Cabinet Maker 5th April 2019

DESIGN Brintons reveals its latest designs, the benefits behind wool and its new collaboration.

DESIGN

Another look at what to expect from this month’s industry event, Salone del Mobile.Milano.

5th April 2019 ÂŁ3.75 l

MANUFACTURE

Carpets & Flooring Supplement with features including Brintons, Cormar and The Flooring Show.

MANUFACTURE Cormar talks about new product ranges and how the business is ready for future challenges.

RETAIL A look at The Flooring Show which is set to return to Harrogate this September.

Carpets & Floo Wool from 1 in 9

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RETAIL

Factors employers and young people need to consider regarding future apprenticeship schemes.

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Majesty | By Slumberdream

cabinet-maker.co.uk

Bronze by Healththerapy Beds

DAN SQUIRES

CABINET-MAKER.CO.UK 01623 372 213 PUBLISHER Stewart Rickersey stewart@cabinet-maker.co.uk 01623 372218 EDITOR Dan Squires dan@cabinet-maker.co.uk 01623 372215 SALES Sharon Rickersey Operations & Sales Manager sharon@cabinet-maker.co.uk 01623 372213 Kacem Ellabbar kacem@cabinet-maker.co.uk 01623 372214 Peter Topley peter@cabinet-maker.co.uk 01623 372216 PRE-PRESS PRODUCTION Tim Morriss tim@cabinet-maker.co.uk 01623 372158

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Issue no 6113 published by Information Publications Ltd, Suite 15 Brunts Business Centre, Samuel Brunts Way, Mansfield, NG18 2AH VAT No: GB 945225521 © Information Publications Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording, or any information storage or retrieval system without the express prior written consent of the publisher. We regret we cannot be liable for the safe custody or return of any solicited or unsolicited material. Contributors are advised to keep copies of all materials submitted.

So March has passed and we are all a lot clearer on what post-Brexit Britain is going to look like. This was how the first issue of April was meant to start but — as most anticipated — the Brexit drama continues with an encore that we all could do without. In fact, as I write this, there has been no majority for any of the Brexit options, leaving what comes next as clouded as when Article 50 was first triggered.

So, instead of focusing on matters that are out of our control, there is another debate worth tuning in to, in relation to apprenticeships and how this route can play a vital role in closing the skills gap within the furniture industry. Later this month – on Friday, 26th April, to be precise – there is a conference to launch Furniture and Interiors Skills Plus (Skills Plus) — a service that will lead the way in plugging the ‘skills gap’.

Since the Bridging the Gap conference in 2017, The Furniture and Interiors Education, Skills and Training Alliance (FIESTA) has been working towards a solution that will enable furniture and interiors businesses of all sizes to easily train and recruit employees for all job functions. FIESTA will be presenting this solution, Skills Plus, to the industry at the Furniture Makers’ Hall in London.

The conference will include an overview of the training and education landscape since the release of the Mind the Gap Report in 2015, which identified a skills gap was emerging. In addition to learning more about Skills Plus, delegates will hear from companies from the industry who have introduced successful apprenticeship programmes.

Following on from our own awareness of apprenticeships, this week’s editorial features an insightful ‘need to know’ article that explains what factors employers and young people need to consider regarding future apprenticeship schemes and their legal obligations.

Also taking centre stage — and literally the centre of the magazine — is our next supplement instalment, with a focus on carpets and flooring. The special 16-page features a first look at the biggest UK flooring event, The Flooring Show, an insight into new designs from Brintons, an update on company developments from Cormar, analysis of ScS’ recent trading figures and an in-depth data-crunch on UK carpet imports and exports.

There is also time for another look at what to expect from this month’s Salone del Mobile.

Milano, whilst Stephen Sidkin, partner at law and advisory firm Fox Williams LLP, talks to Cabinet Maker about the status of a commercial agent. Rounding off this week’s issue comes Christian Notley, WorldSkills UK training manager for Cabinet Making, who shares his ‘skills gap’ views in the Last Word.

Closing this gap is paramount to the ongoing success and future of our industry. As Gary Baker, chairman of FIESTA, states, the 26th April is a date to save in the diary. “If you have an ageing work force, or find it challenging to recruit and retain new or existing workers, this conference is a must-attend event.”

Dan Squires Editor

The opinions and views expressed in Cabinet Maker are not necessarily those of Information Publications Ltd. Being subject to the Advertising Standards Authority guidelines in place at the time of going to press, all data submitted by advertisers and contained in their advertising copy is accepted by Information Publications Ltd in good faith.

DESIGN Brintons reveals its latest designs, the benefits behind wool and its new collaboration.

MANUFACTURE Cormar talks about new product ranges and how the business is ready for future challenges.

RETAIL A look at The Flooring Show which is set to return to Harrogate this September.

RETAIL

Carpets & Flooring

ISSN: 0964-4199 Registered as a Newspaper at the Post Office.

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MANUFACTURE Supplement

DESIGN

from at what to expect Another look Salone del industry event, this month’s .

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Carpets & Flooring including Brintons, with features Flooring Show.

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and young people Factors employers regarding future need to consider schemes. apprenticeship

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British Furniture Manufacturers Slumberdream Majesty | By

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INSIDE THIS WEEK’S ISSUE

CARPETS & FLOORING

FEATURES DESIGN CAPTIAL

12

SAVE THE DATE An early preview of The Flooring Show, which is set to return to Harrogate this September.

Cabinet Maker takes another look at what to expect from this month’s Salone del Mobile.Milano.

BE IN THE KNOW

31

Factors employers and young people need to consider regarding future apprenticeship schemes.

WORKING TOGETHER

TOP OF THE PILE

22

34

CARPET CULTURE

24

An in-depth look at last year’s import and export data within the flooring market.

42

Christian Notley, WorldSkills UK training manager for cabinet making, has the Last Word.

22

Tim Eagles, managing director at Cormar, talks about new product ranges and how the business is ready for future challenges.

Stephen Sidkin, partner at law and advisory firm Fox Williams LLP, talks about the status of a commercial agent.

LAST WORD

20

STAYING RESILIENT

20

26

Cabinet Maker takes a look at the recent trading performance at retailer ScS as flooring continues to accelerate.

LEADING BY DESIGN

28

Carpet manufacturer Brintons reveals its latest designs, the benefits behind wool and its collaboration with Studio Elke.

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NEWS

NEWS IN BRIEF TOP LINE GROWTH

EU expansion

Independent tile retailer The Tile People has reported a growth in sales. According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 31st March, 2018, total sales rose 8.8% to £665,835 from £611,143 in 2017. Gross profit also increased 7.5% to £285,830 from £265,803, whilst pre-tax profit resulted at £2,832, slightly down from its profit of £3,897 recorded the previous year.

Italian upholstered furniture manufacturer Natuzzi Italia has expanded its presence in Northern Europe with a new store in Rotterdam, Netherlands. This is the second monobrand FOS in the nation, following last year’s opening in Eindhoven. Located inside the Alexandrium Shopping Centre, the Natuzzi Italia store spreads over an area of 4,700sq ft and hosts 14 roomsets.

New collections

MYSTERY RETAILER

Luxury fabric specialist Kobe UK will reveal a brand new collection, along with its latest upholstery range, at the BCFA Open, Dublin, to be held at the Alex Hotel in June. Meeting the demand for animal print, Kobe will unveil its Malawi and Basoo curtain and upholstery collections and three brand new upholstery fabrics, Calace, Monti and Alberti.

Anniversary sculpture SATRA has commissioned a Northamptonshire artist, Martyn Paul Steele, to create a contemporary sculpture to stand as a reminder of 100 years of research and testing.

Steele was inspired by the forces of stress and tension played out on materials under test after visiting SATRA’s laboratories. The work will be installed externally at SATRA’s headquarters in Kettering.

5th April 2019 | 06

An unnamed national furniture retailer is set to takeover a former Maplin store in St Helens. Situated on St Helens Retail Park in Peasley Cross, St Helens Council has granted a planning application outlining an expansion to Unit K1. Property expert Savills submitted the plans on behalf of UBS Triton Property Fund and states that a national multiple retailer selling furniture goods has agreed to take the space.

Layout Design Guide

The Furniture Industry Research Association has published output from its latest project. Their new Kitchen Layout Design Guide — key resources for your design process is a 56-page guide aimed at designers and manufacturers across the kitchen sector and has been authored by the ergonomics experts at FIRA International.

Layout design is one aspect that can help set these organisations apart.

RETAIL

Independent recognised for customer service Independent furniture business Calverts of Taunton has been recognised with a highly commended award.

Calverts, a family-owned furniture store that has been established since 1944, received a runner-up award in recognition for great customer service.

Commenting on the achievement, Calverts said: “We are very pleased to have received this award for coming runner-up in the ‘Best of’ national awards for great customer service.

“We are in our 75th year of business and customers are our life blood. Thank you The Best of Taunton and Bridgwater.”

w www.calvertsfurniture.co.uk

MANUFACTURE

BED MAKER INSTALLS NEW MACHINERY Bed manufacturer Breasley has commissioned a new CNC foam cutting machine.

Breasley, a UK leader of producing of vacuum-packed rolled and boxed mattresses, is gearing up for further growth with the installation of a new state-of-the-art CNC foam cutting machine.

Working with Albrecht Bäumer, one of the leading manufacturers of plant and machinery for the foam industry worldwide, Breasley is delighted to be the first company in the UK to adopt the OFS-Queensize horizontal cutting machine (pictured) following a £300,000 investment.

The OFS-Queensize is the fastest and most efficient horizontal contour cutting machine on the market. Due to its 3400mm block width, it is possible to increase capacity by up to 100%, as it will allow for up to four mattresses to be produced simultaneously instead of two, in specific sizes.

Mike Crowshaw, joint managing director at Breasley, comments: “We are delighted to be the first company in the UK to adopt this innovative foam cutting technology.

“Breasley has grown significantly over the last 12 years and this investment will allow us to continue to serve our customers with competitive lead times over a variety of mattress sizes and further support our commitment to customer service, innovation and growth.”

w www.breasley.co.uk

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Co-founder retires

BED BUSINESS COLLAPSES

MattressOnline has confirmed the retirement of its co-founder and managing director, Steve Kelly.

Bed headboard manufacturer Crown Beds Ltd has entered liquidation owing creditors almost £500,000.

After 15 years dedicated to MattressOnline — and a remarkable 35 years in the bed industry — Steve Kelly is retiring to spend more time with his family and pursue other interests.

Margaret Carter and Sajid Sattar, both of Greenfield Recovery Limited, were appointed as joint liquidators on 25th February.

Steve Kelly founded MattressOnline in 2003, together with co-founder, Steve Adams. Today, the company employs 39 members of staff, with a turnover of £15m.

Detailed in new documents on Companies House, the Dewsburybased business owed unsecured creditors a total of £483,279, with the majority being owed to trade and expense claims of £322,462.

Steve Adams said he was honoured and delighted to take the helm as the continuing founder, managing director and sole shareholder of MattressOnline.

The HMRC is also owed a sum of £157,317, whilst employee claims totalled £3,500. It is expected that creditors will suffer a shortfall of the entire amount.

Steve Adams said: “When I co-founded MattressOnline with Steve back in 2003, I knew very little about mattresses or the bed industry. Steve was my mentor, guiding me through the intricacies of the industry — ­ for which I’m eternally grateful.

Steve has been a great asset to MattressOnline. Together, we built solid foundations from which I will propel the company forward into a new, exciting future.”

w www.greenfieldrecovery.co.uk

Cash flow funding has been provided by Yorkshire Bank with support from Castle Square Corporate Finance.

Steve Adams added: “With a reinforced management team, strategic development and continued, excellent partnerships with manufacturers and suppliers, I look forward with confidence as I continue to develop our success.”

w www.mattressonline.co.uk

MANUFACTURE

MANUFACTURER AWARDED ‘CERTIFIED STATUS’ Furniture manufacturer Whitemeadow has been awarded membership of the FIRA Compliance Scheme.

Phil Reynolds, general manager at FIRA, presented the certificate to Whitemeadow’s quality manager Andy Pinder (pictured).

FIRA’s Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture aims to offer reassurance that a manufacturer, retailer, upholster or supplier of upholstered furniture has suitable processes and procedures in place to demonstrate due diligence compliance with the UK’s Furniture & Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations (FFFSR).

Commercial director Andy Kitchen said: “The scheme has been awarded Assured Advice status by Hertfordshire Trading Standards and any Assured Advice given as part of the scheme may be relied upon in the event of a difference in interpretation of the FFFSR by any UK enforcement bodies.

RETAIL

New MD at Ponsford Sheffield-based independent furniture retailer Ponsford has announced the appointment of Angus Ponsford as its new managing director.

The business confirmed that Adrian Ponsford is stepping down as managing director of the Ponsford group of companies and will be continuing as chairman.

In a statement, Ponsford said: “Adrian will be continuing as chairman with a continued focus on the customer experience within the Sheffield store and has made an incredible contribution to the company over the last 60 years.

“Angus will be taking over the position of managing director.

Angus has been with the company for the last 25 years, and continues his role as buyer.”

w www.ponsford.co.uk

DESIGN

Furniture collaboration Design-led furniture business Bisley has announced the launch of its new modular storage and display system, BOB. Developed in collaboration with award-winning British designer Paul Kelley, BOB’s infinite configurations can be adapted for any use and environment, whether at home or in the workplace.

The collaboration unifies Kelley’s design innovations with the expertise of Bisley. The concept is in the simplicity and playfulness of the design; cubes and units click together to form different arrangements, allowing the user to change the design of the system instantly, whenever they choose.

“I am sure that this accreditation will be warmly received by our current and any potential new customers, giving us the credibility that comes from being certified under an Industry and Trading Standards-recognised scheme.”

