“Staingard Protect6 gives retailers a competitive edge and provides customers peace of mind like never before”
Increased retailer margins
Retail pricing flexibility
This is more than innovation… it’s a retail advantage.
Your customers can enjoy their new furniture to the fullest.
January retail trading updates usually fall into four categories: management thinking they need higher salaries and bonuses because shoppers flocked to stores, desperate to part with their credit card debt; management keen to impress investors that they do know what they are doing, the strategy is the right one and if they had some more money things would be even more shiny (these are less common these days); management hoping that, having done everything they could think of that generated sales without giving away the pittance of profit that’s left after paying the bills, the performance was – fingers crossed – just a tad better than had been forecast and enough to keep the game going for a bit longer; and (because if others are winning, someone must be losing) management, having done everything they could think of that generated sales but were lucky if anything washed its face, left wondering when somebody should put the business out of its misery, or see if anyone else fancies being its new owner.
For obvious reasons, the sector has far fewer plc’s than it once had, and no-one’s going to send out a release if the news wasn’t great (or if they don’t see the need to tell rivals how things went), so there is less of a sample pool than there used to be. Add to that the almost universally accepted viewpoint that the ONS retail sales data is about as reliable as Donald Trump’s memory, and (publicly at least) we’re left with extrapolations and personal experiences.
Some things we can say with confidence about recent trading are that no-one had an obviously stunning performance; some will have been left with a pile of stock they almost couldn’t give away and so others will have a go at selling it; and because shoppers of all types are watching where the pounds go (householders earning £25,000 a year have £12 a week to spend on non-essentials), value (at all price points) and longevity are more important than they have been for many years. The sort of values my grandmothers approved of.
Take Off with himolla Visit.www.himolla.com
INTERIORS MONTHLY FEBRUARY
Q uartet
hythm, grown up and admiring glances 40 Preview
Furniture Component Expo, MIFF
50 Review
J anuary Furniture Show, Heimtextil, Paris Deco Off, M aison&Objet, Maison&Objet In The City
Editor: Andrew Kidd
T: 07814 780 273 E: akidd@interiorsmonthly.co.uk
Furniture advertising (South): Tim Boden
M: 07976 122 150 E: tboden@interiorsmonthly.co.uk
Furniture advertising (North): Jarrod Bird
T: 01565 631 397 E: jbird@interiorsmonthly.co.uk
Carpet, flooring advertising: Joanne Paull
M: 07817 624 922 E: jpaull@interiorsmonthly.co.uk
Representative in India: Amarjeet Singh Gianni
T: 0091 98390 35458 E: as_gianni@yahoo.co.in
Published by Interiors Media Limited
167 Hadlow Road, Tonbridge, Kent TN10 4LP T: 01732 441 134 E: enquiries@interiorsmonthly.co.uk
Registered in England no. 6397722
Print: Knockout Print Design by Foreland Creative © Interiors Media Limited ISSN 1756-2236
DFS, The Cotswold Company, Nkuku and Garden Trading have enjoyed strong festive trading.
DFS has increased its profit forecast after a rise in orders at Sofology and DFS in the past six months. It says it expects to make underlying pre-tax profits of £30m-£31m in the 26 weeks to 28 December, an increase of about £14m. It also expects to beat profit forecasts for the full year (£41m) with profits of £43m-£50m.
Sales for the period will be c8.7% higher, thanks to its elevated opening order bank and the continued growth.
Orders were up 2.3%, ‘with both DFS and Sofology brands achieving growth, against strong comparatives and in a broadly flat market,’ it says.
The Cotswold Company enjoyed a 14% like-for-like sales rise in the 10 weeks to 28 December, with total sales up 17% to £23.2m. Store sales, including openings, jumped by 32% as online turnover rose by 13%. Active customers at the 14-store chain – who have purchased at least once in the past 18 months – rose by a fifth to 300,000.
‘We have seen strong full-price demand, reflecting continued consumer appetite for high-quality, made-to-last furniture despite a competitive promotional environment in the wider category,’ says Ralph Tucker, Cotswold Company ceo.
Homeware retailer Nkuku saw turnover at the £19m chain
jump by 18% between October and December. The chain says it was able to reach its highest number of customers alongside higher average basket values as it saw improved customer loyalty, continued new customer acquisition and strong reactivation of previously lapsed customers.
‘Trade sales saw robust growth, supported by aligned brand partnerships including John Lewis. The period also saw strategic progress across the channel mix, including launches with Next, the opening of Nkuku at Redbrick, and the introduction of an interior design service at the Devon flagship. Social engagement increased over 50%, driven by storytelling focused on craftsmanship, sustainability and the people behind the products,’ says James Lowe, Nkuku ceo.
Homeware etailer Garden Trading saw sales jump in the run-up to Christmas, helped by its expanded furniture offer and customer loyalty scheme. Furniture sales rose by 50% in the 10-week period, including 90% growth across living room and a 70% rise in the expanded kitchen and dining offer. The homeware category saw a 90% jump in textiles sales and 50% growth across new tableware ranges.
Garden Trading is part of the £19m turnover THG Capital. About half of its 2024 turnover is believed to come from Garden Trading and the group’s online teak furniture sales. THG also operates a garden centre in Harrogate.
Likewise has warned retailers that the cost of products will be increasing.
The warning comes after the country’s second-largest flooring distributor saw sales rise by 8.6% to £163.8m in 2025. Sales in Likewise Floors grew by 13.3%.
‘The flooring industry in the UK is experiencing price
increases as we commence 2026 in carpet, residential vinyl, laminate, LVT, adhesives, levelling compounds and commercial products. Likewise is implementing these increases during January and February,’ says the group.
As it nears its original £200m sales target, Likewise ‘is now considering various
investment options to materially exceed that figure.
‘The group continues to attract top quality sales executives. Their knowledge combined with extensive new products, sales, marketing and POS activities will continue to increase our market share with independent flooring retailers and contractors.’
Kettal has bought a majority stake in Driade (pictured) from lighting group Nemo.
‘With this new course, we aim to rediscover Driade’s DNA and project it into the future through an international and shared vision. This is not a simple acquisition but an authentic collaboration born from mutual respect and the belief that true innovation arises from the meeting of different cultures and competencies. Driade deserves to reclaim its place on the international design scene,’ says Alex Alorda, Kettal ceo.
Meanwhile, furniture, lighting and accessories manufacturer Gejst has been bought by Dansk Design Invest, joining OYOY Living Design, bObles, FILIBABBA, ReCollector and Plauborg Furniture.
Australian furniture brand Reddie is to open in London.
Founded by Caroline and Andrew Olah, Reddie produces 100% reclaimed teak, recycled plastic and steel furniture at its factory in Java, Indonesia.
The 2,000sqft showroom in Clerkenwell will be the company’s first in Europe. It will officially open in May, with a soft opening in March.
Upholstery etailer Zofa is to open its first London store this month. ‘The decision to open on Fulham Road reflects strong online demand, as well as the area’s alignment with Zofa’s design-led, modular furniture ranges,’ says John Hampton, Zofa founder.
Feather & Black has opened two stand-alone London stores, increasing the chain’s outlets to 13. Its other units are concessions in Dreams’ stores.
Sofa Club has continued to shape its management team, turning to fashion for its md and with Faye Leadbeater joining the retailer permanently.
Paul Brennan was most recently commercial and merchandising director at clothing and homeware brand JW Anderson. He previously had roles at John Lewis, Yoox Net-A-Porter Group, Browns and Marc Jacobs, and has a track record in driving fastpaced growth across ecommerce and physical retail. ‘While my career has been rooted in fashion, the opportunity at Sofa Club felt like a natural progression. The brand’s vision to bring fashion into the home is compelling, and its blend of ecommerce and retail, alongside its pace of
growth, closely mirrors the environments I’ve thrived in throughout my career,’ says Brennan.
Leadbeater has joined as brand and creative director after almost five years as a consultant, during which she played a major role defining Sofa Club’s distinctive voice.
Her career spans senior consultancy roles with Warehouse Fashions, Karen Millen and CRAFTD, alongside long-term freelance leadership positions delivering cohesive brand identities, campaigns and scalable content systems.
Known for her big-picture thinking and instinctive understanding of culture, a key part of Leadbeater’s leadership approach is her openness about being neurodivergent and having ADHD. She credits this with her ability to spot patterns early, think laterally and respond quickly to cultural shifts – all critical strengths in modern brand leadership.
‘Creative brands are built through difference, not conformity. The way I think allows me to see connections others might miss, and that’s exactly what strong brand direction requires,’ she says.
Ulster Carpets enjoyed record sales in the past year but profitability slipped. The group – which includes Ulster Carpets, Alternative Flooring, Roger Oates and Dan Floor –saw turnover climb by 3% to £91.7m, but EBITDA fell by 4% to £9.2m.
