Interiors Monthly December 2014

December 2014

Interiors monthly

first for furniture, flooring and accessories

Carpet

2014’s bestsellers

JFS

Preview

FURNITURE

FLOORING

BEDS

CARPET

RUGS

ACCESSORIES

pply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . T e Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutio Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Co nstant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier hink Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consume isfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Th anging Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strateg Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Cha stomer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Cost S ecialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialist Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining S pply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . T e Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutio Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Co nstant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier hink Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consume isfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Th anging Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strateg Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Cost stomer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specia ecialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialist Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining pply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . T e Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutio Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Co nstant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier hink Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consume isfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Th anging Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strateg Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Con stomer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specia ecialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialist Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining S pply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . T e Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutio Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Cr nstant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier hink Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consume isfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Th anging Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strateg Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Cust stomer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining Supply . . . Think Constant Supp ecialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialist Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining S pply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Constant Support . . . T e Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier . . . Think Creative Solutio Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . Think Client Strategies . . . Think Consumer Satisfaction . . . Think Co nstant Support . . . TCS The Carpet Specialists . . . Think Cost Savings . . . Think Customer Service . . . Think Changing Supplier hink Creative Solutions . . . Think Combining Supply . . . Think Carpet Specialists . . . . TCS The Carpet Specialists . . .

COMING SOON the carpet specialists

VISIT US IN HALL 3 STAND G40

tcsimports.com TCS - Solely Committed to Serving Independent Retailers

Telephone: 00353 42 682 0 682

SERVICE QUALITY VALUE

EDITOR’S COMMENT

Andrew Kidd EDITOR

Cause for concern?

With the housing market showing major signs of slowing down, is it just a correction or something more worrying?

Mortgage lending fell to its lowest level for 17 months in October. The British Bankers’ Association says that 37,076 mortgages were approved in the month, the fourth consecutive monthly fall and well below January’s high of 48,649. The number of mortgages was 16% lower than a year ago and their value was down 13%. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors also reported that in October buyer enquiries fell for the fourth month in a row.

With the interiors sector’s strong link to the housing market, such statistics could be regarded as alarm bells warning of worse times to come. More likely is the effects of recent house price rises deterring people from crossing the surveyor, estate agent or solicitor’s door as they think they cannot

Interiors

Editor: Andrew Kidd

December 2014

monthly

first for furniture, flooring and accessories

Carpet

2014’s bestsellers

JFS

Preview

afford to move. Add to that the unwanted consequence of the Mortgage Market Review that was designed to ensure borrowers could afford to pay back what they borrow, but has restricted access to mortgages to anyone who would not have paid it off by the time they retired – anyone over 40 – and it’s no surprise that mortgage numbers are down.

And understandably, some may be reluctant to commit themselves ahead of next year’s general election and the economic policies that may follow.

So does this mean it’s time to get back on the roller-coaster? Unlikely, as interest rates do not seem to be moving anytime soon and as Mark Harris, chief executive of upmarket financial services firm SPF Private Clients, put it: ‘there is an astonishing array of rockbottom fixed rate mortgages available.’

The general cooling of the housing market, which is still forecast to increase by 3%-5% next year, will be welcomed by those trying to get on the property ladder and it is those buyers who have historically been the most important.

From everyone at Interiors Monthly a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year to each of you.

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

Furniture advertising (South): Tim Boden T: 01732 441 130 E: tboden@interiorsmonthly.co.uk To register for the January Furniture Show visit www.januaryfurnitureshow.com

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

Carpet, flooring, lighting and accessories advertising: Joanne Paull T: 01732 441 130 E: jpaull@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

FURNITURE

FLOORING

BEDS

CARPET

RUGS

ACCESSORIES

Published by Interiors Media Limited Minerva House, Kinnings Row, Bordyke, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1NP T: 01732 441 130 F: 01732 362 919 E: enquiries@interiorsmonthly.co.uk Registered in England no. 6397722 Print: Knockout Print Design by TSS DIGITAL © Interiors Media Limited ISSN 1756-2236

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

3

Show Stopping Offers Across all Ranges

upholstery dining bedroom

Visit us in

HALL 3 STAND G40

EVERYTHING ON SHOW STOCKED FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY tcsimports.com TCS - Solely Committed to Serving Independent Retailers

Telephone: 00353 42 682 0 682

SERVICE QUALITY VALUE

CONTENTS

INTERIORS MONTHLY DECEMBER 2014

INSIDE THIS ISSUE NEWS 6

UK sales up for Victoria Carpets

8

Camp Hopson taken over by Morleys

12

Farewell to John Mackenzie

FEATURES 20

Retail Tesco’s themes for spring and summer

30

Carpet This year’s bestsellers and Adam Carpets upgrades its dye house

36

Upholstery Spink & Edgar takes a different route to comfort

38

Accessories The latest curtain poles and finials

40

Buying groups Increasing membership and a marketing initiative

44

LVT What the future holds for manufacturing

46

Beds and bedroom Pillows and toppers and learning about sleep

52

Preview Latest news for the January Furniture Show, Domotex, IMM Cologne, Heimtextil, Home, Top Drawer and Craft

68

Review Brussels Furniture Fair

REGULARS 15

Warranties

16

New products

NEXT ISSUE January Furniture Show guide Flagship of flagship stores Celebration time www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

5

NEWS

Westex delivers UK profits and sales boost for Victoria Victoria Carpets boosted UK sales by almost 60% and delivered more than £2.5m of profit in the past six months, thanks largely to its ownership of Westex. UK sales jumped by 57.6% to £22.14m in the six months to 28 September as a pre-tax loss of £5,000 became a profit of £2.524m.

‘Progress continues at Victoria, with a record (pre-exceptional items) first-half profit. Despite significant increases in some raw material prices, particularly wool, a continued focus on operational efficiencies and the full integration of Westex into the group

has resulted in a very satisfactory outcome,’ says Geoff Wilding, Victoria executive chairman.

‘Although Victoria has grown significantly in the last 12 months, revenues still represent only a tiny fraction of the markets in which it trades. There is both potential for sales to increase in line with the market and the opportunity to grow market share.’

Victoria has made two acquisitions – Westex and Abingdon – aimed at delivering a comprehensive product offering to retailers. Wilding says although the group is executing a

number of synergies, each business will continue to retain management autonomy to provide flexibility, ensure accountability, and keep management closer to the customer where needs are more readily identified and met.

‘This is not to say we will have it all our own way,’ he says. ‘Competition remains intense and raw material prices are increasing, both of which keep margins under pressure. We are therefore constantly exploring ways to operate more efficiently. Our increased scale is helping materially with this task,’ he adds.

ScS nears century as owner eyes flotation

From left: Jo Moore, Spink & Edgar Upholstery commercial director; Jason Hibbert, operations manager; Simon Spinks, Harrison Spinks md; and Harrison the sheep

Springing into upholstery Spink & Edgar Upholstery is to introduce its first designs this month, with springs replacing 60% of foam and other manmade materials in the seat cushions and frame.

‘Still using traditional hand-craftsmanship, we wanted to reinvent comfort and completely revolutionise the way upholstery is made. Harrison Spinks’ out of the box thinking is what has made it a world leader in innovative spring technology, and we wanted to do the same for the Spink & Edgar sofas,’ says Jason Hibbert, Spink & Edgar Upholstery operations manager (see page 36).

‘It’s surprising what’s possible when like-minded people get together with nothing but a shared vision. With both Jo [Moore, commercial director] and Jason’s combined experience within the upholstery industry, they have developed an amazing product which I’m so proud to be associated with Harrison Spinks,’ says Simon Spinks, md of parent company Harrison Spinks.

6

Interiors Monthly December 2014

Upholstery and carpet chain ScS has taken another step toward reaching 100 branches.

The company has opened a 15,000sqft store – its 96th – on Croydon’s Purley Way Retail Park, creating 25 jobs.

Its 97th branch opens in Slough before Christmas. The 95th store opened in Paisley in August.

David Knight, ScS chief executive, says: ‘Our investment in these new stores, which exceeds £2.5m, provides great opportunities

for the local communities in Croydon, Paisley and Slough.’

The openings came as owner Sun European has appointed bankers Investec to examine a possible sale or return to the stock market. The private equity firm bought the chain from administration in 2008.

Sales climbed by 17.9% to £245m with a pre-tax profit of £4.1m in the year to 27 July 2013. The 2.3% margin compared with a previous loss of £1.1m

M&S home sales hit The problematic relaunch of Marks & Spencer’s website hit home sales in the six months to 27 September.

When the chain relaunched marksandspencer.com earlier this year shoppers complained it was hard to navigate and that they had to re-register their details.

Online accounts for more

than a third of the chain’s home sales.

Total online sales, which were 6.3% lower in the first quarter, improved to be down 4.6% in the second quarter.

Marks & Spencer is forecasting growth ahead of Christmas helped by a guest checkout facility and improved navigation.

SHOW THEM YOU’RE THE BEST Stand out from the crowd by gaining Sleep Council Sales Academy status – the new online qualification for bed retail sales professionals

WHY YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS E-LEARNING PROGRAMME Focuses on sleep knowledge, not product knowledge Shows how to use that knowledge effectively to build trust with customers Demonstrates professional achievement and adds credibility to your sales pitch Measures and improves your Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Accessible online – dynamic and interactive Qualify and download the Sleep Hub App with latest industry news, tips and a community forum to share learning experience and ongoing sales advice It’s very affordable at only £25 per person

To find out more and to enrol, go to

www.sleepcouncilsalesacademy.org.uk

NEWS

Morleys buys Camp Hopson For Camp Hopson 160 years of family ownership has come to an end after department store chain Morleys bought its Newbury rival, making it its eighth store.

Although it adopted the Camp Hopson name in 1921, the company can trace its beginning back to 1854 when decorator Joseph Hopson began selling furniture.

Morleys owns seven other independently branded department stores across the south of England including Elys in Wimbledon, Pearsons in Enfield and Morleys of Bicester. It plans to spend £3m upgrading the Newbury store, with the deal pushing group sales above £100m. In the year ended January 2014, Morleys had sales of £90.6m with a pre-tax profit of £7.1m. In the first nine months trading of the current year, group like for like sales are 6% higher.

‘We’re delighted that Morleys Group will keep the Camp Hopson name, retain our existing staff and make a substantial new investment in the business,’ says Jonathan Hopson, Camp Hopson chief executive.

