Interiors Monthly March 21021

MARCH 2021

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EDITOR’S COMMENT

Pencil dates in the diary Retailers have a heads-up on re-opening but firms deserved more information on support and costs Retailers in England and Scotland now have dates they can put in their diaries for when they might be able to re-open. What many don’t know is what they will have to pay come April: will business rates return and will the furlough scheme carry on?

While the Scottish Government has said it will extend the business rates holiday (providing it receives the funding it expects from the UK Government), the Chancellor has been silent on the matter. The traditional pre-budget purdah is one thing, but Covid-19 has torn down many traditional ways of doing things and to leave businesses in the dark for this long is simply not good enough. Company owners don’t know what they are going to do as they cannot predict cashflow; employees don’t know if they will have a job and so, as consumers, are reluctant to spend in case they need the money for a possible post-redundancy situation.

In the run-up to the budget all industries have been lobbying for support and ours has been no different: telling companies what support there will – or won’t – be would have ended the uncertainty.

As Jesse Akre, RetailSystem president says elsewhere in this issue, it wasn’t that long ago that retailers had a particular hatred of those selling online, but now things have changed dramatically. One retailer who deserves a special mention for really stepping up to the online plate is Furniture Village, which has created a virtual version of its Guildford branch that allows you to walk about and look at every product in-store, not just a selection, check product information and lead times, and then buy. Not the same as sitting on an actual sofa but very impressive.

Last month we reported that flooring sales had defied lockdown by actually rising in 2020. Sadly, ONS has revised its figures to show a fall (furniture did less badly than first thought). It expects the revisions to carry on, so it may be a while before we find out the true picture of last year.

INTERIORS MONTHLY MARCH 2021

INSIDE THIS ISSUE NEWS 4

Stores could re-open in April

8

Dunelm shrugs off store closures

10 BFC calls for continuing support

FEATURES 14 New products 20 Service 22 Experiences

Business is changing: are you ready?

24 Pure Talents

The next generation

31 Beds and bedroom

Support, rolling on, trans-Atlantic, action, new deal, giving back, digital success, close ties, core values

48 Sustainability

Eco candy, more than words

50 Best of British

By your side, inspiration, trend setter

61 Belgium

Flooring kingdom

74 Upholstery

New direction

76 Buying groups

The 8ft fitter

82 Rugs

Modern icons

Editor: Andrew Kidd

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

MARCH 2021

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 Invictus: invincible carpet and flooring Visit: www.invictus.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

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

4/02/2021 15:36:04

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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NEWS

Stores could re-open in April Non-essential retailers in England and Scotland have been told they could be able to re-open in April.

Non-essential retailers in England will be allowed to re-open from 12 April, if the UK Government’s pandemic projections follow its forecasts.

The Prime Minister says that retailers will be given a week’s notice whether they will be allowed to re-open or must stay closed.

An ‘events research programme’ with pilots to test the effects of larger crowds and/or reduced social distancing will also start in April.

Non-essential retailers in Scotland could be able to re-open from 26 April, but will be able to resume click and collect earlier.

The Scottish Parliament was told that under the third phase of the re-opening plan, click and collect could resume from 5 April, depending on the impact of the pandemic.

Portfolio takes major step in plastics war Soft furnishings supplier Portfolio Home has made a move to eradicate single-use plastic packaging. The company is trialling a treated fabric packaging that can be reused and recycled.

The new plastic-free packaging, which is being trialled on three new bedding designs, is made using the same polycotton fabric as the duvet cover sets but has been coated in a specially formulated soil-resistant and waterresistant treatment to provide additional protection to the end product. The bag is robust enough to be handled and safely stored in retail outlets or homes.

Prior to the innovation, Portfolio Home’s range of bed linen came in LDPE 4 packaging which can be recycled.

‘As a society, we are becoming increasingly aware of the horrors of plastic and its impact on our environment, and what the change in our packaging represents is exactly what more ethically-minded consumers are demanding from manufacturers – sustainable products in suitable packaging without a heavy price tag,’ says Paul Callan, Portfolio Home md.

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

Three weeks later non-essential stores could be able to re-open and non-essential work may be allowed in people’s homes. The plans will be reviewed in mid-March.

Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister says the Scottish Government would continue to support businesses and is considering ‘tapered support’ for businesses that may still face trading restrictions and reduced demand, even if they are allowed to re-open.

‘We will also ensure that when local authority areas move out of level 4, businesses which are allowed to re-open will continue to receive payments from the fund for at least the next four weeks as they transition back to trading more normally,’ she says.

The Welsh First Minister, Mark Drakeford has said some non-essential retail could open on 15 March but there will not be a ‘wholesale’ re-opening, while in Northern Ireland restrictions are in place until at least 1 April.

Proposte confirms move to September Fabric exhibition Proposte will take place in the autumn. The widely anticipated move will see the Lake Como show run from 7-9 September, overlapping Salone (5-10 September).

‘We are confident the new dates will allow us to organise a completely safe event, counting on international mobility, thanks also to the global vaccination campaign which will make it possible for everyone to attend in tranquillity and carry out business as usual,’ says Piercarlo Viganò, Proposte president.

‘We have also decided to overlap with Salone in Milan, in the hope of facilitating visitors who, with one single trip, will have an opportunity to attend both events.’

Meanwhile furniture exhibition Long Point has been rescheduled again and will return to its traditional May spot. The

Long Eaton show had been planned for February and then April before both dates were hit by the pandemic.

At time of publication, the event is scheduled to take place from 24-27 May.

June for Fabric Show London The BFM has announced it hopes to hold its BFM Fabric Show London in June.

The association says the show would take place on 8-9 June at Twickenham Stadium, as its familiar venue at Stamford Bridge is being redeveloped.

‘This year’s show will look and feel a little different and there are bound to be regulations in place, but we are confident we can deliver a safe event with same high standards and vast choice of highgrade fabrics,’ says Nick Garratt, BFM md.

Bed boost GNG Group has completed the installation of automated machinery at its Wakefield, West Yorkshire plant, which should see a major production capacity boost.

The investment for its beds division should have taken place during the second half of last year but was delayed due to the pandemic.

The installation includes a new vacuum-packed mattress line, an automatic gluing line and an auto-dispatch facility.

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NEWS Breakfast with Zandra Bed brand Savoir has unveiled its second tie-up with fashion designer Dame Zandra Rhodes, with an exclusive artwork based on one of her most significant and identifiable motifs: Field of Lillies.

The designer is known for never sleeping more than five hours a night, but she says the collaboration with Savoir has begun to change her attitude.

‘I am starting to appreciate sleep more and more, especially for its health benefits and healing properties.

I think your bed is one of the most special things. We spend a third of our lives in bed, it is the best investment one can make. The amazing thing about the Savoir bed is that for the first time in my life the peace it exudes makes me want to experience breakfast in bed – a luxury I don’t allow myself. I think it may change my life.’

The results do come at a price: Lilies on a No2 Savoir slim bed set in super king size starts from £33,680.

Dunelm maintaining 70% of sales despite store closures Despite its stores being closed, Dunelm has managed to maintain 70% of sales during the current lockdown.

The chain has been able to switch many shoppers to home delivery and click and collect, but is running at a ‘modest’ weekly loss.

In the half to 26 December it enjoyed a 23% jump in sales, which rose to £719.4m, while pre-tax profits increased by 34.4% to £112.4m. It told shareholders it will resume dividend payments, with an interim dividend of 12p.

‘The pandemic has accelerated the pace of change in consumer habits.

The events of the last year have created more “home lovers” and new needs for existing ones as the home continues to play an even more important role in all of our lives, fulfilling more functions than ever before. Additionally, we see that the impact of social distancing restrictions has turbo-charged the adoption of digital sales and fulfilment channels for both existing and new customers,’ says Nick Wilkinson, Dunelm ceo.

‘We will continue to raise the bar in our core product offer as affordability and sustainability become even more important, offering customers value they can believe in. We will help our customers “live well” from home by introducing new desks and chairs, dinnerware and

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

storage. We will build further scale into our furniture offer through development of our sourcing capabilities, fulfilment capacity and improvements to the in-store selling experience. We will grow our presence in adjacent categories including home decorating, outdoor living, and make and mend crafting.

‘We will also be improving our home delivery experience – shortening delivery lead times (including an assessment of “store to door” pilots) and providing better order tracking (via a new carrier management micro-service). We will continue to increase the capacity of our supply chain to meet the high growth demands of the digital business. We doubled the capacity for one-man home delivery this winter peak and expect to grow this further whilst retaining maximum flexibility.’

Meanwhile Will Adderley, deputy chairman, sold a 7.4% stake in the chain.

The share price dropped by 8.81% after Adderley – son of Dunelm’s founders Bill and Jean Adderley – and his wife Nadine sold 15million shares at £12.80, raising £192m. The couple and their charitable trusts still own 37.8% of the group’s shares. The wider family retain 43.2%.

Adderley, who has twice been chief executive of the business, says the sale was in order to diversify his investments.

Made.com ‘eyes flotation’ Made.com has begun looking at fundraising options, including a stock market floatation which could value it at more than £500m.

The online furniture and homewares retailer has sought advisers to explore a variety of options, including an initial public offering to take place in the coming months, as first reported by Sky News. The other options being explored are reportedly a sale of a stake in to an investor, or a sale of the business.

The company’s strong trading performance in the past year, amid surging demand for online retail and furniture sales, made it suitable for a flotation. Its most recent results, for 2019, saw sales jump 22% to £211m, but losses increased to £19.3m as it expanded to new markets.

In October 2019 it raised £43m from investors.

‘The rapid acceleration in the shift to online shopping, with three to five years’ change in the past 12 months, meant that 2020 was extremely successful for Made.com, despite the challenging environment.

As we move into 2021, we are exploring the best way to ensure that the business has all the resources required to build on our momentum and seize this unique moment of opportunity,’ says a Made com spokesman.

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NEWS

BFC: furniture sector needs support through summer The British Furniture Confederation has called on the Chancellor Rishi Sunak to provide further support for furniture manufacturers through the summer.

The group says companies need the support to prevent large-scale redundancies and maintain their survival until stores re-open.

In a letter to the Chancellor, Jonathan Hindle, BFC chairman says that if the UK furniture industry is to return to pre-pandemic levels of business – supporting 330,000 jobs and worth nearly £17bn of annual consumer expenditure – he must extend the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) and the VAT deferral period until the end of June 2021 and extend the business rates holiday for another three months.

‘If the government wishes the sector to return to previous levels, it is vital that it supports businesses through the remaining months of the pandemic. The government’s current package of support has proved pivotal to the survival of the UK furniture industry,’ he writes.

He points out that many businesses across the industry have only been able to continue employing staff at current levels because of the CJRS. Without the support of furlough payments, many in the industry would be forced to make significant redundancies, he says.

With VAT deferrals until June also critical to business survival, the letter further asks the Chancellor for Q1 VAT bills to be deferred for 12 months, adding: ‘VAT deferrals have allowed businesses to better manage their stretched cashflow while taking full advantage of the irregular bursts of trading during periods of relaxed restrictions.

‘With orders for domestic furniture being predominantly in store rather than online, furniture retailers are critical to the survival of many furniture manufacturers. It is therefore vital that the government does all it can to allow retail businesses to continue trading, so that when restrictions are relaxed, orders for furniture can commence again and manufacturing businesses across the UK can respond,’ states the letter.

Come on in: Furniture Village opens virtual store Furniture Village has opened a virtual store, allowing shoppers to browse with optional support live from the shop floor, via phone, LiveChat or video call.

Using Matterport technology, the chain has mapped the inside of its Guildford branch, allowing customers to ‘walk’ around the store and look at products. Clicking on the product opens another web page showing all details, options, lead times and prices.

‘Our 54 stores may be closed but our Virtual Village is well and truly open for

Harris departure Graham Harris, Kingsmead Carpets general manager has left the company, ending 18 years at Headlam.

Harris began his career in the flooring industry as a store manager for Carpetright, before becoming a sales manager for Georgian Carpets.

After six years he was promoted to general manager of Manx Carpets, before becoming Kingsmead Carpets general manager in January 2017 when the group reshuffled its brand responsibilities.

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

The virtual experience

business. We’re the first independent furniture retailer to embrace experiential retail at scale and I’m delighted by how seamless it is,’ says Peter Harrison, Furniture Village ceo.

‘Virtual Village brings the discovery and excitement of in-store shopping to the digital environment. It’s great to be on the front foot with new technologies that genuinely engage customers and help with the decision-making process.’.

‘It’s wonderful to see our business thinking and behaving in such a multichannel way. I’m particularly proud of how quickly our retail teams have pivoted to online – jumping on to LiveChats, hosting video appointments and really embracing an online-first mindset,’ says Charlie Harrison, Furniture Village commercial director.

