Interiors Monthly June 2023

High fashion

Karl Lagerfeld

Primo Ultra by

Stain resistant and bleach cleanable, Primo Ultra has been a firm favourite in family homes for over 10 years, now re-launched in a range of heather and plain shades

Will The Flooring Store be able to maintain its differentiation from Carpetright when it is at John Lewis?

The decision by John Lewis to outsource its fitted flooring departments posed the questions of how underperforming they have been if it thinks it’ll be better getting The Flooring Store to do it and how has it got to this point? The chain has outsourced its beauty and fitted furniture offering, so it’s nothing new for John Lewis but it is for TFS.

Nestware has been keen to stress TFS is independently managed, but it’ll be relying on Carpetright’s systems and pool of fitters. Can the expanded TFS maintain its separation from Carpetright? Do staff tell someone in search of a rug to buy at John Lewis or Carpetright? And what of furniture at the department store: will that go the same way?

One thing that shone through at Flanders Flooring Days was the push towards recycling, be it using recycled materials or being able to recycle the flooring and use it as flooring again, rather than down-cycling and making it into, say, a traffic cone.

It has taken years to get to where we are in the product journey, and it is far from complete, but the industry needs to start thinking of another far more complicated issue now, even before recyclable products become mainstream: how do they get back into the manufacturing process? How do consumers have the flooring taken back when they change it? Is the retailer responsible? What if that retailer is no longer in business – will the manufacturer be responsible? Does there have to be a levy to fund the take-back scheme? All flooring will have to be taken together and then sorted. There is no point in it being a company by company thing – you’d have loads of small quantities of flooring sitting about the country waiting until there was enough to make it viable to move.

These and many more issues will need to be solved, and before recyclability becomes a legal requirement, which it will at some point.

If you haven’t already voted in this year’s Interiors Monthly Awards, use the form on p26, go online or simply email me.

Editor: Andrew Kidd

T: 01273 930 029 E: akidd@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

Furniture advertising (South): Tim Boden

M: 07976 122 150 E: tboden@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

Furniture advertising (North): Jarrod Bird

T: 01565 631 397 E: jbird@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

Carpet, flooring advertising: Joanne Paull

M: 07817 624 922 E: jpaull@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

Representative in India: Amarjeet Singh Gianni T:

35458 E: as_gianni@yahoo.co.in

The Floor Room to run John Lewis fitted flooring

John Lewis has turned to Carpetright parent Nestware to run its fitted flooring departments.

The group’s The Floor Room brand will operate the flooring departments in the 34 John Lewis stores that sell flooring and online.

‘Customers will benefit from a quicker, more convenient service. They’ll also be able to shop from a high-quality, larger range with new brands, across The Floor Room’s full range of engineered wood, laminate, LVT, wool and man-made fibre carpets. The move will also bring in-store investment, with The Floor Room installing innovative and visual new showrooms, to offer customers even greater inspiration. New dedicated consultation areas will create a destination for aspirational interior design and encourage shoppers to make flooring central to their interior schemes,’ says the company.

It is also promising quicker appointments and fitting for shoppers, with online consultations offered the same day, while in-store and at-home appointments can be offered from one or two days respectively.

In addition, fitting lead times will be reduced, with hardwood flooring and carpets installed within three to four weeks from consultation.

Branches will feature digital displays, including handheld devices, with integrated technology aiming to offer customers a paperless service, while some concessions will feature The Floor Room’s sample vending machines.

‘We’re in a unique position when it comes to home design: we’re a trusted destination for inspiration for our customers – and nobody else offers what we can, all

under one roof. But flooring has evolved – it’s become more technical, with even more choice. Partnering with The Floor Room helps us supercharge our offer, creating a business that not only inspires customers today, but is set up to thrive in years to come. It’s a big leap forward for us, with customers front and centre of our decision. As well as unlocking investment in our stores, the move will provide an even quicker and more convenient customer experience, alongside even greater choice,’ says Richard Ambler, John Lewis director for home services.

A team headed by Helen Marsh, Carpetright former head of communications, spent 16 months creating the concept for The Floor Room, which opened its only store on Tottenham Court Road, London in May 2021.

‘We are putting the customer at the heart of our story. We offer a physical and

digital space to encourage creativity and turn ideas into a reality. We are excited to be working with many brands and suppliers to bring new and inspirational flooring choices to the John Lewis customer,’ says Jeanette Hopkins, The Floor Room general manager.

The concessions will begin to open in October, and the roll-out is due to be completed by December. The Floor Room will assume responsibility for online orders from mid-October.

‘We are pleased that over half of the partners [John Lewis staff] who will move across to The Floor Room under TUPE will move straight into equivalent roles. Unfortunately 125 partners are proposed at risk of redundancy on transfer to The Floor Room, and 12 are proposed directly via John Lewis. We continue to work hard to make sure partners are supported during this process,’ says John Lewis.

The Floor Room opened in May 2021

The Floor Room concept was 16 months in the making

DISCOVER OUR REDEVELOPED CASSIUS & DARIUS RANGES

Cassius and Darius in our renowned Invictus brand will get a fashion update this year.

14 updated colours in a 70oz and 50oz pile weight respectively offer a soft saxony product with a heathered appearance, one of the few products to offer this in the market today, the recoloured ranges are planned for launch in May.

Please ask your local area sales manager for more details

20232026

Furniture and flooring see big monthly sales drop

The value of furniture and lighting retail sales in England, Wales and Scotland saw a monthly drop of almost a fifth in April, but was still ahead of 2022.

Sales dropped by 17.17% to £1,377,420,000 in April, according to Office for National Statistics data. However, this was 6.44% higher than April 2022.

Sales were 18.07% higher than April 2021; 460.8% higher than April 2020 and 22.78% higher than April 2019.

Of the 448 months since January 1986 when comparable records began, April was the 18th highest

month for the value of sales.

The value of flooring retail sales dropped by 18.16% to £48,751,0000 in April. This was 0.03% (£74,000) higher than April 2022.

Sales were 25.96% higher than April 2021; 652% higher than April 2020 and 90.39% higher than April 2019.

Of the 448 months, April was the 61st highest month for the value of sales.

The figures are not seasonally adjusted, do not allow for inflation and are subject to revision.

Homeware boom sees profits jump at Joe Brown

Interiors and fashion retailer Joe Browns has seen sales and profits jump in its past financial year, helped by booming homeware sales.

Homeware sales jumped by 43%, easily outstripping fashion, as overall sales rose by 20.9% to £47.3m. It saw retail sales rise by £1.6m, mail order by £6.1m, and wholesale by £500,000 in the year to 20 June 2022.

Pre-tax profits rose from £4.85m to £5m.

The company paid dividends of £2.5m during the year, down from £5.5m, but then paid another £2m after year-end.

‘We are really pleased with both sales and profits. It’s testament to the amazing

Laird to step back

Andy Laird, Fludes Carpets owner and md, is to step back from day-to-day running of the south coast of England flooring chain.

Laird, who has been in the flooring industry for more than 50 years, will remain involved in the four-store chain and has no intention of selling the company.

Peter Hebditch, formerly Fludes sales director, has become md.

‘After 50 years, it is time to enjoy stepping back from

day-to-day responsibility and let Peter and our experienced team provide the service levels we are known for, while developing some new ideas,’ says Laird.

He bought the company from the Flude family in 2018, having been md since 2010.

‘I am proud to be given this fantastic opportunity of being md. I feel ready to move the business forward to celebrate the 100th year of trading of Fludes Carpets in 2029,’ says Hebditch.

team we have here across every area of the business,’ says Peter Alecock, Joe Browns chief executive.

‘We expect the external trading environment to remain challenging,’ he added. ‘As such, creating stand-out, remarkable product has always been central to the Joe Browns’ business and this ethos has never been more important than today.’

The company is currently nearing the completion of a £2m expansion and upgrade of its central warehouse near Leeds. which is expected to be completed in the third quarter of the year. This is the second expansion in three years.

Inflation falls

Furniture and flooring inflation rates fell in April.

The annual retail inflation rate for furniture fell for the eighth consecutive month, dropping from 9.6% to 8.6%, according to the ONS. It has been falling since August 2022, when it was 15.6%.

ONS said the fall was helped by lower prices of adult beds.

The rate for garden furniture more than halved, from 9.8% to 4.5%. In contrast the rate of price increases for lighting jumped

from 1% to 3.4%. The rate for household textiles leapt from 2.6% to 6.4%, thanks largely to increases in the cost of curtains.

The rate for flooring dropped below 10% for the first time since November 2022, from 10.3% to 9%. ONS said the fall was helped by lower prices of tufted carpets. The rate for carpets and rugs dropped from 10.7% to 8.3%.

In contrast the rate for smooth flooring jumped from 9.3% to 15.3%.

RECRUITMENT

If you are looking to recruit staff for your furniture or flooring stores, looking for sales staff or reps for your manufacturing outlet, then INTERIORS MONTHLY offers a great package!

Our online package is just £175. Your advert will appear in our jobs section on the website until the position is filled or you ask us to remove. Our weekly newsletter, which is mailed every Thursday to 7000 industry professionals, also includes a list of these latest jobs.

If you have both online and quarter page recruitment advert in our magazine, the cost will only be £250!

Costs for larger recruitment adverts are available upon request.

Please contact Jarrod on

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GREENWOOD IS HIRING NOW!

Do you love the cut and thrust of a busy retail sales event?

RETAIL SALES EVENT MANAGER

£Excellent rewards working on six to eight one-month contracts per year.

Greenwood Retail Ltd create and implement record-breaking retail sales events for quality independent furniture retailers, department stores and garden centres, on-site, within our client’s retail stores, all over the UK & Ireland.

As a self-employed Sales Event Manager, you’ll be implementing and managing the most powerful and effective high-impact, retail sales, marketing and merchandising strategies available, on-site within our client’s stores.

This exciting and rewarding opportunity would ideally suit an experienced, energetic, management level person with natural leadership qualities and retail sales ability.

Experience within either furniture, department store or garden product retail is essential.

For this nationwide role you must be available to work away from home for average periods of four weeks.

Gallery Direct deal

Gallery Direct has bought artwork supplier Art Marketing. Nigel Waller, Art Marketing md has become Gallery’s category director for wall decor.

Peter Delaney, former Gallery md has moved to the new role of sales and product director. Michael Last, ceo of the Gallery group becomes Gallery Direct md.

ACID recognition

Dids Macdonald, ACID ceo was recognised by the World Intellectual Property Organisation by being included on its World Intellection Property Day Gallery for women ‘forging new horizons with their ground-breaking ideas’.

