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ARTICLE
Colour your future
Flooring marketing guru Rita Bancroft looks at future design and colour trends to comfort consumers in 2025 pages 36–38
Tempting textures
Furlong’s new man-made loop page 15
Top 20 rugs from 2024
LDP sets out what topped the charts page 34
Consumer optimism
Positive vibe for 2025 say analysts Business news - page 28
starts on page 15
Happy New Year!
Wish all our friends in flooring health, wealth and happiness.
ARTICLE
Nature nurture
Eco innovation
The latest LVT designs bring the outdoors in with extra authentic wood decors in calm, muted decors pages 32–33
Environmental initiatives are transforming flooring for the greater good + better business pages 32–37
In the Moods
Original patterns from Moduleo page 15
Eventful 2025
Check out the flooring expo diary page 30
Star achievers
We showcase the 2025 winners of flooring's most prestigious awards scheme page 40–57
Lovely Lewis Abbott
Iconic carpet brand powers ahead page 26
Browned off... or on?
The official designer colour of 2025 page 18
“Particularly positive”
Likewise has strong Q4 Business news - page 28
7.5% cashback on Stopgap Fast-Track 30, 700 and on these Styccobond adhesives.*
At
NEW IN STOCK
Fitzrovia Chevron Collection also available in Herringbone and long plank.
SALES AGENTS
Gary Kendall London W, WC, SW, N, E, EC plus Home Counties 07802 661 944
Tony Mellamphy
Kent, Surrey, Sussex, Hampshire, Berkshire, Oxon, Isle of Wight, London SE, SW, S 07908 568 532
Sandy Anderson Lancashire, Cheshire Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Wirral, and North Wales 07445 232 345
Contact +44 (0) 20 8368 8122 or infouk@xyloflooring.com
FLOORINGNEWS
Tough texture for family life
Furlong Flooring has launched Gobi, an economical, textured loop pile carpet designed to suit the demands of busy households for style and durability.
The new Gobi carpet boasts a unique textured finish that adds depth and interest to any room in the house. Manufactured with a 5/32-gauge construction, it offers a perfect balance of comfort and resilience. Made from 100% Easycare fibres, Gobi is both mothproof and completely bleach cleanable.
“Gobi represents our commitment to providing flooring solutions that combine durability, and affordability,” said Ian Collacott, Sales Director at Furlong Flooring. “This has seen the creation of an affordable carpet that not only looks fantastic but can also withstand the challenges of everyday home life.
In the Moods for design versatility?
Updated with more original patterns and the latest natural wood and stone effects, Moduleo Moods is now ready to make floors a design statement and a true conversation starter.
In the new Moods collection, Moduleo’s in-house designers have created 15 patterns for a total of more than 70 different standard floor designs to choose from. This means that homes can enjoy everything from subtle wood hexagon designs to bold, high-contrast diamond patterns, wood and stone chevrons and geometric twists on floral designs. From just four shapes and 12 wood and stone effects, Moduleo designers have turned flooring into a design statement that lifts any home out of the ordinary.
All of these options use Moduleo’s 0.55mm luxury vinyl specification with enhanced scratch and stain protection to ensure they can withstand use in living spaces and hallways, and as Moduleo is water-resistant, bathrooms too. What’s more, Moduleo Moods is easy to clean, so it stays looking good in the busiest of family homes. The wood and stone effects of Moods – including Moduleo classics like Laurel Oak, Country Oak and Mattina –also feature EIR (emboss in register) and an ultra-matt surface for a more authentic natural look.
For those homes when only something completely bespoke will do, then Moods Signature is also available alongside the collection’s standard patterns. With nine base shapes and the full colour palette from the Moduleo Roots collection, homeowners have the flexibility to design a floor that’s uniquely tailored to their sense of style.
T 01332 851 500 • www.moduleo.co.uk
Available in a curated selection of nine colours, Gobi also offers a thick blue felt backing not only making it comfy underfoot but also simplifies the installation process.
Furlong Flooring’s confidence in Gobi’s quality is reflected in the generous five-year warranty, offering homeowners peace of mind.
Gobi is manufactured by Regency Carpets in the UK, which means Furlong Flooring ensures reliable stock levels and swift delivery times. To help customers visualise the Gobi carpet in their own spaces, Furlong has also launched a new ‘Room Viewer’ tool on their website, allowing users to see how the flooring will look in their homes before making a purchase.
T 01772 316155 www.furlongflooring.co.uk
Nature nurture
The latest LVT
Richard goes for growth at Lusotufo
Lusotufo have announced the appointment of Richard Moore as Commercial Director with the role of driving the sales growth and expansion of both the Lusotufo and Causeway brands.
With an extensive career spanning key roles at Riviera Home UK, Associated Carpet Group, Ryalux Carpets and Brintons Carpets, Richard brings a wealth of industry expertise and a dynamic approach to build the Causeway brand, nurturing customer relationships.
Commenting on the appointment, Richard Moore said: “I am honoured to join Lusotufo and contribute to the growth of the Causeway Carpets brand. Lusotufo’s commitment to quality, innovation and sustainability aligns perfectly with my vision for creating exceptional products that resonate with customers. I am excited to collaborate with the talented team to drive brand awareness, build robust market penetration and deliver strategic initiatives that will strengthen our presence in the market and achieve new milestones together.”
The company is poised for significant growth with plans to expand its portfolio and enhance its reputation for delivering high-quality, stylish flooring solutions. Richard will play a pivotal role in ensuring this vision becomes reality to create new opportunities and forge strong partnerships across the industry.
Lusotufo welcomes Richard Moore to the team and looks forward to a bright future in the next stage of their growth.
T (+351) 256 750 500 • www.lusotufo.pt
Comfy flooring with a conscience
LeoLine’s Comfytex Deluxe Pro is a cushion vinyl floor that’s fast and easy to install thanks to its premium textile backing, but did you know that this backing also has a social conscience?
Thanks to its partnership with Plastic Bank, LeoLine uses post-consumer ocean plastic reclaimed by communities across the world, including Indonesia, Philippines, Brazil, Thailand and Cameroon. Under the Plastic Bank initiative, communities gather unwanted plastic exchanging it against life improving benefits including health, work and life insurance, digital connectivity, grocery vouchers, school supplies and more.
LeoLine then takes this Social Plastic, alongside other downcycled plastic, for use in its textile backing that not only makes Comfytex Deluxe Pro easy to install, but comfortable and quiet underfoot too.
Raising your profile for quality
Now, it’s even easier than ever to decide on which floorwise profile collection is right for the task ahead thanks to the launch of their brand-new sample boards.
Available from floorwise distributors across the UK for the popular premium finishes of Reflections, the enduring Max and Classic ranges and Zenith for wood, laminate and LVT floors, the sample boards feature real profile sections for every type. These are mounted onto high-quality board that’s made to be durable under frequent use allowing the samples to show the quality, versatility and durability on offer across the entire range.
With premium quality and excellent value, floorwise profiles are used by retailers and installers to show the care and attention they put into delivering customers a fantastic floor to be enjoyed for years to come.
Richard Bailey, managing director, floorwise, says, “Our profiles offer installers, retailers and contractors a high-quality solution to finish every type of floor. Our new sample boards showcase the scope and quality of the floorwise profile portfolio and make it easy to define which product is required for the job in hand.”
Making an ideal reference for contractors and installers, the sample boards can also be used by retailers to help their customers decide on which profile collection is right for them. Whether opting for the competitively priced Classic range or deciding to upgrade to the new brushed black and brushed space grey of Max Reflections; they are an essential tool enabling retailers to show customers how fantastic floors start with floorwise.
The Max Reflections, Zenith, and Classic and Max sample boards are now available from local floorwise distributors across the UK and Ireland.
T 01509 673974 • www.floorwise.co.uk
To date, Social Plastic has gathered 145,929,181kg of plastic waste and works with over 53,000 members in more than 600 communities*. By using Social Plastic in its textile backed floors, LeoLine is stopping unwanted plastic entering the oceans and supporting sustainable economic growth.
Stuart Reeves, sales and marketing director, LeoLine, says, “Using Social Plastic in our textile-backed Comfytex Deluxe Pro collection is a great way for us to extend our positive social impact while also letting us meet our obligation to use materials more responsibly. As one of more than 500 businesses partnering with Plastic Bank, we’re making a valuable contribution to reducing plastic in our oceans while also supporting people in in vulnerable coastal communities around the world.”
Comfytex Deluxe Pro is one of LeoLine’s top performers and suitable for homes looking for a durable and easy to maintain cushion vinyl floor for their home. Available in stylish tile and wood designs, the collection cuts down on noise and comes with added slip resistance.
Creative designs that
The new-look Moduleo Moods lets your customers experiment with over 70 pattern and colour combinations to make their floor a design statement and expression of personal aesthetic.
FLOORINGNEWS
The future’s brown
Global colour authority Pantone has announced the colour of the year for 2025 and it’s brown – or rather it’s Mocha Mousse, “a warming, brown hue imbued with richness.”
Pantone’s annual selection leads the way for creatives across all sectors including interior designers in the soft furnishing and flooring industries.
Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, comments on the new colour: “Underpinned by our desire for everyday pleasures, Pantone 171230 Mocha Mousse expresses a level of thoughtful indulgence.
“Sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time an unpretentious classic, Mousse extends our perceptions of the browns from being humble and grounded to embrace aspirational and luxe,” she says.
The colour is a break from the vibrant shades of the last few years which were intended to convey optimism and cheerfulness in challenging times. This year it was “Peach Fuzz” with “Viva Magenta” in 2023 and “Very Peri” dynamic blue in 2022.
For 2025, the colour gurus reckon the new brown will inspire “harmonious comfort” and “feelings of contentment”. Swatches of the colour and palettes showing recommended combination colours can be found at: https://www.pantone.com/uk/en/color-of-the-year/2025 www.pantone.com
Boxing clever for Thai gym
Products from F. Ball and Co. Ltd., including Styccobond F3 and Styccobond F44 adhesives, have delivered a robust flooring installation that will stand up to the rigours of a Thai boxing gym in Leeds.
