The Stocklists - February 2010

Stocklists The

5 February October 2009 1 2010

with

FlooringNews

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

Unmissable Viewing The New Regency Wool Carpet Collection • Exceptional wool carpet ranges • Integral multimedia display • The wool story brought to life • Manufactured in the UK • Come home to real wool

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Stocklists The

THE UK’S TOP FLOORING NEWS AND DATA SERVICE Page No.

Index

Contact No.

Monthly ‘Stocklisters’ shown in BOLD

s AFS............................................................................16..................020

Price List date

CARPETS LTD. .....................17..................01562 828200 ..........Dec 2008 .........

................................................................—..................01282 862736 ..........—.......................

o CARPENTER........................................................18..................01457 H CARPETS

861141 ..........—.......................

H FELLS .......................................................................—..................01977

n FITA ............................................................................48..................01159

374417 ..........—.......................

662211 ..........—.......................

506836 ..........—.......................

s FLOORING

ONE ...................................................—..................0121 683 1427 .........—.......................

H FURLONG

FLOORING ..................................24,25,47.......01772 696787 ..........July 2009 ..........

n FLOORWISE ........................................................13..................01509 n HARROGATE

673974 ..........—.......................

FLOORING SHOW ...................—..................01423 779967 ..........—.......................

H INTERFLOOR ..........................................................33..................01706

213131 .........—.......................

H MOHAWK..............................................................27..................01480

479830 .........—.......................

HAMPTON .....................................23..................0208 520 8474 .........—.......................

FLOOR SHOW...............................35..................0207 921 8415 .........—.......................

n NICF .........................................................................48..................0115

958 3077 .........—.......................

s RACKHAMS .........................................................28..................02085319225............Jan-March

2010.

DATA ........................................................45..................01482 881152 ..........—.......................

CARPETS ...........................................39..................01254 676766 ..........Sept. 2007 ........

s SOLENT WHOLESALE CARPET n STAIRRODS n STANLEY

.................29..................01243 774623 ..........Jan/Feb 2010

UK LIMITED ............................32..................01207 591176 ..........—.......................

BOSTITCH ...........................................41..................0870 630630.............—.......................

s STS

FLOORING DISTRIBUTORS ............30..................0845 341000.............July 2009............

n THE

ESTIMATORS ................................................—..................01782 566626 ..........—.......................

nT

& E DISPLAY GROUP ...............................43..................0121 585 7600 .........—.......................

n TRIPLE

Forum: Will HRH be your best salesman? ..........45

More wool - not Royal but Regency!

New wool player enters market ..........................47

Smart start to recovery signalled at Domotex

Business News: Mixed signs from the market for first half ...................42

877 8877 .........—.......................

H EDEL TELENZO .................................................22..................01422

H ROELEE

What’s your woolly thinking?

LIFE........................................IFC................01254 296829 ..........—.......................

FLOORING ..............................19..................0208 443 3322 .........—.......................

H DYNE..........................................................................—..................0161

n REFLEX

Launch of major ‘Wool Project’ promotion ................31

OF KIDDERMINSTER. ............20,21 ............01299 827477 ..........Aug 2008 .........

H CONTEMPORARY

n NATIONAL

Prince Charles champions wool

10 pages of news, trends & reviews DOMOTEX Essential reading to assess the year ahead......................49 2010

s COLUMBIA

s LITTNER

FlooringNews

745000 .........—.......................

= BRITISH WOOL.................................................37,40 ............01274 688 666 .........—.......................

H BRONTE

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

8805 8620 .........April 2009.........

H BONDWORTH .......................................................—..................01562 H BROCKWAY

1 February 2010

KING...........................................................3 ....................01274 582056 ..........—.......................

n WOOLSAFE

ORGANISATION...................4,5.................01943 850817 ..........—.......................

H carpets/rugs/tiles © woods/laminates/smooths n accessories/services/organisations = fibres o underlay s wholesalers/distributors l adhesives

Classified advertising ..................................................................................pages 62,63

Floorsites

Recession over?

Floor shows news update

Variety show planned for Harrogate .........................................................32 Birmingham NEC announces designer showcase ....................................34

Breakthrough for carpet waste

New recycling technology for re-use of polypropylene.........................34

Read the small print

Flower on Flooring: Insure your floor with care .....................................59

IVC upgrade identity

Cushionfloor leader re-invents Leoline and launches design brand ........36

Show off more in store

Voice: Barry Courtney of Columbia.............................................................46

The British Wool Column

User-friendly mini-guides launched at Domotex......................................40

FlooringFactsheets

Woolsafe: the carpet care guide...................................................4-5 Carpet trouble-shooter....................................................................6-7 Carpet types .........................................................................................8 Underlay.................................................................................................9 Pattern book.......................................................................................10 Wholesaler Distribution Directory ........................................11-13 Carpet Company Directory .....................................................14-15 ISSN 0950-5024  Mayville Publishing Co. Ltd. 2010 Issue: 418 Every care is taken in compiling this magazine, but the proprietors assume no responsibility in the effects arising therefrom.

Plug-in an ‘instant’ flooring industry website for just £390 set-up + £90 per year

Flooring stores don’t generally need elaborate websites – most of the time, visitors are just trying to find out your phone number, your opening hours or where they can park! Or they’re just checking you out to see how professional you look. Here’s the quick fix! Check out our

dummy site at www.thestocklists.com/floorsites

Flooring factsheet Carpet care guide from WOOLSAFE The WOOLSAFE Mark has gone Green!

The WOOLSAFE Organisation has teamed up with ecolabelling authorities Green Seal and EcoLogo in North America, to enable those WOOLSAFE approved products that are ecologically responsible to be recognised and promoted as such.

The Green WOOLSAFE Mark identifies those products that not only are the most suitable for wool and other quality carpets, but also have the right environmental characteristics.

Regular Maintenance

Regular cleaning will extend the life of a carpet and maintain its appearance.Vacuum clean regularly and thoroughly, which removes gritty dirt that can damage the fibres.

Deal with spillages as soon as possible, preferably the moment they occur.

Periodic Cleaning

When the carpet or rug reaches a stage where it could do with a really good clean, you can either do the job yourself, or you can call in a specialist carpet cleaning company.

If you are considering cleaning the carpet or rug yourself make sure to use only WOOLSAFE-approved products. Look for this mark on the bottle or package: WOOLSAFE-approved carpet care products have been independently and scientifically tested and are safe and effective for cleaning and maintaining all types of carpets and rugs.

General Rules for Spot Removal • Soak up liquids with white kitchen roll, tissues, toilet roll or clean cloth

• Scoop up or scrape off solids

• Try to identify unknown spots prior to treatment – if unsure, use solvent first • Always work from the edge of the spot inwards • BLOT, do NOT rub

• Use small quantities of spot remover at a time, applied to a cloth, NOT directly to the spot; work into the spot with a small, soft brush or sponge

• Take care with applying solvents to bitumen-backed carpet tiles • When using solvents always ensure there is plenty of fresh air ventilation • Always thoroughly rinse out water-based spotters with clean water • Dry the spot, if possible, with a hair dryer

4

Housekeeping Tips for Carpets and Rugs Entrance or walk-off mats

The use of entrance mats at all outside entrances to the house is highly recommended, as they will significantly reduce the rate at which the carpet will soil.They should be of adequate size to allow street dirt to be removed from shoe soles and must be cleaned regularly themselves.

Protective treatments Many carpets come with a protective fibre treatment to reduce problems with staining and soiling.These treatments, while effective in many ways, are not bullet-proof and will eventually wear off. Quick response to spills and regular cleaning is still required.

Carpets that have no protector applied by the manufacturer can be treated after installation on the floor by a WOOLSAFE accredited carpet cleaning company. (To find the nearest WOOLSAFE Certified Operator in your area visit our website: www.woolsafe.org and go to the PRIVATE HOUSEHOLDER section.)

Beware of products claiming to be safe on all fibres, including wool. It might be true, but if it does not have the WOOLSAFE mark, it is not endorsed by most carpet manufacturers!

Treatments 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Blot with white kitchen roll or paper tissues

Vacuum clean Cold water

Warm water

WOOLSAFE-approved carpet shampoo solution (diluted) WOOLSAFE-approved spot remover for water-based stains WOOLSAFE-approved spot remover for greasy/oily stains

Absorbent paper or paper tissue and hot iron

Chewing gum remover (solvent or freeze type)

10. Nail varnish remover or acetone

11. White spirit or turpentine substitute

12. Surgical spirit (ethyl alcohol or ethanol) 13. Rub with a coin

14. Rub gently with coarse sand paper

15. WOOLSAFE-approved disinfectant or deodorizer 16. Rust remover

17. Carpet re-colouring kit

(Treatments used by professional carpet cleaners)

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

maintenance • cleaning • spot removal • protection • inspection Never use any detergents such as dishwashing liquids, soaps or other cleaners recommended for general household use. Although they may clean the carpet satisfactorily they will almost certainly cause problems such as rapid re-soiling, colour bleeding or other damage to the pile or backing of the carpet.

They are fully qualified to investigate carpet and rug complaints on-site on behalf of carpet manufacturers, retailers, cleaning companies and carpet owners.They can carry out or commission tests where required, and will provide comprehensive reports.

To contact an inspector in your area call 0800 731 5688, email: inspector@woolsafe.org, or visit: www.woolsafe.org It is best to engage the services of a professional carpet & upholstery cleaning / Private Householder / Registered Inspectors company.To get a really expert job done entrust the work to a WOOLSAFE accredited carpet cleaning company.

For information These companies are fully trained, have On a WOOLSAFE Certified Carpet Cleaning been in business for a considerable Company nearest to you, length of time, are members of one or more recognised A free copy of the Directory of WOOLSAFE Certified professional trade associations related to the cleaning Professional Carpet Cleaners, industry and have a reputation for top quality service. And A free copy of the Directory of Registered Carpet they use only WOOLSAFE-approved cleaning agents on Inspectors, your wool carpets and rugs!

• •

WOOLSAFE Approved Carpet Cleaning Products www.prochem.co.uk

Home of the Legendary Cleaning Product - Carpet Power www.ozkleen.co.uk

Life inspired cleaning innovations www.bissell.com

•

If you have a problem with a carpet or rug that requires an independent inspector, a network of carpet complaint investigators, trained and registered by The WOOLSAFE Organisation is available throughout the UK and Ireland.

WOOLSAFE Registered Inspectors have extensive experience in investigating the causes for carpet complaints based on their practical involvement with carpets and rugs over many years.

contact:

The WOOLSAFE Organisation 49 Boroughgate, Otley, LS21 1AG, Tel: 01943 850 817 E-mail: info@woolsafe.org or visit: www.woolsafe.org

Difficult Spots Spot or stain

Spot or stain

Try 1st Try 2nd Try 3rd

Burn/scorch marks

5

6

Butter

13

14

Candle wax

7

5

Chewing gum

8

7

3

3

17

5

6

Felt-tip pen

4

6

7

5

Ink (ballpoint pen)

3

6

5

Milk

7 5

15

Paint (oil)

10

Soot

16 5

2

Urine (fresh stain)

7 15

Vomit

Coffee

Furniture polish Ink (fountain)

Chocolate/cocoa Cola

5

7

6

Cream

3

5

6

Egg

7

5

Floor wax

5

6

Fruit juice

7

5

Gravy and sauces

3

5

Herbal tea

5

6

Metal polish

3

6

Mustard

5

Oil and grease

5

6

Paint (emulsion)

7

5

Shoe polish

3

5

Tea

7

5

3

5

6

6

C/heating radiator fluid

7 or 11 12

Glue/adhesive (plastic base)10

9

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

Try 1st Try 2nd Try 3rd

Artificially coloured drinks 3 Bleach

Easy Spots Blood

• Or just advice on anything to do with carpet care,

The Clean Carpet you Expect... the Service you Deserve www.servicemaster.co.uk

Environmentally Aware for Superior Carpet Care www.envirodri.com

16 5

11

Lipstick

12

Nail varnish

4

Rust

11

Tar (asphalt)

6

Urine (old stain)

3

5

6

15

Red wine

5

6

1

6

15

These may require repeated attempts with stronger spot removers. Some stains you may find impossible to remove completely in which case the assistance of a professional carpet cleaner is required.

Vacuum Cleaners the Choice of Cleaning Professionals www.sebo.co.uk

British Wool makes a Better Carpet... Naturally www.britishwool.org.uk This information is provided with the support of WOOLSAFE members for the benefit of all carpet retailers and fitters.

5

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 tolerance’.

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

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.

SAMPLES

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.

The original carpet tile

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.

PULLED LOOPS

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

6

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 • pulled loops

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.

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.

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.

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

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).

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

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

PILE REVERSAL (SEE SHADING)

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.

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.

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

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.

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 vacuumdrawn 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.

T HE R EGENCY

Collection

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.

INSTALLATIONS

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

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

7

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.

CUT PILE Freize • Frieze (pronounced free-say) 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.

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.

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 flattens easily and lacks durability.

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 BONDED Tip Sheared Level Loop Tip Sheared Level Loop Sheared Level Loop plain colours. a versatile, textured finish that is idealTipfor Bonded carpets (sometimes called ‘fibre-bonded’ or ‘fusion bonded’) are created by firing fibres into an adhesive material – the fibres are Velvet • Velvet textures (sometimes called ‘velour’ or ‘plush’) all have not stitched into the backing in any way. The technique is principally a level surface pile of approx 5mm to 10mm height, which is then used for commercial carpet tiles. sheared to give a smooth finish. With very little twist in the yarn, the

8

Random Sheared Random Sheared

Random Sheared Multi-Level Multi-Level Loop Loop

Multi-Level Loop

Tip Sheared

Velvet/Plush Velvet/Plush Level Loop

Velvet/Plush Frieze Frieze

Frieze

Random Sheared

Twist TwistLoop Multi-Level

Twist BerberBerber

Berber

Velvet/Plush

SaxonySaxony Frieze

Saxony Shag Shag

Shag

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

Flooring factsheet Underlay In a tight market for margins, underlay for carpet and laminate 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 satisfaction levels with customers.

www.floorwise.co.uk

But 50% of carpet is still sold without new underlay!

Retailers should create an assumption that new underlay is always required, the only decision is which type. It’s also a good target-setter for sales staff.

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.

Benefits

Good underlay will...

• Improve underfoot comfort • Increase appearance retention, reducing flattening • Absorb the pressure of foot traffic and reduce wear • Improve thermal insulation and warmth • Increase sound insulation • Smooth out sub-floor imperfections • Last the lifetime of the carpet Poor or old underlay will...

• Feel hard and unwelcoming • Reduce carpet life • Cause wrinkling and premature wear spots • Cause carpet fibres to break down more quickly • Not meet British Standards

How thick?

A maximum of 12mm is recommended (working with gripper will be difficult thereafter) but rooms with heavy traffic will need a thinner, denser pad.The combination of thickness and density is all important as a thick underlay with low density may not perform well.

Typically, the thicker the underlay, the better quality it will need to be - 11mm is often used for luxury installations with 9mm and 7mm the common domestic thickness.

Sponge rubber

Crumb

Combination

PU foam

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

www.numa-online.co.uk

Types

Sponge rubber The market’s most popular underlay is 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.

PU (polyurethane) foam PU foam is a relative newcomer to the market, typically made from recycled foam offcuts.The foam provides excellent comfort and performance levels with lots of thickness options - and its light weight helps handling.

The product can be re-cycled again after use.

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-surface.

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 up to 2.5 can be used - which means the underlay would normally have a tog rating of 1.0.

Felt This traditional (but environmentally friendly) underlay 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

www.carpenter.limited.uk

www.interfloor.com

www.interfloor.com

Specialists in pre-tacked underlays, soft fibre boards & Roberts Tools. www.estillon.co.uk

www.underlay.com

www.texfelt.co.uk

9

The Stocklists Pattern book changes The month’s changes are brought together on one page so that pattern books can be quickly up-dated.

4 New ranges/designs

Manufacturer

6 Withdrawn ranges/designs

AFS 6 TFT71 SUNBEAM, TFT74 PORT, TFT80 SATIN, TFT106 TEAL BLUE, TFT107 REGAL,

BROCKWAY

TFT108 SHANNON, TFT110 ROSEBAY, TFT114 CELANDINE in TWINFOLD FINE TWIST 6 CHILTERN RANGE CARPETS OF KIDDERMINSTER CAVALIER EDEL TELENZO FELLS FURLONG LITTNER HAMPTON LTD LOUIS DE POORTERE MOHAWK RACKHAMS SOLENT 4 ORINOCO in EDEL TELENZO 6 HILLCROFT, MEADOWBROOK in STS GOLDLINE

STS SUPERTEX

Wholesaler index Wholesaler

Page

Telephone

Price list date

16

0208 805 8620

Nov 2009

22

0208 443 3322

—

—

01977 662211

—

23

0208 520 8474

—

s RACKHAMS

27

02085 319225

Jan - March 2010

s SOLENT

28

01243 774623

Jan/Feb 2010

29

0845 341000

January 2010

—

01772 457070

—

s AFS s COLUMBIA s FELLS

CARPETS

s LITTNER

s STS

FLOORING

HAMPTON

WHOLESALE CARPET CO. LTD

FLOORING DISTRIBUTORS

s SUPERTEX

FURNISHING

Regional Wholesale Distributors Directory See pages 11-13 for the Directory and email diane@mayvillepublishing.co.uk to apply for a listing

10

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

Are you a Wholesaler?