Profits leap

Molteni Group has seen profits and sales jump by a quarter. The group, made up of Molteni&C, UniFor and Citterio saw sales reach €460m, with EBITDA rising by the same amount in 2022 (figures were not disclosed). Molteni&C enjoyed a 26% increase in sales to €304m, with a 36% jump in EBITDA.

Tadros honoured

Edward Tadros, former Ercol chairman has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by The Furniture Makers’ Company, the City of London livery company and charity for the furnishing industry, in recognition of his 50-year career.

BFM has new md

The BFM has a new md: Phil Spademan. He succeeds Sean Holt who had been in the role since October 2021. Spademan joined the furniture industry in 2010 and spent seven years at Ercol, four as sales and marketing director. He then became sales director at Siren Furniture and had been general manager at Nielsen Design since July 2019.

John Hancock, bed industry stalwart dies

John Hancock, former Sealy UK md and NBF president died on 8 May. He was 84. He enjoyed a 40-year career in the furniture industry, with Englender, then Silentnight-owned Buoyant and then 14 years as Sealy UK md, before retiring in 2000.

He served on the NBF Council for many years, chairing its marketing committee from 1993 to 1995, during which time he led the committee in persuading both retailers and manufacturers to fund The Sleep Council, launched in 1995 to promote the importance of a good bed to getting a good night’s sleep, and contributed to reducing the replacement cycle of mattresses from around 17 years to 10.

He was joint chair of The Sleep Council until he was elected NBF president from 1998-2000. He was also very active in promoting business in his adopted home county of Cumbria, where he and his wife Barbara moved in 1986. He was a founder

Waring becomes master

Amanda Waring has been installed as the 61st master of The Furniture Makers’ Company, the charity for the furnishing industry and City of London livery company.

Brian Ahern and Debbie Johnson were also installed as the new senior and junior warden of the company, respectively.

member of the West Cumbria Development Agency, becoming its vice-chairman and then chairman, before relinquishing the role to set up and chair the Cumbria Marketing Initiative. He also chaired the Maryport Heritage Trust and sat on the North-West Industrial Development Board.

In 1993 he was named Cumbrian Businessman of the Year and in 1994 was awarded an MBE for services to industry.

Since his retirement, he remained active in the industry as a consultant, while also indulging in his passion for golf both here in the UK and at a second home in Florida. As recently as 2019, he helped to broker the purchase of Sealy UK by Sealy Australia and Tempur Sealy. In 2020, he was a judge for the NBF’s Covid Community Champions Award. He also held a number of non-executive director’s roles with Cumbrian-based businesses.

He is survived by Barbara, son Alan and three grandchildren.

Big Shots is back

Waring, a furniture and award-winning garden designer, has been a member of the company since 1990 and has sat on its court (board) for 15 years.

‘I feel both honoured and privileged to have been installed as master of this vibrant livery company. Together with Brian and Debbie, I am looking forward to representing the Furniture Makers,’ she says.

Big Shots, the furnishing industry’s favourite clay pigeon shoot, organised in aid of industry charity The Furniture Makers’ Company, will return this summer, again sponsored by Furniture Village.

The popular fundraiser, which is now in its 28th year, is once again taking place at the Holland and Holland shooting ground in Middlesex on 7 June.

Edgar: we want to be the only show in town

Cities outside London cannot sustain more than one department store, according to the boss of Fenwick.

John Edgar, Fenwick ceo says there is no longer scope for more than one department store in cities, and this is limiting its expansion hopes.

There are locations where the chain ‘would love to be –but someone else is already there,’ he told The Telegraph.

‘The days of two, or three or even more department stores in a city are gone. I don’t think the markets are big enough and I don’t think they ever

were. So if another retailer were to come out of a market where we could see an opportunity, we’d seriously consider it. Our model is we want to be the only show in town. You can get things with us that, largely, you can’t get anywhere else in that location.’

Amanda Waring

Otta - Blending mid-century modern style with comfortable technology and pocket sprung seats. Choose from a range of high-quality leather and fabric colors with contrast piping. The range includes a three-seater sofa, two-seater sofa, chair, chaise end unit, in static or power recline options and a footstool.

Otta

1 Granorte has introduced an online room visualiser, making it easy for consumers to see just how TRENDCollection by Granorte cork floors and Delivering Nature cork wall and floors make homes more beautiful. Across a range of realistic rooms, they can try out more than 80 floors in the TRENDCollection by Granorte and more than 160 flooring options in the designer Delivering Nature range.

Visit: www.granorte.materialo.com

2 BerryAlloc has developed a wide range of standard and store-optimised displays for its updated laminate flooring collection. Topcards with real stopping power, inspirational pictures and clear communication sit with full plank displays and updated toaster racks. The standard

display concept is available in three packages, from a single long plank display and toaster up to a single plank display and three toasters.

Visit: www.berryalloc.com

3 With Floorwise underlays, you can give customers the right buying advice whatever their budget, as the wide choice of underlays means every carpet benefits from better comfort and a longer life. A good quality underlay flatters cheaper carpets by supporting the thinner pile, thereby helping to prevent wear as well as masking imperfections in the substrate.

Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk

4 LeoLine has unveiled a new brand feel, designed to bring vibrancy and energy to its collection of cushion vinyl flooring. The

playful brand inspires consumers to think differently about their choice of floor. Across updated displays, brochures and a new website, LeoLine explores how the flexibility, simple fitting, functionality and durability of vinyl floor can be the start of a new story for their home.

Visit: www.leoline.co.uk

5 ADP Distribution’s new online portal allows customers to keep track of all their distribution projects 24/7. Features include proof of delivery – singular and in bulk; project images; stock levels; financial information; placing orders for POS and carpet logisitics and viewing completed and outstanding order dates, so keeping track of everything in one easy to use tool.

Visit: www.adp-distribution.co.uk

6 Fermob has expanded its Luxembourg range with the addition of a two-seater outdoor bench. It has an optional armrest shelf and is made from aluminium for lightness, strength and resistance to corrosion.

Visit: www.fermob.com

7 4Mariani has introduced a home office version of its Siena office furniture, with a burgundy lacquer finish.

Visit: www.i4mariani.com

8 Moduleo has updated its retail displays. The new displays have 36 boards showing some of the Roots bestsellers and 72 boards for the full offer. The shop-in-shop concept brings a large and impressive s tand featuring a consultation hub with built-in overhead AV display and a fully stocked cupboard housing take-away samples (replenished free), brochures and swatch books.

Visit: www.moduleo.co.uk

9 Poliform’s Sunday armchair is elegant and comfortable, and has an ample seat, the low backrest morphing into an armrest. The user is embraced by the chair, composed but at the same time relaxed.

Visit: www.poliform.it

10 The Cinnamon armchair is the first collaboration between Molteni&C and Japanese designer Naoto Fukasawa, blending form, function and comfort. The enveloping shape exudes an air of warmth and tranquillity, inviting you to sink in and relax.

Visit: www.molteni.it

www.gallerydirect.co.uk

The impressive Madison collection features beautiful marquetry design. The range includes a selection of living and dining pieces, including extending dining tables in both round and rectangle shapes as well as two sizes of sideboards, all in a dark walnut wood finish. Madison offers a ‘new traditional’ look, with its timeless, elegant style with a modern touch.

The introduction of our new collections, Eton, Madison, Highgrove and Skylar, along with our casual dining range, has further enhanced our Furniture catalogue, developing a fully rounded collection of products which bring any interior to life.

Scan the QR code for more

Madison Coffee Table 871993

Richard

Renouf

To me… to you

Removing an unused sofa-bed proved a challenge

Derek is 93 years old but has a memory as sharp as a razor. ‘When that sofa-bed came in, the lads just tipped it on end and then turned it this way, then that way, and it was in.’ Just how long ago that was, Derek could not be sure, but it must have been some years ago. It had hardly been used – the mattress still had its polythene wrapper – but the mid-blue cover was grey from dust, and when I upended it in preparation for Matt’s arrival, the brightness of the original carpet took me by surprise.

The route from the lounge to the hall, where the sofa-bed would await collection by the local charity shop, had two doorways at right angles to each other in close proximity. As Matt and I picked up the sofa-bed Derek piped up again: ‘Just this way, then that way and it’ll go through,’ as he wiggled both hands in a zig-zag gesture.

We got to the doorways and we turned it this way and that way, but it wouldn’t go through.

‘Let’s turn it round and try it back first,’ said Matt.

‘They didn’t have any problem when they delivered it,’ said Derek.

We tried in reverse. This way, then that way. It wouldn’t go through. That way, then this way didn’t work either. I knew it was some time since I moved furniture regularly, or when I helped sort problematic deliveries back in the day, but I began to doubt myself.

We reversed back into Derek’s lounge and turned the sofa-bed over so it was the other way up. Two more attempts, this way first, then that way, still proved fruitless, although we seemed to be getting closer.

‘They didn’t have any problem when they brought it in,’ said Derek.

Perhaps removing the feet would help. It didn’t, neither did removing the doors

from their hinges. It was now more than an hour since we first picked up the sofa-bed. I caught a glimpse of my reflection in a mirror, or was that one of the Chuckle Brothers?

‘Derek, we’re going to have to move this unit,’ I said.

‘They didn’t have any problems when they brought it in, it just went this way, then that way, and it came in,’ he replied.

The unit was so deeply embedded in the carpet it didn’t want to move easily. And it was filled with a lifetime’s worth of ‘stuff’, which took ages to unpack and spread around the lounge. Eventually the unit could be lifted and turned to give clearance by the door frame and we had another go.

Matt went first and we turned the sofa-bed this way, then that way, and it was in the hall without any ado. We cleared up and left Derek to sort through the contents of the unit. It would keep him occupied as a change from the TV.

I dropped in the following day. Without any opening remark from me he said: ‘They didn’t have any trouble getting it in when they delivered it.’ I bit my lip and put the kettle on. Over a cuppa I asked: ‘Has that unit always been over there?’

Derek thought for a moment. ‘This unit behind me’s more recent,’ he said. ‘That one used to be where this one is now.’

‘Do you mean it was here behind you

when the sofa-bed was delivered?’

‘Yes, there wasn’t anything over there.’

I managed not to spray him with tea or make any comment. At least I had the reassurance that it wasn’t just me losing my touch.

Visit: www.richard-renouf.com

Richard Renouf is an independent furnishings consultant

Removing the sofa-bed proved more difficult than delivery had been

Premium quality laminate floors.

The next ‘new normal’

Things keep changing and some retailers may change their business model, says our correspondent

THE RETAILER Fludes Carpets

When we travelled to the Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show we were full of anticipation of receiving some new product and ideas, and more importantly, having the chance to chat to other retailers about how business is really doing. Depending on where you are based, you will have a variation in sales performance.