Helen Owen, marketing director, at Bisley commented: “It has been a pleasure working closely with Paul Kelley and seeing BOB become a reality”

w www.fira.co.uk

w www.bisley.com 5th April 2019 | 07

NEWS

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JYSK opens Irish store; confirms merger

NORWEGIAN BUSINESS ENTERS UK MARKET

Danish furniture brand JYSK has announced opening of its first store in Ireland.

JYSK confirmed its first Irish store is in Naas, near the capital of Dublin, and officially opened on 2 April, forming part of a wider expansion plan in the country, which will see a total of 15 openings, creating 200 new jobs in the process.

Lars Larsen, founder and chairman of JYSK, said: “I couldn’t imagine a better way to celebrate JYSK’s 40th anniversary than to add another country to the JYSK world map. This is the last big country in Europe, where people until now has not had the opportunity to go to a local JYSK store.”

Furthermore, JYSK has announced the merger of JYSK Nordic, which operates 1,287 stores in 20 countries, and Dänisches Bettenlager, which operates 1,283 stores in 7 countries, into one business unit.

Current CEO & president of JYSK Nordic, Jan Bøgh, will be overall responsible for the new JYSK, and for the Executive Management Team, which will make decisions across the group.

Lars added: “We have concluded that one big entity will be more competitive in a market which is generally characterised by fewer but bigger competitors.”

w www.jysk.co.uk

BED BRAND CONTINUES PARTNERSHIP Bed brand Sealy UK has kick-started its new partnership deal with 2018 BETFRED Super League champions Wigan Warriors, holding a creative photoshoot with the Warrior’s first team at their home ground, the DW Stadium.

Passing pillows along the touchline, and even catching a quick 40-winks in the changing room, the shoot saw the likes of Tony Clubb, Sam Powell, Tommy Leuluai and Ben Flower get hands on with the latest Sealy products, which incorporated Sealy’s brand new Activsleep range.

As the 2019 season gets into full swing, Sealy UK will remain official kit sponsors and an official major club partner following two hugely successful years of sponsorship with the highlydecorated organisation.

The bed manufacturer will also be continuing in its role as the team’s official sleep partner, working closely with players and the club’s high performance staff to ensure their rest and recovery needs are met. Continuing to strengthen its relationship with the club, its partners and its fans, Sealy UK will be again delivering a programme of activation events.

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An installation at Domus Clerkenwell opened on 2nd April, 2019, and saw the official launch of furniture company Eikund, showcasing its new collections from Norwegian design archives.

Eikund was founded in 2015 by Morten Hippe, Frode Tingbø and Jørgen Tengesdal.

Morten said: “The company name mirrors the main material (oak tress) used in their furniture production and represents its proximity to the factory. It roots the company to its new existence going forward.”

w www.eikund.com

RETAIL

ScS strengthens marketing team Sofa and carpet retailer ScS has announced a double appointment to expand its marketing team.

Lauren Old has been appointed PR and communications executive, whilst Dave Gillespie is its new head of acquisition.

Both roles are based at the company’s head office in Sunderland and will strengthen its existing marketing team to help build future growth and “solidify its reputation for offering high customer service”.

MANUFACTURE

w www.sealy.co.uk

A new Norwegian furniture company has launched in the UK.

w www.scs.co.uk

DESIGN

Start-up eyes UK market production facility Portuguese start-up Corkbrick Europe has announced the launch of its second funding round as it earmarks the UK for a production facility.

Corkbrick Europe is looking to raise €250,000 of investment through European equity platform Seedrs.

The funds will be used towards financing a new production line in the UK, which is understood to be located in Derby, with a view of completion by 2020.

The company, led by Miguel Reynolds Brandão, specialises in a cork modular system that includes furniture. It is a set of seven pieces, made of cork, that allow building any type of furniture without using screws or glues.

The new funding round comes off the back of its first equity investment platform, again with Seedrs, when the business rose €150,000 in August 2017.

w www.corkbrick.com

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Furniture production Interiors Cologne

SOFT FURNISHINGS SUPPLIER SOLD OUT OF ADMINISTRATION Voyage Decoration, a designer, manufacturer, and distributor of premium fabric, soft furnishings and furniture based in Glasgow, has been sold to Ashley Wilde Designs Limited.

Blair Nimmo and Alistair McAlinden, of KPMG LLP, were appointed joint administrators of Voyage Decoration Limited on 22nd March.

Immediately upon their appointment, they concluded a sale of the business and its assets to Ashley Wilde Designs Limited, protecting jobs and securing the continuation of trade in the process.

Established in 1998, Voyage has an annual turnover of £12m with a loyal blue-chip customer base.

Its business model required it to hold significant levels of stock and recently the company found itself unable to secure sufficient finance, resulting in stock shortages and a fall in sales.

Despite this, its orderbook remains strong and its brand remains highly regarded.

d’s’s Woorrlld W ingg eaaddin LLe nt EEvveent

Ashley Wilde will continue to trade Voyage from Glasgow.

Blair Nimmo, joint administrator and UK head of restructuring at KPMG, said: “We are delighted to have been able to successfully conclude a sale to Ashley Wilde, protecting jobs and allowing the business to go on to the next stage of its development.”

Ashley Wilde Designs Limited is part of the Hatfield-based Ashley Wilde Group, a specialist in furnishings, fabrics and home décor products for more than 60 years.

Ashley Brodin, chairman of Ashley Wilde Designs Limited, said: “We plan to radically enhance our customer offering and bring new exciting products to market, changes which will bring benefits to all our business partners.”

w www.voyagedecoration.com

The future starts here.

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RETAIL

UK MD leaves mattress brand US-mattress-in-a-box brand Leesa Sleep has confirmed the promotion of Craig Jackson to lead its UK team.

Craig steps up to the role after Richard Tucker left Leesa, and his role of UK managing director, towards the end of last year to pursue other interests closer to his home in the South West of England.

Commenting on the senior change, David Wolfe, co-founder and chief executive of Leesa Sleep, told Cabinet Maker: “Led

by Craig Jackson, who has been with Leesa for almost four years, our UK and European marketing, operations and customer experience team continues to thrive in our Manchester office with exciting plans ahead. An important part of our global technology team is also based in our Manchester office.”

w www.leesa.co.uk

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NEWS RETAIL

MANUFACTURE

CVA agreed at bedding firm

SHORTFALL EXPECTED AT COLLAPSED BUSINESS

The Yorkshire Linen Company has announced a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA).

Creditors of collapsed furniture manufacturer Godfrey Syrett are expected to suffer a shortfall of over £8m.

The Towel Rail Limited (trading as The Yorkshire Linen Company) has launched a CVA following approval from creditors to reduce its cost base.

James Lumb, Howard Smith and David Costley-Wood, of KPMG, were appointed as joint administrators on 8th January.

The company operates from 27 stores based in the North of England, employing 185 people.

Following the appointment, the business closed its three sites in Killingworth, Langley Moor and Belmont, with around 200 jobs being lost.

After a comprehensive review, the company has concluded that its current store portfolio mix is unsustainable, as a number of stores are underperforming or loss making..

In new documents filed on Companies House, Godfrey Syrett owed unsecured creditors a total of £8.3m, with the large majority being owed to trade creditor claims of £3.7m.

It is anticipated that 12 stores will close with the changes to the store portfolio to result in redundancies from those stores and some positions from the company’s head office. The process is expected to lead to a reduction of around 70 roles.

Employee claims totalled £1.9m, whilst pre-paid consumer creditors are owed a collective sum of almost £420,000. Other claims included a fine from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) of £900,000 and HMRC debts of more than £1m.

The remaining 15 stores will be open for business as usual and the CVA process will have no impact on customer purchases.

Creditors voted on the CVA on 27 February 2019.

Detailed within the documents, it is expected that unsecured creditors are to suffer a shortfall of the entire amount.

Linda Shreeve, managing director of Yorkshire Linen said: “Launching a CVA has been a difficult decision and follows a number of steps we have already taken to try and improve trading. The reality is that we have faced an extremely challenging retail environment and reduced consumer spending.

“These factors have had a significant impact and we need to take decisive action to ensure the business can continue to trade.”

w www.bdo.co.uk

Upon appointment, administrators said in a statement that challenging trading conditions in the bespoke furniture sector, along with severe cashflow difficulties, led to its collapse.

Detailed in Godfrey Syrett’s latest filed accounts for 2017, the firm generated £29.5m in turnover but made a pre-tax loss of £846,374 – widening from a loss of £598,784 in 2016.

w www.home.kpmg.com

RETAIL

MANUFACTURE

IKEA opens second studio

FIRA CREATES NEW COO ROLE; APPOINTS NEW GM

Swedish furniture giant IKEA has announced the opening of its new planning studio in Bromley.

FIRA International has confirmed the appointment of Lee Wade (pictured) as its new general manager (GM).

The store, which launched (left) on 28th March, is the retailer’s second city centre format to open in London, following on from the opening of its first on Tottenham Court Road in October 2018.

Lee takes up the mantle from Phil Reynolds, who steps into the newlycreated role of chief operating officer (COO) of the Furniture Industry Research Association (FIRA).

Speaking on his appointment as GM, Lee said: “My initial plan is to focus on the continuing expansion programme, which has been in place for a few months and is backed by investment from our parent company, Element. My intention is to focus on looking at where else we can invest and expand to ensure we continue to be the testing provider of choice to the furniture industry.”

Commenting on his new role as COO of FIRA, Phil said: “My remit as COO is to build on this to the benefit of members and the wider furniture industry. I am not entirely stepping away from FIRA International, as I will also serve as the new technical development manager, a role which will perfectly complement my position as COO at FIRA.”

w www.fira.co.uk 5th April 2019 | 10

Located at the former Mothercare and Early Learning Centre site on Bromley High Street, the new store is part of IKEA’s ongoing city centre approach as it responds to the growth of urban living and changes to the way people live and shop, by bringing the IKEA brand closer to more people in London.

Jane Bisset, IKEA London City Centre market leader, said: “We’re thrilled to open our doors in Bromley today and our passionate co-workers look forward to helping the local community with their next big home projects.

“The opening of IKEA Bromley is another exciting step in our city centre approach and we’re currently exploring other locations in London for similar outlets.”

w www.ikea.com

aQO DESIGN

MANUFACTURE

SATRA TO HOLD FLAMMABILITY SEMINARS SATRA is to hold flammability seminars aiming to provide those in the furniture industry with a full understanding of the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations for domestic and contract markets for furniture, upholstery and bedding.

Argos launches new visual app Catalogue retailer Argos has announced the launch of its new visual search service for app users.

Argos’ new IoS app enables customers to shop for homewares and furniture using images on their smart phone.

Users simply take a photograph or upload a saved image of their desired item to the app, which instantly searches the entire Argos online catalogue for similar furniture, curtains or homewares.

Mark Steel, digital director at Argos, said: “Customers are increasingly using social media platforms, such as Instagram and Pinterest, as a source of inspiration, so visual search has the potential to transform how we shop for the home. Customers seeking a product or even an entire room set they’ve discovered online, or seen in a friend’s home, can now browse our vast range of homewares and furniture to find great value similar items in an instant, simply using a picture.”

w www.argos.co.uk

RETAIL

London showroom revamp Furniture retailer Loaf has completed a renovation project at its first London Battersea showroom.

Opened in 2015, Loaf’s first retail destination, called the Loaf Shack, has been refurbished with the front windows being opened up to provide more natural light to allow customers to see directly into the Shack from the outside.

With seven Shacks across the UK under its belt, Loaf decided it needed to update its original retail space to bring it in line with the look, feel and aesthetic of its latest showrooms.

As well as receiving a fresh lick of paint, the 8,000sq ft Shack, on Queenstown Road, has introduced tactile materials to match the smartness of the newer showrooms, whilst also featuring a dedicated swatch area.

The reclaimed timber walls have been updated to tongue and groove boards, and black and white tiling from Bert & May adorns the walls. The signage has also been updated with new Now Snoozing and Take Me Home designs.

Taking place at SATRA’s offices in Kettering, Northamptonshire the day seminar will go through the flammability requirements for furniture and any materials that are used, such as covers, interliners, foams and other fillings. The seminar dates are 30th May, 29th August and 14th November.

Delegates will learn about the tests conducted and see demonstrations in SATRA’s flammability lab to show firsthand what requirements are needed for a foam or filling to pass the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations.

This seminar will be beneficial to furniture and material manufacturers, suppliers and retailers to understand exactly what their duties and responsibilities are. SATRA said new businesses and recently-appointed staff would find the seminar particularly beneficial to ensure they have a solid grounding of the flammability requirements, the reading of test reports and an understanding of the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations.

The furniture safety seminar on 6th June provides an introduction to the concepts of general product safety for furniture entering the European market, and the use of laboratory testing to give evidence of due diligence. SATRA said the complex REACH legislation contains restricted substances requirements, and has implications for furniture and other consumer goods. The seminar will include an overview of this legislation and identify relevant obligations for furniture technologists, manufacturers, buyers and retailers, whether they are manufacturing locally or importing products into the European Union.

To book a place, contact furniture@satra.com

w www.satra.com

RETAIL

Furniture retailer to close Independent furniture retailer Kerrys Home Furnishers has confirmed it plans to close.

Kerrys Home Furnishings, on Suffolk Road, Lowestoft, is set to shut following a closing down sale — estimated to be worth almost £500,000 — which is expected to take place from 12th April.

The business, which is owned by Andrew Kerry, who also owns beds and mattress retailer Mattressman, will temporarily close on 6th April to mark up sale discount prices.

Charlie Marshall, Loaf founder, comments: “Each of our Shacks is like my baby, so I love them all the same! But Battersea was our first one, so we thought it needed a bit of TLC to bring it up to date with our latest ones.”

Andrew told the Lowestoft Journal the retail economy has not been good, citing that Brexit hasn’t help due to the “sheer uncertainty” it has created.

