The Stocklists - November 2012 by David Spragg

Stocklists The

5 November 2012

with

FlooringNews

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

Stocklists The

FIRST FOR FLOORING NEWS AND DATA

Advertisers

FlooringFactsheets

Monthly ‘Stocklisters’ shown in BOLD Index

Page No

Contact No

Price List Date

BONDWORTH

01562 745000

June 2011

BRITISH WOOL

01274 688 666

—

BROCKWAY

01562 828200

Feb 2012

BRONTË

01282 862736

—

CARPENTER

01457 861141

—

COLUMBIA

0208 443 3322

—

01204 881234

—

CARPETS LTD.

FLOORING

CORMAR

01538 361633

—

FITA

01159 506836

—

FLOORWISE

01509 673974

—

24,25

01772 696787

Nov 2010 —

F.BALL

FURLONG

FLOORING

GEORGIAN

01827 831430

55-57

01432 852000

—

INTERFLOOR

01706 213131

—

INTERIORS

—

01827 831427

—

LANO

—

00800 5266 5266

—

MANX

—

01827 831 434

—

GREENDALE

CARPETS

KINGSMEAD

01562 754382

—

MERRYFIELD

—

01422 373799

—

MODULEO

—

MOHAWK

27,47

01480 479830

—

MASTER

WEAVERS

NICF

0115 958 3077

—

NOVOSTRAT

00353 61 339287

—

0151 427 6000

—

020 85319225

—

PRODUCTS

RACKHAMS SIMON

CHARLES

0800 126 750

—

GROUP

—

0845 308 1400

—

SOLENT WHOLESALE CARPET

01243 774623 Nov/Dec 2012

STS FLOORING DISTRIBUTORS

0845 341000

May 2012 —

SKILLS

01422 374417

FLOORING SHOW

45-53

01423 779967

—

& E DISPLAY GROUP

0121 585 7600

—

0845 644 9090

—

TELENZO THE T

WESTON

HAMMER

Adhesives

Expertise advice from F Ball

page 4

Buying Groups

Choosing the right organisation for you

Carpet Company Directory Our line-up of the leading players

pages 8-9

pages 14-15

Carpet Trouble-shooter

All about stains, spots and shading

pages 12-13

Carpet Types

The starter guide for picking a pile

page 5

Underlay

Understanding underlay types and selection

Wholesaler Distribution Directory National & regional guide to distributors

Wool Fibre Page

A checklist of natural fibre characteristics

page 10

pages 16-18

page 11

Classified advertising.........................................................................page 66-67 carpets/rugs/tiles woods/laminates/smooths fibres underlay accessories/services/organisations wholesalers/distributors adhesives

Woolsafe: the carpet care guide How to protect and clean wool carpets

pages 6-7

UK manufactured Carpet Cutting Machines

WWW.CARPETCUTTINGMACHINES.CO.UK 2

THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

ISSUE 452: 5 NOVEMBER 2012 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. ISSN 2046-7338 © Mayville Publishing Co. Ltd. 2012. Every care is taken in compiling this magazine, but the proprietors assume no responsibility in the effects arising therefrom.

FlooringNews starts on page 33

The market’s going softer!

Our analysis on the latest developments revealed at Harrogate and part 2 of our detailed reports of launches at the show page 45-53

Ulster excels

Exports lead jobs boost pages 33

Christmas is coming

Crown has a present for you page 36

Flaming first

Tredaire’s fire retardent underlay pages 44

Pattern’s back in style Lano’s smart Sumatra page 42

Grand vinyl winners Flower focuses on LVT pages 58-59

Retailers are key to recycling Voice: Jane Gardner of CRUK page 62

Merry Mats! THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

Get yourself a nice little Christmas bonus with ‘impulse buy’ festive mats from The Stocklists! See page 61 for details 3

Flooring Factsheet Adhesives

THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

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. 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

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.

Tip Sheared

Level Loop

Velvet/Plush

Frieze

Random Sheared

Multi-Level Loop

Twist

Berber

Saxony

THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

Sha

Shag S

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. Europe – North America - Australia

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 November 2012

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

Vacuum clean

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

Warm water

• Scoop up or scrape off solids

• Try to identify unknown spots prior to treatment – if unsure, use solvent first

WOOLSAFE-approved carpet shampoo solution (diluted)

WOOLSAFE-approved spot remover for water-based stains

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

Absorbent paper or paper tissue and hot iron

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

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

17. Carpet re-colouring kit (Treatments used by professional carpet cleaners)

More Difficult Spots Spot or stain

Easy Spots

Try 1st Try 2nd Try 3rd

Artificially coloured drinks 3

Bleach

C/heating radiator fluid

Coffee

Spot or stain

Try 1st Try 2nd Try 3rd

Blood

Felt-tip pen

7 or 11 12

Burn/scorch marks

Furniture polish

Butter

Glue/adhesive (plastic base)10

Candle wax

Chewing gum

5 15

Ink (fountain)

Ink (ballpoint pen)

Lipstick

Cola

Milk

Cream

Nail varnish

Egg

Paint (oil)

Rust

Soot

Tar (asphalt)

Urine (fresh stain)

Urine (old stain)

Fruit juice

Gravy and sauces

Herbal tea

Metal polish

Mustard

Oil and grease

Paint (emulsion)

Shoe polish

Tea

THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

Chocolate/cocoa

Floor wax

Environmentally Aware for Superior Carpet Care www.envirodri.com

Vomit

Red wine

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.

Flooring factsheet Buying Groups Why join? www.greendalecarpets.co.uk Contact: Rob Harding Tel: 01432 852000 Fax: 01432 852005 rharding@greendalecarpets.co.uk

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

Buying groups have been a highly successful feature of the floor retailing scene in the last decade or so, giving independents the extra edge they need to compete effectively with the retail park chains. More than 1000 retailers are now members of one of the several buying groups which operate in our sector and the numbers are slowly, but steadily growing. While the benefits of bulk buying power are self-evident, the resistance to the buying group concept among nonmembers appears to be centred on fears of surrendering some control to a committee – and most particularly compromising long-established relationships and negotiated terms with current suppliers. The bottom line is the bottom line. A retailer selling across a broad range of products is likely to improve margins within a buying group – but you don’t need a leap of faith to join up. Ask the buying groups for answers...

www.smg-group.co.uk Contact: David Lewis Tel: 0118 932 3832 info@smg-group.co.uk

Associated Carpet Group www.smartercarpets.co.uk Contact: Richard Moore Tel: 01942 825520 rjmoore65@googlemail.com rmoore@smartercarpets.com

Pick the right one How to decide whether to join a buying group – and which one…

• Evaluate all buying groups as they all work differently • Talk to the main marketing contact and/or a member •

Get a list of members and call up two or three for a ‘real-world’ view

• Establish your territorial exclusivity – where’s the next nearest member of each buying group

• Ensure you understand the financial arrangements, any fees that would relate to your membership, how the bills are paid and whether your fees are refundable if it doesn’t work out. Ask the buying group for a consultation to estimate your potential savings

• Review all the extra benefits and services to see what you would actually use

• Check out the product ranges offered including the www.flooringone.co.uk Contact: Glenn Harding Tel: 0121 683 1426 glenn.harding@flooringone.co.uk

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

of the committee

www.beautifulflooring.co.uk Contact: Paul Phillips Tel: 01892 549050 paul@atbrm.com

Key benefits

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 November 2012

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 densities – 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.novostrat.com

www.carpenter.limited.uk

www.interfloor.com

www.underlay.com

THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

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 November 2012

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.

• 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 November 2012

• 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 November 2012

The Stocklists Carpet Company Directory Abingdon Flooring Adam Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W Ww Alternative Flooring Associated Weavers Tw Tu Avena Carpets Ltd Tu Ww Axwoven Carpets Ltd Ax Be Axminster Carpets Ltd Ax Be Tw Bajong Carpets NV Tu Tw W Balta Industries Tu Tw W Ww

01274 655694 01562 829966 01264 335111

Bronte Carpets Ltd 0121 550 5788 01297 32244 +32 56783250 +32 56 62 2211

Bizspoke Custom Carpets Be Tw W

020 8800 0740

+32 56 23 54 10 01924 488882

0113 380 5333

Cavalier Carpets Ltd Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww

01254 268000

Christy Carpets Tu

Classis Carpets Tu W Ww

019078 308777

01737 830301

Dan-Floor UK W

0844 9151000

Domo Floorcovering Pr Tu Tw

+32 55 335211

Drury Lane Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W

01254 296829

E & WE Carpets W

01562 825952

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

01422 374 417

01562 745030

01675 433066 0870 020 1725 +31 38 4778911

Fells Carpets Ww cummings@btinternet.com www.fellscarpets.co.uk Fetcham Furnishings Ltd Tw

01977 662211

020 8944 6220

Cormar Carpets Ltd

BMK

Edel Telenzo’s Bakerloo

01924 262525

+31 383 861 060

020 7823 3040

Brintons Ax Tu Tw W Ww

01282 862 736

Burmatex Tu

Condor Carpets BV Tu

Blenheim Carpets Ax Be Tw W Ww

Bond Worth Ltd Ax

Be Tu Tw W office@brontecarpets.co.uk www.brontecarpets.co.uk

Clarendon Carpets Tw

Belvedere Carpets

BIC Carpets Be Tw W

01562 828200 www.brockway.co.uk

01422 330261

Belvedere Carpets

Betap Tufting BV Tu Tw W

Tw W sales@brockway.co.uk

01422 431100

Beaulieu International Group Be Pr Tu Tw +32 56 67 66 11

Tu W sales@belvederecarpets.co.uk www.belvederecarpets.co.uk

Brockway Carpets Ltd

Custom Carpet Company Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww

01562 745000 0800 505055

Tu Tw W info@cormarcarpets.co.uk www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

01204 881 234

Firth Carpets & Flooring Be Pr Tu Tw W Ww

Couristan Carpets Ax Tu W Ww

800 223 6186

Craigie Carpets Be

01294 558400

Creative Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W Creatuft Carpets Tu W

Mohawk’s Cherbourg Check

Fletco Taepper A/S Tu W

0116 284 1455 +32 56 35 4444

+45 96 60 3000 01484 721529

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

01772 696 787

Brockway’s Vogue

THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

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 Wool Rich Tu Tw W

01827 831525

Master Weaver W Ww

01562 754 382

Tasibel NV Tw

Gaskell Mackay Carpets Ltd Ax Tu Tw W

01429 892525

Mayfield Carpets Tu Tw W

01706 639 866

The Grosvenor Wilton Co W Ww

01562 701456

Georgian Carpets Tu Tw W

01827 831430

MID NL Be

The Sultana Carpet Co Ax

01299 822300

The Wilton Carpet Co Ax W Ww

0845 296 8850

Thomas Witter UK Ltd Tu Tw

0870 1128318

Godfrey Hirst (GB) Ltd Tu Halbmond Teppichwerke Be Pr Tu Heckmondwike FB ITC Be Pr Tw Tu John Lanham Watts Carpets Ax Tw Ww John Evans Ltd Ax Tu Tw W Joseph Hamilton & Seaton W Kingsmead Carpets Tu Tw W

Lano NV

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

0800 526696

Modulyss Be Tu Tw Pr

01924 410544

Mohawk Europe 0032 51 424 411

marinagooch@mohawkeurope.com www.mohawkinternational.com

07850 935301 01827 831400 01827 831 424

+32 56 65 4300

Mr Tomkinson Tw Ww

Tisca Tiara Tu Ww

+41 71 791 0111

Trendy Tuft Designs Be Tu Tw W

01274 855080 02838 334433

Ulster Carpets Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww

Penthouse Carpets Tu Tw W

01706 341231

United Carpets & Beds Tw W Ww

Phoenox Textiles Pr Tu

01484 863227

Victoria Carpets Tu Tw W Ww

01562 749300

Pownall Carpets Tw W

0845 6528811

Vorwerk

08700 104484

Westex Carpets Tu

01274 861334

Roger Vanden Berghe.NV Tu Ww

0800 78 33 712

Leigh Spinners Ltd Tw

01942 673232

Shaw Home Foundations Tu

+32 56 73 57 11 0845 652 8811 0844 5611977 01675 433 501

Signature Carpets Be Tu W

01422 845075

01388 664101

TAT Carpet

07976 607657

01827 831 434

Tapibel NV Pr Tu Tw

01623 481 221

+32 56 393 386

+31 38 385 4477

01675 433031

Sans Frontieres Ltd Be Pr Tu Tw W Ww

Manx Carpets Tw W

01827 831 450

Timzo Tufting Industry BV Tu

Ossfloor UK

Lecaflor Ltd Ax Be Pr Tu Tw W Ww

Lusotufo Tu

01480 479830 01480 471304

01937 588511

+32 05685 4747

Louis de Poortere W

+32 52 457211

+49 037 421 420

Ryalux Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W

Le Tissage d'Arcade Ax Ww

+31 38 851 8700

+32 52 499600

Bronte’s stand

Weston Hammer W Whitestone Weavers Ltd Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww Wilkies Carpets Tw Woodward Grosvenor Ax Tu Tw W Ww Wool Classics Tu Ww

01709 732 666

0845 644 9090 01429 892555 0113 307 9955 0800 526696 0207 349 1560

Woven Carpets of Kidderminster W 01299 827477 Wellington Stripe from Ulster

Cormar’s Berwick

THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

Are you a Wholesaler? If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not listed here, please call Diane Martin on 01482 659396.

The Stocklists Wholesale Distribution Directory National Mercado Leeds 0113 3802900 sales@mercado.co.uk www.mercado.co.uk

Fells Carpets Goole 01977 662211 sales@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk

North East Carpet & Flooring Gateshead 0191 482 7373 gateshead@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk Fells Carpets Goole

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 Fells Carpets Goole

01977 662211 sales@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk Green Tree Distribution Stone, Staffordshire 01785 818005 kevin@greentreedistribution.co.uk Lee Floorstok Ltd Liverpool - see Floorwise p18 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

Midlands

East

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

DMS Flooring Supplies Northampton 0845 643 5601 dmsnorthampton@ dmsflooringsupplies.co.uk

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

Floorwise D & J Ltd Southam - see Floorwise p18

STS Flooring Distributors Ltd Cambridge Tel: 01954 781142 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com See page 30 for details

Green Tree Distribution Stone, Staffordshire 01785 818005 kevin@greentreedistribution.co.uk J J Wholesale & Distribution Ltd Birmingham 0121 765 4994 jjwholesale@gmx.com Mattys Wholesale Carpets Birmingham 0121 359 2001 sales@mattys.co.uk RPS Flooring Mansfield Woodhouse - see Floorwise p18 STS Flooring Distributors Watford 08454 342000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com see page 30 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 Ashmount Flooring Supplies Ltd Tottenham 0208 808 2158 sales@ashmountflooring.co.uk www.ashmountflooring.co.uk Beds Flooring Bedford 01234 341234 sales@bedsflooring.co.uk www.bedsflooring.co.uk

Woodall Brothers Ltd Shrewsbury - see Floorwise p18

THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

Are you a Wholesaler? If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not listed here, please call Diane Martin on 01482 659396.