A better start

Despite stores being closed, furniture and flooring retailers managed to keep the drop in retail sales below 20% in January. Initial figures from ONS show average weekly sales for furniture and lighting dropped by 13.08% to £37,340,000. This is the lowest January performance since 2015.

For flooring retailers, sales dropped by 16.48% to an average weekly spend of £19,194,000 – the worst performing January since at least 1986.

ONS has also revised its figures for 2020, with furniture sales down 11.5% (the original forecast was a fall of 12.34%) and flooring sales down 6.27% (+3.41%). Further revisions are expected.

Lockdown penalty Smethwick, West Midlands flooring retailer NCF Carpets has been fined £4,000 for breaking lockdown rules by allowing customers in the store on two occasions. It was issued with a prohibition notice in January and West Midlands Police officers and trading standards officers witnessed customers again in the store in February. Three fixed penalty notices were issued.

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Visit: berryalloc.com 2 With the launch of Abingdon Flooring’s StainFree Wilton collection, flooring retailers can celebrate the rise of pattern in the home on two stylish lecterns. To make selecting the perfect pattern easy, the Wilton collection has been grouped on two lecterns. One contains the modern plaid

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

designs while the other celebrates the elegance of the collection’s floral and damask designs.

Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk 3 Chic is the new version of Désirée’s Lovely Day sofa by Marc Sadler, with deep buttoned upholstery that you can’t help falling in love with. The model is enriched by a deep-button upholstered seat in vibrant Barolo red nubuck leather. The sculptural metal base raises the sofa off the floor, conveying a feeling of lightness and giving it a clean-cut, contemporary appeal.

Visit: www.gruppoeuromobil.com 4 Kymo’s Retro Lounge flokati rug uses New Zealand wool for extra volume

and sheen. Handmade in Greece using traditional methods, it is washed in a stream to finish, which twists the pile fibres even further, making them even more robust and giving them their unmistakable look.

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NEW PRODUCTS

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6 &Tradition has expanded its Collect accessories line, designed by Space Copenhagen, with two new vases, small concrete planters, a set of carafes and glasses, a wooden tray and a candle holder. New materials include glazed ceramics and lacquered wood.

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Visit: www.andtradition.com 7 With Covid-19 causing companies to rethink product training and professional development, The Academy for Excellence in Flooring has turned its classroombased sessions into virtual events for Howdens. More than 190 staff across the UK joined the Academy’s virtual product and technical training sessions, demonstrating the reach and worth of online training.

Visit: www.quick-step-academy.co.uk 8 Sancal has added a range of tables to its Totem stool.

The variety of heights and diameters available extends their functionality and makes them suitabe for diverse uses as coffee table, bedside table, dining table, high cocktail table and even medium-height gathering table, which can be accompanied by soft lounge chairs.

Visit: www.sancal.com 9 Floorwise has launched F556, an all-round adhesive for sticking down most floorcoverings. F556 has been developed for wet installation and fast-tack, enabling the installation of floorcoverings in as a little as 10 minutes, helping to reduce time on site while still allowing sufficient open time. As a low VOC and solventfree formula, it’s also more pleasant to use.

Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk 10 Thonet has updated its S43 range, debuted in 1931, with a swivel chair and barstool. The chair, which features a five-star base on castors, is available with and without armrests while the barstool is in 75cm and 65cm heights.

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

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SERVICE

Richard Renouf

Not this but that

An investigation sometimes takes an unexpected turn There’s a subtle but important difference between being asked to give your independent opinion about a furnishing matter without being told what the consumer is unhappy with, and being asked to carry out an inspection in order to find something wrong. Most of the time, however, the client has some idea of what they feel is wrong and will point this out, and even use sticky notes or tape to ensure I don’t miss anything.

What happens when I spot something that is wrong but the customer hasn’t complained about it? This is a real dilemma. I could ignore it or I could risk raising it and find myself accused of unnecessarily stirring the pot, or being engaged to simply find fault.

A retailer asked me to visit one of its customers recently. They had bought some laminate flooring which had been installed in a newly extended kitchen/ diner. The complaint was that there were gaps between the laminate boards. The retailer believed it was probably due to an uneven subfloor, but wanted someone independent to say this to take the heat.

It wasn’t the warmest of days when I carried out my visit. As always, my shoes came off at the door and I walked across

Checking for unevenness and twist

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

the cold flooring to see what was amiss.

I was given all the details about the extension, and shown the customer’s album of the works in progress. ‘Are they underfloor heating wires?’ I asked, pointing to a sinuous pattern in the smoothing compound surface. ‘Yes, but we think there is a problem with it – it’s never worked,’ he said. He showed me the thermostat and explained the technical queries that had been raised with the heating manufacturer.

I hadn’t come to look at the underfloor heating so I set about my inspection as normal. The subfloor was clearly very uneven and some of the gaps between the boards tapered as the unevenness caused the boards to twist along their length. After checking this with the laser scanner and a 300mm rule, there was just the perimeter to check for expansion gaps. I popped off a plinth to check whether or not the kitchen units were standing on the laminate. This is a common mistake by builders and diy-ers which can cause serious joint damage to flooring by preventing expansion and contraction. This time the job had been done properly. There was a good gap between the edge of the flooring and

the feet of the units. The underlay extended beyond the boards and that’s when I had to make a quick decision.

I cut a sliver off the exposed underlay.

It was a standard 5mm thick expanded polystyrene laminate underlay. But I knew it was totally unsuitable for use over underfloor heating: the closed cell structure would block the heat, so the floor sensor would tell the thermostat the floor was warm but the room would remain cold. I did not know whether the builder had been sold the underlay, or had simply bought it. In either case it was unsuitable and was causing the heating issue.

Should I put this in my report or not?

I mulled the question over as I drove home. I rang the retailer and, to its credit, it agreed I should include what I'd found.

It would come out sooner or later, it said, and it would rather deal with it now.

The gaping was due to the uneven subfloor, but at least the customer would get the right underlay when the remedial work was done.

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

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EXPERIENCES

Be prepared Changes in retail are inevitable, agree our correspondents – are you ready?

THE RETAILER Fludes Carpets Déjà vu. We all know the expression – it’s the feeling that one has lived through a particular moment before. Also ‘Groundhog Day’, when every day follows the same pattern as the last. Let’s hope something is going to give, and by the time you read this we may have some guidelines to the future ahead – a way in which we can start to be proper retailers, with customers (suitably masked and distanced) coming through the front door seeking help and advice, and to be able to touch and look at real carpets and flooring and not have to make decisions online.

We’ve been in the grip of this pandemic for almost a year now and signs of a change in buying habits are emerging in our stores.

In the first two weeks of February we have had over a dozen enquiries for a fitting-only service: ‘I have already got the carpet, I just need you to come and fit it.’ Or: ‘Thanks for coming to do the quote. Please can you give me the details of the room sizes and quantities of ancillaries that I need?’

So back to Groundhog Day. We are still taking phone enquiries, measuring,

quoting and fitting. Who would have believed that we could actually make sales without seeing the customer in store and without giving time to discuss their needs at length and in person? Our stores are tidy and ready to service the needs of our customers: we need to find out how they want to engage with us.

Each month we receive grants and support via the furlough scheme – it is hard to imagine how any business could have coped without this help. How quickly will business return to normal? That is the question. If the government support is withdrawn before we get things going again there still is a possibility that we may be in for a tough ride. If the furlough scheme does finish at the end of April and business rates commence in April, there will be a squeeze on cash flow. Déjà vu again.

In one trade publication that I receive, the business news is very confusing: the reports of ‘Carpet logistics firm hit by pandemic’, ‘2021 price hike warnings’ and ‘Imports face port delay’ are juxtaposed with ‘selling 1sqm every 2.5 seconds’, ‘up

30% on output’ and ‘post-lockdown boom based on resilience’. That sums things up perfectly: no clear view of how customers will react when restrictions are eased, and when they are faced with price rises and continuing problems with logistics. Quite clearly, some retailers have found success, particularly when operating online, some manufacturers are increasing output and at least one group is having a ball.

The new normal is coming and traditional brick-and-mortar retailers are going to have to take notice of the threat from online competitors, who are developing their business model and will take increasing amounts of market share.

Perhaps it is time to ditch some of the old ways and take a thorough, fresh look at what consumers want and how we can best provide great service and advice – and really show our customers what our point of difference is when compared to online retailers. It is not just about price; it is about the whole package and ‘lack of hassle’ that the independent retailer can offer.

Andy Laird, Fludes Carpets md

Some companies are having a ball

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

EXPERIENCES THE SALES AGENT Malcolm Nix Furniture Associates As the situation unfolds following Brexit, I think it can be said that whilst significant planning was undertaken ahead of 1 January, the full implications of the changes were not completely obvious to all.

It was three weeks into the year before we had everything in place to be able to make our first shipment to the UK. With the help of our Customs Clearance partner this proved to be very straight forward in the end. With retail closed, however, we have stopped production until there is a clear indication of when retail will resume.

Representing an Italian upholstery manufacturer, the situation was made so much more confusing by Italian customs not communicating clearly the implications from its side, which made a seamless transition somewhat impossible.

The new customs charges on both sides of the Channel have added a further cost burden to the already mounting raw material increases all round, particularly

The full implications of Brexit were not obvious to all

by the foam industry, which historically always seemed able to balance its books!

These cost pressures come at a time when our industry has been unable to trade, at the most valuable part of our trading year.

When the doors do reopen we will all be working hard to find ways to mitigate these extra costs, but price increases are inevitable.

The cancellation of JFS in April and the moving of the North Point show to midSeptember further delays the trade’s opportunity to review the latest product developments we have all been working so hard on. Whether other shows planned for the summer go ahead remains to be seen.

Despite these pressures and the extra bureaucracy, there is still an overwhelming optimism from retail and suppliers alike that we will overcome these difficult weeks and have a strong trading period once we are able to open our doors.

The Gradi Living team of agents are keen to be able to visit our retail friends and partners to see how we can all maximise the opportunities the coming months will bring.

I have never covered so few miles in a year and I look forward to being able to get out into the market once again.

Malcom Nix, Malcolm Nix Furniture Associates owner

inevitable cost increases. Many factories are now seeing order books stretching into the year ahead. We are all having to prepare for ongoing disruption and the need for flexible thinking about the products we sell.

This is compounded by a seismic shift among consumers to shopping not only from home but for the home. This has benefited many of our trade customers who have migrated towards ecommerce, click and collect or direct to home delivery during the constraints of the lockdown.

Hopefully, as supply issues become less disruptive, our industry will become more lifestyle focused again and desirable new designs will inspire greater spending, as the home has now become the focal point for meeting family, friends and even work colleagues. The work/leisure balance has changed for all of us, and the coming years have the potential to be a boom period for forward-thinking furniture retailers.

It’s not only consumers who have looked beyond the high street for inspiration but

also ourselves. We are, out of necessity, having to look at alternative ways of offering our products to the trade. The joy of a live trade show or personal customer visits is being able to interact and demonstrate new products and ideas, and like many in the trade we’ve always considered it difficult to replicate online. However, necessity drives invention, and we have been astounded by the reaction online, with a considerable number of people not only ‘visiting’ but taking time to view our offering, interact via live-chat or direct communication – and, of course, open accounts with us.

We are all in a time of great change, one that I believe can be harnessed for the greater good of the furniture industry as a whole. Consumers, out of necessity, are investing more in their homes and their surroundings – and since the way they shop has changed forever, we are all having to change.

Mike Rowley, Core Products ceo

THE MANUFACTURER Core Products

Online interaction has increased

With Spring almost upon us and a greater optimism abounding on the daily news, it would be wonderful to think normality will return sooner rather than later.

Like all our fellow manufacturers, importers and distributors the forward planning needed to ensure we can satisfy orders on demand continues to be disrupted by supply issues for raw materials and the

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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DESIGN

Bright futures

The Pure Talents Contest wasn’t held back by a lack of a physical show The Pure Talents Contest is aimed at designers who are either still at college or have just graduated. This year was the 18th edition, and attracted 862 entrants from 240 institutions in 59 countries and would have formed part of imm cologne.

This year’s jury were: designers Eva Marguerre and Sebastian Herkner, Norbert Ruf, Thonet creative director and md, and Jennifer Reaves, ceo of design trade exhibition blickfang.

Their conclusion: the distinguishing features of this year’s designs were a high degree of product maturity and an appealing, sensuous and extremely likeable charisma. ‘When it comes to the judging criteria, it’s important to acknowledge not just the idea, the composition and the quality of the design, but designers’ ability to create commercially viable products. Many of the entries showed little sign they were the work of students,’ says Reaves.

