Interiors Monthly November 2014

monthly

November 2014

Interiors first for flooring, furniture and accessories

On the up The Flooring Show

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EDITOR’S COMMENT

Andrew Kidd EDITOR

End of an era After almost six decades in the carpet business, Lord Harris no longer has an official role at Carpetright for the first time in more than a quarter of a century Lord Harris retired as non-executive chairman of Carpetright on 31 October. For the first time since he founded the chain in 1988, he is not at its helm after recruiting Bob Ivell as chairman (see page 6).

Ivell may know more about pubs than carpets, but with more than three decades in consumer facing businesses he knows how large companies such as Carpetright need to be run.

There are also signs that Wilf Walsh, Carpetright chief executive, is weaning the chain off its discounting history after scaling back promotions in the past quarter (as I write the offer for the weekend is 25% off, rather than 50%) and is looking to attract

monthly

Editor: Andrew Kidd

November 2014

Interiors first for flooring, furniture and accessories

more upmarket customers, something it was trying to do before the recession.

Walsh wished Lord Harris a happy retirement after 57 years in the carpet trade, but of course retiring will be last thing he’ll be doing with his educational, horse riding and football interests. And he remains the chain’s largest shareholder.

Someone else who may have more time on his hands in the near future is Paul Loft, Homebase md, who will leave the chain when a successor is found.

Parent company Home Retail Group has come to the conclusion that happy and effective employees improve the performance of stores and that too many branches are lacking such staff. ‘Inconsistent store operating standards’ would have been fairly obvious to many shoppers, which is why they’ve gone elsewhere.

While the recent warm weather has deterred consumers from buying winter clothing, it seems it’s been the perfect weather for wardrobe shopping with furniture outperforming other sectors in recent months. This year could be a Christmas to remember for many interiors retailers.

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

Furniture advertising (South): Tim Boden Primo Excellence. Soft and luxurious easy clean twist in two qualities: Super and Elite from Cormar Carpets www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

T: 01732 441 130 E: tboden@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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

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

On the up The Flooring Show

Expo guide Must see shows

Primo Excellence Soft and luxurious easy clean twist in two qualities: Super and Elite from Cormar Carpets

www.cormarcarpets.co.uk FURNITURE

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

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CONTENTS

INTERIORS MONTHLY NOVEMBER 2014

INSIDE THIS ISSUE NEWS 6

New chairman for Carpetright

8

Patchy performance at Homebase

12

Sales rise for Loaf

FEATURES 22

Retail John Lewis examines our shopping habits

28

Carpet Management changes at Brockway Carpets

29

Exhibition guide A look at shows worldwide plus reviews of The Flooring Show, Home/Top Drawer, London Design Festival and the Autumn Furniture Show

67

Beds and bedroom Latest launches and a roundup of The Bed Show

86

Wood and laminate Interfloor distributes Meister brand

88

Living and dining Record sales for Julian Bowen and more success for Furniture Origins

REGULARS 17

Warranties

18

New products

NEXT ISSUE January Furniture Show preview Domotex preview Natuzzi’s plans for the UK www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

5

NEWS

Ivell joins as Carpetright looks more upmarket Carpetright has named food and drink industry veteran Bob Ivell as non-executive chairman and confirmed that Lord Harris would step down at the end of October.

Ivell is non-executive chairman of pub group Mitchells & Butlers, senior independent director of Britvic and AGA Rangemaster Group. He was previously chairman of David Lloyd Leisure, Park Resorts Group, Next Generation Clubs Pacific and a non-executive Bob Ivell director of The Restaurant Group. He has more than 30 years experience in the food and beverage industry, holding executive roles with Regent Inns, Scottish & Newcastle and Whitbread.

‘I am delighted we have found a very able and experienced chairman who brings tremendous skills and experience from his previous executive and non-executive roles. After 57 years in the carpet business, it is time for me to focus on my other interests and I retire from the board confident that I leave behind a strong leadership team,’ says Lord Harris.

Ivell, 61, says: ‘I am looking forward to working with the board as we seek to drive a sustained recovery in profitability and to build on the strong legacy being left by Lord Harris.’

‘On behalf of everyone at Carpetright I would like to thank Lord Harris for the huge contribution he has made since founding the business in 1988 and in developing it into the UK market leader. We wish him the very best in his retirement,’ adds Wilf Walsh, Carpetright chief executive.

Meanwhile, the chain enjoyed a second successive rise in

UK quarterly sales as it again sets out to attract more upmarket shoppers. UK like for like sales climbed by 7% in the 11 weeks to 11 October following a 6.1% rise the previous quarter. This resulted in a 6.6% rise in the 24 week period.

Total sales were 5.7% higher in the 11 weeks and 5.2% in the 24 week period.

Walsh reassured shareholders that full year gross margins remained on track to be between 50 and 100 basis points lower after it invested in promotions to attract shoppers in the first quarter.

A further seven UK stores were refurbished, increasing the number to 290 of its 463 branches.

He also had better news on its Dutch, Belgian and Irish operations, anticipating an end to losses after like for like sales dropped by 0.5%.

‘Trading across our Rest of Europe business has continued to improve with a further reduction in the rate of sales decline, arresting the very significant fall seen over the last 30 months, particularly in our Netherlands business,’ says Walsh. ‘We expect this, along with an improvement in gross profit margin and a reduction in operating costs, will result in our businesses in the Netherlands and Belgium to be profitable for the first half of the financial year compared to the trading loss experienced in the prior year.’

He also said that the chain wanted to attract John Lewis shoppers and consumers who prefer independent flooring retailers. His comments echo that of former director Martin Harris, who said in 2009 that the chain needed to ‘reassure middle class Britain’.

Furniture sales top fashion

Hastens moves into Harrods: Upmarket bed brand Hastens has opened its third outlet in London. The Swedish company has opened a 770sqft studio in the bed department of Harrods, featuring five of its models. It already has two standalone stores in the capital, in Chelsea and Fitzrovia, along with a branch in Amersham, Buckinghamshire. The Harrods studio features its Continental collection (pictured) and a range of accessories.

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

The value of UK retail sales fell in September despite continuing high furniture sales, as the weather saw shoppers shun autumn fashions.

Like for like sales dropped by 2.1% according to the British Retail Consortium, compared with a rise of 0.7% in 2013. Total sales were down 0.8%, compared with an increase of 2.4% in September 2013. This is the weakest performance since December 2008 excluding Easter distortions.

Clothing and footwear were the worst performing categories in September, reporting record

declines since April 2012 and March 2013, respectively. Non-food reported growth of 3% over the three months to September 2014, underperforming its 12-month average of 3.6%.

‘There was exceptionally low demand for items such as boots and coats, resulting in the lowest fashion sales performance since April 2012,’ says Helen Dickinson, BRC director general.

‘However, demand for big-ticket items continues to be strong with furniture outperforming all other categories,’ she adds.

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NEWS

Homebase md to step down Homebase md Paul Loft is to leave the company. The chain has encountered patchy performance across its 323 stores, with a quarter of branches set to close in the next four and a half years.

Trials of 26 refitted branches, including Habitat and Argos concessions, have boosted sales but an operations review by parent Home Retail Group found ‘inconsistent store operating standards and a large estate with low sales densities that result in a challenged financial model. These factors are currently limiting Homebase’s operational efficiency and constraining the success of a more aggressive store investment programme.’

As a result, about 80 stores will be closed, with store numbers cut to 295 in the next 18 months. Although seven further refits are being undertaken, the format will not be rolled out before the end of the 2018 financial year.

‘Early results from Homebase refit trials have demonstrated that increases in operating standards can improve both a store’s customer experiences and its financial performance, and are essential to support more significant future store investments. Although a significant rollout of complete Homebase refits is unlikely during the plan period, trials could give rise to promising components being implemented,’ says Home Retail Group.

John Walden, Home Retail Group chief executive, was able to give shareholders some good news about the chain. Homebase’s sales of Habitat branded products have risen by 45% in the past year and sales of Schreiber kitchens continue to increase. Sales of its lower cost Essentials kitchens are up a fifth.

The chain saw overall like for like sales rise by 4.1%, helped by further growth in sales of big ticket products, particularly fitted kitchens and bathrooms. But operating margin was flat at 3.3%.

Homebase’s latest TV campaign

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

Refit: Karndean Designflooring has refurbished its showroom at its UK head office in Evesham, Worcestershire. For both homeowners and retailers, the new facilities include a dedicated sample wall showcasing more than 150 wood, stone and iconic designs, live product demonstration stage, refreshment areas, and an interactive Kid’s Corner.

It will host Karndean’s product training sessions, with fitting courses benefiting from the new venue space. Since the showroom was opened in 2002 it has welcomed more than 100,000 visitors.

Carpenter’s cash rises despite challenges Underlay, bedding and foam company Carpenter boosted its level of cash by almost £10m to £40.18m last year, despite a ‘challenging year’ including being hit by a £23.7m bill as part of the European Commission’s €75m price fixing fine.

The company’s UK sales fell from £78.14m to £75.13m.

Total sales dipped from £87.47m to £86.27m, but gross profit rose from £18.4m to £18.58m.

But Carpenter’s £23.7m portion of the €75m fine imposed on its parent group for being part of a price fixing cartel saw a pre-tax profit of £8.72m become a loss of £13.93m.

The company’s accounts say: ‘2013 was a challenging year and whilst total turnover fell when compared to the previous year, largely due to the closure of the bonded fibre operation at the end of 2012, like for like sales in most areas of the business continued to grow. The most notable exception was in retail sales where the

company incurred a significant bad debt and direct-to-retail turnover suffered as a result.’

In early 2013 primary raw material costs rose and were further exacerbated by an unfavourable euro/sterling exchange rate. Although sterling strengthened in the mid to late part of the year, overall costs were higher than the previous year.

‘The underlying financial performance of the company was as expected and on a par with the previous year,’ says the accounts. ‘However, the company incurred a significant exceptional cost of £23.7m as a result of a settlement following a regulatory investigation into the industry resulting in a loss for the year. Despite this setback, the balance sheet remains strong and positive cash is generated from the company’s operational activities.’

Carpenter, which employs more than 300 people in the UK, paid the fine in April 2014.

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by a 20-year StainAway guarantee and a 20-year wear warranty. Distinction along with Everest and Santorini gives you the ultimate Good, Better, Best choice. Seven of the fourteen colours are brand new to the collection and make Distinction distinctively different in its choice and consumer appeal. Be one of the first to make your mark with Distinction – ask your Associated Weavers representative for samples today.

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Associated Weavers at the Telford Show For the first time Associated Weavers exhibited at the Furniture Show, Telford, in conjunction with the SMG buying group. Pride of place was our new iSense collection which received further positive reactions from new and existing customers. Three months after launch, the iSense collection is going from strength to strength so please contact your Associated Weavers sales representative if you have not yet had the opportunity to see this unique collection.

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NEWS

Loaf rises as sales increase by 40% Online interiors retailer Loaf has continued its expansion with a major sales increase in the past six months.

The company has seen sales jump by 40% since April. The rise comes after it lifted sales from £7.8m to £20m last year.

Loaf’s team has doubled to 60 people over the past year to cater for a growing product range, an upcoming website redesign and to expand its London showroom.

Investment in an improved IT system, larger warehouse space and a new specialist courier company has

paid off, helping it move toward founder Charlie Marshall’s target of becoming a £100m turnover company.