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

The Stocklists Wholesale Distribution Directory

National Fells Carpets Goole 01977 662211

fellscarpets@aol.com www.fellscarpets.co.uk

North East

Carpet & Flooring Gateshead Gateshead 0844 824 3121 enquiries@cfgateshead.co.uk www.cfgateshead.co.uk

Fells Carpets Goole 01977 662211

fellscarpets@aol.com www.fellscarpets.co.uk

Floorwise (North East) Ltd Birtley - see Floorwise p13

Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customer.services @vanguardcarpets.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 sales@woodfloorsales.com www.woodfloorsales.com

North West Fells Carpets Goole 01977 662211

fellscarpets@aol.com www.fellscarpets.co.uk D. M. Miller Ltd Manchester 0161 205 9949 dm.miller@btconnect.com www.dmmillerltd.spaces.lives.com THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

John Evans Ltd Manchester 0161 368 2563 Fax: 0161 368 3039 Mobile: 07850 935301 Kellars Ltd Stockport 0161 443 0970 sales@kellars.co.uk

Lee Floorstok Ltd Liverpool - see Floorwise p13

Lee Floorstok Ltd Manchester - see Floorwise p13

MCA Floorwise Ltd Morecambe - see Floorwise p13 Mytton Flooring Norwich - see Floorwise p13 Millbrook Carpets Darwen 01254 703999 millbrookcarpets@live.co.uk

Supertex Furnishings Lancashire 01772 457070 sales@supertexfurnishing.co.uk www.supertexfurnishing.co.uk See page 28 for details Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customer.services@vanguardcarpet s.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Walkwell Flooring Supplies Manchester 0161 786 6800 salesenq@walkwell-flooring.co.uk www.walkwell-flooring.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 sales@woodfloorsales.com www.woodfloorsales.com

Midlands

East

Floorwise D & J Ltd Southam- see Floorwise p13

Faithfull Floorcovering Suffolk 01473 822341 sales@faithfulls.co.uk www.faithfulls.co.uk

Carpet & Flooring Birmingham Birmingham 0121 421 9131 cfenquiry@cfbirmingham.co.uk www.cfbirmingham.co.uk

J J Wholesale & Distribution Ltd Birmingham 0121 765 4994 jjwholesale@gmx.com RPS Flooring Mansfield Woodhouse - see Floorwise p13

STS Flooring Distributors Watford 08454 342000

sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com

see page 27 for details

Supertex Furnishings Leyland Tel: 01772 457070 sales@supertexfurnishing.co.uk www.supertexfurnishing.co.uk See page 28 for details

Beds Flooring Bedford 01234 341234 sales@bedsflooring.co.uk www.bedsflooring.co.uk

STS Flooring Distributors Ltd Cambridge Tel: 01954 781142 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com See page 27 for details Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customer.services@ vanguardcarpets.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 sales@woodfloorsales.com www.woodfloorsales.com

South East

Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 Acorn Carpet Accessories customer.services@vanguardcarpet Bromley, Kent - see Floorwise p13 s.co.uk AFS www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Middlesex Wood Floor Sales 020 8805 8620 Redditch info@afsenfield.co.uk 01527 511888 See page 16 for details sales@woodfloorsales.com Ashmount Flooring www.woodfloorsales.com Supplies Ltd Woodall Brothers Ltd Tottenham Shrewsbury - see Floorwise p13 0208 808 2158 sales@ashmountflooring.co.uk www.ashmountflooring.co.uk continued overleaf....

11

Are you a Wholesaler?

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

The Stocklists Wholesale Distribution Directory Beds Flooring Bedford 01234 341234 sales@bedsflooring.co.uk www.bedsflooring.co.uk Carpet & Flooring London Camberley 01276 672100 enquire@cflondon.co.uk www.cflondon.co.uk Columbia Flooring Middlesex 020 8443 3322 sales@columbiaflooring.co.uk www.columbiaflooring.co.uk See page 20 for details

Faithfulls Service Centre Kent 01322 285001

Faithfulls Service Centre Walthamstow 0208 498 3040 sales.walthamstow@faithfulls.co.uk Faithfull Floorcovering Suffolk 01473 822341 sales@faithfulls.co.uk www.faithfulls.co.uk Kent Flooring Supplies Ltd Chatham 01634 668668 sales@kentflooring.co.uk www.kentflooring.co.uk Littner Hampton London 020 8520 8474 littnerhampton@aol.com www.littnerhamptoncarpets.co.uk Potts & Ward, Woodcocks Ltd Brighton 01273 557211 pwwflooring@fastnet.co.uk www.pwwflooring.co.uk

Rackhams London 020 8531 9225 sales@rackhamsltd.co.uk www.rackhamsltd.co.uk See page 25 for details

Fitwell Flooring Ltd Newton Abott - see Floorwise p13

Solent Wholesale Carpet West Sussex 01243 774623 sales@solentwholesale.co.uk www.solentwholesale.co.uk See page 26 for details

STS Flooring Distributors Thame (Oxford) 01844 213555 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com see page 27 for details

Salesmark Lancing, - see Floorwise p13

STS Flooring Distributors Orpington/Croydon 0845 434 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com see page 27 for details Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customer.services@vanguardcarpet s.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wessex Flooring Amesbury - see Floorwise p13 Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 sales@woodfloorsales.com www.woodfloorsales.com

South West

Carpet & Flooring Bristol Bristol 0117 966 798l orderenquiry@cfbristol.co.uk www.cfbristol.co.uk Clarks Wood Company Bristol Tel: 0117 971 6316 Email: stag@clarkswood.com Web: www.clarkswood.com Fitwell Flooring Ltd Redruth - see Floorwise p13

12

Solent Wholesale Carpet West Sussex 01243 774623 sales@solentwholesale.co.uk www.solentwholesale.co.uk See page 26 for details

Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customer.services@vanguardcarpet s.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 sales@woodfloorsales.com www.woodfloorsales.com

Scotland

C. K. Davie Ltd Aberdeen - see Floorwise p13

Keepfers Flooring Accessories Cwmbran Tel: 01633 871162

Rhyl Flooring Supplies Ltd Rhyl Tel: 01745 354555 Roma Flooring Neath - see Floorwise p13

Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customer.services@ vanguardcarpets.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 sales@woodfloorsales.com www.woodfloorsales.com

Ireland

Floorwise Ltd Dublin - see Floorwise p13

Floorwise Ltd N. Ireland - see Floorwise p13

C. K. Davie Ltd Dundee - see Floorwise p13

Headlam Scotland North Lanarkshire 01698 831 000 sales@headlamscotland.co.uk www.headlamscotland.co.uk Neil Smith Ltd Glasgow - see Floorwise p13

Wales

Carpet & Flooring Bristol Bristol 0117 966 798l orderenquiry@cfbristol.co.uk www.cfbristol.co.uk

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

floorwise

National Network of Floorwise Distributors Acorn Carpet Accessories 15 Bromley, Kent Tel: 020 8462 0422 Fax: 020 8462 0927 C. K. Davie Ltd 1 Aberdeen Tel: 01224 820077 Fax: 01224 822344 C. K. Davie Ltd 2 Dundee Tel: 01382 226533 Fax: 01382 226544

Fitwell Flooring Ltd 19 Redruth, Cornwall Tel: 01209 214344 Fax: 01209 21162

Fitwell Flooring Ltd 18 Newton Abott, Devon Tel: 01626 835935 Fax: 01626 834334

Floorwise D & J Ltd 12 Southam, Warks Tel: 01926 814922 Fax: 01926 817899

Floorwise (North East) Ltd 5 Birtley, County Durham Tel: 0191 410 7070 Fax: 0191 410 6116 Floorwise Ltd 9 Dublin 12, ROI Tel: 00 353 (0)1 4299455 Fax: 00 353 (0)1 4298529 Floorwise Ltd 4 Northern Ireland Tel: 028 094 34441

Lee Floorstok Ltd 8 Liverpool Tel: 0151 708 7420 Fax: 0151 708 7241

Lee Floorstok Ltd 7 Manchester Tel: 0161 231 8080 Fax: 0161 231 8787

MCA Floorwise Ltd 6 Morecambe, Lancashire Tel: 01524 33517 Fax: 01524 381852

1 2

Mytton Flooring 13 Norwich, Norfolk Tel: 01603 624387 Fax: 01603 612888 Neil Smith Ltd 3 Glasgow Tel: 0141 552 1141 Fax: 0141 552 0623

Roma Flooring 14 Neath, West Glamorgan Tel: 01639 633001 Fax: 01639 646116

3 4

9

INSTALLATION ACCESSORIES

12

14 18 19

17

16

13 15

HEAD OFFICE Floorwise Group Limited Floorwise House, 22 High Street, Kegworth, Derby DE74 2DA, UK Tel: 0044 (0)1509 673974 Fax: 0044 (0)1509 674841

Award-Winning Flooring Accessories

ENTRANCE MATTING

10

11

Salesmark 16 Lancing, West Sussex Tel: 01903 750522 Fax: 01903 851111

Woodall Brothers Ltd 11 Shrewsbury, Shropshire Tel: 01743 441584 Fax: 01743 441629

7

8

RPS Flooring 10 Mansfield Woodhouse, Nottinghamshire Tel: 01623 624198 Fax: 01623 620931

Wessex Flooring 17 Amesbury, Wiltshire Tel: 01980 625888 Fax: 01980 676969

5

6

UNDERLAYS

ADHESIVES & SCREEDS

www.floorwise.co.uk www.floorwise.co.uk •• www.carpetunderlays.net www.carpetunderlays.net www.signaturewoodfloors.com www.signaturewoodfloors.com •• www.siennawoodfloors.com www.siennawoodfloors.com

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

13

The Stocklists Carpet Company Directory Abingdon Flooring

01274 655694

Adam Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W Ww

01562 829966

Associated Weavers Rw Tu

01422 431100

Avena Carpets Ltd Tu Ww

01422 330261

Axwoven Carpets Ltd Ax Be

0121 550 5788

Axminster Carpets Ltd Ax Be Tw

+32 56783250

Balta Industries NV Tu Tw W Ww

+32 56 62 2211

Betap Tufting BV Tu Tw W

+31 383 861 060

BIC Carpets Be Tw W

+32 56 23 54 10

Bizspoke Custom Carpets Be Tw W

01924 488882

Blenheim Carpets Ax Be Tw W Ww

020 7823 3040

BMK

0113 380 5333

Bond Worth Ltd Ax

01562 745000

Brintons Ax Tu Tw W Ww

0800 505055

Brockway Carpets Ltd

Edel Telenzo’s Rembrandt

14

Bronte Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W office@brontecarpets.co.uk www.brontecarpets.co.uk Burmatex Tu

Cadogan Carpet Co W

01282 862 736

01924 262525 01562 733610

01297 32244

Bajong Carpets NV Tu Tw W

Tw W sales@brockway.co.uk

Couristan Carpets Ax Tu W Ww

01562 828200 www.brockway.co.uk

Carpets of Kidderminster Ax Tu sales@carpetsofkidderminster.com www.carpetsofkidderminster.com Cavalier Carpets Ltd Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww Christy Carpets Tu

Clarendon Carpets Tw Classis Carpets Tu W Ww

Condor Carpets BV Tu

01299 827477

01254 268000 019078 308777 01675 433046 0870 020 1725 +31 38 4778911

Contemporary Life & Textiles Be Tw www.contemporarylife.co.uk

Cormar Carpets Ltd Tu Tw W info@cormarcarpets.co.uk www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

Mohawk’s Cherbourg Check

Craigie Carpets Be

Creative Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W Creatuft Carpets Tu W

Custom Carpet Company Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww Dan-Floor UK W

Domo International Be Pr Tu Tw W

Drury Lane Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W Dutton Carpets Be

E & WE Carpets W

800 223 6186 01294 558400 0116 284 1455 +32 56 35 4444 01737 830301 01454 858014 +32 92 41 4511 01484 550380 01254 672672 01562 825952

Edel Telenzo Carpets Ltd Tu Tw W sales@edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk www.edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk Enterprise Weaving Co Be Ww

01422 374 417

01562 745030

01254 296829

Fells Carpets 01204 881 234

Ww cummings@btinternet.com www.fellscarpets.co.uk

Fetcham Furnishings Ltd Tw

01977 662211

020 8944 6220

Brockway’s Vogue

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

If you would like to be included in this section or upgrade your listing, please contact Diane Martin on +44 (0)1482 659396 or email diane@mayvillepublishing.co.uk

Every time you see a web or email address in The Stocklists, you can click straight to it from our online edition at www.thestocklists.com

KEY TO CODES: Be: Bespoke • Pr: Printed • Tu:Tufted • Tw:Twist • W: Wool • Ww: Woven Wilton Fletco Taepper A/S Tu W

+45 96 60 3000

Tw W enquiries@furlongcentral.co.uk www.furlongflooring.co.uk

01772 696 787

Gaskell Tu Tw W

01827 831525

Gaskell Mackay Carpets Ltd Ax Tu Tw W 01642 242 423 Georgian Carpets Tu Tw W

01827 831430

Godfrey Hirst (GB) Ltd Tu

Heckmondwike FB

0800 78 33 712

Leigh Spinners Ltd Tw

01942 673232

Louis de Poortere W

Furlong Flooring

Halbmond Teppichwerke Be Pr Tu

Lecaflor Ltd Ax Be Pr Tu Tw W Ww

0800 526696 +49 037 421 420 01924 410544

John Lanham Watts Carpets Ax Tw Ww 01937 588511 John Evans Ltd Ax Tu Tw W

Joseph Hamilton & Seaton W Kingsmead Carpets Tu Tw W

Lano NV

Ax Pr Tu Tw W Ww marketing@lano.be www.lano.com

Le Tissage d'Arcade Ax Ww

0161 368 2563 01827 831400 01827 831 424

Lusotufo Tu

+32 05685 4747

01388 664101

Manx Carpets Tw W

01827 831 434

Mayfield Carpets W

01706 639 866

MID NL Be

+31 38 851 8700

Mohawk Europe

marinagooch@mohawkeurope.com www.mohawkinternational.com Mr Tomkinson Tw Ww

01675 433031

Penthouse Carpets Tu Tw W

01706 341231

Phoenox Textiles Pr Tu

01484 863227

Pownall Carpets Tw W

0845 6528811

01254 676766

Roger Vanden Berghe.NV Tu Ww Ryalux Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W

Sans Frontieres Ltd Be Pr Tu Tw W Ww

01480 479830 01480 471304 01827 831 450

Ossfloor UK

Roe Lee Carpets Be +32 56 65 4300

+32 56 393 386

+32 56 73 57 11 0845 652 8811 0844 5611977

Bronte’s stand

Shaw Home Foundations Tu

01675 433 501

Tapibel NV Pr Tu Tw Tasibel NV Tw

01623 481 221

The Alternative Flooring Co The Grosvenor Wilton Co W Ww The Sultana Carpet Co Ax The Wilton Carpet Co Ax W Ww

Thomas Witter UK Ltd Tu Tw

+32 52 499600 01264 335111

01562 701456 01299 822300 0845 296 8850 0870 1128318

Timzo Tufting Industry BV Tu +31 38 385 4477 Tisca Tiara Tu Ww

Ulster Carpets Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww

United Carpets & Beds Tw W Ww Victoria Carpets Tu Tw W Ww Vorwerk

Westex Carpets Tu

Whitestone Weavers Ltd Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww Wilkies Carpets Tw

Woodward Grosvenor Ax Tu Tw W Ww Wool Classics Tu Ww

+41 71 791 0111 02838 334433 01709 732 666 01562 749300

08700 104484 01274 861334

01429 892555 0113 307 9955 0800 526696 0207 349 1560

Carpets of Kidderminster’s Beaufort Court

Cormar’s Berwick

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

15

16

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

UNDERLAYS

CARPETS NATURAL/LOOPS HIGH FLYER MARRAKESH NOMAD

Tex Loop Natural 50/50 Nat Loop

SAXONY NOBLE SAXONY ROYAL TOUCH SENSATIONAL

40oz Saxony 45oz Nylon Saxony 58oz Saxony

80/20 WOOL TWIST LOXWOOD TWIST 80/20 38oz WESSEX TWIST 80/20 40oz LOXWOOD TWIST 80/20 40oz NEW ASPEN TWIST 80/20 40oz ARRAN TWIST 80/20 50oz HARRISON TWIST (Victoria) 80/20 60oz PP TWIST VIVA TWIST SALT N PEPPER ELITE TWIST

PP Twist PP Twist PP Twist

LOOP PILE AND CORD PINCH FELT PINCH FOAM ROCKY HB ROCKY FB GALA CORD FB GALA CORD HB

Needle Punch Cord Needle Punch Loop Pile Cord Loop Pile Cord Loop Pile Cord Loop Pile Cord

AFS WOOL COLLECTION 100% WOOL LOOP WELLFIELD IMRA 100% Wool 2 Ply Yarn WELLFIELD KAMRA 100% Wool 2 Ply Yarn ELITE LOOP 100% Wool 3 Ply Yarn ZAHARA 100% Wool 3 Ply Yarn LYMINGTON 100% Wool 3 Ply Yarn CORMAR STOCKED BERWICK 40 80/10/10 40 oz Twist BERWICK 50 80/10/10 50 oz Twist BUCHANAN 80/10/10 40 oz Twist HIGHLANDER 80/10/10 50 oz Twist HOME COUNTIES 42 oz Twist HOME COUNTIES 50 oz Twist 100% Natural MALABAR NATURAL BERBER SUPER 80/10/10 35 oz Twist NATURAL BERBER ELITE 80/10/10 45 oz Twist NATURAL BERBER DELUXE80/10/10 55 oz Twist 80/10/10 32 oz Twist NEW HAMPSHIRE NEW HAMPSHIRE 80/10/10 42 oz Twist NEW OAKLANDS 80/10/10 32 oz Twist NEW OAKLANDS 80/10/10 42 oz Twist NEW OAKLANDS 80/10/10 50 oz Twist PRIMO PLUS Excellon Twist PRIMO ULTRA Excellon Twist PRIMO TWEED Excellon Twist Excellon Saxony PRIMO SAXONY CORMAR CARPETS AVEBURY LINDISFARNE TOWN AND COUNTRY

3/5 DAYS DELIVERY 100% Pure New Wool 100% Pure New Wool 80/10/10 60 oz Twist

Roll Size Full Roll EQ* Description BRANDED TOP END RUBBER SPONGE RANGE ELITE 11 m2 129lb Textured Rubber Underlay MAJESTIC 11 m2 135lb Waffle Rubber Underlay COLOURS RED 11 m2 135lb Waffle Rubber Underlay Waffle Rubber Underlay WILLOW GREEN 15 m2 90lb CRUSADER SUPREME 15 m2 100lb Waffle Rubber Underlay SUPREME LIGHT 11 m2 101lb Waffle Rubber Underlay UNBRANDED TREDAIRE SPONGE RUBBER AFS CLASSIC GOLD 15 m2 95 lb Rubber Underlay AFS SUPER GOLD 15 m2 80lb Rubber Underlay Rubber Underlay AFS STANDARD GOLD 15 m2 60lb Light Weight PE GRAPHITE 15 m2 WOOD FLOOR UNDERLAYS BOARDWALK (Timbermate)15 m2 3.75mm 23dB Moisture Barrier COMFORT SILVER 15 m2 3mm 18dB PE Foam + Foil

TREDAIRE PU UNDERLAYS BRIO 15 m2 ZEST 15 m2 SOFTWALK 15 m2 DREAMWALK 15 m2

8mm 10mm 9 mm 11 mm

Tredaire PU Tredaire PU Tredaire PU Tredaire PU

DURALAY CONTRACT UNDERLAYS TREADMORE 11 m2 8.0mm SYSTEM 10 11 m2 10mm DURAFIT 650 15 m2 6.5mm DURAFIT 500 15 m2 5.0mm DEFENDER 15 m2 100lb HEATFLOW CARPET 15 m2 6.0mm 15 m2 2.75mm HEATFLOW WOOD

Crumb Crumb single stick under 40m2 Double stick crumb Double stick crumb Flat sponge 0.80 TOG 0.75 TOG sponge carpet 0.35 TOG sponge laminate U/L

CARPENTERS PU UNDERLAYS GREENSTEP 15 m2 8mm SUPER GREEN STEP 15 m2 10mm RICHSTEP 15 m2 9mm DEEPSTEP 15 m2 11mm

PU Underlay PU Underlay PU Underlay PU Underlay

CARPENTERS CONTRACT UNDERLAYS FIRMSTEP 15 m2 7mm Contract PU 15 m2 9mm Contract PU POWERSTEP MARINESTEP 15 m2 7mm Contract PU IMO Rated FELT UNDERLAYS FELT 28 FELT 42 KENSINGTON DELUXE

15 m2 28oz 15 m2 42oz 11 m2 74oz

Wool/jute felt 8mm Contract wool/jute felt 11mm Felt crumb rubber

AFS Unit 4 Baird Road, Enfield, Middlesex EN1 1SJ Tel: 020 8805 8620 Fax: 020 8805 6840 Email: info@afsenfield.co.uk

PLUS A VAST RANGE OF ACCESSORIES AND TOOLS FOR CARPETS AND LAMINATES Contact our sales office or your area representative for prices on any of the above ranges.