That’s certainly true of the winning Maya collection by Luiza Guidi. The

individual pieces form a group of light sculptures that add a new dimension to an otherwise flat wall. Like opening a window, the LED-lined frame can be swung away from the wall – a totally self-explanatory gesture that gives rise to a sensuous play of light and shadow.

Every movement of the frame changes the light in the room.

‘We found the sensuous way the design plays with light particularly moving – both on the level of a sculpture and as a functioning product. We were fascinated by the simplicity with which the designer stages light in such a sensuous way,’ says Reaves.

Interacting with light and its variability is also the theme behind the design of Elina by Dirk Vosding too, which took second prize. When closed, Elina is a bookend, but when the glass disc inside is slowly pulled out, it begins to glow and sheds more and more light on the surrounding books. When pulled out of its case completely, the adjustable

illuminated circle can be used as a reading light.

‘The design is reminiscent of clampon lamps for bookcases, but with way more charm – a small, simple, but subtle product that looks equally good as a table lamp or a bookend on a sideboard or bedside table,’ says Marguerre.

The jury was also full of enthusiasm for the Olivia chair by Tatu Laakso from Finland, the winner of third prize. His design explores the balance between lightness, sturdiness and ergonomics in moulded plywood, resulting in a light yet sturdy structure.

‘We loved the way this attractive model plays with moulded plywood and speaks a design language that is not only light and sensuous but makes reference to Finnish design as well. It’s a very self-assured design for a term project, and it exhibits the kind of quality that you wouldn’t even necessarily expect from a finals piece,’ says Herkner.

Visit: www.imm-cologne.de

WINNER

WINNER LUIZA GUIDI – MAYA COLLECTION Shaped like empty frames, the Maya pieces are a collection of light sculptures that cast light in an enticing way and bring a new dimension to an otherwise flat wall. Turning

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

them on is an experience in itself, as they light in response to the user’s movements.

In Buddhism, maya refers to the power by which the universe becomes manifest, the

illusion of the phenomenal world, and Guidi was also inspired by the work of architects Luis Barragán and Tadao Ando.

Visit: www.luizaguidi.com

DESIGN SECOND DIRK VOSDING – ELINA In our digital and hectic world, Elina shines a light on books again as an escape from thoughtlessly, hastily and anonymously posted fake news and rumours. Elina stands on the shelf like a classic book and performs its function as a bookend. But if it’s pulled out slowly, the disc inside begins to glow.

When removed, it can be adjusted to serve as a reading light.

Visit: www.vosding.de

THIRD TATU LAAKSO – OLIVIA Olivia is a light universal wooden chair that successfully balances its slender structure with a comfortable sitting experience. The design explores the balance between lightness,

sturdiness and ergonomics in moulded plywood, resulting in a light yet sturdy structure that does not compromise good ergonomics. The simple and compact form

represents contemporary Nordic design. The gentle curves and refined details create a harmonious, sympathetic and elegant design.

Visit: www.tatulaakso.com 

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DESIGN FINALISTS

SOFIE ASCHAN – DRAFT Global warming is forcing us to adapt to a new world with longer and more intense heat waves. Draft offers a new approach to air conditioning that utilises natural materials, water, wind and evaporative cooling to reduce the indoor temperature. As an alternative to traditional systems it is designed to be more suited to a home environment, less noisy and – most importantly – kinder to the environment.

Visit: www.sofieaschan.com

AXEL HAUK – PANORAMA Inspired by modern lounge chairs, Panorama represents the interface between living space and workplace. The sleek frame is based on an intelligent connector solution that conceals the screws, so as to preserve the understated character of the design. Both inviting and elegant, Panorama uses its generous design to define the space and encourage the desired communication.

Visit: www.axelhauk.com

HAIMING LI – TIGHT Rapidly expanding megalopolis cultures emerging all over the world are driving collective expressions, some of which are new and some revitalisations of age-long preoccupations or desires. Hand-made, using often eroticised materials such as latex, Haiming Li’s Tight project invites the viewer to engage in sensual surfaces and interactive, highly tactile experiences.

Visit: www.haimingli.com

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

ALBANE HUNDEVAD –TWIN The TWIN lampshade series was developed as a quick and easy way to adapt the lighting mood to life. Each of the three lampshades in the series consists of two halves that can be clipped over any simple lamp holder using the magnetic strips along the edges. The combination of the striking edge bordering the magnets and the simple design language adds up to a classic shade with a modern twist.

Visit: www.albane hundevad.com

ELIE FAZEL – TLV’S CHAIR ‘Tel Aviv is my second home. In this bustling city, many residents use public space as if it were their own living room. It is also one of the few cities where chairs are available in the streets for public use. These are often refurbished old chairs that can be unsightly. TLV’s Chair is a much better alternative: it can be used in multiple positions, with the backrest becoming a table or an armrest, and is made of aluminium so that it is easily movable.”

Visit: www.eliefazel.com

FRANCESCA GIULIA POLI AND SEPPE VAN HEUSDEN – ARIA Aria is a freely movable, battery-powered luminaire that can be used in two different configurations, balancing and standing. Interactions are simple, meaningful and only require one hand, making it virtually effortless to adjust and move the light with you to any place you need it. The two different configurations provide the possibility for the lamp to be used in a large variety of situations and places.  Visit: www.fraseduo.com

WIN

£2000 C ! + TO ASH + TROOLS PHY

national institute of carpet & floorlayers

DO YOU

have the knowledge and skills to be

LVT FITTER OF THE YEAR 2021?

THE COMPETITION FORMAT IS AS FOLLOWS: 1). *You do NOT need to be an NICF member to enter this competition. Applicants must be aged 18 years or over on Wednesday 31st March 2021. NICF Council members are excluded from entering.

2). Deadline for entry is Wednesday 31st March 2021 — at 23:59 hrs.

3). Entrants are first required to complete a questionnaire giving the most full and accurate answers possible. Entries will be evaluated by a panel of judges based on the answers provided and 14 fitters will be selected to progress to the Semi-Final practical trials.

4). The Semi-Finals will be held on Thursday 17th and Friday 18th June 2021 at the FITA Training Centre, Loughborough.

5). The 6 Finalists MUST be available to attend a briefing day on Wednesday 28th July 2021 at the FITA Training Centre, Loughborough.

6). The Final is at The Flooring Show, Harrogate, Sun 19th to Mon 20th September 2021.

ENTER ONLINE NOW!

www.nicfltd.org.uk/FOTY-Competition The Final will be held at The Flooring Show, Harrogate in September 2021 Fitter of The Year LVT 2021 Competition is kindly sponsored by

NICF FOTY LVT 2021_CFJ Jan 2021.indd 1

30/11/2020 10:40:34

DESIGN MATTEO BAUER-BORNEMANN – VOLT Thanks to hinges consisting of interlocking rings, the desk lamp remains steady even when fully extended. Attached to the edge of the table by a space-saving clamp, VOLT uses points of light in a linear arrangement to provide shadowless and virtually glare-free illumination.

The functional elements are striking but nevertheless reduced to the essentials. Last but not least, the mechanism generates a special appeal thanks to its tactile and acoustic qualities.

Visit: www.matteo-bauerbornemann.de

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STUDIO ERTEL OBERKROME – NORMAN Norman is a hybrid of universally approved technologies based on standardised production methods and materials. As part of the domestic infrastructure, Norman illuminates favourite places and raises the power supply to eye level thanks to jacks integrated into the end of the tube. Although Norman can be hung and repositioned as quickly as a picture frame, the lamp becomes a constant in the living space and blends in with the architecture as the new normal.

Visit: www.lisaertel.com www.annesophieoberkrome.com

STEVEN DAHLINGER – NESTING Nesting is a modular piece of furniture that offers two different configurations: folded it functions as a sofa, unfolded it transforms into a personal retreat. The backrest of the sofa is double-layered; by pulling the inner layer upwards and to the back, a protective structure unfolds.

Nesting offers a room within a room that appears and disappears with ease to provide shelter in bigger spaces like open-plan offices.

NILS AHRENBERG – V.NA.01 The V.NA.01 bookcase, which also doubles as a sideboard and room divider, offers the possibility of arranging, presenting and storing objects in a totally new way all round. V.NA.01 was developed by Nils Ahrenberg for Verk Projects in 2020 and is made entirely of natural materials produced in Sweden.

JACOB STARLEY – TINGE WALL SCONCE The Tinge wall sconce was designed to encourage moments of connection and presence in one’s space. Each light has a brass rod that spins – this rotates a piece of tinted glass. The user is given complete control of the brightness of the light. The design is centred around this analogue interface, which requires human touch to control the environment. Materials: brass, glass and steel.

Visit: www.jacobstarley.com

LIZZY STUYFZAND – NEEDLEWORKS Needleworks introduces a technology of conductive embroidery for smart interfaces, using the tactile qualities of upholstery fabrics and industrial stitch. LUMI and SANA represent a pair of embodied tactile interfaces for lighting and sound control using the Needleworks technique, proposing a new way of interaction with our smart systems to enhance our physical relationship. The fabrics and the realisation of this project are sponsored by Vescom.  Visit: www.lizzystuyfzand.com

Interiors Monthly March 2021

DESIGN

KONRAD JÜNGER AND VERENA KÜHN – MATCH Match is a chair concept for flexible and adaptable seating. The basis of the Match chair is an aluminium frame that is completed with an inserted seat and backrest. This means the components can be effortlessly exchanged and creates a seat with a highly adaptable appearance. As a result, users can configure the components to suit their individual taste or change them depending on the situation.

Visit: www.juengerkuehn.com

KIEREN SWINDEN – PINCH The Pinch coffee table is a table range showcasing a unique and contemporary joint fixing for domestic furniture. This collection was driven by experimentation with tubular steel and a focus on manipulating the material to create this interlocking technique. This new approach to joining demonstrates the capabilities of tubular steel by optimising its properties of strength and malleability whilst illustrating a sleek and modern take on domestic furniture.

Visit: www.kierenswindendesigns.com

JOHANNES VALENTIN BREUER – PACO Paco is quite simply a chair. But it’s full of surprises: despite its sketchlike, linear, solid appearance, it’s stackable, very comfortable and not heavy. The subtly three-dimensional, concave surfaces are CNC-milled out of oak and combined with a lightweight but robust frame made of powder-coated aluminium to ensure an unexpectedly high level of comfort and utility. The wide, thick backrest is intuitively used as a comfortable armrest when sitting sideways.

Visit: www.johannesvbreuer.com

TOMI LAUKKANEN – WORTHY Worthy is a product family of rechargeable and repairable electrical products. This project aims to tackle the problem of ewaste by extending the lifetime of electrical products and reviving the repair economy.

Worthy helps consumers understand their products more through storytelling, by allowing them to assemble products themselves. This creates an opportunity to learn about the components so that, in the future, repairing is seen as an easy and cost-efficient thing to do.

Visit: www.tomilaukkanen.com

YASEMIN SONGUR – SPINNING AROUND Spinning Around is a project in the field of textile design that explores traditional waffle weave and aims to showcase new artistic expressions of it. The three textiles display how materials of contradictory qualities can be used to juxtapose their different physical properties.

Moreover, the textiles showcase contrasts in opacity, tension and weight, as well as colours.

The textile design could potentially be developed for interior purposes.

Visit: yaseminsongur.wixsite.com/design

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

Feature Head size/colour to suit Standfirst style standfirst Most retailers agree that staff company name and development is critical to business success

Beds and bedroom Flou’s Foglio

BEDS AND BEDROOM The NBF was instrumental in the Buy British campaign

Support then and now The NBF continues to help the sector through the pandemic ‘The last 12 months have undoubtedly been the most challenging period in living memory for many in the bed industry. Retailers, manufacturers and suppliers have not only had to navigate through a global pandemic, but they’ve also had to deal with the repercussions of Brexit and all the uncertainty that leaving the EU has caused,’ says Simon Williams, National Bed Federation marketing and membership manager.

‘Unfortunately, all these problems seem set to continue into the second quarter of the year and possibly beyond.

With the ongoing problems of key raw material shortages, logistical issues with containers, disruption to cross-Channel trade and rampant cost increases, you

could say we’re experiencing the perfect storm. Of course, there will always be a minority of businesses that benefit from the disruption, but on the whole it continues to be a very difficult time.

‘So, what has the NBF done to support our members and help the bed trade?

What are we doing now – and what do we have planned for the coming months?

‘During 2020 we set up two dedicated hubs on our website, one for Coronavirus and one titled Leaving the EU, where we published relevant information from the UK Government along with other

Simon Williams

The 2020 awards took place online

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

organisations, and we quickly stepped up the frequency of our communications.

‘Through our membership of the British Furniture Confederation (BFC), we highlighted the plight of our members and the bed trade and contributed to the inquiry into the impact of Covid-19 on the furniture and furnishings industry.