‘In terms of the core woven business, the change in fiscal direction following the new presidency has put pressure on the US marketplace. Despite this, the stand-out market was the US, where
record sales were achieved. Time will tell how this pans out, but the UK does have advantages compared with other non-US suppliers,’ says John Wilson, Ulster chairman.
‘UK and European markets were at best satisfactory, reflecting the challenges that all western European economies are currently facing. Marine volumes were good, but margins in this area are very tight and so the continuing aim is to focus on the premium part
Headlam has replaced its revolving credit facility, which was due to expire in October 2027, and overdraft with an asset-based lending facility.
The £85m facility will change depending on the group’s asset base, ‘with the intention being that it provides headroom and liquidity as the business needs evolve’.
Barclays Bank and Wells Fargo Capital Finance have provided the financing, expected to have a similar interest rate to the RCF.
of this sector,’ he added.
‘Sales for the group are strong but we face challenging fiscal policies in both the US and the UK. Productivity gains are essential to counteract these. Dan Floor continues to perform well, but there are challenges in its non-UK based markets that will need to be addressed. Roger Oates needs to respond to challenges of maintaining sales volumes while facing up to pressure on margin and an upward trend in overhead.
‘Alternative Flooring looks like it is now heading towards a new phase of growth, which is important for the group.
‘In all parts of the group, we need continued focus on growth and to adapt to the continually changing world.’
Bensons for Beds owner Alteri Partners says it will maintain Magnet’s store and staff levels after adding the chain to its retail portfolio.
Swedish kitchen group Nobia sold the chain for £0 (zero) after Alteri took on ownership and Magnet’s £60m liabilities, mainly the leases on its stores.
The deal also includes the Gower, Commodore and CIE brands.
‘As the UK’s number one specialist kitchen provider, we’ve made significant progress across retail, trade and B2B,’ says Sophie Rose, Magnet ceo.
‘From the momentum we’re seeing in our smallerformat showrooms to the exciting partnerships we’re developing, we’ve built a strong platform for growth.’
If you are looking to recruit staff for your furniture or flooring stores, looking for sales staff or reps for your manufacturing outlet, then INTERIORS MONTHLY offers a great package!
Our online package is just £175
Your advert will appear in our jobs section on the website until the position is filled or you ask us to remove. Our weekly newsletter, which is mailed every Thursday to 8000 industry professionals, also includes a list of these latest jobs.
If you have both online and quarter page recruitment advert in our magazine, the cost will only be £250!
Costs for larger recruitment adverts are available upon request.
Please contact Jarrod on
T: 01565 631 397
● ADVERTISING – Most advertising does not work very well. If yours isn’t, stop wasting your money now. Don’t blame the media, blame your message. Re-design your advertising in a benefits-orientated-style. Call Greenwood for effective copywriting and marketing know-how.
● PRODUCTS – Be ruthless with your precious floor space. If a product or collection isn’t performing after being given a fair trial, then clear it and replace it with a faster selling line. Test and measure the selling potential (or not) of your products in an accelerated Greenwood Sale.
● SELLING SKILLS – Get good at selling. Most retailers don’t employ a proper retail sales process for big ticket goods. The most successful ones do. Invest time and money in quality sales know-how. Call Greenwood to arrange an effective sales training course for your team.
● COMPETITION – Check your competition to find out what they are offering. Avoid all-out price wars. Outperform 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. Every good retailer from Aldi to Harrod’s does. 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!
Grow your business, build your order book and win future market share with a Greenwood Promotional Sale or, realise the enormous value of your goodwill using a Greenwood Business Closing / Retirement strategy. Either way you can generate record-breaking sales and profits.
Greenwood Sales work. To find out more, call or email me Bernard Eaton now on 07771 700247, and I’ll explain the exciting options and possibilities for your Greenwood Sale without obligation.
NOW BOOKING FROM SUMMER 2026 CALL 07771 700247
Dreams has recruited Bensons for Beds head of manufacturing Matt Richardson as director of production.
Jay-Be has strengthened its management team with two internal promotions: Rob Livingstone has been named md and Leanne Scargill has been promoted to director of culture. Katie Dilnot has joined the company as national accounts manager.
Veronique Hoflack will succeed Ruben Desmet as Unilin Flooring president on 1 March. She will also complete Desmet’s 2025–2027 term as European Producers of Laminate Flooring president. Desmet has left after seven years with the company. Hoflack is succeeded as Unilin Panels president by Bert Vandenkendelaere, sales and marketing director.
Almost six decades of family flooring and furnishings retailing has ended with the closure of Denis Green.
The Witney, Oxfordshire retailer and Greendale member has closed following the retirement of Stan Green.
His father opened the store in 1967, with expansion seeing it move twice in the town. When Denis retired in 2008, Stan and his brother Roger and brother-in-law Collin Olliffe took over. Stan has owned the company since 2016.
The store employed five people, including Stan’s daughter and nephew.
The funeral of Northern Ireland flooring retailer Sam (Sammy) Small took place on 11 January.
He died peacefully at the Carnmoyne residential home, Ahoghill on 6 January, surrounded by his family.
The husband of Irene, father of David and James, fatherin-law of Liz and Joanne, grandfather of Louise, Gill, Erin, Niamh, Sammy, Millie, Emma, Cody and Gary, brother, brother-in-law and uncle, he founded Smallcost Carpets in 1972, initially from a coal shed in Ballymena. A second store was opened in Coleraine in 1989.
‘People from up and down the country know the name Sammy Small, and Smallcost has had a place in many homes throughout generations. One of life’s true gentlemen, always loved and forever remembered,’ says the Small family.
Stan says he will miss the ‘day-to-day contact with customers and their families that we have worked for over the years. We have been so privileged to have such a loyal customer base over many years of trading.
‘Business seemed so much easier in the early days, but with rising overheads and so many new regulations, it’s so much more difficult for all businesses. We have been so thankful for so many loyal customers supporting us.’
And then there was one
Newport flooring retailer City Carpets is to close on 18 February, citing rising costs and ‘government instability’ for the decision.
Sister store Homestyle of Blackwood will remain open.
‘All pre-booked fittings will be honoured. We truly appreciate everyone who has supported us over the years,’ it says.
Meanwhile, Witney independent retailer Homely Furniture 2 Go is switching to online only. It is closing the Minster Lovell store as a result of founder David Curtis’s retirement.
The funeral of Kent flooring retailer Gary Turk took place on 5 January. He was 67.
Turk died on 13 December after a cardiac arrest three days earlier at Tenterden Golf Club’s annual Christmas dinner.
He had been in the flooring industry for more than 40 years, launching Ashford retailer Turk’s Flooring with his sons Lee and Jason in 2016.
Before setting up Turk’s Flooring, Turk spent more than three decades at Melvin Head Carpets.
‘I also worked at Melvin Head and actually planned to work on my own when I left, but that’s when Dad stopped me and said the three of us should do something together. Since then, we’ve both been doing six days a week and the plan was for Dad to cut that by a day or so,’ says Lee.
‘He loved his job and didn’t want to slow down. I do the measuring and then the rest of us do some fitting, but Dad would always answer the phone, respond to emails and be the one people met in the shop. He was such a people person, always kind, chatty and did something for you if you needed. Coming in early and opening up was always his thing and it made him proud working alongside his two sons, grandson Bradley and my wife Marie. When he wasn’t in the shop or on the golf course he’d be fishing with Bradley and the family.’
Turk is survived by Janice, his wife of 46 years, children Lee, Jason, Mikala, and Emma, and 11 grandchildren.
Point of Sale
Available in a curated palette of 10 timeless tonal shades, this collection offers both resilience and elegance.
Available to order now
2
1 Giorgetti has a special edition of its Progetti armchair, featuring a lacquered brushed stainless-steel effect finish and a refined play of contrasts between two leathers: one for the interior and one for the exterior, which can be selected to create unique compositions. The leather can be personalised with embroidered words inspired by the world of dreams.
Visit: www.giorgettimeda.com
2 Louis De Poortere’s Ecorugs collection is now made from 70% recycled polyester from plastic bottles: up from 40% in 2025. A vision of sustainable, circular design, it demonstrates how tradition can adapt to support a healthier planet. Alongside comes a collection that’s machine washable and with every style now suitable for outdoor use. www.louisdepoortere.com
3 Noël & Marquet’s The Harmony of Lines wall panel collection is a celebration of linear structure and serenity: lines that repeat, fold and flow, composing visual symphonies of balance and clarity. Designed to shape timeless interiors, The Harmony of Lines brings order, depth, and refinement – an invitation to design spaces with purity, precision and personality. Visit: www.noel-marquet.uk
4 Bilia Mini Portable is a rechargeable version of the iconic lamp designed by Gio Ponti in 1932. With wireless technology and new finishes: Brass, Brushed Copper, Brushed Nickel, Glossy Nickel Black, White and Matt Black, FontanaArte’s Bilia Mini Portable combines heritage and innovation. Visit: www.fontanaarte.com
5 With Impressive Design, the first 100% creak-free, waterproof herringbone laminate floor, Quick-Step has taken its premium quality flooring choice to another level, as its current generation of products beautifully showcase what 30 years of dedication to creating the best possible floors can bring.
