The Harrogate show goes from strength-to-strength and expands this year to cover over 300 UK and international brands under one roof, as well as demos, presentations and networking opportunities.
Read all the previews, events and highlights + full floorplans and exhibitor list – pages 31–65
FEATURE ARTICLE
Adding sales value
The latest man-made carpets have features for retailers to secure better margins page 66-69
Quick-Step enhances authenticity page 17
Cushion for comfort
LeoLine’s easy-install Comfytex page 18
Encore for Inglewood
Popular Cormar range adds appeal page 17
Carpet collaboration
CRUK’s gets together on waste page 20
Perpetual beauty
Ecorugs circularity and charm page 18
Summer blues
Market battles sluggish sales
Business news – page 28
Naturals selection
COREtec extends flagship ranges page 24
Celebrating recycling
Recofloor’s 15 years of success page 20
N E W L A U N C H : R E T A I L E R P O R T A L
We are proud to announce the launch of our new retailer portal, designed to streamline your experience and enhance efficiency.
We are committed to providing a simple, convenient platform that meets your business needs seamlessly
Scan the QR code or visit customerportal hughmackay co uk to register
Access Anytime, Anywhere, Any Device:
The new portal will allow you, as a valued customer, anytime access to your account on any device, empowering you to manage your interactions with Hugh Mackay at your convenience
Real-Time Stock Checking:
You will be able to check real-time stock levels effortlessly, ensuring accurate information to make informed decisions when placing orders
Order Tracking:
The portal will streamline the order placement process, allowing you to place orders quickly, ensuring flexibility and efficiency in transactions
The portal will offer enhanced order tracking functionalities, allowing you to monitor the progress of orders seamlessly
Trade Counter locations: Orpington Croydon Basildon Hemel Hempstead Cambridge Bar Hill
SALES: 0845 899 1000
INSPIRING YOUR PROJECTS - COST EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS
Each Elegance Royale Plank has been skilfully created using a new super matt technology (Gra-Matt™Ultra) that makes the floor visually closer to natural wood, unlike many other glossy LVT products. Each design accurately mimics the texture of natural timber while incorporating multitonal variance to give your herringbone floor realistic character and depth.
Stand A20
New for Autumn 2024, our best selling Universal range will be updated and we will launch a new collection; Universal Design. Coming to UK stores soon.
FLOORINGNEWS
Alpha interiors
Quick-Step is synonymous with innovation and refinement and its Alpha Vinyl collection is no different. Now bringing more realism, easier installation and even better soundproofing and comfort, Alpha Vinyl defines premium vinyl flooring.
Available in four collections with integrated underlay and click installation, Alpha Vinyl can bring a fast and reliable solution in refurbishment projects: Quick-Step’s product quality is legendary so this is a floor you know won’t let you down. Ciro is the Alpha Vinyl answer to herringbone featuring a new way to install with the innovative Unizip click profile. Unlike most systems that require two different planks, Unizip means that Ciro needs just one, allowing for a much simpler and faster installation. This revolutionary system also minimises installation waste, as it’s much easier to know how many planks are required. And of course, it means ordering an Alpha Vinyl Ciro herringbone floor is just as simple as any regular plank or tile.
The Alpha Vinyl Bloom collection features a surface structure that redefines authentic vinyl flooring. Whereas most vinyl floors have three or four depths of texture, selected designs in Alpha Vinyl Bloom now feature up to 75 depths. This means a floor that tracks the depth of every detail – the knots of the floor are particularly impressive – and a design that’s more realistic than any other vinyl on the market. Blos and Oro take much of the refinement of Bloom with designs that mimic every detail in stone and tile.
No matter which Alpha Vinyl floor is chosen, the innovation starts beneath with the integrated underlay. Precision made for seamless fitting, it eliminates worries about gaps and brings stability and durability to the vinyl floor’s Uniclic fitting. Making for easier installation, the underlay also adds comfort and improves noise reduction.
Quick-Step has elevated the water-resistance integrity of Alpha Vinyl with HydroSeal in combination with a precision fit to fully close joints, for a floor that’s fully 100% waterproof. Along with Stain and Scratch Guard technology that ensures superior protection from scratches, stains, dirt and scuff marks; Alpha Vinyl is a floor that’s beautifully easy to live with.
www.quick-step.co.uk
Encore for Inglewood
Cormar Carpets has re-launched of their popular Inglewood Saxony range. Made using 100% Excellon Polypropylene, Inglewood Saxony is luxurious underfoot yet hard-wearing and practical, making it the ideal choice for all areas of the home.
First launched in 2020, the timeless collection has continued to soar in popularity over the recent years. Both stain resistant and bleach cleanable for enhanced practicality, the range also comes with Cormar’s 10-year Stain and Wear guarantee for added peace of mind.
Available in both 4m and 5m widths, Inglewood Saxony is a heavyweight, deep pile carpet tufted on 1/10th gauge machinery, using two-fold specialised yarn to create a luxurious handle. Coming in an updated palette of 15 heathered shades, 10 popular retained shades and 5 new trend-leading colour options, the refreshed range has been created to suit all homes, with a sumptuous feel underfoot.
“Having received a great response to our Inglewood Saxony range since its launch, we’re delighted to be introducing a refreshed colour palette and further enhancing our Easy Clean offering. This exciting update brings a new level of elegance and modernity to this much-loved collection, ensuring that every home can enjoy the timeless beauty and comfort of Inglewood Saxony at fantastic value.” – David Cormack, Marketing Director at Cormar Carpets
Samples of Inglewood Saxony are now being distributed by Cormar’s Territory Managers. T 01204 881200 • portal.cormarcarpets.co.uk
The Flooring Show
SHOW GUIDE 2024
The Flooring Show is set to be the biggest event ever. Read our Guide for what’s happening in Harrogate this September. pages 31–65
Adding value to sales
The latest man-made carpets have opportunities for retailers to secure better margins page 66-69
FLOORINGNEWS
Grace without glue for easy refurbs
With a Tex Bac backing that can absorb small imperfections and which means that no glue is needed to hold it in place, Beauflor Gracetex sheet vinyl brings fast and easy flooring installation.
Suitable for use on subfloors in poor condition or laid directly on top of old coverings like ceramic tiles and timber, Gracetex transforms any floor fast and without fuss.
The ideal solution for contractors looking for an answer to flooring in refurbishment projects where speed and affordability are key, Gracetex is equipped with everything needed performance-wise. It features a durable (0.5mm) wear layer, Premium Coating for easier maintenance, R10 slip-resistance and comes in three width options. What’s more , the three-millimetre thick multi layered floor also has great comfort and multiple designs, so it enhances any area with a welcoming floor covering.
Chris Roberts, National Sales Manager, Beauflor says: “Gracetex is new to the Beauflor line and makes a great flooring choice when time is tight or if the floor might need lifting and removal in the future. A versatile specification ensures great performance for the price, while the textile backing makes installation fast and the floor comfortable to walk on. It’s a winning combination that makes Gracetex an allrounder that contractors can rely on for most refurbishment projects.”
To make sure that Gracetex ticks all the boxes, Beauflor has made the floor available in 15 natural designs. Nine wood designs, including three herringbone planks, are joined by six all-over concrete styles in warm grey tones for a restful and inviting look. With a natural look finish, the designs also feature a textured and matt appearance that makes them look more realistic. Gracetex is readily stocked at Beauflor distributors around the UK. T+32 (0)5667 6611 • www.beauflor.com
Perpetual beauty with sustainability
When it developed the mono-material 100% polyester construction of its new Ecorugs collection with the intent of achieving product circularity, Louis De Poortere had two significant challenges to meet. The first to ensure it maintained the aesthetic qualities of its designs and secondly, to make sure that Ecorugs could be recycled back into new rugs.
In fact, with the Belgian manufacturer’s experience in working with polyester, the first challenge was relatively easy to solve. Yet to meet the second proved more complex and has seen Louis De Poortere create its own path to reuse and recycle through the launch of the Take Care Program.
Louis Dryon, COO, Louis De Poortere, explains more: “We believe that circularity is a way we can reduce the impact of our products on the environment, but in order to do that properly, we need to make sure we’re in control of the product cycle. Just producing a recyclable rug is not enough, we want to take responsibility for the whole process. The Take Care Program is our way of doing that and starting the journey to true product circularity.”
The Take Care Program is based on two principles – a long life through the rug’s machine-washable construction and a returns process which is simple for the customer and ensures that Louis de Poortere is in control of reuse and recycling. Once the original purchaser has finished with their Ecorug, they simply scan the QR code which comes on every rug’s label to arrange free collection and return. The rugs are then returned to Louis De Poortere for re-sale or recycling into a new Ecorug.
Keeping the returns process simple and free for the purchaser was an important part of the development of the Take Care Program, as Louis Dryon, continues: “We knew that in order for our journey to circularity to reach its conclusion, we needed to ensure that as many rugs as possible were returned and that we shouldn’t expect the customer to pay to return the rug.“
www.louisdepoortere.com
Cushioning for comfier vinyl
With inspirational flooring designs that bring a unique sense of style and the supreme feel of Luxatex, LeoLine’s Comfytex PU and Comfytex Deluxe Pro welcome in a comfier home.
For retailers, the advantages of LeoLine’s Luxatex high-quality textile backing are easier and faster installation, but for homeowners it’s all about the cushioning comfort that it brings to every floor. So, whether a smart and sophisticated tile like Comfytex PU’s Toledo design or the confident swagger of Comfytex Deluxe Pro’s Olympus chevron wood style, they enjoy a floor with smile making levels of comfort.
This wonderful underfoot feel is available in Comfytex PU and Comfytex Deluxe Pro so homeowners can choose the best floor for their needs. Want the best affordability? Make it Comfytex PU. Want long-lasting looks in busy family rooms? Then go for Comfytex Deluxe Pro.
Stuart Reeves, Sales and Marketing Director, LeoLine, says: “Retailers will be familiar with the fast and easy glue-free fitting that comes with our textile backed floors which help to give keener installation costs, but for homeowners it is the extra comfort of Comfytex and Comfytex Deluxe Pro that really stands out.”
Both floors also benefit from LeoLine’s Superguard surface finish. This PU coating fights off scratches, stains and scuffs while making the floor less complicated to look after. Simply mop and go. Made in Belgium, Comfytex PU comes with a 10-year wear warranty with the superior Comfytex Deluxe Pro enjoying 15-years.
T 0800 032 3970 • www.leoline.co.uk
The world’s first waterproof wood floors
There’s no need to worry about water.
Thanks to a waterproof surface, Cala, Cascada and Amato wood floors can be installed in any room, including kitchens, bathrooms and hallways.
Speak to your sales representative to find out more.
quick-step.co.uk
AMT6029
FLOORINGNEWS
Collaborating on carpet waste
Collaboration was the theme for this year’s Carpet Recycling UK annual conference. A packed agenda saw a wide range of initiatives and topics covered, highlighting that partnership working across the comparable flooring sectors such as resilient flooring and other industries to include construction, waste management and recycling sectors is vital to finding better environmental and economic solutions for carpet and textile flooring waste.
Speaking at the two-day event in July, Adnan Zeb-Khan - CRUK Scheme Manager, highlighted that although an important outlet, ‘energy from waste’ (which accounted for over 200k tonnes of carpet and textile flooring to be diverted from landfill in 2022), is not a sustainable long-term route and more reuse, recycling circular solutions need to be developed.
Delegates then heard about a potential research project to divert carpet and textile flooring waste and how these could be used in construction products and the cement industry. Carpet Recycling UK will be exploring these further with universities and industry to research alternative solutions.
• Go online for the full report from the conference at www.thestocklists.com/cruk-2024
T 0161 440 8325 • www.carpetrecyclinguk.com
(L to R) Robert Wapstra of Edel Carpets, Jonathan Middelkoop of Betap and Andrew Bramall of Betap.
Carpet crusher for Christmas?
It won’t be too long now before the industry busy pre-Christmas period arrives, which inevitably means more waste will be generated.
Kenburn have their carpet crushers in stock ready to cope with the demand from flooring companies looking to become ‘’eco warriors’’.
Skip costs have risen significantly over the past few years and in April next year they’re set to rise by a staggering 20%.
With improvements in technology, it costs less to recycle new and uplifted carpet and underlay waste than it does to send it to landfill.
So, if reducing your ever-increasing skip costs and helping to save the planet is something worth considering, please contact Kenburn for more information on how the scheme works and how the waste is collected.
T 01727 844988 • www.kenburn.co.uk
Celebrating recycling over 15 years for vinyl
Recofloor, an award-winning takeback scheme in the flooring sector, is celebrating 15 years of recycling waste vinyl flooring in 2024.
An estimated total of 7,250 tonnes of waste vinyl flooring have been collected and recycled through Recofloor since the contractors’ favourite scheme was founded by flooring manufacturers Altro and Polyflor in 2009.
To date, the sustainable collection service for commercial waste vinyl flooring has produced 8,504 tonnes of carbon savings – equivalent to taking 2,220 cars off the road for a year.
It also equates to 2,416,667 square metres of vinyl flooring having been recycled back into new flooring as well as traffic management products. The carbon savings estimate is based on displacing concrete in traffic management products, the main application for the recycled flooring.
