The Stocklists - December 2020

Stocklists The

2 December 2020

with

FLOORINGNEWS

BRITAIN’S No. 1 FLOORCOVERING MAGAZINE FOR THE RETAIL AND CONTRACT MARKET

GREAT FLOORING • INVINCIBLE PERFORMANCE

HERRINGBONE. Traditional, timeless and on-trend.

Herringbone is experiencing a real renaissance in flooring trends, proving a popular choice with customers to provide drama and impact within your home.

Geometric designs and variation in hues create a symmetry and distinct appearance, adding class and changing the aesthetics of any room.

The Herringbone range now includes 2 popular colours from our fabulous Urban Landscape collection; Scorched Oak and Old English. With the addition of Raw Umber, it brings the collection to 7 on-trend decors, from unfinished styles to dark, antique hues.

Pre-finished in UV Oil, the hardwood top layer is combined with a rigid base, creating an incredibly durable plank and recommended for use with underfloor heating.

Herringbone - wood features

As you’d expect from Furlong Flooring, this range comes with all our service guarantees, including fast response, product quality and excellent customer service – plus a 20-year guarantee for complete peace of mind

Pre-finished in UV Oils for a deep, matt appearance

To find out how we could be your ideal flooring partner contact Furlong Flooring today.

CARPET 2

www.furlongflooring.co.uk

I

VINYL

LV T

L AMINATE

Sales: Preston - 01772 696 787

I

Smaller planks allow for geometric designs to be created in your flooring

3mm hardwood top layer - perfect for high traffic areas

HARDWOOD

Dartford - 01322 628 707

I

Gloucester - 0845 520 0800

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Stocklists The

THE MAGAZINE THAT’S ALL ABOUT FLOORING

ISSUE 549 : DECEMBER 2020 Published by Mayville Publishing Co Ltd., 219 West Ella Road, West Ella, Hull HU10 7SD @thestocklists Tel: 01482 659396 Fax: 01482 659397 www.thestocklists.com Sales Director: Diane Martin. diane@mayvillepublishing.co.uk Publication Director: David Spragg Founded by Roy Spragg in 1973.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS to all our readers.We need it!

THE BEST OF THE BEST

Advertisers Monthly ‘Stocklisters’ shown in BOLD

Index

Page Contact No No

H ALTERNATIVE FLOORING H ASSOCIATED WEAVERS

48

FC,4-9,44-45 01422 431100

H BALTA

GOLD!!!

Visualising the future Trends writer Rita Bancroft reports on the tech that’s transforming sales page 33-35

“When the going gets tough, the tough go for gold!”

Check out the winners - pages 39–49

29

+32 5662 2211

t BAMCOFLOR

46-47

+65 9768 2888

t BRAMPTON CHASE

10-11

01604 664855

o CARPENTER 68

The easiest clean

Fit for the gods

Abingdon’s mighty Olympus page 25

Permanent stain protection Eco-friendly fibres Superior softness Exceptional strength

SmartStrand virtues excel page 30

2020_Advert_Sept.indd 1

FOREVER CLEAN

TM

20/10/2020 07:43:27

Year-end optimism

Sales performance outpaces virus page 52–53

01457 861141

H CONDOR CARPETS

27

+31 38 477 8911

s COLUMBIA FLOORING

12

0208 443 3322

H CORMAR

–

01204 881234

H FELLS CARPETS

–

01977 662211

13,54w

01538 361633

n F. BALL

The easiest to clean carpet on the planet.

Tougher on stains, softer on the environment.

01264 335111

n FITA 38

01159 506836

n FLOORWISE 66

01509 673974

H FURLONG FLOORING

2,14-15

01772 696787

H HAMMER CARPETS

16

01473 826870

t HARVEY NARIA

43

0330 330 1231

H HUGH MACKAY 17

01429 892555

n INTERFLOOR t KARNDEAN DESIGNFLOORING H LANO

37,60

01706 213131

–

01386 820 100

30-31 www.lano.com

t LEOLINE

49

0333 772 0294

n MERRYFIELD ENGINEERING

3

01422 373799

n NICF 38

0115 958 3077

o NOVOSTRAT 35 00353 61 339287

Calm with cork

Connectivity with the natural world page 28

Eloquent oak

Parquet perfection from Berry Alloc pages 25

Covid chain reaction Industry at odds over lockdown pages 53

Tasteful textures

Precision wilton weaving at LDP page 26

FlooringFactsheets

Wholesale agility Stock, service and sanity! page 50–51

New LVT factsheet

Launch of directory and guide page 58-59

The industry’s knowledge-bank LVT Directory NEW! 58

Adhesives

54

Buying Groups

55

LVT Options NEW! 59

Carpet Company Directory Carpet Trouble-shooter Carpet Types

–

Underlay 60–61

56–57

Wholesaler Distribution Directory 64–66

–

Woolsafe: the Carpet Care Guide 62–63

ISSN 2046-7338 © Mayville Publishing Co. Ltd. 2020. Every care is taken in compiling this magazine, but the proprietors assume no responsibility in the effects arising therefrom.

H PENTHOUSE CARPETS n QUANTUM

18-19

01706 639866

42

0161 627 4222

s SOLENT WHOLESALE 20

01243 774623

o TEXFELT

–

01274 905411

n T&E DISPLAYS

21

0121 558 4932

H THOMAS WITTER 24

01429 892555

s TRADECO 22 07833 660451 H VICTORIA CARPETS 23,41

01562 749300

o WILSON UNDERLAYS

01924 451138

–

Classified Adverts ................................... pages 67 H carpets/rugs/tiles t woods/laminates/smooths n accessories/services/organisations = fibres o underlay s wholesalers/distributors l adhesives

MERRYFIELD CARPET CUTTING MACHINERY British Manufactured Carpet Cutting Machines THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Visit ‘Merryfield Carpet’ on YOUTUBE to see our full range of cutting machines or call 01422 373799 3

VENTUS

IGNIS

SPIRITUS

TERRA

AQUA

ANIMO

FUNDAMENTALS ® IS THE ESSENTIAL COLLECTION THAT COVERS ALL YOUR CARPET NEEDS. 4

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED

THE FUNDAMENTALS® CARPET COLLECTION BY AW: ESSENTIAL TO YOUR HOME

FUNDAMENTALS® is the must-have brand for your store - you might say it’s fundamental.

WITH JUST 6 RANGES, YOU’LL COVER THE CARPET WISHES OF ANY CUSTOMER: colours, neutrals & design, plains & heathers, made with polypropylene & polyamide.

The great variation caters to all style demands and the collection comes with WEAR & STAIN WARRANTIES that guarantee DURABILITY and EASY MAINTENANCE. The graphic style is truly unseen in the carpet business: sleek, striking and modern with a touch of sci-fi. This makes FUNDAMENTALS® into an instore show-stopper, appealing to all types of customers.

Share your Fundamentals #carpetyourlife fundamentals-carpet.co.uk

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

5

WATC H T HE F I L M A N D D I S C OV E R O U R AWARD W I NN I N G DI S P L AY

6

Always a trailblazer when it comes to branding, Associated Weavers reinvents the in-store display & brings an experience unseen in the flooring business. With traditional samples and an intuitive digital module, InvictusÂŽ luxury vinyl flooring invites the customer on a fun-todo purchasing journey.

Share your Invictus #invictuscarpetflooring

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

GREAT FLOORING • INVINCIBLE PERFORMANCE

A UK brand since 1964 www.invictus.co.uk

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

7

8

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Share your Sedna #sednacarpet www.sedna-carpet.co.uk THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

A UK brand since 1964 9

Luxury floors for every home and lifestyle

Luxury Vinyl Tiles

Designs inspired by adventure 2.0mm thick | 0.3mm wear layer COMING SOON

2.5mm thick | 0.55mm wear layer Type: Gluedown Luxury Vinyl Tiles

Stones Canyon

Luxury Vinyl Planks

Inspired by wonderful and exciting national parks.

2.0mm thick | 0.3mm wear layer

Woodlands Ashby

Type: Gluedown Luxury Vinyl Planks

Luxury Vinyl Planks Character rich wood designs.

3.0mm thick | 0.5mm wear layer COMING SOON

Stunning wood designs in both herringbone and long plank 2.5mm thick | 0.55mm wear layer Type: Gluedown Luxury Vinyl Tiles

Classics Designs Herringbone European Oak

19dB

Luxury Click-fit Planks Ultimate Rigid-Core Flooring System.

1.8m planks, 8.0mm thick 1.5mm LVT surface, 5mm Core, 1.5mm IXPE built-in Underlay

Impact Sound Reduction

0.55mm wear layer with Brampton Superior Registered Emboss finish.

UltraCore Natural Oak

Order Orderfree freesamples samplesand anddownload downloadbrochures brochuresonline online www.bramptonchase.co.uk www.bramptonchase.co.uk Tools & Accessorites 10

Technical Advice

Aftercare & Support THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Luxury Vinyl Tiles

0.3mm

304.8 x 457.2mm

2mm

Wear Layer

Tile Size

Thickness

New Fast Fit LVT underlay now available

Stylish, realistic tiles in a wonderful selection of tones

Water Resistant

Highly Durable

Next-day Sampling

Large Planks

Lifetime Guarantee*

Easy to Clean

Lifetime Guarantee*

*Domestic subject to T&Cs

Water Resistant

Highly Durable

*Domestic, subject to terms

Comfortable to walk on

Featured Design: Stones Limestone with Cream Grouting Strips

Experience unrivalled service and quality with Brampton Chase Contact us to talk about your retail or commercial requirements 01604 664855 | support@bramptonchase.co.uk THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

11

Columbia Flooring plc

Happy Christmas from The Leading Country Wide Carpet & Flooring Suppliers We can supply you with virtually any make of carpet and flooring at GUARANTEED maker’s list price.......

Delivered direct to business premises FREE OF CHARGE. For a Speedy and Efficient Service

Call US NOW!!!

020 8443 3322

sales@columbiaflooring.co.uk www.columbiaflooringplc.co.uk Opening Times: Monday - Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am to 12 noon Tel: 0208 443 3322 Fax: 0208 805 2346 TRAFALGAR TRADING ESTATE, JEFFREYS ROAD, ENFIELD, MIDDLESEX, EN3 7TY.

12

1970 – 2020

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

THE PREMIUM LVT INSTALLATION RANGE...

FOR LUXURY VINYL TILES

5% DOUBLE

CASHBACK* on these great products *Stopgap 300 HD, Styccobond F46, F48 PLUS and F49

F. Ball’s Premium LVT Installation Range is specially selected for the installation of luxury vinyl tiles.

Guaranteed to achieve an optimum finish every time.

A great finish starts with F. Ball

F. Ball and Co. Ltd. 01538 361 633 • mail@f-ball.co.uk • www.f-ball.com

GREAT BRITISH INNOVATION

THE STOCKLISTS December Offer between 1st2020 October and 31st December 2020. Claiming Cashback could not be simpler see www.f-ball.com/rewards for full details. Terms & Conditions apply.

13

14

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

acheetham@furlongflooring.com

M 07966 263571

ALAN CHEETHAM GTR MANCHESTER, CHESHIRE M 07970 163372

CHRIS GRUBB WEST SCOTLAND

cgrubb@furlongflooring.com

www.furlongflooring.co.uk

New website

enquiries@furlongflooring.com

Email enquiries

tel: 01322 628707 fax: 01322 698733

London Sales

tel: 0845 520 0800 fax: 01452 222515

Gloucester Sales

tel: 01772 696787 fax: 01772 311921

Preston Sales

dstyles@furlongflooring.com

M 07983 446969

DEAN STYLES NORTH EAST, EAST COAST

acairnie@furlongflooring.com

M 07976 311434

ALAN CAIRNIE EAST SCOTLAND

mshutt@furlongflooring.com

M 07970 158594

MIKE SHUTT BIRMINGHAM/ STAFFORDSHIRE, SHROPSHIRE

mmorrisr@furlongflooring.com

M: 07973 403450

MARTYN MORRIS SOUTH YORKSHIRE

mtaylor@furlongflooring.com

MARTIN TAYLOR YORKSHIRE M 07968 828516

WE’RE LOOKING AT SERVING YOUR BUSINESS FROM

Furlong Flooring.

The people who can deliver your success.

A TOTALLY NEW ANGLE!

