Interiors Monthly August 2020

AUGUST 2020

Awards

The winners

Retail AW 2020

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EDITOR’S COMMENT

The changing landscape The ongoing pandemic continues to impact interiors

Bancroft

Sweetpea & Willow

INTERIORS MONTHLY AUGUST 2020 The impact of coronavirus continues to be felt across the sector.

John Lewis is closing four At Home stores and two department stores, one of which only opened in September 2015; Harveys is in administration; former sister chain Bensons for Beds was bought by its existing owner and is looking to trim store numbers; Oak Furnitureland was bought in another pre-pack administration deal and its new owners are looking to close more than a quarter of the branches; Lee Longlands continues in administration and Alan Ward fell into liquidation, although Cousins bought two branches and may acquire the other two.

Across the country there will also be smaller retailers that the pandemic made untenable or brought forward a retirement.

And while retailers and manufacturers have reported a strong performance since stores re-opened – Headlam, for example, has seen higher July sales than in 2019 and DFS saw sales jump by more than 75% – the question must be if the recovery will last or will be a very busy, relatively short-term period.

A positive is that many people will have abandoned plans to go abroad this summer and may have some now spare money to spend. A negative is if they have only been receiving 80% of their income and there is no spare. And then there are the Brexit negotiations, which seem to be going very slowly. Until that is resolved consumer confidence will remain a worry.

The other thing that has changed is exhibitions: we haven’t had any since March and won’t until at least October. As well as cancellations, such as the Autumn Fair, we’ve seen postponements such as The Flooring Show. Going to Harrogate at the end of February will be a different experience compared to September, but the Yorkshire Event Centre seems to have plenty of room for social distancing.

In this issue we reveal the winners of this year’s Interiors Monthly Awards. Congratulations to them: they are all richly deserving. The winner of the hamper was Timothy Shaw, GH Shaw md, Lincoln.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE NEWS 4

DFS sees sales leap since re-opening

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Administration for Harveys

10 Emma revamps mix after sales jump

FEATURES 12 New products 18 Service 20 Experiences

How coronavirus has affected companies

22 Retail

AW 2020 trends at Habitat

26 LVT

Home designer inspiration

28 Wool

More volume

30 Upholstery

Circular moves

31 Interiors Monthly Awards

The winners Editor: Andrew Kidd

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

AUGUST 2020

Furniture advertising (South): Tim Boden

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

Furniture advertising (North): Jarrod Bird T: 01565 631 397 E: jbird@interiorsmonthly.co.uk Awards

The winners

Retail

Sedna from Associated Weavers: super soft carpet saving sea life Visit: www.sedna-carpet.co.uk

Carpet, flooring advertising: Joanne Paull M: 07817 624 922 E: jpaull@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

Representative in India: Amarjeet Singh Gianni T: 0091 98390 35458 E: as_gianni@yahoo.co.in

AW 2020

Share your Sedna #sednacarpet

www.sedna-carpet.co.uk

A UK brand since 1964

Published by Interiors Media Limited Minerva House, Kinnings Row, Bordyke, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1NP E: enquiries@interiorsmonthly.co.uk Registered in England no. 6397722 Print: Knockout Print Design by Truprint Media © Interiors Media Limited ISSN 1756-2236

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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NEWS

DFS sees sales leap DFS has seen sales leap since its stores re-opened.

The group has seen sales jump by 69% compared with 2019, as shoppers placed orders they would have made in late March, April or May. It has also seen a 77% increase in online sales from the beginning of lockdown to 12 July. Orders have remained strong since stores re-opened. In the previous financial year DFS sold £160m of upholstery online alone.

For the year to 28 June it warned that store closures and a lack of deliveries during the pandemic would see sales drop by £271m to £725m. This would lead to an underlying loss of £56m-£58m.

The group also warned that it will spend more than £1m on cutting jobs at its Dwell and Sofa Workshop brands. It says it continues to see the opportunity to expand Sofology to around 70 branches. ‘We have agreed a 12-month deferral of the opening dates of five previously secured new

locations, in order to allow us to take advantage of attractive units that may be vacated by distressed retailers on otherwise fully occupied retail parks. We are currently in advanced discussions on a number of these ,’ it says.

It told shareholders that it had been able to reduce its monthly cash operating costs in April and May to below £14m per month (£20m when including rental payments deferred to later periods), helped by the business rates holiday and the furlough scheme.

‘Our strong online platforms have served customers well throughout the lockdown and we have seen consistently high order intake, which I'm pleased to see has continued as showrooms re-opened.

There is no doubt that consumer behaviours are changing fast and as such we are accelerating our omnichannel strategy through increased investment in technology across the customer experience,’ says Tim Stacey, DFS Group chief executive.

At Home stores bear brunt of JL closures Half of John Lewis’s store closures will be At Home stores.

The chain plans to close four At Home stores, two department stores and travel outlets at Heathrow and St Pancras.

The Croydon, Swindon, Tamworth and Newbury At Home stores – which opened between August 2010 and April 2012 – will close, along with the Birmingham Bullring department store, which only opened in September 2015,

and the Watford department store.

About 1,300 staff could lose their jobs although the group said it would try to find them new roles at Waitrose and johnlewis.com.

‘Closures are necessary to help us secure the sustainability of the partnership and continue to meet the needs of our customers however and wherever they want to shop,’ says Sharon White, John Lewis Partnership chairman.

New dates and home for TFS The Flooring Show is to reschedule to late February, with the normal September exhibition also due to take place next year.

The show will take place from 28 February – 2 March 2021 at Yorkshire Event Centre in Harrogate.

‘We have been in discussions with our exhibitors and visitors to find a new date for The Flooring Show that will work for the whole industry, says Alex Butler, Ocean Media event director.

‘After listening to key stakeholders, it’s clear that moving to the early part of 2021 is the preferred option for the sector to meet and do business.

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

‘As well as sourcing the latest products, we know that networking and making valuable new connections is a hugely important part of The Flooring Show.

There is no substitute for those face-toface interactions, and they will be much easier to facilitate next year.’

The regular autumn edition of The Flooring Show will still take place on 19–21 September 2021.

‘It’s a very positive outcome for the flooring industry to move the show to early 2021,’ says Gavin Pugh, Associated Weavers md. ‘We’re looking forward to exhibiting at both editions of The Flooring Show next year.’

Wider aisles and face masks but Domotex will go ahead Flooring exhibition Domotex has sold about two-thirds of the show, and visitors face wearing face masks.

The 15-18 January 2021 event has sold about 60,000 sqm of space: about two-thirds of the show.

‘Fortunately, we have a large, highly modern exhibition centre with numerous exits and entrances. We can therefore position our exhibitors with enough space between them, making it possible to widen the aisles.

‘The exhibitors themselves need to ensure that their stands comply with the stricter hygiene standards – similar to the rules that everyone is becoming familiar with for retail shops and cafes.

This includes the maintenance of minimum distances and, where necessary, the wearing of mouth and nose protection.

‘Exhibitors will also need to record the visitors to their stands, so that these people can be contacted subsequently as necessary, in the event of an outbreak of the virus,’ says Sonia Wedell-Castellano, Domotex global director.

NEWS

This year’s rescheduled Proposte fabric exhibition has been cancelled.

‘We have been working until the very last minute in the hope to be able to save the September dates and organise the event while guaranteeing the safety of all the participants.

The uncertainty of travel conditions, especially at the international level, as well as the rapidly changing world scenario do not enable us to confirm the September dates, as up to 75% of our visitors come from foreign countries,’ says Piercarlo Viganò, Proposte president.

‘It was not an easy decision, also considering the international relevance of Proposte for the entire sector. We are already working on the 2021 edition and developing an online transition programme that will take us to the next edition. This will be a concrete opportunity to relaunch the world of furnishing fabrics and curtains, with Proposte a container of outstanding news for the entire sector,’ he says.

One in seven jobs to go at Harrods Harrods is to make almost one in seven of its staff redundant because of coronavirus.

Michael Ward, Harrods chief executive, told staff that 680 jobs out of its 4,800-strong workforce – around 14% – will be lost.

‘With a heavy heart, today I need to confirm that due to the ongoing impacts of this pandemic, we as a business will need to make reductions to our workforce,’ he told staff.

‘The social-distancing requirements necessary to protect employees and customers are having a huge impact on our ability to trade, while the devastation in international travel has meant we have lost key customers coming to our store.’

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

Administration for Harveys as Bensons sold in pre-pack deal Furniture chain Harveys has fallen into administration while sister chain Bensons for Beds has been sold in a pre-pack administration.

Previous owner Alteri Investments has bought Bensons and its manufacturing operations, although some store closures are expected.

Harveys has not been included in the deal, with PWC appointed administrator.

Alteri bought the duo and manufacturing brands from Steinhoff International in November. At the time of the sale from Steinhoff, Harveys was loss-making while Bensons was profitable.

Since the pre-pack deal Bensons for Beds Chris Howell has been appointed as chairman. Howell is a former chairman of Benelux diy group Maxeda which operates the Praxis, Brico and Brico Plan-It chains.

Laminate and carpet top shoppers’ online searches

PHOTO: LIFESTYLE FLOORING

No Proposte in 2020

Laminate flooring and carpet are the two flooring products most searched for online by shoppers.

The products received 135,000 and 110,000 monthly searches in the year to May 2020, according to new research by search engine marketing company Salience.

Vinyl flooring was third with 90,500 searches, followed by tile for bathroom and wood flooring with 74,000.

The remainer of the top ten were: floortiles (60,500); tile for kitchen (49,500); flooring (49,500); parquet flooring (33,100) and lino flooring (27,100).

The research also found that the search term ‘carpet shops near me’ received 18,100 monthly searches, while ‘carpet shops’ received 12,100.

Brintons plans to end Kidderminster dyeing Brintons Carpets has proposed plans to stop dyeing yarn at its site in Kidderminster, with the loss of 25 jobs.

Brintons, which has been in the Midlands town since 1783, has entered into a consultation period with production and engineering employees. Dyeing would be moved overseas.

‘The global coronavirus pandemic has had a significant impact on hospitality demand and we have to face the reality that as a

result we need to consolidate our manufacturing operations,’ says Rob Greenfield, Brintons group manufacturing and logistics director.

He says the move would ensure Brintons continues to safeguard the company’s longer-term interests.

‘Kidderminster will continue to operate warehousing and distribution of residential carpet to our retail partners and also retains the group’s head office.’

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14/07/2020 14/07/2020 12:32:58 12:32:58

NEWS

Emma revamps product mix and cuts prices after sales jump Mattress in a box retailer Emma has significantly cut the price of its Original mattress and revamped its product offer after more than doubling its UK sales in the first half of the year.

Sales in the UK jumped to €44.3m, while total sales jumped 120%. Turnover was not disclosed.

The Frankfurt-based company has cut the price of its middle-tier Original mattress by up to 30%: single mattresses have been cut in price by 30%; doubles by 23%; king size by 17% and super-king sizes by 13%.

‘The price reduction is enabled by economies of scale, process optimisations and more efficient material procurement. By achieving significant process innovations, we are able to give our customers the best sleep experience

at a great price. Emma is the most searched-for mattress in the UK, outperforming its domestic competitors. Our goal is to maintain our dynamic growth while ensuring that all workflows and capacities are extended accordingly,’ says Santosh Marrivagu, Emma country head UK and Ireland.

A number of under-performing accessories, such as sheets, have been removed while the entry-level Emma Essential is no longer sold online.

‘In countries where Emma enjoys a brand awareness of more than 30% as is the case in the UK, we observe that our brand drives consumer traffic to stores, helps improve conversion in-store as well as online in the web shops of our partners and contributes to an increasing average basket,’ says Dennis Schmoltzi, Emma co-ceo.

Oak Furnitureland looks to cut stores The new owner of Oak Furnitureland is looking to close 27 of its 105 stores.

When investment firm Davidson Kempner Capital Management bought the retailer in a pre-pack administration in June it said it would undertake a review of the business.

‘The current proposal to close some showrooms forms part of a companywide review that we are undertaking as a business,’ says Alex Fisher, Oak Furnitureland chief executive.

‘We are committed to driving forward a plan for our future growth, and although this has been a difficult decision, it is the right one for the business in these uniquely challenging times.

‘We are confident that the decision will ensure we remain a competitive and dynamic choice for our customers.

Headlam opens £26m centre One in four stores are under threat

‘I would like to say thank you to all of my colleagues in every department who have been endlessly committed and patient during this process.

‘Those employees affected have been informed and will be fully supported by our HR teams.’

The stores employ 163 staff.

Next generation Fifth-generation bedmaker Harrison Spinks has reshuffled its management, with Simon Spinks (pictured) succeeding his father Peter as group chairman. Peter becomes a non-executive director. The 180-year-old business has promoted Nick Booth from marketing director to md.

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

Headlam’s £26m distribution centre in Ipswich is now operational. The 190,000sqft building (above) rehomes the Faithfulls and Garrods businesses from nearby Hadleigh. The centre has eaves height of almost 56ft; 10.6million cft of capacity; 9,000 pallet locations; two cutting tables capable of 100 cuts per hour and a sortation unit with capacity for 2,500 cut length pieces at any time.

MIFF to go online The Malaysian International Furniture Fair is to launch an online version of the show later this month.

‘MIFF Furniverse is set to be an immersive online experience with realtime trading opportunities for buyers and exhibitors,’ says Karen Goi, MIFF general manager.

Three live events will be organised, each geo-targeted. The European market will take place from 6am-12pm London time from 26-28 August. Visitors will be able to visit virtual stands, download brochures, view products and interact via video calls.

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NEW PRODUCTS

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1 Nicknamed ‘Lips’, Gufram’s Bocca sofa was originally a limited edition in red and has been the protagonist of exhibitions in some of the world’s foremost museums.

To mark the 50th anniversary of its launch, Gufram has introduced a Bocca Unlimited edition in 25 colours.

Visit: www.gufram.it 2 Louis de Poortere is the maker and UK distributor of rugs from Swiss textile and fabric house Christian Fischbacher. The Prêt-à-Porter collection of modern rugs draws upon references such as Portuguese azulejo tiles, riverbeds (Linares, shown), the desert sky at night and macro studies of flowers. The collection is made up of six

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

designs, each in an exclusive brochure.

Visit: www.louisdepoortere.com 3 Fritz Hansen and designer Jaime Hayon invite lovers of Danish design to experience a new sofa concept: the modular Lune.

Forget all your conventional ideas of modular sofas: Lune is different. Born out of Hayon’s Ro and Fri chair concepts, Lune is based on the same curvy design philosophy, making it quite distinct from other modular sofas.

Visit: www.fritzhansen.com 4 With a tonal pinstripe design in a palette of rich functional colours, Headliner is the latest carpet tile from the LCT First

collection by Balta Carpet Tiles. Designed for landlords and building operators looking for a low-cost solution for light-use public and private areas, Headliner’s 1/10th gauge loop-pile construction combines a great feel under foot with premium looks.

Tel: 00 32 5662 2211 5 Thanks to a lifetime StainFree promise, Abingdon Flooring’s Rustique collection has long been a favourite with home owners wanting a natural-look carpet that is easy to maintain. The addition of Soft Fleece Bac increases its appeal, improving underfoot comfort and making cut lengths more flexible and easier to install.

Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk 

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NEW PRODUCTS

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6 Inspired by the undulating waves of the sea, the sweeping seat is the most distinctive feature of the Sveva chaise longue

by Visionnaire. It has a timeless elegance, presented here in a version with capitonné seat and canopy in white sangallo lace.

Visit: www.visionnaire-home.com 7 Sampling for Abingdon Flooring’s new StainFree range, The USA Collection, is now being rolled out to retailers across the UK as the British manufacturer returns to full service. With striking lecterns and wall unit updates, homes will soon be enjoying luxury carpeting inspired by famed cities of the country.

Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

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8 With carpet, wood, laminate and LVT covered, the Floorwise underlay collection is packed with great value products that are loved by installers across the country. Catalogued in Underlay: the Ultimate Guide, available from your Floorwise distributor or for download, the collection presents an option for all applications and price points.

Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk 9 The Academy for Excellence in Flooring is set to welcome trainees with refurbished training bays equipped with new challenges and obstacles, under a series of new measures designed to protect during the pandemic. Courses are now limited to four candidates and demand is expected to be high, so flooring professionals are being encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment.

Visit: www.quick-step-academy.co.uk 10 Radar’s Lafayette ceiling light is made from solid brass panels composed of multiple thin strips of brass, which the end user can shape as desired. The spokes can be opened for a more eccentric appearance or kept flat for a more minimalist look. It is available in 40cm (16in) and 60cm (24in) diameters and as a wall light.