‘Camp Hopson always sought to provide the best possible service to the people of Newbury. The department store and furniture store will benefit hugely from being part of a bigger independent department store group given the skills, expertise and buying power it brings,’ he says.

‘The long-established expertise of both businesses will help to drive the store’s success going forward,’ says David Hordle, Morleys md.

Camp Hopson has a two-storey furniture, flooring and furnishings store opposite the full-line department store.

Some 32 years after Hopson began selling furniture in the town’s West Street, Alfred Camp opened Camp’s Drapery Bazaar at Northbrook Street (pictured). After Hopson’s death in 1899 his two sons, Joseph Jnr and Frederic, inherited the business. Joseph Jnr’s son Paul married Camp’s daughter Norah and in 1921 the two businesses merged to form Camp Hopson and take over the Northbrook Street premises.

Tarkett provides flooring and sports surfaces

Tarkett snaps up carpet maker Desso Carpet manufacturer Desso is to become part of Tarkett after venture capital company Bencis Capital and Desso management agreed a takeover offer.

Although terms have not been disclosed, venture capital experts have said the deal gives Desso an enterprise value of €160m – seven years worth of profit.

Desso had sales of €202m in the past year, of which 13% came from residential carpet, 77% contract carpets and 10% sports surfaces.

It has two plants in Holland and one in Belgium and has about 820 employees.

Crusher aids green effort Carpet Craft Flooring has boosted its environmental efforts and reduced its skip costs by investing in a carpet crushing machine from Kenburn to support its zero to landfill policy.

By using the crusher all its waste polypropylene offcuts are recycled into equestrian flooring and all its carpet waste mixed with old underlay is converted

8

Interiors Monthly December 2014

Bencis acquired Desso in April 2011 from NPM Capital via its €375m Bencis Buyout Fund III, which typically makes equity investments of €10-€35m in Benelux companies with enterprise values of €25-€150m.

‘We are very excited to join Tarkett with whom we share the same vision and entrepreneurial values, as well as a strong commitment to sustainability, both applying the cradle to cradle principles at each step of the product’s life and supporting the development of the circular economy,’ says Alexander Collot d’Escury, Desso ceo.

into refuse derived fuel.

‘As part of our commitment to the environment we’re operating on a zero to landfill policy which not only prevents hundreds of tonnes of waste carpet and underlay going to landfill every year, it also at the same time saves us thousands of pounds a year in skip costs, so it’s a win-win scenario,’ says Mark Lilleker, CCF md.

A new direction in flooring

Looking for a new direction in flooring?

You need a partner that delivers this and more.

Furlong Flooring offer market leading products, at competitive prices with excellent service levels – add to that most orders are delivered next working day through our national distribution network and you’ve got a compelling proposition.

Quality runs deep whether it’s our high-impact display systems or our extensive portfolio of polypropylene carpet, wool carpet, vinyl & wood flooring.

Choose the path to increased success and contact Furlong Flooring.

www.furlongflooring.co.uk

T H E F U R LO N G F LO O R I N G P O R T F O L I O

Wool Collection

www.furlongflooring.co.uk

I

Sales: Preston - 01772 696 787

I

Dartford - 01322 628 707

I

Gloucester - 0845 520 0800

Look for the Buttery

EVERYBODY HAS A SOFT SIDE iSense is a unique fibre manufactured within the group exclusively for Associated Weavers.

The individual look of Sensuality using the newest technical innovation of iSense has taken product development to a new level. All Sensuality iSense branded carpets are available in 4m and extra wide 5m widths incorporating the new fusion bac. This backing is easy to fit, keeps the heat in better than other backings and is compatible with underfloor heating.

In addition all Sensuality ranges have a new

20 year wear guarantee. The Sensuality display stands continue to be introduced to Associated Weavers retail customers and will continue to be fitted in the market during 2015. In addition new ranges are being developed for launch at Domotex to further establish the brand as a market leading carpet collection. To view the complete Sensuality range and its back-up marketing support contact your Associated Weavers sales manager to bring Sensuality to your store.

Sales office Christmas opening times

Associated Weavers Sales: 01422 431100 Email: salesuk@awe.be

To ensure you get the carpet you require, our sales office is open until 23 December including Saturday mornings until 6th December. We have invested in our delivery fleet throughout 2014 and will continue our programme of investment into 2015, ensuring you continue receiving your orders on time and as efficiently as possible.

Ring in the New Year for 2015 We will make sure you are first for sales in 2015. Be at the head of the queue to see the new Associated Weavers collection at Domotex by visiting Hall 6, stand A20. We will be adding new ideas to our incredibly successful iSense brand, supported by more stunning POS. AW will again be at the cutting-edge of product development with a new collection of carpets designed to give you something unique to appeal to your customers. We will also be launching innovative ranges to further increase sales in our StainAway collection. If you can’t make it to Hannover, your AW sales manager will be calling on you to give you a full new collection update.

The Sensuality Collection

“

Six qualities giving six unique experiences. Each range has its own specific

features when it comes to its composition, look and feel. Sensuality adds another dimension to broadloom carpet.

James Summerskill

�

Marketing Manager Associated Weavers

NEWS

Farewell to John Mackenzie John Mackenzie, a bed industry stalwart of almost 30 years, died in October after some months of failing health.

Mackenzie was born in Greenock in 1935 and in his early career served as a police officer in the town. He joined Rest Assured as marketing director and from 1976 to1986 was Sealy UK md, establishing the US brand in the UK market.

After a brief period as Slumberland md, he moved to Sleepeezee in 1987, when it was part of Christie-Tyler and also served on the main C-T board. He became chairman of French-owned Continental Sleep Holdings in 1995, which purchased Sleepeezee, Cumfilux and Nestledown (now known as the Simmons Group).

Mackenzie was passionate about the bed industry and served on the National Bed Federation council for many years and as its president in 1988-1989, where he steered through its name change, from the National Bedding Federation.

He will also be remembered for taking part in many Big Shots clay pigeon shooting events, raising money for the FTBA, the industry charity now called The Furniture Makers Company. He retired in 2000.

Mackenzie is survived by his wife Jacki, brother Duncan, four daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A Visioni decorative panel

AEE gets SBID award AEE Interior Design’s Visioni decorative panels won the Residential Product category at this year’s Society of British and International Design awards.

The panels are created by international artists using natural pigments, precious dust, leaves and acrylic colours, that are coated with anti-UV resins.

In addition to the 12 collections and 180 designs, clients can have custommade panels to bring their ideas to life without

compromise, working side by side with the artists.

The panels are waterproof, UV resistant and anti-scratch, therefore can be used for shower walls, sliding doors, kitchen backsplashes, indoor or outdoor walls, steam rooms or ceilings.

Fifteen products were shortlisted including Kingsmead Carpets’ Glen Shee, Sylka Carpets, William Pedersen’s Loop de Loop chair, Splinter Works’ Bodice Rocker and Trend GB’s Metropolis flooring.

Judges inspired by Ikea’s sustainable plan Ikea UK was named as ICAEW Sustainable Business of the Year at the 2014 National Business Awards.

Focusing on corporate longevity, the award recognises organisations that have embedded business sustainability principles and practices and are reaping the benefits in terms of improved commercial performance, competitiveness, customer perception, staff engagement, and prospects for continued financial strength.

The judges said: ‘Ikea stood out as a leader in its field and we were inspired

12

Interiors Monthly December 2014

by the scale of its ambition to have a genuinely net positive impact on the world. We were also particularly impressed that its CFO was as literate in sustainability as its sustainability manager.’

‘Winning the award is an extraordinary acknowledgement of the steps that we’re taking at Ikea to embed sustainability within our business. In our sector there’s a real opportunity in 2015 to embrace sustainability as a chance for growth, and engaging the customer in completely new ways,’ says Joanna

Yarrow, Ikea head of sustainability.

Richard Spencer, ICAEW head of sustainability, said: ‘It is now more crucial than ever that companies embed sustainability at every level of their business. ICAEW believes passionately that finance professionals have a role to play in driving sustainability and best practice, and it was evident that Ikea takes this as seriously as we do; putting sustainability first right across its operations. We are delighted to congratulate it on a well-deserved award.’

WARRANTIES

Your questions answered Helen Kershaw, Guardsman head of marketing, answers your questions on product protection

Q

We’ve recently expanded our offer by stocking some carpets. Although several manufacturers emphasise the cleanability of their carpets, some customers have asked if they can protect it with a warranty, as they have with their furniture. What can I offer them?

You can offer them a Guardsman five-year Carpet Protection Plan. Many manufacturers produce carpets which you can clean with bleach, however, many consumers still prefer wool and natural fibre carpets to the new, modern synthetic options.

But these can be more difficult to clean as the structure of their fibres means that spills can easily penetrate deep into the pile and cause a stain.

With a Guardsman protection plan, Safeclean technicians are on hand to visit consumers’ homes and use their specialist knowledge and equipment to remove even the most difficult stains.

Furthermore, the plan also provides cover for accidental damage such as rips or burns so your customers will have even greater peace of mind.

A

GUARANTEE YOUR 2015 SALES SUCCESS …

5 ESSENTIAL WAYS TO MAXIMISE YOUR SALES AND PROFIT ● ADVERTISING – Most advertising does not work very well, so if yours isn’t, stop wasting your money. Don’t blame the media, blame the message. Re-write your advertising in a benefits-orientated-style. Call Greenwood for effective copywriting know-how. ● PRODUCTS – Be ruthless with your precious retail space.

If a product or collection is not pulling its weight after being given the chance to perform, then clear it and replace it with a better performing line. Test and measure the selling potential of all your products in a Greenwood Sale. ● SELLING SKILLS – Get good at selling. Most retailers don’t bother with a proper sales process or sales training for big ticket lines. The successful ones do. Invest time and money in quality sales know-how. Call Greenwood to arrange an effective sales training course. ● COMPETITION – Check your competition to find out what they are offering. Avoid all-out price wars. Be sure to beat your competition on the most relevant beneficial points including choice, quality, value and service. Call Greenwood to mystery shop your competitors. ● PROMOTION – Promote your business effectively, just like every good retailer from Aldi to Harrod’s. Consider using a ‘Greenwood’ Sales Promotion to increase sales, turn stock into cash and win future market share, while protecting your profit at the same time. Call Greenwood!

