient floors in just three-hours and ceramic tiles can be laid in only two-hours. Pro-Screed Ultra can be poured over old adhesive residue and DPMs and no priming is required on most subfloors.
Fibre reinforced for strength and flexibility, the new water-based ProScreed Xtra leveller is suitable for most subfloors. With excellent flow and a super-fine finish, it’s an exceptionally versatile leveller that’s also moisture tolerant so can be used above or beneath DPMs.
“Setting new standards in moisture-tolerant smoothing and levelling, Pro-Screed Ultra is rapid setting and can be walked on in just 80-minutes.”
Just like Pro-Screed Ultra, it can be walked on in 80-minutes and has an install time of just three-hours, making it a true all-rounder.
As a plus, floorwise has ensured Pro-Screed Ultra and Pro-Screed Xtra use the latest chemical technology for a non-hazardous formulation that’s more versatile with great open and setting times, and one that’s less harmful for the installer.
Installing flooring in areas affected by residual moisture can be challenging, in terms of application and speed. Mapei provides the solution, with fasttrack combo Mapeproof Primer and Latexplan Trade Fast.
Mapeproof Primer is a ready-to-use PVDC-based dispersion primer for moisture-resistant non-heated substrates with a RH value of 95% and heated screeds with RH values up to 85%.
continued on page 58...
FLOORING FOCUS
Don’t let sub-floors sink your schedule continued from page 57
Mapeproof Primer is easy to apply with a roller and is colour pigmented to help achieve uniform coverage. The formulation benefits from EMICODE ECI Plus (very low emissions) and Blauer Engel – DE-UZ 113 certification.
Latexplan Trade Fast is a moisture-tolerant levelling and smoothing compound which can be applied 2-5 hours after Mapeproof Primer. It’s used to smooth concrete floors, cement-based screeds, Mapei Mapecem and Topcem screeds, terrazzo, ceramic tile and natural stone. It can also be used over most adhesive residues, including bitumen. Protein-free and low odour, Latexplan Trade Fast sets in just 30 minutes and is light foot traffic ready after 60 minutes. Floors can be installed after just 2.5–3 hours.
BOARD-LEVEL DECISIONS
Gaining increasing traction in the industry is the use of boarded subfloor solutions which go beyond plywood for a fast professional finish. Sometimes it takes time for fitters to get know these systems, but once they do there is no going back for many.
And for installers used to using flooring grade plywood for their resilient flooring installations, they are increasingly finding variable quality and intermittent availability problems.
Lion Floor is better across the board. What’s more, Lion Floor is just as easy to install, more cost-effective and comes with third-party verified EPD that measures its environmental impact as significantly lower .
Lion Floor is pre-conditioned so doesn’t need wetting before installation and it can be cut cleanly and quickly with a knife or saw. Fixed with screws or ring shank nails and suitable for screeds and feather compounds, there’s no longer a reason to choose BS 8203 compliant plywood. Lion Floor is one of a very small number of fabricated underlays which can be used for LVT and other resilient floor coverings that meets British Standards and CFA guidance.
Reliability is one of Lion Floor’s strengths. The dense board is exceptionally resistant to impacts and the construction eliminates the problems that come with the core gaps and overlaps found in plywood. It’s a fast and effective way to deliver a first-class resilient floor installation.
Lion Floor is also a cost-effective alternative to BS 8203 compliant plywood. Made in Finland from readily available wood by-product and free from the highly volatile shipping and material costs encountered by flooring grade plywood, the engineered fibreboard is also consistently affordable.
The Jumpax family by Unifloor is a fast-track floor preparation system designed to provide a super smooth subfloor to receive most glue down and loose lay floorcoverings. It provides excellent sound reduction, is easy to lay and reduces installation time and costs.
“The two self-adhesive MDF components of Jumpax instantly smooth over typical irregularities and eliminate the need for screeds, primers, ply boards and nails.”
Jumpax quickly smooths over irregularities
The two self-adhesive MDF components of Jumpax instantly smooth over typical irregularities and eliminate the need for screeds, primers, ply boards and nails. It is not necessary to remove old floor coverings, loosening screeds or surface contamination.
Suitable for domestic and contract installations Jumpax offers the ideal solution for problem floors.