Contractors from Crown Carpets and Flooring, Leeds, installed carpet and vinyl floorcoverings in different areas as part of the refurbishment of Tobin’s gym in Leeds, a total area of 90m2
They first overboarded floorboards with flooring-grade plywood. F. Ball’s Stopgap Micro Rapid ultra-smooth, flexible, rapid-drying floor finishing compound was applied to fill indentations formed by screws and gaps at joints between the panels and create a flawlessly smooth surface for floorcoverings and prevent imperfections showing through vinyl floorcoverings.
Once the subfloor was fully prepared, carpet was adhered to the substrate in the strength and conditioning areas with F. Ball’s Styccobond F3. After over 50 years since it first launched, Styccobond F3 is the UK’s most used flooring adhesive for the installation of textile floorcoverings. It is a water-based rubber/resin flooring adhesive which offers excellent wet grab and benefits from an early build up of strength. It is also protected against bio-degradation and compatible for use with over 70% of the 6,000 floorcoverings in the F. Ball Recommended Adhesives Guide (RAG).
In the changing rooms, contractors used F. Ball’s Styccobond F44 pressure sensitive acrylic adhesive to install vinyl sheet. Styccobond F44 is a solvent-free, acrylic emulsion adhesive, which provides high bond strength, strong initial tack and a long open time. It is protected against bio-degradation and suitable for securing a wide-range of vinyl sheet and tile floorcoverings, rubber floorcoverings and some PVC or polyurethane-backed textile floorcoverings.
Commenting on the work, Luke Callaghan, director at Crown Carpets and Flooring, said: “We’ve been using F. Ball products for years, and they are 100% reliable. Styccobond F3 and Styccobond F44 are our go-to choices for carpet and vinyl sheet respectively, and Stopgap Micro Rapid ensured that the finished installation was perfectly smooth.”
T 01538 361 633 • www.f-ball.co.uk
Pathways to plug the skills gap
F. Ball and Co. Ltd. has recruited a further two STEM apprentices into the business, following in the footsteps of the previous intake of six apprentices, who have now progressed on to second career paths within the company.
Cameron Simkins joins as a development technician apprentice, working in the manufacturer’s development laboratories to help to create ever more advanced flooring installation products as he undertakes a Level 6 BEng Materials Technology with the University of Derby.
Meanwhile, Harry Torr has joined F. Ball’s IT department as he embarks on a Level 6 Digital Solutions apprenticeship at the University of Staffordshire. Prior to joining F. Ball full time, Harry undertook a placement with the company as part of his T-Level qualification in Digital Support.
Commenting on the development, F. Ball SHEQ manager Jenny Barnett said: “It’s vital that we create pathways into the sector for young people to support the future of our industry. That’s why we’re offering a wide range of apprenticeship options throughout the business.
“We’re delighted that all of our previous recruits have decided to continue on their journey at F. Ball while remaining in education. Everyone has been impressed by the intelligence and commitment to their work that they have shown, as well as the contributions that they have made to their departments. I look forward to seeing what they go on to achieve.”
For the full story on F Ball’s past and present apprentices, visit: www.thestocklists.com/apprentices
T 01538 361 633 • www.f-ball.co.uk
Cameron Simkins (left) and Harry Tor
New year
As we settle into the new year, we’re excited to share some fantastic news! We’ve got new launches from DivineLiving and EasyLiving, bringing you even more style, comfort, and innovation for your home.
And that’s not all – there’s so much more on the horizon, so be sure to keep an eye out for what’s to come!
Here’s to a fresh start, exciting updates, and a year full of possibilities.
Thank you for being a part of the journey!
FLOORINGNEWS
New hub enhances online access
Abingdon Flooring has updated its trade portal to provide independent retailers with easy access to marketing materials, specifications, installation guidelines and more through the launch of the Information Hub.
With real-time stock updates and order processing, Abingdon Flooring’s Trade Portal brings independent retailers more flexibility to manage their account. Whether checking real-time stock updates or getting up to speed with the progress of orders, the Trade Portal makes it easy to keep on top of business at any time. To ensure that the Trade Portal becomes even more essential for retailers, Abingdon Flooring has introduced a new section, Information Hub.
An additional feature for all Trade Portal accounts, Information Hub brings together useful information in one central place, so that retailers can find what they need quickly. Regularly updated, the hub covers all of Abingdon Flooring’s collections, including the new Simply Smooth range of laminate, LVT and cushion vinyl floors. Specification sheets, brochures and fitting instructions for Simply Smooth LVT and laminate floors, along with regular news updates will ensure that Abingdon Flooring retailers are among the best informed in the business.
Charlotte Coop, head of marketing, says, “Since it launched in 2021, our Trade Portal has become the favourite way for many retailers to manage their account on a daily basis. The convenience and simplicity to be able to check out stock and the progress of orders whenever and wherever is something that they really appreciate. Now with Information Hub, our portal is even more indispensable. Its regular news updates will be a great way to stay in touch with everything going on at Abingdon Flooring.”
It’s a business priority for Abingdon Flooring to provide a more connected digital offer for its network of independent retailers. Information Hub is part of this transformation and gives another reason for all Abingdon Flooring retailers to register for Trade Portal. T 01274 655 694 • www.abingdonflooring.co.uk
Fortifying F Ball expertise
F. Ball and Co. Ltd. technical service manager
Steve Boulton is celebrating 40 years with the company, during which time he has established himself as one of the leading figures in flooring industry technology.
Steve leads F. Ball’s technical service team, which provides expert advice on how to get the most out of F. Ball’s range of subfloor preparation products and adhesives, as well as the testing that ensures they will perform as required and goes into producing F. Ball’s Recommended Adhesives Guide (RAG).
After training as an engineer at a time when industry was declining in Staffordshire, Steve started his career at F. Ball in 1984 in the sales and marketing department and soon became interested in the technical aspects of flooring. His knowledge expanded through extensive site work and he moved to the Technical Services Department in 1996. Within the year, he was promoted to lead the team and has remained within the department ever since.
Steve says: “I’ve always believed in the value of getting out there to speak to flooring contractors and and provide specific guidance and ensuring people understand how to use a product.”
During his time at F. Ball, he has played a role in technological advancements that have made life easier for flooring contractors, including developing the protocol for the pump application of Stopgap smoothing compounds. He was also instrumental in the establishment of the F. Ball training facility, which evolved into the F. Ball Centre of Excellence, offering free courses for flooring professionals.
Steve added: “Things have changed over the years – my career has taken me from dial telephones to iPhones, but the principles are the same, including continuous product improvement and excellence in customer service. No man is an island though, and without working alongside a highly skilled and dedicated team working with me, this wouldn’t have been possible. I am fortunate to have been guided and helped by many people along the way.”
On this milestone, F. Ball managing director Darren Kenyon said: “Technical support is one of the strengths that sets F. Ball apart in the flooring industry, and Steve’s leadership of the Technical Service Department continues to be a key contribution to our success. He has been here longer than most of us, and it’s difficult to overstate his contribution to the company. Congratulations on such a great achievement.”
T 01538 361 633 • www.f-ball.co.uk
The stars are out for 2025!
After a record number of entries – over 130 in total – the judges have decided on the category winners. These are the products and services that will make a difference in the year ahead to drive new sales and improve your business.
See pages 40–57 for details – and more next month!
Steve Boulton (right) congratulated by F. Ball Managing Director, Darren Kenyon.
Unbeatable Flooring Solutions from Blackheath & BerryAlloc
At Blackheath, we pride ourselves on being a trusted distributor for premium surface and flooring brands, delivering across most of the UK from Monday to Friday each week. With years of experience in the industry and a strong customer-focused approach, we’re expanding further into the flooring market to meet the growing demands of our clients.
We are proud to be a distributor of BerryAlloc, offering their high-quality laminate and vinyl flooring collections. We stock popular ranges, including Ocean+, Chateau+, Zenn and Cadenza, as well as all the essential accessories to complete the perfect flooring installation. BerryAlloc flooring is synonymous with durability, style and innovation. Designed for both practicality and elegance, their collections feature water-resistant technologies, easy installation systems and an extensive variety of finishes to complement any space. Whether you’re looking for timeless wood aesthetics, sleek modern designs, or superior performance, BerryAlloc flooring delivers on every front.
By choosing Blackheath as your supplier, you’re partnering with a team dedicated to fast delivery, excellent stock availability and unparalleled customer service. For premium flooring solutions backed by trusted brands, look no further than Blackheath and BerryAlloc.
For more information contact our sales office on 0121 561 4245, or contact your local Blackheath Business Development Manager today.
Kevin Cashmore | North West | 07989 954 480
Jason Hickman | North East | 07966 059 610
Peter Dukes | South West | 07801 193 706
Nick Butcher | South East | 07484 012 724
Texas Light Brown | Chateau+
Gyant Warm Natural | Ocean+
Retro Chic Blue Grey with T profile | Ocean+
• Enjoy an engaging, friendly, social and fun member event
• Meet our industry leading suppliers who support the group and take advantage of their additional on the day deals and incentives
• Buffet, Supplier Show, Gala Dinner and Casino Evening included for all attending ACG members
• The largest buying group trade show exclusively for it’s members
FINANCIAL REWARDS!
MEMBER? NOTANACG
1 ACG offers membership without interference and a change in practice.
2 ACG offers its members actual ‘best trade pricing’.
3 ACG members receive all their ‘turnover rebates’ directly from suppliers.
4 ACG members have access to the hugely successful, multi award winning and largest of the group rebrands - Smart Choice.
5 ACG are a friendly, member owned and not for profit buying group.
Joining the NICF has worked really well for my business and me. Customers can find me listed on the
Membership gives clients assurance of
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
Cost-Effective Estimating and Planning — Commercial
Profitable Measuring and Quoting — Domestic
Moisture — Preventing Floor Failures
NICF Fitter
Nearly Time for the First Cut? ... Not with Novoturf Artificial Grass!