It continues to search for locations for its Loaf Shack stores. ‘Online shopping isn’t just about bagging a cheaper price,’ says Marshall.

‘Customers are clued up – they expect great quality products and great service. Loaf’s move to bricks and clicks is all about reaffirming our brand and giving customers a fantastic experience where they can kick their shoes off and relax.’

New home Furniture and homewares company Gallery Direct has opened a distribution centre, showroom and head office in Sittingbourne, Kent. There is 70,000sqft of warehousing on a 5.1acre site allowing for future expansion.

Additional warehousing space was needed after May’s purchase of Frank Hudson, along with a major extension of its soft furnishings offer.

‘Our product range has increased significantly this year so we needed larger premises to ensure we could hold sufficient stock to supply our customers quickly and efficiently,’ says Andy Lambeth, Gallery Direct operations director.

‘The new building is down the road from our current facility, but significantly larger and more modern, allowing us to become even more efficient.’

Czech plant boosts Unilin production A multi-million pound investment by Unilin has delivered a major boost to production at its Czech Republic factory in Vyskov, meaning it will no longer have to import engineered wood floors from Malaysia.

The group invested in the Magnum Parket plant after it bought the company in January. Capacity has risen by 59% and it can now produce 1.3million sqm a year.

‘Several production lines were upgraded and modernised, increasing the plant’s overall efficiency and production capacity. From now on, the site will be capable of producing flooring products with Unilin’s Uniclic Multifit click technology. With the addition of surface brushing and the ability to produce lacquered bevels, the Vyskov

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

plant can count on the latest in flooring surface technologies,’ says Carl Plyson, Unilin general manager wood.

By expanding the production volume in the Czech Republic, Unilin will be able to offer Floors will no longer be imported from Malaysia shorter European ‘Sustainability has always been at the supply lines. heart of our mission and vision, with all The site in Malaysia will be used to wood flooring products being made of further growth, mainly in Asia, the US, 100% natural, PEFC certified wood. By Latin America and Australia. opening a wood production in Europe, Expanding production at Magnum our home market, we will significantly will cut the company’s carbon footprint reduce carbon emissions,’ adds Plyson. by 75%.

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WARRANTIES

“4 Months Business Your questions in 17 days!”

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

Q

I’ve had a rather unusual request. The new manager of our local theatre asked if we could provide a warranty for some of the furniture it uses as part of its sets. I told her that I couldn’t as it could only be for new furniture and both had to be bought together. This got me thinking if there were any non-residential products we could sell to places like the theatre and social clubs. The manager then came back to me and asked whether we could cover them if the theatre purchased new items? Can I do this?

A

As you rightly point out furniture protection plans can only be purchased for new furniture and unfortunately they are also only valid on items for use in the home and not as part of any commercial operation. Sadly furniture used in a theatre would be classified as such and would therefore be excluded.

The insurance risk of a furniture protection plan relies heavily on the fact that owners of furniture take great care not to cause damage – where there is a more commercial environment the likelihood of damage increases exponentially.

The Safeclean franchise technicians do undertake such commercial cleaning and stain removal work on a quoted basis, working within offices, bars, restaurants and more.

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1 The luxury of leather – finished with a durable AQUA2K+ waterborne protective coat – and practicality of cork are married in Corium from Granorte. A cork sound absorption layer, HDF core and built-in cork underlay combine beneath a recycled leather top, producing a floor for those who demand luxurious looks with no practical trade-off.

Visit: www.granorte.co.uk 2 Quick-Step parent company Unilin won Flooring Trader of the Year in the Timber Trades Journal Awards, for its efforts in developing leading wood and laminate flooring products. Judged by independent panels the awards, now in their 18th year, are

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

recognised as among the most significant for companies involved in the timber trade.

Visit: www.quick-step.co.uk 3 Pods Products’ Pods are inflatable play spaces created to stimulate children’s imagination and provide a relaxing space for learning. Made from the same material as parachutes, the British designed play pods can be inflated in 40 seconds. They come with interchangeable graphics, allowing children to create a personal environment.

Visit: www.podsplay.com 4 Floorwise has improved the density of its 12mm Lush, 10mm Spirit and 8mm Solo

recycled underlays. Along with a more durable density, all underlays also feature an improved double-sided non-woven backing for better stability, ensuring ease of installation and a quality finish.

Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk 5 Louis de Poortere reaffirmed its standing as one of the most design-focused carpet and rug suppliers in Europe at London’s recent 100% Design event, showing its Fading World and Vintage rug collections, along with its broadloom carpet series, including the velvet-like Richelieu Velours and textural Super Hermes.

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6 Developed to make the decision process of purchasing flooring easier and enjoyable, the latest premier in-store unit, Shades by Kersaint Cobb, presents its vast offering by tonal palette. The unit is eye-catching and allows each individual to pick the perfect shade, style and texture of flooring for their chosen project.

Visit: www.kersaintcobb.co.uk 7 Carpenter UK’s Sensacool is a phase changing material, designed to keep users at their optimum body temperature while they sleep.

‘Sensacool is a more affordable PCM product and joins our growing portfolio of temperature regulating technologies, including Coolmax and Active Air Flow, all designed to offer the user a personalised sleeping experience,’ says Gillian Finch, Carpenter consumer division national sales manager.

Visit: www.carpenterconsumer.co.uk 8 Elstead Lighting recently launched 350 products in its 2014 Collection including several kitchen/diner/bar

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

pendants from the Urban Renewal range, designed by USA partner Feiss. It has a retro industrial glass shade and comes with adjustable rods for different ceiling heights.

Visit: www.elsteadlighting.com 9 Using Stellini’s iPad app, it is now possible to quickly create high resolution images of new beds using its latest collection of jacquard and knitted fabrics, perfect for allowing retailers to say what they want to see in their stores. Its matching mattress tapes and headboard fabrics makes it a one stop solution for all fabric needs.

Visit: www.stellinigroup.com 10 Thanks to its new partnership with ESCO Group, Osmo UK can provide its customers with Harfa wooden floors pre-finished with Osmo Polyx-Oil. Harfa flooring features a rough-sawn treatment that has been enhanced with cross-wise cuts that are grooved in the surface. It is available in a wide choice of colours.

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RETAIL

Upwardly mobile

Croft gives classic design a contemporary twist

John Lewis reveals our shopping habits The most significant shift of the past 12 months in how we shopped has been the rise of the mobile, according to The John Lewis Retail Report.

‘Mobile traffic overtook desktop traffic for the first time on Christmas Day 2013 and on average over 50% of web traffic now comes from smartphones and tablets,’ says Andy Street, John Lewis md.

‘We have also seen a higher growth in conversion on mobile and tablet this year. The popularity of the John Lewis app has been an important part of this shift to purchasing on mobile devices, with customers who use the app shopping more frequently.’

Average purchase values at John Lewis are highest on Fridays, followed by Saturday, Sunday and Monday. By Tuesday average sales values are less than half of Friday.

Street says 2014 saw the first sustained increase in house prices since 2007, with a slow return to confidence in the number of property transactions. This prompted increased demand for home improvements which was seen across all categories in home including big ticket items such as furniture, fitted kitchens and upholstery.

Carpet sales, traditionally a barometer of the UK’s housing market, were boosted this year.

‘We have also seen fitted furniture increase, with fitted kitchen sales up 12% and living and dining furniture up 8%. We are currently seeing a huge trend in wallpaper, with our bestrecorded sales for over 20 years,’ he says.

Adapting to smaller living spaces has continued to affect shopping habits. Sales of folding furniture increased significantly in the past 12 months, as well as demand for multifunctional products, which offer extra space for storage.

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

Above: Living and dining sales rose by 8% Left: The Any Shape, Any Fabric collection makes up almost 70% of made-toorder upholstery sales

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Fitted kitchens were popular

House by John Lewis is its biggest home brand

Indicators of this desire for spacesaving furniture include the John Lewis Two Seater Dining Table, up 28%.

‘House by John Lewis continues to be our biggest brand in home, and in October 2013 we introduced a new product category to House called Mix It. The self-assembly furniture particularly appeals to new home owners, offering affordability without compromising on design, and is now one of the biggest selling furniture ranges,’ explains Street.

With more customers moving into new homes, the chain has seen greater demand for design-led pieces that show off new properties at their best.

‘It’s cool to be classic, and as a result we introduced a new permanent collection, Croft, which addresses 2014 enjoyed the best sales in wallpaper for over 20 years, with patterns seeing a renaissance consumers’ appetite for classic British design, but gives it a contemporary facelift,’ he says. introduced in August 2013, allowing customers to pick any John Sales of grey tones outnumber traditional beige options, Lewis sofa, armchair, occasional chair or sofabed from a signalling grey as a new neutral colour. selection of over 112,000 combinations of frame and fabric, a Customers’ appreciation of standout design has been key to signal of the demand for bespoke design even on the high the success of the Design Icons collection, highlighting demand street. The offering beat its original three-year forecast in less for strong aesthetics in everyday items. First introduced in 2012, than 12 months, equating to between 60% to 70% of all madesales of iconic products from a selection of brands have to-order sales in upholstery. ‘Whatever they want, customers increased by 78% year-on-year, and as a result the the range has want it personalised,’ says Street. been expanded.

From the living room to the bedroom, the number of Britons The Design Icons range originally comprised only furniture getting just five to six hours sleep a night instead of the and lighting, but now includes cookery and electricals, varying recommended eight hours has risen in the past three years. from the Lancashire Potato Peeler to Hans Wegner’s Butterfly ‘With many feeling sleep-deprived, our sales data shows that Easy Chair. sleep is indeed a national obsession. Sales of sleep-related Sales rose 168% for the Design Collective range this year, products increased across all product ranges, including bedding highlighting the growing demand for design led furniture and furniture. This year our biggest increase in sales was for our items. furniture collection, including bedroom furniture and It isn’t just designer products that have been a hit, many mattresses. We also sold 20% more duvets this year, and sales of shoppers have taken matters into their own hands and pillows closely followed, up 18% compared to the same period designed products unique to them. Any Shape, Any Fabric was last year, helping the nation to rest easy,’ adds Street.

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

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RETAIL

Duvet sales rose by a fifth and pillow sales by 18%, while mattress sales jumped in the South West

‘Many people chose to invest in their pillows and duvets this year. We sold 20% more duvets and 18% more pillows, with our basic white pillowcase increasing in sales by 44%. Mattress toppers also picked up with sales increasing 10%,’ says Street.

John Lewis customers didn’t shy away from coloured bedding, with berry shades popular. The John Lewis Luxury Egyptian Cotton Bedding in Amethyst (a dusky purple shade) was up 88%. Traditional alarm clocks still have a place in our homes, despite the alarm function on mobile phones. The Newgate Mini Alarm was one of this year’s favourites, ringing up strong sales. Sales of alarm clocks peaked in spring/summer 2014, increasing 17% against the same period last year.

John Lewis Easycare Polycotton Bedding was a huge success this year, with sales rising by 89%, suggesting customers don’t want to spend time ironing duvets and sheets.

Customers in the North West double-up, with bunk beds seeing the biggest increase in the region compared to the rest of the UK. Sales increased by 300% this year. They also like a firm mattress, with sales up 36% on last year.