We also offer a fast service on non stock items. Phone our showroom manager for prices and samples. Our latest price list is dated November 2009.

REP DETAILS: Ashley Best Nick Hart Karl Goult

Tel: 07976 916752 Tel: 07771 967609 Tel: 07957 685428

David Holmes

Tel: 07974 190677

Surrey , Hampshire, South London Essex, East London North London, West London, North West London, Middlesex, Herts., Beds., and Bucks.

Kent, South East London

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

17

Kidderminster Trading Estate Spennells Valley Road Kidderminster Worcs DY10 1XS

Telephones:

Sales (01562) 828200 Admin (01562) 824737 Fax: (01562) 752010

New trade price list effective 1st December 2008

ASPEN HEAVY/ EXTRA HEAVY DOMESTIC/GENERAL CONTRACT 50 oz PILE WEIGHT • Please note - the lighter weight in this quality has now been discontinued

80% WOOL/20% POLYPROPYLENE 4 & 5 METRE WIDTHS

AMORE EXTRA HEAVY DOMESTIC/CONTRACT 45oz PILE WEIGHT

80% WOOL/10% NYLON/10% POLYESTER 4 & 5 METRE WIDTHS

BERBER TWIST CLASSIC EXTRA HEAVY DOMESTIC/GENERAL CONTRACT

80% WOOL/10% NYLON/10% POLYESTER 4 & 5 METRE WIDTHS

CRAFTSMAN ELITE EXTRA HEAVY DOMESTIC/CONTRACT 50oz PILE WEIGHT

80% WOOL/20% NYLON 4 & 5 METRE WIDTHS

MASTER CRAFTSMAN FORTE EXTRA HEAVY DOMESTIC/CONTRACT 40oz PILE WEIGHT

80% WOOL/20% NYLON 4 & 5 METRE WIDTHS

CRESTA SUPREME EXTRA HEAVY DOMESTIC/CONTRACT 50oz PILE WEIGHT

80% WOOL/10% NYLON/10% POLYESTER 4 & 5 METRE WIDTH

CRESTA EXTRA HEAVY DOMESTIC/CONTRACT 40oz PILE WEIGHT

80% WOOL/10% NYLON/10% POLYESTER 4 & 5 METRE WIDTH

E&WE CARPETS BY BROCKWAY Ranges include: Lakeland Herdwick Flatweave Collection Modena Verona

Vogue A stunning range of co-ordinated stripe and plain carpets available in four eye-catching colour palettes

FAIRFIELD TWIST EXTRA HEAVY DOMESTIC/GENERAL CONTRACT 40oz PILE WEIGHT

80% WOOL/10% NYLON/10% POLYESTER 4 & 5 METRE WIDTH

CAVENDISH

FLORIAN EXTRA HEAVY DOMESTIC/GENERAL CONTRACT 60oz PILE WEIGHT

80% WOOL/10% NYLON/10% POLYESTER 4 & 5 METRE WIDTH

HEAVY DOMESTIC/GENERAL CONTRACT Choice of 18 Stylish Shades

ORION TWIST/MAJOR 60oz

SHETLAND

EXTRA HEAVY DOMESTIC/GENERAL CONTRACT 80% WOOL/10% ACRYLIC/7% POLYESTER/ 42oz PILE WEIGHT (ORION TWIST) + 60 oz (ORION MAJOR) 3% POLYPROPYLENE • Please note - the lighter weight in this quality has now been discontinued 4 & 5 METRE WIDTH

EXTRA HEAVY DOMESTIC/GENERAL CONTRACT Made with a natural mix of undyed Shetland & Norwegian Wool

100% TWO PLY PURE NEW WOOL 4 METRE WIDTHS

VOGUE

TWINFOLD FINE TWIST EXTRA HEAVY DOMESTIC/CONTRACT 50oz PILE WEIGHT

100% PURE NEW WOOL 4 & 5 METRE WIDTHS

80% WOOL/10% NYLON/10% POLYESTER 4 & 5 METRE WIDTH

EXTRA HEAVY DOMESTIC/GENERAL CONTRACT 80% PURE NEW WOOL, 20% NYLON TWO FOLD YARN PLAIN 4 & 5 METRE WIDTHS, STRIPED 4 & 0.66 METRE WHIPPED RUNNER

REPRESENTATIVES: Mr. T. Bradley Tel: 07968 835201 S. Humberside, Lincs., Notts, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Cambridgeshire, North Hertfordshire.

Mr. S. Perks Tel: 07968 835205 W. Midlands, Northants., Beds, Warwickshire, Worcs, Herefordshire, Shropshire Mr. S. Stead Tel: 07968 835204. North Humberside, Yorkshire, The North East

Mr. R.I. Hart Tel: 07968 835202.

Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent, S.E London Mr. M. Humphreys Tel: 07968 835203 Hampshire, Dorset, Berkshire, Isle of Wight, Channel Isles, parts of Surrey Mr. R. Venn Tel: 07968 835206.

South Wales, Bristol, South West, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Devon, Cornwall

Mr L. Little Tel: 07918 081782 Mr. A. Finch Tel: 07970 693752. Sussex, parts of Surrey, South Lancashire, Cheshire, North Wales, Cumbria, North Staffs Central & South West London

Mr D. Milstead Tel: 07841 565349 Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, South Beds, South Herts, North London

AGENTS: Mr. T. Tindal, Helensburgh. Tel: 01436 671421, mobile: 07836 705620, fax: 01436 671939 Scotland Mr. D. Moran Tel: 07710 882421 N. Ireland & Eire

18

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

For every step you take there’s a Carpenter luxury underlay In stock throughout the UK and Europe from a network of wholesale partners

Product Range ®

A general domestic underlay Density: 75kg/m3 – Roll weight: 10kg Thickness: 8mm

®

A general domestic underlay Density: 75kg/m3 – Roll weight: 12kg Thickness: 10mm

®

For Luxury use domestic areas anywhere in the home Density: 100kg/m3 – Roll weight: 14.5kg Thickness: 9mm

®

For Luxury use, domestic areas in the home Density: 100kg/m3 – Roll weight: 17kg Thickness: 11mm

®

Strong start to 2010 Fresh back from the chilly climes of Hanover, Carpenter, with its new look stand, is extremely pleased with the response received at Domotex 2010.

Main aims for this year include increasing its market share in the UK and expanding in the contract and export market.

Helen Rowberry, National Sales Manager says: “Despite the volatile economy we are extremely confident we can continue to grow successfully in 2010, not only developing existing business but also gaining additional sales as polyurethane becomes more popular.”

Helen Rowberry is pictured getting closely involved with the lightweight PU at Domotex!

Product of the Month - RichStep

®

For luxury use, in domestic or contract areas Recommended for stretch fit or doublestick applications Density: 145kg/m3 – Roll weight: 20kg Thickness 9mm

Our best selling underlay Richstep is a 9mm thick, 100kg/m3 density product. Rated for luxury use, it is suitable for contract and domestic installations, where high energy absorption is desirable. Not only does this product add luxury and comfort to a carpet but also protects it against premature wear.

Richstep is made from recycled product and is manufactured in Glossop, Derbyshire.

For more product information contact: JOHN HUGHES Northern Sales Manager 07788 924606

For Heavy contract locations Recommended for stretch fit or doublestick applications Density: 145kg/m3 – Roll weight: 16kg Thickness: 7mm

HELEN ROWBERRY National Sales Manager 07702 319748

SUE HOWLAND Southern Sales Manager 07795 823190

For details of your local Carpenter Wholesaler Partner Tel: +44 (0)1457 861141 Fax: +44 (0)1457 863242 Email: Glossop.sales@carpenter.com Web: www.carpenter.ltd.uk Carpenter Ltd, Dinting Lodge Industrial Estate, Glossop, Derbyshire, SK13 6LE.

®

For luxury use in domestic and contract areas – IMO rating Recommended for stretch fit or doublestick applications Density: 145kg/m3 – Roll weight: 16kg Thickness 7mm

®

For heavy contract locations – IMO rating Recommended for stretch fit or doublestick applications Density: 180kg/m3 – Roll weight: 17kg Thickness 6mm

®

For luxury use in contract and domestic areas Recommended for stretch fit or doublestick applications Density: 180kg/m3 – Roll weight: 26kg Thickness 9mm

All rolls are: 11 metres x 1.37 metres + 15sq metres

®

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

19

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

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

CALL US NOW!!!

020 8443 3322 Columbia Flooring plc

Trade Show Rooms Available • Specialist advice and terms available on contract enquiries •

TRAFALGAR TRADING ESTATE JEFFREYS ROAD ENFIELD MIDDLESEX EN3 7TY

Tel: 0208 443 3322 Fax: 0208 805 2346

20

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

Registered office: Wilden Lane, Stourport-on-Severn, Worcs. DY13 9LW Tel: 01299 827 477 Fax: 01299 827 052 sales@carpetsofkidderminster.com

Visit our website on: www.carpetsofkidderminster.com

CLASSIC AXMINSTER COLLECTION

SARAKHAN BERBER COLLECTION The Axminsters

80% WOOL, 20% NYLON Grade 5, Very Heavy Wear,

supplied in 3.66m and 91cm

Distinctive Design Classic Saxony Luxury Saxony

SM - Sarakhan Maroc SM - Sarakhan Saxony SM - Sarakhan Royale

All three styles made in the same 13 colourways

The Tufteds SS - Sarakhan Shingle

80% WOOL, 10% NYLON, 10% POLYESTER Grade 5, Very Heavy Wear

supplied in 3.66m and 91cm Design No. 41/2822 44/2822 66/2822

Buckingham Colour KIRMAN ISPHAHAN BOUQUET ROCOCCO

Design No. F00001 F00002 F00007 F00008

Repeat 36” 36” 36”

Match H/D H/D H/D

supplied in 3.66m and 91cm Repeat

Match

34”

H/D

34”

H/D

34”

H/D

34”

S/M

supplied in 4m and 5m

Heavy 50oz-sq.yd 2ply twist Available in 19 colourways

100% WOOL Grade 5, Very Heavy Wear, Loop pile

Sarakhan Rustique

supplied in 4m and 5m

Heavy 52oz-sq.yd 4ply loop pile 6 colourways all made in 3 styles RD - Rustique Diamente RL - Rustique Linear RB - Rustique Boucle

80% WOOL, 20% NYLON Grade 5, Very Heavy Wear

Natural Elegance Extra Heavy Luxury twist 65oz-psyd In 14 colourways, 7 Heather Berber & 7 Classic Plain Shades

Tweedsdale

KASHMAR Colour BEIGE BERBER BROWN BERBER GOLD BERBER

supplied in 4m and 5m

NEW

80% WOOL, 20% SYNTHETIC with Meltbond Heavy Domestic

A 40oz-sq.yd FIne Twist at an attractively modest nett price in 12 subtle natural heather shades

supplied in 4m and 5m

NEW

FLORENCE

Colour RED PERSIAN DAMSON SAMARKAND BLUE SAMARKAND KIRMEN PANEL GREEN QUADRILLE

supplied in 3.66m and 91cm Design No. 11/4398 10/5281 3/5281 2/403 2/4647

GRENABY Design No. 16/8950 14/8018 23/8036 26/803 10/8207

Colour PERSIAN JEWEL GREEN CHINTZ CLEOPATRA

Design No. 10/8127 25/627 60/8745

Match set

36”

set

43”

set

36”

self

36”

self

Repeat 41 1/4” 41 1/4” 41 1/4”

Match H/D H/D H/D

supplied in 3.66m and 91cm Design No. 72/746 48/763 23/759 23/9036

TARTANS Colour MURRAY OF ATHOLL LINDSEY McKELLAR BLACKWATCH (sm) BLACKWATCH (lg) ANCIENT HUNTING ROSS MACPHERSON MACLEOD OF MACLEOD

Repeat 36”

supplied in 3.66m and 91cm

L a xey Colour GREEN ISPHAHAN FAWN ELIZABETHAN PERSIAN GARDEN EMIR TURKEY

Match H/D H/D H/D S/M H/D

supplied in 3.66m and 91cm

Colour SHAH ABBASS JACOBEAN RED TURKEY RED KASHAN NATURAL KASHAN

Royalty

Repeat 34” 34” 34” 34” 34”

Repeat

Match

27”

H/D

36”

H/D

36”

H/D

36”

self

supplied in 3.66m and 91cm Design No. 5626 360/7 5555 5487S 5487L 5527 5173 5609

Repeat 12” 12” 18” 18” 36” 12” 18” 18”

Match self self self self self self self self

ALL AXMINSTERS WOVEN IN KIDDERMINSTER ROWE company

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

21

Registered office: Wilden Lane, Stourport-on-Severn, Worcs. DY13 9LW Tel: 01299 827 477 Fax: 01299 827 052 sales@carpetsofkidderminster.com

Visit our website on: www.carpetsofkidderminster.com

CONTEMPORARY AND TONAL AXMINSTERS

Chateau Royale

80% WOOL, 20% NYLON Grade 5, Heavy Wear,

supplied in 3.66m

3 ply well established pindot in 12 colours with 2 border options

Beaufort Court

80% WOOL, 20% NYLON Grade 5, Heavy Wear,

supplied in 3.66m

3 ply modern simple designs on pindot ground available in 12 colourways, 2 designs Mazarin & Crystal

Florenza

NEW 80% WOOL, 20% NYLON Grade 5, Heavy Wear,

supplied in 3.66m

3 ply subtle natural tonal textured yarns

NEW

AGENTS & REPRESENTATIVES Rodger Adams mobile: 07970 023 159

Scotland North East /Cumbria Lancashire, Yorkshire & North Wales Lincolnshire, East Midlands East Anglia, Essex & Hampshire

John Reid mobile: 07973 741 445

Martin Lees mobile: 07974 413 992

Natural Elegance

Mario Sorano mobile: 07989 589 124

The Ultimate in style and luxury Robin Rowberr y mobile: 07831 434 244

West Midlands North & West London, Home Counties & Bedfordshire South West/South Wales South London/Surrey/ Sussex & Kent

Lee Palmer mobile: 07774 101640 Andrew Jefferies mobile: 07831 457 102

Tony Cook mobile: 07860 205 377

Contract and bespoke service available.

For all commercial enquiries please refer to sales reps/agents.

For information or visit our new user friendly website www.carpetsofkidderminster.com

We would like to remind all customers that we have our own DEDICATED TRANSPORT FLEET offering a timely and efficient delivery service.

CURRENT PRICE LIST DATED: AUGUST 2008

Beaufort Court

Mazarine Crystal • Available in two designs

a ROWE company

22

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

DOMOTEX 2010

DOMOTEX IS A HIT – THANKS TO YOU! Once again we are delighted to report that we were kept very busy throughout Domotex and we can only thank all of you who made the effort to come to Hannover, visit our stand, show an interest in what we’re doing and place orders! There was a great reaction to our new ranges at Domotex – especially the tile programme; Chaumont Twist our new 100% PP carpet using our own Edelon Protect yarn; and also Hudson and Lawrence, very attractively priced100% wool qualities – textured and plain designs in six earthy, neutral shades, which will be available in rolls only.

WHAT’S NEW At last we can report that our new tile programme is now in stock and sampling is available. There are five collections in all: three high grade 100% BCF polyamide 6 options; and two using Edel Telenzo’s own Edelon Protect 100% polypropylene yarn. All are 50 x 50cm tiles with a modified bitumen flexible backing. The three polyamide ranges are: Vancouver, a luxurious frisée cut pile option, designed to sit alongside the popular Fleur carpet range; and San Francisco, a heavier loop pile with a contrast fleck pattern, both offered in 15 colours; and Berlin, which is a multi-tone flecked loop pile in 10 different colours – also available as a 4m broadloom carpet. The two new Edelon Protect polypropylene collections are Come April be on the lookout for Alpine – a based on popular broadloom carpet ranges Lima and wonderful 100% New Mars. Lima is a 1/10th gauge loop pile in 10 new Zealand wool carpet aimed muted, solid colours - Lima carpet has been reat the top end of our range coloured accordingly. Mars is a two-tone cross-over and really luxurious! The loop pile, also in 10 colours.

COMING SOON

prototypes were greeted with enthusiasm at Domotex.

OUR SALES TEAM Greater London as far as N. Circular on north side of Thames and as far as M25 on south side, Surrey, some of Bucks, Middlesex Berks, Oxfordshire.