Whether it be underfloor heating systems, damaged, cracked, painted and contaminated subfloors, over raised access panels and to protect an existing antique floor Jumpax by Unifloor has the ideal solution.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
F. Ball & Co. Ltd. • 01538 361633 • www.f-ball.com
Given customers’ high expectations for Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) installations, it is worth taking the time to ensure optimum results when installing them. Certain adhesives can help with this, including achieving precise alignment. Tim Green, head of training at the F. Ball Centre of Excellence, provides a guide to adhesive selection, including formulations with a range of additional features.
Pressure sensitive adhesives are ideal for the installation of LVTs because they form an instant grab upon contact, so, once positioned, tiles or planks won’t move about as contractors work. They also offer an extended open time, reducing the risk of late placement and making them ideal for installations where more complex designs or patterns are being created. Some pressure sensitive adhesives are also formulated to reduce the incidence of trowel serrations showing through thin vinyl floorcoverings, referred to as ‘grin through’, affecting the appearance of the finished installation.
There are specific applications where additional performance characteristics will be important to maintain the long-term aesthetic appearance of an installation. For example, when installing floorcoverings in areas subject to extreme temperatures and temperature fluctuations, it is recommended to use a temperature tolerant adhesive.
High temperatures or extreme temperature fluctuations can cause floorcoverings to expand and contract significantly, which may lead to unsightly tenting in floorcoverings and gapping at the edges of LVTs over time. This can be the case in conservatories or rooms with floor-toceiling windows, which are subject to ‘solar gain’, such as extensions with bi-fold doors.
Temperature tolerant adhesives develop the high bond strength required to hold floorcoverings securely in place in such environments, ensuring a long-lasting flooring finish. However, temperature tolerant adhesives have traditionally been ‘wet-lay’, and contractors requiring this type of adhesive have had to forgo pressure sensitive benefits.
Advancements in hybrid polymer adhesives have enabled the development of high performance vinyl adhesives with revolutionary combinations of properties, including combined pressure sensitive and temperature tolerant characteristics.
Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS combines temperature tolerance and pressure sensitive and moisture resistant properties.
For example, F. Ball’s Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS is a water-based, pressure sensitive vinyl adhesive that develops the extremely high bond strength and dimensional stability required to hold vinyl floorcoverings firmly in place in areas exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations (from -20°C to +60°C). Whilst providing high initial tack, the adhesive allows contractors to lift and reposition floorcoverings in the initial stages of drying, making it a great choice for installing tiles and planks, intricate patterns and bespoke designs that need precise alignment. Styccobond F49 is also resistant to moisture, meaning it is suitable for use in areas subject to water and high humidity, including kitchens and bathrooms.
As well as selecting adhesives suited to the requirements of a particular project, it is always advisable to check the compatibility of particular floorcoverings and adhesives.
For these purposes, F. Ball produces its industry-leading Recommended Adhesives Guide (RAG). It’s available on the F. Ball website and as a free app, as well as a printed booklet. So confident is F. Ball in the recommendations featured in the guide that it guarantees the resulting bond performance for the entire lifetime of the flooring installation, as long as the advised subfloor preparation and installation procedures are followed.
Alternatively, F. Ball’s technical service department are on hand Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 5.00pm, to answer your questions about F. Ball products and how to use them via phone and email.
The F. Ball Centre of Excellence training and demonstration facility at F. Ball’s Staffordshire headquarters hosts training courses on achieving optimum results when installing LVTs that are free to attend for both flooring contractors and retailers. You can find details of upcoming courses and book a place for yourself or colleagues on the F. Ball website.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Temperature tolerant requirements
Checking floorcovering compatibility
Hybrid solutions
FLOORING FACTSHEET ADHESIVES
SELECTION CHECKLIST
The criteria to select an adhesive will cover the following points.
Larger manufacturers offer detailed guides to select the correct adhesive – even indexing floor manufacturer’s products by name to ensure an accurate match. For accurate and up-to-date information consult the F. Ball Recommended Adhesives Guide.
Open Time:
The time you have to fit the flooring into the adhesive after which the bond will no longer be ideal. The time until the floor may be walked on should be checked.
Odour:
Low odour, solvent-free and low VOC products are increasingly favoured and now have the same performance characteristics of older products.
Coverage:
How thick and how far can the adhesive be spread.
Application Method:
Different adhesives may be applied by roller, trowel or spray.