Visit: www.radar-interior.com

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

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Sedna_DPS_Interiors Sedna_DPS_Interiors Monthly 202007.indd Monthly 202007.indd 1 1

Share Share youryour Sedna Sedna #sednacarpet #sednacarpet www.sedna-carpet.co.uk www.sedna-carpet.co.uk

A UKAbrand UK brand sincesince 1964 1964

14/07/2020 14/07/2020 12:41:12 12:41:12

SERVICE

Richard Renouf

Try before you buy Customers are expected to take due care when considering a purchase Mrs H called me this morning. She bought a pair of two-seater sofas in leather that were delivered just before lockdown. They were from a well-known brand and she’d loved them in the shop, but after half an hour they had become uncomfortable to sit in. The cushions were flattening and she could feel the back rails through them.

Her post-lockdown call to the retailer had been dealt with promptly and an independent service technician had called to check the sofas. ‘Perfectly normal’ he said in his report.

A second technician had been sent when Mrs H complained again. To her dismay, the conclusion was the same.

‘Can you help me?’ Mrs H asked.

‘Yes, of course,’ I replied, ‘but that

doesn’t mean I will find a fault with your furniture. If there is one, I can identify it, but it may be that the technicians are both right and you’ve simply made the wrong choice. If this is the case I may be able to help you understand that to save you a lot of wasted effort.’

Mrs H described the problem to me in more detail. The deterioration had happened quickly, she said, and the cushions now looked creased and baggy.

She hadn’t been able to contact the retailer during lockdown so it had got worse before she could complain. The technicians had checked all the fillings before reaching their verdicts.

‘Have you been back to the shop to try out the display model again?’ I asked.

‘No,’ she said after a pause. ‘They’re

open again now but the person dealing with me has been very unfriendly so I didn’t want to go in.’

I explained her options: to spend out on a third report, which would require me to visit the retailer as well as her home, or to make the comparison with the display suite herself – and save my fee if she discovers the display suite is exactly like hers when sat in for longer than the few minutes taken to make the original purchase.

She opted for the latter and promised to call me back to let me know the outcome and whether she needed further help from me.

If past experience is anything to go by, I won’t hear from her again – either because she’ll take my advice and realise the truth, or because she’ll try and find someone else willing to take her money without asking questions.

Consumer law has changed a lot over the last two decades, but one thing remains the same: a customer is expected to take due care when considering a purchase, and it’s only if there is a fault or the product has been misrepresented in some way that there are valid grounds for a complaint.

If the product is not seen – for example, when purchased over the Internet – then the customer has the right to a cooling-off period during which they can reject the goods without having to give a valid reason. But if they have been given a reasonable opportunity by a retailer to try what they are buying and then receive the exact same item, any dissatisfaction because they’ve simply made the wrong choice is not the retailer’s liability.

Visit: www.richard-renouf.com Richard Renouf is an independent furnishings consultant

Mrs H could have been advised to test out the sofa for longer before buying

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

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EXPERIENCES

In it together Relaunch plus five weeks THE RETAILER Fludes Carpets I looked back on the last two pieces I wrote to see what had changed, and am now looking ahead to activities for the next three months: the problem is, while a lot of things have changed, many are the same.

The Government is still working to help us out with flexible furlough arrangements and now the job retention bonus. If you think about it, it means they are desperately trying to avoid redundancies and reward companies who stick by their staff. It also means we have further reason to keep skilled and experienced people in the business – something that most of us want and need.

In retail, there are large numbers of store closures across all sectors. High street names and even John Lewis are finding things tough and shedding jobs and stores. It may be that this is the time for independent retail to step up and take market share from larger retailers. Smaller businesses can be flexible in the way they do business and probably have a more manageable cost base.

Although we as a business do not sell over the Internet, it is clearly playing a significant role in directing customers to our shops and to specific products we sell.

This may be part of the new norm, in that customers contact us by email and come

Procedures are explained to shoppers

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

into our stores fully prepared to buy.

When I speak with suppliers, their first question is ‘How’s business?’ and the second: ‘Are all of your staff now back from furlough?’

Well, five weeks of trading have been consistently pretty good, and sales better than the corresponding period last year. This is with a reduced staff who have worked hard and gone the extra mile on a daily basis.

We have not brought any further staff back from furlough. The concerns are that there could be a further peak in the virus, resulting in a further local or national lockdown. Our thoughts are that we should match the staff with the level of business, but we review the situation every week.

There is the upcoming issue of mandatory face masks in shops and how to avoid alienating customers who do not want to wear one. We have signs to remind people and will take a soft approach if they are not wearing a mask: we will offer them one and avoid confrontation at all costs.

The biggest practical problem now is availability of product. A lot of suppliers are out of stock in many of their lines. This is due to a number of issues: higher retail sales across the board; the time taken to get production ramped up; lower stock levels

Staff will offer PPE

going into the closedown, and difficulty in sourcing raw materials. This will be made worse by the August shutdown in Europe.

Many suppliers still have a significant number of staff furloughed including sales reps – having them on hand to discuss shortages and alternatives would be helpful.

A combination of delays in supply and full fitting diaries will mean that carpet retailers will have the unusual situation of trying to persuade customers that four to six weeks’ wait is the new norm. Customers have been patient and are generally prompt in making a decision. I hope they understand our difficulties with getting product fitted quickly and bear with us until we can.

So the big questions are: • Will customers be happy to wear face masks in stores or will they be put off?

• Will the supply issues get resolved soon?

• Are the levels of sales going to continue and then increase into the autumn?

• Will there be a second spike in COVID-19?

• Will large retail brands find things hard and reduce their estate – and by doing so open the door for independent retailers to grow and get stronger?

Only time will tell.

Andy Laird, Fludes Carpets md

EXPERIENCES

Social distancing makes showvan activity more complex

THE SALES AGENT Malcolm Nix Furniture Associates As we work our way through the slow unlocking of the retail sector, Gradi Living has been surprised and delighted with the early return to meaningful sales volumes.

As Italy was unlocking ahead of the UK it meant that we were able to get those orders taken just prior to lockdown on the road and delivered just as UK retailers were returning to business.

As retail started to re-open we received news of some business failures of wellestablished and respected furniture retailers and our thoughts are obviously with those affected. The news that Cousins had acquired the Alan Ward sites in Shrewsbury and Newcastle under Lyme was, however, extremely encouraging and we wish them well with the acquisition and are delighted to be part of its expansion.

Whilst it has been an extremely positive

start, we are aware that business will be potentially fragile as the ‘new normal’ is established, but we have decided to plan an extensive showvan programme for September and October to be able to spend time with our stockists and potential new customers.

We will present a selection of our bestselling models as well as launching our new power recliner ranges. This activity will be more complex than normal, with the need to ensure we offer customers a safe environment and that all reasonable precautions are taken.

Moving forward, we believe that there will be many difficulties to face, with the potential of localised lockdowns and financial pressures on retailers and suppliers alike. We all need to work together to ensure as many businesses as possible make it

through these difficult trading conditions.

Whilst it is good to be back in touch with our customers it is perfectly understandable that some are more reticent than others to see agents and their sales contacts, but gradually we will return to something nearing normality.

During this period I am still working from home, but our agents are increasingly seeing more and more customers, which can only be positive.

Meanwhile, the car is serviced, cleaned, and fitted with a very pleasant fuchsia air freshener and new Thermos coffee mug, so I’m all ready to go.

We are available to customers old, existing and new, and we wish everybody well and good luck in the trading period ahead.

Malcom Nix, Malcolm Nix Furniture Associates owner

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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RETAIL

Expect the unexpected

Habitat has identified eight design trends for AW 2020. Visit: www.habitat.co.uk ‘A mix of contemporary cool design meets expert craft in our AW 2020 collection, a curation of over 200 individually designed products that each bring their own expression to the home. Using a variety of 1

unexpected. Cool and calm sits alongside bright and brave. Neatly tailored works next to organically hand crafted. Modern technology contrasts traditional technique,’ says Kate Butler, Habitat head of design.

starting inspirations, our in-house design studio has mixed a range of ideas, materials and artworks to curate a collection sourced from around the globe that lets you stumble across something

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THE CURVE ‘Rounded forms play a central part in this season’s design orientation, with smooth edges and silhouettes contrasting angular architecture to contribute towards a more relaxed interior aesthetic. Ovals, scallops, circles and lozenge

shapes recur throughout the collection, from the statement Layla sofa with its chubby contours and the Celia dining collection to the dramatic orange Sol bedframe inspired by the rising sun.’

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1 Sunset reversible rug £95; 2 Spot pom-pom cushion £45; 3 Layla two-seater sofa £1,300; 4 Spot hand-woven rug £395; 5 Deej glass ceiling light £100; 6 Katz metal table lamp £90; 7 Nox walnut side and coffee table £60-£80

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COLOURFUL BERBER ‘Moroccan-inspired Berber rugs have been a big trend over the last season for us, and for AW 2020 we’ve moved this on by being bolder and punchier with pattern and palette. We’ve designed a new collection of Berber cushions and rugs with a wild mix of strata lines and saturated colours – all asking to be touched as well as adding warmth and texture to a space. Our Mini Geo rug also uses Berber to translate a precise,

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geometric pattern which loses is rigidity due to the long pile length and creates a beautiful, obviously hand-crafted piece.’

1 Mini geo handwoven rug £195; 2 Savannah 50cm x 50cm cushion £65; 3 Savannah handwoven rug £250; 4 Kiki 50cm x 50cm cushion £65; 5 Liza 160cm x 230cm hand-knotted rug £450; 6 Liza circular cushion £50.

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NATURAL MATERIALS ‘Rattan continues to be our hero in the design studio as we love using its natural flexibility to create unusual pieces for the home. We have made it a central material of our AW 2020 collection. Feeding into the current interest around biophilic design, introducing natural

materials such as rattan, bamboo and natural jute helps create a more relaxed, calming space. As a result, we’ve seen sales of natural materials increase over the last few seasons and have expanded our designs to include more of this brilliant material.’

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STATEMENT SEATING ‘From colour to shape, Habitat customers are increasingly becoming braver when it comes to investing in statement upholstery and this season we’ve introduced our most diverse range of shapes in sofas and armchairs.

Cooper is a cool, mid-century metal-framed design, great for small spaces as it allows light to flow freely through a space – an idea also echoed by the slim-framed Freya armchair available with black or brass legs.

‘Curves make an appearance again on the duvet-like Kota armchair and Layla sofa

1 Cahn natural rope shade £65; 2 Thaker bamboo shade £75; 3 Guvi rattan bar table £80; 4 Nadia rattan 64cm mirror £75; 5 Asri rattan headboard from £175; 6 Merak painted rattan headboard from £175; 7 Hazel rattan coffee table £175.

(see opposite) with its undulating curves. This is also the first time we have introduced a rocking chair design into the Habitat collection: Leif is a sleek design in walnut and charcoal fabric making it a statement piece to be looked at as well as enjoyed.’

1 Julien three-seater sofa in green cord £795; 2 Celine two-seater sofa in blue with black metal legs £495; 3 Kota armchair £250; 4 Freya armchair in teal £195; 5 Cooper two-seater sofa £695; 6 Leif walnut rocking chair £495. 

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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MONOCHROME ‘A distinct trend that emerged this season is a graphic monochrome story. Originating from a tribal-inspired pattern developed for the Wilma cushion, we liked the contemporary feel and started to translate this across different product areas. The pattern can be easily layered with colour or used on its own for a minimalist look. We’ve used it in

varying ways here from precise geometrics to dots and splatters,’ says Martha Coates, Habitat pattern designer.

1 Kirby chair £65; 2 Jimi pendant light £90; 3 Levine wire table lamp £70; 4 Wilma cushion £35; 5 Malika vase £20; 6 Gingko metal coffee table £195.

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FOLK ‘Bringing together geometric shapes, handdrawn symbols and animal motifs, this pattern story draws on a whole range of global folk references and translates them with modern colour and scale, making them feel current for the modern home.

‘The Andes rug and cushion take a traditional South American motif and update this with flashes of pink. The hand-knotted Numi rug is

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an extension of our Berber story, a graphic monochrome design that incorporates elements such as a horse, a jug and a tree. I like how the pattern looks almost like random marks, but close inspection can reveal different objects at different angles.

‘The same goes for our Lora rug, a flatweave that again incorporates modern pink and geometrics with a bird standing tall among

them – a pattern we liked so much we have also translated it onto our ceramic Lora vase,’ says Coates.

1 Andes 40cm x 60cm cushion £45; 2 Numi handknotted 160cm x 230cm rug £395; 3 Lora 140cm x 200cm flatweave rug £180; 4 Andes 160cm x 230cm flatweave rug £295; 5 Lora ceramic vase £35; 6 Geo 30cm x 50cm cushion £40.

3 Nic medium petrol blue glass desk £260;

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HOME WORKING ‘With more of us than ever setting up office at home, we’ve introduced a range of new desks that will fit seamlessly into living rooms and bedrooms without looking too, well, desk-like. For AW 2020 we have created new styles at different price points, from the mid-century Vince to the

1 Orwell box shelving £450; 2 Jessie leaning oak desk £150; 3 Etty desk lamp £35; 4 Pickford walnut desk £395; 5 Milo black drawer unit £95; 6 Vince oak desk £495.

Jessie leaning wall desk with shelving, ideal for small spaces – and our new Nic metal trestle desk in petrol blue. In storage too, Matthew Long’s new Orwell “box” shelving is designed to make a feature of books and belongings with its interesting block construction,’ says Butler.

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SMALL SPACES ‘Small spaces are an area that we are increasingly designing for as we see demand grow for multi-use and small-footprint designs across different product areas for the home. We’ve achieved a lot of success with slim-frame designs that allow light to flow through a room, giving the appearance of more space. Wall lights with visible cables that do not require electrical installation

have also been a key trend this year, and we’ve expanded our range of designs around this, making the cable a central design element rather than trying to conceal it.

‘We’ve also introduced a new range of statement divan headboards made from lightweight rattan which easily slide behind existing beds and will transform a bedroom instantly. Our new Derwent storage bed also

incorporates covered shelving as part of its headboard, so along with its under-bed storage compartments, this is a great multifunctional storage piece,’ says Butler.

1 Jessica leaning desk; 2 Derwent bed from £995; 3 Wells wall light £25 (excluding bulb); 4 Fairfield chair £280; 5 Tyler rectangular dining table £195; 6 Tyler dining bench £120.

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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LVT

Real life

Jasmine’s Scandi-style living room, with Karndean LooseLay Ashland

Karndean Designflooring reveals its new home designer inspiration Karndean Designflooring has launched a new section on its website where it will share inspirational stories from home designers.

Working with consumers who have given their homes a fresh new look with Karndean flooring, karndean.com/ homeinspiration will offer plenty of real-life case studies to inform and delight, helping customers transform their own space into their dream home.

Featuring beautiful rooms in styles ranging from soothing neutral tones to vibrant colours and bold features with intricate floor-laying patterns, Karndean’s first guest designers – Cara, Anna, Hannah and Jasmine – share their decoration journeys and the end results.

‘When it comes to finding style ideas for our own homes, there’s no better influence than other people’s homes,’ says Stella Coyle, Karndean Designflooring national retail sales manager. ‘We all love

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seeing how home designers have chosen to style their interiors, learning where they found inspiration and how their designs came together. Our new inspiration area is designed to provide aspirational and achievable design inspiration for homeowners.

‘Cara has created a relaxing yet practical family space with a muted palette of greys and blues, warmed with highlights in pastel pink. The honey tones of Pale Limed Oak flooring from our Knight Tile collection, laid in a herringbone pattern, add interest and richness to the design as well as providing a hard-wearing surface that effortlessly copes with busy family life.

‘Jasmine has chosen a cool, chalky washed oak design flooring to complement the neutral colour palette of her sitting room and has laid the full-sized planks in a bold herringbone pattern. She has paired the light airy

tones of the Ashland floor with comfy seating, bold black accents and geometric elements.’

Visit: www.karndean.com

Cara’s modern classic living room, with Knight Tile Pale Limed Oak

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

Our online package is just ÂŁ175.

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

If you have both online and quarter page recruitment advert in our magazine, the cost will only be ÂŁ250!

Costs for larger recruitment adverts are available upon request.