John A Constable T: 01622 685397 M: 07836 734322 Kent, Sussex, Hampshire Robin Croughton T: 01892 669699 M: 07710 393966

Avon, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire (part of), Somerset, Wiltshire Doug Gilmour T: 01373 462503 M: 07970 950276 West Midlands, South Wales Paul Brewer T: 0121 4277117 M: 07798 745181 East Anglia, Bedfordshire, Cambs, Essex, Herts, Norfolk, Suffolk Jonathan Hart T: 01621 817992 M: 07889 264466

YOUR HEAD OFFICE TEAM CONTACTS Operations Manager: Lesley Inman M: 07703 337989

Lincs, Leics, Northants, Notts, Derbyshire Jim Osborne M: 07738 642934 Lancashire, Cheshire, North Wales Philip Hambleton T: 01925 740050 M: 07966 397676 Yorkshire & North Lincs John Alsop T: 01904 762471 M: 07860 572220

Cumbria and North East Jimmy Thomson T: 01835 863180 M: 07767 702928 Scotland Tim Tindal T: 01436 671421 M: 07836 705620 Channel Islands, Isle of Wight John Eastlake T: 01323 896141 M: 07885 398858 Northern Ireland Jim Osborne M: 07738 642934

Tel: 01422 374417 or 01422 371226 Fax: 01422 377452 Email: sales@edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk Edel Telenzo Carpets, 2- 4 Southgate, Elland, West Yorkshire HX5 0BW

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

23

Littner Hampton Limited UNIT 30 FOREST BUSINESS PARK, ARGALL AVENUE, LONDON E10 7FB Telephone: 020 8520 8474 Fax: 020 8520 4464

email: littnerhampton@aol.com

THE ARTLOOM COLLECTION COUNTRY SQUARE (MADISON)

100% wool, 4m

FLORIDA FELT BACK

100% polypropylene, 4m

LINZ BERBER

100% wool, 4m & 5m

MEMPHIS FELT BACK

100% polypropylene, 4m

NEW PARK AVENUE

100% polypropylene, 4m

PERTH BERBER

100% wool, 4m

REGATTA ACTION BACK

100% polypropylene, 4m

REGATTA GEL BACK

100% polypropylene, 4m

RUSTIC LOOP

100% wool, 4m & 5m

TAILORED BEAUTY

100% polypropylene, 4m

THE ARTLOOM DESIGNERS COLLECTION COLOURPOINT

100% wool, 4m

CONTRACT CORD

100% wool, 4m

CROFTER

100% wool, 4m & 5m

JAIPUR CORD (WOOL CORD)

100% wool, 4m & 5m

KNOSSOS

100% wool, 4m

LINEA BROADLOOM

100% wool, 4m

MIRAGE

100% wool, 4m

MONIQUE

100% wool, 4m & 5m

NATURAL INSPIRATIONS (SISAL V)

100% wool, 4m

NEW BOUCLE

100% wool, 4m

RUSTIC BASKET

100% wool, 4m & 5m

RUSTIC WEAVE

100% wool, 4m & 5m

RUSTIC TWIST

80% wool 20% nylon, 4m

SALES EXECUTIVES & AGENTS KEITH BADHAM (Birmingham, W. Midlands, Staffs, Shrops, Warwickshire, Glos, Northants)

07976 677048

PETER BALDWIN (North West England, N. Wales, Derbyshire and Yorkshire)

07973 410688

MARK BROSTER (South London, Surrey, Kent, Sussex and part Middlesex)

07766 255222

GARY FOSTER (Cambrigeshire, Bedfordshire, Bucks, Herts and Oxon)

07515 283872

GARY KENDALL (North London, part Middlesex and Essex)

07802 661944

LEE MARRINER (Hampshire, Wiltshire, Berkshire & part Buckinghamshire)

07778 238667

PATTERN BOOKS AVAILABLE PLEASE CONTACT LONDON OFFICE

We tick all the boxes!

Best-selling products at every price point As a UK manufacturer and distributor, Furlong’s objective is simply to offer its customers the best of all worlds in terms of price, service and quality - a partnership that retailers can rely on and a comprehensive product range that consumers will respond to.

Furlong’s nationwide distribution network operates across three depots – London, Preston and Newport – using a dedicated fleet to carry rolls and cut lengths to our customers usually within 24 hours.

A long-term programme of substantial investment has created a major production facility for both 4m and 5m wide carpet and the new backing plant commissioned last year is now fully on line.

Furlong’s product development team has created a portfolio of products matched to the diverse needs of different customer groups, rooms styles and performance requirements. Regency’s stain-resistant ranges use their own ‘Carefree’ fibre which is bleach cleanable and offered with a warranty for absolute confidence. New ranges are introduced several times a year to keep the offering fresh and interesting and respond to consumer trends and colour shifts.

As a result, the company can produce hundreds of thousands of square metres of carpet every week, covering all the key sectors – stain resistant polypropylene, wool twist, wool natural and many others.

the aim is simply to offer customers the best of all worlds in terms of price, service and quality

Being in control of its manufacturing means Furlong can control the cost base and the quality to provide a range of products that is competitive at each of the price points. Manufacturing also means they can manage stock more closely and respond to changes in demand so that the right carpet is always ready for dispatch.

Furlong have paid particular attention to the presentation of the product range to consumers with a market-leading modular POS system which they will deliver and design to suit your store.

Furlong’s wholly-owned manufacturing company, Regency Carpets, is one of the UK’s top three tufters with a modern plant located in Bangor, Northern Ireland.

Furlong believes in working in partnership with their customers to provide products and services that ticks all the boxes.

Investing in quality and service

Extensive tufting expertise

Effective service systems

Large group stock-holding

Fast delivery fleet

Here are the people who try harder London & Home Counties SIMON BRENNER M: 07791 891024 S.W LONDON, SURREY (INS. M25) IAN COLLACOTT M: 07816 217550 MIDDLESEX, W. LONDON BERKSHIRE DARREN SPENDIFF M: 07791 890861 KENT

High impact POS Furlong’s innovative new modular displays have been launched with the top 10 Regency stain-resistant carpet ranges to suit every style and consumer budget.

RAY SMITH M: 07816 217565 ESSEX ADAM HOLLYOAKE M: 07816 217548 N, N W & E LONDON

Wales ALLAN MCDONALD M: 07872 941036 SALES MANAGER SAMANTHA EVANS M: 07973 389799 S./MID & W. WALES JASON BRIMBLE M: 07912 879796 AVON & GLOUCESTERSHIRE

• Mix and match up to10 units.

• Islands, triangles, corners and walls.

• Unique, stylish, interlocking design.

• Total service - design, delivery and installation.

The Regency range of stain-resistant carpets ticks all the boxes:

✓ quality ✓ choice ✓ availability ✓ service ✓ price

TIM BAILEY M: 07841 204657 S.E. WALES & HEREFORDSHIRE STEWART WAITHMAN M: 07854 968144 DEVON & CORNWALL

London Sales tel: 01322 628707 fax: 01322 698733

South East

North West

PAUL LOVELL M: 07816 217549 NORFOLK, SUFFOLK & CAMBS

GEOFF ABERNETHY M: 07970 229717 CUMBRIA, POTTERIES, CHESHIRE & FYLDE COAST

KRIS KOBYLKA M: 07816 217563 E & WEST SUSSEX TONY CONWAY M: 07791 891025 BEDS, NORTHANTS, OXON & BUCKS PETER FLETCHER M: 07816 217561 HAMPSHIRE, DORSET & SURREY (OUTSIDE M25)

ALAN CHEETHAM M: 07966 263571 GREATER MANCHESTER BOB CHRISTIE M: 07980 786264 MERSEYSIDE, WIRRAL & N. WALES

Yorkshire & North East

Scotland

DES BEST M: 07968 828516 NORTH EAST

GEORGE WISELY M: 07967 148665 SCOTTISH SALES DIRECTOR

RAY ANDREW M: 07973 719801 EAST LANCS/W.YORKS

COLIN RICHFORD M: 07970 163372 WEST SCOTLAND & CUMBRIA ALAN CAIRNIE M: 07976 311434 EAST SCOTLAND

REG SYKES M: 07973 403450 SOUTH YORKSHIRE

Midlands PAUL HARRIS M: 07980 786285 NOTTS & DERBYSHIRE

Wood Floor Specialists JOHN POWERS SALES MANAGER M: 07792 477312

MIKE SHUTT M: 07970 158594 BIRMINGHAM/ STAFFORDSHIRE, SHROPSHIRE

RICHARD RICHMAN AREA SALES MANAGER M: 07791 891044

MARTYN REA M: 07968 324598 LEICESTER/ WARWICKSHIRE/LINCS

Preston Sales tel: 01772 696787 fax: 01772 311921

Newport Sales tel: 01633 283959 fax: 01633 275454

Email: enquiries@furlongflooring.co.uk

100% recycled carpet Mohawk International takes old plastic bottles and turns them into beautiful, luxurious carpet...

Hard to believe we know, but a plastic bottle you drink from today could one day become fibres in Mohawk’s carpet.

Make the most of the consumer’s love of all things green with the new Environmental Tombola featuring carpet manufactured from 100% recycled material

Polyethylene terephthalate (P.E.T) is the top quality resin required in the production of plastic drinks bottles. When recycled, it can be extruded into fibres that are far superior to lower-grade synthetic virgin fibres used in making other brands of carpet yarns.

Mohawk recycles over 3 billion plastic bottles each year. By controlling every aspect of “Mohawk recycles over 3 billion the recycling plastic bottles each year.” process, Mohawk guarantees the highest standards of performance in its luxurious and beautiful carpet.

From bottle to floor - that’s how we do it.

EUROPEAN STOCK RANGES American Velvet

3.66m I 65oz

New Century

4.0m I 100oz

True Winner*

3.66 & 4.57m I 62oz

100% StainmasterTactesse Nylon

100% Polyester with Scotchgard

100% PET Polyester with Scotchgard

Butter Pecan*

Paint Box*

Tula Rosa

3.66m I 52oz

3.66 & 4.57m I 65oz

3.66m I 65oz

100% PET Polyester with Scotchgard

100% PET Polyester with Scotchgard

100% StainmasterTactesse BCF Nylon

Casual Allure

Park Avenue II*

Vivid Luxury

3.66m I 48oz

3.66 & 4.57m I 80oz

3.66m I 70oz

100% Ultrastrand Nylon with Scotchgard

100% PET Polyester with Scotchgard

100% Ultrastrand Lissé with Advanced Repel

Certain Success*

Rainbow Sherbert*

Weston Hill*

3.66 & 4.57m I 42oz

100% PET Polyester with Scotchgard

Coastal Charm*

3.66m I 55oz

Carpets marked * on Environmental Tombola

Royal Palace II

4.0m I 95oz

100% Polyester with Scotchgard

Sera Bella

UK Sales Office 3.66m I 91oz

100% StainmasterTactesse Nylon

100% Ultrastrand Lissé with Advanced Repel

Eloquence

Shag-A-Delic

3.66m I 86oz

100% ANSO Caress

Knightsbridge

3.66m I 50oz

100% Ultrasrand BCF Nylon 3.66m I 65oz

100% Wear-dated Durasoft Nylon

3.66m I 30oz

100% PET Polyester with Scotchgard

3.66m I 29oz

100% Everstrand PET Polyester with Scotchgard

Colour Cachet

3.66 I 52oz

100% Mohawk Everset PET with Scotchgard

Shimmering Sands

Mohawk United Kingdom 1 Chester Road Colmworth Business Park Eaton Socon, St. Neots Cambridge

PE19 8YT 3.66m I 46oz

100% Ultrastrand Lissé with Advanced Repel

Tel: 01480 479830 Fax: 01480 471304

MOHAWK ALSO MANUFACTURE COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS UNDER THESE BRANDS

MOHAWK INTERNATIONAL

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

27

Call the sales office for a copy of our Jan-March price guide. It’s an amazing sci-fi tribute!

2010 -The end of the recession?! Are you ready? We are! Check out all our recession busting offers in our latest price guide! Stand by for action CUT & LOOP PILE

CORD & NEEDLEPUNCH

VELOUR / VELVET

Revival Kreta Everglades

Gala Rackcord Scorpio Supacord

WILTON / PATTERNED CUT PILE

GRAPHICS / CONTRACT GELS Arena Cherokee Sapphire Scala Senator Sentinel Statesman

NATURAL EFFECT Agadir Ancona Chunky Craftwork Berber 4&5M Harvester Hopscotch Ivory Coast Marrakesh Natures Writing Rustic Treasure San Salvador 4&5M

SAXONY / SHAG PILE Big Softie Chamonix Cleopatra Mont Blanc Montana 4&5M Half Century New Century Nobility Splendour Stainfree Saxony 4&5M Stainblock Supreme 4&5M Tennessee

TWISTS - STAINFREE Balmoral Chislehurst Cosmopolitan Clyde Easy Heathers Easy Twist Fairfield Supreme 4&5M Heathertwist / Heathertwist Supreme Herdsman Twist Portman Stainsafe Touch 4&5M Startwist/Startwist Supreme (2010 colours) 4&5M Stanford Summer Skies Supatwist

TWISTS - WOOL Classic Twist Eden Twist 30/40/50 4&5M High Life 4&5M Iconic Twist 40/50 4&5M Inspirations 40/50 4&5M Paramount 30 Paramount 40 The Berber Twist Collection 40/50 4&5M Ultimate Textures 4&5M Ultimate Berber Twist 4&5M Ultimate Twist 40/50 4&5M Ultimate Tweed Ultimate Luxury 4&5M

Designers Dream 4&5M Le Touquet 4&5M Urban Life The Arabica & Ceylon Wilton Collection 4&5M New Heritage Collection Renaissance Ultimate Wilton

VINYL / SMOOTH FLOORING Arte Della Ceramica Blackjack Casino Celtic Stone Eclipse Econoflex Medley Mojo Revolution - Roll Only Vinyl Sherwood Oak

CARPET TILES Capital Plus Electron Magnesium Neutron Oxygen Positron Proton Quark Titanium We also stock Ball & Young Underlays, Accessories, Entrance Matting and offer a Special Order Service on products from virtually every flooring manufacturer in existence! 48 hour Delivery Service on all Balterio Laminate Ranges.

STOP PRESS...An exciting opportunity has arisen on our South Eastern Territory - Call 07881-502505 for more information – join Ralph and the team? – Call now!

– An exciting opportunity....STOP PRESS

Area Sales Managers Nor th, Ea st & C entr al . London, Essex & Middx (w it hi n M25 ) Paul Henson 07881 502506

S a l e s O ff i c e Antony Stapleton 0208 498 2845 M. 07881 502505

E ss e x ( ou ts i de M2 5), Ca m bri dge sh i re , S u ff olk Richard Chappell 07837 295379

Kent, Surrey, Sussex, S.E. London Caretaker – Richard Chappell 07881-502507 Territor y Vacant – Call Antony Stapleton on 07881-502505 for more details.

H ert s , B edf ords hir e, Essex (w est of M1 1), Pt Midd x James White 07881 502508

SW, W & NW London, South Middx, West Surrey, Berks, Bucks John Imbrey 07875 714269

28

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

Solent Wholesale Carpet Company Ltd CARPET, FLOORCOVERING & ACCESSORY WHOLESALE DISTRIBUTORS Telephone: 01243 774623 Fax: 01243 533636 E -mail: sales@solentwholesale.co.uk Website: www.solentwholesale.co.uk Zola Park, Barnfield Drive, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 6UX Oxford, Berks, Bucks, Beds, Hants, Middlesex & Herts . . . . . . . . . . . . Ian Cardrick Tel: 01235 535070, mobile 07973 406329 Sussex E & W, Surrey, South London & Kent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Robson Tel: 01323 504798, mobile: 07973 898453 Hants, Wilts, Dorset, Somerset, Gloucs, & I.O.W. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adam Ayling Tel: 01202 683257, mobile 07973 406799 VICTORIA Baronet Berber Stripe Castillion Celtic Heathers Crown Twist Duchess Elite Gaelic Heathers Kelso Natural Accents Natural Companions (Sisal, Chenille, Ridge) Regal Twist Rustic Jewels Suede Tudor Twist Coll Tudor Manor LANO Bolero Campus X-treme Chiselhurst Greenfield Havana Heathertwist Coll Inspiration 40/50oz Pembridge Twist Rustic Berber Rustic Sensations Scala Scala Tonals Sentinel Startwist Coll Twilight Coll Wilton Naturals Xtra Twist BALTA Berga Birnam Twist Cobblestone Desert Twist Diva Fiesta Fusion High Flyers Gala Cord-all options in stock Rustic Twist Supreme Shepherd Twist Spicy Twist Stainsafe Tweed Stainsafe Comfort Stainsafe Favourite Stainsafe Heathers Stainsafe Olympic Super Wiltax Techno Tempo/Salsa Twisty Versailles BROCKWAY Amore Cavendish Craftsman Collection (Elite/Forte) Cresta 40/Cresta 50 Orion/Orion Major

CORMAR Berwick 40/50 Buchanan Home Counties 42/50 Malabar Oaklands 32 Oaklands 42 Oaklands 50 Pennine Twist Primo Plus Warwick

TARKETT Salsa 14mm Combi-loc - limited stocks Viva 8.5mm Ultra-loc - limited stocks VINYLS Living New Optic Oasis Prestige Rustic Living So Tropical BEAULIEU INTERNATIONAL Adventure Twist Arte Del Ceramic Athena Celtic Stone Vinyl Comfort Grip Vinyl Dublin Durham Twist Fashion/Gallery Grass Collection Heavy Tread I-Twist Isis/Mentu Majestic - limited stocks Natural Life Pronto Selections Sherwood Oak Vinyl Studio Vinyl Sonata Vinyl Supreme Twist 3m/4m Sweet Homes Texalino Sup Vinyl Urban Vinyl laminates Essentials (previously Casa) Cottage - new range

DOMO Absolut Luxury Alpina Auvergne Merino Metropolitan Ocean Breeze Orlando Planet Playground Portofino Scorpio Traditionals Weavers Twist ITC Check Checkmate Concerto Consul Heritage Collection Jaguar - new colours Kreta New Dimensions Palace Sophistication Stainblock Berber Stainblock Heathers Stainblock Tweed TAPIBEL Cachet Chiltern Melody Nevada Reeds Sysoltex Homested/Aran/Crofter Toscana HALO CARPET MILLS Barbados Genua Halifax Padua Panama Salamanca Sydney

We carry other products not listed above, and can also provide a swift special order service on non stock lines. Our reps and sales office would be pleased to answer all enquiries. Our last Price List is dated January/February 2010.

