Stocklists The
7 February 2011
with
FlooringNews
BRITAIN’S No. 1 FLOORCOVERING MAGAZINE FOR THE RETAIL AND CONTRACT MARKET
The CAREFREE roll out Driving your sales forward in 2011
The new Furlong fleet is ready to roll with the launch of Regency’s Carefree carpet collection – the 100% bleach cleanable range that’s set to be a major sales driver in 2011.
View CAREFREE TV on our unique video lecterns or see it online at www.regencycarefree.co.uk Distributed by Furlong Flooring see pages 24-25 for details of your local representatives
Stocklists The
7 February 2011
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 Director: Diane Martin. diane@mayvillepublishing.co.uk Publication Director: David Spragg. Founded by Roy Spragg in 1973.
FIRST FOR FLOORINg NEWS AND DATA
Advertisers
FlooringNews starts on page 33
Monthly ‘Stocklisters’ shown in BOLD
Disneyland Domotex - time out for a tense flooring sector
Index
See the industry’s most comprehensive review of the world’s biggest floor fair. Reviews, trends and markets. pages 45-56
Page No
0800 862 0251
—
AFS
020 8805 8620
Apr 2009
.................................................................19
ASSOCIATED WEAVERS .................49
01422 431100
—
BONDWORTH ........................................20
01562 745000
1.9.2010
BRITISH WOOL ....................................34
01274 688 666
—
BROCKWAY CARPETS LTD.
.......21
01562 828200
Mar 2010 —
.....................................................—
01282 862736
CARPENTER ............................................41
01457 861141
—
CAVALIER ........................................................—
01254 268000
—
COLUMBIA FLOORING
...................22
0208 443 3322
—
LIFE..............................IFC
01254 296829
—
CARPET TILES ..................................—
0161 877 8877
—
EDEL TELENZO......................................23
01422 374417
—
FITA ...................................................................63
01159 506836
—
FLOORINg
0121 683 1426
—
01709 780505
—
CONTEMPORARY DYNE
ONE ...........................................9
FLOORTRAIN
Birmingham makes smart debut. page 57 British Wool reports on Vegas. page 34
Mind the skills gap? We report on what training is available – and how badly it’s needed. page 60-61
01706 213131
—
0800 032 3900
—
LITTNER HAMPTON..........................—
0208 520 8474
—
MAYFIELD CARPETS .........................—
01706 639 866
—
MANX
01827 831434
—
01422 373799
—
gROUP ...............................3,36
MOHAWK ..................................................27
01480 479830
—
NICF...............................................................63
0115 958 3077
—
PENTHOUSE............................................28
01706 341 231
—
RACKHAMS..............................................29
020 85319225 Jan/Feb 2011
RYALUX............................................................37
0845 652 8811
SOLENT WHOLESALE CARPET
01243 774623 Jan/Feb 2011
....30
8-9 Underlay 14-15 Wholesaler Distribution Directory
Carpet trouble-shooter
12-13 Wool fibre page 5 Woolsafe: the carpet care guide
—
10 16-18 11 6-7
—
STAIRRODS UK LIMITED...............38
01207 591176
—
STS FLOORING DISTRIBUTORS......31
0845 341000
Feb 2011
T & E DISPLAY GROUP ..................39
TAT CARPET..................................................— KINg...................................................3
WOOLSAFE ORGANISATION.......6
WOOLS
Carpet Company Directory Carpet types
new page.............................................26
MERRYFIELD
4 Pattern book page
— Nov 2010
IVC .....................................................................—
WESTON HAMMER ...........................32
FlooringFactsheets
01509 673974 01772 696787
INTERFLOOR.................................................35
TRIPLE
Buying groups
.............................................18
FURLONG FLOORING ...................24,25
All the world’s a floor
Adhesives
.............................................58,59
FLOORWISE
Dennis Flower on the design revival. page 42-44
Price List Date
ACCU-CUT....................................................BC
BRONTE
Behaviour of pattern
Contact No
OF NEW ZEALAND ..................—
0121 585 7600
—
+90 342 337 50 50
—
01274 582056
—
0845 644 9090
—
01943 850817
—
01943 603888
—
Classified advertising................................. pages 66,67 carpets/rugs/tiles woods/laminates/smooths accessories/services/organisations fibres underlay wholesalers/distributors adhesives
ISSN 0950-5024 © Mayville Publishing Co. Ltd. 2011 Issue: 431 Every care is taken in compiling this magazine, but the proprietors assume no responsibility in the effects arising therefrom.
UK manufactured Carpet Cutting Machines
WWW.CARPETCUTTINGMACHINES.CO.UK
Flooring Factsheet Adhesives
4
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
Flooring factsheet Carpet types TUFTED
WOVEN
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 a versatile, textured finish that is ideal for plain colours.
BONDED Bonded carpets (sometimes called ‘fibre-bonded’ or ‘fusion bonded’) are created by firing fibres into an adhesive material – the fibres are not stitched into the backing in any way. The technique is principally used for commercial carpet tiles.
Velvet • Velvet textures (sometimes called ‘velour’ or ‘plush’) all have a level surface pile of approx 5mm to 10mm height, which is then sheared to give a smooth finish. With very little twist in the yarn, the
Tip Sheared
Level Loop
Random Sheared
Multi-Level Loop
V
Saxony
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
Sha
Velvet/Plush
Frieze
Twist
Berber
S Shag
5
Flooring factsheet Carpet care guide from WOOLSAFE 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.
Services for Retailers Customer carpet care HELPLINE If you have trouble dealing with customer queries like “How do I get red wine stains out of my carpet?” Just give them our HELPLINE 01943 850 817 and we’ll give them the correct advice. Simple. Certified Operator Network For experienced, specialist wool carpet cleaners you can trust visit: www.woolsafe.org/find/aregistered-carpet-cleaner. WOOLSAFE Registered Inspectors Solve disputes with customers with our independent carpet complaint Investigators. Just visit: www.woolsafe.org/find/a-registered-carpetinspector and call your nearest inspector. WOOLSAFE Approved Products Have confidence in the cleaning product you recommend, use the WOOLSAFE Approved Products Directory it contains only safe and effective carpet cleaning products. For spot removers visit: www.woolsafe.org/spotremovers Carpet Care Leaflets We offer to help you develop custom carpet care literature and we also offer generic carpet care leaflets designed to be given away with each cut of carpet. Correct carpet maintenance should start from day one. Web pages and Links We offer to help you develop custom carpet care pages for your website or you can link to our website’s carpet care pages for up-to-date and accurate advice. Contact us by email, telephone or post to: The WOOLSAFE Organisation 49 Boroughgate, Otley, LS29 8NR Tel: 01943 850817 E-mail: office@woolsafe.org or visit www.woolsafe.org The WOOLSAFE Organisation – promoting quality carpet and rug care since 1991.
6
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. 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! 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. Use only WOOLSAFE approved products 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.
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.
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 the WOOLSAFE Mark on the bottle or package. It is best to engage the services of a professional carpet & upholstery cleaning company. To get a really expert job done entrust the work to a WOOLSAFE accredited carpet cleaning company. These companies are fully trained, have been in business for a considerable length of time, are members of one or more recognised professional trade associations related to the cleaning industry and have a reputation for top quality service. And they use only WOOLSAFE-approved cleaning agents on your wool carpets and rugs!
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. 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 01943 462127, email: inspector@woolsafe.org, or visit: www.woolsafe.org / Private Householder / Registered Inspectors
WOOLSAFE The Retailer's single source solution for carpet care advice and services. THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
maintenance • cleaning • spot removal • protection • inspection
General Rules for Spot Removal
WOOLSAFE Approved Carpet Cleaning Products www.prochem.co.uk
Treatments 1.
Blot with white kitchen roll or paper tissues
2.
Vacuum clean
3.
Cold water
Home of the Legendary Cleaning Product - Carpet Power www.ozkleen.co.uk
• Soak up liquids with white kitchen roll, tissues, toilet roll or clean cloth
4.
Warm water
• Scoop up or scrape off solids
5.
• Try to identify unknown spots prior to treatment – if unsure, use solvent first
WOOLSAFE-approved carpet shampoo solution (diluted)
6.
WOOLSAFE-approved spot remover for water-based stains
7.
WOOLSAFE-approved spot remover for greasy/oily stains
• 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
8.
Absorbent paper or paper tissue and hot iron
9.
Chewing gum remover (solvent or freeze type)
Life inspired cleaning innovations www.bissell.com
10. Nail varnish remover or acetone 11. White spirit or turpentine substitute 12. Surgical spirit (ethyl alcohol or ethanol)
• When using solvents always ensure there is plenty of fresh air ventilation
14. Rub gently with coarse sand paper
• Always thoroughly rinse out water-based spotters with clean water
15. WOOLSAFE-approved disinfectant or deodorizer
• Dry the spot, if possible, with a hair dryer
16. Rust remover
13. Rub with a coin
17. Carpet re-colouring kit
The Clean Carpet you Expect... the Service you Deserve www.servicemasterclean.co.uk
(Treatments used by professional carpet cleaners)
More Difficult Spots Spot or stain
Easy Spots
Try 1st Try 2nd Try 3rd
Artificially coloured drinks 3
6
Bleach
3
17
C/heating radiator fluid
5
6
Coffee
4
6
16
Spot or stain
Try 1st Try 2nd Try 3rd
Blood
5
6
Felt-tip pen
7 or 11 12
Burn/scorch marks
13
14
Furniture polish
7
Butter
7
5
Glue/adhesive (plastic base)10
11
Candle wax
8
7
6
5
Chewing gum
9
5
15
6
5 15
3
Ink (fountain)
3
Ink (ballpoint pen)
12
5
7
6
Lipstick
7
Cola
3
5
6
Milk
4
Cream
7
5
Nail varnish
10
Egg
5
6
Paint (oil)
11
Rust
16
Soot
2
Tar (asphalt)
7
Urine (fresh stain)
3
5
Urine (old stain)
6
15
7
5
Fruit juice
3
5
Gravy and sauces
5
6
Herbal tea
3
6
Metal polish
5
Mustard
5
6
Oil and grease
7
5
Paint (emulsion)
3
5
Shoe polish
7
5
Tea
3
5
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
6
5
5
Chocolate/cocoa
Floor wax
Environmentally Aware for Superior Carpet Care www.envirodri.com
Vomit
5
6
Red wine
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.
7
Flooring factsheet Buying Groups Why join? www.beautifulflooring.co.uk Contact: Paul Phillips Tel: 01892 549050 paul@atbrm.com
Buying groups have been a highly successful feature of the floor retailing scene in the last decade or so, giving independents the extra edge they need to compete effectively with the retail park chains. More than 1000 retailers are now members of one of the several buying groups which operate in our sector and the numbers are slowly, but steadily growing.
www.flooringone.co.uk Contact: Glenn Harding Tel: 0121 683 1426 glenn.harding@flooringone.co.uk
While the benefits of bulk buying power are self-evident, the resistance to the buying group concept among nonmembers appears to be centred on fears of surrendering some control to a committee – and most particularly compromising long-established relationships and negotiated terms with current suppliers. The bottom line is the bottom line. A retailer selling across a broad range of products is likely to improve margins within a buying group – but you don’t need a leap of faith to join up. Ask the buying groups for answers...
www.greendalecarpets.co.uk Contact: Rob Harding Tel: 01432 852000 Fax: 01432 852005 rharding@greendalecarpets.co.uk
Metro Group www.carpet1st.co.uk Contact: David Kipping Tel: 01204 393539 dek@carpet1st.co.uk
Pick the right one • Evaluate all buying groups as they all work differently • Talk to the main marketing contact and/or a member of the committee
•
Get a list of members and call up two or three for a ‘real-world’ view
• Establish your territorial exclusivity – where’s the next nearest member of each buying group
• Ensure you understand the financial arrangements, any fees that would relate to your membership, how the bills are paid and whether your fees are refundable if it doesn’t work out. Ask the buying group for a consultation to estimate your potential savings
• Review all the extra benefits and services to see what Associated Carpet Group www.smartercarpets.co.uk Contact: Richard Moore Tel: 01942 825520 rjmoore65@googlemail.com rmoore@smartercarpets.com
8
Increase margins • Group purchases to get beneficial rates • Rebates • Exclusive higher-margin products • Special promotions One of the key reasons to join a buying group is to benefit from the discounts they negotiate as a bulk buyer from manufacturers. The way discounts and rebates are passed on to members varies between groups so make sure it’s absolutely clear how this will be done. You’ll need to work out how this compares with discounts you have already negotiated locally with preferred suppliers. Increase sales
• ‘Best of both worlds’ proposition • Wider ranges and exclusive products • POS, displays and merchandising support
Your customers will like the proposition that you are independent but with the buying power of a group – this gives them (and you) the ‘best of both worlds’ with personal service and competitive pricing. Most groups will also offer you ‘own label’ ranges and support with point-of-sale, merchandising and displays. Central stockholding may also be on offer. Access professional services
How to decide whether to join a buying group – and which…
www.smg-group.co.uk Contact: David Lewis Tel: 0118 932 3832 info@smg-group.co.uk
Key benefits
you would actually use
• Check out the product ranges offered including the own-label options and the UK/European mix
• Ensure you understand any rules that may limit your
• Business services • Financial services • IT and internet support • Training and workshops • Professional bodies
Some buying groups offer an excellent range of other services which may be valuable to your business. Financial services include invoice factoring, credit, loans and insurance. Some of the more sophisticated groups offering marketing packages, software systems to help you run your business operations and customised websites ready to use. Relationships with professional and training organisations can also offer discounts. Network with other independents
• Members-only exhibitions with preferred manufacturers
• Regular meetings • Regional workshops • Supplier presentations • Helpline
A lot of retailers enjoy the buying group environment of being independent but not alone out there on the High Street. Groups hold regular meetings and some have their own trade shows, regional meetings and workshops to help you develop your business. The network gives you someone to call when you need advice on, for example, an unusual installation, a technical consumer complaint, legal issue or business dilemma.
flexibility to run your business the way you want
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
Featured buying group this month: Flooring One Grow your Profit Margins. At Flooring One we understand the costs that go with running a business. It is your business; it is your biggest asset and our aim is to provide support and services to help you grow your SALES and PROFITS. We do not interfere in your business we support you! Not only do you have the financial strength of a 200 strong flooring group behind you, you also have access to product and buying information, offers, marketing, rebates and genuine exclusivity. AIS/Flooring One has had a name and reputation in the flooring industry for over 30 years and is renowned for the quality of its members all over the UK. If you want to be part of the best join Flooring One.
The Flooring Show, held annually in Solihull, is a key event, offering members a valuable opportunity to meet each other, leading manufacturers, ancillary suppliers and, of course, the Flooring One team.
Maximum buying power, increased profits. Our collective buying power means that major flooring manufacturers are attracted to do business with our members and on some of the best cost price and settlement terms available, often with annual rebates. (Our top member earnt over £70k in rebates in 2010). Our centralised payment of accounts system guarantees regular payments to suppliers and your administration is greatly reduced. Our experienced in-house team also source exclusive products and develop own label ranges to display alongside manufacturer’s brands, precluding direct price comparison and consequential profit reductions. What’s more, our merchandising team are constantly in the field supporting your business and the superb display stands available from Flooring One.
Marketing support. It’s not easy for an independent retailer to match the sheer marketing power of a national retail network. That’s why Flooring One developed an annual Member’s Marketing manual. Containing everything from an image library, templates and headlines, to complete colour advertisements for seasonal campaigns. The manual comes with easy to follow instructions and CD’s allowing members to create their own individual yet highly professional campaigns.
If you are interested in finding out more about Flooring One and all of the other services available to members please contact GLENN HARDING Cranmore Park, Cranmore Avenue, Shirley, Solihull, B90 4LF TEL: 0121 683 1426 FAX 0121 713 4451 EMAIL glenn.harding@flooringone.co.uk www.flooringone.co.uk THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
9
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.
www.numa-online.co.uk
Benefits
Types
Good underlay will... • Improve underfoot comfort • Increase appearance retention, reducing flattening • Absorb the pressure of foot traffic and reduce wear • Improve thermal insulation and warmth • Increase sound insulation • Smooth out sub-floor imperfections • Last the lifetime of the carpet
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.
Poor or old underlay will...
• Feel hard and unwelcoming • Reduce carpet life • Cause wrinkling and premature wear spots • Cause carpet fibres to break down more quickly • Not meet British Standards How thick? A maximum of 12mm is recommended (working with gripper will be difficult thereafter) but rooms with heavy traffic will need a thinner, denser pad. The combination of thickness and density is all important as a thick underlay with low density may not perform well. Typically, the thicker the underlay, the better quality it will need to be – 11mm is often used for luxury installations with 9mm and 7mm the common domestic thickness.
Sponge rubber
Combination
Crumb
PU foam
www.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
10
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
Flooring factsheet Wool fibre THE BEST CARPET WOOL Wool carpets have a historic reputation for quality because as a fibre it is known to withstand pressure and have excellent appearance retention properties. The best wool for carpet production is ‘strong’ wool and this is grown on sheep breeds found in Britain and New Zealand. Most carpets will contain both British Wool and New Zealand Wool because British Wool is more bulky and resilient and offers texture and unique heathery shades to carpet, whilst New Zealand wool is softer and whiter and particularly good for plain, lighter shaded ranges. Combining the two within a blend for carpet yarn gives manufacturers the perfect qualities for carpet. 100% wool or 80/20 – 80/10/10 wool rich Wool has yet to be matched by any man-made fibre; it has superior strength and does not need other fibres to improve its performance. However manufacturers choose to use synthetic fibres within the yarn blend for a number of reasons. These include fibre flexibility, dyeing, heat setting, stain resistance, durability and cost. These wool rich compositions offer industry standard carpets which will perform well in the home. THE BENEFITS OF WOOL CARPET Practical Strong and Resilient – Wool carpet will provide superior performance over many years as it can offer unique resilience and long lasting durability. The natural crimp of wool offers valuable ‘bounce-back’ so that pile compression is resisted and the effects of tracking and shading are reduced – maintaining good appearance over many years. Easy care – Wool is a natural fibre that has an inbuilt resistance to soiling due to its natural oils and its outer surface of microscopic scales and as a result additional anti-soil treatments are not necessary. Simply vacuuming the carpet will keep it looking good and whilst wool initially repels spills, prompt and complete blotting with white paper towels or an absorbent cloth is advised and will address many household spillages.