On reaching the significant milestone in autumn 2024, Recofloor Scheme Manager Carla Eslava comments: “Thanks to continued growth in both members and waste vinyl flooring tonnages collected, Recofloor has been a driving force for sustainability in the flooring sector. We couldn’t be prouder of the commitment shown by the industry and how the practices with regards to waste management are taking a much more responsible approach to source more circular and environmentally friendly services, like Recofloor.
“Our achievements over the last decade and a half are due in no small part to the efforts and enthusiasm to all our members – flooring companies, contractors and distributors – who continue to work so hard to support the scheme.”
Collecting acceptable commercial vinyl flooring waste for recycling can save up to 70% on waste disposal costs, such as skip hire and gate fees. T 0161 355 7618 • www.recofloor.org
The Allora Lux range offers multiple benefits. To name a few: 8mm SPC, a 5G click system for easy installation, compatibility with underfloor heating, and durability that ensures lasting luxury within a family home.
Available Now Visit stand A17
FLOORINGNEWS
Floorwise fitting for fantastic LVT
Luxury vinyl is flooring’s growth area with homes and businesses both embracing the product’s easy living nature. Yet, as any experienced floor installer will know, making sure you give a high quality LVT installation is not so easy and takes time, effort and expertise. Fortunately, with floorwise at your side you can be confident that your skills and expertise will be matched by tools, installation and finishing products that provide quality and floorwise’s famous value.
Quality tools are an essential part of making the installation run as smoothly as possible. floorwise distributors across the UK, Ireland and Europe carry a comprehensive range of tools from the world’s best manufacturers. Including surface preparation tools such as the Flex Power Stripper, Long handled scrapers, screeding and adhesive trowels, primer and aeration rollers, pin levellers and stirring stations, LVT laying equipment such as the large plank design cutter, LVT cutters, and small pressure and heavy duty 75kg rollers; there’s a tool for every job.
Every installer knows that an LVT installation will only ever be as good as the subfloor and so good preparation is key. Failure to ensure a smooth, flat and well-prepared substrate will compromise the installation in terms of appearance and potential failure. With the new products in the Pro-Screed line, floorwise is giving installers everything they need to prepare a floor to the exacting tolerances needed.
• Go online for the full overview of the floorwise LVT portfolio at www.thestocklists.com/floorwise-lvt T 01509 673974 • www.floorwise.co.uk
Become a master of Moduleo
The Academy for Excellence in Flooring has launched two new programmes for the installation of Moduleo luxury vinyl floors.
The Academy for Excellence in Flooring is one of the UK’s most respected floor installation training centres with a range of courses to accelerate professional development in the flooring installation industry. Now, for the first time, the Academy is offering courses for the installation of Moduleo dryback and Moduleo LayRed floors.
Through the Moduleo LayRed Master Installer course, installers keen to advance their skills and win new business can now provide customers with a lifetime installation warranty every time they install Moduleo’s high-quality LayRed design floors. All programmes build on Moduleo’s reputation and put quality of service at the heart of every installation.
Both courses cover a complete installation, with specialist content as required to ensure that every attendee is rewarded with knowledge that gives the confidence to make the most of Moduleo’s design flexibility. Under the three-day Moduleo Dryback Installer course, installers learn about correct subfloor preparation, including with Flexpro self-adhesive underlay and how to set out, cut, re-bevel and bond correctly to give a high-quality installation that upholds its integrity. For the Moduleo LayRed Master Installer course, which is fully accredited, attendees must pass a two-day course that takes them through every aspect of installing plank and herringbone with integrated underlay and click fitting. From subfloor conditions to setting out, cutting and finishing; the course ensures every attendee leaves ready to install to the highest possible standard. www.quick-step.com/en/academy
Lock-in for low impact
When it comes to delivering a high-quality resilient floor, installers are turning to Lion Floor for its ease of use, strength, reliability, availability and status as the most sustainable substrate.
Lion Floor is a fabricated hardboard underlay that’s been developed specifically for flooring. Made to deliver a substrate that’s installed in the same way as plywood but with several advantages, Lion Floor is a sign of quality workmanship, where resilience and longevity of the installation is prioritised.
Lion Floor also comes with a third-party verified EPD that demonstrates its use is also a sign of a more sustainable installation. This means that every project which chooses Lion Floor can now benefit from a fabricated hardboard underlay that’s proven its environmental performance in line with international standards (ISO 14025). The EPD looks at the cradle to gate lifecycle of Lion Boards and sees a Global Warming Potential figure far below European made particleboard and plywood.
Petter Jones, Finnish Fibreboard: “EPDs are one of the few methods to really establish the impact of the products that you use, so if you want to choose more sustainable products on the basis of facts rather than greenwash, then you should always ask your supplier if the product your considering has one.
Because Lion Boards use wood by-product, itself a CO2 store that would have otherwise gone to incineration and have released CO2 back into the atmosphere, they lock-in more carbon throughout the product lifetime than products using virgin wood and this accounts for the exceptional GWP figure.
sales@finfib.fi
DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR THE FLOORING TRADE
FLOORINGNEWS
Carpet challenged on microplastics
The carpet industry is “neglecting the problem” of harmful microplastics according to detailed research by the University of Portsmouth.
Naturals selection is extended
In a new report entitled “Microplastics in our homes – Our carpets’ hidden secret”, the university researchers, working with sustainability consultants SB&CO, say that the flooring industry’s focus is only on sustainability and that none of the 24 major manufacturers they studied has a policy on microplastics reduction.
Originally launched back in 2019, The Naturals and Megastone collections are the most popular COREtec ranges in the UK and 2024 sees a comprehensive update with some great new additions.
The existing collection of 32 colours comprising 14 wood planks, 8 herringbones and 10 tiles across 2 toastrack displays grows to now display 46 colours on 3 toastrack displays.
“It is becoming apparent that microplastics may impact human health and we need to understand how to limit our exposure. The flooring industry needs to play its part and consider new ways to reduce the release of microplastics from carpets,” says the report, written by Dr Fay Couceiro, Reader in Biogeochemistry and Environmental Pollution at the University of Portsmouth and published in May this year.
Fibres are of particular concern regarding inhalation as they can cause problems with lung health and a recent study showed that having carpet in your house can double the number of microfibre plastics in the air.
COREtec will add 11 wood planks in 1500mm, 1800mm, creative multi-series and ultra realistic pressed bevel formats along with increasing the popular herringbones to a total of 10 colours across 3 sizes. 5 tile designs will be deleted to make way for 6 brand new Megatile large format stone designs giving 11 stone designs in total.
The full new Naturals collection is stocked exclusively by Likewise Floors with all designs available now for quick delivery.
“Carpet companies are heavily promoting the shift to using recycled plastics as a more environmental and sustainable solution, but are not yet considering the impacts of microplastics. Instead, durability, cleanability and low prices are the key selling points,” says the report.
The full Naturals collection can be seen on their beautiful new website coretecfloors.com where you’ll also find the powerful room visualiser tool and it will all be on display at this year’s Flooring Show in Harrogate.
It notes that the apparel industry is taking the issue seriously and exploring new initiatives. This may be because microplastics in clothing get into watercourses through the discharge from washing machines and have therefore become part of the higher-profile issue of microplastics in rivers and oceans.
As with all COREtec floors, the New Naturals collection is 100% waterproof, R10 slip resistant, backed by a lifetime residential guarantee and is also rated for commercial use.
In its conclusion, the report says that the carpet industry should start prioritising research to determine which products are producing the most microplastics, and in which environments. Part of this could include which polymer types and weaves are the best performing, and how different coatings can impact microplastic numbers and their toxicity.
“Is it time for more transparency and collaboration?” asks the report. “Researchers, industry and government need to work together to solve the problem.” www.port.ac.uk/news-events-and-blogs/features/microplastics-in-our-homes
Forest
F. Ball’s expert in the East
F. Ball and Co. Ltd. has appointed Kyle Malcolm as technical representative for the East of England.
As one of F. Ball’s regional technical representatives, he will provide expert technical advice, training and on-site assistance to flooring contractors, distributors and retailers across the region 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 casespecific reports advising on the best course of action for particular flooring projects.
Kyle has 22 years’ experience in the flooring industry, including 15 years as a sales manager and flooring estimator, in which time he helped plan and create specifications for flooring projects. He was also an area sales manager for a national flooring distribution company for seven years.
Commenting on his appointment, he said: “The chance to join a market leader in the flooring industry doesn’t come along every day, and I spoke to a now colleague who recommended working for the company, so I jumped at the opportunity. I’m looking forward to using my skills and knowledge to support flooring contractors, as well as pushing myself and drawing on the wealth of knowledge at F. Ball to advise on flooring installations in countless different circumstances and environments.”
Outside of work, Kyle enjoys watching football and playing golf, as well as going wild camping when he has the time. He loves being outside, especially with his dog, and exploring various rural locations.
T 01538 361 633 • www.f-ball.co.uk
The ultimate renovation floor
70 is the magic number
When it comes to unlocking the ultimate in heavy-duty performance with IVC Commercial heterogeneous vinyl floors, 70 is the magic number.
Isafe 70 brings stylish slip-resistance thanks to its easy to look after Hypergrip finish that brings TRRL 36+ slip restraint. Paired with a 0.70mm wear layer, it provides a sure finish underfoot that can withstand heavy-duty use. Unlike traditional safety flooring, it’s available in wood and concrete designs, as well as terrazzo and striking all-over colours.
Optimise 70 is designed for spaces that need good acoustics. With 19dB of impact sound reduction thanks to a unique compact foam layer, Optimise 70 keeps sound at bay and helps to create a quieter space. Again, with a 0.70mm wear layer, it delivers exceptional durability and comes in 54 different looks to meet the design objectives of any project.
In the new Iperform 70, IVC Commercial has created the ultimate heavy-duty sheet vinyl floor. Thanks to its Performance Barrier layer that brings strength and stability as well as lasting appearance retention, and its 0.70mm wear layer, Iperform 70 achieves the highest possible classification for vinyl floors. In 60 different design options across wood, concrete, terrazzo and all-over colours, it’s also packed full of choice for any project.
All floors in IVC Commercial’s 70 performance series benefit from Hyperguard+ (Hypergrip on Isafe 70). This advanced treatment not only protects the surface of the floor and enhances scratchresistance, but it also means that it is easier to take care of without the use of specialist cleaners or top-up treatments. Alongside this low maintenance enhancement, 70 series floors have Sanitec technology for lifetime anti-bacterial resistance that prevents the growth of mould.
www.ivc-commercial.com
With an integrated underlay and easy click installation, Moduleo LayRed is fast and simple to fit, even over old floors and subfloors that are less than perfect – a floor that’s ready to take on room refurbishment
With excellent strength and stability, it bridges imperfections and resists shrinkage and expansion for a reliable click installation vinyl floor that has a lifetime warranty. LayRed’s integrated underlay also improves acoustics and walking comfort. With no annoying click or crack sounds, it deadens the sound of footsteps and absorbs impact noise for a floor that’s noticeably quieter than ceramic tiles, laminate, wood and other rigid vinyl floors. A protective top layer repels dust and dirt and resists scratches and stains for lasting good looks. Simple to maintain with just water, LayRed is a proposition that’s easy to care for in every room of the home. As with all Moduleo floors, LayRed delivers the best design. Two sizes of plank or tile and range designs in colours made for modern living make it easy to find the right look for any interior style. From calm and serene wood designs like Midland Oak to the drama of York Stone, LayRed captures the creativity and uniqueness of nature. With LayRed EIR realism is heightened further thanks to synchronised pattern and texture and perfect levels of matt and gloss.
Moduleo has also made sure that homeowners wanting a herringbone floor for their room can also benefit from the fast and simple fitting of LayRed planks and tiles. LayRed Herringbone uses a unique Unizip click system for one plank that clicks both ways and comes in 12 distinct wood effects.
Moduleo LayRed can be introduced into your store with the Slot Display (with optional Stand Alone Console) or the Compact Elemental Display for a fully featured in-store POS that includes leaflets, brochures a demo box and full-size XL planks, along with slot boards of all Moduleo LayRed designs. T 01332 851 500 • www.moduleo.co.uk
Designed for use in healthcare & leisure locations, communal
Latest data from the ONS confirms reports of the summer doldrums that have depressed the flooring market, with sales down 10% in July.
The Office for National Statistics shows retail flooring down 9.8% to £242m in July, month-on-month – however, that figure is over 7% higher than this time last year when only £225.3m worth of floorcoverings were sold. July was an exceptionally poor month for the furnishing and lighting sector as a whole which was down 18.2%. This is the tenth month in a row that furniture sales have fallen but July’s data was the sharpest drop since February 2021 (when the UK was going into its third Covid lockdown).
Kris Hamer at the British Retail Consortium, said: “Homeware and furniture performed badly, as people concentrated their spending on summer experiences. The high cost of living is still bearing down on consumers, but with interest rates finally easing, retailers are hopeful that this will buoy consumers’ confidence.”
Across the economy as a whole, retail sales volumes are estimated to have risen by 0.5% in July 2024, following a fall of 0.9% in June but the actual value was down 18% month-on-month to £40bn.
World leader cuts costs by $100m
Mohawk, the world’s biggest flooring company has cited weak demand in residential markets as the driver for a $100m cost reduction campaign.
Results for the US-based conglomerate saw a 5.1% fall in worldwide sales in the second quarter of 2024, to $2.8 billion with an 8.3% fall in its Rest of the World division in which its UK activity is included. Mohawk is best know in the UK for its StainMaster and SmartStrand brands (sold by Lano).