The Scots like to be toasty in bed. The Luxury Hungarian Goose Down Duvet saw sales rise 48% compared to last year.

Guests in the North East are treated to folding beds, as sales increased by 129% this year. When it comes to mattresses, firm is in favour, with Tempur mattresses giving extra support; sales were up 71% in the region.

Comfort and space is key in the Midlands. Faux fur throws and cushions sell faster there than the rest of the UK, with sales up 54% on last year. Meanwhile, king size beds were the most popular in the region.

In Wales the single John Lewis Wilton bedstead in pine was the bestseller. It seems customers there like to store their possessions under their mattresses, they opted for the double John Lewis Montana storage bedstead in oak.

The biggest increase in mattress sales was in the South West, up 19% with comfort top of the agenda. The John Lewis Pocket Ortho 1200 Mattress is one of the bestsellers in the area.

For the South East, natural-filled mattresses were up 30% on last year. Designer bed sheets are a bestseller in the region, with sales up 110% compared to the rest of the UK. Inflatable beds are popular in the capital, but space-deprived Londoners still opt for luxury, with sales of the AeroBed Ultra Divans up 68% on last year. Londoners also opted for storage beds, with sales increasing 94% on last year.

Visit: www.johnlewis.com/retailreport

26

Interiors Monthly November 2014

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CARPET

Strength to strength Roy Annable has become president of the company he bought 50 years ago Roy Annable, Brockway Carpets chairman, has become president of the carpet manufacturer in honour of his achievements at the Kidderminster company. His son Charles, Brockway Carpets md, succeeds him as chairman.

The move is the latest in a series of senior level appointments this year, which saw the arrival of Shaun Lewis as sales director in June and the promotion of Steve Glover from commercial manager to national sales manager last month.

Fifty years ago Roy jointly acquired AG Brockway with Skene Walley, then a small Axminster and Wilton carpet manufacturer dating back to the 1930s.

Charles says: ‘It is a huge privilege to take on this role from my father, who becomes president in honour of his tremendous devotion and hard work.

I am extremely proud of his achievements and his great vision, which means we have a solid platform from which to build.

‘It’s an exciting time for the Brockway brand. Our major product development programme is under way and we’re in an excellent place to position Brockway as the UK’s premier manufacturer of beautiful, wool-rich carpets,’ he says.

The company is proud of its British craftsmanship to manufacture beautiful, award-winning carpets that offer value for money – whatever the budget or taste. Charles says its highly skilled local workforce gives it a huge advantage over some overseas competitors.

‘We have a high calibre management team in place with Shaun and Steve leading our sales programme, and I look forward with much anticipation to driving the business ahead,’ he adds.

As well as designing and manufacturing 15 ranges, Brockway’s carpets come in hundreds of colour choices across plain, heather and berber styles and are sold through international and UK retailers.

Visit: www.brockway.co.uk

28

Interiors Monthly November 2014

Above: Charles Annable has become md and chairman Left: Roy Annable is now president of Brockway Below: Carnaby

Exhibition guide

MIFF Malaysia 3-7 March 2015

EXHIBITION GUIDE

Above: LB Furniture will be among the 2015 exhibitors Right: Acacia Home Furnishing won Gold in the MIFF Furniture Excellence Awards in 2014

Building business

As one of the top furniture exhibitions in South East Asia, and consistently ranked among the top 10 worldwide, the Malaysian International Furniture Fair has created business and networking opportunities for hundreds of thousands of participants since its inception in 1995.

The trade fair provides a robust platform for buyers to interact with suppliers. Every March, MIFF welcomes about 20,000 buyers from more than 140 countries. In recent years, the fair has drawn increasing numbers of influential buyers who purchase in bulk on the spot.

In 2014, a quarter of visitors to the show were from South East Asia which

has a growing affluent market of 600 million people, followed by a steady turnout of buyers from Europe, South Asia, East Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Sales reached a record $892m.

‘MIFF is the ideal show for furniture suppliers to increase their brand visibility and build their business for the future,’ says Karen Goi, UBM Malaysia general manager for furniture and interiors.

The event covers everything from topquality modern and contemporary furniture to tried-and-true classics from more than 500 international and Malaysian exhibitors showing their latest

collections and designs for dining, bedrooms, living areas, office, children, kitchens, commercial foyers, hotel lounges and outdoor living.

‘MIFF is the key business platform for the global furniture economy in South East Asia. We have a 20-year proven track record of bringing top value to our customers for their time and money spent in MIFF. Every year, partnerships are built and renewed on the MIFF trading floor and this brings great energy to our show. We look forward to welcoming many long time friends and first time visitors as well to Kuala Lumpur next March,’ adds Goi.

MIFF G PUTRA WORLD TRADE CENTRE/MATRADE G KUALA LUMPUR G VISIT: www.miff.com.my 30

Interiors Monthly November 2014

The January Furniture Show UK 13-15 January 2015

EXHIBITION GUIDE

Stephen Richards

Right time, right place In the past decade, the amount of exhibition venue space in the UK has more than doubled. Although there are fewer large events, there are more metres of floorspace than ever before, according to Stephen Richards, The January Furniture Show director and former NEC venue sales director.

‘Exhibitions are simply incomparable with any other marketing tool. Often seen as the realm of the sales director, they offer an unbeatable opportunity for marketers to get live feedback on new design concepts and ideas. They can also offer absolute response statistics for anyone keen to make the most of the opportunity: and that’s the key,’ he says.

‘Inevitably exhibitions ebb and flow a little with the economic cycle – sometimes the rise or fall of an exhibition can be dramatic, but that’s usually

because other factors are in play. If a trade event is at the right time and place to suit its market then it can survive most ups and downs. Look at the Manchester Furniture Show – there has been a furniture show in Manchester for more than 50 years and a furniture exhibition at the NEC in January for 25 years, such length of time at the same venue speaks volumes for the “rightness” of the overall proposition,’ he explains.

‘This digital age of fewer and fewer reps and agents, along with an overreliance on digital images, makes gathering to press the flesh, see the product and look into the eyes of your supplier more relevant than ever before.

A decade ago most organisers were worried about the Internet and “virtual” exhibitions 365 days on show. But they missed the point: you can’t replicate face

to face contact, either in the halls or after hours. People buy people and they need to meet to do that.

‘However complacency has seen many good things go west over the years.

Organisers need to keep providing what their visitors and exhibitors want. And they need to keep looking at the value they offer.’

Richards reckons: ‘In some market sectors exhibitions have morphed into “confexes” – a combination of conference and exhibition. Some require a high degree of extra “content” to engage their audience. But there are certain sectors – and I believe furniture is one – that need transactional shows where exhibitors and visitors just need the organisers to facilitate, not curate, the show and allow them to get on with the business of buying and selling.’

THE JANUARY FURNITURE SHOW G NEC BIRMINGHAM G VISIT: www.januaryfurnitureshow.com 32

Interiors Monthly November 2014

IFFS/ASEAN Singapore 13-16 March 2015

EXHIBITION GUIDE

Design showcase Returning to Singapore Expo from 13-16 March, the 32nd International Furniture Fair Singapore/ASEAN Furniture Show 2015, The Décor Show, and Hospitality 360° will boast more country pavilions and design features.

Two pavilions – Portugal and Turkey – have been added, bringing the total to 14. Other represented nations are Belgium, China, France, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, The Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

SingaPlural is a showcase of the best design elements from the multiple facets of Singapore’s creative spectrum, including advertising, architecture, urban planning, landscape architecture, as well as interiors, furniture, graphic and fashion design. Organised by the Singapore Furniture Industries Council, SingaPlural 2015 is the anchor event of Singapore Design Week (10-22 March).

Two components of the event will also grace the SingaPlural Design Hall in IFFS. These are the Asian Stars Showcase and the Furniture Design Awards Retrospective Showcase.

The Asian Stars Showcase will feature pieces by rising designers from Asia.

Selected based on recommendations from the Asian design community, the partial line-up of designers confirmed includes: Milk Design (Hong Kong), Anastasia Sulemantoro (Indonesia), Pecci

More than 22,000 visitors are expected to see more than 400 exhibitors

Kimura (Japan), Francis Lye (Malaysia), A Balcony (Singapore), Jexter Lim (Singapore), XOPO (Singapore), Feng Cheng-Tsung (Taiwan), Studio if (Taiwan), Yin Tzu-Chi (Taiwan), Everyday Studio (Thailand), Tripasai Architect (Thailand) and Alvin Tjitrowirjo (Vietnam).

At the FDA Retrospective Showcase, visitors will be treated to a walk down memory lane, reminiscing the most remarkable winning entries and learning more about the participants who have become designers in their own right.

These include: Nani Marquina (Spain/Nani Marquina ), Tord Boontje (Spain/Studio Tord Boontje), Piotr Saladra (Poland/Monomoka), Jarrod Lim (Singapore/Jarrod Lim Design), Jerry Low (Singapore/JotterGoods), Kenneth

Cobonpue (The Philippines/Kenneth Cobonpue), Susie Tay (Singapore/The Life Shop), Cilicon Faytory (Singapore/Cilicon Faytory), Nathan Yong (Singapore/ Nathan Yong Design), Hans Tan (Singapore/Hans Tan Studio), Apirat Boonruangthaworn (Thailand/Apirat Boonruangthaworn), Outofstock Design (Singapore/Outofstock Design), Oki Sato (Japan/Nendo), Eggarat Wongcharit (Thailand/Craft Factor Co) and Anon Pairot (Thailand/Anon Pairot Design).

‘The show’s primary objective has been to facilitate conversations and create business opportunities between manufacturers and designers, distributors, retailers, and hoteliers,’ says Ernie Koh, IFFS chairman of IFFS and SFIC president.

IFFS/ASEAN G SINGAPORE EXPO G VISIT: www.iffs.com.sg 34

Interiors Monthly November 2014

S F IF

INTERNATIONAL FURNITURE FAIR SINGAPORE 2015 32 ND ASEAN FURNITURE SHOW

13-16 MARCH 2015 SINGAPORE EXPO

A different perspective on innovations.

A detailed look at trends.

And rewarding business connections.

Experience all these and more at Asia's premier design-led furniture and furnishing sourcing platform, featuring the best from around the world. Plus with international inspiration and buying opportunities you can expect more in this edition.

Register for your admission pass today.

Visit www.IFFS.com.sg/VIPos.php or email enquiry@iffs.com.sg for more information.

Co-locating shows:

In conjunction with:

A partner event of:

Photo credit: Olivia Lee

Organiser: International Furniture Fair Singapore Pte. Ltd www.IFFS.com.sg | www.TheDecorShow.com.sg | www.Hospitality360.com.sg *Entrance fee of SGD20.00 is applicable after registration closes on 28th Feb 2015

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Heimtextil Germany 14-17 January 2015

EXHIBITION GUIDE

Benchmark for creativity

The annual Heimtextil international trade fair for the home and contract textiles sector sets the benchmark for innovation and brings more than 2,700 exhibitors from 61 countries together.

For trade buyers, inspirational designs, digital printing, bed, bath and home as well as upholstery and window products are not all that can be seen; the fair brings a multitude of events, trend tours and promotional programmes.

For 2015 it has launched the Theme Park for high-quality textiles characterised by excellent design and innovative functionality. Visitors can view the trend presentation that is accompanied by a trend book and website. The Experience trend has four categories for 2015/2016: Sensory: the well-being factor; Mixology: inter-cultural exchange; Discovery: predicting the future; and Memory: reflection and re-evaluation.