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

15

JAMIE BONE N.W, NORTH, EAST & CENTRAL LONDON

JOHN AKIEN EAST & WEST SUSSEX

pfletcher@furlongflooring.com

M 07816 217561

PETER FLETCHER HAMPSHIRE & DORSET

joconnor@furlongflooring.com

M 07816 217550

JACK O’CONNOR SOUTH BUCKS, BERKSHIRE, WEST LONDON, SURREY (OUTSIDE M25)

jbone@furlongflooring.com

M: 07816 217548

dspendiff@furlongflooring.com

M 07791 890861

DARREN SPENDIFF KENT

jakien@furlongflooring.com

M 07791 891024

athompson@furlongflooring.com

M 07816 217565

ANDY THOMPSON ESSEX, HERTFORDSHIRE

plovell@furlongflooring.com

M 07816 217549

PAUL LOVELL NORFOLK, SUFFOLK & CAMBS

NEW PORTAL! Order online 24/7 with live stock checking.

Ask your rep for details.

Competitive, best-selling products - all available right away from UK stock – with rapid logistics that ensure you get what you need, when you need it.

swaithman@furlongflooring.com

STEWART WAITHMAN DEVON & CORNWALL M 07794 048413

tconway@furlongflooring.com

M 07791 891025

M 07794 048414

tbailey@furlongflooring.com

TONY CONWAY BEDS, NORTHANTS, OXON & BUCKS

wgraham@furlongflooring.com

M 07968 324598

M 07794 041266

jbrimble@furlongflooring.com

WESLEY GRAHAM LEICESTER, WARWICKSHIRE

cmcmaster@furlongflooring.com

M 07872 964685

COLBY McMASTER NOTTS, STAFFORD, SOT, DERBYSHIRE & LINCS

JASON BRIMBLE AVON & GLOUCESTERSHIRE

bthomas@furlongflooring.com

M 07794 048809

BEN THOMAS MID & WEST WALES

TIM BAILEY SOUTH EAST WALES & HEREFORDSHIRE

dbrown@furlongflooring.com

M 07597 459642

DANNY BROWN MERSEYSIDE, WIRRAL & NORTH WALES

mdowson@furlongflooring.com

M 07980 786265

MARK DOWSON PART LANCS, FLYDE COAST & CUMBRIA

Tel 01473 826870

Email infouk@hammercarpetsuk.com

Web www.hammercarpets.com

Beautiful carpet collections in 100% wool stocked in 4m and 5m wide

Jacs

Designer tonal loop pile in 100% wool available in 4m and 5m widths.

Natural Lines

Supreme Boucle

Super luxurious 100% wool loop pile available in 4m and 5m widths.

Natural Lines

Natural Weave

Skagen

Natural Weave

Key facts about our carpets

herringbone design with a stripe option.

All our carpet yarns are Mothproof protected for the life of the carpet.

Supreme boucle

The weloop use are the highest quality 2 and 3 ply yarns Our bestyarns selling level 100% wool product available in 12 up to the minute We use long staple, hank dyed, scoured and set fibre colours in bothonly 4m and 5m widths.

in 100% New Wool. which gives you the very best long term performance. Beware of cheaper imitations that use lower cost short All our carpet yarns are Mothproof protected for the life of the carpet.

Las Vegas fibre loop which yarn quickly in use and will give inferior results in terms of A staple chunky luxurious pile inshed 100% wool available in 4m and 5m widths.

The yarns we use are the highest quality 2 and 3 ply yarns in 100% New Wool. We use only long staple, hank dyed, scoured and wear and appearance retention.

Key facts about our carpets

set fibre which gives you the very best long term performance. Beware of cheaper imitations that use lower cost short staple fibre

Sisal Boucle & Sisal Berberis designed and made in Scandinavia using the best Everything we produce which shed yarn quickly in use and will give inferior results in terms of wear and appearance retention.

A heavy domestic tonal stripe in 100% wool loop pile. sustainable New Zealand

Wool that is the whitest and cleanest available. This ensures excellent levelness of colour gives us the make cleanest available.

This ensures excellent when levelness dyed of colourand when dyed and gives us theability ability to to make beautifulbeautiful pastel shades and The Stone Fibre Collection pastel shades and brighter brighter light colours including white. light colours including white.

Everything we produce is designed and made in Scandinavia using the best sustainable New Zealand Wool that is the whitest and

designs. Each design available in 4 colours, in 4m and 5m widths.

Our eco Memphis

friendly credentials

100% wool textured loop available in • 5m We only use renewable 4& widths.

energy from offshore wind farms to power our factories

• We recover Diamond Weaveexcess heat and energy from the manufacturing process and use it to heat buildings in our vicinity Ourmunicipal eco friendly credentials

5m width.

• We make the carpet tubes that the finished carpets are delivered on from recycled Scandic Weave • We only use renewable energy from offshore wind farms to power our factories polypropylene

• We recover excess heat and energy from the manufacturing process and use it to heat municipal buildings in our vicinity 5m width.

• A•ll the waste water in manufacturing made drinkable before we We make the carpet tubeswe thatproduce the finished carpets are delivered on fromis recycled polypropylene dispose of itcutso 100% wool innovative andwe loopdo pile not pollute the environment

Sloane Square • All the waste water we produce in manufacturing is made drinkable before we dispose of it so we do not pollute the environment • We are committed to make products from materials that aid a healthy life cycle, with no harm to people or the environment geometric design.

• We are committed to make products from materials that aid a healthy life cycle,

Skagen with no harm to people or the environment Hammer Carpets are the world’s largest manufacturer of Soft tones in a heavy wool loop with a bespoke design 80/20 Colortec carpet. Ask your Agent for luxurious Wool pile.

Scandinavian quality by design Scandinavian quality Our UK Sales Teamby design Steve Acton 07957 836207

Ron Fewery 07976 244892 London, Oxfordshire,

RonBerkshire Fewery & Buckinghamshire 07976 244892 London, Oxfordshire, Berkshire & Buckinghamshire

Sandy Anderson Our UK07445 Sales 232345 Team

Kent, Sussex, Surrey,

& Dorset Steve Acton HampshireSandy Anderson 07957 836207 07445 232345 Kent, Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire & Dorset

Tel 01473 826870 16

www.hammercarpets.com

Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Merseyside & North Wales

Stephen Binnersley 07710 618754 Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Jay PallassMidlands, Stephen Lee Palmer Lancashire, South WalesBinnersley & 07774 101640 07414 837329 Northamptonshire Merseyside 07710 618754 Channel Islands Yorkshire & & North Wales

North East

Email infouk@hammercarpetsuk.com

Midlands, South Wales & Northamptonshire

Robin Saunders 07968 344892 East Anglia

Robin Saunders 07968 344892 East Anglia

Web www.hammercarpets.com THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

s a m t s i r h Merry Call at from ! y a k c a Hugh M

Quintessential Twist - Dawn Mist

Thank you to all of our wonderful customers for their support through what has been a tough year for all. We would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas & a happy & healthy 2021.

Change the way you choose...

SCOTLAND JOHN STUART M: 07860 565 200 E: johnrstuart@btopenworld.com NORTH EAST & CUMBRIA BECKY GIBBONS M: 07970 491 215 E: rebann2@btinternet.com YORKSHIRE JOHN ALSOP M: 07860 572 220 E: alsopagencies@yahoo.co.uk

LANCASHIRE JOHN ROSTRON M: 07973 733 208 E: johnrostronagencies@hotmail.com EAST MIDLANDS STEVE FURNISS M: 07773 384 787 E: furnissagencies@btinternet.com WEST MIDLANDS DEAN STANLEY M: 07572 758 010 E: dssalesagencies@gmail.com

www.hughmackay.co.uk OXFORDSHIRE, WILTSHIRE, HAMPSHIRE ANDREW JEFFERIES M: 07831 457102 E: adj.agencies@gmail.com SOUTH WEST BRENDAN HART M: 07850 130 221 E: ba.hart1@yahoo.com NORFOLK, SUFFOLK, CAMBS, NORTH ESSEX ROBIN SAUNDERS M: 07968 344 892 E: rsagencies2004@aol.com

SOUTH WALES, BRISTOL, & GLOUCESTERSHIRE PAUL POWELL M: 07968 186 150 E: paulpowellagencies@gmail.com SOUTH EAST & SOUTH LONDON MIKE ALP M: 07770 861 441 E: alp.michael@googlemail.com N LONDON & HOME COUNTIES DAVE MARNEY M: 07794 221 443 E: d.marney@sky.com CENTRAL LONDON NICK WOOD M: 07976 945 505 E: nick@essentialflooring.co.uk

H U G H M A C K AY Support your British manufacturer

W W W . H U G H M A C K AY. C O . U K

NORTHERN IRELAND GARY O’BOYLE M: 07831 220 675 E: goboyle@ntlworld.com REPUBLIC OF IRELAND LARRY WHITE M: 03862 594 126 E: thelarwhite@hotmail.com SALES DIRECTOR KEITH MORGAN M: 07710 701063 E: keith@hughmackay.com MANAGING DIRECTOR VINCE HOLDEN M: 07900 262 434 E: vince@hughmackay.com

Meet the team...

F I N D Y O U R L O C A L R E P R E S E N TAT I V E H E R E SCOTLAND & BORDERS

NORTH EAST, CUMBRIA & ISLE OF MAN

NORTH WEST & NORTH WALES

YORKSHIRE & THE HUMBER

Stephen Cawley

John Pringle

Ian Henderson

Christine Searle

07718 762236 stephen.cawley@ penthousecarpets.co.uk

07825 991405 john.pringle@ penthousecarpets.co.uk

07974 141919 ian.henderson@ penthousecarpets.co.uk

07939 051608 christine.searle@ penthousecarpets.co.uk

Areas covered: All Scottish regions

Areas covered: Cumbria, Kirby Lonsdale via. Carnforth, Isle of Man, Cleveland, Northumberland, Durham, Tyne & Wear

Areas covered: Lancashire, Merseyside, Cheshire (inc. SK9, SK10, SK11), Greater Manchester (inc. SK1 to SK8, SK12, SK14 to SK16), Clwyd, Gwynedd

Areas covered: North Humberside, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire

WEST MIDLANDS, WORCESTER

SOUTH YORKSHIRE & EAST MIDLANDS

SOUTH EAST, LONDON HERTS & ESSEX

SOUTH EAST, LONDON

Sue Chapman

Chris Gee

Conway Morgan

Guy Legg

07801 538763 sue.chapman@ penthousecarpets.co.uk

07919 047930 chris.gee@ penthousecarpets.co.uk

07753 983714 conway.morgan@ penthousecarpets.co.uk

07801 357622 guy.legg@ penthousecarpets.co.uk

Areas covered: Herts, Essex, North & West London

Areas covered: Kent, South & Central London, Surrey, East Sussex, West Sussex

Areas covered: Gloucester, Avon, West Midlands, Shropshire, Hereford & Worcester

Areas covered: Humberside, Grimsby, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire,

EAST MIDLANDS & SOUTH EAST

EAST ANGLIA, CAMBS & BEDFORDSHIRE

SOUTH WEST

SOUTH COAST & CHANNEL ISLES

Simon Beeby

Martin Hunter

Graham Wood

Nigel Woollard

07775 913380 simon.beeby@ penthousecarpets.co.uk

07711 353982 martin.hunter@ penthousecarpets.co.uk

07825 171482 graham.wood@ penthousecarpets.co.uk

07767 213236 nigel.woollard@ penthousecarpets.co.uk

Areas covered: Somerset, Devon, Cornwall

Areas covered: Berkshire (Split), Hampshire, Wiltshire, Dorset, Isle of Wight, Channel Isles

Areas covered: Berkshire (Split), Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire

Areas covered: Cambridge, Bedford

NORTHERN IRELAND & REPUBLIC OF IRELAND

WALES

Herbie Montgomery

James Thomas

07774 695333 herbie.montgomery@ penthousecarpets.co.uk

07932 458032 juncture2002@aol.com

Areas covered: Northern Ireland, Southern Ireland

Areas covered: West Glamorgan, Mid Glamorgan, South Glamorgan, Gwent, Dyfed, Powys

Working for the independent retailer To find out more, call our sales team on 01706 639 866 or visit us at:

penthousecarpets.co.uk

Penthouse Carpets Buckley Carpet Mill, Buckley Road, Rochdale. Lancashire OL12 9DU • Fax: 01706 860 577 • Email: sales@penthousecarpets.co.uk 18

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Introducing EcoFelt The perfect partner for your Penthouse Carpet Providing sumptuous underfoot comfort, combined with superior sound absorption and thermal insulation; we recommend our EcoFelt underlays to enhance the performance of your carpet.

Comfort Recycled wool rich felt, suitable for Heavy domestic.