Fall-out from the Carpetright collapse
Carpetright’s collapse in July closed more than 200 stores with job losses of over 1,500 and trade creditors facing unpaid invoices which could total as much as £300m.
”Carpetright has fallen victim to challenges facing many retailers, especially those selling big ticket items,” said Zelf Hussain, joint administrator with PwC. “A mixture of factors, including a big reduction in consumer spending due to cost of living pressures, lower home sales and a debilitating cyber attack made it impossible for the business to continue in its current form. The sale of some stores and the brand to Tapi has allowed over 300 jobs to be saved.”
A statement from Carpetright said: “We are desperately sad not to have been able to save more of the business and customer orders. However, as we looked into the details of the situation, we quickly established that saving the entire business was unviable. Carpetright has been materially loss making for a number of years, and it has significant debt held by the owner.”
54 stores continue to trade as “the new Carpetright company” according to the brand’s updated website and you can check out the list at https://www.carpet-right.co.uk/help/carpetright-update
Tapi paid £3.7m for the stores they took over and for the group’s stock of flooring according to the administrators PwC who disclosed £1.77m was paid for the lease premiums on those leasehold stores and £1.79m for stock held in store and at the Carpetright warehouse in Purfleet. The balance was for plant and equipment.
Deflation in vinyl as carpet prices hold steady
Retail prices for vinyl and other smooth flooring showed deflation in July, falling 3.6% while carpet prices remained stable.
According to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), carpets and rugs showed a tiny 0.6% increase last month.
This time last year, flooring prices were rising by over 10% and this trend continued over the winter, despite marked falls in the furnishing sector as a whole at the beginning of 2024.
This July, the furnishing category reported 2.4% deflation, a little further down from a 2% reduction in prices in June. Overall, the ONS said consumer price inflation rose to 2.2% in the year to July 2024, compared to 2.0% in June.
Burmatex gains strength after slow Q2
UK commercial flooring specialist AIREA plc saw sales fall 5.6% in the first half of 2024 but trade is starting to improve.
In its latest trading update for the six months ended 30 June 2024, the makers of Burmatex said Q1 sales started well but there was an unexpected slowdown in Q2.
UK sales were only marginally down but international trade took a 22% hit due to “ongoing economic and geopolitical concerns”.
However, the company added: “There has been an encouraging start to the third quarter, with positive trading in July and finishing with a strong order book, especially for our low-carbon and carbon-neutral products.”
AIREA says the major investment in its manufacturing facility in Ossett, West Yorkshire, announced in January, remained on track to be completed in early 2025.
Tapi has suggested that a larger number of stores could not be saved without the risk of a referral to the Competition and Markets Authority which might have stalled a deal to save any of the business.
It has also been revealed that Carpetright did not own its own brand at the time of the collapse. This had already been acquired by Carpetright parent company Nestware in 2023 in return for a cash injection into the failing business last year. The brand has now been sold to Tapi but the sum has not been disclosed.
Carpetright’s book debts were not part of the transaction. It has been reported that creditors could be owed over £300m following the collapse but this figure has not yet been confirmed.
The Floor Room fails at John Lewis
The Floor Room followed Carpetright into administration on August 9, closing its concessions in 34 John Lewis shops.
Founded only last year, The Floor Room, traded independently from John Lewis and depended on its sister company Carpetright for much of its operations. The Floor Room, which had one of its own stores in London, said it was unable to fulfil any outstanding orders that had been placed and some 200 staff have been made redundant.
As recently as July, The Floor Room featured in the John Lewis Autumn/ Winter press show as the store group’s flooring partner.
Bensons for Beds has announced that it has successfully acquired 19 locations where Carpetright was trading previously.
Entries are now open to the iconic Flooring Innovation Awards
The national Flooring Innovation Awards set out to identify products and services that are genuinely new and exceptional in the sector. Award categories cover not only flooring products, but also recognise achievements in service, technology and marketing. The awards scheme website gives full details of all the categories for 2024/2025 and has an entry form for companies to make their submissions to the judges or for readers to suggest their favourite innovation products.
UNMISSABLE SHOW HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2024
Next month sees the largest ever edition of The Flooring Show return to its beloved home in Harrogate. To help you make the most of your visit and plan your schedule, here’s some of the key features at the industry event of the year.
Largest line-up
The Flooring Show’s exhibitors span 300 brands across the breadth of the flooring industry –manufacturers and suppliers of carpet, laminate, LVT, wood, vinyl, cork, grass, SPC, as well as underlay, adhesives, software, machinery and tools. The names that visitors know and love will be returning to support the three-day show, and there are plenty of newcomers joining the event this year.
Designer Spotlight - new for 2024
This year The Flooring Show are introducing the Design Spotlight, in response to the demand from architects, interior designers, property developers, and specifiers in search of the most unique, design-oriented residential and contract flooring solutions on the market.
Event Director, Alex Butler, says: “The Design Spotlight is a feature we’ve wanted to introduce for a couple of years now, and the expansion into Hall Q allows us to do just that. We want architects and interior designers to know that The Flooring Show caters for them as much as it does for our contractors and fitters.”
The Wool Trends Centre
Every year there’s a showcase of new developments within the wool carpet sector and this year the feature promises something exceptional. The focus remains on science backed messages regarding the benefits of using wool as opposed to synthetic fibres but they will be presented in a totally new manner.
Chairman of the Wool Carpet Focus Group and Council Member for the Campaign for Wool, Martin Curtis, promises something for the whole family to enjoy and get involved with.
Demo Zone
As always, the Demo Zone, run by the Flooring Industry Training Association (FITA) and supported by the Contract Flooring Association (CFA) and National Institute of Carpet & Floorlayers (NICF) is back in Hall B to impart more wisdom on the latest techniques and insights into working with the newest products on the market, via their live demonstrations.. The full programme of demonstrations is featured on page 62
Carpet Fitter of the Year 2024
The much-anticipated final of the NICF Fitter of the Year 2024 (Carpet) will be taking place in the King’s Suite across the Sunday and Monday. This is floor fitting at its finest so don’t miss this nailbiting competition as the five finalists put their carpet installation skills to test. See www.theflooringshow.com for more details and to register in advance
OPENING TIMES
Sunday 15th September: 9.30am – 5.30pm
Monday 16th September: 9.30am – 5.30pm
Tuesday 17th September: 9.30am – 3.00pm
“The footprint of this year’s show is 30% bigger and full to the brim with world-leading names that you know and love, alongside manufacturers exhibiting at the event for the first time.” Alex Butler, event director of The Flooring Show.
Exhibitors List 2024
A T Industries Ltd
B17
Abingdon Flooring Ltd A25
Adam Carpets Ltd C69
AFT Aerosol K14
Alliance Flooring Distribution A35
Alsa Flooring Q44
Anglo Flooring Ltd M15
Anhui Aolo New Materials Technology Co.,Ltd. C20
Anhui Huaisu Building Materials Co., Ltd M49
Artisan Luxury Flooring A5
Associated Carpet Group C11
Associated Weavers C44 & C63
Axminster Carpets Ltd C40
AYM SYNTEX Ltd King Suite Lounge
Baglinox C56A
Ball & Young Limited M27
Balta Floorcoverings Limited M23
Betap Reading Room
Bjelin UK Q86
BMK A8
Bostik Limited B24
Brampton Chase B39
Brintons C71
British Wool C70
Brockway Carpets C8
Campen Machinery A/S C67
Canopy Flooring Company M63
Cardinal Global Logistics Q32
Carpenters Limited M38
Carpet Recycling UK A45
Carpetline Direct A33
Cavalier Carpets Ltd C32
CD Support Ltd Kings Suite Cafe
CFJ B14
Changzhou Baosheng Wood Q20
Changzhou Cosyhome New Materials B54 Technology Co., Ltd
Changzhou Dege Decorative Material Co., Ltd. K19
Changzhou Lingda Special Fibre Co., Ltd. M48
Changzhou Shangjiaju Wood Industry Co.,Ltd C57
Changzhou Surdecor Material Co.,Ltd. C37
Changzhou Yee Decorative Material Co., Ltd. B18
Chiping Jiahua Plastics Co., Ltd. B45
Classis BVBA The Billiard Room & The Regency Suite
Cockerill & Co A32
Computers for Flooring A30
Condor Carpets NV Drawing Room
COREtec Floors M35
Cormar Carpet Co. A28
Curtain Express C15
Damar Marcin Damięcki K18
Darekaou Industry Co., Ltd M54
Digital Plus Q34
Dolphin Rubber Industries Q75
Dongda Wood Ltd. K6
Egger (UK) Ltd B47
Elliott Anti-Slip M58
Endura-Bull Flooring B40
ETF Machinefabriek B.V B64
EveryRoom B60
Evolve Flooring Q51
Exotic Indian Broadlooms C4
F Ball & Co Ltd B1
Fablon Fine Carpets Q42
Fells Carpets C73
Fento Knee Protection Fibre B11
The Flooring Show, Harrogate, is the only national flooring event which is open to all and represents an unrivalled networking opportunity for the trade.
Fibre A5
Filpa Packaging & Foreign Trade Co A1
Fiximer Ltd Q50
Floor Master Q52
Floorify C29
Floormart B10
Floors N Carpets M36
Fosham Shengmeirui Aluminum Indsutry Co.,Ltd. K4
Furlong Flooring A22
Furlong Flooring Wood Division A36
Gaziflex Majestic Hotel
Gekko Flooring Adhesive M7
Genesis Flooring Limited B43
Giap Southeast Anatolian Exporters Harewood Associations’ Suite
Ibexx Flooring Group B.V. Buxton Suite/Majestic Hotel iDEAL
Bath Suite - Majestic Hotel
Innov8 | Realitex Q10
Instarmac Group Limited B50
Interfloor Limited B22
Interiors Monthly C36
J2 Flooring B26
Jaspa Woven Limited C39
Jiangsu Langyue New Materials Technology K17 Co., Ltd.
Jiangsu YMK Floor Co., Ltd. Q76
Jiangsu ZhenRui Furniture Material Co., Ltd Q56
Jiangsu Zhongxinhe New Material Technology K5 Co.,Ltd.
Juvern LLC C45
Kährs UK M12
KDF Co Ltd K10
Kellars A17
Kerlux M39
Kingsmead & Telenzo C30/42
Kraus B9
Lano N.V. M24
Lifestyle Floors B29
Likewise Floors M28
Make an Entrance C10
Manx Tomkinson C72
Mapei UK Ltd B5
MasterPiece Systems Ltd C76
Mattex M50
Measure Square Ltd C14
Melrose Interiors M41A
Mercado B61
Metro Group M53
Modema C65
Nanjing Mgm New Materials Co. Ltd C16A
Nicola Edwards Bespoke Carpet Edging C55
Ningbo Narts Import & Export Corp Q54
O Jia He Home Textile Co., Ltd. Q28
Packexe Ltd B53
Penthouse Carpets Ltd C7
Peri Uk Q94
Pet Rebellion Limited C24
Plusfloor Outside Royal Hall
Proglobal Products/Tailor Made Grass C23
QEP Co UK Ltd B9
Zhejiang
Zhejiang
Zhejiang
Zhejiang
Zhejiang
Come and meet the team
The Tredaire-nauts will be landing at The Flooring Show in Harrogate this September.
They’re here to show you how our pioneering campaign is bringing the UK’s favourite underlay brand to new audiences yet to discover the incredible feeling of Tredaire’s product range.
Feels like nothing on earth.
National TV and radio campaign
A dynamic trio of TV, radio and digital advertising to educate consumers about the inimitable feeling of Tredaire underlay.
Groundbreaking retailer support
Propelling POS into a new dimension with brand new sample range designs, display units, banners, floor mats, window stickers and much more!
Don’t miss out Contact your Territory Manager for more information and your mission pack.
Abingdon Flooring Experience the power of the portal
Abingdon Flooring will be sharing the newest developments to its Trade Portal at The Flooring Show. With product updates, positive news in sustainability and product development heading in exciting new areas, Abingdon Flooring will also be at The Flooring Show showcasing the latest version of its Trade Portal.
Charlotte Coop, Head of Marketing, Abingdon Flooring, says: “We’re excited about the improvements to the Trade Portal as they respond to functionality requests from its users – retailers across the country. With much better flexibility and anytime availability, the Trade Portal is a more effective way to manage your Abingdon Flooring account.”
The Abingdon Flooring team will be demonstrating the new Trade Portal on Abingdon Flooring’s new-look stand, so simply ask one of the team to see it in action. And no appearance at The Flooring Show would be complete without presenting future product launches, exclusive reveals and updates to popular ranges.
So, if you’re making the trip to The Flooring Show this September make sure that Abingdon Flooring is your first visit.
Hall A Stand 25 • 01274 655 694 • www.abingdonflooring.co.uk
Satra
Your testing partner
SATRA was founded in 1919 to support footwear manufacturers through research and testing. Over time, its expertise grew, and the reach expanded internationally. While footwear remains a core strength, SATRA’s services now extend into floor coverings, furniture, personal protective equipment (PPE) and chemical testing.
SATRA’s floor covering team, working to ISO 17025, offers a wide range of testing in line with many UK, European and international standards. It conducts various tests, such as slip resistance, reaction to fire and resistance to artificial light, alongside evaluations required by industry product specifications, including ISO 10582, ISO 11638, EN 16511, EN 13845 and EN 1307, allowing manufacturers to ensure that their products are safe to use and fit for purpose.