Visit: www.quick-step.co.uk
3
4
5
6 Having secured its patent for the natural dyeing process, Thonet has introduced Dark Melange to several models. The colour shimmers, oscillating between a rich black, dark chocolate brown and light natural tones, as the process produces subtle irregularities in the colour that give the material a particularly individual finish.
Visit: www.thonet.de
7 For the past nine years, Kiley’s Karpets has been working with Moduleo to supply homes and business with its high-quality luxury vinyl flooring. Aaron Barber, Kiley’s manager, has seen the growth and expansion of Moduleo, and the St Leonardson-Sea store is now home to the latest iteration of its LayRed engineered vinyl flooring.
Visit: www.moduleo.com
8 With the latest collections, free samples and a world of interior inspiration, LeoLine’s website is the perfect place to start a journey into flooring as unique as your customers are. So, whether homeowners are looking for dazzling tiles, calming wood or cool and chic concrete, they’ll find a LeoLine cushion vinyl floor that makes unique style easy and affordable.
Visit: www.leoline.co.uk
9 Causeway Carpets has refreshed its Nature Core and Nature Earth styles for the new season, introducing five colours to the tufted loop pile carpets made with 100% British wool. Nature Core features a classic level loop pile in a chunky four-ply yarn that gives a distinct rustic charm, while Nature Earth’s ribbed texture in the same yarn captures the handcrafted aesthetic of traditional weaving. www.causewaycarpets.com
10 Beauflor has launched a new website, making it easy to find the right cushion vinyl floor in just a few clicks. The website helps everyone feel at home, with a tailored user journey that makes it faster and easier than ever to explore collections and find out everything you need to be ready to go vinyl.
Visit: www.beauflor.com 8 9 10
For one customer, everything hangs on precision
Mr S had an eye for detail. His kitchen had a rash of tiny yellow spots, all positioned carefully to ensure I did not miss a single defect from his schedule of complaints. He talked me through them one by one, and this delayed the start of my actual inspection by more than 45minutes.
Part-way through this one-sided conversation Mr S’s computer appeared and I was shown the retailer’s website and, in particular, a close-up of the chamfer along the edge of the granite worktop. Then Mr S produced an A4 sheet where he had printed out an enlargement of the photograph and added to it with hand-ruled lines and some basic calculations, leading to his conclusion that the chamfer must be 4.8mm wide. This was very different to the width of the chamfer on his kitchen worktop, which he had measured to be only 4.2mm, and if you caught it in a certain light and looked really closely, appeared to him to have a slightly convex face.
I let him complete his explanation without interruption in spite of my inner frustration. Cutting a consumer short could lead them to complain that the inspector was not listening, or was in a hurry, so this was important. It was just as important as I proceeded with the inspection to make sure all the issues were photographed, whether or not I agreed with them.
The report was drafted and sent across. There was a very prompt response from the finance company who had commissioned the inspection. Mr S had written to them as soon as they had sent him the report: ‘The assessor was informed that there was a significant difference between the picture of the edges and those fitted… the assessor
seemingly ignores these differences.’
I checked my report. Unnoticed, or more likely overlooked, was a paragraph reporting that the chamfer – and the photograph – had been raised as one of Mr S’s issues. Another paragraph made clear that I would only include as defects the issues which I considered to be wrong and which would be of valid concern to any reasonable consumer. My list of defects had been considerably shorter than this consumer’s and I did not agree that the worktops were faulty.
I pointed out the two paragraphs in my reply to the finance company. ‘I do not believe any reasonable observer’s eyes would be drawn to the chamfers on
the worktops and consider them to be faulty, and they would have no impact on the use and cleaning of the kitchen. The consumer is expecting an abnormal level of precision that is not appropriate to a fitted kitchen.’
I received a further email. ‘Mr S believes that the kitchen was mis-sold to him because the photograph gave him a much higher expectation of the kitchen than has actually been delivered. He has asked for all his money back.’
How would you reply?
Visit: www.richard-renouf.com
Richard Renouf is an independent furnishings consultant
In 2022, Nick Newman stopped running the reclaimed flooring department at architectural salvage company Lassco after 17 years, in favour of working for himself and developing what he had learned about old floors. Provision was born, and today it has two locations in south-east London: a unit in one of the former railway arches at Maltby Street Market, Bermondsey, and a flooring showroom (and more) just under two miles away at Iliffe Yard, Elephant and Castle, which opened last March.
‘We sell ceramics, timber flooring, clothing, glassware, furniture, with the emphasis upon tactility, materials and beauty, and anything by local designers that we like the look of. The ethos of Provision is about integrity. It’s about good design. It’s about having one eye on the environment and slow living. And it’s about materials and the tactility of materials and how you can create something beautiful from a bit of wood or a bit of clay.’
Newman wanted to showcase the sort of products he’d seen day in and
Luxury carpets created to stir customers senses and inspire a lasting romance with their home.
The collections offer a sumptuous velvety pile, crafted from premium polyester with a soft fleece backing, fully bleach-cleanable and carry a 15-year wear warranty ensuring durability and easy maintenance.
day out. ‘One space where people can come in and potentially get anything they need for their house, be it a candle, flooring, some nice taps, and even a nice jacket to wear home.
‘From spending such a lot of time exposed to reclaim materials, I think it cultivated a certain look that I liked, and the way designers could potentially use something that was old – essentially with patina but looked old and maybe, you know, for a skip, but then turned into something beautiful. And I love
story and the provenance of materials and that has definitely influenced the look of Provision. The concept of slow living and good design is relevant because ultimately, I believe, we live in a society that doesn’t place a value upon how things are made or the processes that have gone into that. The idea that you can purchase something from us and you might keep it for the rest of your life…
‘The most important material to me is timber. I love the tactility of wood, and
that informs the aesthetic in here. I have a bit of an obsession with timber and I have to rein it in sometimes to allow other materials to come in.’
Newman’s experience sees him supply homes, stores and restaurants. ‘I do such a different array of houses and buildings in London. That’s one of the reasons why I love London so much: because every project’s really interesting. There’s certain shops that I don’t tend to forget. And what I wanted with Provision, it’s about the experience of coming in.
Choosing the wrong adhesive can cause system failures – the NEW Recommended Adhesives Guide 2026, from F. Ball, removes that risk. With around 6,000 tested and approved recommendations from nearly 200 leading manufacturers, it’s the industry’s most reliable resource for quickly selecting the correct adhesive, for any floorcovering installation, every time. Tested, approved & guaranteed.
‘I wanted it to be calm. I think it’s really important. The light is a nice, the smell, there are tactile objects, so you’re engaging with all your different senses. And I purposely wanted to do that. I’d just like people to hopefully buy something that they love, that they want to keep for as long as possible, and just enjoy being in here and feel very comfortable.’
In common with most businesses at Iliffe Yard – a community of artisan workshops built in the 1880s – an appointment is needed to view the flooring.
‘It’s situated in the ideal location for members of the public, architects and designers to come and view the carefully curated selection. Provision Flooring embraces the honesty and natural integrity of hard and soft woods. From the tactility and rawness of band-sawn oak to elegant pre–finished wider boards, the ranges are the merging of the understated and the refined.’
It’s also a space for creative endeavours: from regular supper clubs to monthly ‘designer residencies’ and maker workshops.
Visit: www.provisionstore.co.uk
High-quality carpet for the finest homes, offices and hotels, made by craftsmen in our stateof-the-art factories. As a fully family-owned company, we have been creating, producing and supplying innovative top quality Dutch products worldwide since 1992, offered at internationally competitive prices and short lead times.
Reliable. Innovative. Affordable.
After celebrating 25 years and 15 annual collections as a rug designer, Deidre Dyson has given herself leeway
A unifying theme has been the common trait of Deirdre Dyson’s previous 15 rug collections. For 2026 she has embraced the freedom of creative spontaneity with Melange, where designs are linked only by a shared sense of play and humour. Geometric and kaleidoscopic shapes reoccur, while the colour palette centres around taupe neutrals, with bolts of burgundy, purple and burnt orange.
‘I decided to move away from any preset objective and relied entirely on a random design process from ideas that just popped into my head,’ she says. ‘There are references to past works using overlays and floating shapes, while some rugs appear figurative and others more angular and geometric. What did become evident is that the designs are characteristically mine. As an improvised collection the results are interesting, and I hope there is something for everyone and to suit a broad range of contemporary styles.’