The Stocklists Wholesale Distribution Directory Carpet & Flooring Bow 020 8525 5691 bow@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk

Kent Flooring Supplies Ltd Chatham 01634 668668 sales@kentflooring.co.uk www.kentflooring.co.uk

Carpet & Flooring Camberley 01276 672100 camberley@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk

Littner Hampton London 020 8520 8474 littnerhampton@aol.com www.littnerhamptoncarpets.co.uk

Clifford Floors Strood 01634 285900 sales@clifford.uk.com Culpeck Strood 01634 299000 sales@culpeck.uk.com Columbia Flooring Middlesex 020 8443 3322 sales@columbiaflooring.co.uk www.columbiaflooring.co.uk See page 22 for details

Potts & Ward, Woodcocks Ltd Brighton 01273 557211 pwwflooring@fastnet.co.uk www.pwwflooring.co.uk Rackhams London 020 8531 9225 sales@rackhamsltd.co.uk www.rackhamsltd.co.uk See page 28 for details Salesmark Lancing - see Floorwise p18

Solent Wholesale Carpet West Sussex 01243 774623 DMS Flooring Supplies sales@solentwholesale.co.uk Hemel Hempstead www.solentwholesale.co.uk 0845 643 5344 dmshemel@dmsflooringsupplies.co.uk See page 29 for details 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 November 2012

STS Flooring Distributors Orpington/Croydon 0845 434 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com see page 30 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 Carpet & Flooring Bristol 0117 316 0555 bristol@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk Fitwell Flooring Ltd Redruth - see Floorwise p18 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 29 for details STS Flooring Distributors Thame (Oxford) 01844 213555 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com see page 30 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 Glasgow 0141 427 8456 glasgow@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk

Headlam Scotland North Lanarkshire 01698 831 000 sales@headlamscotland.co.uk www.headlamscotland.co.uk Neil Smith Ltd Glasgow - see Floorwise p18

Wales Carpet & Flooring Bristol 0117 316 0555 bristol@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk Mattys Wholesale Carpets Birmingham 0121 359 2001 sales@mattys.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 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Dublin - see Floorwise p18 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Belfast - see Floorwise p18 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Limerick - see Floorwise p18

C. K. Davie Ltd Aberdeen - see Floorwise p18 C. K. Davie Ltd Dundee - see Floorwise p18

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 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 211162

Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 9 Dublin 10 Tel: 00353 (0)1 626 3913 Fax: 00353 (0)1 626 3960 LoCall: 1850 445 746 (ROI)

Fitwell Flooring Ltd 19 Newton Abbot, Devon Tel: 01626 835935 Fax: 01626 834334

Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 10 Limerick Tel: 00353 (0)61 227 100 Fax: 00353 (0)61 227 000 LoCall: 1850 445 745 (ROI)

Floorwise D & J Ltd 13 Southam, Warks Tel: 01926 814922 Fax: 01926 817899

Roma Flooring 15 Neath, West Glamorgan Tel: 01639 633001 Fax: 01639 646116

Floorwise (North East) 5 Ltd Birtley, County Durham Tel: 0191 410 7070 Fax: 0191 410 6116

RPS Flooring 11 Mansfield Woodhouse, Nottinghamshire Tel: 01623 624198 Fax: 01623 620931

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

Salesmark 17 Lancing, West Sussex Tel: 01903 750522 Fax: 01903 851111

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

Wessex Flooring 18 Amesbury, Wiltshire Tel: 01980 625888 Fax: 01980 676969

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

Woodall Brothers Ltd 12 Shrewsbury, Shropshire Tel: 01743 441584 Fax: 01743 441629

Mytton Flooring 14 Norwich, Norfolk Tel: 01603 624387 Fax: 01603 612888

1 2 3

4 5

6 7 10

11 12 13

18 19

16 17

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.floorwise.co.uk •• www.carpetunderlay.net www.carpetunderlay.net www.signaturewoodfloors.com www.signaturewoodfloors.com •• www.siennawoodfloors.com www.siennawoodfloors.com 18

THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

Bankffiield Mill Greenffiield road, Colne, Lancashire. BB8 9PD

Celebrating 30 Years 1982 - 2012

Any Colour There is no need to compromise on the colour of your carpet. If the colour you require is not in our standard range, simply send Brontë the colour of your choice and we will specially dye yarn to your colour to produce carpet that will match any individual colour scheme. This service is available throughout all Brontë ranges.

Any Width Brontë Carpets custom make every individual order to suit the size of your room. In any width up to 12m (40 feet) with no unsightly seams. This also means you only pay for the quantity of carpet you require, avoiding costly waste on fitting. Anything from stair runner to a room of 12m wide. No seams, no waste. This service is available on all Brontë ranges.

Tel: 01282 862736 Fax: 01282 868307 Email: office@brontecarpets.co.uk Web: brontecarpets.co.uk

Made to Plan For irregular shaped rooms such as an “L” shape or those featuring bay windows, fireplaces or alcoves, fitting a carpet normally involves costly waste and several seams which inevitably will prematurely wear and look unsightly. However, Brontë avoids these problems by making your carpet to size, with no seams, following the dimensions of the plan of your room.

Sales agentts James Hall. Area: Scotland Mobile: 07787 140136 E-mail: jameshall195@btinternet.com John Rostron. Area: North West / Cumbbria / North Wales Mobile: 07973 733208 E-mail: johntrostron@aol.com Mark Garbett. Area: South West / Avon / Wilts Mobile: 07840 664757 E-mail: mgarbett11@aol.com

THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

Niall Martin. Area: Central London / Essex / Beds / Berks / Bucks / Herts / Oxon

Mobile: 07866 735772 E-mail: niallmartin@msn.com Keith Leslie. Area: Northern & Southern Ireland Mobile: 07860 873838 E-mail: lesliekeith@hotmail.com Aldo Berettoni. Area: Yorkshire / North East / Humbberside Mobile: 07971 173560 E-mail: aldo@berettoni.freeserve.co.uk

Mark Viner. Area: East Midlands / East Anglia / Notts Staffs / Lincs / Derbyshire / Cambbs / Norfolk / Suffolk / Northants.

Mobile: 07860 733816 E-mail: mark.viner1@btinternet.com Steve Acton. Area: South East / South London Mobile: 07957 836207 E-mail: actonsta@sky.com James Thomas. Area: West Midlands (west of M1) & south Wales

Mobile: 07932 458032

The Leading Country Wide Carpet & Flooring Suppliers We can supply you with virtually any make of carpet and flooring at GUARANTEED makerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

www.columbiaflooringplc.co.uk

TRAFALGAR TRADING ESTATE JEFFREYS ROAD ENFIELD MIDDLESEX EN3 7TY

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 November 2012

Covering the country... Lighten up!

Yorkshire & North East

Our new illuminated lecterns for élegance and Satisfaction are the talk of the trade. Ask your rep for more details of our market-leading POS...

DES BEST M: 07968 828516 NORTH EAST/EAST COAST des.best@furlongflooring.co.uk

RAY ANDREW M: 07973 719801 EAST LANCS/W.YORKS ray.andrew@furlongflooring.co.uk

REG SYKES M: 07973 403450 SOUTH YORKSHIRE reg.sykes@furlongflooring.co.uk

Midlands

CHRIS ALLCOCK M: 07872 964685 NOTTS, DERBYSHIRE & LINCS chris.allcock@furlongflooring.co.uk

MIKE SHUTT M: 07970 158594 BIRMINGHAM/ STAFFORDSHIRE, SHROPSHIRE mike.shutt@furlongflooring.co.uk

MARTYN REA M: 07968 324598 LEICESTER/WARWICKSHIRE martyn.rea@furlongflooring.co.uk

Wales & South West

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

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

Wood Floor Specialist

JOHN POWERS M: 07792 477312 SALES MANAGER: BEDS, BERKS, BUCKS, HAMPS, MIDDX, NORTHANTS, OXON, W&S LONDON, SURREY, DORSET johnpowers@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

RICHARD RICHMAN M: 07791 891044 AREA SALES MANAGER: NORFOLK, SUFFOLK, CAMBS, N&E LONDON, ESSEX, KENT, SUSSEX & HERTS richardrichman@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

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

quality choice availability service price

THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

CAREFREE Carpets are distributed by

. quality and service Scotland

COLIN RICHFORD M: 07970 163372 WEST SCOTLAND colin.richford@furlongflooring.co.uk

TBA EAST SCOTLAND

North West

ALAN CHEETHAM M: 07966 263571 GREATER MANCHESTER alan.cheetham@furlongflooring.co.uk

BOB CHRISTIE M: 07980 786264 MERSEYSIDE, WIRRAL & N. WALES bob.christie@furlongflooring.co.uk

CRAIG MELLING M: 07970 269730 CUMBRIA, CHESHIRE & FYLDE COAST craig.melling@furlongflooring.co.uk

South East

PAUL LOVELL M: 07816 217549 NORFOLK, SUFFOLK & CAMBS paullovell@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

IAN ROBERTSON M: 07816 217563 E & WEST SUSSEX ianrobertson@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

TONY CONWAY M: 07791 891025 BEDS, NORTHANTS, OXON & BUCKS tonyconway@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

PETER FLETCHER M: 07816 217561 HAMPSHIRE, DORSET & SURREY (OUTSIDE M25) peterfletcher@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

London

JOHN AKIEN M: 07791 891024 S.W LONDON, SURREY (INS. M25) johnakien@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

IAN COLLACOTT M: 07816 217550 MIDDLESEX, W. LONDON, BERKSHIRE iancollacott@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

Preston Sales tel: 01772 696787 fax: 01772 311921 Newport Sales tel: 01633 283959 fax: 01633 275454 London Sales tel: 01322 628707 fax: 01322 698733 enquiries@furlongflooring.co.uk THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

DARREN SPENDIFF M: 07791 890861 KENT darrenspendiff@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

RAYMOND SMITH M: 07816 217565 ESSEX raymondsmith@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

DAREN STEDMAN M: 07816 217548 N, N W & E LONDON, HERTFORDSHIRE darenstedman@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

www.regencycarefree.co.uk 25

Tel: +44 (0) 1562 754382 Fax: +44 (0) 1562 861 074 Sales: sales@masterweaver.co.uk Info: info@masterweaver.co.uk www.masterweaver.co.uk

Introducing the UK’s newest weaver, now open in Kidderminster with high levels of stock for rapid delivery. Wilton Sandhurst

Modern carpets manufactured using traditional values

Sandhurst Range The Wilton Sandhurst range is woven with 24 beautiful and modern colours. This plain twist is a great choice for both domestic and commercial markets. • Wilton Hardtwist Cut Pile • 80% New Wool, 20% Nylon, 1458 g/m2 • 4m • Extra Heavy Wear

Contrast Range A cut and loop range weighing in at 47oz comes in 6 modern and exclusive colours. Unique contrast pattern provides this Wilton range with a vibrant and strong presence. • Wilton Cut & Loop Pile • 100% New Wool, 1594 g/m2 • 4m • Extra Heavy Wear/Heavy Commercial

Honeycomb Range This cut and loop range features in 6 natural and warm colours. Made out of 100% new wool, the bee hive type of texture our Honeycomb range adds additional warmth. • Wilton Cut &Loop Pile • 100% New Wool, 1187 g/m2 • 4m • Heavy Wear/Medium Commercial

Chequers Range A loop range weighing in at 35 oz and comes in 6 colours with a unique chequers board like pattern. 100% new wool ensures high quality texture feel.

Wilton Contrast

• Wilton Loop Pile • 100% New Wool, 1187 g/m2 • 4m • Extra Heavy Wear

Marble Planet Range This range is made of 80% new wool and 20% nylon and is ideal for commercial and heavy domestic use. It features 8 strong and passionate colours. • Axminster Cut Pile • 80% New Wool, 20% Nylon, 1255 g/m2 • 3.66m • Very HeavyWear/Medium Commercial

Seascape Surf Range Our Wilton Seascape Surf range features 6 colours and is made out of 100% New Wool, ideal for commercial as well as domestic markets. • Wilton Cut Pile • 100% New Wool, 1246 g/m2 • 4m • Very HeavyWear/Medium Commercial

Baroque Cameo Range With the 10 strong commercial colours, the medallion pattern in combination with pindots makes this range ideal for ballrooms, function rooms and public areas.

