The Stocklists - November 2019

Stocklists The

4 November 2019

with

Carpet&FlooringReview

BRITAIN’S No. 1 FLOORCOVERING MAGAZINE FOR THE RETAIL AND CONTRACT MARKET

SOUTHWOLD The latest 100% New Zealand Wool Loop pile from the UK’s multi award-winning carpet manufacturer

Softissimo T H E ULTIM ATE ELEGAN T TOUCH

LECTERN AVAILABLE Ask your AW Area Manager for full details!

H OW S O F T C A N YO U G O ?

Made with the newest generation polyester yarn: iVerse ®

A UK brand since 1964 carpetyourlife.co.uk

When looking for carpet that’s soft, durable and easy to clean, Softissimo is the answer!

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THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

Stocklists The

ISSUE 537 : 4 NOVEMBER 2019 Published by Mayville Publishing Co Ltd., 219 West Ella Road, West Ella, Hull HU10 7SD @thestocklists Tel: 01482 659396 Fax: 01482 659397 www.thestocklists.com Sales Director: Diane Martin. diane@mayvillepublishing.co.uk Publication Director: David Spragg Founded by Roy Spragg in 1973.

THE MAGAZINE THAT’S ALL ABOUT FLOORING

Advertisers

Our news service starts on page 25

Monthly ‘Stocklisters’ shown in BOLD

Index n ACG

31

01942 825520

H ABINGDON FLOORING

—

01274 655662

H ADAM H ASSOCIATED WEAVERS

FLOORING The Gold Standard • INNOVATION TheFLOORING ‘best ofGOLD the best’ innovation award winners INNOVATION GOLD

H BALTA BRAMPTON CHASE

Polyflor relaunches Camaro Loc pages 40

Rewind to the future

First for recyclable event carpet pages 30

Pitter patter patterns Childish charm of LDP page 25

“Never stop pedalling” Sad loss of Mapei’s Giorgio page 28

Good wood festival The Flower feature on vinyl page 34–35

Telenzo takeover

Headlam acquires UK operation page 43

—

01274 688 666

54

01562 828200

o CARPENTER BC

01457 861141

H CAVALIER CARPETS

—

01254 268 000

s COLUMBIA FLOORING

13

0208 443 3322

H CONDOR

—

+31 (0)38 4778911

FLOORING

Trending on nature

H FELLS CARPETS

57

01977 662211

n F. BALL

10

01538 361633

n FLOORING INNOVATION AWARDS 44-57

Textile horizons

n FLOORWISE 82

01509 673974

H FURLONG FLOORING

14-16,65

01772 696787

17

01473 826870

Domotex aims to inspire page 28

n FITA 54

H HAMMER CARPETS

Maxxed out

Abingdon launches Maximus page 25

Get a grip on quality Diamond Gripper sparkles page 28

H HUGH MACKAY 18,69

01429 892555

n INTERFLOOR

01706 213131

Carpet Types

Underlay 76-77 Woolsafe: the carpet care guide

ISSN 2046-7338 © Mayville Publishing Co. Ltd. 2019. Every care is taken in compiling this magazine, but the proprietors assume no responsibility in the effects arising therefrom.

50,76

H ITC NATURAL LUXURY FLOORING

—

01622 534041

t KARNDEAN

29

01386 820 100

DESIGNFLOORING

n LIFESTYLE FLOORS

67 —

H MASTERCRAFT RUGS

61

n MERRYFIELD ENGINEERING

3

01422 373799

n METRO

33

01204 393 539

n NICF 41

0115 958 3077

01282 694565

H PENTHOUSE CARPETS

27

01706 639866

t POLYFLOR

24

0161 767 1111

H RIVIERA HOME

19

01299 871446

n SMG

45

0118 932 3832

s SOLENT WHOLESALE CARPET 20

01243 774623

n STAIRRODS

01207 591176

26,28,30,32,51 58-73

H THOMAS WITTER 23

74

Wholesaler Distribution Directory.

— 01159 506836

o NOVOSTRAT 71 00353 61 339287

75 –

01204 881234 01274 655690

Rita reports on design themes pages 36-38

The industry’s knowledge-bank

80-81

FC 55,59

n DOMOTEX 41 —

Buying Groups Carpet Trouble-shooter

01562 745000

H BROCKWAY

t DISTINCTIVE

Adhesives Carpet Company Directory

+32 5662 2211

n BRITISH WOOL

n THE FLOORING SHOW

FlooringFactsheets

—

01604 664855

H CORMAR

Tile style makeover

01562 829966 01422 431100

12

t

THE FLOORING SHOW 15-17 SEPTEMBER 2019 HARROGATE

Plus Part 2 of our detailed reports and reviews • pages 58–73

49,63 IFC,4-9,53

H BONDWORTH 11

WINNER 2019 earn their status WINNER 2019 the value of products and securing new business “These innovators by improving opportunities for retailers.”

Read about their achievement on pages 44–57

BETTERING THE BUSINESS Read our trends analysis from Harrogate

Page Contact No No

83 – 78-79

— 01429 892555

H VICTORIA CARPETS 21

01562 749300

n VISUALMINE

47

01525 288 080

H WINEO 22

0121 28100 99

n WOOLS OF NEW ZEALAND

— —

Classified Adverts & Jobs .................... pages 83 H carpets/rugs/tiles t woods/laminates/smooths n accessories/services/organisations = fibres o underlay s wholesalers/distributors l adhesives

MERRYFIELD CARPET CUTTING MACHINERY British Manufactured Carpet Cutting Machines THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

Visit ‘Merryfield Carpet’ on YOUTUBE to see our full range of cutting machines or call 01422 373799 3

T H E E STA B L I S H E D CARPET BRAND I N V I C T U S ® N OW B R I N G S YO U L U X U R Y V I N Y L F LO O R I N G www.invictus.co.uk 4

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

INVINCIBLE CARPET & FLOORING

Associated Weavers, the maker of Invictus® carpet, presents Invictus® luxury vinyl flooring.

With the same attention to quality, the same eye for exclusive designs, and a unique performance level, Invictus® luxury vinyl flooring is the perfect match to Invictus ® carpet.

Always a trailblazer when it comes to branding, Associated Weavers reinvents the in-store display and brings an experience unseen in the flooring business. With traditional samples and an intuitive digital module, Invictus® luxury vinyl flooring invites the customer on a fun-to-do purchasing journey.

A UK brand since 1964 THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

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THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

A UK brand since 1964

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

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EVERYBODY HAS A SOFT SIDE Super soft • Ultra resilient • Extremely durable

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THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

Super soft carpets

Super Soft

iSense® is the embodiment of tenderness and strength, so cuddly yet so resilient.

In only a few years, iSense ® has become the UK’s first and favourite brand when it comes to super soft carpet. More

Ultra Resilient

than 120.000 households already enjoy its comfortable touch and luxurious feel.

Which one of the unique carpet collections of iSense® will you choose?

Extremely Durable

iSense® carpet is not only soft, but also extremely durable.

In wear resistance tests, it easily outperforms all other soft residential carpets on the UK market. Get ready to be amazed and ask your Associated Weavers area sales manager for a presentation of the exceptional test results of iSense®.

: without a doubt the most durable and most popular soft carpet available on the UK-market!

cleaning starterset FREE with each iSense purchase of min. 16sqm Ask your AW area sales manager for full details.

A UK brand since 1964 iSense-carpet.co.uk

Associated Weavers Ltd - F Mill – 2nd Floor East Dean Clough Mills - Halifax - West Yorkshire - HX3 5AX - UK THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

Tel: + 44 1422 431100 sales@associatedweavers.co.uk - www.carpetyourlife.co.uk

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10 %

LO Y C A O AS LTY ct to HB CA De A R c CK D 20

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STYCCOBOND F46

True Pressure Sensitive Adhesive • For the installation of vinyl tile and sheet, including LVTs • Infinite open time - ideal for design floorcoverings • Designed to reduce ‘grin-through’ • High initial grab and bond strength • Suitable for use in marine flooring installations • Solvent free and low odour

INFINITE OPEN TIME

• Can be applied directly to STOPGAP waterproof surface membranes

EASIER TO WORK WITH

Permanent tack and high grab. Trust the yellow bucket.

F. Ball and Co. Ltd. 01538 361 633 • mail@f-ball.co.uk • www.f-ball.co.uk/F46-GB 10

GREAT BRITISH INNOVATION THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

SPIRIT - Jinn 7-2007 80% Wool 20% Nylon Woven Axminster Available 3.66m wide For more information please visit our website, www.bondworth.co.uk Townshend Works, Puxton Lane, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY11 5DF T+44(0)1562 745000 F+44(0)1562 732827

November 2018 stocklist.indd 1

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

15/10/2018 13:1

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G

G

XL

XL

G

XL

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Luxury floors for stunning spaces

Stain Resistant

Stain Resistant

Stain 100% Resistant Waterproof

Stain 100% Resistant Waterproof

100% Underfloor Waterproof Heating Compatible

100% Underfloor Waterproof Heating Compatible

Underfloor Heating Hygienic Compatible Surface

Underfloor Heating Hygienic Compatible Surface

Hygienic Low Surface Maintenance

Hygienic Low Surface Maintenance

Stain Low Registered Resistant Maintenance Emboss Surface

Stain Low Registered Resistant Maintenance Emboss Surface

Registered 100% Emboss Lifetime Waterproof Surface Guarantee*

Registered 100% Emboss Lifetime Waterproof Surface Guarantee*

Underfloor Lifetime Heating Secure Guarantee* Compatible 5G Click Hygienic Secure Built-in Surface 5G Click Acoustic Underlay Stain Built-in Low Resistant Acoustic Phthalate Maintenance Underlay Free Registered 100% Phthalate Stain Emboss Waterproof Extra Free Large Resistant Surface Planks Underfloor Lifetime Heating Extra 100% Large Guarantee* Fast-fit Compatible Planks Waterproof Flooring Hygienic Secure Underfloor Fast-fit Surface 5G Click Heating Flooring Compatible

The Ultimate Rigid Core Luxury Click-fit Planks

5G 5G

Underfloor Lifetime Heating Secure Guarantee* Compatible 5G Click Hygienic Secure Built-in Surface 5G Click Acoustic Underlay

Perfect for commercial and residential projects Stain Built-in Low Resistant Acoustic Phthalate Maintenance Underlay Free

XL XL

5G

Registered 100% Phthalate Stain Emboss Waterproof Extra Free Large Resistant Surface Planks

Super-Sized Planks, 8mm thick, 1.8m x 228mm

Underfloor Lifetime Heating Extra 100% Large Guarantee* Fast-fit Compatible Planks Waterproof Flooring

100% Waterproof

Hygienic Secure Underfloor Fast-fit Surface 5G Click Heating Flooring Compatible

Fast-fit with 5G Click

Built-in Low Acoustic Hygienic Maintenance Underlay Surface

Built-in Low Acoustic Hygienic Maintenance Underlay Surface

Registered Phthalate Emboss Low Free Surface Maintenance

Registered Phthalate Emboss Low Free Surface Maintenance

Lifetime Extra Large Registered Guarantee* Planks Emboss Surface Secure Fast-fit Lifetime 5G Click Flooring Guarantee* Built-in Acoustic Secure 12 Underlay 5G Click

Flooring System

Built-in Acoustic Underlay Premium Realistic Surface

XL

Lifetime Extra Large Registered Guarantee* Planks Emboss Surface

Contact us to arrange a demonstration and sampling Secure Fast-fit Lifetime 5G Click Flooring Guarantee* 01604 664855 / bramptonchase.co.uk

5G

5G

Built-in Acoustic Secure Underlay 5G Click

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

Columbia Flooring plc

The Leading Country Wide Carpet & Flooring Suppliers We can supply you with virtually any make of carpet and flooring at GUARANTEED maker’s list price.......

Delivered direct to business premises FREE OF CHARGE. For a Speedy and Efficient Service

Call US NOW!!!

020 8443 3322

sales@columbiaflooring.co.uk www.columbiaflooringplc.co.uk Opening Times: Monday - Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am to 12 noon Tel: 0208 443 3322 Fax: 0208 805 2346 TRAFALGAR TRADING ESTATE, JEFFREYS ROAD, ENFIELD , MIDDLESEX, EN3 7TY.

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

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Furlong Flooring

ALAN CAIRNIE EAST SCOTLAND M: 07976 311434

SOUTH EAST

SCOTLAND

The people who care about your success

PAUL LOVELL NORFOLK, SUFFOLK & CAMBS

TONY CONWAY BEDS, NORTHANTS, OXON & BUCKS

M: 07816 217549

M: 07791 891025

plovell@furlongflooring.com

acairnie@furlongflooring.com CHRIS GRUBB WEST SCOTLAND

tconway@furlongflooring.com PETER FLETCHER FLETCHER HAMPSHIRE & DORSET

JOHN AKIEN EAST & WEST SUSSEX M: 07791 891024

M: 07970 163372

M: 07816 217561

TIM BAILEY SOUTH EAST WALES & HEREFORDSHIRE M: 07794 048414

tbailey@furlongflooring.com JASON BRIMBLE AVON & GLOUCESTERSHIRE M: 07794 041266

jakien@furlongflooring.com

HARD FLOORING SPECIALISTS

WALES & SOUTH WEST

cgrubb@furlongflooring.com

pfletcher@furlongflooring.com ADAM CLARK S.YORKSHIRE, YORKSHIRE, LINCS NORTH EAST, EAST COAST, NOTTS, DERBYSHIRE

GUY FERGUSON KENT, HAMPSHIRE, DORSET, SURREY, EAST & WEST SUSSEX M: 07816 217 558

M: 07970 269730

gferguson@furlongflooring.com

aclark@furlongflooring.com

JAMES MURRAY SCOTLAND

JEFF COLLINS ESSEX, HERTS, N, N.W. & EAST LONDON, NORFOLK, SUFFOLK, CAMBS

M: 07816 821757

M: 07793 244 620

jbrimble@furlongflooring.com BEN THOMAS MID & WEST WALES M: 07794 048809

jmurray@furlongflooring.com

jcollins@furlongflooring.com OWEN CHENERY S.E. WALES, HERTS, AVON & GLOS, LEICS, WARWICKS, BIRM’HAM, SHROPS, STAFFS, SOMERSET

pastelle

M: 07794 367 825

bthomas@furlongflooring.com

ochenery@furlongflooring.com

STEWART WAITHMAN DEVON & CORNWALL M: 07794 048413

Competitive, best-selling products all available now from UK stock

swaithman@furlongflooring.com

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THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

M: 07872 964685

rtooth@furlongflooring.com WESLEY GRAHAM LEICESTER, WARWICKSHIRE M: 07968 324598

wgraham@furlongflooring.com

M: 07983 446969

rlockey@furlongflooring.com JAMES DAVIES YORKSHIRE & EAST LANCS M: 07968 828516

jdavies@furlongflooring.com

ALAN CHEETHAM GTR MANCHESTER, CHESHIRE M: 07966 263571

acheetham@furlongflooring.com DANNY BROWN MERSEYSIDE, WIRRAL & NORTH WALES M: 07597 459642

dbrown@furlongflooring.com

MIKE SHUTT BIRMINGHAM/ STAFFORDSHIRE, SHROPSHIRE

MARTYN MORRIS MORRIS SOUTH YORKSHIRE

MARK DOWSON PART LANCS, FLYDE COAST & CUMBRIA

M: 07970 158594

M: 07973 403450

M: 07980 786265

mshutt@furlongflooring.com

LONDON

RICHARD LOCKEY LOCKEY NORTH EAST, EAST COAST

NORTH WEST

ROSS TOOTH NOTTS, DERBYSHIRE & LINCS

YORKSHIRE AND NORTH EAST

MIDLANDS

...and can help grow your sales in 2019!

mmorris@furlongflooring.com

ROSS BIRCH S.W, SOUTH, S.E. LONDON, SURREY (INSIDE M25)

JACK O’CONNOR SOUTH BUCKS, BERKSHIRE, WEST LONDON, SURREY (OUTSIDE M25)

M: 07793 244619

M: 07816 217550

rbirch@furlongflooring.com DARREN SPENDIFF KENT M: 07791 890861

dspendiff@furlongflooring.com

joconnor@furlongflooring.com JAMIE BONE N.W, NORTH, EAST & CENTRAL LONDON M: 07816 217548

jbone@furlongflooring.com

mdowson@furlongflooring.com ANDY THOMPSON ESSEX, HERTFORDSHIRE M: 07816 217565

athompson@furlongflooring.com

Preston Sales tel: 01772 696787 fax: 01772 311921

Gloucester Sales tel: 0845 520 0800 fax: 01452 222515

London Sales tel: 01322 628707 fax: 01322 698733

Email enquiries

enquiries@furlongflooring.co.uk

New website

www.furlongflooring.co.uk

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

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Serenity. An easy-care, moth-proof alternative to wool.

STRESS FREE FITTING

Serenity is a game-changing carpet range that gives your customers the wool look they want with the easy-care finish they need.

Part of our affordable and popular Twist collection, Serenity is available in 17 modern colours and offers a classic wool look, with the benefit of our bleach cleanable Carefree fibre.

Totally mothproof, this range also features our soft Combi-bac® backing, making fitting easier, reducing creasing, scuffing and offers improved delamination – everything for a perfect finish.

Serenity - outstanding features

Our industry leading 10-year guarantee protects against more than just food and drink – it covers absolutely everything, with the one exception of gloss paint.

As you’d expect from Furlong Flooring, the Serenity range comes with all our service guarantees, including fast response, product quality and excellent customer service.

100% bleach cleanable fibres. Keeping your carpet looking great and easy to clean.

To find out how we could be your ideal flooring partner contact Furlong Flooring today.

CARPET 16

www.furlongflooring.co.uk

I

VINYL

LV T

L AMINATE

Sales: Preston - 01772 696 787

I

Carpet protected from moths & pests.

Combi-bac.

The ultimate backing for a carefree installation.

HARDWOOD

Dartford - 01322 628 707

I

Gloucester - 0845 520 0800

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

Tel 01473 826870

Email infouk@hammercarpetsuk.com

Web www.hammercarpets.com

Beautiful carpet collections in 100% wool stocked in 4m and 5m wide

Jacs

Designer tonal loop pile in 100% wool available in 4m and 5m widths.

Natural Lines

Supreme Boucle

Super luxurious 100% wool loop pile available in 4m and 5m widths.

Natural Lines

Natural Weave

Skagen

Natural Weave

A unique 5m wide wool flatweave in a subtle herringbone design with a stripe option.

Supreme boucle

Our best selling level loop 100% wool product available in 12 up to the minute colours in both 4m and 5m widths.

Las Vegas

A chunky luxurious loop pile in 100% wool available in 4m and 5m widths.

Sisal Boucle & Sisal Berber A heavy domestic tonal stripe in 100% wool loop pile.

The Stone Fibre Collection

Our Stone fibre carpet is available in 4 designs. Each design available in 4 colours, in 4m and 5m widths.

Memphis

100% wool textured loop available in 4 & 5m widths.

Diamond Weave

100% wool flatweave available in 5m width.

Scandic Weave

100% wool flatweave available in 5m width.

Sloane Square

100% wool innovative cut and loop pile geometric design.

Skagen

Hammer Carpets are the world’s largest manufacturer of bespoke design 80/20 Colortec carpet. Ask your Agent for more details and samples or call our friendly sales office.

Soft tones in a heavy wool loop with a luxurious Wool pile.

Scandinavian quality by design Our UK Sales Team Ron Fewery 07976 244892

London, Oxfordshire, Berkshire, East Anglia, Buckinghamshire

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

Steve Acton 07957 836207

Kent, Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, Dorset

Sandy Anderson 07445 232345 Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Tyneside

Lee Palmer 07774 101640 Channel Islands

Martin Gorny 07530 365125 Bristol & the West Country

Stephen Binnersley 07710 618754

Midlands, South Wales & Northamptonshire

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Quintessential Twist - Dawn Mist

Tartanesque - Glen Torridon

Change the way you choose...