Public confidence is still a little fragile and so we need to do more to attract people into stores. In the main, our customers tell us that they want to shop locally and with an independent retailer. Being a member of The Carpet Foundation or groups such as Checkatrade or Trust a Trader is certainly a benefit. People like to shop with a trusted and worthy independent retailer they have confidence in, particularly when paying over large sums of money.

Customers are more frequently asking for British manufacturers and British wool, so there is a starting point to highlight in your marketing strategy. Options to

encourage customers to shop include bigger discounts, local advertising, leaflet drops and refreshing the look of your store display – and don’t forget to look at your website to see that the offers match what is going on in in-store.

Making the advertising effort will be rewarded: there is an old agency saying: ‘50 percent of our advertising works and 50 percent doesn’t – we just don’t know which is which!’ So don’t get disappointed if not everything works for you. Persevere and you will find the best method for you.

The coronation has been a reason for people to celebrate and have bunting and Union Flags everywhere, and so we’ve every good reason to anticipate an uplift in customer confidence, even if only for a brief period. The downside is the number of Bank Holidays we have had: it disrupts the flow of custom and also takes fitting opportunities to a lower level, due to the intermittent trading calendar.

Most of the retailers I spoke to at the

show were uncertain of the future and many talked about the increase in competition from the new way of purchasing carpet: namely, trade counters. In itself, this will put pressure on the availability of fitters as they may become regular visitors to their local trade counters. From the manufacturers’ point of view, it will increase turnover, reduce transport costs and reduce the requirements for spending a lot on POS and sampling.

There may inevitably be some consequences to the growth of trade counters. Smaller stores may decide to put the shutters down permanently and become a ‘man with a van’ operation, using the trade counters exclusively for supply of their goods. Established retailers may seek to target a higher priced market, unaffected by trade counters.

However you look at it, there are challenges ahead and the new normal may need to be re-visited..

Andy Laird, Fludes Carpets owner

Smaller stores may switch to ‘man with a van’ operations

Revival

THE CONSULTANT

During the 1990s and early noughties the decline of the UK carpet manufacturer appeared to be leading inexorably to extinction, as we lost names like Crossley, Stoddard Templeton and Spence Bryson, whilst Kingsmead, Tomkinson, Georgian and the rest stayed on as brands but with no production facilities. The onslaught of cheap imports, particularly from Belgium, and the apparent race to the bottom led by some national retailers created a marketplace in the volume sector, where it seemed UK-based production could not compete.

Wind forward to this year and the recent Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show. How uplifting it was to see the new generation of UK-based carpet manufacturers now competing strongly within our significant home market.

Whilst we see a contraction in production in the once vibrant heartland of Flanders in Belgium, and imports from Europe and Turkey falling, the UK stalwarts are leading the way – most specifically to

the independent carpet retailer.

This resurgence is driven by investment in machinery, store-based POS and not least by an emphasis on service that has seen significant investment in warehousing and delivery infrastructure.

Even more exciting at the show was a return to innovation. I was particularly taken by a level loop from Furlong using recycled man-made fibres, which succeeds where so many previous attempts have failed to create a product that visually at least replicates its wool forerunner. Equally stunning but less likely to generate volume sales was a collection of graphic tufted ranges from Adam Carpets, making full use of some complicated kit they acquired some time back.

There remain factors that must concern the leaders behind these noteworthy businesses: spiralling costs of fuel, reliance on polypropylene yarn supplies from Turkey and the impact of the cost of living crisis, to name but a few. Perhaps highest on the list, however, should be the green

lobby and in particular the amount of used carpet still finding its way to landfill. It’s refreshing to see that most of these businesses are now jointly funding the efforts of Carpet Recycling UK in finding an industry-led rather than governmentenforced solution.

I can’t help but think it will need more than a bit of funding to a not-for-profit organisation to come up with the answers. Some of those clever minds that have led the resurgence of the industry will need to work alongside one another if a solution to the end-of-life for plastic carpets is to be found that doesn’t include a governmentenforced levy.

The British Carpet Manufacturers Association Ltd (the old BCMA) sits as a dormant company at Companies House. Who knew? Maybe we will see another revival in the future.

Email: carpet.consultant@aol.com

Martin West is an independent flooring consultant

UK-based flooring manufacturers are competing strongly and innovating, says our correspondent

UK-based manufacturers are innovating

Circular

A low carbon footprint and recyclability are at the heart of the DESSO & Patricia Urquiola collection

Milan Design Week saw Tarkett launch the fully recyclable DESSO & Patricia Urquiola carpet tile collection. Continuing its tradition of working with world-renowned creatives, Tarkett has teamed up with Patricia Urquiola to create a collection with a low circular carbon footprint.

Richly textured and imaginative, Urquiola’s debut collection for Tarkett combines the tactile quality of textiles with the visual appeal of graphic patterns, and evokes the soft qualities of knitwear and woollens. From the outset, Urquiola wanted to avoid the organic lines so prevalent in current interior design projects. Instead, she turned for inspiration to the grid structures of woven textiles like tweed and boucle.

‘For this collection, we looked to knitwear and woollens for inspiration. We wanted to create a flooring system with a tactile feel that is extremely comfortable underfoot. Using a striking

3D effect, we were able to create a surface that gives a sense of softness and volume,’ she says.

Available in a palette of 12 colours – a careful balance of neutrals, muted tones and brighter accents – the tiles can be installed to create different effects, to suit a broad range of settings.

The collaboration began with an invitation from DESSO to Urquiola to visit its Carpet Design Centre in the Netherlands. Attracted by her clear design vision and her commitment to circular design, the DESSO team quickly established a fluid dialogue with Urquiola. Over 18 months, they undertook a journey of research and experimentation, designing and developing a versatile tile collection that carries all the hallmarks of Urquiola’s distinctive approach and fits seamlessly into a variety of settings.

‘At our Design Centre, the designers we collaborate with are able to work with our team of experts to tailor each

“ingredient” of a carpet tile. They examine every step of the manufacturing process to create a truly unique design,’ says Ludwig Cammaert, Tarkett EMEA director of design, technical development for carpets. ‘It’s also inspiring for our in-house designers to work with external designers, as they bring different views and perspectives.’

DESSO and Urquiola shared a common vision to make a collection with the lowest possible environmental impact. The only carpet tile manufacturer with a closed-loop recycling system, Tarkett limits the use of virgin raw materials for new products and avoids common, carbon-emitting options such as incineration and landfill at product end-of-life. The collection is 100% recyclable, designed to be disassembled so the components can be easily recycled into raw material for new tiles. The circular carbon footprint of the collection is 1.03kg CO per sqm.

Visit: www.tarkett.co.uk

The DESSO & Patricia Urquiola collection by Tarkett comes in 12 colours

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Best Bedroom Manufacturer

Best Dining Room Manufacturer

Best Living Room Manufacturer

Best Children’s Furniture Manufacturer

Best Fabric Upholstery Manufacturer

Best Fabric Upholstery Manufacturer (Luxury)

Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer

Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer (Luxury)

Best Recliner Manufacturer

Best Home Entertainment Supplier

Best Flatpack Furniture Supplier

Best Furniture Wholesaler

Best Furniture Website

Best Customer Service (Flooring)

Best UK Flooring Manufacturer

Best Overseas Flooring Manufacturer

Best Flooring Buying Group

Best Carpet Manufacturer

Best Rug Supplier

Best Laminate Manufacturer

Best Solid/Engineered Wood Manufacturer

Best Underlay Manufacturer

Best Flooring Accessory Supplier

Best Vinyl Manufacturer

Best Luxury Vinyl Supplier

Best Rigid Floor Manufacturer

Best Flooring Website

Best Flooring Wholesaler

Best Software Supplier (Furniture)

Best Software Supplier (Flooring)

Best CGI Software Supplier

Best Finance Provider

Best Business Support (Furniture)

Best Business Support (Flooring)

Best Marketing Support (Furniture)

Best Marketing Support (Flooring)

Best Exhibition

Innovation of the Year

Best Warranty Provider

Best Product Protection Provider (Furniture)

Best Product Protection Provider (Flooring)

Best New Supplier

Product of the Year

SUPPLIERS TO COMPLETE ONLY

Best Flooring Retailer (1-3 stores)

Best Flooring Retailer (4+ stores)

Best Furniture Retailer (1-3 stores)

Best Furniture Retailer (4+ stores)

Best Online Retailer

You can download a copy of this form from www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk Email your nominations to: akidd@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

Name: ...........................................................................................................

Company: ....................................................................................................

Position:

Tel: Email:

Impact

The late fashion designer’s brand has debuted an interiors collection, Karl Lagerfeld Maison

Saint Germain Living collection in the showroom

Inspired by Karl Lagerfeld’s passion for interior design, the brand’s first home collection debuted at Milan Design Week in the new showroom at Via Passione 8, not far from Via Durini, the centre of interiors showrooms in Milan.

Karl Lagerfeld Maison combines the designer’s ‘iconic vision with contemporary creativity and artisanal quality’.

‘Karl wasn’t just fascinated by interior design: he was deeply passionate about it,’ says Pier Paolo Righi, Karl Lagerfeld ceo. ‘It was therefore a natural decision to expand our brand’s global lifestyle offering with the Karl Lagerfeld Maison collection. This exciting category celebrates our DNA and offers a new way to explore and experience Karl’s world. The pieces are bold, sophisticated and elegant: just like Karl, they make an immediate impact.’

The collections are named after Lagerfeld’s favourite neighbourhoods of Paris and include the Saint Germain and Saint Guillaume living and bedroom sets, the Quai Voltaire kitchen and the Rue de l’Université lighting collection. Throughout each space, a palette of black and white is juxtaposed with neutral hues and pops of red, while angular lines contrast soft, elliptical silhouettes and reflective surfaces.

A hero piece is the three-person Saint Germain sofa that doubles as a small library, with sides that encompass decorative shelves for books.

Rue de l’Universite lighting collection

Quai Voltaire dining 

Quai Voltaire kitchen

Quai Voltaire dining

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The design is inspired by Lagerfeld’s own love of books, which he displayed horizontally: his personal collection exceeded 300,000.

The group plans to invite a different designer to collaborate each season. The debut collection saw the involvement of Matteo Nunziati.

‘During my design process, I thought of Karl walking the banks of Hamburg’s canals or visiting the elegant mansion houses of Saint-Germain-des-Prés in Paris. Both cities were important in Karl’s history and they inspired me to balance the rigour of Bauhaus and sophisticated Parisian elegance. It’s been an honour to collaborate with the Karl Lagerfeld team and work with the best Italian craftsmen to develop a contemporary, warm and emotional collection full of extraordinary details,’ he says.