Spontaneity has produced seven Goodweave-certified designs handwoven in Nepal using Tibetan wool and often silk.
Crystal has a jagged, graphic border reminiscent of refracting crystals, with black silk highlights, while the solid black, vertical frequency-like lines of Safari are interrupted by thinner
Enjoy a garden that always looks fresh and perfectly maintained. The Novoturf Artificial Grass range delivers lush, realistic lawns that stay beautifully green all year round. No mowing. No watering. No hassle.
Choose from two distinct styles,our new launches: Rushmere, with non-directional blades for a soft, natural look from every angle, or Blackwell: featuring a luxurious 40mm pile for a fuller, more premium feel underfoot. Both are designed for modern living, offering durability, comfort, and effortless style.
The Novoturf range offers eight grass styles, featuring two brand-new launches alongside six refined and updated designs.
stripes in two-tone earthy shades of warm muddy brown, to dramatic effect.
Triptych and Moulin each feature a centrifugal force, creating a precise focal point that was completely unintentional. In the former, a trio of animal-print-like triangles in burnt orange and camel are set against a grey backdrop; in the latter transparent triangles overlay a rich burgundy and purple background.
Glassy Greens sees delicate sea green silks create the illusion of floating shelves, each balancing a rectangular box in the middle, in contrasting muted tones.
Pouch is a soft, tactile design with curving corners and a fluid silk outline, in varying taupe neutrals that lend it a three-dimensional quality.
O is a geometric study woven in 100% wool with translucent layers –rectangles, squares and circles –overlapping to form intriguing shapes and angles, topped with an accent of deepest raspberry. Visit: www.deirdredyson.com
Rug designs
‘Residential designs are increasingly featuring serene and streamlined interiors, with a sense of relaxation and seamless continuity. Today’s rug designs are no longer accent pieces but a defining staple in the foundation of a room’s design. This serves an important role by embodying a cocooning warmth or cool stillness through airy aesthetics that meld with the rest of the room,’ says Laylah Holmes, Holmes Bespoke founder and creative director.
‘The key to designing for the home in 2026 lies in considering how a design flows throughout the entire space, rather than being confined to individual rooms. The incorporation of stair runners or rugs provides a tactile and elegant design choice for long stairwells or narrow hallways, transforming these areas into natural extensions of the living spaces. Even when working with a single colour or texture, these elements echo the home’s established aesthetic, creating a cohesiveness between each room.’
The company specialises in luxury rugs, runners, tapestries and wall hangings, creating pieces for both residential and commercial spaces.
‘More clients are leaning towards simple rug, runner, tapestry and wallhanging designs because of their calming nature. They also offer flexibility because they can be moved to other spaces in the home. With this approach,
patterns like simple line detailing paired with sumptuous fabric provide the perfect accompaniment to a room and create a subtle and elegant addition to the room’s tranquil personality.
‘Pieces inspired by the natural world are set to shape the coming year. Designs drawing on the environment’s organic colour palettes are being featured in an array of new design projects. Instead of relying on pops of colour and loud patterns, there’s a more grounded approach to both colour and pattern, emphasising the use of natural tones and flowing lines.
‘Starting with a point of inspiration like a piece from the natural world allows for an organic and balanced approach to design. In our recent collaboration with Lumi Interiors, we created a
collection of rugs inspired by the Emirati desert, drawing on the natural flow of the granular landscape and reflecting the beautiful blue from the skies and white of the sand. The result is a sense of quiet intrigue, where familiar colours and organic forms blend into a considered interior.
‘Though there is a move towards minimalist and simple designs, this doesn’t mean merely having a bare floor. The modern home now uses elements that serve as transitional touches, decorating “in-between” spaces that are often forgotten.’
Visit: www.holmesbespoke.com
British spring and comfort technology manufacturer Spinks has introduced its latest range of innovative pocket cores, marking a significant step forward in environmentally conscious mattress component design.
Following its award wins at Interzum, including the Best of the Best Award, Spinks has added a trio of products to its offer.
Ecore is a new family of pocket cores engineered with recyclability and performance at its heart. Available in polypropylene non-woven with a polypropylene bonding agent, and polyester non-woven with a polyester bonding agent, Ecore is offered in multiple heights, coil counts and wire gauges, with standard boxed or nested constructions for increased coil density and enhanced support. Options for zoning, firm-edge reinforcement, flexible gluing, and framed or unframed configurations give the flexibility to create high-performance, customised mattress cores.
Ecore Air is engineered to deliver exceptional airflow and improved temperature regulation for a cooler, more breathable sleep experience. It features a perforated polypropylene non-woven that enhances ventilation throughout the mattress core, combining high-performance comfort with a climate-conscious design.
Indecore is a patented pocket spring innovation entering commercial rollout
for the first time. Featuring a fully elasticated top sheet, each coil moves independently, overcoming the limitations of traditional pocket cores that rely on top and bottom sheets for stability. The result is superior responsiveness, greater conformity and a more authentic pocketed-coil experience: helping to minimise filling materials falling into the cavities created by centre-glued cores.
‘The innovations introduced mark a significant step forward not just for us, but for the industry. We are introducing viable, sustainable alternatives for the UK and Irish markets, while also bringing forward new innovations that companies will be keen to integrate into future designs. Last year was a big year for us, which started with the granting of our 100th patent, winning various industry awards, and now the launch of three innovative new products. With
these developments, we continue to deliver products for high-quality sleep and comfort, engineering excellence and genuine product innovation, and continue to reinforce our position as industry pioneers while giving manufacturers practical and customisable solutions to differentiate their offerings in a competitive market,’ says Steve Moffatt, Spinks UK & Ireland sales manager.
These new developments add to a list of more than 100 granted patents by the company, including Spinks’ long-standing offering of its innovative spring technoloy, trusted for years by many manufacturers across the UK and beyond.
Visit: www.spinks.co.uk
Understanding what is used
‘Living up to expectations for the appearance and longevity of flooring installations requires an understanding of subfloor preparation in order to create a super-smooth base. Flooring adhesives need to be selected for their compatibility with different flooring, as well as specific performance features. It is also essential to know how to avoid common causes of floor failure, chief of which is still unmanaged subfloor moisture, and flooring retailers should be able to advise how certain processes and products can help achieve optimum results when installing floorcoverings,’ says Tim Green, F Ball head of training.
‘For these reasons, both flooring and design professionals would benefit from receiving an induction in the basics of subfloor preparation and floorcovering installation. Professionals should strive to continuously improve and develop knowledge throughout their careers. This has become particularly necessary as advances in technology have accelerated the development of subfloor preparation products and adhesives with advanced properties and applications.
‘For example, advancements in adhesive technology have enabled F Ball to create a specialist, solvent-free vinyl adhesive with pressure-sensitive characteristics that can hold floorcoverings in place over a wide range of temperatures. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause floorcoverings to expand and contract significantly, resulting in tenting and
gaps at the edges of flooring over time.
This is often an issue in heavily glazed areas subject to solar gain, such as rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows.
‘Similarly, combinations of new, fastdrying smoothing compounds, waterproof surface membranes and adhesives mean that fitters can now install floorcoverings in as little as a day, helping to meet increasingly demanding time constraints.’
Having a good knowledge of the range of new products available will also help in choosing the optimum product for a particular job and avoid compromising the finished appearance of an installation. For example, particular vinyl adhesives are recommended to avoid visible trowel serrations showing through thin vinyl floorcoverings or to allow the creation of complex designs and patterns, an advantage when installing LVT. There are also smoothing
compounds designed to withstand heavy loads and high foot traffic and created to accommodate movements in subfloors of metal and wood.
‘People invested in flooring need to keep abreast of wider changes affecting the flooring industry too. For instance, calcium sulphate screeds are increasingly common in newbuilds and require specific treatment to ensure against floor failure. In such cases, traditional cementbased smoothing compounds may not be suitable and the use of a compatible calcium sulphate-based smoothing compound is often recommended.
‘As a market leader in subfloor preparation products and adhesives, F Ball believes it has a responsibility to promote industry standards and best practice and, by extension, the positive reputation of the flooring industry. This is why flooring professionals of any skill level can attend free training courses at the F Ball Centre of Excellence, the purpose-built, state-of-the-art training centre,’ says Green.
Training programmes, which run yearround, are led by experts from within the company, cover subfloor preparation, moisture management and adhesive selection, and provide an opportunity to use a range of F Ball products. They include specialist courses for flooring retailers and a three-day course on achieving optimum results when installing LVT.
Visit: www.f-ball.com/training
proudly supported by our launch partners:
The Flooring Show South is the brand-new launch event bringing the UK’s leading flooring brands, products, and industry networking closer to southern-based professionals. Don’t miss your chance to discover the latest trends and connect with suppliers — all in one convenient location.