Loaf has recently completed a furniture shuffle and the Battersea Shack, as well as Loaf’s further six showrooms, now offers new designs from its latest collection.

Following the closure, Mattressman, which currently operates as a franchise in the store, will relocate to the first floor, whilst the ground floor is set to be occupied by an unnamed big national chain.

w www.loaf.com

w www.kerrys.uk.com 5th April 2019 | 11

F E A T U R E |S A L O N E D E L M O B I L E . M I L A N O

Design

Cabinet Maker takes another look at what to expect from this month’s Salone del Mobile.Milano

Said to be the design capital of the world, Milan continues to embrace this tag by welcoming more than 2,000 design-led furnishing businesses as the city prepares its 58th edition of the Salone del Mobile.Milano.

Taking place from 9th to 14th April at Rho Fiera Milano, the show features 2,350 exhibitors across five trade fair events with a completely new exhibition format.

The Salone Internazionale del Mobile and the International Furnishing Accessories Exhibition — split into Classic, Design and xLux categories, the latter bigger than ever and being shown for the first time in Pavilion 4 — will be joined by the biennial Euroluce and Workplace3.0 exhibitions, and SaloneSatellite. Making its debut is S.Project, a crosscutting space dedicated to design products and decorative and technical interior design solutions.

In the wake of the ‘new approach’ launched with the Manifesto in 2018, the Salone is 5th April 2019 | 12

Capital

putting the spotlight this year on both the centrality of Milan, which continues to garner international plaudits and recognitions, and on the creative capacity and generosity of spirit of the industrial network that underpins it and works to deliver global excellence.

The highly-anticipated show has continuously proved to be a key date in the calendar across the furnishing industry with last year experiencing a record high of more than 435,000 visitors attending the show.

Travelling from all five continents and 188 different countries, this played testament to the powers of attraction of an event that is a global experience and one not to be missed.

It appears that businesses based in Britain are increasingly seeing Milan’s value as 23 exhibitors from the UK and Ireland prepare to display their latest collections and new designs.

Big names include ercol (Hall 22 B22), Duresta Upholstery (Hall 3 G24), Gascoigne

Designs (Hall 2 P32), Vispring (Hall 6 F46) and Alexander Rose (Hall 12 F26).

Others include furniture specialist Oxley, with the business confirming it is delighted to be attending the show — especially after it has been trying to get into Salone for a number of years! Taking centre stage at its stand in Hall 1 M02, Oxley will unveil Grande dining furniture and other outdoor furniture collections. Simon Hudson, Oxley’s managing director, said: “We are exhibiting in Milan for the first time and are looking forward to showing new customers our unique furniture and our unique way of working with our design partners.”

Thomas Blakemore (Hall 2 P36), Astro Lighting (Hall 13 G22 G26), Baroncelli (Hall 13 H18), CTO Lighting (Hall 9 D07), Elstead Lighting (Hall 11 H61 M38), Heathfield and Co. (Hall 13 H20), Innermost (Hall 11 D27), Luum (Hall 13 H20), Meystyle (Hall 13 M15), Michael Anastassiades (Hall 11 B23 C22), Porta Romana (Hall 9 E10), Tala (Hall 15 B37

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Above: Vlinder Sofa by Vitra Left: Ergo by Natuzzi

B39), V-TAC (UK) (Hall 15 P36 P42), Barlow Tyrie (Hall 6 C45), Mullan Lighting Design (Hall 13 P18) and Bert Frank (Hall 9 E12) round up the UK and Ireland contingent with the latter to present new lines — Flagon, Spate, Rote, Rift, Trave and Tanto. These new designs reference Art Deco and industrial aesthetics — marrying them with a technical expertise and level of quality that the brand has become well-known for.

With a focus on established brands outside the UK, Dutch business Vitra will be presenting new pieces at Salone del Mobile, including the Vlinder Sofa by Hella Jongerius.

Hella has designed a sofa with fabric exclusively designed and developed to fit the sofa’s shape — and it can be found in Hall 20, B07-C12.

In keeping with sofas, Italian heavyweight

Over 2,000 exhibitors will be on display

Natuzzi, which is currently celebrating its 60th anniversary, marks this year’s event with new collections. These include the Ergo collection by Ross Lovegrove and the Dandy collection by Marcel Wanders, and they can be found in Hall 16 E41-F46.

Ergo is a new collection designed for the bedroom area in Ross’s first collaboration with Natuzzi. Ergo uses responsiblysourced and renewable materials, including wood from sustainably-managed forests adhering to strict environmental, social and economic standards, organic fibres, 100% natural latex, solvent-free glues and recyclable metals such as aluminium. Ross has compiled a study on organic design, the relationship between materials and function, as well as between the manufactured objects and their ability to respect the world surrounding them.

Oxley Furniture

With Dandy, Natuzzi extends its collaboration with Studio Marcel Wanders, initiated in 2018 with the Agronomist and Oceanographer collections. For Salone del Mobile this year, the Dutch designer has continued his investigation of Puglia’s traditional features, imagining a new character that embodies a ‘modern lifestyle’ imbued with travels and urban living: the Dandy, who inevitably returns to his homeland after his travels around the globe. Dandy is a new collection designed for the living area — Marcel Wanders’ global approach combines traditional and urban atmospheres, craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology.

Pasquale Junior Natuzzi, creative director and stylist of Natuzzi Italia, said: “We want to celebrate these 60 years using our origins as a starting point to look into the future. Natuzzi has a strong bond with its homeland and its extraordinary resources. This feeling inspires us and encourages us to look at nature with respect and devotion, translating this into organic design and ethical production. » 5th April 2019 | 13

F E A T U R E |S A L O N E D E L M O B I L E . M I L A N O

“We look to Puglia as the most authentic expression of style and thought, articulating the experiences of today and the rhythm and expectations of tomorrow.”

Salone del Mobile looks to be an exciting show and has formed this year’s event around its Manifesto with the keyword being ‘ingenuity’. The show aims to highlight the ‘trigger of creativity, the meaning of talent, and the ingenious ability to create and think’, says Salone del Mobile president Claudio Luti.

Claudio continued: “‘Ingenuity’ also pays homage to Leonardo, in the year of the 500th anniversary of his death, the Master of all creatives, the forerunner of the relationship between creative and entrepreneur, a man of progress, of the future and of the present, who came to Milan for the very purpose of developing his relationship with the form of creating.

“At this particular time of great success for Milan, it is important to consolidate the Salone del Mobile’s powers of attraction, offering its visitors not just a wide range of products but, especially, opportunities for international interface and for reflection on the relationship between creativity and business.”

“AT THIS PARTICULAR TIME OF GREAT SUCCESS FOR MILAN, IT IS IMPORTANT TO CONSOLIDATE THE SALONE DEL MOBILE’S POWERS OF ATTRACTION, OFFERING VISITORS NOT JUST A WIDE RANGE OF PRODUCTS BUT, ESPECIALLY, OPPORTUNITIES FOR INTERNATIONAL INTERFACE AND FOR REFLECTION ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CREATIVITY AND BUSINESS.” — Claudio Luti, president of Salone delMobile.Milano

To close the show, there will be a great celebration of design on Friday, 12th April at Palazzo Marino. It looks to be the perfect send-off and is fitting for a show that truly encompasses its label of being the fashion capital of the world.

w www.salonemilano.it Dandy by Natuzzi 5th April 2019 | 14

DESIGN Brintons reveals its latest designs, the benefits behind wool and its new collaboration.

MANUFACTURE Cormar talks about new product ranges and how the business is ready for future challenges.

RETAIL A look at The Flooring Show, which is set to return to Harrogate this September.

Carpets & Flooring Wool from 1 in 9 British sheep is used in Brintons carpets | Page 28

CARPETS AND FLOORING NEWS RETAIL

Independent furniture business suffers break in Independent furniture retailer Derg Carpets & Furniture has temporarily closed its showroom following a recent theft.

Derg Carpets & Furniture suffered the break-in at its store on the Castlederg Enterprise Centre on Drumquin Road in Castlederg.

The incident took place around 5.30pm on 7th March and at 9am on 8th March, where thieves broke into the property and stole a large quantity of goods, which were loaded on to a lorry before fleeing the scene.

The business has confirmed that suites of furniture, mattresses and lino were among the products stolen.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland has launched an investigation into the robbery and is urging anyone with any information to come forward and contact Strabane police on 101, quoting the crime number 246 08/03/19.

Commenting on the break-in, the business released a statement: “We would like to inform our customers that due to a recent break-in at our premises our showroom is closed to further notice. Our office will remain open from 9.30pm to 3pm for enquiries and other business.

“We are working with the police on this matter and should anyone have any information please do not hesitate to contact us or the police. All at Derg Carpets and Furniture would like to thank everyone for their kind words and support.”

w www.derg-carpets-and-furniture.co.uk

MANUFACTURE

GROUP SEES GROWTH IN ‘SOFTER’ MARKET Floorcoverings group Headlam has reported a growth in sales, despite ‘softer trading’ impacting performance.

According to its full year results ended 31st December, total group sales increased 2.3% to £708.4m from £692.5m in 2017.

However, like-for-like sales declined in both the UK and Continental Europe, down by 4.2% and 1.8% respectively, with the softer market being more ‘keenly felt’ in the UK. Headlam reported an underlying pre-tax profit increase by £0.3m to £43.4m compared to £43.1m the previous year.

During the year the group completed five smaller strategic acquisitions, spending a total of £9.1m.

These included Ashmount Flooring Supplies Limited, Rackhams Limited and Garrod Bros Ltd, which expanded its footprint in Greater London; Dersimo BV, which increased its presence and geographical coverage in the Netherlands; and CECO (Flooring) Limited, which extended its position in Belfast.

Steve Wilson, chief executive, said: “Despite the generally softer trading backdrop that was evident throughout 2018, it was pleasing that total revenue and underlying profit increased.”

w www.headlam.com

RETAIL

MANUFACTURE

EU CARPET SUPPLIER HAS FAITH IN UK MARKET Belgian carpet manufacturer Balta has reported a decline in sales as consumer confidence hinders UK division.

According to its 2018 results, total group sales fell 2.3% to €646.2m with two of its three core sub-categories experiencing a decline.

Rugs sales fell by 10.4%, as did residential revenues – down by 11.9%, although commercial sales rose by 10.8%.

Balta reported an adjusted EBITDA of €72.4m, which was 14.3% down on the previous year.

Focusing on its UK arm, Balta said that UK residential sales volumes experienced a sharp decline after Boxing Day 2017, which continued throughout 2018 as retail and wholesale were “under pressure amid a longer period of unfavourable weather and declining consumer confidence” due to Brexit.

Commenting on its UK forecast for 2019, Balta said: “While we expect the trend to continue in 2019, we believe in the longterm potential and a normalisation of the UK, being the largest European carpet market, in the mid-term. In the meantime we are committed to improve our cost efficiency and service towards this market.”

w www.baltagroup.com 5th April 2019 | 16

30-year milestone Independent floorcoverings retailer Carpet Fayre has celebrated 30 years in business.

Carpet Fayre, which is run by Alun Lewis and Dave King, marked its 30th anniversary with a party at its Gosport showroom on Anns Hill Road.

The business, which employs 16 staff, was first established back in 1989 and has been at its current 1,600sq ft store for the past 16 years.

To celebrate the milestone, the MP for Gosport, Caroline Dinenage, gave a speech on Carpet Fayre’s longevity, as well as presenting the winners of its anniversary competition for customers.

The business paid tribute all its customers by saying a big thank you to all who went along.

w www.carpetfayre.co.uk

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MANUFACTURE

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RETAIL

FLOORING BUSINESS BECOMES EMPLOYEE OWNED

Local football club partnership

Flooring specialist Raised Floor Solutions has become an employee-owned business.

Online flooring firm UK Flooring Direct has secured a three-year sponsorship deal with Barwell Football Club.

The shareholders of RFS Group, the parent company of Raised Floor Solutions, have transferred a 51% majority shareholding of the business to an Employee Ownership Trust, set up for the benefit of current and future employees.

UK Flooring Direct will sponsor Barwell FC’s stadium on Kirkby Road as well as having a presence on six advertising boards around the ground.

Last year, the business turned over £16m and supplied and installed 425,000m2 of composite floors on 250 UK-based projects. For the year ahead, Raised Floor Solutions expects to achieve its £20m turnover target and already has a record order book for 2019.

Graham Hewitt, who co-founded the business in 2003, will remain managing director and a shareholder, and will also be on the board of directors of the trust along with construction director, Andy Wharton; Anthony Richardson, who joins as finance director; and Malcolm Edge, former UK vice-chairman of KPMG. The business has also established an employee council, providing staff with the opportunity to engage with the board of directors and the trust on the running of the business and to maintain its performance and growth profile.

Raised Floor Solutions has adopted an employee-owned model to “future proof” the business and the jobs within it.

w www.raisedfloor.co.uk

The non-league club, which currently plays in the Southern League Premier Division Central, said the five-figure per year deal will help strengthen the club and team in years to come.

Jason Ashby, chief executive of UK Flooring Direct, said that supporting local grassroots football was important to the company and saw the opportunity with Barwell FC as a good fit.

w www.ukflooringdirect.co.uk

MANUFACTURE

SAMPLE BOOK MAKER ACQUIRED IN SEVEN-FIGURE DEAL Batley-based business sample books supplier Sampling International has been bought in a £1.2m deal.

Travelfast (TFT), which trades as Sampling International, designs and manufactures sample books and shade cards for the fabric and floorcoverings industry.

RETAIL

Carpet business invests in store refurbishment Independent carpet retailer Connaught Carpets has refreshed its store in Bradford following a five-figure investment.

The business, which is owned by Mick Ward and has been established for almost 40 years, has invested £25,000 in its store on Manningham Lane to give it a modern refurbishment.