The showroom makes no attempt to

resemble a retail space, aiming instead for the look and feel of a ready-furnished apartment. In fact, the flat above the

ground-floor premises was used for the collection’s lifestyle photography. Visit: www.karlagerfeldmaison.com

The Saint Germain bedroom (above) and Saint Guillaume bedroom and living collections were photographed in the apartment above the showroom

Royal respect

Retailers marked the coronation promoting wool

To mark the coronation of its patron, King Charles III, the Campaign for Wool challenged independent flooring retailers to create a window or in-store display that celebrated the use of wool in carpets.

Retailers from across the country

entered, and these were judged the best. Warm Sanctuary, Durham won first prize – a spa break. Dible & Roy, Bradford on Avon was second, winning a visit to a royal residence. Barsleys Department Store, Paddock Wood; Bristol Flooring,

Bristol; Fashion Carpets, Tunbridge Wells; Sturtons & Tappers, Bournemouth and Superior Finish Flooring, St Ives were all runners-up, each winning a Real Shetland Company throw.

Visit: www.campaignforwool.org

Barsleys Department Store

Dible & Roy

Bristol Flooring

Fashion Carpets

Above left: Warm Sanctuary Above: Sturtons & Tappers

Powering up

Sofa Factory is investing in solar panels to boost its sustainability goals

Sofa Factory has grown over the past few years, with groups and independent retailers joining its customer list. Its core values of design, quality, service and speed of delivery have been the catalyst for this dramatic increase.

In January the company debuted 11 models and varients at its second January Furniture Show. These were targeted at two sectors of the market where it sees growth over the next few years: everyday value and designer groups with more luxurious fabrics. These are now generating strong repeat business. It is constantly strengthening its independent sector market share and, with more models coming out later this year, hopes to continue to grow by supporting its retail partners.

Sustainability is another core value, fast becoming a major element of any business, in particularly within the furniture industry. Sofa Factory takes the sustainability of its products and factory extremely seriously and is always looking for ways to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency.

It has commissioned a roof-mounted solar panel system for the Gateshead factory. This initiative will reduce energy costs and help ensure manufacturing operations are efficient, sustainable and competitive. The first of three phases will cover about one-third of the roof –32,000sqft of solar panels – and will generate enough electricity to run the upholstery factory and offices. The £750,000 investment will reduce its carbon footprint and secure its energy costs at a time of uncertainty that has a direct effect on the cost of products.

At Sofa Factory, every item of furniture is hand-made in its UK factory and undergoes inspection at every stage of production to ensure the highest quality finish across sofas, sofabeds and accent chairs. Sofa Factory is proud to be a UK company making products in the UK, as well as being able to continuously invest in its growth and come closer to its sustainability goals. A future plan is to bring out a sustainable range with a zero carbon footprint.

Visit: www.sofafactory.uk

Fraser

Cosmos

Devon

The True Bedmakers

We have been creating the ultimate in luxurious comfort since 1840, making mattresses that have been lovingly homegrown and handmade in the heart of Yorkshire.

From growing our own natural fillings, to designing glue free spring systems and weaving our own fabrics, we are passionate about leading the way in luxury sustainable sleep.

The decision is yours

A wide range of fillings and technologies are on offer

Sleep is so important, influencing everything from our energy levels and health to our overall mood. From how the bed is positioned and fitted within a room to the comfort and durability of the mattress itself, there are several aspects to consider when creating the perfect sleep space.

Sleepeezee offers a variety of mattress products to meet the needs and budget specifications of customers. The brand’s premium product range makes finding the perfect mattress an efficient and quality-assured process. From pocket

sprung and Graphite memory foam to its Staycool gel technology or natural fillings, Sleepeezee provides customers with everything they need to curate the perfect sleep.

As a Royal Warrant holder since 1963, Sleepeezee’s team of craftspeople are dedicated to combining innovative practices with market-leading designs to provide the right bed and mattress solutions for their customers. Best known for its popular mattress ranges, including the Travelodge Dreamer, as well as bedding, divans, headboards

and even a pet bed range, its latest innovation is Jack: a quality mattressin-a-box solution that allows for easy delivery and at-home installation.

Sleepeezee holds strong family values at the heart of the business, supporting national and local charities across the country. A recent donation saw the company contribute £57,000 to Sheffield Children’s Hospital in partnership with the brand’s ambassador Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill. The donation was funded by sales of Sleepeezee’s Jessica range, in which the company donates £20 to the hospital with each sale.

The company is further committed to supporting sustainable efforts. Having been carbon neutral since 2017, Sleepeezee has continued to strive for sustainability. The installation of 591 energy-saving solar panels across its Rochester, Kent site, as well as being the first UK bed manufacturer to receive the Planet Mark accreditation for taking action to stop climate change, reflects its commitment to a sustainable future. It also offers a removal and recycling service that takes away customers’ old mattresses, packaging and divan bases, for a hassle-free installation service.

Visit: www.sleepeezee.co.uk

Coolrest

Ortho

Quality comfort, naturally

LEAVE THE REST TO US

Leadership

GNG Group has strengthened its senior management

and provides a 365-night trial and lifetime warranty.

GNG Group is continuing to build its offering to the interiors market with the appointment of experienced sales director Richard Gretton as commercial director to drive the growth of its consumer and contract mattress division. A strong commercial and operational professional, Gretton has more than 25 years’ sales experience, including an impressive track record working within the furniture industry, where he held senior positions with a number of leading businesses.

With purpose-built 40,000sqft manufacturing facilities in Normanton, West Yorkshire, GNG has grown into one of the leaders in British mattress manufacturing, supplying retailers and hospitality providers across the UK, as well as being an approved supplier to the NHS.

In his new role with GNG, Gretton will lead the sales operation for the expanding mattress division. This includes its Komfi vacuum-packed mattress brand featuring Ecofoam – made from 100% recycled and re-engineered foam and able to be entirely recycled when it reaches the end of its natural life – alongside luxury Sonlevo mattresses with TrueGel grid system technology, and Nectar Sleep which focuses on exceptional comfort

‘With his exceptional track record of success within the industry, Richard will play a pivotal role in spearheading the further growth of our mattress division,’ says Darren Potterton, GNG Group md. ‘Having increased capacity by over 300% with the opening of our Normanton facilities last summer, we have ambitious expansion plans to continue to build our customer base. Richard’s appointment comes at a crucial time as we embark on the next chapter of planned growth in the UK. His strategic vision and business acumen, together with his industry insights and ability to forge strong relationships, will be instrumental in positioning our company to capitalise on emerging opportunities and further enhance our capabilities.’

‘With a 40-year manufacturing heritage, GNG has become one of the leading names in British-made mattresses, known for quality, service and product innovation. I am excited to be joining a fast-growing business where I believe I can make a real difference. While the company has made impressive progress in recent years, there are still new markets to be explored and I am looking forward to using my skills to bring GNG’s outstanding products to a wider audience,’ says Gretton.

Visit: www.gnggroup.co.uk

Komfi Sonlevo

Nectar Sleep

Richard Gretton

Celebrate

Prove yourself as the best in retail

The NBF Bed Industry Awards, honouring the brightest and best enterprises in the bed market, are back for 2023. Organised by the National Bed Federation, the awards are a celebration of what is good about the UK and Republic of Ireland’s bed industry and provide a perfect opportunity for bed retailers, manufacturers and suppliers to highlight their achievements from the past year.

New for 2023, Ad of the Year will be awarded to the most creative advertisment, which can be in the form of print (such as in newspapers, magazines or on billboards), radio, television or digital (such as via social media). This category is open to all supporting bed retailers and to NBF Brand Associate members whose products are manufactured by Approved NBF Members.

The Small NBF Retail Champion of the Year and Large NBF Retail Champion of the Year recognise independent bed retailers that are part of the NBF’s Retail Champions Scheme, which supports businesses whose product offer is at least 50% NBF-approved brands (Retail Champions) or 100% NBF-approved brands (Premier Retail Champions).

The National Bed Retailer of the Year Award returns for businesses with more than 20 stores and the Online Bed Retailer of the Year Award – where at

least 80% of the business’s sales are via the Internet – are also up for grabs. Entrants for all retailer awards are encouraged to demonstrate how they have supported NBF-approved brands both online and offline in the past year.

This year there are five awards for NBF member manufacturers and component suppliers. Returning for 2023, the NBF member awards include the sought-after Bed Manufacturer of the Year and Component Supplier of the Year categories, highlighting the efforts and achievements of the company itself. The Bed Product of the Year and

Component Product of the Year Awards recognise excellent innovation and design, with sustainability remaining a key part of the criteria, in line with the NBF’s Green agenda.

The awards will again look to shine a spotlight at an individual level with the NBF Sales Agent/Rep of the Year Award. Nominations can come from a bed retailer, bed manufacturer, component supplier or from the sales agent/rep’s own company. Which salesperson do you think deserves recognition for an outstanding year?

A shortlist of finalists will be published and the winners will be announced at the NBF Bed Industry Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner on Tuesday 26 September at Telford International Centre.

Visit: www.bedshow.co.uk

Refreshed

LeoLine has new branding to go with the 2023 collection

LeoLine has unveiled a new brand feel, designed to bringing vibrancy and energy to its market-leading collection of cushion vinyl flooring.

For more than three decades, LeoLine has been providing a diverse collection of cushion vinyl floors to homes across the UK and Republic of Ireland. Designed and made entirely in-house in Belgium, the LeoLine name has long stood for floors that offer value and quality.

As it launches a new look 2023 collection, LeoLine is also unveiling a fresh feel for its brand, with a vision to make cushion vinyl the contemporary and savvy way for shoppers to create the floor they want.

‘Our market research showed that LeoLine had the potential to appeal to a new generation of householders and tenants looking to add style to their home in a way that’s easy and affordable. We set about rethinking our brand and have created a whole new feel with an energetic new look and a promise to create “floors as unique as you are”,’ says Michelle Magill, LeoLine marketing manager.

‘The playful brand inspires consumers to think differently about their choice of floor. Across updated displays, brochures and a new website, LeoLine explores how the flexibility, simple fitting, functionality and durability of vinyl floor can be the start of a new story for their home.

‘We see a lot of potential in rolled vinyl flooring, particularly with generations who don’t own their own home and who want to add their style to a rental property, or homeowners simply looking for an affordable way to add some unique style.

‘The new branding locks into this psyche, and with some fabulous new designs and rejuvenated collections, we’re really excited to seeing how it changes the market.’ Visit: www.leoline.co.uk

Right: The branding has been updated

Floors as unique as you are

The new LeoLine is ready for the colour, vibrancy and variety of every space. Drawing upon our flooring know-how, we’re making cushion vinyl the contemporary and savvy way to create the floor you want. After all, everybody deserves their perfect floor.