Introducing...

•

•

Upload a photo of your own home (or use our template rooms) & install any of our carpets in real time

Free of charge for everyone to use, in store or in the comfort of your own home •

Visit our website to Visualise It!

www.hughmackay.co.uk SCOTLAND JOHN STUART M: 07860 565 200 E: johnrstuart@btopenworld.com NORTH EAST & CUMBRIA BECKY GIBBONS M: 07970 491 215 E: rebann2@btinternet.com YORKSHIRE JOHN ALSOP M: 07860 572 220 E: alsopagencies@yahoo.co.uk

LANCASHIRE JOHN ROSTRON M: 07973 733 208 E: johnrostronagencies@hotmail.com EAST MIDLANDS STEVE FURNISS M: 07773 384 787 E: furnissagencies@btinternet.com WEST MIDLANDS DEAN STANLEY M: 07572 758 010 E: dssalesagencies@gmail.com

OXFORDSHIRE, WILTSHIRE, HAMPSHIRE, BRISTOL, & GLOUCESTERSHIRE DAVID MAY M: 07976 204 778 E: mayatthelimes@talktalk.net SOUTH WEST BRENDAN HART M: 07850 130 221 E: ba.hart1@yahoo.com NORFOLK, SUFFOLK, CAMBS, NORTH ESSEX ROBIN SAUNDERS M: 07968 344 892 E: rsagencies2004@aol.com

SOUTH WALES PAUL POWELL M: 07968 186 150 E: paulpowellagencies@gmail.com

NORTHERN IRELAND GARY O’BOYLE M: 07831 220 675 E: goboyle@ntlworld.com

SOUTH EAST & SOUTH LONDON MIKE ALP M: 07770 861 441 E: alp.michael@googlemail.com

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND LARRY WHITE M: 03862 594 126 E: thelarwhite@hotmail.com

N LONDON & HOME COUNTIES DAVE MARNEY M: 07794 221 443 E: d.marney@sky.com

SALES DIRECTOR KEITH MORGAN M: 07710 701063 E: keith@hughmackay.com

CENTRAL LONDON NICK WOOD M: 07976 945 505 E: nick@essentialflooring.co.uk

MANAGING DIRECTOR VINCE HOLDEN M: 07900 262 434 E: vince@hughmackay.com

H U G H M A C K AY Support your British manufacturer

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W W W . H U G H M A C K AY. C O . U K

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

Introducing luxurious

Soft

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Strand

by Riviera Home

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Soft Strand

Market Driven, with a Global Presence Over 12 new, designer-led carpet ranges being launched this year.

A Global leader in

Designer Flooring Naturally Luxurious Carpets

Using state-of-the-art, eco-friendly manufacturing processes.

Increased R&D investment in new fibre innovations.

All ranges fully stocked in the UK.

Sales: +44 (0) 1299 871446 www.rivierahomeuk.co.uk Featured carpet: Allure - Silver Desire

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

Allure is available in 7 colours.

Ask your Riviera Home Representative about Soft Strand today.

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CARPET, FLOORCOVERING & ACCESSORY WHOLESALE DISTRIBUTORS

H O L E SA L E

50

W

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Solent Wholesale Carpet Company Ltd

T

YEARS IN FLOORING

Telephone: 01243 774623 Fax: 01243 210105 E-mail: sales@solentwholesale.co.uk Website: www.solentwholesale.com Zola Park, Barnfield Drive, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 6UX.

1969 - 2019 IMPROVING WITH AGE

ST

THE SHIELD YOUR TAGLINE HERE

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DLEIHS EHT EREH ENILGAT RUOY

CHECK STOCK, PLACE ORDERS AND MANAGE YOUR ACCOUNT 24/7 ALL THROUGH OUR WEBSITE Oxford, Berks, Bucks, Beds, Hants, Middlesex & Herts . . . . . . . . . . Ian Cardrick, i.cardrick@solentwholesale.co.uk, mobile: 07973 406329 Sussex E & W, Surrey, South London & Kent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Robson, j.robson@solentwholesale.co.uk, mobile: 07973 898453 Hants, Wilts, Dorset, Somerset, Gloucs, & I.O.W . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Phil Gozzard, p.gozzard@solentwholesale.com, mobile: 07973 406799 VICTORIA Atlas Burford Celestial EasiCare Heartland NEW First Impressions NEW Freedom Royal Victoria Strathmore Collection Tudor Twist Wentworth Wentworth Saxony LANO & BAJONG Cashmere Cashmere Luxe Fairfield Ceations Fairfield Silk Heather Twist Elite Heather Twist Supreme Montana Montana Twist Oasis Pembridge Heathers Seranade Star Twist Collection 40/50 BALTA Big Hit Classic Charm Gala Cord - all options in stock Grand Prix Heritage Exquiste Luxury Heritage Heather Moorland Twist Noble Collection Noble Heathers Paramount Playground Sarabi Saxon King Shepherd Twist Heather Shepherd Twist Soft Noble Superstar BROCKWAY Dimensions - New Dimensions Heathers - New Lingdale (Both Qualities) Orion/Orion Major

LUSOTUFO Nature/Nevada Safi Sahara Tangier Titan & Tital Diagonal Valencia Wool Cord Wool Dream CORMAR Apollo Comfort Apollo Elite Apollo Plus Gemini Highland Saxony - limited Home Counties Heathers Home Counties Plains Malabar 2 fold Oaklands 32 Oaklands 42 Oaklands 50 Natural Berber Twist Primo Choice Super/Elite Primo Excellence Primo Grande Primo Plus Primo Ultra Sensation Sensation Feeling Sensation Heathers Sensation Supreme - limited Sensation Twist Soft Focus Soft Focus Heather’s Southwold IVC Atlas II Classic Limestone Comfytex Cosmolike Fusion Groovy Isafe Apex Isafe First - limited Isafe One Isafe 70 Planet Presto Supertex Tile Styles Ultimate Elements Vigan Woodlike Woodmark

MOHAWK CARPETS

The only distributor to offer Mohawk in the UK.

X Collection Freedom - to order Super Freedom - to order IDEAL CARPETS Can can Dublin Dublin Heathers Echo Endurance - New Colours Grace Grass Collection Mars Monsoon Motor Car vinyls Athena Black-tex Emotions Galaxy Gemini Spectrum Taurus entrance matting Alicante Heavy Tread Orotex - Ceylon Orotex - Magnum Orotex - Matrix EARTHWERKS Lagoon Dry Back Lagoon SPC Tempo VENTURE FLOOR COVERING Brisbane Cordoba Glamorous & Hobart Toronto MISCELLANEOUS CLASSIS CARPETS Amber Amber Plains San Diego Winter MILLENNIUM WEAVERS Desire New Millennium Twist Ultra Twist PARAGON Toccarre Carpet Tiles TELENZO London Bridge/Kings Cross

We carry other products not listed above, and can also provide a swift special order service on non stock lines.

Our reps and sales office would be pleased to answer all enquiries. Our last Price List is dated Nov/Dec 2019.

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Find us on THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

M

AD

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IN

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MAKE THE

ULTIMATE IMPRESSION T H E U LT I M AT E I N E A S I C A R E L U X U RY C A R P E T F O R T H E H O M E EXQUISITE STAIN-RESISTANT YARN I ELEGANT 10 TH GAUGE TWIST PILE I LUXURY HEAVYWEIGHT QUALITY

U2V VICTORIA CARPETS PORTAL

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

Tel: 01562 749 600 Fax: 01562 749 349 sales@victoriacarpets.com www.victoriacarpets.com Worcester Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY10 1JR

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NOW IT CLICKS! WINEO'S UNRIVALLED CLICK CONNECTION

It doesn't matter if it's PURLINE organic flooring, design flooring or laminate flooring − wineo's click connection is always the best choice!

OUR CONTRACT SALES PARTNER Irwo de Lange irwo.delange@windmoeller.de +31 62947 2772

Stephen Binnersley stephen@sbsurfacesolutions.co.uk +44 7710 618 754

John McPherson jsmcpherson.carpets@gmail.com +44 7850 494 845

Irwo de Lange irwo.delange@windmoeller.de +31 62947 2772

Lee Harris leeharrism66@gmail.com +44 7842 448 495

Gary O’Boyle goboyle@ntlworld.com +44 7831 220 675

Helen Thomson-Blok thomsonblok@icloud.com +44 7903 583 806

Irwo de Lange irwo.delange@windmoeller.de +31 62947 2772

CONTACT UK: PHONE +44 121 28100 99 | WWW.WINEO.CO.UK Windmöller GmbH | Nord-West-Ring 21 | D-32832 Augustdorf | Phone: +49 5237 609 - 0 | Fax: +49 5237 609 - 309 | E-Mail: info@wineo.de

www.wineo.de

New for 2020!

Midas Tartan

Accolade

Coming in Autumn, brand new fantastic colour palette for Midas Tartan Wilton ... watch this space!

A superb heathered range made from a 80/20 wool blend. Available in 2 weights & 20 colour shades

SCOTLAND MARK VINTER M: 07775 902 376

NORTH WEST & CUMBRIA JOHN ROSTRON M: 07973 733208

SOUTH WALES PAUL POWELL M: 07968 186150

NORTH EAST BECKY GIBBONS M: 07970 491 215

EAST MIDLANDS STEVE FURNISS M: 07773 384 787

SOUTH EAST & LONDON ANDREW GOLDSMITH M: 07432 119 220

YORKSHIRE ALDO BERETTONI M: 07971 173 560

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CORNWALL/DEVON/ SOMERSET/DORSET BRENDAN HART M: 07850 130221

OXFORDSHIRE/WILTSHIRE/ HAMPSHIRE/BRISTOL & GLOUCESTER DAVID MAY M: 07976 204778 NORTHERN IRELAND GARY O’BOYLE M: 07831 220 675 REPUBLIC OF IRELAND LARRY WHITE M: 0862 594 126

SALES DIRECTOR KEITH MORGAN M: 07710 701063

SALES OFFICE

T: 01429 892537 T: 0844 7252 034

THOMAS WITTER Support your British manufacturer

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See the full collection www.polyflor.com Order your FREE Camaro Loc samples on 0161 767 2551 or www.polyflor.com 24

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

Carpet&FlooringReview Performance to the max Created using a new and improved Zylon Plus yarn for peak performance, the Maximus range is the latest addition to Abingdon Flooring’s StainFree family. Maximus brings hardwearing and durable attributes, resulting in a carpet built for living.

With a successful launch at the recent Flooring Show, Maximus proved a popular choice for retailers looking to offer an all-round champion that copes with heavy domestic use, while retaining its good looks and superior feel. In a choice of 16 colourways ranging from on-trend greys to golden pastels, Maximus looks set to become a future household favourite for 2020.

Martin Peace, sales director at Abingdon Flooring commented, “The positive response from retailers at the recent launch of Maximus proves that we have brought a well-considered, solid and durable carpet to the market. Joining our popular StainFree family, Maximus is an exciting addition and one that we can see being a key choice for consumers now, and for the future.”

A generous 12mm pile provides the carpet’s strong and durable structure, and Abingdon Flooring’s fleece backing gives comfort and ease of fitting. Using a 100% bleach-cleanable Zylon Plus yarn gives Maximus its lifetime StainFree guarantee and a fine 1/10th gauge construction marks it as a carpet of real quality. The range is available in three width choices in 2.5m, 4m and 5m, bringing great value and less waste in small rooms and fewer seams in large spaces.

Strong branding and in-store support in the form of wall units and lecterns are available to help retailers reinforce Maximus’ message as a hard-wearing option without compromise on finish and style for the residential market.

T 01274 655 694 www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

Pitter patter patterns Louis de Poortere has created a magical range of rugs aimed at inspiring children with colours, larger than life patterns and imagination for their rooms.

Luxury rug maker Louis de Poortere has beautifully captured the essence of Villa Nova’s Picturebook range in ten striking rug designs, all expertly crafted using the time-proven techniques and quality materials that have made the Belgian manufacturer one of the leading names in the flooring industry.

Villa Nova’s Picturebook range has been artfully created by a team of three talented illustrators who are normally used to recreating the adventures, journeys and inspiration in childrens books.

Award winning author and illustrator Frann Preston-Gannon has chosen favourite characters from the arctic, ocean and jungle with her Arctic Bear, Lily Pad and Tiny Turtles (pictured above) rugs. In nature inspired green palettes and subtle patterns children can hop on lily pads, dive the seas with turtles or explore the snow with polar bears.

Christopher Corr, London based Illustrator takes his signature use of quirky multi-coloured characters and bold landscapes to create a global collection, inspiring children to see the world around them in all its colourful glory. Whether that’s exploring hotter climes with Sundance a cheerful smiley sun rug, Hustle Bustle city life or the swirling waters of Wiggles.

Yuval Zommer takes his inspiration from nature and the animal visitors to his Notting Hill home which often make their way into his illustrations. His three rugs include Pitter Patter which uses delicate dotted lines, Ladybugs which capture the joy of bugs, and Dotty, a playful splash of rows of dots in bright, pastels or muted tones.

The rugs are featured in a dedicated brochure and presented in an attractive Sample Box. T +32 56 393 393 www.louisdepoortere.com

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

25

NEWS Ultimate driving experience Invictus by Associated Weavers was proud to be the official carpet and flooring supplier at the BMW PGA championship for the second year in a row.

As an official supplier of flooring, AW fitted 350 m² of the brand new Invictus luxury vinyl flooring in Groovy Granite - Lava and Highland Oak - Classic and 3200 m² of Magnificus carpet in the VIP areas. These examples of the Invictus ranges were present throughout the venue for the visitors of this illustrious event to enjoy.

“Invictus carpet is comfortable, stain resistant and durable: exactly what we need for our 5,000 VIP guests during this tournament,” said Jörn Plinke of BMW Munich.

Simon Lewyckyj of AW commented: “The view of the iconic West Course of the renowned Wentworth Club is the perfect backdrop to one of the most prestigious men’s golf tournaments in the world. The visitors of this world-famous event experience the invincible comfort of Invictus products while enjoying top tier golf. To once again be a part of this iconic event is an honour for Invictus.”

T 01422 431100 www.invictus.co.uk

Shepherding sales Balta continues to support enduring favourites Shepherd Twist and Shepherd Heather with the introduction of a new instore product folder for retailers.

Balta’s impressive versatility and enviable lead in providing carpet suitable for multiple domestic settings has been confirmed with the continued consumer demand for its best-selling Shepherd Twist and Shepherd Heather styles.

Both ranges have proved a key offering for retailers looking to present an all-round carpet in their stores. With StainSafe guarantees and bleach-cleanability they have reinforced their presence as a lasting, value for money carpet for the home.

With this in mind and after careful analysis of the current retail market and style trends, Balta has identified the top six colours from Shepherd Twist and Shepherd Heather to create an in-store display folder that will help retailers market the range. With a mix of plain tones or subtle heather twists, the palettes consist of on-trend greys and delicate hues inspired by the countryside.

Shepherd Twist and Shepherd Heather carpets are created in a tufted 1/8” cut-pile from StainSafe polypropelene in four or five-metre width options.

The stylish new folders showcasing a total of 12 colourways are now available from Balta.

T +32 56 62 22 11 www.baltagroup.com

26 November 2019

Carpet&FlooringReview

Shown: Dorset down - 50oz

Springtime The fresh and natural choice

Take a fresh approach to carpeting your home with Springtime; crafted at our Lancashire mill using a special blend of hard wearing undyed wools, in a choice of nine comforting shades, as gentle as nature intended.

We’ve used our 50 years of expertise in creating top quality tufted wool rich floorcoverings, to bring you this superb range of undyed naturally resilient, easy to clean carpets, which have the added bonus of being fire retardant without the need for chemical treatments.

Available in 40oz and 50oz, and 4m or 5m guaranteed full widths, finished with our traditional jute backing, for effortless fitting; Springtime is the natural sustainable choice, better for the environment, and the air quality in your home.

For samples and further information call 01706 639 866 or visit penthousecarpets.co.uk from The Stocklists

Style • Colour • Comfort November 2019 27

NEWS Trends in the frame With its innovative three-dimensional installations and thought-provoking topic coverage, Hall 8 is the creative heart of Domotex 2020, the world’s leading trade fair for carpets and floor coverings. There, over four action-packed days, from 10 to 13 January, international exhibitors and visitors will gather at the immersive Framing Trends showcase in search of inspiration, dialogue and new partnerships.

For the first time, the popular Framing Trends showcase will occupy the whole of Hall 8.

Framing Trends is where the show’s “AtMySphere” keynote theme takes physical form in an array of ingeniously inspired walkthrough presentations, creating a vibrant, electric atmosphere where thought-provoking discussions can take place and new cooperative ventures can emerge.

The first thing visitors will witness upon entering Hall 8 is an expansive textile horizon on which natural motifs such as trees and water are projected together with architectural features in an atmospheric show of light and imagination.

This imagery sets the tone for Framing Trends with its imaginatively designed walkthrough installations inspired by the show’s “AtMySphere” keynote theme, a multifaceted exploration of such topics as health and wellbeing, naturalness, sustainability and recycling.

Visitors will discover the individual displays – the frames – that make up the showcase. These are grouped into four zones: Art & Interaction, NuThinkers, Flooring Spaces and the all-new Contract Frames. www.domotex.de

Get to grips with quality Coping with a variety of subfloor finishes, carpet types, and complex sites has long been a common problem for professional fitters. A quality solution was a challenge that floorwise was keen to address and its Diamond Gripper has become the benchmark in performance and reliability.

Diamond Gripper is a one-stop quality product that provides an easy and secure fit to concrete and wood substrates. Pre-nailed with an increased width and a number of zinc-coated rust-resistant pins, there’s limited damage to skirting or walls during installation, speeding up the fitting process and helping reduce customer complaints or time spent making good costly accidents.

Diamond Gripper can hold up to 10 and 11mm thick underlays and luxury carpets with ease and is ready to cope with more complex jobs and power-stretching, giving fitters the assurance of a secure hold and a lasting professional finish no matter what the task.

“Listening to fitters and understanding the common problems that affect them every day have been essential in the success of the Diamond Gripper range. It’s ability to continue to cope with a variety of complex sites partnered with an ever-changing carpet specification market has continued to highlight Diamond Gripper as a market leader and the one that professional fitters turn to,” comments Richard Bailey, managing director, floorwise.

The full Diamond Gripper range is available in wood, concrete, and dual-purpose medium or long pin options.

Fitters can purchase Diamond Gripper from floorwise trade counters throughout the UK and Ireland.

T 01509 673974 www.floorwise.co.uk

28 November 2019

Carpet&FlooringReview

Inspired by age-old woodlands.

Designed for modern interiors.

Expanding its array of contemporary and classic timber designs, the Van Gogh collection welcomes six new colourways. Creating a neutral backdrop, the mix of fresh, clean and neutral tones including French, distressed and refined oak hues allowThe home decorators to accessorise from the ground up. from Stocklists

karndean.com/VG2019 Featured floor: Greige Oak VGW110T November 2019 29

NEWS

Beaulieu Flooring Solutions launches world’s first recyclable event carpet.

Rewind to the future Beaulieu International Group (B.I.G.), has unveiled Rewind, a unique latex-free carpet designed to help the trade show and special events industries go greener. More than simply a product, Rewind is a concept that offers both economic and ecological advantages as part of a strategy centered on corporate social responsibility.

Every year, more than 100 million square meters of carpet is manufactured for corridors, fair stands, entrance halls and other event spaces. Traditional carpet ends up in an incinerator or as landfill.

Because it contains latex, it cannot be sustainably recycled.

Rewind is 100% polyolefin, which means it is 100% latex-free. Consequently the production process is very environmentally friendly. Compared with traditional carpet, no water is used and gas consumption is cut by 83%. This green production process reduces total CO2 emission by 35%.