BAJONG Home Twist Supreme Montana Montana Twist Sahara MISCELLANEOUS IVC Master Grip Presto CAVALIER Country Collection Hamlet Parish and Village LEIGH SPINNERS Atlas Velour THOMAS WITTER Innovations C&H Homestyle LVT - planks and tiles

NOW IN STOCK

MEMORY FOAM MATTRESSES AND PILLOWS

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

29

DID YOU KNOW? STS Flooring Distributors Ltd stock a large range of carpets and carpet tiles via our 5 depots ORPINGTON • CROYDON • WATFORD • CAMBRIDGE • OXFORD (THAME) 08454 341000 08454 342000 01954 781142 01844 213555

NEXT DAY DELIVERY STS GOLDLINE STOCK CARPETS Aston Twist Bernwood Twist Bernwood Supreme Bernwood Forest Bernwood Heather Bernwood Heather Supreme Blenheim Twist 40 Blenheim Twist 50 New Cavendish Cherwell Cord Chislehurst Dorchester Fairfield Twist Gladiator Supreme Harrier Felt Harrier Gel Heathdale Magnum Gel Medicare Milton Collection Multicare Classic New Valley Twist Orinoco Opus Twist Radley Twist Ravensbury Twist 32/40/50 Ruskin Twist Supersava Twist BALTA STOCK CARPETS New Shepherd Twist STS Area Managers

LANO STOCK CARPETS Bolero Chislehurst Fairfield Twist Havanna Heather Twist Heather Twist Supreme Pembridge Twist Rustic Berber Sapphire Startwist Startwist Supreme Twilight CORMAR STOCK CARPETS Berwick 40/50 Malabar Natural Berber Twist New Hampshire 32/42 New Oaklands 32/42/50 Primo Plus Primo Tweeds Primo Ultima BEAULIEU INTERNATIONAL Bellini Dublin Mercator EDEL TELENZO Fleur Hercules Orinoco Puma Peter Gregor y 07789 770093

PRICE LIST DATE JAN 2010 CARPET STOCK TILES Ascot Beckenham Cheltenham Clipper Croydon Croydon Stripe Inspiration Keston Latour New Horizons Saturn Selsdon Tivoli 24 STOCK UNDERLAYS Goldtred Collection Cirrus Cumulus Nimbus Silver Lining Cloud Nine Contract Cloud Nine Super Contract Durafit 500 Durafit 650 Cosi 8mm & 10mm Heatflow Collection Roma Blue Heaven Willow Green Treadmore

Essex, Cambs, Suffolk, Norfolk

Ian Mellor 07801 762720 Mirka Mihulclova 07500 847566

Rachel Sherwood 07801 762724 Sarah Haworth-Holman 07738 329714

John Batts 07711 735638

SW London, W Sussex, Berks, Hants, Surrey

Beds, E Berks, Bucks, Middx, N Hants, N Surrey (retail) Oxfordshire & North Wiltshire

SE London, Kent, E Sussex, Part Essex

North/East London, Berkshire, Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middlesex, Northants, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire

Paul Jones 07801 762719

Vicky Langley 07962 646847

Wiltshire, Gloucestershire & Bristol

SE London, Kent, E Sussex

Dana Baldock 07801 762725

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THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

Carpet Cleaning Companies...

Join our new monthly directory You can’t afford to miss extra business. You can afford £15!

Following the success of our Woolsafe and stain trouble-shooter pages in the magazine, we’re launching a new regionalised directory to help carpet retailers find cleaning companies in their area.

The Directory will list selected cleaning companies in English regions and in Scotland, Wales and Ireland and will be strongly promoted to our readership of 8,000 flooring stores and independent retailers.

An entry in the Regional Cleaning Directory is just £15 per month and includes your phone number, email address, website and specialisms – a small investment for maximum, ongoing visibility.

If you’d like to be listed or need more details, please email diane@mayvillepublishing.co.uk with your details or call me on 01482 659396.

Stocklists The

1 February 2010

FlooringNews

DOMOTEX 2010

10 pages of news and analysis starts on p49

Prince Charles champions wool benefits in major campaign Prince Charles has launched a major campaign to promote the “extraordinary” natural and sustainable attributes of wool for carpets, textiles and clothing.

The ‘Wool Project’ is designed to showcase wool benefits and support wool growers whose profitability is under severe pressure.

The Project was launched on January 26 to over 130 textile stakeholders from the world of wool including merchants, spinners, weavers, manufacturers, retailers and designers. Several major UK carpet and rug manufacturers attended.

The Prince of Wales told his audience why natural fibre can add immense value to both fashion and interiors. His interest in wool originated in discussions with tenants on his estate who outlined the poor return for the shorn fleece.

Wool prices in New Zealand are at their lowest level for 50 years which has impacted British wool - a fleece is selling for around £1 but can cost a UK farmer up to £1.40 to shear.

Competition from man-made fibres has impacted on the price of wool globally and modern generations have little understanding of the real natural benefits of wool. The wool price in 1997 was 97p compared to a kilo selling for just 68p last year.

Prince Charles told his audience: “I have tried to set out the impact of the seemingly trivial decision about whether to buy a wool carpet or its manmade equivalent.

“The sad truth is that around the world, farmers are leaving sheep production because the price they get for their wool is below the costs of actually shearing it.

“Sheep farmers are the lifeblood of the rural economy. The idea [of the Wool Project] is to explain the benefits of wool to consumers in a simple and creative way.”

The pitch is unlikely to endear HRH to the manufacturers of polypropylene, nylon and other synthetic carpets, but the Prince is no stranger to controversy and the environmental agenda is clearly a driving passion in his projects. He referred in his address to the United Nations Climate Change negotiations, where he spoke of the need to change and that by living in harmony with nature, it would be possible to improve the quality of life for an expanding world population.

The pitch is unlikely to endear HRH to the manufacturers of polypropylene, nylon and other synthetic carpets, but the Prince is no stranger to controversy.

The British Wool Marketing Board’s Life Cycle Analysis refers to the fact that wool has far less environmental impact than either nylon or polypropylene and the Prince sees this as something the industry should explore.The natural flame retardant qualities of wool is, he believes, another major asset that is overlooked by consumers.

Nicholas Coleridge, MD of fashion publishers Condé Nast is a Wool Project member and commented, “We want to thrust wool into the public consciousness.” He laid out plans for a ‘Wool Week’ in September which would see the retail world promoting wool in-store supported by POS and PR.

from The Stocklists

“I have tried to set out the impact of the seemingly trivial decision about whether to buy a wool carpet or its manmade equivalent.”

The aim is clearly to promote the use of more wool, make it fashionable and better understood, so that consumers are buying with knowledge.

And can understand better how their choice makes a difference.

Wool Project chairman is John Thorley of the Pastoral Alliance. He commented: “Wool is a sustainable, natural product - the production of which involves far lower carbon emissions than man-made fibres.

“We are delighted that the Prince of Wales has helped bring us all together to communicate its many benefits to the public.

The main wool organisations from around the world have also joined together to back The Wool Project and to promote wool generically.

The UK, Australia and New Zealand wool organisations see the sense of backing the Prince’s project as do the International Wool Textile Organisation.

“Wool clearly needs to be better understood and this is an excellent opportunity”

“Wool clearly needs to be better understood, regardless of its brand or origin and wool prices have suffered globally not just in one area,” explained Ian Hartley, CEO of the BWMB, “This is an excellent opportunity for wool and we are delighted about it.”

retailers respond to industry issues

Tell us what you think about wool - see our survey on page 45 February 2010

31

News Sumptious and soft A mottled blend of tonal threads gives Nutria Melange from Vorwerk Carpets a soft look that is perfectly married to its velour texture and that creates a truly sumptuous carpet for residential use. Made from 100% polyamide for durability, appearance retention and ease of maintenance, Nutria Melange is suitable for use in busy homes and comes in both four and five-metre widths to provide the best possible fit for all rooms.

Available in 21 colours that reflect the latest trends as well as classic choices, the tufted carpet is just one in a strong portfolio available to Vorwerk Carpets retailers: “The carpets within our Fascination and Inspiration collections offer a broad spectrum of texture, pattern and colour to inspire retailers and consumers to look at carpet in a different way,” explains Ian Hammond, Sales Director UK. “With our premium display tower, we are also presenting these carpets in a fresh way, thinking about how colour and pattern can make carpets stand out and leaving texture to provide the final persuasion in the hands of consumers.

This approach will help to set Vorwerk Carpets apart within store and with carpets of the highest quality available at various price points, consumers are never disappointed with their purchase.” Nutria Melange hails from the Fascination collection that is geared towards presenting retailers with carpets that focus on a combination of colour, texture and pattern and that consider the latest interior trends.

T 020 7096 5090 www.vorwerkcarpets.co.uk

Variety show for Harrogate Harrogate Flooring Show organiser David Wildman has started the year with more positive support from the trade for the September event. “Nearly as exciting as it is to sign up exhibitors for Harrogate, is the feeling that we are creating such a wide and varied mix of products for the visitor to see when they arrive at the show”, said David after a number of new signings in January.

Returning from the major European flooring show Domotex in Hannover he added: “I really enjoyed my recent visit to Germany. I talked to many people and entered into stand negotiations with quite a number. I also received the overwhelming viewpoint that they had a clear direction for September - they felt their only real option was a return to Harrogate.”

European rug maker Brink and Campman have joined the Harrogate list alongside Asiatic Carpets and Displad returning after a break from exhibiting. Leica Geosystems, Dinarsu and Stanley Bostitch are other recent signings.

Nearly 60 manufacturers are committed so far including top names such as Abingdon, Bmk, Cormar, Edel Telenzo, Furlong, Georgian, Kingsmead, Lano, Ossfloor and Victoria. Rugs representatives also include Hand Made, Mastercraft, ORC, Oriental and Plantation Rugs. Non-carpet companies include Ball & Young, Ecovise, F Ball, Janser, Melrose Textiles and Suffolk Hard Woods.

“The Harrogate visitor has always demanded a cross section of the top companies from all areas of the flooring sectors - steadily we are putting together a real quality event,” says David.

He also reports that buying group ACG are planning to host a meeting at Harrogate during the show.

T 01423 779967 www.harrogateflooringshow.net

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February 2010

FlooringNews

News Breakthrough for carpet waste Ground-breaking trials by recycling specialist Axion Consulting have shown waste polypropylene carpets can be recycled into good quality polymer pellet for re-use in new applications, such as injection-moulded products.

The findings could stimulate the UK’s fledgling carpet recycling industry and develop new markets for PP recyclate with associated environmental and economic benefits.

The project was initiated by Carpet Recycling UK which secured funding from Envirolink NW to investigate recycling options for post-consumer carpets and possible new end-use markets for PP products made from recovered material.

Processing stages involved size reduction, screening and extrusion.

Tests showed that while post-industrial extruded polymer had potential for use in a range of applications including injection moulding, further work was needed to verify its suitability. Post-consumer material could be recycled for medium to lower grade applications such as plant pots, compost bins or buckets.

Axion’s demonstration trials and laboratory tests at its Salford plant concluded that while the economics of the recycling process ‘look promising’, the next steps would require large-scale trials to assess commercial viability.

Axion Director Roger Morton says: “We believe this is the first in-depth study of its kind in the UK and are very pleased with the positive results. Carpet recycling in the UK is currently limited with only a few companies involved and recycling processing in development stages. So this successful study shows exciting potential and promise for material recovery from a difficult and largely-ignored waste stream.”

T 020 8567 1425 www.axionconsulting.co.uk

Designing a trendy show for Birmingham Flooring futures will be a key theme at the National Floor Show in Birmingham in September with the announcement of two trend-setting features at the NEC event.

Top interiors trend forecaster Victoria Redshaw of Scarlet Opus is leading the concept: “We are very excited to be creating an inspirational trend area for this years National Floor Show. It is the perfect way to set the tone for the new, vibrant, forward-looking NFS! It will showcase the creative use of products from a range of exhibitors at the event and demonstrate the crucial part flooring plays in interior design.”

Trend forecasting is a precise art, and Scarlet Opus specialise in predicting forthcoming trends for the interiors sector, with special links to the flooring industry through their work in industry magazines and a number of flooring companies.

“The new trend hub area will inform visitors of key trends in interior design and will provide a crucial trend forecasting resource for the flooring industry”, says Victoria.

Alongside the professional presentation will be a display of the work of Lancashire design students called ‘The Future of Flooring”.

Over 50 companies are now confirmed for National Floor Show 2010 and the organisers, UBM Live, have recently announced that Betap, Godfrey Hirst and Heuga have joined the list for the event.

T 020 7921 8415 www.nationalfloorshow.co.uk

Floorsites

Plug-in an ‘instant’ flooring industry website for just £390 set-up + £90 per year

Flooring stores don’t generally need elaborate websites – most of the time, visitors are just trying to find out your phone number, your opening hours or where they can park! Or they’re just checking you out to see how professional you look. Here’s the quick fix! Check out our

dummy site at www.thestocklists.com/floorsites 34

February 2010

FlooringNews

News Landing a big contract Brintons has been awarded the contract to supply all of the carpet totalling the area of 24 football pitches - to the brand-new Terminal 3 building that is being constructed at Indira Gandi International Airport in Delhi, India.

Brintons has a long and distinguished history as a trusted supplier of quality axminster carpet to lots of airports around the world and it’s most recent work has been at Singapore’s spectacular Changi Airport.

The company’s proven reputation for developing original designs, manufacturing quality carpet and its exemplary project management skills were central to Brintons being awarded the Delhi contract.

The Terminal 3 structure will be completed in time for the 2010 Commonwealth Games and will be the third biggest airport terminal building in the world. Brintons will be required to manufacture and supply 175,000m2 of woven axminster for the state-of-the-art terminal.

Computer drawing of planned installation

To meet the interior design brief, Brintons’ design teams in Singapore and India have carefully developed carpet designs that illustrate Delhi’s rich historical past and its vibrant and modern present.

Brintons has fused the design elements from Delhi’s magnificent historical monuments with the modern and sophisticated skyline of the city to create a contrasting, yet harmonious image of the old and the New Delhi.

T 01562 635665 www.brintons.net

Sticky sensitivity with proven performance The long proven Universal Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive Uzin KE 2000 S has developed within 20 years to the most widely used product of its type within Europe and is also one of the best known adhesives in the UK due to its versa-tility and proven performance.

Uzin KE 2000 S is a solvent free dispersion adhesive with very high bond-strength for PVC and cushioned vinyl coverings, LVT, sheet rubber flooring (up to 3.5 mm), rubber tile flooring (up to 2.5 mm), polyolefin coverings and for polyurethane (PU) coverings in sheet form (up to 2.0 mm).

The unique advantage of this adhesive is the very high bond strength when installing resilient floor coverings to absorbent and non absorbent surfaces. UZIN KE 2000 S has a very long working time and it is an excellent adhesive for bonding coverings onto vertical surfaces.

Professional floorlayers in the UK trust UZIN KE 2000 S especially in large areas and in large projects, where the dependability of the pressure sensitive shows itself best – very significant are its proven adhesive power and the great reliability of the installation.

T 01235 534106

www.uzin.com

‘Exciting times ahead’ for IVC The IVC Group has announced that its Leolan and Domo brands will be changing for the better as it rolls out a fresh image for its range of cushioned vinyl flooring. The well-established Leolan collection will become Leoline, while the Domo brand will be known as Avenue.

The manufacturer’s LVT division will also undergo a change to become Moduleo. IVC Group’s commercial flooring range will also undergo a transformation, alongside new product alignment, to become itec contract floors with the aim of broadening operating sectors.

When IVC Group acquired the cushioned vinyl division of Domo in October 2008, part of the agreement stipulated that the company could only use the brand until 2011.

“While the obligation to re-brand the existing Domo name is not due yet, we took the decision to evaluate our entire business and with it remodel our brands in order to give us four new identities from which to base our future growth strategy,” says Francis Debrabandere, Sales Director, IVC. “It was a particularly tough decision to change the popular Leolan brand which has become an established favourite for wholesalers, retailers and consumer alike. However, it is felt that the new Leoline 36

February 2010

name maintains some recognisable common ground to its predecessor, but at the same time sits better with its new sister brands,” he said.

As part of the exercise, IVC Group will roll out new marketing literature (including warranty and product feature and benefit leaflets) and point-of-sale material on a nationwide basis.

“The initiatives will improve our consumer-facing service levels,” continues Francis Debrabandere. “We will be running some incentives to aid the transition to our new brands and more information about these pro-active developments will be unveiled in the coming months.

These are exciting time ahead at IVC Group and we are confident that all our customers will feel the same sense of positive change that we do here at IVC headquarters,” says Francis.

T +32 5665 3211 www.ivcgroup.com

FlooringNews

News Let’s level with you Uzin continues to provide the UK’s flooring professionals with innovative and best-practice developed products and solutions.The cement, self-levelling, flooring com-pound, Uzin NC 160 is designed for thickness up to 20 mm, is easy to rub down despite its high strength and is perfect in project work.

With the EC1 label for very low emission and the CE label which confirms a compressive strength of 30 Nm and A1 certified fire resistance, the floor layer can be confident that this is the right self levelling compound to use, especially for heavy wear use in domestic and commercial locations.

Martin Cotterill, Managing Director, Uzin Ltd said: “With the CE labelling for all of our levelling compounds, our customers can be sure that a proven product can be correctly selected for the right job, more proof, if it were needed, that Uzin is seen as a “safe pair of hands” in the flooring indus-try”. CE stands for Conformité Européen (compliance with EU Directive), indicating that products comply with the requirements of the markings of an associated European legislation.

Uzin NC 160 is suitable for smoothing, levelling and repairing substrates in interior locations for carpets, PVC or cushioned vinyl, PVC design flooring, linoleum, cork, rubber or polyolefin coverings on new cement screeds or on existing substrates in need of renovation.

T 01235 534106

www.uzin.com

Pinnacle of achievement Few underlay types can match the tactile appeal of Floorwise’s Longevity in Pinnacle guise. Still one of Floorwise’s best selling underlays, Pinnacle’s popularity is testament to the substantial look and feel of the sponge rubber underlay that consumers love.