New look

A host of display options accompany a revised collection

To make sure retailers can enjoy the full potential of its reinvigorated laminate flooring collection, BerryAlloc has developed a wide range of standard and store-optimised displays.

With the update to the collection, BerryAlloc has given consumers a choice of 50 natural and authentic wood looks, 15 of which are shared across Ocean+, Chateau and Connect. The result is a laminate collection focused on choice and including 100% water-resistant floors, herringbone and affordable styles.

To make the most of this new collection, the Belgian manufacturer has introduced a range of display options. Topcards designed to have real stopping-power, inspirational pictures and clear communication of the unique buying reasons sit with full plank displays and updated toaster racks to create a customisable display for every store.

Alongside individual toaster racks, the standard display concept is available in three packages, starting with a single long plank display and toaster and ranging up to a single plank display and three toasters. Each version of the concept includes top and side cards to catch the attention of customers. The standard displays are flexible and can be arranged in multiple ways to fit with individual store layouts.

The made-to-order Laminate Beach House is designed to make the new laminate collection stand out even more. Measuring nearly 3.5m wide and 2m deep, the walk-in experience highlights the collection beautifully and gives a fantastic opportunity to maximise the sales potential of its high quality and unique reasons to buy.

‘With the launch of the new laminate collection, we’re making it easier for customers to choose a natural-effect floor that meets functional, style and budgetary needs in every room of their

home. We also wanted to make it easy to silently tell this message in-store, and our new standard displays and Laminate Beach House achieve exactly this. They provide the scope for customisation to suit the needs of every store, while fully taking advantage of the new collection’s improved choice,’ says Scott Arundell, BerryAlloc sales director.

Alongside the in-store display options, BerryAlloc also provides sample boards, brochures, strapsets and a DIY concept for the new laminate collection. Visit: www.berryalloc.com

Above left: There is a range of display options Above: Consumers can use Floorfit at home before visiting stores

The collection now has 50 designs

FLOORING INSTALLATION PRODUCTS

LOOKING AFTER FLOORS AND REPUTATIONS FROM THE GROUND UP.

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Boost

Advice on increasing protection plan sales online is available

Guardsman is actively supporting its retail partners not only by providing its extensive knowledge of the insurance industry and supporting them with meeting the FCA’s Consumer Duty obligations, but also by helping them with their online presence and providing products to support the sale of protection plans.

‘We recognise the increasing importance of online customer purchases for retailers, driving additional sales, and complementing and supporting their existing retail stores,’ says Lyndon Willshire, Guardsman commercial director.

Guardsman’s experienced online marketing team assesses a retailer’s website and creates a bespoke and detailed proposal explaining the best way to promote the Guardsman furniture protection plans online.

‘We want to help them utilise their website capability, so we will spend time doing a deep dive into how their website is created, understanding its

features and capabilities. We then use this to offer advice on the best way to promote the service to their customers, including advice on selling compliantly, introducing offers at the right time and place in the customer journey, and also ensuring the consumer is equipped with all the information to enable them to make an informed decision,’ says Kate Way, Guardsman marketing executive. Selling online can be challenging, with users spending seconds on a page, so creating engaging content is crucial.

‘Lack of personal interaction is one of the biggest issues with online selling, but if your brand is well known it helps, as well as having good reviews and good products. Prompts and reminders serve as a great way to subconsciously get the customer thinking, and we know this is a successful way of selling the Guardsman protection plans on an already established and well-known website. It definitely helps having a good website to start with.’

Partnership is at the forefront of

the Guardsman approach, recognising it’s not just about training in-store or online, it’s the whole sales process and articulating the benefits for the customer. The team has worked with many retailers to create bespoke care kits to support the protection plans they sell. The premium kit range has been expanded and offers so much more than a standard leather or fabric kit, now covering more delicate materials including natural leathers such as nubuck, suede and aniline. Recent introductions include products for other areas in the home, including room fresheners and sanitising products for mattresses and bedding.

‘Our furniture plans provide incredible customer value and peace of mind, protecting customers’ hard-earned investment. However, we are so much more than a furniture insurance provider, and we are excited for the future and the opportunities we have ahead of us,’ says Willshire.

Email: info@guardsman.co.uk

The company wants to boost retailers’ online sales of protection plans and has expanded its care kit offer

Protection Plans

FCA regulated furniture insurance for every day accidental spills and stains

Products

Furniture care products to complement our protection plans, or to sell as an add on.

Insurance expertise

Highly experienced insurance professionals to support you with selling protection plans within the FCA requirements.

See the potential

‘Underlay can bring added value to a carpet sale, but in an age of free underlay and low quality products, retailers have to be even more focused on selling the potential of a good quality product,’ says Richard Bailey, Floorwise md.

A good quality underlay will command a higher price for the retailer and ensure a longer lasting, more comfortable carpet for the consumer, but with most consumers looking for a ‘good deal’ the temptation to sway a buying decision with free underlay can be a strong one. Yet, the result of such deals has seen a downward drive in quality and performance as retailers look to minimise costs.

‘By focusing on underlay as an important part of a carpet’s overall performance – more like a system –rather than just something you need beneath it, it is possible to redress this balance. At Floorwise, we’ve worked hard to develop a wide and complete range of underlays that allow retailers to propose exactly this at every price of carpet. So, even if customers are on a strict budget, retailers can recommend a Floorwise underlay with the quality to enhance the life of the carpet. In fact, using a good underlay under a budget carpet is even more important, as they often use a weaker and

less stable backing. Adopting system thinking can avoid costly call-outs for premature rucking,’ says Bailey.

‘Of course, premium offerings such as those found in our luxury Feel the Difference collection and our UHD+ (ultra-high density plus) products such as Tread and Lift, offer the ultimate long-term durability. But right through the range, to the cost-conscious Essentials 8 and Essentials 10, we have been careful to balance quality, durability and comfort with price, so retailers can confidently recommend Floorwise to support the carpet and improve comfort.

‘Highlighting the advantages of spending a little more on underlay in key areas can maximise the customer’s budget while also providing the carpet with the comfort and support

needed. For example, a Floorwise SHD+ 9mm underlay like Verve might be recommended for living rooms, stairs and hallways and then a HD+ 11mm underlay like Maxi for bedrooms. Tailoring the specification is a great way to maximise their budget and enhance your revenue while also showing the customer you care about the long-term performance of their carpet.

‘Perhaps this is the most persuasive argument of all. By showing you have thought about the customer’s choice of underlay as a route to enhancing the life of their investment, rather than simply closing the transaction with a special deal, you are fulfilling their expectations of a good independent retailer that cares about its customers.’ Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk

A carpet and a quality underlay should be thought of as a system, not separate products

Maxi

Verve

All together

The show looks to gather the best South East Asian furniture

Following the success of VIFA EXPO in March, the Vietnam ASEAN International Furniture & Home Accessories Fair – VIFA ASEAN – will be held from 29 August–1 September at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre (SECC) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, with the goal of enhancing Vietnam’s position to become the global hub for furniture trade.

Under the theme ‘Gathering all the best South East Asian furniture’, the event is expected to see more than 350 companies occupy over 20,000sqm.

VIFA ASEAN 2023 will feature national pavilions from Southeast Asian countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore

and the Philippines, providing multiple opportunities for buyers to explore the unique products and designs of these countries.

On display will be a wide assortment of items, ranging from indoor and outdoor cabinet furniture such as sofas, tables, chairs, beds, cabinets, shelves and kitchenware to decorative items like paintings, vases, table lamps, blankets, bedsheets, pillows, mattresses and curtains. There will also be gifts and other products, especially those made from sustainable, eco-friendly and recycled materials, as well as modern and traditional handicraft products

such as lacquerware, bamboo and rattan weaving, and ceramic items with distinctive cultural features from Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries.

VIFA ASEAN 2023 is part of a chain of furniture exhibitions during the international buying season in Asia during August and September, which includes KOFURN in South Korea, IFFINA in Indonesia and CIFF Shanghai and Furniture China in China. The show, which is expected to attract thousands of international buyers, serves as a bridge for furniture products from Southeast Asia to reach the global market.

Visit: www.vifaasean.com

The show follows the success of VIFA EXPO in March

The Bed Show

Go-to The

Bed Show will return in September

Registration is now open for the UK’s largest bed exhibition as it returns to the Telford International Centre on 26-27 September.

Organised by the National Bed Federation, the show celebrates the unique coming together of the very best in British and Irish bed manufacturing, their component suppliers and retail customers all under one roof.

‘The exhibition is the go-to destination for the UK bed industry to come together and unveil a host of new products, concepts and marketing initiatives. For quality visitors and industry networking in the sector, The Bed Show is unrivalled. Always keen to keep the event fresh and exciting, we and the exhibitors are planning some surprises and shake-ups for the show and the Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony, so beat the queues on the day and secure your e-ticket now –September comes around sooner than you think,’ says Tristine Hargreaves, NBF executive director.

‘This year, some of the biggest names in beds and component supplies will be exhibiting. For 2023, visitors can see the likes of Breasley, Deluxe Beds, Harrison Spinks, Highgrove Beds, Hypnos, Kaymed, Sealy, Silentnight and Vogue Beds – to name a few.’

The Supplier Innovation Zone should be the first port of call for all purchasing managers of bed manufacturers and those that run their own mattress production units. The zone will host a selection of key component suppliers,

including Apropa, Boyteks, Enkev, Handy, John Cotton Nonwovens, Leggett and Platt, Spinks, Wolf Components and many more.

‘ The Bed Show is the place to be this September and every September,’ says Hargreaves. ‘Now in its 13th year, the NBF’s annual exhibition is firmly cemented as the go-to bed event in the UK and Ireland. It’s a really exciting time in the trade’s calendar, when the latest products and innovations are revealed ready for the busy autumn buying season. We encourage you to book your ticket now and look forward to welcoming you in September.’

Once again, there will be plenty of catering facilities across the show’s three halls, with complimentary refreshment vouchers available for visitors and exhibitors. Ample free parking is available on site and entry to The Bed Show is free.

Any visitors wishing to bring young children into the halls with them are encouraged to do so on the Wednesday, 27 September.

Winners of the coveted NBF Bed Industry Awards will be announced at the annual Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony on the night of 26 September. Visit: www.bedshow.co.uk

The show will celebrate its 13th edition

Are you looking to join a major furniture buying group?

• Leading UK Furniture Buying Group – Specialising in Upholstery, Cabinet, Bed, Bedroom Furniture & Accessories

• Established in 1990

• Over 33 Years of Sourcing, and Buying experience

• Sourcing Leading Suppliers from all around the World

• Offering the best products in all Furniture Categories

• Spring and Autumn Trade Shows featuring leading Suppliers – held at dedicated National Exhibition Centre in the Midlands

• Very attractive Rebate Scheme for all Members

For further information on Membership and benefits please contact Jim Orr jim.orr@minervafurnituregroup.co.uk

Unique

With an exclusive edit of furniture, interior decor and accessories, gift, beauty and fashion brands, and the launch of the Connect @ Autumn Fair programme, this edition of Autumn Fair will be like no other.