These efforts helped towards the Government’s initial extension of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS to October, the introduction of greater flexibility to the scheme and additional support to aid businesses in

BEDS AND BEDROOM

March is National Bed Month

accessing trade credit insurance, as well as the introduction of the Bounce Back Loan Scheme.

‘On the key issue of polyurethane foam shortages which began to impact in late Autumn, we worked with the BFC to contact officials at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, highlighting issues facing the industry and the importance of an uninterrupted supply of foam for bed construction.

‘As recently as February, we joined with fellow trade associations to call on the Chancellor to extend government help to the sector in his March budget, specifically to extend the CJRS (furlough) until the end of June 2021, to extend the VAT deferral period until June 2021, and to extend the business rates holiday for another three months,’ says Williams.

‘The bed sector, along with other sectors of the furniture industry, is hanging on by its fingernails, and cash flow is going to become a real issue. If support isn’t extended beyond the

planned end of April deadline, it could be too late for many companies to be able to bounce back when shops and the economy are allowed to re-open,’ says Jessica Alexander, NBF executive director.

The NBF was also instrumental in the planning and creation of the Buy British Furniture event – a month-long initiative

promoting British home furnishings last Autumn. The campaign promoted the Buy the Best, Buy British, Save Jobs message for retailers to use online and in-store from 19 September to 18 October. The NBF team was responsible for social media graphics, POS items, video, consumer survey and radio day.

‘Despite having to cancel the Bed Show last September, we were determined to forge ahead with the Bed Industry Awards, not only to recognise the very best our sector has to offer, but to keep promoting the industry, our members and the NBF. The resultant virtual awards ceremony was streamed on YouTube and was a great success. At least we now know how to hold a virtual awards event should we need to do so in the future!

But we really hope the 2021 ceremony and the Bed Show go ahead in person on 21-22 September,’ says Williams.

‘And of course, March is National Bed Month, and whilst bed shops will still not be able to open to the public, they can continue to trade online and many can offer click and collect services. So, we’ve promoted our free digital marketing pack, enabling retailers to download special infographics, logos, posters, web banners and a video to use on their websites or in their social media activity.

‘As the current lockdown eases and non-essential retail starts to open up, let’s hope there’s still enough pent-up demand from consumers to upgrade their furniture and furnishings. It’s up to our sector to capitalise on the window of opportunity before the public gets the go-ahead to start booking travel and holidays, as we know only too well which they prefer to spend their money on.’

Visit: www.bedfed.org.uk

The sector is facing a perfect storm, according to Simon Williams

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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BEDS AND BEDROOM

Aloe Vera mattress

Defined Edge 2000

Ensign 2000 Firm

Rolling on Sweet Dreams is adding a wide range of new models Sweet Dreams has revealed a raft of new products ahead of its 2021 catalogue, due in April. ‘We are really upping our game introducing a luxury range of handcrafted beds, along with knit fabric versions of our best-selling 2,000 and 1,000 pockets. The continuing success of our encapsulated Defined Edge range

opens up the opportunity to introduce a range of quality pocket-sprung rolled mattresses,’ says Nick Williams, Sweet Dreams sales manager.

‘In the Handcrafted collection the new models are Cashmere 2000, Silk 1500 and Wool 1000, all beautifully crafted, hand tufted and hand side stitched, finished

Handcrafted Silk 1500

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

in a luxury soft-handle damask. Bases come in a choice of five luxury fabrics, with matching headboards available.

‘In Traditional, following on from our best-selling 2,000 and 1,000 damask pockets, we have two new models based on the 2,000 and 1,000 pocket spring, in a luxury knit fabric with matching border and base.’

The new Revive rolled mattress range has four rolled, pocket-sprung mattresses: the 650-count Aloe Vera, 800-count Silver, 800-count Bamboo and a premium 1,000-count mattress. All mattresses will be in stock and available for next-day collection, delivery to store or via its direct home delivery (DHD) service.

‘We have seen continuing success for our encapsulated Defined Edge range.

New models include three pillowtops featuring 2,000, 1,500 and 1,000 encapsulated spring units, a 2,000-count box top and 1,500 and 1,000 standard tops. All come in a range of sumptuous knit fabric with contemporary tape and handle accents. Memory foam, Tencel and cashmere feature in some models.

All of these models will be ready for delivery in the Spring, along with the launch of the 2021 bed and upholstery catalogues,’ says Williams.

Visit: www.sweetdreamsuk.com

BEDS AND BEDROOM

Chittenden & Eastman Hampton 3000

International tie-up Millbrook’s joint venture will see it introduce US designs Millbrook Beds and US bed producer Eclipse International have formed a joint venture that will see each other’s beds sold on both sides of the Atlantic.

Eclipse will import two Millbrook models and manufacture three at factories in New Jersey and California, using Millbrook’s materials including Hampshire wool, to be sold through its Eastman House brand.

This collaboration will also see Millbrook manufacture a range of Eclipse International mattresses for the UK market, which will be branded Chittenden & Eastman in partnership with Millbrook Beds. The range will make its debut with three mattresses, from 1,000 to 3,000 pocket springs and incorporating Ocean Blue Gel infused cooling latex.

‘We look forward to working with the entire Eclipse International organisation to help Millbrook Beds grow in the US, and to see the Eclipse-inspired range

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

flourish in our country. The finish and tailoring of the C&E range will have a completely different look to anything we have produced before and will bring American style and innovation to the UK bed market. Eastman House’s long American history dating back to 1866 gives us a strong selling point in the UK,’ says Mark Croll, Millbrook Beds md.

‘Not only does this joint venture give us the opportunity to bring some of the finest luxury mattresses into the US, we will also be growing our reach by adding distribution throughout the UK,’ says Stuart Carlitz, Eclipse International president and ceo.

‘We look forward to introducing our customers to these exquisitely made, hand side-stitched mattresses containing all-natural, farm-to-dealer materials and to seeing the growth of the C&E range in the UK. We have established a great partnership by working with Mark and Ross Thurston at Millbrook

to develop these mattresses.

‘Our mission of affordable luxury now includes 100% natural, chemicalfree designs that combine British and American technology for a true UK farm-to-mattress luxury to the US.’ Eclipse International has a total of 77 manufacturing licensees that distribute mattresses under six brands: Eclipse, Eastman House, Pure Talalay Bliss, Ernest Hemingway, Velika and BIA. Visit: www.millbrook-beds.co.uk

I N PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H

DESIGNED IN THE USA

HANDMADE HANDMADE IN THE UK

For further information call 023 80 866111 millbrook-beds.com/chittenden-and-eastman

297x210mm C&E Trade Press.indd 1

08/02/2021 07:45

BEDS AND BEDROOM

Time for action

The Therapeutics range features charcoal, copper and graphene

Maximising every sales opportunity is key ‘April cannot come soon enough for non-essential retail, with the announcement that this is the date the lockdown could ease, allowing stores to open once again. Focus has never been more important on each customer who walks through the shop door – maximising every sale is vital,’ says Simon Zamet, Protect-A-Bed ceo.

‘As a business we are constantly looking to help drive sales for all our retail partners. Protect-A-Bed mattress protectors offer a perfect opportunity to increase the average order value and grow sales. Plus, we offer a reward system to our partners through the Protect-A-Bed Platinum Club.

‘Since launching the Platinum Club, the results have been excellent. Both existing and new partners have joined and are benefiting from the focused approach to growing sales.

‘Additionally, we focus on advancing the mattress protection category, taking it to new levels of innovation.

Our innovative TV display bays and the Therapeutics range are the perfect example of this. The Therapeutics range features copper, graphene and charcoal embedded within the protectors that work to increase and enhance the sleeper’s wellbeing.’

‘At Protect-A-Bed we are constantly

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

evolving and innovating. The company has a long history in creating revolutionary products and Therapeutics is particularly exciting,’ says Paul Lake, Protect-A-Bed national sales manager.

‘The importance of healthy sleep has been gathering greater awareness nationally. It has been well documented that Protect-A-Bed can help retailers significantly grow their retail sales whilst offering Protect-A-Bed POS consumers better sleep solutions, and Therapeutics is a perfect evolution. This is a must-have product range for all of our existing retail partners and for bed retailers who want to offer their customers the

best possible sleep experience.

‘Now is the perfect time to join the Protect-A-Bed Platinum Club and invest in our cutting-edge Therapeutics range.

Act now and your retail store can gain the maximum benefit throughout the year, with our ability to upskill your team and increase your sales revenue by maximising every sales opportunity.’

Visit: www.protectabed.co.uk

LAUNCHING THE NEW THERAPEUTICS RANGE

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BEDS AND BEDROOM

Mammoth has extended its deal as official mattress and pillow supplier to Tottenham Hotspur

Earning its Spurs Mammoth has extended its deal with Tottenham Hotspur As a company proud of its heritage in health and wellbeing and grounded in science, Mammoth has reaffirmed its position as a go-to provider in elite sport with the extension of its exclusive agreement as official mattress and pillow supplier to Tottenham Hotspur FC. Mammoth has been a supplier of Tottenham Hotspur since 2017, after its award-winning sleep and comfort technologies attracted the attention of the club’s medical team. Its scientifically tested mattresses and pillows feature both at the club’s Lodge accommodation and at the players’ homes, to create a consistent and familiar sleeping environment.

While it may be hard at work supporting the sporting elite, Mammoth is absolutely committed to making better health and wellbeing more attainable for all. The company’s retail collection, featuring unique, naturally cooling Medical Grade foam mattresses, means that your customers can experience the pressure relief and postural support enjoyed by Premier League players.

Mammoth has earned its credentials over more than a decade working with athletes, clubs and sporting bodies, and has close working relationships with the likes of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, Rugby Players Association and British Athletes Commission.

If there’s one thing the pandemic has taught us, it’s that consumers are making

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

more healthy choices to protect their mental and physical wellbeing. Better sleep can help the immune system stay strong, help people maintain a healthy weight, keep the heart healthy and look after mental health. A truly restorative night’s sleep can increase productivity and relieve aches and pains.

There is no doubt it has been – and continues to be – a challenging time dominated by the Covid-19 pandemic and Mammoth is more committed than

ever to supporting its retail partners around the UK. With an increased focus on multi-channel advertising and wideranging promotions, the Mammoth team is ready to help retailers up and down the country drive sales.

Mammoth’s Rise, Shine and Move mattress collection comes with Medical Grade foam and Posture Cell technologies – scientifically tested and shown to improve sleep.

Email: stuart.page@thefoamco.co.uk

Shine mattress

Mammoth – the healthy choice Your customers are more health conscious than ever before and we know they are looking for products that genuinely do them good in 2021.

Mammoth are the only health and wellbeing brand in the comfort industry that are partnered with health professionals such as the CSP and have technologies proven to do you good.

www.mammothcomfort.com

*

*

***

*

**

Rise®

Shine®

Move®

The Mammoth Rise® mattresses contains our leading Medical Grade™ foam and PostureCells® technologies in generous amounts for those looking for something more, delivering improved health and wellbeing and remaining affordable.

The Mammoth Shine® mattresses packs in as much of our leading Medical Grade™ foam and PostureCells® sleep technologies as possible. We’ve thrown in a few additional extras for those who believe you can’t get too much of a good thing.

The Mammoth Move® mattress and bed collection promotes the very best that Mammoth has to offer with motion technologies to effortlessly ease away the aches and pains of the day. For those who love to relax and wind down in the ultimate sleep environment.

Contact Mammoth today and offer your customers the health and wellbeing brand they are looking for: sales@mammothuk.com * Tested under the guidance of Prof. Jason Ellis at Northumbria University’s Centre for Sleep Research (2012) www.mammothmattress.com/sleep-research ** Independently tested by SATRA, Global leaders in scientific research and testing of consumer products under laboratory conditions. Tested against 50KG memory foam. *** Independently tested by industry experts against leading healthcare beds.

BEDS AND BEDROOM

Giving back

Ennis-Hill pictured at a pre-pandemic visit to the charity’s staff

Proceeds from mattress sales are helping ill children Sleepeezee has donated £18,000 to The Children’s Hospital Charity, with the money going towards transforming the Cancer and Leukaemia Ward at Sheffield Children’s Hospital. Its Jessica mattress, named after brand ambassador Dame

The Jessica mattress was introduced in 2019

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

Jessica Ennis-Hill, was launched in 2019, and for every mattress sold a donation is made towards her chosen charity: The Children’s Hospital Charity.

Ennis-Hill has been a patron of The Children’s Hospital Charity in Sheffield since April 2006. The charity raises money to fund specialist medical equipment, new facilities and enhancements to the hospital’s environment.

‘I feel proud and lucky to say I am a patron of The Children’s Hospital Charity.

Whether I’ve been to the hospital with my own children or to visit children staying on the wards I am always blown away by the incredible staff and the amazing facilities,’ she says.