Say goodbye to the mowing, watering, and muddy patches with Novoturf Artificial Grass. Designed for a lushus, perfectly manicured look all year round, it’s durable, low-maintenance, and built to withstand anything
Seizing the opportunity to secure high value sales
Smart retailers with discerning customers are going to like the new-look Likewise brand –Floors by Lewis Abbott.
Likewise has become one of the fastest growing flooring suppliers by making sure independent retailers have the ranges they need to survive and thrive in a tight market.
The middle to upper end of the market has held up well and is the earliest sector to start seeing spending recover now. Likewise has seized the opportunity to offer retailers something special to build their presence in this valuable segment.
Lewis Abbott was a family business going back 75 years when Likewise acquired the company in 2019. After the acquisition, the distribution part of the business became Likewise London and the Lewis Abbott brand is now used by Likewise to promote its premium products.
Luxurious nylon velvets, 100% 3-ply wool loops, pin-point polyester twists and distinctive flatweave herringbones are the character of this brand. “These products are at the aspirational end of the business. They are not an everyday sale but for retailers who have the right kind of discerning clients, this portfolio is highly competitive and attractive,” says General Manager Martin West.
“So much of selling is knowing your customers,” says Martin. “I believe Likewise has one of the very best sales teams in the sector who take the trouble to understand each retailer’s business and offer the right selection of products.”
“Together, we can generate some additional high value business with our retail partners, especially as the market begins to recover,” says Martin an industry stalwart with over 30 years of experience in the mid to top end of the carpet market.
The Floors by Lewis Abbott brand is available to all customers of Likewise Floors up and down the country with all-new point-of-sale and merchandising.
Six new ranges + two attractive upgrades
• Sensibility is a wonderfully luxurious deep pile polyamide in nine neutrals and greys and its sister Vanity Fair has a lower pile for stairs and soft contract opportunities.
• Expectations delivers a plain velvet twist in piece-dyed polyester with bright, clear yarn in nine colours and pinpoint tuft definition.
• Huckleberry is the new chunky ribbed loop which combines 6 ply and two ply 100% wool yarns to create a unique 3D look in 7 designs.
• Pickwick presents a smooth, low-level loop in the collection with a super clean 3-ply, 100% wool fibre.
• Gatsby is right on top of the flatweave trend with 12 options across two designs in bouclé and herringbone. A recycled black felt back makes it easier to fit.
• Herringbone has been an established best-seller for Lewis Abbott and adds five new colours in this portfolio makeover of the 90% PP/10% wool collection.
• Rural Charm is another favourite for its 100% wool loop, ultra natural appearance which will now feature in the POS offer.
Herringbone, quick silver
Sensibility
Lewis Abbott’s – Swatch tower & Combi display
F L O O R I N G
B U S I N E S S
S O F T W A R E
O u r s y s t e m s a r e s p e c i f i c a l l y d e s i g n e d f o r t h e
f l o o r i n g t r a d e a n d a r o u n d y o u r b u s i n e s s
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F L O O R P L A N N I N G
I n t e g r a t e s w i t h f l o o r p l a n n i n g
s o f t w a r e f o r u p d a t i n g p r o d u c t s , i m p o r t i n g q u o t e s a n d l i n k s t o
p l a n s a n d 3 D r o o m v i e w s . . .
T E X T M E S S A G I N G
S e n d S M S t o y o u r c u s t o m e r s f o r
c o l l e c t i o n s , d e l i v e r y a n d f i t t i n g
t i m e s . C u s t o m i s e m e s s a g e s a n d
b u l k s e n d f r o m o r d e r r e p o r t s . . .
w w w . e G i z m o . c o . u k
M O B I L E W E B D I A R Y
I n t e g r a t i o n w i t h o n l i n e w e b
d i a r y a p p , v i e w a p p o i n t m e n t s o n
y o u r p h o n e a n d t a b l e t . I d e a l f o r
c o n t r o l l i n g m e a s u r e s & f i t t i n g . . .
s a l e s @ e G i z m o . c o . u k
“Room for optimism” on consumer confidence
The post-budget gains in consumer confidence was locked in for December and analysts see some cause for hope that confidence is “creeping back into positive territory.”
GfK’s all important Consumer Confidence Index was up one point. The Major Purchase Index for big-ticket items such as flooring was unchanged, but this locks in a 5-point jump up in November,
“Consumer confidence is still far from strong but there is some room for optimism with views on personal finances over the next 12 months up two points versus November and creeping back into positive territory,” says GfK Consumer Insights Director, Neil Bellamy.
But in a note of caution he also added: “However, with the major purchase measure unchanged at minus16 in December, consumers are still thinking twice about big-ticket purchases.”
“Of all the major events in 2024, the UK General Election was the most impactful, with initial post-election optimism giving way to a large sevenpoint fall in September as consumers were spooked by Government messages about the state of the economy and difficult choices to be made,” he said. ““Overall, 2024 has been another year of ups and downs in consumer confidence but much less so compared with recent years. So volatility is down but will it stay that way?”
Neil Bellamy, Consumer Insights Director, GfK, says: “There was evidence of nervousness in recent months as consumers contemplated the potentially worrying impact of the UK Budget at home, and even the implications of the US presidential election. But we have moved past those events now.
“The biggest change this month is in major purchase intentions, an important measure that has jumped five points from -21 to -16,” he said. “The New Year often brings optimism, but it’s too early to expect significant further improvements in the consumer mood. As recent data shows, inflation has yet to be tamed, people are still feeling acute costof-living pressures, and it will take time for the UK’s new government to deliver on its promise of ‘change’.”
Vinyl imports up at the expense of carpet
Flooring imports into the UK have inched up again but with vinyl showing a significantly stronger performance than carpet in a trend that has been consistent in recent months.
According to HM Revenue & Customs data compiled by The Furnishing Report, overall flooring imports in October was up just 0.7% but vinyl showed a positive push up more than 8% – half of those imports coming from China.
Meanwhile, the import of carpet into the UK showed its sixth month of decline with the October figures down 5.3% on the same month last year. However, carpet continues to be the largest sector coming into the UK with a value of £79m that month, compared to £45m of vinyl.
Wood flooring has been enjoying a strong run on imports in recent months and October continued the trend with a rise of 12%.
“Particularly positive” trading reports Likewise Fast-expanding flooring distributor Likewise has reported strong growth with an 11% sales uplift in October and November.
In a trading update to shareholders, the company said it was pleased to announce “trading in October and November has been particularly positive, with like for like performance showing strong growth against the corresponding period last year.”
Total sales revenue in the two months showed an increase of 11.0% taking the year to date to 7.5% with sales revenue in the branded Likewise Floors operation up by 18.8% for the two months, up 13.3% on the year to date.
The statement said: “Average daily sales in November were £704k demonstrating the Group is making positive progress towards creating a business in excess of £200 million sales revenue.
“The Group remains on track to achieve current market expectations for the financial year ending 31 December 2024. Furthermore, the increasing sales revenue and gross margin in H2 2024 is beginning to deliver operational gearing which provides the Group with momentum to achieve its objectives in 2025,” it said.
Flooring market “weaker than projected”
Leading UK flooring distributor Headlam says the flooring market is down 10–15% with no sign of improvement in the second half of 2024.
The PLC was reporting the performance for the five months to November 30 and announced its revenue was down 7.3%. It said it had benefited from Carpetright exiting the market, otherwise its result would have been closer to the 11.3% decline it saw in the first half.
Headlam CEO Chris Payne said: “The challenges impacting the UK flooring market have continued to weigh on our trading performance in the short term.
“While the lead indicators for the flooring and home improvements markets continue to point to improvement in the medium-term, these indicators remain volatile. As has been widely reported, UK consumer confidence declined in the run-up to the UK government’s budget announcement, and this resulted in a further deterioration in the rate of decline in consumer spending on home improvements,” he said.
“Consequently, there has been no sign of improvement in the flooring market during the second half of the 2024 and we estimate that the market continued to decline at 10-15% year-on-year, in line with the first half,” said Chris.
Headlam is positive about the progress it is making in its transformation plan which includes the consolidation of 32 trading businesses into one single, national business trading as Mercado and the simplification of its distribution network and with centralising its buying and stock control.
“The Board remains encouraged by the significant progress we are making against our strategy and transformation plan to simplify our operations and improve our customer offering. In light of the additional market headwinds, we are extending this programme to target greater benefits over the next two years,” said the company’s statement to shareholders. “This progress remains critical to ensuring the business is positioned for long-term success given the wider current macroeconomic uncertainty and its impact on consumer confidence and our markets in the near-term,” it said.
FLOORINGNEWSFEATURE
Planning for an event-ful new year
Everyone always emphasises that flooring is a people business of amicable competition, friendly collaboration and long-standing relationships so the events in the sector play a key role in developing better business.
But the flooring industry relished the bounce-back to face-to face meetings after the pandemic with the key events of 2024 being well supported and there are new initiatives for 2025, including expanded events in both Harrogate and Flanders, and the INDX show for both buying group members and non-members in Solihull.
January Furniture Show
NEC Birmingham, UK • January 19-22, 2025
For over 36 years, January Furniture Show (JFS) has been the premier destination for premium furniture and innovative design. Perfectly placed in the retail calendar, this means that visitors will be amongst the very first to see the launch of new-season styles, products and trends from over 500 brands.
JFS is the meeting place for the industry with trade buyers and brands flocking from across the UK and beyond to connect, buy, sell, learn, and network.
Across four days, January Furniture Show welcomes the highest calibre of brands and buyers, who have more than 50,000 products to explore across the event’s distinctive sectors.
www.thefurnitureshows.com
INDX
UK • May 13–14, 2025
The INDX National Flooring Show is scheduled for May in Solihull, West Midlands, and is now open to all retailers
The two-day event replaces the popular Buying Groups National Flooring Show (BGNFS) at the same Cranmore Park venue and visitors will not need to be a member of any group to attend.