A deeper shade of green As further testament to Axminster Carpets’ commitment to the environment that has seen the introduction of the first carbon neutral domestic carpet range, the company will now supply it’s Axfelt underlay protected in biodegradable plastic.

The move comes amid growing production levels for the underlay, which is manufactured from a combination of felt made from waste wool yarn and waste carpet, and rubber crumb produced from recycled tyres.

The new packaging further improves Axfelt’s stance as an underlay ideal for environmentally conscious homeowners, which has been a contributing factor in demand rising since it was first introduced.

Local production, as well as the diversion of landfill waste of its constituent parts into consumer goods, means that Axfelt has one of the lowest carbon footprints of domestic carpet underlays currently available. “While just a small change on the surface, the introduction of biodegradable packaging for Axfelt is a significant one and helps to reinforce our position as a manufacturer concerned with the environmental impact of every part of its operation,” says Steve Upperton, Sales Director.

T 01297 630650 38

February 2010

www.axminstercarpets.co.uk

With a Luxury Domestic Use classification, Pinnacle is the perfect up-sell and its striking colour and near 10mm thickness makes it stand out as an underlay of distinction.

Alongside its ‘traditional’ underlay appearance that consumers are drawn to, these factors help Pinnacle to boost profits as the ultimate in luxury underlays.

With one of the most comprehensive underlay portfolios available, Floorwise provides plenty of other opportunities to maximise profits and for those looking for durability and long life, there are few better than the crumb rubber Endura and Optima. Made from old car tyres, these underlays offer virtually unbeatable carpet protection for busy areas such as hallways, stairs and landings and are appreciated by consumers for their recycled content and durability.

“With underlays for every need, from the polyurethane Hyper collection to the sponge rubber Longevity range, felt types and specialist wood and laminate products, the Floorwise underlay portfolio is known for being diverse and offering excellent value,” says Richard Bailey, managing director. “Whether carpet or engineered wood, retailers can maximise the opportunities for valuable extra sales with our portfolio and with clear differences, even between underlays in the same range, it is a straightforward affair to up-sell to a better quality and higher profit item.”

All Floorwise underlays are supported by comprehensive marketing material and distinct branding and benefit from the high levels of service from local Floorwise distributors.

T 01509 673974

www.floorwise.co.uk

FlooringNews

The British Wool column Good show for British Wool at Domotex British Wool attended Domotex at the end of January to promote the fibre and British Wool products from licensed manufacturers.

The stand largely acts as a business centre providing a base for BWMB licensed members of the textile industry, which want to meet with customers and agents.

“We see our role here as enabling our licensees to do business,” explained Richard Poole, European Business Manager of the BWMB. “Every year we find that companies from the UK are attending Domotex as a visitor and they find the British Wool stand a valuable asset while at the show. We provide facilities on the stand to host a meeting and of course it is always useful to have a defined meeting point and somewhere to return to in between appointments.”

The promotion of their ‘Naturally Green’ environmental fibre campaign was a major part of their activity at the show. They also introduced a set of three mini-information guides focusing on the Benefits of British Wool in Carpet, the Life Cycle Analysis of scoured British Wool and the Best Management Practices of British Wool.

“The three mini-guides are very brief but contain a short introduction to some complex information. These were very well received by the visitors to the stand because they are pocket-size and user–friendly.”

“We had a very positive show, the stand was busy and we had a lot of enquiries from international manufacturers regarding British Wool and during our discussions with UK spinners manufacturers that attended, it was clear that attending Domotex is worthwhile,” Poole finished.

British Wool backs Wool Project

The launch of the Wool Project by HRH the Prince of Wales late last month was greeted with enthusiasm by the British Wool Marketing Board.

“We are genuinely delighted that HRH The Prince of Wales has decided that wool is worth his valuable support and the profile he will give the Wool Project will be immense and invaluable,” Ian Hartley, CEO of the BWMB commented.

The Wool Project will focus on highlighting the many benefits of wool in both fashion and interiors.There will be a series of co-ordinated promotional activities, which we hope the retail world will support. The aim is to make the consumer understand wool better, appreciate it more and to make it fashionable again.

Leading retail chains and well-known designers attended the event at Wimpole Hall near Cambridge, along with a significant representation from the textile industry from wool merchants to spinners and manufacturers.

“This really is a fantastic opportunity for the wool industry and retailers can benefit from all the fantastic publicity that is being developed for wool products. The BWMB has been actively involved in bringing this project to the table but it is a generic wool campaign which is precisely what wool needs.”

“We want to simplify the message to the consumer so they are clear about one thing, wool is best.”

The British Wool ‘business centre’ stand at Domotex in Hannover

Mini--guides are pocket size and user-friendly with concise information

A fond farewell to Tony Hardwick of Adam Carpets as he retires The British Wool Marketing Board was sad to see a carpet industry colleague retire at the end of January.Tony Hardwick, Sales Director at Adam Carpets leaves the industry, to enjoy some well-earned rest!

Tony Hardwick 40

February 2010

“Tony has always been a keen advocate of British Wool carpet and together with the team at Adam, has developed some wonderful British Wool ranges.Tony has always been a real pleasure to deal with and has been a great contributor to the British Wool column in The Stocklists.

He has that air of a gentleman about him, which is sadly so rare these days. Whilst I will miss seeing him at the trade shows, I hope he has a very happy retirement,” said Bridgette Kelly at the BWMB. He is replaced by Mark Gibbon.

FlooringNews

News Gallery showcase for Stopgap F. Ball and Co. Ltd.’s Stopgap 800 Wearcoat self-levelling wearing surface has been used to create a durable, smooth and contemporary floor at Focal Point Gallery in Southend Central Library, as part of an extensive refurbishment.

Since opening in 1991, Focal Point Gallery has established itself as an innovative gallery of contemporary visual art, with both a regional and national profile. As part of the recent refurbishment project, 140m2 of flooring was upgraded by contractor, Four Star Flooring.

A commercial and industrial grade floor compound, Stopgap 800 Wearcoat can be used for upgrading and renovating existing internal floors in light to heavy-duty applications where traditional floorcoverings are not required, and is suitable for installation over a wide range of subfloor types. It is typically used in areas such as storerooms, post rooms, workshops and corridors, and, as a protein-free product, it is also suitable for use in biologically sensitive areas such as hospitals and other healthcare facilities.

In Focal Point Gallery, Stopgap 800 Wearcoat was specified to create a contemporary, minimalist floor surface that is also highly resilient; capable of maintaining its aesthetic appearance over time, as well as withstanding frequent, high levels of footfall. Prior to the application of Stopgap 800 Wearcoat, the floor was primed using F. Ball’s Stopgap P131 general-purpose, neoprene primer. Priming the surface beforehand prevented rapid drying of the water-based compound and promoted its adhesion to the subfloor. Stopgap 800 was applied directly onto the primed subfloor at a thickness of 6mm. With excellent flow and self-smoothing properties, Stopgap 800 Wearcoat provided ease of installation, requiring minimal work with a smoothing trowel.To ensure a uniform surface appearance, a spiked roller was used to eliminate entrapped air and smooth out flow lines.

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

Business news Analysts expect 2010 recovery...

Few would argue that 2009 was a difficult year for the UK floor coverings industry but early signs suggest that conditions in 2010 will be much brighter. New research by leading industry analysts Plimsoll says the market is slowly emerging from the malaise of the last two years.

David Pattison, senior analyst at Plimsoll Analysis explains, “The recession tore through the market in 08 and most 09 like a tornado and accelerated the rate of change in the market. Aggressive ‘growth at all cost’ operators have been forced to abandon their reckless strategies and many have been caught out and are in real trouble. However, some amazing companies have come through the recession largely unaffected and look set to make 2010 their year. As the market continues to recover during the year, the changes will continue to come thick and fast”.

But he added: “More job losses and consolidations sadly. Even as the market improves there are a lot of companies, large and small, that survived by the skin of their teeth and they have to rebuild their profit margins and efficiencies.

“Our latest analysis projects that a further 2,000 jobs will have to be shed if companies are to get back to profit and remain competitive in 2010. Whether through natural wastage or compulsory lay offs, job losses are necessary. “

As for mergers and acquisitions Pattison says, “In all we named 199 companies in our latest analysis that are ripe for takeover or merger with a larger parent. It’s a buyers market in 2010 with many companies still recovering from the recession. Our report has picked some great examples of companies that are currently undervalued because of the recession that would be very attractive to prospective owners. For many struggling companies, a buy out may be the quickest route to get the company back on an even keel – even if it means relinquishing their independence.”

Readers of Stocklists are entitled to a £50 discount of this new special edition of the Plimsoll Industry Analysis – Floor Coverings.

T 01642 626400 www.plimsoll.co.uk 42

February 2010

But retailers are nervous about prospects As the UK hauled itself shakily out of recession with a tiny 0.1% growth in GDP in the last quarter of 2009, retailers are very nervous about the outlook for consumer demand in 2010. Higher taxes and unemployment may conspire to reverse strong Christmas trading results, says Stephen Robertson, director general of the British Retail Consortium.

UK retail sales 2008/9 (ONS data)

His comments put a damper on the retail trade December sales figures, which showed a better-than-expected 4.2% rise in same-store sales during the peak Christmas period.

Robertson said most retailers don't expect a decline in sales this year compared to last, but there is little optimism about the level of growth, with some predicting stagnant sales. "We've just had the VAT hike, there will be an increase in income tax in April, unemployment could grow past 8% after the election when public sector spending comes under pressure, and national insurance is set to increase in 2011," all of which Robertson said will impact on consumer confidence and spending.

Robertson believes big ticket items could once again come under pressure as consumers rein in their spending once more, just as home retailers had begun to see some respite in the dismal sales of furniture, white goods and large home furnishings that has blighted the recession.

Year on year, the volume of retail sales in December 2009 was 2.1 per cent higher than in December 2008. Predominantly food stores increased by 2.8 per cent compared to the same period a year ago.

Predominantly non-food stores increased by 0.7 per cent.

Total sales volume in the three months to December was 2.7 per cent higher than the same period a year ago. Sales volume for predominantly food stores increased by 1.8 per cent. Predominantly non-food stores increased by 2.5 per cent.

FlooringNews

from The Stocklists

February 2010

43

News A gentle touch of toughness Combining looks with durability, Miami is the latest range from itec contract floors to bring performance and style to the semicontract market. Ideal for projects that require high levels of performance without sacrificing style, as part of the itec 32 collection, Miami conforms to achieve a Class 32 rating, making it suitable for use in demanding applications.The popularity of wood styles is represented in Miami with four stunning wood decors that feature the embossed Natural Look and Feel technology for a more realistic appearance.

The cushioned vinyl is also available in 12 plain styles. With Easy Clean technology, maintenance of Miami is a simple task and thanks to Bacterial Static protection it promotes a healthier indoor environment, minimising the presence of bacteria upon the floor surface. A 0.4mm wearlayer provides durability for Miami in commercial environments, while the cushion backing aids underfoot comfort and helps to minimise impact sound by 13dB. Available in two, three and four-metre widths to minimise seams and wastage in all rooms Miami is ideal for use in semi-contract environments, as Ortwin Top, Marketing Manager explains: “Semi-contract environments, such as social housing, require high performance levels, but not at the expense of comfort, ease of maintenance and style and so itec contract floors is addressing this need through the itec 32 collection.”

T +32 5665 3211

www.ivcgroup.com

At last - web sites for retailers who don’t like the internet!

Floorsites Plug-in an ‘instant’ flooring industry website branded for your store or business for just £390 set-up + £90 per year*

Flooring stores don’t generally need elaborate websites – most of the time, visitors are just trying to find out your phone number, your opening hours or where they can park!

Or they’re just checking you out to see how professional you look.

Check out our dummy site at www.thestocklists.com/floorsites

You can fill out the contact form on this site to enquire further or to order a Floorsite – or contact David Spragg at davidspragg@thestocklists.com or call 01845 573241. * Per domain name. Excludes VAT.

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Stocklists The

NO OBLIGATION ‘TEST DRIVE’... we set up your site free-of-charge for a month. If you don’t like it, you don’t pay. There’s nothing to lose!

44

February 2010

FlooringNews

retailers respond to industry issues

Woolly thinking?

Is Prince Charles going to be your best carpet salesman in 2010?

HRH has waded into the wool debate in a big way to rescue impoverished wool growers and promote his environmental agenda for the natural, sustainable qualities of wool - see page 31.

Poor wool prices have compromised a product that remains a firm favourite of UK carpet buyers and ‘something has to be done’.

New promotions should improve the appeal of wool and boost margins across the wool business.

Meanwhile wool supporters have pointed to the poorer green credentials and clunky carbon footprint of polypropylene and nylon fibres.

Is Prince Charles’ involvement going to give a welcome lift to the wool business? Are consumers increasingly environmentally conscious?

Does the improvement in the feel of synthetic fibres mean they are gaining ground? Are you getting the information you need to advise customers on their options?

Inform the industry. Respond to our online survey - see panel top right.

from The Stocklists

The online survey takes less than four minutes and it’s anonymous and doesn’t need any form filling.

Please help us inform the industry.

Visit www.thestocklists.com and click on the survey banner to take part.

Flooring Forum Let’s hear it!

Our platform for retailers to respond to trade issues and inform the industry about the problems and opportunities they face on the High Street.

Each provocative topic for debate is linked to an anonymous online survey and there’s a soapbox feature where retailers can sound off about the subject.

A full report and analysis of the results will feature in next month’s magazine.

If you have a topic you would like debated, let us know.

February 2010

45

oice V

OF THE TRADE

Barry Courtney

MD, Columbia Flooring plc

When do you expect an upturn in the economy generally Being an optimist, I am hoping we will see an improvement fairly soon - another 12 to 18 months maybe.

What’s the key market issue/challenge today?

Carpeting and flooring are not rated that high any more with the public.We need much more awareness of the choice and value that Britain has to offer.

What’s the single most important key to success in flooring?

The success factors are good workmanship, value, honesty - and, not forgetting, a smile!

Which companies in the trade most impress you?

Axminster, Cormar, Ulster,Victoria and Westex Carpets.

What’s your favourite flooring product Reputable 80/20, 50/60oz plain tufted.

If you could ask retailers to change one thing, what would it be?

The old adage ‘attraction, interest, desire’ still holds good and shops and showrooms need to concentrate on display to acheive this. Good lighting is especially important.

What has changed most in the last 5-10 years?

The demise of so many of our manufactures burying their heads in the sand and not moving with the times.

In all your time in the trade, what has most surprised you?

Sales of 5.00m width of carpeting - we have a separate bay for collections,

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February 2010

“The success factors are good workmanship, value, honesty - and, not forgetting, a smile!”

And most disappointed you?

I am still disappointed by the lack of training, the lack of experience in selling and in the business of carpet planning.These are all essential skills in order to be successful.

Would you advise a member of your family to come into the flooring industry?

Certainly.Two of my sons David and John and a grandson Oliver are in the trade and quite successful in their own right.

“

“

How would you describe current markets conditions compared to a year ago?

The turnover is down but we just have to persevere and weather the storm.

If you didn’t work in this industry, what would have been your second choice career?

A Jaguar / Lexus dealership would have been good - I’ve always liked a decent car!

What’s the oddest thing that’s ever happened to you in the trade?

Laying a bedroom carpet many years ago (Cormar’s caress as it happens) when a lady appeared from the ensuite bathroom and asked me for a towel. I replied ‘what colour would you like?’!

Are wholesalers more or less important to the trade than they were five years ago? Any why?

Wholesalers are increasingly important, very much so.

They offer a valuabe service of stock, good deliveries and representation.

Are manufacturers paying enough attention to servicing wholesalers?

Everyone is on a budget and samples & pattern books are a bone of contention.We are quite happy to pay for our own where necessary in these difficult times.

FlooringNews

News feature Regency launches wool with a modern new twist The relentless product development of Regency Carpets has made them a partner of choice for many retailers following the introduction of several new ranges in 2009 – now they are set to win a wider following with the 2010 launch of wool carpets.

February sees the unveiling of the Regency wool programme with action, lights and video on the innovative POS units that will be available to retailers for them to present a collection of competitive wool twists to consumers.

The modern modular display units incorporate an audio/visual presentation of wool benefits alongside a graphical story of the making of wool carpets. Another neat innovation is that POS graphics can carry branding for the local retailer.

“We have a reputation for our enthusiasm and innovation in developing ranges customers really want,” says Furlong’s Neil Valentine.

“Now we’ve given a modern spin to the tradition of wool carpets and retailers know us well enough now to expect us to do it with style and service.”

The launch into wool is a strategic move for the UK manufacturer which has not been represented in this product group previously..

“This is more like launching a new business than a new carpet collection,” say Neil.

Furlong Flooring will distribute the ranges, which initially include Broughton Twist, an 80/20 wool twist, available in both 40 and 50oz weights and manufactured using British Wool.

Also available is the entry-priced product Kildare, a 50/50 wool twist.

Both ranges are available in four and five metre widths and are manufactured in the UK.

The POS units and sampling will be made available to retailers during February via the Furlong distribution network with centres in Preston, Newport and Dartmouth.

T Preston 01772 696787; Wales 01633 283959; Dartford 01322 628707 www.regencywoolcarpets.co.uk

The dramatically different point-of-sale systems include a video display and local branding for retailers in addition to the attractive presentation of carpet samples for the new Regency wool collection.

from The Stocklists

February 2010

47

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If so, then why not contact FITA, the Flooring Industry Training Association.

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February 2010

FlooringNews

DOMOTEX 2010

floorforum - the designer showcase at Domotex sets the trends for the year ahead

10 pages of reports, trends and analysis from Europe’s agenda-setting show

Smart start for 2010 to halt the margin slide Domotex sets the tone for flooring in the year ahead and a little of the icy chill outside had pervaded the usually ebullient exhibitors in Hannover last month - but cautious optimism still prevails. A surprise 12% increase in visitor numbers claimed by the organisers bears testament to the resilience of the European industry and the apetite to move forward.

Held in mid-January, Europe’s biggest floor trade show followed two weeks of disasterous post-Christmas trading when snow and ice across Europe kept consumers inside – one anecdote was of a wholesaler who sold £12,000 of stock this time last year and only £120 worth in early January this year.

But as a cheerful Balta rep suggested to me on the plane home, maybe all that grit and salt has ruined enough carpets to create a little extra business for everyone and if it has, his company like many others are ready for the upturn.