Opulence Recycled wool rich felt, suitable for Extra Heavy domestic.

Majesty Recycled wool rich felt with recycled rubber crumb back, suitable for Super Heavy domestic.

To find out more, speak to our sales team or contact your local representative:

Call 01706 639 866 or visit penthousecarpets.co.uk

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

19

E TS

EN

SOL

C

RP

CARPET, FLOORCOVERING & ACCESSORY WHOLESALE DISTRIBUTORS

H O L E SA L E

50

W

A

Solent Wholesale Carpet Company Ltd

T

YEARS IN FLOORING

Telephone: 01243 774623 Fax: 01243 210105 E-mail: sales@solentwholesale.co.uk Website: www.solentwholesale.com Zola Park, Barnfield Drive, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 6UX.

1969 - 2019 IMPROVING WITH AGE

ST

THE SHIELD YOUR TAGLINE HERE

IL

U L F A M I LY R

N

DLEIHS EHT EREH ENILGAT RUOY

CHECK STOCK, PLACE ORDERS AND MANAGE YOUR ACCOUNT 24/7 ALL THROUGH OUR WEBSITE Oxford, Berks, Bucks, Beds, Hants, Middlesex & Herts . . . . . . . . . . Ian Cardrick, i.cardrick@solentwholesale.co.uk, mobile: 07973 406329 Sussex E & W, Surrey, South London & Kent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Robson, j.robson@solentwholesale.co.uk, mobile: 07973 898453 Hants, Wilts, Dorset, Somerset, Gloucs, & I.O.W . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Phil Gozzard, p.gozzard@solentwholesale.com, mobile: 07973 406799 VICTORIA Atlas Burford EasiCare Heartland First Impressions Freedom - New Freedom Xtra Frontier Royal Victoria Strathmore Collection Tudor Twist Wentworth LANO & BAJONG Cashmere - limited Cashmere Luxe - limited Fairfield Ceations Fairfield Silk Heather Twist Elite Heather Twist Supreme Inspiration Magical Oasis Pembridge Heathers Seranade Soft Distinction Star Twist Collection 40/50 BALTA Aim High Belluno Big Hit Classic Charm Gala Cord - all options in stock Heritage Exquiste Luxury Heritage Heather Moorland Twist Noble Collection Noble Dreams Noble Heathers Primrose ProvinceTown Saxon King Shepherd Twist Heather Shepherd Twist Soft Noble Soft Splendid Superstar BROCKWAY Dimensions - New Dimensions Heathers - New Lingdale (Both Qualities) Orion/Orion Major - limited

LUSOTUFO Agadir Nature/Nevada Safi Sahara Titan & Tital Diagonal Wool Cord Wool Dream Vital CORMAR Apollo Comfort Apollo Elite Apollo Plus Gemini Home Counties Heathers Home Counties Plains Malabar 2 fold Oaklands 32 – to order Oaklands 42 Oaklands 50 Primo Choice Super/Elite Primo Excellence Primo Grande Primo Plus Primo Ultra Sensation Sensation Feeling Sensation Heathers Sensation Twist Soft Focus - limited Southwold IVC Atlas II Classic Limestone Comfytex Cosmolike Fusion Groovy Isafe Apex Isafe First - limited Isafe One Isafe 70 Planet Presto Supertex Tile Styles Ultimate Elements Vigan Woodlike Woodmark LVT - Solent Express Nova in DB 0.30mm/2.00mm 4.74sqm per pack National Delivery Nova in Click 0.30mm/4.50mm 2.60sqm per pack National Delivery Nova in Herringbone 0.30mm/2.00mm 2.68sqm per pack National Delivery Boulevard 0.55mm/2.50mm DB 3.62sqm per pack National Delivery Boulevard Herringbone 0.55mm/2.50mm 3.72sqm per pack National Delivery

IDEAL CARPETS Can can Dublin Echo Endurance - New Colours Grass Collection Mars Monsoon Motor Car VINYLS Merry Alicante C Athena from ha ristmas ll at Black-tex Emotions Galaxy Gemini Heavy Tread Orotex - Ceylon Orotex - Magnum Orotex - Matrix Smartex Spectrum Taurus entrance matting Ultratex

Solent

MILLENIUM WEAVERS Attraction Chicago Glamorous Millennium Twist Sandy Lake Toronto MISCELLANEOUS CLASSIS CARPETS Amber Amber Plains San Diego Winter MILLENNIUM WEAVERS Addiction Desire New Millennium Twist Ultra Twist MILLENNIUM WEAVERS Interflor/B&Y underlay - Good Stocks of all PARAGON Sumo Tile SOLENT WHOLESALE Combat Carpet Tile TELENZO London Bridge/Kings Cross

We carry other products not listed above, and can also provide a swift special order service on non stock lines.

Our reps and sales office would be pleased to answer all enquiries. Our last Price List is dated Nov/Dec 2020.

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Find us on THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

CHRISTMAS CRACKER

£1995

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

21

TR ADECO NEW CARPET & FLOORING WHOLESALER

DECEMBER TRADE PRICE LIST 2020 DESCRIPTION

SPECIAL CLEARANCE

CUT RATES

ROLL RATES

Luxe Super Soft Micro Fibre x4m - New Range Westminster Saxony x4m - New Range

£9.99 m2 £10.50 m2

£7.99 m2 £8.50 m2

Artificial Grass 20mm x4m - New Range Artificial Grass 30mm x4m - New Range Artificial Grass 40mm x4m - New Range

£5.50 m2 £6.50 m2 £7.50 m2

£3.50 m2 £4.50 m2 £5.50 m2

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

£1.99 m £2.50 m2 £2.99 m2 £3.50 m2 £3.99 m2 £4.50 m2 £4.99 m2 £5.50 m2 £6.99 m2 £7.50 m2 £7.99 m2 £8.50 m2 £8.99 m2 £9.50 m2 £9.99 m2 £10.50 m2 £10.99 m2 £11.50 m2 £11.99 m2 £12.50 m2 £12.99 m2 £13.50 m2 £13.99 m2 £14.50 m2 £14.99 m2 £15.50 m2

A. Category Clearance Roll Stock B. Category Clearance Roll Stock C. Category Clearance Roll Stock D. Category Clearance Roll Stock E. Category Clearance Roll Stock F. Category Clearance Roll Stock G. Category Clearance Roll Stock H. Category Clearance Roll Stock I. Category Clearance Roll Stock J. Category Clearance Roll Stock K. Category Clearance Roll Stock L. Category Clearance Roll Stock M. Category Clearance Roll Stock N. Category Clearance Roll Stock O. Category Clearance Roll Stock P. Category Clearance Roll Stock Q. Category Clearance Roll Stock R. Category Clearance Roll Stock S. Category Clearance Roll Stock T. Category Clearance Roll Stock U. Category Clearance Roll Stock V. Category Clearance Roll Stock W. Category Clearance Roll Stock X. Category Clearance Roll Stock Y. Category Clearance Roll Stock Z. Category Clearance Roll Stock

2

UK’s Largest Trade Stock Clearance Distributors ONLY AVAILABLE FOR THE TRADE

REGISTER YOUR ACCOUNT NOW Call our trade counter directly on: 07833 660451 or 0114 4000 120 ask for Ms Chloe Wright

A little more about Tradeco. With a team of seasoned experts within the broadloom carpet industry, we are the UK’s cheapest carpet and flooring wholesaler and distributor, who offer nationwide delivery from the main depot based in Sheffield at the heart of the United Kingdom. We offer a brand-new trading facility specialising in the clearance stock of both Grade A and second choice quality stock of all types of carpet, flooring and other related materials and accessories. Tradeco is now also offering regular pattern book ranges of carpet and flooring which have been carefully selected by our team of experts that add to our huge list of clearance stock that has become famous throughout the carpet industry this year alone. So far we have received nothing but outstanding reviews from our thousands of carpet and flooring retail accounts across the country and we are on a continuous search to work with new trade customer within the industry.

LIMITED STOCK AVAILABILITY

• Stauf Adhesive PUK 447 • Stauf Adhesive D3 • Stauf Adhesive D5 • Stauf Adhesive D8

just £15

PER TUB +VAT

Dura Fit Rubber Crumb Underlay – GRADE B non-composite • 5mm Thickness • 6.5mm Thickness • 7mm Thickness

just £15

PER ROLL +VAT

10mm thickness porcelain ceramic Brand Name (Valencia) • 10 x 150 x 900 – Grey Ash Textured Wood Design • 1.08m2 per pack

just £12

PER PACK +VAT

OUR SALES TEAM Tony Armitage +44 (0) 07775 733 606 Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire & Lincolnshire Katie Cohen +44 (0) 7487 813 876 London & South East Region Julian Lang +44 (0) 7967 193 978 Wales & South West Region Gary Garner +44 (0) 7711 008868 East Coast, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Suffolk & Cambridgeshire Join the Tradeco team: ALSO LOOKING FOR NEW AGENTS /REPS +44 (0) 7586 993 821 / 0114 4000 120

Tradeco – Nationwide Carpet Wholesale Distributor

Unit 1, Kiveton Park Industrial Estate, Manor Rd, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S26 6PB. Nationwide Trade Desk T: +44 (0) 114 4000 120 E: sales@tradeco.uk W: www.tradeco.uk 22

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Wish all our of customers, friends and colleagues a happy and

peaceful Christmas.

M Y VICTOR IA .CO.UK

Landscape Aspect THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Pictured: Natureborn Burford Elite, Sweep23

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Accolade 40oz & 55oz

To all of our fantastic customers, we wish you a very Merry Christmas & a wonderful New Year.

Thank you for your support through what has been a tough year for all.

Here’s to a happy & healthy 2021!

SCOTLAND MARK VINTER M: 07775 902 376

NORTH WEST & CUMBRIA JOHN ROSTRON M: 07973 733208

NORTH EAST BECKY GIBBONS M: 07970 491 215

EAST MIDLANDS STEVE FURNISS M: 07773 384 787

YORKSHIRE ALDO BERETTONI M: 07971 173 560

WEST MIDLANDS DEAN STANLEY M: 07572 758010

OXFORDSHIRE, WILTSHIRE, HAMPSHIRE ANDREW JEFFERIES M: 07831 457102

SOUTH EAST & LONDON ANDREW GOLDSMITH M: 07432 119 220

NORTHERN IRELAND GARY O’BOYLE M: 07831 220 675

CORNWALL/DEVON/ SOMERSET/DORSET BRENDAN HART M: 07850 130221

SALES DIRECTOR

SALES OFFICE

SOUTH WALES, BRISTOL, & GLOUCESTERSHIRE PAUL POWELL M: 07968 186150

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND LARRY WHITE M: 0862 594 126

KEITH MORGAN M: 07710 701063

T: 01429 892537 T: 0844 7252 034

THOMAS WITTER Support your British manufacturer

V I E W LO G IST IC S, PARK VIE W ROAD E AST, H ART LEPOOL, TS25 1 HT

E: S A L E S @ T H O M A S W I T T E R . CO M

W W W. T H O M A S W I T T E R . CO M

T: 01429 89 2 5 3 7

FLOORINGNEWS GOLD WINNERS! Check out the ‘best-of-the-best” for innovation and inspiration... pages 39–49

Carpet fit for the gods With its new and improved yarn that heralds a softer feel, Olympus is the latest addition to Abingdon Flooring’s StainFree collection.

A modern cut-pile look, Olympus comes in a versatile weight that makes it an excellent all-round choice in the home. With a lifetime StainFree promise, the carpet offers a reassuring choice for family homes, where its bleach-cleanable nature is ready to tackle the toughest of common household spills.

Visualising the future Rita Bancroft looks at the tech that transforms the sales process.. page 33

Despite its practical nature, Olympus remains soft thanks to the improved feel from its new and improved polypropylene yarn. In 12 on-trend colours, from popular greys in steel, titanium and wolf grey through to pastels in bluebell and fern, the carpet makes a stylish option that’s beautifully coordinated to modern interior looks.

Millie Barlow, head of marketing, Abingdon Flooring, says: “We’re really pleased to be launching Olympus to market. The range is perfect for retailers that want to offer customers a good value carpet which feels right up to date. We’ve made sure the colour palette delivers a selection of popular choices, as well as some more inspirational hues for those customers wanting to give their home a little extra.”

Some of the carpet’s improved feel is also down to Abingdon Flooring’s Soft Fleece Bac. As well as improved underfoot comfort, the backing is more pliable making Olympus easier to manoeuvre and install. Soft Fleece Bac also reduces the chances of marks to skirting.