In the current economic climate, quality and efficiency also play a big role. Rewind proves its added value here as well and guarantees a first-rate product every time: strong, durable, low VOC content and with fire classification Bfl. Thanks to its lower total weight, the rolls are easier to handle and more ergonomic to install.

The unique composition of Rewind also offers logistical advantages: less storage space needed and an optimization of transport. And because Rewind contains no latex, it can be fully recycled into a pure recyclate that can be re-used as a raw material for the injection molding of new, high grade products.

“As the market leader in needle felt floor coverings, we are proud to be at the forefront of this technologically innovative product. Rewind is the result of collaborative efforts by B.I.G. employees across all divisions. Rewind is also more than a product, it is a philosophy in which economy and ecology merge into one. That ensures that Rewind creates added value for every stakeholder and the environment, at every stage of its lifecycle,” says Wim Coppens, General Manager Needle Felt.

T +32 56 67 22 11 www.rewindcarpet.com

Leading in luxury Leading in luxury, Richmond is an inspiring addition to the Campeone Collection from ITC Natural Luxury Flooring.

Developed using a premium 6.6 PA de-lustred nylon yarn, Richmond has a dense tight construction, a wool like appearance and a fine a pin-point finish. This desirable new carpet has a class 33 certification and is available in 11 contemporary shades that reflects todays interior colour trends.

Durable and easy to maintain, Richmond is a perfect choice for residential and corporate hospitality locations.

T 01622 534041 www.itcnaturalluxuryflooring.com

30 November 2019

Carpet&FlooringReview

You can get yourself a good deal.

Buying groups get you a better deal.

ACG will get you the

BEST DEAL!

ACG is dedicated to supporting independent carpet and flooring retailers for greater profits and business growth.

Not sure about joining a buying group?

Don’t ask us, ask the real retailers...

I joined ACG because they source me the best deals from the best suppliers. As a result profits have increased.

If you’re not in ACG, you should ask yourself why not?

INCREASED PROFITS

LEADING REBATES

Securing improved buying prices across all group suppliers.

All group suppliers pay rebates directly to your business.

OWN LABEL PROTECTION

TRADE SHOW & MEETINGS

Protecting profit margins from internet and home sellers.

Feel less isolated, meet with like minded retailers at regular meetings and events.

Joe Jewkes

Corinium Carpets Ltd Cheltenham Tel: 01242 239681

We joined ACG because of the fantastic terms pre-negotiated with suppliers that we already trade with, we now get an even better margin and continue to run independently.

I joined ACG to take advantage of own label products. They provide excellent protection and allow us to compete with online retailers, whilst retaining a healthy margin.

Tina Pilkington

Tim Hartley

DP Flooring Ltd, Southport Tel: 01704 500680

Flooring 4 You, Mirfield Tel: 01924 493183

Join ACG for Greater Profits & Business Growth without risk Please contact our Executive Director, Richard Moore on 07725 578773 or email: richard@acgcarpets.com

Tel: 01942 825520 www.acgcarpets.com from The Stocklists

ACG VOTED BEST BUYING GROUP IN THE UK 2019

November 2019 31

NEWS

Building on Academy benefits The Quick-Step Master Installer programme has been a key foundation in the Academy for Excellence in Flooring’s effort to promote standards and best practices in flooring installation.

Master Installers are given a leading manufacturer-backed lifetime workmanship guarantee that has increasingly been viewed as a benchmark for industry professionals within a competitive marketplace.

Allan Milford, based in South Devon, is a sole trader working on predominantly residential and new build projects around the UK. Starting his career straight from college over 30-years ago, where he completed his training in carpet fitting, before moving into specialising in vinyl and laminate floor installations.

Most recently Allan has been working on a new build site alongside a continually busy stream of residential clients which stands testament to his experience. Allan’s Master Installer badge has given him the backing of a recognised manufacturer guarantee that he would not have been able to match as a sole trader.

“As a sole trader in a competitive market, having the backing of a national company was the deciding factor for me. I also am the only Master Installer within 15-20miles of my base in South Devon so it does give me a head above local competition.

“The warranty has really helped as it gives clients a reassurance that I know my trade and can install to key standards,” he said.

The Academy for Excellence in Flooring currently has availability for the three-day training and certification scheme. The programme includes a mixture of discussions, presentations, one-to-one mentoring throughout the course and up to five practical installations in dedicated training bays. At the end of the course, there will be a pass or fail assessment for the Master Installer status.

At the heart of flooring Global Director of Domotex, Sonia Wedell-Castellano took over responsibility for the flagship event just over a year ago and talks about her role.

What have you been able to accomplish so far?

In rapid response to the wishes voiced by our exhibitors and visitors, we have, for example, opted for changes in the fair’s layout. Previously, premium suppliers were located in the immediate vicinity of the special Framing Trends showcase. They will now go back to their traditional market environments, in their respective halls. For visitors, this means shorter distances and easier onsite orientation.

Nearly 97,000 square meters of space have already been sold for Domotex 2020. Who are some of the more interesting exhibitors that visitors can look forward to at the event?

With some 1,500 exhibitors anticipated, the list is already quite long, so I’ll only mention a few: Rug Star by Jürgen Dahlmanns, Naziri, Creative Matters, Galleria Battilossi, Rica Basagoiti will be showing in the handmade carpets segment. In the category of machine-woven carpets we are looking forward to Oriental Weavers, Carmel Carpet, Royal Hali, Prado Egypt, Stefany and Reinkemeier. US Floors, Windmöller, Moderna (MeisterWerke) and IVC will be exhibiting their resilient floorcoverings.

The manufacturers of installation technologies include Mapei, Selit, Välinge, Unifloor, Uzin Utz and Küberit.

Hall 8 will now be devoted entirely to the Framing Trends display.

What can visitors expect to see there – and what’s new?

Hall 8 will star as the pulsating, emotive heart of the event, with visitors being welcomed and wowed by a large textile horizon showing projections of atmospheric images. Our new lead theme of “AtMySphere” will address how floors can improve our sense of wellbeing. In a series of Frames, we’ll be showing the contribution that a floor’s appearance makes to the overall atmosphere, how its texture dampens noise and how ecological production techniques make for a healthier indoor climate.

What do you see as the top USPs of Domotex?

We are the world’s only global business platform for carpets and floor coverings. At Domotex, you can see and experience the entire range of products on offer by the global floor coverings industry.

Here you can get an overview of the latest trends and developments in the international market and keep abreast of the latest developments.

Manufacturers and buyers as well as partners, architects and designers from all over the world come together at Domotex.

New business relationships and cooperation opportunities are emerging that were hitherto inconceivable. The show attracts visitors of extremely high caliber, nearly 90 percent of whom play a decisive role in their companies’ buying decisions. www.domotex.de

www.quick-step-academy.co.uk

32 November 2019

Carpet&FlooringReview

from The Stocklists

November 2019 33

Flower on Flooring Popularity of wood vinyl flooring drives further growth Fashion trends continue to develop within interior design but rather than resulting in short-lived fads for the flooring sector, they have added to the popularity of some types of floors, with wood vinyl providing a highly relevant example.

domestic or commercial space. Products include a hardwearing 0.7mm wear layer on a 2.5mm product and also come with a bevelled edge profile and registered emboss, for an authentic look and feel, with a lifetime residential guarantee.

Karndean Designflooring predicts further rises in wood hues as home decorators look to transform their home ahead of the colder days and festive season.

Sales and marketing director Richard Hackett says: “The beauty of our new ranges is that the end-user can select a wood pattern they prefer (natural, rustic or tonal) and then find a shade to match their decor. It’s a really clever way of helping with the decision making process.”

“Incorporating a wood effect floor can instantly help your space feel warmer this autumn/winter, even if you decide to opt for a cooler tone as the knots and grains create a relaxing atmosphere,” explains retail sales manager Stella Coyle.

Greige Oak & Natural Prime Oak from Karndean Designflooring

“Incorporating a wood effect floor can instantly help your space feel warmer this autumn/winter, even if you decide to opt for a cooler tone as the knots and grains create a relaxing atmosphere,” “What’s more, cooler grey tones allow home decorators to tap into the trend for Hygge or Lagom. If the preference is a rich and deep hue, we recommend Morning Oak, Dover, Heritage Oak or alternatively, the more neutral palette of Natural Prime Oak, Greige Oak or Storm Oak. “Ahead of the new season, we have expanded our popular Van Gogh collection with six new oak designs. The new hues authentically replicate the beauty of natural oak and include Natural Prime Oak with light sandy tones, and Greige Oak with its beige-grey tones and subtle flowery grain, which looks great when featured in monochrome colour schemes.

Harvey Maria’s new MSeries offers a realistic wood-effect for the modern rustic interior. The new designs capture the true character of wood by combining a tactile emboss in register grain, a natural palette and an ultra matt finish. Other benefits like water-resistance, good grip and durability – as well as compatibility with underfloor heating – make the collection an ideal option for kitchens and bathrooms.

The new biophilic-inspired designs include four collections. Natural Plank includes the most rustic MSeries designs, whilst Natural Oak has a quieter grain. Colours cluster around soft grey and mid oak tones, with White Oak and Cinder at either end of the spectrum. The Parquet Oak Collection replicates Natural Oak in miniature and can be laid to create a classic parquet floor or a decorative border. The fourth new collection – Selected Woods – is an eclectic mix of reclaimed pine and engineered oak décors.

Leoline national sales manager Stuart Reeves says: “With the introduction of Timberline earlier this year, we’re reflecting the shift towards wood looks that offer much more impact. That’s one of the best advantages of cushion vinyl, homeowners can get a more expressive wood look – say a herringbone or reclaimed planks – without the expense and rarity of the real thing.

“It’s important the floor also provides extra comfort this time of year. As well as being warm underfoot, all our luxury vinyl flooring is compatible with underfloor heating,” says Ms Coyle.

Conker by Distinctive

Distinctive Flooring’s latest addition is its Landscape Collection, comprised of Wildwood, Shoreline and Tapestry and comes in dryback, parquet, and SPC click formats.

With a wide range of colour options throughout, it is designed for any

34 November 2019

Harvey Maria’s MSeries in White Oak Parquet

Marilyn from Leoline

“The Timberline collection negates all the cost and complication of genuine wood floors, making them readily accessible to a wider audience. Bathroom and kitchen-ready – unlike wood flooring – with low maintenance, underfoot comfort and quiet too, cushion vinyl has a great range of benefits. In fact, it could be argued that for many homes it’s actually a more favourable alternative to real wood,” says Mr Reeves.

“The Timberline collection negates all the cost and complication of genuine wood floors, making them readily accessible to a wider audience.”

Carpet&FlooringReview

by Dennis Flower

Xylo Flooring’s Dynamic vinyl flooring has been created by its R&D Department as a close match to a natural wood finish, with a deep embossing that feels realistic and warm to the foot.

Its colour palette ranges from a honeyed oak or a Smokey rustic to a contemporary cool calming grey with a wide shade to suit residential or business settings.

Practicality is also provided by the Valinge Click system to make fitting easy and, once laid, create a pleasing, hard wearing and water resistant floor for bathrooms, kitchens and high traffic places. It is designed to be easy to maintain and keep its matt oiled finish for many years and benefits from the company’s flooring warranties.

The attractive wineo 400 collection is available in three different product variants with an identical surface appearance for gluing, clicking and as a multilayer on HDF boards. Windmöller says it is the first manufacturer to bring HDF-Multi-Layer with registered embossed surface in XL format to the market.

The wineo 400 “3 in 1” collection contains 120 choices of authentic wood and stone designs, including six generously proportioned plank formats with a wide-plank and a four-sided bevelled edge, wood XL with registered embossed surface, a classical tile format with a stone look and a real joint. The wood designs comprise a trendy range of classical and newly interpreted oak and pine designs as one-strip boards in wide-plank format, the company states.

Polyflor says it recognises the importance of understanding customers’ requirements and offering new and innovative products in line with interior design trends, resulting in the launch of Expona Design, a premium heavy commercial LVT collection.

Clara Oak from Polyflor

combine with six on-trend colours of New Lagoon, or the 14-colour Tempo range to ensure successful projects.

Furlong Flooring has partnered with a European manufacturer to guarantee quality products, reliable supply and react quickly to trends.

It offers flooring for every room and its LVT ranges add further to this with high-quality, contemporary designs, which have proved popular across both independent retailer and commercial sectors, backed by next day delivery and high levels of stock.

“As a multi-product supplier, we are in an enviable position in terms of recognising new trends that appear in the market.”

“As a multi-product supplier, we are in an enviable position in terms of recognising new trends that appear in the market. We have noticed that – across all flooring types – there is a consistent demand for modern designs, and we have reflected this in the relaunch of some of our ranges,” says the company.

Lifestyle Floors general manager Inga Morris-Blincoe says the company relaunched its entire LVT collection this year, which now includes 42 individual wood decors and its Palace range of wood designs.

“This is because we consistently find our wood designs dominate our top sellers’ reports. In particular, the trend for grey woods is not going anywhere, and oaks remain very popular.

“Consumers are definitely becoming bolder: three of our bestsellers have been stained woods Henna Oak and Painted Oak, and Block Art, an interesting geometric design painted on a wood grain.”

Painted Oak from Lifestyle Floors

Offering 30 shades created to blur the boundaries between wood and stone, these can be mixed and matched to zone, transition and make a statement in a variety of spaces.

Ms Morris-Blincoe further states that the traditional and elegant effect of authentic wood decor means LVT offers

Satisfying the need for flooring transformations with minimum disruption, Camaro Loc includes 24 shades and covers the most popular wood and stone designs. The collection also features an interlocking mechanism for quick and adhesive-free installation.

With an extensive portfolio of products, Polyflor says it can offer a flooring solution for most projects, whatever the requirement.

Oneflor says the Harrogate flooring show saw the introduction of its new PVC Free collection Alter One, the latest Gold winner in the Flooring Innovation Awards, which offers something new and different to the market.

Next month sees the introduction of its latest collection, Rigid XL, including seven wood designs with full register embossing and the latest in rigid core technology and I4F locking system, with the added benefit of a built-in underlay.

These new collections run alongside its popular Eco 30, Eco 55 Solide 30 and Solide 55 collections available in dry back and click.

EarthWerks states that its DB Fix is a Flooring Innovation Award winner with The Stocklists Magazine due to its unique and innovative qualities.

It allows the loose-lay acoustic installation of a dry-back LVT, ideal for renovations, new buildings and historic homes, with adhesive fully coated in the top layer of the underlay and prepared for the LVT to be installed. There is no need for extra tools and it is easy to change the floor as the subfloor remains intact, with no need for new preparation.

DB Fix and EarthWerks LVT also have BFl S1 fire certification and DB Fix can

from The Stocklists

sophisticated looks with none of the maintenance associated with real wood floors.

Block art from Lifestyle Floors

For more information Distinctive Flooring www.distinctiveflooring.co.uk – 01274 655694 Harvey Maria www.harveymaria.com – 0845 680 1231 Karndean Designflooring www.karndean.com – 01386 820200 Leoline www.leoline.co.uk – 020 8941 3370 Lifestyle Floors www.lifestyle-floors.co.uk – 0113 320 0223 PolyFlor www.polyflor.co.uk – 0161 767 1111 November 2019 35

Marketing insights Trending in style and sustainability Our busy world is having an impact on how we are decorating our homes; we are seeing a trend towards nature inspired colour palettes and natural materials. Colours are sophisticated, quality is enduring, and authenticity is valued.

Karndean Designflooring, Grey Oak

Biophilic design and all things nature-inspired is a growing trend and one that’s set to continue. What isn’t there to love about bringing the outside in? It’s an interior style that doesn’t just work naturally; it’s also good for the soul.

Natural materials play a big part in creating a happy, healing environment.

With ‘Tranquil Dawn’ named as the Dulux Colour of the Year 2020 and trend forecaster WGSN’s ‘Neo Mint’ popping up everywhere, green and blue hues are prominent.

Harvey Maria see these soft new shades work beautifully with neutral pastels, bringing a calm, comforting feel to an interior. Rich jewel tones, including bottle green, are also joining the on-trend oxygenated shades, as we look to ‘balance’ our lifestyles through colour and design.

Harvey Maria, MSeries

“Restful green shades are the new neutrals and they work so well with earthy, natural colours.

By combining them with a wood or stoneeffect floor, and lots of organic elements, you can create a harmonious space that’s calming and rejuvenating,” explained Harvey Maria founder, Mark Findlay.

But why stop at the floor? “Designs like Parquet Sage and Lattice Pear Tree combine cream and soft green shades, so they subtly elevate a room, introducing pattern and colour underfoot. They can be used across large floor areas or bordered with a neutral wood effect to create a floor

“Restful green shades are the new neutrals and they work so well with earthy, natural colours.”

Karndean Designflooring, Blush Oak Known as Sugared Scandi, home decorators are pairing neutral tones on walls and flooring with furnishings and accessories in pastel tones of pink, blue, lilac and yellow to create flexible and relaxing sanctuaries from busy modern life.

“When thinking about the bones of a Scandi style home, you really can’t go wrong with a light wood flooring,” explains Stella. “In response to this desire for fresh contemporary flooring, we have expanded our popular Van Gogh range with six new oak designs.

British Wool. The assurance of quality and origin

feature; this works particularly well in narrow hallways, around kitchen islands or in front of fireplaces,” continued Mark.

Other green-toned designs from Harvey Maria’s range include Little Bricks Apple Green – a short stave design, in a soft organic shade – ideal for creating parquet patterns and borders.

Karndean Designflooring, predicts that the trend for minimalist Scandinavian inspired interiors will be refreshed with harmonious pastel sugar tones.

“It’s no surprise that the fresh airy feel of Scandi interiors has become a firm favourite with home decorators,” says Stella Coyle, national retail sales manager at Karndean Designflooring. “This year we are seeing the contemporary classic trend take on a new playful vibe with ice cream shades.”

36 November 2019

Carpet&FlooringReview

by Rita Bancroft Rita is Director of Bancmarketing Ltd and has over 25 years of marketing experience with a proven track record in both business to business and business to consumer multi-channel marketing.

“The new designs authentically replicate the beauty of natural oak and include Blush Oak with rosy pink undertones and a flowery grain perfect for combining with warm pastel shades, and Cool Grey Oak with a misty hue and linear grain which looks stunning paired with crisp blue tones.”

Product provenance is a growing trend in many industries. But when it comes to carpets, what does the conscious consumer want to know? British Wool director of marketing, Graham Clark, explains, “Every year we exhibit at a number of leading consumer events, such as Grand Designs Live, which gives us chance to talk to many different consumers. We’ve seen a big increase in the number of questions about provenance, and also the environmental credentials of wool – from carbon footprint to recycling. So, we have a fantastic opportunity to provide the information consumers are looking for, explaining the many natural benefits of British wool, and also the work we’re doing to ensure traceability throughout the entire supply chain via our licensing scheme.”

“We’ve seen a big increase in the number of questions about provenance, and also the environmental credentials of wool – from carbon footprint to recycling.”

“Today’s consumer is interested in the origins of the products they’re buying, with sustainability and ethical production becoming increasingly important.

When consumers buy a British Wool licensed carpet, they know they’re buying a product which contains genuine and verified levels of British wool.

The crook mark associated with British Wool licensing provides an assurance of quality and origin, also signifying a long-term commitment to the British farming industry.”

Crucial Trading has a long tradition of only working with natural materials.

This autumn, three new 100% wool designs were launched at Decorex, the UK’s largest international interior design show. The richly hued and striped Harbour and the luxuriously rustic Reef and Tranquil designs were definitely a hit.

Crucial Trading, Harbour

Harbour is a bright fresh stripe, in nine vibrant yet contemporary colours, from Autumn Glow to Emerald Tide. This new design can also be finished in a cotton or linen edging to create a bespoke rug.

Reef is a tight loop pile carpet with a rustic appearance. Available in seven beautiful neutral tones, it is the perfect accompaniment to any timeless colour scheme. Dyed to the same colour palette as Reef, Tranquil is a chunky bouclé design, its ultra-deep pile makes it sumptuously soft underfoot.