Strength:
Including how quickly the adhesive will “grab” the floor covering and its strength when fully cured.
Underfloor Heating:
A lot of modern adhesives are suitable for use with underfloor heating but this criteria must be checked where appropriate.
Subfloor:
What surface will the adhesive stick to most effectively including concrete, sand cement screeds, levelling compounds, plywood and chipboard.
While there are multi-purpose adhesives, specialist products will be better suited to certain surfaces.
The porosity of the floor is a key determinant of the type of adhesive to be used and its performance during installation.
Special Performance:
Certain adhesives are more suitable for damp, humid or high temperature environments.
Air Quality and the Environment:
The old wisdom that the more it smells, the better it sticks is no longer acceptable to modern consumers and solvent-based products are increasingly replaced by water-based adhesives.
ADHESIVE TYPES
Acrylic/Resin: Ideal for plasticised PVC and most modern flooring.
Bitumen: A tar-like material, bitumen has a high degree of moisture resistance and is used for damp-proof membranes and installing tiles, wood blocks and mosaics.
Epoxy Resin: A two-part chemical curing system that is used in aggressive environments such as conservatories, wet rooms, commercial kitchens and exterior installations.
Polyurethane: An adhesive with rapid bonding characteristics, typically used for wood floors.
Polyvinyl Acetate: Typically used for close fitting joints in timber, laminate floors and panels.
Tackifier: An adhesive for carpet designed to increase the tackiness – or the tack range –of an adhesive.
Water-based Adhesive: Many different types of adhesives now use water as their carrier to avoid odours and flammability issues which are common with chemical solvents.
EARN 5% CASHBACK ON NEW STOPGAP 1400 THIS MONTH.
To
The Stocklists
Carpet Company Directory
Abingdon Flooring
www.abingdonflooring.co.uk 01274 655694
Adam Carpets Ltd
www.adamcarpets.co.uk 01562 829966
Alternative Flooring www.alternativeflooring.com 01264 335111
Sans Frontieres Ltd www.sansfrontiere.co.uk 0844 5611977
Shaw Home Foundations 01675 433 501
Timzo Tufting Industry BV www.condor-group.eu +31 38 385 4477
Signature Carpets www.signaturecarpets.co.uk 01422 845075 TAT Carpet 07976 607657 Tapibel
Bronte’s Cream Shagpile Primo Textures by Cormar
Wellington Stripe from Ulster
Flooring factsheet
Carpet trouble-shooter
Colour matching
Carpets are produced in batches - known as creels - and usually each batch produces between 500m2 - 3000m2 in a single width, depending on the creel size. Whilst the recipe used by the dyer remains constant, and is followed to the letter, in each separate production the colour reproduction will vary from batch to batch. However production is matched back to the original or master sample to ensure that the colour remains ‘within a commercial toleranc e’.
This process if not an exact science and a commercial tolerance is subjective but nevertheless is usually the professional judgement of the head dyer based on his/her experience.
A greater level of tolerance is required on blended colours (Heathers etc). To ensure perfect colour matching it is advisable that a single width be used in any installation requiring exact colour matching.
N.B. Carpets which are laid with the pile travelling in different directions, even though they be from the same batch will appear not to match. For further information please check with the manufacturers recommendations.
Sprouting
Occasionally an odd tuft or two can work its way to the surface and stand proud of the rest of the pile. This is probably due to one end of the tuft being longer than the other i.e. J shaped tuft instead of V shaped. Remedial action merely requires that the offending tufts be scissor trimmed level with the rest of the pile. They should never be pulled out.
• shedding • pulled loops
Fading on Wool
Carpets made from wool can and do fade in use. The degree of fade can vary depending on the colour chosen and the local conditions to which the carpet is subjected.
Fading can be caused by exposure to ultra violet light which is found in daylight, but is accelerated when sunlight shines directly onto the carpet. This has the effect of lightening or “Bleaching” the colour just as exposure to sunlight will lighten human hair. Wool is after all animal hair.
Protection should be given to carpets exposed to such conditions just as you would protect other furniture or fabrics.
A complaint on fading would be considered justified if it failed to meet the required shade standard when tested to the British Standard BS1006 (1990).