Please contact Jarrod on E: jbird@interiorsmonthly.co.uk T: 01565 631 397

WOOL Crimping increases the bulk of the wool

Farmers follow the Five Freedoms rules

More volume

Joma Wool is specially treated for extra bulk Wool is known as one of the world’s healthiest and most comfortable bedding materials. Numerous studies have shown that wool’s natural support characteristics, insulating properties and ability to breathe encourage more peaceful and restorative sleep.

Joma Wool, developed by John Marshall and Company, is carefully shorn from crossbred sheep that roam freely amongst New Zealand’s expansive farmlands. New Zealand sheep are renowned for having the whitest, strongest and cleanest wool due to a combination of climate, care and expert farming practices.

Wool fibre has a natural curl which gives it bounce, body and soft support characteristics ideal for use in mattresses and bedding. Joma Wool is further enhanced through a special crimping process, which John Marshall and Company has perfected through years of research and continues to improve through ongoing innovation.

Crimping provides a 40-50% increase in bulk in Joma Wool, with the benefit of increased wear life and added volume without weight. The process increases the natural frequency of the bends or waves along the length of the wool fibres, which are then permanently heat set to predetermined limits.

Joma Wool’s resilience is due to the bonds between the core fibrils. Fibrils are shaped rather like springs of a

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mattress and are linked together by natural chemical bonds. This bonding prevents the spirals rotating when pulled or pushed, providing Joma Wool with excellent elastic and torsional rigidity, which resists packing down under pressure.

The natural keratin in wool means it can absorb up to 30% of its own weight in water without feeling wet. This is particularly effective with regard to water vapour. As humidity levels rise, wool absorbs the moisture, keeping the humidity at the surface relatively low.

The absorbed moisture gets slowly diffused into the atmosphere, ensuring that a damp, clammy feeling will never be experienced with wool.

Wool has the unique ability to repel liquid water yet absorb water vapour.

This occurs because the outer layer of wool has a hydrophonic epicuticle which causes water to bead up and run off it, while water vapour diffuses into the fibre through microscopic pores in the surface. This natural liquid repellence is an ideal attribute for mattresses and bedding.

Years of tests have demonstrated wool to be among the safest of bedding materials for flame resistance. The high keratin and moisture content make it naturally resistant to burning. It is difficult to set wool alight – it tends to extinguish itself. Joma Wool achieves superior flame resistance without the

need for harmful chemicals.

All Joma Wool is thoroughly cleaned and is non-allergenic, making it suitable for customers who are allergic to feather and down or who suffer a reaction with synthetic bedding products. Joma Wool is also available treated with UltraFresh, an antimicrobial, antifungal treatment for added protection.

The wool comes from farmers who abide by strict rules and regulations surrounding animal welfare. The company works with farmers who promote healthy ecosystems amongst their grazing pastures, and follow the Five Freedoms: freedom from hunger and thirst; freedom from discomfort; freedom from pain, injury or disease; freedom to express normal behaviour, and freedom from fear and distress.

The company has partnered with Oritain to verify scientifically the origin of its products, to ensure customers’ peace of mind. Using its scientific traceability method, Oritan has scientifically analysed samples of Joma Wool products and created an origin isotope fingerprint of the wool.

This means that Joma Wool can call upon Oritain to test any of its products in the supply chain and match it to this fingerprint to ensure its integrity.

Joma Wool is distributed in the UK

by KoFibres.

Visit: www.joma.nz www.kofibres.com

Pure, crimped New Zealand wool of scientifically verified origin.

At Joma Wool® we take traceability very seriously. That’s why we’ve partnered with independent traceability auditors, Oritain. Using innovative testing technology, Oritain can test any Joma Wool® product at any point in the supply chain to verify its true New Zealand origin. In a world that values product integrity, Joma Wool® lets manufacturers, retailers and customers rest assured.

Learn more at www.joma.nz

UPHOLSTERY

Changing times

Above left: Clara Above: Lily Compact

Modus is journeying towards circular economy products in its 20th year Draft is a refined collection of chairs, sofas and tables from design studio PearsonLloyd. With a nod to mid-century modern design, Draft is defined by smooth lines and careful attention to detail. With slender arms and a sleek, one-piece seat, Draft has a crisp, lean and refined aesthetic. Available as a chair, two-seater and three-seater sofa, loose back cushions soften its architectural structure. Blanket stitching in a matching or contrasting thread along the top edge of the seat cushions adds to the sofa’s hand-finished appeal.

Terri Pecora’s new collection, Clara – her first for the company – is a forwardlooking range of sofas and chairs.

Removable covers are a good start but Panda

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cushions that can be entirely removed and replaced is the next step in Modus’ journey towards circular economy products. Clara has the option for multiple lives: as cushions become worn out they can be purchased separately and replaced as required and, at end of life, the whole product can be very easily stripped for remanufacture.

A tubular steel frame that holds four loose cushions gives Clara countless possibilities for repair in case of damage – a cushion cover can easily be replaced.

The frame is available in a choice of five colours to match the cushion piping or complement the fabric.

Monica Förster’s Panda is a collection of sofas, chairs and chaises with

integrated side tables, whose contours recall the seductive glamour of Hollywood’s golden era. Panda is characterised by organic curves and a compact shape. A perfectly formed soft sofa, making it ideal for space-conscious schemes, it is available as an armchair, two-seater and three-seater sofa, with accompanying chaise and low table.

With its unstructured, removable cover and more compact shape, Michael Sodeau’s Lily Compact is a chair with a softer, more relaxed feel than its predecessor, Lily. Removable covers, which can be purchased separately, extend life in use and enable Lily Compact to be kept bang up to date.

Visit: www.modusfurniture.co.uk Draft

Bancroft

Sweetpea & Willow

AWARDS

You have made your choices and decided who the winners of the Interiors Monthly Awards 2020 are. The companies listed below, whether retailers, manufacturers or suppliers in the interiors industry, were chosen for their first-class performance. Over the following pages you can read more about many of the category winners. Congratulations to all of them.

Best Flooring Retailer (1-3 stores): Clarke’s Best Furniture Retailer (1-3 stores): Sweetpea & Willow Best Flooring Retailer (4+ stores): Martin Phillips Best Furniture Retailer (4+ stores): Sterling Furniture Group Best Online Retailer: DFS Best UK Furniture Manufacturer: Whitemeadow Best UK Flooring Manufacturer: Furlong Flooring Best Overseas Furniture Manufacturer: Wiemann Best Overseas Flooring Manufacturer: Balta Best Furniture Buying Group: AIS Best Flooring Buying Group: Metro Group Best Bed Manufacturer (Upmarket): Harrison Spinks Best Bed Manufacturer (Mid-market): Sleepeezee Best Bed Manufacturer (Value): Sweet Dreams Best Carpet Manufacturer: Cormar Carpet Company Best Bed Manufacturer (Adjustable): Adjustamatic Best Rug Supplier: Louis de Poortere Best Bedroom Manufacturer: Nolte Möbel Best Laminate Manufacturer: Egger Best Dining Room Manufacturer: Ercol Best Solid/Engineered Wood Manufacturer: Woodpecker Flooring Best Living Room Manufacturer: Rowico UK Best Underlay Manufacturer: Interfloor Best Fabric Upholstery Manufacturer (Luxury): Parker Knoll Best Fabric Upholstery Manufacturer: Westbridge Furniture Designs Best Vinyl Manufacturer: IVC Group Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer (Luxury): Ekornes Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer: La-Z-Boy UK Best LVT Manufacturer: Karndean Designflooring Best Recliner Manufacturer: himolla Best Accessory Supplier: Gallery Direct Best Flooring Accessory Supplier: Ball & Young

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Best Children’s Furniture Manufacturer: Steens Best Flatpack Furniture Supplier: Core Products Best Home Entertainment Supplier: Jual Best Fabric/Soft Furnishings Manufacturer: Morris & Co Best Mattress Protection Provider: Mattressgard Best Furniture Wholesaler: Julian Bowen Best Flooring Wholesaler: Floorwise Best Customer Service (Furniture): Julian Bowen Best Customer Service (Flooring): Penthouse Carpets Best Business Support (Furniture): Greenwood Retail Best Business Support (Flooring): SMG Best Marketing Support (Furniture): NBF Best Marketing Support (Flooring): Flooring One Best Software Supplier (Furniture): RetailSystem Best Software Supplier (Flooring): MasterPiece Systems Best Furniture Exhibition: January Furniture Show Best Flooring Exhibition: BGNFS Best Product Protection Provider (Furniture): Guardsman Best Warranty Provider: Castelan Group Best Flooring Website: Invictus Best Finance Provider: V12 Best Product Protection Provider (Flooring): Stroolmount Best Rigid Floor Manufacturer: COREtec Best Lighting Manufacturer: Danalight Best Blinds and Shutters Supplier: Rol-Lite

EDITOR’S CHOICE Furniture Brand 2020: Ercol Flooring Brand 2020: Invictus Sustainability (Furniture): Hypnos Beds Sustainability (Flooring): Texfelt – SpringBond underlay Innovation (Flooring): Cavalier Carpets – Select-A-Swatch POS Product of the Year (Flooring): Moduleo – LayRed

AWARDS

Sterling Furniture Group Best Furniture Retailer (4+ stores) Sweetpea & Willow Best Furniture Retailer (1-3 stores)

Sterling Furniture Group has 13 branches across Scotland: seven are branded as Sterling including its iconic Tillicoultry flagship store, alongside six non-Sterling branded branches. These include some of the best-known names in furniture retailing in the country, such as Forest Furnishings, Martin Frost and Buick.

After a store closure and the impact of the weather which reduced turnover in the year to the end of February 2019,

Martin Phillips Best Flooring Retailer (4+ stores)

Founded in 2006 by Matt and Jacquie Dunton, Sweetpea & Willow has an 8,000sqft showroom in west London. Its product range covers upholstery, beds, bedroom, living room, dining, lighting, accessories and children’s furniture. At the heart of the upholstery and beds offer is the Handmade in London collections, designed by the Duntons.

Aimed at the luxury end of the market, Sweetpea & Willow has won several awards including a House & Garden Sheerluxe Online Shopping Award and a CoolBrands Award.

DFS Best Online Retailer Online has become a fundamental part of DFS’s business model. Some 85% of customers begin their buying journey online and 90% visit a store.

In the year to March, online sales rose

Martin Phillips previously won this award in 2014. With seven branches, Martin Phillips is the largest flooring retailer in Northern Ireland. The company, still family owned, is well known for its Deal of the Month offers.

In June, Donald Mercer, who became md in 2006 following the death of founder Martin Phillips, died.

by 4.8% to £172m.

The latest addition to its website functionality allows shoppers to paste a URL or upload an image featuring a product and the website will search for similar designs. If the image is a roomset with several different products it will provide suggestions for each product.

Reworking its TV advertisements on Instagram has seen an increase in ad recall and brand consideration for the retailer. Online orders increased

the group reported ‘a good recovery in turnover levels and a related return to profitability.’

During that year it achieved a 95% customer satisfaction rating.

Recent times have seen an expansion of its product offer including flooring, homewares, interior design services and fitted bathrooms as it continues its strategy of providing ‘Everything to furnish and finish your home.’

Clarke’s Best Flooring Retailer (1-3 stores) Founded in Romford in 1968, Clarke’s is the largest independent flooring specialist in Essex. As well as a full range of flooring – its supplier list reads like a Who’s Who of the industry – the Clarke family has expanded its offer to include upholstery, dining, lighting and gifts, with more than 20 roomsets to showcase its products.

This year it is donating 1% of its sales to a local hospice and a children’s charity.

Clarke’s also offers a trade centre.

significantly in the lockdown period and have remained strong since stores reopened, up 77% year-on-year from the start of the lockdown in March until 12 July.

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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AWARDS

Whitemeadow Best UK Furniture Manufacturer

Below: Kora Bottom left: Hemmingway Bottom right: Sirus

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As the industry returns to a ‘new normal’, Whitemeadow is returning to some exciting new changes within the business.

Paul Wesson, its long-standing sales director, retired in March, paving the way for Daniel Oscroft, former head of sales, to step into the role. Oscroft has been with the company for more than six years and is keen to continue to progress the sales function of the business and maintain the good work that Wesson achieved in recent years.

Another new appointment is Jamie Bourn, as sales and brand development manager. He joins the team with years of sales and marketing experience and has been brought in to help the company increase sales and market share by identifying sales opportunities with existing customers and ensuring Whitemeadow creates a lasting positive impression among customers.

Whitemeadow has also taken advantage of the lockdown period to review, improve and update many of its internal processes, to improve on day-to-day efficiencies and develop new, best-in-class sales technologies for its customers to utilise, including an innovative new order tracking platform.

Among the changes Whitemeadow has implemented over the last few months is to overhaul its house swatch and co-ordinate fabric collections.

‘We know we have one of the widest

and most flexible ranges of fabric choices on the market, which has served our advantage in being able to offer our customers and theirs the range and breadth of choice to suit all tastes. We have however been listening to feedback from our customers regarding what is and what isn’t working. We’ve taken this on board, and are extremely excited for the launch of our new swatch collections this summer,’ says Oscroft.

‘Our sales and marketing teams have been undertaking store and online research over the last few months and have realised we have a good opportunity to update our swatches and make them more user-friendly. We’ve also analysed sales of fabrics over the past year and used the opportunity to discontinue less popular fabrics while also introducing new ones.’

In the absence of summer and autumn shows, Whitemeadow has also looked at new ways to engage with customers regarding new products. Over the course of the lockdown, the design team put their creativity to use and come back to work with a plethora of new designs that they can’t wait to get into development.

The sales and marketing teams are now looking into new photography, product videos and email campaigns to whet the appetite of customers that may be eager for change after months of shutdown.

Visit: www.whitemeadow.com

WHITEMEADOW

DRIVEN TO LEAD. PROUD TO IMPRESS. W W W.W H I T E M E A D O W. C O M | 016 2 3 5 5 5 6 6 0

AWARDS

Furlong Flooring Best UK Flooring Manufacturer

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‘Clearly we are delighted to be the recipient of this award for a fourth year in a row. At the end of a challenging period this is just the tonic we needed,’ says Mike Symonds, Furlong Flooring, Dartford md.

‘In last year’s piece, I commented on the passion for the business and our customers that is evident in everyone who works for Furlong Flooring, across the country and in every department.

As we have started to rebuild the business after the lockdown, this passion and dedication have been surpassed on a daily basis, with many colleagues picking up unfamiliar tasks, roles and long hours to make sure our customers can serve their customers. They have been truly incredible.

‘They say you find out a lot about people in difficult times and we have found out we have amazing customers, who have really worked with us over the last few months. Under challenging circumstances the mood has been positive, helpful and grateful.

‘On behalf of the whole UK team I would like to thank all of our customers for their understanding and patience.

Our UK operations are very close to normal and we are manufacturing and purchasing a record amount of product to ensure that our service is back to

its industry-leading status.’

Furlong Flooring still has a number of plans for the remainder of 2020 including new products and display solutions.

‘Carefree Ultra has just launched.

The huge success of Carefree Twist prompted the company to look at a developing a heavier carpet to complete its range of twist carpets. Using the same colourbank and a heavier 1,630g two-ply construction, Carefree Ultra’s quality will redefine this product class. The Combibac backing will make delamination and scuffed paintwork a thing of the past.

Carefree Ultra is perfect for the consumer, retailer and fitter,’ says Symonds.

Significant developments are also underway in vinyl, with an update to the range due imminently that will add new on-trend decors to the portfolio. Hard flooring will continue to be a focus and there are at least four products launching during the second half of the year.

‘There’s never been a better time to buy from family-owned UK businesses like Furlong Flooring. We continue to invest in product, stock and our infrastructure to ensure our team of over 200 people can provide our customers with the best of everything and maintain our winning record. Our thanks again to the readers of Interiors Monthly.’

Visit: www.furlongflooring.co.uk

Best UK Flooring Manufacturer

Furlong Flooring.

Helping your business thrive in the ‘new norm’.

We’ve got it all covered

First, a big thankyou to the readers of Interiors Monthly for their recognition in awarding Furlong Flooring the prestigious UK Flooring Manufacturer Award – for the fourth year in a row.

We offer a full collection of carpet, vinyl, LVT, laminate and wood flooring – all at a range of price points to suit.

Whatever building, room or customer, Furlong Flooring has the perfect range for you.

In addition to continued quality and product innovation, our hard-working teams will ensure your business continues to thrive in the ‘new norm’, making certain you get exactly what you need, exactly when you need it.

CARPET www.furlongflooring.co.uk

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Add to that all the help, advice and customer service you need, it’s easy to see why we’re a partner you can trust.