SAFE
DURABLE
Comfort Soft and Warm – Wool carpet adds luxurious underfoot comfort and warmth to the home and acts as an insulator improving heat retention and energy efficiency. Peace and Quiet – Wool carpet absorbs sound and cushions the home against echo and room to room noise transfer. Safety Fire Retardant – Wool is naturally fire resistant, has a slow ignition rate and tests show that it is self extinguishing within seconds. It meets many safety regulations without additional treatments and is favoured in contract locations for this reason. Fall Friendly – Carpet cushions and so provides a softer floor which protects against serious injury in falls by the very young or the elderly. Internal Environment Indoor Environment – As a natural ‘smart’ fibre with a complex physical and chemical structure, wool helps to create a balanced atmosphere in the home. It breathes and absorbs humidity in the air, releasing it when the atmosphere becomes dry and helps improve air quality by absorbing airborne toxins in indoor air. Anti–allergy – The minute scales on the fibre’s surface will hold fine dust until vacuumed which helps to reduce floating particulate in the atmosphere. Wool does not give off harmful emissions or promote the growth of bacteria and wool is not a food source for dust mites. Eco/Environmental Natural and Sustainable – Grown on sheep, which graze freely, wool is both 100% natural and fully sustainable. As shearing is a necessary part of animal husbandry this means that every year there is a fresh supply of wool available for the carpet manufacturing industry. Energy Efficient – Wool is energy efficient in the home and also in carpet production. Biodegradable – Wool fibre is biodegradable in soil and will produce nitrogen, sulphur, carbon dioxide and water which are all plant nutrients. Environmentally Assessed – Wool is an environmentally responsible fibre that has been measured in terms of its ecological impact. A Life Cycle Analysis study carried out by Leeds University to ISO 14040 standard for British Wool concludes that it compares favourably when measured against man-made fibres.
EASY-CARE
COMFORT
British Wool The Planet Friendly Fibre for Carpet aboutwool.com THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
11
Flooring factsheet Carpet trouble-shooter COLOUR MATCHING
SPROUTING
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’.
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.
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.
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.
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.
SHEDDING The original carpet tile
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.
12
• shedding • pulled loops
Pulled loops occur only in looped pile carpet where one or more loops in the continuous pile is pulled through the primary backing of the carpet. This is usually due to some local condition, possibly some sharp object which has caught in a loop in situ and has resulted in a pull. Pulled loops are easily dealt with by trimming the offending end level with the rest of the pile.They should not be left as this could result in further loops being pulled and developing into a ladder.
SHADING
STATIC Carpets do not produce static but like other household fabrics and objects have the capacity to store it. Static is caused by the build up of static electricity upon personnel in a dry environment and is discharged when a person makes contact with an object which can conduct electricity (i.e. door handle or filing cabinets, etc). The static charges will vary in intensity depending upon the individual, air humidity and the contact materials. Static is more usually associated with synthetic materials as they do not retain moisture very well but it can and does occur with wool in very dry room conditions. Preventative measures include the introduction of moisture into the room or in situ carpet treatment.
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 2011
• sprouting • shading • static • fading • pile reversal • shedding • flattening • soiling
PILE REVERSAL
FLATTENING
(SEE SHADINg)
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.
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.
SOILING Soiling is usually the result of some local condition to which the carpet has been subjected to, or maintenance, or lack of maintenance programme. There is nothing we as manufacturers can do to prevent soiling in use. There are several types of soiling which are quite common:
Spillages - Liquids such as soft drinks, cordials or
any drink which contains sugar, particularly hot drinks, is likely to leave a stain. In such instances, professional help should be sought.
Shampoo - if incorrectly applied, can leave
sticky soap residues in the fibres which can result in the soiling reappearing quite rapidly.
Dust - which is carried on draughts can soil carpets in various ways, apart from the obvious soiled edges, at gaping skirting boards for instance, dark lines appearing on surface might suggest airborne dust vacuum-drawn through poorly fitted floorboards. Sometimes the shape of floorboards can be seen quite clearly. Air borne dust sometimes shows itself as spots on the carpet, this is due to the air carried on a draught under the carpet escaping through minute holes both in the underlay and the carpet, leaving dust deposited on the pile much like a filter action. In such installations, the use of a lining paper is essential as a preventative measure. It is the responsibility of the retailer to advise the consumer when the carpet is measured of any poorly fitting doors, skirtings, or floorboards and the consumers responsibility to ensure any remedial work to seal draughts, is carried out before the carpet is fitted, if a resulting complaint is to be avoided.
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.
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
13
The Stocklists Carpet Company Directory Abingdon Flooring Adam Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W Ww
01562 829966
Associated Weavers Tw Tu
01422 431100
Avena Carpets Ltd Tu Ww
01422 330261
Axwoven Carpets Ltd Ax Be
0121 550 5788
Axminster Carpets Ltd Ax Be Tw
01297 32244
Bajong Carpets NV Tu Tw W
+32 56783250
Balta Industries NV Tu Tw W Ww
+32 56 62 2211
Beaulieu International Group Be Pr Tu Tw +32 56 67 66 11 Betap Tufting BV Tu Tw W
+31 383 861 060
BIC 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
01282 862 736
+32 56 35 4444
Custom Carpet Company Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww
01737 830301
Dan-Floor UK W
01454 858014
Burmatex Tu
01924 262525
Domo International Be Pr Tu Tw W
Cadogan Carpet Co W
01562 733610
Drury Lane Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W
01254 296829
Cavalier Carpets Ltd Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww
01254 268000
E & WE Carpets W
01562 825952
Christy Carpets Tu Clarendon Carpets Tw Classis Carpets Tu W Ww Condor Carpets BV Tu
+32 92 41 4511
019078 308777
Edel Telenzo Carpets Ltd 01675 433066 0870 020 1725 +31 38 4778911
Tu Tw W sales@edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk www.edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk Enterprise Weaving Co Be Ww
01422 374 417
01562 745030
+32 56 23 54 10
Bizspoke Custom Carpets Be Tw W
Tw W sales@brockway.co.uk
Creatuft Carpets Tu W
01274 655694
01562 828200 www.brockway.co.uk
Contemporary Life & Textiles Be Tw sales@contemporarylife.co.uk www.contemporarylife.co.uk
01254 296829
Ww cummings@btinternet.com www.fellscarpets.co.uk Fetcham Furnishings Ltd Tw
Cormar Carpets Ltd Tu Tw W info@cormarcarpets.co.uk www.cormarcarpets.co.uk
01204 881 234
Couristan Carpets Ax Tu W Ww
800 223 6186
Craigie Carpets Be
01294 558400
Creative Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W
Mohawk’s Cherbourg Check
Fells Carpets
0116 284 1455
Fletco Taepper A/S Tu W
01977 662211
020 8944 6220 +45 96 60 3000
Furlong Flooring Tw W enquiries@furlongcentral.co.uk www.furlongflooring.co.uk
01772 696 787
Brockway’s Vogue
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
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
Gaskell Tu Tw W
01827 831525
Manx Carpets Tw W
01827 831 434
The Sultana Carpet Co Ax
01299 822300
Gaskell Mackay Carpets Ltd Ax Tu Tw W
01429 892525
Mayfield Carpets Tu Tw W
01706 639 866
The Wilton Carpet Co Ax W Ww
0845 296 8850
Georgian Carpets Tu Tw W
01827 831430
MID NL Be
Thomas Witter UK Ltd Tu Tw
0870 1128318
Godfrey Hirst (GB) Ltd Tu Halbmond Teppichwerke Be Pr Tu Heckmondwike FB ITC Be Pr Tw
Joseph Hamilton & Seaton W Kingsmead Carpets Tu Tw W
Timzo Tufting Industry BV Tu +31 38 385 4477
0800 526696 +49 037 421 420 01924 410544 0032 51 424 411
John Lanham Watts Carpets Ax Tw Ww 01937 588511 John Evans Ltd Ax Tu Tw W
+31 38 851 8700
0161 368 2563 01827 831400 01827 831 424
Mohawk Europe marinagooch@mohawkeurope.com www.mohawkinternational.com Mr Tomkinson Tw Ww
01827 831 450
Ossfloor UK
01675 433031
Penthouse Carpets Tu Tw W
01706 341231
Phoenox Textiles Pr Tu
01484 863227
Pownall Carpets Tw W
0845 6528811
Roger Vanden Berghe.NV Tu Ww
Lano NV Ax Pr Tu Tw W Ww marketing@lano.be www.lano.com Le Tissage d'Arcade Ax Ww Lecaflor Ltd Ax Be Pr Tu Tw W Ww Leigh Spinners Ltd Tw Louis de Poortere W Lusotufo Tu
+32 56 65 4300
01480 479830 01480 471304
+32 56 73 57 11
Ryalux Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W
0845 652 8811
Sans Frontieres Ltd Be Pr Tu Tw W Ww
0844 5611977
Tisca Tiara Tu Ww Trendy Tuft Designs Be Tu Tw W
01274 855080
Ulster Carpets Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww
02838 334433
United Carpets & Beds Tw W Ww
01562 749300
Vorwerk
08700 104484
Westex Carpets Tu
01274 861334
Weston Hammer W Whitestone Weavers Ltd Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww Wilkies Carpets Tw
01675 433 501
Woodward Grosvenor Ax Tu Tw W Ww
0800 78 33 712
Tapibel NV Pr Tu Tw
01623 481 221
Wool Classics Tu Ww
01942 673232
Tasibel NV Tw
+32 52 499600
+32 56 393 386
The Alternative Flooring Co
01264 335111
The Grosvenor Wilton Co W Ww
01562 701456
01709 732 666
Victoria Carpets Tu Tw W Ww
Shaw Home Foundations Tu
+32 05685 4747
+41 71 791 0111
0845 644 9090 01429 892555 0113 307 9955 0800 526696 0207 349 1560
01388 664101 Tollgate stand
Bronte’s stand
Cormar’s Berwick
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
15
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 sales@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk
North East
Fells Carpets goole
Midlands
East
01977 662211
Carpet & Flooring Birmingham 0121 421 9131 birmingham@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk
Beds Flooring Bedford 01234 341234 sales@bedsflooring.co.uk www.bedsflooring.co.uk
sales@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk John Evans Ltd Manchester 0161 368 2563 Fax: 0161 368 3039 Mobile: 07850 935301
Carpet & Flooring gateshead 0844 824 3121 gateshead@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk
Kellars Ltd Stockport 0161 443 0970 sales@kellars.co.uk
Fells Carpets goole
Lee Floorstok Ltd Liverpool - see Floorwise p18
01977 662211 sales@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk Floorwise (North East) Ltd Birtley - see Floorwise p18 Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customerservices.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 help.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.woodfloorsales.com
North West A&A Carpets Manchester 01204 701188 sales@aandacarpets.co.uk www.aandacarpets.co.uk D. M. Miller Ltd Manchester 0161 205 9949 dm.miller@btconnect.com www.dmmillerltd.spaces.lives.com
Lee Floorstok Ltd Manchester - see Floorwise p18 MCA Floorwise Ltd Morecambe - see Floorwise p18 Mytton Flooring Norwich - see Floorwise p18 Millbrook Carpets Darwen 01254 703999 millbrookcarpets@live.co.uk Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customerservices.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Carpet & Flooring Manchester 0161 786 6800 manchester@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 help.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.woodfloorsales.com
DMS Flooring Supplies Northampton 0845 643 5601 dmsnorthampton@ dmsflooringsupplies.co.uk Floorwise D & J Ltd Southam- see Floorwise p18 J J Wholesale & Distribution Ltd Birmingham 0121 765 4994 jjwholesale@gmx.com RPS Flooring Mansfield Woodhouse - see Floorwise p18 STS Flooring Distributors Watford 08454 342000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com see page 32 for details
Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customerservices.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 help.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.woodfloorsales.com Woodall Brothers Ltd Shrewsbury - see Floorwise p18
Faithfull Floorcovering Suffolk 01473 822341 sales@faithfulls.co.uk www.faithfulls.co.uk STS Flooring Distributors Ltd Cambridge Tel: 01954 781142 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com See page 31 for details Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customerservices.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 help.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.woodfloorsales.com
South East Acorn Carpet Accessories Bromley, Kent - see Floorwise p18 AFS Middlesex 020 8805 8620 info@afsenfield.co.uk See page 19 for details Ashmount Flooring Supplies Ltd Tottenham 0208 808 2158 sales@ashmountflooring.co.uk www.ashmountflooring.co.uk continued overleaf....
16
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
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
Kent Flooring Supplies Ltd Chatham 01634 668668 sales@kentflooring.co.uk www.kentflooring.co.uk
Belvedere Carpets London 020 8800 0740 sales@belvederecarpets.co.uk www.belvederecarpets.co.uk
Littner Hampton London 020 8520 8474 littnerhampton@aol.com www.littnerhamptoncarpets.co.uk
Carpet & Flooring Bow 020 8525 5691 bow@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk
Potts & Ward, Woodcocks Ltd Brighton 01273 557211 pwwflooring@fastnet.co.uk www.pwwflooring.co.uk
Carpet & Flooring Camberley 01276 672100 camberley@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk Columbia Flooring Middlesex 020 8443 3322 sales@columbiaflooring.co.uk www.columbiaflooring.co.uk See page 22 for details DMS Flooring Supplies Hemel Hempstead 0845 643 5344 dmshemel@dmsflooringsupplies.co.uk DMS Flooring Supplies Milton Keynes 0845 643 5320 dmslaser@dmsflooringsupplies.co.u 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
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
Rackhams London 020 8531 9225 sales@rackhamsltd.co.uk www.rackhamsltd.co.uk See page 29 for details Salesmark Lancing, - see Floorwise p18 Solent Wholesale Carpet West Sussex 01243 774623 sales@solentwholesale.co.uk www.solentwholesale.co.uk See page 30 for details STS Flooring Distributors Orpington/Croydon 0845 434 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com see page 31 for details Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customerservices.redditch@carpet andflooring.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wessex Flooring Amesbury - see Floorwise p18
Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 help.redditch@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.woodfloorsales.com
South West
C. K. Davie Ltd Aberdeen - see Floorwise p18 C. K. Davie Ltd Dundee - see Floorwise p18 Headlam Scotland North Lanarkshire 01698 831 000 sales@headlamscotland.co.uk www.headlamscotland.co.uk
Carpet & Flooring Bristol 0117 966 798l bristol@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk
Neil Smith Ltd glasgow - see Floorwise p18
Fitwell Flooring Ltd Redruth - see Floorwise p18
Wales
Fitwell Flooring Ltd Newton Abott - see Floorwise p18 Solent Wholesale Carpet West Sussex 01243 774623 sales@solentwholesale.co.uk www.solentwholesale.co.uk See page 30 for details STS Flooring Distributors Thame (Oxford) 01844 213555 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com see page 31 for details Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customerservices.redditch@carpet andflooring.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 help.redditch@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.woodfloorsales.com
Scotland
Carpet & Flooring Bristol 0117 966 798l bristol@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk Roma Flooring Neath - see Floorwise p18 Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customerservices.redditch@carpet andflooring.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 help.redditch@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.woodfloorsales.com
Ireland Floorwise Ltd Dublin - see Floorwise p18 Floorwise Ltd Belfast - see Floorwise p18 Floorwise Ltd Limerick - See Floorwise p18
Carpet & Flooring glasgow 0141 427 8456 glasgow@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk
17
floorwise National Network of Floorwise Distributors Acorn Carpet Accessories 16 Bromley, Kent Tel: 020 8462 0422 Fax: 020 8462 0927
Neil Smith Ltd 3 Glasgow Tel: 0141 552 1141 Fax: 0141 552 0623
C. K. Davie Ltd 1 Aberdeen Tel: 01224 820077 Fax: 01224 822344
Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 4 Belfast, Northern Ireland Tel: 028 9075 3202 Fax: 028 9075 3901
C. K. Davie Ltd 2 Dundee Tel: 01382 226533 Fax: 01382 226544 Fitwell Flooring Ltd 20 Redruth, Cornwall Tel: 01209 214344 Fax: 01209 21162 Fitwell Flooring Ltd 19 Newton Abbot, Devon Tel: 01626 835935 Fax: 01626 834334 Floorwise D & J Ltd 13 Southam, Warks Tel: 01926 814922 Fax: 01926 817899 Floorwise (North East) 5 Ltd Birtley, County Durham Tel: 0191 410 7070 Fax: 0191 410 6116 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 Mytton Flooring 14 Norwich, Norfolk Tel: 01603 624387 Fax: 01603 612888
Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 9 Dublin 12, ROI Tel: 00353 (0)1 626 3913 Fax: 00353 (0)1 626 3960 LoCall: 1850 445 746 (ROI)
1 2 3
Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 10 Limerick Tel: 00353 (0)61 227 100 Fax: 00353 (0)61 227 000 LoCall: 1850 445 745 (ROI) Roma Flooring 15 Neath, West Glamorgan Tel: 01639 633001 Fax: 01639 646116 RPS Flooring 11 Mansfield Woodhouse, Nottinghamshire Tel: 01623 624198 Fax: 01623 620931
4
7 10
8
9
11 12
Salesmark 17 Lancing, West Sussex Tel: 01903 750522 Fax: 01903 851111 Wessex Flooring 18 Amesbury, Wiltshire Tel: 01980 625888 Fax: 01980 676969 Woodall Brothers Ltd 12 Shrewsbury, Shropshire Tel: 01743 441584 Fax: 01743 441629
5
6
13
15
18 19
14
16 17
20
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
gRIPPER
UNDERLAY
ADHESIVES & SCREEDS
PROFILES
www.floorwise.co.uk • www.carpetunderlay.net www.floorwise.co.uk • www.carpetunderlay.net www.signaturewoodfloors.com • www.siennawoodfloors.com www.signaturewoodfloors.com • www.siennawoodfloors.com 18
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
UNDERLAYS
CARPETS NATURAL/LOOPS HIGH FLYER NOMAD
Tex Loop 50/50 Nat Loop
SAXONY STAINFREE ROMANCE NOBLE SAXONY STAINFREE FLAIR SENSATIONAL
35oz PP Saxony 40oz Saxony 50oz PP Saxony 58oz Saxony
80/20 WOOL TWIST BELMONT TWIST BELMONT SUPREME
80/20 40oz 80/20 50oz
PP TWIST VIVA TWIST SALT N PEPPER
PP Twist PP Twist
LOOP PILE AND CORD PINCH FELT PINCH FOAM ROCKY HB ROCKY FB DIMENSIONS TITAN CORD GALA CORD FB GALA CORD HB
Needle Punch Cord Needle Punch Loop Pile Cord Loop Pile Cord Loop Pile Stripe/Wave Loop Pile Gel Back Loop Pile Cord Loop Pile Cord
CORMAR STOCKED APOLLO BERWICK 40 BERWICK 50 BUCHANAN HOME COUNTIES HOME COUNTIES MALABAR NATURAL BERBER SUPER NATURAL BERBER ELITE NATURAL BERBER DELUXE NEW OAKLANDS NEW OAKLANDS NEW OAKLANDS PRIMO PLUS PRIMO ULTRA PRIMO TWEED PRIMO SAXONY WEST COUNTRY 50
Excellon Twist 80/10/10 40 oz Twist 80/10/10 50 oz Twist 80/10/10 40 oz Twist 42 oz Twist 50 oz Twist 100% Natural 80/10/10 35 oz Twist 80/10/10 45 oz Twist 80/10/10 55 oz Twist 80/10/10 32 oz Twist 80/10/10 42 oz Twist 80/10/10 50 oz Twist Excellon Twist Excellon Twist Excellon Twist Excellon Saxony 80/10/10 50 oz Twist
CORMAR CARPETS AVEBURY LINDISFARNE TOWN AND COUNTRY WEST COUNTRY 60
3/5 DAYS DELIVERY 100% Pure New Wool 100% Pure New Wool 80/10/10 60 oz Twist 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 WILLOW GREEN 15 m2 90lb Waffle Rubber Underlay 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 AFS STANDARD GOLD 15 m2 60lb Rubber Underlay GRAPHITE 15 m2 Light Weight PE WOOD FLOOR UNDERLAYS BOARDWALK (Timbermate) 15 m2 3.75mm ALL IN ONE 10 m2 3mm COMFORT SILVER 15 m2 2.5mm
23dB Moisture Barrier 20dB Self Adhesive Strip 18dB PE Foam + Foil
TREDAIRE PU UNDERLAYS ALPHA 15 m2 OMEGA 15 m2 BRIO 15 m2 ZEST 15 m2 SOFTWALK 15 m2 DREAMWALK 15 m2 CONTRACT 9 15 m2
Tredaire PU Tredaire PU Tredaire PU Tredaire PU Tredaire PU Tredaire PU Contract PU
8mm 10mm 8mm 10mm 9 mm 11 mm 9 mm
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 HEATFLOW WOOD 15 m2 2.75mm TECHNICS 5 15 m2 5.0mm FELT UNDERLAYS FELT 28 FELT 42 KENSINGTON DELUXE
15 m2 28oz 15 m2 42oz 11 m2 74oz
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 Double stick sponge
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 July 2010.