See the full spectrum of flooring — carpet, LVT, vinyl, underlay, tools, adhesives and more — all under one roof. Connect with the brands shaping the UK flooring industry.
Meet suppliers, explore new collections, and discuss business face-to-face, all in one convenient Southern location.
Join a trusted industry platform, connect with peers, and stay ahead of trends in the South of England.
For almost half a century Metro Group has developed, adapted and grown to fit the needs of an ever-changing market. As a flooring buying group, the goal is always to achieve the best terms and prices from more than 25 dedicated suppliers, which allows members to sell the best-performing products in the market at a profit.
The group is looking for members in various areas of the UK.
Metro Group has developed into a large membership of independent retailers, from the smallest one-man operation to multiple-outlet businesses. Retaining independence is very important to Metro members, who are always given the opportunity to participate in group activity, albeit optional. This allows
them to use all of the best benefits of group membership while being 100% in control of their own businesses.
A major optional advantage of group membership is the CarpetFirst own label, which allows retailers to rebrand products and has been used to great effect by Metro members since the mid-1990s.
The group’s central ordering service allows members who don’t have accounts with certain suppliers to order flooring via the group, allowing them to quickly and easily access products otherwise unavailable. All it takes is a phone call to Metro, and in many cases has led to new accounts being opened.
The Metro Group marketing and merchandising service has been
developed over the past 30 years and has a distinct advantage in that it is completely bespoke to the individual member. Retailers all have different wants and needs, so having the ability to access a host of individual marketing resources means that members have access to a wealth of experience and facilities custom made to suit their needs. Members currently benefit from a group contribution of £600 plus VAT each year that they can use on whatever marketing project they wish. Nothing is out of the question with this service, and the marketing and merchandising team works alongside each member to create what they require, from design to production and installation.
Tel: 01204 393 539
As manufacturers of innovative and sustainable textiles dedicated to improving and enhancing living spaces, Dickson Constant designs and manufactures high-end products in Europe such as woven vinyl flooring and sun protection fabrics, combining performance and design.
Its products, marketed under the two flagship brands Dickson and Sunbrella are sought after by the biggest names in design and architecture, as well as customers around the world, including Dior, EY, Bouygues and Challenger.
With more than 180 years of knowhow and recognised expertise, Dickson has developed an innovative collection of woven floor coverings at the cutting edge of design, perfectly suited to the most demanding environments with heavy traffic. Woven with yarns designed in-house, the floors combine the texture of traditional woven carpet with the quality of vinyl, promising durability, functionality and aesthetics.
The combination of yarns (weft/warp) allows the creation of different looks, nuanced colours and form perspectives depending on the intensity of light. Thanks to the many shapes available and a unique colour palette, defining
individual rules and making the floor a major decorative feature has never been easier: the floor becomes a canvas for creativity, and its covering an art form.
Research and development is at the core of Dickson’s flooring, with CleanGard – integrated PU protection technology – among its exclusive technologies. This delays soiling while
enhancing stain resistance and ease of maintenance. Other innovations include bio-based yarns made from natural and renewable materials as the company transitions towards environmentally friendly alternatives.
The Dickson Flooring Project app allows users to see how their choice of floor will look in a variety of spaces. Tel: 07968 272 955
Club, Hawi
Plus
The Kipu Club armchair builds on the Kipu pouf designed in 2014 by Anderssen & Voll, adding an ergonomic backrest that supports the body, protects and gently embraces it. A true nest, dressed by Lapalma in a breathable, waterproof and UV-resistant fabric, Kipu Club brings its natural elegance, sense of joy and relaxation into outdoor settings.
Francesco Rota’s Plus sunbed forms
part of a highly versatile range of modular elements, defined by soft profiles and an extremely intuitive linking system.
When thoughts turn to lunch, the Hawi stool comes into its own. Designed by Mario Ferrarini, it is part of a stackable collection defined by a timeless, essential aesthetic, and is available in two heights. With its
polypropylene seat and backrest –available in a range of colours – it is ready to withstand even the most challenging weather conditions.
Being outdoors fosters wellbeing and the pleasure of coming together, because outdoor space is not a pause but an extension: a different, balanced and conscious way of living well.
Visit: www.lapalma.it
Lyxo’s offer has filled out and grown up
The first thing you spot about Lyxo’s 2026 collection is that it has developed from being your skinny, awkward, slightly-geeky-but-really-clever 12-yearold nephew into a confident, well-spoken, sociable 19-year-old that’s seemingly been to the gym and is garnering admiring glances from everyone. And this transformation has happened in just a year. Time does sometimes lie.
One thing that hasn’t changed is the sustainability behind Lyxo: the ranges
are created from polyethylene without gas emissions or water contamination; can be recycled into new products; and plastic processing parent Veco uses 100% renewable energy. Another constant is the artistic direction by LCM Marin Design Studio. What’s new is more designs, the introduction of lighting and fabrics that are waterrepellent, UV-, cold-, stain- and sporeresistant; and the development of colours: 18 are now available.
The Lira armchair is ‘as solid as roots in the earth, as light as a dancing breeze’, and can cope with temperatures from -60degC to 80degC. Available in nine colours it has a footstool and cushions.
Vera takes the ribs of leaves as its inspiration, with a choice of nine colours, side table, lounge chair and sofa.
Fera offers a multitude of useful objects, and solves the problem of how to store them by assembling easily into a totem. There are tray or deep storage versions of the individual objects, in a host of colours, and some have lighting versions.
Lighting has also been developed as stand-alone items, with Elly and Alba. Elly invokes the shape of a jellyfish and metal legs transform it from pendant to
floor lamp, with three sizes and a trio of lighting options. Alba is a multifunctional piece that serves as a storage container, vase and table lamp, providing illumination and decoration. Its compact size is designed to enhance countertops and tables, while its asymmetric hourglass design sees the larger bowl adorned with a raised ribbed pattern. It is made using injectionmolded PMMA, an acrylic glass that offers maximum transparency and brightness to the product.
Now that sociability is firmly on the
agenda, Blok Party is called for. Sidetable, container and cooler, with a dedicated drainage kit handy for all that melting ice in one of its two compartments, it proves a valuable ally for optimising space and keeping guests happy. And it plays at night as well, with the lighting version creating the right atmosphere for the most exclusive evenings.
The only question is, what will have happened by the time you see nephew Lyxo next?
Visit: www.lyxodesign.com
FCE brings the full furniture and bedding supply chain together under one roof
Furniture Component Expo returns to Telford on 11-12 March as the UK’s only dedicated showcase for the full furniture and bedding supply chain, bringing together machinery, materials, components and services under one roof.
BeA Group is the show’s headline sponsor; Carpenter returns as headline and registration sponsor, and Blum UK is sponsoring the new Innovation Trail.
Set against the backdrop of a sector undergoing rapid change in sustainability, automation and design, the 2026 edition is shaping up to be the most ambitious yet, with a larger exhibitor line-up, international exhibitors, and the launch of an Innovation Trail that will spotlight some of the most forward-thinking suppliers in the market.
The event continues to grow, and 18 new exhibitors will join a comprehensive cross-section of the industry, from foam and fillings to timber, components,
logistics, machinery and fabrics. Visitors can move seamlessly from specialist ply forming and woodworking at 3D Ply, through advanced cutting technologies, to polyurethane foam, before exploring everything from springs and timber to labels, nonwovens and logistics in a single visit.
Among the many UK-based names, visitors will find long-established suppliers such as Fibreline, Peak Converters, Livedale Foam & Sundries, Wade Spring and Yorkshire Foam & Fibre bringing their expertise, while partners include SATRA (testing and technical support), FIRA (standards and guidance) and the Furniture Industry Sustainability Programme (independently certified sustainability best practices).
The event has a growing international pull, with companies travelling from Turkey, Australia, Germany, Italy and Lithuania to connect with the UK and Irish markets. Textile and fabric specialists such as Erdem Fabrics and Sebatex UK, both with strong Turkish manufacturing roots, will be joined by other global players across foams, non-wovens, machinery and components, giving visitors a genuinely international sourcing opportunity.
Core sectors are strongly represented, with exhibitors covering foam and fibre, timber and panel products, fasteners, fixings and adhesives, CAD/ CAM and automated cutting, packaging,
non-wovens, upholstery fabrics and logistics. Visitors can explore solutions from companies like Ramsey Timber and Service Timber (materials) and Plasfoils (interior and exterior foils) to Jet Press and FR Scott (fastenings) and Pronto Logistics for freight and warehousing support.
One-Call Furniture will debut One-Call Components, its new UK-based manufacturing division. Operating from its new 130,000sqft facility near
Colchester, the division will produce cut and edged panels, cabinet carcasses and assembled cabinets for the furniture and bedding sectors.