L AMINATE

Sales: Preston - 01772 696 787

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HARDWOOD

Dartford - 01322 628 707

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AWARDS

Wiemann Best Overseas Furniture Manufacturer

Far right: Monaco Below: Cambridge Below right: Glasgow

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Wiemann is celebrating topping the vote for Best Overseas Furniture Manufacturer in the Interiors Monthly Awards for the eighth time in a row.

‘We’re honoured and delighted,’ says Simon Hewitt, managing director of the German bedroom producer’s sole UK and Irish agent, Litmus Furniture. ‘This award is special to us because it is voted for by the retailers and I can’t thank all those who chose us enough. We are thrilled to know that so many of our customers have such strong confidence in our products and service.

‘Design, style, innovation and practicality are all factors that need to be taken into consideration when it comes to creating a popular bedroom furniture range. But what’s key for a successful business is excellent customer service and we believe that is what marks us out from the rest.’

Wiemann started 2020 on a roll, launching seven products, exciting innovations and two new carcase and door finishes, further consolidating its place as a market leader in total bedroom solutions. Following the lockdown, the company hit the ground running, resuming production at its German factory at near-capacity levels on its latest and updated stylish and modern collections, ranging from budget to top quality, VIP and semi-solid.

Reprising their popularity are the latest collections: VIP ranges Nizza, Glasgow

and Monaco, plus contemporary sliding robe Rialto, traditional Shaker-style robe Cambridge and, from the value collections, Jura and Korfu.

Wiemann products will be on show at the Irish Furniture and Homewares Show in Dublin on 19-22 September and at Long Point from 21-23 September.

Wiemann also offers a full delivery and assembly service to all stockists, product sales training and after-sales service via its team of regional sales agents. All this with stringent health and safety measures in place to protect customers and staff throughout all stages of manufacture, sales and delivery.

Visit: www.wiemannuk.co.uk

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AWARDS

Balta Best Overseas Flooring Manufacturer

Below: Eternity Amaryllis Bottom left: Eternity Lily Bottom right: Satino

40

Interiors Monthly August 2020

Scooping up Best Overseas Flooring Manufacturer for the 13th year in succession, Balta is ready to help you to make the most of the rush back to stores.

Although it only recently introduced new Leonis and StainSafe lines, an overhaul of its Satino polyamide collection and the launch of the stainresistant Eternity polyamide brand, Balta is showing no signs of slowing down.

The Belgian manufacturer is already busy putting the finishing touches to four introductions as it sets up to work with customers to cater for the spike in demand as we leave lockdown.

‘With furniture and flooring retailers reporting strong uplift in online sales during the last three months, it’s clear that there is a demand to serve. At Balta, we kept our development close to usual pace, knowing that there would be a point at which stores would reopen and welcome in customers once again,’ says Filip Poelman, Balta sales director.

‘We knew that pausing development and only starting again when stores began to announce re-opening schedules would have a knock-on effect.

By not delaying development and launches, we’re now more than ready to help re-opened stores capitalise on the expected early demand with products

sure to pique interest. Sampling, POS and stock are all in place so that even the most urgent of customer orders can be met with tempting carpet styles.’

For the final quarter, Balta is planning four new developments, each focused on delivering homeowners the latest styles and colours at price points to suit all budgets. Including new qualities in elegant palettes, as well as distinctive colour updates, these introductions will ensure that retailers are ready to take on the busy Autumn period.

Securing Overseas Manufacturer of the Year for the 13th year is testament to Balta’s unwavering focus on delivering its customers the best value carpets along with reliable service that ensures orders are fulfilled with speed and efficiency.

‘Of course, our UK sales desk has experience and knowledge of Balta’s carpet ranges, but also a unique appreciation of the challenges faced by our customers. Along with our highly experienced and motivated sales representatives and excellent stock levels that ensure the reliable and fast delivery of rolls and cut lengths, it’s this mix that puts our partners in a highly advantageous position,’ says Poelman.

Tel: 0032 5662 2211

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AWARDS

Cormar Carpet Company Best Carpet Manufacturer

42

Interiors Monthly August 2020

Cormar Carpet Company is delighted to be voted Best Carpet Manufacturer again by the readers of Interiors Monthly – for the eighth consecutive year.

A truly great British success story, Cormar Carpet Company has been manufacturing carpet from its mills in Lancashire for more than 60 years, offering a first-class delivery service to retailers, wholesalers and contractors throughout the UK and Ireland.

‘This year we’re especially pleased to be awarded Best Carpet Manufacturer.

We’ve had a long history in the trade, but we’ve never experienced anything quite like the last three months. In common with most businesses it’s been a real challenge, and although it may not be over yet, I’m delighted to say that we are experiencing strong demand and support from our customers as we start to come out of the other side,’ says David Cormack, Cormar Carpet Company marketing director.

The company is well known for introducing popular, good value carpet

ranges into the market and 2020 has been no exception. Its successful wool twist range Natural Berber Twist was re-launched at the start of the year with an improved look and colour palette.

This was followed by a re-coloration of its popular, stain-resistant Primo Plus quality.

All 18 plain shades in the range are also now available in the heavier Primo Ultra pile weight. Following on from this Spring/Summer launch, the company is gearing up for further launches later in the year.

One of the factors in its success is its on-time delivery. Within the carpet manufacturing sector the company owns the UK’s largest delivery fleet, making delivery times more certain and ensuring that carpets get to their customers as quickly and efficiently as possible.

The investment three years ago in its regional distribution centre in Hemel Hempstead has certainly helped this market-leading service. The 130,000sqft distribution centre has consolidated and strengthened its national distribution network across the south of England and now services more than 40% of its UK customer base.

Digital remains a strong differentiator for Cormar Carpet Company. Launched in 2012, the award-winning trade portal is now used by over 40% of its customers and offers retailers the opportunity to place orders and check stock easily day or night, 24/7, as well as being able to check their account and place cutting sample orders. Its consumer website continues to grow too: it’s the most searched-for carpet manufacturer in the UK and the number of consumers searching their nearest retailer stockist is increasing, helping to drive business to retail stores.

More than a million homes a year are furnished with a carpet from Cormar Carpet Company, adding weight to the many awards it receives from the trade.

In the past year it has also received a fivestar TrustPilot score from thousands of satisfied homeowners.

Visit: www.cormarcarpets.com

AWARDS

Sleepeezee Best Bed Manufacturer (Mid-market)

Below: Jessica Ennis-Hill is Sleepeezee’s brand ambassador

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

‘Sleepeezee is extremely proud to have won this year’s Interiors Monthly Best Bed Manufacturer (Mid-market) award.

‘Over the last 18 to 24 months we have invested more in marketing support for our retailers both in store and online, to provide an engaging customer experience. We have developed great partnerships with our retailers and winning this award further demonstrates the care and commitment we have for our partners in providing best-in-class levels of service, marketing support and innovative, value for money products,’ says Amy Curtis, Sleepeezee head of marketing.

‘With Jessica Ennis-Hill on board as our brand ambassador, we are able to educate consumers on the importance sleep has on our everyday lives. We’re

excited to continue our partnership with Jessica, providing both retailers and consumers with engaging content.

‘We recorded double-digit growth within the first quarter of this year compared to 2019. Despite the impact the coronavirus pandemic has had within the retail sector, we have made significant inroads, with a number of customers returning to growth within June and ecommerce performing particularly strongly.

‘The factory output is very close to pre-Covid levels, with plans to increase this in August due to demand. However, employee safety remains Sleepeezee’s number one priority, with strict rules and procedures in place that are to be maintained at all times.’

Visit: www.sleepeezee.com

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AWARDS

Sweet Dreams Best Bed Manufacturer (Value)

Below: Solomon Below right: Wentworth armchair and sofabed

46

Interiors Monthly August 2020

‘Sweet Dreams is the winner of the Best Bed Manufacturer (Value) award for 2020: we are delighted and would like to thank our customers for voting for us and for their support in general. Also a huge thank you to all our staff who have worked so hard during these recent testing months,’ says Nick Williams, Sweet Dreams sales manager.

‘While at first we had to close the factory, we were able to keep open a small section from which we sold stock items, and having staff who were willing to come in and work with us to find safe ways of operating was a real bonus.

‘When we were able to partly open the manufacturing plant again, these early efforts really paid off, giving us a head start. The factory is completely reorganised and all our staff can work in a safe and socially distanced way. We’ve complied with government guidelines and while there’s no denying it’s been a challenge, we have been able to overhaul our working practices and make our environments practical and safe for today’s very different climate.

‘Production, now focused solely on the original Primrose Mill premises, is at 80% capacity in mid-July and able to produce our range of beds, mattresses and upholstery and deliver within two to three weeks.

‘This very welcome award from Interiors Monthly indicates we’re on course with our bed offer, and our customers are telling us we’re doing well with our upholstery offer too: we’ve had a fantastic

response to the current models.

‘During lockdown we saw a huge upturn in online sales, with our own home delivery service increasing six-fold year on year. Now that retail is starting to re-open we are shipping our manufactured beds, headboards and upholstery to a growing number of valued bricks-and-mortar customers, who remain the lifeblood of our company.

‘The good news is that the online channel is growing exponentially and we forecast a strong increase in sales from both channels in the future. We would urge traditional retailers to look to the Internet for sales growth, and here at Sweet Dreams we have all the tools to help them get online with both our manufactured and imported products.

‘Meanwhile, although our British-made beds, frames and upholstery comprise the majority of our sales, we are still supplying our best-selling range of frames and children’s bunks. We have invested heavily in stocks of our most popular lines to ensure continuity of supply in these difficult times.

‘Due to travel restrictions, we have temporarily parked our furnituresourcing efforts, concentrating instead on product development, particularly own-manufactured upholstery and sofabeds. More news of these developments and new arrivals in the near future! Once again, to our muchvalued customers, agents and our diligent staff, our thanks.’

Tel: 01282 830 033

AWARDS

Adjustamatic Best Adjustable Bed Manufacturer

‘Adjustamatic and NHC Technology are proud to have been awarded Best Adjustable Bed Manufacturer again. It comes as the brand is being developed to offer even more to retailers by bringing both beds and chairs under one new brand: Varimatic. They don’t just understand adjustable beds – they invented them. Nobody understands the benefits of adjustable beds better than Varimatic and they are happy to impart that information to stockists,’ says Gavin Douglas, Varimatic sales agent.

‘Manufacturing will be to the same exacting standards in the same factory and the same tried and tested products, with retailers being offered more support.

During the last 12 months, Varimatic has brought in a comprehensive new fabric colour swatch which includes top-grain leathers and crib 5 vinyls and fabrics too.’

The new brand is carried through new price lists, brochures and a new website with stockist listings and supported by a new agent for the North of England, with Douglas continuing to service the rest of the UK with sales and marketing support.

Varimatic adjustable beds are made to order and cover various budgets including entry-level models, top-end wall-hugging models, height-adjustable and ottoman variants with a range of mattresses to match. As ever, Varimatic manufactures a full range of sizes from small singles to super-king twins.

All Varimatic products can delivered to the retailer or it offers a full DHD installation service where your customers can be assured of a perfect delivery and instructions in use, ensuring they get the most out of their investment.

Visit: www.varimatic.co.uk

British made

48

Interiors Monthly August 2020

AWARDS

himolla Best Recliner Manufacturer

Below: Chester sofas Bottom: Stratus

‘Even in a year as unpredictable as 2020, some things haven’t changed. We’re proud that himolla has won the Best Recliner Manufacturer award for the sixth consecutive year. It’s testament to the commitment to unrivalled quality, style and industry-leading innovation that runs throughout our organisation. So everyone has a share in this success, from our innovative design team – headed

by Tamara Harty, our inspired chief designer and art director – through to our furniture-makers and our network of distributors and stockists,’ says Rob Davies, himolla UK sales agent.

‘In fact, we’d like to thank all our stockists for their resolute support throughout the challenges of recent political vagaries and the unforeseen problems generated by the world pandemic. But thanks are not enough.

The best way out of the current crisis is by energising the marketplace – so we’re supporting our stockists with fresh, industry-leading ideas. We are introducing a range of new features

designed to impress where it matters most: on the sales floor.

‘In hard times nothing sells like soft comfort, advanced technology and unrivalled value. So now both the Rhine and the Chester will feature step-free adjusting neckrests, longer footrests and optional battery packs. The Chester will even have electric neckrest adjustment as standard.

‘The ever-popular Monaco will be joined by new models Azure and Stratus offering wall huggers with electric headrests and seat angle adjustment, plus stylish manual and electric recliners with the unbeatable Cumuly flexibility that is such a proven sales winner. Buyers can choose from superb quality leather and fabric finishes, a wide range of styles and features, and colours to complement virtually any interior design theme.

‘We can’t predict the future, but we can give ourselves every possible advantage.

And hopefully look forward to award number seven,’ says Davies.

Visit: www.himolla-uk.co.uk

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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AWARDS

Ekornes Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer (Luxury)

Below and right: Stressless Scott allows users to set heating and massage options Bottom right: The product range also includes dining

52

Interiors Monthly August 2020

Masters in world-class furniture design and engineering, Ekornes’ Stressless brand produces high-quality, stylish seating for the home. Seating that is innovative, comfortable and beautiful in form, these are essential pieces for homes we are spending even more time in.

Form, function and quality are at the heart of everything Stressless does. The brand has a long history of challenging conventional ways of making furniture: its desire to understand the science of comfort and movement was realised in 1971 when it introduced the first recliner designed to meet the body’s need for movement and support.

The perfect combination of functionality, design and style with superior comfort was a revolution and Stressless is now one of Scandinavia’s leading furniture brands, handcrafting innovative recliner chairs, sofas, dining ranges and accessories, with sales to date of over 10 million seats worldwide.

Made to order at its headquarters in Norway, every stage of production

is touched by sustainable and environmental standards as Stressless strives to make as little environmental impact as possible. All materials are carefully considered and are of exceptional quality: from high-grade premium leather and fabric upholstery to quality woods and metals.

This year looks to finish in a busy fashion for the brand with the UK set to launch a new dining concept and the introduction of a new motorised recliner: Stressless Scott.

Stressless Scott has a modern, slender design but it is the technology within the recliner that is really setting a new standard. This new model allows customers to select both heating and massage options alongside the comfort for which Stressless is renowned.

Both product launches are supported by a comprehensive and visually striking marketing package that is designed to inspire and drive footfall into Stressless retailers.

Visit: www.stressless.com

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AWARDS

La-Z-Boy UK Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer

Below: Tristan Pyke Bottom left: Hathaway Bottom right: Alva

54

Interiors Monthly August 2020

La-Z-Boy UK has come out of lockdown with a boom, with its retail network all around the country reporting impressive sales. The world-renowned recliner specialist has supported independent stockists with sales promotions to tempt customers returning to the new normal of socially distanced furniture shopping.

During lockdown the La-Z-Boy UK team remained in close contact with its retailer network, gaining feedback on their wants and needs. ‘Our retailers around the country are reporting fantastic sales. After people have been stuck at home for months on the same old furniture, there is renewed excitement for home improvements, redecorating and DIY. In combination with this, it seems many shoppers are investing in their homes rather than taking a holiday this year, so they have more cash available,’ says Tristan Pyke, La-Z-Boy UK head of sales for independents.

The revised La-Z-Boy promotional calendar has also played a significant role in boosting business, says Pyke.

‘We updated our scheduled promotions to optimise sales when retailers were back open, which differed in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Our threeseats-for-two offer was so successful we decided to extend it, which turned out to be a very popular move. We’ve also got extended promotions planned during

August, which will be our longest ever campaign for the summer months.

‘We’ve had really pleasing feedback from our retailers thanking us for our support. They’ve also commented that our social media campaign and digital advertising, which continued throughout lockdown, have helped drive footfall.

‘Undoubtedly, winning the Interiors Monthly Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer Award for the fifth year running will also boost the confidence of our retailers and consumers alike.’

Along with its annual promotion plan La-Z-Boy UK provides its high street customers with digital display banners for their websites, printed materials such as swing tickets and promotional tags to highlight campaigns, and a digital catalogue. It is currently planning how best to showcase its forthcoming products to retailers in a safe environment, and is considering a show van route, a revised showroom setting and virtual viewings.

‘We’re looking at various options, in consultation with our agents and retailers, for how best to present products safely but effectively, so stockists can make a clear decision on what’s best for their customers. We’ll be communicating our finalised plans to our retailers within the coming weeks,’ says Pyke.