REP DETAILS: Ashley Best Nick Hart Karl Goult
Tel: 07976 916752 Tel: 07771 967609 Tel: 07957 685428
Zac Marsh
Tel: 07828 663325
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
Surrey , Hampshire, South London Essex, East London North London, West London, North West London, Middlesex, Herts., Beds., and Bucks. Kent, South East London 19
94% STOCKED Townshend Works, Puxton Lane, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY11 5DF. Sales: 01562 745000 Fax: 01562 732827 New trade price list effective 1st September 2010
BOND WORTH
V.I.P. CLUB Call us today for a personal service that reaches beyond your expectations...
Berkeley Axminster 80% Wool / 20% Nylon available 3.66m & 4.57m Range comprises 8 Designs Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order 4.57m wide Tashkent 4-9076 Mid March
Variations Axminster 80% Wool / 20% Nylon available 3.66m
• Buy one Axminster cut at your standard terms, when you place another within 8 weeks we give you an EXTRA 10% off!
• We guarantee our delivery dates. If we miss it by 7 days then you get 5% off the invoice value of the order!
Range comprises 12 Designs - All Stock Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order Mikado 4-9079 Early Feb
• Access to the Managing Director and
Precious Gems Axminster
• Have a complaint? We guarantee
80% Wool / 20% Nylon available 3.66m Range comprises 5 Designs - All Stock Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order
Sales Director 24 hours a day 7 days a week. to contact your customer with 24 hours.We will inspect all complaints regardless of age.
• Order 16 linear meters or more in one
Wensleydale Axminster 80% Wool / 20% Nylon available 3.66m Range comprises 8 Designs - All Stock Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order
Cornell & Stanford Axminster 80% Wool / 20% Nylon available 4.00m Range comprises 5 Colourways in 2 Designs Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order
New Afghan Axminster
• Exclusive first access to new ranges. • Bi-Monthly News Letter. • Real Time Updates via Facebook & Twitter.
• Dedicated Sales Line. • Special Roll Offers. • ABOVE ALL ITS FREE TO JOIN!
80% Wool / 20% Nylon available 3.66m
TELEPHONE 01562 745000 NOW FOR YOUR INFORMATION PACK
Range comprises 5 Designs - All Stock Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order No Stock Sultan 2-3100 Early February No Stock Pathan 4-3103 Early February
NEW UPDATED WEBSITE!
Romanesque Berber Axminster 80% Wool / 20% Nylon available 4.00m Range comprises 3 Designs - All Stock Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order Acanthus Plum 4-5002 Low Stock - Now Discontinued 20
cut we give you roll price!
Check out our new updated website at:
www.bondworth.co.uk THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
PORTOBELLO – 01 CHARCOAL TOP TO BOTTOM SAVILE ROW – 81 TWEED PINSTRIPE GELATO – 12 SORBET CONCERTO – 01 CAPELLA CREAM
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
21
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 22
Tel: 0208 443 3322 Fax: 0208 805 2346 Opening Times: Monday - Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am to 12 noon THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
AQUARIUS IS GOING SWIMMINGLY Now out in the marketplace and already doing well is our easy care Gelbac Aquarius, a nice cut pile, with a comfortable feel but, in our very own Edelon Protect yarn, sturdy enough for the care home market.
VALENTINE SPECIAL? IT’S TIME FOR SOME WILD ROMANCE!
Wild Romance in Silver
We’ve had a great response to another of our luxury synthetic offerings, Wild Romance, a super soft pile cut carpet in 1/10th gauge polyamide with 14mm pile height. And with 15 rich colours to choose from, varying from Fountain (a pale aqua) to Jewel (a dark aubergine), there’s bound to be one which will win the heart of the most hesitant of customers!
STAY IN TOUCH – GET ON LINE! We’re doing well collecting all your emails – and thanks to all of you who have provided an email address so far. But we’re not there yet! Please keep them coming... email jwatson@edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk to make sure you’re on the list and in the loop!
DON’T FORGET....
Samples (45 x 45cm) for your tombolas of our popular 50-50 options, Greenwich and Windsor – as well as the new Chelsea – are also on their way to you via your local agent from the end of this month.
OUR SALES TEAM Greater London as far as N. Circular on north side of Thames and as far as M25 on south side, Surrey, Middlesex, Sussex, Kent John A Constable T: 01622 685397 M: 07836 734322 E: john@jcagencies.co.uk Yorkshire & North Lincs John Alsop T: 01904 762471 M: 07860 572220 E: alsopagencies@yahoo.co.uk Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset Brendan Hart M: 07850 130221 E: a.b.hart@btinternet.com
Lincs, Leics, Northants, Notts, Derbyshire Jim Osborne M: 07738 642934 E: jim.osborne@sky.com Hampshire, Berkshire, Bucks, Oxfordshire Niall Martin M: 07866 735772 E: niallmartin@msn.com South Wales, Bristol, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire Andrew Jefferies M: 07831 457102 E: adj.agencies@btinternet.com Lancashire, Cumbria & Isle of Man John Rostron M: 07973 733208 E: johnrostron@aol.com
YOUR HEAD OFFICE TEAM CONTACTS Operations Manager: Lesley Inman M: 07703 337989 E: l.inman@edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk
THANK YOU FOR COMING TO DOMOTEX! Thank you to all our customers, new and old, who came to see us at Domotex last month – in these tough times we’re very grateful for the effort. We were pleasantly surprised by both the number of visitors and the level of interest/orders – so we’re feeling quite optimistic about the year ahead. There’s no doubt that our new, smart Chelsea with Scotchgarding is perceived as a winner, proving that in tough times, customers opt for what they perceive to have staying power. The colour bank (eight versatile but modern earthy neutrals) is attracting particular praise. Swatches and A4 cards of Chelsea are even now being despatched. While we’re about it, we’d also like to say thank you very much to all the customers who have carried on giving us their support throughout 2010; we haven’t done too badly as a result! We all know 2011 is going to be pretty challenging but we intend to stay positive and focus on keeping our standards of customer service and product quality right up there with the best!
ONES TO WATCH We’ve got two exciting new designs in the pipeline, both well received at Domotex. Anderson will be joining our value for money, 100% wool roll only programme alongside Hudson & Lawrence. It’s a smart textured loop in five new colours and available in 4 and 5 metre widths. Coming to the UK in 2011 is Gloss – something really different for the heavy contract market and conveniently available in both tiles and broadloom options. As the name implies it has an amazingly glossy finish, thanks to its high lustre yarn in BCF Polyamide 6 fibre. With 15 colours to choose from, we’re sure this will be a big hit.
East Anglia, Bedfordshire, Cambs, Essex, Herts, Norfolk, Suffolk Jonathan Hart T: 01621 817992 M: 07889 264466 E: jonathanhart66@hotmail.co.uk West Midlands, South Wales (Wholesalers) Paul Brewer T: 0121 4277117 M: 07798 745181 E: paulbrewer@fsmail.net Greater Manchester, Cheshire, North Wales Philip Hambleton T: 01925 740050 M: 07966 397676 E: carpetphil@aol.com
North East Rebecca Gibbons M: 07970 491215 E: rebann2@btinternet.com Scotland Tim Tindal T: 01436 671421 M: 07836 705620 E: ttcarpetagencies@aol.com Channel Islands, Isle of Wight John Eastlake T: 01323 896141 M: 07885 398858 E: john-eastlake@hotmail.co.uk Northern Ireland Gary O’Boyle M: 07831 220675 E: goboyle@ntlworld.com
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 2011
23
CAREFREE - the stunning new collection Contact your local representative
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 wholly-owned manufacturing company, Regency Carpets, is one of the UK’s top three tufters with a modern plant located in Bangor, Northern Ireland. 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. 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. 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’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. 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.
the aim is simply to offer customers the best of all worlds in terms of price, service and quality Furlong have paid particular attention to the presentation of their product range to consumers with market-leading point-of-sale systems incorporating the latest video technology. 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 24
Effective service systems
Large group stock-holding
Fast delivery fleet THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
All the products shown are available in the CAREFREE Collection Here are the people who try harder London & Home Counties JOHN AKIEN M: 07791 891024 S.W LONDON, SURREY (INS. M25) jonakien@furlongflooringltd.co.uk
GEOFF ABERNETHY M: 07970 229717 CUMBRIA, POTTERIES, CHESHIRE & FYLDE COAST geoff.abernethy@furlongflooring.co.uk
IAN COLLACOTT M: 07816 217550 MIDDLESEX, W. LONDON, BERKSHIRE iancollacott@furlongflooringltd.co.uk
ALAN CHEETHAM M: 07966 263571 GREATER MANCHESTER alan.cheetham@furlongflooring.co.uk
DARREN SPENDIFF M: 07791 890861 KENT darrenspendiff@furlongflooringltd.co.uk
BOB CHRISTIE M: 07980 786264 MERSEYSIDE, WIRRAL & N. WALES bob.christie@furlongflooring.co.uk
RAYMOND SMITH M: 07816 217565 ESSEX raymondsmith@furlongflooringltd.co.uk REG HOWSON M: 07816 217548 N, N W & E LONDON, HERTFORDSHIRE reghowson@furlongflooringltd.co.uk
South East
Seeing is believing Customers can buy with confidence when they see the Carefree cleanability in action with the new video units for your existing Regency POS systems.
IAN ROBERTSON M: 07816 217563 E & WEST SUSSEX ianrobertson@furlongflooringltd.co.uk
REG SYKES M: 07973 403450 SOUTH YORKSHIRE reg.sykes@furlongflooring.co.uk
TONY CONWAY M: 07791 891025 BEDS, NORTHANTS, OXON & BUCKS tonyconway@furlongflooringltd.co.uk
Wales & South West
PETER FLETCHER M: 07816 217561 HAMPSHIRE, DORSET & SURREY (OUTSIDE M25) peterfletcher@furlongflooringltd.co.uk
BEN THOMAS M: 07794 048809 S./MID & W. WALES bthomas@furlongflooring.com
Midlands
JASON BRIMBLE M: 07794 041266 AVON & GLOUCESTERSHIRE jbrimble@furlongflooring.com TIM BAILEY M: 07794 048414 S.E. WALES & HEREFORDSHIRE tbailey@furlongflooring.com STEWART WAITHMAN M: 07794 048413 DEVON & CORNWALL swaithman@furlongflooring.com
MARTYN REA M: 07968 324598 LEICESTER/WARWICKSHIRE/LINCS martyn.rea@furlongflooring.co.uk
Wood Floor Specialists
Scotland
JOHN POWERS M: 07792 477312 SALES MANAGER BEDS, NORTHANTS, OXON, BUCKS, MIDDLESEX, W&S LONDON, BERKS, SURRY johnpowers@furlongflooringltd.co.uk
GEORGE WISELY M: 07967 148665 SCOTTISH SALES george.wisely@furlongflooring.co.uk COLIN RICHFORD M: 07970 163372 WEST SCOTLAND colin.richford@furlongflooring.co.uk
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
DES BEST M: 07968 828516 NORTH EAST des.best@furlongflooring.co.uk RAY ANDREW M: 07973 719801 EAST LANCS/W.YORKS ray.andrew@furlongflooring.co.uk
MIKE SHUTT M: 07970 158594 BIRMINGHAM/ STAFFORDSHIRE, SHROPSHIRE mike.shutt@furlongflooring.co.uk
quality choice availability service price
Yorkshire & North East
PAUL LOVELL M: 07816 217549 NORFOLK, SUFFOLK & CAMBS paullovell@furlongflooringltd.co.uk
PAUL HARRIS M: 07980 786265 NOTTS & DERBYSHIRE paul.harris@furlongflooring.co.uk
The Regency range of stain-resistant carpets ticks all the boxes:
North West
ALAN CAIRNIE M: 07976 311434 EAST SCOTLAND alan.cairnie@furlongflooring.co.uk
London Sales tel: 01322 628707 fax: 01322 698733
RICHARD RICHMAN M: 07791 891044 AREA SALES MANAGER NORFOLK, SUFFOLK, CAMBS, N&E LONDON, ESSEX, KENT, SUSSEX & HERTS richardrichman@furlongflooringltd.co.uk
Preston Sales tel: 01772 696787 fax: 01772 311921
Newport Sales tel: 01633 283959 fax: 01633 275454
Email: enquiries@furlongflooring.co.uk
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carpet with a twist
T 01827 831434 F 01827 831435 sales@manxcarpets.co.uk Representatives Bucks, Herts, Beds, Essex, North London, Norfolk & Suffolk Bob Collen M: 07799 772992 E: bob.collen@manxcarpets.co.uk Kent, Sussex, Surrey, South London, Central London, Hampshire Rob Shergold M: 07974 310952 E: rob.shergold@manxcarpets.co.uk Leics, Warks, West Midlands, Northants, Cambs & Worcs Kevin Reynolds M: 07793 944160 E: kevin.reynolds@manxcarpets.co.uk Scotland, Northumberland, Durham, Tyneside, Tyne & Wear & North Cumbria John Binnie M: 07976 844792 E: john.binnie@manxcarpets.co.uk Lancs, Merseyside, Cheshire, South Cumbria, North Wales, Staffs & Shrop Jon Ormrod M: 07778 260763 E: jon.ormrod@manxcarpets.co.uk South Wales, Avon, Glos, Here, Berks, Oxon, Wilts & Dorset Dan Jarvis M: 07976 641368 E: dan.jarvis@manxcarpets.co.uk York, Derby, Nottingham, Lincoln, Cleveland, Wearside Tom Mackie M: 07971 485383 E: tom.mackie@manxcarpets.co.uk Somerset, Devon, Cornwall and Channel Islands Tony Owen (agent) M: 07971 362087 E: tony.owen@manxcarpets.co.uk Scottish Highlands Frank Mcsherry (agent) M: 07812 416876 Northern Ireland Matt McKillen (agent) M: 07732 263768 Republic of Ireland Tony Dunne (agent) M: 00353 872593060
Castle Twist (pictured left) is as popular as ever with retailers due to the variety of weight options the range offers,made from 80% British Wool in eighteen modern colours available 30,40,50,60 & a luxury 70oz quality in 4 & 5m widths,its a must for every retailer.
Our range
Nature’s Envy
Berber Design
New Ashworth
100% British Wool. Rib & Wicker style. 4 & 5m. Jute backed.
Castle Twist Tufted. 80/20 British Wool. 4 & 5m. Jute backed.
Castle Twist Heather
Tufted. 80/20 British Wool. 4 & 5m. Jute backed. Tufted. 80/20 British Wool/Nylon (anti-static). 4 & 5m. Jute backed.
New Pembury
Tufted. 80/20 British Wool. 4 & 5m. Jute backed.
New Shoreline
Tufted. 80/20 British Wool. 4 & 5m. Jute backed.
Flatwoven. 50/45/5 Polypropylene/Jute/Wool. 4 & 5m. Hessian backed.
Causeway Twist
Pandora Plains
Tufted. 80/20 British Wool/Polypropylene 4 & 5m. Jute backed.
Classic Pandora Tufted. 80/15/5 Wool/Polypropylene/Meltbond. 4 & 5m. Jute backed.
Dalamere Berber Tufted. 80/20 British Wool/ Polypropylene. 4 & 5m. PP backed.
Fusion
Tufted. 80/20 British Wool/Nylon. 4 & 5m. Jute backed.
Royal Berber II
Loop Berber. 100% Wool. 4 & 5m. Action Bac.