Soiling
Soiling is usually the result of some local condition to which the carpet has been subjected to, or maintenance, or lack of maintenance programme. There is nothing we as manufacturers can do to prevent soiling in use. There are several types of soiling which are quite common:
Spillages - Liquids such as soft drinks, cordials or any drink which contains sugar, particularly hot drinks, is likely to leave a stain. In such instances, professional help should be sought.
Shampoo - if incorrectly applied, can leave sticky soap residues in the fibres which can result in the soiling reappearing quite rapidly.
Dust - which is carried on draughts can soil carpets in various ways, apart from the obvious soiled edges, at gaping skirting boards for instance, dark lines appearing on surface might suggest airborne dust vacuum-drawn through poorly fitted floorboards. Sometimes the shape of floorboards can be seen quite clearly. Air borne dust sometimes shows itself as spots on the carpet, this is due to the air carried on a draught under the carpet escaping through minute holes both in the underlay and the carpet, leaving dust deposited on the pile much like a filter action. In such installations, the use of a lining paper is essential as a preventative measure.
It is the responsibility of the retailer to advise the consumer when the carpet is measured of any poorly fitting doors, skirtings, or floorboards and the consumers responsibility to ensure any remedial work to seal draughts, is carried out before the carpet is fitted, if a resulting complaint is to be avoided.
Static
Carpets do not produce static but like other household fabrics and objects have the capacity to store it. Static is caused by the build up of static electricity upon personnel in a dry environment and is discharged when a person makes contact with an object which can conduct electricity (i.e. door handle or filing cabinets, etc).
The static charges will vary in intensity depending upon the individual, air humidity and the contact materials. Static is more usually associated with synthetic materials as they do not retain moisture very well but it can and does occur with wool in very dry room conditions. Preventative measures include the introduction of moisture into the room or in situ carpet treatment.
Flattening
Flattening will occur as a result of traffic which eventually flattens the pile particularly in the main areas of use.
All pile fabrics will flatten to greater or lesser degree dependant on the amount of traffic to which it is subjected and the construction (tuft density/pile fibre/height/weight) of the product concerned.
Shading
Shading occurs because the pile of the carpet has become crushed, flattened or brushed in a different direction to the natural lie of the pile whilst in situ. This causes light reflection at differing angles resulting in the creation of light and dark patches on the carpet. This will occur on all pile fabrics but can be more noticeable on plainer carpets because the shadows created by pile pressure will not be disguised by a heavy pattern or design.
Pile Reversal
Like shading, this occurs when the pile or nap of the carpet changes direction and thus reflects light at different angles showing the effects of shading which can become permanent. It is also described as ‘watermarking’. This can happen to every carpet construction be it Axminster, Wilton, Tufted, Hand Woven, Persian, Chinese, Indian or even Coir Matting. Like shading it can be more apparent on plain carpet because heavy patterns can disguise the effects. It can occur quite quickly after installation. A tremendous amount of research has been carried out over many years by many institutes to determine the cause of this phenomenon but none of it has proved conclusive. There is no commonly known manufacturing process which can cause or cure this phenomenon and therefore it is not a manufacturing fault. For further information please check with individual manufacturers recommendations.
Pulling Loops
Pulled loops occur only in looped pile carpet where one or more loops in the continuous pile is pulled through the primary backing of the carpet. This is usually due to some local condition, possibly some sharp object which has caught in a loop in situ and has resulted in a pull. Pulled loops are easily dealt with by trimming the offending end level with the rest of the pile. They should not be left as this could result in further loops being pulled and developing into a ladder.
Shedding
All cut pile carpets will lose short fibre, which is created during production when spun yarn is cut for tuft formation. These fibres fall onto the surface of the pile and appear as ‘fluff’. The effect varies with yarn type and may be removed without detrimental effect upon the carpet by vacuum cleaning. This excess fibre is only a small fraction of the total fibre contained in the carpet.
Indentations
When a carpet is subjected to a heavy point load, such as under the legs of furniture, it is unreasonable to expect the carpet not to indent. Usually, the longer the load is in place, the longer will be the time for the pile to recover. In the case of very heavy loads in place for a considerable time, the recovery time can be very considerable.
It must be remembered that it is not only the pile of the carpet that becomes indented. The underlay will also indent and the backing of the carpet may also distort into the indentation in the underlay. Some underlay’s will recover well and some less well depending upon their composition, thickness, density etc. The use of cups below furniture legs can spread the load and the net result is a larger area of less deeply indented carpet.