‘I’ve been working with Sleepeezee since early 2019 and I’m so grateful that they have been making a donation for every Jessica mattress sold. It’s fantastic that this money will help to transform the cancer and leukaemia ward. It’s an incredible place, changing

the lives of so many children in Sheffield and around the country.’

The ward treats up to 90 children a year from around the region and as far south as Northampton for cancer, leukaemia and blood disorders. The charity needs to raise £2.75m to redevelop the ward and plans to expand it, transforming bedrooms with en-suite facilities that patients can make their own. Bedrooms will also have space for a parent to sleep comfortably alongside their child, during stays which can sometimes last for up to a year.

‘We are proud to be able to support our ambassador’s chosen charity and it’s great to see how this money will directly benefit The Children’s Hospital Charity. As a business we are committed to giving back and support many charities and good causes both locally and on a national level. We look forward to continuing to raise funds from the Jessica mattress in the coming months,’ says Howard Wilson, Sleepeezee joint md.

As well as The Children’s Hospital Charity, Sleepeezee is a proud supporter of several local and national charities including the British Heart Foundation, Macmillan, Ellenor Hospice in Kent, Crisis and Battersea Cats and Dogs Trust.

Visit: www.sleepeezee.co.uk

BEDS AND BEDROOM Miami

Berlin

Digital success

Adapting to online sales has paid dividends Wiemann has taken the challenge of online sales head on over the past months, and the award-winning German bedroom manufacturer has seen the value of embracing a virtual route to market alongside that of physical stores.

As the pandemic has generally driven customers in many industries towards online shopping, Simon Hewitt, md of Wiemann’s sole agent for the UK and Ireland, Litmus Furniture, has seen the trend emerge in bedroom furniture too.

‘Wardrobes and bedroom furniture might not be the most obvious thing to sell online, but 2020 has proved that when the right products and support service are there, it’s perfectly possible.

Digital sales have been growing steadily for a number of years, but Covid-19 has prompted a sudden increase. It was probably coming anyway, albeit more slowly, so we were already well placed to adapt and use the trend to our advantage. We are finding that online and offline can and do work well in tandem,’ says Hewitt.

‘We are continuing to widen our skills and knowledge of digital sales all the time and we are pleased that we have made a success of it so far.’

Wiemann enjoyed pleasing results in 2020, finishing the year with orders level with 2019, despite the enforced dip of lockdown.

‘Some who sell through traditional bricks and mortar and online have seen their split tip in favour of Internet sales.

To facilitate this, we have provided

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simpler products, aiming for sweet spot pricing which recognises that consumers are not going to make a high value, top of the range purchase without first experiencing the product. We have found there is a balance in quality and the price to which they will go without a face-toface sales contact.

‘Excellent quality images are vital, as customers are investing in the whole look of a room: it’s not like selling a toaster, which is ultimately a toaster rather than a lynchpin of interior design.

We have moved to promoting specific configurations for online sales to clearly show how variations of sizes, door

options, internal shelving, drawers and hanging space will look.’

Underpinning all sales is Wiemann’s home delivery and installation service.

Regardless of how the product is purchased, Wiemann’s delivery team needs access to properties and time on site for assembly, and with well-managed expectations early in the process, the potential for returns is greatly diminished. In addition, robust Covidsafe measures designed to protect both consumers and fitters are embedded in the service, to inspire confidence from start to finish.

Visit: www.wiemannuk.co.uk Eastside

BEDS AND BEDROOM

Close ties

Handy stocks more than 1,300 components, including a thicker and longer tufting tape bar (above), which was developed for Silentnight and is generally available

Handy and Silentnight have worked together for more than two decades Silentnight is one of the largest UK manufacturers of beds and mattresses, with more than 70 years of experience.

With a yearly turnover of over £100m, it is vitally important that the group works with trusted and innovative suppliers to ensure its products are of the highest standard and to maintain an efficient manufacturing process. The brand has worked with one supplier of components and services to the bedding industry for more than two decades.

Handy exclusively stocks over 1,300 components from some of the world’s leading manufacturers. In addition, it has a range of unique products designed and developed in-house with production outsourced. Its wide range includes tufting products, divan base and headboard components, water-based and hot-melt glues, castors, glides and legs, linking systems and zips.

‘Handy supplies us with a range of high-quality components and provides an excellent service on a continuous basis. It is hugely beneficial and costeffective to us that it stocks many of the components we need,’ says Silentnight.

Not only does Handy support Silentnight within its regular supply, it has also helped the manufacturer solve production challenges through bespoke product development and its tailored tufting service.

‘We wanted to tuft our mattresses as deeply as possible to maintain the positioning of the various fillings and provide the most comfortable of mattresses for our customers. However, this was putting excessive strain on the

mattress and on occasions the tufts were pulling back through. Handy was able to produce an alternative product to help us resolve this issue,’ says Silentnight.

Specialising in bespoke product development, Handy designed and developed a tuft with a longer, stronger retaining bar at each end, giving the tuft a greater anchor on each side of the mattress. It also needed to develop a new tufting needle to accommodate the thicker and longer tufting tape bar. The needle needed to have a larger diameter but also could not create a larger hole in the mattress. After many months of prototyping Handy created a unique point at the tip of the needle that enabled the needle to pass through the mattress without increasing the puncture hole size.

Since the introduction of the revised tuft more than 10 years ago, Silentnight has not experienced a single tufting failure. To maximise tufting throughput

within Silentnight’s production process Handy also supplies tufting tapes bundled in an operator-friendly way with the tuft pre-attached at one end.

‘Our partnership with Handy is one that has flourished over the 20 years of working with us. Handy fully understands our business needs and challenges, and as a result can provide us with tailored products and services that allow us to remain the leading brand in the bedding market,’ says Silentnight.

‘At Handy we work in partnership with each one of our clients to understand their business needs and support them accordingly. We are delighted to have developed a strong relationship with Silentnight over two decades and continue to support it with our components and services in remaining an innovative leading brand within the bedding market,’ says Nick Harland-Smith, Handy md.

Visit: www.handyltd.co.uk

The two companies have worked together for more than 20 years

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BEDS AND BEDROOM

At its core

Hypnos has been carbon neutral for a decade

Sustainability is key for Hypnos There is no question that the past year has caused interiors brands to adapt their offering and support consumers in more inventive ways than ever. However, one thing that has remained consistent throughout this tumultuous time is the ever-growing demand for sustainable, ethical products for the home.

‘As pioneers in sustainable sleep, we constantantly review and develop our practices to improve the impact we have on the environment. This goes right from product design and creation to sourcing the most ethical and environmentally friendly ingredients, through to making products that are 100% recyclable at life-end, contributing to the circular

Wool is sourced from selected UK farmers

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economy,’ says Richard Naylor, Hypnos Beds sustainable development director.

‘We’ve been reducing our carbon, waste and energy for over 10 years and as the world’s first carbon-neutral bedmaker we felt it was important we continue to lead the way in sustainability so it’s encouraging to see this ethical approach more common throughout the bed industry. Carbon neutrality is a key aspect of our undertaking and to have been neutral for over a decade, offsetting over 9,550 tonnes of carbon, is something we’re extremely proud of. In fact, this dedication to the environment has been recognised with certification from Planet Mark, which acknowledges our long-term mission to create truly sustainable sleep.

‘We know that consumers of all ages and backgrounds are paying more attention not only to how the brands they interact with behave, but also to the provenance and heritage of products.

This is particularly prominent when it comes to products for the home.

‘To be able to build trust in products we create and in line with our sustainable mission, we’ve spent a great deal of time in selecting the most ethical and responsible supply chains in order that we understand the origins of all of our natural materials. A good example can be seen in how we source our cotton

and wool, both key fibres in all of our mattresses. In sourcing our cotton we’ve partnered and worked closely with both CottonConnect and the Better Cotton Initiative to make sure that the product we’re bringing into the business is traceable, traded fairly and from ethical suppliers of the highest quality.

‘This approach is the same when it comes to wool. We created an industryfirst partnership with Red Tractor Assured Food Standards to ensure that the wool we’re receiving come from carefully selected British farms that guarantee high animal welfare, land, soil and biodiversity management standards at all times, and also that these farmers are receiving a fair price for their wool.

‘We are always looking at ways in which we can innovate and improve our positive environmental impact, and this is something we’re continuing to strive for as a business.

‘As an industry we are increasingly aware of the need to provide not only supreme comfort but British-made products that are created with care and mindful of their impact on the planet. At Hypnos, this need to improve our impact is at the heart of every decision we’ve made and we’re excited to continue this journey in the coming years.’

Visit: www.hypnosbeds.com

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

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

hypnosbeds.com Carbon Neutral | Handmade in Britain and 100% recyclable

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| A proud member of The Better Cotton Initiative

24/09/2020 17:16

SUSTAINABILITY The Candyland collection

The products can be used outdoors and inside

Eco candy

Esti Barnes has designed 100% recyclable furniture for Formitura Rug designer Esti Barnes has created a range of multi-use, lightweight furniture under the Formitura brand. Known for her Topfloor by Esti collections, Barnes has Marshmallow and Peardrop

designed the products to be soft, easy to clean and move around, and suited for both indoor and outdoor use. They are made in Italy using polyurethane foam and polyethylene and are 100% recyclable.

The initial Candyland capsule collection comprises seating pieces that work equally well in a kid’s playroom or bedroom as in an upscale hotel lobby, spa or on board a superyacht.

Designs include: Marshmallow, a dreamy, spongy footstool available in a selection of pastel hues; Gingerbread,

a star-shaped footstool inspired by traditional bakes; Peardrop, a curvaceous design influenced by fruity boiled sweets, and Sugarplum, a storage pouffe with a lift-off lid and removable bucket.

‘Aside from my grandson, there’s nothing I love more than sweets and these lightweight, fun designs are ideal for home use as well as in hospitality.

Their wipe-clean nature also makes them particularly practical during these times,’ says Barnes.

Visit: www.formitura.com

Sugarplum has a removable bin

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SUSTAINABILITY Parts can be easily repaired or replaced and finally recycled

Walking the walk

Takt has B Corporation status

Being green is not just words for Takt Since its foundation in Copenhagen in 2019, Takt has sought to reinvent the Scandinavian design tradition for the modern day. The raw materials used are all sustainable, all wood is FSC-certified, from sustainable forests, and each piece is engineered so that individual parts can be easily repaired or replaced – and ultimately, recycled.

Danish in character, global in scope, Takt sells direct to consumers and ships its products free across Europe, and prior to the end of the Brexit transition period this included the UK – a ‘very important market’. Since 31 January, however, it has paused UK deliveries as it resolves how it handles returns amid the new

VAT and tariff rules. It says it is confident of settling the issues within weeks.

Takt’s roster of designers includes a host of respected names from Europe and the UK, beginning with Pearson Lloyd, who created its first product, Cross Chair, and now encompassing Rasmus Palmgren, Thomas Bentzen, Cecilie Manz, Depping & Jørgensen and Industrial Facility’s Sam Hecht and Kim Colin.

Reflecting its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility not just in its products but its entire business approach, Takt is one of few European design brands to be designated a B Corporation. This independent designation recognises purpose-driven

Products are delivered flatpack

UK deliveries are expected to resume soon

organisations that have a positive impact on the world, taking into account everything from employee welfare and legal accountability to supply-chain transparency and charitable giving.

Takt is the only brand to consistently have every one of its products certified with the EU Ecolabel – the ‘flower mark’ used to certify that all stages of the production cycle meet the highest possible environmental standards. From material sourcing to production and distribution, and on to disposal, every phase in the life cycle of Takt furniture is engineered to minimise waste and CO2 emissions.

A key initiative that helped earn Takt its B Corp certification is the company’s demonstrable commitment to transparency. It employs third-party assessor Målbar to verify its carbon footprint, and publishes detailed breakdowns of the lifetime carbon emissions of every product it produces.

At 13.8kg CO2e, the best-selling Cross Chair, for example, is the equivalent of 83 hours of Netflix streaming.

Takt ensures its carbon neutrality in accordance with the Oxford Offsetting Principles published in September 2020.

Through the Finnish carbon marketplace Puro, Takt purchases CO2 removal certificates that support verified carbon capture and storage technologies, ensuring its offsetting activity is clear and quantifiable, and supporting the net-negative carbon economy.

Visit: www.taktcph.com

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BEST OF BRITISH

By your side

The BFM has provided a variety of resources to keep members up to date and help them access the assistance they need

The BFM has been supporting its members ‘As the industry navigates the challenges ahead, the British Furniture Manufacturers is well placed to support its members.

The Covid-19 crisis has resulted in rapid changes in all aspects of business. Since the first lockdown, the BFM has provided timely, industry-specific information to help members get fast access to the facts,’ says Nick Garratt, BFM md.