Design, sustainability, creativity and emotionality are aspects that play increasingly important roles in the home textiles sector. Heimtextil spotlights these through programmes and events.

Visitors can experience trend lectures, the European Digital Textile conference, Young Creations Awards and ceremony, as well as special shows for Interior Design and Art Deco.

Visitors can pre-register at www.ukfrankfurt.co.uk.

HEIMTEXTIL G MESSE FRANKFURT G VISIT: www.heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com 36

Interiors Monthly November 2014

Above and

beyond

Meet exhibitors from more than 60 countries. Discover the latest innovations in textile interior design. Experience the coming trends more intensively than ever before. Take direct advantage of inspirations for your company. These opportunities are available only at the world’s largest trade fair for home and contract textiles.

For further details and tickets visit heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com info@uk.messefrankfurt.com Tel. +44 (0) 14 83 48 39 83

14 – 17. 1. 2015 Heimtextil Theme Park “Experience” – Trends 2015/2016.

A new departure in Hall 4.0

IMM Cologne/LivingKitchen Germany 19-25 January 2015

EXHIBITION GUIDE

Artek

International flair IMM Cologne and LivingKitchen will be open for business from 19-25 January.

With about 1,300 companies from 50 countries, the event presents a wideranging, diverse display of products.

Two-thirds of the exhibitors are from abroad. The most broadly represented nations include Italy, Denmark and the Netherlands, while Asian countries also have a strong showing. Visitors are as international as the exhibitors – with an average of 42% from abroad, and those from Asia, North America and Europe increasing in recent years.

‘IMM Cologne’s international flair is the

Vitra

object of particular praise from visitors.

This feeling is certainly not only triggered by the many different languages to be heard but also by the exhibiting big brands’ impressive presence,’ says Uwe Deitersen, IMM Cologne project manager.

In 2015, IMM Cologne and LivingKitchen will occupy the whole of the 280,000sqm of the Cologne exhibition grounds. More than 100,000 pieces of furniture and other furnishing items will be exhibited, around a third of which will be presented to the international market for the first time.

Around 150,000 visitors from all over the world are expected.

‘For many suppliers and buyers from all the important markets, IMM Cologne is the most important trade platform for the global furnishing and interior design industry and an expert industry audience. The market-ready products of the exhibiting companies are brought together in one location and clearly divided into individual segments. The diverse selection of the products is unique to IMM Cologne in its breadth and depth. Cologne will again be the place to be,’ adds Deitersen.

Bretz

IMM COLOGNE/LIVINGKITCHEN G COLOGNE EXHIBITION GROUNDS G VISIT: www.imm-cologne.de 38

Interiors Monthly November 2014

WWW.IMM-COLOGNE.COM

The international kitchen show at imm cologne.

CREATE. FURNISH. LIVE. THE INTERNATIONAL INTERIORS SHOW 19.–25.01.2015 The entire range of international interior design at your finger tips ! imm cologne is the unique combination of new trends, pioneering design and international business. Only at imm cologne will you find a concentrated presentation of furniture, home accessories and interior design by manufacturers and designers from all over the world – including kitchens at LivingKitchen. At imm cologne, you can experience today how we are going to live tomorrow. Discover the future of your business in the European metropolis of Cologne.

International Business Media Services Ltd., 42 Christchurch Road, Ringwood BH24 1DN Tel. : +44 1425 48 68 30, Fax : +44 1425 48 68 31, info@koelnmesse.co.uk

Ambiente Germany 13-17 February 2015

EXHIBITION GUIDE

Making its mark Attracting more than 4,700 exhibitors, Ambiente is unequalled in the display of products and trends from across the globe from personal accessories and gifts to top trade and superior interior design.

Taking place in Frankfurt from 13-17 February, it is set to make its mark on the industry with new products, trends and inspiration. For trade buyers and retailers looking to extend, replenish and rejuvenate their stock for the coming season, Ambiente is a must. Market leaders will be offering networking opportunities and inspiration for the dining, living and giving sectors.

Ambiente Trends in Galleria 1 is one of the highlights and the first port of call for many visitors. For 2015, the four themes are inspired by feelings of yearning and nostalgia: Clarity and lightness: design in all its simplicity; Craft and culture: living tradition; History and elegance: exquisite luxury; and Humour and curiosity: a note of carefree optimism.

The show’s tours, displays and product presentations serve as a guide for visitors and take them through the exhibitors’ innovative offerings.

For 2015 there is a competition, Design Plus, that showcases the most innovative products on the market. Visitors can also see the informative product shows

More than 4,700 exhibitors will take part

hosted at Ambiente Solutions which highlights products with particular usefulness, clever handling, an exciting

idea or the innovative use of materials.

Retailers can pre-register at www.ukfrankfurt.co.uk.

AMBIENTE G MESSE FRANKFURT G VISIT: www.ambiente.messefrankfurt.com 40

Interiors Monthly November 2014

Take a look in the mirror of the world market.

Explore every facet of the international consumer goods industry and a unique product spectrum for core and supplementary assortments. In the Living area you’ll find countless ideas for interior design, furnishing and decoration in all styles and trends. This is the fair that identifies your key success factors.

Information and tickets at advance sale prices at ambiente.messefrankfurt.com Tel. +44 (0) 14 83 48 39 83 info@uk.messefrankfurt.com

13 – 17. 2. 2015

try

Partner coun

EFE Malaysia 4-7 March

EXHIBITION GUIDE

Rewards of networking Export Furniture Exhibition returns to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre next to the iconic Twin Towers in the Malaysian capital from 4-7 March 2015.

‘The 11th edition will be bigger, better, bolder and promises to be an exciting one-stop regional platform showcasing the latest innovations and creative designs by the furniture manufacturing sector,’ says Ricky Chin, event manager.

He describes it as ‘an exhibition by the industry for the industry’. It is organised

by EFE Expo, a wholly-owned company of the Malaysian Furniture Council, a new entity formed from the recent merger of Malaysian Furniture Industry Council (MFIC) and the Malaysia Furniture Entrepreneur Association (MFEA) in September.

Boasting more than 250 exhibitors from Malaysia, China and ASEAN countries, for the first time, it will feature an International Pavilion. Alongside the exhibition, in conjunction with Malaysia Furniture Week, a programme initiated by the Malaysian Furniture Promotion Council involves a conference programme, seminars, business matching and other activities.

‘EFE 2015 will be the best networking opportunity and a rewarding business connection for all key players in the furniture sector including buyers, retailers, wholesalers, designers and architects,’ adds Chin.

EFE G KUALA LUMPUR CONVENTION CENTRE G VISIT: www.efe.my 42

Interiors Monthly November 2014

EXHIBITION GUIDE

DOMOTEX Laying the ground for success Come to DOMOTEX and experience the latest trends and exciting new products showcased by the world’s top manufacturers.

Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the world of floor coverings – all at one venue.

Meet your business partners and new contacts from the industry and flooring trade.

17 – 20 January 2015 Hannover ▪ Germany Innovations@Domotex will be expanded for 2015 while Stefan Diez (right) chairs the selection panel

domotex.de

latest All the ations innov lance: at a g @ ations Innov X TE !

D OM O

Domotex Germany 17-20 January 2015

Home of innovation

Some 1,300 exhibitors from more than 60 countries will showcase their product innovations and collections for the coming season at Domotex, the leading trade show for carpets and floorcoverings.

Innovations@Domotex offers a unique showcase to highlight selected innovations in a targeted way. In 2015 this will be expanded to include applications and installation technology in three display areas in halls 6, 9 and 17.

‘The concept of providing visitors with more orientation, which significantly helps to initiate business contacts at the exhibitors’ stands, has been well received by the industry,’ says Jochen Köckler, Deutsche Messe director.

A 10-strong panel, chaired by industrial designer Stefan Diez, will select the final Innovations@Domotex selection in November. A guide to the selection will be available online ahead of the show.

A series of presentations and discussion forums complete Innovations@Domotex. With the focus increasingly shifting towards the design of striking floors, internationally renowned architects, interior designers, planners and designers such as Diez, Roberto Palomba and Ross Lovegrove will discuss tomorrow’s trends and the effects on their work at the Innovations@DOMOTEX Talks in hall 6.

DOMOTEX ● CONVENTION CENTRE HANNOVER ● VISIT: www.domotex.de

Sector Marketing · Tel. +44 (0)1275 335 911 · info@hf-greatbritain.com

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

43

2015 diary

EXHIBITION GUIDE JANUARY

FEBRUARY

13 - 15 January Furniture Show NEC, Birmingham www.januaryfurnitureshow.com

1 - 5 Spring Fair NEC, Birmingham www.springfair.com

14 - 18 Dallas International Lighting Market Dallas, USA www.dallasmarketcenter.com

3 - 7 Stockholm Furniture Fair Stockholm, Sweden www.stockholmfurniturelightfair.se

14 - 17 Heimtextil Frankfurt, Germany http://heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com 14 - 16 Lighting Japan Tokyo, Japan www.light-technology.jp 17 - 20 Domotex Hannover, Germany www.domotex.de

19 - 25 IMM-Cologne/LivingKitchen Cologne, Germany www.imm-cologne.de www.livingkitchen-cologne.com

4 - 7 EFE Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia www.efe.my

24 - 26 Domotex Asia/ChinaFloor 2015 Shanghai, China www.dacf.cn 26 - 29 Baldai Vilnius, Lithuania www.litexpo.lt 28 March - 4 April CIFF Guangzhou, China www.ciff-gz.com

10 - 13 Maison & Objet Asia Singapore www.maison-objet.com 11 - 14 Vietnam International Furniture & Home Accessories Fair Saigon, Vietnam www.vifafair.com

PIETRO SUTERA

SAVERIO LOMBARDI VALLAURI

19 - 22 For Furniture Prague, Czech Republic www.forfurniture.cz

MARCH

3 - 7 MIFF Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia http://2015.miff.com.my

Interiors Monthly November 2014

13 - 16 IFFS/ASEAN Singapore www.iffs.com.sg 18 - 22 CIFF Guangzhou, China www.ciff-gz.com

17 - 20 Home Decor Poznan, Poland www.homedecor.pl

19 - 21 The Hospitality Show NEC, Birmingham www.hospitalityshow.co.uk

Salon del Mobile

44

12 - 15 TIFS Taipei, Taiwan http://tifs.com.tw

13 - 17 Ambiente Frankfurt, Germany www.ambiente.messefrankfurt.com

3 - 6 Lighting Fair 2015 Tokyo, Japan https://messe.nikkei.co.jp

23 - 27 Maison & Object Paris, France www.maison-objet.com

12 - 15 Lighttech Istanbul, Turkey www.lighttech.com.tr

9 - 13 Hรกbitat Valencia Valencia, Spain www.feriahabitatvalencia.com

18 - 22 Las Vegas Market Las Vegas, USA www.lasvegasmarket.com

22 - 23 Surfaces 2015 Las Vegas, USA www.tisewest.com

12 - 15 IFEX Jakarta, Indonesia http://ifexindonesia.com

Ambiente

EXHIBITION GUIDE

APRIL 14 - 17 Coverings Orlando, USA www.coverings.com 14 - 19 Salone Internazionale del Mobile Milan, Italy www.cosmit.it/en/salone_internazionale_ del_mobile 14 - 19 Euroluce Milan, Italy www.salonemilano.it/en/euroluce 27 - 29 Proposte Como, Italy www.propostefair.it/en