Axminster Contrast

• Axminster Cut Pile • 80% New Wool, 20% Nylon, 1356 g/m2 • 3.66m • Extra Heavy Wear/Heavy Commercial

Baroque Pindot Range The traditional pindot pattern makes this range ideal for hotel rooms and receptions. Weighing in at 40oz our Baroque Pindot range, this Axminster range has 10 strong commercial colours. • Axminster Cut Pile • 80% New Wool, 20% Nylon, 1356 g/m2 • 3.66m • Extra Heavy Wear/Heavy Commercial

Trellis Range The range features 8 soft and natural colours which makes it extremely pleasant and warm. Made in 80% New Wool and 20% Nylon for the commercial market. • Axminster Cut Pile • 80% New Wool, 20% Nylon, 1255 g/m2 • 3.66m • Very HeavyWear/Medium Commercial

Tartan Range MasterWeaver AxminsterTartan range features 6 modern and vibrant colours, combining traditional Tartan design with modern and vibrant colours. • Axminster Cut Pile • 80% New Wool, 20% Nylon, 1255 g/m2 • 3.66m • Very HeavyWear/Medium Commercial

Axminster Marble Planet

MasterWeaver LTD. Stourport Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DYl17QL. England 26

THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

In the year that price is King, Rackhams are proud to remain the King of prices!! GRAPHICS / CONTRACT GELS

TWISTS - STAIN RESIST

WILTON

Arena Endurance Sentinel

Atmosphere Briar Twist Clyde Desert Twist Deluxe 4&5m Dublin Heather Dublin Twist 2011 Easy Heathers Fairfield Supreme 4&5M Heathertwist Design Heathertwist Supreme 4&5m Helmsley Moorland Twist Pembridge Twist Rhapsody Salt ‘n’ Pepa Stain-Tex Twist 4&5M Startwist / Startwist Supreme 4&5M

Parallel Lines

NATURAL EFFECT Ancona Cashmere 4&5M Country Treasure 4&5M Challenger Berber Gold Fields Hopscotch 2012 Houndstooth Tweed Ivory Coast 2012 London Life 4&5M Promenade Rocca Rustic Treasure San Salvador 4&5M Shetland/Shetland Design 4&5M Silver State Sloane Square 4&5m

SAXONY / SHAG PILE Endeavour Half Century New Century Saxon King Somerset ‘Stay at Home’ Saxony Sweet Seduction Tennessee

Blackjack Casino Royale Champion Eclipse 2012 - Part I Eclipse 2012 - Part II Mojo 2012 Puregrip XL Supergrip II Suregrip XL Thunderball Valu Grip+

CARPET TILES

TWISTS - WOOL

CORD, NEEDLEPUNCH & ENTRANCE MATTING Bedford Gel Bolero Explorer Hippo Mat Gala Linea Magnum Mat Magnus Mat Rackcord 2012 Scorpio Supacord

VINYL / SMOOTH FLOORING

Citation Twist Discovery 4&5M Eden Twist 30/40/50 4&5M Iconic Twist 40/50 4&5M Inspire Twist 30/40 Palace Twist 50/60 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 Luxury 4&5M

VELOUR / VELVET Designers Dream

Bedford Cord Capital Plus Heuga 727 Magnesium Neutron Positron Proton Quark

Call now to receive a copy of our latest special price guide!

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.

Your chance to join the Rackhams Team!! We have a vacancy for an area manager for our active and successful North London area, the ‘home patch’! We need a vibrant, hardworking and organised sales person to manage this area and promote our products, our brand and our high service levels to an area north of the Thames within the M25. Want more details? Move quickly and call Antony Stapleton on 07881-502505

Area Sales Executives TBA London N,W, NW & E Postals, Essex & Middx (Within M25)

James White London SW Postals, Surrey (West of A24), Beds, Berks, Bucks, Herts (West of A1) 07881-502508

Paul Henson Essex (Outside M25) Cambs, Suffolk, Herts (East of A1) 07837-295379

Phil Wheeler London SE Postals, Kent, Surrey (East of A24) & Sussex 07881-502507

Anthony Stapleton Sales Director 07881-502505 / 020-8498-2845 THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

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.com Zola Park, Barnfield Drive, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 6UX.

CHECK STOCK, PLACE ORDERS AND MANAGE YOUR ACCOUNT 24/7 ALL THROUGH OUR WEBSITE Oxford, Berks, Bucks, Beds, Hants, Middlesex & Herts . . . . Ian Cardrick, i.cardrick@solentwholesale.co.uk, Sussex E & W, Surrey, South London & Kent. . . . . . . . . . . . John Robson, j.robson@solentwholesale.co.uk, Hants, Wilts, Dorset, Somerset, Gloucs, & I.O.W.. . . . . . . . . . . Adam Ayling, a.ayling@solentwholesale.co.uk, Accessary Sales and IT Specialist (All Areas). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Luke Crooks, luke@solentwholesale.co.uk, VICTORIA Castillion Celtic Heathers Crown Twist EasiCare - Full Collection Gaelic Heathers Imperial Velvet Natural Companions (Sisal, Chenille, Ridge) Options 288 Regal Twist Rustic Jewels Tudor Twist Coll LANO Bolero Campus X-treme Chiselhurst Fortuna Heather Twist Design Heather Twist Supreme Pembridge Twist Sentinel Startwist Coll BALTA Casablanca Desert Twist Deluxe Fiesta Fusion Happy Days High Flyers Highland Tweed Gala Cord-all options in stock Moorland Twist Nobility Rosemount Saxon King Shetland Shepherd Twist Stainsafe Favourite Super Wiltax Techno Twisty LUSOTUFO Celtic Horizon Mandaly Pavillion Velvet Safi Sintra Boucle Tangier Titan & Tital Diagonal Twist Berber Unique Valencia

CORMAR Apollo Berwick 40/50 Home Counties 42/50 Living Naturals Malabar Oaklands 32 Oaklands 42 Oaklands 50 Primo Choice Primo Plus Sensation BROCKWAY Amore Stripe Collection Avanti Cavendish Craftsman Elite Cresta 40/Cresta 50 Orion/Orion Major Radnor 30/Radnor 40 DOMO Absolute Luxury Briar Twist Cabaret Festival Twist Heather Twist Mountain Peaks Playground Portofino Prima Scorpio IVC Classic Limestone Comfylux Extra Expressions Fantasy Fusion Master Grip Planet Precious Metals Presto Tile Styles Ultimate Oak Ultimate Minerals Victoria ITC Belgravia Concerto Consul Heritage Collection Palace TAPIBEL Cachet Melody Nevada Reeds Sysoltex Homested/Aran/Crofter Toscana

mobile: 07973 406329 mobile: 07973 898453 mobile: 07973 406799 mobile: 07966 664379

BEAULIEU carpets Adventure Twist Athena Dublin Dublin Heathers Explorer Endurance Fashion/Gallery Grass Collection Heavy Tread Mars Motor Car Pronto Selections Sweet Homes Yucatan vinyls Celtic Stone - New Colours Chess Comfort Grip Grandioso Jazz Magnum Sherwood Oak Studio Sonata Urban laminates Essentials (previously Casa) Cottage MOHAWK CARPETS Century Collection - Century - Half Century Presidential Collection - Independence - Liberty - Freedom (4&5M) - Splendor MISCELLANEOUS CAVALIER Celebrations Country Collection Hamlet Parish and Village LEIGH SPINNERS Atlas Velour THOMAS WITTER Innovations 50oz & 60oz C&H Homestyle LVT - planks and tiles PARAGON Toccarre Carpet Tiles

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 November/December 2012. THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

NEXT DAY DELIVERY

WWW.STSFLOORING.CO.UK

NEW PRICE GUIDE SEPT 2012

08454 341000 • ORPINGTON • CROYDON • WATFORD • CAMBRIDGE • OXFORD (THAME) • 08454 342000

Did You Know? STS Flooring Distributors Ltd stock a large range

STS Goldline Stock Carpets Abbey Twist 30/40 Aston Twist Bernwood Design Bernwood Twist Bernwood Supreme Bernwood Heather Supreme Blenheim Twist 40 Blenheim Twist 50 Cherwell Cord Chislehurst Classic Berber Twist Fairfield Creation Fairfield Supreme Gladiator Supreme Harrier Felt Harrier Supreme Gel Heathdale Multicare Classic New Valley Twist Orinoco II Ravensbury Twist 32/40/50 Scala Serenity Supersava Elite Supersava Heathers Supersava Stripe Edel Telenzo Hercules Lawrence Lima Puma Balta Stock Carpets Gala Cord New Shepherd Twist 30

Lano Stock Carpets Bolero Chislehurst Fairfield Creation Fairfield Supreme Heather Twist Design Heather Twist Supreme Pembridge Twist Sapphire Scala Scala Solutions Startwist Startwist Supreme Cormar Stock Carpets Apollo Berwick 40/50 Forest Hills Living Naturals Malabar Textures Natural Berber Twist Oaklands 32/42/50 Primo Choice Primo Delight Primo Plus Primo Tweeds Primo Ultra Sensation Town & Country Beauleu International Dublin Elite Dublin Heathers Ranger

Fibre Bonded Ecocord Supacord Carpet Stock Tiles Ascot Beckenham Cheltenham Collection Clipper II Croydon Croydon Impact Heuga 727 (Interface) Keston Lafitte (Gradus) Latour (Gradus) Saturn Series Collection (Interface) Stock Underlays Blue Heaven Cirrus Cloud Nine Contract Cloud Nine Super Contract Cosi 8mm & 10mm Cumulus Durafit 500 Durafit 650 Xpress 8mm+10mm Goldtred Collection Heatflow Collection Nimbus Willow Green Roma Silver Lining Tredaire Elite Treadmore

REGIONAL MANAGER NORTHERN Rachel Sherwood 07801 762724

REGIONAL MANAGER SOUTHERN Dana Baldock 07801 762725

AREA MANAGERS NORTHERN Dave Lowman 07500 847758 North/East London, Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middlesex, Northants, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire Phaedra Duncan 07738 329714 Berkshire, Oxfordshire Steve Osman 07919 128401 Essex, Cambs, Suffolk, Norfolk

AREA MANAGERS SOUTHERN Mirka Mihulcova 07500 847566 South/West London, W Sussex, Berks, Hants, Surrey Vicky Langley 07962 646847 Surrey, W Sussex, Hants, South/West London Paul Jeffery 07717 218024 South/East London, Kent, E Sussex

THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

Tel: 01422 374417 or 01422 371226 Fax: 01422 377452 Email: sales@edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk www.edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk Unit B7 Warhurst Road, Lowfields Business Park, Elland, W. Yorkshire HX5 9DF

THEY’RE STRICTLY SUCCESSFUL! As the end of the year approaches, and competition season hits our TV screens once more, we like to review our sales and see what’s made it or stayed in our Top 10. So here it is.... The Stripes still have it Topping the list and hanging on to their lead for another year are our ever-popular stripes, the multistripe Piccadilly and the two-tone stripe Mainline, from the 100% wool Tube Collection. In 2013 both these are being treated to a bit of a makeover, with a brand new colourway and are being joined by an exciting new stripe, Hammersmith – we can’t wait! Piccadillly multi-stripe from the Tube Collection

The High Flier Coming up very fast and hitting the top three this year is the delightful Barbican, another 100% wool (a two-ply multi-level loop pile) stripe which also comes in a coordinating two-tone plain, both in wonderful earthy tones. The Young Pretenders Only launched in the middle of this year but already showing signs of huge success is our 50-50 threesome, the textured high-low loop pile Hampton Court, the plain ribbed Islington and (another) stripey Highbury. Classic Quality It’s good to see a classic top quality 100% three-ply wool carpet like Chelsea up there in the Top 10, proving that demonstrable quality and durability still sells.

Islington in ash colourway

Hello to Naomi We have a Dutch student working with us for the next six months. Naomi will be helping out on various administrative tasks as she polishes up her English (although we think she speaks it pretty well already!) before going to university in Holland next year. Welcome Naomi – we hope you enjoy it here.

We’ve moved! Have you noticed? Just a reminder that our old offices are now fully closed so we won’t be getting any more post forwarded. Please make sure you have amended ALL your records to our new address (as per the top of this page). Fortunately, our phone, fax, emails Chelsea Chelsea and website are all unchanged. THE STOCKLISTS November 2012

Contract Stars We have three 100% polypropylene contract qualities in the Top 10: the lovely Aquarius, developed with residential and care homes in mind; plus new two-tone cut pile Balmoral with a heavy duty impervious backing; and the value two-tone Taurus twist pile. The Wild Card Deservedly squeezing into the Top 10 for the first time, showing that customers want value, luxury and durability all in one – and that Edel Telenzo is becoming known for synthetic as well as wool carpets - is the lovely, super soft deep cut pile Wild Romance in an amazing choice of 15 colours.

Make the most of our Speedy Sample Service Need samples in a hurry? We are fully geared up here in our fantastic new sample department to despatch your customers’ sample requests direct to their homes straight away. We’ve got the same service set up on our website too. Surely a much better solution than giving away swatches which never somehow seem to come back...

Highbury

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 East Anglia, Bedfordshire, Cambs, Essex, Herts, Norfolk, Suffolk Jonathan Hart T: 01621 817992 M: 07889 264466 E: jonathanhart66@hotmail.co.uk West Midlands Paul Brewer T: 0121 4277117 M: 07798 745181 E: paulbrewer1@hotmail.co.uk 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

YOUR HEAD OFFICE TEAM CONTACTS Operations Manager: Lesley Inman M: 07703 337989 E: l.inman@edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk 31

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

New stands We are pleased to announce the arrival of two new in-store display stands that hold all of our collections. If you are interested in having one of these units, please contact your local sales agent or our sales office.

Jacs Designer tonal loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths. Natural Lines Super luxurious 100% Wool loop pile available in 4m and 5m widths. 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 available in 4m and 5m widths. Orlando A chunky loop quality with a thick latex backing for a luxurious feel.

Bespoke Design carpet from Hammer Carpets You may not have heard of them but Hammer Carpets in Denmark are the worlds largest manufacturer of Colortec bespoke design carpets in the world. Colortec is a state of the art tufting machine that uses computer controlled technology to manufacture any design in a maximum of 8 colours. This tried and tested manufacturing method is up to 10 times faster than Axminster and exactly replicates the appearance, unlike a printed design carpet. If you would like more details of this type of carpet and to find out how competitive and easy to use it can be then please call your Sales Agent or our Sales office who will be happy to help.

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. Mr Gary Foster Tel: 07515 283872 East Anglia, Northamptonshire. Mr Martin Lees Tel: 07522 740954 North Wales, Cumbria, Manchester, Liverpool. 32

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 November 2012

5 November 2012

FlooringNews Exports boost jobs at Ulster Ulster Carpets has recently employed 25 additional staff to meet increased demand, particularly in its export markets. The Portadownbased manufacturer also posted impressive annual financial results for the year ending 31st March 2012. Turnover rose by 13% to £55 million and operating profit before tax were up by 72% to £5 million. Ulster Carpets has been successful due to its long-term development of key export and contract markets, particularly the U.S. and Middle East as well as a continuing focus on the highly successful retail market in the UK & ROI. Commenting upon the latest recruitment drive and financial figures, Nick Coburn, Managing Director said: “We owe this result to the outstanding commitment and dedication of our employees. Our sales staff have earned us a substantial increase in market share, and to support this our staff in Portadown, England and Denmark have worked incredibly hard to deliver for our customers. “This performance is all the more remarkable given that we are competing in a global market place against mainly low cost labour production, but our enduring competitiveness keeps us ahead.”