‘Autumn Fair is going to be the must-visit event for so many reasons. We are bringing together the most compelling and relevant mix of exhibitors, many launching their new ranges. The market has not developed many new products in recent years due to post-pandemic travel restrictions, factory closures and heavy container

prices, but recent product development trips mean that Autumn Fair is going to present a prolific amount of fresh products, material changes, tactile updates, and a far more deliberate trend update which will offer retailers real point of difference, help drive market optimism and re-engage consumer confidence,’ says Alejandra Campos, Autumn Fair event director.

At Home, living and decor buyers will discover the latest on-trend home accessories, textiles, furniture, lighting, tableware, kitchenware and outdoor living, whilst The Summerhouse offers

hand-picked and curated style-led interiors and lifestyle products. Hill Interiors, McGowan & Rutherford, London Ornaments, Walton & Co, Malini, Wild Java, Ancient Mariner Furniture, Blooms by Samuel Baker, Richard Cooper Bronze, Sompex, Deluxe HomeArt, Febland Group, Besp-Oak Furniture, Final Touches, Edge Company, Katrina Hampton by Ambassador Textiles, Teal International, Satchville Gift Company and Dutch Imports & Daughters are amongst the brands presenting their new ranges and best-sellers.

Everyday is the sourcing destination for everyday affordable items, from domestic appliances, housewares and table top to pet supplies, home improvement and household cleaning products from brands including Tefal, Salter, Beldray, Artisiana and many more.

Autumn Fair, held at the NEC from 3-6 September, will also bring an edition like never before with the launch of Connect @ Autumn Fair, retail’s largest meetings programme yet. Offering a new way to shop the show, Connect @ Autumn Fair will help you find the right brands in an efficient way through pre-arranged buying meetings and networking opportunities. The new programme is free to use, with no minimum meeting requirement and you can still walk the show as normal for new discoveries and inspiration. Visit: www.autumnfair.com

The introduction of Connect @ Autumn Fair will make it a show like no other

Hill Interiors

Malini

Edge Company

Pooling power

Improved terms and bespoke marketing are on offer

Since the creation of the Metro Group in 1979, the key aim for the founding and subsequent members has been the ability to pool buying power to compete against national chains.

Metro is a group of independent retailers, from the smallest one-man operation to multiple-outlet businesses.

Most members appear to appreciate the ability to discuss the problems and

issues they encounter on a day-to-day basis with other like-minded retailers. Metro holds two sets of area meetings each year where members can talk freely about issues that affect their business and gain support and advice from retailers who have nothing to lose and everything to gain by sharing information.

Own labelling and branding has become a huge success for the group with its Carpet 1st own brand. Since 1995 the group has developed the brand, which encompasses some of the best-selling and best-performing products on sale today. Carpet 1st products are selected for their appeal, quality and value, then group-wide terms are negotiated to introduce and support manufacturers and products.

Metro has become much more than simply a £50m buying group. Assisting members with marketing has been a key goal over the years, and since 2014 the group’s marketing service has been developed substantially. It was recognised that many carpet stores had displays and signage that were outdated

and didn’t offer a truly professional appearance. As the majority of Metro members look to maintain their own identity, simply accepting off-the-shelf material in set sizes is not ideal.

In the past nine years the service has grown and now features a dedicated studio and production unit with the latest retail display and sign-making equipment, combined with the ability to design, manufacture and install anywhere in the UK.

Not only does Metro provide a whole host of marketing solutions but also assists with the cost: each member qualifies for £600 worth of bespoke marketing support each year to assist with any or multiple projects.

Recently Trade Carpets in Clitheroe used its marketing allowance to revamp existing signage. Following a site survey, it was decided that the existing signage could be revamped, saving huge fabrication costs, and the marketing team worked with a new logo design to fit clear replacement signage, including the main 9m-wide tray sign.

Tel: 01204 393 539

Trade Carpets in Clitheroe replaced its signage in April

More colour and texture have been added to Flooring One’s carpet offer

Rio Twist

Flooring One’s latest ranges for members see the introduction of more colour and more neutral tones. ‘Bringing the outside in’ continues to be a major theme and texture is growing in importance as part of this, reflected by more loops. The group says more consumers want to feel natural textures and it has responded to this.

There has also been development in the use of polyester, as nylon becomes more premium, giving the look and feel of nylon. Illustrious is one such polyester range with a luxury nylon look, while Orbital is a polyester printed with a distressed-style finish.

Coordinating loop ranges were added to a number of twist ranges including Castell and Kingsbury.

Hillside Views now has a herringbone design, while Diplomat is a more upmarket version.

Invincible Chic is available in 14 colours and two weights; Rio Twist has been updated with new colours including red and blue; and Melody has seen the addition of new shades including gold, red and fern green.

The group expects to add more polyester and man-made fibre loops to the mix in the coming months.

Email: Peter.Karra@flooringone.co.uk

Castell Loop in Wheat Field

Rio Twist

Top and above: Invincible Chic in Rich Rose

Kingsbury Wool Loop

Much more

Greendale is marketing the buying group as a brand to shoppers

‘Greendale Carpets & Flooring is much more than a buying group. It is a cooperative of like-minded businesses that sit at the very heart of their communities,’ says Eamonn Prescott, Greendale chief executive.

‘Greendale members have a sense that they are something so much bigger than being “just another member”. Why? They have a stake in the company itself. We are owned by our members, as they buy a share of the company when they join. We are run by our members, for our members. It is our role to make money for them, not from them.’

Greendale is unique amongst the trade’s buying groups in having its own warehouse and stocking facility.

‘The fact that we can buy in bulk means we are able to negotiate deals with suppliers that are usually only available to the large, out-of-town multiples. This facility means we can approach the leading UK suppliers

and place orders that run into six figures. No other group can offer that. The stock we have is for the exclusive use of our members.’

Greendale members also have the option to rebrand all the ranges under the Greendale label.

‘Greendale is more than a buying group: we are also an aspirational interiors brand. The fact that we can run exclusive colours and ranges under the Greendale brand, should we choose, once again shows clear water between us and the other groups,’ says Prescott.

‘We have started a large social media campaign promoting “Greendale the brand” and have had some great feedback on that already. Our aim is to make the Greendale brand a go-to name when selecting carpet and flooring in the UK.’

Visit: www.greendalecarpets.co.uk

Above: The group has updated its logo Left: A social media campaign is underway promoting Greendale as a brand

More benefits

Preferential terms are combined with business support

The UK’s largest flooring buying group has something for every retailer, large or small, long established or just starting out. Members run their business as they see fit but gain advantage from the comprehensive package of benefits available, which always results in more profit for the retailer.

‘Independent retailers are attracted to joining SMG as the group guarantees that members can retain their complete independence but at the same time benefit from preferential discounts, rebate schemes and promotions from

a comprehensive range of approved suppliers. Not only that, they can access products from any approved supplier via our Central Purchasing Scheme, even without a direct account,’ says Linda Thomas, SMG head of group operations.

As well as access to and preferential terms with manufacturers, SMG offers members the chance to sell ownbranded product without the need to commit to complete re-branding of their store. With new products added all the time, and with the ability to own-brand for retailers as required, there is always

something new to add to the retailer’s arsenal in the fight against larger rivals and online sellers.

With the group now representing more than 440 retail outlets in the UK, SMG is adding regularly to the flooring proposition and has also developed a comprehensive business support package that rewards retailers.

‘Not only do SMG members benefit from great terms but they can access a business support package that is second to none. With a free-of-charge business support helpline, bespoke SMG retail insurance, discounted utility brokerage and preferential credit card rates, it really is an all-round great deal,’ says Thomas.

‘The key driver for SMG has always been to create profitable partnerships between members and approved suppliers. They have the same goals and SMG can deliver more sales and greater profitability for both. As if all this weren’t enough, SMG is also extremely proud to be able to offer members the opportunity to buy furniture and beds from some of the top manufacturers in the market. This gives our members the opportunity to diversify or to link sell furnishings to their customers.’

Visit: www.smg-group.co.uk

For life

Abingdon Flooring looked to expand its offer and boost service

Abingdon Flooring relaunched its Lifetime Stainfree warranty and gave visitors a view of its new Wilton Royal wool loop pile carpets and refreshed POS at the Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show.

In the latest ranges from its Stainfree collection and new wool loop pile styles from the Wilton Royal family, the British manufacturer underlined its ability to deliver quality and value across a broad selection of carpets

With Charter Berber Loop and Charter Plain Loop, visitors saw affordable entries into 100% wool with the relaxed, country look of loop pile carpet. With a range of natural colours, these carpets are designed to be a must for retailers looking to make the most of the yarn’s

return to the spotlight. Abingdon Flooring also showcased a new-look POS for its Wilton Royal family, bringing the collection in-line with the company’s energetic, modern feel.

The Stainfree offer was expanded. On show was Festival, deep pile carpet that’s eminently practical, in colours such as oyster, white smoke, glacier grey and almond – a palette designed to be the perfect backdrop to bold and colourful home accessories and soft furnishings.

Alongside Festival, visitors to the stand also got close to Affection and Timeless. These Stainfree styles offer improved softness without the sacrifice of practical performance.

Abingdon Flooring also used BGNFS to communicate its relaunched Stainfree

for Life warranty. In clarifying the spills and accidents covered by Stainfree for Life, the updated warranty ensures that retailers and homeowners have a better understanding of carpet performance, helping to improve after-sales service.

‘As always, this year’s show provided a great opportunity to talk to our buying group customers and show the latest carpets coming out of our development centre. With the relaunch of Stainfree for Life we have taken a positive step to improve after-sales service and make our promise clear. It is changes like this that make sure we are a winning choice for buying group retailers looking for the best in British,’ says Charlotte Coop, Abingdon Flooring head of marketing. Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

Timeless Festival

Royal Charter

The Abingdon Flooring stand

Softer

More soft colour options were on show

Associated Weavers’ Hudson and Brooklyn saw the addition of more soft colour options such as sage and pale gold. Temptation was also updated with softer shades.

Invictus, Cassius and Darius were recoloured with soft greens and golds. The company showed the Allure

polymide collection following the acquisition of the Ideal brand. Allure has a choice of more than 60 colours. The company also updated visitors on the progress of its Northampton warehouse, which was scheduled to be fully stocked by the end of May, reducing delivery times to three to five days.