MAY 12 - 13 Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show Solihull www.bgnfs.co.uk

Please note that details may change so check with the organiser before making any arrangements

16 - 19 ICFF New York, USA www.icff.com 17 - 19 May Design Series ExCeL, London www.maydesignseries.com 25 - 28 Domotex Turkey Gaziantep, Turkey www.domotexturkey.com

JUNE 10 - 12 Interior Lifestyle Tokyo Tokyo, Japan www.interior-lifestyle.com

2015 diary

30 March - 2 April Expo Light Shanghai, China http://www.hdeexpo.com

9 - 12 Furniture China 2015 Shanghai, China www.furniture-china.cn 17 - 19 Interior Lifestyle China Shanghai, China www.il-china.com

25 - 27 Ambiente India New Delhi, India www.ambiente-india.in

19 - 27 The London Design Festival Various locations in London www.londondesignfestival.com

JULY 16 - 19 Furnitex Melbourne, Australia www.furnitex.com.au 19 - 21 The Manchester Furniture Show Manchester Central www.manchesterfurnitureshow.com

AUGUST 2 - 6 Summer Las Vegas Market Las Vegas, USA www.lasvegasmarket.com 29 August - 1 September Tendence Frankfurt, Germany www.tendence.messefrankfurt.com

20 - 22 The Flooring Show Harrogate, Yorkshire www.theflooringshow.com 22 - 23 The Bed Show International Centre Telford www.bedshow.co.uk

OCTOBER 17 - 22 High Point Market North Carolina, USA www.highpointmarket.org

SEPTEMBER 8 - 10 Meet only Original Designs Brussels Belgium www.moodbrussels.com IMM-Cologne

Export Furniture Exhibition

Heimtextil

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

45

Bed Show UK 22-23 September 2015

EXHIBITION GUIDE

A formula that works Following its highest visitor numbers to date, the National Bed Federation has confirmed that its Bed Show will return for a sixth year on 22-23 September 2015 at the Telford International Centre.

‘Our fifth Bed Show was another huge success,’ says Jessica Alexander, NBF executive director.

‘We have increased visitor numbers year-on-year since the launch of the show in 2010 and this year marked

another 5% increase – which is fantastic news. The format of the show has changed very little over the years – we’ve just got slightly bigger.’

She says the additional third hall worked well this year and the format will continue for 2015. ‘Whatever changes we’ve made we’ve always kept true to the original concept which is to provide a cost-effective, focused, no frills event – and it works.’

Once again only members of the NBF will be invited to exhibit and the show will continue to present its mix of both bed manufacturers (all with British manufacturing bases) and component suppliers.

A Gala Dinner and Awards night will be held on the Tuesday evening of the show at the International Centre. For the fifth year running there will be Best in Class Awards.

BED SHOW ● TELFORD INTERNATIONAL CENTRE ● VISIT: www.bedshow.co.uk

22-23 SEPTEMBER 2015 INTERNATIONAL CENTRE TELFORD www.bedshow.co.uk

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

EXHIBITION GUIDE

Home/Top Drawer UK 14-16 September

The shows were held at the refurbished Olympia

Adventurous Blends of William Whistle

Seasoned success Exhibitors included Orla Kiely

The new autumn edition of Home ran alongside the largest Top Drawer in many years to help secure a 4% buyer increase and a 14% uplift in international visitors.

Feedback from buyers and exhibitors welcomed the combination.

‘I thoroughly enjoyed the show; I met

some fabulous people and I thought the whole thing was beautifully arranged and well laid out,’ says Liz Murray, The Cookcraft Kitchen Shop director.

‘We’ve been really pleased with the outcome of Home, there has been some great footfall throughout the

HOME/TOP DRAWER G OLYMPIA LONDON G 11-13 JANUARY 2015 G VISIT: www.home-london.net www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

47

Home/Top Drawer UK 14-16 September

EXHIBITION GUIDE

Clockwise from top left: Home added a serious homewares offer to the Top Drawer mix; Alessi exhibited at the show; the displays attracted visitors; the entrance tunnel

show,’ says Ella Doran owner Ella Doran.

‘You can immediately tell that Home offers only the best and it’s a great place to exhibit for us as buyers who visit are also of the highest quality, so my brand is instantly understood.’

Taking place at the refurbished London Olympia and showcasing more than 800 exhibitors, initiatives included Retail Masterclasses – a rebranded seminar agenda, and a luxury Indigo VIP Lounge designed by Ella Doran.

Covering four zones: Gift, Fashion, Children’s and Stationery and Greetings, Top Drawer offered buyers greater depth of product than ever with many exhibitors choosing to launch ranges ahead of the spring/summer season.

Some 80% of exhibitors were exclusive to the show this autumn.

The launch of Home’s autumn edition alongside Top Drawer added a serious homewares offer to the Top Drawer mix.

Home covered all the bases for buyers of design led homeware, including kitchen

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

and dining, interior accessories, furniture and lighting with exclusive exhibitors including Alessi, LSA International, Parlane International, Garden Trading and PR Home.

The Spring/Summer event from 11-13

January will see Top Drawer and Home joined by sister show Craft as well as a new floor devoted to fashion accessories and jewellery plus a new talent section.

After being launched this year, Craft will be at least 50% larger next year.

THE DEFINITIVE HOMEWARES AND ACCESSORIES EVENT

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The Flooring Show UK 21-23 September 2014

EXHIBITION GUIDE

Above: Karndean’s Pennsylvania Right: Barnscroft’s Spots Below: Lifestyle’s Caress Left: Ulster’s Boho Bottom: Interfloor

Yorkshire tales Adam Carpets introduced Close Companions and the first new colours to Fine Worcester in six years.

Axminster Carpets added 13 colours to Simply Natural Shades in three textures including Ribgrass and Stipple Ribgrass plus five grey tones to Devonia.

Ball & Young displayed the 4m Wooltech underlay for wood and laminate floors with 1.1tog and 26db noise reduction ratings.

From Beauflor was its first UK specific vinyl range, backed by display stands and lifestyle photography.

Brockway Carpets showed the 80/20 Minerals in twist and velvet in 4m and 5m widths, and its latest display units.

Cavalier Carpets’ Gemini has velvet and twist wool blend yarns in 12 shades and 4m and 5m widths. Stain-less Distinctions is made from 100% satin resistant polypropylene, and has

THE FLOORING SHOW G HARROGATE INTERNATIONAL CENTRE 20-22 SEPTEMBER 2015 G VISIT: www.theflooringshow.com 50

Interiors Monthly November 2014

Tomkinson Twist The world’s best selling wool twist carpet. Now with new construction and new colours added.

The Flooring Show UK 21-23 September 2014

EXHIBITION GUIDE

Clockwise from top left: Beauflor’s Brighton Ideal’s Dublin Twist Adam Carpets’ mood board EarthWerks’ ColourWerks Cormar Carpets’ Sensation

11 colours and three qualities: Supreme with a dense low pile, Regal a higher pile and top-end Sovereign.

Cormar Carpets expanded its Primo range with Primo Excellence in Super and Elite weights. Sensation was recoloured with six added colours.

EarthWerks made the UK launch of its ColorWerks LVT range in 18 colours.

Furlong Flooring launched a large display stand and the 40oz, triplesheered, two-ply Trident Highlights with a stronger heather look than Trident Heathers in 12 colours. The 24oz Illusion and 33oz Illusion Alto have 12 shades, including stronger colours such as purple. Its Natural Solutions engineered wood brand made its show debut

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

featuring Classique with open knots, random planks and four colours and the wide plank Mont Blanc in eight colours including limed and limed blue. Its vinyl collection also made its show debut.

Gaskell launched the 100% wool loop pile Westminster in nine colours, previewed Kew Gardens, a chunky 100% wool loop pile in seven colours and Richmond, a 100% wool three-ply in 11 colours.

Green Tree unveiled the Elesgo gloss laminate in 17 decors and 12 new decors in Vintage Premier laminate.

Ideal relaunched Dublin Twist in 18 colours and improved backing. Sweet Home was recoloured and now has a 5m width. Sweet Harmony and Sweet

Harmony Deluxe have a soft polypropylene fibre and 4m and 5m widths, while Carlton Elite is a 4m polypropylene range.

Interfloor upgraded its bestselling Tredaire Seventh Heaven PU underlays with stronger colours, strengthened backing, brighter and stronger packaging and improved POS. Its Meister Nadura flooring which has a wood fibre and mineral top layer above an Aquasafe board and backing, made its debut.

Kingsmead introduced the second generation of its Wolltec fibre in its Clean Easy Distinction. Inspiration is a two-ply twist in 4m and 5m widths with an emphasis on colour. Also

Introducing 4 stunning new ranges - the choice is endless

ELEMEnTS

SENSATIONS

ESSENTIALS

GALLERY

For more information about any of our product range contact us at: sales@beauflor.com

The Flooring Show UK 21-23 September 2014

EXHIBITION GUIDE

Clockwise from top left: Crown’s Parkland QA’s Luvanto Click Kersaint Cobb’s Fjor Svar Lano’s Fairfield Creations Kingsmead’s Distinction

showcased were Dignity using Everlon yarn in 4m and 5m widths and 11 colours. Brilliant is a 4m soft yarn bedroom carpet in 10 colours. Virtue uses a two-ply three-colour yarn in nine colours while Grandeur is a three-ply three-colour yarn in six colours.

Haddington has a dozen colours in plain and heathers.

Lifestyle Floors highlighted more contemporary display stands; Merion Exclusive and Merion Luxury deep pile saxonies in 4m and 5m widths and Oakmont Super and Oakmont Elite in 4m and 5m widths. The Queens, Brooklyn and Manhattan vinyls were debuted at the same price as Lifestyle’s first vinyl collections four years ago.

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

Manx Carpets showed three new colours in Natural Shades, Carnaby a multi-colour stripe in 1m, 4m, and 5m widths, and Texan a two-ply polypropylene in nine colours.

Mercado added to its Troublefree collection with Leyla, a soft-touch saxony twist with two-ply three-coloured yarn and introduced two exclusive Balterio manufactured laminate products.

Millenium Weavers launched Desire, a high sheen two-ply polypropylene twist in nine colours.

Mr Tomkinson unveiled Caeser, a plain twist sister product to Macbeth and the 100% wool loop pile Cadiz in eight colours.

Novostrat upgraded soundproofing

of its better-end underlays.

QA Flooring introduced Luvanto Click LVT in nine designs – six wood and three stone – with a 4mm thickness and 0.5mm wear layer. The SoundClick underlay for click LVT flooring has a special anti-slip backing for easier installation and 18dB noise reduction.

Launches from Rama Carpets included Westport, a contemporary 100% wool collection with seven designs and five sizes, Galway a deep pile polyester in five designs and three sizes, and it expanded the Kathy Ireland collection.

Ulster Carpets debuted Boho in five designs, added Monaco, Panama and Capri to Open Spaces, and previewed Braeburn and Hamilton.