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT GREENWOOD SALES...

Take a look at our website or call us now on 01565 650101 or, send an e mail enquiry, and we’ll gladly call you to discuss the exciting possibilities we can offer you, without obligation.

We are now booking events right across the UK and Ireland throughout 2015 on a first come first served basis. The best dates always go first.

Book your sales event early to guarantee exclusivity for your business.

CALL TODAY

01565 650101

BUY BRITISH

Carpets can be protected against rips

Sponsored by

GREENWOOD RETAIL LTD Britain’s Leading Experts in Retail Sales Promotion www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

15

George House, 3 Royal Court, Tatton Street, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 6EN sales@greenwoodretail.com www.greenwoodretail.com

NEW PRODUCTS

1

2

4

5 offers an extensive collection of cork and cork hybrid floors.

Tel: 01785 711 131

1 Jetclass’s Venezia sofa has a comforting and welcoming appearance.

The company says its finishing is the noblest possible and promises to make any moment memorable.

Visit: www.jetclass.pt

3

2 Louis de Poortere has introduced four rug designs, bringing autumnal tones and on-trend greys to its Vintage and Cameo collections. Colours of spiced orange and cinnamon, warmed with ruby reds and deep browns, parade through Multi Foliage and Multi Spicy, while greys and contrasting tonal blues give new meaning to the organic shapes and eastern influences on Multi Lavender and Multi Vesuvio.

Visit: www.louisdepoortere.com 3 With eight new agents covering the UK, Granorte is ensuring that retailers and design practices across the country can enjoy the benefits that cork can bring.

The natural properties of cork make it an excellent choice for flooring. Granorte

16

Interiors Monthly December 2014

4 The Academy for Excellence in Flooring has recently undertaken a bespoke course programme for flooring retailers looking to convert customers to higher value purchases of Quick-Step flooring. Looking at the numerous up-selling opportunities for Quick-Step laminate, hardwood and LVT flooring, the course delivered insight through additional product knowledge, features, benefits and the valuable additional revenue stream offered by accessories.

Visit: www.quick-step-academy.co.uk 5 SBT Design was contracted to design two bedside cabinets and a large dresser durable enough to withstand the knocks of daily living. To ensure optimum protection, SBT Design treated the wood with Osmo Cherry #3137 Wood Wax Finish Transparent. The satin-matt wood finish combines all the advantages of oils and waxes in one product providing a protective base and a rich warm colouring to the wood.

Tel: 01296 481 220

Products: Present Time, Burgon & Ball, J-Me, Suck UK, Present Time, Burgon & Ball

INSPIRING BUYING IN 2015 THE NEWEST PRODUCTS, INNOVATIONS AND TRENDS FROM OVER 3,000 EXHIBITORS. REGISTER FOR YOUR COMPLIMENTARY TICKET AT WWW.SPRINGFAIR.COM/INTERIORSMONTHLY

NEW PRODUCTS

6

9

7

10

6 L’Abbate’s 2015 catalogue features 96 pages and covers its table, stool, chair, upholstery and storage collections.

Visit: www.labbateitalia.it

8

7 The Stainfree Classic Collection from Abingdon Flooring has 20 fresh fashion colours to give customers choice, multi-widths to save them money and a three weight ‘good, better, best’ offering to enrich any room. Each range has the added benefit of Aqua Pro-Tec, a protective barrier that makes any liquid spill sit on top of the carpet and not soak in.

Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk 8 Continuing to expand its naturals offering, Kersaint Cobb has added two colours to the Sisal Fine Boucle range, which is now available in eight earthy tones. The 100% Sisal range is both practical and durable, and creates a

18

Interiors Monthly December 2014

contemporary yet rustic look for living spaces.

Visit: www.kersaintcobb.co.uk 9 The reduced footprint at the back of Wewood’s Orca chair means it takes up less floorspace and is therefore ideal for confined dining spaces. Orca is a versatile chair, adapting to the taste and function that the user wants to give to it, available in solid oak or walnut, and optional leather or fabric cushion.

Visit: www.wewood.eu 10 Kährs’ Oak Arctic wood floor received the Gold Award for Best Flooring in the House Beautiful Awards 2014. The stunning design, from the Unity Collection, beat seven shortlisted finalists and reflects the key ‘whitewashed’ floor trend, while providing environmental, performance and practical benefits.

Visit: www.kahrs.co.uk

RETAIL

Seasonal

styles Tesco’s spring/summer home collection includes six key themes. Visit: www.tescodirect.com

Idaho large sofa, Lausanne armchair in leather and fabric, Arizona coffee, console and side tables, Multi Bean rug, Indiana table lamp, Chunky Knit throw and various cushions

New West Inject a hint of the Wild West into homes with layers of desert hues and rugged textures.

This season’s ranch chic is easy living at its most stylish.

Twinned with burnished leathers, cool cottons and patchwork prints, this is a look that is sure to be well loved and lived-in.

Whatever the weather in the summer, this style invites warmth with rich woods and chunky recycled Wood and metal Arizona dining table and bench paired with a mismatch of yellow and grey Marseille metal chairs for an industrial feel glass.

20

Interiors Monthly December 2014

Lausanne armchair in horizontal patchwork

Snapshot: key materials/prints/patterns Floral Brush Strokes Meadow Flowers Woven Blend Geometric Prints Contour Prints Textured Cotton Printed Landscapes Wood Grain Embroidered Fauna Burnt Velvet Subtle Ombré Knits Metallics Painted Abstracts Woven Prints

Welcome in a new era of ordering from Kettle Interiors that saves you money and still delivers the same great service.

Stamford Oak 3 Door Sideboard.

Alternative handles available.

£135.00

Chateau 2 Over 3 Chest.

Container.

£99.99

Direct container delivered in just 6-8 weeks

£159.99

Stockist.

£125.00

Based on average spend of £2,500 per month. Delivered from UK stocks

£179.99

Wholesale.

£139.99

Enjoy fast supply and with free delivery on orders over £500.

See for yourself just how this new era of ordering can transform your furniture supply at the Furniture Show, 13th-15th January, NEC. Find Kettle Interiors in Hall 3, Stand F60

Better service, better price with Kettle Interiors.

01536 444960 www.kettleinteriors.co.uk sales@kettleinteriors.co.uk

RETAIL

Modern Romance Pastels are here to stay for spring 2015 but this season’s palette is bolder and more impactful for a refreshed romantic vibe with an edge. Photographic prints and chalky tones have been teamed with flashes of black to capture the essence of this picture perfect look. The grandeur of a velvet sofa, bold floral prints and whitewash backdrop come together for a sophisticated, more modern take on shabby chic design. Floral prints bring the outdoors in for spring.

Snapshot: key materials/prints/patterns Painterly Florals Rococo Linear Lace Vintage/Treated Photographic Florals Iridescent Sequins Beading Two Tone Velvets Soft Metallics Matt Ceramics Pastel Hues Delicate Embossing Pearl Glassware Medium sofa in Velvet Slat, Amelie small sofa, Butlers tray table, Modena tall bookcase, Moroccan style pouffe, Modern Romance rug

Henley headboard, Lille lamp, Amazing framed print, Sienna floral duvet set, Rose and Beautiful Word cushions

Basics The retailer has also targeted the lowercost end of the market, with a basics collection including upholstery (prices from £149), tables (£29) cushions (£5) and crockery (£1) in a neutral colour palette of muted blue, taupe, black and white.

Crockery costs from £1 each

22

Interiors Monthly December 2014

Miami occasional table Basic cushion

Stanza small sofa

Don’t Run Your Next High-Impact Sale

Yourself

Doing so could cost you far more than you’ll save. A high-impact sale event, utilizing the time-proven, copyrighted Lynch sale plan will double the results you can get on your own.

Don’t risk your next sale. Choose the leading professional in the sale event industry, the Lynch Sales Company.

Contact us today to receive more information or to schedule a confidential meeting!

Serving the U.S., Canada and the U.K. *VU[HJ[ .HYL[O 7YPJL ࠮ ;el: +44 (0) 1243 37836 ࠮ www.LynchSales.co.uk Copyright 2014 Lynch Brothers Licensing Corporation

) UWLMZV KWTTMK\QWV QV[XQZML Ja \PM ÅVM[\ \ZILQ\QWVIT .ZMVKP LM[QOV[

...it’s the design

www.winsor.co.uk

+TI[[QK LM[QOV NMI\]ZM[ KWUJQVM _Q\P KWV\MUXWZIZa Å\\QVO[ IVL ]X \W \PM UQV]\M colours. The result - a stylish look and luxury feel, perfectly at home in any high quality interior. )TT LZI_MZ[ IZM Å\\ML _Q\P KWVKMITML [WN\ KTW[M Z]VVMZ[ \PQ[ KWUXTM` Å\\QVO MV[]ZM[ drawers glide slowly and quietly to a closed position.

RETAIL

Mid Century A whole host of fun and colour arrives with the graphic, retro-inspired Mid Century collection. A colour palette of zesty lemon, pale woods and pops of blue and red make this range stand out from the crowd for all of the right reasons. Add print cushions for instant character. Cool calm and collected‌ breathe light into the bedroom by teaming chevron prints with block colours for a modern take on the midcentury look.

Stockholm upholstered bedframe and three-drawer chest, Palermo stacking chair, Dorset desk lamp, Hexagonal Ditsy duvet set, Dashes rug and Chevron cushion

Geometric, Multi Triangles and Birds cushions Palermo dining chairs are a vibrant addition for kitchen diners, with the added practicality of stacking easily Capri large sofa and armchairs, Miami coffee table, Oslo bookcase, Dorset outsize floor lamp, Devon tripod lamp, Dashes rug and Acctim clock

24

Interiors Monthly December 2014

Snapshot: key materials/prints/patterns Broken Coloured Stripes Retro Birds Typography Geometrics Reflective Graphic Brushstrokes Chunky Open Stitch Animals Fun Graphics Enamel Two Coloured Ceramics Intense Colour Glass Painted Wood

AIS Furniture Show

12th - 14th January 2015

This is THE Show for all furniture retailers. AIS Ltd have brought together over 40 leading Brands, the first day is exclusively for AIS Members then we’re opening the doors to non members to show the very latest in furniture and accessories. THE Show takes place at one of the UK’s premier exhibition venues - Cranmore Park with unrivalled show facilities, excellent catering and ample FREE car parking just minutes from J4 M42, only 8 miles from the NEC. Complimentary lunch for all pre-registered guests.