Crucial Trading select the finest wool from the mountainous regions of New Zealand thanks to its fine texture, durability and purity. The natural whiteness of the fibres allows for a deeper take of dye, allowing Crucial Trading to develop a wide range of colours for their ever-expanding collections. Wool is natural and sustainable, its insulating and hypoallergenic properties make it a versatile floor covering choice.

“The faster our lives move the greater our desire to channel more calm into our homes. Adam Carpets predict that blue hues will be a strong influence in interiors during 2020.”

The faster our lives move the greater our desire to channel more calm into our homes. Adam Carpets predict that blue hues will be a strong influence in interiors during 2020.

Blue is incredibly versatile, soft shades give off an innocent vibe that can be translated into a flirtier look when combined with blush tones, whilst rich inky hues provide escapism in today’s data-driven society. One reason we are craving blues is they bring us closer to natural elements such as the sea and sky, so have the ability to create serenity in almost any space. A reflection of restfulness and mental and spiritual balance, the combination of blue and green tones speaks to our senses. This palette connects us with our natural world and provides much needed tranquillity in our lives.

Kelly Butler, design manager at Adam Carpets explains the Adam Carpets, Blue Trend ways in which this colour is impacting our homes, “Blue can work in any room. We’re painting our walls in deep luxurious blues through to brilliant bright blues. This AW it’s being beautifully paired with mint green, soft dusty pinks and brushed brass. Rich sophisticated inky blues are being used as the backdrop in a fresh modern way.” continued overleaf...

from The Stocklists

November 2019 37

Marketing insights

by Rita Bancroft

Trending in style and sustainability continued ...continued from previous page Leading British carpet manufacturer, Cormar Carpets Company, has seen a resurgence in demand for dining room carpet. While the traditional dining room area has become less popular, the increase in open plan, integrated living spaces has led to a rise in demand for carpet. Based on real-life, in-home research and insight, there’s clear evidence this trend is set to continue as consumers increasingly look for comfortable and convenient flooring solutions to keep pace with their increasingly busy lifestyles.

“As is the natural cycle of things, as shades of grey have become mainstream, we’re starting to see style-savvy consumers look for a hint of colour.”

British brand, Victoria Carpets is seeing a move towards a more expressive colour palette, with softer, pastel tones beginning to make inroads into now ubiquitous grey palettes.

James Caldwell, sales director at Victoria Carpets explains, “For the last few years there’s no denying that grey has been leading the assault and it now ranks as one of the most popular colours at almost every price point.

However, as is the natural cycle of things, as shades of grey have become dominant and mainstream, we’re starting to see style-savvy consumers look for a hint of colour. The popularity of silk-like qualities is probably a catalyst for this, with soft shades working particularly well with the look.

Victoria Carpets, Ultimate Impressions

Cormar Carpet Company, Apollo Plus

“While the traditional dining room area has become less popular, the increase in open plan, integrated living spaces has led to a rise in demand for carpet.”

There are many reasons why choosing carpet is a sensible, practical choice for today’s dining and living spaces. Carpet not only provides a safer, quieter surface for busy rooms with young children and pets - the increasing need for easy-clean carpets is helping fuel demand too. Cormar’s research highlighted that consumers increasingly want practicality, low maintenance flooring and great looks, which in turn, has helped increase sales for Cormar’s Easy-Clean Twist carpets.

With the added assurance of a 10-year guarantee, Cormar’s Easy-Clean Twist carpets provide a stylish, low maintenance and affordable solution to instantly transform lounge and dining room living spaces. Providing a natural, in-built stain resistance to stains and spills with tightly twisted two-ply fibres, EasyClean Twist carpets provide superb warmth and comfort, which dining rooms often lack as they tend to contain less furniture.

“For the last few years there’s no denying that grey has been leading the assault and it now ranks as one of the most popular colours at almost every price point.”

38 November 2019

“This gradual return to colour is certainly a key trend to watch and so we’ve developed the palette for our new Ultimate Impressions collection to reflect this. With colours such as Grandeur, Plush and Abundant, this luxury heavyweight quality delivers an allimportant touch of colour, marking it out as a great choice for anyone looking for luxury that’s just a little bit out of the ordinary.

For more information contact: Adam Carpets T: 01562 822247 www.adamcarpets.com British Wool T: 01274 688666 www.britishwool.org.uk Cormar Carpet Company T: 01204 881234 www.cormarcarpets.co.uk Crucial Trading T: 01562 743747 www.crucial-trading.com Harvey Maria T: 0330 330 1231 www.harveymaria.com Karndean Designflooring T: 01386 820100 www.karndean.com Victoria Carpets T: 01562 749300 www.victoriacarpets.com

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NEWS

Interior impact on healing Altro revisited Hillingdon Hospital, London, to see the lasting impact of products used to create patient-centred, healing, safe and homely environments in several departments.

The Paediatric A&E was transformed just over three years ago. Architect and healthcare specialist interior designer Georgia Burt of GBS Health worked closely with the hospital, lead designers Oxford Architects and with Altro on the project, with the aim to create a healing environment that would be comfortable, friendly, non-clinical and focus on wellbeing at a time of great stress.

Georgia says: “Being in hospital can be an upsetting and frightening experience for everyone, but especially for children. The interior space can have such a powerful effect on how they feel, and using the right designs, colours and materials will set the scene from the moment a child enters the space.”

Following a series of interactive consultation meetings with clinical and service users, a unique interior wayfinding strategy and supporting arts programme was developed. Using a combination of lighting, layout,

materials, colour and artwork, a welcoming environment was created which has helped reduce anxiety at this stressful time for patients and carers.

Hillingdon’s Stoke Unit has also been vastly improved thanks to Georgia and Altro’s input, with the refurbishment of a bed bay, and also of the gymnasium; the area where important assessment and rehabilitation work takes place. Altro Serenade acoustic smooth flooring was used, with large nature scenes reproduced on Altro Whiterock Digiclad to create a patient-centred biophilic design, to bring the outside in.

Altro Serenade is ideal for spaces where comfort underfoot and impact sound reduction are paramount for patients. It is 3.9mm thick and has 19dB impact sound reduction. Along the walls of the gym is an image of a bluebell wood, in Altro Whiterock Digiclad. In the Stroke unit bed bays, a wildflower meadow runs along the entire wall above the bedheads.

Christopher Knight, Capital Projects Manager, Estates Department, at The Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has seen a real difference for patients and staff. “The Stroke unit is now also hugely improved, thanks to the refurb. Using beautiful natural images to help relax and reassure patients has proved wonderfully calming for them, and we can see a real difference in behaviour. Staff are also thrilled with the new spaces.

Working in an environment that’s colourful, friendly and warm has such an impact,” he said.

The designs use products from the Altro Whiterock hygienic wall sheets range - Altro Whiterock Digiclad, Altro Whiterock Chameleon and Altro Whiterock Satins. Altro Wood Safety, Altro Suprema and Altro Aquarius safety floors were also used in the Hillingdon Hospital projects.

T 01462 480480 www.altro.co.uk

Sad loss of Mapei president It is with great sadness that the Mapei Group announces the passing of its President, Giorgio Squinzi, who died in Milan on October 2.

Born in 1943, with a degree in Industrial Chemistry, Giorgio Squinzi (a second-generation businessman) became the Sole Administrator of Mapei in 1984 after the death of his father, Rodolfo, who founded the company in 1937. Under his leadership, the company grew over the years to become one of the world’s leading players in chemical products for the building industry, and currently operates in 56 countries through 89 subsidiaries. The Mapei Group, which employs over 10,500 staff, manufactures across five continents through 83 factories in 36 countries.

This internationalisation process began long ago; the Group’s first foreign offices opened in Canada back in 1978.

Not only did he devote his life to his family and company, his innovative vision and social work made an important contribution to business associations, the world of sport, and the wider community in his home city and the rest of the world.

In 1996 he was awarded the ‘Ambrogino d’oro” (one of the city’s highest awards) by the Mayor of Milan for his contribution to the city in the realms of both business and sport, and in 1998 he was knighted for his services to industry. In 2013 the President of the Italian Republic, Giorgio Napolitano, bestowed upon him the honour of being made a Grand Officer of the “Order of Merit of the Italian People”.

Giorgio Squinzi held important posts in both Italian and international business associations. He was President of the Italian Federation of Chemical Industries from 1997-2003 and then again from 2005-2011.

He was also the leader of CEFIC, the European Council of Chemical Industries, which represents 29,000 companies in this sector, for a twoyear period (2010-2012).

He was the President of the Italian Industrial Federation from May 2012May 2016.

Giorgio Squinzi’s motto was “Never stop pedalling”, epitomising his approach to work and life. The expression actually comes from cycling, a passion for which he inherited from his father, Rodolfo. This love of cycling led Giorgio Squinzi to sponsor the Mapei professional cycling

from The Stocklists

team that won a total of 654 races from 1993-2002, reaching the very top of all the different international rankings. Mapei’s links to cycling go way back and still continue today through its partnership with the UCI (International Cycling Union): Mapei is the Main Sponsor of the Road World Championships.

Giorgio Squinzi’s love of sport also extended to football. He took over Sassuolo Calcio in 2002, and in just a few years the club was promoted from Serie C2 to Serie A and is now firmly established among the leading clubs in the country’s top division.

Opera was another of Giorgio Squinzi’s great passions. He always attended the first night at La Scala in Milan and was a great opera fan. He was a member of the Opera House’s Board of Directors from 2016 and Mapei has been a Permanent Founding Member since 2008.

His expertise, precision and passion will now be taken up by his children, Veronica and Marco, who were appointed as Chief Executive Officers in July 2019.

They will lead the group along the path first trodden with such far-sighted vision by Rodolfo and then Giorgio Squinzi.

T 0203 302 9610 www.mapei.com

November 2019 39

NEWS Stopgap saves the screed

Contemporary Camaro Flooring contractors Dino Tapjit in the Netherlands, avoided huge costs and lost time by using F. Ball and Co. Ltd.’s Stopgap SRS surface reinforcement system to quickly repair a weakened concrete screed.

Contractors used the two-component, epoxy resin reinforcement solution to quickly stabilise and reinforce the subfloor of the residential property, prior to the installation of vinyl plank floorcoverings.

Commenting on the project Dino Tapjit Director Jan Jansen said: “Using Stopgap SRS was a great timesaving and cost-effective solution. It meant we could stabilise the screed without having to dig it up and replace it, which would’ve pushed deadlines back. Stopgap SRS’s fast-setting features allowed us to proceed immediately with the usual subfloor preparation process and finish the job on time.”

The product penetrates the weak/friable surface, filling voids and cracks and binding loose particles to strengthen the screed. Due to the rapid action of Stopgap SRS the weak screed was reinforced overnight allowing subfloor preparation to continue the next day.

Stopgap SRS cures to create a non-absorbent finish. Therefore, contractors used F. Ball’s Stopgap P141 to prime the surface.

Contractors then applied Stopgap 300 HD heavy duty levelling compound to create a suitably smooth and hardwearing base for vinyl floorcoverings and finally, contractors used F. Ball’s Styccobond F46 pressure sensitive acrylic adhesive to adhere the Moduleo PVC planks.

T 01538 361 633 www.f-ball.co.uk

Building on the continued success of the interlocking vinyl tile market, Polyflor has re-launched its leading Camaro Loc range.

The updated collection features all 15 original shades with the introduction of 9 brand new designs to create a contemporary collection of 24 shades covering the most popular wood, stone and concrete design areas.

The new designs have all been developed to reflect the latest in interior design and feature beautifully recreated surface embosses and a micro bevel effect, adding a subtle depth and detailing to the overall appearance of the floor once laid.

Available as planks and tiles the new Camaro Loc range eliminates the need for adhesion with its tried and tested 2G locking system and significantly reduces installation time.

With a 4.0mm gauge and a 0.3mm wear layer Camaro Loc remains a practical and beautiful solution for use across the home as well as for light commercial areas. Each plank and tile feature a protective polyurethane reinforcement and are UV cured to provide enhanced protection from everyday wear and tear, as well as a polish-free maintenance regime.

There is also a beautiful and inspirational new brochure, a new large format retail presenter, shade card and retail display stand.

The full range of Camaro Loc products also feature on Polyflor’s new room visualiser offering users an instant preview of their interior, fully installed with products from within the Camaro LOC range.

Camaro Loc flooring is 100% recyclable, contains recycled content and certified very low for VOC emissions achieving a Gold Indoor Air Comfort Level, an internationally recognised indoor air quality standard.

T 0161 767 1111 www.polyflor.com

Ulster excels for retail group Leading buying group Metro has awarded Ulster Carpets their prestigious Supplier of the Year award - the second such win for Ulster over the last three years.

Jeremy Wilson (pictured far left) and Andrew Gicquel (centre) accepted the trophy on behalf of everyone involved at Ulster from Metro’s Steve Depport, at Ulster’s Design Studio.

T 01204 393 539 • www.carpet1st.co.uk

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Carpet&FlooringReview

DOMOTEX 2020 All the product trends. One trade show.

The business platform for generating international contacts with manufacturers and creatives.

10 – 13 January 2020 Hannover ▪ Germany domotex.de

te Keyno 020: in 2 theme PHERE S ATMY

The World of Flooring

Sector Marketing · Tel. +44 12 75 33 5 91 1 · info@hf-greatbritain.com

from The Stocklists

November 2019 41

NEWS Stuart celebrates sales success Brockway Carpets have honoured their Scotland ABM Stuart Pollock at the company’s National Sales Conference held at Brockway Carpets in Kidderminster.

Stuart (pictured below with the trophy) received the annual award as the ‘Roy Annable Salesperson of the Year’ for 2018/19. Runner up this year was Paul Crittenden who covers Essex, Cambs, North London, Norfolk & Suffolk.. “Both of these chaps had a very good year beating respective sales targets for the year, as well as excelling in many other areas of sales professionalism,” said Shaun Lewis, Sales Director at Brockway.

T 01562 828200 www.brockway.co.uk

Personnel left to right are; John Hale, Andy Cave, Paul Crittenden, Dan Milstead, Andy Finch, Stuart Pollock, Ted Morgan, Shaun Lewis, Steve Perks, Jon Ormrod, Richard Venn, Steve Glover, Simon Stead, John O’Donovan.

F. Ball to boost AsiaPac exports F. Ball and Co. Ltd. has appointed Gareth Lewis as export business manager for the Asia Pacific region to further bolster the company’s diversification into new global markets.

Working with F. Ball’s subsidiary company in Singapore, Gareth will be responsible for promoting the company’s innovative floor preparation ranges across the region, as well as identifying further opportunities to enable F. Ball to increase its market share overseas.

This will include showcasing the benefits of F. Ball’s marine-certified products to the marine and the region’s growing transportation markets.

Gareth brings substantial sales experience and knowledge of international construction markets, acquired while working in business development roles for global companies, such as Sika and Tremco Illbruk, where he was international sales manager. During this time, he also developed his understanding of adhesive technology that is a significant advantage in his new position.

Tech rep to help North West Gary Kenworthy has joined F. Ball and Co. Ltd. as technical representative for the North West of England.

As one of F. Ball’s regional technical representatives, Gary will provide expert advice to flooring contractors, distributors and retailers across the North West on best practice in subfloor preparation and floorcovering installation and how to get the most out of F. Ball products. This will include conducting site visits and producing case-specific reports advising on the best course of action for particular flooring projects.

Gary has a vast amount of flooring industry experience, gained while working in a range of customer-facing roles over the past 30 years, including as a flooring contractor and in sales and managerial capacities.

Previously, he was North West contract sales representative for Wilkies All Floors in Leeds before becoming branch manager for the company’s Darwen outlet.

Commenting on his appointment, Gareth said: “I am looking forward to the challenge of expanding F. Ball’s presence in a region as large as Asia Pacific. This will be made easier by F. Ball’s strong brand and reputation for being at the forefront of the latest innovations in subfloor preparation products and adhesives technology.”

Commenting on his appointment, Gary said: “Having known F. Ball as the market leader in products for the professional flooring industry, with a reputation for first-class quality and customer service, it’s a privilege to work for the company. I am looking forward to using my knowledge to help flooring contractors meet the expectations of their customers and drawing on my network of contacts across the region to develop new business opportunities.”

T 01538 361 633 www.f-ball.co.uk

T 01538 361 633 www.f-ball.co.uk

42 November 2019

Carpet&FlooringReview

Top track accolade for Cormar Cormar Carpet Company has been listed in a prestigious league table of the UK’s top performing mid-market companies.

Cormar Carpet Company is proud to be placed in Top Track’s 250 in association with The Sunday Times. Compiled by Fast Track and published by the Sunday Times each October, The Sunday Times Grant Thornton Top Track 250 league table ranks Britain’s leading private mid-market growth companies.

And with sales rising 6% to £126.6m in 2018, Cormar Carpets are delighted to announce they are placed 230 in Top Track’s 250.

Cormar’s latest loop pile carpet Southwold made with 100% New Zealand wool.

Cormar is still a family owned business and has been manufacturing carpets in the UK since 1956, at its two mills in Lancashire.

Over the last ten years they have won over twenty carpet and flooring industry awards, including being voted “Best Carpet Manufacturer 2019” by readers of Interiors Monthly and Flooring One “Carpet Supplier Of The Year” for the last 13 years.

Tim Eagles, Chief Executive Officer of Cormar Carpets, said: “Quite simply, producing great quality carpets and delivering excellent service to our retail customers service, via our own distribution fleet, has always been our aim.

“To be featured in the Top Track 250 is a fantastic acknowledgement for all the hard work, determination and commitment the team put into achieving this.”

T 01204 881234 www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

BUSINESS NEWS Edel Telenzo Carpets Ltd has been acquired by the Headlam Group, the UK’s largest flooring distributor.

Telenzo is the UK distribution company for Edel Carpets, a quality carpet producer from Genemuiden, in the Netherlands, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in business in 2018, and is best known for distinctive wool loop carpets but has also innovated into luxurious soft touch man-made ranges. The move comes just a year after the Edel Carpets business was taken out of independence and into the ownership of the Condor Group.

Headlam says the Telenzo UK distribution business will continue to be operated under its own trade brand and will move to the group’s existing premises in Tamworth where it will continue to be run by its sales management team while benefiting from Headlam’s management expertise, distribution network and financial resources.

An intriguing glimpse of the fight between Carpetright and Tapi was revealed in a statement by ScS saying that its flooring sales were under pressure due to “increasingly aggressive competition, particularly between the two largest market specialists”.

Carpetright and Tapi Carpets have been cutting margins to compete for market share. ScS said flooring sales were 1.2% down in the year to July 2019 and also blamed falling house sales.

The chain has spent £700k in the last year refurbishing its flooring departments in every store.

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from The Stocklists

Against this backdrop, Tapi posted a bigger loss for last year than expected for 2018 but has announced a target of going into profit “over the next two years”. The loss was £15.4 million, compared to a £9.2 million loss in 2017 amid tighter margins due to competitive pressures.

But Tapi has already added 19 new stores in 2019 to create a portfolio of more than 180 outlets, including 52 mobile showrooms. Shareholders invested nearly £10m in 2018 to grow the business and a similar amount will be the case for this year.

Brintons is reported to be closing its yarn-spinning operation in Telford next spring as part of a consolidation of processes across its European plants. The company spoke of optimising its cost base to improve customer service and remain competitive and director Rob Greenfield added: “We also continue to have one eye on the impact that Brexit may have on our ability to manage and grow our business across borders.”

Belgium carpet imports into the UK are down by 8% overall in the year to date after a poor summer which saw the country’s imports drop by a quarter in August. Turkey was the key beneficiary of the slump with exports to the UK up 59% in the summer period.

November 2019 43

Shining stars 2019!