SATRA is also an Approved Body and can assist with UKCA certification of flooring products covered by harmonised standards EN 14342, EN 14904 and EN 14041.
With less than 12 months to go until the UKCA marking deadline for Construction Products, now is a great time to get in touch.
Hall M Stand 9 • +44 (0) 1536 410000 • www.satra.com
Forest Oak Nutmeg Herringbone
Abingdon portal
Satra CPD2
A natural, chunky loop pile carpet suitable for all areas of the home. Made from 100% Pure New Wool using a 3-ply, moth resistant yarn.
This high-quality wool loop carpet comes in 10 neutral heathered tones for the perfect blend of style and practicality.
fibre
Pioneers in beautiful woven floors
Luxury flooring brand fibre launches three new innovative ranges at Harrogate.
ReVive: A range of striking flatweave carpets made from recycled plastic bottles (RePEt yarn). Featuring stunning chevron and basketweave designs, soft to touch yet durable. Class 33 wear rating and CFL-s1 fire rating, its ideal for high-end domestic, contract and even outdoor projects.
BioSisal: possibly the UK’s most sustainable carpet, 100% organic sisal pile with a unique plant-based felt backing made from recycled organic materials – latex free, no adhesives or fillers and a 100% compostable. A classic boucle design in five soothing earthy tones.
Sisal-Look Rib: complimenting the already successful Sisal-Look range the new Rib design combines the natural beauty of a sisal floor covering with the practicality and durability of a synthetic yarn. Boasting a class 33 wear rating & a CFL-s1 fire rating, ideal for high-end residential and commercial projects, suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
Hall A Stand 5 • 01548 436 401 • www.fibreflooring.com
Artisan Luxury Flooring The watchword
in prestigious flooring
Artisan Luxury Flooring brings decades of expertise to the luxury flooring market, with offices and warehousing in the UK and Europe. Artisan work with select retailers to offer innovative, stylish floorcoverings and exceptional service. Their debut ranges, made from 100% nylon and micro-engineered polyester, feature a lavish silk-like finish that has already taken the trade by storm.
Building on this success, Artisan is pleased to announce four new products: Bellezza; their heaviest weight polyester, where performance meets indulgence. Alora; the epitome of deep pile opulence, boasting the heaviest cut pile nylon on the market. Amalfi and Positano; luxurious handwoven range of carpets in a velvet & tip sheared design, crafted from a superior grade nylon that is inherently durable and resilient.
Be among the first to see their new trials of handwoven 100% New Zealand wool carpets, the perfect pairing of nature & nurture.
Hall A Stand 5 • 01548 721 069 • www.artisanluxuryflooring.co.uk
FLOORINGFOCUS • MAN-MADE CARPETS
Seeking better sales after those summertime blues?
Many of the latest man-made options in the carpet sector offer retailers an added-value element to help trade consumers up a little on performance, quality and sustainability. See pages 66–69...
fibre’s Gorse Twill stair runner and Gorse Chevron rug
Amalfi Cantone
Axminster Carpets The true authentic
Axminster Carpets is seeing a period of strong growth with woven-to-order ranges (sold through independent retailers) up over 50% so far in 2024; the impact of the recent Inside the Factory TV showcase; plus new collections and new POS.
The factory, based in Devon, looks to further extend its position as the true authentic in weaving, with Axminster’s from Axminster – a proud British carpet manufacturer.
Axminster Carpets will be launching further new colourways to established key selling ranges such as Devonia, Moorland and the 6-ply cable-tec Simply Natural ranges and adding innovative new patterns and exclusive ranges to the woven to order collections. There will also be a showcase of Axminster Carpets bespoke branded POS, including double sided lecterns, tombolas and sampling books.
Representing British manufacturing at its best, Axminster Carpets offers an unrivalled quality of sustainable 100% wool and wool-rich flooring. All carpets are made using the finest materials and generations of weaving expertise.
Visit the Axminster Carpets stand to see the latest collections, bespoke POS and to pick up the new brochure.
Hall C Stand 40 • 01297 33533 • www.axminster-carpets.co.uk
Kaleidoscope
Kingsmead Carpets
All out to impress
Kingsmead Carpets is ready to impress at The Flooring Show in Harrogate this September. Located in Hall C, Stand C30, they will unveil a selection of standout collections, including favourites like the new Hawford, and Hallow ranges with samples available to explore.
Everything Kingsmead does is aimed at helping customers in Making a House into a Real Home. Whether dealing with a muddy pet, energetic kids, or a busy schedule, its products are designed to meet every day needs and make life easier. To demonstrate how simple Kingsmead is to maintain, they will offer live cleaning demos at the stand, 4-5 times daily. Led by a Woolsafe-certified expert, these 10 –15-minute sessions will provide practical tips on maintaining 100% wool, wool mix, and synthetic carpets in top condition.
Best of all, these demos are free and require no booking. Whether you are seeking fresh design inspiration or expert carpet care advice, Kingsmead has got you covered.
Hall C Stand 30 • 01827 831424 • www.kingsmeadcarpets.co.uk
Telenzo
Promising peace of mind
Telenzo is set to turn heads at The Flooring Show in Harrogate this September. Whether you’re a loyal partner or new to the brand, Telenzo welcomes you to their stand to learn more about the Telenzo Promise – a dedicated charter that provides support and guaranteed peace of mind to set the company apart from the rest.
You’ll have the chance to see the refreshed Barbican collection with its new colours and designs. Plus, preview the stylish new Delft Square Herringbone design, crafted from high-quality New Zealand wool. Telenzo retailers can also get details of the special price reduction on the current Delft Square range.
Telenzo looks forward to connecting with everyone who visits – it’s a fantastic opportunity to chat, learn, and collaborate. The stand will be the perfect place to discover new collections and enjoy a touch of sophistication.
Hall C Stand 30/42 • 01827 831497 • www.edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk
Join the team at Everyroom’s lively stand where they’ll be presenting the latest new collections, including Cedar Falls, Trinity Sands, Velocity Twist, Logan, Viking Bay, Oregon Plus, Identity, Woodland, and a preview of a brand-new laminate – each one offering a stylish and affordable flooring option.
Everyroom will bring the fun and games with their Nintendo Switch game. Test your skills in various challenges and you might win the Nintendo Switch itself along with other spot prizes.
They’re also offering free beer and water to keep you refreshed as you explore, chat with the team, and connect with others. Drop by the stand to check out new products, join the excitement, and even take home a fantastic prize.
Speak to your Area Sales Manager or email enquiries@.every-room.co.uk
Fells Carpets
Rich heritage of reliability and quality
Fells Carpets are excited to invite you to discover a rich heritage and an unwavering commitment to quality and reliability. Explore Fells’ distinctive ranges, featuring the luxurious Wilton carpet collections, and delve into the story behind this trusted brand.
An expert sales team will be on hand to answer your questions and provide insights into what sets Fells Carpets apart in the flooring industry. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with them and experience these exceptional products first hand.
Hall C Stand 73 • 01827 831412 • www.fellscarpets.co.uk
Manx Tomkinson Superior craftsmanship, contemporary style
Visit Manx Tomkinson during The Flooring Show to explore an exceptional product range, including the six new colours in their unique Puerto Rico collection.
Known for luxurious, durable wool carpets, Manx Tomkinson blends natural elegance with lasting quality. This event is the perfect chance to discover how they combine superior craftsmanship with contemporary style. The friendly and knowledgeable sales team is ready to chat, answer your questions, and offer valuable insights. Everyone is welcome, but be sure to get there early—it’s first come, first served for a refreshing pina colada at 4 pm every day at the stand. They look forward to seeing you there!
Hall C Stand 72 • 01827 831450 • www.manxtomkinson.co.uk
Trinity Sands by Everyroom
Tomkinson’s Puerto Rico Areabo
Fells’ Runswick Bay
Lifestyle Floors Take the time to explore trends
The team at Lifestyle Floors is eager to invite you to explore the latest trends in flooring and to discover their new collections, featuring standout designs like Rolling Hills, Platinum Plus, Divine Decadence, Iridescence, Boho Bliss, Adoro, and Cottage Berber – ideal for any domestic space.
But that’s not all – you won’t want to miss an exciting competition. Dive into Lifestyle’s lookbooks and test your senses with its feeler boxes. Identify the new products by touch alone, and you could win an Apple Watch. It’s a fantastic chance to engage with Lifestyle’s innovative designs in a fun, interactive way.
Take the time to get involved and you might walk away with a watch!
Speak to your Area Sales Manager or email info@lifestyle-floors.co.uk
Hall B Stand 29 • www.lifestyle-floors.co.uk
The Stocklists Click or flick – the ultimate info source for flooring
The Stocklists & Flooring News is UK’s favourite title for the retail flooring and contract industry with daily digital news and a monthly magazine.
The Stocklists is often referred to as the ‘bible’ of the flooring business that keeps the industry informed of all the offers, product launches, industry news and appointments.
Click into our busy news website which has daily updates as well as more detailed news items and features on trends and styles. Follow us for breaking business news on flooring on X and LinkedIn. And make sure you’re on our digital list for monthly email bulletins and the digital editions of the magazine.
Flick through our printed copy of the magazine each month for all the inspiration and innovation you need to drive your business.
Click or flick – fill out the forms on our website to get just what you need to succeed.
Hall A Stand 7 • 01482 659396 • www.thestocklists.com
Campaign for Wool Integrity and inspiration
The Campaign for Wool is proud to confirm its continued Royal patronage with King Charles and celebrates at Harrogate a unique installation of inspirational trends, in association with The Wool Carpet Focus Group (WCFG).
The Flooring Show will showcase the juxtaposition and benefits of using British wools and New Zealand wools, as part of the Campaign for Wool and WCFG.
Undyed wool emerges as a key material direction for those interested in creating wellness spaces or healthier interior schemes. Patterned loops and natural tone on tone stripes keep floors looking fresh and contemporary.
From British Wool for performance and durability with New Zealand wool for extra whiteness, brightness and lustre, the quality of the wool really does add cachet when it comes to design led wool flooring. Manufacturing provenance is also important in an increasingly environmentally conscious world.
For those seeking healthier interior spaces, research has consistently shown that wool carpets can help mitigate the effects of changing indoor air humidity. High in water and nitrogen content, wool is also naturally flame-retardant
Hall C • Wool Trends Centre • www.campaignforwool.org
Divine Decadence
(Top) Gatsby Tiffany, 100% NZ wool flatweave; and (bottom) Lakeland Herdwick, 4-colour Stipple in 100% British wool; both by Brockway Carpets. Photographer: Andy Davis.
Abingdon Affordable and sustainable
This year’s show is promising to be a big one for Abingdon Flooring as the UK carpet manufacturer brings new entries into the market and introduces colour updates that keep its StainFree, Love Story and Wilton Royal carpets at the forefront of stylish affordable carpets for today’s home.
On a new-look stand, Abingdon Flooring will show retailers how its reputation in great value remains at the heart of its new market entries as well as how it is responding to the growing need for carpets that provide a more sustainable buying choice.
Hall A Stand 25 • 01274 655 694 • www.abingdonflooring.co.uk
Associated Weavers
Anniversary and innovation
Founded in 1964, this year will be one to celebrate as AW turns 60!
Associated Weavers (AW) is one of the leading European manufacturers of tufted wall to wall carpet and a challenger to be reckoned with in the world of luxury vinyl flooring, with its award-winning brand: “Invictus”. Always a leader in innovation, their highly anticipated ReVerse range will be one of many exciting products being showcased at this year’s show.
Hall C Stand 44 & 63 • 01422 431100 www.associated-weavers.co.uk
Betap Accessible style, durable choices
At Betap in Genemuiden, they blend traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to produce high-quality floor coverings for homes and businesses. For over a century, Betap has dedicated itself to creating innovative products that are recognized globally, all at the best possible prices.
Its mission is clear: “To make innovative flooring solutions accessible to everyone.” Betap believes that top-notch quality should be accessible to all. The focus is on delivering products that meet and exceed the aesthetic and functional expectations of its customers while maintaining the lowest possible prices.
Majestic Hotel • +31 (0)38 386 1060 • www.betap.com
Carpet Line Direct Nationwide business is BEST
Carpet Line Direct are a regional flooring distribution business based in the North East of England. Owned by Victoria PLC, Carpet Line Direct have the capacity and logistics to take the business nationwide.
The new nationwide business will also see the launch of BEST room. BEST room is CarpetLine’s collection of entry level ranges that will service the price sensitive sector of the market.
On the stand this year visitors will be able to experience the vast array of products that Carpet Line offer at competitive prices in order to support the independent retailers.
Hall A Stand 33 • 01429 892500 • www.carpetlinedirect.co.uk
ACG Comfortably competitive
ACG are a not-for-profit, non-intrusive, member owned national buying group made up of over 315 member stores. Membership is by association, and you are not required to change any of your current inhouse processes or place orders through central hubs.
Consisting mainly of independently family run businesses, ACG uses the combined buying power of its member stores to broker the best trade pricing from the industries main suppliers. With access to the hugely successful, multi-award-winning group rebrand Smart Choice, retailers can secure more orders and comfortably compete with high street, online and man in a van price comparison.