Invictus enlarged its LVT offer with larger 145mm x 743mm dry back parquet planks in Highland Oak and Divine Oak. Each has three designs. The move came ahead of a ‘significant’ upgrade to the offer in the next quarter. Visit: www.carpetyourlife.com www.invictus.co.uk

The Invictus LVT offer will see a ‘significant’ upgrade soon

Visitors were kept up to date on 2023’s developments

Ranges were recoloured

Roll-out

Modern Classics is arriving in stores

Hat-trick

Cavalier Carpets showcased a trio of collections

Axminster Carpets has begun the roll-out of its Modern Classics collection following its preview at The Flooring Show. Retailers that pre-ordered the display stand will receive samples and the POS first.

The company has explored its archives to create Antiquity, a top-end collection reinterpreted in modern colours.

Visit: www.axminster-carpets.co.uk

Cavalier Carpets highlighted a trio of ranges: Curlew, a three-ply New Zealand wool loop; Snowdon, a premium wool dense twist in a 55oz weight, and Satin, a 100% polyester design.

Visit: www.cavaliercarpets.co.uk

Love the earth

Beyond Wool is designed to look and feel like the fibre but with other advantages

Beyond Wool took centre stage at Furlong Flooring. The collection of five ranges – Serenity, Renaissance, Elegance, Henley & Marlow and Amesbury & Castlerigg – has been designed to have the look and feel of a wool carpet but with the practical

benefits of polypropylene.

The collection has been created ‘to give consumers the look they want with the finish they need’.

The carpets are bleach-cleanable, moth-resistant, use a two-ply yarn, feature the Combi-bac backing and

have a 10-year wear and stain warranty. The polypropylene used for Amesbury & Castlerigg is recycled.

The stand also featured updated POS for Furlong Flooring’s engineered wood collection, explaining its ethical sourcing. Visit: www.furlongflooring.com

Amesbury (pictured in Pumice) and Castlerigg (below, pictured in Tourmaline) use recycled polypropylene and are available in six shades and two loop designs

Be unique

Hugh Mackay showcased an array of products including its custom Axminster carpets

The show saw Hugh Mackay showcase a vast array of products.

The Axminster stand displayed its custom Axminster offering. For a minimum of 20sqm it offers a bespoke design service. The customer can select from six colour palettes to design their own bespoke carpet. They will be able to work alongside one of the Hugh Mackay designers, supplying images or designs they would like to create. The designer will then create PDF images for the customer to choose from. Once they have selected the image, a sample of

the carpet will be made on a kibby machine. This is a non-production sample but will allow the customer to appreciate the final design visually. The sample is chargeable but will be rebated upon placement of the order. The carpet takes approximately eight weeks to be supplied and the customer will have a unique floorcovering.

Hugh Mackay also saw the launch of three products, catering for both the premium and economical sides of the market-place.

Durham Alternates is a three-ply loop

made from New Zealand wool. It is available in 4m and 5m widths and has a cosy-fleece backing. The range has a herringbone design and boucle design, each with a colourbank of five beige tones and five grey tones. The selection coordinates with the existing Durham Twist range. The larger lectern displays the Durham Alternates alongside the Durham Twist, showing the two coordinating ranges together. Unitary and stock will be available in July.

Natural Origins is derived from the iconic Hugh Mackay Natural Weave range. Natural Origins is an economical choice made up of designs associated with premium products. It is available in a herringbone design, a rib design and a boucle design. With eight colour options, the product is supplied in 4m and 5m widths on a hessian back. Unitary and stock will be available in July.

Riverside Origins is derived from the Hugh Mackay Riverside Twist range. This entry-level wool twist is available in rolls only. The range consists of eight colour options, four new and four from the existing Riverside range. It comes in 4m and 5m widths on a hessian back. Unitary and stock will be available this month.

The company is hoping to launch a further two new products at The Flooring Show in September.

Visit: www.hughmackay.co.uk

Above left: Hugh Mackay won the best stand award Above: Hugh Mackay head of contract sales Paul Hartley and head designer Roland Green

Durham Alternatives and Natural Origins

Larger family

New wool products were Victoria Carpets’ focus at this year’s show

Tudor Co-ordinates, which is now being rolled out, was showcased. Joining the Tudor family, Co-ordinates is a loop pile range of 20 plain and four stripes. Using the bestselling colours from the Tudor Twist range, this collection delivers a modern palette with a splash of colour. This 100% wool loop is available in 4m and 5m widths (including the stripes) and is tufted used three-ply yarn. POS includes a double lectern, wall units and the award-winning cake stand, where the range is displayed alongside Tudor Twist, Royal Velvet and Strathmore Berber, another of Victoria’s latest wool launches.

Launched to the market in March, the Strathmore Berber range has refreshed both its colour bank and construction, featuring 12 Berber shades influenced by the fauna and flora of hedgerows and mountain passes in the Scottish Highlands. The updated construction includes melt bond, which gives the product a precise look that helps show off the colours in a rustic finish.

Also on display was EasiCare Vision, a new heavyweight polypropylene made using a six-play yarn and weighing in at 97oz. Nine heathered tones of tri-coloured yarn come together to create family-friendly luxury at its best. It will be launched in late summer.

The product team at Victoria continue to keep up the pace of launches, with a further three scheduled for the autumn and some surprises hinted for The Flooring Show.

The marketing team at Victoria paid homage to the new King and its Royal Warrant by creating a giant portrait using 3cm x 3cm squares of carpet. At more than 4sqm and utilising over 3,000 individual pieces of carpet, the finished portrait took over 16 hours to produce, and faithfully recreates an official portrait released to celebrate the then Prince of Wales’ 60th birthday. The team released timelapse footage of them creating the masterpiece in time for the coronation and were delighted that the story was not only picked up by national press here in the UK but also in the US.

Visit: www.myvictoria.co.uk

Watch our Coronation Celebration here:

Strathmore Berber

Scan the QR code to watch the video

Victoria Carpets showcasing the new Tudor Co-ordinates

Abingdon Flooring relaunched its Lifetime Stainfree warranty, and showed visitors the latest additions to the Stainfree offer alongside the new Wilton Royal wool loop pile carpets and refreshed POS. With Charter Berber Loop and Charter Plain Loop from the Wilton Royal family, visitors saw affordable entries into 100% wool with the relaxed, country look of loop pile carpet.

Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

On view

Associated Weavers showed visitors the major steps it is taking this year, including the opening of its Northampton warehouse; a faster cut-length service; a new retailer portal; new Vivendi, StainAway, Invictus and Gaia ranges and increased LVT options.

Visit: www.carpetyourlife.com

With over 40 leading flooring brands in attendance, there was plenty to draw the eye at the Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show

Axminster Carpets has begun the roll-out of its Modern Classics collection, previewed at The Flooring Show. Retailers that pre-ordered the display stand will be first to receive samples and the POS.

Visit: www.axminster-carpets.co.uk

Ball & Young has been championing sustainability for more than 25 years and its many initiatives have helped Vita Group, its parent company, achieve a gold rating from EcoVadis in recognition of its advanced sustainability credentials.

Visit: www.ballandyoung.com

Balta highlighted WoolMaster, Made In Heaven and StainSafe, promoting the fact that the ranges are stocked in the UK. It introduced new lecterns that are suitable for all ranges and will become the default Balta lectern.

Visit: www.balta-carpets.com

With BerryAlloc’s High Pressure Floors, Ocean+ and Chateau laminate flooring and Pure luxury vinyl tiles and planks all on display, the show proved the ideal place for buying group retailers to consider its hard flooring offer, strengthening existing categories with better features and accessible alternatives to some of the newest looks in interiors.

Visit: www.berryalloc.com

Carpet Recycling UK returned to BGNFS to help its network to become more sustainable. Retailers were able to find out about how to reduce their waste volumes and waste bill. A discounted membership rate is available to members of the three buying groups that are associate members.

Visit: www.carpetrecyclinguk.com

Cormar Carpet Company introduced Fairisle, a three-ply 100% wool chunky loop available in 4m and 5m widths. Malabar has been recoloured, with six shades removed and eight added – including lighter, softer greys and beiges –increasing the offer to 20 colours. The show also saw a new wool loop lectern.

Visit: www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

Fells Carpets introduced Atmosphere: a polyester printed carpet giving the look of concrete, available in 15 options.

Visit: www.fellscarpets.co.uk

Beyond Wool took centre stage at Furlong Flooring. The collection of five ranges – Serenity, Renaissance, Elegance, Henley & Marlow and Amesbury & Castlerigg – has been designed to have the look and feel of wool carpet with the practical benefits of polypropylene. It was been created ‘to give consumers the look they want with the finish they need’. Visit: www.furlongflooring.com

Greendale Carpets & Flooring highlighted its new-look website to members. Its branding has been updated and it has launched a social media campaign promoting Greendale as a brand. ‘We want to become an interiors brand in the long term,’ says Eamonn Prescott, Greendale chief executive. Visit: www.greendalecarpets.co.uk

Hugh Mackay highlighted its custom Axminster offer, where consumers can design their own unique carpet. It also introduced the Durham Alternatives loop to coordinate with Durham Twist, and showcased Natural Origins, based on Natural Weave, and Riverside Origins, derived from Riverside Twist. Visit: www.hughmackay.co.uk

Feature Head size/colour to suit

Standfirst style standfirst Most retailers agree and development

Interfloor promoted Tredaire Premier; highlighted the updated POS for renu which explains its sustainability credentials; and showcased Gripperrods Premier. Visit: www.interfloor.com

New products across the Likewise Floors, Lewis Abbott and Likewise Rugs & Matting brands included a fantastic value 12mm laminate flooring and a bespoke vinyl flooring collection. Likewise Rugs & Matting displayed its new eco-friendly collection of rugged outdoor mats, produced from recycled materials (car tyres and plastic drinking bottles) along with new indoor mats and rugs. Email: enquiries@likewisefloors.co.uk

Louis de Poortere previewed a mono-polymer 100% polyester construction, which gives the potential for recycling into new rugs. ‘The introduction of a mono-polymer construction is the first step towards closing the loop. It’s a great start and shows our commitment to making a lasting and positive change,’ says Alan Russell, Louis de Poortere sales director. Visit: www.louisdepoortere.com

Masterpiece System improved the back-end functionality of its software, adding a diary system, upgraded payment integration with accountancy systems, and a sales transaction function. The front-end saw the introduction of a ball-park quote function allowing inexperienced staff to produce an approximate quote before proper measuring is undertaken. Visit: www.masterpiece-system.com

WELCOME HOME

Interior furnishing trends are ever changing and at Penthouse Carpets we’re loving the latest warm natural tones, which is why we’ve added four brand new up-to-the-minute shades to our stunning Colorado range. Created using a bespoke blend of the finest wools, Colorado offers the ultimate in both comfort and durability. With the added bonus of our signature sustainable jute backing, making it a dream to fit and better for the environment. Available in 18 gorgeous contemporary whisper soft tones, in a choice of 45oz and 55oz, and 4m or 5m guaranteed widths, this beautiful carpet is the finishing touch to make any home both welcoming and ultra-stylish. Penthouse quality – naturally.