However, all the key buying groups continue to partner with the event - ACG, AIS Flooring One, Bond Retail Marketing, Carpet 1st, Greendale and SMG.
Cranmore Park is already home to several INDX events for Furniture, Homewares, and Beds & Bedroom organised by the Associated Indendent Stores (AIS) organisation of which Flooring One is also part.
www.indxshows.co.uk
Heimtextil • Frankfurt, Germany • January 14–17, 2025
Frankfurt's top textile show sold out its new carpet and rugs hall last year, raising the profile of flooring at this prestigious event which attracts 2,900 exhibitors from 60 countries www.heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com
Flanders Flooring Days
Belgium • June 2–5, 2025
Since Flanders Flooring Days opened registrations for its next edition in 2025, many big names and interesting new participants have already signed up. With its fourth edition on the horizon, it appears this unique event is taking the European flooring industry by storm.
In 2024, exhibitors welcomed no fewer than 4.245 visitors from 78 countries to this hybrid event that takes place in the major manufacturers own showrooms across the region and at ‘The Hub’ in the Kortrijk Xpo venue.
Some 20 European and Flemish flooring manufacturers will be meeting customers, showing innovations and having the opportunity to network in Belgium.
www.flandersflooringdays.com
The Flooring Show
UK • September 21–23, 2025
The Flooring Show, Harrogate, had a great show last September, attracting 3,255 buyers over the three days of the exhibition - the best ever attendance in its 62-year history.
More than 400 flooring brands are exhibiting under one roof and the opening up of Hall Q in 2024 has boosted the portfolio of all flooring types on show.
And there's always a lot else happening at Harrogate with trend displays, demonstrations, the Fitter of the Year competition and, of course, the town's legendary status for hospitality in networking and meeting friends old and new in the flooring industry.
www.theflooringshow.com
Domotex • Hannover • January 19–22, 2026
Domotex is the world’s leading trade fair for floor coverings and carpets but last year it took the decision to host the event biennially so the next event will not be until 2026 and will include wall coverings. www.thefurnitureshows.com
Solihull,
Kortrijk,
Harrogate,
FLOORING FOCUS
Turning the outside indoors for natural calm
While the wider political world seems to be getting increasingly tense, designers are turning towards the natural world to create a sense of calm and security in the haven of our homes.
Wood decors in vinyl flooring with muted tones and clean lines are coming to the fore and the emphasis is on authenticity, with modern production technology achieving new levels of definition and detail.
The new Art Select collection from Karndean Designflooring is ideally placed to meet the increasing demand for natural wood designs in serene earthy tones with outstanding versatility and durability.
Gavin Smith, marketing director at Karndean Designflooring, said: “Our emotional connections with the natural world are reflected in the current transition towards interiors that comfort and heal. This beauty of nature has always been the inspiration for our authentic handcrafted designs. Take our new Artisan Oak designs as just one example.
“Our designers started with an interesting sample of European Oak which they painstakingly enhanced with a delicate liming process before hand-etching the open flowery grain, burnished knots and tighter linear markings for pin sharp definition. Finished with a registered emboss and deep bevel, and offered in five colourways, this is a floor that will give any room an authentic organic foundation and luxury finish but with all the practicality and longevity that comes with the Karndean name.”
The team at Lifestyle Floors are right in step with these trends. “Homeowners are increasingly looking for authentic flooring that brings a sense of comfort, and this has led to a surge in popularity of our woodeffect LVT ranges, which feature varied tones and intricate grain patterns to create restful and inviting spaces,” says Jon Flannigan, Head of Product.
“Though real wood remains popular for furniture, LVT is quickly becoming the preferred choice for flooring in modern homes, thanks to its durability and capacity to withstand scratches, stains and daily wear that natural wood is more susceptible to,” she adds.
LVT flooring is also easier to maintain; unlike real wood, which requires special cleaning products and occasional refinishing, LVT can be retained with a quick sweep or mop as needed, making it the preferred choice for high-traffic rooms or busy households.
Lifestyle Floors’ Aspen Oak and Pacific Walnut ranges feature realistic design that replicates the unique grain patterns, texture and tones of real wood, allowing homeowners to capture the aesthetic appeal of wood but with a more practical, hardwearing finish.
“LVT will move into a more design led market in 2025,” says Stephen Lathan of j2 Flooring. “The style will continue to develop neutral, natural tonal woods, paired with the demand for an authentic wood grain and texture.
“As well as colour and texture and true grain finishes, we also have seen in late 2024 the more popular formats taking over, such as our Chateau panel and basket weave formats, along with the smaller herringbone styles as this format continues to be number 1,” says Stephen. “Our latest colours of Naked Oak and Regal Timber, have proved that earthy tones are here to stay and the demand for warmer lighter oaks continues.”
J2 flooring basket weave
Karndean Designflooring, Artisan Oak
Later this year j2 promises some exciting new launches, which will develop further these trends, ensuring the company be a pioneer in LVT flooring design.
Forbo’s LVT collections present impressive finesse in realistic wood and stone designs, produced and designed with high-end production techniques to offer unique embossing effects.
Combined with the ease of maintenance and durability expected from an LVT floor, Forbo’s Allura range provides a stylish and modern flooring solution.
Taking this one step further is the new Allura Click Flexcore range. An adhesive-free click format LVT with a flexible core, it makes installation quick and hassle-free, even over uneven or poor condition subfloors.
While traditional ‘rigid core’ Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) products can be inflexible and brittle in nature, with the potential for them to become damaged if there are irregularities in the subfloor, Allura Click Flexcore offers a more flexible solution.
Combining the benefits of Forbo’s Allura LVT with an integrated foam underlay, it can bridge the gaps in poor, uneven or sloped subfloors, for a more forgiving fit.
With 20 dB impact sound reduction, Allura Click Flexcore is also effective at minimising transmitted noise, making it ideal for busy family homes.
Pressed bevel is the next level of innovation in SPC flooring says the product developers at Adore Floors, offering a premium edge treatment that sets flooring apart. This advanced technique involves pressing the edges of each plank to create a subtle groove, enhancing the natural beauty and realism of the floor. The result is a stunning visual effect that perfectly mimics the look of traditional hardwood.
Unlike traditional painted or V-bevel edges, pressed bevels provide a consistent texture and colour, giving the floor a refined, uniform look. This design adds depth and dimension to any space.
“At Adore, we’re confident that pressed bevel SPC flooring will be one of our top sellers in 2025. With its timeless elegance, durability, and low-maintenance appeal, it’s the ideal choice for homeowners and designers who want to create beautiful, long-lasting interiors,” says Adore marketeer, Victoria Cambier.
Kellars have developed an impressive portfolio of 22 SPC and 24 award-winning LVT decors which make them a must-have supplier for many showrooms.
One of the most distinctive is the latest Allora Lux range which seeks to redefine flooring with its 8mm SPC core for unmatched durability and water resistance, ideal for any room. The 5G Välinge click system ensures hassle-free installation, while the built-in underlay minimizes noise for a peaceful home.
Its painted bevel edges and registered embossed finish deliver a realistic wood appearance, blending elegance with practicality. Compatible with underfloor heating, Allora Lux is a versatile and stylish choice for modern living.
The Academy for Excellence has underlined its position at the top of UK flooring installation training facilities with another manufacturer accredited training programme. Now able to provide training courses for Moduleo luxury vinyl floors, the Academy has already welcomed its first installers to receive training in the brand’s premium design floors.
After passing a two-day course at the Academy’s Liverpool training facility, a selection of the country’s best fitting talent from Moduleo retailers around the UK are now certified Moduleo LayRed Master Installers and able to offer a lifetime warranty on their installations. These five installers are the first to have the backing of Moduleo whenever they install LayRed floors.
As part of the launch of Moduleo at the Academy for Excellence in Flooring, these installers were handpicked by Moduleo retailers, but with new Moduleo LayRed Master Installer course dates available throughout 2025, all retailers and fitters can now take up the chance to benefit from the course, as long as they meet the minimum qualifying criteria.
Lee Thompson, technical manager, says, “The feedback we had from our first cohorts was all extremely positive and we’re delighted that they all successfully passed the LayRed Master Installer course. Everyone was also pleased that they covered herringbone installation, as it’s a complex technique that can result in issues. Knowing they have the knowledge and skills to install Moduleo LayRed herringbone was a real confidence booster.”
All Moduleo LayRed Master Installers are accredited by the brand for the standards of their workmanship and able to offer a lifetime warranty on installation. Along with the support of a dedicated technical helpline and marketing such as van stickers and sample books, becoming a Moduleo LayRed Master Installer is a great way to improve skills and boost business.
The Academy for Excellence in Flooring will also be offering an intensive three-day course that combines Moduleo LayRed engineered vinyl flooring and the brand’s dryback products. www.pro.moduleo.com/en-gb/academy
Top 20 charts for rug lovers
A lifetime of quality
Quick-Step demonstrates its uncompromising belief in quality with a lifetime residential warranty on Quick-Step wood, laminate and vinyl floors.
For over 30-years, Quick-Step has been synonymous with enduring quality and inspiring design. Its laminate floors have perfectly captured the beauty of nature, its wood floors have mastered water, and its vinyl has achieved the perfect balance: Quick-Step is the reference in premium quality flooring for today’s home.
Every Quick-Step floor builds on this journey to the perfect floor for every room, so no matter what your customers choose, they know the Quick-Step badge is a lifelong promise of unrivalled beauty and technical excellence. Quick-Step’s attention to the finer details and relentless pursuit of innovation has ensured a long history of world firsts and floors of the finest quality.
The brand’s three decades of striving for perfection means that every Quick-Step floor comes with a lifetime residential warranty. So, if your customers demand the very best from their floor, no matter whether laminate, wood or vinyl, your recommendation of Quick-Step is a sign of appreciation of the value in a lasting product.