The Innovation Trail will guide visitors to exhibitors pushing the boundaries of process, product or sustainability. Participating stands – including 3D Ply, Cordeks Nonwoven, Comfortex, Ramsey Timber, Carpenter, Mobus Fabrics, Plasfoils, Vita Group, Cirtex UK and Redwood UK – will be clearly
signposted on the floorplan and marked on the hall carpet with ‘We’re in the Innovation Trail’, to make it easy for visitors to build an innovation-focused route through the halls.
The Innovation Trail is designed to help visitors use their time more effectively, whether they are looking for greener material options, production efficiencies or value-adding surface and comfort technologies. With a mix of foam, timber, fabrics, non-wovens, finishing and circular solutions represented on the Innovation Trail, the feature will encourage conversations that cut across traditional product silos and open up new collaboration opportunities.
Running alongside the exhibition, the seminar theatre programme will again deliver a curated mix of technical insight, regulatory updates, market intelligence and best practice case studies. Organiser British Furniture Association will again use the show as a platform to support members and the wider sector through advice, advocacy and networking.
‘Furniture Component Expo has quickly become a focal point in the calendar for UK furniture and bedding manufacturers, because it brings the entire supply chain together in a practical, business-first environment all about solving problems, discovering new ideas and building long-term relationships,’ says Phil Spademan, BFA md.
‘That sense of community runs throughout the show, from longstanding exhibitors who supported the launch edition through to the new companies coming in for 2026. For buyers, designers, production managers and
The Future of Furniture Awards 2026 will recognise retailers’, manufacturers’ and suppliers’ sustainable working practices, ESG reporting and education as well as individuals who are championing sustainable changes within their organisations.
The Excellence in Education Award highlights commitment to providing a rewarding working and learning environment for new and existing staff of all ages, as well as details of partnerships and initiatives with other organisations such as colleges and schools to attract talent into the sector.
The Excellence in Sustainability Award will show dedication to continuous improvements across the business, ambitions to become more sustainable over the next three and five years, ways people within the organisation have been empowered to create a more sustainable future, and how a sustainable approach is communicated to staff and customers.
The Excellence in ESG Reporting Award requires a balance across all three areas of Environmental, Social and Governance reporting, alongside a clear assessment of best practice, a defined timeline for change and a clear plan for the future.
The Sustainability Champion Award will recognise an individual working within a BFA member company.
owners, it offers a rare chance to step back from the day-to-day and benchmark suppliers, explore alternatives and sensecheck future investment plans in one concentrated visit.’
Visit: www.bit.ly/FCE2026
‘Some cushions look good, some feel good. Airwave does both – effortlessly. Say hello to Airwave: the cushion that’s gone viral not by accident but by design,’ says Richard Prudhoe, Fibreline md.
‘Representing a new era of comfort engineering, Airwave blends the precision of foam with the indulgent softness of feathers, creating an experience so satisfying, people can’t help but share it. It’s not just a cushion: it’s a conversation starter, a design upgrade and a comfort revolution all in one.’
Crafted for the modern home, Airwave is built for the way people live today. Comfort now needs to be beautiful, durable and utterly dependable, and Airwave delivers on all three, says Prudhoe. Its engineered foam structure provides essential, long-lasting support, helping cushions maintain their shape, silhouette and posture day after day.
‘At the same time, the feather-filled layers introduce natural movement and that unmistakable sink-in softness – the kind that makes sitting down feel like a small luxury. It’s immediate
comfort with a lasting impression.
‘For designers, Airwave is more than a filling: it’s a powerful tool. It enhances modern shapes, supports bold proportions and maintains clean, crisp lines that stay picture-perfect from every angle. Every element of Airwave is intentional, from carefully calibrated densities to the meticulous control of feather distribution. The result is a cushion that elevates form without compromising on feel, giving designers the freedom to create pieces that look as good as they perform.’
Airwave is built to perform under pressure. Balanced densities, precision fills and controlled
construction come together to create cushions that are beautiful on day one and just as beautiful years later.
‘There’s no gimmick, no passing trend, no temporary hype. Instead, Airwave stands on the strength of thoughtful engineering and reliable comfort that lasts. It’s designed to be lived with, loved and shared. Airwave proves that comfort isn’t an accident. It’s engineered art: the thoughtful intersection of science, craftsmanship and design. And when comfort feels this good, it doesn’t just support you: it speaks for itself.’
Visit: www.fibreline-ltd.co.uk
Peak Converters will return to Furniture Component Expo, with the foam and fibre converter building on a landmark year of innovation, investment and industry recognition for the company.
Peak Converters supports some of the UK’s largest upholstery brands with reliable, quality, short-lead-time production, supplying tens of thousands of precision-cut foam and fibre components every week, from small batch runs to large-scale orders. The company’s reputation for quality and consistency has made it a trusted partner for both established manufacturers as well as emerging businesses seeking bespoke solutions.
At the 2025 show, the company won the Future of Furniture Excellence in Sustainability Award, with the judges praising its solar panel installation as a best-practice example of integrating renewable energy solutions into existing manufacturing operations. The company has also made significant strides in digital manufacturing, introducing cutting-edge machine monitoring software that optimises production efficiency and reduces waste.
Peak’s commitment to operational excellence, innovation and sustainability remain central to the business, with
further investments planned to enhance operational efficiency and sustainability by reducing manufacturing waste and optimising energy consumption across its production facility.
‘Operational excellence, innovation and sustainability are embedded into everything we do. Continued investment in automation, digital planning systems and lean manufacturing ensures we are well placed to support upholsterers with
rapid lead times, easy repeat ordering, consistently high product quality and flexible manufacturing capability, thanks to our ability to manage high-volume orders alongside small-batch bespoke work,’ says Mike Crowshaw, Peak Convertors md.
‘This commitment places us firmly at the heart of modern British manufacturing and we are proud to support our national upholsterers in scaling and competing with confidence, helping them to meet the evolving demands of the market while maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship.’
Visit: www.peakconverters.co.uk
Visitors to stand 68 at next month’s Furniture Component Expo will be able to meet experts from SATRA’s furniture testing team, who will discuss how your business can be supported and showcase its extensive capabilities.
SATRA can provide key insights into compliance with the very latest safety, flammability and durability standards, and explain how its testing services –developed and refined over many decades – can assess products and components against legal, performance and quality requirements while offering protection to both a brand and the end customer. Verifying the absence of potentially harmful substances through
chemical testing is also a vital aspect of modern furniture production.
A key topic in modern furniture production is the flammability of foam. This should be tested for its burning characteristics before being selected for inclusion in furniture. In the UK, there are strict regulations on the foam used in domestic furniture. Foams must be tested according to the methods set out in the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988. Only foams that pass the tests can be legally used in upholstery.
The type of foam used in furniture is made from polyurethane or latex rubber, with synthetic PU foam being much more common. If PU foams are not treated to make them fire-retardant, they represent a considerable fire risk. When PU foam burns, it produces lethal gases – including carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide – which add to the more obvious hazards associated with fires. In fatal domestic fires, the carbon monoxide is often the killer. SATRA offers a comprehensive testing service to ascertain the flammability of foam.
Chemical testing is also an important issue. The purpose of REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) Annex XVII is to restrict
harmful chemicals in consumer products. Distributors, importers and manufacturers have a legal obligation to meet the requirements specified in Annex XVII, and retailers also have a responsibility to make sure that they only place compliant products on the market. It is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the product to determine which restricted substances should be assessed to ensure compliance.
Email: furniture@satra.com
SATRA’s furniture testing services meet the needs of manufacturers, retailers, and suppliers across every sectordomestic, contract, educational, and outdoor. Whether it’s a hotel bed, nursery or garden furniture, we can test it to national, European, and international standards, as well as to bespoke specifications tailored to your market.
Our ISO 17025-accredited laboratories assess strength, durability, flammability, surface finish, and material performance. We simulate real-world use with rigorous testing cycles and environmental conditionsensuring your products are not just compliant, but built to last. SATRA’s testing covers the
The Malaysian International Furniture Fair, south-east Asia’s largest furniture trade show, continues to break new ground.
‘This year’s MIFF marks more than 30 years of global industry trust for an event with proven sales performance and a consistent track record of connecting global buyers and sellers to deliver real business opportunities,’ says Kelie Lim, MIFF general manager.
‘It has provided unmatched international exposure for brands seeking to grow beyond borders, celebrates heritage craftsmanship and champions new design trends and technologies.’
The 2025 show generated an estimated US$1.31bn in on-site sales, a rise of 3%. This aligns with Malaysia’s industry ranking as among the top 10 largest furniture exporters, with approximately 80% of its US$4.2bn production destined for international markets. Malaysia is also a key beneficiary of the China+1 sourcing strategy.