The ability of a carpet to recover from a heavy static load can be measured in the laboratory, using the test method described in BS 4939 and many manufacturers will have data on this aspect of carpet performance. In this test the carpet is loaded for 24 hours and the degree of recovery is measured after 1 hour and 24 hours. Since there are so many different underlay’s however, it is very rare for the recovery from a heavy static load to be evaluated on carpet and underlay.
Often normal maintenance (vacuum cleaning with a rotating brush machine) will speed up recovery but in the case of serious indentations the use of an iron and damp cloth or a steam iron together with a blunt darning needle to carefully tease up the pile can be beneficial. Care must be take not to over wet the carpet, of course.
Samples Installation
The samples held by individual retailers may not be from the same batch as current production and therefore should be used as a guide and not an exact colour match.
Telephone National Institute of Carpet Fitters (NICF) for further information – 0115 958 3077.
Vinyl is a fast growing sector of the flooring market due to its durability at relatively low cost and huge range of designs available. Sheet vinyl and cushion floor by the roll are popular but the sector is dominated by LVT. In reality, most of the products sold today are “LVP”, Luxury Vinyl Planks, as wood decors are more popular than ceramics and stone but the term LVT is still used to cover the whole non-sheet market.
Benefits
• Huge choice in terms of decors across wood, ceramic, stone and geometric designs
• Impressive realism – not just in the design but infinishing techniques that allow for wood knots you can feel, tiles you can grout, etc. See appearance options.
• Excellent performance in durability for high traffic areas, scratch resistance and cleanability. Vinyl also tends to be much more nonslip than natural materials. Some products are water resistant for bathrooms and kitchens.
• Warm and soft to touch compared to ceramic and stone floors - and a good heat insulator anyhow, and suitable for use with underfloor heating systems.
• Sound reduction – vinyl has neglible impact sound compared to the tap/click of laminate and transmits less sound and vibration compared to solid floor.
• Considerably cheaper than the ‘real’ thing – both to buy and to fit – and tile/plank approach minimises wastage.
Installation
Installation preparation
Vinyl requires a dry, sound, level subfloor as the relative thinness of vinyl and its light reflection performance will quickly reveal imperfections after installation as well as cause potential wear issues.
Exisitng wooden/MDF floors may need a plywood underlay up to 6mm thick and then the joints will need to be skimmed or taped. Non-wood sub-floors will need a self-levelling screed to be laid to ensure a suitable base for the floor. A damp-proof membrane may be required depending on sub-floor moisture levels.
However, new rigid core products are less flexible and can be laid more easily over existing floors – see Construction.
Top Coating
Wear Layer
Decor Layer
Product options
• Dry back – a sheet or tile that needs to be fixed to the sub-floor using an adhesive.
• Self-adhesive – tiles with a peel-off backing paper to stick to the sub-floor. Some tiles have adhesive overlaps to stick to each other rather than the sub-floor.
• Loose lay vinyl – tiles that simply drop onto the floor and rely on a high friction backing to keep them in place – they demand a very sound, level sub-floor but are the easiset type of tile to lay or replace.
• Click – tiles that have a mechanical jointing system to attach to one another (like a locked tongue and groove system) and ‘float’ on the sub-floor without being glued down. There are many proprietary versions of the click system which offer fast, clean installation and stability.
Appearance options
Vinyl tiles and planks cover a hugh variety of sizes and shapes and can be mix-and-matched to achieve an infinite number of designs. Current fashions include extra wide and long planks for wood through to very small planks for wood. Border effects can be easy to achieve in LVT.
Other notable options include:
• Embossed – this is where the top clear layer of the tile has been embossed to create a realistic texture that matches the style of the stone of wood decor. Registered embossed is the most authentic –the texture matches the design so that, for example, a wood knot or hand-scraped element in the wood design can be felt on the surface of the flooring.
• Grouting and grooving – vinyl tiles can be laid with grouting inlay strips or beads of vinyl for addewd realism – and there are acrylic grouts that can be applied. In wood decors, planks are available with v-grooves or bevelled edges between planks for added realism.
LVT construction
PVC Middle Layer(s)
Fibre Glass Layer(s)
PVC Base Layer
www.bramptonchase.co.uk
www.invictus.co.uk
www.krausflooring.co.uk
www.myvictoria.co.uk
Top coating – A polyurethane or aluminium oxide coating provides protection against scratches and stains and gives enhances anti-slip.