12th - 14th January 2015 or visit www.thefurniture-show.co.uk for more information e: angela.peat@cranmorepark.co.uk Follow us: twitter.com/FurnitureShowUK Opening Times: Monday 12th 8.30am - 6pm AIS Members ONLY; Tuesday 8.30am - 5pm Members & Trade; Wednesday 8.30 - 5pm Members & Trade.

Cranmore Park Exhibition Centre Cranmore Avenue, Shirley, Solihull, West Midlands B90 4LF

RETAIL

Snapshot: Kensington scatterback corner sofa, Mekong Acacia side table, sideboard and coffee table, Tripod floor lamp, Aldeburgh recycled glass table lamp, Multi Bean rug, Blue Watercolour Spot and Sequin cushions, seagrass and plaited water hyacinth trunk

Oceanic You don’t have to live by the ocean to immerse yourself in a sparkling palette of glistening turquoise, cobalt and seafoam. Dive into this cool, contemporary range of indoor and outdoor furniture and accessories to be assured of a look that’s perfect for summer. Swapping brighter blues for more muted, mineral tones brings an oasis of coastal calm to the living space.

Stockholm desk/dressing table and chairs

26

Interiors Monthly December 2014

key materials/prints/patterns Water Colours Shells Damask Small Geometrics Washed Linen Photographic Images Reflective Surfaces Metallic Knits Sequins Tonal Stripes

Mekong dining table, Lucca chairs, Mekong bench and Barbican metal pendant light

PARIS / JANUARY 23-27, 2015 / SEPTEMBER 4-8, 2015 PARIS NORD VILLEPINTE

BORN AND RAISED WITH MAISON&OBJET BLANC D’IVOIRE, AT M&O SINCE 1995

WWW.MAISON-OBJET.COM

INFO@SAFISALONS.FR SAFI ORGANISATION, A SUBSIDIARY OF ATELIERS D’ART DE FRANCE AND REED EXPOSITIONS FRANCE / TRADE ONLY / DESIGN © BE-POLES - IMAGE © FRANÇOIS COQUEREL

RETAIL

Above: Palm Leaves cushion Right: Tropical metal bucket

Tropics Bright, breezy and beautiful, lie back and enjoy the island-style vibe.

Snapshot: key materials/prints/patterns Beach Scenes Colourful Stripes Butterflies Florals Hand Painted Printed and Embroidered Coloured Wood Brightly Coloured Glass Embossed Patterns For Ceramics

Above: Metal Pineapple tealight holder Left: Metal frame folding deckchair; Hawaii embroidered cushion; metal Hurricane large lantern; metal tealight holder

28

Interiors Monthly December 2014

Axminster Carpets™ feel for any interior décor.

CARPET

Bestsellers in 2014 Manufacturers and suppliers reveal this year’s top sellers

RYALUX

1

ULSTER CARPETS

1 Open Spaces 2 Glenmoy 3 Boho Collection Visit: www.ulstercarpets.com

1

1 V&A Twist 2 William Twist 3 Desert Tones Inspired by the jewellery collections of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, Ryalux’s iconic V&A Twist has recently been refreshed and its 70-colour palette includes 15 new contemporary shades. Stain protected and mothproof treated, V&A Twist is available in any width to 5m, and two qualities.

Visit: www.ryalux.co.uk

1

ADAM CARPETS 1 Fine Worcester Twist 2 Castlemead Twist Visit: www.adamcarpets.co.uk

3 Inspirations

2 KINGSMEAD 1 Ayrshire 2 Artwork 3 Glen Shee The Artwork collection offers consumers a range of 22 fashionable plain shade carpets accompanied by 15 coordinating stripes. This creative collection targets design-conscious consumers who want to make floor styling a key focus in their home.

Visit: www.kingsmeadcarpets.co.uk 30

Interiors Monthly December 2014

CARPET

1

BALTA 1 StainSafe Noble Saxony Whether vibrant red, charcoal grey or rich brown, the 100% StainSafe Noble Saxony collection delivers a high performance, trouble-free carpet that scores high in the style stakes thanks to its four multi-coloured stripes that coordinate with 12 on-trend plains.

2 Gala Gala is a tufted loop pile collection made from 100% StainSafe polypropylene and available in a broad range of colours. Comprising 18 plain and stripe styles, Gala has become an established favourite for retailers and homeowners alike thanks to its easy maintenance and wide appeal.

3 StainSafe Moorland Twist StainSafe Moorland Twist & Stripes makes getting that coordinated look in the home simple. Made from 100% bleach-cleanable StainSafe yarn, the collection coordinates four carefully considered stripe colourways with a range of 12 plain shades to make the most of the trend that is proving particularly popular with consumers.

Balta, tel: 0032 5662 2211

2

32

Interiors Monthly December 2014

3

DESIGN MEETS BUSINESS

Be a part of a unique exhibition with ďŹ ve curated sectors: Furniture | Kitchen, Bedroom + Bathroom | Lighting incorporating Arc | Decor | DX. London ExCeL 17–19 May 2015 Be a part of it now maydesignseries.com/im Trade only. No children

The setting is London The time is May The range is international The spirit is collaborative The show is May Design Series; the most commercially focused interiors trade show in the calendar.

Organised by

CARPET

Colouring the future Adam Carpets has invested in its dye house Adam Carpets has completed a major upgrade to its dye house to ensure the long-term future of manufacturing at its Kidderminster factory.

Being able to dye its own plain colours onsite has become increasingly important, so Adam Carpets decided to replace the existing boiler with two smaller ones, meaning an increase in efficiency as well as a reduction in energy usage.

‘The old boiler, although fully capable, was coming to the end of its lifespan,’ explains Chris Adam, Adam Carpets md.

‘The opportunity to secure the long-term future for continued dyeing of our plain ranges by purchasing these new boilers was too good to turn down.’

The six-figure project included extending the existing boiler house to house the two new boilers. A 90tonne crane was brought in to lift the old boiler out through the roof, the new ones into place and also to erect two 9m chimneys.

‘This has been an unbelievable project that has been completed in a matter of weeks. To have turned this around so quickly, and with no disruption to output to prevent any effect on our customers, has been a credit to all of the staff involved here at Adam Carpets,’ he says.

Both new boilers are up and running and the company has already seen a major improvement in dyeing efficiency and as a result lead times for all its plain colours that are dyed in Kidderminster.

‘As all of our ranges are made here and all of the plain colours are dyed here too, it is important that we continue to invest for the long-term in the factory and machinery so that we can serve our customers more efficiently in the future.

The fact that it is good for the environment and reduces the carbon footprint is an added bonus for us,’ adds Adam.

Visit: www.adamcarpets.co.uk

34

Interiors Monthly December 2014

The old boiler was removed (above) and new boilers were lowered into place (left). The investment has reduced lead times

NEW

DESIGN & FUNCTION. LOCKED IN Drawing from our many years of vinyl flooring experience, the Camaro Loc collection of interlocking planks and tiles in a range of authentically reproduced designs, eliminates the need for adhesion to reduce installation time. Order your free samples today, plus a copy of our new exquisite 48 page brochure online at www.polyflor.com.

0161 767 2551

POLYFLOR LTD. PO BOX 3 RADCLIFFE NEW RD WHITEFIELD MANCHESTER M45 7NR TEL: 0161 767 1122 FAX: 0161 767 1128 E-MAIL: INFO@POLYFLOR.COM WWW.POLYFLOR.COM

UPHOLSTERY Right: Harewood Below left: York Below right: Oulton

Reinventing comfort Spink & Edgar has expanded into upholstery, with springs and natural fibres at the heart of the designs ‘Our new sofa collection is different because we have removed at least 60% of the foam and other man-made materials found in traditional sofas, and replaced it with our patented pocket sprung technology. This not only makes the sofa more comfortable but sustainable too,’ says Jo Moore, Spink & Edgar Upholstery commercial director, describing its USP. Parent company Harrison Spinks feels very strongly about reducing its impact on the environment and even has its own farm in Yorkshire where it grows natural fibres – including hempure and flax as well as a flock of sheep for their wool – which goes into the luxury mattresses.

‘It is this ethos that is ingrained into the upholstery business and where we take our inspiration from to create our revolutionary new sofa range. Inspired by

36

Interiors Monthly December 2014

nature but driven by technology. As well as developing a product that was more sustainable, we wanted to create a beautiful and high quality piece of furniture that consumers would be proud to have in their homes. A sofa is an investment and many consumers want it to make a statement in their living rooms; and we’re confident that our new range has achieved that goal,’ says Moore.

She explains that some of the best craftsmen in the industry have worked hard to make the vision become a reality.

In particular, operations manager Jason Hibbert, who has more that 20 years of experience making high-end upholstery and who she describes as the genius behind the collection.

‘Still using traditional handcraftsmanship, we wanted to reinvent comfort and completely revolutionise

the way upholstery is made. Harrison Spinks’ out of the box thinking is what has made it a world leader in innovative spring technology, and we wanted to do the same for the Spink & Edgar sofas,’ says Hibbert.

‘Foam and other man-made materials are not sustainable and we need to look at alternative ways to manufacture furniture, especially as so much can end up at landfill. Our springs and natural fibres are recyclable and biodegradable which means the sofas are better for the environment and our customers’ homes,’ says Moore.

The collection comprises five ranges – Harewood, Hazlewood, Hornington, Oulton and York, and the Ripley chair.

The company will open a showroom at the Harrison Spinks farm near Leeds next month.

Visit: www.spinkandedgarupholstery.com

Reinventing from the inside out

A revolutionary new sofa has arrived. Combining traditional handcraftsmanship, award-winning spring technology and natural ďŹ llings grown on our own farm in Yorkshire, for a more comfortable, sustainable and stylish sofa. Only available from Spink & Edgar.

spinkandedgarupholstery.com

ACCESSORIES

Left: Elements offers four finishes Below: Elements’ Belgravia is available as a bay design Bottom: Romantica has been reintroduced

Curtain call Swish has introduced Elements and brought back Romantica Swish has launched Elements, a comprehensive collection of metal curtain poles designed to complement any window display.