Visit: www.la-z-boy.co.uk

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AWARDS

IVC Group Best Vinyl Manufacturer

Below: Comfytex Sintra Below, far right: Leoline Comfytex Deluxe Crosby Bottom left: Avenue Urbanista Bottom right: Leoline Artesia Estrella

58

Interiors Monthly August 2020

IVC Group is delighted to have once again been awarded Best Vinyl Manufacturer by the readers of Interiors Monthly.

Through its ranges of cushion vinyl flooring, IVC Group has been making style easy since 1997. Focused on innovation that provides the best in style, quality and value, it leads the way in cushion vinyl flooring.

For homeowners, cushion flooring has many advantages, including easy fitting and easy maintenance, and IVC is continually looking for ways to improve on this. With backings that add sound absorption or thermal insulation and the Superguard wear-layer reinforcement that stops scuffs and stains while making floors easy to clean, both Avenue and Leoline are ready to bring their performance not just to bathrooms but kitchens, living spaces, bedrooms, hallways and conservatories too. In fact, anywhere there is a need for a floor thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to stand up to family life, then cushion flooring has the answer.

The group is also making sure that its collections deliver in the looks department, helping cushion vinyl to appeal to a new generation of homeowners. From the latest contemporary terrazzo and concrete effects to classic herringbone and encaustic tiles, the collections offer exceptional variety. Whether Leoline or Avenue, with its cushion floors anyone

can find the design of their dreams with the practicality that makes style easy.

For 2020, both brands have new collections. Leoline sees the introduction of two ranges with the stunning tile designs found in Artesia and the supreme performance of Comfytex Deluxe, which can be installed loose-lay over a range of subfloors, ceramic and wood.

For Avenue, the cool grey palette and modern wood, tile and stone effects of Urbanista make it a collection for the seriously style-conscious. Comfytex offers much of the performance of Comfytex Deluxe at a more affordable price point.

As IVC continues to innovate and be the first to market with designs inspired by the latest home trends, you can rely on it to provide high-quality products that brings homeowners the very best floors in the category. IVC would like to thank all readers of Interiors Monthly for recognising its efforts and voting it Best Vinyl Manufacturer once again.

Visit: www.ivcgroup.com

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AWARDS

Karndean Designflooring Best LVT Manufacturer

Top right: Korlok by Karndean Designflooring, Metro Grey RKT2403 Below: Korlok by Karndean Designflooring, Frosted Stone RKT2401 Bottom right: Karndean Inspire Studio

60

Interiors Monthly August 2020

Karndean Designflooring is celebrating being named Best LVT Manufacturer for the third consecutive year. As well as the recent update to its innovative Korlok stone collection, Karndean has continued to see success with its newly released Floorstyle floor designer tool and the ongoing expansion of its Karndean Inspire Studios.

The award is testament to its strong partnership with retailers throughout the UK, continued innovation in bringing the most authentic designs to market and supporting retailers with store reopening following the pandemic.

‘We’re proud to receive this recognition for our wood, stone and abstract luxury vinyl flooring designs and wish to thank our UK-wide network of retail partners and the interiors industry for their support,’ says Scott Cochrane, Karndean Designflooring retail sales director.

‘Our retail network is at the heart of our business and during the recent uncertain times, we have been working closer than ever with our partners to offer as much support as we can, to help them safely welcome their customers back in store. It’s fantastic to see our partners open again and, likewise, homeowners supporting local independent retailers as part of their home renovation plans.’

Since launching its first Karndean Inspire Studio in 2018, Karndean has continued to grow its concept in retail showrooms with 10 locations to date and

more planned later this year.

Karndean has added to its Korlok collection with its first stone designs.

Warmer underfoot and easier to maintain than natural stone, the 18in x 24in tiles are the perfect choice for large and open-plan spaces.

The new palette of five hues includes a range of silvery and warm mid-greys, muted and soft neutrals and honey colours. Designed to offer quicker installation times and added acoustic benefits, the designs are handcrafted to reflect the muted tones of natural limestone and include subtle veining, delicate mottling and a chalky appearance to create a realistic finish.

‘With new designs set to join our portfolio in early September, we’re looking forward to supporting our partners and helping them continue to grow,’ says Cochrane.

Visit: www.karndean.com

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For style choices and inspiration visit: karndean.com

Award winning four years running Best LVT Manufacturer

AWARDS

Rowico UK Best Living Room Manufacturer Below: Melville sideboard Bottom: Carmen chair and Daisy table

62

Interiors Monthly August 2020

Rowico UK launched its largest collection of new products in 2020, all inspired by its Scandinavian heritage. Established in Halmstad, Sweden in 1971, the thirdgeneration family-owned company is committed to design, exceptional quality and unrivalled service. Within Sweden, Rowico is one of the largest furniture wholesalers and the entire group specialises in wooden furniture supply.

‘We are delighted to win this Interiors Monthly Award, our fourth in a row. It has been an unprecedented year for many reasons and winning this makes us realise that our work in design, service and support does not go unnoticed by our fantastic retailers. Thank you for all your votes, this year more than ever.

‘This autumn we will launch our new group corporate identity – truly exciting times. We will become Rowico Home: our look becomes softer and gentler.

Our logo is also changing to a similar feel. We will draw inspiration from our

long heritage as we move into 2021, celebrating our 50th anniversary,’ says Caroline Henchcliffe, Rowico UK md.

January’s extensive launch of its Scandi look has given Rowico a more universal appeal to the marketplace.

The new products include Brooklyn, Fenwood, Melville and Everett dining collections; Yumi, Daisy and Skye occasional pieces; as well as the Carmen, Alison and Manning chairs.

‘We look forward to further showcasing our new portfolio and are excited to share the initial product successes, with all items available from stock. We remain committed to our current reclaimed products and are developing new ranges across all product types.

‘None of this would be possible without our exceptional retail network and the amazing Rowico team. My thanks to you all. Here’s to strong trading for the remainder of the year.’

Visit: www.rowico.co.uk

Everett

www.rowico.co.uk

AWARDS

Jual Furnishings Best Home Entertainment Supplier

Below: Helsinki collection Bottom: San Francisco smart speaker/ charging desk in oak

64

Interiors Monthly August 2020

‘Everyone at Jual Furnishings is thrilled to have received Best Home Entertainment Supplier for the second year running. We would like to thank everyone who voted for us – your continued support really does mean a lot,’ says Julie Powell, Jual Furnishings director.

‘Through the recent testing times we have managed to remain operational.

Our number one priority is to ensure we are doing all we can to support our customers and protect our Jual family.

The majority of our office-based team have been working from home, while in terms of our distribution we have taken all necessary steps to ensure we can keep shipping our furniture safely.

‘The lockdown restrictions meant consumers had to work from home, which resulted in an unprecedented demand for our home office furniture.

A comfortable and stylish workplace promotes happy workers, and the same principle should be applied in the home office. The Curve range meets the demand for an elegant working space in the home.

‘The desk is now seen as a piece of furniture and our home office products

were designed with this in mind. We have always tried to promote this product to independent retailers and we feel that if they are not catering for this market then they are certainly missing out on sales, since it looks likely that working from home is going to be the norm in the future.

‘We have been overwhelmed by the response to our smart desk since its launch in 2019. This is a blend of modern furniture with smart technology. The collection caters for fast-living millennials and features high-quality bluetooth speakers, wireless charging pads and USB ports. Not only can you charge your smart device with this modern, stylish furniture, you can also listen to music.

Matching furniture is also available.

‘Looking to the future, we are always seeking to improve our products by taking on board customer feedback and reviewing current trends. We have refreshed our grey home office desks with super white glass, to give a whole new look. In addition, we have some gorgeous new designs being released in the autumn, so watch this space.’

Visit: www.jualfurnishings.co.uk

BEST HOME ENTERTAINMENT SUPPLIER FOR THE SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR

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Offering 1st Class Customer Service, with Next Day Delivery to Mainland UK. Contact us for more information.

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AWARDS

Interfloor Best Underlay Manufacturer

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66

Interiors Monthly August 2020

‘I know that all the team at Interfloor will appreciate this award more than ever this year. It’s been a tough period for our industry, but everyone here has worked diligently to ensure customers continue to receive the quality of products and high standard of service they have come to expect from us.

Being crowned the Best Underlay Manufacturer again is fantastic and we thank everyone who voted for their continued support and custom,’ says John Cooper, Interfloor ceo.

‘The world was rocked by the pandemic in the first half of 2020, with lockdown impacting businesses in all sectors. Thanks to pent-up demand from consumers who have been stuck indoors, flooring retailers have seen a rapid upturn in orders, lifting sales for the second half of 2020.’

Interfloor is confident that its British-manufactured underlay brands Tredaire and Duralay will continue to be the preferred choice in the marketplace, alongside Gripperrods and Stikatak for accessories.

Now with the Best Underlay

Manufacturer award in its trophy cabinet for the second year in a row, the Lancashire company is planning for a busy end-of-year.

‘We’re proud of our history and heritage and the role Interfloor has played in bringing innovations to the world of flooring. We have a fantastic portfolio which includes the three most popular forms of underlay: polyurethane foam, sponge rubber and crumb rubber.

There’s something for every type of application, from carpets to hard flooring and LVT, and something to suit specific requirements whether that’s underfoot comfort, noise reduction or coping with heavy footfall,’ says Gary Cowley, Interfloor sales director.

In response to growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly flooring products, Interfloor has increased the proportion of its underlays manufactured from recycled products from 16% to over 70% since 2008. It now manufactures most of its underlays from recycled material: its crumb rubber and PU foam underlays contain about 80% recycled content. The crumb rubber is made from recycled car tyres and some 3 million tyres are recycled every year, while PU foam is made from off-cuts from the furniture and automotive industries.

Visit: www.interfloor.com

Award winning underlay found in all the best locations Interfloor are proud to have been voted Best Underlay Manufacturer by the readers of Interiors Monthly for the second year in succession.

We are Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest manufacturer of underlay, built on a rich heritage of British manufacturing and supplying high performance underlays and flooring accessories worldwide for over 40 years.

AWARDS

Steens Group Best Children’s Furniture Manufacturer

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

‘It’s a real boost to receive Interior Monthly’s Best Children’s Furniture Manufacturer award for the third year in a row. We put a lot of effort into both product development and servicing our customers’ needs, so to continue to be recognised in this way as one of the UK’s leading furniture suppliers is very satisfying,’ says Alan Cozens, Steens Group UK md.

In January, at imm in Cologne and JFS in Birmingham, Steens not only launched a raft of ranges, including on-trend Soma and contemporary shaker-styled Heston together with two new children’s ranges, Loke and Heston, it also revealed its drive and commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and its continued adoption of a sustainable production approach.

Under the banner of Environmental Sustainability Programme, the company issued a statement of its aims: ‘We strive to be our customers’ safe, local and reliable partner. We have 60-plus years’ experience in producing natural wood furniture from sustainable managed forests, with an eye for quality, design, trends and value for money. Above all, we respect the environment. We embrace the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, which aim to make the planet a better place to live for everyone by 2030.’

In joining this journey, Steens Group is focusing on two of the SDGs: SDG 15 – Life on Land, which works to manage forests and timber sustainably; and SDG 13 – Climate Action, actively working to reduce its CO² footprint in its buildings, production and supply chain as it looks to achieve CO² neutrality.

‘The new ranges and the message on

the environment were extremely well received. Before the incredible challenges presented by COVID-19, sustainability and CO² reduction were amongst the primary challenges facing the global community. Like many in our industry, Steens is keen to play its part in making the planet a better and safer place to live. By analysing how we approached our production and supply chain at our production facility in Denmark, where 100% of current ranges are produced, we found that following many years of optimising operations, we were already on the road to more sustainable production and reducing our carbon footprint,’ says Cozens.

Steens’ timber is sourced only from sustainable managed forests under the FSC programme.

‘With our keen focus on reducing costs and waste, we already recycle all our wood waste into biomass product for our own heating and selling on. Further, the heat produced is also used to run some of our production processes, where low energy compressors and LED lighting have also been introduced. Our extensive range of paint finishes are all water based with the obvious associated benefits.

‘During the COVID-19 crisis, we have seen substantial increases in business, thanks in large part to our ability to serve the ecommerce market. Now, with new product from this year’s trade fairs soon to be available, the drive to support the UN’s SDGs, and with new ranges already in development for imm and JFS 2021, we are in a great place. This award is the icing on the cake.’

Visit: www.steensfurniture.com

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AWARDS

Gallery Direct Best Accessory Supplier

Below: Simply Green cushions and throws Below middle Vintola, Bursa, Alko and Nosto mirrors Below right : Selection of rugs

72

Interiors Monthly August 2020

Gallery Direct‘s catalogue of home interior products offers a range of accessories including soft furnishings, wall decor, decorative accessories and lighting designed to complement its furniture collections.

‘We are delighted to have won this award, and I would like to thank everyone who voted for us. The team puts a tremendous amount of hard work into designing and developing all our ranges, paying great attention to detail, not just for individual products but also within collections and in pulling together key looks,’ says Jayne Zalega, Gallery Direct business development director, textiles.

‘An example is the Simply Green collection of cushions and throws that was launched earlier this year. A great deal of thought, design and development went into the new brand, from the logo to the products right down to the labels. The 100% recycled throws are hand-woven using yarn made from recycled plastic bottles – each throw uses approximately 300 bottles. The bottles are collected and shredded into very fine strips which are back-combed to open the fibres and then spun into yarn and dyed. The resulting yarn is as soft as wool, with washable and stainresistant properties, resulting in throws that are environmentally friendly, soft, cosy and practical. The throws, which feature a chevron design, are offered in

four colours, and matching feather-filled cushions made from the same fabric are also available.’

The labels used for the collection are also made from recycled material, ensuring the products are as environmentally friendly as possible.

The cushions and throws have a woven label, featuring the brand logo, and recycled cardboard swing tag. The combination of the recycled yarn and labels creates products that are perfect for those who care about our planet.

‘We were delighted with how well Simply Green was received by customers.

It’s always incredibly satisfying when you launch new products and they prove to be successful. But we never sit still, we’re constantly developing new ideas to keep our catalogue fresh,’ says Zalega.

‘Over the last few months, the Gallery team have been working on a range of products for our AW20 collection.

On the soft furnishings side this will include a great selection of new rugs, along with pouffes, cushions, throws and bedspreads. There will also be new furniture lines. We were aiming to launch the new collection at the Autumn Fair, however unfortunately we can’t as the show has been cancelled due to the pandemic. But don’t worry, we’ll let you know all about our AW20 products and when they will be available to order.’

Visit: www.gallerydirect.co.uk

B E S T ACC E S S O RY S U P P L I E R 2 02 0 Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re delighted to have been voted

www.gallerydirect.co.uk | 01795 439159

Best Accessory Supplier in the Interiors Monthly Awards 2020.

Designed and made in Great Britain, the Gallery Grandeur collection features a mixture of bright, ethnic Aztec style printed cushions featuring various safari animals with tribal patterns, bold colours and tasselled edge detailing.

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AWARDS

COREtec, USFloors Best Rigid Floor Manufacturer

Top: Lumber Below, left to right: Forest, Meadow and Spelt

74

Interiors Monthly August 2020

Since its introduction in 2012, COREtec has given new meaning to multi-layer composite floors. The floor stands out from competing products through its cork underlayer and its firm, waterproof extruded core, complemented with multiple protective and wear-resistant layers. It’s extremely true-to-nature wood and stone designs have considerably raised the benchmark for the flooring industry.

The uniqueness of this invention has been confirmed by the different patents granted. As the inventors of the original COREtec floor, USFloors – now part of Shaw Industries – has not rested on its laurels, refining the original concept by means of new cores such as PROcore, SOUNDcore and Coretec STONE. PROcore is specifically made for heavily walked-on floors in the contract market where wear resistance is of the utmost importance. SOUNDcore opens up new possibilities for the suppression of contact noises and Coretec STONE, the

most recent evolution, makes use of a mineral core, void of PVC. The collection covers more than 200 designs, also available from stock in smaller orders.

All COREtec floors can be directly installed on any surface without preparation, including existing floors and moderately uneven surfaces, without print-through. They are dimensionally stable and suitable for underfloor heating and cooling. Installation is straightforward thanks to the secure angle tap system.

‘As part of Shaw Industries, we were able to build up a considerable lead in the industry thanks to this invention. It goes without saying that we are proud of this feat. The huge appreciation from within the flooring industry strengthens our determination to further innovate and will surely lead to more groundbreaking products in the future,’ says Piet Dossche, USFloors founder.