Wear layer – This is a key layer - determining the performance and resilience of the product. A 0.3mm (12 mil) wear layer is a good for heavy wear areas. Commercial installations need 0.5mm wear layers or above with 0.7mm at the top end. The wear warranties and guarantees carried by products will be based on this thickness.
Decor layer – This is the decor itself - in essence it is a paper- or filmbased photographic inkjet print. (A few LVT floors have the image printed directly to the surface of the floor but this implies less image definition and different wear characteristics.)
PVC and fibre glass layers – The construction ‘sandwich’ can vary between products but a combination of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) layers for strength and flexibility and fibre glass layers for structural stability may be used. Any click-system profile will be incorporated into these layers. Products often use a combination of recycled vinyl which is cheaper and virgin PVC which lasts longer and is more stable.
Rigid core LVT has a solid, less flexible PVC layer with maximum stability which means it can be laid over exisiting, less even flooring without showing imperfections and therefore avoiding wear problems. Base (or backing) layer – The final high density PVC layer varies according to the installation requirement and is designed for taking adhesive or as an ‘underlay’ for loose-lay and click installations.
Flooring factsheet
Underlay
In a tight market for margins, underlay for carpet and hard flooring offers retailers one of the best opportunities to add value to every sale – with good profitability, trade-up potential once benefits are understood and high customer satisfaction levels.
The Carpet Foundation and its Consumer Code of Practice approved by the Trading Standards Institute (TSI) recommend that new carpet underlay is bought with every new carpet.
Many consumers are now aware of the benefits of underlay but more needs to be done to provide information about the different types available and their suitability for different areas of the home.
Setting up in-store demonstrations so customers can walk on samples with different grades of underlay and feel the difference has shown excellent results. Some manufacturers offer point-of-sale units and foot testers.
• Absorb the pressure of foot traffic and reduce wear
• Improve thermal insulation and warmth
• Increase sound insulation
• Smooth out sub-floor imperfections
• Last the lifetime of the carpet
Poor or old underlay will...
• Feel hard and unwelcoming
• Reduce carpet life
• Cause wrinkling and premature wear spots
• Cause carpet fibres to break down more quickly
• Not meet British Standards
How thick?
A maximum of 12mm is recommended (working with gripper will be difficult thereafter) but rooms with heavy traffic will need a thinner, denser pad. The combination of thickness and density is all important as a thick underlay with low density may not perform well. Typically, the thicker the underlay, the better quality it will need to be – 11mm is often used for luxury installations with 9mm and 7mm the common domestic thickness.
Types
PU (polyurethane) foam • This is now the market’s most popular underlay and is typically made from recycled foam offcuts. The foam provides excellent comfort and performance levels with lots of thickness options and densities and provides great insulation – and its light weight helps handling.
Sponge rubber • A more traditionally manufactured underlay available in flat or waffle patterns in a wide range of weights for different applications. It performs well for comfort and has a durable spring retention.
Crumb rubber • Flat and dense, crumb rubber is good for heavy footfall – offering maximum protection but a little less comfort (and very good over stair nosings).
Laminate underlay • There’s still an opportunity to sell underlay with laminate flooring, improving the acoustic performance of the floor and helping the boards float above any imperfections in the sub-floor.
Combination • A rubber crumb base with a felt top layer offers a good combination of protection, durability and comfort. It also allows carpet with seaming to bed into the top felt.
Underfloor heating underlay • Always ask if there is underfloor heating. Most manufacturers offer specialised products. Underlay and carpet with a combined tog rating of 2.5 can be used – which means the underlay would normally have a tog rating of 1.0.
Felt • This traditional (but environmentally friendly) undelay is made from recycled fibres – wool, jute and synthetic – to create a firm, dense pad with excellent thermal insulation. Still a very popular choice among contractors when stretch fitting woven carpets.
Pre-tackified underlay • A self-adhesive single stick underlay in both needlefelt and PU. A removable system for heavy use when comfort is desired.