FLOORING

1. CARPETS NATURAL Aalya by Axminster Carpets FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD Southwold by Cormar Carpet Co. WINNER 2019 Architect Twist from Cavalier Carpets Quintessential Twist from Hugh Mackay Carpets Spendore de Venezia by Louis De Poortere 2. CARPETS – MAN-MADE Stainfree Twist and Stainfree Ultra from Abingdon Flooring Zoffany Boutique for Alternative Flooring Wild Luxury by Balta Ultimate Impressions from Victoria Carpets 3. FIBRE DEVELOPMENT UltraBond from Beaulieu Fibres International Lakeland Herdwick from Brockway Carpets Gloss from ITC Natural Luxury Flooring Ltd Wool Piccolo by Kersaint Cobb 4. SMOOTHS Majestik by Adore Luxury Flooring Ceramica by Leoline Alter One by One Flor Europe Quick-Step Surface & Edge Protect+ 5. DESIGN – CARPETS AND RUGS Panache by Adam Carpets Ritzy Infinity Collection by Balta Carpets / ITC Artisan Wilton by Fells Carpets terræn by Ulster Carpets 6. DESIGN – SMOOTHS Tapestry Collection by Distinctive Flooring Dovetail by Harvey Maria The Natural Timbers Collection by J2 Flooring Altro Ensemble 7. UNDERLAY DB FIX acoustic underlayment by EarthWerks Premium Pure Recycled Foam Underlay from Luxe Underlay Nomafloor Premium 3mm from NMC Tredaire FR6 by Interfloor 8. ACCESSORIES MagTabs by IOBAC Palette floor bar collection by Lifestyle Floors Ali Wrap Nosing, Tramline Joiners and Tramline Scotia from Stairrods UK WPC stair nosing kit from PRO-TEK 9. INSTALLATION Stycco Flex from F. Ball and Co. Ltd. ST15/50 Gas Carpet Gripper Nailer by Spotnails Maestri NC 111 BiColor from Uzin Utz UK Decibel from Interfloor 10. ENVIRONMENTAL Sedna Eco Regenerated Nylon by Associated Weavers Ultra Fresh Technology from Ball and Young Dyehouse and Energy Centre at Ulster Carpets Eco Pouch from F. Ball and Co. Ltd. 11. MARKETING Invictus Flooring LVT by Associated Weavers Adam Carpets Collaboration with Little Greene Luvanto by QA Flooring Solutions The Wool Benefits Campaign from Wools of New Zealand 12. POINT-OF-SALE ‘Shop-in-Shop’ Concept by Abingdon Flooring Haute Couture Design Box by Louis De Poortere Pure from SMG ‘Shop in Shop’ Showroom by Moduleo 13. TECHNOLOGIES Fitter and Estimators Companion from Computers for Flooring Visualmine from freetail limited International Textile Flooring Academy Carpet Care iFrame from WoolSafe

FLOORING

Achieving the Gold Standard for INNOVATION GOLD INNOVATION GOLD flooring innovation WINNER 2019 WINNER 2019 Top initiatives protect profits and the environment

Gaining the gold standard in an industry that is demonstrating unprecedented levels of innovation is a great achievement for those companies that have received the “best of the best” accolade in the 2019 Flooring Innovation Awards.

After more than 140 submissions to the expert panel of industry judges, a Gold winner in each of the award schemes 13 categories has been chosen and recipients can walk tall with the kudos of this ultimate success.

“The extremely high standard of entries received for the 2019 Flooring Innovation Awards has been a real challenge for the judges,” said the chairman of the Flooring Innovation Awards panel Chris Moffat. “All the short-listed winners were justifiable ‘Gold Award’ candidates in my view!”

Two key themes emerged from the judging. Sophisticated innovation that adds real value to products, and the increasing importance of robust environmental credentials.

“While those who copy try to keep up, the companies with ideas and imagination distinguish themselves as leaders who make a difference with every product they develop.”

“In times of such economic and political uncertainty, businesses are often accused of sitting on their hands instead of investing for tomorrow. These awards have proved that flooring continues to have the appetite and ability to invest in its future,” said David Spragg of The Stocklists magazine, the sponsor of the awards.

“These innovators earn their status by improving the value of products and securing new business opportunities for retailers – a key requirement when there is little growth in the market overall,” he said.

The “star” judges line-up (l to r): Chris Moffat, Bridgette Kelly, Laurence Bird, John Hopkins, Deborah Barker and David Spragg.

Award scheme organiser and judge Bridgette Kelly added: “Flooring is often accused of being a me-too market. But while those who copy try to keep up, the companies with ideas and imagination distinguish themselves as leaders who make a difference with every product they develop.”

Judge Deborah Barker of Homes & Gardens magazine said: “With the environment being at the forefront of people’s minds, it is great to see the steps that the flooring industry is taking to address it. From production through to delivery there were some really great initiatives.”

Read pages 45–57 to see who got the Gold stars and why…

ORING TION GOLD NER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

44 November 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Innovation GOLD winners

Carpet&FlooringReview

GOLD WINNER • The Best of the Best • POINT-OF-SALE FLOORING FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019 WINNER 2019 Pure Branding by SMG SMG have always offered their members and suppliers ultimate flexibility in developing their businesses but nothing quite exemplifies this as much as their Pure branding concept.

Designed to be a ‘pick‘n’mix’ option for members it gives the retailer everything they need to optimise their de-branded offer in store. The retailer can choose from a range of bespoke unitary and then choose from a basket of products which include some of the top selling ranges from the best suppliers in the industry. There is something for every retailer large or small – featuring carpet or LVT - they don’t even need to have a direct account with the supplier whose product they feature.

With SMG introducing the brand new Pure Curtains offer at the Flooring Show in September, the concept is going from strength to strength.

www.smg-group.co.uk info@smg-group.co.uk 0118 932 3832

from The Stocklists

November 2019 45

FLOORING FLOORING GOLD WINNER •GOLD CARPETS – NATURAL INNOVATION INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019 Aalya by Axminster Carpets WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

Aalya is a new concept – a carpet made of a mixture of sheep and alpaca wool. It took two years to develop, due to the challenges of dying these completely different types of wool and this difference in the fibres gives a unique shading effect. The alpaca wool adds a softness that is previously unseen in 100% wool carpets.

Judges’ comment:

to Axminster Carpets for doing something so genuinely different and innovative – exploiting “ Ctheirongratulations expertise in wool to produce a unique carpet that consumers can be proud to own. ”

GOLD WINNER • CARPETS – MAN-MADE

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Zoffany for Alternative Flooring

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

The new Boutique printed carpet is designed in collaboration with famous fabric house Zoffany, so for the first time, inspirational fabric design stories are translated into a different cloth – wall-to-wall carpet.

Judges’ comment:

ooking outside the industry for inspiration is a smart move and this collaboration pays tribute to the “ Lcommitment of Alternative Flooring to deliver quality carpets for discerning consumers. Alternative ensures flooring is the heart of the interior design purchase. ”

GOLD WINNER • FIBRE DEVELOPMENT

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Lakeland Herdwick from Brockway Carpets

Lakeland Herdwick is a collection of 100% British wool, 3 ply yarn, 5/32th gauge loop pile carpets which contains a good proportion of Herdwick grown wool in each style. Hard wearing benefits, a firm handle and rustic appearance are the appeal of this exclusive Herdwick content.

Judges’ comment:

have been really interested by the different yarns that have been developed and used throughout the entries “ Wthise year.

It is fascinating to see how they translate into interesting products with a story. ”

GOLD WINNER • SMOOTHS

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

AlterOne by Oneflor-Europe

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

AlterOne is PVC free vinyl tile available in wood and stone affect and has just won the accredited Blue Angel award for low emissions and low pollutant content with no adverse impact on health in the living environment.

Judges’ comment:

his is a product of its time, engineered for maximum performance in the most demanding installations “ Twithout using PVC, plasticisers and other materials that damage the environment. This kind of innovation secures our future. ”

GOLD WINNER • DESIGN – CARPETS AND RUGS Artisan Wilton by Fells Carpets

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Artisan Wilton has a modern twist with a traditional feel and a unique colour blend which takes this product into a new realm of exciting floor covering.

Judges’ comment:

ells have a real passion for pattern and we are delighted that their bold approach has paid off here in a clever “ Fcombination that reinvents a classic design in the latest fashion colours, producing a really beautiful carpet that would suit so many homes. ”

46 November 2019

Carpet&FlooringReview

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

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FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING FLOORING GOLD WINNER •GOLD CATEGORY: DESIGN – SMOOTHSGOLD INNOVATION INNOVATION WINNER 2019 WINNER Tapestry Collection by Distinctive Flooring 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

Tapestry is a special edition within the Landscape Collection created to complement the other ranges with 16 individual mosaic tiles offered in an assortment of six colours that can be used to create a truly bespoke design. The 2.5mm planks with a 0.7mm wear layer have bevelled edges and a registered emboss for a natural and authentic looking texture.

Judges’ comment:

winning innovation here is not just a beautiful, subtle design that is so contemporary but also the clever way “ Tthehedesign can be combined with plain tiles to make unique, personalised installations. ”

GOLD WINNER • CATEGORY: UNDERLAY

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Tredaire FR6 by Interfloor

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

A new flame retardant underlay, Tredaire FR6, is a hard-wearing, high-density PU underlay for offshore installations where safety is a priority. FR6 is thin and dense and is suitable for use with stretch-fit and double-stick application methods to ensure a quality finish.

Judges’ comment:

“

his is a specialist underlay which demonstrates the technical excellence and innovation of a market leading manufacturer at T the top of its game – uncompromising engineering quality at its best.

”

GOLD WINNER • CATEGORY: ACCESSORIES

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Ali Wrap Nosing, Tramline Joiners and Tramline Scotia from Stairrods UK

A comprehensive range of Wrap Stair Nosing for LVT and WPC/SPC, flush and overlap; Tramline Joiners for LVT (on sticky underlay), floating LVT and WPC/SPC, for use at doorways; and a Tramline Scotia for LVT (on sticky underlay), floating LVT and WPC/SPC – matching the world’s LVT flooring market with minimal SKUs. Judges’ comment:

tairrods is relentless in pursuing innovation in their product development. These products give installers the “ Sopportunity to deliver maximum customer satisfaction with minimum fuss – that’s a real opportunity to add value to an installation. ”

GOLD WINNER • CATEGORY: INSTALLATION

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Decibel from Interfloor

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

Decibel is a unique, noise-reducing application suitable for refurbishment and new-build projects.This innovative method involves installing synthetic rubber mats into the sub-floor and is a permanent solution to all the acoustic problems in the building regardless of the chosen flooring materials, now and in the future.

Judges’ comment:

his is an industry-leading innovation at the heavy end of installation which shows how important integral “ Tflooring and acoustic underlay is to the construction of homes that people find comfortable to live in. ”

GOLD WINNER • CATEGORY: ENVIRONMENTAL Sedna Eco Regenerated Nylon by Associated Weavers

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

New Sedna carpet is a soft, luxurious and durable carpet made with Econyl regenerated nylon – a yarn made from recycled waste material such as old carpets and abandoned fishing nets collected from the bottom of the sea. Sedna thus helps saves thousands of sea creatures from getting stuck in this life-threatening waste.

Judges’ comment:

ith the environment being at the forefront of people’s minds, it is great to see the steps that the flooring industry is “ Wtaking to address it.This is an initiative that really connects with consumers and AW have presented it perfectly. ”

48 November 2019

Carpet&FlooringReview

GOLD WINNER • CATEGORY: MARKETING FLOORING FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD INNOVATION GOLD Adam 2019 Carpets collaboration withWINNER Little Greene WINNER 2019

Fine Worcester Twist / Castlemead Twist ®

®

CD128 Yellow Submarine

CD127 Adam’s Apple

Coordinated in association with

FW117 Belbroughton Blue

www.adamcarpets.co.uk 01562 822247

from The Stocklists

November 2019 49

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Award winning innovation FR6 Tredaire FR6 is a hard-wearing, high density, flame retardant carpet underlay ideal for extending the life of the carpet in any location where flame retardancy is a must.

interfloor.com 01706 238 810 50 November 2019

Acoustic Solution Noise reducing flooring products designed for building construction and renovation.

MADE

IN THE

UK

Carpet&FlooringReview

GOLD WINNER • CATEGORY: ACCESSORIES FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Ali Trims

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Installing floors in your trims Stairrods have developed a new range of Tramline End Profiles, Tramline Transitions and Wrap Nosing’s for LVP on sticky underlay, WPC and Floating LVP.

Ali Wrap Nosing.

These new ranges look attractive and match the flooring exactly.

Available in 4 finishes: Brass, Chrome, Antique and Black.

Ali Tramline Transition.

Ali Wrap Nosing and Ali Tramline End profile.

from The Stocklists

www.stairrods.co.uk sales@stairrods.co.uk 01207 591176

November 2019 51

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING FLOORING GOLD WINNER •GOLD CATEGORY: MARKETING INNOVATION INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019 WINNER 2019 Adam Carpets collaboration with Little Greene

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

Adam Carpets have collaborated with the Little Greene paint company to create a portfolio of matching carpet palettes and paint finishes that set a new standard for colour coordination – with POS and a published colour guide to enthuse and inspire retailers and consumers to think about interiors in a more comprehensive and connected way.

Judges’ comment:

his is a fantastic example of flooring companies thinking outside the box and looking to help retailers develop “ Ttheir business in exciting and valuable new ways. This kind of complex collaboration is not easy and it is a real achievement for Adam’s professionalism and commitment to deliver it so impressively. ”

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

GOLD WINNER • CATEGORY: POINT-OF-SALE

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

Pure from SMG

Pure is the new own brand initiative from SMG. A coherent collection of unitary and point of sales systems under the distinctive Pure branding. Pure Carpets, Pure Flooring and Pure Underlay are already launched with a view to introducing Pure Curtains, Pure Furniture and Pure Rugs in the future.

Judges’ comment:

“

e really liked the way SMG has developed this comprehensive program of own-label presentation – smart, clean and W sophisticated and with a coherent approach that retailers will be able to use with style in their stores.

”

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

GOLD WINNER • CATEGORY: TECHNOLOGIES Visualmine from freetail limited

Inspirational new software and touchscreen technology for retailers where customers can choose and view their perfect flooring from multiple manufactures in their own rooms before they buy. With just a touch of the screen, they can quickly and simply either “upload a photo” of their room or choose from the included selection of template rooms.

Judges’ comment:

isualisation technologies promise great opportunities for retailers to motivate sales in new ways and its “ Vimpressive to see how Visualmine have taken this bull by the horns and worked with all the stakeholders across the industry to deliver a comprehensive solution. ”

Check out the details of all this year’s winners on our website at: www.flooringinnovationawards.com and follow us on Twitter and Instagram @flooringinnovationawards AND START THINKING ABOUT YOUR SUBMISSIONS FOR NEXT YEAR! The website wil be open for entries in January 2020.

52 November 2019

Carpet&FlooringReview

GOLD WINNER • CATEGORY: ENVIRONMENTAL FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

A UK brand since 1964

from The Stocklists

November 2019 53

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

GOLD WINNER • CATEGORY: FIBRE DEVELOPMENT FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Lakeland Herdwick Our gold award winning carpet range, in the very best of British tradition, is made from yarn comprising the wool of Herdwick sheep, native to the Cumbrian Fells in the Lake District. Brockway’s Lakeland Herdwick is soft underfoot whilst demonstrating the hardwearing and robust properties of the natural eco-sustainable wool from which it is made.

brockway.co.uk

Lakeland Herdwick – Silverhow

FITA provides short training courses, workshops and assessments for both commercial and domestic markets.

Both our fully equipped training centres at Loughborough and Kirkcaldy are run by seasoned professional instructors with specialist knowledge of the flooring industry.

CALL NOW FOR MORE INFORMATION!

Tel: 0115 950 6836 Email: info@fita.co.uk www.fita.co.uk

54 November 2019

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Carpet&FlooringReview

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

GOLD WINNER • CATEGORY: SMOOTHS

FLOORING FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD INNOVATION GOLD WINNER AlterOne2019

by OneFlor Europe WINNER 2019

AlterOne55 is the perfect non-PVC solution for home and commercial environments exposed to challenging and high traffic conditions.

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORIN INNOVATION WINNER

+ Free of PVC, plasticizers, phthalates, halogens and heavy metals. + Developed for residential and commercial environments exposed to challenging and high traffic conditions. + As easy to install as regular luxury vinyl tiles. + Hard wearing and high resistance to scuff, scratches and stains. + Very low VOCs. Contributes to a clean and healthy indoor air.

www.oneflor-europe.com info@oneflor-europe.com +32 56 41 06 04

GOLD WINNER • CATEGORY: MAN-MADE Boutique by Alternative Flooring with Zoffany

FLOORING OVATION GOLD NNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Alternative Flooring is at forefront of floor innovation with the launch of original faux collections, including Boutique, a printed carpet designed in collaboration with famous fabric house Zoffany, bringing five-star luxury carpet to interiors.

For the first time, inspirational fabric design stories are translated into a different cloth, beautiful wall to wall carpet. The striking designs Dunand, Seizo, Clio, Serpentine and Crackle in a total of sixteen shades, are taken from Zoffany ‘s Muse collection with their jewel-like Alchemy of Colour palette singing out through them. www.alternativeflooring.com sales@alternativeflooring.com 01264 335111

Zoffany Boutique Serpentine Malachite

56 November 2019

Carpet&FlooringReview

GOLD WINNER • CATEGORY: DESIGN – CARPETS AND RUGS

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Artisan Wilton by Fells Carpets

The colourful inspiration of Artisan Artisan Wilton has a modern design twist with a traditional feel. It has a unique colour blend which takes this range in to a new realm of exciting floor design. A tonal fade creates the quality seen in antique rugs.

Inspired by one of their partner rug collections, this woven broadloom format allows additional coordinating flooring options.

• 100% polypropylene • Heavy domestic/contract • Available in 4m width • Easy care/Bleach cleanable

Fells Carpets Artisan Wilton range www.fellscarpets.co.uk sales@fellscarpets.co.uk 01133071900

from The Stocklists

November 2019 57

THE FLOORING SHOW 15-17 SEPTEMBER 2019 HARROGATE

Bettering the business Quality comes through to add value to sales Trends report from Harrogate, by David Spragg Look carefully at the flooring industry over the last two years or so and you will see that there has been a quiet revolution on quality.

For an industry that has been obsessively and destructively price led for decades, this is a highly significant and positive trend in the sector – it means better business. Maybe the “race to the bottom” chasing sales at any cost is over – and good riddance!

Possibly it has taken the recession since 2008 and Brexit uncertainty to encourage the industry to reassess its positioning as, with fewer buyers about, securing good value from every sale has become essential.

For an industry that has been obsessively and destructively price led for decades, maybe the “race to the bottom” chasing sales at any cost is over – and good riddance!

Taking the temperature at Harrogate shows that manufacturers are introducing less new products and even now fewer makeovers and re-colourings. Instead, they are launching more carefully considered ranges and resourcing their support in the market.

Our views of the Harrogate show, last month and this, give you the details that you are seeing quality come through in every department…

For carpet, we are seeing a tendency towards 10th gauge, a resurgence of wool, more performance-oriented man-made fibre constructions and better backing.

In smooths, the growth of LVT is maturing to bring forward products of better and better quality and the arrival of SPC - stone plastic composite – for rigid LVT planks and tiles is going to be a dominant theme in the next few years, delivering a higher performance product that will command an improved price.

The trend is even reflected in the accessories market – most noticeably with the success of top end profiles from companies like Interfloor, Stairrods, Lifestyle and Floorwise.

So even if there are less consumers buying big-ticket items, those that are still shopping appear to be less price sensitive and retailers can see an opportunity to trade them up and add value to an installation.

Apart from the economics, the other trends revealed around Harrogate include a shift towards some bolder colours. While shades of grey continue to dominate, today’s top colour trend can be summed up as “goes with grey” and this is coming through quite strongly in fashion colours such as mustard, lime greens, blues and reds and it is noticeable how many new colour palettes are reflecting this approach rather than just paying lip service to colour.