Even Quick-Step’s most affordable laminate floor, Classic, comes with a lifetime residential warranty, so you can be confident in the premium quality of every plank or tile in Quick-Step’s range. Yet nowhere is a lifetime warranty more impressive than on Quick-Step’s latest waterproof wood collections, wherever they are installed.
Niall Cassidy, sales regions manager UK & Ireland, Quick-Step, says, “Investing in something that lasts really matters to homeowners and the Quick-Step name has always been recognised for the quality it brings to their choice of flooring. Our lifetime residential warranty is a sign of the belief we put into our products, so no matter the floor or room, customers know that choosing Quick-Step will bring a lifetime of quality to their floor.” www.quick-step.co.uk
Louis De Poortere has released its top 20 best-selling Ecorugs for 2024, giving a unique chance to look at last year’s hottest rug looks.
When Louis De Poortere launched Ecorugs last year, it reshaped its approach, creating a pathway for circular production that will see every new rug made from old pieces. However, while it may have changed the way it makes rugs, Louis De Poortere certainly didn’t compromise the quality and beauty of its designs.
The Belgian weaver has released its top 20 list of this year’s best-selling qualities in the Ecorugs line and it’s clear that rug owners still love its classic styles. Alongside new appearances in the design of Nuance and Lagoon, the top 20 is home to stalwarts such as Fading World, Mad Men, Atlantic Streaks and Antiquarian. Topping out the chart is Fading World in Salt & Pepper, a tonal grey design that captures a time-worn traditional damask design.
Alan Russell, Louis De Poortere, sums up the top 20, “our Ecorugs collection continues our long heritage of beautifully designed and crafted rugs for homes and it’s clear that this still resonates with purchasers across the UK. With styles like the striking abstract design of our Mad Men collection that occupies seven places out of the top 20, some of our most recognisable, it’s clear that the enthusiasm for the classics remains undamped.”
The Antiquarian series is also a strong performer with five places, while the ink-like Lagoon scores two spots. As we enter 2025, Louis De Poortere will release new styles in the Ecorugs collection, so will we see some of these designs make their way into the top 20?
T +3256 393 393 • www.louisdepoortere.com
Fading World, Salt & Pepper
FLOORING FOCUS
Invisible danger
Unmanaged excess subfloor moisture is the leading cause of floor failure and frequently results in delays to projects, major inconvenience and expense when remedial work is required. Tim Green, training manager at the UK’s leading manufacturer of subfloor preparation products and adhesives for floorcoverings, F. Ball and Co. Ltd., tells us why and how to manage subfloor moisture before installing LVTs.
Unchecked subfloor moisture, whether residual construction moisture or rising damp, can attack flooring adhesives and floorcoverings, causing resilient floorcoverings, such as vinyl and Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVTs), to blister and lift. Not only can this ruin the finished appearance of a flooring installation, but it can result in complete floor failure and present a health hazard.
F. Ball’s technical service department frequently receives enquiries from contractors who have been called to rectify a flooring installation where floorcoverings have begun to lift as a result of unmanaged excess subfloor moisture, and our regional technical representatives often attend site visits where this is the case.
Given customers’ high expectations for LVT installations, it is important to take time to determine subfloor moisture levels and, where necessary, deploy an appropriate moisture management solution prior to installing them.
In addition to ensuring a subfloor is suitably sound, smooth and free of any contaminants, including any old adhesive residues, it is essential to check for subfloor moisture to determine if the subfloor is dry enough to receive a floorcovering by undertaking a moisture test.
The only way of measuring subfloor relative humidity levels with accuracy, and the method advocated by British Standards, is using a calibrated digital hygrometer.
Normally, a liquid waterproof surface membrane will be required to suppress excess subfloor moisture and prevent damage to flooring when Relative Humidity (RH) levels are above 75% and resilient floorcoverings will be installed.
F. Ball has two timesaving options for when a moisture management solution is required. Stopgap F77 waterproof surface membrane is a twopart, epoxy resin system, which is applied in a single coat. It fully cures in as little as three hours and will isolate residual construction moisture or rising damp where relative humidity values are up to 98%.
For an even quicker way to create a barrier against residual construction moisture where RH values are up to 95%, there is Stopgap F78, a one-component system, which is applied in two coats, requiring 15–20 minutes curing time for the first and a further 30 minutes for the second.
After checking for subfloor moisture and deploying a moisture management solution where necessary, contractors can proceed with preparing the subfloor for the installation of new floorcoverings. This will usually include the application of a smoothing compound to create a perfectly smooth base for the receipt of the floorcoverings, remembering to prime beforehand if necessary.
Finally, contractors can proceed to install floorcoverings using an appropriate adhesive once the smoothing compound has cured. 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, a particular benefit when creating complex designs or patterns.
The compatibility of particular floorcoverings and adhesives should be checked to further ensure against floor failure. To do this, contractors can consult F. Ball’s Recommended Adhesives Guide (RAG), which lists adhesives recommended for use with over 6,000 floorcoverings produced by over 200 manufacturers.
A continuously updated version of the RAG is available as a free app and on the F. Ball website. It is also available as an A5 printed booklet, free copies of which can be requested from F. Ball.
If you have any questions about installing LVTs, or any other kinds of flooring installation, F. Ball’s technical service department is on hand Monday to Friday, 8.30am–5.00pm to answer your questions and advise on the best course of action for particular projects.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
F. Ball – Stopgap F77 waterproof surface membrane
Marketing insights Colour your future for comfort and joy
Whether it’s the nurturing aspects of Pantone’s Mocha Mousse, chosen as their 2025 Colour of The Year or the uplifting hue of True Joy selected by Dulux as their colour for 2025, there is a common theme that we will want our homes to be our sanctuary for optimism.
More than 10 million designers and producers around the world rely on Pantone Products and Services to help define, communicate, and control colour from inspiration to realisation
This year’s shade reflects the overwhelming need for comfort felt across the globe. Pantone 17-1320 Mocha Mousse is a versatile shade infused with inherent sophistication and earthy refinement which creates a strong chromatic foundation.
Pantone’s executive director Leatrice Eiseman explains how the decision was “underpinned by our desire for everyday pleasures, Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse expresses a level of thoughtful indulgence. Sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time an unpretentious classic, Mocha Mousse extends our perceptions of the browns from being humble and grounded to embrace aspirational and luxe.”
Wellbeing is at the heart of the latest interior trends, particularly the health benefits of bringing natural beauty into the home. Interior designers are increasingly using bold yet serene earthy tones, from the soft browns of oatmeal and caramel to the cocooning effect of warm coral and rich blues and greens.
Richard Allen, sales director at Karndean Designflooring, said: “Chances are you’ve heard of Elephant’s Breath, perhaps in part for its affectionate name, but most likely because this is one of Farrow & Ball’s most popular mid-toned neutrals, no doubt due to its versatility and ability to morph in different lights and colour pairings.
“Available in a rigid core format for uneven subfloors and a herringbone size for interesting laying patterns, Lime Washed Oak is an affordable favourite that’s unlikely to fade anytime soon.”
“So, it probably comes as no surprise that Lime Washed Oak from our Knight Tile collection is our best-selling design heading into 2025. With its combination of warm beige and cool grey tones and the texture of worn, sun-bleached driftwood, this is an extremely adaptable design that will complement and enhance a wide range of nature inspired colour palettes. Available in a rigid core format for uneven subfloors and a herringbone size for interesting laying patterns, Lime Washed Oak is an affordable favourite that’s unlikely to fade anytime soon.
“Those looking for similar mid-toned oak designs might also consider three alternatives that have been greatly loved by our customers over the past year and we predict will join our bestseller list; Aviemore Oak and Hayfield Oak from our dual format Van Gogh range and Dove Artisan Oak from our new Art Select collection.”
Karndean Designflooring - Aviemore Oak
Karndean Designflooring - Lime Washed Oak
The 2025 interior design trends embrace bold hues, timeless neutrals, and rich textures, creating stylish and inviting spaces. Cormar Carpets’ diverse product ranges are perfectly positioned to help retailers meet consumer needs.
Leading the way is Dulux’s Colour of the Year, “True Joy,” a warm, optimistic yellow that pairs beautifully with emerald greens or muted yellows for a vibrant touch. Deep, moody tones like rich brown and smoky grey are also gaining popularity, adding drama and cosiness. Cormar’s new easy clean Zenith range captures this sophistication within its diverse colour palette, while offering a practical option suitable for all around the home.
Nature-inspired neutrals remain key, with shades like rich creams and earthy tones creating a grounding backdrop that complements brighter accents. Cormar’s durable wool loop ranges provide style and resilience, perfect for busy homes. Textured carpets in natural shades, like those in the Fairisle and Malabar Two Fold ranges, add depth and demonstrate how layered neutrals create harmony.
“Nature-inspired neutrals remain key, with shades like rich creams and earthy tones creating a grounding backdrop that complements brighter accents.”
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 business and business to consumer multi-channel marketing.
This shift is very much in play in the new additions to the Croft and Strönd designs in Habitüs. Remaining true to the quiet, understated aesthetic of Danish interiors, the 6 new additions continue the theme of belonging with nature, adding a warmer feel to the existing collection.
With vibrant colours, timeless textures, and sustainable materials, 2025’s trends celebrate joy, depth, and style, offering endless ways to transform interiors.
For Clare Jenkinson and Calvin Pope, residential designers at Ulster Carpets, there is a feeling that 2025 will bring a shift towards more colour again. Calvin said “In recent years, colour palettes have been based around a bank of greys and a more neutral base. There has now been a definite shift towards colour, but the natural feel remains.”
Clare agrees adding, “Colour trends in the last few years have been focused on earthy neutrals but for 2025 there is a clear move towards rich, warmer colours. The love of warm, cozy interiors is still very much evident too and that is why wool-rich carpets remain so popular.”
“Colour trends in the last few years have been focused on earthy neutrals but for 2025 there is a clear move towards rich, warmer colours.”