Hall C Stand 11 • www.acgcarpets.com • www.smartchoicecarpets.co.uk
Hugh Mackay Passion for design
Hugh Mackay is set to make a significant impression at the upcoming flooring show in Harrogate this September.
They will unveil five exciting new Axminster collections, crafted in partnership with esteemed interior designer and TV personality Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen. These ranges have been curated to reflect Laurence’s passion for design and explores new dimensions of interior aesthetics. Visitors can expect to experience firsthand the quality and creativity that define Hugh Mackay Carpets, reaffirming their reputation as leaders in the industry.
Hall A Stand 44 • 01429 892555 • www.hughmackay.co.uk
Carpenter World leading luxury
Carpenter is the world-leading producer of PU foam carpet underlay. Their ultra-durable, high-quality underlay products make carpet soft, luxurious and resilient.
They produce and distribute a range of topquality carpet underlay designed to help reduce impact noise and insulate floors. Carpenter underlay is widely used in all kinds of domestic installations, cruise ships and marine applications, care homes, hotels, offices and many other places. Their wide range of products can suit any purpose.
Hall M Stand 38 • 01457 861141 • www.carpenter.com
Condor Carpets Proven partnership, rapid response
Condor’s R&D and sales team is excited to present the Group’s new collections which will be a mix of affordable classics, new products in stunning designs and a wide palette of sustainable collections.
This year at the Flooring Show, Condor Group will be represented at the Majestic Hotel by Condor Carpets, VEBE, Timzo and Condor Grass, among others. All members will showcase their latest innovations and sustainable solutions and they look forward to seeing you in the Drawing Room.
Visitors to the F. Ball stand will be able to watch live demonstrations of Stopgap 1400 and other F. Ball products delivered by the company’s training department on the stand’s live demonstration area.
Stopgap 1400 is a two-component smoothing compound, with superior flow and self-smoothing properties. Stopgap 1400 is walk-on hard from just 90 minutes after application and ready to receive floorcoverings from 12 hours. Also debuting at the show will be new designs for F. Ball’s iconic yellow buckets used for its Styccobond adhesives. The new designs have been introduced to modernise the look of the plastic buckets and simplify product selection, in keeping with new smoothing compound sacks introduced last year.
Hall B Stand 1 • 01538 361 633• www.f-ball.co.uk
Greendale
Carpets & Flooring Debut of iD brand
Greendale aims to consistently progress, and its award-winning brand is being complemented further by the launch of the new iD collection.
This comprehensive and unique collection comprises a variety of ranges available in a portable presentation case, swatches and 18 x 18 samples.
As well as the user-friendly online portal, rebranding and exclusive member territories, Greendale provides dedicated customer services, one account and one bill as well as a bespoke warehouse facility.
Hall C Stand 66 • 01432 852000 • www.greendalecarpets.co.uk
Interfloor A new era of Tredaire
The Tredaire-nauts are landing at this year’s Flooring Show on their mission to bring luxury and comfort to homes across the universe.
Their bold mission to put the Tredaire name at the forefront of customers’ minds continues.
The Tredaire-nauts will guide you through the dynamic TV, radio, and digital advertising campaign, heralding the beginning of a vibrant new era for the Tredaire brand. The campaign invites retail customers to explore the latest sampling and POS materials available for their stores, featuring brand-new sample range designs, display units, banners, floor mats, window stickers, and more.
Hall B Stand 22 • 01706 213 131 • www.interfloor.com
Lano Busy building up their portfolio
One thing is for sure, Lano are not sitting still and that will certainly be seen on their stand at the show.
The launch of the evergreens Star Twist and Heather Twist has been a success. These qualities, which have been running at Lano for more than 30 years, have been given a modern touch without compromising their classic look. Scala has been a well-known name in the industry for years and the addition of the unique Scala Combinations concept to the already existing Scala Solutions has taken the quality family to a new level. With the Scala Combinations, Lano shows that carpet can be really fun.
Hall M Stand 24 • +32 (0)56 65 40 00 • www.lano.com
Furlong Flooring Transform your space
Furlong Flooring offers a diverse range of products to meet every flooring need. Their carpets are designed for comfort and style, including options that combine luxury with durability.
The laminate flooring selection features water-resistant options ideal for high-traffic and moisture-prone areas.
For those looking for eco-friendly choices, the sustainable wood flooring options provide both beauty and environmental responsibility. Additionally, their resilient flooring solutions are perfect for commercial spaces, offering long-lasting performance and easy maintenance.
Hall A Stand 22 • 01772 316155 • www.furlongflooring.com
Cormar Carpet Co.
Investing in inspiration
Cormar Carpets will be displaying the latest addition to their wool loop collection, Shetland, alongside their recently relaunched Inglewood Saxony range. For this year’s show, Cormar will be launching an innovative new range for the Autumn, a welcomed addition to their award-winning product portfolio.
With significant investments made this year in new ranges, enhancing their manufacturing capabilities and expanding their delivery fleet, it’s clear Cormar Carpets remain committed to advancing their position as leaders in the industry.
Hall A Stand 28 • 01204 881234 • portal.cormarcarpets.co.uk
Balta Attracting consumer attention
Since Balta was last at Harrogate, it has streamlined its portfolio by introducing three main families, creating an easier shopping experience for the consumer.
Finishing Touch consists of all the polypropylene products, so called because they are the perfect finishing touch to any room. Made in Heaven are Balta’s man-made polyester products. These feel like heaven for your feet; very soft, very gentle. And thirdly is Woolmaster, which is exactly as it sounds, the wool and wool mix ranges. And what a perfect way to showcase these collections with the new collection of POS.
Hall M Stand 23 • 03303 411410 • www.baltagroup.com/
Likewise Launch pad for new ranges
Many new carpet ranges will be displayed in contemporary greys and muted beiges as well as exciting modern fresh accent colours –from great value essentials to plush saxony’s and luxurious twists.
Launching a brand new ‘Lakes’ collection laminate range, available in 8, 10 and 12mm thickness in the latest modern decors. Designed to look like real wood using the latest innovative technology, the new ranges offer a great alternative to real wood with the benefits of being hardwearing, moisture resistant, easy to fit and suitable for both domestic and commercial with up to 15 years wear guarantee.
Hall M Stand 28 • enquiries@likewisefloors.co.uk • www.likewiseplc.com
Discover The great indoors
September is here, and that can only mean one thing: it’s time for “The Flooring Show” at the Harrogate Convention Centre.
2024 has been our most successful year yet across all areas of the business. a success highlighted by our presence at Harrogate, where we’re proud to host the largest stand at the show. Here, we’re showcasing our multiple award-winning brands, and introducing seven new collections. See you on
Stand A17
Mapei There’s a buzz about
Mapei UK is set to showcase innovation at The Flooring Show and throughout the threeday event, live demos will feature full flooring systems from its resilient flooring range, as well as new Mapeheat, Profilpas and UltraCare products. Visitors are also challenged to join a Buzzwire competition, with prizes to be won throughout the event.
Mapei’s comprehensive programme of demos will span best-selling repair, levelling and smoothing compounds, hydraulic binders, moistureresistant primers and adhesives. New innovations on show will include a working demo of Mapeheat Membrane Maxi – a waterproofing, uncoupling anti-fracture heating membrane, click system profiles, along with skirting boards and stair nosings from Mapei’s Profilpas range.
Hall B Stand 5 • 0121-5086970 • www.mapei.co.uk
Victoria Carpets & Design Floors
New offers excite interest
As always, there will be lots to see on the Victoria stand this year where they will showcase their newly updated LVT which is absolutely stunning.
The new offer consists of an updated colour bank of the popular Universal products. This is a 0.55mm collection consisting of plank, herringbone and tile designs, all available in both dryback and click.
Victoria Carpets have recently launched Easi Sisal – its first range that can be used both indoors and outdoors, allowing you to extend your interior design seamlessly. This is a collection of 12 woven carpets across a bank of four colours.
Hall A Stand 20 • 01562 749300 • www.myvictoria.co.uk
Tarkett Digital design excellence
Inspiration by Tarkett had a great year in 2023 at Harrogate – expect much more this year.
With a larger stand in the same Hall C position, again the LVT pavilion – stand C12, you can expect to see the latest in digital design flooring excellence. New products and genuinely exciting new promotional developments for the Inspiration by Tarkett brand will be on show. Hey, we know ‘exciting’ is a much over-used word these days, but trust us, you need to see this. And once again Tarkett promises to provide refreshment for any weary retail traveller who stops to say hello.
Hall C Stand 12 • 0800 328 2115 • www.tarkett.co.uk
NICF Installation excellence
The National Institute of Carpet and Floorlayers (NICF) is the home of professionals working in the domestic flooring trade. It is a highly respected organisation within the domestic flooring industry and is active in promoting the skilled floorlayer.
The aims of the NICF are to:
• Promote excellence and ethical practice within the field of domestic installations of carpet, laminate, luxury vinyl tile flooring, naturals, sheet vinyl and wood.
• Promote understanding and awareness of the British Standards Codes of Practice for the installation of floorcoverings.
• Promote assurance of quality of workmanship to the general public.
Hall B Demo Area • 0115 958 3077 • www.nicfltd.org.uk
Metro Group Invest in your business
Metro is a multi-award-winning group, formed by retailers for retailers in 1979. Members retain 100% of their independence but improve their profitability.
There are 200+ Carpet1st ranges and a unique, bespoke merchandising service which can design, print, manufacture and install everything from a business card to a shop front. Every member gets a free allowance of £720 a year to spend against this service. This is truly unique because Metro wants you to invest in your business.
The Group Central Order Service allows members to order from suppliers they do not deal with. Everything the group provides is optional, you decide because it is your business.
Hall M Stand 53 • 07753 496966 • www.carpet1st.co.uk
Veeuze GmbH Show, inspire, sell
Materialo by Veeuze GmbH is the perfect tool for flooring professionals to enhance sales and engage customers with stunning product visualizations. This user-friendly software presents flooring options – carpets, hardwood, vinyl, tiles –in a realistic and interactive way using advanced AI technology and high-quality room images.
With over 150,000 products and with the flexibility of adding your own, Materialo offers a comprehensive catalog featuring the latest collections from top manufacturers. Customers can explore a wide range of flooring visualized in their intended environments, from traditional to contemporary designs.
Hall Q Stand 87 • 020 3307 9993 • www.veeuze.com
Fitter of the Year 2024 – Carpet
The Grand Finals
The grand final will showcase the skills, craftsmanship and knowledge of the UK’s top carpet fitters.
The winner will receive some great prizes including £2,000 cash, a selection of tools, NICF Master Fitter membership free for one year plus the winner’s trophy. Come along to the Fitter of the Year stand in the King’s Suite and support the finalists on Sunday 15 and Monday 16 September. The prize giving ceremony to announce the winner takes place on the stand at 4.30pm on Monday 16 September.
King’s Suite • 0115 958 3077 • www.nicfltd.org.uk
Cavalier Carpets
New wonders in wool
The centrepiece of the Cavalier stand this year will be the latest development in their award winning wool rich twist line-up, an exciting new subtle 1/8th gauge tufted graphics, ‘Companions’.
Cavalier will also be introducing no less than three new loop pile qualities: Coastal Loop, Hawk Loop & Owlet, all made using the finest un-dyed, 100% wool yarns to the highest specifications.
Each range has its own unique texture and appearance which will surely find a place in the current trend for natural decor. Also, be amongst the first to see their newly enhanced point of sale graphics options.
Hall C Stand 32 • 01254 268 000 • www.cavaliercarpets.co.uk
• Abingdon Flooring Ltd A25
• Alliance Flooring Distribution A35
• Artisan Luxury Flooring A5
• BMK A8
• Carpet Recycling UK A45
• Carpetline Direct A33
• Cockerill & Co A32
• Computers for Flooring A30
• Cormar Carpet Co.
• Fibre
• Filpa Packaging & Foreign Trade Co
• Furlong Flooring
• Furlong Flooring Wood Division
• Hugh Mackay
• Kellars A17
• RBV Flooring Ltd
• The Stocklists
• The Vintage & Modern Rug Company
• Truth Digital
• Victoria Carpets & Design Floors
• Woven Edge Limited
Stand B60 www.every-room.co.uk
• A T Industries Ltd B17
• Bostik Limited B24
• Brampton Chase B39
• CFJ B14
• Changzhou Cosyhome New Materials B54 Technology Co., Ltd
• Changzhou Yee Decorative B18 Material Co., Ltd.
• Chiping Jiahua Plastics Co., Ltd. B45
• Egger (UK) Ltd B47
• Endura-Bull Flooring B40
• ETF Machinefabriek B.V B64
• EveryRoom B60
• F Ball & Co Ltd B1
• Fento Knee Protection Fibre B11
Stand B1 01538 361633 www.f-ball.com
Stand B22 01706 238810 sales@interfloor.com www.interfloor.com
Stand B29 www.lifestyle-floors.co.uk
• Floormart B10
• Genesis Flooring Limited B43
• Hanson Plywood Ltd B16
• Hathaway Flooring B27
• Headlam Contract B55
• Instarmac Group Limited B50
• Interfloor Limited B22
• J2 Flooring B26
• Kraus B9
• Lifestyle Floors B29
• Mapei UK Ltd B5
• Mercado B61
• Packexe Ltd B53
• QEP Co UK Ltd B9
• Roberts B9
Exhibitors located in the Majestic Hotel
• Roomvo
• Sarva Foam Industries Pvt. Ltd B40
• Spotnails Ltd B46
• Stairrods UK Ltd B42
• Stroolmount Uk Ltd B44
• Tramex Meters B8
• TRF B56
• Unifloor BV B20
• Uzin & Wolff Tools1 B15
• Wilsons Underlays B25
• XPS Foam B9
• Yorkshire Wholesale Flooring Ltd B52
• Zakmore Independent B41
Majestic Hotel, Buxton Suite info@ibexxflooringgroup.com www.ibexxflooringgroup.com
Stand C11 01942 825520 www.acgcarpets.com
• Adam Carpets Ltd C69
• Anhui Aolo New Materials Technology C20 Co.,LTD.