Royal Portland
Tufted. 80/20 British Wool/ Polypropylene. 4 & 5m. Jute backed.
Saxony Supreme
100% Polypropylene Heatset. Action Bac. 4m.
100% Polypropylene (Stainfree). Action Bac. 4 & 5m.
Tapestry
Metropolitan
Tuscany
Tufted. 80/10/10 British Wool/Nylon/Polyester. 2-ply, tenth gauge. 4 & 5m. Jute backed.
Natural Charm Loop Berber. 100% Wool. Action Bac. 4m.
100% Polypropylene (Stainfree). Action Bac. 4m. Tufted. 80/20 British Wool/ Polypropylene. Tenth gauge. 4 & 5m. Jute backed.
Venice
Tufted. 100% Polypropylene. 4 & 5m. Action Bac.
For more range information, visit www.manxcarpets.co.uk
26
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
PENTHOUSE
Telephone 01706 341231 Facsmile 01706 860577 sales@penthousecarpets.co.uk www.penthousecarpets.co.uk
CARPETS
Buckley Carpet Mill Buckley Rd, Rochdale Lancashire OL12 9DU
working for the independent retailer New Pentwist 50
Extra Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
New Pentwist 40
Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Esprit
Extra Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Aurora 60
Super Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Aurora 50
Extra Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Vantage 60
Super Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Vantage 50
Extra Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Pinnacle
Extra Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Super Carlton
Extra Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Carlton
Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Maple
Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Vermont 60
Super Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Vermont 50
Extra Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Vermont 40
Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Stateside 50
Extra Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Stateside 40
Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
County Berber
Extra Heavy Domestic: Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
County Tweed
Extra Heavy Domestic: Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
REPRESENTED BY: Robin Leiper (Area Manager) SOUTH EAST M: 07801 357601 Chris Twinn (Area Manager) CAMBRIDGE, BEDS, E. ANGLIA M: 07711 353982 Andrew Westwell (Representative) NORTH WEST M: 07974 141919
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80% British Wool Weight: 50oz per sq. yd. 80% British Wool Weight: 40oz per sq. yd. 80% British Wool Weight: 75oz per sq. yd. 80% British Wool Weight: 60oz per sq. yd. 80% British Wool Weight: 50oz per sq. yd. 80% British Wool Weight: 60oz per sq. yd. 80% British Wool Weight: 50oz per sq. yd. 80% British Wool Weight: 42oz per sq. yd. 80% British Wool Weight: 42oz per sq. yd. 80% British Wool Weight: 36oz per sq. yd. 80% British Wool Weight: 30oz per sq. yd. 80% British Wool Weight: 60oz per sq. yd.
LOOKING FOR COLOUR?
80% British Wool Weight: 50oz per sq. yd.
36 stunning shades in New Pentwist
80% British Wool Weight: 40oz per sq. yd. 80% British Wool Weight: 50oz per sq. yd.
Wentworth 50 80% British Wool Weight: 40oz per sq. yd.
80% British Wool Weight: 50oz per sq. yd.
Extra Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Wentworth 40 80% British Wool Weight: 50oz per sq. yd.
80% British Wool Weight: 40oz per sq. yd.
Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Pinaster 80% British Wool Weight: 50oz per sq. yd.
80% British Wool Weight: 50oz per sq. yd.
Extra Heavy Domestic: Medium Contract Widths: 4.00m (13’1”) & 5.00m (16’4”)
Chris Davis (Representative) W. MIDS, HEREFORD, GLOS, AVON, WORC. & SHROPSHIRE M: 07753 983714
Mark Fletcher (Representative) N. LONDON, ESSEx, HERTFORDSHIRE M: 07801 538783
Darren Jackson DEVON, CORNWALL & SOMERSET M: 07825 171482
Andrew Davys (Representative) S. YORKSHIRE, STAFFS, DERBYSHIRE, NOTTS. & LINCS M: 07801 357622
Neil Moore (Representative) SCOTLAND M: 07718 762236
Nigel Woollard DORSET, HANTS, BERKS. & WILTSHIRE M: 07767 213236
Simon Beeby (Representative) LEIC’S, NORTHANTS, OxON, WARKS, BUCKS. & BERKS M: 07775 913380
David Bell (Representative) YORKSHIRE & N. EAST M: 07939 051608 Mike Williams SOUTH WALES M: 07919 047930
AGENT: Peter Steel NORTH WALES M: 07710 443589
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
“Our Winter Price guide has hit the streets! It’s all about solidarity, and hard work! You’ll be amazed by our new products, and thrilled by our regular features! And more importantly you will learn more about the enigma that is ‘Ralph the Rackhams Ram!’”
CUT & LOOP PILE
CORD & NEEDLEPUNCH
Revival Kreta Everglades
Gala Rackcord Scorpio Supacord
GRAPHICS / CONTRACT GELS Arena Sapphire Scala Senator Sentinel Statesman
NATURAL EFFECT Agadir Ancona Autumn Sunset Country Treasure 4&5M Challenger Berber Craftwork Berber 4&5M Delft 4&5M Harvester Hopscotch Ivory Coast London Life 4&5M Marrakesh Natures Writing Ohio Rustic Treasure San Salvador 4&5M Town & Country Tweed Woolweave 4&5M
SAXONY / SHAG PILE Big Softie Chamonix Cleopatra Eminence Half Century New Century Nobility Splendour Supreme Elegance Tennessee
TWISTS - STAINFREE Balmoral Chislehurst Clyde Easy Heathers Easy Twist Fairfield Supreme 4&5M Heathertwist / Heathertwist Supreme Mystery Twist Pembridge Twist Portman Rhapsody Stainfree Salt ‘n’ Pepa Stainsafe Touch 4&5M Startwist/Startwist Supreme (2010 colours) 4&5M Stanford Summer Skies
VINYL / SMOOTH FLOORING Arte Della Ceramica Blackjack Casino Royale Chequers Eclipse Medley Mojo Suregrip XL Thunderball
CARPET TILES Capital Plus Electron Magnesium Neutron Oxygen Positron Proton Quark Titanium
TWISTS - WOOL Eden Twist 30/40/50 4&5M Iconic Twist 40/50 4&5M Paramount 30/40 4&5M Super Sixty 4&5M 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
VELOUR / VELVET
CALL NOW TO RECEIVE A COPY OF THE LATEST PRICE GUIDE!
Designers Dream Le Touquet 4&5M Urban Life
WILTON The Arabica & Ceylon Wilton Collection 4&5M Parallel Lines Renaissance Ultimate Wilton Oakland
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...2011 will be the year of quality, with austerity still the keyword, and trading conditions still tough, so ‘value’ will be the name of the game! We are launching a comprehensive collection of high quality products in wool and wool mixtures, taking the quality of our products to new heights, whilst offering the very best in prices, and marketing support. Beautiful floorcoverings, beautiful samples, beautiful salespeople and beautiful publications! Bring it on!!!....Stop preSS
Area Sales Executives Ian Pullinger London N, EC & E postals, Essex & Middx (within M25) 07881-502506 Simon Brenner London SE & SW postals, Kent, Surrey & Sussex 07881-502507
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
Mark Euesden London W & NW postals, South Middx, Western Surrey, Berks & Bucks 07875-714269 James White Herts, Beds, Essex (west of M11) & North West Middx 07881-502508
Paul Henson Essex (Outside M25), Cambs & Suffolk 07837-295379 Antony Stapleton Sales Director 07881-502505/020-8498-2845
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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 Accessary Sales and IT Specialist (All Areas) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Luke Crooks luke@solentwholesale.co.uk, mobile 07966 664379 VICTORIA Baronet Berber Stripe Castillion Celtic Heathers Crown Twist Duchess Elite EasiCare (Twist, Tweed + Saxony) Gaelic Heathers Imperial Velvet Kelso Natural Accents Natural Companions (Sisal, Chenille, Ridge) Regal Twist Rustic Jewels Tudor Twist Coll Tudor Manor LANO Bolero Campus X-treme Chiselhurst Havana Heathertwist Coll Pembridge Twist - new colours Rustic Berber Rustic Sensations Scala Scala Tonals Sentinel Startwist Coll Twilight Coll Wilton Naturals Xtra Twist BALTA Berga Colorado Springs Desert Twist Diva Fiesta Fusion Happy Days High Flyers Gala Cord-all options in stock Shepherd Twist Stainsafe Comfort Stainsafe Favourite Stainsafe Olympic Super Wiltax Techno Twisty LUSOTUFO Celtic Horizon Mandaly Tangier Titan Diagonal Unique
CORMAR Apollo Berwick 40/50 Buchanan Home Counties 42/50 Malabar Oaklands 32 Oaklands 42 Oaklands 50 Primo Plus West Country BROCKWAY Amore Cavendish Craftsman Elite Cresta 40/Cresta 50 Montrose Orion/Orion Major DOMO Absolute Luxury Alpina Auvergne Merino Metropolitan Mountain Peaks Legacy Ocean Breeze Planet Playground Portofino Scorpio Traditionals Weavers Twist ITC Belgravia Check Concerto Consul Heritage Collection Jaguar - new colours Kreta Palace Stainblock Berber Stainblock Heathers Stainblock Tweed
QUICKSTEP Solent Wholesale - now a Quickstep stockist. We now have in stock the Quickstep 700 range and can order all other ranges with a very short lead time.
TAPIBEL Cachet Melody Nevada Reeds Sysoltex Homested/Aran/Crofter Toscana BEAULIEU INTERNATIONAL Adventure Twist Arte Del Ceramic Athena Celtic Stone Vinyl Comfort Grip Vinyl Dublin Durham Twist Fashion/Gallery Flair Vinyl Grass Collection Heavy Tread I-Twist Isis/Mentu Mars Natural Life Pronto Selections Sherwood Oak Vinyl Studio Vinyl Sonata Vinyl Sweet Homes Texalino Sup Vinyl Urban Vinyl laminates Essentials (previously Casa) Cottage - new range BAJONG Home Twist Supreme Montana Montana Twist Sahara IVC Expressions Fantasy Fusion Master Grip Planet Presto Victoria MISCELLANEOUS CAVALIER Country Collection Hamlet Parish and Village LEIGH SPINNERS Atlas Velour THOMAS WITTER Innovations C&H - Now in Stock Homestyle LVT - planks and tiles PARAGON Toccarre Carpet Tiles MOHAWK CARPETS Century Half Century
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 Jan/Feb 2011.
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THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
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 Abbey Twist 30/40 Aston Twist Bernwood Twist Bernwood Supreme Bernwood Forest Bernwood Heather Bernwood Heather Supreme Blenheim Twist 40 Blenheim Twist 50 Cherwell Cord Chislehurst Fairfield Supreme Gladiator Supreme Harrier Felt Harrier Gel Heathdale Magnum Gel Medicare Multicare Classic New Valley Twist Orinoco Opus Twist Ravensbury Twist 32/40/50 Ruskin Twist Scala Supersava Elite BALTA STOCK CARPETS New Shepherd Twist
PRICE LIST DATE FEBRUARY 2011 LANO STOCK CARPETS Bolero Chislehurst Fairfield Supreme Havanna Heather Twist Heather Twist Supreme Pembridge Twist Rustic Berber Sapphire Scala Startwist Startwist Supreme CORMAR STOCK CARPETS Apollo Berwick 40/50 Malabar Textures Natural Berber Twist New Oaklands 32/42/50 Primo Plus Primo Tweeds Primo Ultra Town & Country BEAULIEU INTERNATIONAL Bellini Dublin Elite Mercator EDEL TELENZO Fleur Hercules Orinoco Puma
CARPET STOCK TILES Ascot Beckenham Cheltenham Clipper Croydon Croydon Stripe Keston Latour Saturn Selsdon 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 Tredaire Elite Treadmore
STS Area Managers Regional Manager Rachel Sherwood 07801 762724 Sales Merchandiser Dave Lowman 07500 847758 North/East London, Berkshire, Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middlesex, Northants, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire
Steve Osman 07919 128401 Essex, Cambs, Suffolk, Norfolk
Paul Jones 07801 762719 Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Bristol & Birmingham
Paul Jeffery 07717 218024 South/East London, Kent, E Sussex
Sales Area Managers Dana Baldock 07801 762725 South/East London, Kent, E Sussex, Part Essex
Mirka Mihulcova 07500 847566 South/West London, W Sussex, Berks, Hants, Surrey
Vicky Langley 07962 646847 Surrey, W Sussex, Hants, Berks, South/West London
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
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Weston Hammer UK 16/17 Byford Court Hadleigh IP7 6RD Tel: +44 (0)845 644 9090 Fax:+44 (0)845 644 9191 info@westonhammer.com www.weston-carpets.co.uk
We are pleased to announce the launch of two new prestige ranges along with a revamp of our highly successful STONE FIBRE COLLECTION. NEW NATURAL LINES: 100% Wool with a luxurious deep pile in fashion shades. 4m & 5m wide. NEW COLOURS JACS: The much loved designer range in 100% Wool with new shades and now in 5m wide. STONE FIBRE COLLECTION IN 5m WIDE : This very successful designer flatweave collection is being updated and is available in 4m and 5m. Tunis A heavy domestic berber loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths. Queen Tweed A fine heavy domestic berber loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths. Denver A stylish heavy domestic tonal loop pile in 100% Wool, available in 4m and 5m widths. Oklahoma A heavy domestic berber loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths. Supreme Stripe A heavy domestic tonal stripe in 100% Wool loop pile.
Supreme Boucle Our best selling level loop 100% Wool product available in 12 up to the minute colours in both 4m and 5m widths. Imperial Boucle A heavy domestic loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths. Las Vegas A chunky luxurious loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths.
Royal Velour A luxurious velour in 80% Wool/20% Nylon in 5m wide.
Sisal Boucle and Sisal Berber Natural fibre textured loop pile ranges in two styles.
The Stone Fibre Collection Our unique flat woven quality in many fashion styles and colours. Orlando A chunky loop quality with a thick latex backing for a luxurious feel.
This prestigious installation at the entrance to the Chelsea Harbour Design Centre in London shows two colours from our Stone Fibre Collection . If you would like to offer your customers the very latest and best in carpet design at a very affordable price please call our Sales Team.
OUR UK SALES TEAM Mr Ron Fewery Tel: 07976 244892 London, Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire. Mr Steve Acton Tel: 07957 836207 Kent, Sussex, Hampshire, Surrey, Dorset. Mrs Jac Hayman Tel: 07815 785801 Contract Sales East Anglia. Mr Gary Foster Tel: 07515 283872 East Anglia, Northamptonshire.
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Mr Steve Green Tel: 07590 369522 North Wales, Cumbria, Manchester, Liverpool. Mr Derek Boyd Tel: 07940 320708 Scotland. Mr Lee Palmer Tel: 07774 101640 Channel Islands. Mr Jonathan Gorman Tel: 07815 121660 Northern Ireland.
Mr Mark Garbett Tel: 07840 664757 Bristol & the West Country. Mr Steve Fletcher Tel: 07831 818989 Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Tyneside. Mr Keith Stevens Tel: 07710 160166 Midlands & South Wales.
Please visit our website at www.weston-carpets.co.uk for online cutting requests and more information on our products, or telephone 0845 644 9090 (local rate) to speak to one of our telephone sales team
THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
7 February 2011
FlooringNews ‘DISNEYLAND’ DOMOTEX 2011
12 pages of essential news and comment on the world’s top flooring show starts on page 45 with our detailed analysis of trends and markets.
Softly, softly Leoline has given one of its most enduring collections a fresh new name for 2011 with the aim of further enhancing its appeal among homeowners. Once known as Mastergrip in light of its excellent levels of slip-resistance, Softstep still continues to perform in areas prone to slips and trips but is now bestowed with a name more in keeping with its high levels of underfoot comfort: “Rated R10 slip resistant, Softstep is the perfect floor for use in bathrooms and kitchens but we felt its old name was a little utilitarian sounding to really appeal to the consumer, perhaps having more akin with a commercially focused product,” explains Caroline Wille, product manager for Leoline. “With this change of name we are reflecting the more appealing side of this particular cushioned vinyl – its excellent level of underfoot comfort and thermal performance – reinvigorating the range without disrupting its hugely popular collection of designs.” Softstep will still remain as part of the Family collection, retaining its excellent value and price and continuing to offer homes a splash of colour as well as stone and wood designs. With a Natural Look & Feel embossed surface and a seven-year domestic warranty, the collection is sure to become a favourite of homeowners and retailers alike. T 0800 032 3970
www.ivcgroup.com
Carefree roll out Regency’s range of Carefree Carpets has already enjoyed one the most successful range launches in the industry – now it’s time to take to the road to promote the brand to consumers. Carefree distributors, Furlong Flooring have invested in 20 new delivery vehicles, to join its existing fleet, all proudly adorned with the Carefree livery. In addition to rolling out the orders, the vehicles are also supporting an extensive point-of-sale campaign including the popular video lecterns that have been such a successful part of Carefree. “We have had an overwhelming response to the Carefree launch and we have invested heavily in all aspects of the business to ensure the product, service and supply chain is right to give our retailers what they need to make it work,” says Neil Valentine. “The investment in the fleet demonstrates our commitment to serving our retailers and the strong branding of the vehicles gives us a mobile advertisement in every area across the country which we believe will help retailers make that all important sale,” he said. The Carefree collection is a 100% bleach cleanable carpet with advanced wipe-clean technology. Currently there are 12 ranges across all the price points with the Carefree branding but the company is not known for standing still and is busy responding to the positive market response by developing further products for the range. T 01772 316155
33 February 2011
www.regencycarefree.co.uk
FlooringNews
The British Wool column British Wool attend leading American flooring show British Wool took the show on the road again in January with the team attending the leading North American flooring event at Las Vegas. Surfaces 2011 attracts around 40,000 visitors over its three days, showing the incredible size of the flooring market in the USA.
British Wool at Surfaces in the USA
“Wool is a high-end fibre over in the USA,” Tim Booth, product development manager of the BWMB said. “They favour area rugs – room size rugs – over fitted carpet and the styles and colours vary significantly from one coast to the other.” Such is wool’s image in the USA that it is sold through interior designers as well as higher end retail stores. As a result, product sells for a higher price and there is a marked difference in the retail price in a like-for-like range from the UK selling in the USA. Booth explained, “It will achieve a higher retail price because the American wool consumer sees it as a luxury product that is worth paying for.” However, he points out that wool remains a niche market there. “The mass market for carpet is in man-made fibres – they do not know or understand wool as much as the UK consumer and so education is a very important part of our promotion at this event.”