Elements features split length and extendable pole sets complete with Swish’s bestselling finial designs. The finials available in each diameter have been selected to complement the size of curtain pole and all poles are available in a choice of four finishes: Graphite, Satin Steel, Antique Brass and Chrome.

Elements pole kits come with fixed eyelet lined rings and a strong extendable bracket design. The 28mm and 35mm brackets are compatible with the Swish Design Studio range.

The 28mm Belgravia design is also available as a bay pole kit along with rings, joiners and holdback accessory packs. In addition, Swish also offers end, top fix, recess and passing brackets.

Designed to appeal to those who prefer a softer look, Swish has reintroduced the Romantica collection of wood poles. In 35mm diameter poles only, there is a choice of decorative ball or urn finials available in six new finishes: Burnished Bronze, Antique White, Panna Cotta, April Cloud, Pewter and Antique Silver. Combine Romantica with beautiful, elegant fabrics to create a truly exquisite display.

Romantica pole sets are supplied with brackets and rings.

Additional ring packs are available in all finishes along with matching holdback sets.

Visit: www.swishproducts.co.uk

38

Interiors Monthly December 2014

BUYING GROUPS

Word is spreading SMG’s membership is growing, particularly among retailers that have not been part of a buying group before Celebrating its 46th year, SMG membership continues to increase and now represents more than 375 retail outlets throughout the UK. ‘SMG members expect the best from us and we have to keep evolving to keep pace with changes in retail and in the industry. We have first-hand proof of what can happen if we don’t maintain this drive which is why we provide the most comprehensive retail support package in the industry, that covers all aspects of our members’ retail businesses,’ says Mike Symonds, SMG head of group operations.

SMG has developed long-term partnerships with key manufacturers and suppliers so extra profitability is available however retailers choose to structure their business, with group price lists, turnover-based rebates and promotions part of the membership package.

‘We have also created a strong business services offer to provide value and support for our members. With offers on notable items such as credit card rates, energy pricing, retail finance, commercial vehicles and a free business

40

Interiors Monthly December 2014

support helpline, there is great value to be had by joining SMG,’ he says.

According to Symonds, retailers will see further benefits in the coming year.

‘Clearly we are looking to develop stronger partnerships between our suppliers and members by working on new projects and ideas that present more value. This is our priority and we have discussed a number of opportunities already that will deliver this.

‘We want to continue growing the membership and I would love to have the opportunity to demonstrate how SMG will benefit all independent retailers without losing their independence. Eighty per cent of our new members this year have not previously been part of a buying group,’ he adds.

SMG, tel: 0118 932 3832

Members are offered a variety of promotions and receive regular updates

3 reasons to join SMG... \ Profit! \ More Profit! \ Even More Profit!

No need to change the way you run your business... GUARANTEED! Isn’t it time you joined the award winning Buying Group?

Voted ‘Best Floo ring Buying Grou SMG The National Furnishing Group p’ 9 The Markham Centre, Station Road, Theale, Reading, Berkshire RG7 4PE Telephone 0118 932 3832 Fax 0118 930 4515 Email join@smg-group.co.uk Web www.smg-group.co.uk

BUYING GROUPS

Carpet Style’s banners and signage were produced on-site Right: POS is produced in the vehicle

Design on the doorstep Metro has developed a mobile marketing scheme Each independent retailer has their own idea of how they want to market their business. The Metro Group has always respected its members’ independence and has taken the concept of providing innovative marketing ideas even further by bringing experienced staff, materials and machinery to their members’ doorsteps.

Metro has an in-house marketing department producing design and print applications and has now introduced a fully equipped mobile marketing and merchandising vehicle.

The vehicle has been refitted as a mobile studio, printer and workshop that can visit retailers anywhere in the UK and provide not only standard merchandising material but completely bespoke solutions for members.

Shop merchandising for multiple

42

Interiors Monthly December 2014

outlets is simple: you print up lots of similar material in the same shape and size and deliver it. With independent retailers no two outlets are the same and business owners are all in different marketplaces with their own ideas and goals. Metro took this on board and can now visit a retailer, discuss, design, print, manufacture and install on-site, immediately.

‘The concept is completely unique and as far as we are aware no other business in any marketplace has used such an innovative idea,’ says Steve Depport, Metro operations manager.

‘We are able to offer retailers the benefit of more than 25 years’ worth of flooring marketing experience on-site, combined with the practical ability to manufacture and install. These skills are so unique this service gives the Metro

Group a real unique selling point,’ he says.

Being able to measure, create and visualise designs on-site means that all work can be completed without the need for time consuming reports, emails or travel.

One of the first retailers to trial the scheme was Carpet Style in Nottingham.

Owner Ray Chilton discussed his needs for 4m outdoor banners and directional signage plus themed event posters and internal service messages to be suspended from the store ceilings. The items were designed, approved and printed for fitting on-site within two days.

Once the retailer is visited, future signage can be replicated remotely and then sent via courier.

Metro, tel: 01204 393 539

Solid Oak Range In Stock Now ow

Steel Centre Frame With No Centre Legs From 4’6 - £139 5’0 - £149

Tel - 01785 250888 Fax - 01785 241888 E - sales@metalbedsltd.co.uk

" 0 !

FIRA Gold celebrates 30 years

! ! " # $ $ % $ "" $$ " !! $ # ! & $ " ' ( ) * * ++ ,- , ! . "/$ " / "/$ "

The only industry-recognised mark of quality for furniture products and installation

www.fira.co.uk/gold 01438 777 700 info@fira.co.uk

LVT

Coming home Manufacturing will return to the West, driven by service demands, environmental concerns and technology

Production is forecast to move away from China

The LVT industry is at a crossroads, providing major opportunities for Western manufacturers, according to Paul De Cock, Unilin flooring division president. Speaking to the interiors media at the recent Domotex preview in Berlin, De Cock outlined his views.

LVT is the hottest category in the flooring business. We are nearing finishing the construction of a world class LVT plant in Wielsbeke, Belgium [in April]: only the second LVT plant in Europe [after IVC’s in Avelgem, Belgium].

‘Customers tell us they love laminate but it has a hollow sound when you walk on it. So we have to find a solution to that. The solution is LVT. It has seen growth rates in Europe of 15%-20%.

In Germany, for example, the past five years have seen up to 30% growth every year.

‘Ninety five per cent of all LVT floors are today manufactured in Asia. The world is consuming enormous quantities of LVT, the market is growing at 30% but virtually all the manufacturing is in China. The industry is at a crossroads.

LVT will become part of the clickable world. The clickable world is easy to install, clickable folding products.

‘If you look where the LVT industry

‘

Paul De Cock speaking in Berlin

44

Interiors Monthly December 2014

LVT

‘There are environmental factors’

comes from it is very thin 2mm glue-able products. What we have seen is lots of companies modifying LVT, making it a little thicker, changing some recipes, adding a little “pepper and salt” to the making of the floor. They are putting a click system in a LVT floor, straight into the LVT. So all the innovation that has been achieved is all the people making the dryback glue-down floor clickable.

‘There is a tremendous amount of innovation happening, we don’t know where the industry will go because obviously innovation is vital. There is lots of activity based on derivatives of vinyl floors. The market is going floating. It’s not so clear which platform as different platforms are emerging, but the market is going for floating and the market is going clickable.

‘There is a great opportunity for Western companies to grab this product which is technologically not matured.

The perfect floating solution does not exist yet, that’s why at this stage there is a tremendous opportunity for Western manufacturers to take this problem apart, redevelop the product and create stable, floating, clickable LVT floors.

‘The second interesting dynamic in the industry is that LVT was invented in the

‘There is a great opportunity for Western countries to grab this product’

UK in the 1960s. And with many industries, production was offshored in the 1990s. Today there are probably 200 to 300 manufacturers, from very small to very big, in China supplying the world markets. As we went offshore to China, my prediction is that we’re going to go back onshore.

‘In 5-10 years from now 80% of LVT for Europe or the Western world will be manufactured in the Western world. Our dealers and our distributors don’t want the hassle of the working capital, they don’t want the hassle of very high lead times and they don’t want the hassle of bad service. Today in this industry when you talk to professionals involved in the distribution of LVT, they will hold up to one year of stock in LVT to guarantee acceptable service to their clients. That is just unacceptable.

‘The onshoring of the supply chain is

going to completely change the dynamics of this industry. It’s going to bring lower working capital, better service and very short lead times.

‘There are environmental factors.

People want to know where it was made, how it was made and what is in it. If you as a company want to know how it was made, and guarantee to consumers what is in it and if you want to guarantee to your consumer that an acceptable part of it is the transportation of it, you need onshore manufacturing.

‘There is tremendous opportunity, not only from a technological point, but from a pure design innovative offer: the designs, the way the product looks, the sharpness of the print, the surfaces, the scratch resistance of the product. There is still so much technology to find its way into this product.

Visit: www.unilin.com

’

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

45

BEDS AND BEDROOM

Left: Micro-fibre and memory foam mattress topper Below left: Dual Comfort pillow Below: U-Neck pillow

Gifts that keep on giving Pillows and toppers are becoming a popular present ‘Luxury home products are always in high demand at this time of year, with people increasingly on the lookout for gifts that are not only indulgent but serve a useful purpose,’ says Gillian Finch, national sales manager for the consumer division of Carpenter, the world’s largest manufacturer of cushioning products.

‘Luxury sleep accessories are becoming a popular gift choice. A high quality mattress topper or pillow is about more than just indulgence; it’s an investment in the user’s long-term health and well-being too, and discerning consumers are well aware of this.

Combining the latest technology in memory foam with other luxury fillings

46

Interiors Monthly December 2014

and cover fabrics, the Sleep Better collection is designed to offer the ultimate in comfort and support,’ she says.

The memory foam mattress toppers use state-of-the-art cutting and profiling techniques to create unique designs that provide zoned support and comfort in the right places, plus a softer feel, greater flexibility and enhanced airflow.

Carpenter’s range of traditional, contoured or anatomically-styled pillows are designed to create perfect alignment between the spine, neck and head. A U-Neck memory foam pillow can support the neck or back and is suitable for use in bed, the car, on the sofa, or in the office.

The 4.5cm deep Dual Density Mattress Topper is encased in a super-soft outer and being reversible, it a popular choice for people who want the option of two different feels. It bonds together two different grades of high density memory foam to provide firm support on one side and a softer feel on the other.