• Associated Carpet Group C11
• Associated Weavers C44 & C63
• Axminster Carpets Ltd C40
• Baglinox C56A
• Brintons C71
• British Wool C70
• Brockway Carpets C8
• Campen Machinery A/S C67
• Cavalier Carpets Ltd C32
• Changzhou Surdecor Material Co.,Ltd. C37
• Curtain Express C15
• Exotic Indian Broadlooms C4
• Fells Carpets C73
• Floorify C29
• Greendale Carpets & Flooring C66
C72 www.manxtomkinson.co.uk Stand C44/63 www.carpetyourlife.com
The Kings Suite, Demo Zone 0115 950 6836 www.fita.co.uk
OUTSIDE THE HALLS...
CD Support Ltd
Kings Suite Cafe
Classis BVBA
The Billiard Room & The Regency Suite
Condor Carpets NV Drawing Room
Gaziflex
Majestic Hotel
Giap Southeast Anatolian Exporters Associations Harewood Suite
IBEXX Flooring Group B.V.
Buxton Suite - Majestic
Ideal Bath Suite - Majestic Hotel Plusfloor Outside Royal Hall
Turmer Carpet Limited Harrogate Suite
The Kings Suite 0115 958 3077 www.nicfltd.org.uk/FOTYCompetition/
THE DEMO ZONES Hall B
New floor laying techniques and insights into working with the latest products can be found at the Demo Zone, run by the Flooring Industry Training Association (FITA) and supported by the Contract Flooring Association (CFA) and National Institute of Carpet & Floorlayers (NICF).
All demonstrations will be shown at the dedicated demonstration stand in Hall B, with live demonstrations from qualified instructors. FITA will also offer the opportunity for visitors to come and ask the experts anything, as they open the stand up to bespoke demonstrations of anything covered over the course of the show.
Sunday 15 September
Monday 16 September
Tuesday 17 September
10.00 Open Forum / Requested demonstrations
13.15
* Please note that the above timetables are subject to change
SHOW CHECKLIST for visitors to Harrogate
REGISTRATION
The Flooring Show is the UK's market-leading event dedicated to the flooring industry. The show takes place between 15th - 17th September 2024. Registration is open now and you should register in advance of attendance.
*PLEASE NOTE: The Flooring Show is a trade exhibition for retailers, contractors, fitters, distributors, specifiers, interior designers, property developers and architects, and is not open to the general public - view our full admissions policy below for more information.
TRAVEL
TRAIN: The HCC is linked to all major UK cities, including six daily direct LNER services between London Kings Cross and Harrogate Station (2 hours 46 minutes). Harrogate Convention Centre is just a seven minute walk (or short taxi ride) from Harrogate train station. Taxi services are available across the road opposite the main doors of the station.
PLANE: Leeds Bradford International Airport (www.leedsbradfordairport.co.uk) is 20 minutes from Harrogate; Manchester International (www.manchesterairport.co.uk) is 90 minutes from Harrogate, with direct train services to Leeds station. There are now three flights a day on British Airways from Heathrow to Leeds Bradford, at very reasonable prices.
BUS AND RAIL: For local bus and rail information, local planning guides and directions around town visit openharrogate.co.uk.
ACCOMMODATION
MICE Concierge will be providing an enhanced service for all attendees to help ensure you are fully looked after. As our trusted supplier, they have exclusive accommodation rates at all surrounding hotels, and will ensure you receive the best possible experience and most importantly, the best rates. We advise you to book through the official channel as the service is supported by the event. By staying in one of the accredited hotels, you will be with other attendees, and will therefore be able to network/socialise more to get the most out of the event. We advise you to book through MICE Concierge's official channel for the best experience and the most favourable rates. Alternatively, if you would like to reach out to MICE Concierge Ltd directly, please feel free to contact Anna Hellawell on +44 (0) 1438 908770 or email hello@miceconcierge.com and a member of the team will be happy to assist.
Important notice: It has been brought to our attention that a number of companies are attempting to contact our exhibitors and visitors, offering hotel deals and claiming to be working with us. These companies are NOT associated with the event or Ocean Media, and we strongly advise you to avoid booking with them. Please ensure you read the small print before signing anything related to The Flooring Show and remain vigilant, companies can use convincing branding and may appear genuine. Our official accommodation agency are MICE Concierge – if you have any questions or are uncertain about your booking, please feel free to contact one of the organisers.
ADMISSIONS
The Flooring Show is a strictly trade-only exhibition with no admissions to the general public. Entry is free of charge and is restricted to bona fide retailers, contractors, fitters, distributors, specifiers, interior designers, property developers and architects. All registrations into The Flooring Show will be vetted.
Editorial press, both trade and consumer media, are very welcome to attend, and are asked to register online and select the 'Press' category. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide visa letters for overseas visitors.
Any queries relating to attending the show should be made directly to the marketing team via email, at zara.meyers@oceanmedia.co.uk
EXPLORE HARROGATE
Whether you’re flying in for the day, or planning a full three-day trip to The Flooring Show, there is plenty to do in the spa town of Harrogate. From historic buildings, quaint shopping destinations and fantastic restaurants, there's always something new and exciting to explore – no matter how many times you visit.
FLOORING FOCUS
Seeking better sales after those summertime blues
Sustaining the value of sales over the sluggish summer of 2024 has proved a challenge right across the flooring industry.
With little margin to be made at the bottom end of the market and more price sensitivity in the premium sector, the opportunity to seek out a decent profit somewhere in the middle makes sense.
That’s where many of the latest man-made options in the carpet sector offer retailers an opportunity – sophisticated products that have an added-value element to help trade consumers up a little on performance, quality and sustainability.
With invincible benefits and unmatched performance, Magnificus has become a jewel in the crown of Associated Weavers’ top selling Invictus brand.
The stunningly rich texture and opulent body is created using the latest generation of polypropylene yarns. This iVinci-yarn combines luxurious comfort and superior stain resistance. The latest colour additions, Cream and Latte add more colour variety to an already eye catching and on-trend colourbank.
Meanwhile, the mainstream StainAway Tweed is also enjoying enhancement for 2024 with four new colours in the 12-option collection reflecting the trend towards warmer, richer colours – look out for the new Rocket, Earth, Amber and Scarlet options. StainAway Tweed will also be upgraded with a new backing, AW’s popular FusionBac.
With invincible benefits and unmatched performance, Magnificus has become a jewel in the crown of Associated Weavers’ top selling Invictus brand.
A 20-year stain and wear warranty is testament to the superior performance of this 100% polypropylene product and with its price point offering outstanding value, it’s easy to see why this carpet has been a stalwart of sales at AW.
“Camden Finesse, launched in January this year, is a beautiful soft-feel tufted carpet in polyester which comes in two weights – the standard 1,500g/m2 range and a trade up to the plush pile of the Elite product”
Hugh Mackay is known as one of flooring’s leading wool houses but they have a synthetic side which delivers the same ethos of quality and attention to detail.
This is Hugh Mackay’s Q-Floors brand and a fine example of their manmade favourites are Camden Finesse and Highgate Finesse which offer a choice of options for retailers to work with.
The tenth-gauge construction with fleece backing give these carpets a quality feel, backed up by a 10-year wear and stain warranty. All are available in 4 and 5 metre widths.
Camden Finesse, launched in January this year, is a beautiful soft-feel tufted carpet in polyester which comes in two weights – the standard 1,500g/m2 range and a trade up to the plush pile of the Elite product which is 60% heavier. The 8-colour palette absolutely reflects the 2024 trends of warming up in natural colours like pebble, putty and taupe alongside fashionable greys from silver to pewter.
Highgate Finesse is the brand new sister range in the Q-Floors collection, made in polypropylene and a wider colour palette of 10 contemporary options. The weight of 1,700g/m2, so falling between the two Camden options.
Magnificus from Associated WeaversC
Camden Finesse in Putty from Q-FloorsC
SMART SUSTAINABILITY
Furlong Flooring’s latest carpet ranges, including the EcoSense collection and the new Provence, set benchmarks in quality and environmental responsibility. These ranges allow retailers to offer products that align with trends in sustainability, design, and qualityconscious consumer expectations.
The EcoSense collections are made from recycled yarn, catering to the increasing demand for eco-friendly products without sacrificing durability. These carpets are stain-resistant and built to withstand wear, making them a practical and stylish choice for modern homes.
Provence offers luxurious comfort, combining aesthetics with long-lasting beauty. Manufactured in the UK by Regency Carpets, Provence carpets are made from 100% Carefree polypropylene yarn, ensuring they are stain-resistant and easy to maintain.
Available in 12 colour options and two weights, these carpets are versatile and moth-proof, featuring the award-winning Combi-bac backing for added durability. With warranties of up to 10 years, Provence is the ideal choice for those seeking both elegance and performance.
Provence offers luxurious comfort, combining aesthetics with long-lasting beauty. Manufactured in the UK by Regency Carpets, Provence carpets are made from 100% Carefree polypropylene yarn, ensuring they are stain-resistant and easy to maintain.
Lano’s Smartstrand carpet ranges are all about added value with a compelling consumer story that focuses on its extended lifecycle and impeccable sustainability.
More than a third of SmartStrand fibres are made with natural starch, leading to the most eco-friendly yarn available on the market today. The amount of energy required to produce the SmartStrand Triexta fibre is a full 30% less than with other fibres – the whole production process consequently emits 63% less CO2 than is the case with other synthetic fibres.
More than a third of SmartStrand fibres are made with natural starch, leading to the most eco-friendly yarn available on the market today. The amount of energy required to produce the SmartStrand Triexta fibre is a full 30% less than with other fibres
But it’s the legendary “forever clean” stain protection and appearance retention that sets SmartStrand apart. Any stain can easily be removed without special products or procedures. SmartStrand fibres simply do not hold onto dirt, ever. Other carpets use temporary, topical protections that wash and wear off over time.
And without compromising on softness and texture, unique resilience is built into the fibre at the molecular level causing the pile to bounce back, maintaining its beauty and appearance over time. Look out for the latest styles in Lano’s new Living Colours 3 collection in SmartStrand.
Provence Classic from Furlong
Lano’s latest Living Colours collection
FLOORING FOCUS
Seeking better sales after those summertime blues continued
from page 67
Manx Tomkinson has announced the expansion of their popular Puerto Rico carpet range, now available in an impressive array of six new colours inspired by the vibrant heart and soul of the Caribbean. This collection blends the comfort of home with the exotic allure of the Americas, featuring tones reminiscent of sandy beaches.
Made from 100% polypropylene, the Puerto Rico twist pile carpet is designed for durability and resilience, making it ideal for high-traffic areas in the home. Its sandy beach tones add a calming and warm ambiance, perfect for complementing neutral interiors and enhancing naturally lit spaces like living rooms.
Manx Tomkinson has announced the expansion of their popular Puerto Rico carpet range, now available in an impressive array of six new colours inspired by the vibrant heart and soul of the Caribbean.
The Puerto Rico range expertly combines style, comfort, and practicality. With six new shades, these stain-resistant carpets are low maintenance and can be bleach cleaned up to a dilution of 10%, ensuring easy care. Additionally, they come with a lifetime stain warranty, providing lasting peace of mind.
The Cormar Carpet Company has earned a reliable reputation for its popular ranges of man-made carpets, further enhanced by the latest additions to its easy clean collection.
Re-launched this year with the introduction of brand-new colour options, Cormar’s ever-popular Sensation and Inglewood Saxony ranges are now even more attractive. Both offering sumptuous comfort underfoot and complete with Cormar’s 10-year Stain and Wear guarantee, they are the ideal choice for those who value style and luxury but aren’t prepared to compromise when it comes to practicality.
David Cormack, Marketing Director at Cormar Carpets said: “Our Easy Clean collection continues to grow in popularity as a reliable and hardwearing choice for family homes. We’re delighted to be further enhancing the collection this year to offer an even wider choice of durable, low maintenance carpets at great value and in a popular colour palette to suit every homeowner’s needs and style.”
WOOL-LIKE LOOK, WITH MAN-MADE PRACTICALITY
For some homes only the natural look of wool carpets will do. With the new Country Collection from Abingdon Flooring these very same homes can now choose the practicality of Stainfree carpets too. Using a special yarn that combines a matt lustre with a Berber fleck, the Country Collection has all the look of a natural wool yarn but with the bleach-cleanable practicality and lifetime stain warranty that comes with Abingdon Flooring’s Stainfree carpet family.
To create its classic country living feel, Abingdon Flooring’s designers have created three textured loop designs for the new collection. Linear, Herringbone and Weave designs capture the charm and rustic texture of chunky wool loop carpets, adding sophisticated detail with subtle textured patterns. Each carpet comes in a range of ‘undyed’ beige tones and restful neutral grey hues like Elephant.