Extending this commitment for the 2026 edition, MIFF’s new partnership with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) as its international trade partner leverages MATRADE’s extensive international network to further promote Malaysian furniture globally, unlocking greater export and sourcing opportunities for both buyers and exhibitors.
MIFF 2026’s emphasis on introducing Asia’s leading furniture makers and their design and craftsmanship to a wider
audience is underlined by the annual MIFF Furniture Design Competition, now in its 16th edition. This year’s theme of Playful. Practical. Purposeful: Furniture for Generation Alpha, challenges designers to create bedroom furniture for children aged 5–9 that blends imagination with practicality. Complementing this is the newly launched MIFF FDC Club, a platform connecting design talent with manufacturers to create a long-term ecosystem for collaboration and growth. Members gain industry-exclusive access and opportunities ranging from facility tours to prototype development, while manufacturers access fresh design perspectives to strengthen competitiveness.
The theme of this year’s xOrdinary Design Showcase is Happiness, encouraging designers to use unconventional ideas and lifestyle concepts that bring joy to everyday
living, while the new FurniFusion concept is built on three pillars: live, work and play, encompassing a Made-in-Malaysia hall featuring a fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern design; MIFF Office, south-east Asia’s largest office furniture exhibition; and The Muse, a segment that caters to lifestyle and decor.
‘MIFF solidifies our long-term vision to further bolster Malaysia’s status on the global platform as a key player in the quality furniture industry,’ says Lim. ‘On a larger scale, it looks to elevate the global furniture industry, and this aim is further boosted by MIFF’s reputation as south-east Asia’s largest export-oriented furniture trade show. Trade visitors can secure free admission by registering before 13 February, while simultaneously gaining access to MIFF’s exclusive buyer privilege programmes to make sourcing more efficient and rewarding.’
Visit: www.miff.com.my/register
STAGE 1 — INITIAL ENTRY
Entrants must complete a questionnaire giving the most full and accurate answers possible. Entries will be evaluated by a panel of judges and the top 12 fitters will progress to the Semi-Final practical trials.
STAGE 2 — SEMI-FINAL PRACTICAL TRIALS
Practical trials are on Tuesday 23 / Wednesday 24 / Thursday 25 June 2026 at the InstallerSHOW, Birmingham NEC (4 fitters each day). The top 5 Semi-Finalists will progress to the Finals.
STAGE 3 — FINALISTS’ BRIEFING DAY
Scheduled for July 2026 (date TBC). Provides Finalists with a summary of what will be required in the Finals, plus details for a “Judges Challenge” task to produce an item to be judged at the Finals.
STAGE 4 — FINALS
Takes place on Sunday 20 and Monday 21 September 2026 at the The Flooring Show, Harrogate.
PLEASE NOTE
You do NOT need to be an NICF member to enter. Applicants must be 18 years or over on 30.04.26. NICF Council members and previous Carpet Fitter of The Year winners are excluded from entering. Deadline for entry is midnight on 30.04.26.
The Fitter of The Year Carpet Competition 2026 is kindly sponsored by
Backed by 75 years of success and manufacturing expertise, himolla presented an award-winning stand that expressed confidence, innovation and forward momentum at January Furniture Show.
Under the guiding message Take Off, himolla showed how a strong heritage provides the foundation for a brand that is firmly focused on the future and precisely aligned with the British market. While comfort, quality and engineering excellence have defined himolla for
decades, the brand’s distinctive contemporary design language has gained strong momentum since 2018. Award-winning designs now stand alongside proven classics, reflecting a deliberate evolution that unites modern aesthetics with the brand’s long-established strengths. Refined functional details and advanced motorised mechanisms underline the technical sophistication behind every piece, while comfort remains central throughout the collection.
‘Materials, colours and finishes further highlight himolla’s innovative approach. New fabrics and leathers in fresh, confident tones – including the striking beige, nude and cognac palettes – expand the design spectrum and support a high degree of individuality and planning flexibility. These elements combine to create furniture that is visually compelling, adaptable and made for real everyday living,’ says Tamara Härty, himolla head of design, product and marketing.
‘The message from January Furniture Show 2026 was clear and positive: 75 years of success form the foundation, contemporary design drives the present, and innovation shapes the future. With uncompromising comfort and engineering integrity at its core, himolla demonstrated that its journey forward has truly taken off.’
Visit: www.himolla.com
embraced AI
‘The furniture and bedding industry is on the brink of transformation, and Ordorite Software Solutions is leading the charge. AI has become a buzzword across many sectors, but furniture retail brings a level of complexity all its own, with large multi-part products, endless custom variations, long and shifting lead times, and delivery operations that must run with absolute precision. Our new AI module is designed specifically to meet these challenges,’ says Stephen Connolly, Ordorite ceo.
‘By analysing the operational information already held within a retailer’s Ordorite system, including sales activity, stock movements and logistics performance, this new technology will surface insights, answer questions and automate processes in ways that were previously out of reach.
‘Imagine a system that not only shows your weekly sales but also explains why one location is outperforming another, highlights emerging trends and prompts managers with recommended actions. Picture automated replenishment suggestions based on real-time demand patterns and seasonal behaviours rather than intuition or manual checks.
‘Built on the same solid foundation that supports retailers such as HSL, NCF, The Designer Rooms and Furniture Outlet, this next-generation solution is positioned to increase efficiency and profitability by giving decision-makers the clarity they need, when they need it.
‘OrdoIQ signals a new era of intelligent retail operations, with AI-driven capabilities crafted specifically for the furniture and bedding sector. There are advancements in delivery planning, predictive decision support and more intuitive customer communication workflows. Visitors to January Furniture Show were the first to preview a beta version of an AI retail assistant that’s
intelligent, proactive and built with the future in mind.
‘We listen to our customers, work closely with them, take learnings from other industries and build what we believe retailers truly need. This new technology is designed to help the industry operate at a level of efficiency they’ve only imagined,’ says Connolly.
Visit: www.ordorite.com
INTRODUCING THE NEXT GENERATION OF RETAIL INTELLIGENC
Something big is coming to furniture retail. Ordorite is preparing to unveil its smartest innovation yet, one that promises to revolutionise the way retailers plan, sell, deliver and grow.
Built with AI at its core, OrdoIQ will help you uncover hidden efficiencies, act faster, and make decisions faster and more effectively than ever before.
La-Z-Boy expanded its modern Eclipse collection, including the iTable featuring the debut of audio – which can be fitted to many models, charging and cup holders.
Beck features large, curved seats and adjustable headrest, while Cove is a corner sofa. Oakley combines a folddown headrest and curved seats, and Watson was shown in matt green leather, part of an expansion of the cover options. It features lumber and headrest options.
All La-Z-Boy models now feature pocket-sprung seats as the brand looks to have a more consistent product story. Bella now features Sofa Screen to control a TV and the sound from nearby chairs. Logan, another hybrid design similar to Watson, has a telescopic headrest;
Paris is a corner group that includes a rocking chair with five-speed option; Jude highlights its stitching details, and Ivan is a high-backed design.
The show also saw One-Call return to the slider wardrobe sector after a lengthy absence. Hampton, made in the UK, offers soft open and close, feet levellers and several options including internal drawers, hanging rails and shelves. The wardrobe is available in a 180cm size with or without mirror, and a 240cm width with central mirror.
One-Call provides a delivery and installation service to consumers.
Ambiero and Macao headlined Wiemann’s introductions. The additions to the VIP collection feature lighting to set a mood and lift functionality.
Ambiero comes with hinged, bi-fold and combi doors and features a horizontal, textured glass dimple-effect panel to add interest.
Macao has sliding doors and embedded lighting for a luxurious, super-contemporary look.
‘The innovation around lighting and texture on the new premium VIP ranges is something special,’ says Kai Schwenke, Wiemann export manager.
Shire Beds’ debuts included the foam and pocket spring Nero collection for its white label offer, available boxed or rolled; a trio of hand side-stitched mattresses with quilted tops, and foam and pocket-sprung models featuring copper, bamboo or Tencel.
Visit: www.thefurnitureshows.com
At this year’s January Furniture Show, GFA introduced a new range of swivel recliner chairs, riser recliners, 2-seaters, and fixed chairs, available in luxurious leathers and soft fabrics. Offering a variety of shapes, textures, and key price points, the collection delivers exceptional comfort and was well received for its blend of style and functionality.
Introducing Our NEW Sofa Beds: Alba, Palma & Titan
The launch of GFA’s three new sofa beds — Alba, Palma and Titan — has been a major success in a key product area GFA have been eager to introduce. Designed to save space, these modern sofa beds transform effortlessly from stylish seating into comfortable sleeping solutions, combining practicality with contemporary elegance.
The January Furniture Show was a fantastic opportunity to connect with valued customers and showcase new products. GFA extend thanks to everyone who visited their stand and supported them at the show. Here’s to a successful 2026 for all!