Soundings from Europe’s major players say that 2009 was better then expected, better than 2008 and that a slow recovery in the second half of 2010 is a strong possibility.

from The Stocklists

by David Spragg

But the immediate prospects were generally held to be poor.The UK is so important for all of Europe’s flooring companies, most notably in carpets, and the Europeans feel the country is ‘on hold’, waiting for the winter to end, the election to come and the taxes to rise (again!). And exchange rates don’t help.

Geert Vanden Bosch commented: “Clearly it’s going to be a difficult year.

January has had a bad start and the economics are poor – raw materials are more expensive and I don’t think the pound is going to change too much against the euro.”

Yet Balta is a classic case of those companies that have seen the recession as an opportunity to promote themselves and build market share. Sales have been strong but, like many of their competitors it is margins that have been suffering.

Smart European companies like Balta, Associated Weavers and Lano have been re-aligning their operations and product ranges to improve that position. While 2009 was about survival, 2010 is about being smarter and moving the margins up a little on the back of reduced costs.

continued overleaf...

February 2010

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DOMOTEX DOMOTEX DOMOT DOM DO 2 Carpenter are looking confident with a brand new stand at Domotex and an ever longer list of PU underlay products in their range. “2009 was a great year for us,” says sales boss Helen Rowberry. “The business is really building and we found there is real appetite and loyalty to British-made products.”

The company added three new products last year and has been performing well in the higher quality ranges including the specialist Marine Step.This year, the company will be concentrating a little more on increasing its presence in the contract market. www.carpenter.ltd.uk

“The industry is starting 2010 on a confident note.The growth in visitor numbers provides an indication of an improving economic climate” Stephan Ph. Kühne, Domotex

Burmatex has a mission to deliver more design into the commercial contract sector and has been listening closely to architects and specifiers. As an alternative to some recent textured trends that have been described as “too bumpy”, Burmatex are going for a little more sartorial, smooth style.

The approach is exemplified by the Sector collection which takes a design lead from the suiting materials used in tailoring – smart tonals and subtle pinstripes and detailing make for an unusual elegance in this solution-dyed nylon product.

Sector co-ordinates with other Burmatex ranges (see below) such as Surface and Balance to give options on design, performance and pricing across a single project. www.burmatex.co.uk

F Ball is undisputed market leader in adhesives and screeds and it’s clear that their attention to quality and service is a key part of that success.

“Professional floorlayers know the product and trust the product,” says Richard Harris. “After that it’s all about service,” he says.

The company is close to its customers. Last year’s launch of it’s loyalty card was a huge success – “We gave something back in a year when that helped,” says Richard – and launched its state-of-the-art training centre as part of an £8 million investment in a new factory at Cheddleton in Staffordshire. www.f-ball.co.uk

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FlooringNews

D OM O2010 TE2010 X 2010 OTEX MOTEX 2010 X OMOTEX 2010 2010 Domotex Review continued Tarek Sheta of Mac Carpets summed it up: “We need to do decent quality at sensible prices. Some of the tiny margins out there are killing the industry.”

The cautious optimism centres around the expectation of some pent-up demand, the increasing confidence that the worst of the recession is over and the greater investment of consumers in their own homes – “staying in is the new going out” and so forth.

The cautious aspect is reflected in the extent to which manufacturers are investing in the future. “There is optimism out there but not as much innovation,” commented Brigitte Kelly of British Wool after touring the halls of Hannover.

She’s right.There were plenty of new ranges but less adventures into design and texture that is normally the case at Domotex.

But positioning for a brighter future was all around. Serious investment in new marketing and branding at companies like IVC, Associated Weavers, Wools of New Zealand. New entrants into the market such as Pyramid Tufting backed by the giant Oriental Weavers group. A keen eye on investing in retailers.

The retailer focus is prevalent. Many manufacturers are working more closely with retailers than ever before to help them make the sale and do it profitably.

As an example, Edel Telenzo will be having a major push on POS and retailer support this year. “Consumers increasingly want their carpet to last and have greater expectations of quality,” says Lesley Inman of Edel Telenzo. “Retailers may be making fewer sales so they want to make GOOD sales, sales with more value in them.”

Balterio have made a huge investment in new store displays and Ryalux will start shipping the sharp new POS that follows a programme of consultation with retailers. Many other manufactuers will be rolling out the displays and sampling. “It’s an important investment for us,” said Franky Terrijn of Balterio, “Strong POS is crucial to the business, it’s our real-estate in the high street.”

Wools of New Zealand have lots new to talk about with the launch of Laneve – the new wool integrity brand that has been developed over the last two years and marks a major marketing initiative for the organisation. “We’re very serious about this proposition,” says Ian Abercrombie of WNZ. “Laneve is about integrity. We want it to be the premium of the premium for fibre.”

The programme that has been created in cooperation with wool growers in New Zealand allow Laneve wool to be independently verified as sustainably produced and traceable to source.To communicate the new brand values, WNZ have developed a pioneering “Wool Benefits System” – a touch-screen interactive presentation that will be available to UK retailers for in-store promotion.

www.woolsnz.com

The Stocklists will be featuring more about Laneve in the March issue.

Pyramid Tufting are the newest kids on the block with a debut at Domotex.

Pyramid are the European broadloom business of the Mac Group – one of Egypt’s biggest companies with a annual production of over 60 million square metres primarily in tufted rugs.

It’s sister company is the reknown Oriental Weavers.

Time for nylon

More people mentioned nylon than I can remember and there’s a sense that the fibre maybe enjoying a revival. “It’s time for nylon,” says Rene Fredricks at Edel Telenzo. “It’s so robust and safe and the feel is much improved.” Jonathan Davies at Associated Weavers agreed: “Nylon has dropped out of the mix to some extent but I think it’s going to become more important – it’s certainly more important where colour and design are leading the issue.”

Mac Group recognises Europe and the broadloom business need special expertise and Pyramid will be the focus of a major initiative in the Region. Heading the operation is Gordon Hugo, late of General Carpets: “There is huge potential even in these challenging times,” he says. Cut pile, saxonies and low loop polypropylene carpet will be the core business.

At the same time, some commentators have said manufacturers are a little more reluctant to develop new wool ranges at the moment as price volatility makes the economics less certain. But innovations at British Wool with the ‘Naturally Green’ campaign and Wools of New Zealand’s new Laneve brand underline the environmental credentials of the fibre while promoting the benefits that are so popular with UK consumers. continued overleaf... from The Stocklists

Tarek Sheta, pictured with Gordon Hugo and Paul Hugo

www.maccarpet.com

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DOMOTEX DOMOTEX DOMOT DOM DO 2

Balta showcased a future favourite for the UK market with the launch of Shaggy Finesse as part of their growing range of long pile products. Finesse comes in 13 eyecatching colours and is manufactured in Balta’s own specially developed polypropylene yarn for a soft but resilient performance. Shaggy Finnesse is no lightweight at 2.2 kg/m but for ultimate luxury, there’s a Shaggy Exclusive range at 3.3kg.

Balta brought 15 new ranges to Domotex, 4 of them wool. Prestige Twist and Prestige Berber Twist are 80/10/10 wool frisé carpets which join the Woolmaster collection launched last year. Stunning retro designs in the new Vintage Wilton will tap the UK appetite for the most traditional of high quality carpets. www.baltagroup.com

Tisca Tiara have a stunning range right at the top of the quality market and every year at Domotex you can pick a winner among the newest products that is sure to do well in the UK market.

This time it looks like Capello, an innovative polyester shaggy that has been launched in four neutral colours.The difference is in the development of the yarn to create a single-length long pile which demonstrates mixed textures and tonal reflections.The carpet demands to be touched and the soft feel and deceptive appearance will attract a lot of consumer attention. www.tisca.ch

Specialised synthetic grass for sports surfaces is a major business in the UK as increasingly inclement weather makes the real thing more unreliable. Tisca Tiara already operates in this market but their new products for golf offer an extra attribute.

Alongside their T-green cloth for putting is a new T-range product for driving ranges.The dense, deep pile of T-range means that golfers can place a tee for their ball in the pile, just like a natural surface (but without the divots!)

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FlooringNews

D OM O2010 TE2010 X 2010 OTEX MOTEX 2010 X OMOTEX 2010 2010 Domotex Review continued The one to watch this year is maybe Mohawk’s SmartStrand, the corn-based polymer that has engineered-in stain resistance with Teflon-like qualities as well as high performance appearance retention. It’s about to be introduced into the UK and its cheaper than nylon.

The return of colour predicted... again!

Manufacturers talk about colour more than they actually sell beyond beige and 2009 was a fairly static year in this regard. But there are stronger signs that things may change a little.

“Colour is coming back quite strongly,” says Joanna Ramsden, the carpet industry trends expert at Wools of New Zealand.

“People are more interested in their homes and in expressing their personality at home.This gives them a little more confidence about colour.”

Jonathan Davies at Associated Weavers confirmed: “Consumers are a little more interested in colour provided we don’t take it too far.” “The colour story is getting well received now” says Darren Clanford at Ryalux.

The top tips for future trends are the subtler shades of pinks and greys, softer browns like caramel and antique golds and then purples which are having a very good run at the moment. Blue seems to selling well in some ranges with new denim blues proving popular.

“The cross-over link between fashion and fabrics and their ability to inspire carpet design is getting closer all the time,” says Joanna Ramsden. Embroidery and jewelry styles, floral themes and flowers are more prevalent and she mentioned the rise of the rose as a design trend and sure enough, the rose is blooming across scores of carpet companies in one of those design themes that seems to ripple through for a short time. Stripes are still strong though it’s clear manufacturers are wondering where to go with the approach. More subtle designs, asymmetry and co-ordinated stripe and plain combinations seem to be the answer.

Asiatic Carpets is marking its 50th birthday this year and the party started in Hannover with the display of a large selection of its distinctive rugs. New designs in the popular Harlequin range are selling well and the company reports that textured designs attract increasing attention.

The Asiatic product range – with much of the style and colour under the influence of design guru Jeff Banks – is highly varied as was demonstrated with the launch of a heavily textured acrylic at 3.5 kg weight, a 100% viscose ribbed design in six colours and the new Croc range of wool rugs hand tufted in India.

Asiatic’s Jeremy Nichols is pictured above (left) with Allied Carpets buyer Alexandre Aribaud. www.asiatic.co.uk

Domotex coverage continues overleaf...

Tapibel trades in more than 50 countries from its manufacturing base in Overpelt, Belgium, but are a relatively recent entrant into the UK contract market. Now, with almost four years under their belt here, they are beginning to get specified routinely, says UK sales manager Mike Packwood (pictured left). “We’re getting very positive feedback and the situation looks strong for the year ahead.”

Domotex debuts for new UK products included Metropolis, a heatset polypropylene in 21 colour patterns which match up with the 10 plain colours of Tapibel’s Touch range. Also about to be rolled out is the Home Collection, a superb selection of 30 designs including stripes, scrolls, dots and classics in 6 colourways which can be printed and delivered in 14 days. www.tapibel.be

from The Stocklists

February 2010

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DOMOTEX DOMOTEX DOMOT DOM DO 2

Lano gave the centrepiece of their stand to an exciting new product which is regarded as a major step forward for ecological carpet production.The Bamboo collection is made from 40% bamboo fibre mixed with nylon to create a material that is 100% recyclable.The product also helps regulate humidity in the room – and with 28 colours to choose from, it offers an environmentally-firendly choice for everyone.

While Lano is still coming to terms with the tragic death of its leader Pierre Lano before Christmas, the company reports strong trading and believes the benefits of a major restructuring completed by Mr Lano last year wll create a sound basis for progress in 2010. www.lano.com

Domotex Hannover 2010 ended with a substantial rise in attendance. Over the four days of the show, some 40,000 professionals turned out to admire the products offered by 1,395 companies from over 70 different nations.

“The industry is starting 2010 on a confident note,” remarked Stephan Ph. Kühne, of the Domotex board.

“With exhibitor numbers holding steady and a 12 percent growth in visitor attendance, we have improved on last year's results in spite of the tough economic climate.

Domotex has given the industry some real momentum and charted the way ahead for the coming year,” he said.

“The success of Domotex 2010 provides an indication of an improving economic climate and demonstrates that our measures to fine-tune this flagship fair to the needs of the market have been right on the mark. This translates into even more tangible benefits for our exhibitors and their clientele.”

Next year’s Domotex takes place between January 15 - 18.

adore flooring is living up to its name with a host of new admirers since its hugely successful launch in the UK last year. The market response to innovative luxury vinyl product with unique click technology has been exceptional and Domotex saw the business mount its European campaign.

adore CEO Paul Brady said: “We have had a fantastic reaction to the product and we think we have got a lot going for us to develop this market. We have to do it right and will be concentrating on providing a highly professional service to distributors.” adore have appointed Headlam for UK distribution which will start in the Spring. www.adorefloors.com 54

February 2010

FlooringNews

D OM O2010 TE2010 X 2010 OTEX MOTEX 2010 X OMOTEX 2010 2010 Ryalux thanks retailers for the “tremendous support” in 2009 when the company roadshows around the UK were so well received. “We have really wanted to engage with retailers about designs and colour and merchandising,” says Darren Clanford (pictured left). “We have had a wonderful reaction and we will pay that back in delivering the POS and products in 2010 that will really work for them. We believe in listening!”

Ryalux is all about colour and texture and they have finely tuned attenae to understand what’s happening in the fashion and interiors sectors.The company’s innovative stand at Domotex had floor and table-level displays demonstrating design trends – “the stand is a live briefing document for designers,” says Darren. www.ryalux.com

Mohawk will be making its mark in 2010 with the launch of SmartStrand in the UK – the first truly new carpet fibre in more than 30 years, a renewably sourced polymer derived from corn. “The fibre has at least the performance of nylon and is way ahead of polypropylene – but it is cheaper than nylon,” says Mohawk’s UK head Howard Lindsay.

SmartStrand features permanent, engineered-in stain resistance which never washes out and the company’s confidence is demonstrated by a lifetime stain resistance.

“This carpet is like Teflon” was a genuine consumer comment on a forum website. Mohawk are just starting to send POS support into the UK market for what should be an interesting year. www.mohawkinternational.com

British Wool was busy in Hannover presenting their environmental credentials through the “Naturally Green” campaign – a major initiative supported by work completed by Leeds University on the Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) which provides a guarantee of the fibre’s pedigree.

“Our Naturally Green campaign has a serious message for manufacturers wanting environmental credibility for their products,” says British Wool’s Richard Poole. “LCA has created a lot of interest in the UK and this Europan launch ensures manufacturers have the information they need to address the eco agenda.” www.aboutwool.com

from The Stocklists

February 2010

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DOMOTEX DOMOTEX DOMOT DOM DO 2 Ball & Young report strong trading in difficult conditions with their market-leading Cloud 9 PU underlay more than holding its own in a sector that has become increasingly crowded with competitors over the last year or so.

“We are in a strong position,” says Ann Shaw.

“We have a lot of very loyal customers who want to be part of a successful brand.They know they are not just paying for the name but for a product of superior quality.”

The company has also been exploring different markets and launched several new acoustic products for the contract sector. www.underlay.com

Interfloor are bouncing at the moment with the launch of their major promotion for rubber underlay. As more PU underlay manufacturers crowd that sector, Interfloor are playing to their strength in the rubber market led by the Tredaire brand.

“The campaign is giving us an opportunity to reiterate the qualities of rubber underlay and we have had a very positive reaction from retailers,” comments Paul Marsh. Interfloor says eight out of ten householders prefer rubber and point out that the extensive range of Tredaire comfort qualities gives retailers excellent opportunities to up-sell to consumers. For unbelievers, the new “biongtastic” website at www.realunderlay.com may persuade you – or at least make you smile! www.realunderlay.com

Edel Telenzo came to Hannover brimming with ideas. “Our aim is to excite people. Explore more design and colour and show our customers the possibilities,” said Lesley Inman. There was plenty of choice. In wool, there was the luxurious Alpine collection in soft, subtle colours plus the new Maverick range – a Saxony with a strong palette of colour.

But the show-stealer was the classy, almost metallic Gloss collection with a woven look for this tufted nylon carpet available in a smooth, shiny finish. Gloss carpeted the stand, contrasted with the longer pile of Masquerade – both share a brilliant colour range.

For good measure, the company also launched their new tile programme at Domotex with Metroplitan collection including Vancouver, Berlin and San Francisco. www.edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk

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D OM O2010 TE2010 X 2010 OTEX MOTEX 2010 X OMOTEX 2010 2010

PlayLife is a fun theme in the ‘Carpet Your Life’ initiative

Crossland Berber (left) and Simply Stunning

A clean, colourful display in Hannover

The comfortable shaggy Smart & Casual

Adding value by design Associated Weavers is an innovative company that plays to its strengths and their Domotex showcase was an excellent opportunity to see the trends that will take them through 2010.The focus was on more colour and lifestyle design with an emphasis on affordable quality.

MD Steve Elliott commented: “We have been taking a more thoughtful approach to design and colour – we’re more interested in fashion but are looking for clean, simple designs that consumers are comfortable with.

“We’ll be moving ahead with more and more added value too,” he said.

“We’re not interested in cheap carpet. We want to make quality carpets cheaper and the progress in better yarns mean we can produce better products at an affordable price.”

There were more than a dozen new collections at Domotex but a couple of range extensions best demonstrated that approach of playing to the strength of existing solid sellers.

Crossland Berber is only recently launched but the company says it has had one of the best market introductions ever. A polypropylene nylon mix, the fibre feels like wool and puts the product head-to-head with the 80/20 wool ranges elsewhere.The early success of Crossland Berber led AW to launch two sister products in Hannover in the same colour set – a 10oz heavier version called Country Berber and a shaggy under the name of Smart & Casual.

from The Stocklists

Another newcomer is Soft Touch which extends the series of colourful 100% polyproylene carpets in the range of popular Everest and Santorini.

Associated Weavers has also been filling in a few gaps in its portfolio to create a comprehensive range across all the price and performance points. An example is the new York Twist, a nice, clean polypropylene twist which will retail at under £12 and also Simply Stunning, the new bedroom quality carpet which has received a excellent reception.

The AW stand at Domotex showed a new design approach the company has been working on which reflects the thoughfulness mentioned by Steve Elliott.

The company has been consulting international trend specialists in the interiors sector to find out more about what is leading consumer behaviour.