Part of the reason behind the revamp was to encourage other independents to invest in their stores in an attempt to keep shoppers supporting local businesses.

The company has been acquired by CEPS’ subsidiary company, CemTeal for just over £1.2m, which was completed on 27th March.

Stephen Hubbard will be managing director of CEM Press Limited, the trading company of CemTeal Limited, and Travelfast Limited. Richard Briggs, of CEM Press Limited, will be finance director of the group.

Stephen is contracted to remain with the group for a minimum of three years to support the integration of both companies and to assist in the development of a succession plan to support the long-term financial viability of the Group.

In the year ended 31st December 2017, TFT’s sales were £5.3m, EBITDA was £102,496 and loss before tax was £32,540.

At 31st December, 2017, net assets were £231,277. Trading performance and net assets of TFT in 2018 were behind those of 2017, but in line with management’s expectations for the period.

Commenting to local press, Mick said that he was close to shutting his store for good after putting the property up for sale last year but decided to go against initial plans and commit to invest for the future.

The acquisition of TFT will make the newly-formed group one of the largest individual pattern book and shade card makers in the UK, with two production facilities.

The owner said the plan was to relocate to Leeds but he had a change of heart and “wanted to stay and keep a quality product in Bradford”.

The consideration for the acquisition will be funded from the cash flow of the group. In March 2019 David Horner, chairman of CEPS, lent £100,000 to TFT.

Connaught Carpets has seen a completely new look to its store front following the investment after replacing its dated Victorian wooden front to a modern aluminium design with high windows.

This loan was made to allow TFT to meet certain liabilities. In addition, CemTeal injected £500,000 into TFT, in part to be used for working capital purposes and in part to repay the loan to David Horner.

w www.connaughtcarpets.co.uk

w www.sampling-international.co.uk 5th April 2019 | 17

CARPETS AND FLOORING NEWS RETAIL

Carpet retail looks to close southwest store Flooring and beds retailer Carpetright has confirmed plans to close its store in Plymouth.

Situated at Faraday Mill on Cattewater Road, Carpetright said the closure forms part of its wider downsizing programme.

The retailer also confirmed that its store on Marsh Mills Retail Park would remain open.

Following the announcement, a new planning application has been submitted to Plymouth City Council to change the use of the space into a gym.

The applicant, The Gym, has identified the Carpetright unit as the ideal location, which would — according to planning documents — provide a high quality but cheaper option for the health and fitness activity.

The documents also outline that the property will be shortly vacated by the current occupier, Carpetright, although there is no official closing date confirmed.

w www.carpetright.co.uk

DESIGN

Carpet maker fits out Queens ship Northern Ireland-based carpet manufacturer Ulster Carpets has announced the completion of its latest project.

Ulster Carpets has supplied axminster carpets to the iconic ship, Queen Elizabeth, which has been under refurbishment since November 2018.

Ulster worked with London-based M Studio Design to supply 45000m² of carpet — enough to cover Wembley football pitch six and a half times.

Working to a tight brief, Alison Clixby, Cunard’s hotel design director, was keen to marry the ship’s elegant art deco heritage with up to date interior furnishings and colour schemes.

Commenting on the project, Ulster said: “All carpet for the Queen Elizabeth has been produced within the UK — from spinning the yarn at Ulster Yarns in Dewsbury to weaving the carpets at our headquarters in Portadown, Northern Ireland and at Griffith Textile Machines (GTM), our manufacturing and engineering facility located in the North East of England.

“In the past both Belfast and the north east of England were heralded for their shipbuilding industries. Over the years these areas witnessed a decline in manufacturing as companies moved their operations overseas to save costs.

However, Ulster Carpets along with its subsidiary GTM, have shown that manufacturing can still thrive in the UK thanks to major investment in innovation, key people skills and strong entrepreneurship.

MANUFACTURE

FLOORING GROUP INVESTS IN NEW MACHINERY Flooring group Forbo has invested £4m on new machinery to boost manufacturing capacity and efficiency.

Forbo has purchased a Double Belt Thermofix laminating machine that makes floor coverings to replace its current machine, and appointed specialist Joseph Merritt Group to complete the installation.

Commenting on the new investment, Corey Edwards, Forbo’s strategic project manager, said that it will streamline and speed up the production process for its Flotex brand.

Forbo has been manufacturing Flotex for more than 45 years and comes in the form of sheet, tile and plank format.

The new laminating line will make a recyclable substrate from the Flotex manufacturing waste, which is then laminated on another production line to make the new tile and plank range.

w www.forbo.com

RETAIL

Flooring firm expands through relocation Flooring supplier Pennine Flooring has expanded after moving into a larger unit.

Pennine Flooring, suppliers of commercial and decorative flooring products to the contract and retail trade, have embarked on their second expansion, moving from 3,750sq ft on Kingmoor Park South to Unit J on the Kingmoor Park Enterprise Zone.

Whilst their main base is in Heywood, the company have operated within Cumbria for more than 30 years. They also have premises in Deeside and employ over 50 people across the UK. In 2004 the company, in desperate need for more storage space and aspiring to a location closer to the motorway, moved to a 3,750sq ft warehouse on Kingmoor Park South.

Approximately 15 years on and they have expanded again, moving into Unit J on Kingmoor Park Central within the Enterprise Zone. The company have kitted out the 7,500sq ft unit to their own specification since the formal purchase in the summer of last year, including a new trade counter, staff offices, show room and racking.

Commenting on the latest expansion, Damian Robinshaw, operations and human resources manager, said: “We are delighted to have completed a cross site move to Kingmoor Park Central in an expansion that will ensure our operation is able to be as streamlined as possible, meaning that we can continue to deliver the quality service that our customers expect.”

“Ulster Carpets is proud to have supplied carpets for all three Queens in the Cunard fleet having previously manufactured carpet for Queen Mary 2 in 2016 and Queen Victoria in 2017.”

Neil McIntyre, Kingmoor Properties managing director, said: “We are delighted to have been able to assist Pennine Flooring with their latest move. Their new unit has provided the perfect solution for their growing business and we are pleased that we could accommodate their latest expansion on-site, thereby minimising disruption for their staff and customers.”

w www.ulstercarpets.com

w www.pennineflooring.com

5th April 2019 | 18

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MANUFACTURE

TEXTILES FIRM REMAINS OPTIMISTIC, DESPITE DOWNTURN Textiles business W E Rawson Limited has reported a decline in turnover and profit.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 30th June, 2018, total sales fell 8.7% to £67.8m from £73.5m in 2017.

Gross profit was also down by 14.9% to £23.3m from £27.4m, whilst pre-tax profit resulted at £8.3m, down by 30.2% compared to its profit of £11.9m the previous year.

Stated within its report, the business said that its results are satisfactory and it remains cautiously optimistic about the future, given the current economic climate, and it expects to trade in a similar manner in the year ahead.

Wakefield-based W E Rawson, which is registered as Braveshire, manufactures and supplies fillings, carpets and liners.

w www.werawson.com

MANUFACTURE

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MANUFACTURE

SATISFYING PERIOD REPORTED Commercial flooring manufacturer and distributor James Halstead Plc has reported a growth in half-year profit as revenues remained flat.

According to its latest trading update for the half-year ended 31st December, 2018, total group sales were unchanged at £126m. Pre-tax profit increased 3% to £24.5m, from £23.7m on last year.

The company said that whilst order volume in the UK was lower, the number of orders was up 4.8% in the month of December.

Sales in the UK for the six months as a whole were 3.9% ahead of the comparative period.

Export markets were, in the majority of cases, strong but with Central Europe showing a decline of some 1.7%. The start to the second half has shown a return of solid growth.

James Halstead added that raw material price increases had impacted turnover to a degree and that raw material inflation has been around 3%, whereas in the previous year it was around 18%.

w www.hl.co.uk

RETAIL

Independent moves into new store Independent flooring retailer Westbrook Carpets and Laminates has relocated to a new store.

Westbrook Carpets and Laminates has moved to the former Blockbuster unit at the Westbrook Centre in Warrington.

INVESTMENT HELPS WHOLESALER EXPAND Flooring wholesaler Kellars has expanded following a sevenfigure private investment.

Stockport-based Kellars has secured more than £2m in a private investment that has allowed the business to rapidly expand across the UK. Previously only supplying customers around the Greater Manchester area, the new funding has enabled the business to broaden its scope to Kendal, Leeds and Pwhelli.

The business, which has earmarked plans to expand its distribution network further, has tripled its workforce at its head office on Heaton Mersey Industrial Estate, with more jobs to be created later this year.

Dave Francis, commercial director at Kellars, said in a press statement the business has also expanded its product offering with new laminate flooring, luxury vinyl tile and artificial grass — all of which reflects a growing demand for different types of flooring.

The business has invested more than £2m in stock for its warehouse, £100,000 in flooring samples and a further £300,000 in a new fleet of vehicles.

w www.kellars.co.uk

Mayor Karen Mundry was invited to officially cut the ribbon to mark the reopening, with the new store sitting directly outside the entrance to Asda Westbrook.

Westbrook Carpets and Laminates has been established for more than 20 years with its team of professionally-trained fitters covering Warrington, Merseyside, Greater Manchester and Chester.

w www.westbrookcarpetsandlaminates.co.uk

MANUFACTURE

GROUP OUTPERFORMS ‘DIFFICULT’ CONDITIONS Textile products manufacturer Milliken has reported a sixth straight year of turnover growth.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 2nd December 2018, total group sales rose 5.9% to £132.9m, from £125.4m in 2017. Pre-tax profit resulted at £7.1m, slightly down compared to its profit of £7.5m recorded the previous year.

Stated within its report, Milliken, which operates across multiple sectors including floor coverings, said that each of its UK divisions performed well in difficult trading conditions.

w www.milliken.com 5th April 2019 | 19

C A R P E T S A N D F L O O R I N G F E A T U R E |T H E F L O O R I N G S H O W

2019 will be the 57th edition

SAVE DATE the

Cabinet Maker takes an early look at The Flooring Show which is set to return to Harrogate this September.

Harrogate is home to a number of attractions that see visitors make the trip to North Yorkshire each year. Attractions include its spa waters and a plentiful array of parks and gardens, such as RHS Harlow Carr gardens, The Valley Gardens, The Stray and Crescent Gardens, as well as the famous Bettys tea rooms. Need I say more?

However, the picturesque setting of Harrogate is also the home of the biggest flooring and carpet show of the year. The Flooring Show returns to the Harrogate Convention Centre for its 57th edition, with a great new look. Running from Sunday 15th to Tuesday, 17th September, the show continues to be the largest and most 5th April 2019 | 20

established event in the UK flooring industry’s calendar.

Attracting suppliers from across all areas of the sector — flooring, carpets, underlay, tools and accessories — the event offers three intensive days of business activity and networking, and is recognised as a mustattend event for anyone in flooring.

So far, event organisers have confirmed more than 20 new exhibitors, who have already signed up alongside established brands within the flooring sector.

Kane Thomas, event manager, told Cabinet Maker: “The 2019 show promises to deliver

on all its regular attractions. We are targeting key decision makers and those flooring retailers who may not have visited in recent years, to come and see us this year. So we are working closely with exhibitors to ensure both they and we have some unmissable offers!”

Exhibitors at the show include some of the top flooring brands, such as Millennium Weavers, Furlong Flooring, Westex, Penthouse Carpets, F. Ball, Cormar, Victoria Carpets, Classis, Hugh Mackay, Condor Carpets, Gooch Oriental Carpets, Distinctive Flooring and Betap, along with many others who have already booked.

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“2019 IS SET TO BE THE FLOORING SHOW’S

BEST YEAR

WITH A RESURGENCE IN VISITOR NUMBERS AND INTEREST IN RECENT YEARS.” For Westex, the business has doubled its stand size to incorporate a new LVT range, whilst Q A Flooring, William Armes, Kellars and Stairrods are also all taking on bigger stands.

In addition, other brands are returning to the show after a break. These include Lifestyle Floors, Fells Carpets, Oriental Weavers, Barnscroft of Devon, Elliott Anti-Slip, SaintGobain Weber and Rowlson Industrial Sewing. New exhibitors this year include a2zrug, Flora Exports, Piyush International, Bill Beaumont Textiles, Barrentine, the National Carpet Cleaners Association, The Sanctuary Group, Dri-Tac Flooring Products and Visualmine.

Alongside exhibitors showcasing their latest ranges and collections, there will be a packed programme of product demos, courtesy of The Flooring Industry Training Association

Over 3,000 visitors in 2018

(FITA), supported by the Contract Flooring Association (CFA) and the National Institute of Carpet and Floorlayers (NICF). These aim to cover all the latest techniques and products, as well as allowing an opportunity for the industry to gain an insight into the organisations and see what’s new for each respective governing body.

Ahead of the show, NICF is calling for flooring fitters to enter its hotly-contested Carpet Fitter of the Year 2019 competition. The winner will receive great prizes, including a selection of tools, the winner’s trophy and one year’s free Master Fitter membership.

Jumping ahead to next year, NICF recently announced a change of format to the popular Fitter of the Year Competition in 2020 to introduce a competition for fitters of LVT on alternate years. This will allow a different set of skills to be tested and acknowledges

the increase in popularity of LVT as a floor covering in domestic environments. For now, entry is still open for 2019’s competition via the NICF website — www.nicfltd.org.uk/ Carpet-Fitter-Competition The Flooring Show also play host to a number of key features, including live talks from industry specialists on topical issues, the return of the Trends Hub — an area where all the latest trends within flooring can inspire the next wave of innovation — and dedicated room set spaces and demo areas.

With more than 3,000 visitors attending in 2018 — many of whom did not visit any other trade show — the opportunities for suppliers to expand their customer base and vice versa are unmatched, says Kane, who also confirmed that visitor registration officially opens next month in May. Kane concluded: “2019 is set to be The Flooring Show’s best year with a resurgence in visitor numbers and interest in recent years.