Patterns are also having a good run at present and subtle, sophisticated designs are increasingly common to attract a consumer base that has become a little bored with plains and heathers and it is good to see more confidence among manufacturers to invest in this style - including leading LVT suppliers as well as the carpet people.

“Even if there are less consumers buying big-ticket items, those that are still shopping appear to be less price sensitive and retailers can see an opportunity to trade them up and add value to an installation.”

And finally, with an increasingly well-developed product portfolio, it is clear companies are putting ever greater effort into marketing, with strong investment in point-of-sale, enlarged sales teams and advertising to sustain the momentum and win the battle of quality over price.

If the industry holds its nerve, this approach bodes well for the future in handling the pent-up demand (which must surely exist to some extent!) once the country get some sort of resolution on Brexit and consumers regain their confidence.

2020 vision Next year’s Flooring Show in Harrogate will be on September 20–22.

58 November 2019

Read reports from the show on pages 59–73.

You can catch up with our first set of reports from the show in our October issue. Go online for our back copies at www.thestocklists.com

Carpet&FlooringReview

Harrogate REVIEW

Distinctive Flooring

Designing with distinction Distinctive Flooring left Harrogate with distinction! The beautiful new Tapestry collection not only won over the hearts and minds of LVT buyers at the show, it carried off one of the prestigious Gold trophies in the Flooring Innovation Awards which was announced at the event.

The collection is a mix of muted mosaic style tiles which live up to the company’s name in offering a distinctive option for those looking for a sophisticated style beyond bold colours and geometrics.

And apart from its own intrinsic appeal, Distinctive have designed the collection to work alongside its Shoreline tiles and Wildwood planks and were able to showcase floor layouts with strips, borders and insets, allowing for a unique, individual style in each installation.

“This is the real beauty of Tapestry,” said Debbie Turvey, marketing manager at Distinctive. “The fact that you can mix it up with plains and planks to create your own bespoke floor – it is a very personal and individual thing about how bold or subtle you want to be. It also has a very homely feel to it.”

“ This collection has a very European style.

The design is subtle and very sophisticated and the finish of each tile has a very authentic patina” The options are endless with 16 individual designs in six colourways matched to Shoreline and Wildwood.

The 9” square tiles have a heavy-duty 0.7mm wear layer which allows Distinctive to offer a lifetime residential wear warranty or a 15-year warranty for commercial use.

Bridgette Kelly was one of the judges for the Flooring Innovation Awards in which Tapestry won a gold in the Design–Smooths category. “This collection has a very European style. The design is subtle and very sophisticated and the finish of each tile has a very authentic patina,” she said.

Distinctive Flooring is keen to inspire homeowners and the new point-of-sale displays for this collection have a different, well thought out room set on the reverse of each panel showing the many possibilities of Tapestry.

The show was also as a debut for Heartridge, a new collection of rigid LVT made from stone polymer composite (SPC) which is expected to make a major impact on the market when it is released later this year. The Stocklists will be reporting on this exciting new development in a later issue.

T 01274 655694 • www.distinctiveflooring.co.uk from The Stocklists

November 2019 59

THE FLOORING SHOW 15-17 SEPTEMBER 2019 HARROGATE

Harrogate REVIEW

Merryfield Engineering

Cutting edge expertise

Innovation is at the forefront of the Halifax based engineering company of Merryfield the leading design and build company for carpet and vinyl floor covering machines in the UK This bespoke manufacturing team are currently installing a fully automatic facility for a UK distribution hub of a large wholesale supplier. “With a 20m cutting facility serving a two tier distribution and loading sortation system, our design utilises all available space for our client reports,” says Technical Director Richard Harper.

“Cutting efficiency is paramount to the flooring business and Merryfield’s standard range of machines cover most requirements however our flexible approach to design enables clients to specify that one off requirement that makes them special,” he said.

“With ever changing product specification and designs we tailor our machines to keep abreast of this ever changing market, from artificial turf to safety flooring, carpet to vinyl and lightweights to sea grass our machines cover every possibility.”

Increase your roll cutting and reduce your warehouse running costs simply by investing in a Merryfield cutting machine. Eco-Wasp, Firefly, Eco- Slit, Scorpion or Gnat designed and manufactured here in Yorkshire, Merryfield pride themselves on giving first class support to their many clients whether here in the UK or worldwide.

T 01422 373799 • www.carpetcuttingmachines.co.uk

MasterPiece System

Polishing the program MasterPiece has been polishing their advanced measuring and costing software with an assortment of new features that make it easier for estimators, in-store staff and installers to increase their productivity.

“Some incremental improvements can be so important in solving the end user’s problems,” says Charles Pearson, MD of MasterPiece Systems.

“We listen to what people say and we work hard to find solutions.”

For the in-store user, MasterPiece can now provide remnant support, – an ability to see whether the customer’s rooms can be planned to fit within a particular remnant size that is available. Also it offers a ‘customer own measure’ feature where a plan and quote can be generated based on customer’s own sizes. If the customer has arrived with incomplete dimensions of a room or stairway the system fills in the gaps with typical sizes so that a ballpark estimate can be given.

For the estimator, MasterPiece can offer a manual choice of seam position options which adds flexibility to the intelligent options which are automatically presented. This allows, for instance, planning for economy with more seams that are strictly necessary. In the Windows version there is now an ability to search for the name of a particular Amtico or Karndean colour when tile planning, thereby speeding colour selection.

For the installer, there is an improved fitting sheet which says what will be supplied room by room and who is responsible for doing what, e.g, for door trimming, uplift and remove.

The MasterPiece software is available as a cloud-based platform and as a Windows application and is available in both retail and contract configurations.

Major users include Carpetright, John Lewis and SCS together with new–build and contract specialists Designer Contracts and insurance replacement organisations such as Renew.

T 01737 355831 • www.masterpiece-system.com

60 November 2019

Carpet&FlooringReview

Harrogate REVIEW

Mehari

Canyon

Mastercraft Rugs Relevant rugs to rely on

“Abstract designs are increasingly popular including some quite quirky styles and the distressed effect continues to be sought after by consumers”

Mastercraft are the rug company that retailers can rely on to track design trends closely to deliver the latest designs that take the risk out of buying and stocking new collections.

The company came to Harrogate with many updates across all the ranges to satisfy the current consumer demands for fashion, style and colour. “We are constantly updating so that rug ranges remain relevant,” said Mastercraft agent Colin Evans. “Abstract designs are increasingly popular including some quite quirky styles and the distressed effect continues to be sought after by consumers.”

Canyon, which was introduced last year, is a case in point – a collection with organic designs, using multi coloured polyester and polyester shrink yarns to create a textured effect with a wonderful sheen Mastercraft have introduced four new designs for the coming sales season.

The best selling Mehari and Galleria ranges have again been expanded. Galleria in particular has seen strong growth with some fantastic new modern designs which have really hit the spot with the buying public while Mehari, a thick heatset berber rug collection is selling well with a range of new mixed colour linear designs.

With the space limitations of most stores it is impossible to display such comprehensive collections so Mastercraft is investing strongly in new room set photography across the full portfolio. “We are working towards a comprehensive catalogue of all our collections in attractive residential environments,” said Natalie Dickson of Mastercraft. “We want to help retailers to discuss options with their customers and make it easier to secure a sale once people have seen what a rug will really look like in the home.”

Canyon close-up

T 01282 694565 www.mastercraftrugs.co.uk

NEW FOR 2019

Galleria from The Stocklists

New for 2019 is Liberty, a dense, soft rug with a slight sheen in polyester which displays strong designs including some unusual geometrics and Mastercraft has also introduced two higher end wool mix ranges.

Chamonix is a 70/30 wool mix with polyester with subtle patterns while Galaxy combines wool with polyester and viscose in five plain colours.

Liberty November 2019 61

Harrogate REVIEW

THE FLOORING SHOW 15-17 SEPTEMBER 2019 HARROGATE

wineo

Environmental alternative wineo’s PURLINE organic flooring range of organic flooring is setting the bar high for discerning consumers in the competitive luxury flooring sector – combining exemplary performance with impeccable environmental credentials. It is also a great alternative, if you fancy a change from standard LVT or want to have a more sustainable flooring.

PURLINE organic flooring is made with ecuran, a high-performance composite material made primarily from plant-based oils and mineral components such as chalk - so no VOC’s and plasticisers.

“Consumers are, of course, increasingly aware of plastics (pvc) in the environment and PURLINE organic flooring gives retailers an outstanding opportunity to tell a different story”, said Irwo de Lange of wineo.

“Better still, it is a very attractive product with warm touch, designer feel and no PVC or VOC odour.”

Volatile Organic Compounds are that strong smell in an indoor environment, that give you headaches and strong odours.

PURLINE organic flooring is extremely durable and temperature stable and has outstanding UV resistance and has become the go-to smooth flooring product in the USA. wineo has built a comprehensive range of options in wood and stone with a range of formats tile, plank and sheet/roll. ineo is also promoting their own impressive click technology which has been further developed w across all the company’s ranges PURLINE organic flooring, LVT & laminate with enhanced stability and easy installation including the ability to have a drop down short edge.

Major Monz is pictured above (left) with Irwo de Lange.

T +49 5237 609 0 • www.wineo.de

Lano Carpets

Sustaining soft success Lano is building on the success of their premium soft collection Touchdown which was launched in 2016 with the mainstream Fascination and Genius ranges and now has three stylish new qualities to sustain the momentum.

Sweet Dreams and Sweet Elegance are two weights of an 8th gauge saxony which is available in 12 colours and Soft Distinction, an Impressive Twist Velvet in 10th gauge with 14 colours. A highly contemporary new colour palette adds warmer greys with hints of blue, pink and green to meet modern trends.

These are very well engineered carpets with a nice, clean appearance. “We have established a reputation for making fine carpets with a beautiful finish and here we have deliberately over engineered the construction to get the best possible result,” says Gary Alp of Lano. “This makes Lano increasingly popular with discerning consumers – and we have just the right products to meet their expectations.”

T +32 (0)56 65 40 00 • www.lano.com

62 November 2019

Carpet&FlooringReview

Harrogate REVIEW

Adam Carpets

Hungry for Views on New Products

Adam Carpets’ collaboration with Little Greene Paint Company has received strong support from an array of retailers and has achieved a prestigious Gold Award for Flooring Innovation Marketing.

The project to create a portfolio of matching carpet palettes and paint finishes together with Little Greene has been complex but it has been worth the wait. “It has really come to fruition now,” said Chris Adam of Adam Carpets. “The concept is out there now and it is working”.

“This is aimed at retailers who are increasingly involved in their customers’ interior design projects across the whole room and not only the floor,” said Chris.

The collaboration sets a new standard for colour coordination with an inspirational colour guide brochure. Little Greene paint colours sit alongside the matching swatches of Adam Carpets flagship Castlemead Twist and Fine Worcester Twist collections.

The brochure leads consumers across a range of options from closely matched hues and tones through to more unexpected combinations for the more adventurous.

This initiative creates new sales opportunities for both Adam Carpets and Little Greene. For example, many flooring retailers have already formed relationships with their local decorating suppliers, generating extra business from cross referrals.

“We love listening to what customers are needing for their clients, producing carpet and then getting feedback to develop it further...”

LEADING TRENDS Also at Harrogate, Adam’s attractive new Panache collection was the feature carpet on the floor of the stand, marking the success of this distinctive zipper-style design that has become a real hit for the company.

The company has an appetite for leading trends in unexpected directions with modern, creative ideas and it took the opportunity of the show to present visitors with a host of new prototypes.

“We love listening to what customers are needing for their clients, producing carpet and then getting feedback to develop it further and bring customers along with us as we develop the carpet,” said Chris. “We often get surprising responses – and that’s the really interesting part !”

T 01562 829966 • www.adamcarpets.co.uk

from The Stocklists

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THE FLOORING SHOW 15-17 SEPTEMBER 2019 HARROGATE

Victoria Carpets

Cutting above

Victoria Carpets is innovating in its product development programme to live up to its new mantra of offering ranges that are “a cut above” and have made an excellent start with the launch of Ultimate Impressions.

“We have had great success with the launch of First impressions as an impressive family-friendly carpet with a little luxury,” says James Caldwell of Victoria. “Now is the time to go a little better, a cut above, with the ultimate in luxury in this sector.”

Ultimate Impressions is a high performing heavyweight 2-ply polypropylene twist pile with a superb tenth gauge finish and it is offered in a range of solid, plain colours including some rich tones. The package impressed the judges of the Flooring Innovation Awards who made it a winner in the man-made carpets category.

Also front of house for Victoria were the new options in its popular EasiCare Heartland range which was substantially overhauled earlier this year to bring it right up to date in terms of the colour palette across both solid and heathered tones. This is a really reliable family carpet with bleach-cleanable performance but with a soft luxurious feel and again, a tenth gauge construction that adds a little luxury.

Victoria also hinted at the show that they have some interesting innovations coming through on the wool side of their business so stand by for more “cuts above” in the coming months!

T 01562 749300 • www.victoriacarpets.com

Computers for Flooring

Arrival of the fittest app Computers for Flooring has put a powerful real-time job management tool in the hand of every fitter which will impress consumers with the professionalism of every installation and follow-up service.

The launch of the Fitter & Estimator Companion app, which synchronises with the company’s comprehensive management software, Carmen was a huge hit at the show and a well-deserved winner of a 2019 Flooring Innovation award.

“Consumers increasingly expect the Amazon or DPD experience when they deal with retailers, and flooring has traditionally lagged behind in this department until now,” says Paul Williams, technical director at Computers for Flooring. “It’s both very personal and very professional.

The app has an interactive diary linked to the Carman user’s diary and to the fitter’s navigation on their mobile device, giving directions to the next job and notifying Carman of their arrival time when the fitter checks in.

View plans, images and customer information in the app which supports all popular formats. Once the job is completed the fitter can capture images which automatically uploads to the system and displaying time, date, customer and fitter details. Finally, request customer’s signature at job completion and complete a satisfaction survey, upload to Carman and checks the fitter out of the job. All information gathered on the app can be found in the customer file of the Carman user.

And it looks great! The interface has class-leading graphics and highly intuitive functions.

T 0845 869 8403 • www.computersforflooring.com 64 November 2019

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Harrogate REVIEW

“As well as all the new ranges, Furlong has been looking after those firm favourites that have become solid sellers for the retail market.”

Furlong flooring

New products hit the mark Furlong sent retailers into the autumn selling season with an impressive array of new products that have each been carefully positioned to match the current market needs – every one is destined to be a future bestseller.

“Every year I seem to say that Harrogate was better than ever, but this show really was special,” said Neil Valentine of Furlong. “The stand never stopped being busy across all three days and the feedback we got was phenomenal. We have been putting a huge amount of effort into getting several new products ready for the market and the reaction from retailers tells us that we have hit the mark spot-on.”

Pride of place was Furlong’s new flagship Carefree Twist, a quality 2-ply, tenth gauge twist which is set to become a mainstream player with its 15 on-trend plain and heathered options. Alongside Carefree Twist, Furlong also launched new Revelation, another durable family friendly carpet in the bleach cleanable Carefree fibre.

SMOOTH SYSTEMS There were also interesting developments in Furlong’s growing smooths sector with the new Urban Landscape, an exceptional engineered wood with an ultra distressed “river crack” in event decors with a hard wax oil finish. In laminates, the company also launched a new, affordable range Mountain Peak which has a fashionable bevelled edge in eight options.

Furlong also showed a prototype modular display system to create an attractive store-in-store environment with a professional uniform appearance, allowing carpets, hardflooring and vinyl to be shown on matching stands.

from The Stocklists

Furlong’s new Serenity offered something a little special – a sophisticated twist with a lustred finish that is available in a set of fashionable natural colours.

As well as all the new ranges, Furlong has been looking after those firm favourites that have become solid sellers for the retail market. Both Harmony and Sumptuous Moods have been given a colour makeover to bring them right up to date.

T 01772 696787 • www.furlongflooring.co.uk

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Cybergold

Sales with no slip ups!

Cybergold is making it as easy as possible to add extra to every rug sale with an extended range of sizes and options for their class-leading Rug Control anti-slip underlay.

Retailers will be able to select from more than 10 packs based on the most popular standard rug sizes to make it as easy as possible for their customers to fix new rugs, improving customer satisfaction as well as adding a little extra profit.

“When a customer has committed to a rug purchase and is in buying mode, it makes total sense to add a anti-slip product to the transaction - making the retailer look more service-oriented and ensuring the customer is still happy with the rug when they get it home,” said Nick Burger of Cybergold.

The Rug Control underlay for carpets and hard floors is sold on 25m rolls as well as in ready-to-use pre-cut pack sizes from 50x100cm up to 170x240cm and in two weights – the heavier weight being useful if additional cushioning or sound insulation is required under the rug. The company’s Superlux product has enhanced performance on hard floors with non-tacky microfibre technology.

Cybergold’s range are the only products available with a patented non-slip grip technology.

T 01494 761814 • www.cybergolduk.com

Novostrat

Earning customer loyalty Novostrat have established a leading reputation for its specialist performance underlays for wood and laminate floors and its products attracted a lot of attention during another busy show in Harrogate but this year they were keen to pay tribute to their customers.

“We always have a lot to say about our products of course,” says Tony Taibi, sales director UK/IRL of Novostrat, “but I think this year it’s important to say just how great our customers are, how loyal. We work hard to ensure we deliver on what people need and I am so delighted that we have such strong relationships with our customers that have developed over years.”

Novostrat’s popularity is well earned with an excellent reputation for service and for its technical support. The business, based in Limerick in Ireland, uses high-density polyethylene foam in its Sonic and Comfort ranges of underlays which offer exceptional sound reduction and impact resistance for wood and laminates and incorporate film and foil backings to control moisture.

The underlays work well with underfloor heating and can accommodate minor sub-floor imperfections for easy installation.

T 0035 361 339287 • www.novostrat-insulation Tony Taibi (right) is pictured with Clive Schorman, a long-standing customer from Canadia - a Dublin-based specialist in solid and engineered wood floors and laminates.

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FIREWORK Finally, in the carpet collection at Lifestyle the latest launch is Firework – a bright range that will light up a room in 18 colours – and the company is promising a number of new carpet ranges to add to the portfolio in the coming months.

Lifestyle Floors Impressive ideas and inspiration Lifestyle Floors was out to impress in Harrogate with a sensational new stand presentation which was brimming with new ideas and options across the full range of flooring and accessories.

A real eye-catcher were the new marbled herringbone designs in Lifestyle’s Colosseum collection. “This is two trends in one,” said Chelsea Heard. “We are really excited about the fashion for herringbone and here we have created something very new which has attracted a lot of attention.” Colosseum has 10 options for the herringbone layout, six in wood and four in marbles - two grey marbles and then a light and dark option to help achieve some striking designs.

Another new arrival making its mark was Love Aqua, Lifestyle’s first water-resistant laminate collection designed specifically for bathrooms and other wet areas including kitchens, laundries and entrances. The product has a watertight Uniclic locking system and carries a 5-year water ingress warranty and a 20-year wear warranty.

Distinctive branding and point-of-sale units make Love Aqua stand out in-store as a go-to option for wet environments and alongside its technical credentials, this is an attractive collection with a lacquered bevel edge and 16 high definition wood decors from the knotted white of Ripples to the stained oak effect of Bubble.

The company was also seeking feedback from visitors to the show to its smart new LVT showroom designed for retailers with a focus on this growing flooring type. This impressive POS features three sections – a tall presentation, an “inspiration station” and a sampling display of diamond-shaped swatches and two island units. The system also incorporates Lifestyle’s new LVT visualiser screen.

Lifestyle Floors also announced a new range of affordable engineered wood called Scandi from quality Swedish manufacturer Kährs.