‘We’ve provided a variety of resources

Nick Garratt

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

to keep people up to date and help them get the assistance they need, including dedicated hotline support and webinars, as well as our members’ area information service, which is constantly updated.

‘Another issue on the horizon has been Brexit. Again, we’ve been ensuring that the industry is kept up to date on often complex factors, and have provided help and assistance as required. That is being achieved through regular briefings, as well as through detailed information in the members’ area of our website.

‘As well as looking at the challenges, it is also important to look at the opportunities ahead. With a lack of clarity and confidence in foreign travel in 2021, the public could – like last year – continue to invest in their homes. A definite priority for us as a trade body is to promote the Buy British message to the general public to tap into this trend.

‘Last year we joined forces for the Buy British Furniture event, a British Furniture Confederation scheme organised and promoted by ourselves and the National Bed Federation. It was well received and we hope to restart the campaign in 2021.

‘Our new website is also taking shape.

This new online area will give a much

The association is set to revisit the Buy British campaign in 2021

greater profile to our members’ own businesses, with an enhanced area to showcase their companies – a step above the current directory service.

‘The website will also provide new functions, which will serve to enhance the business operations of our members while enabling them to get their Best of British message across in an exciting digital format.’

Visit: www.bfm.org.uk

Stronger together

Opportunities to save costs

• • • • • • • •

• Discount on space & VIP benefits for exhibitors at the January Furniture Show • Raw material price data • Plus many more...

Health, safety, environment Employment & personnel Export services Legal helpline Technical advice E.G. standards, EUTR Suppliers directory Benchmarking trade data E-mail news bulletins

‘

‘

Solutions, advice & practical support

BFM Representing the industry @BritishFurnitureManufacturers

@BFM_LTD

Managing Director, Whitemeadow

• Enhance your credibility using the BFM logo • BFM Code of Practice • Sales leads • Raise your profile through the BFM directory

BFM membership benefits also include:

Membership of BFM provides great value for us at Whitemeadow. The whole team use the information provided on the website and the regular bulletins; and we review and use the information to help us drive improvements in our business.

Ian Oscroft

Sales & marketing

• Regular business bulletins • COVID19 hotline business support • Marketing support with our ‘Made in Britain’ campaign

Flying the flag for British Manufacturing

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BEST OF BRITISH

Inspired

Medallion Aswan is one of three new colourways in the Anatolia collection

Ulster Carpets is adding to Watercolours and Anatolia Ulster Carpets is set to launch new additions to its Watercolours and Anatolia collections. Last year, Ulster added a significant number of new colourways to its Natural Choice, Ulster Velvet and HΛBITÜS collections and now the company is again helping retailers tap into the latest trends.

The three new additions to Anatolia will add to the enduring popularity of this range and ensure it will remain relevant for this new decade. The classic Persian interlacing medallion design has been retained but Ulster has added three new colourways to include the greys, blues and neutrals found in modern interiors. The new colourways are Aswan, Souk and Bedouin and are themed around aspirations of travelling and experiencing other cultures.

Anatolia is available in 13 different colourways across three designs.

The original inspiration behind the Watercolours range remains at the heart of the latest new colourways. Inspired by natural landscapes of the earth, sea and sky and influenced by the abstract masterpieces of JW Turner, this Axminster range mimics washes of watercolour pigment softly blending into paper.

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

New colourways Celeste and Savannah are available in both the Amulet and Mineral design options, while Zenith is exclusively found in the Mineral range and Ocean in the Amulet range.

Made from 80% wool and 20% nylon, Anatolia and Watercolours are suitable for extra-heavy wear and are available in five colour-matching widths using Ulster’s multi-width service.

Axfelt triple-layer underlay is in stock and ready for delivery. This luxury underlay

can be fitted beneath any carpet to provide an excellent floor foundation.

It also helps to prevent the carpet pile from flattening, increasing the life of the carpet and maintaining its appearance.

In addition, the triple-layer construction provides excellent heat and sound insulation as well as superior comfort.

Manufactured in Devon, Axfelt is made from 100% recycled materials, including wool-rich carpet and rubber tyres.

Visit: www.ulstercarpets.com

Axfelt is made from 100% recycled materials, including wool-rich carpet and rubber tyres

Axfelt triple-layer underlay

The Cosgrove Collection - In Stock Now The Cosgrove Range is a fantastic rustic collection with perfect on trend details, such as hairpin legs and reclaimed timber tops.

Handcrafted metal frames with black metal mesh doors give this range an industrial edge, and all of the tops, bottoms, drawers and shelves are made from reclaimed timber for a rugged on-trend style. To view the Cosgrove collection visit besp-oak.com.

Mosely_JA.indd 1

Book a Covid-secure showroom visit today.

Email sales@besp-oakfurniture.co.uk or call 02476 623148

NEW11 - Large Reclaimed Wood Square Coffee Table with Metal Geometric Frame - £159

NEW03 - Tall Reclaimed Wood & Metal Side table - £39

NEW20 - 3 Drawer Reclaimed Wood & Metal Sideboard with Mesh Doors - £288

NEW16 - Tall 2 Door Reclaimed Wood Cabinet with Mesh Doors - £349

NEW08 - Reclaimed Wood Coffee Table with Metal Geometric Frame - £115

NEW01 - Medium Reclaimed Wood & Metal Side table - £35

NEW13 - Reclaimed Wood & Metal 2 Drawer Side Table - £110

Shop the look

NEW07 -Large Reclaimed Wood & Metal Mirror 89 x 147cm - £110

AZW-523-2 - Herringbone Stone 2 Seater Sofa - £445

19AM14 - Handpainted Galloping Horse Canvas 103 x 83cm - £49

16MC002F5Z2 - Rustic Reclaimed Plank Clock 76cm - £40

M-17021A - Ornate Brass Candle Holder Large - £24

13/12/2020 20:09

BEST OF BRITISH Wilton Royal Royal Charter in Cardinal Red

Stainfree USA in Platinum

Trend setter

Abingdon Flooring has been producing carpets for more than 50 years Employing more than 300 people and with the capacity to produce more than 15million sqm of carpet every year, Abingdon Flooring has been a presence in British carpet manufacturing since 1967, when it began producing carpets from its factory in Abingdon, Oxfordshire.

Opening its current south Wales facility in 1982, introducing recycling equipment in 2011, acquiring a carpet tile plant in 2012 and installing a new high-speed backing line in 2019 – Abingdon Flooring has constantly invested in order to ensure that it delivers the efficiency needed to remain competitive.

In 2018, Abingdon Flooring unveiled its state-of-the art development studio, The Centre of Development and Excellence, home to ground-breaking equipment to drive innovation in product development and quality. This facility is now responsible for the development of carpet collections from the brand, helping to continue to deliver homes the very best in carpet.

Abingdon Flooring has a long record of innovation, dating back to 1987 when it was the first in the industry to introduce polypropylene stain-resistant carpets after a £1m investment in an extrusion line. Now established as a market leader, StainFree remains one of its core collections. Olympus is the latest iteration of StainFree carpet, using an improved yarn that delivers a softer feel without sacrificing the bleach-cleanable,

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

lifetime stain-resistant performance that has made the collection a favourite.

The company was also among the first to recognise the appeal of polyester yarns, introducing its Love Story collection back in 2015. The collection has become a highlight in the Abingdon Flooring portfolio. In fact, its reputation is such that the manufacturer has recently added Secret Affair, a highly competitive polypropylene style that brings the prestige of Love Story to more homes.

Of course, no British carpet brand would be complete without a nod to the industry’s wool heritage and Abingdon Flooring is no different. Wilton Royal keeps the enduring quality of wool

carpets alive through its Royal Charter, Balmoral and New Royal Windsor collections. These wool-rich qualities combine fashionable palettes, timeless colours, traditional regal hues and neutral tones to appeal to a wide audience. Offering a good range of weights and in multiple widths, Wilton Royal is a thoroughly modern take on a British classic.

With its recent success grounded in efficient production and intelligent product development to create carpets that appeal to a broad cross-section, Abingdon Flooring is a true example of the best in British manufacturing.

Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

Love Story Deep Feelings in Welsh Slate

U

WOOD AND LAMINATE

Passion meets performance.

The blue revolution.

Hydron uses several techniques to achieve its waterproof capability

Splash down Hydron has no fear of water

A floorcovering has to withstand a lot – after all, it is literally trampled underfoot. In addition to durability and robustness, there’s one thing it needs to do above all and that’s look good. An attractive floor makes everyone happier.

Whether it’s the kitchen, bathroom or conservatory, rooms that experience a lot of wetness and moisture are a challenge when choosing the right floorcovering.

Parador’s new Hydron collection of water-resistant laminate is designed to withstand challenging room situations.

For Hydron 600, the product development team at Parador has worked intensively on optimising tried and tested components to prevent water from penetrating the board. In addition to the water-impermeable top and bottom surfaces, an extremely low-swelling HDF core and the highly hydrophobic bevel lacquer in combination with a particularly tight-closing click system herald a new generation of laminate flooring from Parador.

There are nine Hydron 600 floor designs, which the company says rival real wood floors in beauty and feel.

Visit: www.parador.eu

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

With the new products in the 2021 range, we are underlining our passion for creating products that shape tomorrow today.

Our new product line “Hydron” for laminate flooring and the resilient floor covering Modular ONE stands for particularly waterrepellent floors that also meet special challenges. The combination of innovative technology and modern design heralds the new generation of high-quality floorings “Made in Germany”. Available from February 2021. www.parador.de/en

Feature Head size/colour to suit Standfirst style standfirst Most retailers agree that staff company name and development is critical to business success

Belgium

BELGIUM Annecy

Hamilton

Daring to be different Ultragrip has been revamped The Ultragrip brand has been given a complete makeover following extensive research. Positioned as The Ultimate in Luxury Vinyl Flooring, Ultragrip’s designers have put a lot of effort into incorporating the latest design trends into the new collection, which stands out from the crowd with more daring, bold and colourful designs.

Enhanced by the wonders of HD digital printing, there are three new ranges: Entice, which is inspired by Victorian and Portuguese tiling motifs, brought to life by 3D special effects; Empress, where luxurious marble and concrete designs sit alongside distinguished Victorian tiling; and Eminence, which has the addition of some XL plank sizes to make this traditional wooden floor look even more authentic.

The Majestic, Primatex and Luxury collections will be discontinued, but perennial best-sellers Pro XL, Contract XL and Xtreme will still be found alongside the new ranges.

The tough and durable Xtreme is now produced with Beauflor’s Bacteria Shield+ technology. The PU lacquer in

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

Bacteria Shield+ includes biocides that prevent the growth of bacteria on the floor surface. Vinyl floors that have been treated with Bacteria Shield+ lacquer have been tested according to ISO 22196 standards which measure antibacterial activity on surfaces. Antibacterial activity is the difference of the viable cell count found on a floor treated with Bacteria Shield+ lacquer and a floor without this treatment after inoculation with and incubation of bacteria over a period of 24 hours. Results show that 99.9% of all bacteria vanished, which demonstrates that the floor not only prevents growth of bacteria but even kills them.

New branding demands an inspirational presentation. Ultragrip’s new sample books contain many more roomset images – at least one for each design. They also feature a 10cm x 20cm colour swatch for each range, which customers can take home. This will allow them to compare a selection of designs against their decor and make a selection more quickly. It will also enable the sample book to remain in store where other customers can view it.

To help retailers gain maximum impact at point of sale, Ultragrip will be providing a professional merchandiser.

Additionally, to help drive sales, it will be updating the dealer locator on its website to direct customers to their nearest stores.

Visit: www.ultragripbybeauflor.co.uk

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BELGIUM

Rapport in Obelisk

Consistent supply

Thanks to its European base, Leoline has been able to keep up with demand ‘While all the indicators pointed to a huge slow-down in sales, and many retail sectors have been heavily impacted

by Covid-19, the opposite has been true for the flooring industry. We’ve seen unprecedented demand, with manufacturers struggling to keep up.

Some companies have suffered at the hands of the shipping crisis, with misplaced containers and sky-high rates, but our European supply chain and cushion vinyl floors made in Europe have helped us to provide retailers with consistent product supply,’ says Stuart Reeves, IVC Group sales director UK. ‘Of course, the pandemic has impacted our manufacturing, but we have been able to respond to this, rapidly adopting new production practices to keep interruptions to a minimum. In fact, between the first and second lockdowns, we launched our PROTEKT antibacterial treatment, featuring on our new Comfytex Deluxe collection. Providing homeowners with a floor that responds to worries on hygiene in the home, the treatment is permanent and doesn’t wash or wear off. We delivered PROTEKT

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into the market, creating additional POS material to make the Comfytex Deluxe collection an even more attractive proposition.