“This is the perfect show for flooring retailers and contractors, with plenty of interest across the board from fitters keen to spot new products and offers, and specifiers and designers for whom the show delivers a great overview of what’s new and who’s new, as well as great networking opportunities.”

Registration is due to open in June, with further information on exhibitors and the latest news ahead of The Flooring Show available at the website below. For all exhibitor enquiries and to book a stand, email suzy@theflooringshow.com or call 0207 772 8345.

w www.theflooringshow.com Cormar will be back once again 5th April 2019 | 21

CARPETS AND FLOORING FEATURE|CORMAR CARPET COMPANY

TOP

Home Counties Plains

OF THE

Tim Eagles, managing director at Cormar, talks about new product ranges and how the business is ready for whatever challenge may lay ahead.

Cormar Carpet Company has been flying the flag for British-made carpet for over 60 years and has firmly established itself as one of the leading independent carpet manufacturers, winning more than 50 flooring industry awards.

That’s why, despite a rocky economic climate and possible EU departure, the company is ready for the challenge ahead.

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Over the decades the company has continued to expand and improve in all aspects of its business, and last year was no exception. A multi-million-pound investment was made in the company’s new southern regional distribution centre in Hemel Hempstead.

The 130,000sq ft warehouse space, incorporating two new cut length machines, a sortation system and new loading bays, has consolidated and strengthened its delivery service to retailers in the south.

Tim Eagles, managing director at Cormar, told Cabinet Maker: “We have been working hard internally and with overseas yarn and raw material suppliers to build stock, in case of any disruption at UK ports as a result of Brexit. We already hold significant yarn stocks at our sites around the UK and have been able to extend that facility.

Not only that, but Cormar has its own fleet of more than 70 distribution vehicles to ensure a top-class delivery service to customers, as well as its own team of 30 sales representatives throughout Britain and Ireland.

“Uncertainty over Brexit means businesses take less risk so, regardless of what happens, having our carpet manufacturing, storage and distribution here in the UK will undoubtedly be an advantage.”

One of the success stories of the British carpet industry, Cormar continues to produce all its ranges from its two production sites near Bury in Lancashire. As one of the leaders in residential wool and polypropylene carpet manufacturing, it has also been working hard this year to further expand its portfolio and

5th April 2019 | 22

push the boundaries when it comes to carpet style.

Tim said: “In terms of new ranges we have been particularly active with further introductions to the super-soft, easy clean carpet market. Our Apollo portfolio is one of our best value ranges and the launch of Apollo Comfort strengthened the range.

It’s made with a new softer Excellon polypropylene fibre and comes in an attractive array of colours at an affordable price point.

“Gemini was our first range made from 100% Dura Polyester and again was developed to satisfy the current trend for softer, more luxurious feeling, premium carpet.

As polyester has become more accessibly priced, the new range used the Dura fibre to combine resilience and durability with practicality and stain resistance.”

As well as new launches Cormar also recoloured its popular Sensation Heathers and Primo Choice collections — and both received excellent reactions from retailers. Cormar has

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Cormar’s new regional distribution centre in Hemel Hempstead

introduced a new colour palette for Sensation Heathers, whilst Primo Choice, which was released six years ago, has seen its colour trends evolve and updated with more grey and neutral shades.

“At the same time, and for those who value a wool rich carpet, our Home Counties Plains was also given a makeover,” said Tim. “A great seller for our retailers for more than four years, the relaunch saw an influx of more greys and stoney shades that are at the heart of this collection.”

Last summer the company also underlined its commitment to the future of the brand and its specialism in the home interest sector when it unveiled its first new corporate look in more than a quarter of a century. The new brand image ­— accompanied by the launch of an inspirational new website — illustrated the company’s determination to take the business forward as a dynamic and leading-edge player in the UK carpet industry.

Tim explained: “While we may have revealed a fresh identity and new digital strategy, we still maintain the company’s core values:

family owned and British made. The brand continues to be supported with highperforming products, excellent customer service and an efficient delivery service — we want to be the home furnishing brand of choice for the carpet customer!”

From a trade perspective, Cormar is already a market leader in the flooring sector with online ordering and has invested heavily in developing its trade portal so it works on all devices, including mobile phones. The portal, which is free for Cormar customers, now has more than 40% of its retail network using the online trade portal and it expects this to grow as retailers become more aware of the benefits of being able to order, track and check stock, and manage their accounts 24/7.

Producing more than 12 million square metres of Cormar carpet a year, there’s a reason why the company remains at the ‘top of the pile’.

w www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

The Gemini collection from Cormar

“UNCERTAINTY OVER BREXIT MEANS BUSINESSES TAKE LESS RISK SO, REGARDLESS OF WHAT HAPPENS, HAVING OUR CARPET MANUFACTURING, STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION HERE IN THE UK WILL UNDOUBTEDLY BE AN ADVANTAGE.” 5th April 2019 | 23

C A R P E T S A N D F L O O R I N G F E A T U R E |I M P O R T S A N D E X P O R T S

Carpet Culture Cabinet Maker takes an in-depth look at last year’s import and export data within the flooring market.

The UK flooring and carpet industry has seen some recent movement on the balance of imports into Britain against homegrown produce leaving UK shores. Cabinet Maker has examined last year’s import and export data within the flooring market compared to 2017, as well as taking a first insight into how the current year lays.

Government data analysed by Cabinet Maker indicated an overall decline of flooring and carpet imports into the UK by 2% from £905.6m in 2017 to £886.6m during 2018. On the other side of the scale, British exports increased 8.4% to £273.4m from £252.2m against the same period. It is clear to see that imports still outweigh exports, but it is encouraging to highlight that flooring products manufactured in the UK are delivering export growth.

There are a number of reasons that signal this improvement, with Brexit and the British pound an obvious sign as foreign countries looking at British imports have become cheaper. There is also the love affair that comes with British manufacture and the quality it represents, with many seeing the UK as a trusted label. Whatever the reason, 5th April 2019 | 24

a growing export base in this sector of home furnishings is good news for the industry.

Imports It is worth paying some attention to which countries favour the UK as an import market.

With imports of carpets and flooring products standing at £886.6m for 2018, EU imports declined by 3.2% to £639.4m from £661m, whilst imports from outside the EU marginally increased by 1% to £247.2m from £244.6m.

The market leader continues to be Belgium, although imports actually declined by 11% to £274.5m from £308.5m. The other mainstream player within the EU Community is the Netherlands, with imports increasing 3.8% to £227.5m from £219m. In keeping with the EU, the next big importer takes a significant reduction in market share, with France representing £28.2m during 2018.

Following French imports are carpets from Denmark and Germany, which stand at £23.1m and £21.8m respectively. Other notable countries include Poland, Sweden and Portugal with imports valuing £17.2m, £12m and £10m respectively. In fact, Swedish imports almost doubled compared to £6.8m in 2017, whilst Italian imports also reported

growth from £5m to £7.8m.

Outside the EU, the three main markets are Turkey, India and China. Turkish imports rose 10.5% to £74.7m from £67.6m, Indian imports declined from £65.6m to £61.7m, whilst Chinese flooring imports increased 7.4% to £59.1m from £55m.

Elsewhere, USA imports represented £16.3m during 2018 — declining from £19.7m the previous year — whilst the only other eightdigit country is Egypt, with imports at a value of £11.1m.

Exports British carpet and flooring exports into the EU rose 9.6% to £200.4m, from £182.8m, as did exports outside the EU, up 5.1% to £73m from £69.4m. Within the EU, the market leader remains Ireland with UK exports increasing 12.4% to £43.4m from £38.6m in 2017. Following Ireland comes the Netherlands, representing £29.3m (down year-on-year from £34.8m) and then France at a value of £28.5m, up by 9% from £26.1m.

Germany, Poland, Belgium and the Czech

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Top 25

Top 25

Carpets and flooring exporters from the UK in 2018:

Carpets and flooring importers to the UK in 2018:

Ireland - £43.4m Netherlands - £29.3m USA - £29.1m France - £28.5m Germany - £18.3m Poland - £13.2m Belgium - £11.8m Czech Republic - £11.7m Spain - £9.3m Sweden - £6.9m Italy - £4.2m Australia - £3.7m Denmark - £3.2m Hungary - £3.2m Switzerland - £3.1m UAE - £2.9m Finland - £2.9m Turkey - £2.7m Norway - £2.6m China - £2.5m Austria - £2.3m Saudi Arabia - £2m Portugal - £1.9m India - £1.5m Luxembourg - £1.5m

Belgium - £274.5m Netherlands - £227.5m Turkey - £74.7m India - £61.7m China - £59.1m France - £28.2m Denmark - £23.1m Germany - £21.8m Poland - £17.2m USA - £16.3m Sweden - £12m Egypt - £11.1m Portugal - £10m Italy - £7.8m Nepal - £4.2m Pakistan - £3.4m Sri Lanka - £3.2m Slovenia - £2.8m Bulgaria - £2.7m Czech Republic - £2m Slovakia - £1.8m UAE - £1.8m Ireland - £1.5m Bangladesh - £1.1m Greece - £1.1m

Republic all valued eight-figure sums at £18.3m, £13.2m, £11.8m and £11.7m respectively. All of whom reported year-onyear growth.

Other markets that increased their share included Spain at £9.3m, Sweden at £6.9m, Italy at £4.2m, as well as Denmark and Hungary at £3.2m each. In fact, only Cyprus and Croatia reported a decline from the EU member states, and they represented a modest figure of £366,000 and £117,000.

Every other member state experienced growth in UK flooring produce.

To countries not classed as EU member states, Switzerland and Norway both reported a growth of UK flooring exports, up by 6.8% to £3.1m from £2.9m and 4% to £2.6m from £2.5m respectively. However, British exports to Turkey fell 9% to a value of £2.7m from £3m.

Looking at outside the EU, USA reached a value of £29.1m during 2018, an uptick of 0.6% from £28.9m. Exports to Australia increased 23% to £3.7m from £3m, as did exports to China, up by 14.2% to £2.4m from £2.1m. Exports to Japan and India represented £1.3m and £1.5m respectively, whilst exports to Singapore doubled to £1.2m. There was strong movement in Israel, more than doubling to £1.4m, with exports to Saudi Arabia standing at £2m, increasing from £1.1m. However, exports to the Uae fell 17%

to a value of £2.9m from £3.5m.

Early data for 2019 has shown imports valuing £78.3m for January, marking an increase of 2.2% from £76.6m when compared to the same month last year. Imports from the EU have remained flat at £54m, whereas from outside the EU, the figure has grown 7.1%, from £22.1m to £23.8m. Exports over the same period have indicated modest growth of 0.4% to £22.5m from £22.4m in January 2018. This has been put down to EU export growth of 5.8% from £17m to £18m. Non-EU exports have so far decreased to £4.5m from £5.4m, with the USA a main contributor to the decline.

It will be interesting to monitor British exports of carpets and flooring as the year progresses because early signs indicate the UK export market could have another year of global growth. With the onus on the UK consumer to back British featuring heavily at present, this seems to have been echoed overseas.

w www.gov.uk

5th April 2019 | 25

C A R P E T S A N D F L O O R I N G F E A T U R E |S C S Cabinet Maker takes a look at the recent trading performance at retailer ScS as flooring continues to accelerate.

STAYING

RESILIENT Sofa and flooring retail specialist ScS has recently reported a growth in revenue as well as upward movement in profit during its first half of the year. It served to be an encouraging announcement, especially when having to deal with consumer confidence concerns that have seemed to plague other businesses. Not only that, difficult trading conditions have been echoed across multiple industries — not just in furnishing. So, to deliver some growth in uncertain times is something that should be recognised.

However, ScS has not sailed through the period, with the retailer confirming that in-store furniture sales dipped by 0.2% to £129.8m for the 26 weeks ended 26th January 2019 against the same period in the previous year. Average furniture order values fell 4.2% in the year to £1,543 (2018: £1,610), driven by a change in product mix, where ScS continued to focus on the value end of the market and achieve a lower promotional price point. The strategy has proved successful 5th April 2019 | 26

because, despite a lower average order value, ScS said it has increased its gross margin to 44.9% from 44.7%.

Despite the lull in in-store furniture form, the category still represents the largest share of sales within the business.

From the largest to the fastest-growing sector of ScS and the click of online. Internet sales recorded a 30% uptick to £7.8m, with this platform expected to grow further still in the year ahead.

The other division of ScS, being carpets and flooring, has also delivered its own share of fortune. In-store flooring sales increased 1.4% to £21.6m. This growth comes off the back of a very successful 2018 for the flooring department, with the retailer winning industry awards, delivering an increase in orders and completing its store refurbishment projects.

David Knight, chief executive officer at ScS,

commented within its report on the rapid acceleration of ScS flooring. “2018 was a very successful period for the business in flooring.

Order values have risen 3.1% to £697 (2018: £676),” he said.

“We have completed a total refurbishment of the flooring departments in every store, modernising the look and feel, and improving point of sale. We have also reviewed and refined the flooring products we sell.

“To further enhance the customer experience, work has commenced on improving the quality of the teams our customers interact with. We are confident our offering and market share can continue to grow in the medium and longer term.”

Speaking of enhancing the customer experience, ScS has continued to invest in two key areas — mobile technology and digital awareness. David said that the company takes great pride in its five-

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“As we outlined in our 2018 Annual Report, we have committed to the replatforming of our website, and work on this project has commenced. We continue to work closely with our partners to improve the customer’s online experience through increased speed, functionality, look and feel, particularly on mobile devices.”

“WE HAVE COMPLETED A TOTAL REFURBISHMENT OF THE FLOORING DEPARTMENTS IN EVERY STORE, MODERNISING THE LOOK AND FEEL, AND IMPROVING POINT OF SALE.”