E W L O B N ILA A AV

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Created with your life in mind

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

The Flooring Show UK 21-23 September

EXHIBITION GUIDE

The Aqua Pro-Tec treatment is applied during yarn extrusion for inherent protection and it can repel liquids such as coffee, wine, water, and cola

Liquid repellant Twenty five years ago the carpet industry was surprised with the launch of Stainfree Twist by Abingdon. It was the first commercial polypropylene twist on the market and launched in 20 fashion colours with multi-widths and at a sensible price. However, it was the way in which the advantage of being bleach cleanable was demonstrated to customers that caught the imagination.

Fast forward to today and Abingdon says its latest concept, Aqua Pro-Tec, has had the same sort of impact and once it has been demonstrated people are

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bowled over by its unique properties.

‘Liquid spills are literally just blotted out of the carpet, simply using kitchen roll or paper towels. Try it for yourself or just ask for a demonstration from your Abingdon representative. Once seen, never forgotten, and I’m sure you will then be performing the test for your own customers,’ says Martin Peace, Abingdon director. ‘After all, what simpler way could there be for retailers to earn extra margin? We know consumers will pay a premium for the convenience it brings.’

The Aqua Pro-Tec formula, currently

available on the Stainfree Classic collection, before being rolled out to other ranges in the New Year, is applied during yarn extrusion, meaning that all the fibres are protected inherently. As it is not a topical treatment sprayed on at a later stage it is not going to be washed off with usage.

‘Rigorous testing over the nine months of product development confirms that this product will stand the test of time.

Revolution has just become evolution,’ adds Peace.

Abingdon, tel: 01274 655 694

The Flooring Show UK 21-23 September

EXHIBITION GUIDE

The software can lead to a boost in productivity

Made to measure The show saw the UK launch of flooring software products RFMS Business Management System, Measure and Measure Mobile.

Since 1984 RFMS has automated some 3,000 retailers operating in 7,000 locations, including stores throughout the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Gould Hall Computer Services has more than 20 years’ experience in supporting UK flooring distributors and recently decided to look at the retail and estimating side of the flooring business. This led to the formation of RFMS-UK to support and distribute

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RFMS software products in the UK. Measure and Measure Mobile products enable retailers and estimators to create simple, quick and accurate quotes for their customers that can be exported directly into the back-office order entry system. This means seamless processing of the estimates without re-entering customer or product information.

Experience has shown a fivefold increase in the productivity of the estimation process using these tools.

The fully integrated system with an in-built accounting system, also means the elimination of duplicate financial postings.

Around 20 companies have downloaded free trial software via measureflooring.com, which is also available on mobile devices from the App Store and Google Play, and several of these companies have gone on to purchase the software.

‘The real benefit for retailers is gained when they adopt the RFMS core software to run their stores. The software provides control of orders and stock, with additional modules available to handle job scheduling and CRM,’ says Brian Gray, RFMS-UK director.

Visit: www.rfms-uk.com

London Design Festival UK 13-21 September 2014

EXHIBITION GUIDE Swaffer’s Fitz textured chenille with a subtle woven pattern, sits perfectly in both modern and classical schemes while adding a touch of opulence.

Suitable for upholstery, curtains and cushions it is available in 24 colours.

Visit: www.swaffer.co.uk

Treats of London The London Design Festival hosts many events at various locations across the capital, here’s some highlights from Decorex, 100% Design, Design Junction, Tent London and Superbrands Elstead Lighting’s Malia reflects the light and movement thanks to its polished nickel finish and plated smoked crystal glass droplets. Made in classic shapes, yet contemporary in its look, the fittings come alive when illuminated and will look equally at home in both traditional and modern settings.

Visit: www.elsteadlighting.com

Pinch Design’s Harlosh bedside table has a floating dovetailed drawer and lipped shelf.

Available in black stained ash, white oiled oak and full black American walnut, it can also be used as a side table.

Visit: www. pinchdesign. com

Zoffany’s Cochin fabric is a tonal damask design which takes its inspiration from an 18th century ‘china blue’ document from the Zoffany archive. Printed on a linen mix quality, it is suitable for curtains and upholstery. The colours range from true indigo to original pale blue, through fig, amber to a charcoal/rust.

Visit: www.zoffany.co.uk

LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL G 19-27 SEPTEMBER 2015 G VISIT: www.londondesignfestival.com DECOREX INTERNATIONAL G SYON PARK G 20-23 SEPTEMBER 2015 G VISIT: www.decorex.com 60

Interiors Monthly November 2014

EXHIBITION GUIDE

Beldi Rugs specialises in Moroccan rugs, both vintage and new.

Visit: www.beldirugs.com Yard Sale Project’s Cubrick, which comes in several heights, has up to 20 square interlocking storage units available in any colour.

Tel: 0778 9032 862

London Design Festival UK 13-21 September 2014

Fatboy has introduced the Non-Flying Carpet Kelim and Persian rugs suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

Visit: www.fatboy.com

&New has expanded its range of mid-20th century inspired tubular steel furniture with the Leonard sideboard, pictured with the A room divider.

Visit: www.andnew.co.uk Emily Humphrey’s debut collection includes Harrogate, a range of prints inspired by the town’s Victorian architecture.

Visit: www.emilyhumphrey.co.uk

100% DESIGN G OLYMPIA G 23-26 SEPTEMBER 2015 G VISIT: www.100percentdesign.co.uk www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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London Design Festival UK 13-21 September 2014

EXHIBITION GUIDE

StoryTiles has expanded its offer to include StoryWood birch panels in 12 designs and three sizes.

Visit: www.storytiles.nl

Bringing together two of Norway’s creative traditions – embroidery and log building – Aud Julie Befring has created the Sting pouffe with oversized double cross stitches on a birch seat.

Visit: www.audjulie.com

Terzani’s Shar Pei, employs sheaths of ‘wrinkled’ crystal that take their cues from shar pei puppies. The cute factor is replaced by an elegant display created by the projection of light through the undulating 24% lead crystal. The lights can also be grouped .

Visit: www.terzani.com

Flock works with design graduates from UK universities to create its range of linen and velvet fabrics, including (from left) Northmore Major by Rachel Parker; Aldgate East Major and Aldgate East Minor by Lucy Rainbow; Circuit by Cerys Ackland and Northmore Minor by Rachel Parker.

Visit: www.flock.org.uk

Melanie Porter has expanded her hand-knitted furniture and accessories collection with a new shadow effect. The yarn for every throw and cushion, including Shadow Tuck, is handspun, felted and individually dyed before being knitted on giant needles.

Visit: www.melanieporter.com

DESIGN JUNCTION G OLD SORTING OFFICE NEW OXFORD STREET G VISIT: thedesignjunction.co.uk 62

Interiors Monthly November 2014

EXHIBITION GUIDE

Occipinti’s The British Empire fabric and wallpaper collection uses Ashley McDow’s hand-painted designs.

Visit: www.occipinti.com

Graham & Brown’s Skin is a collection of embossed and embellished zebra, leopard, tiger, alligator, ostrich and fur print wallpapers.

Visit: www. grahambrown.com

London Design Festival UK 13-21 September 2014

Vera & Kyte’s lacquered steel range includes the Balcony day bed, Pedestal tables, Topiary tables and Apparel wardrobe and room divider.

Visit: www.vera-kyte.com

Wild & Wood’s Mr & Mrs Smith Collection of homewares drew inspiration from products for use outdoors.

Visit: www.wildandwood.co.uk

Kate Farley’s Plot to Plate collection of designs is inspired by allotments and kitchen gardens. The title design communicates the journey of growing food, cooking and eating home-grown produce with an oversized dog-tooth check pattern and the relevant tools such as garden rakes, kitchen whisks and dining forks while the other designs in the collection represent planting plans, plot composition, elevation and bird’s eye views of crops growing using traditional pattern repeat structures. The fabric is now available by the metre.

Visit: www.katefarley.co.uk

TENT LONDON G OLD TRUMAN BREWERY G 24-27 SEPTEMBER 2015 G VISIT: www.tentlondon.co.uk www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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Autumn Furniture Show UK 7-9 October

EXHIBITION GUIDE Mi oh Mi: The latest MiChair, MiBed, Hestia and Upholstered ranges were all on view on the Furmanac stand, with interest being shown across the four collections, in particular the new Aztec adjustable bed and the Chiswick suite. All Furmanac brands are proudly handmade in the UK. Visit: www. furmanac.com

Walking through the Telford aisles Sheep shape: Designed and manufactured in Britain, Axminster Carpets has been synonymous with luxurious natural wool carpets and exquisite designs for more than 250 years.

Visit: www.axminster-carpets.co.uk

Art market: Founded in 1988, Spires Art provides trade-only uniquely sourced art and advice to retailers, interior designers and specifiers. It has a huge range and is confident buyers will be inspired by its selection, many of which are exclusive to it.

Visit: www.spiresart.com

Champagne lifestyle: Ball & Young invited visitors on to its stand to walk on its top of the range carpet underlay – 11mm Caviar & Champagne luxury underlay – which is also available in 9mm.

Visit: www.underlay.com

AUTUMN FURNITURE SHOW G INTERNATIONAL CENTRE TELFORD G VISIT: www.theautumnfurnitureshow.co.uk 64

Interiors Monthly November 2014

EXHIBITION GUIDE

represents a fresh approach for Sutcliffe Furniture, moving the brand into an all-new contemporary country look which broadens the appeal to a younger consumer. The pared down design with its recessed handles incorporates contrasting wood grains with a hint of refined rusticity and is available in both oak and the Sutcliffe signature teak.

Visit: www.sutcliffefurniture.co.uk

Clean living: Abingdon Flooring is synonymous with the Stainfree for Life brand of easy clean carpets. Originally introduced a quarter of a century ago, Stainfree was the first bleach cleanable product of its kind.

Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

Autumn Furniture Show UK 7-9 October

Country life: The Campaign collection of living and dining furniture

Comfort on cue: Jensen showcased its latest colour, Sparkling Petrol, and new triangle-shaped copper feet. With Exact Comfort Adjustment, you can adjust the comfort of the bed to a softer or a firmer feel according to your needs at the touch of button. You can adjust the comfort and support offered by the bed every day, depending on how you feel at the given time.

Visit: www.jensen-beds.com

Talking sense: Associated Weavers highlighted its Sensuality carpet collection using the super-soft iSense polyamide yarn, which adds another dimension to broadloom carpet.

Visit: www.carpetyourlife.com

Safe and sound: Staingard used the show to showcase its extensive range Fast delivery: Using its high-impact display systems, Furlong Flooring offers market-leading products with excellent service levels, with most products delivered the next day through its national distribution network.

Visit: www.furlongflooring.co.uk

of furniture protection products and care plans. Building on its reputation for staying true to its commitment to furniture, Staingard also launched a range of mattress protection products, bringing hygiene and health to the sleeping environment.

Visit: www.staingard.co.uk

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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Autumn Furniture Show UK 7-9 October

EXHIBITION GUIDE

German quartet: Rauch has been based in Freudenberg in western Germany since it was founded in 1897 as a small carpenter’s workshop by Wendelin Rauch. Over the decades it has developed into the international group it is today. As well as the company’s chipboard factory in Markt Bibart, it has four production sites for its four collections: Pack’s, Select, Dialog and Steffen.