Underlayment for LVT • This provides a smooth surface on which you can glue down immediately. If there is a time or acoustic issue or a problematic underfloor, a stable, smooth dual underlay system will provide the best solution.
www.floorwise.co.uk
www.carpenterunderlay.co.uk
www.unifloor.nl
www.underlay.com
www.wilsons-carpet-underlays.co.uk
Sponge rubber Crumb
Combination PU foam
Flooring factsheet
Carpet types
Tufted
With advances in manufacturing technology, 95% of all carpet produced today is tufted. It takes about an hour to make a roll of carpet that might take eight hours to weave. To make tufted carpet, hundreds of yarn-threaded needles are pushed through the primary backing fabric to form loops or tufts, which may be left as is or cut. A heavy adhesive coating is applied to hold the tufts in place and a secondary backing is usually glued on for strength and stability. A wide variety of styles and textures can then be created using various techniques.
LOOP PILE
Berber – Berber carpets look like and are named after a handmade, bulky wool carpet made by the Berber tribes of North Africa and Asia. The loops are made from thick or bulky yarns of wool, nylon, polypropylene or a blend of these fibres to give a cushioned effect underfoot. These carpets are available in an assortment of colours and may be flecked and can be either level loop or multilevel loop.
Level loop – When all the loops are of the same height, a highly flexible and durable carpet is created which has a natural, casual appearance even when (commonly) it is made from synthetic fibres. The tight loop texture tends to hide marks so it’s a good blend between luxury and practicality.
Multi-level loop – The loops vary to two or sometimes three loop heights to create informal, random textures which are very forgiving for marks and stains and therefore very suitable for high traffic areas and busy family rooms.
BONDED
Bonded carpets (sometimes called ‘fibre-bonded’ or ‘fusion bonded’) are created by firing fibres into an adhesive material – the fibres are not stitched into the backing in any way. The technique is principally used for commercial carpet tiles.
CUT PILE
Freize – Frieze or frisée (pronounced freesay) carpets are similar to saxony, but the yarns are more tightly twisted and should always be heat set. They have a dense, low pile surface which creates a coarse, pebbly texture. Frieze carpets are very durable and hide footprints, dust and dirt, which makes them suitable for heavy traffic areas.
Saxony – Saxony textures are made of twisted yarns, which should be heat set. The tips remain very distinct, rather than blending together to form a very elegant finish. Saxony textures show footprints and vacuum marks so are suitable for more occasional rooms in the home. More textured variations improve the practicality of saxonies.
Twist – The popular twist carpet is the cut-pile standard. The yarn is tightly twisted and often heatset to retain this feature and the result is a versatile, textured finish that is ideal for plain colours.
Velvet – Velvet textures (sometimes called ‘velour’ or ‘plush’) all have a level surface pile of approx 5mm to 10mm height, which is then sheared to give a smooth finish. With very little twist in the yarn, the ends blend together which then further enhances the overall finish. These carpets tend to ‘shade’ with heavy use. Footprints show easily and the colour looks different from place to place because fibres lying in different directions reflect the light differently. A luxury for occasional rooms.
CUT AND LOOP
When some of the pile is cut and other left as loop, a variety of surface textures and patterns can be created (in a variety of colours). The multi-level surface is excellent for hiding footprints and stains so cut and loop is good for high traffic areas and general purpose rooms in the home.
Shag pile – Shag pile has varied in popularity. The pile is up to 50mm long and the texture is casual and loose but the surface can flatten easily and may lack durability.
Woven
Woven carpet may be in a tiny minority of today’s production but still produces some of the finest carpets which are used for prestigious installations.
Axminster
The pile of the carpet is inserted into the backing as it is woven and cut to length, creating U-shaped tufts to give a velvety surface. The process locks in the fibre to create a carpet of high durability and performance retention as well as a luxury feel. The process allows for intricate designs and colours to be used – although modern trends mean that the traditional patterned axminster has given way to current fashion trends for plain carpets.
Wilton
Wilton woven carpets are produced in a similar way to axminsters – the principal difference being that a continuous fibre is woven all the way through. The carpet can be sheared to create a range of cut and loop textured effects. The result is a high quality carpet of unrivalled durability.
Flat weave
Manufactured in the same way as wilton, flat weave is a loop pile which allows the yarn to be woven across a wider area to created a flatter, more textured effect.
Floorwise House, 22 High Street Kegworth, Derby, DE74 2DA, UK Tel: +44 (0)1509 673974 Fax: +44 (0)1509 674841
Flooring factsheet
Buying Groups
Why join?