On the accessories side of the business, Lifestyle were proud to display its Flooring Innovation Award for the Palette floor bar collection. Palette provides a designer alternative to gold and silver floor bars, reflecting interior trends where colour is a tool used deliberately and for effect. After a range expansion in early 2019, the bars are now available in 16 colours and are ionised to ensure they are as tough and scratch resistant as the original bars.

And to show these off to full effect, Lifestyle Floors has also created a new accessories station featuring their profiles and underlay to attract consumers to these valuable add-on sales for retailers.

“Lifestyle Floors was out to impress in Harrogate with a sensational new stand presentation which was brimming with new ideas and options across the full range of flooring and accessories.”

T 01827 831445 • www.lifestyle-floors.co.uk from The Stocklists

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THE FLOORING SHOW 15-17 SEPTEMBER 2019 HARROGATE

QEP

Seizing the SPC initiative SPC is the fastest growing product of the smooth flooring sector and QEP have seized the initiative with a superb collection of rigid planks and tiles suitable for any room in the house.

Stone Polymer Composite flooring, based on a rigid core of limestone, gives a more durable, stable product that is highly resistant to scratches, indentation and thermal expansion. “Our SPC is also fully waterproof – not just water resistant – so it is a really versatile product suitable for bathrooms and kitchens,” says QEP’s Amanda Stone, who had a piece floating in an aquarium to prove her point.

QEP offers 10 wood-effect options and six tiles in its Easy Living collection and four more decors in the Refined Living collection with impressive design authenticity and easyinstall click technology.

QEP also launched a new range of professional tile cutters for SPC and LVT from the highly regarded Roberts tools company, including a large 63cm/25” guillotine-style cutter and also lightweight 30cm and 45cm cutters which come in a handy transport case.

T 01283 245430 • www.qep.com

British Wool

Wool leaders on display British Wool is successfully building its base of top quality licensees and came to Harrogate with an impressive high-end point-of-sale system featuring Alternative Flooring, Brockway and Brintons.

The new modular system displays flagship ranges from the three industry leaders alongside the British Wool brand and a wool story panel featuring farmer Richard Wilson and his Yorkshire flock which have a pedigree stretching back over 100 years.

“The display is a prototype to help us get feedback from retailers about what will work in-store to tell the story of top quality wool,” says Graham Clark of British Wool. “The display is a little different and makes a strong statement. We have had a very positive response so far.”

British Wool, The Campaign for Wool and Wool Carpet Focus Group also presented an inspiring wool demonstration area at the show, designed to showcase the selling features of wool. The display included a new range of point of sale material which highlights the unique natural qualities of wool, now available through manufacturers.

T 01274 688666 • www.britishwool.org.uk

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Hugh Mackay

Uncompromising quality The Harrogate debut of Hugh Mackay’s award-winning Quintessential Twist was a masterclass in making and marketing the best possible carpet that today’s technology and craftsmanship can produce.

A year in development, Hugh Mackay set out to create a carpet of uncompromising quality. “We have taken every single aspect of the production of a 80/20 twist and made it the best it can possibly be,” said national sales director Keith Morgan. “As a result, we have seen at the show the highest level of pre-sales for a new launch we have ever experienced.”

VISUALIZE-IT Hugh Mackay are innovating the way people select carpet with an exciting, new visualize-it system on their website – allowing consumers to upload a picture of the room (either at home or in the retailer) and install any of the company’s carpets in real time. “This will change the way people choose carpets and is a real game changer for us,” said MD Vince Holden.

“We have taken every single aspect of the production of a 80/20 twist and made it the best it can possibly be,” The attributes of the range add up: top quality New Zealand wool with 10% nylon for softness and 10% melt bond polyester to secure the tufts; a soft fitter-friendly backing; and an 1/8 gauge open construction which is then double sheared to get the effect of 1/10 gauge.

Extensive research also went into the contemporary colour palette of 20 options. “We know we have a real winner here,” added Keith.

Hugh Mackay also showcased its other “hero” ranges that are new to the market.

Durham Edition has been very successful since its launch in May as an affordable, sophisticated 80/20 which uses a velvet/twist mix to achieve an attractive chevron design.

The range comes in 12 colours with variable contrast in the pattern and some bold options.

Hassle-Free Finesse is the latest man-made development from Hugh Mackay – a frisée style solution-dyed polyester which offers softness and performance with a classical feel which is somewhere between a saxony and a velvet.

T 01429 892555 • www.hughmackay.co.uk from The Stocklists

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Kingsmead Carpets

A spectrum of wool style Natural fibre ranges at opposite ends of the style spectrum were showcased by Kingsmead Carpets under their top quality Stoddard brand to demonstrate the wide appeal of wool in today’s market.

Tenth gauge Temple Twist has a beautifully fine finish in 15 solid shades, included some bold fashionable colours. It is made with New Zealand wool in an 80/20 mix with polyester and polypropylene.

At the other end of the scale, Stoddard Natural World is a 1/4 gauge chunky loop in 2-ply 100% New Zealand wool. The range ticks all the boxes for this style in a sector for which Stoddard has a great reputation.

Kingsmead have also reinvented their tried and tested loop – the new Berber Attraction is a three-ply 50% wool blend now with polyester and with two new colours. The range is ideal to meet the appetite for texture with two options of a basket weave and a hobnailed design.

All this and more was wrapped up at Harrogate on Kingsmead’s increasingly popular modular point-of-sale system which was launched earlier in the year to great acclaim.

T 01827 831424 • www.kingsmeadcarpets.co.uk

Metro Group

Driving new business Buying group Metro has built a reputation for its commitment to marketing and merchandising support for its retail members and continues to innovate in this important area.

The latest developments include highly attractive corner display units and a wall unit that incorporates a stairs module, all of which can be customised in either the store’s own livery or using Metro’s popular Carpet 1st own-label branding.

“We have had a very good response from our members for these displays,” says Steve Depport of Metro. “ A lot of effort has gone into making them more affordable and cutting down the lead time to get them out to retailers – and everyone thinks they look great. It is a really flexible approach.”

Another important initiative is Metro’s new training programme for LVT which offers a full package of product knowledge and training. “This is such a strong sector – and growing – but there is still a need to take the fear out of LVT for some retailers,” said Steve. “Now we can really help people achieve their potential and develop their wider flooring business.”

T 01204 393 539 • www.carpet1st.co.uk

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introducing

graphite

carpet underlay

Abingdon Flooring

Enthusiasm for opportunity Launches from Abingdon Flooring received an enthusiastic response from attendees looking for innovative products that satisfy consumer demand for luxurious and hardwearing stainresistant carpets.

In StainFree Sophisticat, retailers were presented with the latest in bleach-cleanable luxury carpet and with Maximus, a hardwearing style perfect for busy family homes. Both carpets push the boundaries through an impressive specification and finish, setting a new benchmark in value. Many retailers snapped up the opportunity to bring the carpets to store on stylish lecterns that are sure to stand-out.

Visiting retailers also had a first glimpse of the manufacturer’s new trilogy of StainFree carpets presented in the USA Collection, debuting in 2020 and further strengthening the nation’s original stain-resistant brand. However, it wasn’t all about new styles with Abingdon updating existing ranges, including StainFree Tweed and Love Story Deep Feelings, with new colourway options reflecting the latest looks for the home.

The manufacturer’s shop-in-shop display packages (pictured below) also proved popular, with many retailers taking advantage of the opportunity to deliver an experience-led purchase for their customers. Consisting of wall units, lecterns, bold wall graphics and carpet, the concept maximises the potential of Abingdon Flooring’s unique combination of strong selling messages, value for money and British made product.

T 01274 655 694 • www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

When what you really really want is a strong selling good all-round domestic underlay which delivers a healthy margin Graphite is the way to go!.

Graphite is a fine, robust, utility underlay representing superb value for money and which is already a firm favourite with many Retailers and Distributors throughout UK and Ireland.

FULLY RECYCLABLE SIMPLE, QUICK AND EASY TO LAY DESIGNED FOR GENERAL DOMESTIC USE EXCELLENT SOUND REDUCTION PERFORMANCE LIGHTWEIGHT ROLLS EXCEED H&S EXPECTATIONS IDEAL FOR USE WITH UNDERFLOOR HEATING SYSTEMS

Graphite is part of the Novostrat range of polyethylene foam based underlays for wood, laminate and carpeted floors.

Underlays for every application - from the highest performance to utility – and to suit every budget.

tel: 00353 61-339287 www.novostrat.com info@novostrat.com from The Stocklists

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Noma Floor

Underlay innovation Noma floor underlays offer high performance, innovative, smart solutions which provide long lasting protection for parquet, laminate, vinyl and designer floorings.

Its product portfolio covers the demands of any substrate delivering long lasting and complete functionality for the entire flooring system Innovative technologies make it much easier to lay your Noma floor, the easy cut printed grid feature enables you to trim the underlay easily and accurately to size.

Along with the easy lay fanfold panel system which enables you to fit the underlay easily, quickly and absolutely level.

Professional yet easy to understand, this is a brilliantly designed balanced product portfolio with the right product for every application.

T 01495 713256 • www.nomafloor.com

Ulster Carpets

Extended Grange

The beauty of the world around us has provided the inspiration for 10 new colourways that have been added to the timeless Grange Wilton collection from Ulster Carpets.

Grange Wilton uses high twist plain and heather yarns woven tightly together to create luxuriously dense carpets suitable for extra heavy wear. The 10 new additions include five plain shades and five heathered shades, bringing the overall Grange colour palette to an impressive 40.

Ulster Carpets has added 10 new colourways to the timeless Grange Wilton collection.

CRUK

Ulster’s unique Multi Width service means Grange is available in 5m, 4m, 3m, 2m and 1m colour matching widths. This unique service reduces wastage to provide a more costeffective solution to customers.

T 028 3833 4433 • www.ulstercarpets.com

Sustainable solutions

Carpet Recycling UK is expanding its geographical coverage of the UK, offering the flooring sector more options for reuse and recycling of carpet and carpet tile waste, especially in Scotland.

The not-for-profit membership association says the addition of two new recyclers will provide beneficial sustainable disposal routes for carpet waste for flooring companies north of the border. Carpet Recycling UK is also developing a new outlet in Merseyside for carpet tile reuse and recycling.

Creating further landfill diversion solutions for carpet waste reinforces Carpet Recycling UK as the ‘go-to’ organisation for companies that want to drive forward sustainability and circular economy principles in the flooring sector.

CRUK currently has more than 110 members and its core funders are Cormar Carpets, Lifestyle Floors/Headlam, Brintons Carpets, DESSO, ege Carpets, Milliken, and Balsan.

Speaking after the Harrogate Flooring Show, CRUK Scheme Manager Adnan Zeb-Khan said: “Expanding our carpet waste recycling and reuse facilities across the UK is great news for sustainability in the flooring sector. It offers flooring suppliers, retailers, contractors and manufacturers more local solutions to divert material from landfill, thereby encouraging its reuse as a sustainable resource.”

CRUK’s Membership Manager Marie Rhodes (pictured above, top)called on flooring manufacturers, contractors, retailers and suppliers to get in touch, adding: “We want to make a difference and with your support, we can do much more. Get in touch with us, sign up for our newsletter, keep an eye on our newsfeed and let us see how we can help you.”

T 0161 440 8325 • www.carpetrecyclinguk.com 72 November 2019

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Harrogate REVIEW

Stroolmount

Moving experience Stroolmount have a distinctively different add-on product for your business that is going to be loved equally by your customers and your fitters alike - a rare combination!

These are the Move-It pads, a deceptively simple set of oval shapes with some clever technology that allows furniture to be moved effortlessly across floors – with options for carpet and smooth surfaces.

“These can make a huge difference to a fitter on site, offering a service to work around furniture without a lot of time-consuming shifting and lifting - especially important when the fitter is working alone,” says Gill Finch, MD of accessories company Stroolmount (pictured right).

Then the pads have potential as an extra sales opportunity in store, ideal for consumers who are re-designing their rooms or need a solution to moving heavy units during cleaning - especially important with wool carpets where undisturbed areas behind sofas and sideboards can be breeding grounds for moths.

T 01942 271271 • sales@stroolmount.co.uk

Likewise Delivering diversity The Likewise Group is a distributor of floorcoverings and matting which is seizing the opportunity to consolidate the domestic and commercial floorcovering markets to become one of the UK’s largest distributors in this sector and a diverse and competitive portfolio of products to retailers and installers throughout the UK.

Factory Flooring, based in the North of England, deliver nationwide supplying the trade with best value in carpet, laminate, artificial grass, vinyl, LVT and underlay

from The Stocklists

COREtec is a waterproof multilayer floating floor with attached cork underlayment producing resilient, durable floors that stand up to real life and which is available through Likewise partners

H&V Carpets are a manufacturer based in Belgium whose ranges include polypropylene saxonies, structured loops, budget twists, hard twists, wiltons and soft touch carpets.

William Armes is long established and well known for quality matting, rugs and runners with their Dandy brand and exhibited a refreshed product range and new launches at the Harrogate show.

Bruce Starke is one of the UK’s pioneers with well over 100 years of experience and they endeavour to have the widest selection of mats and matting to meet diverse customer needs.

November 2019 73

Flooring factsheet Buying Groups 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

www.smg-group.co.uk Contact: Mike Reed Tel: 0118 932 3832 info@smg-group.co.uk

of the committee

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.

• 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

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.

• Review all the extra benefits and services to see

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...

flexibility to run your business the way you want

Associated Carpet Group www.acgcarpets.com Contact: Richard Moore Tel: 01942 825520 richard@acgcarpets.com

what you would actually use

• Check out the product ranges offered including the own-label options and the UK/European mix

• Ensure you understand any rules that may limit your

www.beautifulflooring.co.uk Contact: Carl Harris Tel: 01892 549050 charris31@sky.com

Key benefits Increase margins • Group purchases to get beneficial rates • Rebates • Exclusive higher-margin products • Special promotions ne of the key reasons to join a buying group is to O 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.

74 November 2019

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.

www.flooringone.co.uk Sam Bradley Tel: 0121 683 1426 sam.bradley@flooringone.co.uk

www.greendalecarpets.co.uk Contact: Rob Harding Tel: 01432 852000 Fax: 01432 852005 rharding@greendalecarpets.co.uk

Metro Group www.carpet1st.co.uk Contact: Jill Coward Tel: 01204 393539 jillcoward@carpet1st.co.uk

Carpet&FlooringReview

Flooring

Factsheet Adhesive Types Acrylic/Resin: Ideal for plasticized PVC and most modern flooring.

Bitumen: A tar-like material, bitumen has a high degree of moisture resistance and is used for damp-proof membranes and installing tiles, wood blocks and mosaics.

Epoxy Resin: A two-part chemical curing system that is used in aggressive environments such as conservatories, wet rooms, commercial kitchens and exterior installations.

Polyurethane: An adhesive with rapid bonding characteristics, typically used for wood floors.

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.

Polyvinyl Acetate: Typically used for close fitting joints in timber, laminate floors and panels.

Coverage: How thick and how far can the adhesive be spread.

Tackifier: An adhesive for carpet designed to increase the tackiness – or the tack range – of an adhesive.

Application Method: Different adhesives may be applied by roller, trowel or spray.

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.

Strength: Including how quickly the adhesive will “grab” the floor covering and its strength when fully cured.

Underfloor Heating: A lot of modern adhesives are suitable for use with underfloor heating but

this criteria must be checked where appropriate.

Subfloor: What surface will the adhesive stick to most effectively including concrete, sand cement screeds, levelling compounds, plywood and chipboard. While there are multi-purpose adhesives, specialist products will be better suited to certain surfaces. The porosity of the floor is a key determinant of the type of adhesive to be used and its performance during installation.

Special Performance: Certain adhesives are more suitable for damp, humid or high temperature environments.

Air Quality and the Environment: The old wisdom that the more it smells, the better it sticks is no longer acceptable to modern consumers and solvent-based products are increasingly replaced by water-based adhesives.

The Perfect System for your Designer Floor The perfect adhesive choice for luxury vinyl tiles Choose Styccobond F46, the market leading pressure sensitive acrylic adhesive.

Stopgap 300 HD, Stopgap P131 and Styccobond F46.

The perfect system for simply stunning luxurious floors.

GREAT BRITISH INNOVATION

F. Ball and Co. Ltd.

Tel: 01538 361 633 • email: mail@f-ball.co.uk • web: www.f-ball.co.uk

from The Stocklists

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Flooring factsheet from Interfloor Luxury underfoot

Interfloor’s underlay recognised at first National Flooring Innovation Awards Interfloor was proud to have its products recognised in the inaugural National Flooring Innovation Awards, demonstrating its commitment to delivering new and exciting creations into an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Winner Underlay: Tredaire Palladium

The awards scheme is designed to celebrate the ideas, imagination and innovation driving the UK flooring industry to new heights. There were over 100 submissions in categories ranging from carpets to underlay to version point-of-sale.

Solid blue

Interfloor introduced its highest density PU underlay range in response to market demand for firmer and more luxurious products suitable for use in all areas of the home.

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In the underlay category, one of Interfloor’s new class of Premium High Density (PHD) products Tredaire Palladium was named a winner.

Interfloor’s Sales Director Gary Cowley said: “We are absolutely delighted to have received this accolade and recognition for our commitment to innovation. It really strengthens Interfloor’s reputation as an inventor of quality flooring products.”

One of the three products in the PHD range, Tredaire Palladium 10mm was recently relaunched in response to customer feedback.

Tredaire Palladium has high performance Textron backing to give it more dimensional stability and cleaner cutting during installation as well as exceptional ‘shock absorber’ properties to help give it a longer life. It has superior heat insulation properties ‘Gold’ version and high acoustic ratings to reduce noise. It has a nominal density of 180kg/m3 and offers superior protection for carpets that is longer lasting and better Use restricted to ‘Innovation Gold’ performing. winners only Palladium is also made from 100 per cent recycled foam, giving it excellent “green” credentials.

Gold colour is The National Flooring Innovation Awards were sponsored by industry magazine The Stocklists and CMYK 0.9.100.0 designed to be different from the usual ranked prize schemes, setting out to identify products and RGB 255.233.0 services that are genuinely new and exceptional.

For further information, please visit www.interfloor.com

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Interfloor manufactures leading brands in the underlay market, Tredaire and Duralay. Recognised by customers as brands of quality and with over 70 years of expertise, they are trusted by users throughout the world.

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THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

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. www.interfloor.com

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.

www.interfloor.com

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.

Benefits

Types

Good underlay will...

• Improve underfoot comfort • Increase appearance retention, reducing flattening • 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

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.

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.

Sponge rubber

Combination

Crumb

PU foam

www.carpenterunderlay.co.uk

Sponge rubber Introduced in the 1950s, this is 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.

www.underlay.com

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.

www.luxeunderlay.com

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.

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

www.floorwise.co.uk

www.qaflooringsolutions.com

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WoolSafe factsheet Caring for carpet the right way The WoolSafe Organisation is the UK’s leading authority for the correct care and maintenance of carpet and offers a range of services empowering retailers to build a reputation for great service and consumers to get the most out of their investment.

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Environmentally aware for superior carpet care www.cleantecinnovation.com THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

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Flooring factsheet Carpet trouble-shooter

• shedding • pulled loops

Fading on Wool

Carpets made from wool can and do fade in use. The degree of fade can vary depending on the colour chosen and the local conditions to which the carpet is subjected.

Fading can be caused by exposure to ultra violet light which is found in daylight, but is accelerated when sunlight shines directly onto the carpet. This has the effect of lightening or “Bleaching” the colour just as exposure to sunlight will lighten human hair. Wool is after all animal hair.

Protection should be given to carpets exposed to such conditions just as you would protect other furniture or fabrics.

A complaint on fading would be considered justified if it failed to meet the required shade standard when tested to the British Standard BS1006 (1990).

Soiling

Soiling is usually the result of some local condition to which the carpet has been subjected to, or maintenance, or lack of maintenance programme. There is nothing we as manufacturers can do to prevent soiling in use. There are several types of soiling which are quite common: Spillages - Liquids such as soft drinks, cordials or any drink which contains sugar, particularly hot drinks, is likely to leave a stain. In such instances, professional help should be sought.