This can be complemented with either the matching Micro Fibre Pillow encased in super-soft fabric or the Quilted Memory Foam Cluster Pillow, filled with memory foam that moves and moulds with the head as the user sleeps, promoting correct neck alignment.

Carpenter, tel: 01457 892 400

Made with pride, made for comfort, made in Yorkshire.

At Vale Bridgecraft, we’ve been making exceptional sofas and chairs in our workshops near Hebden Bridge, Yorkshire, for over 100 years, and supporting furniture retailers nationwide for just as long. !LL OUR FURNITURE BENEkTS FROM A YEAR FRAME AND SPRING guarantee and is hand upholstered in your customer’s choice of fabrics, many of which are our exclusives from the Belgium and Italian mills.

Our 10 show centres support this time intensive process and create a haven for the most demanding shoppers, prior to us referring these valuable orders back to you.

For more information call Sales Director ,ORRAINE (OLT ON or visit valebridgecraft.co.uk

From 1st March to 31st October 2015 we will be running our exciting Florence sales incentive, for all retailers displaying at least 3 pieces of our new Florence range. Your sales team can collect Florins with every Vale Bridgecraft sale they make and the top salesperson in each region will win a 3 day break in this beautiful and historic city.

HRH The Duke of Edinburgh KG KT PATRON HRH The Duke of York KG KCVO CHAIRMAN OF THE TRUSTEES The Outward Bound Trust

NEW Showroom – Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LF. 01422 885000

BEDS AND BEDROOM

Sleep talking The Sleep Council Sales Academy is designed to give sales staff vital knowledge about sleep that they can use to benefit customers

Matt Scott (left) was presented with his Sales Academy certificate

by Paul Little, Relyon sales director, a member of the NBF working party that developed the programme

The Sleep Council Sales Academy is celebrating its first graduate: Matt Scott, a salesman for Scott’s Home Furnishers, Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset.

‘I’m honoured to be the very first graduate of this industry initiative. Bed retailers are well placed to explain the features and benefits of the different products that they sell. However, understanding more about sleep and advising customers how choosing certain types of product, changing their sleep environment, bedtime routine and even what they eat and drink, can all help them achieve better sleep, is what it’s about.

I’m now much better placed to offer this advice to my customers,’ says Scott.

The academy was launched at The Bed Show in September, which Simon Williams, National Bed Federation marketing manager, says was the ideal launch platform. ‘The feedback and support received from both member manufacturers and retailers has been extremely positive. We’ve already had well over 100 bed retail sales professionals sign up to the programme, which is a very encouraging start. The majority have been individuals from smaller independent businesses, although we have had some companies buying “team credits” to enrol all their bed sales staff,’ he says.

The NBF is also in discussions with large bed specialists, furniture multiples and department stores to see how the academy can complement their in-house learning and development programmes. As with the smaller retailers, they still rely, to a certain extent, on specific product training provided by their suppliers. This can either be via factory visits or in conjunction with in-store demonstrations.

Although some manufacturers incorporate basic information on sleep in their training and how choosing the most suitable

48

Interiors Monthly December 2014

Simon Williams

bed from their range will benefit certain health issues, there is still a heavy bias towards product specifications such as spring design, spring counts, foam technology, gel crystals, multiple fillings and intelligent fabrics without necessarily explaining what that means for the consumer.

What the Sleep Council Sales Academy course aims to show the sales staff is how to use the technical information to help solve a particular sleep issue the consumer may have, for example an arthritic joint, a dust mite allergy, or disturbance from their partner.

It’s been well reported that the UK is a sleep deprived country, with many now getting far less than the recommended eight hours per night.

‘Leading researchers from universities including Oxford, Cambridge and Harvard believe that consumers have become supremely arrogant in ignoring the importance of sleep. This lack of sleep is having increasingly serious implications on the country’s health, so ensuring that consumers have the best possible bed for their needs is arguably more important now than it has ever been,’ says Williams.

The Sleep Council programme shows how to use information to build a rapport with the customer to help solve their sleep related problems. Instead of being seen as a bed sales person, they become more of a trusted sleep adviser. Solve their problems efficiently, professionally and with authority, and you’ve got a customer for life who will recommend you to others, says Williams.

For those retailers worried that their sales staff don’t have the time to take the course, Williams points out that one of the key objectives during the development was to ensure that the learning was enjoyable and not onerous.

BEDS AND BEDROOM

The academy was launched at The Bed Show and the training can also be done on tablets

‘It has been designed in such a way that you can progress at your own speed. So we have some who are steadily working their way through the learning modules, choosing to study at work when their busy schedules allow, while others have opted to either do the course entirely in their spare time at home where they may have fewer interruptions or are logging on from both their workplace and from home. The programme has been constructed in such a way that if you have to exit a module mid-way through to serve a customer, you can pick up exactly where you left off once you log in again, rather than having to go back to the start of that module,’ he explains.

Although it takes four weeks to complete the course, each learning module takes about 30 minutes, with a short knowledge check at the end of the module. Users must also fill in an online weekly sales conversion rate form which prevents them from starting the next module until they’ve completed the sales conversion rate form.

According to Williams, this not only stops users from whizzing through the course, it gives them the opportunity to practice what they’ve learnt in the module and, importantly, it monitors their progress.

The feedback so far from those undertaking the programme is that it has been pitched at about the right level, is engaging and informative, has some useful tools for interacting with customers and, done properly, will improve sales performance.

‘Our first priority is to continue to promote the academy to the retail trade to encourage them to enrol their sales staff. If we really want to raise the profile and professional standing of bed retailing in the UK, it’s important that we have sufficient numbers of retailers supporting this industry initiative. We will continue to promote the benefits of gaining academy

accreditation and how that can boost not only the individual’s development, but the image and reputation of the retailer as a business that invests in their people and provides their customers with the very highest standards of sleep knowledge and expert advice,’ he says.

‘In turn, as with the NBF Code of Practice, it would make sense to raise consumer awareness not only of the importance of buying products that carry the NBF Approved Member label but also to buy from a reputable retailer employing staff with Sleep Council Sales Academy accreditation. To this end, we are looking at the feasibility of publishing a database on the Sleep Council website of accredited advisers and retailers who support the academy,’ Williams adds.

Visit: www.sleepcouncilsalesacademy.org.uk

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

49

UNDERLAY

Wheelie working Carpenter UK’s underlay recycling scheme continues to prevent its products going to landfill

Top: Helen Rowberry Above: The scheme began in 2012 Left: The PU underlay can be recycled at its Glossop headquarters

As the cost of disposing of waste continues to increase and availability at landfill sites decreases, Carpenter UK’s underlay recycling scheme is helping wholesalers responsibly offload unwanted underlay.

Carpenter’s recycling scheme was a UK first when it was introduced two years ago to help boost the business’s environmental credentials while encouraging its customers to be more conscious of the environment.

It works by providing participants with

50

Interiors Monthly December 2014

wheelie bins, which are specifically for Carpenter PU offcuts and uplifts. The wholesaler then provides its customers with recycling bags to fill that are returned to the wholesaler.

The wheelie bins are collected and returned to Carpenter’s UK headquarters in Glossop to be used again to make more underlay.

‘At a time when businesses are looking to trim down on unnecessary expenditure, we are offering a service that is extremely useful and encourages

fitters to get rid of waste in a responsible manner. Our recycling scheme only collects Carpenter underlay. This is purely so that we have chemical traceability, which we wouldn’t have with another company’s product,’ says Helen Rowberry, national sales manager for Carpenter’s underlay division.

The scheme now operates in 22 regions across the UK, with its success put down to the ease and convenience of the way it works.

Carpenter UK, tel: 01457 892 418

January Furniture Show Birmingham 13-15 January

PREVIEW Comfort Zone Sofas will show a wide range of British-made upholstery including corner units, chaises, sofabeds, traditional sofas and chairs, and more contemporary models

Ashley Manor will introduce soft-cover models in classical and contemporary styles

Alexander & James will be exhibiting its latest upholstery designs that are ‘guaranteed to create a stir’

New dawn The January Furniture Show makes its debut next month, marking 25 years of a furniture exhibition taking place during January at the NEC. Here are some highlights. Visit: www.januaryfurnitureshow.com

Baker Furniture promises new collections including additions to its reclaimed ranges alongside established collections

52

Interiors Monthly December 2014

Core Products’ Farmhouse range uses pine planks with a golden finish and metal rustic effect hardware

Ancient Mariner will highlight its latest vintage leather chairs that are hand-aged and also available in a buttonback version

Furmanac will show its Hestia, MiBed, MiChair and Upholstered Bedframes and Occasional Furniture brands

Serene Furnishings is proud to be exhibiting it’s iconic range of beds at

N E C

B I R M I N G H A M

1 3 - 1 5

J A N U A R Y

2 0 1 5

You are invited to witness the launch of new designs and view key collections in a variety of materials, including metal, wood, fabric and faux leather; accompanied by a wide choice of ottomans, sofa beds and headboards.

Visit Hall 2 stand 2G30 and be among the first to see what will have so many people talking in the aisles of the UK's definitive interiors event for furniture, lifestyle & design.

Metal

Precious Metals

Hevea

Fabric

Faux Leather

Oak

We Look Forward To Seeing You At The January Furniture Show For copies of our brochures please call Hall 2, Stand 2G30, NEC Birmingham, 13th-15th January 2015

0121 505 0270

es

@

or Email: se

re n

e f u r nis hi n

co

s al

Innovative design and quality manufacturing, all at exceptional value. www.serenefurnishings.co.uk

.u k

our Sales Team on:

gs

.

Follow us on

January Furniture Show Birmingham 13-15 January

PREVIEW Metal Beds will showcase its latest metal, wood and faux leather beds

Rowico highlights the modern Scandinavian Living with clean and simple lines, alongside its established vintage designs

Westbridge Designs will be displaying new and existing models across its three collections

Kelston House International’s launches include the hand-carved Flower console table in an antique grey finish Serene Furnishings will show a selection from its Precious Metal, Faux Leather, Oak and Hevea Wood collections, along with several new designs

Furniture Origins will debut bedroom and dining collections and display its bestsellers

TCS adds to its leather upholstery, solid American oak dining ranges and the Royal Coil bed brand

Seconique’s introductions include the Corona sideboard, Tortilla occasional range and the Monaco white and distressed waxed pine beds

54

Interiors Monthly December 2014

Sweet Dreams is showing divans and bedframes including surround-sound models

Est. 1986

SIESTA BEDS COMFORT & QUALITY ASSURED

3,000 Individual Pocketed Springs 75mm Temperature responsive Unique cool memory foam

1,500 Individual Pocketed Springs Airstream Memory Fibre.