Silky sell from Mohawk Brand new to the UK, SmartStrand Silk from Mohawk offers a level of softness never experienced before to entice homeowners with its silky smooth texture, supreme underfoot comfort and leading performance. Available on the just-launched Ultimate SmartStrand POS unit, SmartStrand Silk carpet features the latest incarnation of resilient SmartStrand fibre and so combines rapidly renewable content and innate durability with a second-to-none lavish feel. It is the only carpet of its kind to feature built-in stain and soil resistance that never wears or washes off, and can be easily cleaned with just water. SmartStrand Silk fibre rebounds quickly after impact and offers superb crushing resistance for long-lasting good looks. “At Mohawk we pride ourselves on our reputation for revolutionising carpet time and time again, and the launch of SmartStrand Silk proves that we are committed to evolving our ranges to meet the demands of modern lifestyles,” explains Howard Lindsay, RVP International Sales UK, Ireland, Iceland and South Africa. “Carpet is an investment and consumers are increasingly looking for products that are not only hardwearing, but that also feel and look luxurious. SmartStrand Silk allows retailers to tap into this desire and provide homeowners with incomparably soft and tough carpet.” SmartStrand Silk carpet is available in an array of stylish colourways including sumptuous neutral beiges and creams, rich earthy browns and on-trend grey. Housed on the Ultimate SmartStrand POS, SmartStrand silk sits alongside a diverse range of SmartStrand carpet styles, including the beautifully textured Dramatic Flair and Cascade Forest collections for seemingly unlimited choice. T 01480 479830

www.mohawkinternational.com

Whilst Ulster Carpets re-invest profits for the long-term benefit of the company, 10% of the profits are distributed amongst all employees, so that they can share tangibly in the company’s progress and development. The Chairman’s statement in the accounts also makes reference to the Company’s well-established tradition of helping the local community, and a proportion of annual profits are set aside to support those striving to make an impact on society. T 028 3833 4433 www.ulstercarpets.com

from The Stocklists

November 2012 33

News

Go’s going fast The GO2 carpet tile collection from Mohawk is living up to its name as the ‘go-to’ carpet range for specifiers, designers and contractors looking for stylish flooring solutions for time-pressed and price-conscious commercial installations. Available in stock and dispatched nationwide with fast delivery, GO2 is the ideal choice for busy projects that require fast installation but also demand an on-trend look. Comprising two designs, Mountain Plains and striated Trailblazer, GO2 tiles can be laid together to create contemporary zonal floor spaces that are more usually associated with high-cost interior design, for a lot less. In an array of eye-catching colourways, including deep blue, warm brown and fresh green, bold Mountain Plains tiles have a multi-tonal appearance and Trailblazer tiles feature dynamic streaks of colour that propel GO2 into a design-focused arena. Howard Lindsey, RVP UK, Ireland, Iceland and South Africa, Mohawk, explains, “GO2 is a handy collection for contractors to have in their repertoire. Suiting both time-precious and design-conscious projects, the speed and ease with which GO2 tiles are available means that the range is a great onestop solution for such a variety of locations. Its cost-effective nature is also a major plus point, especially as end users are demanding polished looks at a more competitive price.” T 01480 479830

www.mohawkinternational.com

Silencing Scottish students Students at the University of the West of Scotland now reside upon hardwearing acoustic flooring from Itec Contract Floors, having had a total of 4,500m2 of Silento Boticelli 698 installed in areas including 340 en-suite bedrooms in their brand new halls of residence. Renowned for its superb acoustic properties, the Silento range is ideal for multi-occupancy buildings such as these. Offering an impressive 18dB of sound insulation, Silento flooring helps to absorb the excess noise created in high-volume environments, including sound transfer between rooms and floors. It can also reduce ambient noise created by the general hustle and bustle of busy student life, such as conversations and electronic equipment. Delivering an on-trend stylish wood appearance in keeping with the modern architecture of the new halls of residence and complementing the smart furniture in the rooms, the flooring features a bushed wood grain look for an authentic appearance. Offering other fantastic performance benefits alongside its sound-deadening nature, Silento Boticelli 698 is ideal for high-impact areas due to its inherently robust quality. As Alisdhair McIndoe of Harndec Flooring explains: “Halls of residence are notoriously busy places, and also experience a high turnover of occupants year-on-year as students graduate and move on. It was therefore imperative to choose flooring that was easy to maintain, tough enough to withstand continued use and able to last for a long time.” T 08000 323 970

www.itecfloors.co.uk

Hannover enhanced Following a highly successful Domotex 2012, the organisers of the leading trade fair for carpets and floor coverings are busy enhancing the show for even more appeal. Some 1,400 companies from 60 countries will be exhibiting their latest collections in Hannover from 12 to 15 January 2013, where they will host trade visitors from more than 80 countries. 90% of Domotex visitors are flooring buyers and decision-makers, architects, interior designers and members of the skilled trades, coming to Domotex for information about the latest products and emerging trends, as well as to see business prospects from around the globe. “Only Domotex in Hannover brings the supply and demand sides of the global flooring industry together so perfectly”, explains Dr. Jochen Köckler, member of the Managing Board at Deutsche Messe. “Year after year the industry produces new trends, designs and collections, and Hannover is the first place where they can be seen by a broader international audience. Domotex is thus the most important date in everyone’s calendar in the carpet and flooring industries.’ Flooring plays a huge role in interior design, so buyers are looking for contemporary design and premium quality. As Köckler explains: “The main theme of Domotex 2013 will be Flooring Deluxe, which addresses a significant trend on the international flooring market. In short, Domotex 2013 will be putting a sharp focus on products which excel in terms of design, quality and originality.” www.domotex.de 34 November 2012

from The Stocklists

November 2012 35

News

Brockway’s bespoke exhibit Kidderminster’s Brockway Carpets has created a trio of bespoke carpets for the town’s prestigious Museum of Carpet, set to open later this month. Worth around £15,000, the lime green, medium blue and turquoise colour carpets from Brockway’s bespoke Solar range have been donated and fitted in two of the museum’s principal exhibition rooms entitled – Kidderminster and Carpets and Process and Design – and a general browsing area. The company, which has been creating quality carpets in the town since 1964, manufactured the unique shades using its new bespoke colour matching service. Bespoke Solar carpets are made of 80% pure new wool and 20% nylon in a 2-ply yarn, which together gives this deluxe carpet its unique strength. It is designed for both heavy domestic and heavy commercial use. “We are delighted to support the museum in celebrating the town’s contribution to the carpet industry,” said production director of Brockway Carpets, Nick Walley. Brockway’s bespoke colour service can match virtually any colour reference, whether it is a favourite wallpaper, paint colour chart or even a prized shoe, for minimum orders of 25 sq m. Bespoke colours are available in 4m and 5m widths. T 01562 828200 www.brockway.co.uk

Revolutionary Rosario Vorwerk is renowned for combining cutting-edge technology with beautiful aesthetics to create unusual and trend-inspiring carpet, and the new Rosario design from the revamped Fascination Collection certainly does not disappoint. Using advanced one-of-a-kind printing techniques that leave only the tips of the pile thread coloured, each individual strand of Rosario carpet is left muted except for the ends to create a unique textured appearance. Available in nine striking colours, including almost fluorescent yellow, pink and green as well as soft blue, Rosario is designed for those who crave a bold statement look. As Ian Hammond, UK director, Vorwerk Carpets explains, “Rosario is undeniably striking, and its mix of state-ofthe-art technology with bright shades will appeal to homeowners who appreciate contemporary design. It captures the imagination and proves that carpet can be exciting, fresh and suitable for everyday use.” Crafted from 100% nylon, Rosario is super-soft too and its mini-shaggy style offers luxurious underfoot comfort. It can also be transformed into a custom-made bordered rug in any size up to four metres wide and six metres long and fringed with a choice of 23 ribbed cotton, faux leather or cotton velour borders, allowing homeowners to create an individual style stamp to suit their interior. “Rosario is visually intriguing but it is also durable and easy to clean which makes it a great choice for retailers and homeowners alike,” continues Ian Hammond. “It is able to withstand high-impact use with no compromise to its good looks, making it ideal for those who want on-trend carpet that is also practical.” T 020 7096 5090

www.vorwekcarpets.co.uk

Christmas is coming at Crown Retailers are encouraged to continue collecting their points with the generous Crown Floors Loyalty Club scheme, and with a variety of brand new rewards waiting to be claimed in time for Christmas, there is no better time than the present to start accumulating. With an array of high-quality goods up for grabs, including a selection of cutting-edge electronic items from big brands such as Apple, Phillips and Sony, retailers can treat themselves this festive season by trying out the latest gadgets and gizmos. For those who are less tech-savvy, there is also an assortment of elegant homeware, activity days for the adventurous and luxury food hampers that will suit even the most discerning of tastes. As points are awarded for every square metre of carpet sold, retailers will be surprised at how quickly their points increase. With the ability to save for something extra special such as a lavish holiday, or to splurge on a range of smaller gifts, there is something to suit every retailer. As James Caldwell, sales coordinator for Crown Floors explains, “The Crown Floors Loyalty Club is our way of giving recognition to our retailers, who work hard selling our products. It’s a generous scheme with points awarded for every square metre of carpet sold, and with Christmas just around the corner, it’s a great opportunity to build up those rewards and redeem them in time for the festive period. We regularly run promotional periods too where retailers can claim even more points, and we also offer other opportunities to increase the points balance.” T 01903 866742

36 November 2012

www.crownfloorsloyaltyclub.co.uk

FlooringNews

from The Stocklists

November 2012 37

News

Luxury home on the Grange Polyflor, a leading UK manufacturer of commercial and residential vinyl flooring has had several of its products installed at Bucklesham Grange, a luxury care home in Ipswich that is part of the Hallmark Care Homes Group. A range including Polyflor Camaro and Polyflor Kudos have been used throughout the building whilst Polysafe Ultima and Hydro have been used in all restroom and kitchen areas. Jacqueline Farguson, Design Manager at Bucklesham Grange says, “We are delighted with our recent installation of Polyflor flooring. It looks fantastic and is very welcoming and comfortable for our residents whilst also remaining safe and slip resistant”. Simon James, Marketing Manager at Polyflor adds, “We have a long history of providing high-quality, design-led flooring to the care home sector and we are delighted to see this trend continuing at Bucklesham Grange”. Camaro comprises 15 wood effect finishes and four different plank sizes while the 15 stone effect tiles are divided into three vinyl tile sizes. The range also features Polyflor’s strong polyurethane surface treatment to assist ongoing maintenance and reduce life cycle cleaning costs. Polyflor has also developed a wide range of accessories to complement any flooring design and create a unique, enhanced effect. New Camaro Grouting Strips are available in five coordinating and realistic stone grout colours while four new Camaro Marquetry Strips have been designed to help create that authentic and highly desirable detailed wood floor installation. T 0161 767 2551

www.polyflor.com

Warming up hard floors Whilst carpet has been an extremely popular flooring solution in homes for many years, luxury vinyl flooring has grown rapidly in popularity and rivalling carpet as a serious contender to keep homes cosy this winter. As technology has evolved, LVT has swiftly overtaken traditional flooring solutions due to its capacity to meet the latest trends in interior design whilst also providing the most practical solution. David Bigland, MD of Moduleo design floors for UK and Eire has seen a real boost in business this winter, as people are challenging the traditional perceptions of hard floors. David comments: “The alternative to carpets used to be cold tiles or hard woods, which obviously do not always provide a warm and cosy atmosphere in the home. LVT flooring on the other hand, is ideal for keeping toes cosy. Excellent heat insulation means that LVT flooring feels warm to the touch, perfect alongside under floor heating..” LVT responds extremely well to the wear and tear of the home and as a result, can still look brand new years after being laid. Not only this, but in contrast to traditional carpet, LVT is almost effortless to clean. As there is no hiding place in LVT for dust mites or any other allergens, it is also the perfect solution for those who suffer from allergies. David continues: “The meticulous attention to detail and rugged durability of Moduleo products bring all the authenticity and elegance of wood and stone into the home, with none of the obvious drawbacks of the real thing, including durability issues and poor insulation of heat and sound. T 01332 851 500

www.moduleo.co.uk

Rugby surface tackled The home team changing rooms at The Cardiff Millennium Stadium, the home of Welsh rugby, have been kitted out with Polysafe Standard Silver Birch flooring and they have had their logo waterjet cut into the floor for added effect. Polyflor Marketing Manager Simon James says, ‘The waterjet cut logo in the floor looks fantastic and is a superb way of promoting yourself to visitors and guests. We’re delighted to have been able to provide such an outstanding floor to such a celebrated team’. Millennium Stadium Facilities Manager Darren Crossman said: “The facilities at the Millennium Stadium have to be first-class for the national squad and we’re pleased with the new flooring in Wales’ home dressing room that will also be seen by around 60,000 visitors on our official stadium tours each year.” Polyflor’s popular Polysafe Standard safety vinyl flooring collection is now available with the manufacturer’s groundbreaking Polysafe polyurethane reinforcement (PUR). Cross-linked and UV cured, Polysafe PUR is a super strength reinforcement designed to make Polysafe Standard PUR even easier to clean, provide optimum appearance and colour retention as well as improved soil release. Using a micro mop maintenance regime, chemical usage, energy intensive cleaning and water consumption are significantly reduced and life cycle maintenance costs of up to 60% are achievable over a 15 year period when compared to untreated safety flooring. T 0161 767 2551 38 November 2012

www.polyflor.com

FlooringNews

from The Stocklists

November 2012 39

News

Breath of fresh air Not only do Leoline and Avenue cushion floors bring style and quality to the home, they are now rated as having very low VOC emissions, contributing to a healthier home. Tested under rigorous German and French standards, both Leoline and Avenue cushion floors have proved that they cause no harm to occupants and can help maintain a cleaner air quality. Awarded A+ in France’s mandatory indoor air quality labelling, that considers VOC levels, both Avenue and Leoline products were recorded as having the lowest level of emissions (A+). And in Germany, a task force of public health authorities, agBB has found Avenue and Leoline floors meet the specification ‘no cushion flooring should cause any harm to the occupants of the building’.

Academy makes its mark The Quick-Step Academy is celebrating its first ever Master Installer to become TrustMark accredited after rigorous independent inspection and testing in accordance with government-validated standards of workmanship. The TrustMark scheme is the only government endorsement available for tradesmen, with a dedicated consumer website allowing consumers to search for approved workmen. The website has received over 2.5million total hits in the first 8 months of 2012, with 29,533 searches specifically for floorcovering installers, and The Quick-Step Academy is the only flooring manufacturer to have successfully completed the audit to become TrustMark approved. All fitters who have completed the Quick-Step Master Installer course are invited to register with the TrustMark scheme, and in order to become TrustMark approved, Master Installers are subject to further testing by an independent body, Independent Inspections Ltd.