Colour matching Carpets are produced in batches - known as creels - and usually each batch produces between 500m2 - 3000m2 in a single width, depending on the creel size. Whilst the recipe used by the dyer remains constant, and is followed to the letter, in each separate production the colour reproduction will vary from batch to batch.

However production is matched back to the original or master sample to ensure that the colour remains ‘within a commercial tolerance’.

This process if not an exact science and a commercial tolerance is subjective but nevertheless is usually the professional judgement of the head dyer based on his/her experience.

Shampoo - if incorrectly applied, can leave sticky soap residues in the fibres which can result in the soiling reappearing quite rapidly.

Dust - which is carried on draughts can soil carpets in various ways, apart from the obvious soiled edges, at gaping skirting boards for instance, dark lines appearing on surface might suggest airborne dust vacuum-drawn through poorly fitted floorboards. Sometimes the shape of floorboards can be seen quite clearly. Air borne dust sometimes shows itself as spots on the carpet, this is due to the air carried on a draught under the carpet escaping through minute holes both in the underlay and the carpet, leaving dust deposited on the pile much like a filter action. In such installations, the use of a lining paper is essential as a preventative measure.

A greater level of tolerance is required on blended colours (Heathers etc). To ensure perfect colour matching it is advisable that a single width be used in any installation requiring exact colour matching.

It is the responsibility of the retailer to advise the consumer when the carpet is measured of any poorly fitting doors, skirtings, or floorboards and the consumers responsibility to ensure any remedial work to seal draughts, is carried out before the carpet is fitted, if a resulting complaint is to be avoided.

N.B. Carpets which are laid with the pile travelling in different directions, even though they be from the same batch will appear not to match. For further information please check with the manufacturers recommendations.

Static

Sprouting

Occasionally an odd tuft or two can work its way to the surface and stand proud of the rest of the pile. This is probably due to one end of the tuft being longer than the other i.e. J shaped tuft instead of V shaped. Remedial action merely requires that the offending tufts be scissor trimmed level with the rest of the pile. They should never be pulled out.

80

Carpets do not produce static but like other household fabrics and objects have the capacity to store it. Static is caused by the build up of static electricity upon personnel in a dry environment and is discharged when a person makes contact with an object which can conduct electricity (i.e. door handle or filing cabinets, etc).

The static charges will vary in intensity depending upon the individual, air humidity and the contact materials. Static is more usually associated with synthetic materials as they do not retain moisture very well but it can and does occur with wool in very dry room conditions.

Preventative measures include the introduction of moisture into the room or in situ carpet treatment.

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

• sprouting • shading • static • fading • pile reversal • shedding • flattening • soiling

Flattening

Flattening will occur as a result of traffic which eventually flattens the pile particularly in the main areas of use.

All pile fabrics will flatten to greater or lesser degree dependant on the amount of traffic to which it is subjected and the construction (tuft density/pile fibre/height/weight) of the product concerned.

Shading

Shading occurs because the pile of the carpet has become crushed, flattened or brushed in a different direction to the natural lie of the pile whilst in situ. This causes light reflection at differing angles resulting in the creation of light and dark patches on the carpet. This will occur on all pile fabrics but can be more noticeable on plainer carpets because the shadows created by pile pressure will not be disguised by a heavy pattern or design.

Pile Reversal

Like shading, this occurs when the pile or nap of the carpet changes direction and thus reflects light at different angles showing the effects of shading which can become permanent. It is also described as ‘watermarking’. This can happen to every carpet construction be it Axminster, Wilton, Tufted, Hand Woven, Persian, Chinese, Indian or even Coir Matting. Like shading it can be more apparent on plain carpet because heavy patterns can disguise the effects.

It can occur quite quickly after installation. A tremendous amount of research has been carried out over many years by many institutes to determine the cause of this phenomenon but none of it has proved conclusive.

Shedding

All cut pile carpets will lose short fibre, which is created during production when spun yarn is cut for tuft formation.

These fibres fall onto the surface of the pile and appear as ‘fluff’.

The effect varies with yarn type and may be removed without detrimental effect upon the carpet by vacuum cleaning. This excess fibre is only a small fraction of the total fibre contained in the carpet.

Indentations

When a carpet is subjected to a heavy point load, such as under the legs of furniture, it is unreasonable to expect the carpet not to indent. Usually, the longer the load is in place, the longer will be the time for the pile to recover.

In the case of very heavy loads in place for a considerable time, the recovery time can be very considerable.

It must be remembered that it is not only the pile of the carpet that becomes indented. The underlay will also indent and the backing of the carpet may also distort into the indentation in the underlay. Some underlay’s will recover well and some less well depending upon their composition, thickness, density etc. The use of cups below furniture legs can spread the load and the net result is a larger area of less deeply indented carpet.

The ability of a carpet to recover from a heavy static load can be measured in the laboratory, using the test method described in BS 4939 and many manufacturers will have data on this aspect of carpet performance. In this test the carpet is loaded for 24 hours and the degree of recovery is measured after 1 hour and 24 hours. Since there are so many different underlay’s however, it is very rare for the recovery from a heavy static load to be evaluated on carpet and underlay.

There is no commonly known manufacturing process which can cause or cure this phenomenon and therefore it is not a manufacturing fault. For further information please check with individual manufacturers recommendations.

Often normal maintenance (vacuum cleaning with a rotating brush machine) will speed up recovery but in the case of serious indentations the use of an iron and damp cloth or a steam iron together with a blunt darning needle to carefully tease up the pile can be beneficial. Care must be take not to over wet the carpet, of course.

Pulling Loops

Samples

Pulled loops occur only in looped pile carpet where one or more loops in the continuous pile is pulled through the primary backing of the carpet. This is usually due to some local condition, possibly some sharp object which has caught in a loop in situ and has resulted in a pull.

Pulled loops are easily dealt with by trimming the offending end level with the rest of the pile. They should not be left as this could result in further loops being pulled and developing into a ladder.

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

The original carpet tile

The samples held by individual retailers may not be from the same batch as current production and therefore should be used as a guide and not an exact colour match.

Installation

Telephone National Institute of Carpet Fitters (NICF) for further information – 0115 958 3077.

This information is given by responsible manufacturers to help you help your customer to make an informed choice.

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Nosings Artificial Grass Tools network Tools Profiles Stair N national distributor Profiles Laminates Tools Gripper Underlay Scre ols Gripper Underlay Screeds Adhesives Profiles Grip Tools Profiles Stair Nosings Tools Gripper U ols Gripper Underlay Screeds Adhesives Profiles Screeds Adhesives Profiles Stair Screeds Profiles air Nosings Tools Gripper Underlay Screeds Profile creeds Adhesives Profiles Stair Nosings Tools G es Profiles Stair Screeds Profiles Stair Nosings To 1 Neil Smith Ltd 16 Salesmark West Ltd 8 Choice Flooring Ltd Glasgow Amesbury, Wiltshire Trafford Park, Manchester Tel: 0141 552 1141 Tel: 01980 880933 Tel: 0161 872 8003 sales@neilsmithltd.co.uk mail@salesmark-west.co.uk sales@choiceflooringwholesale.co.uk 2 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 17 Acorn Carpet Accessories 9 Cornerstone Flooring Belfast Bromley, Kent Doncaster Tel: 028 9075 3202 Tel: 020 8462 0422 Tel: 01302 835117 Fax: 028 9075 3901 Fax: 020 8462 0927 Fax: 01302 302542 salesbelfast@pfl.ie sales@acorncarpetsacc.co.uk cornerstonefloor@btconnect.com 3 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 10 Birch Distribution 18 Salesmark Dublin 12 Lancing, West Sussex Sheffield, S9 5PH Tel: 00353 (0)1 626 3913 Tel: 01903 750522 Tel: 0114 243 1230 Fax: 00353 (0)1 460 4669 Fax: 01903 851111 Fax: 0114 243 5118 salesdublin@pfl.ie sales@salesmark-floorwise.co.uk n.maude@birchdistribution.co.uk 4 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 11 Woodall Brothers Ltd 19 Fitwell Flooring Ltd Limerick Newton Abbot, Devon Shrewsbury, Shropshire Tel: 00353 (0)61 227 100 Tel: 01626 835935 Tel: 01743 441584 Fax: 00353 (0)61 227 000 sales@fitwell.co.uk Fax: 01743 441629 sales@pfl.ie sales@woodallbrothers.co.uk 20 Fitwell Flooring Ltd 5 Preston Underlay Centre Ltd Redruth, Cornwall 12 Floorwise D & J Ltd Preston, Lancashire Tel: 01209 214344 Southam, Warwickshire 1 Tel: 01772 556345 sales@fitwell.co.uk Tel: 01926 814922 sales@pucflooring.co.uk Fax: 01926 817899 sales@fwdj.co.uk 6 Birch Distribution 2 Leeds, LS10 1AG 13 Salesmark Ltd Tel: 0113 244 4363 St Neots, Cambridgeshire Fax: 0113 244 8665 Tel: 01480 212888 5 6 l.sigsworth@birchdistribution.co.uk Fax: 01480 218585 3 8 9 7 sales@salesmark.co.uk 7 Birch Distribution 10 4 Hull, HU7 0XD 14 BL Flooring Supplies Ltd 11 Tel: 01482 826654 Gloucester 12 Fax: 01482 878693 Tel: 01452 223355 13 d.ostler@birchdistribution.co.uk Fax: 01452 371284 14 info@blflooring.co.uk 17 15 16 15 BL Flooring Supplies Ltd 18 19 Bristol 20 Tel: 0117 955 5454 Floorwise Group Ltd. Fax: 0117 955 2626 Floorwise House, 22 High Street, info@blflooring.co.uk Kegworth, Derby, DE74 2DA, UK Tel: +44 (0)1509 673974 Fax: +44 (0)1509 674841

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THEâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;STOCKLISTS November 2019

Flooring factsheet Carpet types

Tufted With advances in manufacturing technology, 95% of all carpet produced today is tufted. It takes about an hour to make a roll of carpet that might take eight hours to weave. To make tufted carpet, hundreds of yarn-threaded needles are pushed through the primary backing fabric to form loops or tufts, which may be left as is or cut.

A heavy adhesive coating is applied to hold the tufts in place and a secondary backing is usually glued on for strength and stability. A wide variety of styles and textures can then be created using various techniques.

LOOP PILE

Berber ­­– Berber carpets look like and are named after a handmade, bulky wool carpet made by the Berber tribes of North Africa and Asia. The loops are made from thick or bulky yarns of wool, nylon, polypropylene or a blend of these fibres to give a cushioned effect underfoot. These carpets are available in an assortment of colours and may be flecked and can be either level loop or multilevel loop.

Level loop ­­– When all the loops are of the same height, a highly flexible and durable carpet is created which has a natural, casual appearance even when (commonly) it is made from synthetic fibres. The tight loop texture tends to hide marks so it’s a good blend between luxury and practicality.

Multi-level loop ­­– The loops vary to two or sometimes three loop heights to create informal, random textures which are very forgiving for marks and stains and therefore very suitable for high traffic areas and busy family rooms.

BONDED

Bonded carpets (sometimes called ‘fibre-bonded’ or ‘fusion bonded’) are created by firing fibres into an adhesive material – the fibres are not stitched into the backing in any way. The technique is principally used for commercial carpet tiles.

THE STOCKLISTS November 2019

CUT PILE

Freize ­­– Frieze or frisée (pronounced freesay) carpets are similar to saxony, but the yarns are more tightly twisted and should always be heat set. They have a dense, low pile surface which creates a coarse, pebbly texture. Frieze carpets are very durable and hide footprints, dust and dirt, which makes them suitable for heavy traffic areas.

Saxony ­­– Saxony textures are made of twisted yarns, which should be heat set. The tips remain very distinct, rather than blending together to form a very elegant finish. Saxony textures show footprints and vacuum marks so are suitable for more occasional rooms in the home. More textured variations improve the practicality of saxonies.

Twist ­­– The popular twist carpet is the cut-pile standard. The yarn is tightly twisted and often heatset to retain this feature and the result is a versatile, textured finish that is ideal for plain colours.

Velvet ­­– Velvet textures (sometimes called ‘velour’ or ‘plush’) all have a level surface pile of approx 5mm to 10mm height, which is then sheared to give a smooth finish. With very little twist in the yarn, the ends blend together which then further enhances the overall finish. These carpets tend to ‘shade’ with heavy use. Footprints show easily and the colour looks different from place to place because fibres lying in different directions reflect the light differently. A luxury for occasional rooms.

CUT AND LOOP

When some of the pile is cut and other left as loop, a variety of surface textures and patterns can be created (in a variety of colours). The multi-level surface is excellent for hiding footprints and stains so cut and loop is good for high traffic areas and general purpose rooms in the home.

Shag pile –­­ Shag pile has varied in popularity.

The pile is up to 50mm long and the texture is casual and loose but the surface can flatten easily and may lack durability.

Woven Woven carpet may be in a tiny minority of today’s production but still produces some of the finest carpets which are used for prestigious installations.

Axminster The pile of the carpet is inserted into the backing as it is woven and cut to length, creating U-shaped tufts to give a velvety surface. The process locks in the fibre to create a carpet of high durability and performance retention as well as a luxury feel. The process allows for intricate designs and colours to be used – although modern trends mean that the traditional patterned axminster has given way to current fashion trends for plain carpets.

Wilton Wilton woven carpets are produced in a similar way to axminsters – the principal difference being that a continuous fibre is woven all the way through. The carpet can be sheared to create a range of cut and loop textured effects. The result is a high quality carpet of unrivalled durability.

Flat weave Manufactured in the same way as wilton, flat weave is a loop pile which allows the yarn to be woven across a wider area to created a flatter, more textured effect.

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The Stocklists Wholesale Distribution Directory National

Midlands

Leeds 0113 3071900 carl.cummings@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk

Birch Distribution Leeds - see Floorwise page 90

Fells Carpets

TCS “The Carpet Specialists” Morecambe 01524 840177 info@tcsthecarpetspecialists.com www.tcsthecarpetspecialists.com Xylo Wood Flooring London 020 8368 8122 infouk@xyloflooring.com www.xyloflooring.com

North East

Fells Carpets Leeds 0113 3071900 carl.cummings@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk

North West

Carpet Line Direct Manchester 01204 701188 salesnw@carpetlinedirect.co.uk www.carpetlinedirect.co.uk D. M. Miller Ltd Manchester 0161 205 9949 dm.miller@btconnect.com www.dmmillerltd.spaces.lives.com Fells Carpets Goole 0113 3071900 carl.cummings@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk

Birch Distribution Sheffield - see Floorwise page 90

Birch Distribution Hull - see Floorwise page 90 Cornerstone Flooring Doncaster - see Floorwise page 90 Cornerstone Flooring East Midlands and Warwickshire 01159 444711 sales@cornerstoneflooring.co.uk www.cornerstoneflooring.co.uk DMS Flooring Supplies Northampton 0845 643 5601 dmsnorthampton@dmsflooringsupplies.co.uk

East

Beds Flooring Bedford 01234 341234 sales@bedsflooring.co.uk www.bedsflooring.co.uk Salesmark Ltd St Neots - see Floorwise page 90 STS Flooring Distributors Cambridge Tel: 0345 899 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.co.uk

South West

BL Flooring Supplies Bristol - see Floorwise page 90

Floorwise D & J Ltd Southam - see Floorwise page 90

BL Flooring Supplies Gloucester - see Floorwise page 90

J J Wholesale & Distribution Ltd Birmingham 0121 765 4994 jjwholesale@gmx.com

Fitwell Flooring Ltd Redruth - see Floorwise page 90

Matty’s Wholesale Carpets Birmingham 01675 433072 sales@mattys.co.uk

Flooring Supplies (Wessex) Amesbury 01980 625888 orders@flooringsupplieswessex.co.uk

STS Flooring Distributors Watford 0345 899 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.co.uk

R & M Wholesale Bristol 01179 531222 Tiverton 01884 258266 sales@rmwholesale.co.uk

Trade Counter Carpets Leicester 0845 604 3055 tradecountercarpets@gmail.com Woodall Brothers Ltd Shrewsbury - see Floorwise page 90

Fitwell Flooring Ltd Newton Abott - see Floorwise page 90

Salesmark West Ltd Amesbury - see Floorwise page 90 Solent Wholesale Carpet West Sussex 01243 774623 sales@solentwholesale.co.uk www.solentwholesale.co.uk see page 22 for details

Choice Flooring Manchester - see Floorwise page 90 Millbrook Carpets Darwen 01254 703999 millbrookcarpets@live.co.uk Preston Underlay Centre Lyd Preston/Lancashire - see Floorwise page 90

85 November 2019

Carpet&FlooringReview

Are you a Wholesaler?

If you’re not listed here, please call Diane Martin on 01482 659396

South East

Acorn Carpet Accessories Bromley, Kent - see Floorwise page 90 Ashmount Flooring Supplies Tottenham 0208 808 2158 sales@ashmountflooring.co.uk www.ashmountflooringsupplies.co.uk Beds Flooring Bedford 01234 341234 sales@bedsflooring.co.uk www.bedsflooring.co.uk Clifford Floors Strood 01634 285900 sales@clifford.uk.com Culpeck Strood 01634 299000 sales@culpeck.uk­­.com Columbia Flooring Middlesex 020 8443 3322 sales@columbiaflooring.co.uk www.columbiaflooring.co.uk see page 13 for details DMS Flooring Supplies Hemel Hempstead 0845 643 5344 dmshemel@dmsflooringsupplies.co.uk DMS Flooring Supplies Milton Keynes 0845 643 5320 dmslaser@dmsflooringsupplies.co.uk Flooring Storage UK Potters Bar 01707 245999 sales@flooringstorage.com www.flooringstorage.com Kent Flooring Supplies Ltd Chatham 01634 668668 sales@kentflooring.co.uk www.kentflooring.co.uk

Potts & Ward, Woodcocks Ltd Brighton 01273 557211 sales@pwwflooring.com www.pwwflooring.com Salesmark Lancing - see Floorwise page 90 Solent Wholesale Carpet West Sussex 01243 774623 sales@solentwholesale.co.uk www.solentwholesale.co.uk see page 22 for details STS Flooring Distributors Basildon 0345 899 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.co.uk STS Flooring Distributors Orpington/Croydon 0345 899 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.co.uk Trade Carpet London Wimbledon 0208 247 3891 sales@tradecarpet.com www.tradecarpet.com

Wales

Matty’s Wholesale Carpets Birmingham 01675 433072 sales@mattys.co.uk Selected Rugs & Matting Cardiff 0844 8360650 customerservices@selectedrugs.co.uk www.selectedrugs.co.uk

Scotland

Flanagan Flooring Distributors Glasgow Business Park Baillieston Tel: 0141 773 1122 sales@flanagan-flooring.com www.flanagan-flooring.com MCD Scotland Uddingston Glasgow 01698 808000 mcdscotland@mcd.co.uk www.mcdscotland.co.uk Neil Smith Ltd Glasgow - see Floorwise page 90

Ireland

Flanagan Flooring Distributors Belfast & Saintfield Co. Down Northern Ireland Tel: 028 9751 0932 sales@flanagan-flooring.com www.flanagan-flooring.com Flanagan Flooring Distributors Willow Business Park Dublin Tel: (01) 429 7800 sales@flanagan-flooring.com www.flanagan-flooring.com Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Dublin - see Floorwise page 90 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Belfast - see Floorwise page 90 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Limerick - see Floorwise page 90 TCS “The Carpet Specialists” Co. Louth 00353 429 351 351 info@tcsthecarpetspecialists.com www.tcsthecarpetspecialists.com

Littner Hampton London 020 8520 8474 littnerhampton@aol.com www.littnerhamptoncarpets.co.uk John Palmer Carpets Fareham 01329 221933 sales@johnpalmercarpets.uk.net

from The Stocklists

November 2019 86