As part of the StainFree collection, Olympus is available in 2.5m, 4m and 5m widths and comes backed by Abingdon Flooring’s service, POS and marketing.

Wholesale flexibility It’s all about stock and service in this rollercoaster year... page 50–51

T 01274 655 694 www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

Eloquent oak BerryAlloc has a completely new oak parquet collection – an eloquent illustration of two principles that define its brand: very high quality coupled with state-of-the-art technology.

The collection has been entirely rethought, as the fruit of two years of research by the R&D department and various partners (colours and finishes co-created by a team of architects, colourists and designers). As such, it is a remarkable demonstration of this French manufacturer’s savoir faire.

Thanks to its exclusive Ultimtec technology, BerryAlloc’s new collection succeeds in bringing together the delicate natural beauty of oiled parquet along with the ease of maintenance of a varnished parquet that is easy to clean, robust and long-lasting.

Ultimtec varnish respects the wood and contains no solvents or chemical reagents. The wood is impregnated with a primer with a basis rich in aluminium oxide, then applying a UV acrylic finish.

Besides the elegant decorative result that preserves the depth and nuance of every tint in the wood, Ultimtec offers an exceptional matt finish that meets the high requirements of homeowners and decorators. The matt surface obtained with the innovative Ultimtec finish comes very close to that of natural wood.

The approach offers exceptional resistance to wear and tear and scratching as well as simplified maintenance and cleaning. It is no longer necessary to oil the parquet to preserve its original beauty.

The consumer’s natural reflex is to choose their parquet by colour, then texture. BerryAlloc bore this intuitive process in mind when compiling its new collection of parquets divided into two ranges: Les Essentiels, offering solid value in floor decoration, and Les Exclusifs, with a selection of deep colours and distinctive characters. The colours of the 19 options have been completely redesigned and adapted to the different markets.

T +32 56 52 84 80

www.berryalloc.com

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

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FLOORINGNEWS Virtual vision of new season Balta’s virtual Season Launch event is now underway and provides a chance to get an exclusive insight into the manufacturer’s 2021 launches and developments.

Under the theme of ‘Reimagining Comfort’, Balta is showcasing the first steps in its long-term product development programme in a series of one-to-one digital meetings. With the adoption of new ways of living and working at home, the theme is in-tune with the rapid shift towards consumers seeing their homes as sanctuaries from the unrelenting outside world.

Along with additions to well-established Leonis and Satino collections, new qualities holding the StainSafe promise and the expansion of the emerging Eternity collection, Season Launch virtual attendees are the first to see Balta’s significant steps in comfort for business spaces with the arc edition.

Filip Poelman, sales director, “Our new Season Launch format means that more customers than in previous years can get the inside line on our product developments for 2021. We’ve some exciting new additions to our existing collections and with our digital one-to-one format you can get ahead of the competition, no matter where you are.”

Season Launch is also home to developments in the LCT carpet tile collection. This is set to be an interesting sector of the market as consumers look towards making their homes more adaptable. Driven by the need for working from home and a rise in multi-use spaces, the adoption of home-like luxury in modular flooring could be a growth area for the industry.

There are still opportunities to schedule a one-on-one digital session with Season Launch running until 15 December.

T +32 56 62 22 11 www.baltagroup.com

Tasteful textures As part of its updated Richelieu programme, Louis de Poortere is introducing textured carpet styles that benefit from the precise control of the wilton weaving process.

Dune, Preference and Hermes are available in all 144 colours of Louis de Poortere’s Richelieu programme, bringing an extraordinary 432 textured carpet choices. Making Richelieu arguably today’s largest collection of textured carpet, the designs use the exacting pattern production of Wilton weaving to create fine, elegant textured looks.

Dune is a cut pile style with an intermittent row of loops, Preference combines high cuts and low loops for a ribbed texture and Hermes is a multi-height cut pile. The wool-rich qualities use New Zealand wool for rich colour clarity and two-ply yarn for excellent resilience.

Available in multiple widths from 2m up to 4.57m, the designs are delivered within four-weeks.

Alan Russell, sales director, Louis de Poortere, says: “The textured options of our new-look Richelieu programme really make use of the accuracy of our Wilton looms. This is exemplified beautifully in Preference, with Wilton weaving the only production method giving the repeated accuracy needed to make its refined ribbed texture.

“We’ve updated the Richelieu programme to bring new life to our Wilton offer and make it more relevant to the service demands of homeowners wanting premium carpet today,” explains Alan. “Service has never been more important and offering quality, depth of choice and multiple widths with an acceptable delivery window to boot, Richelieu can meet high expectations.”

Launching at the beginning of 2021 with a dedicated point-of-sale unit, Richelieu is set to transform wool-rich Wilton carpets.

T +32 56 393 393 www.louisdepoortere.com

Tiles in time Shaw Contract has added its new signature Auxiliary carpet tile collection to the ‘In Stock UK’ programme launched during the summer.

The programme has a focus on supporting the needs of flooring contractors and facilities managers with product that is available for immediate delivery. It is the quickest and simplest solution to meet the needs of fast turnaround projects.

The new Auxiliary carpet tile collection is inspired by the transitions in nature, such as the flow of the waves to the shore and the flow of changing colours in the seasons, allowing the creation of beautiful transitions in every commercial interior.

It features three different styles - Complement, Detail and Feature, all in 50 x 50cm, all in colour tones that span cool and warm shades and combinations. This helps create a sense of flow and a sense of focus, involvement and engagement, as you move from one space to the next. The three designs can be installed together or individually for zoning, using colour and pattern to provide subtle combinations and transitions into and out of spaces to create a sense of flow.

Auxiliary is designed and manufactured in the UK on Shaw Contract’s TaskWorx backing specifically for the UK, European, Middle East and African markets. As part of the ‘In Stock UK’ programme, the products can be dispatched within 24 hours to Shaw Contract account holders.

T 0207 442 5755 www.shawcontract.com 26

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Premium quality. Guaranteed

Condor Carpets bv Euroweg 3, 8061 SB | P.O. Box 21, 8060 AA | Hasselt, The Netherlands T (+31) 38 477 89 11 | F (+31) 38 477 89 22 | info@condorcarpets.nl

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

W W W . C O N D O R - G R O U P. E U

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FLOORINGNEWS Calm with cork As we spend more time in our home during the new normal, we’re increasingly conscious of the materials and finishes we choose and the impact they have on our wellbeing. Materials that link us to the positive effects of the natural world are gaining popularity and helping us to feel calm and relaxed as we seek to feel protected and secure within our homes.

Cork is an ideal surface to foster this connectivity and is one that not only links us to nature but helps to preserve it also. Cork’s unique aesthetic is deep rooted in the natural world and arguably, its status as a historic floor used in happier times cements its soothing and calming effect. Harvested from bark, rather than felling, cork comes from trees that live for hundreds of years, so it is a material that’s renewable and natural, and which also helps to sustain the balance of the atmosphere.

Granorte’s Tradition collection is as close to the original cork floors as is possible to find today. Possessing a history dating back over a century, cork tiled floors are the purest use of the material and to which Tradition stays faithful. With a natural sanded pre-finish ready for sealing, these stylish glue-down tiles are available in agglomerated designs that all provide a beautiful and richly organic cork aesthetic.

“While we have innovated to harness the benefits of cork with products that respond to today’s interiors in floating click floors and PVC-free LVT alternatives, it is the simplicity and pureness of Tradition that seems extraordinarily appropriate at the moment,” says Paulo Rocha, product and R&D manager, Granorte. Tradition is available from Granorte in a 4mm thick 600 x 300mm tile, manufactured in Portugal from 100% cork recycled from the wine stopper industry.

T 01785 711131 www.granorte.co.uk

Craig’s crushes carpets Based in Rugely Staffordshire, Craig’s Carpets are one of the latest flooring companies to install a “Kenburn Carpet Crusher” for compacting and recycling their new and uplifted carpet and underlay waste.

Owner Craig Knight comments: “We’d read the many case studies regarding the carpet crusher and all the positive feedback given”.

“We can only add our recommendations for installing a carpet crusher not only for the environmental benefits of having a “zero to landfill” waste policy which has significantly improved our sales conversion rates but also the advantage of reducing our ever increasing skip costs so we’ve cut costs and increased sales”.

40,862 visit Asia floor show Domotex asia/ChinaFloor restarted the business as the first exhibition of the flooring industry worldwide after the pandemic. The show in Shanghai was highly successful and marked as the world’s leading flooring exhibition in the Asia Pacific region, brought together 852 flooring and floor technology brands and greeted more than 40,862 visitors.

Through Global Flooring Connect (GFC) platform, the event’s international audience was present virtually and met with onsite exhibitors digitally. Through the GFC platform, 341 exhibitors, presenting 786 top products had the chance to connect, network and deal with 1518 registered buyers from all around the globe.

A selected number of onsite exhibitors were also included in the international B2B match-making program that was realized via the GFC platform and conducted 63 meetings onsite and discussed live with potential buyers from different parts of the world. During the period between middle of July when the GFC platform was launched and the last day of the exhibition, the platform received 83,000 unique visitors.

During the three days of the exhibition, an online webcast, broadcasted through Twitter Live, offered flooring professionals around the world a unique opportunity to feel the show’s vibe through booth tours and product presentations while also being able to virtually attend all major onsite conferences. This live broadcast reached more than 350,000 views.

Pictured: Craig Knight (left) and Ryan Knight (right) Simon Wells from Kenburn adds, “we can visit your premises and conduct a brief waste survey to establish the financial benefits for recycling and advise how the initiative works and how the compacted waste is collected and recycled”.

For exhibitors and visitors who could not make it this year, DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR and its team are looking forward to welcoming them 24 to 26 of March 2021 at the Shanghai New International Expo Center in Pudong. www.domotexasiachinafloor.com

T 01727 844988 www.kenburn.co.uk

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THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

ETERNITY SOFTNESS TO LAST

OF N O I T A R E N E G THE NEW rpet a c n o l y n d e Solution dy

0% stains

100%

everlasting softness

lifetime Stainsafe warranty

20 Years Wear Warranty

INFINITE LIGHT FASTNESS

EVERLASTING SOFTNESS

FOREVER BLEACH CLEANABLE

Made with wonderfully soft and stain-resistant IMPREL® Finesse SD nylon yarn, Eternity carpets welcome a lifetime of colour and comfort to the home.

Available in the three exquisite styles of Primrose, Amaryllis and Lily, Eternity carpets are ready in a warm and bright palette of 12 bleach-cleanable tones.

Enjoy the appeal of this lifetime stain-resistant collection in your store with the striking Eternity lectern now available.

eternity-carpet.com THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

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The easiest to clean carpet on the planet.

Tougher on stains, softer on the environment.

Permanent stain protection Eco-friendly fibres Superior softness Exceptional strength 30

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

When SmartStrand was unveiled in 2005, it was quickly embraced by consumers looking for an innovative , bio-based alternative to traditional carpets. In the years since, SmartStrand has earned an impressive record as the only carpet that boasts durability and permanent, built-in FOREVER stain resistance.

CLEAN

TM

THE WORLD’S MOST FORGIVING CARPET is now introducing SmartStrand Forever Clean, the first carpet to combine built-in stain protection with a nanotechnology spill shield. The best carpet ever invented ... AGAIN SmartStrand Forever Clean carpets offer the highest level of beauty, comfort and performance available.

• The perfect carpet for families with kids and pets • New Nanoloc™ spill protection technology for quick and easy cleanup • The only carpet with permanent built-in stain and soil protection that won’t wear or wash off • Exceptional durability that preserves the style, beauty and appearance of your carpet • Luxurious softness that you can sink your toes into • A breakthrough technology in renewable and sustainable carpet fibre to preserve the beauty of our planet

FOREVER · CLEAN Proprietary carpet protection system The best way to avoid stains altogether is to keep dirt and spills from settling into the carpet and becoming stains.

BUILT-IN STAIN PROTECTION

SmartStrand Forever Clean features NanolocTM, an advanced nanotechnology that completely encapsulates the SmartStrand fibre to create a superior spill and soil barrier.

Permanent built-in stain protection SmartStrand Forever Clean is the only carpet with stain resistance built into the core of the fibre. Other carpets use temporary, topical protections that wash and wear off over time, which makes the carpet difficult to clean.

NANOLOC SPILL SHIELD

Easier to clean SmartStrand Forever Clean simply does not hold onto dirt. Through independent vacuum testing, SmartStrand Forever Clean has been shown to release up to 3x more dirt than other carpets. That means you can breathe easy knowing that your floor cleans up faster, better and more easily than any other carpet.