Overall, half-year interim results for the period saw gross sales rise 1.2% to £159.2m from £157.4m in 2018, with revenue up by 1.1% to £151.4m. Like-for-like order intake increased 1.5%, whilst pre-tax profit resulted at £0.5m, up from £0.4m. It has been a positive period for the business when most have struggled.

Even current trading for the 33 weeks ended 16th March, 2019, has achieved like-for-like order intake growth of 2.9%.

“The retail market continues to suffer in the midst of the uncertain economic and political environment. We, therefore, expect the trading environment to continue to remain challenging in the short to medium term, although the Board is confident that the group is well positioned to maximise opportunities as they arise.”

Creating a market-leading website and digital awareness has also been high on the agenda at ScS. As already highlighted, online sales continues to be the fastest-growing area of the business with constant investment at the forefront of this growing trend.

David continued: “We continue to invest in this area, strengthening our e-commerce team, online marketing and website development, and the group is pleased to see the positive impact it has had on its performance.

star ‘excellent’ score via Trustpilot, and it actively shares this feedback in-store, on TV advertising, in newspapers and online.

David said: “Our Trustpilot rating is a testament to the continued work and efforts of our in-store staff, customer services advisors and our delivery teams. A highlight of the first half of the 2019 financial year has been the significant increase in the number of reviews. Despite only recently celebrating being one of a handful of businesses in the UK to have achieved over 100,000 reviews, we have since had over 35,000 more reviews in the first half of 2019.

“The start of 2019 has also seen the roll-out of mobile technology to ensure that the customer receives an excellent experience dealing with our delivery and aftercare teams, whilst also improving the group’s efficiency.

The benefits include instantaneous smart route optimisation, shorter service wait times, delivery-tracking notifications for our customers and the electronic capture of key information such as photographs and e-signatures to improve the quality and transfer of information.”

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“Website visitor traffic has continued to rise, and whilst we’ve identified that this is largely due to customers researching products prior to visiting a store, our strong performance demonstrates an ever-increasing number of customers are confident to make purchases online. Although average online order value is still below that achieved in-store, this has also increased compared to the same period last year.

That being said, it remains clear that the hard work must continue, as David concludes: “The group continues to deliver profitable growth whilst increasing its resilience. The Board is pleased with the group’s year-to-date trading, which is in line with its expectations.

w www.scs.co.uk

Carpet sales have continued to grow at ScS 5th April 2019 | 27

C A R P E T S A N D F L O O R I N G F E A T U R E |B R I N T O N S

From the top: QuickWeave design Q1243 at Hydro Hotel, Windermere and Studio Elke, Brutalist

LEADING

BY DESIGN Carpet manufacturer Brintons talks to Cabinet Maker about its latest designs, the benefits behind wool and its collaboration with Studio Elke.

When it comes to staying ahead of the game in a competitive market place, carpet manufacturer Brintons has continued to embrace new technologies and concepts to do just that. 2019 has been a year of redefining designs as well as forging new partnerships to lay down future foundations of growth. With this in mind, Brintons has extended its QuickWeave concept with a new colour palette and new designs.

QuickWeave is an exciting innovation introduced to the contract carpet market and is designed specifically to meet the growing demand among installers for designled carpet that can be made-to-order and installed in below average lead-times. Sarah Draper, commercial marketing manager at 5th April 2019 | 28

Brintons, revealed: “Brintons has refreshed its innovative QuickWeave series to include a new colour palette, Odyssey. Subtle ambient tones of graphite and gold, with a touch of decadent luxe colours jade, amethyst and slate Odyssey complements the two existing highly-researched colour palettes, Inception and Sequence. With a broad spectrum of more than 300 designs, QuickWeave provides installers and project designers working to a tight deadline with the widest choice yet of woven axminster designs that can be made in up to six weeks.”

Brintons’ award-winning design team developed the series to reflect today’s trends, with contemporary patterns complementing transitional styles such as plaids, stripes,

geometric, abstract and layered design themes. Clever texturing techniques, including mottles, striés and fades, have been used within the patterns to give depth to the designs whilst optimising practical application for hospitality and other contract projects.

QuickWeave broadloom woven axminster carpet is made using the ‘Brintons blend’ of 80% wool / 20% nylon and is available in four quality specifications, from 7 to 10 rows.

With wool in mind, Brintons, which has more than 230 years of experience in carpet making, revealed that the wool from 1 in 9 British sheep ends up in their carpets. Wool is a natural fibre. Composed of proteins, its complexity provides many features and benefits that man-made fibres struggle to

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replicate, offering complete flexibility and superior performance characteristics. Sarah explained: “Wool is an incredibly complex natural fibre, which means natural attributes that plastic fibres just can’t match. Wool has a left and right-handed helix at its core, which works likes a spring, meaning it can continuously resist pressure and flattening. It can be bent many thousands of times and still spring back! And this is why British wool is such a great fibre in carpets.”

Wool is also fire retardant and difficult to ignite due to high water and nitrogen content.

Wool’s natural oils and scaled structure also trap dust and dirt at the top layers of the fibre, so it makes cleaning a lot easier. The scales on wool are another feature as they cause liquids to bead up and stay on the surface, helping to keep wool stain free.

Sarah continued: “Wool is grown naturally on sheep. They live on and from the land, roaming freely in the countryside, and regrow their fleece every year. This is in direct contrast to synthetic fibres, which need oil and refineries to be produced. Sheep grow wool continuously, and can be shorn every 9 to 12 months, meaning wool is rapidly and readily available. As long as there is grass for sheep to eat, wool can be produced.”

Back to Brintons’ new designs, the company has refreshed its Timorous Beasties stocked collection with eight new looks. The collection plays with the notion of pattern in the interior space so that it becomes a dramatic feature in its own right, whilst going against almost every conventional carpet rule. Cabinet Maker takes a look at the inspiration behind the designs.

Moiré The undulating waves of this carpet have been inspired by a moiré fabric; a silk fabric that has been heated and applied with pressure to give it a rippled appearance.

Much like the fabric, these all-over tonal patterns create carpets that look almost ribbed in texture and evoke the waves of water.

Damask The Damask designs were created under the influence of traditional damask fabrics. The aim of these is to create a feeling of grandure and decadence, the essence of which is

“I HAD WRITTEN DOWN A LIST OF DREAM COLLABORATIONS ON A BLANK PIECE OF PAPER MANY YEARS AGO, AND A CARPET COLLABORATION WAS AT THE TOP OF THAT LIST.” — Elke Kramer, founder of Studio Elke

portrayed perfectly through the large scale design and dramatic tones in the new Jet Damask.

Ruskin/Effie Statement carpets have become the key feature for floors, challenging traditional conventions through the use of heavily illustrative insects, plants, butterflies and leaves. “Using large scale and the avoidance of symmetry, the gentle meandering sprawl of designs like the Ruskin Butterfly or Golden Effie, favour balance through composition and create a completely individual interior. The décor can simply pick out a few key highlights so as not to detract from the stunning floor,” says Jane Bradley-Bain, senior creative designer for Brintons.

Effie; the partner to Ruskin, reinvents the iconic pattern taking its cue from delicate embroidery.

Atholl Garden Atholl Garden is a fusion of nature and the artificial environment. Birds perching on a

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garden gate, blends nature with ornate man-made items to create a more interesting silhouette. A contemporary Pewter and Midnight Blue have been added to this series.

Grain Du Bois Grain Du Bois takes inspiration from the alignment, texture and appearance of wood fibres, where the colours can blend or contrast with each other, depending on where your view point is in the room. A new shade, Seal Grain du Bois, has been added for 2019.

What’s more, Brintons prides itself on forming new partnerships and collaborations with its most recent with Studio Elke adding a new flavour in flooring. Late last year, Brintons launched its new Composite Collection, created in collaboration with Studio Elke, an Australian multi-disciplinary design studio led by founder and creative director, Elke Kramer.

Known for its unique jewellery and accessories, Studio Elke is respected for its emphasis on pushing the boundaries of originality and its exploration of unique materials, experimental fabrications and new forms. The collaboration translates the studio’s aesthetic into a suite of customisable carpet designs, with the new venture being Elke Kramer’s first ever carpet collection.

“I had written down a list of dream collaborations on a blank piece of paper many years ago, and a carpet collaboration was at the top of that list. When I was approached

by Brintons, and invited to partake in their first Australian collaboration, I was thrilled at the opportunity,” Elke said.

Composite is a collection of wall-to-wall carpet designs that references Studio Elke’s decade-long archive of jewellery collections.

There are 28 designs in 5 design themes: The Sorcerer, Upscale, Nucleus, Brutalist and The Thunder Below.

The Brintons product portfolio continues to grow and with it does the reputation that has served the company well for more than two centuries. With 2019 firmly under way, the future looks bright for Brintons.

Timorous Beasties, Jet Damask

w www.brintons.net 5th April 2019 | 29

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F E A T U R E |A P P R E N T I C E S H I P D E B A T E Sarah Garner

Be in the know Sarah Garner, solicitor at DAS Law, explains what factors employers and young people need to consider regarding future apprenticeship schemes and their legal obligations.

Cabinet Maker is dedicated to supporting, encouraging and championing apprenticeships within the furnishing industry by working with businesses and organisations to continually highlight the importance of apprenticeships and the benefits they offer — not only to a business, but to the industry and future generations of furniture making.

Cabinet Maker welcomes your thoughts and also invites your business to share your story on your apprenticeship success so far and plans for the future — email editor Dan Squires at dan@cabinet-maker.co.uk or call 01623 372215.

What every employer needs to know about apprenticeships

attend training through a college or training establishment.

The 12th annual National Apprenticeship Week, which took place last month, proved to be another successful year. Sarah Garner, solicitor at DAS Law, explains what factors employers and young people need to consider regarding future apprenticeship schemes and their legal obligations.

An apprentice agreement — often referred to as a modern apprenticeship — differs from that of an apprentice contract in that the law treats the apprentice in the same way as an employee under a contract of employment, with no additional rights. This allows an employer more flexibility in terms of taking action for poor performance and conduct, and terminating the agreement if the relationship becomes untenable or unsatisfactory. An apprentice contract can be difficult and risky to terminate.

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is an agreement between an individual and an employer, where work will be provided for the employer in return for training to achieve a skill/qualification.

These agreements benefit both parties as it allows employers to cover skill shortages within their business, while the individuals get the chance to develop and hone their skills, usually combined with time off to

What is the relevant law relating to apprenticeships?

S.32 of the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Act 2009 (ASCLA) sets out the prescribed format of an apprentice » 5th April 2019 | 31

F E A T U R E |A P P R E N T I C E S H I P D E B A T E agreement and states that any agreement entered into is under a qualifying apprentice framework. The Apprenticeships (Form of Apprentice Agreement) Regulations, which came into force on 6th April, 2012, set out what the agreement should include. These are: • That the apprentice agreement is in the prescribed format as set out in section.32 ASCLA; • That written statement of particulars has been provided to the apprentice as set out in section.1 Employment Relations Act 2009; • That a contract of employment or letter of engagement is provided as set out in section.1 Employment Rights Act 1996; • That the agreement sets out the skill, trade or occupation that the apprentice is being trained for.

What should I include in an apprentice agreement?

As well as being set out in the prescribed format under the regulations above, an employer may also want to consider including the following provisions: • The duration of the agreement and whether the apprentice will be subjected to a probationary period; • How the apprentice will be monitored and assessed regarding their performance and development; • The time off that will be provided for attending college and for any examinations; • Details of notice periods for each party to bring the agreement to an end; • If the apprentice is under the age of 18, you may wish to have a parent or guardian sign the agreement; • Details of clawback provisions if you were looking to recover training costs if

Apprentices can start work as young as 16 and apprenticeships are generally for a minimum of 30 hours per week

5th April 2019 | 32

the apprentice leaves within a specific time period.

Nevertheless, we would recommend that legal advice or the services of a solicitor are obtained if you are considering employing an apprentice. This is due to ensuring that the regulations are complied with, and that the prescribed information is contained.

A properly drafted agreement will avoid potential issues being raised during the relationship, and significantly reduce the likelihood of facing an employment tribunal.

What if the agreement is not put in writing?

If the agreement does not comply with the regulations, or can be evidenced in a document, then the default position of the apprentice being employed under a contract of apprenticeship will apply.

A contract of apprenticeship does not need to contain specific provisions or be in a particular form. It is governed by common law and affords an apprentice greater rights than those of an employee. These include not being able to terminate for redundancy

“WE WOULD RECOMMEND THAT LEGAL ADVICE OR THE SERVICES OF A SOLICITOR ARE OBTAINED IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING EMPLOYING AN APPRENTICE.”

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and it is very difficult to terminate the contract for any other reason. If a contract of apprenticeship is terminated, apprentices can claim to be paid for the entire duration of the fixed term, and also for the loss of employment opportunity if they have not been able to complete their qualification. This could be a very costly claim for an employer.

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An apprenticeship is an agreement between an individual and an employer

What are apprentices entitled to be paid?

Apprentices are entitled to the National Minimum Wage apprentice rate if they’re either aged under 19 or aged 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship.

Apprentices are entitled to the minimum wage for their age if they both are aged 19 or over and have completed the first year of their apprenticeship. National Minimum Wage rates are usually increased in April each year and can be found at www.gov.uk Can I restrict the age of applicants for an apprenticeship?

Employers often wish to choose young apprentices as the National Minimum Wage rate for apprentices under 19 years, or who are in their first year of employment, are significantly lower. Also, there can be increased funding available for younger apprentices.

However, the risk of choosing younger candidates is the potential indirect discrimination against older applicants. A successful claim for discrimination can be costly to an employer, in that such claims are unlimited in the amount of compensation that a court can award.