‘As we look towards our 2021 collection, our development team was busy throughout the later part of 2020 planning our new collections, with a focus on responding to growing interest in creating interiors that make us feel happy and positive.

‘This has seen us launch two collections for 2021 – Rapport and Vitality. Rapport is a fresh and modern collection that breathes new life into classic wood, stone and tile designs. The floor focuses on value, offering a really competitive specification and an affordable option for almost everyone.

‘With Vitality, we’ve adopted some of the production techniques used in our IVC Group LVT factories to produce a sheet vinyl floor with a premium aesthetic.

Bringing original texture and a stunning optical clarity, Vitality provides an authentic looking wood-effect floor that retains the easy Superguard maintenance and durability of our best floors.

‘Of course, it’s been strange developing our new collections without the usual extended visits to our development centres, but we’re really excited about the style and performance available in our new floors and look forward to introducing them to our Leoline retailers across the country.’

Visit: www.leoline.co.uk

Vitality in Foxtail Pine

Vitality Step into a premium natural effect floor that benefits from our famous easy-going surface. Vitality’s original texture and stunning optical clarity bring a true wood plank effect for a super-realistic luxury vinyl floor.

Making style easy since 1997 @leolineuk

WWW.LEOLINE.CO.UK

Leoline is a brand of

BELGIUM

Spring quartet

Above left: Les Exclusifs Bardenas engineered wood Above: Ocean Texas Brown laminate Below: Pure Click 55 Authentic Oak LVT

BerryAlloc has four strings to its bow Through laminate, high pressure floors, LVT and engineered wood, BerryAlloc brings an extensive range of high-quality floors to meet the demands of today’s homes. Offering variety, durability, longevity and ease of installation, the Belgian giant – which has production plants in Belgium, France and Norway – has been at the forefront of innovation within the sector. Its reputation can be traced right back to 2008, when the manufacturer launched hydro+, the world’s first 100% water-resistant technology for laminate flooring. Now available on the company’s latest laminate collection, Ocean+, it continues to provide homes with the authenticity, durability and maintenance of laminate throughout the home.

DreamClick is BerryAlloc’s answer to common problems associated with conventional LVT. Centred around a unique click system and patented rigid construction, the four-sided 360deg mechanism means that it’s possible to install DreamClick floors in any direction and any combination. Whether standard planks, herringbone or unique patterns, DreamClick is faster and easier to install over a range of existing floors.

The natural beauty of wood is a desirable look, but protecting the

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investment has been a concern for homeowners. Two years in development, Ultimtec is BerryAlloc’s new finish that gives the natural look of an oiled wood floor with the durability, robustness and easy maintenance of traditional lacquers.

Ultimtec makes cleaning simple, while the technology also eliminates the need for oiling to preserve the natural beauty of the real wood surface.

Technical innovation would mean little without floors that delivered in the style stakes. BerryAlloc’s design teams capture the very latest looks, drawing inspiration from the natural environment and home interior trends to create collections with diverse appeal. From rustic timbers and classic oaks through to contemporary terrazzo and concrete, it’s a collection that can deliver a stylish floor in any home.

BerryAlloc’s shopping experience and visual language is an important metric in the company’s success in-store, helping to attract customers and delivering a quality feel that underlines its products’ position within the market. While the full shop-in-shop experience is a powerful way to make the most of the brand in store, it has also introduced its custom-built brand corners concept to work within the footprint available.

Displays can be chosen from any wood,

laminate, HPF or LVT collection to build a display that works perfectly in any store.

Made in Norway and inspired by the country’s dramatic landscape, high pressure floors promise to be the world’s strongest, thanks to a surface twice as thick as standard laminate. Perfect for homes looking for the ultimate in longevity and daily performance, the water-resistant collection features BerryAlloc’s Aluloc. The strong click joint ensures fast, easy fitting, with a highquality, sound-reducing underlay that soaks up minor subfloor irregularities built into every plank.

Visit: www.berryalloc.com

For those ‘splash & dash’ moments.

Enjoy the freedom of laminate flooring that’s 100% water-resistant with Ocean+. We launched our hydro+ technology way back in 2008, making us a pioneer in laminate safe for the bathroom, kitchens and everywhere else. Ocean+ is our latest generation of 100% water-resistant laminate for modern life.

water resistant laminate. v

100% repellent coating

premium quality

natural wood design

lifetime warranty

BerryAlloc North: Richard Comboy T + 44 7496 293150 richard.comboy@berryalloc.com South: Ross Tooth T + 44 7949 151269 ross.tooth@berryalloc.com

Learn about the hydro+ technology here

berryalloc.com

BELGIUM

Titanium XT Arcadia

Security blanket

Bubblegum & Liquorice Sagres

Homes have become more important ‘The pandemic has forced all of us to spend more time in our homes than ever before, and in the short-term it has had a significant impact on the entire retail flooring industry. Seemingly everyone has been clamouring to transform tired spare rooms into inviting workspaces or simply to give rooms an overdue lift.

Talk to any flooring company and they will tell you they’ve never been busier.

It’s the same for us here at Avenue, but we’re also excited about the potential long-term change in attitude towards the home,’ says Stuart Reeves, IVC Group sales director UK. ‘Our homes have become something of a security blanket from the worries of the outside world – we’ve retreated inwards and become more aware of how we interact with our home, its failings and successes and, most importantly, how it makes us feel. Here at Avenue, how floors make you feel is at the heart of what we do. We’ve become famous for fun-filled collections such as Bubblegum & Liquorice that can brighten up the dullest of days, but we’re also all about classic wood and stone effects that feel relaxing and familiar.

‘It’s not just the look of Avenue floors that make them a great proposition for today’s homes. Made in Europe, our cushion vinyl construction also offers excellent quality and delivers fabulous

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underfoot comfort. Avenue’s cushion back helps to absorb impact and retain warmth while also making rooms quieter.

These are all major factors in building positive feelings about the home, ensuring Avenue really does make homeowners feel excitement about their revitalised room.

‘Throughout the Avenue range you’ll find great practical features including Superguard PU technology for easy maintenance and our Luxatex textile backing that means the Comfytex collection can be loose-laid straight on

top of existing floors. In multiple widths for less waste, every Avenue floor also delivers exceptional value. Stylish, comfortable, practical and affordable – there’s a huge amount to like right across the range.

‘As for 2021, we’re busy putting the finishing touches to two new collections that will keep Avenue right in the mix when it comes to floors that make homes feel good. Of course, they’ll also deliver great value and our made in Europe quality,’ says Reeves.

Visit: www.avenuefloors.co.uk

Urbanista Padua

"We closely watch design trends so that we can create floors that bring homes serious levels of style."

avenuefloors.co.uk

@avenuefloors

Avenue is a brand of

BELGIUM

LayRed in Classic Oak

Select in Venetian Stone

Sustainability matters LVT can be recycled

LVT has become an increasingly popular flooring choice in the last decade, although it has been around since the mid-20th century. A highly durable flooring solution, it mimics the appearance of real wood and stone, offering consumers a product that not only looks the part but incorporates the benefits of sustainability.

The market has recognised the importance of materials that are sustainable while also maintaining a high-quality aesthetic. From its soft, warm feel to its realistic designs, LVT has a unique appeal.

Whether you are looking to replicate a wood or stone effect, LVT is the perfect solution. The cleverly designed planks and tiles create hyper-realistic patterns that look and feel authentic. Inspired by nature, Moduleo uses a unique embossing process that brings the smallest details of each design to life, allowing you to feel the depth of the wood grain and knots.

Hours of tedious cleaning are a thing of the past with this style of flooring.

The surface is dirt-repellent, while any stains can be removed by simply brushing gently with water. A protective top layer also prevents wear and tear from furniture, returning the flooring to

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its original state once the weight has been moved.

While real stone and wood can feel cold to the touch, LVT has excellent insulating properties that ensure a comfortable temperature whatever the season. What's more, its soothing qualities promote a sense of well-being thanks to a reliant layer that anticipates your body weight and creates a soft feel underfoot.

The rapid growth in popularity of LVT has seen manufacturers work hard to keep up with demand. As well as the physical benefits of this kind of flooring, the sustainable manufacturing process sets the standard for the future of luxury vinyl floors. Recent research from Mintel has identified that consumers are more likely to lean towards a sustainable alternative if available.

Based on the banks of the Scheldt river in Belgium, Moduleo recycles river water to use in its cooling process. Clean energy from its own wind farm powers up to 70% of the manufacturing process, as befits a champion of the Choice for the Future movement.

The provenance of Moduleo means there is also less of an impact on the environment in terms of shipping and delivery compared to its competitors,

many of which manufacture in Asia.

LVT’s potential as a sustainable choice is far-reaching and constantly developing. Tiles and planks are now made using up to 50% recycled material and can also be recycled in turn at the end of their life.

The adaptability of LVT is its biggest advantage. Suitable for every room, it offers the best of both worlds: the benefits of luxury vinyl with the look of its real counterparts.

Visit: www.moduleo.com

Impress in Santa Cruz Oak

IT MAKES MORE SENSE TO MAKE IT MODULEO

®

The affordable choice in luxury vinyl flooring, Moduleo® offer an impressive and inspiring choice of designs and colours. Providing the style, durability and ease of maintenance customers want plus the extensive support retailers value and appreciate, choosing Moduleo® makes a lot of sense all round.

MORE MORE MORE DESIGNS COLOURS AFFORDABLE

7608 Moduleo Retailer Interiors Monthly 297x210mm.indd 1

Discover more at moduleo.co.uk

08/02/2021 15:07

SOFTWARE

Fast forward

Shoppers have turned to their screens during lockdown

Change has been rapid and many retailers are still trying to catch up If the past year has taught us one thing it is that having an online presence is vital. With stores closed and consumers unable to travel they have invested in their homes and turned to their screens to do it.

For Jesse Akre, RetailSystem president, this has dragged many retailers into the 21st century. ‘Retailers have spent years discrediting the online channel – “ecommerce retailers are the evil of our industry” and so on – and then the pandemic hits and suddenly everyone is online,’ he says.

‘Retailers have never really looked at the online channel with the rigour they should have. Not just ecommerce: if that happens, fantastic. But the consumer is online. They start online. They may or may not go into a store. It takes a traumatic event to force resisted change.

Online has always been there to utilise and maximise within the retail model.

Traditional retailers for the most part ignored it or did not give it proper effort.

Change happened.

‘Prior to Covid-19 a common statistic used was that 70% of consumers began their furniture and bed purchase online.

Did that mean ecommerce? Maybe, but for most traditional retailers probably not. The level of online transactions for the industry was minimal. Consumers were there to research and validate.

‘But envision a perfect sales funnel – 70% of a retailer’s opportunities start on their website. Many retailers just ignored the web. Their website, if they even had

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one, was just “there”. Online was scary, unknown, not the way they did business.

They were retailers, not etailers. Enter Covid, and guess what? Online is a must.

Spoiler alert: it already was – just different. Ecommerce for the industry is pulled forward. It is like we are seven years in the future – overnight.’

Akre says retailers are still trying to understand what to do online. ‘Think about opening a new store. All the work and money that takes: the team to run it; the leases and stock commitments; all the planning and execution down to paint and signage. That’s before the doors open. Are retailers treating their website the same? They want it to be their flagship store. The new big location.

The driver of their retail business. But are they treating it the same as they would the new store? It’s getting more attention

70% of retail opportunities start online

– absolutely. But the same? And will this focus and drive wane once Covid subsides? Time will tell.’

Retailers also need to have dedicated staff or both online and bricks-andmortar will suffer, Akre warns. ‘It takes great people to run a great retail store.

Online takes people just like a store. Too many retailers turn to the current retail team and give them the web. So both then suffer, as I have yet to find retail staff with excess time on their hands.

An online effort needs an online leader, not a store manager with a few extra minutes. That is a start, a dedicated resource. It costs money – whether you outsource or hire your own. Treat it like that new store.’

Next month Akre will discuss online leadership.

Visit: www.retailsystem.com

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Alternatively, call us on 0131 440 7607 or email us on info@retailsystem.com.

UPHOLSTERY

Anderson

Brand power

La-Z-Boy UK is aiming to widen its consumer appeal Following 2020’s unprecedented demand for furniture and homewares, there’s arguably more opportunity than ever before for brand power to cut through the noise in the marketplace.

‘The need for true comfort and a relaxing haven in a living space has become a number one priority for homes around the world. The team at La-Z-Boy UK has responded by releasing new Washington

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

models designed to appeal to a wider cross-section of consumers – our first collection of new products in 12 months – along with unique new promotions,’ says Tristian Pyke, La-Z-Boy UK head of sales for independents.