Charlotte Coop, head of marketing, Abingdon Flooring: “The Country Collection is really a first for Abingdon Flooring and shows just how versatile our Stainfree yarn can be. These chunky loop pile carpets really do look every bit as good as their wool counterparts but are bleached cleanable and more affordable. What’s more, the Berber fleck is also great at covering up dust and dirt Between vacuuming.”
The range ticks as lot of boxes with a10-year warranty, multi-width flexibility in 2.5m, 4m, and 5m and Abingdon’s signature fleece backing, enhancing underfoot comfort, warmth, and sound reduction as well as easier handling on installation. All made in Britain.
Country Herringbone
Abingdon’s
Tomkinson’s Puerto Rico Areabo
This year has also seen the introduction of an exciting new range, Primo Textures. Cormar’s first synthetic loop pile carpet, Primo Textures combines the renowned durability of polypropylene fibres with the timeless appeal of loop pile construction, offering a hard-wearing and practical solution for any home, while retaining the natural allure that loop pile carpets offer.
David Cormack, Marketing Director at Cormar Carpets said: “Our Easy Clean collection continues to grow in popularity as a reliable and hardwearing choice for family homes. We’re delighted to be further enhancing the collection this year to offer an even wider choice of durable, low maintenance carpets at great value and in a popular colour palette to suit every homeowner’s needs and style.”
Betap are celebrated for affordable design. “Our ranges should not only be on-trend but also uncomplicated and deliver added value,” says product development manager Andrew Bramall. The company’s latest ranges exemplify this ethos.
Lasting Memories offers a harmonious palette of colour with a contemporary flair. Its tenth-gauge construction ensures a luxurious feel, setting it apart in its category alongside exceptional value compared to some competing products. Montagu embodies quintessential Betap characteristics, featuring an essential colour bank and a construction that exceeds expectations at an accessible price point.
A series of polypropylene loop piles, including Galloni and Colline, reinforces Betap’s agile approach. These loop structures strike a perfect balance with their sophisticated designs, offering excellent value for money.
“Lasting Memories offers a harmonious palette of colour with a contemporary flair. Its tenth-gauge construction ensures a luxurious feel, setting it apart in its category alongside exceptional value compared to some competing products.”
Next month, we will be switching our focus from man-made to sheep-made fibres for floorcovering with our annual feature on the Campaign for Wool’s Wool Month celebration. Pick up on the latest trends for natural interiors, including our gallery of showcase wool carpets. October issue out September 24.
Primo Textures, Tapestry from Cormar
FLOORING FACTSHEET ADHESIVES
SELECTION CHECKLIST
The criteria to select an adhesive will cover the following points.
Larger manufacturers offer detailed guides to select the correct adhesive – even indexing floor manufacturer’s products by name to ensure an accurate match. For accurate and up-to-date information consult the F. Ball Recommended Adhesives Guide.
Open Time:
The time you have to fit the flooring into the adhesive after which the bond will no longer be ideal. The time until the floor may be walked on should be checked.
Odour:
Low odour, solvent-free and low VOC products are increasingly favoured and now have the same performance characteristics of older products.
Coverage:
How thick and how far can the adhesive be spread.
Application Method:
Different adhesives may be applied by roller, trowel or spray.
Strength:
Including how quickly the adhesive will “grab” the floor covering and its strength when fully cured.
Underfloor Heating:
A lot of modern adhesives are suitable for use with underfloor heating but this criteria must be checked where appropriate.
Subfloor:
What surface will the adhesive stick to most effectively including concrete, sand cement screeds, levelling compounds, plywood and chipboard.
While there are multi-purpose adhesives, specialist products will be better suited to certain surfaces.
The porosity of the floor is a key determinant of the type of adhesive to be used and its performance during installation.
Special Performance:
Certain adhesives are more suitable for damp, humid or high temperature environments.
Air Quality and the Environment:
The old wisdom that the more it smells, the better it sticks is no longer acceptable to modern consumers and solvent-based products are increasingly replaced by water-based adhesives.
Acrylic/Resin: Ideal for plasticised PVC and most modern flooring.
Bitumen: A tar-like material, bitumen has a high degree of moisture resistance and is used for damp-proof membranes and installing tiles, wood blocks and mosaics.
Epoxy Resin: A two-part chemical curing system that is used in aggressive environments such as conservatories, wet rooms, commercial kitchens and exterior installations.
Polyurethane: An adhesive with rapid bonding characteristics, typically used for wood floors.
Polyvinyl Acetate: Typically used for close fitting joints in timber, laminate floors and panels.
Tackifier: An adhesive for carpet designed to increase the tackiness – or the tack range –of an adhesive.
Water-based Adhesive: Many different types of adhesives now use water as their carrier to avoid odours and flammability issues which are common with chemical solvents.
Flooring factsheet
Carpet trouble-shooter
Colour matching
Carpets are produced in batches - known as creels - and usually each batch produces between 500m2 - 3000m2 in a single width, depending on the creel size. Whilst the recipe used by the dyer remains constant, and is followed to the letter, in each separate production the colour reproduction will vary from batch to batch. However production is matched back to the original or master sample to ensure that the colour remains ‘within a commercial toleranc e’.
This process if not an exact science and a commercial tolerance is subjective but nevertheless is usually the professional judgement of the head dyer based on his/her experience.
A greater level of tolerance is required on blended colours (Heathers etc). To ensure perfect colour matching it is advisable that a single width be used in any installation requiring exact colour matching.
N.B. Carpets which are laid with the pile travelling in different directions, even though they be from the same batch will appear not to match. For further information please check with the manufacturers recommendations.
Sprouting
Occasionally an odd tuft or two can work its way to the surface and stand proud of the rest of the pile. This is probably due to one end of the tuft being longer than the other i.e. J shaped tuft instead of V shaped. Remedial action merely requires that the offending tufts be scissor trimmed level with the rest of the pile. They should never be pulled out.
• shedding • pulled loops
Fading on Wool
Carpets made from wool can and do fade in use. The degree of fade can vary depending on the colour chosen and the local conditions to which the carpet is subjected.
Fading can be caused by exposure to ultra violet light which is found in daylight, but is accelerated when sunlight shines directly onto the carpet. This has the effect of lightening or “Bleaching” the colour just as exposure to sunlight will lighten human hair. Wool is after all animal hair.
Protection should be given to carpets exposed to such conditions just as you would protect other furniture or fabrics.
A complaint on fading would be considered justified if it failed to meet the required shade standard when tested to the British Standard BS1006 (1990).
Soiling
Soiling is usually the result of some local condition to which the carpet has been subjected to, or maintenance, or lack of maintenance programme. There is nothing we as manufacturers can do to prevent soiling in use. There are several types of soiling which are quite common:
Spillages - Liquids such as soft drinks, cordials or any drink which contains sugar, particularly hot drinks, is likely to leave a stain. In such instances, professional help should be sought.
Shampoo - if incorrectly applied, can leave sticky soap residues in the fibres which can result in the soiling reappearing quite rapidly.
Dust - which is carried on draughts can soil carpets in various ways, apart from the obvious soiled edges, at gaping skirting boards for instance, dark lines appearing on surface might suggest airborne dust vacuum-drawn through poorly fitted floorboards. Sometimes the shape of floorboards can be seen quite clearly. Air borne dust sometimes shows itself as spots on the carpet, this is due to the air carried on a draught under the carpet escaping through minute holes both in the underlay and the carpet, leaving dust deposited on the pile much like a filter action. In such installations, the use of a lining paper is essential as a preventative measure.
It is the responsibility of the retailer to advise the consumer when the carpet is measured of any poorly fitting doors, skirtings, or floorboards and the consumers responsibility to ensure any remedial work to seal draughts, is carried out before the carpet is fitted, if a resulting complaint is to be avoided.
Static
Carpets do not produce static but like other household fabrics and objects have the capacity to store it. Static is caused by the build up of static electricity upon personnel in a dry environment and is discharged when a person makes contact with an object which can conduct electricity (i.e. door handle or filing cabinets, etc).
The static charges will vary in intensity depending upon the individual, air humidity and the contact materials. Static is more usually associated with synthetic materials as they do not retain moisture very well but it can and does occur with wool in very dry room conditions. Preventative measures include the introduction of moisture into the room or in situ carpet treatment.
Flattening
Flattening will occur as a result of traffic which eventually flattens the pile particularly in the main areas of use.
All pile fabrics will flatten to greater or lesser degree dependant on the amount of traffic to which it is subjected and the construction (tuft density/pile fibre/height/weight) of the product concerned.
Shading
Shading occurs because the pile of the carpet has become crushed, flattened or brushed in a different direction to the natural lie of the pile whilst in situ. This causes light reflection at differing angles resulting in the creation of light and dark patches on the carpet. This will occur on all pile fabrics but can be more noticeable on plainer carpets because the shadows created by pile pressure will not be disguised by a heavy pattern or design.
Pile Reversal
Like shading, this occurs when the pile or nap of the carpet changes direction and thus reflects light at different angles showing the effects of shading which can become permanent. It is also described as ‘watermarking’. This can happen to every carpet construction be it Axminster, Wilton, Tufted, Hand Woven, Persian, Chinese, Indian or even Coir Matting. Like shading it can be more apparent on plain carpet because heavy patterns can disguise the effects. It can occur quite quickly after installation. A tremendous amount of research has been carried out over many years by many institutes to determine the cause of this phenomenon but none of it has proved conclusive. There is no commonly known manufacturing process which can cause or cure this phenomenon and therefore it is not a manufacturing fault. For further information please check with individual manufacturers recommendations.
Pulling Loops
Pulled loops occur only in looped pile carpet where one or more loops in the continuous pile is pulled through the primary backing of the carpet. This is usually due to some local condition, possibly some sharp object which has caught in a loop in situ and has resulted in a pull. Pulled loops are easily dealt with by trimming the offending end level with the rest of the pile. They should not be left as this could result in further loops being pulled and developing into a ladder.
Shedding
All cut pile carpets will lose short fibre, which is created during production when spun yarn is cut for tuft formation. These fibres fall onto the surface of the pile and appear as ‘fluff’. The effect varies with yarn type and may be removed without detrimental effect upon the carpet by vacuum cleaning. This excess fibre is only a small fraction of the total fibre contained in the carpet.
Indentations
When a carpet is subjected to a heavy point load, such as under the legs of furniture, it is unreasonable to expect the carpet not to indent. Usually, the longer the load is in place, the longer will be the time for the pile to recover. In the case of very heavy loads in place for a considerable time, the recovery time can be very considerable.
It must be remembered that it is not only the pile of the carpet that becomes indented. The underlay will also indent and the backing of the carpet may also distort into the indentation in the underlay. Some underlay’s will recover well and some less well depending upon their composition, thickness, density etc. The use of cups below furniture legs can spread the load and the net result is a larger area of less deeply indented carpet.
The ability of a carpet to recover from a heavy static load can be measured in the laboratory, using the test method described in BS 4939 and many manufacturers will have data on this aspect of carpet performance. In this test the carpet is loaded for 24 hours and the degree of recovery is measured after 1 hour and 24 hours. Since there are so many different underlay’s however, it is very rare for the recovery from a heavy static load to be evaluated on carpet and underlay.
Often normal maintenance (vacuum cleaning with a rotating brush machine) will speed up recovery but in the case of serious indentations the use of an iron and damp cloth or a steam iron together with a blunt darning needle to carefully tease up the pile can be beneficial. Care must be take not to over wet the carpet, of course.
Samples Installation
The samples held by individual retailers may not be from the same batch as current production and therefore should be used as a guide and not an exact colour match.
Telephone National Institute of Carpet Fitters (NICF) for further information – 0115 958 3077.
Vinyl is a fast growing sector of the flooring market due to its durability at relatively low cost and huge range of designs available. Sheet vinyl and cushion floor by the roll are popular but the sector is dominated by LVT. In reality, most of the products sold today are “LVP”, Luxury Vinyl Planks, as wood decors are more popular than ceramics and stone but the term LVT is still used to cover the whole non-sheet market.
Benefits
• Huge choice in terms of decors across wood, ceramic, stone and geometric designs
• Impressive realism – not just in the design but infinishing techniques that allow for wood knots you can feel, tiles you can grout, etc. See appearance options.
• Excellent performance in durability for high traffic areas, scratch resistance and cleanability. Vinyl also tends to be much more nonslip than natural materials. Some products are water resistant for bathrooms and kitchens.
• Warm and soft to touch compared to ceramic and stone floors - and a good heat insulator anyhow, and suitable for use with underfloor heating systems.
• Sound reduction – vinyl has neglible impact sound compared to the tap/click of laminate and transmits less sound and vibration compared to solid floor.
• Considerably cheaper than the ‘real’ thing – both to buy and to fit – and tile/plank approach minimises wastage.
Installation
Installation preparation
Vinyl requires a dry, sound, level subfloor as the relative thinness of vinyl and its light reflection performance will quickly reveal imperfections after installation as well as cause potential wear issues.
Exisitng wooden/MDF floors may need a plywood underlay up to 6mm thick and then the joints will need to be skimmed or taped. Non-wood sub-floors will need a self-levelling screed to be laid to ensure a suitable base for the floor. A damp-proof membrane may be required depending on sub-floor moisture levels.