Visit: www.rauchmoebel.com

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Beds and bedroom

Profile: Ergonomic head to toe design No turn No rotate

The 2014 Bed Show Telford

BEDS AND BEDROOM

Sleep therapy The latest advances in sleep science were on show Mammoth’s Pocket Hybrid

Breasley used the show to debut its Naked Beds brand. With rounded corners and a pastel colour palette, the four models are designed to appeal to women.

Burgess Beds introduced the Soil Association approved Organic Collection of mattresses and expanded its fabric options.

Furmanac debuted Aztec from MiBed, Paramount from Hestia and the Concerto from its Upholstered range.

Kaymed’s Therma-Phase technology was its main introduction. Described as a significant step forward in temperature regulation technology, it combines high density viscoelastic with an infusion of phase-change gel crystals. The gel absorbs, stores and releases body heat to maintain a sleep surface temperature of 30-32°C. K3Gel, is a therapeutic sleep system manufactured using natural mineral oils that embraces body shapes, helping relieve aches and pains. Its cells create air pockets which enhance air circulation, regulating body temperature.

Available as a solid block or on pocket springs, V85 viscoelastic has a high density that gives a combination of support and pressure relief. Recognised by the NHS for its properties, it is supplied in mattresses for medical use. V85 is not temperature dependent allowing it to function consistently throughout the year and it has a 10-year warranty.

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Shire Beds’ EcoGrand

Burgess Beds updated its fabric offer

Voted best memory foam mattress

“We both sleep better than ever, as the memory foam within helps our sleeping posture. Well done Silentnight!”

4.5 Star Customer Rating To find out more about mattress-now visit www.silentnight.co.uk

The 2014 Bed Show Telford

BEDS AND BEDROOM

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The Mighty Bed offers a firmer feel and the correct level of support for consumers of all shapes and sizes and has what Kaymed says is the most durable heavyduty base available in the UK, backed with a 15-year warranty.

Mammoth Technologies unveiled the Pocket Hybrid range. The collection stems from its bestselling Pocket 1600. It has expanded the range to provide a good, better, best scenario to accommodate various needs and price points.

The Pocket 1000 comes in at entry level.

It is 22cm deep and features 7cm medical grade foam. Hitting the middle-market is the Pocket 1600, it is 25cm deep and has 7cm medical grade foam. At the top end of the scale is the Pocket 2000, that is 30cm deep and features 9cm medical grade foam. Each product features integrated washable mattress protectors, Tencel cooling cover, edge-to-edge support and a 10-year guarantee.

Mammoth has invested in a dedicated retailer marketing support service and a website with an integrated store locator.

Marketing support offers POS materials, local advertising campaign development backed with its own national campaigns, employee training video and materials, incentive schemes, social media, affiliate scheme and competitions.

Rest Assured added the 2800 Pocket mattress to its Traditional Pocket Collection.

Shire Beds’ EcoGrand is a hand-tufted mattress with 4,000 springs. The EcoChampion 4000 is for those looking for a larger sleeping surface with support and pressure relief. All fibres and textiles are treated with EcoShield which uses eucalyptus oil to protect against pests including bedbugs, dust mites, mosquitoes and moths. The EcoShield formulae is gradually released over time with its capsule technology.

Silentnight’s main launch was the Diamond 4000 Pocket Memory Wool mattress with Mirapocket, while it entered the childrens’ market with the Safe Nights collection. It also announced that flammability compliance certificates for all of its models are available online.

Vogue Beds celebrated its 25th anniversary by upgrading its Hampton collection and introducing a 7,000 pocket spring model. Sister brand Limelight Beds made its show debut with its Signature, Essentials and Kids & Teens collections.

Visit: www.bedshow.co.uk

Interiors Monthly November 2014

Rest Assured’s 2800 Pocket

Silentnight’s Safe Nights

Furmanac’s Concerto

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The 2014 Bed Show Telford

BEDS AND BEDROOM

Something in the air Sweet Dreams debuted Pocket Air plus childrens’ collections Sweet Dreams launched the Pocket Air collection of 10 high-end beds, showcasing its new Pocket Air Suspension System.

The Pocket Air System comprises one standard length pocket spring and then, in the next column, two shortened springs, so that between the shortened springs there’s airspace, allowing for a soft, flexible feel as the sleeper lies down and the short springs contract, increasing the volume of air. These two kinds of pocket spring are arranged alternately across the width of the mattress.

‘The Pocket Air system creates a new, lighter-than-air sleeping experience while also providing comfortable, cool support. There’s an extra advantage of the Air Suspension System. Two people sleeping together, no matter what their weight difference, will enjoy the luxury of individual support because of the alignment of the springs – the air absorbs weight and distributes it evenly across the mattress,’ says Jackie McGarvey, Sweet Dreams general manager.

The Pocket Air mattress boasts more pocket springs than a Sweet Dreams bed has ever featured before – almost 4,000

Fizz

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

Whitehall Cashmere has almost 4,000 pocket air springs and a hand-stitched border

springs in the larger sizes of the top model and, on some models – a first for Sweet Dreams – hand-stitching to the borders.

Most of the company’s divans are available as a side-opening ottoman bed.

This has been expanded with the introduction of a front-opening ottoman divan and a half-opening ottoman divan, also accessed from the front.

‘Given the small room size of many new houses, ottomans have proved a very popular choice for storage within divans,’ says McGarvey.

‘You don’t need as much space around the bed to access an ottoman as you need to pull out drawers. Given that in some room configurations, there is more

Vibrant

space at the foot of the bed than the sides, it’s sensible to make front-opening from the footend an option. And for those who don’t need the full capacity of the divan base for storage, or who perhaps would struggle to lift the weight of the entire mattress, a half-ottoman is another practical solution.’

The Fizz and Bowling childrens’ bedroom furniture collections were also debuted. The Vibrant range was highlighted with its coordinating display cabinet, sideboard, TV unit, shelf units and coffee table.

For the first time, the company introduced a brochure featuring all its products.

Visit: www.sweetdreamsuk.com

Est. 1986

SIESTA BEDS COMFORT & QUALITY ASSURED

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

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Natural Collection.

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The 2014 Bed Show Telford

BEDS AND BEDROOM

Left: Aqua3 Oceana Superior mattress Below: Sensoria Solstice mattress

Three is the magic number Sleepeezee’s Aqua3 combines foams and springs Sleepeezee’s highlights included Aqua3 and Sensoria.

Aqua3 combines the latest advances in technology to create three-phases of sleeping comfort. Each phase provides a unique function and benefit, which collectively deliver the perfect night’s sleep, according to the company.

Immediate pressure relief is provided

by AquaLite-Gel: with its regulating effect, the open cell structure moulds to a body’s individual shape while ensuring the foam does not get too hot or too cold.

AquaLite creates optimum spinal posture. This foam has a unique pinconvoluted surface that allows air to flow throughout. Its structure enables it to respond instantly to pressure with a wave-like diffusion of weight, ensuring immediate pressure relief for a deep and restful sleep.

Dynamic support is provided through SoftTouch spring technology.

The Sensoria range was designed to address the increasing impact of reduced sleep on our health and wellbeing.

‘With the perfect balance of traditional craftsmanship and innovative designs,

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the Sensoria Modern and Sensoria Traditional collections deliver a wide range of dynamic sleeping solutions to suit varying lifestyles,’ says Howard Wilson, Sleepeezee md.

‘With the finest, natural and breathable comfort layers, moisture management and double-sided functionality the Sensoria Traditional collection provides the perfect responsive sleeping surface.

The Sensoria Modern collection reflects many of the same qualities but through a non-turn sleep system,’ he says.

The company is pleased with the

response to the new models, which all feature new sleep-support system technologies and finishes.

‘These new ranges really do reflect the team’s hard work and commitment in reinforcing our credentials as an innovator and brand leader. The success of both the Aqua3 and Sensoria ranges at the show clearly demonstrate the level of experience and forward thinking within the Sleepeezee team and pave the way for more exciting developments and designs in the future,’ adds Wilson.

Visit: www.sleepeezee.co.uk

The 2014 Bed Show Telford

BEDS AND BEDROOM

These mattresses are not Sealy’s launches included Profile, which never needs to be turned

Contour Reflexion offers medium support

Sealy continues its reputation for developing innovative and technologically advanced mattresses and divans with its Profile collection.

The two Profile specialist beds are Contour Support and Contour Reflexion.

Ergonomic in concept, the Contour mattress is based on various anthropometric studies which detail and profile the proportions of the human anatomy. Directional and variable zoning along its length from head to toe means the mattress doesn’t have to be turned, and pays special attention to offering the right support to shoulders and hips, which are the key pressure points that cause tossing and turning at night.

In addition, and the key to the whole concept, there is an area of increased lumbar support to ensure the spine is kept at exactly the right alignment throughout the night.

When anyone lies on a Profile bed, they can feel the slightly convex zone which sits laterally across the mattress to support the spine, whether lying on their side or back.

According to Sealy, this bed is a boon to those who need more support as they lie in bed, or anyone who occasionally or permanently suffers

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Profile has high loft, micro-quilted panels

from back problems, or wants to prevent one from deteriorating.

Sealy says testers who trialled the new beds felt the benefits right from their first night’s sleep on them.

Wide comfort options are offered, with Contour Reflexion being a medium support mattress while the Contour Support has a slightly firmer feel.

With their high loft, micro-quilted panels, the beds also feature Adaptive technology. The Adaptive textile reacts to temperature and moisture as hydro-

functional polymers change shape, boosting evaporation and helping to maintain a constant temperature for the sleeper, even through the sheets.

‘With this textile technology included in our renowned Smart Fibres which are in the material covering the mattress, and are endorsed by Allergy UK, even the most fussy of sleepers will revel in the comfort and support of this new style of bed,’ says Neil Robinson, Sealy marketing director.

Visit: www.sealy.co.uk

BEDS AND BEDROOM

The 2014 Bed Show Telford

for turning

Profile was a key launch at the show for Sealy Inset: Profile has a slightly convex zone

Models reach their goals In response to demand from retailers, Sealy has expanded its Hybrid collection with two top of the range models. The Signature Hybrid and Regency Hybrid have 4,200 and 3,600 pocket and mini pocket springs respectively.

Hybrid combines specially designed pocket springs and mini pocket springs with Geltex, a fusion of an extremely elastic gel and air-permeable foam. This is then covered with Adaptive fabric.

‘These unique beds have quickly become the beds of aspiration and choice by people across the country, from consumers to top flight Premier League football and rugby players and their coaches. Hybrid has been our most successful product launch, helping everyone to become a deeper sleeper,’ says Robinson.

Above: Hybrid combines springs and Geltex Left: Burnley FC players use Hybrid beds, including last season’s Championship top scorer Danny Ings Far left: Harlequins and England elite squad members, Joe Marler and Danny Care with Harlequins performance director, John Dams are all Sealy Deeper Sleepers

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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Welcome to the new core Posturepedic range

The new Posturepedic Geltex Support

The new Posturepedic Latex Support

The famed Sealy Posturepedic range has been updated and upgraded and will be relaunched at Telford. The range will now have a Geltex model and include Adaptive in the Smart Fibres offering.

The new Posturepedic Luxury Support

The new Posturepedic Memory Support

The new four bed range with their high loft design for fuller and more luxurious mattresses, will consist of Geltex Support, Latex Support, Luxury Support and Memory Support and will replace the existing Silver, Gold and Platinum Posturepedic beds.