Cormar introduce West Country – a British Wool classic Cormar Carpets is showcasing a growing collection of quality British Wool ranges and their latest ‘West Country’ – a natural flecked berber twist – is another fine example. Appealing to the modern consumer that wants something with a crisp, clean cut, West Country is clearly destined to be a success in retail stores. Cormar is offering a multi-pile weight with both 50oz and 60oz in this range, which is made from 80% British Wool, 15% polypropylene and 5% The Art of British Wool – showcases the importance of beautiful carpet and good tufted polyester. quality British Wool The pile has been given a sharper and more luxurious appearance as Cormar have triple sheared it in production resulting in a very current look. The palette of fifteen natural heather shades includes the core beiges and neutrals but also ventures in to the fashion shades of the moment with greys, pinks and purples – showing clear evidence that colour is winning small victories in carpet showrooms and with consumers. “The first choice of flooring for many customers is still a good quality wool carpet and with interest in wool growing consistently since the launch of the Campaign for Wool, there has never been a better time to promote a new British Wool range from a british made manufacturer,” David Cormack of Cormar Carpet said. West Country is branded under the British Wool Shepherd’s Crook mark, retailing at circa £26 per sq metre for the 50oz quality and £32 per sq metre for the 60oz quality and is available in both 4m and 5m widths.
The Art of British Wool The BWMB have focused on the unique story for British Wool in their latest brochure for Surfaces but this will also be released in the UK in February. “We wanted to draw our wonderful story together in one brochure, so that we could explain a little of the history, geography, science of the fibre. But we also wanted to get back to promoting the really important part – the design and art of British Wool carpets.” “We have the natural story, the sustainable advantage, the Britishness but it is the look of the product, the colour, the quality, the texture that matters to many consumers and so this brochure brings all those elements together,” Bridgette Kelly, public relations manager at the BWMB said. Cormar’s West Country in British Wool
34 February 2011
FlooringNews
36 February 2011
FlooringNews
Ryaloop from Ryalux uses four contemporary natural colourways to create three stunning loop designs – a plain, a modern pinstripe and a fashionable broadstripe. All constructed in luxurious 3 ply yarn using the finest New Zealand Wools and available in 1, 4 and 5 metre widths for ease of fitting. For more information, please go to www.ryalux.com
News
Dance the Bolero The stunning Bolero range from Lano Carpets has been given a new lease of life with the introduction of eight striking new shades. Created to complement the latest on-trend colours in the home, the new shades reaffirm Bolero as a carpet suitable for homes looking for stylish on-trend carpets that are easy to care for and that will withstand the demands of busy family life. Part of the Easy Care collection from Lano Carpets, Bolero is backed by an impressive 10year stain resistant warranty and can be cleaned with bleachbased cleaning products thanks to its 100% polypropylene construction. “Sometimes a simple approach is best and Bolero is a favourite among homeowners looking for a plain carpet that brings lasting beauty to their home,” comments Birger Karlsson, UK Sales Manager. “With Bolero retailers can provide consumers with easy to care for carpet in a range of statement making colours from a very mixed palette and with a very tempting price that helps the range to deliver extraordinary value.” The felt-backed Bolero features a single ply yarn in 14 architectural shades, designed to bring homes a unique approach to residential carpet and exceeding the performance of top-level polypropylene loop pile products from other manufacturers without the price tag. T 00800 5266 5266
www.lano.com
Home in on heritage With heritage one of the biggest words in fashion and interior design at the moment, Artwood’s Design Paint collection is just the ticket for wood flooring retailers and contractors looking to capitalise on this trend. With the Design Paint collection, Artwood offers hand-finished wood flooring in any Farrow&Ball® floor paint finish, including beautiful tones such as Mouse’s Back®, Eating Room Red® and Tanner’s Brown®. “English heritage is not merely a passing fashion,” explains Louay Azoo, co-founder. “It is very much a style that has its roots firmly embedded in the nation’s psyche and we expect it to stay around for a long time, much like shabby chic. We have seen the explosion in popularity of long standing British brands, such as Sanderson®, Barbour® and of course Farrow&Ball over the last five or so years, but by their nature and the solace they give us, even in the hard times we face, they are likely to stay around for a few years yet.” Each Farrow&Ball colour within the Design Paint collection is applied by hand and sealed to provide a durable and long lasting painted finish presented on high quality engineered oak flooring. Retailers can benefit from a full range of sampling, including stunning leather presentation boxes and wall displays. With the Design Oil, Design Lacquer and Design Paint collections available, retailers and contractors can tailor sampling to their audience. T 0845 519 2726
www.artwood-floors.com
Safety in numbers? See our buying group feature on page 8.
38 February 2011
FlooringNews
from The Stocklists
February 2011 39
News
Ultimate oak
Axminster boosts recognition
Touch of Class Ultimate Oak is an impressive collection of wood designs to bring homes a full spectrum of oak finishes with the performance, ease and underfoot comfort of cushion vinyl.
Axminster Carpets has revealed that its Autumn 2010 consumer advertising campaign has proved a major success, with enquiries alone demonstrating that the objectives of the initiative have been well and truly met. Through full page advertisements running across a three-month period in 10 of the top home interest titles including ‘House Beautiful’, ‘Country Living’, ‘BBC Homes and Antiques’ and ‘LivingETC’, Axminster Carpets targeted around eight million consumers. The key driver behind the campaign was to alter consumer attitude towards Axminster Carpets, dispelling the myth that it is purely a manufacturer of traditional bold patterned carpets and instead a manufacturer of quality carpets in a broad spectrum of traditional pattern, contemporary pattern, textured or plain styles.
Capturing oak tones ranging from deep off-blacks through to chocolate browns, cool greys and limed washes, Touch of Class Ultimate Oak brings one of the largest arrays of oak shades available in a cushion vinyl collection. “This collection oozes appeal in every grain and pore,” enthuses Caroline Wille, product manager for Avenue. “It really is a collection focused on bringing the discerning homeowner something a little special. Its a floor with that little extra touch and so an unyielding appeal.” Available in two, three and four-metre widths to suit everywhere from hallway to bathroom, kitchen and living room, Touch of Class Ultimate Oak features all the performance benefits one would expect from an Avenue floor. R10 slip resistant with a dirt repellent PU lacquer, Natural Look & Feel embossed surface and the added impact resistance of Power Back, Touch of Class Ultimate Oak has the bark to match its stunning good looks. “We think you’d be hard pushed to find such an attractive and diverse range of wood decors in any other cushioned vinyl collection,” continues Caroline Wille. “This collection really confirms Avenue as a leader in cushion vinyl that stretches the boundaries of possibilities producing floors that celebrate style and deliver the very best in performance.” T 0800 032 3970
“The campaign has been a phenomenal success,” comments Richard Lawrence, Group Head of Marketing. “Enquiries and sample requests have revealed an upsurge in consumers desire to hear about Axminster’s plain and contemporary patterned styles and particularly those featured in the advertisements. The series has also boosted the profile of Axminster Carpets, showing it to be a proactive trend leading company that remains one of Britain’s most respected carpet manufacturers.” Such has been the success of the campaign that Axminster Carpets will be investing in further levels of exposure within the consumer media in 2011. T 01297 630650
www.axminstercarpets.co.uk
www.ivcgroup.com
Growth in ‘recession-resistant’ firms As the UK Floor Coverings industry emerged from the depths of recession in 2010 a fragmented industry appeared from the chaos. According to new research by leading industry analysts Plimsoll, the market is polarised between those getting it right and those struggling to recover. David Pattison, senior analyst and author of the 2011 Plimsoll Analysis explains, “Now that the storm is lifting we have been able to assess the damage left behind. 241 companies are in parlous state and starting the New Year clinging on for dear life. We have rated them as Danger accordingly. Falling demand was the final nail in the coffin for many. The mistake they made though was to not make those painful cuts early enough to protect their business”. However, the green shoots are now well entrenched with the number of companies rated as Strong rising to 467. Pattison explains, “We rated these companies as Strong in our latest report and I have to congratulate them. In fact, many of them retained a Strong rating throughout the recession. They have managed to be commercially successful without jeopardising their financial stability. While others fail around them, they are in pole position to capitalise in 2011”. T 01642 6264000
40 February 2011
www.plimsoll.co.uk
FlooringNews
Flower on Flooring News Behaviour of pattern Brintons’ Tatton Cameo 8616
This month, we look at the resurgence of patterned carpet, which seems to be attracting growing interest with consumers. This was confirmed by Steve Upperton, Axminster Carpets sales director, who states that the renaissance of patterned carpet has seen consumers take a more intelligent approach, moving away from highly popularised multi-coloured stripes or bold floral designs into more subtle interpretations. “In fact our recent consumer advertising campaign cemented this, as we exhibited our new generation of patterned carpets that offer a more refined approach to pattern. The response we had to designs such as Mondrian and Picasso from the Princetown collection was extraordinary, proving that homeowners are looking towards patterned carpets that add interest to the floor, but that don’t overpower the space.
Mondrian from the Princetown collection by Axminster Carpets
playing safe with classic plains, says Brintons, and take a stand for being special, unique and expressive. Birger Karlsson, Lano Carpets UK and Ireland sales manager, said: “Traditionally, patterned carpet has been the territory of expensive Axminster creations, often in 100% wool, but over the last two years, as pattern became a more central trend in the home, we responded with a range of carpets that deliver both pattern and value. Our Wilton collection patterned carpets bring beautiful floral and geometric patterns with perfectly balanced natural colour palettes to appeal to a wide audience.' Lano’s Penhurst Wilton
“Of course, our patterned carpets are beautifully made from 100% pure new wool on Axminster looms for unyielding quality, pinpoint pattern reproduction and a durability that will see many, many years of use in even the busiest of family homes.' Using a patterned carpet in spaces like the stairs and hallway can, contrary to popular belief, actually make the space seem larger because the eye percieves “more content'” says Brintons. The company states its design teams have predicted trends for 2011 that will play a leading role in shaping home interiors during the course of the next 12 months. A spontaneous celebration of cultures and designs will be influenced by a broad range of themes from urban graffiti and tribal ethnic motifs to large scale patterns and florals enabling the consumer to individual freedom and personalisation. It is time to move away from
42 February 2011
News
by Dennis Flower
Ulster Natural Choice Garland Slate
Edel Telenzo’s Bakerloo
The company uses 100% polypropylene for ease of maintenance and cost benefits, supported by a 10-year stain resistance warranty. 'Patterned carpet is very much in vogue and we wanted to make sure that retailers could answer this demand with a carpet that keeps value firmly in-mind. After all, not everyone has pockets deep enough to afford pure wool axminsters, yet this doesn’t mean they should miss out,' Karlsson concluded. Jeremy Wilson, Ulster Carpets retail sales director, says the last 10 years has seen a widespread reinvention of patterned Axminster. While the pre 1990 market was very much traditional patterned carpet, open ground styles emerged and became popular in the 1990s. “In the noughties a wide variety of styles emerged,” he states. “Traditional designs with modern colouring (like Anatolia, Ariana and Kazan) using heather/berber yarns were successful as were more contemporary tonal designs (Organza/Hopsack, and Orissa).” Over the last few years tonal designs have continued to be popular (Natural Choice Axminster), but more in earthy and natural tones, Wilson continues. “More contemporary floral and damask styles have also done well as have modern plaid and tartan styles. Environmental awareness of consumers is also rising and this is becoming a factor when designing new ranges. There are now a very wide variety of styles and colourings on offer and no one style predominates, but there is a wide variety for consumers to choose from and all continue to hold their own.” Alternative Flooring states that its award-winning Rock 'n' Roll collection reflects the popularity of patterned carpet. It has introduced five new colours for its rhythmic range of colourful wool stripes, including Purple Rain, Tainted Love and London Calling, designed to inject drama into any interior. The company further states its innovative Contour collection also shows how creative the best natural fibre flooring can be, with dramatic patterns in response to the trend to put texture and pattern back on to the floor. It advises customers not to be ordinary when it comes to flooring, but to be creative and inspired.
from The Stocklists
Lesley Inman, operations manager at Edel Telenzo Carpets UK, says: “Edel Telenzo launched striped carpets around five years ago with the Tube Collection – and it’s been very successful for us. Obviously we had a reputation previously just for plains and textured carpets so it was something of a departure for us – but we’re very good at spotting trends! Stripes have been favourites with the interior design fashionistas for a while now. Unlike floral patterns on the floor they add interest without dominating decorating schemes. They are great for adding floor level interest as well as concealing wear and tear! “We now have five different striped options – from the two-colour wide, medium and narrow options (Xpress, Jubilee and Mainline) to the multi-stripes, Piccadilly and Bakerloo, which really have been massively popular. continued overleaf...
Country House Collection Kazan in Tench Green with runner by Ulster Carpets
February 2011 43
Flower on Flooring News
A good reception for Heckmondwike’s Scord
“The fact that we have a co-ordinating plain carpet in the collection, too – Centrepoint – makes this a really versatile option to offer customers. People often opt for a striped carpet in the high traffic areas of halls, stairs and landings, and for the plain in bedrooms or living rooms. But the two-tone stripes really make a striking impact in destination rooms, too – whether you choose high contrast colour options or more tonal ones. “Being a hard wearing 100% fine level loop carpet with Scotchgarding means these carpets are tough enough for high traffic use – even in contract applications so it’s no wonder they’ve been such a success. We don’t see any signs of that popularity tailing off as yet, either.” Brockway Carpets says its latest striped carpets are proving a hit with customers. 'Stripes provide a stylish way to add colour and interest to a home décor scheme without being too "busy" and distracting from the overall theme,' says Steve Glover, Brockway commercial manager. 'Our recently introduced Designer Collection includes four new ranges of striped carpet as well as the popular Vogue range of co-ordinated stripes and plains. The new designs include city tailoring-inspired pinstripes and twills and bold, dynamic stripes and colourways designed to make a real impact in the home. “Our retailers report that the new stripes are proving particularly popular as runners and on stairs and hallways as a dramatic welcoming statement, as they combine both timeless elegance with contemporary appeal.” Abby Chandler, Heckmondwike FB’s marketing manager, comments: “Pattern has always been popular in flooring – for both aesthetic and practical reasons.
For more information about featured products: Axminster Carpets • www.axminstercarpets.co.uk • 01297 630650 Brintons • www.brintons.net • 0800 505055 Edel Telenzo • www.edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk • 01422 374417 Heckmondwike • www.heckmondwike-fb.co.uk • 01924 410544 Lano • www.lano.com • +32 (0)56 65 40 00 Ulster Carpets • www.ulstercarpets.com • 02838 334433 Whitestone Weavers • www.whitestone.co.uk • 01429 892555
44 February 2011
“In 2002 we recognised the need to offer a patterned surface to our extensive range of carpets and carpet tiles and launched the Montage range which gives a distinctive and random pattern within its rib on rib design, which is available in 22 colours. In 2008 we innovated and adapted to the changing trends and offered a more linear design pattern in the form of our Momentum range, available in 12 colour ways – both ideal for creating eye-catching flooring which is perfect for contract flooring or education venues. “Of course, people are looking for a lot more from a flooring option than a pretty pattern, so we needed to ensure this range, like the rest, can perform to a high standard. Montage and Momentum, like the rest of Heckmondwike FB’s products, boast antistatic and anti-slip properties, thermal properties to conserve heat and the unique two layer construction boosts the range's acoustic properties to reduce noise pollution. “For more striking designs and patterns to be created using flooring as a design feature, we’ve found more customers are specifying the Supacord range which can be cut to any shape and design to create any design to really make a design statement from your flooring. “What’s interesting at the moment is the resurgence of ‘heritage’ as a trend. Tweed, heavy weaves and ‘vintage’ colours are set to be big for 2011 as pantone references ‘Vintage Wine’ as one of the colours for 2011 and drapers are highlighting ‘heritage’ patterns and three dimensional as pattern trends – we’ve already seen an up lift in sales of Citrine and Bronzite – which are of a vintage colour palette,” she said. “Customers are searching for a more customised look in their homes to match their own sense of interior style”, says Whitestone Weavers sales director, Phil Hartley. This consumer insight has recently led the company to launch its Deco Stripe range and its Hugh Mackay Design collection – both of which come under the HM Brand (Hugh Mackay). Said Phil: “People are becoming more confident and wishing to introduce more design flooring around the house as we have seen in the past. Carpet producers need to be able to support retailers by creating designs that fulfil this growing need.” The Deco stripe range is produced from 100% British 3-ply wool and offers a palette of modern colours and neutrals, each designed to work as either a stand alone floor covering or together to create a bespoke mix of complementary patterns, plains and tones. The Designer collection is made from a mixture of top quality British wool blends (some 100% wool and some 80% wool 20% nylon) and offers 30 inter-complimentary patterns across four design styles in tonal /natural shades. Whitestone Weaver is already preparing to launch further interesting ranges throughout 2011. Whitestone Weavers’ new Designer Collection - Strata in Driftwood
DOMOTEX 2011 The World of Flooring
Cleaner colours, cosy textures and constant innovation to keep the market moving ...but we all know prices are going up and up
There may be a shortage of wool and cheap PP – but no lack of ideas! The excellent FloorForum at Domotex never disappoints and shows that designers can drive consumer demand.
12 pages of news and features from the world’s leading flooring show by David Spragg
Disneyland Domotex is time-out for tense flooring industry As you walk down the aisles of Domotex, you absorb the total confidence of being part of a European flooring industry that is so very wealthy, healthy and wise. Except, of course, it isn’t – is it?
strong and designers continue to innovate but shaggies, while undoubtedly having a strong, long term hold on the market, have lost a little momentum.
If you have never been to Domotex you really should go at least once. It is superb, exciting and, above all, inspiring. The density and quality of exhibitors stands – dozens of which cost well in excess of £1m to build for this four-day festival – is like a flooring Disneyland. It really is that good and professional – and surreal.
Many exhibitors reported more interest in design, pattern and colour – see our review pages for details – which gives them more opportunity to differentiate their offer compared to the infinite subtly of re-colouring plains and re-texturing shaggies.