Under IVC Group’s International Air Quality (IAQ) Testing Program, part of its ISO9001 Quality Management System, Avenue and Leoline cushion floors have been submitted for some of the most rigorous testing in Europe, executed by EN Notified laboratories and based on EN or ISO lab methods. Caroline Wille, product manager for both brands, says: “With consumers increasingly worried about pollution and allergies, retailers can turn towards Avenue and Leoline as an ideal choice, offering not only great style and quality, but also proven low emissions.” T +32 5665 3211

www.ivcgroup.com

As Darren Robinson, training and development manager, Quick-Step Academy, explains, “Having our first TrustMark approved installer is very exciting for the Academy, and we hope that many more of our Master Installers will be inspired to work towards TrustMark approval. It can be a very lucrative move, as installers will not only be able to offer the free two-year Quick-Step installation guarantee, but also prove to potential customers that they have been independently assessed and deemed to provide exceptional service in accordance.” The first TrustMark approved Master Installer, David Bacchus of The Wood Flooring Company in Cheadle Hulme, Stockport, said: “In today’s climate, homeowners have to be savvy about to whom they give their hard-earned cash. The days of the cowboy builder are coming to an end; consumers are looking for quality workmanship backed up with references, recommendations and warranties. T 0845 0738485

www.quick-step-academy.co.uk

Blogging on floors UK Flooring Direct has launched www.flooringinspiration.net, a dedicated blog site designed to offer homeowners up-to-the-minute style news, trends and tips from the worlds of flooring and interior decoration. Covering a range of topics spanning solid wood, engineered, vinyl, laminate, bamboo and cork flooring, www.flooringinspiration.net will bring consumers interior design inspiration that reflects the latest fashions. With guest bloggers and expertise from design professionals, the UK Flooring Direct blog is set to become a one-stop resource to help shoppers find the perfect floor to fit with their home. As Mark Beavan, head of marketing, UK Flooring Direct, explains, “With our online business model, the new blog is a logical step for us, but it will also allow us to engage with new and existing customers in a completely fresh way. Featuring a range of aspirational photography along with insider tips and tricks, the blog is a brilliant tool for us to share our knowledge with consumers. “Increasingly homeowners are using the internet as their primary research tool before making important purchases, such as flooring, so the blog will act as a great guideline for those considering UK Flooring Direct products.” T 0845 287 5623 40 November 2012

www.ukflooringdirect.co.uk

FlooringNews

NEC BIRMINGHAM 20-23 JANUARY 2013

THE UK’S DEFINITIVE FURNITURE, LIFESTYLE AND DESIGN EVENT

Save £30 - register now for your FREE ticket at www.interiorsuk.com Please quote code INT20 Trade only. No children.

News

Planet saves the planet Itec Contract Floors can now provide specifiers needing environmental evaluation with a detailed profile for its Planet, Atom and Concept collections of resilient sheet flooring. Each range has been assessed and certified by BRE on a cradle to grave lifecycle impact that covers manufacture, usage and end-of-life disposal, providing a rating for environmental performance within different building use classes. The mineral style of the Planet collection achieves the top A+ rating in education environments while Concept - available in granite, tile and wood - achieves A+ for healthcare and retail environments, along with the Atom collection. These environmental ratings can be employed as a way of judging the performance of Itec floors, while also helping to gauge the contribution towards a BREEAM rating for the overall building. “The A+ and A ratings achieved by Itec Contract Floors are testament to our commitment to reducing the environmental impact of our commercial rated floorcoverings,” comments Jason Barrett, sales manager, Itec Contract Floors. “The BRE Environmental Profile methodology has become a benchmark in environmental assessment and with Itec floors now achieving some of the best ratings available, we will now be pushing for specification in BREEAM construction projects across education, healthcare and retail sectors.” Itec Contract Floors are manufactured in Belgium to the highest standards and also meet stringent European standards for emissions quality. T 0032 5665 3211 www.itecfloors.co.uk

Carpets build on recycling 20,000 square metres of carpet used at the major recycling and waste industry exhibition at Birmingham’s NEC have been successfully recycled into new engineered construction products. Effective collaboration between Carpet Recycling UK, the industry body for recycling and re-using carpet, and all parties ensured that stand and aisle carpet from September’s RWM in partnership with CIWM event was diverted from landfill. The grey and red Sommer NP carpets were specially selected by i2i Events Group, RWM organisers, for their recyclability and extensive colour range. The carpets were laid by Melville I GES to ensure the best performance in use for the thousands of visitors to the NEC, followed by a unique recovery system supplied by their partner Green Venture UK based in nearby Solihull. After the event carpets were transferred to South Wales-based Tilon Composites, which extracted the polypropylene fibres for processing into new building products, such as scaffold boards and acoustic barriers. CRUK Director Laurance Bird said: “We are pleased to have been able to provide a ‘fitting’ end to this waste carpet that would otherwise have been destined for landfill. As composites, carpets require ingredients to be optimised for recycling at design stage. Carpet manufacturers and recyclers are increasingly coming together to create value for uplifted carpets by extracting raw materials, such as polypropylene,” he added. T 0161 440 8325

www.carpetrecyclinguk.com

Subtle Sumatra Sumatra, a brand new and sophisticated patterned Wilton carpet collection from Lano Carpets, combines stylish designs with an array of subtle hues to inject fresh, timeless style into households this season and beyond. With 16 options across a range of seven classic and contemporary designs, Sumatra is ideal for retailers looking to offer homeowners elegant and understated patterned carpet that coordinates with a host of interior schemes. Including two bestselling styles from the current Arabica & Ceylon collections as well as five completely brand new and unique designs, homeowners can choose from gentle multi-tonal patterns that will add a touch of class to any room. Highlights include soft botanical swirls and florals that are given a modern update by the collection’s refined neutral colour palette, as well as bold linear stripes that will inject a crisp look into interiors. Woven on Lano’s high-tech Wilton looms and offering a 420,000 points per square metre finish to provide exceptional pattern definition and superb colour clarity, Sumatra is incredibly hardwearing, making it a brilliant option for high-impact zones. Crafted from 100% Lanoset polypropylene two-ply yarn to offer inherent durability and fade resistance, Sumatra has an extra heavy domestic performance rating and will remain looking as good as new even after undergoing rigorous cleaning – perfect for busy homes with areas prone to spillages. Non-allergenic, mothproof and supplied with 10-year wear and stain protection warranties, Sumatra is the smart choice for homeowners looking for chic yet tough carpet that offers ultimate peace of mind. T 00800 5266 5266 42 November 2012

www.lano.com

FlooringNews

from The Stocklists

November 2012 43

News

Flaming first for Tredaire Tredaire has launched FR7, its first flame retardant underlay. This 145kg density underlay, with a 7mm thickness, is specially designed for both domestic and contract installations where flame retardancy is specified. FR7’s unique construction includes a polyester reinforcing mesh which provides excellent dimensional stability. The underlay is classified for Heavy Contract Use (BS5808:1991) and has high thermal resistance (1.93 togs). Gary Cowley, Interfloor sales director, said, “Our Tredaire PU range continues to go from strength to strength. FR7 is the first Tredaire flame retardant underlay. Demand for this product has preceeded its manufacture. We are confident that this will become a market leading product.” T 01706 238810 www.interfloor.com

Warming up for winter Floorwise’s Thermaflow Impact carpet underlay has been specially engineered to work with underfloor heating systems to ensure maximum energy efficiency and to provide warmth, comfort and performance that lasts for years. Rubber sponge Thermaflow Impact, 6.65mm thick, helps to deliver a low-tog rating even when combined with carpet to enable maximum heat flow. The ideal match for underfloor heating, it will not produce odours or degrade when exposed to high temperatures over prolonged periods of time. Suitable for high footfall areas in both residential and commercial environments, Thermaflow Impact offers premium cushion support, greater underfoot comfort and provides impact sound improvement of up to 31dB. It will absorb minor floor imperfections to ensure a smooth surface and it is quick and easy to install, making it a great choice for installers looking for a multi-functional product. “Underfloor heating used to be a rare luxury, but it is now rising in popularity, especially in the new build housing market and in refurbishment projects,” explains Richard Bailey, managing director, Floorwise. “Thermaflow will deliver the best results for carpet installations with underfloor heating, and crucially this underlay is durable enough for all areas within domestic and commercial environments.” Value-engineered to provide the best results at a competitive price, Thermaflow underlay now comes with eye-catching redesigned packaging. T 01509 673974

www.floorwise.co.uk

Distributor doubles T&R Floor Covering Distributors Ltd is set to double its stock capacity with the acquisition of an additional warehouse facility. Located opposite its existing warehouse, in Beeston near Nottingham, the new premises will also provide additional space for offices, a showroom and training facilities. The acquisition coincides with the launch of a new brand identity and website at www.trflooring.com. An independent, family-run firm, T&R is a leading distributor of flooring products, with over 35 years’ industry experience. Its comprehensive product range spans from preparatory adhesives, screeds and underlays, to fine flooring and accessories from over sixty trusted brand leaders. A comprehensive trade counter is available at its existing warehouse facility, where extensive stocks of leading flooring products and accessories are carried – and experienced staff on-hand to offer expert advice. T&R’s distribution fleet delivers throughout the UK on a standard two-day turnaround – or faster, by request. Deliveries within the European Union can also be arranged via international carriers. T 0115 925 7711 www.trflooring.com

44 November 2012

FlooringNews

HarrogateReport2 Softer, smarter – but still stripey! Part 2 of our Harrogate review by David Spragg focuses on themes and trends. What happens at Harrogate each year tells you a lot about the state of the trade - and the 2012 event was revealing both for what was on show and what wasn’t. What was noticeable this year was the absence of ‘pseudo launches’ – a phenomenon that followed the start of the recession as suppliers tried to look busy and interesting when they didn’t have any money (or confidence!) to really do much. The result was lots of re-colouring and re-badging but not a lot of ‘true new’. This year is different. Money and confidence is still in short supply but manufacturers are taking a more intelligent approach to the market – carefully selecting new products, considering the gaps and niches in their portfolio and presenting the products more skilfully. Overall, the key players report decent business this year with some optimism for the future. Right now, sales are steady and in some cases growing well. The ‘but’ is that most report that margins are still under severe pressure.

The market’s going soft! A key trend is towards ‘softness’ with a host of new products and no one wanting to be left out. The synthetic yarn people especially have been busy improving the touchy-feely finish of deeper pile saxonies. The early summer saw an agenda-setting launch of the soft Sensation from Cormar and by the time Harrogate came along, almost everyone was in on the act. Abingdon came in with Caress, Kingsmead with Silk Supreme and Mohawk with their SmartStrand Silk described as a ‘revolution of softness’. These fibres are now sufficiently robust to allow an increasing trend of letting softer carpets out of the bedroom to take their chance downstairs and, as a result, saxonies are increasing their share of the market overall. continued overleaf

Company and product reviews start on page 48.

Make an exhibition of yourself! A first for Harrogate was a focus on retail displays and the organisers had brought together talented designers with ideas to inspire better dressed windows. The topic was led by a popular seminar by retail guru Clare Rayner and a display of cleverly coordinated mood boards by Wools of New Zealand carpet designer Joanna Ramsden. But the show-stopper was the creative store displays from Halifax designers Northlight Studios with simple, effective ideas that retailers could create themselves or buy direct from the designers. Examples included the Inspiral Candy set pictured above with stripes, plains and polka dot patterns dressed with bunting to form a fun, free-standing display. Prices for a spiral are affordable, starting at £250 with discounts for multiples. Pictured below is Flights of Fancy with an array of butterflies adorned with a selection of carpet patterns.

from The Stocklists

November 2012 45

Harrogate show review Stripes stride forward Fashions come and go but stripes seeming go on and on as the salvation of the patterned carpet industry. The appetite for linear designs seems insatiable and manufacturers continue to serve up tasty ideas to extend their ranges. The combination of stripes with co-ordinated plains makes the offer event stronger. Brockway almost invented the sector with Vogue range but have added a major plains collection called Solar in 64 colours with 7 contemporary co-ordinating stripes. Edel Telenzo, a market leader in stripes with their Tube collection took the design to a new level with Hammersmith – an attractive multi-width broader stripe in new, stronger colours Abingdon have introduced Boutique, a flexible range of stripes and coodinated plains that got a great reaction at the show, while Kingsmead followed up their highly acclaimed Artwork stripe collection with an ‘Artwork Special Edition’ with 10 new eye-catching colour combinations. And Manx get in on the act with what looks like a very commercial range Royal Kingdom - a classy range of co-ordinates with 8 stripes and plains in simple, subtle and elegant colours.

Where’s wool in the mix? There may be a fundamental shift in perceptions of wool versus synthetic fibre in our market as high wool prices and improving polypropylene have forced manufacturers and retailers to re-evaluate the status quo. The rise in wool costs make have stabilised a little but the lack of certainly for the future has caused manufacturers to think again. Over the last couple of years, this has led to caution but now the major players are fighting back with new tactics. Look at the behaviour of key wool players such as Cormar, Manx and Georgian. All three have a deserved reputation for top quality wool products but have been busy building their non-wool portfolio. In the case of Cormar – with a strong polyproylene portfolio based around their Primo brand – and Manx with their highly promoted Easy Living ranges, you are seeing two companies once dominated by wool now approaching a sales situation where synthetics are well over a third of their turnover. Georgian reckon their wool look-alike Woltec (launched also with Kingsmead last year) accounts for 20% of sales while Mohawk has doubled their turnover in each of the last two years with the StrandStrand range. Fibre technology means that polypropylene is now longer the poor relation in terms of feel and performance. More and more retailers are gaining confidence that selling a high quality PP is good for their customers and so the love affair with 80/20 is waning.

“A fundamental shift in perceptions of wool as high prices and improving polypropylene have forced us to re-evaluate the status quo”

It’s worth noting that 50/50 blends continue to see innovation in a bid to provide affordable wool. Manx made their first 50/50 for the show and Georgian have come up with a very smart velvet that is a great acheivement for the blend. Colour trends: There’s a lot more colour choice in the market – and some evidence that colour is selling more strongly. Brockway and Bronte do well with their very broad colour palettes and an interesting development at Harrogate was Brockway’s entrance into the ‘any colour’ custom dyeing sector – competing with Ryalux and Bronte for this high-end market. Greys, ‘greiges’ and creamy beiges are doing well across the market at the moment and in the more vibrant tones the earthy colours are increasingly popular, especially reds. Underlay galore: A curious trend in the underlay market is that companies that were introducing entry-level ‘budget’ ranges two or three years ago have found a very healthy demand for top-end quality products, a segment led by Cloud 9’s most successful Connoiseur product last year but now joined by other suppliers. Interestingly, there were a couple of comments at Harrogate about underlay classification – has the time come for a rating scheme for performance and comfort so that the market can make sense of the increasingly crowded underlay sector? Smooth solutions: The biggest players in LVT and wood don’t seem to make it to Harrogate any more but maybe that’s the way the trade likes it as the strong, personal service offered by some of the other companies is increasingly popular. adore flooring is constantly innovating and their demos at the event prove real aisle blockers as retailers look at the range of click LVT – with wood decors now joined by stone and ceramics – and Distinctive Flooring has extended its offer across all the segments. J2 Flooring is one to watch as this new company grows in confidence and they offer a smart new LVT offer for retailers to own-brand a range of oak best-sellers.