In the Croft range, Roe, Wicker, Marram and Orchard offer a natural, textured finish that conjures feelings of cosiness and comfort. For Strönd, the contrasting ribbed design of Fallow and Fjord balance a clean, calm combination of plain and heathered yarn with a contemporary aesthetic. Part of the 100% wool Habitüs collection, Strönd Fallow (pictured) mimics the colours of sandy soil found near the coastline and the warm and light colours of a Fallow Deer.
In 2025 Alternative expect to see a fresh take on the popular tones of mulberry, which have dominated in the last year. Heather, a blend of pink and purple, softened with a subtle muted grey undertone offers a natural progression from the rich burgundy hues of mulberry, adding a sophisticated twist to the palette.
For a harmonious interior, look to Alternative’s Wool Rhythm Marvin or Iconic Herringstripe Fonteyn, both elegant versatile striped carpets with a blend of lilac and vanilla pastel tones. If a striking pattern is preferred, Quirky Tartan Silver Tassie offers a modern take on a traditional pattern in rich purples, browns, and soft greens.
To add a hint of colour and cosy texture, explore Alternative’s ‘Make Me a Rug’ service to design a bespoke rug inspired by the whimsical hues of heather.
To celebrate the natural world, embrace the beauty of natural fibres - choose from, seagrass, coir, sisal, and jute and compliment the rug with an eco-friendly ‘Studio Border’, which has been expertly hand-dyed in Scotland and crafted in the Hereford studio by textile artisan Ray Poole. Finish with a border in soothing tones of pink or warm berry, such as Blur Pinku Border to complete the look.
Continued on page 38.
Alternative - Seagrass Balmoral Basketweave rug with a Blur Pinku Border
Cormar - Primo Ultra, Beaver
Ulster Carpets - Strönd Fallow
Kelly Butler, head of design at Adam Carpets said, “Truffle brown has crept up slowly on the heels of the warming neutrals like flax, oat milk and greige. Truffle complements a range of styles, modern minimalism, rustic chic and layers beautifully with a broad palette of colours from soft neutral hues to deep bold palette, elevating the style of any space.”
Etsy online retailer commented that these earthy tones are already beginning to pop across a wide range of categories in the retail world. From wooden ornaments, wall art and textiles. Consumers are embracing these colours in all aspects of their homes that showcase relaxing creativity and cocooning themselves away from the outside world
Kelly adds “Cool Matcha is also a trending colour of 2025. It represents a calming and refreshing shade inspired by the serene hues of traditional Japanese tea. Combining subtle greens with hints of blue, Cool Matcha creates a sophisticated and soothing tone.”
This versatile colour palette reflects balance, tranquillity and natural beauty, making it suitable for interior design and product development. Its contemporary yet timeless appeal captivates and inspires consumers with its harmonious and cool-toned aesthetic.
Kelly also highlights bubble tea’s cultural influence extending beyond taste. She explains, “Bubble tea has become a cultural icon, representing the fusion of tradition and modern flavours. Its global appeal lies in the joy it brings. It offers a feast for the eyes, with social media playing a significant role in boosting its appeal with creative designs featuring layer colours and ombre effects.”
“When searching colour trends for the following year, I find that the Decorex Show in October is invaluable,” says Eamonn Prescott of Greendale and iD. “This year there were the expected warmer tones and neutrals, but also a welcome amount of green, a colour we have seen resurging over the last twelve months. These tones have a hint of grey and will work well with many of our collections from most suppliers. We believe these calming hues of Autumn will remain popular.”
ReColour cork flooring by Granorte redefines interiors by combining the natural beauty of cork with a vibrant palette of colours, offering a refreshing twist on a classic material. The essence of cork remains at the heart of ReColour, with its texture and character accentuated by carefully chosen hues. This innovation marries the aesthetic appeal of cork with exceptional performance, making it a standout choice for both residential and commercial spaces.
Designed to meet diverse needs ReColour offers floating Uniclic panels or glue-down tiles, available in 28 captivating colours. The WearPlus super-matt finish, enhanced with CleanSurface technology powered by Microban, ensures a durable, antimicrobial surface. Comfort and acoustics are elevated by an integrated CleanCork underlay with Microban protection, making these floors as practical as they are beautiful.
Sustainability is woven into every aspect, with ReColour made from over 80% renewable materials, low in VOC emissions, and compliant with GreenGuard Gold and other stringent certifications. Crafted by Granorte, a company with over 53 years of expertise and a commitment to ecoconscious innovation, these floors embody quality and craftsmanship. Headquartered in Telford, Granorte UK Ltd, offers a range of solutions tailored to local markets.
Adam Carpets - Morton Malt and Boba Tea inspired pastels
Abingdon at Greendale
Granorte - ReColour cork flooring
This month we’re celebrating the winners of the Flooring Innovation Awards 2025 – the showcase of the industry's best and brightest ideas.
The 2025 flooring industry all-stars!
The flooring industry is innovating its way out of a tight market and a record number of entries for this year’s competition shows that new ideas and initiatives are winning through.
Entries to this year’s Flooring Innovation Awards scheme were over 130 – a record since the competition began in 2018 so the judges had plenty of top quality submissions to consider across 10 categories for the distinction of these prestigious awards, covering all flooring types, design, accessories, installation products, environmental, marketing and technology.
“The appetite to innovate is undiminished,” says awards organiser and judge Bridgette Kelly. “The flooring sector has been sluggish but the industry continues to take the initiative to drive forward and invest in a better future. Well done to everyone who made that difference.”
“When the going gets tough, the tough get innovating,” says awards judge David Spragg, of the scheme’s sponsors, The Stocklists magazine. “2024 was about as challenging as it gets but the flooring industry hasn’t just hunkered down in the hope that things can only get better – it has set out to make that happen in 2025.”
“It’s often tempting to think that all the best ideas have been done and the rest is just tinkering around the edges,” says David. “But the winning awards entries demonstrate that that just isn’t the case. There’s plenty that is genuinely new and exciting to tempt consumers to buy in the year ahead – and to help the industry run more efficiently.”
The National Flooring Innovation Awards are designed to be different to the usual ranked prizes given out across the industry and instead sets out to identify products and services that are genuinely new and exceptional in the sector.
MEET THE STARS
See what makes a winner in our special feature showcasing the innovation across the industry
See pages 41–57
When the going gets tough, the tough get innovating!
Our FIA 2024 judges
The “star” judges line-up (l to r): Chris Moffat, Laurance Bird, Bridgette Kelly, Brian King and David Spragg.
The worthy innovation winners for 2025
Category 1 • Carpets, Natural
Shetland by Cormar Carpet Co
Fine Malvern Loop by Adam Carpets
Wool Tweed by Cavalier Carpets
Delft Square by Telenzo Carpets
Category 2 • Carpets, Man-Made
Country Collection by Abingdon Flooring
Anywhere Ca-rPET by Alternative Flooring
Alora by Artisan
Desire by Kellars
Category 3 • Smooths
River Laminate by Furlong Flooring
Divine Oak by Invictus (Associated Weavers)
Allura Click Flexcore by Forbo
Woodura Herringbone by Bjelin
Category 4 • Design, Carpets
Romy Collection by Asiatic Carpets
Bespoke Carpet & Rug Edging by Nicola Edwards
Regatta by Grosvenor Wilton
Imagination by Axminster Carpets
Category 5 • Design, Smooths
Woodline by LeoLine
Inspiration Naturals by Tarkett
Signature by Amtico
Modular ONE Herringbone by Parador
Category 6 • Underlay & Accessories
Springbond 8mm Eco-Step by Texfelt
Grande Waltz by Wilsons Underlays
Naturlay by QA Flooring Solutions
Counter-top Profiles Display by Floorwise
Category 7 • Installation Products
Plank Grabber by FloorFix Pro
Geordie Stripper by Stairrods
Stopgap 1400 by F Ball & Co
R3Bond by Bostik
Category 8 • Environmental
BioSisal by fibre
Turtle branding by Metro Group
EcoRugs by Louis de Poortere
Ecoclean by Condor Carpets
Category 9 • Marketing
Tredaire-nauts by Interfloor
Customisable POS by Carpenter Underlay
Supporting Local Retailers by SMG
iD, Interior Design by Greendale
Category 10 • Digital Technology
AI in Carmen by Computers for Flooring
Smart Display by Floorify
Sisal Stain Technology by Woolsafe
GivBax Rewards by Ardex Group UK
THIS MONTH we showcase the carpet categories + marketing + technology. See pages 42-57 NEXT MONTH the focus is on smooths + installation + eco Published on January 20.
Our new stylish herringbone collection, crafted from 100% New Zealand wool, is available in eight thoughtfully chosen modern colours, blending warm and cool tones to complement any interior. Perfect for all areas of the home, it boasts a heavy domestic rating and exudes both quality and contemporary elegance.
WOOL TWEED
WINNERS • CARPETS, NATURAL
Fine Malvern Loop
• Adam Carpets
This is a real gem for people who love the style and texture of a high quality wool loop with the on-trend, natural “sisal style”. It is a tenth gauge loop made with 3-ply yarn, 100% New Zealand “long wool” for real longevity. Adam uses this on their unique loop pile machine with multi pile heights and “randomised texture” which adds individual tufts at different heights to give the look of a natural random texture.
Shetland • Cormar Carpet Co
To hit the mark with consumers and meet the rising demand for loop carpet, Cormar has enhanced its wool offering with Shetland - a robust 1/5th gauge carpet in a chunky Brussels weave design.
Available in 10 heathered neutral tones, Shetland sits alongside Cormar’s popular Fairisle collection, offering the same high-quality, moth-resistant 3-ply yarn, but with a more level finish that adds depth and character to interiors.
Delft Square, Herringbone
• Telenzo Carpets
This loop pile collection takes its influence and title from the heritage of European modern lifestyles combined with Telenzo’s Dutch heritage. The colour palette is carefully considered, neutrals that echo both warmth and coolness, modern yet traditional. It is made in 2-ply New Zealand wool. Herringbone adds an on-trend option to the Delft Square portfolio of bouclé designs.