What holidays are apprentices entitled to?

Apprentices are entitled to the same holiday entitlement as employees and workers. Under

the Working Time Regulations 1998, these are currently 28 days per year, including bank holidays, or 5.6 weeks.

break during the day. The regulations prohibit this break being taken before or at the end of their shift.

How many hours can an apprentice work?

Apprentices can start work as young as 16 and apprenticeships are generally for a minimum of 30 hours per week. The Working Time Regulations 1998 state that young workers should not work more than eight hours a day and 40 hours a week, and don’t normally work at night. The regulations state that you must have at least 12 hours’ rest between each working day and 48 hours’ rest per working week. There are also stricter rules that apply to children under the age of 16.

Can I obtain funding for apprentices?

Employers that have an annual pay bill of more than £3 million, or are connected to other companies or charities for Employment Allowance that in total have an annual pay bill of more than £3 million, have to pay an apprenticeship levy each month from 6th April, 2017. The levy is charged at 0.5% of their annual pay bill. If they pay the levy they will receive funds to spend on training and assessing their apprentices. The government will then add 10%.

Employees over the age of 18 should not work more than 48 hours per week on average and should have 24 hours’ rest in a working week. All employees working over six hours in a day are entitled to a 20-minute rest

If they do not pay the levy then the government does provide funding to spend on apprentices. The government will pay 90% and an employer 10% towards the cost of training an apprentice. There are maximum amounts that the government will pay and terms and conditions that need to be met.

For more information, visit www.gov.uk and also contact the National Apprenticeship Service on 0800 015 0600 for further guidance.

w www.das.co.uk w www.gov.co.uk Cabinet Maker welcomes your thoughts and also invites your business to share your story on your apprenticeship success so far and plans for the future. Email editor Dan Squires at dan@cabinet-maker.co.uk or call 01623 372215.

Has your business taken on any new apprentices? Share your story with CM 5th April 2019 | 33

F E A T U R E |S T E P H E N S I D K I N Stephen Sidkin, partner at law and advisory firm Fox Williams LLP, talks to Cabinet Maker about the status of a commercial agent.

Working Together

5th April 2019 | 34

FOR FULL STORIES AND DAILY NEWS UPDATES: WWW.CABINET-MAKER.CO.UK

Working together - can the place where an agent works affect his status as a commercial agent?

Commercial agents have traditionally performed their role in an itinerant manner, away from the principal’s premises (for example, by visiting customers and attending trade shows). Much of a commercial agent’s sales activities can now be performed from any location, provided that the WIFI signal and phone reception are up to scratch. However, this is not always the case. In certain circumstances, it may be convenient for the commercial agent to use office facilities at the principal’s premises. But how does this affect the commercial agent’s status, bearing in mind that independence is critical in maintaining status as a commercial agent?

Towards the end of last year the European Court considered this question in a case where the agent was responsible for a specific department within the principal’s business. The role was varied. It went beyond the normal role of a commercial agent in negotiating or concluding sales contracts. For example, the agent had a number of other managerial and after-sales roles within the department. There was also a permanent work station, telephone and email address at the principal’s premises.

The agent was paid a monthly lump sum, travel expenses and commission for all of the activities. Indeed there was no distinction made between the commercial agency role and other activities. Crucially, the parties agreed that the agent performed their tasks completely independently of the principal.

The principal terminated the agency without notice. It refused to pay damages for failure to give proper notice and an indemnity, the agent claimed.

Unsurprisingly, the parties were in dispute as to whether the agent was a commercial agent. As a subsidiary point, the principal also claimed that the agent had brought the claim out of time.

The European Court had to determine: •whether or not a commercial agency existed. The European Court decided that a person can be a commercial agent even though: they perform their business activities from the principal’s premises; or • they have other ‘non-commercial agency’ roles and responsibilities for that principal; or •both, provided that the agent’s working practices and other responsibilities do not prevent the agent from performing its commercial agency activities in an independent manner.

In reaching its decision, the European Court pointed out that to be a commercial agent a person must:

“MUCH OF A COMMERCIAL AGENT’S SALES ACTIVITIES CAN NOW BE PERFORMED FROM ANY LOCATION, PROVIDED THAT THE WIFI SIGNAL AND PHONE RECEPTION ARE UP TO SCRATCH. HOWEVER, THIS IS NOT ALWAYS THE CASE.” • be a self-employed intermediary, and • have continuing authority, • [to] either negotiate or negotiate and conclude the sale and purchase of goods on behalf of and in the name of the principal.

There is no additional requirement that the activities must be performed away from the principal’s premises or in an itinerant manner.

aQO

Take home points 1. In considering the case before it, the European Court touched on the issue of whether a commercial agent who does have continuing authority to negotiate the sale or purchase of goods — but also undertakes other kinds of activities for the principal without those other activities being secondary to the first type of activities — precludes that person from being classified as a commercial agent.

In essence, the European Court was considering the exception to the protection given to commercial agents, which is set out in the Commercial Agents Regulations.

Going forwards, it can be expected that (where the facts allow) principals will give greater consideration as to whether or not reliance can be had on the exception in order to avoid a claim by an agent for compensation or indemnity.

2. It is also possible that when appointing a new agent, a principal may consider requiring the agent to undertake such activities in order to give rise to the possibility of being able to rely on the secondary activities exception at some point in the future.

3. Irrespective of this, commercial agents with roles that go beyond negotiating or concluding sales contracts on behalf of their principal, or who regularly use their principal’s premises or equipment, should scrutinise their written agency agreements and their working practices to satisfy themselves that they are acting independently in relation to their commercial agency activities.

4. A failure by a terminated commercial agent to claim compensation or indemnity within the applicable time limits will result in the claim failing.

w www.agentlaw.co.uk w www.foxwilliams.com

The European Court also pointed out that when considering whether or not an agent’s independence is compromised through their close proximity to the principal, it is necessary to consider whether the agent is subject to the principal’s instructions, whether the agent’s ability to organise their own activities is limited or whether the economic risks of acting independently are affected.

When considering whether or not an agent’s independence is compromised through the requirement to perform other non-commercial agency activities, it is necessary to address the nature of, and the manner in which the tasks are carried out; the proportion of the additional tasks when compared with the commercial agency tasks; the method of calculation of remuneration; and the reality of the financial risk incurred.

5th April 2019 | 35

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PLEASE CONTACT KACEM Q 01223 846825 m KACEM@CABINET-MAKER.CO.UK

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The Furniture Makers’ Company has been supporting the welfare of employees in the interiors and furnishing industry for more than 100 years. If you or someone you know is in need of financial support, let us help. Visit our website www.furnituremakers.org.uk/assistance or contact 020 7256 5558

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5th April 2019 | 36

Welfare FX half page.indd 1

12/10/2017 15:12

Take aim for fun and fundraising

Wednesday 12 June 2019 Holland and Holland shooting ground, Northwood, Middlesex

Book your place now!

Contact: 020 7562 8526 events@furnituremakers.org.uk Supported by

Boss Design Group

A

Dudley, DY2 8SZ www.bossdesign.com

A By Andre

www.abyandre.com

Halton Hills, ON L7G 4R9 www.brc.group

ACID

Staunton, GL19 3QS www.acid.uk.com

08456 443617

ADVANSA

Hamm (Germany), 59071 www.advansa.com

+49 23888402207

AHF

Peterborough, PE3 7PR www.ahf.co.uk

01733 336200

Airsprung

Staverton, BA14 8RQ www.airsprungbeds.co.uk

01225 754411

Alpha Designs Upholstery Bilston, WV14 7HZ

01902 492937

Alstons Upholstery

Colchester, CO2 9JU www.alstons.co.uk

Cheltenham, GL50 1TY www.amaresearch.co.uk

Aquaclean Fabrics

www.aquaclean.com

Archers Sleepcentre

0141 892 0308

Ashley Manor

01384 486800

Association of Independent Stores

Solihull, B90 4LF www.aistores.co.uk

+90 (212) 549 20 60

B London, SW10 0XE www.bakerfurniture.com Northallerton, DL7 8UB www.barkershome.co.uk

020 7823 3612

Purfleet, RM19 1TT www.carpetright.co.uk

0330 333 3444

Calia Trade SPA

Matera (Italy) www.caliaitalia.com

Leicester, LE3 1TH www.cimchome.com

0116 287 5288

Midsomer Norton, BA3 4BS www.charltonsfurniture.co.uk

020 3058 2751

Cleland McIver

Rochdale, OL16 4NG www.clelandmciver.co.uk

01706 374431

Clockwork Components

Witney, OX29 0YN www.clockworkcomponents.com

01993 775 767

Carpenter Ltd

Glossop, SK13 6LE https://carpenter.com/uk/en

01457 861141

D

Dewsbury, WF13 3RD www.thefurniturebazaar.com

Windsor, SL4 1DP www.danielstores.co.uk

01753 801000

Decorative Panels

01484 658341

London www.decorex.com

020 7921 8275

Design Guild Mark 01609 776 667

London, EC2N 2HE www.designguildmark.org.uk

020 7562 8520

DFS

Bazaar

0333 7721242

Doncaster, DN6 7NA www.dfs.co.uk

01302 573 200

Dickinsons Furnishers

Beales

01202 552022

Chorley, PR7 2ST www.dickinsonschorley.com

01257 262141

Dreams

Belfield Furnishings

01159 071700

Mansfield, NG18 1HA www.dreams.co.uk

0800 652 5090

Dura Beds

Bensons for Beds

0333 222 6800

Batley, WF17 6PB www.durabeds.co.uk

01924 422 537

Duvalay

Betta Living

Oldham, OL9 7TH www.bettaliving.co.uk

Carpetright

Decorex International

Barkers Home

Mansfield, NG18 1HA www.bensonsforbeds.co.uk

C

Elland, HX5 9HF www.decorativepanels.co.uk

Baker Furniture

Ilkeston, DE7 5EP www.thebelfieldgroup.com

01244 812628

Daniel Stores

Aydin Tekstil Ticaret

Bournemouth, BH1 1LJ www.beales.co.uk

Connah’s Quay, CH5 4DP www.brownsfurniture.co

Charltons Furniture

01793 612660

Dudley, DY2 0RL www.ashleymanor.co.uk

01629 823680

Browns

01242 235724

Arc Lighting & Design

Glasgow, G52 4BN www.archerssleepcentre.co.uk

Ilkeston, DE7 5EP www.breasley.co.uk

Ceramic Import and Manufacturing Company

07779 597040

Swindon, SN1 3BH www.arc-lighting.co.uk

0905 873 8509

Breasley

01206 733300

AMA Research

Istanbul (Turkey) www.aydintekstil.com

01384 455570

BRC

0800 083 1127

Gomersal, BD19 4HX www.duvalay.co.uk

01274 877200

Dwell

BFM

Long Eaton, NG10 4QD www.bfm.org.uk

01332 321 827

BIID

London, EC2A 4PE www.biid.org.uk

0207 6280255

Norfolk, NR17 1N3 www.boconcept.com

E

020 7462 0440

ercol

Princes Risborough, HP27 9PX www.ercol.com

Bodyease

0800 046 99 01

Bolia.com

Aarhus (Denmark) www.bolia.com

0345 675 9090

Ekornes

London, EC1N 6TE www.ekornes.co.uk

BoConcept

Dewsbury, WF12 9AH www.bodyease.co.uk

London, SE1 0SW www.dwell.co.uk

+45 51502110

01844 271800

Espoke Living

Chester, CH4 8BU www.espokeliving.com

0333 344 2855

Eve Sleep

London, N5 1XL www.evesleep.co.uk

0800 808 5766

F +90 224 241 69 00 www.boyteks.com OSB. 8. Cad. No: 60, 38070, Kayseri, Turkey

Findel Education Ltd

Accrington, BB5 4EE www.findel-education.co.uk

03451 203 603 5th April 2019 | 39

»

C A B I N E T M A K E R A L P H A A D S |C O N N E C T I N G B U Y E R S A N D S E L L E R S FIRA International Stevenage, SG1 2EW www.fira.co.uk

01438 777 700 +48 29 64 42 222 01384 408844 020 3348 9829

Furniture Choice

Mirfield, WF14 9DQ www.furniturechoice.co.uk

0800 035 0070

Furniture Link

Telford, TF1 7AD www.furniturelinkuk.co.uk

01952 604960 020 72565558

Furniture to Go

Portsmouth, PO3 5QD www.furniture-to-go.co.uk

02380 517067

Furniture Village

Slough, SL1 4DX www.furniturevillage.co.uk

0800 804 8879

Furniture World

Newquay, TR7 2HS www.furnitureworld.co.uk

01268 745421

Heimtextil

Blackburn, BB1 1TJ www.heritagefurnitureuk.com

01209 210080

G

069 7575-0

01254 660777 0845 226 9776 01924 406600

+49 30 20 38 99 66

www.hslchairs.com

0161 681 5678 01924 486902

Hydeline Furniture

Milton Keynes, MK12 6HS www.hydeline.co.uk

01908 968228

Hyder Beds

01844 348200

Iconography

Chepstow, NP16 6UN www.gfa.uk.com

01291 645080

Grampian Furnishers

Elgin, IV30 8QN www.grampianfurnishers.com

01343 813271

Greenwood Retail

Knutsford, WA16 6EN www.greenwoodretail.com

01565 650101

Gresham

Bolton, BL6 4SA www.officefurnitureonline.co.uk

0333 7777 575

London, W1T 7PJ www.habitat.co.uk/furniture Hammonds www.hammonds-uk.com Harrison Spinks Leeds, LS11 5SB www.harrisonspinks.co.uk