The result is a campaign called ‘Carpet Your Life’ which seeks to reflect the different aspirations of market segments they have identified.The four main themes are CityLife - modern grand designs of black and white, silver and grey; SimpleLife – cool, calm shades of paler colours; WorldLife - the richer natural colours and pattern of the earth; and PlayLife - the strong, vibrant statement designs. A fifth theme is ClassicLife - a more conventional long-term style that is less trend sensitive.

The move will be increasingly reflected in AW’s approach to the market and is an attempt to separate the company from what they refer to as “the overwhelming, huge choice of the seemingly endless range of carpet on display.” www.associatedweavers.net

February 2010

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DOMOTEX 2010 Balterio can be relied on for eye-catching innovation at the most fashionable end of the laminates market and Domotex showcased new launches that are set to be popular in the UK market. A star performer was Pure Stone, a cool, calm collection of natural look laminates in four decors – three dramatic dark shades and an ultra classy limestone white.

Balterio have also added three new oak decors to Grandeur – the wide plank collection with reflective ChromeZone technology that has been a huge hit since its launch last year.

The new modular ‘shop-in-shop’ POS (pictured with Franky Terrijn) will be available in the UK this year and retails can configure their display using a clever online visual tool. www.balterio.com

IVC have been busy re-inventing themselves and arrived in Hannover with a stylish new look and shiny new brands. The classic collection of cushion vinyl that was Leolan has been updated and is now Leoline but the biggest change is the arrival of the Avenue brand - an exciting range of themed and concept collections with a focus on design.

The move recognises that the huge range of IVC products, including the acquisition of Domo cushion floor products two years ago, has become a little confusing for sonsumers. “The new brands will help us work with retailers more closely with better support and service”, says Ortwin Topp.

Avenue POS with exceptional photography and design will be rolled out to UK retailers in March and April – literally, as a “show van” will take to the road to present the new branding and products to retailers.

See also, report on page 36. www.ivcgroup.com

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Condor Carpets introduced its new environmental friendly carpet collection at Domotex with great response from vistors at the show.

Condor Carpets uses the processed polymer Sorona from DuPont in its new Greenline collection. Sorona consists of 100% PTT polymer of which 37% is extracted from corn sugar. During the production of Sorona, 30% less energy is required and the pollution emitted is 63% less compared to polyamide.

Qualities within the Greenline collection are distinguished by their durability, resilience and stain resistance. www.condorcompany.eu

FlooringNews

Flower on Flooring

by Dennis Flower

Insure the floor

With reports of widespread flood damage seeming to dominate the national media on a regular basis, replacing flooring has become an essential action for thousands of homeowners which has turned the spotlight on insurance.

All householders dread the thought of widespread damage to their homes having to deal with the disruption and discomfort this inevitably brings.This is obviously the time when insurance policies can prove the difference between a relatively rapid return to normality – depending on the scale of the damage – or enduring long term misery and upset.

The subject of insurance within the flooring industry is something of a thorny subject and one that has been debated for a number of years.

There has been much discussion about how insurance claims are processed and who should supply the replacement product. Perhaps this was the reason that requests for contributions to this article were politely declined by a number of industry contacts.

One of those happy to participate was Independent Inspections. Alan Pumfrey, national account manager, said: “There has been a fundamental philosophy change within the UK insurance industry over the last few years with a significant move towards the segregation of validation from fulfilment services. No longer are the majority of major insurers comfortable with key product service providers both validating and then replacing items claimed for under home insurance policies.This is particularly evident for flooring claims with insurers requiring impartial inspection visits in order to mitigate settlement costs through restoration and fraud identification when possible.”

While allowing for the increasing diversity of flooring products, Pumfrey had some good news for carpet retailers: “For replaced claims, there is an emphasis on breadth of product choice for the claimant with slate and ceramic tiles, LVT and other flooring types chosen to replace previously fitted laminate, etc, and we are pleased to report a desire to return to carpet on an increasing amount of claims.

“As we move into 2010, the focus for most insurers will be that of both cost reduction and 'treating customers fairly' and we will continue to provide services to enable the realisation of both requirements.”

Dean Laming, commercial director,Tradesman Saver, provided timely advice for businesses looking to save money by reducing or even cancelling their insurance cover: “Customers often try to reduce the amounts they insure for or opt for ‘no frills’ policies in a bid to save money. But is this the right move or are they putting their business and livelihood at risk?

“Whilst you may save money in the short term, in times of recession when money is tighter, businesses are less able to withstand the cost of a loss should the worst happen.There is a greater need for insurance rather than less and it is critical for the future of your business to have a comprehensive policy, providing all the protection you need in the event of a loss.This is especially true in the contract flooring market where many retailers use self-employed fitters to fit customers’ flooring. If these contractors are selfemployed then they will not be covered by the retailers' insurance and will need to source their own public liability cover for the fitting work they undertake.

from The Stocklists

“If they have not sourced adequate cover, or their cover has expired, or is

“Customers often try to reduce the amounts they insure for or opt for ‘no frills’ policies in a bid to save money.

But is this the right move or are they putting their business and livelihood at risk?”

invalid for some reason and they damage a customer's property, or injure somebody in the course of the fitting, the customer is likely to approach the retailer for compensation.The result could be costly in terms of reputational damage for the retailer.

“The advice here is to always make sure your fitters have adequate insurance cover in place and keep a copy of their certificates on file for your records. “

Another word of warning to those looking to cut insurance costs by opting for 'no frills' policies is to check the small print carefully, it may be that the policies contain clauses that could invalidate the policy in the event of non-compliance, Laming continued.

“With Tradesman Saver, customers get a competitively priced, comprehensive insurance policy which is easy to arrange. Backed up by professional advisors, on hand to answer any queries, cover can also be purchased online instantly, with all certificates being emailed to the customer.” The company is particularly competitive for flooring contractors, Laming concluded, with £1m of public liability cover for a selfemployed flooring contractor starting at £52.50 per year, with all policies also including cover for legal expenses.

Flor by heuga stated that its products provided a convenient solution for those needing to replace flooring.The company advised that its 50 x 50cm, easy-to-lay tiles could be easily replaced in the event of irreparable damage occurring.

This means that only those tiles suffering damage would need to be replaced. It has established a facility on its website for new tiles to be ordered, with a minimum order of 1m2 or four 50 x 50cm tiles. Individual tiles can be purchased from retailers and the company also provides a seven year guarantee covering appearance and functionality.

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News Ethical rug trade grows The latest retailers to sign up to the GoodWeave ethical labelling initiative are B&Q and online retailer are Modern Rugs.

GoodWeave is the newly expanded labelling scheme of RugMark, which is active in the rug industry of India and Nepal. The scheme aims to eradicate illegal child labour, and is increasingly involved in improving environmental standards and working conditions in the rug industry. By selling rugs with the GoodWeave label on the reverse, licensees are able to promise their customers that no illegal child labour was involved in their manufacture.

Ben Dale, MD for Modern Rugs said: “We feel that we have a moral obligation to ensure that the rugs we sell are free from any illegal child labour and that workers have a fair wage and good working conditions.

By selling GoodWeave label rugs we can guarantee this and also educate our customers into making an informed decision when purchasing a rug”.

Laura Nicolson, Assistant Buyer for rugs at B&Q says: “B&Q has a strong heritage in social responsibility. The GoodWeave label is the best assurance that no illegal child labour has been used in the making of our rugs from India. www.goodweave.org.uk

Warning on trade and show guides Flooring companies are being targetted by controversial directory and guide publishers to enter unwittingly into expensive contracts that can be difficult to cancel.

Exhibitors at trade shows have been approached by the ‘Expo Guide’ while other companies have been encouraged to be listed in the ‘European City Guide’. Other publications use similar names and some suggest the entry is ‘free’ - but the small print says otherwise.

The approach is typically by fax and publishers show a set of often incorrect company information which you are invited to update. But signing the return form can commit respondents to contracts of up to £1,000 annually and in some cases these extend to three years or have an annual recurring arrangement until you cancel. Publishers are quick to use aggressive debt recovery for non-payers.

A Google search of ‘Expo Guide’ shows a trail of warnings from UK event organisations - the publishers moved from Austria to Mexico last year following court action in the EU.

From left to right: Roger Clarke, Mick Binks, Mark O’ Brien, Chris Isaacs, Dennis Johnson, Simon Tucker and Chris Hudson.

Cormar boosts sales squad Cormar Carpets, one of the UK’s leading tufted carpet manufacturers, is expanding its national sales team.

The company has created three new sales territories, increasing its field sales personnel from 17 to 20.

“Although trade remains tough, we have confidence in the future and like other aspects of our business we are not afraid to invest,” says Cormar md, David Judge. “This expansion of the sales team means that they will be able to concentrate on servicing our customers even more effectively and developing new business.”

The new sales appointments are Mark O'Brien, who will cover South London, Chris Hudson covering West London, Mick Binks who will cover Oxford/Berkshire and Dennis Johnson who will cover East Midlands. All four new members have extensive experience, all coming from within the carpet trade.

To help manage the larger sales team, Cormar is also extending the regional management team, creating three new regions. Roger Clarke, is now responsible for the western region.

Tim Bate, who covered the original southern area, retires in 2010, and as a consequence Chris Isaacs has been promoted to regional manager to cover the eastern region. In addition, Simon Tucker joins the company as the northern region manager with a great track record from SGI, one of the UK's largest construction companies.

One of the best known names in UK carpet manufacture, Cormar operates from two mills – Holme Mill in Ramsbottom and Brookhouse Mill in Greenmount.

T 01204 881234 www. cormarcarpets.co.uk

Furniss fired up for Whitestone Whitestone Weavers has a new agent for the East Midlands area - covering Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Derby and Northamptonshire.

Steve Furniss joins Whitestone from a 12-month spell as an agent after being with Garrard Waters (part of the Headlam Flooring Group) where he worked his way up the ranks after joining the company at the age of 17. As sales manager for Garrard Waters he covered the same East Midlands zone, so brings a wealth of contacts and knowledge of the area with him.

At just 34, Steve is eager to prove himself. His role

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will involve a variety of tasks including merchandising, selling new products, working with the customer base and renewing relationships.

“After 16 years in the trade I hope to bring experience to my new role within Whitestone Weavers. I am excited to be working for a brand that delivers quality with no compromise,” says Steve.

Steve lives at Castle Donnington near Nottingham with wife Jayne and 20-month-old daughter Beatrice. He is a keen camper, and enjoys fishing, travelling and football.

T 01429 892540 www.whitestone.co.uk

FlooringNews

People Firth goes forth!

F. Ball and Co. Ltd. has announced the retirement of Senior Technical Service Officer, John Firth. After 26 years working for F. Ball, John has seen the company undergo substantial growth and cement its reputation as the UK’s market-leading manufacturer of flooring adhesives and smoothing underlayments.

John comments: “I will look back on my career at F. Ball with pride, particularly with regards to the friendships I’ve made with customers and colleagues over the years. My work has taken me as far afield as Sweden and Dubai; during my retirement, I hope to explore and see more of the UK.”

A key member of F. Ball’s Technical Service department, John has established excellent relationships with flooring contractors throughout the UK, providing daily technical and installation advice. John was also responsible for producing technical reports, relating to F. Ball’s extensive product portfolio, and was involved in the development of the company’s annual RAG (Recommended Adhesive Guide). Indeed, as the company’s product range has expanded, John has seen the RAG grow to become the most comprehensive and definitive guide to adhesive selection within the industry.

A family-owned business for almost 125 years, one of the main things F. Ball values is the loyalty of its staff. In addition to John Firth’s retirement after 26 years of working for the company, several other

John Firth shakes hands with F. Ball Chairman, Mr Geoffrey Ball. Also pictured, from left to right Stephen Boulton, Alan Belfield and Calvin Hambleton.

members of staff have reached long service milestones during 2009.

Technical Service Manager Stephen Boulton, Warehouse Operative, Calvin Hambleton, and Production Operative, Alan Belfield, have all celebrated 25 years’ service this year.

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

Bob, a job well done A well known face in the flooring industry has retired after nearly 50 years in the trade.

Bob Lawton has left Carpenter, one of the world’s largest foam producers, four-and-a-half years after joining the company to establish its highly successful underlay division.

Bob started out working as a retail carpet salesman, straight from school in 1960, at Lee Longland in Birmingham.

Prior to joining Carpenter, he undertook a number of senior roles including sales director and managing director at Ball and Young. During his time in the industry Bob has seen many changes including the move from rubber to polyurethane underlay which has seen market share shoot up from just 2% to around 70%.

Bob is now looking forward to spending more time enjoying his favourite hobbies including watching Warwickshire County Cricket Club and Wolverhampton Wanderers and also concentrating on drawing cartoons and playing rock’n’roll music.

T 01457 861141 www.carpenter.ltd.uk

Four centuries of service At its recent Long Service Awards, Axminster Carpets celebrated an astonishing milestone with 11 of its employees recording an amazing 405 years of service between them. Attendees at this annual Christmas ceremony regularly applaud the achievements of those who have been with the company for 25 years, but this year’s event was exceptional as Group Chairman, Simon Dutfield explains: “To have just a single employee with an exemplary 25 year service record is quite some accomplishment, but to be able to recognise forty years of commitment and service by seven different members of your team in the same year is astounding, and for one to make the quite outstanding feat of 50 years is a true rarity.

“It is thanks to the dedication and hard work of our employees that Axminster Carpets enjoys a position as one of the most respected carpet manufacturers in the world. Our global reputation for carpets of the finest quality is down to the people who are involved in their from The Stocklists

Who’s Who - Top left: Stan Fifer (40 years) Peter Perkins (40 years) Antony Kreczek (40 years) Laurance Hitchcock (40 years) David Cropp (25 years). Bottom left: John Hill (40 years) Tony Banfield (40 years) Kenneth Chapple (50 years) Simon Dutfield MD Anne Stuckey (25 years) and Malcolm Carpenter (40 years).

manufacture and the skills handed down through the generations. We are delighted to honour their achievements at this special time of year.

T 01297 630650 www.axminstercarpets.co.uk

February 2010

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Stocklists Classified The

BUSINESS FOR SALE

UNDER RUGS

business for sale Due to retirement the chance to purchase a profitable carpet business: situated near Port Talbot on the M4 corridor, excellent location with parking spaces.

Freehold property with rentable flat above shop.

Enquiries in the first instance to JIF, P.O. Box 156, Port Talbot SA13 9DR

WHOLESALERS

Promote your wholesale business every month in our new Regional Wholesale Distributors Directory

flooring.uk.com ltd Laminate accessories - ie Scotia from 65p for 2.4m list

RUG ANTI-SLIPS Allstop and Allstop Plus, RUGSTOP and anti slip rubber underlays and felts in rolls or cut lengths, unbeatable service FREEPHONE: 0800 035 6677 Fax: 0870 751 1182 22-24 Hart Street, Southport PR8 6BT serving the trade for 54 years

FOXISuper Plus The Rug Tamer! Keeps Rugs In Their Place COMBINATION UNDERLAYS NEEDLEFELT UNDERLAYS

S e e p a g e s 1 1 - 1 3 f o r t h e D i re c t o r y a n d details of how to list your business.

For orders and further information, please ring P&R Ratcliffe (Underlays) Ltd. Burnley, Lancashire BB10 3BH Tel: 01282 421026, Fax: 01282 412321 www.foxirugtamer.co.uk

Underlay Flooring factsheet The latest in our series of helpful datasheets for the flooring retail and fitting trade - see page 9

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February 2010

FlooringNews

Stocklists Classified The

SITUATIONS VACANT

Sales Agents Required Ireland, Scotland, North West, Midlands, Wales, South East, London Concept Handtufting Ltd is now in a position to expand its sales throughout the UK & Ireland and wish to appoint sales agents preferably with experience of the flooring industry who are motivated and with enthusiasm for the products which will assist us to grow our business at the luxury end of the market.

We would require you to call upon retail flooring stores, specifiers, interior designers and other suitable outlets for our hand made carpets and rugs. In addition to our existing portfolio we are about to launch an exciting new range.

We are prepared to offer good commission rates with full sales and marketing support. He or she will: • Have in depth knowledge of wool and natural fibres • Have a good feel for colours and design trends • Have experience in both retail and contract markets.

Concept Handtufting Ltd For more information, please send your CV or details to studio@concepthandtufting.co.uk or Unit 9, Moat House Square, Thorp Arch Industrial Estate, West Yorkshire, LS23 7FB.

FOR SALE

Adjustable 4 metre carpet stands, from £100 each Rug display stand, height 8’6”. Takes 80 rugs. £500 07756 733770 Flintshire, North Wales

ATTENTION CARPET SUPPLIERS Turn those remnants into cash!

New and reconditioned carpet/rug whipping, fringing and taping machines available for immediate delivery.

For further details contact

DAVID ALMOND LTD. davidalmondltd@btconnect.com Union Works, Bacup Road, Waterfoot, Rossendale, Lancs. BB4 7LN Tel. 01706 214817 Fax. 01706 214819

THE STOCKLISTS February 2010

“We get TWICE as many calls from our ad in The Stocklists”

But then The Stocklists has an unfair advantage, we go to almost twice as many as people as rival magazines.

Ask us which advertisers have made the statement above - and we’ll give you a quote too!

Call Diane Martin on 01482 659396

‘Instant’ websites for people who don’t like the internet!

Maybe you’re not keen on the net but know you should have a decent website. Flooring stores don’t generally need anything too complex – most of the time, visitors are just trying to find out your phone number, your opening hours or where they can park! Or they’re just checking if you look professional.

The Floorsites package from The Stocklists offers: ● ●

● ● ●

7 ready-made pages of flooring industry content covering the key sectors of carpets, vinyls, laminates, etc.

Instant online editing - if you can type, you can customise these pages yourself anytime to add latest offers and news… or leave them as they are – we put all your contact information in there anyhow.

Choose photos from our library to make your site unique – or upload your own images.

Link to Google Maps – let visitors find you quickly and see where to park Auto-email form to let customers contact you direct

It costs £390 for the set-up and the first year - and £90 per year thereafter (exc.VAT).

Check out our dummy site at www.thestocklists.com/floorsites or contact David Spragg at davidspragg@thestocklists.com or call 01845 573241.

NO OBLIGATION ‘TEST DRIVE’...

We set up your site free-of-charge for a month. If you don’t like it, you don’t pay.

There’s nothing to lose!