However, new rigid core products are less flexible and can be laid more easily over existing floors – see Construction.
Top Coating
Wear Layer
Decor Layer
Product options
• Dry back – a sheet or tile that needs to be fixed to the sub-floor using an adhesive.
• Self-adhesive – tiles with a peel-off backing paper to stick to the sub-floor. Some tiles have adhesive overlaps to stick to each other rather than the sub-floor.
• Loose lay vinyl – tiles that simply drop onto the floor and rely on a high friction backing to keep them in place – they demand a very sound, level sub-floor but are the easiset type of tile to lay or replace.
• Click – tiles that have a mechanical jointing system to attach to one another (like a locked tongue and groove system) and ‘float’ on the sub-floor without being glued down. There are many proprietary versions of the click system which offer fast, clean installation and stability.
Appearance options
Vinyl tiles and planks cover a hugh variety of sizes and shapes and can be mix-and-matched to achieve an infinite number of designs. Current fashions include extra wide and long planks for wood through to very small planks for wood. Border effects can be easy to achieve in LVT.
Other notable options include:
• Embossed – this is where the top clear layer of the tile has been embossed to create a realistic texture that matches the style of the stone of wood decor. Registered embossed is the most authentic –the texture matches the design so that, for example, a wood knot or hand-scraped element in the wood design can be felt on the surface of the flooring.
• Grouting and grooving – vinyl tiles can be laid with grouting inlay strips or beads of vinyl for addewd realism – and there are acrylic grouts that can be applied. In wood decors, planks are available with v-grooves or bevelled edges between planks for added realism.
LVT construction
PVC Middle Layer(s)
Fibre Glass Layer(s)
PVC Base Layer
www.bramptonchase.co.uk
www.invictus.co.uk
www.krausflooring.co.uk
www.myvictoria.co.uk
Top coating – A polyurethane or aluminium oxide coating provides protection against scratches and stains and gives enhances anti-slip.
Wear layer – This is a key layer - determining the performance and resilience of the product. A 0.3mm (12 mil) wear layer is a good for heavy wear areas. Commercial installations need 0.5mm wear layers or above with 0.7mm at the top end. The wear warranties and guarantees carried by products will be based on this thickness.
Decor layer – This is the decor itself - in essence it is a paper- or filmbased photographic inkjet print. (A few LVT floors have the image printed directly to the surface of the floor but this implies less image definition and different wear characteristics.)
PVC and fibre glass layers – The construction ‘sandwich’ can vary between products but a combination of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) layers for strength and flexibility and fibre glass layers for structural stability may be used. Any click-system profile will be incorporated into these layers. Products often use a combination of recycled vinyl which is cheaper and virgin PVC which lasts longer and is more stable.
Rigid core LVT has a solid, less flexible PVC layer with maximum stability which means it can be laid over exisiting, less even flooring without showing imperfections and therefore avoiding wear problems. Base (or backing) layer – The final high density PVC layer varies according to the installation requirement and is designed for taking adhesive or as an ‘underlay’ for loose-lay and click installations.
Flooring factsheet
Underlay
In a tight market for margins, underlay for carpet and hard flooring offers retailers one of the best opportunities to add value to every sale – with good profitability, trade-up potential once benefits are understood and high customer satisfaction levels.
The Carpet Foundation and its Consumer Code of Practice approved by the Trading Standards Institute (TSI) recommend that new carpet underlay is bought with every new carpet.
Many consumers are now aware of the benefits of underlay but more needs to be done to provide information about the different types available and their suitability for different areas of the home.
Setting up in-store demonstrations so customers can walk on samples with different grades of underlay and feel the difference has shown excellent results. Some manufacturers offer point-of-sale units and foot testers.
• Absorb the pressure of foot traffic and reduce wear
• Improve thermal insulation and warmth
• Increase sound insulation
• Smooth out sub-floor imperfections
• Last the lifetime of the carpet
Poor or old underlay will...
• Feel hard and unwelcoming
• Reduce carpet life
• Cause wrinkling and premature wear spots
• Cause carpet fibres to break down more quickly
• Not meet British Standards
How thick?
A maximum of 12mm is recommended (working with gripper will be difficult thereafter) but rooms with heavy traffic will need a thinner, denser pad. The combination of thickness and density is all important as a thick underlay with low density may not perform well. Typically, the thicker the underlay, the better quality it will need to be – 11mm is often used for luxury installations with 9mm and 7mm the common domestic thickness.
Types
PU (polyurethane) foam • This is now the market’s most popular underlay and is typically made from recycled foam offcuts. The foam provides excellent comfort and performance levels with lots of thickness options and densities and provides great insulation – and its light weight helps handling.
Sponge rubber • A more traditionally manufactured underlay available in flat or waffle patterns in a wide range of weights for different applications. It performs well for comfort and has a durable spring retention.
Crumb rubber • Flat and dense, crumb rubber is good for heavy footfall – offering maximum protection but a little less comfort (and very good over stair nosings).
Laminate underlay • There’s still an opportunity to sell underlay with laminate flooring, improving the acoustic performance of the floor and helping the boards float above any imperfections in the sub-floor.
Combination • A rubber crumb base with a felt top layer offers a good combination of protection, durability and comfort. It also allows carpet with seaming to bed into the top felt.
Underfloor heating underlay • Always ask if there is underfloor heating. Most manufacturers offer specialised products. Underlay and carpet with a combined tog rating of 2.5 can be used – which means the underlay would normally have a tog rating of 1.0.
Felt • This traditional (but environmentally friendly) undelay is made from recycled fibres – wool, jute and synthetic – to create a firm, dense pad with excellent thermal insulation. Still a very popular choice among contractors when stretch fitting woven carpets.
Pre-tackified underlay • A self-adhesive single stick underlay in both needlefelt and PU. A removable system for heavy use when comfort is desired.
Underlayment for LVT • This provides a smooth surface on which you can glue down immediately. If there is a time or acoustic issue or a problematic underfloor, a stable, smooth dual underlay system will provide the best solution.
www.floorwise.co.uk
www.carpenterunderlay.co.uk
www.unifloor.nl
www.underlay.com
www.wilsons-carpet-underlays.co.uk
Sponge rubber Crumb
Combination PU foam
Flooring factsheet
Carpet types
Tufted
With advances in manufacturing technology, 95% of all carpet produced today is tufted. It takes about an hour to make a roll of carpet that might take eight hours to weave. To make tufted carpet, hundreds of yarn-threaded needles are pushed through the primary backing fabric to form loops or tufts, which may be left as is or cut. A heavy adhesive coating is applied to hold the tufts in place and a secondary backing is usually glued on for strength and stability. A wide variety of styles and textures can then be created using various techniques.
LOOP PILE
Berber – Berber carpets look like and are named after a handmade, bulky wool carpet made by the Berber tribes of North Africa and Asia. The loops are made from thick or bulky yarns of wool, nylon, polypropylene or a blend of these fibres to give a cushioned effect underfoot. These carpets are available in an assortment of colours and may be flecked and can be either level loop or multilevel loop.
Level loop – When all the loops are of the same height, a highly flexible and durable carpet is created which has a natural, casual appearance even when (commonly) it is made from synthetic fibres. The tight loop texture tends to hide marks so it’s a good blend between luxury and practicality.
Multi-level loop – The loops vary to two or sometimes three loop heights to create informal, random textures which are very forgiving for marks and stains and therefore very suitable for high traffic areas and busy family rooms.
BONDED
Bonded carpets (sometimes called ‘fibre-bonded’ or ‘fusion bonded’) are created by firing fibres into an adhesive material – the fibres are not stitched into the backing in any way. The technique is principally used for commercial carpet tiles.
CUT PILE
Freize – Frieze or frisée (pronounced freesay) carpets are similar to saxony, but the yarns are more tightly twisted and should always be heat set. They have a dense, low pile surface which creates a coarse, pebbly texture. Frieze carpets are very durable and hide footprints, dust and dirt, which makes them suitable for heavy traffic areas.
Saxony – Saxony textures are made of twisted yarns, which should be heat set. The tips remain very distinct, rather than blending together to form a very elegant finish. Saxony textures show footprints and vacuum marks so are suitable for more occasional rooms in the home. More textured variations improve the practicality of saxonies.
Twist – The popular twist carpet is the cut-pile standard. The yarn is tightly twisted and often heatset to retain this feature and the result is a versatile, textured finish that is ideal for plain colours.
Velvet – Velvet textures (sometimes called ‘velour’ or ‘plush’) all have a level surface pile of approx 5mm to 10mm height, which is then sheared to give a smooth finish. With very little twist in the yarn, the ends blend together which then further enhances the overall finish. These carpets tend to ‘shade’ with heavy use. Footprints show easily and the colour looks different from place to place because fibres lying in different directions reflect the light differently. A luxury for occasional rooms.
CUT AND LOOP
When some of the pile is cut and other left as loop, a variety of surface textures and patterns can be created (in a variety of colours). The multi-level surface is excellent for hiding footprints and stains so cut and loop is good for high traffic areas and general purpose rooms in the home.
Shag pile – Shag pile has varied in popularity. The pile is up to 50mm long and the texture is casual and loose but the surface can flatten easily and may lack durability.
Woven
Woven carpet may be in a tiny minority of today’s production but still produces some of the finest carpets which are used for prestigious installations.
Axminster
The pile of the carpet is inserted into the backing as it is woven and cut to length, creating U-shaped tufts to give a velvety surface. The process locks in the fibre to create a carpet of high durability and performance retention as well as a luxury feel. The process allows for intricate designs and colours to be used – although modern trends mean that the traditional patterned axminster has given way to current fashion trends for plain carpets.
Wilton
Wilton woven carpets are produced in a similar way to axminsters – the principal difference being that a continuous fibre is woven all the way through. The carpet can be sheared to create a range of cut and loop textured effects. The result is a high quality carpet of unrivalled durability.
Flat weave
Manufactured in the same way as wilton, flat weave is a loop pile which allows the yarn to be woven across a wider area to created a flatter, more textured effect.
Floorwise House, 22 High Street Kegworth, Derby, DE74 2DA, UK Tel: +44 (0)1509 673974 Fax: +44 (0)1509 674841
Flooring factsheet
Buying Groups
Why join?
Buying groups have been a highly successful feature of the floor retailing scene in the last decade or so, giving independents the extra edge they need to compete effectively with the retail park chains.
More than 1000 retailers are now members of one of the several buying groups which operate in our sector and the numbers are slowly, but steadily growing.
While the benefits of bulk buying power are self-evident, the resistance to the buying group concept among nonmembers appears to be centred on fears of surrendering some control to a committee – and most particularly compromising long-established relationships and negotiated terms with current suppliers.
The bottom line is the bottom line. A retailer selling across a broad range of products is likely to improve margins within a buying group – but you don’t need a leap of faith to join up. Ask the buying groups for answers...
Key benefits
Increase margins
Pick the right one
How to decide whether to join a buying group – and which one…
• Evaluate all buying groups as they all work differently
• Talk to the main marketing contact and/or a member of the committee
• Get a list of members and call up two or three for a ‘real-world’ view
• Establish your territorial exclusivity – where’s the next nearest member of each buying group
• Ensure you understand the financial arrangements, any fees that would relate to your membership, how the bills are paid and whether your fees are refundable if it doesn’t work out. Ask the buying group for a consultation to estimate your potential savings
• Review all the extra benefits and services to see what you would actually use
• Check out the product ranges offered including the own-label options and the UK/European mix
• Ensure you understand any rules that may limit your flexibility to run your business the way you want
Contact: Mike Reed Tel: 0118 932 3832 info@smg-group.co.uk
Associated Carpet Group www.acgcarpets.com
Contact: Jon Richardson Tel: 01942 825520 jon@acgcarpets.com THE STOCKLISTS Feburary 2022
• Group purchases to get beneficial rates
• Rebates
• Exclusive higher-margin products
• Special promotions
One of the key reasons to join a buying group is to benefit from the discounts they negotiate as a bulk buyer from manufacturers. The way discounts and rebates are passed on to members varies between groups so make sure it’s absolutely clear how this will be done. You’ll need to work out how this compares with discounts you have already negotiated locally with preferred suppliers.
Access professional services
• Business and financial services
• IT and internet support
• Training and workshops
• Professional bodies
Some buying groups offer an excellent range of other services which may be valuable to your business. Financial services include invoice factoring, credit, loans and insurance. Some of the more sophisticated groups offering marketing packages, software systems to help you run your business operations and customised websites ready to use. Relationships with professional and training organisations can also offer discounts.
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.beautifulflooring.co.uk
Contact: Carl Harris Tel: 01892 549050 charris31@sky.com
www.flooringone.co.uk
Peter Karra Tel: 0121 683 1426 peter.karra@flooringone.co.uk
Zebra and Brother Laser Label Printers And Much More
Strictly by Appointment • Location: Purfleet, Essex • Subject to Availability Visit: www hilcovs co uk/sale-list/carpet Site Contact: Darren Jackson, djackson@hilcoglobal eu • 07799 664320 Contact: Kevin Smyth, ksmyth@hilcoglobaladvisors co uk • 07920 149064
On Behalf of Zelf Hussain, Rachael Maria Wilkinson and Peter David Dickens of PwC, The Joint Administrators of CPR Realisations Limited (Formerly Carpetright Limited)