Conclusions from Harrogate There’s no easy money to be made out there but the flooring industry is dealing with the market difficulties with imagination and flair – putting the independent retailer at the centre by listening to what’s wanted and delivering viable solutions. The flooring sector still seems to be over supplied but intelligent cost-reduction and smarter marketing has meant the anticipated casualty list of the recession has been much shorter so far than anyone imagined. Making the most of the consumers that are still buying is the name of the game and the flexibility of the product offering and a little more confidence among retailers to trade up is giving everyone just enough slice of the cake to continue. No signs of the icing on top just yet though! 46 November 2012

FlooringNews

Harrogate show review

Cavalier Cavalier have been having such a good run with Celebration Twist, a heathered roll only range they launched 6 months ago that they have decided to celebrate some more with the launch of “2nd Celebration” – a collection that adds a Burberry-style fleck to the cloth. Available in 4m roll only and a limited range of colours, this approach is deliberate. “This is a good quality 80/20 but by limiting the extent of the offer we can be more efficient and compete with synthetics on price,” says Hans Lowe. “These products are as safe as houses and strong sellers. On the synthetic side, Stainless Spice has established itself as a best-seller under it’s “Made in Lancashire” branding and Cavalier are also advertising their 10-year stain and wear warranty across all its PP ranges now. A new “range-specific” tombola matching Cavalier’s exceptional point-of-sale system completes the innovations for this Autumn. T 01254 268 000 www.cavaliercarpets.co.uk

Kersaint Cobb A leading supplier of natural floorcoverings, Kersaint Cobb extended its product portfolio at this year’s The Flooring Show 2012 with the launch of new wood and wool collections. Displayed on an eye catching and imaginative Hawaiian themed stand, the ‘Kersaint Cobb-a-cabana’ showcased brand new flooring applications. The wood offerings included the Simply Oak collection, an attractive oak wood solution at an affordable price point, in addition to the elegant Heritage Parquet wood flooring which delivers an authentically classic and refined finish for floors in decorative geometric configurations. The show also saw the launch of three new wool carpet ranges called Orient Express, Classics and Adventures. Made from 100% pure wool, these new wool carpet collections were developed to offer three distinctive textured pile options in a timeless colour palette. Visitors were also treated to a sneak preview of Kersaint Cobb’s durable Soft Bamboo collection as well as another resilient product called Panda’s Eye which is available in five different tones. T 01675 430 430 www.kersaintcobb.co.uk

H&V Carpets H&V Carpets were celebrating their second year at the show as they successfully build their new business with a versatile range of affordable carpets and a growing band of loyal retailers which now numbers some 500. H&V have a knack for launching products that look like instant best-sellers and three highly attractive ranges at Harrogate were no exception with Tosca, a robust tweed multi-roll in five colours; Opal, a smart high and low pile design in fashionable dark greys; and Torino, a new speckled twist. The team led by Johny Peeters (on the left of our picture) is shown here with the Milano Saxony range. T 0032 51 320 543

48 November 2012

FlooringNews

Vorwerk Robotic help was at hand for Ian Hammond (pictured left) to keep the Vorwerk stand at Harrogate looking tidy at all times The laser-guided Kobold VR100 works out the optimum vacuum programme for your floors and quietly gets on with the work, even when you’re out. The machine can cope with deep carpet and hardwood and will approach sills sideways to make sure nothing gets in the way. The lasers measure your room and optical sensors look out for chair legs, sleeping pets and the perils of falling down stairs. When the batteries get tired, the Kobold always makes sure it has enough energy to get back to its base for a re-charge! T 020 7096 5090 www.vorwerk-carpet.com

Masterpiece Charles Pearson of Masterpiece has made it easy for estimating and planning flooring installations with software that works the way fitters do, rather than the way computers want to – and they have managed to de-mystify the technology in a package that starts at less than £500. User-friendly features like sketching the room plans before accurate measuring and tracking endless options for every time a customer changes their mind is built in and there is a ‘novice’ mode that highlights the buttons and clicks that will get starters though their first installations. The result is saved time and more efficient planning across multiple rooms to optimize the use of roll widths – in short, better service and better margins. Modules can be added for specialist functions such as pattern carpet, tiles and LVT plus residential and contract options. Younger retailers and fitters from a generation that expects “an app for that” will not be disappointed. T 01737 355831

www.masterpiece-system.com

Brontë Brontë Carpets are making a name for themselves in shag pile - a buoyant market segment which seems to increase its appetite every year and one where Brontë can excel both in quality and colour. They weigh in with 6 different options including a sumptuous 120oz chunky carpet which can be made up to 12m wide – if you can lift it! Colour is coming back says Brontë’s Andrew Broughton with strong demand for greys, grape, damson, burgundies and gold. With 60 wool colours and 60 twist colours colours to choose from, you’d think that would answer every need but Brontë are doing well with their special dye service which accounts for nearly 20% of sales across their collection. T 01282 862736 www.brontecarpets.co.uk

from The Stocklists

November 2012 49

Harrogate show review

Melrose Melrose have decided to brighten up our lives and have a little fun with a cheerful range of children’s rugs that are vibrant, eye-catching and informative. Several of the designs teach children about the alphabet or topics such as the weather as well as the fun stuff such as a hopscotch mat and a reversible play mat with a road map on one side and a farm layout on the other. Melrose are enjoying considerable success with the range with education authorities and nurseries. For the retailer, these very inexpensive, UK-made mats create a perfect opportunity for add-on sales and impulse buys in store which look bright and exciting – and have unlimited pester-power to sell to the children of any adult in your store even if they refuse to buy a high-end broadloom! T 01274 491277 www.melrose-textile.co.uk

Merryfield Merryfield demonsrates the strength of their UK engineering expertise with a range of specialised solutions for the flooring industry. The company, based in Halifax, West Yorkshire, is best known for its four standard carpet cutting machines that have become market leaders for retailers and stores groups. But the company also designs, prototypes and builds specialised systems for manufacturers and recent projects include machines for sample making, 4m-wide vinyl and for artificial grass. “We compete with importers who don’t have the flexibility to customise their standard products or build specialised new solutions,” says Merryfield manufacturing director Richard Harper. “The right machine doing the right job can save a lot of time and money – our machines carry on working, never get tired and never take holidays!” he said. T 01422 373799 www.carpetcuttingmachines.co.uk

V4 V4 are the people who have taken the fear out of wood flooring for many retailers with a service and range that’s setting new standards in the industry. “It’s not so easy to be good at service in this industry but we are,” says Khush Khan. “We got a great comment from a retailer just recently – ‘we didn’t realise there was someone out there who could make wood flooring so easy for us’ – that’s what we do.” V4 aim to offer a full package of products, stands, installation products and profiles as a one-stop shop for retailers. On the stand floor at Harrogate was V4’s new distressed, smoked and oiled rustic oak planks which give a superb warm finish. Also attracting attention was a sleek black “carbonised” plank. T 01276 488099 www.v4woodflooring.co.uk

50 November 2012

FlooringNews

Cybergold Cybergold reckon retailers should take a fresh look at anti-slip products as a useful way to earn a little extra. “There have been issues with some of the products in this market and retailers aren’t sure which they can rely on,” says Nick Burger. “People use us because our products do work and work well – even for rugs on carpets.” The company offers its Rug Control anti-slip matting in two weights – the 300 gram version offering an extra comfort underlay feel – as well as a spray in two strengths (the stronger for hessian-backed carpets). The products, all made in High Wycombe, UK, offer excellent performance without sticky residues. T 01494 761814 www.cybergolduk.com

Instalay InstaLay offers a clean, peel and stick approach to underlay installation for LVT, wood and carpets that is proving poular with fitters. Manufactured from high quality recycled tyre rubber, InstaLay provides excellent stability as well as sound insulation and cushioning performance using a technique that avoids the mess and time of glue and gripper. Used with the adhesive side up, the product reduces sub-floor preparation and protects legacy floors such as marble or parquet. The film can be marked for measuring and alignment and is peeled back during installation to keep the job moving – the underlay can be repositioned until it is heavy-rolled for firm adhesion. Installation times can be reduced by up to 50% The 3mm thick product with low-grab adhesive was demonstrated at Harrogate with the adore range of LVT products for which it has been specially developed, adding a new dimension of performance to this class-leading LVT. T 0118 973 9560 www.instafloor.co.uk

Rhys Davies Flooring is a growing part of the business for UK logistics specialists Rhys Davies who have built up a reputation after eight years in the sector with more than 20 companies – 25 vehicles in their fleet of 18 vehicles are specially designed for carpets. “We are in this sector for the long term,” says Mark Richmond. “We started in the food sector so we know all about the need to offer fast, efficient service at the lowest cost. We have built up specialist expertise in flooring and we are in a position to make a real difference to our customer’s operations.” Rhys Davies has nine locations across the UK and their growth has meant that most areas can be serviced two or three times weekly – with the ability to deliver not only to independent retailers but direct to their fitters or even a residential address. T 029 2081 0587 www.rhysdavies.co.uk

from The Stocklists

November 2012 51

Harrogate show review

Comic Cloud 9 Relief Ball and Young announced the results of an exclusive partnership with Comic Relief and Sainsbury’s at the Harrogate show. They joined together after Red Nose Day 2011 with the aim of recycling a massive one million Red Noses and are now proud to reveal the results of their mission. The noses have been reincarnated as part Ball and Young’s award winning carpet underlays - Cloud 9. Ball and Young had no hesitation in agreeing to recycle the PU foam Red Noses, many of which had been collected from recycling points at Sainsbury’s stores nationwide as they offered a high level of quality of recyclable material. The Noses were transported to the Ball and Young factory in Corby, Northamptonshire where they were washed and prepared for recycling, before being processed. Ann Shaw, Sales Director at Ball and Young, said: “The noses were processed in our state of the art factory where they were chipped, bonded and rejuvenated to attain the quality necessary for our carpet underlay. The enthusiasm from customers and employees has been tremendous and we hope to work with Comic Relief and Sainsbury’s again for next year’s campaign.” T 01536 200502 www.underlay.com

adore adore’s highly impressive product development programme for LVT saw the launch at Harrogate of 10 smart tiles in ceramics, marble, granite and slate which are set to become best-selling in the click fitting vinyl market. “We’ve deliberately selected a range of decors that include the most popular designs as well as some that are a little more innovative – we try to be a little different,” says adore’s Paul Brady. Selling for the same price as planks, the tiles are now available from stock and can be presented on their own modern wall rack or the new adore double rack that allows planks and tiles to be sold side-by-side. “The growth in click flooring is phenomenal and after listening to what customers actually want, we are proving that we are the quality alternative for LVT and we’re getting great support from the trade,” said Paul. T 01675 433075 www.adorefloors.com

Merry Mats! 52 November 2012

Get yourself a nice little Christmas bonus with ‘impulse buy’ festive mats from The Stocklists! See page 61 for details FlooringNews

Skills Group The impact of apprenticeships is steadily growing in the UK flooring industry and is to be encouraged given the long-standing lack of skills in the sector. Skills Group are leading the charge with national schemes that take trainees and turn them into professionals through a mix of on–the-job training and residential courses. More than 80 young people have gone through their system already since its full launch last year. And the best bit is that it is better than free! Retailers can get a recruitment grant of £1,500 within this Government-funded programme while there is no cost for the apprentices themselves. Skills Group can find candidates to match local needs or retailers can nominate their own trainees – and Skills Group does all the work and admin. It’s that easy! Mike Blakeley, director, is pictured with national training coordinator Katie Court. T 0845 319 4343 www.skillsgroupuk.com/flooring

Stairrods Katy Herdman from Stairrods shows off the new Double Z profile of their new Premier Trims at the Harrogate Flooring Show 2012. Katy said 'the new design had been well received'. The innovative 'Double Z' design allows the fitter to 'dress down' the profile, which is impossible with current solid brass trims along with a groove in the base, so one side can be pealed off when fitting carpet to laminate. Katy commented, ' its just like peeling off a corned beef tin'. “There’s no need to compromise an expensive carpet installation with cheap trims,” says Stairrods’ John Raine. “This product creates a lot of satisfaction for the customer.” The Premier Trims are available in 4 different profiles: Double Z, Single, Square and Cover and nine finishes: standard finish being polished brass, antique brass, antique bronze and satin brass. Specialised finishes being satin nickel, pewter, chrome, brushed chrome, and polished nickel. The trims should be in full production in November. T 01207 591176 www.stairrods.co.uk

Oriental Weavers Oriental Weavers continue to create rugs that optimise consumer interest at prices at which retailers can maximise their margins. New designs keep coming thick and fast but the most striking range at Harrogate, pictured here with OW’s UK designer Lesley-Ann Donnell, is Paloma, a super-modern rug range in heatset polypropylene. The 19 strong designs led by carved floral patterns use dark base colours with vibrant foregrounds led by orange, lime green and purple to achieve maximum impact. Something completely different for OW is a fun range of rugs that are worth stocking for Christmas as children’s gifts – ensuring your retail visitors never leave the store empty handed. Five great options including footballs, racing cars, rockets and pink hearts are priced to sell for less than a tenner to the public – and will brighten up your shop display! T 0113 380 5330 www.owbmk.com

from The Stocklists

November 2012 53

retailers respond to industry issues

Show biz – or show down? Can industry events help you do better business? The show organisers at Harrogate tried lots of innovative new tricks to lure retailers out of their stores but turnout for most flooring trade shows remains disappointing. The buzz, networking and strong business deals done by many at the Harrogate event showed that the format has appeal – but why are most retailers still staying away? What does it take to get you out of your store and into an exhibition hall? Aren’t you worried about missing out on the latest trends and ideas at the show? Do you rely on reps to keep you up-to-date? What would you like to see industry events offer that could make a difference to your business?