This year, if anything, it was even better and bigger with a rise in exhibitor stands to 1,350 which 40,000 people from all over the world came to see. At the close of the show, Domotex organiser Stephen Ph. Kühne said: “The message is clear. Business is back up again.”
Colour does seem to be making a comeback against the beige – no, really! “People are looking for brighter, cleaner colours. It is about spontaneity, with less inhibition,” says designer Joanna Ramsden of Wools of New Zealand who is probably the industry’s most authoritative spokesperson on the subject.
German industry association boss Martin Auerbach added: “Domotex has provided impressive evidence of the drive and innovative spirit that has enabled the industry to overcome its crisis. The signs are clearly pointing to renewed success in 2011.”
Steve Elliott at Associated Weavers sees more crossover from the continent in designs and stronger colours which would once have been discounted for the UK market. “It seems as if consumers are finally getting a little bored with the uniformity of choice that tends to be on offer.”
To be fair to Herr Auerbach, most European flooring manufacturers agree that Germany is bouncing back strongly. Unfortunately that’s the end of their good news. Domotex is the key opportunity to take a
The colour forecasters at Wools of New Zealand are looking towards strong mauves, turquoise and purples in the trend-setting side of the business. Elsewhere across Domotex, manufacturers were busy promoting strong, ‘solid’ colours for the UK and a strange comment that kept coming back was an attraction towards blue – a colour that is continued overleaf...
People are looking for brighter, cleaner colours. It is about spontaneity, with less inhibition. sounding of the on-the-ground outlook for the trade and we report that sentiment in our Market Intelligence section on page 49. So whether or not there is a feel of emperor’s new clothes about the sheer extravagance and expense of this world flooring mecca, there is no doubt the industry can put on a good show. And necessity is the mother of invention with the major players agreed that yarn innovation, product development and new customer service innovations were key to staying in front of customers to seize a greater share of a tighter market.
Read our DOMOTEX ECONOMIC REPORT on page 49 for a report on which way the wind is blowing for prices, costs and consumer confidence in 2011
New multi-level textures, tip shears, patchwork and multi-coloured yarns were making a strong difference without adding to costs. Stripes remain from The Stocklists
February 2011 45
DOMOTEX 2011 Disneyland Domotex continued
already strong in the interiors market. Before you discount the blues idea, one trend that has been demonstrated for real elsewhere in the world is the impact of the Olympics on consumer colour choice, especially by the host nation. So in the run up to 2012 the nation will be bathed in red, white and blue and consumers will be increasingly inclined towards this palette. “It may not be the primary colours of the flag,” says Joanne, “but I would definitely expect the darker reds and dark blues to gain ground during this period.” But back in the “For a large part of the market, there is this move mainstream that is maybe less towards trend and more towards real world, it’s cosiness – you could call it a cocooning effect” still all about beige with designers predicting a more ‘sophisticated’ look with chic hints of grey and lilac. “In both colours and textures, freezing winters, high energy and the equally icy blast of economic austerity has a direct influence, says Joanna Ramsden, and points to more comfortable, ‘homey’ designs – the best example of which is probably the knitwear and arran effect textures seen increasingly in carpets that create a warm, reliable ambiance. adore luxury flooring launched to great acclaim at Harrogate in 2009 their unique, glueless click technology which is superbly fitter friendly as well as highly alluring to consumers. However licensing issues have interrupted product supply in the intervening period but now those are resolved, adore’s European CEO is going all out to deliver on the exciting potential of this luxury vinyl product and expects to roll out in March through the Headlam distribution network. “We have been able to take a longer look at the market and ensure that the offer is absolutely right,” he says and cites the development of unique 4mm and 6mm thick ‘planks’ in addition to the original 5mm option. “We believe there is a quality issue in this market and you have to have a reliable, attractive and truly excellent product.” His confidence is underwritten by a £10m investment in three new production plants. T 01785 711031
www.adorefloors.com
“We believe there is a quality issue in this market and you have to have a reliable, attractive and truly excellent product.”
“For a large part of the market, there is this move that is maybe less towards trend and more towards cosiness – you could call it a cocooning effect,” she says. In wool, ultra natural colours and undyed yarns – using breed colours to create tonal differences and indeed patterns is a growing trend which ties in successfully to all the motivators of comfort, cosiness, sustainability. And quality continues to sell well with UK players like Brockway, Edel Telenzo, Westex Contemporary Life and newcomer Flock attracting excellent interest for their up-market wool ranges. However, the high and unpredictable price of wool is on everybody’s mind (see our Market Intelligence section) and some of the more wool-like synthetics are seen to be gaining ground – not that raw material prices there are especially encouraging either. And finally… if you’ve run out of ways to impress your customers you can always take a roll of the 3D carpet on show, complete with glasses, at Domotex – there you are, I said it was like Disney!
Anta had a showcase site at Domotex, next to the event’s FloorForum designer area and so were attracting a lot of attention with their unambiguously Scottish rugs in fine plaids and tartan as well as thoughtful, modern designs. Anta, based in Ross-shire, is an interior design company of exceptional quality which has been in family ownership for 25 years. The company has a range of apparel, furniture and home textiles in addition to its rugs range. The carpets are woven in Scotland made from wool sourced from the Isle of Harris in the Western Isles. T 0131 2259096
46 February 2011
www.anta.co.uk
FlooringNews
DOMOTEX 2011 The World of Flooring Associated Weavers focuses on what matters more than ever - creativity, innovation and service “We are a pure carpet company,” says Steve Elliott of Associated Weavers. “That is our total focus. Everything we do is manufactured by us and we don’t make for anyone else.” A point well made in an industry where retailers (let alone consumers!) often struggle to understand the labyrinthine way in which some samey carpets are moved around the system. What AW’s approach means in practice is that they can be relied upon for a distinctive approach as they constantly develop and launch products to explore trend changes and new niches in consumer demand. “Innovation and service are the only ways you can go forward and that’s especially important in this market,” says Steve. “And yes, you can innovate in polypropylene!” he says, pointing to the launch of New Mood which received a very strong reaction at Domotex. Pictured is UK MD Steve Elliott and UK sales manager Jonathan Davies.
New Mood is different because it uses three coloured yarns in each colourway to create a distinctive look. Another innovation is Carnival, a 65/35 mix between long piled polypropylene and thin polyester yarn strands to give a special look and feel – Carnival was launched successfully last year in rolls and is now newly available in cut-lengths. Both these carpets share the investment in a new machine for the different gauge required, which demonstrates AW’s commitment to development. The company has been busy playing to its strengths too with eight new colours in some of its top-selling ranges - Harvest Heathers, Tuftex Twist and Scottsdale Twist – including some more modern stony beiges (moving a little away from the honey-coloured options). And it’s not all about products. A major new initiative at AW is to increase its retail sales team by 50% – from 8 to 12 – this makes territories smaller and more easily managed. “We want our sales team to spend more time with customers,” says Steve. “After all we have a lot to say! There’s a lot of product knowledge to impart and we can take more time discussing store environment and training. It’s more intelligent marketing.” www.associatedweavers.net
Who says you can’t save the planet sitting down! AW describes itself as ‘the eco creative carpet company’ and lives up to its promise with close attention to environmental issues. There were two striking examples at Domotex. A shining, but somewhat unreachable, star of the show was Bamboo – a totally beautiful and sumptuous luxury white shaggy (pictured) which uses an advanced extrusion process to create the finest carpet – at a price (about £120 m2 retail in the UK). At the opposite end of the environment scale was the launch of AW’s major new Awareness Award scheme – created to turn old carpet that’s worth nothing… into something. The award ceremony created major impact on the AW stand with a large audience of press and visitors to see the results of a competition which was open to design, fashion and textile students to create desirable new products from carpet waste. Chaired by leading European designer Stefan Schöning, a judging panel looked at ideas including textile lamps, room loungers, an acoustic wall and designer bags but the winner was from a furniture design team who created ‘Plof ’ (see picture, right) – a cool sit-on couch with a transparent covering that is aesthetically and environmentally appealing. AW’s group MD Erik Deporte (pictured above right) commented: “I look forward to a long and fruitful relationship with Europe’s young designers to help make our industry more sustainable and more creative than ever.” www.awarenessaward2011.be
from The Stocklists
February 2011 47
DOMOTEX 2011 Ball & Young continue to play to their strengths as market leader as many installers ‘play it safe’ – selecting reliable, quality products rather than risk an increasingly uneven range of qualities offered at a discount. “We do what we do very well and that continues to support the high degree of loyalty to our products, including, of course, Cloud 9 PU underlay,” says sales director Ann Shaw. An increasingly important market is the build up to the 2012 Olympics which promises a boost in installations just when general public sector demand is weakening. Ball & Young has an unambiguous offer in a new specialist flat foam rubber underlay range ‘Olympic’ which is manufactured in the UK in 6.5mm, 5mm and 3mm and is increasingly popular for underfloor heating installations. T 01536 200502
www.underlay.com
company reviews continued overleaf...
Balta just gets bigger and better and came to Domotex also with its newly acquired Domo brand and a host of new innovations and products. “In this market, we need to keep inventing and bringing new products – and the right mix of products – to the market all the time,” says marketing director Geert Vanden Bossche. “We will continue to invest heavily in innovation and product development,” he said. New at the show was Sandringham Wilton (replacing Wellington) which is a subtle, sophisticated range aimed squarely at the UK market. This is a traditional woven 6-frame wilton with a gallery of new designs and colours. Shaggies have also got more refined with the launch of the trendy Heartbreaker range and Balta Broadloom’s flagship range Gala celebrated its 25th anniversary with a new colour palette and a textured loop version called Gala Design. T +32 (0)56 62 22 11
www.baltagroup.com
Balterio introduced Impressio at Domotex which capitalises on the trend for wider planks. On a royal plank format of 1261 x 244 mm, this collection features six contemporary designs finished with a V-groove on the long side. The wider than standard planks give the floor the robust look of real parquet. The new Stretto collection offers just the opposite, through 12 designs on a narrow plank format of 1263 x 134 mm. The subtle four-sided micro V-groove confers a chic and authentic look onto the narrow plank. The successful Magnitude collection with ChromeZone technology for a slightly shiny wood grain, is expanded with four modern designs, bringing the total number of designs for Magnitude to 12. Balterio now offers customers a choice of five plank formats in two lengths and five widths. T +32 (0)56 62 80 81
48 February 2011
www.balterio.com
FlooringNews
DOMOTEX 2011 The World of Flooring DOMOTEX - ECONOMIC OUTLOOK
Each year we sample market sentiment and test the economic outlook at Domotex in over 30 interviews with leaders of the major UK and European flooring manufacturers…
Grim... and bear it European keen optimism and pure enthusiasm for flooring is a feature that can be relied upon to send UK visitors to Domotex home happy – until this year. Only enthusiasm was on offer in Hannover last month – lots of it – creative, innovative and exuberant. Of optimism, there was little. After an abysmal 2009, 2010 was good news. 2011 however is seen as the ‘perfect storm’ of weak demand, high raw material prices, poor exchange rates, higher taxes and all along with pressure to keep investing in ‘new, new, new’ to stay in the game. “It is a very unstable market,” says Balta’s Geert Vanden Bosch. “Everyone is facing rising raw material costs but pricing is still behind that trend. And it doesn’t look any better for those costs in the future – wool especially is going through the roof. It will be a difficult year. Apart from Germany which seems to be doing OK, the rest of Europe is still very weak.” The head of one major UK manufacturer who was visiting the show declared: ‘We’ve had a good start in January but I’m very concerned about this year. The wool price is very difficult for many players in the market. There is such limited room for manoeuvre. Just fuel cost rises alone have gone up 7%.” Anecdotal evidence that 30% of the wool clip is now heading for China didn’t help lift the mood – a statistic that one leading industry figure described as ‘disasterous’.
The key test of the industry’s mettle this year will be rising prices – when (not if), how often and how much to put them up. Mike Packwood at Tapibel is taking the ‘grin and bear it approach’ that sums up the industry’s approach to getting through 2011. “The last year has actually been OK in the UK. I think we all took a quick look over the abyss in 2009 and talked ourselves back from the edge. I think 2011 will flat-line for most players and if it does, that will have to be OK until things hopefully pick up.” An old UK hand who is retiring (a little overduly!) this year after 54 years in the trade told me that 2009-10 were the worst two consecutive years he had ever known in the history of the trade. The key test of the industry’s mettle this year will be prices – when (not if), how often and how much to put them up. Geert Vanden Bosch said: “We have had 3 prices rises in the UK last year.
As a market leader, it isn’t easy as everyone is looking to people like us to make the first step but we have no choice but to move on this when the raw materials are increasing as they are and margins are so tight.” Charles Annable at Brockway added: “Everybody seems to have accepted that prices will be going up. It is very unfortunate that the wool price rise has coincided with a low point in the economy.” However, he said that price sensitivity was still relatively low at the higher end of the quality market. “The real problem is that you can’t really plan or forecast in this market – you can only work hard to position your business where you believe it should be and I think we have done that successfully.”
A ‘perfect storm’ of weak demand, high raw material prices, poor exchange rates, higher taxes and all along with pressure to keep investing in ‘new, new, new’ to stay in the game. Steve Elliott at Associated Weavers agrees. “It is so difficult to plan production and stock in this environment. This will be a difficult year and all the manufacturers can do is make sure they have everything in place with a good product mix to meet customer needs.” Interestingly, Steve noted the success of AW’s Soft Touch – a synthetic product but with a wool-like touch. “We’ve seen retailers building stock of this range and it is set to do well in a market where people don’t like where the wool price is heading.” A generally held view is that the greatest threat is to those companies who have been holding off on price increases for too long, hoping for a modest upturn. These companies, financially weakened as they will be, now have to make up lost ground with substantial rises that the market will find difficult to accept. But for the smart players, the good news is that much of the hardship has already been endured. Costs have been reduced, operations consolidated and product mixes adjusted to position companies to weather the ‘perfect storm’. Consumer demand is expected to stall this year but nudge upwards very slowly thereafter. Public sector contract work is still plummeting in many areas and industry research suggests private sector contract work will not fill that hole to create overall growth until 2014 (despite the Olympics!). So it’s a long haul but one that the industry is in better shape to endure than it was three or four years ago. And we still have a couple of Royal Weddings to cheer up the Great British buying public this year!
iPatt? Ian Hammond of Vorwerk (left) found the new iPad pattern book for the company’s amazing Projection collection a little easier to handle than the current presentation – the very large silver box to his left. The iPad allows you to flick through the ranges and zoom in on the images and details for those that interest – saving time and about 7kg. For those that like their novelties a little less practical, an Eastern rug printer has, of course, produced a 3-D rug complete with glasses (pictured right). On the wall, it works very effectively – but I notice they didn’t dare put this rug on the floor!