Natural Collection.

2,000 Pocketed Springs.

Silk, wool & cashmere

Natural Collection.

2,000 Individual Pocketed Springs Dunlopillo Latex.

Mulliners Works 154 Bordesley Green Road, Bordesley Green, Birmingham B8 1BY. Classical Collection 1,000 Pocketed Spring.

Luxury Fibre

Tel: 0121 773 9969 Fax:0121 766 7413 Email info@siestabeds.co.uk

January Furniture Show Birmingham 13-15 January

PREVIEW Blue Bone’s Painter Provence is hand-painted and distressed evoking the character of old furniture

Willis & Gambier will show off its bedroom and dining collections in classic, modern, revival and casual styles

Wood Bros adds Weybourne and Hemsby to its existing upholstery, including Burnham (pictured) along with cabinet designs and bespoke fittings

Wintech’s introductions include mid-century designs updated with a modern feel

Lebus will introduce its 2015 upholstery collections

Gallery Direct highlights its expanding collection of furnishings and accessories

Piaggi Art & Living will show its mosaic mirrors, glass art panels furniture

Libra debuts its 2015 interior design accessories, homeware, giftware, lighting, furniture and wall decor collections

56

Interiors Monthly December 2014

Paul Martyn Furniture presents the Country, Aubusson, Manor, Elegance, Temple (pictured), Courtier and Chancellor furniture ranges

January Furniture Show Birmingham 13-15 January

PREVIEW

Stella

Corsica

Knightsbridge

Slocum

The hits keep coming Julian Bowen’s latest designs are helping to increase sales Julian Bowen has reported another successful year. Sales are on track to increase 10% over 2013, with sales during October and November showing double digit increases against last year.

Beds continue to be a strong product area, with the company selling 15,000 each month.

Recently launched Knightsbridge is a faux leather bed that has been a huge hit. It is available in two sizes – 135cm and 150cm – with two colour options, Chocolate Brown and Taupe. The design features a distinctive upholstered geometric panel and trimmed with a soft

58

Interiors Monthly December 2014

roll around the headboard and polished metal feet.

The Corsica Metal bed is in three sizes – 90cm, 135cm and 150cm – with a classic wrought iron look in a rustic black finish. Features include elegant scroll detailing, subtle castings and a 1.3m high head end.

Children’s furniture and novelty beds continue to be an important area for Julian Bowen and none more so than the 3ft London Bus bunk bed, in a red lacquered finish. Stella is a compact low sleeper offering shelving space and two deep pull-out drawers with the option of

pink and white or blue and white colour combinations.

The new Slocum is a clean contemporary 90cm bed in a box available in Stone White or Pine colour finishes. These and the latest 2015 designs will be on show at the NEC. All Julian Bowen products are available on the Gold Star home delivery service, offering a door-to-door, two-man service with 7-10 day delivery to the room of choice. Customers are booked in no less than 48 hours beforehand and given a morning or afternoon slot.

Visit: www.julian-bowen.co.uk

Julian Bowen Limited Don’t miss the Bus at the Furniture Show!

Get off at Julian Bowen Stand 3G20 Bentinck House, Park Lane, Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Notts NG17 9LE

Tel: (01623) 727374

Fax: (01623) 754555 e-mail: sales@julian-bowen.co.uk www.julian-bowen.co.uk All Products are available for Direct Home Delivery

Domotex Hannover 17-20 January

PREVIEW

60

Avenue will introduce Ultimate Elements, using a scuff and mark-resistant SuperGuard PU lacquer for lasting looks and lower maintenance. The range of stone and mineral designs features hues of grey and warming neutrals, including the marble-like textures of Rapallo Marble, charcoal mineral of Modus and limestone look of French Limestone.

Its Bubblegum and Liquorice collection has had a makeover, with just four designs remaining from this year’s collection. Additions include the shocking pink and acid green of Uni colour blocking, the Mondrian roadmap of City, Moroccan influences in Sagres, the playful Alphabet and Pieces, hexagonal graphic mosaic of Cortille and the eternal black and white diamond of York, the collection explores the creativity of cushion flooring.

Balta Broadloom will introduce 10 ranges, across polypropylene, wool and nylon.

Royal Sovereign (80% Wool/10% PES/10% PP) will be available in Super (37oz), Deluxe (53oz) and Supreme (65oz) qualities, in 12 plain colours and 4m and 5m widths. There will be a stripe design in three coordinating colours in a 4m width. Lothian Wool Berber, made from 100% British wool, comes in eight plain styles in 4m and 5m widths, with four coordinating stripes in a 4m width.

Based on the Noble Saxony, the Noble Heathers collection is tufted from 100% StainSafe polypropylene in 10 natural colours and greys, and offers two backing options: synthetic or Ultratex Quick+ felt in 4m and 5m widths. The StainSafe Pop Art stripe offers nine colourways and a giant-size sample book.

Two ranges using the two-ply X-Tron fibre will be debuted. Royal Oxford sports a heavyweight saxony pile in a dozen colours and 4m and 5m widths. Paramount Twist also has 12 shades, including grey, and 4m and 5m widths.

Mystique Wilton and super soft polypropylene Tender Joy will also be introduced.

Two carpet tile collections will be debuted.

Mix to the Max offers four colours and four qualities in a 100cm x 25cm plank format allowing the creation of herringbone and parquet-style layouts in carpet. Smart Step, Art, Patch and Lineo are 50cm x 50cm tiles in a 800g per sqm weight.

Saxon King will see an updated colour palette, as will Prima.

Ideal introduces super-soft Sweet Harmony saxony and 60oz Carlton Elite saxony. Heather twists Country Heather Supreme and Easy Living and heather saxonies Mystique and Mystique Stripe are debuted. Flashtone and Berbertone are stain resistant berber loops, Piccadilly is a patterned loop with tonal square

Interiors Monthly December 2014

Cormar’s Home Counties

Step into Hannover A glimpse of what will be on show

Balta’s Pop Art

PREVIEW

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

Domotex Hannover 17-20 January

Top: Leoline’s Woodmark will be enlarged Left: Lano’s Fascination will be expanded Above: Avenue’s Rapallo Marble

motifs while Aintree and Ascot are polypropylene ranges in similar colours.

A year after debuting Oryzon artificial grass, it will be expanded with ranges in the 20mm30mm pile sector and new colours for Cypress Point and Pine Valley. Domotex will also see the launch of the recently acquired Turfgrass brand, with soft high-pile grass products.

Lano Carpets adds to its Fascination collection with an Eccelena yarn range; debuts Granada; rolls out polyamide ranges and expands its SmartStrand collection.

In Leoline’s Tile Styles collection a mineral design has been introduced in Terrazzo.

Available in three colourways – dark and light grey and beige – the design adds an extra dimension to the range, bringing a contemporary look reflective of the trend for architectural finishes in the home. The Woodmark range has been given two new designs: the coastal weathered look of pale wood Azur and the rustic Scandinavian darkened pine of Cardassian.

Wools of New Zealand will have its largest stand at the show, as it co-hosts nine manufacturers and spinners using New Zealand Wool.

The show will also see the launch of the Wools of New Zealand Innovation Award, open to the co-exhibitors who can enter three Laneve or WoNZ products, judged on innovation, colour, styling and texture. There will also be awards for Best Laneve range, Best Wools of New Zealand range and Best Wool Yarn Innovation.

Visitors can also enter a prize draw by visiting the presentation boards around the stand.

The co-exhibitor manufacturers are Brockway, Cavalier, Cormar, Flock and Noble Bond, joined by spinners Danspin, Martinelli and Grentex.

Brockway will debut wool loop products and its latest POS. Flock trials a number of designs exclusively created for it by the Wools of New Zealand design studio.

Cormar adds a wool range and showcases its Home Counties Plains collection. Manufactured from 80% pure New Zealand wool, 10% tuftbond and 10% polypropylene, Home Counties Plains is a premier quality 10th gauge carpet in two pile weights (42oz and 50oz), making it ideal for high traffic areas such as stairways and hallways.

Noble Bond will launch the Midas Rug Collection using Aulana, a unique blend of precious metals, natural fibres and science.

Aulana uses fine particles of pure gold to shift light into delicate shades of grey, pink and purple.

Visit: www.domotex.de

61

Domotex Hannover 17-20 January

PREVIEW

Objects of desire

62

Interiors Monthly December 2014

Domotex sees the official launch of Desire and more from Millennium Weavers Millennium Weavers will officially launch Desire and Desire Stripe (pictured), the latest products for its ever-expanding polypropylene collection.

‘Development samples were shown at The Flooring Show in September and following huge interest in the product, we have complemented the nine stylish and modern colours initially exhibited at the show with four coordinating stripe designs,’ says Gary Alp, Millennium Weavers sales director Europe.

Manufactured with the company’s Millsoft polypropylene yarn system, the product has the benefits of a 10-year wear and stain warranty and is bleach cleanable.

‘The response we had at The Flooring Show to this product was incredible, we were complimented by our customers on all the key components: colour, design, pricing, the soft-touch and the finish of the carpet particularly,’ says Alp. The objective was to develop and produce a product with the look and soft-touch of a high-end carpet normally associated with the more expensive yarns such as polyester and

polyamide, but to make it more widely available to the consumer by working with polypropylene.

‘The fantastic reaction and comments from our customers toward the product was that we had most definitely achieved the objective we had set out to,’ he says.

Sampling of Desire and Desire Stripe will be available to retailers via Millennium Weavers’ partnerships with carpet wholesale and distribution companies throughout the UK in January.

‘As the reputation of Millennium Weavers continues to grow following our entry into the UK floorcoverings market in 2012, the focus and attention has turned to developments for the Domotex exhibition. Without giving anything away, I can say that from the initial trials and strike-offs I have seen, I am confident that we will match the reaction from customers in Hannover to what we received in Harrogate,’ Alp adds.