See page 42 for more…
Wool Tweed • Cavalier Carpets
Wool Tweed is an 80/20 which uses three colour yarns and a clever construction to create what might be described as a small and fuzzy geometric pattern that hits that happy spot between being interesting but not bold. And a 12-colour palette gives consumers plenty of choice. “We think this is a perfect blend of pattern and subtlety which has had a great reaction from retailers,” says Cavalier’s Hans Lowe.
See above for more…
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WINNERS • CARPETS, MAN-MADE
Anywhere Ca-rPET • Alternative Flooring
The Anywhere Ca-rPET collection. uses yarn crafted from recycled plastic bottles – 50 bottles creating 1kg of yarn. This innovative flooring mimics the luxurious look of sisal while delivering the softness of wool. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, Anywhere Ca-rPET is available in 4 and 5m widths and boasts exceptional durability and stain resistance. See opposite page for more…
Country Collection • Abingdon Flooring
Using a special yarn that combines a matt lustre with a Berber fleck, the Country Collection has all the look of a natural wool yarn but with the bleach-cleanable practicality and lifetime stain warranty. Three textured loop designs including herringbone create subtle textured patterns and each carpet comes in a range of ‘undyed’ beige tones and restful neutral grey hues. See page 47 for more…
WINNERS • DESIGN, CARPETS
Bespoke Carpet & Rug Edging • Nicola Edwards
Bespoke carpet and rug edging has become the essential fashion accessory for prestige flooring installation, adding unique quality. Using a specialised technique, a taping method is used to create a statement edge to any bespoke stair runner in an extensive range of finishes including plain and striped, cotton, linen, leather, faux leather and faux suede. Alternatively, whipped edges use yarn to overlock the carpet edges to create a more traditional finish. See page 49 for more…
Romy Collection • Asiatic Carpets
The new Romy Collection blends eco-conscious design with exquisite craftsmanship. The rugs are crafted from Asiatic’s new Eco-ply yarns, specially formulated from repurposed plastic bottles to replicate the softness of wool and the lustre of viscose – each Romy rug contains a minimum of 250 (750ml) recycled plastic bottles, repurposed into vibrant, playful designs with practical benefits such as resistance to fading and staining. See page 50 for more…
Desire • Kellars
Desire is a luxurious addition to Kellars Easy Living range and offers a sumptuous carpet combining aesthetic appeal with practical features. With a pile height of 20 millimetres and a weight of 3000 grams, the 100% polyester 2-ply yarn construction allows for a beautiful two-tone effect, creating depth and a dynamic look which is available in 12 different colours.
See page 46 for more…
Imagination • Axminster Carpets
Imagination is Axminster Carpets at its glorious best! A new concept within Axminster’s Woven-To-Order service, Imagination takes a storytelling approach to the creation of custom designs including squirrels, rabbits, birds and fish. The quality, of course, is uncompromising. These are woven on eight-pitch looms (unique to Axminster), giving amazing pattern definition to the design. Jute and cotton are woven with 100% wool yarn to create these carpets and the whole custom process can be turned around in just four weeks at the factory in Devon.
Alora • Artisan Indulge in the epitome of luxury with Alora, believed to be the heaviest cut-pile nylon on the market. So heavy in fact, that modern tufting machines can only handle the weight at 4m width but seaming such a dense pile is easy, of course. Alora boasts a heavy domestic (Class 23) and heavy commercial (Class 33) wear rating, and with a CfL-S1 fire classification. The carpet is hypoallergenic and has been rewarded the Gold Standard in the Indoor Air Comfort Certification, the benchmark of VOC emission standards.
See page 48 for more…
Regatta • Grosvenor Wilton
Regatta is a real statement carpet. Pattern, colour and texture combine wonderfully to create an inspired collection of “floor art“ designs –available in four eclectic colourways and two design styles of dsitinctive linear and wavy stripes. Regatta has a colourful textural design made from 100% pure new natural fibre from the British Wool certified collection.
See page 51 for more…
WINNER • CATEGORY: CARPETS, MAN MADE
Award Winning Carpet! Desire carpet stain resistance with a difference
The award-winning Desire carpet by EasyLiving combines luxurious style with unbeatable durability and stain resistance. Effortlessly hassle-free, it’s perfect for busy homes while maintaining a plush, elegant feel.
WINNER • CATEGORY: DESIGN, CARPETS
Alora by Artisan Luxury Flooring
Alora: Redefining Contemporary Luxury Flooring
Artisan Luxury Flooring has set a new standard in opulence with Alora, a luxurious carpet crafted from the finest-grade nylon. Recognised as the heaviest-weight cut pile nylon on the market, Alora is redefining contemporary luxury flooring.
Where Sophistication Meets Performance
Alora is more than just flooring; it’s a statement piece for the most refined interiors. Its plush, 20mm velvety pile exudes indulgence, effortlessly enhancing the most sophisticated design schemes. Designed for both luxury and practicality, this hypoallergenic carpet boasts:
• Heavy Domestic (Class 23) and Heavy Commercial (Class 33) wear ratings
• CFL-S1 fire classification
• The Gold Standard Indoor Air Comfort Certification, meeting the highest VOC emission standards for indoor air quality
Find out more: T 01548 721 069 www.artisanluxuryflooring.co.uk
Alora is available in 11 exquisite colours. For those seeking a more tailored finish, the bespoke colour service opens the door to unlimited creative possibilities, ensuring Alora is the perfect fit for your scheme.
The Ultimate in Elegance
With its unparalleled softness, durability, and premium construction, Alora sets a new benchmark for luxury flooring. Ideal for high-end residential, hospitality venues, or other sophisticated spaces, it transforms interiors into showcases of modern elegance.
Bespoke Design Freedom
Alora Sirente
Alora Sirente
Amaro
Solaro
Velino
Stromboli
Cresto
Grivola
Capanne
Sirente
Cervati
Cadini Vulcano
WINNER • CATEGORY: DESIGN, CARPETS
Bespoke Carpet & Rug Edging by Nicola Edwards
Combining industry knowledge with creativity
To offer bespoke carpet edging services to flooring retailers & interior designers. A unique edging service to create bespoke Stair Runners across the UK.
Bespoke carpet and rug edging has become the essential fashion accessory for prestige flooring installations and adds unique quality to interior design.
From calming tones to statement stripes, consumers can choose the colours to suit their home and set the tone. Edging can also be matched to existing home furnishings and upholstery colour schemes for unique customisation.
Working in partnership with carpet retailers & interior designers, Nicola Edwards offers two main styles of edging. Using a specialised technique, the taping method is used to create a statement edge to any bespoke stair runner in an extensive range of finishes including plain and striped, cotton, linen, leather, faux leather and faux suede. Alternatively, whipped edges use yarn to overlock the carpet edges to create a more traditional, costeffective finish.
A BLEND OF SUSTAINABILITY AND DESIGN EXCELLENCE
WINNER • CATEGORY: DESIGN, CARPETS
Asiatic London’s ECOPLY Romy collection wins innovation award
A blend of sustainability and design excellence A BLEND OF SUSTAINABILITY AND DESIGN EXCELLENCE
Romy Collection by Asiatic Carpets
Asiatic London’s ECOPLY Romy collection wins innovation award
Asiatic
London is proud to announce that its Romy collection crafted from their ECOPLY® yarn has been recognised for its commitment to sustainability and innovative spirit. Among the rug company’s industry leading portfolio, Romy, is a standout star. Born out of a desire to reduce waste by reimagining the possibilities of discarded plastic materials. This innovative collection has earned the prestigious 2025 Flooring Innovation Award for its innovative use of recycled materials to create works of art for your floors
Asiatic
London is proud to announce that its Romy collection crafted from their ECOPLY® yarn has been recognised for its commitment to sustainability and innovative spirit. Among the rug company’s industry leading portfolio, Romy, is a standout star. Born out of a desire to reduce waste by reimagining the possibilities of discarded plastic materials. This innovative collection has earned the prestigious 2025 Flooring Innovation Award for its innovative use of recycled materials to create works of art for your floors
Hand tufted from their specially designed ECOPLY® yarn created entirely from recycled plastic bottles, the collection presents a conscientious choice to customers looking to make a difference. Plastic bottles are saved from wastage to make their innovative yarn and with fade, stain, and mould-resistant qualities to make their resilient Romy collection. Tufted by hand in an equally ethical approach, by skilled artisans, and finished with fine carving details
Hand tufted from their specially designed ECOPLY® yarn created entirely from recycled plastic bottles, the collection presents a conscientious choice to customers looking to make a difference. Plastic bottles are saved from wastage to make their innovative yarn and with fade, stain, and mould-resistant qualities to make their resilient Romy collection. Tufted by hand in an equally ethical approach, by skilled artisans, and finished with fine carving details
to highlight the modern silhouettes, vibrant colours and designs are at the core of this range representing hope for a brighter, more sustainable future.
to highlight the modern silhouettes, vibrant colours and designs are at the core of this range representing hope for a brighter, more sustainable future.
Asiatic London continues to lead the way with eco-conscious rugs, proving that sustainable choices can also make a bold statement. Find out more about Romy and Asiatic London’s other collections by getting in touch. Discover the collections:
Asiatic London continues to lead the way with eco-conscious rugs, proving that sustainable choices can also make a bold statement. Find out more about Romy and Asiatic London’s other collections by getting in touch.
sales@asiatic.co.uk I www.asiatic-tradeportal.com T 020 8800 2000
Discover the collections:
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WINNER • CATEGORY: DESIGN, CARPETS
WINNERS • MARKETING
Customisable POS • Carpenter Underlay
Tredaire-nauts • Interfloor
Interfloor is boldly going where no underlay brand has gone before with their super high-profile marketing campaign for Tredaire under the tagline: “Feels like nothing on earth.” Alongside an extensive TV, radio, and digital advertising consumer campaign, retailers are being supported with exceptional merchandising and promotion. The Tredaire-nauts will continue their mission in 2025.