For samples and further information please call 01706 639 866 or visit penthousecarpets.co.uk Scan me

Colour shown: Bayfield

Penthouse Carpets has added four up-to-the-minute shades to its Colorado range. Created using a bespoke blend of the finest wools, Colorado is available in 18 contemporary tones, in a choice of 45oz and 55oz, and 4m or 5m widths, this beautiful carpet is the finishing touch to make any home both welcoming and ultra-stylish.

Visit: www.penthousecarpets.co.uk

SMG used the show to introduce two new suppliers to members: BerryAlloc and Phoenox, while updating them on its latest updates and plans for 2023.

Visit: www.smg-group.co.uk

Victoria Carpets’ centrepiece was the launch of Tudor Coordinates, available in 20 plains and four stripes. The six-ply Easycare Vision was previewed ahead of its July or August introduction. It will be available in nine colours. The company sponsored a drinks reception on the first day of the show.

Visit: www.myvictoria.co.uk

Westex showcased its new loop ranges, launching in July. The 48 loop SKUs are all made from natural undyed yarn and 100% wool. This range contains six new design variants: Croxby, Sawley, Eskdale, Laverton, Butterwick and Kirkmond. It also showed its New Pure Luxury range extension, to include three cut pile qualities and three new loop textures.

Visit: www.westexflooring.com

Fully furnished

After Covid cancellations and a special edition, Salone returned in full. Here are the highlights. Visit: www.salonemilano.it

Frag’s Syren has a metal tubular frame that supports the wide leather band that wraps around and envelops the chair, while the back and armrest cushions adjust to the body

Horm’s Plaza collection is its first collaboration with Marco Piva, and takes inspiration from squares across Europe, from Lisbon to Paris and Berlin to Amsterdam

Freifrau now has a Petit version of the Nana love seat and pouf

Arrange Artifort’s modular Track as you like: want curves, have them; want straight, have it

Expormin’s Cask now has an outdoor version to add to 2021’s indoor chair, with aluminium replacing the original rattan

Bonaldo’s Bonamour is inspired by the 1970s and geometric purity with pleat detailing



Cattelan

Scott has a base of two curved and overlapping metal plates, inspired by a shirt collar, in a new hand-brushed Oxybrass finish that has an oxidising tinge that darkens towards the ground

ClassiCon’s Monolith is characterised by beige horizontal and vertical lines that sometimes cross without touching, suggesting a structure that seems to divide the rug into squares of different sizes. The design is based on gouaches and pencil drawings made by Eileen Gray in the 1920s.

has a solid outer shell and voluptuous inner

giving it a nonchalant character

Italia’s

Acerbis added to its Remasters collection with Claudio Salocchi’s Free System: in 1973 he suggested free, uninterrupted seating that could simply be placed side by side

Sturdy and generously round, MaxDivani’s Dana is embellished by details such as the leather bands linking the seat to the backrest

Illulian’s Blast rug

Lago’s Nacho

upholstery,

Pure and simple lines: that’s Living Divani’s Ark by David Lopez Quincoces

Carpet Edition’s Alfabeto has six new colours since its preview, including Sunflower

Kristalia’s Bombosoft is generously padded and visually suggests relaxation and comfort

Kartell’s Asia has a metal frame that contrasts with the soft contours of the upholstery

de Sede’s 705 sees the armrests fold inward in an embrace and connects the back section and seat in a fluid manner

The focus of Magis’ Trave is the steam-bent ash bar: the only element to which the legs and the two fabric cushions are attached

Leolux’s Lunetta has a low seat, strictly geometric frame, soft cushions and loose, rumpled cover

Food meets furniture: Riva1920’s Bignè stool, made from Lebanese cedar, is crafted from a single block and evokes the shape of pastry chef Iginio Massari’s iconic cream puff

Piero Lissoni's Outdoor Collection for Knoll takes inspiration from the 1966 Collection by Richard Schultz

Welcome Brutalism into your home with Minotti’s Pilotis console table, with stainless steel frame and liquorice coloured ash top

Slide’s Bunny is a sculpture born from the creative flair of Japanese artist Aki Kuroda, in collaboration with the Yoyo Maeght gallery, in 13 colours

MisuraEmme’s Argo sofa has a C shape that fills the surrounding space

Not sure what chair you want? KFF’s Faye Casual has plenty of options.

Inperfecto added to Arenaria: use it as a side table, sit on it or think of the fibreglass structures as art

Cierre1972’s Seed sofa looks to envelope the user and the Riviera coffee tables have an unexpected detail in the glass top: a lighter motif, almost embroidered, reminiscent of a trickle of water

Versace Home’s Stiletto was extended to include a table with leather-covered top, a tapered stool and the Bergère armchair paired with a footrest. The tall mermaid-tail shaped backrest tapers into the feet, recalling the fashion house’s stiletto heel.

More’s Gabo features a rotating leather or fabriccovered shell on a conical plywood frame

Gervasoni expanded Daen with a bookcase defined by a back panel upholstered with a water-repellent faux leather weave in a sand colour, characterised by a striped texture for an additional dimension

‘The inspiration for

feeling of

A simple yet cosy shape, in which the body is pleasantly welcomed,’ says Naoto

Comfort and casual meet with Verzelloni’s Zoe, available in four chair sizes, chaise lounge, pouf and outdoor versions

Kymo’s Open Loop is produced as a closed circular pattern which is then cut into squares and reassembled

Twils added a champagne finish to Rica Zalf’s Freespace can be customised by module and finish

the Cinnamon armchair was the

being wrapped in a soft embrace, like floating in an inflatable ring with your arms drifting along the water surface.

Fukasawa of his design for Molteni & C.

Tomasella, which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, integrated storage, lighting and electronic charging with sleep with Yuki

Quality

Long Point saw debut participants, upgraded showrooms and new designs

Violino officially opened the doors to its new Long Eaton permanent showroom within the Harrington Mills complex at the show.

‘As our first Long Point exhibition, we were very happy with the quality of the customers attending the show and the orders that our customers made. We are pleased to be in the company of so many of the UK’s leading upholstery manufacturers and suppliers,’ says David Carter, Violino UK and Ireland sales manager. The company launched

a host of new models in leather and in fabric, and presented its newly extended fabric ranges.

Wiemann revealed its revamped Harrington Mills showroom at the show. Its most popular range proved to be new star Denver, a VIP sliding and hinged wardrobe featuring a deckingstyle panel. The company’s outstanding value-for-money ranges, Miami and Tampa, were also popular.

‘We enjoyed a good show in tough retail times and engaged with the

majority of our key independent customer base. It was great to show off our refurbished premises, and we’re looking forward to the Autumn event now,’ says Simon Hewitt, md of Litmus Furniture, Wiemann’s sole agent for the UK and Ireland.

Artistic Upholstery debuted Ivy May, featuring full coil sprung seating on a traditional beech frame and high end cushion interiors, with the design receiving ‘great reviews’ for its comfort. Visit: www.longeatonguild.co.uk

Wiemann’s Cambridge

Violino

Artistic Upholstery’s Ivy May

Retail Sales Executive

Ulster Carpets’ is one of the world’s largest and most progressive carpet manufacturers, servicing global retail and contract markets. We now have a vacancy for a Retail Sales Executive with responsibility for developing sales through our Independent retail accounts covering the following areas:

South Wales, Somerset, Avon, Gloucestershire, Devon and Cornwall

We offer a competitive salary, company car, medical cover, contributory pension scheme and profit related pay, along with good development and progression opportunities.

To apply send your tailored CV and a covering letter detailing how you meet the following desired criteria:

1. Sales experience as an on the road representative (ideally a minimum of 2 years);

2. The ability to achieve sales targets, provide details of results and achievements;

3. The motivation and enthusiasm to grow and increase sales in the territory.

Applications should be emailed by Monday 19 June 2023 at 12 noon to recruit@ulstercarpets.com, or by post to The Monitoring Officer, Ulster Carpets, Castleisland Factory, Portadown, Co Armagh, BT62 1EE. To speak with a member of our team telephone 028 38334433.

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer

RECRUITMENT

If you are looking to recruit staff for your furniture or flooring stores, looking for sales staff or reps for your manufacturing outlet, then INTERIORS MONTHLY offers a great package!

Our online package is just £175. Your advert will appear in our jobs section on the website until the position is filled or you ask us to remove. Our weekly newsletter, which is mailed every Thursday to 7000 industry professionals, also includes a list of these latest jobs.

If you have both online and quarter page recruitment advert in our magazine, the cost will only be £250!

Costs for larger recruitment adverts are available upon request. Please contact Jarrod on E: jbird@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

T: 01565 631 397

To strengthen the sales department of our broadloom division and to make a better & stronger Balta, we are currently looking for a:

Sales Representative North West, Including North Wales

Your Challenges:

•Managing key retailers and buying group members in your area

•Expansion of the exisiting customer base

•Increasing the product ranges with exisiting customers based on a clear sales strategy combined with a wide range of new products

Your Talents:

•Experienced Sales Manager looking to challenge themselves and thrive in a busy and fast paced environment

•Eager to drive sales and able to spot opportunities for growth

•Excellent time management with the ability to work with numbers and data

•Able to travel approximately 4 days of the week

• Experience in carpet & flooring industry preferrable but not essential

What We Offer:

• Opportunity to have a direct influence on accounts in your area

•The chance to be a part of a world leader in broadloom

•A working environment based around sustainability, safety and strong communication

• Attractive salary and other excellent benefits.

To register your interest, please send you CV to careers@baltafloorcoverings.co.uk

Best yet

The Spring Furniture and Bed Show set records for visitors and exhibitors

The Spring Furniture and Bed Show saw more than 70 exhibitors – its highest number yet – attract a record volume of visitors to the May exhibition.

Exhibitors covered upholstery, beds, cabinet and accessories, while buyers visited from multiples, online and independents, including the majority of Minerva Group members.

The event also hosted the Spring Furniture and Bed Show Awards. Best

British Supplier was won by Alstons; Best Overseas Supplier by New Trend Concepts, and the award for Best Stand went to DAR Lighting.

The award for Long Service was presented to Roy Beagent, who retired at the end of May after 22 years with Minerva Group.

The Autumn Furniture Show takes place on 3-4 October at Stoneleigh Park. Email: jim.orr@minervafurnituregroup.co.uk

New Trend Concepts won Best Overseas Supplier

The show attracted record visitor numbers

Alstons won Best British Supplier