FOREVER · DURABLE

SmartStrand Forever Clean is made with an innovative fibre, engineered to resist matting and crushing. This unique trait is built into the fibre at the molecular level, causing the fibre to bounce back, maintaining its beauty and appearance over time.

FOREVER · SOFT

Carpet adds beautiful warmth and comfort to a room like no other flooring. SmartStrand Forever Clean lets you enjoy this comfort with long-lasting peace of mind. The SmartStrand Forever Clean carpets have a particularly pleasant feel. They are extremely soft and smooth.

FOREVER · GREEN

... is made in part with annually renewable plant-based materials that minimize our usage of limited natural resources. This also enables us to reduce our energy consumption in the manufacturing of all SmartStrand Forever Clean carpets. It’s good to know you can have the beauty, softness and durability you desire in a carpet without compromising the beautiful earth around us.

SmartStrand fibres are for 37% made with natural starch, leading to the most eco-friendly yarn available on the market today. The amount of energy required to produce the SmartStrand Triexta fibre is a full 30% less than with other fibres.

The whole production process consequently emits 63% less CO2 than is the case with other synthetic fibres.

The SmartStrand collection is made in Belgium by Lano Carpets, according to the most stringent quality requirements and following the appropriate ISO/Green signature control systems.

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

For more information, please visit

www.lano.com31

FLOORINGNEWS LVT excellence The Academy for Excellence in Flooring is among the UK industry’s best training facilities, upskilling installers to be able to deliver the very best in wood, laminate and LVT installations.

As a centre of technical excellence, The Academy for Excellence in Flooring provides the knowledge and skills to overcome the challenges that can adversely affect the quality of LVT installations. With LVT susceptible to subfloor condition and the ambient environment, correct preparation and selection is a significant factor in the long-term viability of the installation.

While the catastrophic consequences of not allowing sufficient expansion gaps at perimeters with wood flooring are well known, there is less knowledge surrounding LVT floors and the issue of movement. However, during training courses at the Academy, installers learn that not paying sufficient attention to the environment can cause failure of the installation.

Lee Thompson, procurement and technical manager, explains: “LVT is a great option for homes wanting the look of natural materials without the fuss, but this doesn’t mean that a professional installation is simple.

“While stable across a wide variety of conditions and less susceptible to moisture, LVT can still move with changes in ambient conditions and so this must be accommodated.”

Fortunately, there are specific preparation techniques and techniques that can be used to eliminate possible failures to protect the long-term integrity of your LVT installation, as well as avoiding costly remedial work. Of course, for anyone attending an LVT course at the Academy, these are revealed so you can maintain high standards in all rooms. www.quick-step-academy.co.uk

Cutting edge The best-selling Dolphin knife, available in a selection of bright colours, features in a comprehensive tools and accessories collection available from floorwise distributors.

The standard Dolphin Knife delivers a high-quality tool that’s relied upon by installers right across the UK. In a range of colours with blue, back, green, yellow and red; it’s also possible to make sure your knife is always recognised on site.

And for fitters looking for that extra-edge, the quick-release blade system of the Dolphin Knife 2000 delivers a well-built precision tool that makes it easier to keep a super sharp cut. Both knives are supplied in a plastic safety holder.

While picking up your new Dolphin knife, why not try out floorwise brand Sheffield-made steel blades. These high-grade carbon steel blades stay sharper for longer and are available in eight different varieties for the Dolphin Knife, as well as razor and scraper.

Richard Bailey, managing director, “The Dolphin knife is sweared upon by fitters as the only knife for the job. Of course, it’s very much about personal preference and what feels best in hand, but there’s no doubt this is one popular tool. Matched with our great value Sheffield steel blades, it’s a combination that demonstrates the beauty of our tool and accessories line-up; bringing together the world’s best brands and the quality and value of our ownbrand products.”

The floorwise tools and accessories collection includes a comprehensive selection of surface preparation, vinyl, carpet fitting, wood and LVT tools from the world’s top manufacturers, as well as workwear, measuring and storage. Available from floorwise trade counters across the UK and Ireland.

T 01509 673974

www.floorwise.co.uk

Real-time, onsite expertise Flooring contractors using products from F. Ball and Co. Ltd. can now receive on-the-spot site assessments and answers to their questions via video calls. Using mobile and tablet apps, the company’s technical experts can instantly advise the best course of action for specific flooring projects without delay.

The subfloor preparation products and adhesives manufacturer is offering virtual site visits facilitated by apps including WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger and Zoom. Having arranged a video call with F. Ball’s Technical Service Department, contractors can guide a Technical Service Officer around site and receive expert instruction on the high performance products needed to achieve the best results.

For questions where a visual brief is not required, F. Ball’s Technical Service Department continue to resolve queries by phone, email and submission form on the F. Ball website, during normal office hours, also helping the flooring trade to meet the highest industry standards while maintaining social distancing requirements.

The option for video calls has been well received by the flooring trade. Ken Appleby, Managing Director at Frome Carpet and Flooring, one of those who has already benefitted from the service, said: “We’ve been in the trade for over 40 years, and we thought we’d seen everything, but recently we had to refurbish a subfloor which had a coating that we didn’t recognise, likely applied by a builder. It took just a quick video call for F. Ball to advise nothing would bond to it and it would need to be mechanically removed. We were very happy with the diagnosis, which allowed us to progress the project without further delay.”

T 01538 361 633 32

www.f-ball.co.uk THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Marketing insights

by Rita Bancroft Rita is Director of Bancmarketing Ltd and has over 30 years of marketing experience with a proven track record in both business to business and business to consumer multi-channel marketing.

Visualising the future In a year where essential customer touchpoints such as visiting a retail store have been halted, consumers and retailers have turned to technology to bridge the physical gap.

In this feature we review how brands are helping consumers with their interior decisions and supporting retailers by making the buying process more efficient.

Karndean Designflooring – Floorstyle room visualiser

Alternative Flooring has devised online tools designed to make creating and choosing flooring easy and enjoyable. Make Me A Rug is an award-winning online service that lets consumers create their own personalised rug to enhance their home. This service inspires us all to design a rug that suits our individual space and taste. If consumers want to order their rug online, their chosen rug can be delivered to their nearest Alternative Flooring retailer with the Click ‘n’ Collect option.

Show Me My Room is an easy to use visualiser showing what Alternative carpets will look like in your own room. It is accessible to everyone with four simple steps with no technical photo editing required – Show Me My Room does it all for you.

As long as you have a photo of your interior space which you can upload to your PC, mobile phone or tablet, or can take a photo with your mobile or tablet, then you can use it.

Alternative Flooring – Show Me My Room visualiser

It works on the unique 4-digit Alternative Flooring product, just tap in its code number and go!

There are links within Show Me My Room to save carpets to a ‘Favourites’ library which will be remembered when you access the visualiser, order samples or search for your local Alternative Flooring retailer.

Stella Coyle, national retail sales manager of Karndean Designflooring explains why tech is so important, “This year, with all the restrictions on our day to day lives, our homes have increasingly become a sanctuary from the concerns of the wider world and helped us focus on our health and wellbeing.

“This year, with all the restrictions on our day to day lives, our homes have increasingly become a sanctuary...”

“We may not have been able to browse the high street as frequently as we would of liked this year, and that’s why digital tools such as our Floorstyle room visualiser have played an important role in keeping retail partners connected with customers. Usage of our Floorstyle tool is up 80 percent year on year and this trend is set to continue with on-going restrictions in place.

“Likewise, customers are savvier when it comes to designing at home.

We want the tools readily available to use in the comfort of our own

home. This is where our Floorstyle tool comes into its own with the ability to view any design and laying pattern in your actual room of choice.”

Available on mobile, tablet or desktop, Karndean’s sophisticated Floorstyle makes it easy for customers to see how different floors would look in their own home. They simply upload a photo of their room and explore Karndean’s extensive range of wood, stone and abstract designs in gluedown, rigid core or loose lay formats.

Users can also play around with laying patterns such as herringbone or ship’s deck or change the laying angle to create a sense of space and flow.

Associated Weavers have always been a trailblazer when it comes to branding, so it’s no surprise their new Invictus experience is revolutionary. The Invictus room visualiser is both easy to use and easy to access through desktop or mobile devices.

Consumers can upload an image or take a photo of their room using their mobile device or choose from a wide selection of Associated Weavers – Invictus room visualiser pre-set images of living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, kitchens, bathrooms, home offices and commercial spaces. Next step is to choose the luxury vinyl style which includes wood, stone and parquet flooring. But if consumers are unsure which finish will look best, they can select a colour and browse the different floors available in that hue. The app also allows you to see how different patterns can be laid and switch between rooms, view the technical specs, and even look at different designs side by side. Favourites can be easily saved and up to four free samples ordered by a click of a button.

Best of all, the Invictus room visualiser even creates a unique project ID that consumers can take to their retailer to discuss their flooring choice. AW recognise the importance of consumers and retailers to stay continued on page 34

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

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Marketing insights ...continued from page 33

connected with the brands they trust. So, both consumers and retailers are encouraged to join the Invictus social community, where they can see the latest product launches, hear tips and tricks to maintain luxury vinyl flooring, indulge in inspiring room-sets, take a sneak peek behind-thescenes at the photoshoots and much more. AW are using technology to bring us closer together and making flooring choices easier.

Abingdon Flooring – new website

Consumers can change the way they choose carpets with Hugh Mackay. Their online developments have meant that a customer can install any of their carpets into a room in real time and see how each design works in the space. As well as template rooms that allow consumers to install carpet and change the colour of the walls, they also give the user the ability to take a photo of their own home using their phone or tablet and upload it to the visualiser.

From there they can install any Hugh Mackay range instantly and change the way they choose! Seeing designs in their lounge, bedroom, dining room and more, gives users the ability to transform their home in just a few clicks. The tool does all of the hard work in real time. Taking the guesswork out of choosing, this tool is changing the way people select their flooring and after one visit, they will wonder how they ever managed without it.

Hugh Mackay – Visualize It

“We’re excited to launch our new website and continue to build on the support available to our network of retailers.” can choose their perfect style based on room choice, colour, style, fibre type or feature. Using the filter makes it fast and easy to find the right carpet and with Abingdon Flooring’s fast and free sample service, visitors can soon be trying out their favourite choice in their own home.

Once they’ve chosen their favourite styles, the new website allows homeowners to find their nearest Abingdon Flooring stockist by postcode, providing retailers with an invaluable online presence that drives footfall to store.

The Inspiration area of the new website is sure to be a major hit with visitors, featuring home interior trends and insights, a blog and company news and updates. With the Insta Gallery connecting visitors with the latest looks from the world of social media, alongside FAQs, hints and tips, care and warranty advice; it is a comprehensive and thorough website.

Consumers can go bold with bright stripes, traditional with tartans or stand out with statement colours, the flooring world is their oyster! The tool is free to use on any device, simply visit the Hugh Mackay website and start to Visualise It.

“Consumers can go bold with bright stripes, traditional with tartans or stand out with statement colours, the flooring world is their oyster!”

British carpet manufacturer, Abingdon Flooring, has launched its new website detailing Abingdon Flooring’s carpet, cushion vinyl and carpet tile collections, as well as a heritage that dates back to the 1950s, including the launch of the first StainFree products in 1989, the company’s new website provides insight into one of Britain’s few remaining UK manufacturers.

For many consumers, it is the website’s ability to catalogue an impressive range of products across Abingdon Flooring’s StainFree, Love Story and Wilton Royal brands, as well as its SoftStep cushion vinyl floors. Visitors 34

Head of marketing, Millie Barlow, comments, “With consumers using the internet as research in their purchase, we wanted to make sure that our website provided the right tools to make their journey as simple and easy as possible. Whether starting out on a new carpet purchase and looking for inspiration or reaching the final decision stage, our new website builds consumer confidence in Abingdon Flooring. We’re excited to launch our new website and continue to build on the support available to our network of retailers.”

Many retailers took up MasterPiece to handle the surge in demand post the first lockdown, limiting the need to take on more staff.

Rapid measuring and planning, with automated estimates, invoices and fitting sheets are, for most retailers, the low hanging fruit for increasing productivity. With the job done on completion of visit, and the estimate already emailed to the customer, there is no evening work or backlog.

And the chaos of paper plans that can’t be found while multi-tasking in a busy environment become a thing of the past.

MasterPiece Cloud version comes at an affordable price and is highly cost effective. There is no set-up fee. MasterPiece is so easy to pick up that training is provided in the free trial period before the decision to purchase. After a 40 minute talk-through the new user is ‘good to go’, with just a few follow up questions as experience is gained: the transition from trial to purchased use is seamless. The smallest retailer can afford THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

£31 a month for measuring and planning or else £51 with automated estimate and invoice creation included.