Buying groups have been a highly successful feature of the floor retailing scene in the last decade or so, giving independents the extra edge they need to compete effectively with the retail park chains.
More than 1000 retailers are now members of one of the several buying groups which operate in our sector and the numbers are slowly, but steadily growing.
While the benefits of bulk buying power are self-evident, the resistance to the buying group concept among nonmembers appears to be centred on fears of surrendering some control to a committee – and most particularly compromising long-established relationships and negotiated terms with current suppliers.
Pick the right one
How to decide whether to join a buying group – and which one…
• Evaluate all buying groups as they all work differently
• Talk to the main marketing contact and/or a member of the committee
• Get a list of members and call up two or three for a ‘real-world’ view
• Establish your territorial exclusivity – where’s the next nearest member of each buying group
• Ensure you understand the financial arrangements, any fees that would relate to your membership, how the bills are paid and whether your fees are refundable if it doesn’t work out. Ask the buying group for a consultation to estimate your potential savings
• Review all the extra benefits and services to see what you would actually use
• Check out the product ranges offered including the own-label options and the UK/European mix
The bottom line is the bottom line. A retailer selling across a broad range of products is likely to improve margins within a buying group – but you don’t need a leap of faith to join up. Ask the buying groups for answers...
Key benefits
Increase margins
• Group purchases to get beneficial rates
• Rebates
• Exclusive higher-margin products
• Special promotions
One of the key reasons to join a buying group is to benefit from the discounts they negotiate as a bulk buyer from manufacturers. The way discounts and rebates are passed on to members varies between groups so make sure it’s absolutely clear how this will be done. You’ll need to work out how this compares with discounts you have already negotiated locally with preferred suppliers.
Access professional services
• Business and financial services
• IT and internet support
• Training and workshops
• Professional bodies
Some buying groups offer an excellent range of other services which may be valuable to your business. Financial services include invoice factoring, credit, loans and insurance. Some of the more sophisticated groups offering marketing packages, software systems to help you run your business operations and customised websites ready to use. Relationships with professional and training organisations can also offer discounts.
• Ensure you understand any rules that may limit your flexibility to run your business the way you want
Increase sales
• Best of both worlds’ proposition
• Wider ranges and exclusive products
• POS, displays and merchandising support
Your customers will like the proposition that you are independent but with the buying power of a group –this gives them (and you) the ‘best of both worlds’ with personal service and competitive pricing. Most groups will also offer you ‘own label’ ranges and support with pointof-sale, merchandising and displays. Central stockholding may also be on offer.
Network with other independents
• Members-only exhibitions with preferred manufacturers
• Regular meetings and supplier presentations
• Regional workshops
• Helpline
A lot of retailers enjoy the buying group environment of being independent but not alone out there on the High Street. Groups hold regular meetings and some have their own trade shows, regional meetings and workshops to help you develop your business. The network gives you someone to call when you need advice on, for example, an unusual installation, a technical consumer complaint, legal issue or business dilemma.
Contact: Mike Reed Tel: 0118 932 3832 info@smg-group.co.uk
Associated Carpet Group
www.acgcarpets.com
Contact: Jon Richardson Tel: 01942 825520 jon@acgcarpets.com
www.beautifulflooring.co.uk
Contact: Carl Harris Tel: 01892 549050 charris31@sky.com
www.flooringone.co.uk
Peter Karra Tel: 0121 683 1426 peter.karra@flooringone.co.uk
Due to upcoming retirement Profitable mobile carpet and vinyl business for sale – West Cornwall
Sale includes, website, email address, sim card with over 1200 customers, Citroen Relay van (high top, long wheel base) all liveried up, polo shirts and fleeces, and an account with a local wholesaler on favourable terms.
We have great reviews on facebook, low overheads and accounts dating back to 2015.
Make money from day one!
Offers in the region of £75,000
Contact Bill at bill@cornishcarpets.com or 07793 462468
Super Plus
The Rug Tamer! Keeps Rugs In Their Place
In an independent survey which asked 450 retailers which of the nine trade titles they actually read, our magazine came top of the pile.
Thank you!
COMBINATION UNDERLAYS NEEDLEFELT UNDERLAYS
For orders and further information, please ring P&R Ratcliffe (Underlays) Ltd. Burnley, Lancashire BB10 3BH Tel: 01282 421026, Fax: 01282 412321 www.foxirugtamer.co.uk