Inform the industry and take the survey... The online survey takes less than four minutes and it’s anonymous and doesn’t need any form filling. Please help us inform the industry. Visit www.thestocklists.com and click on the survey banner to take part.

Flooring Forum Join our panel The Forum is the platform for retailers to respond to trade issues and inform the industry about the problems and opportunities they face on the High Street. You can join our online survey panel and you’ll be invited every two months to contribute your views it’s anonymous so you can say exactly what you think. To join the panel, visit www.thestocklists.com and click on the Online sign-up button.

54 November 2012

FlooringNews

from The Stocklists

November 2012 55

Greendale 50th anniversary

Celebrating success since the sixties!

Can you have too much of a good thing! Here are four pictures of The Stocklists editor Diane Martin - with the Greendale trophy winners. From top to bottom: Brian Webb of Mowbray Carpets, Michael de Mellow of Waterlooville Carpets, Darren Draper of Drapers Carpets and Edward Wilson, chairman of Ulster Carpets.

Greendale Carpets & Floorings, the leading flooring buying group, recently celebrated its 50th Anniversary with a supplier Exhibition and Gala Dinner. Held at The Hinckley Island Hotel, the exhibition featured 50 of the group’s top suppliers across all flooring and related sectors showing their products to the Greendale members. The show included a number of new initiatives, including a range of made to order exclusive carpets, as well as more Greendale branded products in carpets, rugs and hard flooring. The group has 122 members with 160 shops, and a large number were in attendance. In the evening 250 members, suppliers and guests including former directors had a dinner drinks reception kindly sponsored by Wools of New Zealand, and then sat down to a four course dinner followed by an awards ceremony. This year the trophies were presented by The Stocklists editor Diane Martin and were as follows: Top Supporting Member: Top Supporting Member: Most Improved Member:

(Multi-branch): Mowbray Carpet Services from North London (Single-branch): Waterlooville Carpets from Petersfield Drapers Carpets from Whitby

The Supplier of the Year award went to Ulster Carpet Mills in recognition of continued outstanding support for the group and its members, and was collected by Edward Wilson the company’s Chairman. The group then raffled a large number of prizes which had been donated by suppliers including a 50” 3D Plasma television kindly presented by Thomas Witter’s. The event raised £2500 with proceeds split between FIT (the industry’s own charity), Macmillan Cancer Support and the April Jones Fund. The evening concluded with a Las Vegas Fun Casino event at which guests gambled with tokens to the music of the Ratpack, with the top three winners receiving prizes. “It is pleasing to see so many members and suppliers having a good time” said Rob Harding, Greendale’s Chief Executive “there has been a very positive atmosphere all day and we look forward to another 50 years of success for the group”. T 01432 852000

www.greendalecarpets.co.uk

Merry Mats! 56 November 2012

Get yourself a nice little Christmas bonus with ‘impulse buy’ festive mats from The Stocklists! See page 61 for details

FlooringNews

from The Stocklists

November 2012 57

Flower on Flooring News News Grand vinyl winners Vinyl flooring continues to provide an attractive purchase option for consumers, due to the diversity of the product and its ability to be used in a range of settings, including both commercial and domestic locations. As with any popular product, the industry has a number of reputable suppliers to satisfy the demands of flooring customers. David Clouting, for example, provides a different proposition to other flooring suppliers, as the company has a highly diverse offering that also incorporates edgebanding and surface materials, including PVC foils and interior films, for use in a wide variety of settings. It has formed a highly effective working partnership with the LG corporation, with close cooperation between the two ensuring that its surface designs reflect the latest trends. The vinyl designs proving most popular with commercial flooring customers of the David Clouting collection are Sensation Pine, Priory Paulownia, Charcoal Slate, Badda Bing Lime and Badda Bong Red, the company states. Francis Debrabandere, IVC Group commercial director, describes the Avenue brand as providing trend and fashion-focused floors, compared to its mainstream Leoline. “It really explores the potential of cushion flooring, with our designers finding new ways to bring home flooring that really stands out, both in terms of aesthetics and performance.

Priory Paulownia from the David Clouting collection

Avenue Stripes from the Bubblegum & Liquorice Collecton

“Our fastest selling design for 2012 is not a wood or stone effect floor, it is instead a bold multi-coloured pinstripe design that shows exactly just how versatile cushion flooring is. Part of the highly coloured Bubblegum & Liquorice collection, Stripes joins the brightly coloured Dots design, as well as the striking chequerboard of Almeria and the paint splatter of Artesia for a collection that is all about fun and looking at the floor a little differently.” The design's success proves that consumers are looking for creative and bold designs, says Mr Debrabandere. “I would encourage retailers to check out collections such as Bubblegum & Liquorice, so that they can be prepared for those more unusual requests!” he concludes. J2 Flooring comments that every luxury vinyl flooring sales professional knows a mid coloured oak effect floor is the biggest seller. Its HS01 Warm Oak is just that product, says the company: rich, golden mid coloured wood. However, it also sees increasing sales for darker oak shades, such as its HS04 English Oak and HS03 Vintage Oak. These provide a depth of luxury and sophistication and this, coupled with J2's handscraped, distressed effect design floor, is one of the reasons for a surge in sales on these products. The Rustic Textures Collection is the company's latest range, containing three popular decors, from the ever popular Rustic Oak RT01, to the darker, contemporary RT03 Brushed Walnut, offered at competitive prices.

58 November 2012

FlooringNews

by Dennis Flower

David Bigland, Moduleo UK and Eire managing director, says neutral and natural flooring finishes are enjoying growing popularity. “Beech finishes are decreasing in popularity whilst oak flooring is on the increase. Generally speaking, natural colours including blacks, greys and earthy tones remain extremely popular for flooring,” he says. There is also a move across the industry towards wider planks for wooden floors and larger tiles for tiled solutions, creating the illusion of space in the home. “People are always looking for the most durable solution available – another area in which Moduleo LVT flooring excels,” he continues. With people reluctant to move home, the emphasis is on a long-lasting and stylish solution that is easy to maintain. “As key producers of luxury vinyl flooring in the UK, all of our products have been manufactured to have a natural, textured appearance and this has proven extremely popular, especially our stone, ceramic and wood style products,” Mr Bigland concludes. Kenton Floors says its Vusta Vitesse propels design flooring into a new era. Its five colours provide attractive flooring that is easy to maintain, with adhesive-free installation. It is supplied with a special magnetic underlay to form a floating floor which eliminates the hassle of a complicated installation. Vitesse is easily moved or replaced and reduces painstaking subfloor preparation, although the floor must still be flat, clean and dry. The magnetic underlay holds each plank firmly in place and acts as a damp proof membrane, with no mechanical locking system required, and providing an adaptable and easily maintained flooring solution, the company states. J2 knows that oak is still the choice of UK consumers

Moduleo’s Country Oak enjoys increasing popularity

With shades ranging from contemporary slate to sandstone, Cavalio says its Projectline and Conceptline ranges of luxury vinyl floor coverings are opening up an array of attractive designs. Projectline is the newest collection and offers 30 harmonised stone and wood effects, combining the fascination of natural materials with the advantages of a technically well-engineered vinyl floor covering. The company states that its products are suited to any contemporary living space. It further explains its Conceptline collection is ideal for the modern commercial environment. From Scottish slate to natural maple, Conceptline offers a range of colours and textures that will suit any theme or decorative style, says Cavalio. Following a relaunch in 2011, Forbo Flooring reports that its Novilon vinyl collection continues to be popular with consumers. Top selling colourways include classic wood effects in traditional, dark colours and modern slate tile effects – both of which feature widely across the Nova Wood, Nova Tile and Viva collections. Created for modern living, the new range designs saw the introduction of more rustic woods, reflecting the trend towards worn and aged materials, while tile effects have been up-scaled to create a sense of space suited to open plan living. Known for its high end hardwearing finish, Novilon features Diamond Seal, a protective finish that guards against scuffs and scratches; Aquagrip Forbo’s slip resistant technology; NoviClean a top layer treatment for easy cleaning; and up to a 20 year guarantee.

For more information: Avenue Floors David Clouting J2 Flooring Moduleo

from The Stocklists

T 0032 5665 3211 T 0843 289 2252 T 01704 536421

www.avenuefloors.com www.davidclouting.co.uk www.j2flooring.com www.moduleo.co.uk

November 2012 59

The British Wool column Success for Wool Week Wool Week was celebrated right across the UK last month with a mighty push to ensure that real wool in all its forms was given high profile. The event now in its third year in the UK has succeeded in bringing all layers of the wool world together so that fashion, home furnishings and flooring can be promoted alongside the knitter and artisan sectors. “It is the cumulative effort that makes the impact,” John Thorley, Chairman of the Campaign for Wool said. “We have so many strands to the wool story and each area is important as successful businesses thrive in them all.”

Carpet stores choose sheep for Wool Week Carpet retailers are warming to the idea of the Wool Week concept, “I think many are realising it gives them something to hang their hat on,” Tim Booth, product development manager of the British Wool Marketing Board said. “We had a number of enquiries from retailers that wanted to create promotional displays for the event and this is great because essentially that is how the Campaign for Wool works.” Sheep seem to be the number one star of the showroom activity – the humble rural creature is rolled out everywhere over the seven days including some of London’s top stores and in York it was no different. Style Carpets of York placed a bright green sheep in his window to highlight the Wool Week promotion and it certainly created an eyecatching feature!

British Wool is still a big winner in the UK – the wool flag knitted with wool from over 6 different British sheep breeds.

In addition, he had the Carpet Foundation’s Campaign for Wool display within the shop and is clearly keen to make a push on quality 80/20 wool ranges.

Flying the British Wool flag The amazing versatility of wool is on display in Covent Garden within two cars – one older, a 1926 three-litre Sunbeam, and the other a Swiss-made concept car called iChange, the ultimate electric sports car, capable of accelerating to 100km/h in about four seconds. Pure wool was selected for the greater part of the interior in both cars as it offers a considerably greater functionality than classical synthetics and, in terms of manufacturing and disposal its environmental characteristics are immensely superior even to those of cotton. Clearly both will have broad appeal and will wow the visitors to the Covent Garden Plaza with their dynamic style!

Green sheep - was at the centre of Wool Week carpet promotions in York

Interior Designers choose wool At Europe’s largest centre for interior design – Chelsea Harbour Design Centre’s team had gone all out on the wool theme and even had a Where’s Woolly sheep leading the way to their multiple interior showrooms. Presenting three room sets each standing under its own pitched roof, it featured carpet, rugs, upholstery, cushions and throws. There was even a very smart chair upholstered in flat weave carpet! “The effort of the team at Chelsea Harbour, which used an interior stylist to pull together their showcase, is part of a programme for interiors that ensures we achieve high profile with some of the major influencers for trends in the industry,” Bridgette Kelly of the Campaign for Wool said.

Design Centre Chelsea Harbour has wool in all directions within their centre in London.

60 November 2012

“We need to ensure that these styles will ripple through publications and become a look that people want to emulate. The three different themes show the versatility of wool to meet design solutions from the high end townhouse to the country cottage and all above and in between.”

FlooringNews

The Stocklists Readers’ Xmas Offer

Merry Mats!

Don’t let anyone leave your store without a festive mat and fill your stocking with a little extra revenue this Christmas from The Stocklists.

£2.99 each. Retail at up to £10. • 100% nylon. • Machine washable. • 0.4m x 0.6m • Sold in packs of 10 for £29.90 + VAT • 2 of each design per pack Order now! david@thestocklists.com telephone 01482 659396 (inc. credit card sales) fax 01845 576109

from The Stocklists

November 2012 61

Voice of the Trade Jane Gardner Manager, Carpet Recycling UK and Recofloor What do you expect the % of landfill diversion to be in 5 years’ time? It should be close to 40% by then as people, in general, are aware of the need to recycle their flooring waste where possible, and are keen to do so.

Are small businesses ever really altruistic about the environment or does there have to be a financial incentive? There have to be commercially viable solutions – altruism alone is not sufficient.

What is the ultimate target that can reasonably be achieved? In my opinion, between 50 and 70% seems reasonable, based on experience with other materials. Obviously, this would vary by area according to the facilities provided locally.

What does a retailer gain financially from recycling? In most cases retailers should be able to save on disposal cost to landfill. Landfill tax is set to rise by £8/tonne every April until at least 2014/2015. Currently the tax alone is £64/tonne. The savings that can be made by retailers will increase as the cost of sending material to landfill increases. And, of course, their recycling efforts will generate goodwill among their customers who, increasingly, want to see carpet waste disposed of responsibly.

What % of carpets is currently recyclable? Most carpets can be recycled. The limitation is the ability to recover the material as well as the capacity for recycling, which still needs to be developed. Waste carpet is emerging as a viable raw material resource that can be recycled or reused in a variety of novel ways, such as new flooring products, construction products and even energy generation. Carpet Recycling UK continues to deliver exciting breakthroughs in new markets and industries, so watch this space! What % of vinyl flooring products is currently recyclable? Similarly, most vinyl flooring products can be recycled and Recofloor, the UK’s first vinyl flooring scheme, is at the forefront of driving up volumes for recycling. The scheme, founded by Altro and Polyflor, recently recycled its 1,000th tonne – an important milestone in its three-year history. Vinyl flooring waste can be recycled back into new flooring products, as well as traffic management equipment, such as cones and sign bases. Are manufacturers moving quickly enough on this issue? Well, all members of Carpet Recycling UK and Recofloor certainly are! CRUK now has 75 members and this figure is growing year on year as more people recognise the genuine opportunities opening up for recycling or reusing waste carpet and carpet tiles. Is the growth in recycling held back more by lack of interest, awareness or resources? While the interest is certainly there, it’s fair to say that the growth in recycling is held back by lack of resources and also lack of outlets. However, CRUK is attracting entrepreneurial investors who are developing interesting new applications for waste carpet and 32 outlets around the UK now accept this material for energy recovery, recycling and reuse. In 2011, the UK’s carpet recycling rate was 16.5% and our aim is to hit 25% by 2015, which we think is achievable. 62 November 2012

Has the recession made consumers less interested in the environment? No it hasn’t. If anything the recession has made consumers more aware of the limited resources available and the need to save resources and reuse them if at all possible.

Landfill tax is set to rise by £8/tonne every April until at least 2014/2015 Are retailers more important than consumers in making recycling work? To some extent they are. Retailers have the capability to exercise their producer responsibility by collecting the material from consumers and bulking it up. They can really make recycling happen.

“

Do enough people care about recycling in UK flooring? I would say that interest and engagement has increased significantly in the last two years, thanks to the efforts of Carpet Recycling UK and Recofloor in developing the infrastructure across their entire supply chains to recycle and reuse waste carpet and vinyl flooring materials.