The estimator uses the full system capabilities on an iPad, Android or Windows tablet in the home. In-store you can choose how much use to make of MasterPiece; from the basic ‘read, print and email’ license to the extended version to allow to load new jobs, capture pre-visit information and print a measure sheet, so the estimator can be primed with jobs to do in advance.

For retailers who have a focus on LVT, a module has recently been released which allows designs with borders and stripping to be addressed, using full Amtico, Karndean or Moduleo product sets.

MasterPiece has innovated for its users in the lockdown situation by supporting ‘virtual appointments’, where the estimator sits at home and conducts a video call with the consumer. The consumer shows the estimator round the room and takes measurements as guided by the estimator. Meanwhile all the info is being captured and processed on MasterPiece; typically, a firm quote by voice and email is provided before the appointment concludes.

The sexiest underlay you will never see

MasterPiece – remote estimation

Sonic Gold Excel wood and laminate floor underlay For more information contact: Abingdon Flooring T: 01274 655 694 www.abingdonflooring.co.uk Alternative Flooring T: 01264 335111 www.alternativeflooring.com Associated Weavers Invictus T: 01422 431100 www.invictus.co.uk Hugh Mackay T: 01429 892555 www.hughmackay.co.uk Karndean Designflooring T: 01386 820100 www.karndean.com MasterPiece T: 01737 355831 www.masterpiece-system.com

Join the online community on: facebook.com twitter.com THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

pinterest.com instagram.com

youtube.com houzz.com

EXCEPTIONAL SOUND REDUCTION EXCELLENT IMPACT RESISTANCE EVENS OUT UNEVEN FLOORS Part of the Novostrat range of polyethylene underlays to suit every application and pocket.

From store to floor - there’s no better solution

Sonic range Comfort range HIGH PERFORMANCE UNDERLAYS

TEL: 00353 61-339287 www.novostrat.com info@novostrat.com 35

FLOORING BUSINESS NEWS Focused on the future Abingdon Flooring has appointed Millie Barlow as head of marketing, as the British manufacturer looks to strengthen its position within the market.

“It’s an exciting time to join the company,” says Millie, who will be responsible for guiding marketing strategy and the newly formed merchandising team.

“I’m looking forward to developing the iconic collections that make up our portfolio and its certainly inspiring to work in an environment that’s focused on the future, on gaining efficiencies and developing meaningful customer experiences through digital and traditional channels,” she said.

Millie has a track record in developing in-store and online brand and product strategies, previously director of marketing and strategy for Long Rake Spar, a decorative aggregate supplier. Here Millie focused on marketing driven by trend analysis, communication and insight to boost retailer and shopper engagement.

Kellars goes for growth A fast-growing flooring wholesale company has taken on 50 new staff and has plans to recruit more in order to meet demand for its products.

Less than two years after securing a major private investment, Kellars has grown from a company supplying flooring to a handful of customers in the Greater Manchester area to now operating across Northern England, North Wales, and Scotland.

This means it is on course to soon become the largest independent flooring wholesaler in the UK. Over the last two months, County Durham-based Kellars has taken on 50 staff to work in its head office, three large regional depots and sales team.

This is despite the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent Government lock-down which meant it had to cease trading for several months.

“Once it became clear that people were concentrating on improving their homes during lock-down, we knew we had to be ready to supply our products to customers...” Andy Duce But it was one of the first companies to begin supplying flooring to retailers, trade customers and other flooring distributors when restrictions were eased.

Kellars Director Andy Duce said: “Once it became clear that people were concentrating on improving their homes during lock-down, we knew we had to be ready to supply our products to customers when it was safe to do so.

“So, our deliveries re-started in early May and since then, we have seen demand go through the roof.

“This is because we carry an unrivalled range of flooring and have an extensive stock holding too. In the vast majority of areas we serve, we can also provide next day delivery, so our trade customers know they can rely on us and ultimately that’s good for them too as they build up a positive reputation with their residential customers.”

“It’s an exciting time for Kellars and our next goal is to expand into other areas of the UK.” Kellars flooring products include carpets, laminate, vinyl, SPC/LVT and artificial grass. It also supplies flooring accessories such as underlay, trims and adhesives.

Kellars now employs over 90 staff across its three sites in Shildon, Stockport and Glasgow.

T 0161 443 0970 36

www.kellars.co.uk

Sales and marketing director, Martin Peace, comments: “2020 has been a challenging year for all of us but it is clear the industry has remained remarkably resilient. Millie joins the team when we are experiencing record levels of demand and our teams are working hard to minimise the impact of a second lockdown. Despite this we continue to plan for the future and Millie’s expertise in brand management, digital marketing and stakeholder engagement will help us to achieve our aims.”

With the recent development of a new website and a social media strategy that is driving consumer engagement with the brand, Abingdon Flooring is benefitting from a new generation of consumers looking for great value flooring options.

Millie holds a Diploma in Professional Marketing from the Chartered Institute of Marketing alongside her undergraduate degree from the University of York. She is currently studying a Master’s in Business Administration, specialising in International Marketing at the University of Leicester.

T 01274 655694 www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

Flooring factsheet NEW! Check out the latest in our popular series of factsheets: LVT and vinyl Suppliers, benefits, construction, installation, product options... see pages 58–59 THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Carpet underlay with the ultimate feel good factor

25% 55% Recycled Car Tyres

Recycled Plastic Bottles

Kensington Deluxe

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An award winning combination underlay manufactured from post-consumer waste (recycled PET plastic bottles and

rubber crumb from car tyres).

This crumb/felt combination creates an underlay with superior wear and comfort properties.

Kensington Deluxe is the perfect choice for Wilton and Axminster style carpets.

Best Underlay The PET felt backing means that Manufacturer carpets with stitched joins bed into the top felt layer and prevent wear along the join.

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

interfloor.com

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LOCATION A D EW Now you can tr LOUGHB ain at OROUG H or

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THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Shining stars!

Innovation GOLD winners

1. NATURAL CARPETS Riverline by ITC Natural Luxury Flooring Natural Choice by Ulster Carpets Sisool by Crucial Trading 2. MAN-MADE CARPETS

Setting the Gold standard in the most challenging year When the going gets tough, the tough go for gold! This year’s achievements in the Flooring Innovation Awards are all the more remarkable given the massive disruption to the trade during the pandemic.

Now the Scheme’s Gold winners – “the best of the best” – have all been able to demonstrate that success can be achieved by a sustained commitment to innovation and quality.

Despite the impact on product development programmes in 2020, nearly 90 submissions were received this year with 34 entries receiving an innovation star. The independent panel of expert judges then picked the overall best performer in each of the ten categories.

See our results panel on the right.

Maximus by Abingdon Eternity Collection by Balta HassleFree Finesse by Hugh Mackay Luxuria Velvet by Victoria Carpets 3. SMOOTHS Artistik by Adore Floors Signature by Amtico Pattern by Dee Hardwicke from Harvey Maria Protekt Anti-bacterial Protection for Leoline 4. DESIGN Quirky Runners by Alternative Flooring Camden by Associated Weavers Oak Carpet Planks from INCATI (by Tapibel) Bespoke Runners & Rugs from Stonegate Carpets 5. UNDERLAY Elegance from Floorwise Ezy-Install Underlay from IOBAC Tredaire Kensington Deluxe from Interfloor Springbond from Texfelt 6. INSTALLATION Styccobond F73 Plus from F Ball & Co Ltd Flash Cove Rollers from Stubbi TopClip Transition Profiles from Quantum Flooring Solutions 7. ENVIRONMENTAL Bamboo Charcoal Sustainable Flooring by BamcoFlor Micodur by LiCo from Floorsauce Recycling Hub at Ulster Carpets

The “star” judges line-up (l to r): Chris Moffat (SMG buying group chairman), Wendy Adam (formerly Harrogate show organiser), Laurance Bird (founder of Carpet Recycling UK), Bridgette Kelly (organiser, formerly of the Campaign for Wool) and David Spragg (editor of The Stocklists).

The chairman of the judges, Chris Moffat of SMG, said: “The high standard of entries has certainly made our task extremely challenging with some very impressive new carpert ranges and a host of other innovations.

“Well done to all the winners and let’s pay tribute to their determination to carry on improving during one of the most challenging years the industry has ever faced.”

Chairman of the Judges, Chris Moffat The National Flooring Innovation Awards scheme sets out to identify products and services that are genuinely new and exceptional in the sector. The award scheme’s star certificates and trophies have now become a highly coveted accolade which is widely recognised across the industry and adds kudos to a company’s winning product and its marketing for the year ahead.

8. MARKETING Invictus Digital Display by Associated Weavers Lockdown Lobbying by The Carpet Foundation Lead Generation Web Platform by Computers for Flooring COVID-19 Social Distancing Signage

by Metro Carpet1st Buying Group 9. TECHNOLOGY Show Me My Room by Alternative Flooring VisualMine by Freetail Combi-bac Backing Technology by Furlong Flooring U2V Online Portal by Victoria Carpets EDITORS AWARD Protekt Anti-bacterial Protection for Leoline

“This is a real roll of honour – companies who not only survived, but have thrived with ingenuity in a year of unprcedented disruption” Scheme organiser, Bridgette Kelly

Check out all the winners on pages 40–49 and at www.flooringinnovationawards.com

Follow the winners’ photos and videos, posted daily on social media: @flooring_awards @flooringinnovationawards

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

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GOLD WINNER • NATURAL CARPETS

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Natural Choice by Ulster Carpets Ulster have created six new individualistic designs in Natural Choice, a range made from 100% natural, undyed wool to minimise the impact on the environment and suitable for heavy wear applications. Natural Choice range is made by blending high quality wool from different sheep breeds to create a broad colour bank of entirely natural colours. These textured finishes complement a selection of plains from the Natural Choice collection.

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

Judges’ comment:

e really admire the broad colour bank which has been created by the mixing of wool fibres from different breeds, creating “ Wdesigns reflecting the natural element well. Eliminating dyeing minimises the environmental impact by using less resources. ”

GOLD WINNER • MAN-MADE CARPETS

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Luxuria Velvet by Victoria Carpets Luxuria is a new 6.6 100% nylon carpet range offering elegance and performance in the popular velvet market sector. An impressive 36 colours are displayed on attractive new POS. “The product is so utterly scrumptious it would make you not mind cold winter mornings if you were getting up to walk around on it!” says Victoria.

Judges’ comment:

some very impressive new carpet ranges coming through, Victoria Carpets’ Luxuria Velvet “ Ais mong a very fine example indeed. A truly deserving winner. ”

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

Love in the Mist Harlequin

GOLD WINNER • SMOOTHS

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Pattern by Dee Hardwicke from Harvey Maria The Pattern collection is Harvey Maria’s latest collaboration with celebrated British designer Dee Hardwicke – adapted from an original ceramic illustration, these beautiful tiles create a casual, rustic warmth in both modern and traditional interiors. “It’s a lovely way of being able to enjoy a little bit of the natural world whether you live in the city or the countryside,” says Dee. Judges’ comment:

he new patterns from Dee Hardwicke for Harvey Maria capture some prominent trends of 2020/21. The classic traditional “ Tlook of porcelain tiles, but in a smooth durable LVT, with a fantastic palate of soft colours to suit rooms in modern or traditional homes. ”

GOLD WINNER • MARKETING

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Invictus Digital Display by Associated Weavers Associated Weavers sets the highest standards for in-store displays and for the launch of Invictus LVT it has reinvented the instore display and brings a tool with an intuitive digital module that offers a great user experience to guide customers through an efficient and engaging purchase process. The unit is 3.9m wide with interactive touch-screen, detachable swing-arm sample displays and a specially-lit presentation panel. Its development drew on 18 months of market research for the Invictus launch with 50 retailers.

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

Judges’ comment:

fantastic feature and great point of sale for all stores. It gives the retailers the ability to interact, walk through their flooring “ Ajourney and make the buying process a fun-to-do experiemce. ”

GOLD WINNER • UNDERLAY

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Ezy-Install Underlay from IOBAC Ezy-Install Underlay is a revolutionary roll-down flooring system that speeds up installation, enables a flexible flooring solution and is a clean, sustainable alternative to adhesive-based installation methods. The system comprises a high performance underlay which is simply dry-laid on to a prepared base, then carpet, wood or LVT are held securely in place utilising Ezy-Install’s unique double grip properties of high grab adhesive tack and magnetic attraction.