from The Stocklists
February 2011 49
DOMOTEX 2011 Condor is a major supplier to UK wholesalers and major group retailers and has sought to inject a little more colour into Britain’s bleak winter with Carousel – a range that has been substantially re-coloured with a vibrant palette of 30 fashionable colours. UK sales director Ken Smith commented: “The strong, colours we have now achieved with this range is comparable to what you would expect with nylon but this is 100% polypropylene. This gives us a very affordable price compared to nylon or wool.” Carousel is made in 4 and 5m with the company’s 2-ply Con-X-Yarn with a stainfree warranty and is rated for heavy domestic use. There’s even a complimentary range – Carousel Bathroom - of 10 soft, pastel shades in 2m width. T +31 38-4778911
www.condorcompany.eu
“Domotex has provided impressive evidence of the drive and innovative spirit that has enabled the industry to overcome its crisis” Stephan Ph. Kühne, Domotex
Edel Telenzo made a smart appearance at Domotex with the launch of their sophisticated new Chelsea range – a dense, textured low-level loop that the company is confident will become a best-seller because it scores in every department including the most important one at the moment – real value in a tight market. This is a 3-ply 100% wool construction with full Sotchgarding. “We’re very pleased with this product – it’s sophisticated but good value and very versatile,” says operations manager Lesley Inman. “Visitors to the show have agreed on this!” she says. Available in 4 and 5m and in a range of eight contemporary ‘earthy’ colours, Chelsea is being sampled now for retailers to start seeing later this month. Also new at the show was Aquarius, a contract quality gel-backed carpet made from the company’s own Edelon Protect extruded PP yarn and available in 10 colours aimed especially at the care home market. T 01422 374417
www.edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk
Domo were at Domotex under the Balta flag this time after the acquisition announced last Autumn – creating three carpet brands: Balta Broadloom, ITC and Domo. Mathieu Steenland Domo’s R&D director, told us at the show: “We want to offer the customers a valuable difference between the three brands and there will only be minor changes to the way Domo operates in order to avoid overlap. We will elaborate on what this means in the future,” he said. Domo delivered several new loop-pile structures to the show using a novel, two-tone technique that resembles woven carpet. The first examples are Luxor Design (geometrics) and Luxor Baroque (florals), a polypropylene stainfree carpet that is offered predominantly in beige with five colours of undertone – a very effective style which should appeal strongly to the UK market. T +32 55 33 52 76
50 February 2011
www.baltagroup.com
FlooringNews
DOMOTEX 2011 The World of Flooring F Ball are inclined to celebrate this year – they are 125 years old in 2011 and still at the top of their game. “We have endured and are seen as a major player in the market,” says Richard Harris. In difficult times they have increase volumes and market share and the secret is their attention to detail and commitment to service. “We make it easier for people to deal with us,” says Richard and notes the growing popularity of their loyalty scheme which seeks to give installers something back while it is tough – more than 1,800 are already members and the figure is growing daily. The detail of their RAG – the Recommended Adhesives Guide – is legendary and F Ball has improved it still further with eRAG, a searchable edition available online and offline. “We are the only people who do the research that allows us to produce this,” says Richard. T 01538 361 633
www.f-ballrewards.co.uk
Foxi are well known to readers of The Stocklists from the classified advert for Foxi Super Plus – ‘the rug tamer which keeps rugs in their place’ – marketed in the UK by P & R Ratcliffe of Burnley. Foxi is French and business owners Etienne Franck and Florence de la Fortelle were attending Domotex to expand the product into wider markets – currently a third of their turnover is in the UK. “People in Britain have really supported the product because it is so effective and comfortable,” says Florence. “Once someone has tried the product, they love it – and I think people are fed up of poorer quality products,” she said. The product is made of a mix of polyester materials – mostly recycled from plastic bottles - and acylic resin adhesive. T 01282 421026
Technix has a colourful new addition to their range with the launch of Versalok, a loose lay, interlocking flooring system that can be used indoors and out to provide a safe, durable surface for pools and gyms, play areas, driveways and industrial applications. Available in 16mm and heavy duty 23mm profiles, the slip resistant surface provides excellent traction for tired feet (it has anti-fatigue characteristics) and tyred vehicles. The open construction is self draining and the resistance to chemicals and UV stabilisers ensure the six standard colours stay bright. Black Versalok is made almost entirely from recycled materials at the company’s UK production factory. T +44 (0) 1489 789 944
www.versalok-uk.com
www.foxirugtamer.co.uk
from The Stocklists
February 2011 51
DOMOTEX 2011 Interfloor reported an increase in international enquiries at Domotex in Hannover. Companies from over 50 countries, many from Asia, the Middle East and South America, showed an interest in Interfloor’s growing range of underlay and accessory products. Interest in rubber underlay remains strong internationally as well as the UK. The Company’s Campaign for Real Underlay is paying off says marketing director Steve Woodhead. “After a significant increase in promotion, we have seen our retailer base grow by up to 25% in the last year. There’s been a noticeable upswing in demand for rubber underlays, especially the premium Tredaire sponges and Duralay crumb rubbers. Demand for our Tredaire Seventh Heaven PU range has risen dramatically and we’ve had to expand our production to keep pace with the growth in orders.” T 01706 238 810 www.interfloor.com
IVC Group delivered to attendees at this year’s Domotex exhibition the full force of their cushion floor brands with major developments for Leoline and Avenue. With the international manufacturer lifting the lid on several new collections within its Avenue brand alone, showing design-led creations such as Precious Metals and Pure, the three-day event gave visitors a sneak preview as IVC Group looks to roll ranges out through the course of 2011. “We had several developments to show customers at Domotex not only for our trend-led Avenue brand, but also for Leoline – one of the widest collections of cushion flooring currently available – and the response we received was terrific, with retailers genuinely excited about the new designs heading their way in 2011,” comments Caroline Wille, residential product manager. Interest in Avenue’s Ultimate Oak collection proved particularly strong, with customers citing that it has delivered on its intent to capture the heritage and majesty of oak flooring. The collection offers the world’s most comprehensive gathering of trend led oak decors, including both contemporary and traditional styles. Domotex also saw IVC Group preview the Moduleo design floor collection to an international audience, with the stunning LVT collection also being unveiled to a UK audience at Interiors 2011. The manufacturer also presented the Itec Contract Floors portfolio to visiting distributors and specifiers. T +32 5665 3211
52 February 2011
www.ivcgroup.com
FlooringNews
DOMOTEX 2011 The World of Flooring Lano launched major new developments at Domotex including New Twilight, designed to boost the strength of its Easy Care collection, and colour updates to several of its most popular carpets in “Heather Twist Supreme” and “Bolero”. The show gave Lano Carpets an opportunity to present its revised product structure, as well as introducing developments to its Wilton and Ultimo collections. Showing the re-launched and improved 3-ply 100% New Zealand wool “Oasis” and new colours for the 100% New Zealand wool “Mayfair Velvet”, both from the Ultimo collection, Lano Carpets unveiled tentative details of a new display unit for the high-end residential offering. Also new is the Venice Wilton collection for 2011, which will be targeted as a contract collection next to the residential designs. Birger Karlsson, UK and Ireland Sales Manager comments:“Yet again Domotex provided the ideal platform for us to introduce developments to an international audience. With several new product launches, updates to colour palettes and the re-alignment of products into the Easy Care, Wilton, Ultimo and Technic collections; retailers had one of the first glimpses of our product mix for 2011 that marks us as a manufacturer that can meet virtually any carpet requirement.” T 00800 5266 5266 www.lano.com
McThree deliver style and value in abundance. UK sales director Robert Witherington (pictured left) commented: “We’re moving on a little from shaggies although they are still popular and looking towards more traditional pattterns and ranges led by strong design and colour. This is more difficult as you are selling on the quality of the design and colour choices, but that’s what I know we are good at.” Examples of this craft are seen in the new Capri range which was launched at Domotex with bold, dramatic designs and vibrant colours. A different approach is reflected in the poster-style Studioline range (inset). T +32 (0)56 61 14 29
www.mcthree.be
Mapei used their dramatic stand at Domotex to present their new product MAPECONTACT, a novel bi-adhesive reinforced strip for laying profiles, base-boards, fillets and resilient coatings and also carpets on stairs. MAPECONTACT contains no solvents and is supplied ready for use, and rooms where this product is applied may be put back into service immediately, especially when renovation work is carried out. The product is available in 50m long rolls. Also new was ULTRACOAT, a complete system of varnishes, oils and grouts for parquet. T 0121 5086970
www.mapei.co.uk
Carpenter were in Hannover with a stand in the strong new branding that was first seen in Harrogate last year and sales director Helen Rowberry doesn’t underestimate the impact it has had. “We have had a phenomenal reaction to the re-branding and the move has given the business the extra lift it needed to develop to the next level,” she says. “Our brand is growing, people trust us and our loyal wholesalers know how reliable we are and how well the product performs.” Carpenter is already the largest PU foam manufacturer in the world and opened their UK underlay factory five years ago in Glossop, Derbyshire, which produces a range of nine products to cover all performance requirements. T 01457 861141
from The Stocklists
www.carpenter.ltd.uk
February 2011 53
DOMOTEX 2011 Super-Click have made Martin Peace of Abingdon a happy man – he will be distributing the revolutionary new click-together LVT product under the company’s Distinctive Flooring brand. “The response has been amazing,” he said at Domotex. “The product is so fitter friendly, family friendly and environmentally friendly. It just ticks all the boxes.” The product will be available in the UK in March and Martin reported very strong initial interest in getting orders in quickly. The demonstration on the stand showed how the inter-locking flooring could be ‘fitted’ with just a tap of the feet in the right direction – without even having to bend down! Martin is pictured below (right) with Super-Click’s Lee Carus. T 01274 655668 www.superclickflooring.com
Packexe are film stars in every sense. They have turned floor protection film into an art form while appearing themselves on screen in countless TV makeover programmes as the product of choice. The idea is simple, the execution is brilliant. Packexe started making Handy Wrap ‘cling film’ for carpet rolls but for the last six years have become a market leader in floor protection film for different surfaces such as carpet, laminate and wood floors. “It’s all about the adhesive technology,” says Andrew Orchard (pictured) who heads up the Exeter-based business. “Many have tried to copy but a film that leaves stickiness behind on a hard floor or isn’t sticky enough to avoid slipping on carpet is no use to anyone.” T 01392 438191 www.packexe.co.uk
“It seems as if consumers are finally getting a little bored with the uniformity of choice that tends to be on offer.”
Tapibel, who split 70/30 between contract and residential, have been enjoying robust business in the UK and are increasingly taking the opportunity to satisfy demand for higher quality products. “We’re established in polypropylene but are now moving more into nylon,” says UK sales manager Mike Packwood. Many of the company’s 80/20 ranges are substituting PP for nylon in that 20%. Stripes are also moving up-market in consumer perceptions, says Mike, and the company has been building on its existing ranges such as cachet, pinstripe and cityline with new colours. New at Domotex was an attractive, co-ordinated collection of 80/20 wool/nylon carpets including Charade, a plain twist in 40oz and 70oz and then the pinstripe Cotton Club, multi-stripe Rialto and a small geometric design Country Club (all in 45oz). T 01623 481221 www.tapibel.be
54 February 2011
FlooringNews
DOMOTEX 2011 The World of Flooring
Brockway were an inhabitant of the ‘Wool Pavillion’ – a smart showcase stand set up by Wools of New Zealand to present the very best products in natural fibre. And Brockway doesn’t disappoint with the first major presentation of its illustrious Designer Collection – an exclusive portfolio of top quality, design-led carpets launched at the end of last year. “We have taken a very aspirational approach,” says Charles Annable. “First we launched our Vogue collection and the response to that has encouraged us to extend our offering with the Designer Collection which has generated a very positive reaction.” There are nine fashion conscious ranges in the collection including innovative, eye-catching stripes and rich plains. An especially attractive brochure has been produced to support the 2011 campaign. T 01562 824737
www.brockway.co.uk
TAT Carpet has been a major player at Domotex for several years but company chairman Kutayfer Memis described 2011 as a landmark year as TAT has been placing extra emphasis on products for the European markets. “It is very important to have a rich variety of products in order to become a brand in the international market,” said Kutayfer. “We have been preparing unique designs and colours for broadlooms for the European market,” he said, and to demonstrate their serious intent, the company built a stunning 180 m2 stand in Hall 2 at Hannover. TAT – a vertically integrated producer from yarn to floor based in Turkey – has ambitious plans for the future in terms of both investment and innovation but says it is its high levels of customer service that will further its success. T +90 342 337 5050
www.tatcarpet.com
Tisca Tiara likes to pander to the needs of its fashionconscious, upmarket customers and ‘carpet bling’ is in vogue right now says their man in the UK, Alan Jones-Bratt. To demonstrate the point, the whole of the stand was carpeted in a new deep pile product called Soft which is manufactured in 100% polyester to give it an indulgent, opulent feel. The super shaggy is rough and Tisca Tiara have not held back on the colours with 12 to choose from depending on how safe or exotic you are feeling. “The whole stand was carpeted with Soft in a deep colour which made a strong statement and we have had a tremendously positive response to it from the UK buyers,” said Alan. The Swiss company also had one of the most intriguing designs of the show, a striking geometric design called Tisca Relief which was based on the contour map of mountains in China – very effective. T 01299 828 434
from The Stocklists
www.tisca.ch
February 2011 55
DOMOTEX 2011 The World of Flooring Timzo - the global market leader in loop pile polypropylene carpet based in Genemuiden Holland - again, takes the market forward with four new innovative products at Hannover.The first product, 3D, is a return to tip shearing - 10 modern colours from blue to brown offering excellent value for money. Barok, a well constructed low level loop with 11 colours, is offered in both 4 and 5 metre, AB and felt.Two fashionable ranges Mars and Majestic complete the line up for the UK in exciting colours and design not seen before but now available due to the cutting edge technology of Timzo. T (0031) (0) 38 385 44 77
www.timzo.nl
“Innovation and service are the only way you can go forward in this market”
Wools of New Zealand opened with a new concept at Domotex, the ‘Wool Pavillion’, as a top quality showcase for the very best in traceable, sustainable natural fibre. For the first time, they presented with some of their key partners who had stands within the Pavillion including UK companies Brockway, Flock and Westex. Displays also included Kingsmead, Contemporary Life and Ulster Carpets. Brockway were responsible for manufacturing the beautiful tufted loop pile carpet across the main stand from Laneve yarn, the premium 100% traceable New Zealand wool. The Wool Pavillion was themed on ‘Wool Impressions’ – a concept created by WNZ’s European design studio based in Ilkley, West Yorkshire, and headed by the talented Joanna Ramsden who is closely involved with carpet design for the leading UK manufacturing partners. The style is influenced by the Impressionist art movement which is currently high fashion – not least reflected in a hugely successful exhibition of Monet’s work in Paris at the moment. The result is a palette of evocative and pure colours of bright clean intensity and subtle, sophisticated pastels – both of which work well on the exceptionally white base of Laneve wool. Vorwerk like to surprise and for Domotex they set us a puzzle – of carpet tiles. The innovative German manufacturer has signed a licence with Esprit Home – part of the High Street fashion chain seen in the UK – to develop a remarkable geometric tile which can be arranged in a myriad of patterns including isolated islands of carpet across a smooth floor – 16 striking colours and multi level textures add to the endless possibilities. A technological secret is the built in dimpled underlay which means the tiles stay where they are put – individually or together – and are completely non-slip. “This is one of the few really different things at Domotex this year,” said UK sales director Ian Hammond, “and it is attracting huge attention.” He’s hoping to have these in the UK in the summer when retailers will be able to have an Esprit home ‘island’ which dispenses boxes of eight tiles at a time so consumers can mix and match – and come back for more! T 0207 096 5090
56 February 2011
See our main Domotex report for Joanna’s comments on colour and separate reviews for Brockway and Flock. T 01943 603 888
www.woolsnz.com
www.vorwerk-carpets.com
FlooringNews
News
Sofa, so good! For the first time, flooring tooks its place among the sexy sofas, trendy tables and exotic chandeliers of the UK’s leading designer furniture show and looked right at home. The debut of a flooring hall at Birmingham’s NEC interiors show was seen as a success. “We didn’t really know what to expect but we are very pleased with the level and quality of the interest,” said Neil Valentine of Furlong Flooring. “I think there is a massive benefit being attached to the furniture show,”said Michael Turner at Crucial Trading. “The show looks good and we are meeting smart people,” he said. A Home Counties retail visitor commented: “I didn’t realise it was such a new thing. The flooring people should logically be here and it all looks great. I’m glad we came.” The flooring section was adjacent to the show’s trendy ‘Modern’ furniture section and with no formal dividers, the flooring area merged into the latest in arty interior design – and looked very comfortable in this new context. Almost all exhibitors were delighted with business levels, especially on the first day (Sunday) – although the rug stands were a little quieter than they hoped – and there were reports of a good spread of visitors from the South as well as the Midlands.
• interiors 2011 was still open as we went to press so a full review will appear in the March issue of The Stocklists magazine.
Carving a niche market
Raising their profile Floorwise has recently launched two new brochures capturing an expanded range of metal profiles and PVC skirtings and trims developed to deliver the contractor and specifier performance, quality and value.
Carved Elegance and Carved Finesse are two designs being launched into the market place over the coming months. Both are 3100 grams in weight, giving a luxurious feel and both are hand carved to give the market place something unique. Both designs are based on classic floral patterns using today’s modern colours.
Featuring new introductions such as the 19mm Z-edge in the Wood Floor Profile Range and Flexible PVC Floor Profiles that can easily be curved on-site, the 2011 ‘Profiles’ brochure also contains well established ranges such as the Classic Profile Range and MAX Profile ranges. Detailing profile specifications, the brochure provides a vital reference for contractors looking for value solutions to an entire spectrum of finishing needs.
“These new ranges have been designed especially for the UK and are absolutely right for the market” says Carl “We are very happy about their potential and, given the roll sales prior to launch, we are expecting them to fast become best sellers as retailers realise they have something very new and tactile to talk to their customers about”.
Floorwise’s class leading profile ranges are also benefitting from new and improved packaging, with a more durable cover film providing added protection against scratches. Updated sampling boards, featuring all profiles in all finishes, including the new dark wood décor in the Wood Floor range, make it simpler to choose and specify the right profiles for each job.
The full collection of products available can be seen on the Fells carpets web site which also has has full stock checking and order processing along with fast track customer service and online accounts - for further information and log-in details, please email sales@fellscarpets.co.uk
Due to an expanded focus on its PVC collection, Floorwise has introduced a stand-alone ‘PVC Skirting, Trims & Profiles’ brochure. Floorwise branded, the PVC collection also benefits from new sampling and an installation and cleaning guide.
T 01977 662211
T 01509 673974
Fells Carpets are hoping to carve a new niche in the UK market with a highly original new carpet. “The UK has not seen anything like this before” says Carl Cummings, sales and marketing director at the Yorkshire-based firm. “We are all very excited with this new product and it will enhance our growing portfolio of Wilton carpet,” he said.
www.fellscarpets.co.uk
from The Stocklists
www.floorwise.co.uk February 2011 57
Training feature
Explaining training Many retailers feel their business is being held back by a skills gap in the installation trade (see our survey results, opposite) and in many cases are unaware of the wide range of training and assessment activity that is going on in the industry. The effort is somewhat fragmented in truth but it is of a high quality and readiiy available. Essentially, three different types of activity are undertaken: training novices, up-skilling more experienced fitters and, finally, assessing and validating the competence of established installers. At the forefront of most people’s minds is the NICF and CFA, through their dedicated training organisation FITA – the Flooring Industry Training Association. State-of-the-art training facilities at Loughborough opened six years ago to provide a perfect environment for over a dozen set courses from basics to intermediate and advanced for carpet, wood and vinyl with separate options between domestic and commercial work.
“There are a lot of great fitters out there but the ones that are fully trained are the tip of the iceberg” “There are a lot of great fitters out there but the ones that are fully trained are the tip of the iceberg,” says chief training consultant and NICF master fitter Steve Marsden. “People think they are doing it the best way but we can show them a better way – with less complaints and call-backs.” The centre has 13 instructors – “they all have their own jobs but love doing this,” says Steve. It is this approach and industry sponsorship that helps subsidise the courses which typically run from 2 to 5 days and between £300 and £700. Increasingly, FITA works with manufacturers and stores groups to provide accreditation. Carpetright and Marks & Spencers are recent examples where fitters attend an evaluation course to become ‘approved’ fitters. The UK Flooring Academy was established in 2005 in Burton on Trent and has certified more than 700 shops and fitters from across the whole of the UK, the Republic of Ireland and overseas. The Academy has also undertaken ‘in house’ training for major companies in Nottinghamshire, Scotland and Oxfordshire, The Flooring Academy poses a and has challenge to trainiees conducted courses for 14 to 16 year olds in two Kidderminster schools. Although most trainees are connected to the flooring trade, the Academy has also worked with the Princes trust and several national and regional development agencies providing assistance and training to disadvantaged or unemployed candidates. The courses which are either 3, 5 or 7 days are supported by a number of flooring manufacturers and distributors. Course content is based on BSI Standard 5325 ‘The installation of Textile Floor Coverings’ and on completion of a course, trainees receive a UKFA training manual and a certificate of competence. Manufacturers take their training responsibilities seriously and, of course, seek to ensure their products are being used and, most importantly, used 60 February 2011
correctly. One of the best examples is F. Ball who invested in a sophisticated, purpose-built training centre located at the company’s manufacturing headquarters in Cheddleton, Staffordshire.