Millennium Weavers, tel: 00 32 5550 9050

at ll s Ha tu , 2 si EX F1 Vi OT th M o O Bo D 6

NEW

Sweet Home

• Now also AVAILABLE IN 5M WIDTH • 11 natural colours covering all shades of grey, beige and brown

• On EXTRA THICK MASTERBACK FELT or on ACTION BAC • 10 year wear and stain warranty • For heavy domestic use

New Sweet Home sample books / sets now available.

Ask your local carpet distributor for further details.

ideal@bintg.com www.ideal-bintg.com/en www.beaulieuflooringsolutions.com IDEAL Showroom Boffonstraat 3, B-8710 Wielsbeke – Belgium

Created with your life in mind

BIG Floorcoverings Rijksweg 442, B-8710 Wielsbeke – Belgium T +32 (0)56 67 66 11 F +32 (0)56 67 48 30

Heimtextil Frankfurt 14-17 January

PREVIEW

Thrills of the theme park Heimtextil has widened its trends coverage For Heimtextil 2015, its trend forecast has been expanded to a trend theme park in hall 4, supported by the trend book and new website. It has four main themes:

Sensory: the well-being factor Designers create products for the home, which appeal to our growing interest in tactile and sensory impulses. They find solutions via the link between science and design and thus increase our feeling of well-being.

To this end, they use intelligent textiles with built-in responsive technologies that, for example, react to changes in the source of light. Inspiration also comes from the beauty and wellness industry.

Super-sensory fabrics draw on the huge variety of tactile effects that excite our senses: light, feminine and transparent.

As a sensory contrast, fabrics with polished surfaces or varnish-like lustre and uniformity are used together with paper surfaces and oily finishes.

Mixology: inter-cultural exchange Variety is trumps. Cultural fusion has

64

Interiors Monthly December 2014

given rise to a modern ethnic heritage.

From now on experimentation and the interaction of different identities is the name of the game. Patterns, prints and colours collide almost chaotically with each other. African tribal design meets 3D rave motifs, retro with futuristic, digital with organic.

At the same time, people are enthusiastic about recycling and product hacking. New applications are found for waste materials with due consideration being given to material properties. The result is valuable design objects and – no less important – the feeling of independence from conformity of any kind.

Discovery: predicting the future Designers are taking ever-greater account of our planet’s valuable resources. They look over the shoulder of astrophysicists and investigate the properties of lunar rock and meteorites, the haptic qualities and dark strength of which are particularly fascinating.

Observing the cosmos and the microcosmos, they come across dark, lightabsorbent space black and stellar coruscation. Light plays a key role in this connection: it dazzles and illuminates, it sketches and plays tricks with the eye.

Memory: reflection and re-evaluation People strive for a simpler, purer and more ethically correct way of modern life: away from consumption stress and rigid must-haves – towards favourites and a genuine feeling of well-being. The materials that decorate life together in the home will be honest, useful fabrics, for example denim, wool and linen.

Familiar patterns stimulate the capacity for recall.

Tomorrow’s designers will combine handicrafts and tradition with an innovative sense for modernity, whereby their software abilities are an additional benefit. Thus, handicrafts and technology can join forces to create timeless values.

Visit: http://heimtextil-theme-park.com

PREVIEW

IMM Cologne Germany 19-25 January

The bevelled faces of Snip’s Diamond is a game of dimensions and directions, symbolising balance and harmony.

Opium’s Evo sideboard is a bold and avant-garde design combining classic, vintage and contemporary styles with detail such as gold plated knobs, white ceramic and mosaics.

Camilion will be among Calia Italia’s launches. Available in leather, fabric or microfibre, it can also be chosen in multicovering or in different colours. It has liftable headrests, reclining backrests and adjustable footrests, which can be operated manually or via a touch pad. With the addition of a foam mattress it can become a sofabed.

Diamonds and pearls A selection of what’s in store.

Visit: www.imm-cologne.de

Lema’s Aberdeen is available as a two or threeseater, with a vintage but comfortable look thanks to the softly embracing fabric covering. The fabric folds highlight the arms while its wheeled feet add an industrial look.

Mac’s table from Tonon uses a base element that allows innumerable combinations, meaning there is no limit to the table length. The element is available in 12 colours and the glass table top can be circular or rectangular or in bespoke options.

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

65

Home/Top Drawer/Craft London 11-13 January

PREVIEW

Top: Olympia London is the venue for Home Below: Retail Masterclass

66

Interiors Monthly December 2014

Triple bill Three shows, one venue – Olympia London

PREVIEW

Home opens the UK spring buying season this January at Olympia London, providing the opportunity to source products from brand leaders, as well as being the first to see launches and exclusive companies. There is everything from classic to vintage to modern and contemporary products.

Presenting buyers with an edited yet diverse range of products, Home encompasses the kitchen, dining, soft furnishings, lighting, outdoor living, occasional furniture and interior accessories sectors.

The show will welcome a dynamic line-up of international and UK brands alongside newer design studios and never before seen young designers.

Companies joining Home exclusively this January include Bliss Home, LSA International, Haus, Make International,

Grand Illusions, Skandium, PAD Home, Makers & Merchants, Forma House, TVS Spa, White Brand Agency and Universal Expert.

A host of international exhibitors are joining Home. Find the likes of AU Maison, Broste Copenhagen, Alessi, Eva Solo, Ethnicraft, Atomic Soda and Seletti.

Making a welcome return is Belgian company Ethnicraft with its timeless collection of furniture and accessories incorporating minimalistic design with a big impact.

Notre Dame and Universo Positivo enjoyed a welcome to the UK market during the Home Autumn 2014 show, and are anticipating the same reaction this January.

Danish company Broste Copenhagen will bring an array of launches and products including a range of pastel

Home/Top Drawer/Craft London 11-13 January

Top left: Ethnicraft Above: PAD Home Left: Broste Copenhagen

accessories. The fine combination of colours and materials creates a coherent and bright look inspired by the working life of an artist.

As well as a hub of new visitor attractions, many successful aspects of previous shows will return. One such highlight is the Retail Masterclass programme; a curated selection of short, informative and live presentations from industry experts. Keynote speakers this January include Will Hobhouse, Heal’s chairman; Sebastian Conran and Trend Bible.

A visit to Home also gives access to sister shows Top Drawer and Craft.

Together, the three shows bring more than 1,000 exhibitors to the market – all specialising in design-led homewares and gifts.

Visit: www.home-london.net

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

67

Brussels Furniture Fair

REVIEW

Innovate and celebrate Brussels saw those that had gone the extra mile rewarded There were a strikingly high number of major innovations, numerous new concepts and changes that could almost be described as structural at the November event. Mintjens, for example, overhauled its collection and enjoyed success with the comprehensive solid-wood Canyon range and the atmospheric MMood by Pascale Naessens. Mecam introduced Moome and Indera made its debut in the upmarket, contemporary area, Square.

This year saw the presentation of the show’s eighth Balthazar awards, with winners judged to have gone the extra mile in product development rewarded with a 12 litre bottle of Drappier champagne.

The Best of Belgium Balthazar went to Moome, the latest offshoot of the Mecam group. With this fresh collection of separate pieces, Moome is responding to the new buying habits of 30 and 40-somethings. Most products were created by Belgian designers and everything is manufactured in Belgium.

The trophy for Country Today was awarded to a design that interprets the country trend to create a contemporary lifestyle piece – the Ramo bed by Nill Spring. This elegant design inspired by the natural proportions of the golden ratio (Ramo is Italian for branch), really makes this box spring stand out.

In the Ecology category, the winner was Dutch company Slide-Art. Another fresh collection from a small-scale

68

Interiors Monthly December 2014

Top: Antanais Above and inset: Moome Below: Part of the show’s trend section

Sales Manager Wanted!

As it continues to take the UK carpet industry by storm, Crown Floors is looking for a Sales Manager with style.

Wholly owned by Balta Industries, Europe’s largest carpet manufacturer, this is a rare chance to be part of one of the brightest brands in flooring. Working with our expanding UK-wide network of enthusiastic and committed agents, you will be responsible for ensuring that Crown Floors continues to enjoy its phenomenal success and keeping the brand a jewel in the crown for retailers across the land.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced and motivated Sales Manager keen to leave a lasting impression and to become part of one of flooring’s biggest recent success stories.

Competitive salary and benefits package available for the right candidate.

Contact Balta Group HR – Ilse Nys Human.resources@baltagroup.com +32 56 622 299

Surplus stock?

End of lines?

Please consider donating it to our Charity Furniture Warehouse, the sales from which help to fund our work with single homeless adults. Contact our Warehouse direct on 01732 365988.

The Bridge Trust, Tonbridge, Kent Registered Charity No. 1050291 www.thebridgetrust.org.uk

Sales agents required Radici is a manufacturer of high quality tufted and woven carpets.

We are looking for sales agents to cover the following three areas: Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambs, Beds, Bucks and Oxon Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset Cheshire, Merseyside, Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Cumbria The ideal candidates will be self motivated, enthusiastic and have experience of selling into the mid to better end of the retail market as well as designers and architects.

We offer generous commission, full support and an existing customer base.

Please send your CV and covering letter to claudia.marcellini@sit-in.co.uk http://www.sit-in.it

Brussels Furniture Fair

REVIEW

Clockwise from top left: D-Woods; Velda introduced Versus Beds, Velda Physio and Gelfresh; Mintjens overhauled its collection; Slide-Art; Bodilson; Nill Spring’s Ramo

company. The choice of a single material, the absence of fittings and the inventiveness of the design, which means that all items can be flatpacked and are easy to assemble, made this an easy decision, according to the judges.

The choice for the Most Innovative was far from simple. Two nominated exhibitors were head and shoulders above the rest, but ultimately, the Balthazar was awarded to D-Woods by NDJ. This traditional family firm is chiefly known for its classic, solidwood furniture, and with D-Woods it is making the leap into a new market. The inventiveness of the programme was much lauded by the awards jury.

While the number of Belgian visitors fell by 8.8%, reflecting the state of the Belgian market, the show attracted healthy increases in its two largest export markets of France and the Netherlands, alongside the UK and Germany.

Visit: www.furniturefairbrussels.be

70

Interiors Monthly December 2014

www.underlay.com

t: 01536 200502

The Caviar & Champagne Collection Made With You In Mind Pure Luxury.

Proudly made in the UK to BS 5808 (1991) and BS EN 14499:2004