Judges’ comment: FAST, HASSLE-FREE INSTALLATION

40

FLEXIBLE DESIGN CHANGES, ACCESS & REPAIRS

CLEAN REMOVAL FOR RE-USE/RECYCLING

his roll down underlay system means repair, maintenance and replacement are faster and easier to achieve. Changing the “ Tflooring should now be less of a chore and more of a redesign opportunity. ”

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 2019

GOLD WINNER • The Best of the Best • MAN-MADE CARPETS

Luxuria Velvet

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Gold award winner - Man made category Luxuria Velvet is the latest collection to come from the design team at Victoria Carpets. This stunning range of 36 sumptuous colours not only offers a feast for the eyes but is so soft underfoot, your feet will be begging to come out of those new Christmas slippers!

Made from 100% nylon 6.6, the products carry a deep cut pile which accentuates the feel of the carpet. It is the delustered yarns it is made from which gives the product its elegant look and feel.

Presented across a three section wall stand or a bespoke lectern, this range is available to pre order today. To find out more contact us on the below.

Call 01562 749 300 Email sales@victoriacarpets.com Order online at www.b2b.victoriacarpets.com

VICTORIACARPETS.COM

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

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GOLD WINNER • INSTALLATION

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

TopClip Transition Profiles from Quantum Flooring Solutions TopClip is the evolution of an already great design in the company’s transitions range. The profile can fit across an even greater range of height differences at floorcovering joints. This is because the TopClip base sections have been redesigned to securely accept the new clip-in top profiles, which accommodate a greater variety of floorcovering thicknesses. And they are available in 24 colours.

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

Judges’ comment:

uantum Flooring Solutions unique ‘TopClip’ Transition profile really caught the judges’ imagination and I am sure that many “ Qfitters will be keen to use and endorse this product. ”

GOLD WINNER • ENVIRONMENTAL

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Bamboo Charcoal Sustainable Flooring by BamcoFlor The pioneering BamcoFlor flooring has at its heart a unique charcoal and calcium composite core which is fused together with a design and wear layer and a foam cushioning base to create an alternative to conventional vinyl. Bamco is a non-toxic flooring solution free from phthalates and formaldehyde which is sustainable and fully recyclable. And with excellent performance, including 100% waterproof resilience, soft comfort and acoustic properties.

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Judges’ comment:

he blue-sky thinking that has created this unique type of bamboo flooring is truly fascinating. It showcases the potential of “ Teco-sustainability innovation perfectly. Non-toxic, highly resilient and made with a fast-growing renewable resource, it presents a sea change of opportunity to the commercial flooring world. ”

GOLD WINNER • CATEGORY: INSTALLATION STAIR NOSINGS PVC ACCESSORIES & TRIMS TRANSITIONS & ENTRANCE MATTING

The leading independent manufacturer and supplier of Flooring Accessories and Stair Nosings for use in commercial and public buildings.

STAIR NOSINGS

tel: +44 (0) 161 627 4222

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PVC ACCESSORIES

info@quantumflooring.co.uk

TRANSITIONS

www.quantumflooring.co.uk

ENTRANCE MATTING

@quantumflooring

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

FLOORING INNOVATION G WINNER 20

Stylish Flooring for Modern Living A winning combination of unique patterns and outstanding authentic wood collections.

Your perfect LVT design partner.

Get in touch for your new retail partnership in 2021 Gold Winner - Pattern by Dee Hardwicke

harveymaria.com THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

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THE FLOORING INNOVATION AWARDS 2020 GOLD WINNER • The Best of the Best • MARKETING CATEGORY

Innovate, Inspire, Invictus!

Invictus has applied Innovation to transform retailer engagement with consumers.

If you are serious about LVT as a key part of your business, this is how you make that statement with style.

When Associated Weavers made the big decision to move into LVT with Invictus, they decided to take a characteristically uncompromising approach – not only in terms of the impressive product range but with an inspiring point-of-sale proposition.

Some 18 months of research was undertaken with 50 retailers to refine the offer and its presentation prior to its arrival in the market.

“When we launched, many retailers still weren’t sure about LVT – we wanted to make them certain!” said UK MD Gavin Pugh. “And we had to deliver on the trust they have in the Invictus brand with something special for their store.”

The Judges of the Flooring Innovation Awards agree. The Invictus Flooring Advisor is a worthy Gold winner said judge

Wendy Adams: “It’s a fantastic feature and great point of sale for any store. It gives the retailers the ability to interact, walk through their flooring journey and make the buying process a fun-to-do experience.”

All this plus the impact of those distinctive highland warrior graphics which have become a trademark of Invictus strength and resilience.

See for yourself Invictus Flooring Advisor – The Movie is trending on YouTube right now. Click the video icon to see the digital display in action.

GREAT FLOORING • INVINCIBLE PERFORMANCE

“It’s a fantastic feature and great point of sale for any store. It gives the retailers the ability to interact, walk through their flooring journey and make the buying process a fun-to-do experience.”

Wendy Adams, Awards Judge

44

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

NCIBLE PERFORMANCE

Invictus Designer Parquet

The interactive room visualiser

Integrated, enjoyable experience The 3.9m wide display dominates the retail environment with a class-leading integrated approach featuring sample boards linked to a large interactive screen.

Consumers can scan up to six of the sample choices to bring them alive on the display. Then the user-friendly touch-screen lets them see that floor in different settings through a room visualiser – clicking through to change colours and styles as required.

Scan your favourites and bring them alive on screen THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Then you can take a closer look at your preferred selection by placing the physical sample board in a central presentation area which automatically illuminates the flooring surface and even allows side-by-side comparisons.

Take-home samples of LVT, and matching Invictus carpet ranges, are incorporated into the units storage system along with the Invictus Starter Pack, a set of care products to keep the new floor in mint condition.

The large format means social distancing can easily be maintained in-store and consumers can ‘drive’ the system themselves to explore all the 84 options of the Invictus range.

Explore through the user-friendly touch screen

Examine in the illuminated sample presentation area 45

GOLD WINNER • The Best of the Best • ENVIRONMENTAL

46

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

47

GOLD WINNER • DESIGN GOLD WINNER • TECHNOLOGY

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

VisualMine by Freetail Since winning the Gold award last year, Freetail has been busy with new developments for VisualMine to help consumers visualise flooring options in their own home environment. Freetail has developed its own AI technology so that VisualMine software now automatically recognises the floor area and cuts it out ready to apply the new floor products. The system can now be offered on retailer’s and manufacturer’s own websites and works on desktop PCs, in-store kiosk and smart phones.

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Judges’ comment:

aking life so much easier for the customers when trying to visualise “ Mwhat a difference new flooring might make. To be able to compare your choices of flooring and see what they will look like in your own room is a great innovation and must make life easier and simpler for retailers.

”

GOLD WINNER • DESIGN

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Quirky Runners by Alternative Flooring Adding colour and pattern to your floor and creating happy stairs is Alternative Flooring’s collection of patterned Quirky carpet runners. The range introduces the first textile floor art by British designers in British Wool and expertly woven in Britain and taking part are designers Ella Doran, Margo Selby, and Divine Savages, with archive designs by Lucienne Day. “After all, life is too short to live in dull spaces,” says Alternative.

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Quirky Runners

www.alternativeflooring.com

Judges’ comment:

brilliant design talent with statement-piece runners creates “ Mpureatching floor-art for the home. When you combine that with the natural fibre integrity of British Wool, you have a really outstanding product - what is not to love about this superlative collection!

”

GOLD WINNER • EDITOR’S AWARD

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

FLOORING INNOVATION GOLD WINNER 2019

Protekt Anti-bacterial Protection from Leoline The IVC Group has developed Protekt, a permanent anti-bacterial and anti-mould technology for residential cushion vinyl floors. Tested to be 99.9% effective against the growth of common bacteria including e-coli, staphylococcus aureus and MRSA, Protekt adds a confidence-inspiring feature to Comfytex Deluxe by Leoline, making it an even more compelling choice in today’s health conscious environment.

Judges’ comment:

f there was ever the right product at the right time, this is it. “ IThis innovation offers just the kind of reassurance consumers are looking for this year and will help motivate people to update their floorcoverings.

T: 01264 335111

”

48

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

A LIFETIME OF ANTI-BACTERIAL PROTECTION Award-winning PROTEKT has been developed to provide a lasting barrier from bacteria and mould growth. The technology is built into your cushion vinyl floor so that it won’t wear or wash off, meaning a lifetime of protection.

EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE ON LEOLINE COMFYTEX DELUXE! Discover more at leoline.co.uk

protektfloor.com a technology of

built into the wear layer

FLOORING FOCUS

Wholesale reliability for stock and service The rollercoaster market conditions of 2020 have focussed the trade on the virtues of flexibility and reliability.

Alongside the obvious impacts of lockdowns and social distancing on shops. retailers have had to navigate the tricky territory of supply chain issues even as they cope with the backlog and boom of post-lockdown demand.

The flooring industry supply side has been buffeted by factory closures, import restrictions, de-stocking for cashflow management and logistics compromised by travel bans, furloughs and self-isolation. Many retailers have turned increasingly to the wholesalers to smooth out the turbulence.

“The biggest issue facing retailers as lockdown ends again will be stock availability and being able to meet customers’ expectations when it comes to getting home improvement work done before Christmas,” says Dave Francis, Sales Director of Kellars.

“Retailers need to be working with wholesalers who can meet and fulfil the demand,” he says. “At Kellars we have excellent stock availability across all our products – carpet, vinyl, LVT, SPC, laminate, artificial grass, underlay and accessories - because we have continued to receive deliveries from manufacturers during the current lockdown. That means we are able to continue to offer next day delivery to the vast majority of our customers in northern England, Scotland, northern Wales and the Midlands”

suggest a rollercoaster of national and localised restrictions, this adaptability and speed of response will be even more apparent.

“Some large distributors have proven they are slower to adapt to market conditions and the trade has realised the benefit in working with smaller, independent wholesalers such as our members,” says Richard. “We’ve shown that the group can be as flexible as possible, supporting essential work throughout the lockdown and returning to normal operation much sooner than national operations have been able to manage.”

Richard added that since fully re-opening, his members have been exceptionally busy and while demand accounts for most of this, they have all reported an uptake in new customer enquiries, he said. “We’re working hard to make sure that we can continue to supply the floorwise branded range of installation products, accessories and underlays to keep the nation fitting.”

One large and growing wholesaler and distributor that has invested heavily in serving independent retailers is the Likewise Group who open their new 80,000 ft2 national distribution hub in Morley, near Leeds, in January. This facility will complement a similar-sized centre in Sudbury

Likewise – investing in stock and service

“The biggest issue facing retailers as lockdown ends again will be stock availability and being able to meet customers’ expectations when it comes to getting home improvement work done before Christmas.”

Kellars have introduced a new website and e-commerce portal (from December 1) to speed up the process so customers can now check and order stock directly online. “And we are going the extra mile by delivering right up until 23rd December,” says Dave.

Luke Crooks at Solent Wholesale agrees: “Lockdown 2.0 has been challenging for all of us, the importance of an honest wholesaler with good stock has never been as prevalent as it is now.

“Here at Solent Wholesale we carry very deep stocks, of both our own brand products, as well as popular products from well known manufacturers. If lockdown has you struggling for materials, give us a call and we will do all we can to help, he said.

Richard Bailey, managing director, floorwise, emphasises the point about flexibility: “We are a network of independently owned and run distributors and this has always given us unique perspective and made us highly adaptable. With a second wave of lockdowns and a future that would

floorwise – flexibility, service and choice

in the South East and five regional logistics centres around the UK, backed by a fleet of 40 trucks and 10 vans.

Likewise’s growth has included the acquisition of key businesses including Manchester-based A&A, Lewis Abbott and Factory Flooring to help build an integrated distribution network with the highest levels of stock from some 80 suppliers in 19 countries.

As well as stock and service, CEO Tony Brewer has focused on giving retailers what they need to stay ahead of the market: “We want to ensure the retailer has a comprehensive collection of all types of flooring, including a continual launch of new products or colours to keep up with the change in consumer taste. This ongoing launch of new products keeps independents at the forefront of the market.

“Independent flooring retailers are often entrepreneurial owner/managed businesses and still secures a large share of the overall flooring market. To sustain that position, wholesalers have supplied millions of point-of-sale items to retailers which are vital to generate demand, said Tony.

Ballister is an independent distributor that serves customers in Greater London and the Thames Valley, from their West London and Reading branches. Over the past 10 months, Ballister have been very proactive in their stock management, so they have not been affected by the severe material shortages experienced by other distributors.