Visit: www.coretecfloors.com

Worldwide bestselling waterproof floor !

Lifetime warranty and easy to install.

Now available in herringbone.

www.coretecfloors.com

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AWARDS

Mattressgard Best Mattress Protection Provider

76

Interiors Monthly August 2020

‘”It’s just a mattress protector,” was a statement once commonly bandied about, but I’m pleased to say it is heard less now, thanks to the great efforts we have made to improve the products offered,’ says Paul Aiston, Mattressgard md.

‘It represented the general apathy towards mattress health and care. While care plans to prevent staining or damage to your sofa were in full swing, no-one was considering the benefits of using a high-quality performance mattress protector to protect their mattress. “It’s covered, you can’t see the stains”; “Dust mites are not a problem/don’t affect me,” were common replies, while bacteria and the odours they produce were far too embarrassing to discuss. Mattress protectors were in the main either noisy, waterproof, semi-medical affairs or a layer of quilting which, to be truthful, doesn’t really protect the mattress and positively encourages the colonisation of undesirable small organisms.

‘Mattress protectors today have evolved into a wondrous array of materials, designs and functions, and mattress health is becoming a real point to consider when buying a new bed. Staingard has supplied a range of protection products for 15 years now, but it’s just over four years ago that the Mattressgard brand was added to the range, replacing mediocre

products and service with an outstanding protection proposition.

‘Initially with a selection of 12 products – but now enlarged to over 20 products, including a range made from recycled materials, fabrics featuring antibacterial and anti-viral properties plus a pillow range – the growth and results have been outstanding for Mattressgard. Every product in the range is guaranteed for 10 years, is anti-dust mite for a healthier lifestyle and has high-tech finishes to wick moisture away while remaining 100% impermeable to spillages.

‘Each product can be sold as a standalone value-added sale, or can be offered to add tangibility to a Staingard Mattress Care Plan. The range consists of highquality but value-for-money polyester, through cotton and bamboo to Tencel, any of which can be personalised at no extra cost if required.

‘Despite the continued growth of our existing products, we were determined not to sit still. We listened to feedback and added where needed, this year introducing the Ecopur range made entirely from recycled plastic bottles.

‘Staingard is delighted to have been awarded the Interiors Monthly Best Mattress Protection Provider again, as voted for by you, our retail partners, so a massive thank you from everyone at Staingard,’ says Aiston.

Visit: www.mattressgard.co.uk

WINNER - TWO YEARS RUNNING! Best Mattress Protection Provider 2020 Thank you to everyone who voted for us.

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AWARDS

Louis de Poortere Best Rug Supplier

Below: Atlantic’s Nymphea Blue Below right: Gallery’s Dora

78

Interiors Monthly August 2020

The 2020 Rug Collection by Louis de Poortere encapsulates the Belgian manufacturer’s ability to blend the world of interior decoration with precision craft to create rugs that are relevant and accessible for today’s homes.

With traditional pieces reworked for modern living in Antiquarian, Palazzo, Fading World and Vintage, the midcentury glamour of Mad Men, Indian influences of Sari, coastal designs of Waves or the art of Gallery, Louis de Poortere’s portfolio is a formidable one.

The Gallery collection is one of the freshest additions, presenting colourful and modern works as art for the floor.

Dorado’s Picasso influences are plainly felt, while Grafitto’s abstract marks owe much to the works of Matisse and Haring.

Available in a range of standard sizes woven in 100% cotton, Gallery marks a fresh adventure into the world between art and home textiles.

Waves is also a new collection for Louis de Poortere, with Shores celebrating the forms and colours created when water and earth clash. Patterns of ripples, meanders and breaking points merge, in palettes of muddy browns, bright blues, leafy greens and metalliferous reds, inspired by the world’s most famous coasts and rivers. A range of sizes are

available, made from a blend of 85% cotton and 15% polyester.

Louis de Poortere is famed for its vintage worn effects and the Palazzo collection continues this reputation. A design named after a Venetian palace, Da Mosto comes in shades typical of Renaissance culture. The rug is woven from a blend of 85% cotton and 15% polyester in a range of sizes.

New for 2020, Monetti is the latest in the hugely successful Atlantic collection, a ‘blurred’ design capturing Monet’s Impressionist style in a palette of floral combinations such as Hibiscus Red and Nenuphar Bronze.

Streaks also sees new colourways in Glen Cove and Nassau Red, while Antiquarian has been boosted with Kilim.

This classic Moroccan nomad pattern uses Louis de Poortere’s space-dyed yarn to deliver countless colour nuances across colourways such as Zemmuri Blue, Riad Orange and Medina White.

Alongside its 2020 Rug Collection, Louis de Poortere is now responsible for the manufacture and UK distribution of rugs from Swiss textiles and fabric house Christian Fischbacher, one of Switzerland’s most prestigious interior design companies.

Visit: www.louisdepoortere.com

AWARDS

BGNFS Best Flooring Exhibition

The Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show is a unique partnership between the Bond Retail Marketing, Flooring One, Greendale Carpets & Floorings, Metro Group and SMG buying groups. This strong collaboration is what makes the show a great success, giving group members exclusive access to more than 60 of the leading flooring brands showcasing the latest in carpet, rugs, laminate, wood, vinyl, LVT, underlay, accessories and POS. The show usually takes place once a year at Cranmore Park, centrally located in Solihull, but the May 2020 exhibition was cancelled due to COVID-19. All of the teams involved with the show would like to thank the BGNFS visitors and Interiors Monthly readers for their votes.

‘This is the best industry show for groups, a real chance to see and experience first hand the real benefits of being part of a group. It's a chance to meet with like-minded retailers and suppliers and to get amongst the products from a broad array of suppliers to the UK flooring industry all in one place. It's a well-organised show that we feel is essential for our members,’ says Carl Harris, Bond Retail Marketing md.

‘This is an excellent show for members and myself to see the industry’s leading suppliers and discover the new initiatives they will be introducing. The format of

the show also gives us the opportunity to receive feedback from the membership on new products, POS and services, all in a professional, easy-to-reach location,’ says Peter Karra, Flooring One buyer.

‘Many congratulations to the team at BGNFS. This award is well-deserved recognition for the great show which has been created for buying group members and their suppliers. I would strongly recommend any retailer to consider joining a group to access this event,’ says Rob Harding, Greendale Carpets chief executive.

‘Retailers vote with their feet and Metro Group members are strong supporters of the BGNFS. The quality of selected suppliers, the size, layout and facilities at Solihull and the excellent location mean they are happy to support the show every year. It is a key diary date,’ says Steve Depport, Metro Group operations manager.

‘We have always seen BGNFS as an important show. From the exhibitors’ viewpoint, they know all the delegates who attend are serious retailers who are focused on developing their business.

From our members’ point of view, they can meet all of the key suppliers along with the SMG team in a relaxed and friendly environment,’ says Mike Reed, SMG head of group operations.

Visit: www.bgnfs.co.uk

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

79

AWARDS

January Furniture Show Best Furniture Exhibition

2019 exhibitors included Furlong Flooring, Sherbourne and Sweet Dreams

80

Interiors Monthly August 2020

‘The whole team and I are delighted with this award. Over the last few months, many of us in the sector have used the time to take a fresh look at what we do, refine the way we do it and develop important new ideas and initiatives.

As event organisers we have been no different and the team and I are looking forward to delivering what will likely be the most important edition of January Furniture Show in many years: possibly in the long history of show in all its incarnations,’ says Cleere Scamell, Clarion Events event director.

‘With so many live events – including our much-loved Manchester Furniture Show – sadly having to be postponed

over recent weeks, hearing this fantastic news is also very poignant. However, now that the authorities have given the go-ahead for live events from October, it means that the next edition of JFS will be the first opportunity for the furniture and interiors sector to get together properly – all with the sole purpose of presenting, assessing and trading in the greatest products available for the home.

‘Exhibitions are a major cog in the UK economy, with many billions spent at live events annually. Given the likely continuing uncertainty around international travel, the relevance of such an important time-efficient and resource-efficient way to buy and sell locally in the UK means that the focus on JFS will be greater than ever.

‘As a large, well-resourced and truly global event organiser we are proud to have been influential in making sure that the events sector overall will be able to do that in the safest and most practical way possible.

‘I know our exhibitors will be putting on best-ever displays for this landmark edition of the UK’s favourite buying event. With so many people having spent more time at home over the last few months than ever before, there’s never been a greater desire to make our living spaces stylish and, most importantly, comfortable.

‘Winning Best Furniture Exhibition is yet more fuel in the engine, and on behalf of the entire team, I would like to thank all those who voted for us.’.

Visit: www.januaryfurnitureshow.com

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Register your interest at januaryfurnitureshow.com

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AWARDS

Julian Bowen Best Customer Service (Furniture)

Below: Mortiz TV unit Bottom left: Valentino bedroom Below right: Latimer coffee table

82

Interiors Monthly August 2020

For the sixth year in a row, Julian Bowen has won the Interiors Monthly award for the industry’s best customer service.

This recognises Julian Bowen as the industry’s leading customer service provider across all functions – from the obvious customer-facing front line in sales and customer support to the dedicated logistics and distribution staff, finance team, buying and quality control teams in the UK and overseas.

Julian Bowen aims continually to improve in every aspect of its customer offering, to make the customer journey as easy and enjoyable as possible. This is evident in continued expansion and innovation across its wide product ranges, as well as its drive to provide flexible delivery solutions to meet the changing needs of its diverse customers and the demands of the end customer.

Alongside the growth in product there has been significant investment in the company’s market-leading supply chain team in the UK, Asia and Latin America to support that growth and ensure that the high level of quality for which Julian Bowen is renowned is not just maintained but enhanced. The company remains committed to offering the best quality and value at all of the many price points at which it supplies product to the marketplace.

Given the fast-changing nature of the industry, the team at Julian Bowen recognises the meaningful and varied challenges that its customers face and has continued to invest significantly

in staff training, IT and additional warehousing in order to provide the most efficient support. Stock control, order management and distribution are all areas of focus that have been upgraded over the last year to benefit its extensive customer base and tailor individual solutions where required.

Julian Bowen’s emphasis on bespoke solutions and customer support has been a key factor in the development of its successful direct container business, which offers a one-stop solution from product development through quality control, shipping and in-bound distribution and ongoing stock management support, while leveraging the company’s significant buying power to its customers’ advantage. Across the business the emphasis is upon making the buying process as easy, efficient and pain-free as possible.

‘Everything that we do is designed to get the best possible outcome for our customers. Everybody in our business knows that the customer comes first and we work together to enhance our proposition continually, be it a wider and better product offering, flexible distribution solutions, stock availability, bespoke development or project management. We are proud to win the Interiors Monthly award for customer service again, and our customers can rest assured that we will keep on working hard to serve them better,’ says Emmett Lenaghan, Julian Bowen md.

Visit: www.julian-bowen.co.uk

JULIAN BOWEN

New Chloe Bedroom Bentinck House, Park Lane Business Park, Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Notts NG17 9LE tel: (01623) 727374 fax: (01623) 754555 email: sales@julian-bowen.co.uk web: www.julian-bowen.co.uk

All Products are available for Direct Home Delivery

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AWARDS

Penthouse Carpets Best Customer Service (Flooring) Below: Quartz Bottom left: Prism Bottom right: Springtime

84

Interiors Monthly August 2020

‘Penthouse Carpets has a long-held reputation for customer service. For nearly 50 years we have fostered our relationship with independent retailers.

We are proud to continue these special friendships, working ever more closely with our valued customers.

With colleagues at the centre of our organisation, we were delighted to learn Penthouse Carpets has been awarded Best Customer Service (Flooring),’ says Jonathan Gamble, Penthouse Carpets sales and marketing director.

‘Taking a moment to thank our customers, this is a tremendous honour our loyal retailers have given us and one we take particular pride in. It reflects the hard work and diligence that every Penthouse colleague commits to and it serves to recognise the effort we undertake when producing our carpets.

‘Of course, customer service is something that Penthouse Carpets takes seriously. However, also fundamental to our success is our sales department.

Led by Janice Lloyd, our team of eight industrious co-workers maintain a consistent professional standard, thus ensuring our core values are constantly

maintained. This team is on the front line of customer service – they are the lynchpin between our customers and the internal workings of our company. Being both outward facing and inward looking, their role is challenging and diverse. Our commitment to maintaining customer satisfaction means that our valued retailers continue to receive the highest of customer care.

‘We all understand the effect that coronavirus has had, not just on our business but on the industry as a whole. Adapting to the “new normal” has challenged everyone, so winning this award is a testament to Penthouse Carpets in its entirety. We will continue to make beautiful, affordable carpets for the home and deliver a service that has come to be expected from our company.

‘Finally, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank again all our retailers who kindly voted for Penthouse Carpets. With their continuous support and the commitment from all our colleagues, our business will continue to grow from strength to strength. Customer service will always be at the heart of what we do.’

Visit: www.penthousecarpets.co.uk

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AWARDS

AIS Best Furniture Buying Group

Below: Hampton Bottom left: Cromwell Bottom right: Alder

86

Interiors Monthly August 2020

As winner of the Best Furniture Buying Group award, Associated Independent Stores would like to thank its members and suppliers for their continued support during these challenging times.

AIS is the leading furniture and home buying group in the UK and Republic of Ireland, with the principal objective to increase the profitability of its retail members by means of collective buying power, group leverage and influence.

Members benefit from improved settlement terms and rebates as well as access to procurement savings, marketing and employee training.

Furniture is the largest product sector within AIS, focusing on exclusivity and enhanced margins within a range of categories including cabinet, upholstery, beds, lighting, accessories and garden.

Exclusive product ranges are offered by established brands such as Alstons, G Plan and Parker Knoll, as well as own-label bed collection Dreamworld, which brings together a range of quality beds from UK manufacturers.

Members can access other interior product categories in areas such as linens, homewares and the specialist floorcoverings division, Flooring One, to complete their customer offering.

AIS has a dedicated partnership trading team to promote a profitable

and efficient working relationship between members and suppliers and negotiate service-level agreements to ensure service and quality objectives are achieved.

With a majority of furniture members having now re-opened their doors and reporting positive trading conditions, the furniture team continues to offer support to members as their daily lives gradually return to the new normal.

Following the cancellation of many trade shows across the UK, the team at AIS is preparing a new format of buying event for members. Cranmore Park, AISâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own exhibition venue, has an abundance of space, making social distancing measures easier than you might think, together with the flexibility to adapt swiftly to any changes in government guidance, giving members and suppliers the opportunity to meet safely in a COVID-secure setting. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;AIS members are at the heart of everything we do and we are extremely grateful to the industry and to our members who have voted for this award.

During lockdown we have endeavoured to provide support to both members and suppliers and we look forward to welcoming them back,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; says Julian Cox, AIS director of furniture.

Tel: 0121 713 4465

We couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have done it without you!

A huge thanks to the industry, our valued members and suppliers for voting us the Best UK Furniture Buying Group for 2020.

Best UK Furniture Buying Group

AWARDS

Metro Group Best Flooring Buying Group

Below: Before, during and after the rebranding

88

Interiors Monthly August 2020

In the 40 years since Metro Group conceived the concept of pooling buying power to compete against the national chains, a lot has changed in the marketplace. No longer just looking to achieve the best terms and prices, Metro has been expanded dramatically to assist its members to sell the best performing products in the marketplace at a profit.

Metro’s marketing service has a distinct advantage: it is completely bespoke. Metro understands that retailers work in all sorts of marketplaces and locations, so having access to a whole host of marketing resources means that Metro members have a wealth of experience and facilities custom made to suit every independent flooring retailer’s needs.

When a member seeks to improve tired displays or signage it is a perfect opportunity to seek support from the bespoke service offered by Metro. One such project was undertaken by PJCS Carpets & Flooring in Swadlincote, Derbyshire. Steve and Adam Moralee

from Metro surveyed the site, taking dimensions and looking to see what they could work with – including ways to unite two store fronts to create one large premises.

One issue was to deal with the pipework – drainage and gas – that ran vertically between the two shop fronts.

The solution was to span them with a 2.8m CNC cut logo that would join two signs together while enabling access to the pipes in the future. Matching panelling and window graphics were created to complement the signage.

Every aspect of the work was carried out by the Metro team and all signs were fitted in only two working days.

The marketing service is completely mobile and equipped with printers, cutters, tools and access equipment.

Backed by a studio in the north-east of England, the team travels the four corners of the UK working on-site with members on whatever project they need assistance with.