F. Ball's purpose-built training centre
Courses are delivered free of has comprehensive facilities charge by experts from the company’s technical department – underlining F. Ball’s longstanding commitment to promoting best practice with its extensive product range. Groups are kept to a maximum of ten people to allow everyone to fully participate, and a certificate is issued at the end of the course. Delegates learn about moisture-testing, methods of controlling moisture, floor smoothing underlayments, priming and adhesive selection, and are able to gain hands-on experience of applying F. Ball products. “When installing a new floorcovering, preparing the subfloor and identifying the correct flooring adhesive for the job is vital to success,” says Richard Harris, F. Ball Marketing Manager. He added: “Although most visitors to the training centre are flooring contractors, we can also tailor the content of our courses to give flooring retailers the opportunity to extend their knowledge of Stopgap and Styccobond products. This helps them to ensure that their customers make the right choice and that optimal performance with our products is achieved.” Specialist training in key industry areas is equally important. The WoolSafe Organisation has been offering a specialist wool maintenance training course to experienced carpet cleaners for over a decade and trainees say the course benefitted their company in many ways; it helped them to diagnose problems, improved cleaning results due to better understanding of wool fibre, increased their confidence, helped them communicate better with customers and improved their professional image. The WoolSafe Organisation also offers a Carpet Complaint Investigation course and an Essential Carpet Installation and Repair Course. Attendees to WoolSafe Courses receive IICRC credits and a certificate of attendance. Accreditation remains a key part of the industry to verify skills and experience that already exist and Floortrain has established their credentials as a leader in this field. “Assessment and accreditation is so important,” says Dominic Ormondroyd of Floortrain. “You can have been
“You can have been a great floorlayer for 20 years but if you can’t prove it you may miss out on work” a floorlayer for 20 years but a customer doesn’t know it and a contractor can’t guarantee how good you are so you may miss out on work.” Floortrain uses trained assessors and on-site video techniques over several sessions to assess craftsmanship and to build a portfolio to support an NVQ Level 2 in floorcovering, accredited by City & Guilds. Best of all it’s free – but not for much longer! Currently, the scheme is fully funded by Government but this is set to change this year as emphasis switches to apprenticeships for new starters. With the timescale uncertain, for Floortrain’s accreditation, 500 floorlayers have taken the assessment in the last three months and Dominic advises fitters to move quickly to get the benefits while the free option lasts!
F. Ball • T 01538 361 633 www.f-ball.co.uk fita • T 0115 950 6836 www.fita.co.uk Flooring Academy • www.uk-flooring-academy.co.uk Floortrain • T 01709 780505 www.floortrain.co.uk WoolSafe • T 01943 850 817 www.woolsafe.org
FlooringNews
Survey
Mind the skills gap! Retailers believe a lack of skills in flooring installation is holding back their business and that too few fitters are fully trained according to The Stocklists Flooring Forum this month. In this training special feature, we look at the issues and, on the previous page, examine what’s happening across the industry to rectify the problem. A massive 75% of our respondents felt a lack of installation skills was a general issue across the industry – 58% said this was having a negative impact of their ability to do business. Only 16% of retailers said they thought the majority of fitters were ‘fully competent’ – about 60% said they thought ‘about half ’ of all fitters had all the skills needed. A retailer in the North West left a message on our survey ‘soapbox’ which summed up the views of many: “Unfortunately, the carpet trade is its own worst enemy. Years of free fitting and massive discounts have totally devalued the whole industry. “The result is that people expect carpets to be cheap and assume the fitters work for nothing, This has led to fitters having to throw down as much carpet as they can in a day just to make a wage. In turn this has led to fitters not being bothered to learn new skills or pass on their knowledge because they simply do not have the time.” Ominously, this retailer added: “It will not be long before the real skills of the trade will be lost and fitting carpets will no longer be a trade. Unfortunately whilst a plumber or electrician is valued a good carpet fitter is not!” We asked our survey group what they thought was holding fitters back from developing their skills and about half responded that cost was the main problem – both in terms of course fees and time off work. However a large proportion of respondents felt that there simply weren’t enough fitting courses available. While a disappointing 30% of respondents said they expect to spend nothing on training at all in a year, about 40% were prepared to spend £1000 or more to improve skills in their business. A number of people were not fully aware of what was available in the industry to improve the situation in terms of courses and accreditation. Our feature on the previous page answers some of the questions. A retailer in Northumberland commented: “It would be good if we could roll out a qualification or recognition of Carpet-Fitting as a skill; currently anybody can buy a knife and kicker and call themselves a fitter. ”
“Years of free fitting has totally devalued the industry.” “The carpet trade is its own worst enemy.”
from The Stocklists
Fit for purpose? 75% say there’s a lack of fitting skills 81% think only half of less of all fitters are fully competent 58% say the skills gap holds back their business 50% say not enough training is available 30% expect to spend nothing on training The Stocklists polled 390 retailers throughout the UK during November 2010. Replies and comments are recorded anonymously. Many thanks to all those who took part.
“Recently, our trainee fitter, a mature trainee, commented that he wished he had become a fitter years ago, and that he regrets not having a fitting qualification like others. Sadly, I had to admit that none of our fitters had a formal qualification; all have fitted for many years, and are very capable, but none have any certificates (other than for swimming a hundred yards!).” Consumers, of course, are less aware of such things – until and unless something goes wrong, of course – and over 80% of our respondents said they had never, or hardly ever, been asked about the qualifications or competency of the fitters to be supplied. Finally, we asked about other skill requirements in the industry. Among retailers, 44% said sales skills training would be beneficial, 23% cited business management and joint third in the wish list at 11% each came IT skills and store design.
“Fitters have to throw down as much carpet as they can in a day to make a wage.”
“Anybody can buy a knife and kicker and call themselves a fitter.”
“Whilst a plumber or electrician is valued a good carpet fitter is not!”
February 2011 61
News
Obituary: Roger Milliken
Recyclers roll out Novel re-uses for carpet waste will be highlighted by Carpet Recycling UK Ecobuild 2011. A full CRUK seminar programme on Thursday March 3rd will feature innovative developments in the re-use of carpet waste. Key areas cover eco design for recycling, trends in specification for sustainable carpets and using carpet waste as a resource in new applications. CRUK co-ordinator Jane Gardner says: “Ecobuild is the perfect platform to demonstrate how carpet waste can be a valuable resource in various new construction applications.” In Design for Recycling, Rudi Daelmans, Director of Sustainability for Desso’s Global Environmental Programme. Desso presents its new company sustainability goals based on the cradle-to-cradle concept of re-processing old carpets to make new ones. Jason Holmes of Forbo Flooring will describe Forbo’s development towards a Green Design Culture. Sustainability benchmarks will be presented by Harwinder Bhamra, Fibre Consultant at Bhamra Associates and in the session on Carpet Waste as a Resource, Plant Ecologist Dr Phil Putwain, of Ecological Restoration Consultants highlights results from recent trials on using wool-rich carpet shred as a soil improver for reclamation of brownfield sites. Simon Macaulay, Director of Anglo Recycling looks at the use of wool-rich carpet shred in their 100% recycled underlay. The final session sees CRUK Director Laurance Bird giving an insight into valuable raw materials which can be extracted from carpets to provide opportunities in sustainable construction products, such as sound and heat insulation, as well as green roofs. T 0161 440 8325
www.carpetrecyclinguk.com
We announce the passing of Roger Milliken, aged 95. Mr Milliken proved to be one of America's last great industrialists. Under his long leadership, Milliken, founded in 1865 by his grandfather, grew to become the largest privately-held textile and chemical manufacturer in the world, and home to the world's largest textile research facility. He was also passionate about the environment and human welfare, helping to build businesses and educational institutions, manufacturing plants and academic facilities, communities and arboreta.
Ecobuild 2011 Stand S22
Hammer’s ship comes in
Onliner invests
Hammer Carpets in Herning, Denmark has secured the largest order in their history. The carpet company will supply 360,000 square metres of carpets for four new cruise ships which are being built for Norwegian Cruise Lines over the next three years.
An investment of £400,000 has seen the UK’s fourth fastest growing retailer, UK Flooring Direct improve its efficiency and customer service with the deployment of a bespoke Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution. New software allows UK Flooring Direct to monitor its relationships more closely and will allow consumer and trade users of www.ukflooringdirect.co.uk to enjoy improved customer service across the board, including a real time order status facility. The system will also have positive performance implications behind the scenes, helping the retailer to become even more efficient to provide first-rate service to its customers at every level. On the surface, the investment will see considerable benefits offered by the new website. New user-friendly search facilities are available, which will include the opportunity for shoppers to see the top 50 most popular products on the site. There is also a Room Creator facility that will not only show how the room will look, but that will also help to calculate the exact amount of flooring required. In addition, visitors can enjoy video applications that accurately describe the products and show tips on installation techniques. The ultimate goal is to make the Internet-based purchase of floorcoverings a simple and rewarding one. “The investment in our new ERP system will bring many benefits across the board, but apart from a new look to our site, most of these will not be immediately noticeable to the shopper,” explains Jason Ashby, managing director.
”It is one of the biggest orders ever within the carpet industry and uses over 600 tonnes of high quality wool. To us at Hammer this is of course a very big day. It is a resounding vote of confidence for our Colortec qualities and secures confidence and stability in our production for years to come,” says Director René Dupont. Hammer Carpets is one of the largest suppliers of high quality contract carpets for the cruise industry and have their carpets on board the two biggest cruise ships in the World; Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, owned by Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. Over 120.000 square metres of carpets from Hammer have been installed on these two ships alone. In addition Hammer supply a number of luxury hotel chains such as SAS Radisson, Choice and Accor Hotels. ”The order is a result of more than a year of intense work. We are the leading supplier of carpets to this sector within our trade and have over the years supplied more than a million square meters for new builds alone”, says owner and Managing Director, Tom Moller Jorgensen. During the last few years the company has invested around € 5 millions in new technology. Carpets for cruise-ships have special requirements for fire retardency, wear and appearance retention, as saltwater and sea-air make high demands on the high quality pre dyed 80% wool/20% nylon yarns used in their construction. ”To achieve such a big order is of course an expression of confidence. The customers are confident that we can supply the right quality and in the right time because we have the experience and the right production technology” says René Dupont. T +45 9627 0020
62 February 2011
www.hammercarpets.com
T 0845 287 5623 www.ukflooringdirect.co.uk
FlooringNews
Sharpen up your fitting skills with fita Are you working in the flooring industry but need further skills to widen your client base? Or perhaps you are a new beginner in flooring and need training to go one step further? If so, then why not contact FITA, the Flooring Industry Training Association. Co-founded by the Contract Flooring Association (CFA) and the National Institute of Carpet and Floorlayers (NICF), FITA has courses to suit not only real beginners just getting started in the industry but upskilling courses aimed towards seasoned professionals too!
BOO K EA RLY TO
AVO ID D ISAP POIN TME NT
FITA has a fully equipped training centre at Loughborough in Leicestershire. Our wide range of courses are presented by experienced instructors with specialist knowledge of the flooring industry. All course content can be used as evidence towards an NVQ in Floorcoverings.
Visit www.fita.co.uk for details of all FITA training courses available along with our booking form which is available for download. CALL TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION ON:
0115 950 6836 or visit www.fita.co.uk
FITA - kindly sponsored by
Fita Training Centre Loughborough Unit 10, Windmill Road Loughborough Leicestershire LE11 1RA.
from The Stocklists
February 2011 63
News
Axminster centurions At its recent annual Long Service Awards, Axminster Carpets celebrated a quite remarkable achievement with almost three centuries worth of collective service achieved from just eight of its employees. With a combined 270 years of work and dedication between them, ranging from the newest with 25 years, to the longest serving member of the group having given 50 years to Axminster Carpets, the awards are designed to recognise and reward the loyalty of members of staff. Presenting the awards, Group Chairman Simon Dutfield commented: “To have a single employee with an exemplary 25 year service record is quite an accomplishment, but to be able to recognise 40 and even 50 years is extraordinary and goes to underline the commitment and loyalty that has helped Axminster Carpets to become one of Britain’s most treasured manufacturing companies.” Ann King, Ian Macdonald and Tracey Kaxe have all recorded 25 years of service, as has Ian McDermid, Axminster’s Regional Sales Manager for the North of England and Scotland (not pictured); Ernie Webb, Keith Critchard and Dennis Miller have achieved 40 years, while John Albano has dedicated 50 years to the Devon-based manufacturer.
Tarkett has recently introduced new multicolour welding rods for its highly popular iQ Optima and iQ Granit homogeneous vinyl ranges. The new rods make joints appear almost seamless, adding to the overall flooring appearance compared to traditional plain welding rods. In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the new multicolour rods at concealing joins, Tarkett ran a ‘Spot the Weld’ competition. Entrants were invited to mark a line on a picture of a recent installation to indicate where they thought the new rod had been used. Those closest to the actual weld were entered into a draw to win a weekend break at a Marriott resort.
Back row from left to right: Ernie Webb, Keith Critchard, Ian Macdonald and Dennis Miller. Front row from left to right: Tracey Kaxe, Simon Dutfield, John Albano and Ann King.
“It is thanks to the 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 manufacture and the skills handed down through the generations. It is an honour to present these awards and they represent our gratitude for such dedication and hard work,” concludes Simon Dutfield. T 01297 630650
‘Spot the weld’ winner
www.axminstercarpets.co.uk
Out with the ‘not so old’
Out of almost 300 entries, 94% failed to spot the weld and only 6% were close. The eventual winner was Mark Jackson of D & J Contracts Ltd in Middlesbrough. “I was really surprised to discover I’d won the competition”, explained a delighted Mark. “It was almost impossible to see where the welding rod was – just goes to show how good the new product is!” Neil Bosomworth, Area Sales Manager for Tarkett, presented Mark with his prize in December. The voucher entitles Mark to a weekend break for two in a deluxe room at any one of 42 Marriott hotel locations across the UK and Ireland. The superior characteristics of Tarkett iQ floorcoverings make it possible to create a flooring installation that will look like new for years to come. Now, for every reference in the iQ Optima and iQ Granit flooring ranges, there is a colour and patterncoordinated welding rod to choose from, so the look will always be perfect. T 01622 854040 www.tarkett-commercial.com
Cavalier Carpets are saying farewell to one of its most loved colleagues. North West area sales representative Brian Russell is retiring in February 2011 after nearly 10 years of dedicated service to the company. A true ‘carpet man’ he has been in the industry all his working life, having previously worked for Shaws, Wilton Royal and Tintawn. Brian will be missed by everybody within the organisation but even more by his customers, among whom he is highly respected, admired and will be fondly remembered for his ‘unique’ brand of humour! Stepping into Brian’s well travelled shoes is Mr. Dale Waddington, a dedicated family man, with one daughter and another addition on its way. 45 year old Dale though originally from a manufacturing background has been recruited from within Cavalier, where he has been managing a different department for the last six years.
Mr. Hans Lowe - Retail Sales Director (left) Dale & Brian
64 February 2011
Dale says: “although I know that Brian will be a very tough act to follow, I am really looking forward to the challenge and hope to deliver the same level of service to customers that they have come to expect.” T 01254 268000
www.cavaliercarpets.co.uk
FlooringNews
‘Instant’ websites for flooring people who don’t really like the internet! Maybe you’re not too 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: G
7 ready-made pages of flooring industry content covering the key sectors of carpets, vinyls, laminates, etc.
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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.
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Choose photos from our library to make your site unique – or upload your own images.
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Link to Google Maps – let visitors find you quickly and see where to park
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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!
Stocklists Classified The
FOR SALE
SITUATIONS VACANT
Agents H & V Carpets of Belgium require UK agents to sell broadloom carpet in the following areas: East Midlands • Wales • Ireland Please apply in writing to:
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 Sales Manager, H&V Carpets Box 51 Mayville Publishing Company Ltd 219 West Ella Road, West Ella Hull HU10 7SD, UK UNDER RUGS
“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 66 February 2011
FOXISuper Plus The Rug Tamer! Keeps Rugs In Their Place COMBINATION UNDERLAYS NEEDLEFELT UNDERLAYS For orders and further information, please ring P&R Ratcliffe (Underlays) Ltd. Burnley, Lancashire BB10 3BH Tel: 01282 421026, Fax: 01282 412321 www.foxirugtamer.co.uk
FlooringNews
Stocklists The
Classified
SITUATIONS VACANT
THOMAS WITTER UK LTD
Designer Contracts
Area Sales Managers Midlands, South West England/South Wales, Thames Valley Due to further expansion, Thomas Witter are recruiting successful established account managers to promote their ranges of quality tufted wool carpets. Candidates must be able to demonstrate an ability to secure new business opportunities quickly. Excellent remuneration package including company car is on offer for the successful applicants. In the first instance, please forward your CV, including current remuneration package, to personnel@thomaswitter.com or Personnel Manager, Parkside House, 167 Chorley New Road, Bolton, BL1 4RA. Thomas Witter is an equal opportunities employer.
RETAIL SALES EXECUTIVE Ulster Carpets’ is one of the world’s largest and most progressive carpet manufacturers, servicing global retail and contract markets. We now have a vacancy for a Retail Sales Executive with responsibility for developing sales through our Independent retail accounts in North Wales, Cheshire, Wirral, Manchester & Potteries. We offer a competitive salary, company car, medical cover, contributory pension scheme and profit related pay, along with good development and progression opportunities. To apply send your tailored CV and a covering letter detailing how you meet the following criteria: 1. Specify the number of years experience you have gained in retail sales and within which industries (minimum criteria is 3 years experience) 2. Demonstrate your ability to achieve sales targets and provide details of results and achievements. Applications should be emailed before 12 noon on Monday 28 February 2011 to recruit@ulstercarpets.com, or by post to The Monitoring Officer, Ulster Carpets, Castleisland Factory, Portadown, Co Armagh, BT62 1EE. To speak with a member of our team telephone 028 38395123. THE STOCKLISTS February 2011
www.designercontracts.com Email: recruitment@designercontracts.com
Market Leading suppliers of floor covering to the House Building Industry.
We require Fitters for laying -
• Carpet • Vinyl • Laminate Amtico/Karndean Also for:
• • • •
Contract Flooring Cap & Cove Communal Area And Curtain Fitters
We are looking for good quality fitters for most of our 10 Regional Warehouses nationwide working on a sub-contract basis.
Must have own van. Plenty of work available. London & the South East South Midlands East Midlands Scotland South Wales
South Coast West Midlands North West Yorkshire/Lincolnshire South West including Devon & Cornwall
Interested? Please ring: Wendy Hamm, H & S Liaison Officer on 01246 854577 for details of your closest regional office and to arrange a local meeting.
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