See page 53 for more…
The customisable carpet underlay POS board from Carpenter is designed to help encourage conversations with consumers around the right underlay for their desired flooring experience. With three distinct sections – standard, comfort and performance - this POS board simplifies the decision-making process, catering to various customer needs. The boards can be tailored to each retailer with their preference of products for the three sections.
See page 54 for more…
Regatta is a real statement carpet. Pattern, colour and texture combine wonderfully to create an inspired collection of “fl oor art“ designs.
Available in six eclectic colourways and two design styles.
Made from 100% pure new wool, this carpet will be at home in any room.
iD, Interior Design • Greendale
Buying group Greendale has launched iD, a unique brand concept for its members centred around a box of samples for interior designers that creates an exclusive and desirable brand in-store. Complete with sample box, hand swatches, wall samples, an impressive consultation table and exclusive ranges and colours, the initiative is backed by a full social media campaign and a website to drive extra traffic into Greendale member’s stores.
See page 52 for more…
Supporting Local Retailers • SMG Store owners need all the help they can get to compete with the online traders says buying group SMG. Independent retailers can offer so much more in personal service and expertise and the group’s campaign goes all out to boost the business of their members using a blizzard of stickers for windows and vans and invoices and a set of posters all bearing the slogan “Support your local independent retailer,” with a distinctive SMG blue heart.
See page 55 for more…
Another giant leap for underlay
We are very proud to have been awarded a Flooring Innovation Award, in the Marketing category, for our Tredaire-nauts Marketing Campaign.
Introducing our award winning customisable Underlay Point of Sale Board
Elevate your customer experience with our versatile Customisable Underlay Point of Sale Board. Designed to fit seamlessly into your unique business needs, whether you want to discuss the consumer’s underlay options in store, or on site, this innovative display helps personalise each customer interaction.
Tailored Design
Our POS board allows you to customise the underlay products on display to reflect your store’s needs and demographic.
The creative design ensures that both staff and customers can navigate the products effortlessly and discover the difference as to what a consumer requires.
STEP ONE
Pick the underlay, which works as an all-rounder for your domestic installations as your standard underlay.
STEP TWO
Decide which underlay best defines luxury and comfort underfoot for your comfort underlay.
STEP THREE
Select a higher density underlay for the environment and customers who want extended longevity for their carpet as your performance underlay.
With a wide selection of options available, the right choices are within our range to satisfy each consumer experience.
Under each underlay feeler sample you will find the individual product data sheet, including our unique performance dials.
Each underlay experience changes with thickness and density.
Why not use our performance dials to help demonstrate to your customer what they can expect from the underlay on display.
WINNER • CATEGORY: MARKETING
Supporting Local Retailers by SMG
Boost for buy local
SMG always looks for new ways to support their retail members and this year, they launched a special campaign to strengthen and encourage the support of Independent Retail.
Independents offer so much more to the consumer than online retailers ever can, and we all need to shout about it! Independents are about much more than just price.
SMG designed a range of posters, window clings, stickers, wobblers, POS, as well as downloadable artwork that their members can use to promote the advantages of buying local and buying independent. Each asset features one of the benefits they offer; family businesses, expert advice, after sales service, peace of mind, putting money back into the local community – the list is endless.
This campaign was a big hit with retailers and more artwork is being added to the resource all the time.
WINNERS • TECHNOLOGY
Smart Display • Floorify
Floorify arrived in the UK market from Belgium in 2022 in some style and its new XXL Smart Display is one of the most innovative POS concepts in the market for vinyl floors. When a customer pulls out a sample from the rack selection, the large digital monitor above the display instantly changes to show that sample in different roomsets. The salesman is also helped as that floor’s benefits and technical details are also presented – better still, the display is linked to Floorify’s logistics hub so the retailer can see the level of UK stock. See page 56 for more…
AI in Carmen •
Computers for Flooring
The latest Carman update brings AI-powered advancements that will reshape industry practices. By streamlining document management, enhancing customer communication, automating repetitive tasks and ensuring the accuracy of critical data, Carman supports businesses in retail, contracting and distribution to work smarter, reduce costs and improve customer satisfaction.
GivBax Rewards • Ardex
GivBax Rewards is one of the easiest and most rewarding loyalty apps for professional floorlayers which pays out at your local ATM. Ardex and Bal screed, smoothing and adhesives product users can simply take a photo of their purchase receipt in the app, and then convert their points into cash, which can be withdrawn from more than 18,000 participating ATMs across the UK.
See page 57 for more…
Sisal Stain Technology • Woolsafe
Sisal, and other cellulosic fibres such as seagrass, jute and coir have great durability and a natural look that is very on-trend – but they do not react well to liquid spills. Even water can cause change of appearance, leaving tide marks when the spill dries – often expensive replacement was the only option. Woolsafe has a breakthrough new solution and has teamed up with Gabriel Andreca of Brio Dyes to train WoolSafe Approved Service Providers in colour restoration on sisal, wool, nylon, and viscose.
WINNER • CATEGORY:
Smart Display by Floorify
Physical meets digital in smart display
Floorify’s Smart Display revolutionizes the in-store shopping experience, offering customers an innovative way to explore and select flooring options.
By integrating cutting-edge technology, the smart display allows shoppers to visualize various flooring designs and simplifies the selection process, helping Floorify to stand out from its competitors.
This advanced sales tool blends the physical and digital shopping experience effortlessly. In addition to showcasing physical samples, the smart display incorporates digital elements like screens and beacons. These digital features provide real-time information on product specifications, pricing, and availability. Thanks to its integration with Floorify’s ERP system, the smart display ensures that data is always up-to-date, synchronizing seamlessly with stock and other key information.
Sales processes are optimized through the combination of physical and digital resources, making it easier for store employees to offer expert advice and address customer inquiries with readily accessible product information, eliminating the need for manual updates. For customers, the smart display offers a personalized shopping experience, allowing retailers to highlight special promotions, new arrivals, or seasonal offers to enhance engagement. Beyond improving the customer journey, the smart display streamlines inventory management and sales operations, equipping retailers with tools and insights for efficient product presentation and a smoother sales process. Designed to boost customer interaction, increase sales, and enrich the overall shopping experience, Floorify’s Smart Display seamlessly blends tangible samples with digital innovation for a truly enhanced retail environment.
+32 (0)51 140 180 • www.floorify.com
While exploring Floorify’s Smart Display, customers can experience the excellence of Floorify rigid vinyl floors, which combines the best of two worlds: the warm appearance of natural materials with the ultimate ease of use. Floorify floors are thin, quite, warm, water-resistant, and can be installed on almost every surface with a simple click system. This blend of style and convenience ensures that customers not only find the perfect design but also enjoy flooring that fits their lifestyle.
Floorify’s Smart Display
Instant reward for loyalty
ARDEX Group UK keeps installers ‘appy with their GivBax Rewards scheme which makes the most of smartphone technology to keep it simple for their customers to benefit instantly from their purchases.
ARDEX is a quality leader for the flooring and tiling industries, for screed, smoothing and adhesive products. ARDEX has been around for over 60 years but its appetite for innovation is widely recognised.
GivBax Rewards is one of the easiest and most rewarding loyalty apps for professional floorlayers, tile fixers and tradespeople.
Users of ARDEX and BAL products can simply take a photo of their purchase receipt in the app which then earns them points, which they can then convert into merchandise and cash, which can be withdrawn from more than 18,000 participating ATMs across the UK.
GivBax Rewards by ARDEX Group UK
GivBax
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, smoothing 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.
Acrylic/Resin: Ideal for plasticised PVC and most modern flooring.
Epoxy Resin: A two-part chemical curing system that is used in aggressive environments such as conservatories, wet rooms, commercial kitchens and exterior installations.
MS Polymer: 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.
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
www.flooringone.co.uk
Peter Karra Tel: 0121 683 1426 peter.karra@flooringone.co.uk
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.
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.
The Stocklists
Are you a Wholesaler?
If you’re not listed here, please call Diane Martin on 01482 659396
Wholesale Distribution Directory
NATIONAL
Fells Carpets
Leeds 01827 831412
www.fellscarpets.co.uk
UK Floor Supplies
Leeds 0113 831 3324
team@ukfloorsupplies.co.uk
Xylo Wood Flooring
London - see page 14 020 8368 8122 infouk@xyloflooring.com www.xyloflooring.com
Floorwise House, 22 High Street Kegworth, Derby, DE74 2DA, UK Tel: +44 (0)1509 673974 Fax: +44 (0)1509 674841
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
Super Plus
The Rug Tamer! Keeps Rugs In Their Place
For orders and further information, please ring P&R Ratcliffe (Underlays) Ltd. Burnley, Lancashire BB10 3BH
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THE METRO GROUP OPERATIONS MANAGER
Role being re-advertised – previous applicants are welcome to reapply.
The Metro Group is a member owned, non-profit making buying group for independent flooring retailers that celebrated being 45 years old in 2024. The Group represents 140 independent stores across the UK who have exclusive access to the Carpet1st brand. The Metro Merchandising Team provides a truly bespoke, inhouse, marketing, design, print and installation service to members.
Due to a planned retirement at the end of March, there is a unique opportunity to join this successful, market leading group.
Reporting to the Metro Board, the successful candidate will be the driving force behind the continuing success and development of the Metro Group.
Knowledge of the flooring industry is essential as well as sound commercial acumen. You must be able to work as part of a small team at every level required by the role. Your communication skills with members, suppliers and in the wider market will be key.
There is extensive travel throughout the UK and an office based in Bolton.
A competitive salary and package including car, pension and private healthcare is available.
An application with a covering letter and copy of your current CV should be sent for the attention of Steve Depport at stevedepport@carpet1st.co.uk or to The Metro Group, 21, Chorley New Road, Bolton, BL1 4QR. Closing date for applications will be 17th January 2025
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