Why has recycling taken so long to get established for flooring in the UK? The main reasons are: Carpet Recycling UK was not around until 2008; flooring is quite challenging to collect as it arises over a large geographical areas in small volumes and the key drivers such as landfill tax increases were not in place. Which product types would you like to see grow to aid recycling? In terms of carpets, pure products made from one material type are easier to recycle, so pure polypropylene carpets or pure wool carpets would help to make a difference.

Which product groups are the most difficult to recycle? Blended products are the most difficult to recycle due to the fact that different materials have to be extracted during reprocessing. What’s the one thing you would most like the industry to change for the better? The entire flooring supply chain needs to continue to work together to fulfil their producer responsibility and make recycling happen.

FlooringNews

Business News

All change at Victoria

United revolts on rents

The bitter boardroom battle at Victoria Carpets took a decisive turn at the beginning of October with ‘rebel’ shareholders voting out chairwoman Katherine Innes and director David Garman

Troubled UK flooring franchise United Carpets & Beds has used a controversial financial technique in a bid to rescue its business by dumping high-cost rental contracts.

In comes founding family member Alexander Anton, new executive chairman Geoff Wilding and new director Andrew Harrison after two thirds of shareholders backed their appointment.

The company has placed its main subsidiary United Carpets (Northern) Limited, which holds 72 shops across the UK, into administration and then straight away bought back the majority of its assets and all the shops.

The vote follows an acrid six-month boardroom battle that started in March. Mr Anton and Mr Wilding – with the support of Swiss hedge fund New Fortress Finance holding 18% of Victoria, and several members of the Anton family – formed a party to replace the Kidderminster-based carpet maker’s board citing historic poor performance.

This ‘pre-pack’ administration allows United to rip up all its rental agreements with landlords and the debt connected to the subsidiary, which amounted to £9.7m according to the most recent accounts on Companies House. United now plans to renegotiate the shop leases with landlords in the knowledge that if property owners do not agree to cut payments then it can simply walk away from the shop.

They brought in Sir Bryan Nicholson, former head of the CBI, to act as a nonexecutive, and businesswoman Ms Innes Ker, who became chairwoman. In August Sir Bryan, along with Mr Anton and Mr Wilding resigned after Ms Innes Ker rejected a proposed incentive plan that could, if it had gone through, have paid the trio half of all the value created for shareholders above 300p a share. Ms Innes Ker said the plan was “wholly inappropriate” for a small public company. At an explosive annual shareholder meeting that month, a majority of shareholders voted all the directors off the board, except Ms Innes Ker. This latest twist puts Alexander Anton back on the board - the great-grandson of one the company’s founders, he was chairman of Victoria Carpets from 2007 to 2010 as well as holding non-executive roles on the board. Mr Anton has said he is committed to driving forward the company’s performance. “We want to grow the business and increase its profitability,” he said.

from The Stocklists

United employs 420 staff. Although those jobs have been saved by the pre-pack, the threat of closure still hangs over a number of stores. United’s most recent published group results say the company is profitable and has no bank borrowings. However, in August shares in United were suspended after the company warned of a slowdown in trading. In a statement, United said: “The appointment of the joint administrators followed a review of the business which concluded that without substantial rent reductions a number of the corporate and franchised stores would be unable to continue to trade. Efforts to agree reductions with landlords were not successful.”

November 2012 63

News

UK Flooring appoints MD

New boss at Balta Hendrik Deruyck now heads Balta Group, a major European producer of floor coverings. He replaces former CEO Jules Noten, who left the company in August to pursue new challenges. With a 25 year service record, Hendrik Deruyck is very well acquainted with the Balta Group. He contributed to the growth and knows the company, its employees and the industry through and through. He worked at Arthur Anderson as a Senior Auditor before joining Balta Group as financial and administrative director of the ITC department and further developed his skills in planning and production, and in 1984 he became the CEO of the company. Finally, in 1997, he established the IVC department. In 2001, Mr. Deruyck left Balta Group and bought into Jaritex bedding where he achieved good results. After this successful turn around, he sold his share in the company. Hendrik Deruyck is pleased to be returning to the company where he started his career at 25 years of age and says, "This was not exactly in my plans when I left the company in 2001 to pursue other interests. “However, since I feel a close, personal involvement with the company, I welcome this new career direction with open arms. My task will consist of safely guiding the company through the turbulent times the carpet industry is experiencing today caused by uncertain economic conditions and rising competition from low wage countries." T +32 5662 2211

www.baltagroup.com

UK Flooring Direct has announced that Tim Brennan, previously retail and ecommerce director, has been promoted to managing director with immediate effect. Tim takes over from founder and owner Jason Ashby, who will take up the role of chairman. While remaining active within the company, Jason will re-direct his efforts into new areas of the business. Tim will utilise his extensive knowledge and experience of the retail sector across both FMCG and consumer durable goods in the position of managing director at UK Flooring Direct. After a varied and in-depth career spanning almost 20 years at DSG International, including store level and regional management as well as buying and marketing responsibilities, Tim was promoted to head of ecommerce trading within the organisation, responsible for driving sales of the online channels across the Currys, Dixons and PCWorld groups. After a spell as retail and multichannel director at Multiyork Furniture Ltd, Tim joined UK Flooring Direct in May 2012. “This is an exciting time for ust and I am confident that Tim will drive our brand forward into new territories,” comments Jason Ashby, founder, UK Flooring Direct. “Since arriving at UK Flooring Direct, Tim has demonstrated a wide-ranging skill base that has helped continue the fantastic growth the company has seen since its launch just five years ago. Tim’s appointment will also allow me to explore other opportunities outside of the UK Flooring Direct brand.” Tim Brennan added: “I have a strong team behind me and I am keen to continue our incredible expansion that has so far seen us listed in the Sunday Times Virgin Fastrack 100 as one of the fastest growing retailers in both 2010 and 2011.” T 0844 327 0000

www.ukflooringdirect.co.uk

TacFast builds team TacFast Systems International has continued its commitment to cementing its reputation in the European flooring industry and beyond with the appointment of two first-class sales professionals with 40 years of combined experience in the specification, design and flooring sectors between them. Graham Fellows assumes responsibility for running the Middle Eastern, African and European regions and brings almost 20 years experience in overseas flooring sales to the team. Having previously held the position of Regional Manager for Middle East & Africa for Brintons Carpets Ltd, Graham has in-depth knowledge of these markets and will use his experience of developing new business leads. Maria Guy brings over 20 years of experience in senior sales positions with a variety of major flooring manufacturers throughout the UK, and assumes the position of Regional Sales Manager at TacFast Systems International. Having enjoyed previous success within the specification market, Maria’s extensive experience of channel development will help to ensure that TacFast’s floor installation system will reach a range of specialist contractors and specifiers. “The appointment of Graham Fellows and Maria Guy marks an exciting time in terms of our development into new markets,” explains Jonathan Stone, CCO, TacFast Systems International. “With proven success in the USA, it is now time to bring our innovative floor installation system to the attention of manufacturers, contractors and specifiers across a whole host of regions including Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and Graham and Maria have all the experience required to ensure that this next stage of our growth is successful.” Featuring a unique LocPlate disc and plate system that sits above the subfloor and a hook and loop fastening system that rapidly attaches the floorcovering to the LocPlate surface, the TacFast installation system works with a spectrum of different flooring including wood and laminate planks, carpet tiles, ceramics, natural stone and LVT. Removing the need for extensive subfloor preparation, adhesives, DPMs or levellers, TacFast keeps costs down and saves time. T 01527 919891

64 November 2012

www.tacfast.com

FlooringNews

News

Cavalier stars at the Palladium Cavalier Carpets have recently supplied luxurious carpet to the world renowned London Palladium Theatre, for the latest stage of a long term refurbishment programme for their prestigious front of house hospitality areas. The Palladium, which is part of the ‘Really Useful Theatres Group’ founded by Andrew Lloyd Webber which own and operate seven theatres in London’s West End, many of which can boast to have Cavalier carpet fitted. Working with interior designers at architects RHWL, the Cavalier design team developed a flooring scheme which uses plush 10 row axminster in a pindot design with a matching border, together with a co-ordinating plain 55oz wilton twist. In total Cavalier has supplied nearly 1200 square metres of carpet which have been used as part of the transformation of the new function rooms, stairways and the Cinderella and Variety bars. T 01254 268 000 www.cavaliercarpets.co.uk

New WWW at WNZ Wools of New Zealand have launched a new consumer website for Laneve. UK centric, it is contemporary in look and feel, easy to navigate and visually appealing. All UK retail partners get listed on the site and traffic driving activity will be undertaken to boost visitor numbers and to direct consumers into Laneve partner retailers. The site tells the whole Laneve story and explains the integrity behind certified products. It also explains the features and benefits of living with wool, has a “get-inspired” gallery and shows what Wools of New Zealand is doing to protect the planet under the banner of “Wool for a better world”. Attractive room set photography from partner manufacturers serves to add to the appeal. As environmental issues and concerns continue to dominate the consumer landscape, the launch is timely and reinforces Wools of New Zealand’s commitment to 100% sustainably produced wool. Commenting on the introduction, Steven Parsons said: “The site is designed to be visually exciting and to have ‘consumer’ appeal and resonance. Our aim is simple – to get consumers to buy sumptuous interior textiles made from the highest quality, sustainable, Laneve wools. It promotes excellence in colour, design, sustainability and customer service and actively seeks to increase footfall for our retail partners.” Laneve certified carpets and textiles are made from 100% sustainably produced New Zealand wool with every product being traceable back to the very farms that grew the wool. www.laneve.co.uk

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

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

from The Stocklists

Fill out a form for five minutes and we’ll have a good-looking flooring industry website online for you within 5 days. Then you can update it, add to it or ignore it for ever! Flooring stores don’t generally need anything too fancy – 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. Contact David for info: davidspragg@thestocklists.com

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Stocklists Classified The

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SITUATIONS VACANT

Four Sales Representatives Earnings circa £40,000 - £45,000 + on target bonus Cormar Carpets is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of tufted carpets, supplying stylish, quality carpets to the retail, contract and wholesale trade throughout the UK. Despite the economic difficulties, Cormar has continued to expand and as a consequence requires an additional four sales representatives to cover the Scottish Borders / North Wales / M6 Corridor (Crewe – Birmingham) / Devon & Cornwall. We are looking for enthusiastic and committed individuals with the ability to realise the full potential of these already established areas. Knowledge of the carpet trade is not essential, however, previous sales experience is required as applicants must be able to demonstrate a proven successful sales record.

News restore professionalflooring &furnituresolutions repair replace A division of Cavalier Insurance, we provide support to Insurance Companies, handling their furniture & carpet claims, as well as supporting the manufacturing process of Cavalier Carpets & a wide range of other manufacturers. We currently employ more than 200 staff & as we continue to grow we wish to recruit a further substantial number of qualified floorcoverings estimators & surveyors to join our established network service team. As one of our professional Network Inspectors you will be working in the clients homes providing specialist restoration, spot/stain removal & remedial repairs as well as an impartial validation & in the event of replacement, the offer of on site selection of flooring from our Basket of Products. As such you should possess good communication, written & IT skills, have a well kept appearance, & the ability to manage customers expectations. In addition to an excellent salary package we offer a company vehicle, the latest equipment & solutions, full benefits & uniforms, as well as full training required to complete your job.

Send your C.V. with a covering letter to: Andrew Taylor, Cavalier Insurance, Dixon Street, Thompson Street Ind. Est. Blackburn, Lancashire BB2 1TX Telephone: 01254 588344

Town Carpets of Enfield are looking for

An above average salary and benefits package is available for the successful applicants, including basic salary plus commission on all sales, company car, and pension scheme.

SALES PERSON/ESTIMATOR

Please send CV and hand written covering letter summarising your relevant skills and experience for the attention of Carla Grant, HR Manager, Cormar Carpets, Brookhouse Mill, Greenmount, Bury, BL8 4HR. Closing date is Friday 16th November

• Experience essential • Local family business • • Competitive salary • Applications to: towncarpets@xln.co.uk 020 8366 4319

66 November 2012

FlooringNews

Stocklists Classified The

SITUATIONS VACANT

Designer Contracts www.designercontracts.com Email: recruitment@designercontracts.com

Market Leading suppliers of floor covering to the House Building Industry.

We require Fitters for laying: • Carpet Domestic • Vinyl • Amtico/Karndean • Laminate • Contract Flooring • Cap & Cove • Communal Area

Two Sales Managers required News Beauflor, a division of the Beaulieu group, one of Europe’s foremost companies in floorcoverings manufacture. Beauflor has the world’s first 5m wide cushioned vinyl manufacturing facility.

A unique opportunity has arisen for two Sales Managers to be appointed to sell Beauflor brand leading cushioned vinyl products along with their unique Luxury Vinyl Tile collection. The successful candidates must have the skills and qualifications to communicate and sell at all levels within the UK flooring industry. They will also have a proven track record of sales success in this marketplace and have the commercial ability to help build Beauflor into the UK’s leading decorative flooring provider. Of particular importance will be your presentation skills, internal communications, informing others, verbal communication, closing skills, motivation for sales, sales planning, territory management, prospecting skills, persistence, and meeting sales goals. The two sales territories in question are, A, Scotland & Ireland and B, The North of England & Wales.

Also for: • Curtain Fitters We are looking for good quality fitters for most of our 12 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 Thames Valley Yorkshire/Lincolnshire South West including Devon & Cornwall

If you do not like travel and time away from home, this will not be the job for you. A competitive salary and reward structure based on experience, achievement and qualifications along with key benefits will be commensurate with these important positions. If you think you have the skills and talent to be successful in one of these senior positions, please reply in writing enclosing your full and detailed CV along with why you think you are the person that we should invite to join our team. Closing date: 23rd November 2012 Contact details: BIG Floorcoverings NV, FAO Alan Teague, Rijksweg 442, 8710 Wielsbeke, Belgium

Interested? Please phone 01246 599693 for details of your closest regional office and to arrange a local meeting.

FOR SALE

5m HEL Portamaster cutting table 240v Model - £4000 For further details call: 01536 762697

Carpets requires agents AGENTS: Saif for rugs and home furnishing. Please email CV to eram@saifcarpets.co.uk www.saifcarpets.com www.saifhome.com UNDER RUGS

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Selected Rug and Matting Ltd 020 7407 8471 - srmlondon@aol.com from The Stocklists

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

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