Six new high-street suites have been introduced, with two modern swivel chairs featuring rechargeable batteries for power reclining anywhere in the home. As well as catering for the brand’s core customer base, there are new features and design traits designed to appeal to a younger consumer, such as stylish legs and thinner arms.

‘Currently our 50plus market is significant and appreciates a traditional look to their sofas, but younger people will prefer different styling as they grow older and more affluent. If we keep producing the same type of product time after time we would not grow, so it’s

UPHOLSTERY Sloane

essential to attract younger consumers to La-Z-Boy sofas and initiate that brand loyalty. Two of my favourite new models of 2021 have this modern feel: Washington and Sloane.’

Another is the Aspen range, a new promotional model designed to tempt customers outside of traditional sales periods. Aspen will be available to all La-Z-Boy retailers during promotional periods, whether or not it is stocked on the shop floor, and a consumer-led promotion will run throughout the year during selected date ranges.

Consumers will be able to buy any cover or configuration of product within the Aspen range at full retail price, and get a second item of lesser value from the range for half price. ‘This is a unique promotion and a first for La-Z-Boy UK,’ says Pyke.

‘We are asking for support from retailers for this promotion as we aim to develop our customer base during these unusual times. We’ve had a lot of orders already, including several new accounts, so we are very pleased with how the promotion has been received.’

La-Z-Boy UK’s new models will be unveiled at AIS’s virtual trade show later this month. The brand is also developing its own techniques to showcase new products remotely. Its show van tour will recommence following the national lockdown – another new introduction which came into its own in late 2020.

‘Our focus this year is to create a more concise message surrounding the

La-Z-Boy product collection. This will involve discontinuation of some ranges which have similarities to other existing models, as well as the introduction of new products to fill gaps that have been identified.

‘Alongside the Aspen promotion, we run a pre-scheduled calendar of sales offers with our stockists. Additionally, at the end of 2020 we launched a stock programme on the popular Winchester range, with selected products available on just a two-week lead time. This has been extremely successful and we expect this initiative to continue to be very attractive during 2021, particular with the current unprecedented delays

Tristian Pyke

being experienced in shipping times on imported models,’ adds Pyke.

‘Another key focus for the year ahead will be the development of further eco-friendly initiatives. The introduction of 100% recycled and recyclable packaging on all Far East models has been a hugely welcomed project and we now use no first-use plastic in products or packaging. Products are delivered in quilted fabric bags which customers can store conveniently as a useful cover to keep their suite protected whenever necessary, for example during decorating works or in a home move.

‘We work continually with our factories and supply chain to develop and refine eco-friendly production techniques and projects are underway to help make consumers aware of the work we are undertaking in fulfilling our social and corporate responsibilities.’

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

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

75

BUYING GROUPS

Stand out

The 8ft carpet fitter was CNC cut (below left) and attached to both sides of the van

Marketing support can come in many guises Multiple retailers operate by developing a business model and replicating it from place to place; independent retailers operate by building a business in their

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area that suits their marketplace and their customers’ needs.

Metro is a flooring buying group with a difference. Respecting how each independent member wants to run their business their way, Metro has developed a marketing and merchandising service that not only looks to support the group’s own brand, Carpet 1st, but also the incredibly diverse needs of each individual retailer.

Metro has its own team of people who have worked in the flooring marketing industry for decades and understand how carpet and furniture retailers work. Combine this with a 2,500sqft industrial unit with design studio, printing, laser cutting and CNC machines and there isn’t much that can’t be done for a retailer who wants to increase their business profile. Plus of course everything is delivered and installed on site nationwide.

One such project was completed recently for The Carpet Stop in Derby.

Having a very prominent crossroad

location and a van that was now beyond service, they wanted to use the vehicle as a marketing opportunity for the thousands of people passing each day.

The result was an 8ft tall carpet fitter that was CNC cut and attached to both sides of the van to catch the attention of passers-by. The project was designed, cut and manufactured completely in-house and fitted on site (despite the shop currently being closed due to lockdown measures).

Not every project is as elaborate, as the Metro team can create pretty much anything from a business card to a huge illuminated sign and anything in between.

‘Being able to offer such a wide range of services to our members means that we have become a one-stop shop for all of our retailers’ needs. Plus all costs are heavily subsidised, and the group also offers members financial incentives to use the scheme,’ says Steve Depport, Metro operations manager.

Visit: www.carpet1st.co.uk

Sq M

UNDERLAY

Lasting impression Getting the right installation involves more than one factor

Diamond gripper

The Floorwise underlay collection is renowned for delivering added value and long-term performance. When it comes to range, there are few UK brands that can manage the same level of choice.

With recycled PU, rubber sponge, rubber crumb, wood and laminate, combination felt, acoustic, underfloor heating and

LVT, Floorwise has one of the widest collections available, giving retailers and installers a quality option for any domestic or commercial work.

The supplier has worked hard to develop unique specifications that ensure great quality at every price point, so whether a budget recycled PU like Initio or a premium rubber crumb option such as Champion, the underlay delivers great performance.

‘We’ve made sure that our underlay collection provides options to keep Floorwise offers a wide selection of underlays

Lush and Style are among the underlays made from recycled materials – Champion is made from recycled car tyres

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

everyone happy, not only in terms of choice but also in long-term performance.

No matter whether you’re installing a tufted carpet or tackling sound beneath laminate, you know that using Floorwise will keep your customers delighted well into the future,’ says Richard Bailey, Floorwise md.

‘Great long-term performance comes in a balance of comfort and support.

The density of the underlay plays a key role in getting this balance right, which is why we offer several different options.

A prime example of this can be found in our recycled PU underlays, where we offer densities from MD+ (Medium Density Plus) right up to UHD+ (Ultra High Density Plus). This approach ensures that comfort expectations can be met and long-term support delivered in line with budget.

‘We are also keen to promote a systembased approach to carpet underlay, given the importance of choosing suitable grippers. The Diamond gripper enjoys an enviable reputation among installers as an option for high-quality underlays, working well to hold carpet over thick 11mm products, as well as giving a better hold over the carpet’s lifetime. For more cost-conscious jobs, the Premium gripper range offers a great value product that delivers reliable quality and a strong hold.

‘The installation is just as important as the carpet in meeting the expectations of the homeowner. Any underlay that fails to immediately give that all-important comfortable underfoot feel will leave a homeowner disappointed, but one that loses its comfort too quickly will also leave a less than glowing lasting impression.

Our underlays and grippers let retailers and installers fine-tune the installation to give an end result that delivers on both.’

Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk

The ultimate underlay collection With solutions for carpet, wood, laminate and LVT, the floorwise underlay collection delivers comfort comfort, longevity, quality and value with every step.

floorwise rewards promotion

register now to collect

floorwise-rewards.co.uk

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PU foam, crumb rubber, sponge rubber, felt & combination carpet underlays

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Acoustic wood, laminate & LVT underlays in rubber, PE foam & fibreboard

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Underlays for underfloor heating

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Commercial rated underlays for double-stick and stretch-fit

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Plywood, hardboard & paper felt underlayments

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Solutions for every floorcovering installation

Stay in touch @floorwisehq

Get the new underlay brochure at distributors across the UK & Ireland.

Visit www.floorwise.co.uk/distribution or contact us by phone +44 (0)1509 673974

ACCESSORIES

Above left: The Sittingbourne showroom Above: Soft furnishings at the Leeds showroom

At home

Gallery Direct’s revamped showrooms are open to customers Following the launch of its SS21 collection, Gallery Direct is running At Home showroom visits for customers to view the new products. It has revamped its Sittingbourne and Leeds showrooms, ensuring that visits can be held in a Covid-safe manner, but booking is essential.

The Sittingbourne showroom, which covers 6,900sqft, showcases all the new furniture ranges, as well as a selection of accessories, soft furnishings, lighting and wall decor. Focusing on Gallery’s key new trends, Milan, Retreat, Orangery, Japandi and Curious + Chic, it features roomsets to display a selection of products across different categories, to give customers ideas for pulling looks together. There’s also an area showcasing the extensive Christmas collection, and an outdoor furniture section.

The Leeds premises has two Gallery showrooms, both offering 2,000sqft of floor space, with one focusing on soft furnishings and the other on accessories.

This location is designed to offer an alternative destination for buyers to view products and order Gallery’s full range of lines. There is also a Gallery Group lighting showroom, which customers can visit.

The soft furnishings showroom features Gallery’s entire range of soft furnishings, so there’s something to suit any interior, from sophisticated elegance to rustic charm. The displays showcase

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bedding, cushions, doorstops, draught excluders, occasional seating, rugs and throws, as well as a selection of furniture, wall decor and accessories to dress the different areas, and give customers a taster of Gallery’s full offering.

The accessories showroom offers Gallery’s full accessories collection, including its Christmas range and the SS21 collection, which features over 210 faux plants and stems and 120 vases.

The displays showcase the vast array of products across all Gallery’s home accessories categories, from pot hangers to bowls and platters, decorative

ornaments to pots and planters and candle holders to baskets.

The Christmas collection includes wreaths and garlands, trees and ornaments, and an eclectic mix of baubles. The variety ensures something to suit all tastes, whether you prefer soft, subtle tones or bold, bright colours, nostalgic style or contemporary design.

A selection of furniture, along with wall decor and soft furnishings, is used to enhance the accessories displays and to give customers a flavour of the full product range.

Visit: www.gallerydirect.co.uk

Accessories at the Leeds showroom

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

North West England and North Wales, including Cheshire and Manchester

Scotland, including the Highlands and Islands

Adam Carpets are seeking to recruit a Sales Representative for the North West area of England and North Wales .

Adam Carpets are seeking to recruit a Sales Representative for Scotland, including the Highlands and Islands.

The role is likely to suit either an experienced Sales Representative from within the flooring industry or a dynamic Sales Person from within the flooring retail sector.

The role is likely to suit either an experienced Sales Representative from within the flooring industry or a dynamic Sales Person from within the flooring retail sector.

Ideally, applicants should reside in the territory and be able to demonstrate an excellent knowledge of customer relationship management, together with practical experience of updating point of sale.

Ideally, applicants should reside in the territory and be able to demonstrate an excellent knowledge of customer relationship management, together with practical experience of updating point of sale.

The right candidate will be offered a competitive basic salary, uncapped bonus, company car, excellent pension scheme and private medical cover.

The right candidate will be offered a competitive basic salary, uncapped bonus, company car, excellent pension scheme and private medical cover.

Applicants should send a covering letter and CV to Chris Adam, Managing Director at careers@adamcarpets.com or by post to Chris Adam, Managing Director, Adam Carpets Ltd, Greenhill Works, Birmingham Road, Kidderminster, DY10 2SH. Tel 01562 822247.

The closing date is Friday 26th March.

Applicants should send a covering letter and CV to Chris Adam, Managing Director at careers@adamcarpets.com or by post to Chris Adam, Managing Director, Adam Carpets Ltd, Greenhill Works, Birmingham Road, Kidderminster, DY10 2SH. Tel 01562 822247.

The closing date is Friday 26th March.

Adam Carpets manufactures high quality wool rich carpet in plain and patterned styles, which is predominantly sold to high street retailers across the UK. Family owner-managed across four generations, the company’s premium product and service levels provide the platform of outstanding opportunity for enthusiastic candidates.

Adam Carpets manufactures high quality wool rich carpet in plain and patterned styles, which is predominantly sold to high street retailers across the UK. Family owner-managed across four generations, the company’s premium product and service levels provide the platform of outstanding opportunity for enthusiastic candidates.

Improving efficiency in furniture warehouses • Reduce manual handling • Increase efficiency • Increase organisation • Proven in UK warehouses • Reduce stock damage • Specialist furniture products

Contact Steely t: 0161 702 7002 e: sales@steelyproducts.co.uk w: www.steelyproducts.co.uk

Designed to work... Built to last Steely warehouse ad Dec 20.indd 1

16/12/2020 14:15

RUGS Adamento in Wheat

Modern icons Tufenkian’s latest collection nods towards mosaics Tufenkian Artisan Carpets’ new Tessellate collection is an aesthetic nod to classical mosaics, combining the modernity of pointillism with a blend of time-honoured weaving techniques and forms. The resulting texture – both visual and tactile – is the hallmark of Tessellate.

Strong blocks of colour, made warm and inviting through the charm and nuance of the variegated colour palette, immediately define the modern home.

The subtle interplay of light and shadow

across the mixed pile and flatweave surface invites a cosiness both difficult to replicate and eager to be enjoyed.

Available in 11 different colourways and patterns, the collection is crafted to withstand the test of time and the whims of fashion. With a mood made relaxed through the use of a robust wool yarn, the motifs and figures mimic the natural world, bringing grounding iconography to a breadth of interiors.

Visit: www.tufenkian.com

Minos in Sage

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Interiors Monthly March 2021

Tesserae in Lava

Facade in Azure