JFS saw the Excellence in Furniture Awards debut at the NEC
January Furniture Show saw the debut Excellence in Furniture Awards, sponsored by Snap Finance, recognise nine companies and individuals.
Loom Loft Furniture & Interiors and Bensons for Beds were hailed as the
country’s leading retailers, while Whitemeadow took home two trophies. Attendees enjoyed entertainment from comedian Scott Bennett along with live music from Vice City 80s Band at the NEC.
The winners were:
• Independent Retailer of the Year: Loom Loft Furniture & Interiors Highly commended: Arighi Bianchi
• Retailer of the Year: Bensons for Beds
• Woman in Furniture Award: Fara Butt, Shire Beds Highly commended: Natasha Shillingford, La-Z-Boy
• Best Marketing Campaign: Arighi Bianchi – Postcards From Highly commended: La-Z-Boy UK –NFL London Games Campaign
• Best of British: Whitemeadow Furniture
• Design Innovation: Whitemeadow Furniture
• Global Player: Wiemann Highly commended: At the Helm & Hydeline
• Sustainability: Castelan
• Superior Service: Sci-Net Business Solutions Visit: www.thefurnitureshows.com
With the judges’ words ‘Castelan is focused on maximising the life of furniture and therefore reducing waste, which is such an important part of the circular economy,’ Castelan was named as the winner of the Sustainability Award at the inaugural Excellence in Furniture Awards.
‘Castelan is proud to have been named the winner: a milestone moment not just for our business, but for the wider furniture industry. This recognition reflects a commitment that has always been central to Castelan’s philosophy: My Customer – My Responsibility. By ensuring that we deal with every customer, every partner and every piece of furniture with the utmost care, we fulfil our own high service standards and provide better outcomes for the environment,’ says Martin Napper, Castelan Group ceo.
‘Through both our warranty and first-year service propositions, our model is built on identifying and fixing issues with furniture, accurately diagnosing faults and, in the case of the first year, reporting trends back to retailers and manufacturers. This insight-led approach helps address problems at source, improving product quality over time and reducing unnecessary disposal. By extending product lifespans, Castelan actively supports the transition to a circular economy – one where repair,
reuse and data-driven improvement take precedence over waste.
‘We are honoured by this endorsement, particularly at a time when sustainability targets are becoming more ambitious and more urgent across the sector.
‘Winning this award is also a call to action. For retailers, sustainability does not end at the point of sale. Aftercare, repair and service play a critical role in meeting environmental commitments and building long-term customer trust. By partnering with Castelan, retailers gain an integral extension of their
service and support proposition: one that aligns commercial performance with measurable sustainability outcomes.
‘As the furniture industry looks ahead, collaboration will be key. Castelan stands ready to work with retailers who want to provide the best after-care warranty product and service, reduce waste, improve product longevity and meet their sustainability goals. Together, we can ensure that better furniture care becomes a cornerstone of a more sustainable future.’
Visit: www.castelangroup.com
Heimtextil exhibitors sought to banish the winter with an invitation to think months ahead and embrace colour, often in natural tones, and make a statement, with textiles, rugs and
Apell and sister rug brand Paulig combined to journey to the Amalfi Coast, with chic stripes and refreshing lemons and limes as they looked to the summer
wallpaper. Summer, natural materials and the continuing progress of sustainability were key messages. Visit: www.heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com
Rewards for visitors who journeyed to Hall 12 included the updated Louis De Poortere Ecorugs collection, which is now made from 70% recycled polyester from plastic bottles, up from 40%; all designs are now suitable for outdoor use
Above: For Paulig the message was trends, including Ethno Vibes with nuanced colours and tone-on-tone looks from cream and beige to caramel and deep mocha
Left: Caldeira turned to AI for its latest cushion and pillow collections, but Tony Caldeira, Caldeira founder warns it’s not a magic bullet.
‘Some of the AI drafts are often odd and mildly entertaining. The AI results always need to be edited: a little bit of human touch turns the designs from nearly good to really good.’
Maison&Objet, Paris Deco Off, Maison&Objet In The City and spinoff events offered vibrancy amid the greyness of Paris in January, drawing visitors to the banks of the Seine and Villepinte. Visit: www.maison-objet.com, www.paris-deco-off.com
Ever wondered what a BIC light would look like? Wait no more. Seletti’s BIC Lamp, available as a floor lamp, pendant or wall-mounted version, reproduces the BIC Cristal at a 12:1 scale in black, blue or red.
We are looking for a motivated & committed Area Sales Manager to join the team and enable the company to drive forward in the fast-growing Luxury Vinyl Flooring market. We have an opportunity in the NORTH WEST
INVICTUS Flooring is part of Associated Weavers family and has quickly become a serious contender in the UK LVT market in since its launch in 2019, this is an opportunity to join a dynamic forwardthinking company at an exciting period in its development.
Interested applicants should send their CV and covering letter to james.taylor@invictus.co.uk
We are now looking for an enthusiastic, result driven individual to help grow our business
Postcodes to include: HP, SL, RG, GU, SO, PO, BN, RH, Isle of Wight and Channel Islands
Your Challenges:
• Managing key retailers and buying group members in your area
• Expansion of the exisiting customer base
• Increasing the product ranges with exisiting customers based on a clear sales strategy combined with a wide range of new products
Your Talents:
• Experienced Sales Manager looking to challenge themselves and thrive in a busy and fast paced environment
• Eager to drive sales and able to spot opportunities for growth
• Excellent time management with the ability to work with numbers and data
• Experience in carpet & flooring industry preferrable but not essential
What We Offer:
• Opportunity to have a direct influence on accounts in your area
• The chance to be a part of a leading UK manufacturer
• A working environment based around sustainability, safety and strong communication
• OTE £50-£55k, Car, Private Health Care & Pension
To register your interest, please send your CV to matt.davenport@baltafloorcoverings.co.uk by the 13th February.
The ideal applicant will have proven detailed experience of Luxury Vinyl Flooring with a good understanding of the market, ideally living on the territory, you will be required to visit existing INVICTUS floors customers as well as sourcing new customers selling display stands, managing their Luxury Vinyl Flooring account and of course building the brand.
The role is suited to someone who is a great communicator with good sales, IT and planning skills, you must be driven to succeed and enjoy working hard, you will also hold a full driving licence.
A competitive salary, attractive bonus structure, pension scheme with a company car, laptop & phone will be offered to the successful applicants.
We're hiring
Abbott’s Flooring | Established Since 1882
Abbott’s Flooring is a long-established, trusted flooring specialist serving residential and commercial customers. We are looking for a friendly and motivated Sales Assistant to join our London showroom.
The role includes:
● Assisting customers in-store, by phone and email
● Providing product advice and processing sales
● Maintaining a clean, welcoming showroom
We’re looking for someone who is:
● Customer-focused with strong communication skills
● Organised, proactive, and detail-oriented
● Experienced in retail or sales (flooring experience an advantage, not essential)
We offer a competitive salary and opportunities for growth within a respected, established company.
Apply with your CV to: hello@abbottsinteriors.co.uk
Location: 470–480 Roman Road, London, E3 5LU
Above: Métaphores debuted Belle Étoile, its new upholstery fabric collection, inspired by celestial themes, where mineral tones and luminous accents, science fiction and savoir-faire, lunar shadow and the light of nebulae converge to tell the story of a world crossing the cosmos
Left: Petite Friture launched its first reissue: the Sandows Collection by René Herbst, a central figure of the French Modern movement. His iconic Sandows pieces combine chromed steel tubing with elastic tension bands, achieving a balance between graphic purity, technical innovation and ergonomic comfort. Petite Friture reissued Chair N° 212, the Armchair and the Daybed No 114.
Left: While the ground floor of Saba’s flagship Paris store highlighted iconic designs, downstairs saw the new Land sofa; Anam wall-mounted bookcase; Metis sofa and New York Suite sofa offer more compact seating solutions, ideal for creating cosy, intimate corners within any space
Furni-glides
Furni-glides are quick and easy to apply. Made from the same non-stick stuff as Teflon, they’re great for showrooms and delivery drivers, so heavy furniture ‘floats’ over carpet, wood, tiles and vinyl flooring like magic.
Furni-glides move heavy items quickly safely and easily without you needing a rugby team’s help when rearranging rooms, cleaning or redecorating.
Furni-glides protect carpets from ripples, rips and wear & tear. By stopping friction in its tracks, Furni-glides protect furniture joints from stress and weakening.
Furni-glides protect other floors from scrapes, scratches and scaring.
1
2
3
Go for the biggest size without overlapping the leg.
Clean the floor so no dirt gets scraped along.
Screw-in Furni-glides: Just screw in and your floor is instantly protected.
Self-adhesive Furni-glides: ideal on metal legs. In 24-hours the glue is set firm.