Visit: www.carpet1st.co.uk

Sq M

AWARDS

Castelan Group Best Warranty Provider ‘First, may I take this opportunity to thank everyone who took the time to vote for Castelan Group as Best Warranty Provider for 2020. There have, no doubt, been many other things that have required your focus over the past few months and so to have taken the time to express your trust in us is hugely appreciated,’ says Martin Napper, Castelan Group ceo.

‘Our focus over the past four months, like all others across the country, has been to ensure the safety of our colleagues as well as the customers and clients we serve.

Our ability to deliver a sector-leading online claims portal has ensured that our warranty customers have had the ability to enjoy “good value” from their policies.

We have been able to continue to respond to claims despite the severe restrictions placed on the movement of people.

‘I’m proud to say that we have continued to deliver the level of service that has become expected of us and that the response from customers, as we have reopened the business, has been extremely positive. Recent Trustpilot reviews from customers have reflected this…

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First class service especially during this COVID period. Very quick efficient response to emails. Phone communication with plenty of notice for visit where first-class job was carried out – Anne Great service. Phoned the day before with an arrival time. Turned up on time.

Fixed the problem. Complete with PPE so all safe. Very pleased – Mrs Sagrott ‘As a business, we have not only focused on our long-term stability but have also been delighted to have secured new relationships, and launched new schemes, with key national clients during the lockdown period. This is a testament to the team here at Castelan and the trust that is being placed in us to deliver on behalf of our clients.

‘I would like to wish the whole of the furniture sector, and beyond, all the best as we emerge from this unprecedented time. Castelan stands ready to support you in delivering a range of products and services that will see us continue to be your trusted partner of choice.’

Visit: www.castelangroup.com

Trust has to be earned.

Best Warranty2011 Provider AWARDS

8INNER

Best Warranty2011 Provider AWARDS

8INNER

To ďŹ nd out how we can help your business call our Business Development Team on 07748 100 254 or email sales@castelangroup.com

Your customers love us too! www.castelangroup.com

AWARDS

8INNER

AWARDS

Best Warranty2011 Provider AWARDS

AWARDS

AWARDS

Best Warranty2011 Provider AWARDS

WINNER 2017 WINNER

AWARDS

Guardsman Best Product Protection Provider (Furniture)

Below: Guardsman staff working from home Bottom left: More furniture protection products will be introduced Bottom right: The website is set for a refresh

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

‘Everyone at Guardsman was thrilled to learn we had won the Interiors Monthly Award for Best Product Protection Provider (Furniture) for 2020,’ says Tim Mrotek, Guardsman president.

As with many businesses, when it knew the country was headed towards lockdown Guardsman was concerned about how it could function in a way that had never been considered before; but its IT team moved swiftly to ensure the business was fully functional within two weeks, with minimal disruption.

‘Still being able to look after our customers was of great importance to us, and thankfully we have been able to do this with minimal impact to our service.

This is clear through the wonderful reviews we are receiving from our customers now,’ says Pauline Chiverton, Guardsman operations director.

‘We are incredibly proud of our team, from the way everyone pulled together to make sure we were able to work from home in the early days, to their continued support after the months of lockdown.

Their loyalty really shows through in this win. Guardsman has been around for a long time, and we truly believe it’s down to passion, determination and the unique skills within our team,’ says Mrotek.

This determination and loyalty has enabled Guardsman to support its retail partners when they needed it.

‘We have always been at the end of the telephone, but it’s great to be able to head into stores again and do what we

do best,’ says Zeyn Kassam, Guardsman key account manager. ‘We thrive on being able to help, so it’s encouraging to have the phone ring with retailers asking us to come in again.’

As a multiple award-winner for its furniture protection plans and products, Guardsman is seeing business go from strength to strength.

‘Winning the award this year is a testament to our team and the service we have continued to provide. Even through these difficult times, we were able to reassure our retail partners that we are committed to providing the best support and stick to our aim of providing the best possible service,’ says David Evans, Guardsman sales director.

In what could now be a challenging market, Guardsman is choosing to embrace any difficulties head on and use this as an opportunity to wow retailers and customers with exceptional service and products. Its new Customer Claim portal allows customers to log their own claim and track its progress from start to finish, while a refreshed website is due to be launched shortly. It will also increase its range of furniture care products.

‘Heartfelt thanks to everyone who voted for us. We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to focus on what the customer wants. We will continue to support you throughout the rest of 2020 and beyond. These are exciting times for Guardsman,’ says Mrotek.

Tel: 01235 444 700

FURNITURE PROFESSIONALS

WINNER Best Product Protection Provider 2020

Trust in us to give you continued support through difficult times!

AWARDS

Stroolmount Best Product Protection Provider (Flooring)

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‘I’m delighted with the award,’ says Gill Finch, Stroolmount md. ‘Since 2005 we’ve provided specialist flooring and furniture protection. We go further to help customers. Now in a post-pandemic world, our protection helps them to recover too.

‘COVID-19 teaches us to be prepared with protection. Furniture and flooring need keeping apart. When they meet, harm often happens. Flooring gets scratched, scraped, dented and chipped.

Furniture gets fatally weakened when pushed across a floor: carpet fibres anchor the feet, joints lurch to one side.

‘You’ve invested time, money and effort making the sale, so don’t risk it all when protection costs pennies. From 1p – that’s how little it can cost you to protect your flooring and furniture. Putting furniture on a floor without protection is like picking up a lottery card: sooner or later it’ll get scratched! We’ve saved companies thousands in costly repairs, replacements and insurance claims,

plus hikes in next year’s premiums.

‘For manufacturers, retailers, architects, designers, hotel refurbishers, shopfitters and the hospitality trade, protecting your business for a few pence makes sense. Plus, it creates genuine customer goodwill – something they’ll remember for years to come. When needing replacements, customers will come back to you: giving you a new opportunity to show off your showroom.

‘Our specialist solutions help the trade, and also help customers when cleaning, decorating or rearranging rooms. The self-adhesive felt cushions the impact between furniture and flooring to prevent scratching. Quickclick glides, Furni-glides and Move-it Pads allow heavy furniture to move smoothly across hard floors and carpets without being wrecked by fibre friction,’ says Finch.

‘To see the range, become a stockist and benefit from a full support package to increase your sales, see details online.’

Visit: www.stroolmount.co.uk

From F rom Self-adhesive Felt to Quickclick Glides, Move It Pads to Repair Kits: See Stroolmount’s award-winning Protect & Care products and become a stockist in 2020.

www.stroolmount.co.uk • enquiries@stroolmount.co.uk NEW DATE: 28FEB - 2MAR 2021

18-20 July 2021 Stand A2 th

Stroolmount 2020 Vision_ Interior World 297mm x 210mm AW.indd 1

Stand B44 04/12/2019 13:40

AWARDS

RetailSystem Best Software Supplier (Furniture)

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‘How many retailers view having a website with a cart as “doing ecommerce”?

If it was that easy, everyone would be doing it successfully. While ecommerce is full of adventure, it is a business like any other, so you must treat it as such,’ says Jesse Akre, RetailSystesm president.

‘It's like what they say about priorities: if everything is important, then nothing is important.’

‘Here are three helpful tips as you make your ecommerce journey. First, sales is a numbers game; maximise where you are strongest. Focus your website merchandising efforts. Online is about traffic and conversion. You draw people in, throw selection and price and value at them, and hope to convert them – online or in-store. Sounds easy, right?

But far too many retailers load products onto their websites without giving it too much thought. You must aim to give your online offer as much attention as you do your store.

‘Imagine you do well with dining furniture: great selection, great revenue, strong profits. What would happen if you focused your web efforts on dining furniture? Make sure you have a deep assortment of all things dining online. Now, anyone that comes to your website can find something that meets

their dining needs. Next, flag all dining products that you have in stock and on display. This needs to be current and promoted. That online consumer who wants to go and see it in person will want to know what you have and where it is located.

‘Focus will bring increased conversions, whether by cart or in-store. The dining example was just the start. Take what you’ve learnt and tackle what’s next on the list. Don’t ever stop.

‘My second tip: take advantage of proximity. Most retailers underestimate the value of local ecommerce – the same areas you currently serve with your physical store(s), ie your “ecommerce airspace”. What if you focus all your efforts and attention on that? Focus local: you have that customer within reach.

Proximity is a tremendous value and key retail differentiator – maximise it.

‘Third, embrace technology. Make technology a key part of your ongoing retail strategy. Too many make reactionary tech investments: something happens, and they rush to react. You must allocate time and resources to what is needed today, as well as planning for tomorrow. Retail never sleeps, nor do your evolving technology needs.’

Visit: www.retailsystem.com/uk

Smart software for furniture retailers

12 Awarded ‘Best Software Supplier to the Furniture and Bed Industry’

Award-winning software

12 years running WOW !

W H Y?

It was amazing to be voted best software supplier to this wonderful industry back in 2009 and yet once again it feels just as special today.

Because, while we’re famous for the technology that set us apart, what really makes us tick is that we care deeply about what we do every day.

We’re devoted to helping our clients run their furniture and bed businesses better, so nothing means more than knowing 850+ retail outlets in 10 countries (and growing) are enjoying the benefits of RetailSystem.

Thank you from the bottom of our heart!

info@retailsystem.com

¾ www.retailsystem.com/uk/

+44 (0) 131 440 7606

AWARDS

MasterPiece Systems Best Software Supplier (Flooring)

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

MasterPiece Systems provides cloud-based measuring, planning and costing with emailed estimates, invoices and automated fitting sheets – on iPad or Android in the customer’s home and Windows or Mac in the store. MasterPiece has a reputation for being well guided and for working the way estimators like to work.

New features now available include: support for estimating with Amtico and Karndean product sets; costing automations including automatic application of HSL charges, minimum charges etc, and a discounting engine where the user selects the discount type and the system does the calculation.

The costing module can be included or omitted as required. A ‘read and print only’ store licence can be provided at minimal cost, with increments available: to load new jobs primed with customer selections and to undertake revisions and email the revised quote.

MasterPiece is also now routinely used for virtual appointments when the remote estimator asks the customer to show the room on video, guides the customer on the measurements to take while simultaneously building the job on MasterPiece, and then quoting and taking acceptance of the quote, all in one appointment.

For a flooring retailer who wants to work efficiently and without spending evenings doing plans, MasterPiece is the go-to system.

Visit: www.masterpiece-system.com

AWARDS

Greenwood Retail Best Business Support (Furniture)

In July, Greenwood Retail launched its first COVID-era sales event.

‘Given the unknowns, it was with great courage that our client – James Fraser, Blackbridge Furnishings md – chose to proceed with the Greenwood sale in July. After delivering almost six months turnover during the event, without any issues or problems, he is glad he did,’ says Bernard Eaton, Greenwood Retail md.

He added: ‘I am humbled and honoured that Greenwood has won Best Business Support (Furniture) for the fifth year running and accept with grateful thanks on behalf of the Greenwood team.’

The sales promotion company redesigned its marketing model for the Blackbridge event, especially around the busy launch phase, to create and maintain a steady flow of customers, rather than having crowds appear all at

once. It worked well – so well that the sale took 150% of the original (preCOVID) sales projection.

‘With all the safety precautions in place, the customers seemed very happy and comfortable coming into the store and spending again – and spend they did. There is definitely a retail rebound going on, which will not last forever. I believe that this summer and autumn present the optimum opportunity for retailers to recover much, if not all, of the turnover they lost in the lockdown.

‘Greenwood Retail is well and truly back in business and with a new sale model that is working better than ever.

Your business could immediately benefit.

We can usually outline sales projections and costs from a brief discussion, either in person, or over the phone,’ says Eaton.

Visit: greenwoodretail.com

FOR BEST RESULTS CHOOSE GREENWOOD

MY GRATEFUL THANKS GO TO ALL THE INTERIORS MONTHLY READERS WHO VOTED FOR GREENWOOD… Call Bernard Eaton today on 01565 650101 to find out more about Greenwood Sales.

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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AWARDS

National Bed Federation Best Marketing Support (Furniture)

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

‘The National Bed Federation is delighted to have won the Interiors Monthly Best Marketing Support (Furniture) Award for the second year running as it’s always gratifying to receive recognition from your industry peers.

‘Following our major brand discovery process towards the end of 2019, we’ve worked hard to raise awareness of the “new look” NBF to trade and consumer alike,’ says Simon Williams, NBF marketing and membership manager.

‘Combined with carefully planned and increased social media activity, the new website is delivering massive monthly visitor numbers for a trade association and now directs consumers to their nearest retailer selling NBF member brands. In turn, we are supporting those retailers who are now able to promote themselves as NBF Retail Champions to their customers via our superb POS pack and digital collateral.’

Less than a fortnight after the Retail Champions launch, 172 retail outlets have applied to join the initiative, which aims to promote the benefits of buying NBF Approved British and Irish-made beds to consumers. It is particularly focused on

raising awareness among consumers of the rigorous and independent testing carried out on NBF members to ensure their products are reputable and made to the correct standards.

There are two levels of recognition: Retail Champion stores must source at least half of their beds from NBF members. Those which sell only NBF member beds will be awarded Premier Retail Champion status.

‘We’ve had a great response from all parts of the country with a well-spread representation from England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland and some 80 stores qualifying as Premier Retail Champions,’ says Williams.

‘The new initiative replaces our Retail Supporters scheme which covered some 250 shops around the country, and we are delighted that so many stores have embraced it so positively and so quickly.

We expect many more to join us at a time when offering added reassurance to consumers has never been more important.

‘The new scheme is supported by a dynamic postcode search listing on the NBF website, which attracts up to 50,000 visitors a month. For many consumers this represents a first step in their bed-buying journey and the website now directs them to their nearest Retail Champion,’ says Williams.

Qualifying stores receive an automatic website listing (free for the remainder of the year) along with a digital file containing logos and images to use on their website and in social media campaigns. Also included in the package is a full POS pack, which includes two window vinyls, and a large, double-sided hanging board, flagging the store’s status as either a Retail Champion or Premier Retail Champion. In addition, generic tent cards explain to the consumer why they should buy NBF Approved beds.

Each pack also contains 20 swing tickets which can be attached to NBF member beds in stores, together with a further 20 adhesive labels.

Visit: www.bedfed.org.uk

AWARDS

Flooring One Best Marketing Support (Flooring)

Flooring One provides a comprehensive marketing support package

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

‘We are delighted to have been voted Best Marketing Support (Flooring) by Interiors Monthly readers,’ says Mandy Powell, Flooring One manager. ‘Receiving this award is a tremendous honour and the result of a great deal of hard work and dedication by the entire Flooring One team.

‘Flooring One provides a comprehensive membership and marketing support package that will help and assist any retailer. Our relationship with our members and suppliers is paramount to our business.’

Flooring One is the specialist carpet and floorcoverings division of Associated Independent Stores (AIS), the largest independent non-food buying group of its kind in the UK and Republic of Ireland.

Its aim is to support independent retailers and work in partnership with preferred suppliers. A comprehensive compendium of business support is offered, which allows members to grow their businesses and improve profitability.

Members remain independent but gain multiple benefits, improving their profitability through better buying terms,

exclusive ranges, promotional prices and rebates. A comprehensive range plan and buyers guide are available via Flooring One Membersnet, the 24-hour communication hub for all members The marketing support provided by Flooring One covers a wide range of items including a yearly comprehensive marketing manual with roomset images, lifestyle photography and advertising templates. It also produces a rug manual featuring bestsellers and current on-trend rugs, again with beautiful photography.

All images for both manuals are available to support retailers with their marketing requirements. A bespoke ticketing service is also available. The website www.flooringone.co.uk showcases the branded collection, with a store locator directing consumers to member stores.

In addition, there are services provided by the procurement team. It acts on behalf of members on any not for resale product or service category such as insurance, utilities, energy saving, equipment and vehicles – an excellent business support package.

Tel: 0121 713 4454

Flooring One membership gives you access to: â&#x20AC;¢ Better buying power â&#x20AC;&#x201C; improved buying prices and rebates Â&#x2039; 6^U SHILS WYV[LJ[PVU ¶ OLSWPUN PTWYV]L THYNPUZ HUK WYVÃ&#x201E;[ â&#x20AC;¢ Merchandising and Marketing support â&#x20AC;¢ Central payment system Â&#x2039; 7S\Z THU` V[OLY ILULÃ&#x201E;[Z [V OLSW NYV^ `V\Y I\ZPULZZ For further details and new membership enquiries please contact 4HUK` 7V^LSS! THUK` WV^LSS'Ã&#x2026;VVYPUNVUL JV \R 7L[LY 2HYYH! WL[LY RHYYH'Ã&#x2026;VVYPUNVUL JV \R c ;LS!