0800 021 4363

Harry Corry

Belfast, BT17 9GX www.harrycorry.com

028 9060 6801

Harvey Norman Harveys

www.harveysfurniture.co.uk

0344 372 1000

Headlam

Birmingham, B46 1LW www.headlam.com 5th April 2019 | 40

01675 433000

Telford, TF3 3BQ www.thelia.org.uk

020 7739 5561

London Fabric Show

Long Eaton, NG10 4QD www.londonfabricshow.uk

Mammoth

www.maisonsdumonde.com

www.ikea.com/gb/en

01332 321827

Leigh, WN7 2RR www.ism.furniture

0300 030 9915

J 020 7384 8211 01603 660661 01706 877877 03300 883818

K Dublin www.kaymed.co.uk

0116 4422363

49 5401 852-0

Mattressman

Norfolk, NR14 8SQ www.mattressman.co.uk

0333 577 5773

Mattresstek

Lancashire, BB4 5JT www.mattresstek.co.uk

07891 506241

Matza

Dewsbury www.matza.co.uk

01924 458699

Metro Wardrobes and Kitchens

London, HA9 0LB www.metrowardrobes.co.uk 0203 4883347 Millbrook Beds

Totton, SO40 3XJ www.millbrook-beds.co.uk

+353 45 484 300

KBSA

Mansfield, NG19 8R www.kbsa.org.uk

Dudley, DY2 8NT www.masonandpearl.co.uk Germany www.wiemann-online.com/en

JJOplc

Hazel Grove, SK7 5BW www.jysk.co.uk

Mason and Pearl

Mathias Wiemann GmbH & Co KG

January Furniture Show

Bacup, OL13 0EA www.jjoplc.com

0808 234 21 72

Wallsend, NE28 9NZ www.mammothcomfort.com

ISM Networks Furniture

Kaymed

www.harveynorman.com

LIA

Ikea International

JYSK 0113 205 5200

Greengates, BD10 9TQ www.lectra.com/en

Maisons du Monde

Norwich, NR2 1JF www.jarrold.co.uk

0344 499 4686

01724 281381

Lectra

London, WC2H 0JG www.made.com

Jarrold & Son

Habitat

Scunthorpe, DN16 3RN www.lebus.co.uk

Nottingham, NG2 4BN www.indusvalley.co.uk

London, SW6 3JW januaryfurnitureshow.com

H

03332 008 009

Made.com

Ilminster, TA19 9DN www.iconography.co.uk

Indus Valley Furniture Ltd

Global Furniture Alliance

Newtown, SY16 1DZ www.lauraashley.com

M

01382 477281 01284 752804

01254 265883

Luxury Furniture Manufacturers www.longeatonguild.co.uk

Gillies

Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3TU www.glasswells.co.uk

01628 513810

Long Eaton Guild

www.gallerydirect.co.uk Sittingbourne, ME10 3RN 01795 439159

Glasswells

Blackburn, BB1 2BX www.lanzet.co.uk

London, E1 6QR www.londondesignfair.co.uk

Hypnos

I

Dundee, DD5 2AJ www.gillies.co.uk

Maidenhead, SL6 1BU www.la-z-boy.co.uk

London Design Fair

Dewsbury, WF13 1EN www.hyderbedsltd.com Princes Risborough, HP27 9RS www.hypnosbeds.com

L

Lebus Upholstery

Housing Units HSL

01344 771653

Laura Ashley

Home24

Failsworth, M35 9BA www.housingunits.co.uk

Crowthorne, RG45 6LS www.en.kobe.eu

Lanzet

Highgrove

Berlin (Germany) www.home24.com

01536 444960

La-Z-Boy

Herman Miller

Melksham, SN12 6GN www.hermanmiller.com

Corby, NN17 4JN www.kettleinteriorsagencies.com

353 404 80068

Kobe UK

Heritage Furniture

Liversedge, WF15 6QA www.highgrovebeds.co.uk

Furniture Makers

London, EC2N 2HE www.furnituremakers.org.uk

Kettle Interiors

Rotherham, S66 9HU www.heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com

Furnico

London, E12 6SJ www.furnico.co.uk

Heico

Foxrock www.kelstonhouse.com

Hockley, SS5 4AD www.heico-fasteners.co.uk

Furmanac

Kingswinford, DY6 7FF www.furmanac.com

Kelston House

Rotherham, S66 9HU www.healthbeds.co.uk

Forte Furniture

Warsaw ww2.forte.com.pl

Health Beds

01623 818808

023 8086 6111

Minerva Furnishers Guild

Corsham, SN13 0HN www.minervafurnishers.co.uk

01225 444204

MPT Group

Bacup, OL13 9RW www.mptgroup.com

01706 878 558

E V E R Y W E E K TO ADVERTISE ON THESE PAGES CALL 01623 372213 OR GO TO: WWW.CABINET-MAKER.CO.UK Rowico

N

Calne, SN11 9BN www.rowico.co.uk

N Brown Group

0161 236 8256

Nathan Furniture Group

Wensley, DL8 4HS www.nathanfurniture.co.uk

Lancashire, BB1 5JJ www.royams.net

Skipton, BD23 1NL 01756 799 950

Natuzzi

Italy www.natuzzi.co.uk

0039 080 8820488

Guildford, GU1 3DU www.natuzzi.co.uk

01483 306 280

Stretford, M17 1RW www.nevillejohnson.co.uk

0161 873 8333

0161 767 8244

Oak Furniture Land

www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk

Oliver & Sons

www.oliverandsonsuk.com

Oliver Bonas

www.oliverbonas.com

01724 281888 0800 083 0683 020 8974 3332

0121 389 4262

01623 441886

Pike Textiles

0800 789 789

01924 439 898

0844 292 1000

0333 123 0892

Simba

01945 461361

R

Birmingham, B11 2NR www.slumberdream.co.uk Bolton, BL3 2NZ www.sofasbysaxon.com

Godalming, GU7 1EY www.sofaworkshop.com

Sofa.com

www.sofa.com/gb

Radium Foam

Sofahouse Imports

Netherlands www.vitatalalay.com

Louth www.sofahouse.ie

RJ Binnie

Sopha 0116 284 9063

0177 0512 7700

45 87 54 55 00

0121 773 6669

01204 368413

Highbridge, TA9 3AE www.sopha.co.uk

0808 159 9679 0345 400 2222

353 42 935 1950

01278 557755

Staingard

Recticel

017738 38800

Waverton, CH3 7PD www.staingard.co.uk

01244 888658

Steinhoff (International)

Relyon

Stellenbosch, (South Africa) www.steinhoffinternational.co.uk 27218080700

Wellington, TA21 8NN https://relyon.co.uk

Swaffer

Peterborough, PE2 6WQ www.swaffer.co.uk

ROM Sofas

+32 87 59 59 59

The Great Chair Company

Cheltenham, GL52 6NZ www.thegreatchaircompany.com www.theloungeco.com

01225 792429

Bolton, BL3 2NZ www.timelesschesterfields.com Thirsk, YO7 4LX www.treske.co.uk

01204 368413

01845 522770

U Mansfield Woodhouse, NG19 9AL www.unitedcarpetsandbeds.com

Sofa Workshop 020 8731 0020

Banff, Aberdeenshire www.goodsleepcompany.co.uk 01261 819984

United Carpets

London, SW1E 6QT www.simbasleep.com

Denmark www.skovby.com

0333 241 3209

Treske

Sofa by Saxon

Protect-A-Bed

Belgium www.romsofas.co.uk

0121 505 0270

Slumberdream 01509 235236

Stevenage, SG1 2AD thefurnitureombudsman.org

The Good Sleep Company

Skovby Mobelfabrik A/S

Pickworth Furnishings

Somercotes, DE55 4RD www.recticel.com

016973 20342

Timeless Chesterfields

www.simmons.com

0333 200 1725

The Furniture Ombudsman (TFO)

Shire Beds

Simmons Bedding Group

01772 792936

Norwich, NR1 3PA www.cotswoldco.com

The Lounge Co

Liverpool, L70 1AB www.shopdirect.com

800.805.3635

Preston, PR1 5PQ www.tetrad.co.uk

Clayton, BD14 6LT www.sherborneupholstery.co.uk 01274 882633

Barnoldswick, BB18 6BJ www.silentnight.co.uk

0115 951 9512

Lexington (USA) www.tempursealy.com

The Cotswold Company 0115 943 8980

Silentnight

Perfect Home

Loughborough, LE11 3HB www.pickworthfurnishing.co.uk

0208 8384838

Sherborne Upholstery

Dewsbury, WF13 3JY www.shirebeds.co.uk

353 42 935 1351

Tetrad

Shop Direct

Park Lane Bedding

Huthwaite, NG17 2HW www.perfecthome.co.uk

Aspatria, CA7 2AS www.sealy.co.uk

www.sharps.co.uk

0800 440 2254

P Birmingham, B8 1AG www.parklanebeds.co.uk

Nottingham, NG2 3GZ www.scs.co.uk

Sharps

Paragon Interiors

Nottingham, NG8 6PX www.paragonplc.com

London, NW10 6UD www.savoirbeds.com

West Bromwich, B70 0TX www.serene.co.uk

Oldrids and Downtown Scunthorpe, DN15 6SU www.oldrids.co.uk

Satra Technology Centre

Tempur Sealy 01536 410000

01689 886888

TCS Imports

Louth, BT35 8PX www.tcsimports.com

Serene

O

Orpington, BR6 0PH www.tapi.co.uk

Cwmtillery, Abertillery, NP13 1LZ www.sassyhome.co.uk 0115 943 8980

Sealy UK

Nolte Möebel

Bury, BL9 8RN www.nolte-mobel.co.uk

0800 14 13 786

SCS

Neville Johnson

Burnley, BB10 1SH www.sweetdreamsuk.com 01282 830033

T

Sassy Home

Rothwell, NN16 8SD www.satra.com

02393 873 170

Tapi Carpets

Savoir

NCF Furnishings

Leicester, LE8 6LH www.rjbinnie.co.uk

01254 665228

Sareer

Dewsbury, WF12 9AH www.sareerfurniture.co.uk

Hampshire, PO7 7XY www.swanretail.co.uk

Sweet Dreams

S www.bedfed.org.uk

London, NW2 1LJ www.protectabed.co.uk

01249 821 748

Royams Upholstery

Manchester, M60 6ES www.nbrown.co.uk

Wisbech, PE13 2RS www.pike-textiles.com

Swan Retail

01733 371727

01623 428481

V Vi Spring

Plymouth, PL5 2TT www.vispring.com/en-uk

01752 366311

Kidderminster, DY10 1JR www.victoriaplc.com

01562 749610

Victoria Plc

VIDA Living

Stockport, SK3 0XT www.vidaliving.com

Vitsoe

353 (0) 42 933 7044

London, W1U 3ED www.vitsoe.com

Vogue Beds

Barwell, LE9 8GZ www.voguebeds.co.uk

01455 841257

W Walker Greenbank

Denham, UB9 4DX www.walkergreenbank.com

Wayfair

0203 457 5862

www.wayfair.co.uk

Westbridge

Greenfield, CH8 7FF www.westbridgefurniture.com

01352 714131

Dorset, DT1 1HN www.woods-furniture.co.uk

01305 262666

Woods Furniture

5th April 2019 | 41

LAST WORD CHRISTIAN NOTLEY, WORLDSKILLS UK TRAINING MANAGER FOR CABINET MAKING

“AS WE FACE A SKILLS SHORTAGE THAT COULD THREATEN THE FUTURE OF OUR INDUSTRY, THE UK MUST DO ALL IT CAN TO ENCOURAGE MORE YOUNG PEOPLE TO CONSIDER A CAREER IN CABINET MAKING.“

As we face a skills shortage that could threaten the future of our industry, the UK must do all it can to encourage more young people to consider a career in cabinet making. I’m passionate about supporting the next generation of cabinet makers, helping them to go further, faster in this fascinating trade.

As training manager for WorldSkills UK Cabinet Making Competitions, I’m responsible for running the WorldSkills UK National Finals and training competitors to compete at the WorldSkills UK National Finals and WorldSkills International Competitions across the globe. WorldSkills UK Competitions help raise the profile of our trade and attract more young people to the industry. Competitions also highlight young shining stars with a bright future, giving employers a glimpse into the outstanding new talent entering the industry. In addition, by showcasing the UK’s talent on the world stage, we’re able to demonstrate the fantastic skills on offer across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. I’m honoured to have been elected by my peers from around the world as WorldSkills chief expert in cabinet making. Working closely with cabinet making experts across the WorldSkills member countries, I’m able to stay at the cutting-edge of the field. I’m also on the Department for Education’s T-Level advisory panel, making sure that future technical qualifications reflect international standards to keep the UK competitive on the world stage.

in the industry. My assistant training manager, Edward Harringman, won gold at WorldSkills São Paolo 2015. He is now helping me deliver training and support for future competitors. He also runs his own successful company, creating timber-framed buildings. Past competitor successes also include Angus Bruce Gardner, who won bronze in cabinet making at WorldSkills Abu Dhabi 2017. Angus is now working at Silverlining Furniture, creating bespoke furniture for superyachts, private residences and aircrafts. George Callow, another previous competitor, won a gold medal at WorldSkills Leipzig 2013 and now runs a very successful high-end fitting company.

During National Apprenticeship Week, WorldSkills UK held a selection event to choose Team UK 2019 — the outstanding group of young people who will represent their country at the international Skills Olympics. This year, the event is being held in Kazan, Russia. Our 2019 Team UK Cabinet Maker will be Owen Aldous, from Chichester College. As the nation’s top apprentice in his trade, Owen will help the UK retain its enviable position as #1 in Cabinet Making in the WorldSkills nations. Find out more at www.worldskillsuk.org

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Supporting the next generation The impact of WorldSkills UK Competitions on young competitors is tangible. Over the years, I have trained many apprentices who have grown in confidence and ability.

All my past competitors are still working

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WREN KITCHENS METRO BEDROOMS

5th April 2019 | 42

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