For more information, contact our Sales Hotline on 016973 20342.

www.sealy.co.uk

The 2014 Bed Show Telford

BEDS AND BEDROOM

Left: Pillow Top Below: Regency

Double time Hypnos has updated two collections Hypnos prides itself on the innovation of comfortable yet stylish beds and it used this approach for two updated collections at this year’s show: the Regency Collection and the Pillow Top Collection.

Both are designed with comfort in mind. Regency benefits from a unique wool-rich mixture of fleece, pashmina, camel and alpaca wool, plus cashmere and silk.

This level of luxury is continued with four Pillow Top mattresses. The sewn-in topper adds an extra layer of comfort

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

creating a cocooning effect, while retaining the level of support synonymous with the Hypnos brand.

In common with its other ranges, Regency and Pillow Top have a 10-year guarantee.

‘Exhibiting at this year’s Bed Show was a great opportunity to show off our extensive product offering and unveil our next generation Regency Collection and Pillow Top Collection,’ says Chris Ward, Hypnos marketing director.

‘It was particularly exciting to win the Bed Manufacturer of the Year award for

the second time at the NBF Awards. We have been working hard to become a benchmark in the luxury bed market, so to be recognised for our work in this way is a great accolade,’ he adds.

Hypnos has developed partnerships around the world with hotel groups such as Rocco Forte, Thistle, Premier Inn, Guoman, Crowne Plaza, Intercontinental, Millennium and Copthorne and Marriott.

Hypnos’ partnership with Marriott extends from the Marriott Vacation Club in Paris to JW Marriott in Dubai.

Visit: www.hypnosbeds.com

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The 2014 Bed Show Telford

BEDS AND BEDROOM

Support in-store Komfi unveiled its latest collection with a vow not to sell online ‘We are relaunching Komfi as a stockistfriendly brand, with a strategy which seeks to provide protection to our traders. The new Komfi collection will be available exclusively at bricks and mortar retail outlets, rather than online,’ says Jim Harrower, Komfi head of trade sales.

He explains that as the retail marketplace continues to be challenging and competitive, having something unique to offer customers is crucial.

‘Unfortunately, the pressure for innovation has led to the misuse of these terms – however not in our case. The relaunch of Komfi has been headed by our unique Ikon range. These mattresses feature an innovative triple layer core and a breathable open cell foam structure, to create a product that offers unrivalled comfort, optimal pressure

relief and full body support. Therefore the traders who are stocking our products have something totally unique to offer their customers,’ he says.

Harrower reckons that by focusing on bricks and mortar retail outlets, it is working to protect the profit margins of its stockists.

‘Many consumers are automatically attracted to the lowest price tag, which pushes many retailers to discount their products in an attempt to undercut their competitors and win the sale. Not only does this damage the brand, but it also vastly reduces the profit made by the stockist,’ he says.

Eliminating competition between traders is near impossible, but he says by avoiding online retailing, the new Komfi range will protect retailers from the

discounted rates offered by some online traders.

Komfi’s website is dedicated to its products and directs online consumers to their nearest stockist.

Ikon Trio has a removable 3cm quilted cover on top of three layers of foam: up to 7cm of seven-zoned breathable memory foam that provides comfort zones for different areas of the body, a choice of Plush or Regular high density foam for weight distribution and a choice of Plush or Regular wave-cut foam for ventilation.

Ikon Duo has the quilted cover on a 4cm layer of five-zoned memory foam and a 16cm layer of foam with cylinders for improved airflow. Both are available in four sizes and have a 15-year warranty.

Visit: www.komfi.com

Ikon Trio has three layers of foam

Ikon on Modena divan Ikon on Verona bedstead

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

BEDS AND BEDROOM

beds from its MiBed brand, including the new Bella Box Spring. The Hestia divan bed range was also on show, featuring a number of memory foam and hand side-stitched mattresses along with its upholstered bedsteads.

Visit: www.furmanac.co.uk

Baby talk: The show saw Silentnight introduce the Safe Nights cot bed mattress collection, featuring Airstream foam free technology in conjunction with John Cotton.

Visit: www.silentnight.co.uk

Spotlight A look at some of the stands

The 2014 Bed Show Telford

Moving along: Furmanac showed off some of its bestselling adjustable

Weaving away: Monks International is a fully vertically integrated company that specialises in jacquard woven ticks, double knits and upholstery style ticks that exports to more than 60 countries. The factory includes extrusion, yarn dyeing, weaving, knitting and finishing. Monks offers Belgian quality, service and a customised approach.

Visit: www.monks.be

FIRA Gold celebrates 30 years The only industry-recognised mark of quality for furniture products and installation

www.fira.co.uk/gold Bigger pocket: Rest Assured added to its Traditional Pocket Collection combining 2,800 springs and memory wool and a choice of headboard and base options.

Visit: www.rest-assured.co.uk

01438 777 700 info@fira.co.uk

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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The 2014 Bed Show Telford

BEDS AND BEDROOM

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Matching colours: Stuart Jones launched the Loxley range to great success at the show. It encompasses contemporary painted timber with upholstery and was introduced in conjunction with four new pastel paint finishes.

The showpiece for the range is the bedstead, inspired by vintage shaker beds. It is accompanied by a chair, ottoman and stool.

‘I’ve been delighted and encouraged by the feedback and orders received from UK retailers since the launch. I have tried to create a stylish, modern range that retailers will love to sell and Loxley matches the current price point for this style of furniture. The bed is very fast and easy to assemble, and each furniture piece complements beautifully. The Loxley has led us to our best show in five years,’ says Alan Bennett, Stuart Jones md.

The fabric and paint combinations for the Loxley range are vast. This enables customers to create furniture that matches their colour scheme.

On display at the NBF Bed Show were two roomsets to show just a couple of options: pastel grey with heather linen and classic ivory with Boathouse blue linen: tranquil colours inspired by the company’s seaside location in West Sussex.

Sitting alongside the Loxley range is a collection of wooden headboards with four new designs.

They have been created to use the new pastel paint finishes.

‘I want to demonstrate our versatility as a manufacturer. I believe the new range and paint finishes represent a new chapter in the history of Stuart Jones. There are more changes afoot. This is a very exciting time for us,’ adds Bennett.

Visit: www.stuartjones.co.uk

Interiors Monthly November 2014

Best of British The pursuit of perfection – beautiful handcrafted pocket spring beds, with a Royal Seal of Approval and an unrivalled 10 year guarantee. Hypnos provides retailers with exquisitely tailored beds; sublime comfort; a choice of design options; a commitment to sustainability; a strong consumer brand and excellent support.

Don’t miss out try the gorgeous new Regency and Pillow Top Collections today!

T: +44 (0) 1844 348200 | E: sleep@hypnosbeds.com | www.hypnosbeds.com Hypnos is proud to be Carbon Neutral, complying with BS PAS 2060 Standard.

WOOD AND LAMINATE

Meister class Interfloor distributes top German brand Meister, one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of smooth flooring, has a proven record for quality and design innovation in laminate, engineered wood, linoleum and cork flooring, and wall panels. A family business, with more than 70 years’ experience, it manufactures all of its products at its state of the art facility in rural western Germany.

In February Interfloor became a distributor for Meister in the UK and began supplying its laminate flooring to John Lewis and in May launched a laminate range for independent retailers.

Interfloor stocks and supplies 42 laminate and Nadura floors with a comprehensive range of colour-matched accessories. The decors are aligned with current and projected design themes and include a selection of realistic textures.

The range includes Corsini (LS300) featuring a narrower 140mm plank; Barolo (LD300/25) in 2m long and wider planks incorporating a non-repeat decor; Chambord (LB250) tiles in stone and textile effects, and the new Nadura (NB400), manufactured using wood powder technology, which is incredibly hard wearing and backed with a lifetime residential warranty. All of the Meister range uses click systems, most of them with the patented Masterclic Plus system.

Interfloor stocks the full range at its central distribution centre in Lancashire. It also supplies a marketing support package including in-store POS, laminate sample display boards, accessory display boards, a bespoke catalogue, consumer sampling service and product and sales training.

Interfloor plans to build consumer awareness of the Meister brand through social media and consumer publications and channel leads to its retailers.

‘Retailers’ response to Meister has been excellent. Consumers are responding very positively to the combination of German quality and innovative design. Meister is well placed to be a significant UK hard flooring brand in the years to come,’ says Steve Woodhead, Interfloor marketing director.

Visit: www.interfloor.com

Vecchio in Lyed Oak

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Rosada in Boathouse Oak

Nadura in Anthracite Slate

Axminster Carpets™ feel for any interior décor.

LIVING AND DINING

Best of times Julian Bowen is reporting record sales Julian Bowen has enjoyed a significant uplift in sales in recent months with sales during September and October breaking previous company records.

The uplift has been fuelled by demand for the Julian Bowen brand and the continued drive by the company to launch products, particularly the new dining collections.

The Tiffany dining set is a contemporary retro design in a white lacquered and natural oak colour finish.

Mayflower is a living/dining collection

of occasional pieces, sideboards and dining table and chairs. It features 40mm planked tops made from solid reclaimed pine which has a mature character to the grain. An antique stain and a lacquered finish give the collection a deep colour.

For the modern home is the Hudson compact dining table in a matt black painted finish with black faux leather chairs and the Taku dining table in matt white painted finish. The company reports exceptional demand for both.

Its Astoria and Coxmoor Oak

collections include coffee/lamp tables, nest of tables, bookcases and sideboards and both are showing impressive growth for the company.

The Gold Direct Home Delivery service continues to expand as customer demand increases and this has now been further improved with all products available on a 7-10 day, two-man service to a room of choice for the same price as the current one-man delivery charge.

Visit: www.julian-bowen.co.uk

Mayflower

Astoria

Taku

Hudson

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

.

Sales Representative Central and South London Earnings circa £49,000 + on target bonus Cormar Carpets is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of tufted carpets, supplying stylish, quality carpets to the retail, contract and wholesale trade throughout the UK. We are looking for an enthusiastic and committed individual with the ability to realise the full potential of this already established area. Knowledge of the carpet trade is not essential, however, previous sales experience is required as applicants must be able to demonstrate a proven successful sales record.

An above average salary and benefits package is available for the successful applicant, including basic salary plus commission on sales, company car, and pension scheme.

Please send your CV and hand written covering letter summarising your relevant skills and experience for the attention of Carla Pickford, HR Manager, Cormar Carpets, Brookhouse Mill, Greenmount, Bury, BL8 4HR or email to Carla.Pickford@cormarcarpets.co.uk Closing date is Monday 17th November 2014

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LIVING AND DINING

Reno (below), Lowa (above) and Cadiz (left) are designed to appeal to different customers

Supply and demand Furniture Origins offers on-trend collections Recent product introductions have brought renewed success for Furniture Origins, says Barry Webb, Furniture Origins sales director.

‘We continue to develop and supply commercial designs taking into consideration market trends and finishes. The recent introduction of Trinity, Reno, Lowa and Cadiz, which is also available for the bedroom, have all hit the floor running with exceptional sales,’ he says.

All the ranges have a different appeal to the consumer so therefore offer stockists a breadth of product styles from one supplier. Furniture is available either on mixable containers direct from the company or through Classic Furniture’s wholesale operation, both through the Furniture Origins area sales managers.

Furniture Origins, tel: 07702 603 971

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Interiors Monthly November 2014

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