AWARDS

Julian Bowen Best Furniture Wholesaler

Below: Carrington desk and Erika chair Bottom left: Maisie guest bed Bottom right: Miami console table

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

Julian Bowen has been voted Best Furniture Wholesaler by the readers of Interiors Monthly for the ninth consecutive year; a testament to the Julian Bowen team’s determination to deliver the highest quality furniture at great value for money, supported by industry-leading customer service.

‘We are immensely proud of achieving this award. Our customers have never faced such a combination of unprecedented challenges and uncertainty for the future and we have all had to rethink and adapt to the new world. We know how difficult it can be to navigate such an environment and feel that it is our job to be totally supportive, making it as easy as possible for them to maximise their businesses while working with the team at Julian Bowen in an enjoyable and efficient way.

‘We are grateful and proud that our customers continue to show such confidence in Julian Bowen and we are working hard constantly to improve all aspects of the proposition we offer,’ says Emmett Lenaghan, Julian Bowen md.

It is the company’s aim to provide the best quality furniture at the best possible prices. This is supported by a heavily invested supply chain incorporating an experienced in-house buying and design team, and domestic and international quality control teams who work in close partnership with a select group of leading manufacturers.

Together they have forged an impressive new product development capability in recent years which has created a

platform for significant growth in the business. The firm’s current development pipeline is the largest ever, with exciting new products to be launched across all the key categories of childrens’ furniture, bedroom, living and dining, and upholstery.

Product development is backed by a continuous ongoing investment programme across the business to ensure an enhanced customer proposition.

This has seen significant IT upgrades to maximise business efficiency through automation from stock feed management to ordering, distribution and customer service support. It is augmented by a progressive staff training programme with a focus upon delivering best practice and a troublefree experience for the customer.

‘We continue to forge ahead with new product innovation, working more closely with our customers, and this has resulted in much stronger business relationships building solid growth plans for the future. Customers can see that we aren’t resting on our laurels and are continually pushing ourselves to give them an ever-wider range to choose from, with the quality and prices they are used to and value us for.

‘I am really excited by our new product pipeline, which we’re looking forward to showing to our customer base in the coming months. Across the whole business, the entire Julian Bowen team will keep challenging itself to improve in everything that we do,’ says Lenaghan.

Visit: www.julian-bowen.co.uk

JULIAN BOWEN

New Valentino Velvet Bed Bentinck House, Park Lane Business Park, Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Notts NG17 9LE tel: (01623) 727374 fax: (01623) 754555 email: sales@julian-bowen.co.uk web: www.julian-bowen.co.uk

All Products are available for Direct Home Delivery JB 230720 IM 297210 B.indd 1

24/07/2020 12:39

AWARDS

Floorwise Best Flooring Wholesaler With a huge selection of underlays and accessories, together with a distribution network covering the UK and Republic of Ireland, Floorwise is delighted to have its long-standing commitment to flooring retailers again recognised by the readers of Interiors Monthly.

Working hard to ensure that its impressive product portfolio meets the needs of retailers and fitters, the Floorwise brand now leads the way in solutions that provide valuable up-sell opportunity while helping to improve the quality of installations. Retailers have come to rely on the Floorwise name not only for this but also for providing service from a network of distributors that understand the needs of its customers on a regional basis.

‘It’s great that our efforts to provide retailers with a reliable wholesale service have been recognised by the people we serve,’ says Richard Bailey, Floorwise md. ‘We are quite unique in the way we operate, a collective effort of members

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

that combines local knowledge and an innate understanding of customers with products specified to deliver retailers exceptional value and great quality.

Whether underlay, levelling compounds, tapes, adhesive, tools, grippers, mats or profiles: the Floorwise name always stands for quality and value backed by great service and this is something we are hugely proud of.’

With 20 branches throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland, Floorwise members are equipped to provide retailers with a service that places reliability above all else, delivering on time with care and attention. It is this that helps to keep Floorwise a constant in a changing retail landscape, providing much-needed security and a confidence in the service it provides.

‘I’d like to thank all retailers who took part in this year’s awards and voted for Floorwise to be recognised as the best flooring wholesaler,’ says Bailey.

Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk

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1 Neil Smith Ltd 8 Hathaway Flooring Glasgow Trafford Park, Manchester Tel: 0141 552 1141 Tel: 0161 872 8003 sales@neilsmithltd.co.uk sales@hathawayflooring.com 2 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 9 Cornerstone Flooring Belfast Doncaster Tel: 028 9075 3202 Tel: 01302 835117 Fax: 028 9075 3901 Fax: 01302 302542 salesbelfast@pfl.ie cornerstonefloor@btconnect.com 3 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 10 Birch Distribution Dublin 12 Sheffield, S9 5PH Tel: 00353 (0)1 626 3913 Tel: 0114 243 1230 Fax: 00353 (0)1 460 4669 Fax: 0114 243 5118 salesdublin@pfl.ie n.maude@birchdistribution.co.uk 4 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 11 Woodall Brothers Ltd Limerick Shrewsbury, Shropshire Tel: 00353 (0)61 227 100 Tel: 01743 441584 Fax: 00353 (0)61 227 000 Fax: 01743 441629 sales@pfl.ie sales@woodallbrothers.co.uk 5 Preston Underlay Centre Ltd 12 Floorwise D & J Ltd Preston, Lancashire Southam, Warwickshire Tel: 01772 556345 Tel: 01926 814922 sales@pucflooring.co.uk Fax: 01926 817899 sales@fwdj.co.uk 6 Birch Distribution Leeds, LS10 1AG 13 Salesmark Ltd Tel: 0113 244 4363 St Neots, Cambridgeshire Fax: 0113 244 8665 Tel: 01480 212888 l.sigsworth@birchdistribution.co.uk Fax: 01480 218585 sales@salesmark.co.uk 7 Birch Distribution Hull, HU7 0XD 14 BL Flooring Supplies Ltd Tel: 01482 826654 Gloucester Fax: 01482 878693 Tel: 01452 223355 d.ostler@birchdistribution.co.uk Fax: 01452 371284 info@blflooring.co.uk 15 BL Flooring Supplies Ltd Bristol Tel: 0117 955 5454 Fax: 0117 955 2626 info@blflooring.co.uk

13 17 18

AWARDS

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Moduleo LayRed Product of the Year (Flooring)

Below: Country Oak Below right: Cantera

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

The true focus of the Moduleo LayRed collection is to blend style with substance to produce an engineered vinyl flooring range that looks great but is hardwearing enough to rival natural counterparts. Providing the opportunity to choose from a range of different styles, patterns and colours, LayRed can be an alternative offering thanks to its integrated underlay.

Each LayRed plank is made up of 12 layers which, when combined, create a strong and exceptionally durable product. This reinforced design, in combination with integrated underlay and exceptional sound-absorption qualities, means the product is easier to install – ideal for surfaces that are uneven. It can even be applied straight over existing flooring, including tiles.

‘Our aim with LayRed was to create a pioneering, show-stopping range of flooring that would become a staple in our customers’ homes. We’re proud of the collection, which is equipped for every challenge, and we feel the large variety of styles on offer makes it an excellent choice for those looking to reinvigorate their home,’ says David

Bigland, IVC UK and Eire md.

Compatible with underfloor heating, the water-resistant material can be used throughout the home. And because it’s designed to be warm underfoot, LayRed can give rooms an extra layer of comfort, especially on cold winter mornings.

Innovation was paramount when developing LayRed. Insight from parent company IVC Group emphasised that people have busy lives, space is often limited in the home and the housing market is saturated with existing property needing to be renovated. This research was the driving force behind LayRed and the team worked to develop a product able to handle all of life’s challenges: one that combined luxury design with rigid performance.

Choosing Moduleo is also making an environmentally sound choice for the future, as Moduleo is entirely designed and engineered at the company’s purpose-built, eco-friendly manufacturing facility in Avelgem, Belgium. All Moduleo floors contain up to 50% recycled material and are themselves recyclable.

Visit: www.moduleo.co.uk

EDITORS CHOICE PRODUCT OF THE YEAR (FLOORING)

LAYRED PERFECT ON EVERY LEVEL ®

.01 DESIGN

.02 COMFORT

Soft strong and silent, LayRed is engineered for every challenge.

Featuring an integrated underlay ensuring easier installation, great acoustics and better leveling on uneven surfaces. Ideal for renovation projects LayRed is water, scratch and stain resistant, keeping floors in perfect condition for many years to come.

.03 STRENGTH

NEW

moduleo.co.uk/layred

7237 Moduleo Interiors Monthly 297x210mm.indd 1

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AWARDS

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Hypnos Sustainability (Furniture)

Below: Cotton Origins Bottom: Wool Origins

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Interiors Monthly August 2020

Luxury bed manufacturer Hypnos is celebrating after claiming the Interiors Monthly Award for Sustainability (Furniture). The accolade was awarded in recognition of its commitment to low carbon, ethical manufacturing.

The achievement comes hot on the heels of another prestigious honour, the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development, which Hypnos was given in April for its tireless commitment to ethical bed production.

The company has been on a decadelong sustainability journey which has seen it pioneer sustainable sleep solutions for retailers and clued-up consumers increasingly hungry for products that are truly ethical. This includes its industry-first Origins Collection, which saw the company develop a unique partnership with Red Tractor, the UK’s biggest farm and food standards scheme. This collection is the first to feature certified British wool, traceable back to farms whose farmers are committed to the care of their animals and land.

Each mattress in the Origins Collection features traceable, ethical and environmentally responsible materials, including cotton from the Better Cotton Initiative. The transparency and unrivalled traceability offered through

this collection is already proving popular with retailers and consumers alike.

It is through innovations such as this and by constantly improving its sourcing of natural materials that Hypnos has been able to shape and change the landscape of mattress design for the industry, creating comfort with integrity.

‘Sustainable operations and manufacturing are the lifeblood of Hypnos. It runs through every area of the business and everything we do, whether that’s purchasing or how our master craftsmen operate, so it’s fantastic to be recognised in this way,’ says Richard Naylor, Hypnos sustainable development director.

‘We pride ourselves on creating innovative and industry-leading achievements, and awards such as this push us to work even harder when it comes to sustainability. It’s just one of the reasons why we were the world’s first carbon-neutral bed maker and it’s why all our mattresses use 100% natural fibres such as horse hair, wool, cotton and latex, meaning they’re fully recyclable and contribute to the circular economy rather than ending up at landfill. And all of the timber used in our divan bases is sourced from sustainably managed forests and is FSC and PEFC compliant too.’

Visit: www.hypnosbeds.com

We value the people, animals and places behind our new sustainable and ethical bed ranges.

Expertly handcrafted mattresses with 100% traceable British Wool from Red Tractor assured farms.

hypnosbeds.com Hypnos is proud to be Carbon Neutral | Handmade in Britain and 100% recyclable

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AWARDS

EDITORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHOICE

Cavalier Carpets Select-ASwatch POS Innovation (Flooring)

Above right: Select-A-Swatch Below: lectern, selectern, slimline wall units, single drum tombola

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The Select-A-Swatch POS system was previewed at The Flooring Show in 2019, where it met with a lot of interest and even generated orders prior to going into full production. Following extensive development and many prototypes it is now available for the storage of Cavalier swatch books.

The modular wall-mounted panel design allows retailers to display up to 12 Cavalier products within just one linear metre of wall space.

The swatches cleverly attach to the unit for a smart appearance and can be easily removed and reattached.

Select-A-Swatch is complemented by a range of units.

The pre-assembled modern wall units feature lifestyle graphics and low energy lighting and come in 500mm-wide modules with 11 easy-change product cassettes to choose from, a pattern book shelf and storage area.

The lectern complements the new wall units and holds 27in x 18in samples, while the Design a Drum tombola holds 100 samples.

The selectern is a flexible alternative to a standard lectern, holding either two or four products in a choice of 9in x 18in and 18in x 18in samples. With swatch storage space, two units back to back have a footprint of just over 1 sqm.

Visit: www.cavaliercarpets.co.uk

Select-A-Swatch the revolutionary, award winning new pos offering from Cavalier, puts a stylish end to swatches lying on the floor

AWARDS

EDITORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHOICE

Parker Knoll Furniture Brand 2020

Right: Devonshire Grand Below: Wycombe

Established for over 150 years, Parker Knoll is renowned for designing and developing the best of British sofas and chairs to the highest possible quality.

Today, in its state-of-the-art factory in rural Nottinghamshire, its founderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment is still at the heart of everything that it does, producing attractive, high-quality designs with the utmost style.

Not only does Parker Knoll give you the ultimate comfort experience, it also adds a hint of luxurious style to homes through its beautiful designs and luxury fabrics. Its extensive fabric range covers everything from handsome plains, decorative prints, classic demasks and

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deep and rich velvets, to the softest chenilles, providing a world of choice to create the perfect sofa or chair.

2020 will be the landmark year for moving motion technology into its Classic range. Famed for revolutionising reclining furniture, Parker Knoll continues to innovate in this space, with Newbury being the latest launch. With tailored arms and a high back, Newbury provides enduring comfort and the ultimate in support. In addition, Parker Knoll will also add Dakota to its Lifestyle collection.

Dakota is sophisticated and subtle and comes with the option of a standard or powered recline as well as a USB port.

Visit: www.parkerknoll.co.uk

AWARDS

The display stand has a digital module

Invictus Flooring Brand 2020

Below: The brand has been expanded into LVT Below right: Shoppers can view both collections online

Since its launch in 2015, Invictus has been a key reference in the UK market for comfortable broadloom carpet.

Associated Weavers, the maker of Invictus carpet expanded the brand into luxury vinyl flooring. With the same attention to quality, the same eye for exclusive designs, and a unique performance level, Invictus luxury vinyl flooring is the perfect match to Invictus carpet.

Associated Weavers stands out from the crowd for UK presence, branding and in-store solutions, and the Invictus luxury vinyl flooring concept and display are no exception. The branding and visuals immediately attract customers’ attention.

Associated Weavers has reinvented the in-store display and brings a tool with an intuitive digital module to offer a great customer experience, guiding customers through an efficient and funto-do purchase process. Such symbiosis between traditional samples and digital journey is previously unseen in the

flooring business.

‘Invictus luxury vinyl flooring brings a well-balanced collection of 84 SKUs: wood, stone and parquet designs in dryback and rigid click.

‘When it comes to delivering a great performance, nothing beats Invictus luxury vinyl flooring. The name is no coincidence: in Latin ‘invictus’ means invincible. Invictus luxury vinyl flooring is sure to meet all your expectations.

‘Whatever your decorating style, there’s an Invictus luxury vinyl floor for every home, from contemporary to country, traditional townhouse to urban loft. Choose your preferred style and let it guide you towards the floor that is just right for you,’ says Gavin Pugh, Associated Weavers md.

Visit: www.invictus.co.uk.

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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• A •bundle A bundle of successful of successful concepts concepts & innovations: & innovations: ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® , Invictus , Invictus , Vivendi , Vivendi , Sedna , Sedna & StainAway & StainAway . ®. iSense iSense • Multiple • Multiple modules modules can can be tailored be tailored individually individually to the to concept the concept of your of your store store • Customers • Customers can can stroll stroll around around the the collections, collections, presented presented in clear in clear displays, displays, in a in relaxed a relaxed atmosphere. atmosphere.

• A •dynamic A dynamic overall overall solution solution for successful for successful carpet carpet sales. sales.

14/07/2020 14/07/2020 12:38:57 12:38:57

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

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

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

Costs for larger recruitment adverts are available upon request.

Please contact Jarrod on E: jbird@interiorsmonthly.co.uk T: 01565 631 397

SALES AGENTS REQUIRED Slumberdream Group is a Midland based bed manufacturer with over 30 years of experience in the UK bed manufacturing industry. We are looking for enthusiastic regional sales agents who can effectively promote our brands such as HEALTHTHERAPY & SPRUNGLAND. Also require wholesaler of beds and mattresses in Ireland It is important that candidates have a proven track record of successfully seeking and maintaining new opportunities in order to promote sales.

Individuals should be determined, able to work independently and have excellent communication skills. This role will suit an established sales agents with experience in selling mattress and divan beds to respective areas.

To apply, please send your applications with a full detailed CV plus details of your current package: Sales Director, Slumberdream Group, Slumber House, Albion Road, Sparkhill, Birmingham, B11 2NR email: careers@slumberdream.co.uk All applications will be treated with strict confidentiality

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