“Now, with only a few days left before the Christmas shutdown, stock availability and speed of service is paramount,” says Marius Lazar of

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THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Ballister – “speed of service is paramount”

Get more from The Stocklists every day, online

Ballister. “We understand this and have taken steps to ensure we have the stock and manpower available to assist new and existing customers fulfil their promises to the end user.”

Ballister stock the most popular types of underlays, accessories, adhesives, floor preparation materials and floor fitting tools. In addition, Ballister can supply from stock a number ranges of floorcoverings, including carpets, wood flooring, laminate and LVT. “The pandemic has been a big eye-opener for a lot of people,” says Doug Douglas of Tradeco. “Retailers have had to question who they can rely on and make sure they are dealing with people who have the stocks and can deliver when they say the will.”

Tradeco is a fairly new wholesaler with a fairly old model of wholesaling that has all but disappeared as the sector has become more corporate.

They specialise in Grade-B rolls, clearance, remnants and seconds across a full range of qualities and have seasoned flooring experts scouring Europe for the best deals.

This is a big operation with a team of 50 including 10 sales agents who can call on retailers with a sample box of 500 options. Based in Sheffield and with a fleet of 10 trucks and 10 vans serving the whole country, Tradeco has sold more than 100,000 rolls this year.

“We have had huge success,” says Doug. “The rolls racks are going back in everywhere as retailers see the value opportunities at this end of the market.”

Tradeco – the roll racks are going back in to retailers

Online news service - updated daily www.thestocklists.com

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News alerts and snippets Follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter @thestocklists Monthly e-newsletter by email Sign up at www.thestocklists.com Click on ‘contact’ Online digital editions (inc. back issues) www.thestocklists.com/back_issues

FOR MORE INFORMATION BALLISTER • 020 8570 1668 • www.ballister.co.uk FLOORWISE • 01509 673974 • www.floorwise.co.uk • see also page 66 LIKEWISE • 01527 314000 • www.likewiseplc.com • see also page 53 KELLARS • 0161 443 0970 • www.kellars.co.uk • see also page 36 SOLENT • 01243 774623 • www.solentwholesale.com • see also page 20 TRADECO • 0114 212 4046 • www.tradeco.uk • see also page 22 THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

www.thestocklists.com 51

FLOORING FORUM READER SURVEY

SURVEY: Retail rollercoaster for flooring Flooring performance outpaces pandemic After the most traumatic year on record for retailing, flooring stores end the year ahead on sales after a huge effort to maintain sales and service during the pandemic.

In our survey of retailers, taken in the middle of the second national lockdown, 57% of respondents said sales overall were up for the year – a fifth of which reported sales up more than 20%. Some 49% said the final quarter in the run-up to Christmas would be better than 2019.

65% said that 2020 had finished much better than they had expected at the height of the epidemic back in the early Summer and it was encouraging to see that 77% had been able to end the year with the same staff they started with and 15% had added staff.

In the race to complete Q4 installations before Christmas, 39% of retailers said they weren’t sure they would be able to get all the orders they had received fitted in time but readers were positive about the performance of suppliers in getting stocks through to them with 60% saying flooring manufacturers had risen to the challenge well and 79% that underlay suppliers had overcome the logistics challenges of the Summer lockdowns.

“65% said that 2020 had finished much better than they had expected at the height of the epidemic back in the early Summer...”

Looking back at all the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic during 2020, our readers were also in a positive mood. Over 75% said that customers had behaved well regarding social distancing and the popularity of in-store appointments was clear from 68% of respondents who have increased their use of the sales method.

Even the Government got a thumbs up! 85% said the Government’s financial support to business was “generally good” and 70% thought its policies on retail safety, lockdown, and health communication was satisfactory.

The behaviour of chain stores at the start of the second national lockdown in England was criticised by many with 45% saying too many stores had behaved badly. However, 26% said all flooring stores should have been allowed to stay open in lockdown 2.

And to think that this time last year, we thought 2020 would be all about Brexit again. If only!

52

sales are up 57% say overall retained or 92% have increased staffing

ay customers 75% sbehaved well tribute to suppliers’ 60% pay service Government financial 85% say support was good better sales 32% expect in 2021 The Stocklists polled 2,100 retailers throughout the UK during November 2020. Replies and comments are recorded anonymously. Many thanks to all those who took part.

In terms of prospects for 2021, the honest answer from retailers is that they’re not sure. About a third reckon sales will be better that 2020 and about a third expect them to be about the same. Only 19% were expecting a drop in business.

We asked our readers to rank the challenges for the first part of 2021 and recession/unemployment came top (47%), Covid restrictions second (26%) and Brexit a poor third (16%).

And to think that this time last year, we thought 2020 would be all about Brexit again. If only!

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

FLOORING BUSINESS NEWS Sales surge rescues year

Uncivil war over lockdown

Reports of unprecedented demand from across the flooring sector in Q3 and Q4 has prompted many to conclude the year will end in line or ahead of 2019 trading, despite the lockdowns.

An uncivil war of words broke out among rival flooring chains in November among recriminations over the “unfair” interpretation of lockdown restrictions.

Anecdotal reports from a large number of retailers and manufacturers even suggest the second lockdown in England has been helpful in catching up with the backlog during frenetic Q4 trading. “Many tradesmen and carpet fitters have already secured work for weeks, if not months ahead, despite some supply chain disruption,” says analysts AMA (see story below).

Carpetright traded for almost a week after lockdown regulations shut non-essential retail in England on November 5 – “knowingly breaking the rules” according to rival chain Tapi boss James Sturrock.

Major player Victoria said that consumers spending more time at home and working remotely meant trading had “exceeded expectations” and would generate a favourable outcome by year-end.

Tapi’s own position was ambiguous when lockdown started, saying their stores were ‘open as usual’ but they closed more quickly, along with others such as United Carpets and larger independent retail chains, when Government guidelines were clarified.

Abingdon sales director Martin Peace said: “2020 has been a challenging year for all of us but it is clear the industry has remained remarkably resilient. We are experiencing record levels of demand.”

Major importer into the UK Balta says residential sales have “fully recovered” in Q3 to levels above those in 2019 and that the positive performance has continued in Q4.

Carpet imports have also been seen to recover strongly from the darkest days of April/May when they fell by up to 91%. Last month’s figures were down just 5% on 2019 levels.

Leading vinyl maufacturer James Halstead plc said sales of Polyflor products were enjoying strong demand with sustained profitability in line with 2019 despite increased costs.

The UK’s largest flooring distributor, the Headlam Group, has seen a recovery in revenues and said its profits for the four months to 31 October 2020 were £13.3m, up from a £1.2m loss from the first half.

In our survey of retailers, 57% said they expected sales to be up overall by the end of 2020 compared to last year - see page 52 opposite.

Furniture and flooring continue to be among the brightest sectors in retailing with 20% growth in pre-lockdown October.The last data from Barclaycard showed growth of 19.4% for the sector – a strong performance given that overall spending on all non-essential purchases fell from growth of 0.6% in September to a decline of 1.7% in October.

Covid could cost trade £200m Despite buoyant trading in Q3 and Q4, flooring industry analysts are estimating the pandemic will cost £200m overall in lost revenues in the UK for 2020. But 2021 is set for growth.

Economists at AMA Research forecasts a 10% decline in the £2bn UK floorcovering market by the end of the year due to trading restrictions and lockdown measures. But the outlook is more positive. Jane Tarver, Senior Research at AMA Research comments “Despite the significant impact of Coronavirus in 2020 and disruption to supply chains, the UK floorcoverings market is already starting to improve in H2 2020.

Mr Sturrock issued a public statement saying: “It is simply astonishing that some large carpet retailers are continuing to openly flout the rules, which now make it crystal clear that in England we are all classed as nonessential retailers and required to close our stores for the duration of the national lockdown.”

Andrew Goodacre, the chief executive of Bira, a trade association representing 3,000 independent retailers, said its members were furious that large chains were continuing to trade while small businesses were sticking to the rules.

“Independent non-essential retailers have accepted the lockdown ruling but what they can’t accept is that it doesn’t apply to competitors. It seems completely unfair that those retailers can bend the rules at this important trading time,” he said.

The “homewares” exclusion that had allowed some flooring retailers to remain open in the first lockdown was specifically ruled out this time.

Carpetright head office issued its branches with a letter to be used in the event of any enforcement visit which claimed the company had an exemption to the requirement to close on the basis that it could be classified as a builders merchant.

Local authorities enforcement officers disagreed and issued prohibition notices to require Carpetright stores to close in several towns until the company gave in and shut the doors across England.

Flooring stores were allowed to carry on fitting, making in-store video and home sales appointments, and taking internet and telephone orders.

“Therefore, 2021 is forecast to return to growth of 3% to reach £1.95bn.

Whilst an upward trend, this is still only on a par with 2016 levels,” she says. “The floorcoverings market is then expected to grow by 4% per annum in 2022 and 2023, before easing back again to 3% in 2024, when it is forecast to be worth £2.2bn. Whilst this reflects steady, but modest growth in value terms, it also reflects heightened price competition from the sheer number of suppliers, including online.”

Likewise looks to strong 2021

The current lockdown is having less of an impact. “Many tradesmen and carpet fitters have already secured work for weeks, if not months ahead, despite some supply chain disruption,” says AMA Research.

In a trading update to shareholders, Mr Brewer said: “The profitability and cash generated in Q3 2020 has been significantly ahead of our budget and expectations. Whilst Q4 will also be profitable it is not expected that the H2 profit will be greater than the losses generated in H1.

Researchers also warn that the uncertainty around Brexit and the outcome of potential trade deals also remains a risk, given the sector’s dependence upon imports The threat of high levels of unemployment may also place constraints on consumer spending for non-essential items. www.amaresearch.co.uk THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Likewise Group plc is on target to be a major player in UK flooring after “laying a foundation for future development,” says CEO Tony Brewer.

“Notwithstanding the economic uncertainty due to COVID-19, the Group now has a much stronger platform to take advantage of the future opportunities and is confident of growing through organic development combined with appropriate acquisitions,” he said. www.likewiseplc.com 53

Flooring

Factsheet Adhesive Types Acrylic/Resin: Ideal for plasticized PVC and most modern flooring.

Bitumen: A tar-like material, bitumen has a high degree of moisture resistance and is used for damp-proof membranes and installing tiles, wood blocks and mosaics.

Epoxy Resin: A two-part chemical curing system that is used in aggressive environments such as conservatories, wet rooms, commercial kitchens and exterior installations.

Polyurethane: An adhesive with rapid bonding characteristics, typically used for wood floors.

ADHESIVES

SELECTION CHECKLIST

The criteria to select an adhesive will cover the following points.

Larger manufacturers offer detailed guides to select the correct adhesive – even indexing floor manufacturer’s products by name to ensure an accurate match. For accurate and up-to-date information consult the F. Ball Recommended Adhesives Guide.

Open Time: The time you have to fit the flooring into the adhesive after which the bond will no longer be ideal. The time until the floor may be walked on should be checked.

Odour: Low odour, solvent free and low VOC products are increasingly favoured and now have the same performance characteristics of older products.

Polyvinyl Acetate: Typically used for close fitting joints in timber, laminate floors and panels.

Coverage: How thick and how far can the adhesive be spread.

Tackifier: An adhesive for carpet designed to increase the tackiness – or the tack range – of an adhesive.

Application Method: Different adhesives may be applied by roller, trowel or spray.

Water-based Adhesive: Many different types of adhesives now use water as their carrier to avoid odours and flammability issues which are common with chemical solvents.

Strength: Including how quickly the adhesive will “grab” the floor covering and its strength when fully cured.

W NE

Underfloor Heating: A lot of modern adhesives are suitable for use with underfloor heating but

this criteria must be checked where appropriate.

Subfloor: What surface will the adhesive stick to most effectively including concrete, sand cement screeds, levelling compounds, plywood and chipboard. While there are multi-purpose adhesives, specialist products will be better suited to certain surfaces. The porosity of the floor is a key determinant of the type of adhesive to be used and its performance during installation.

Special Performance: Certain adhesives are more suitable for damp, humid or high temperature environments.

Air Quality and the Environment: The old wisdom that the more it smells, the better it sticks is no longer acceptable to modern consumers and solvent-based products are increasingly replaced by water-based adhesives.

STYCCOBOND F73PLUS HEAVY DUTYONE PART FLOORING ADHESIVE • No mixing, no waste, easy to use • Fibre-reinforced with high bond strength

• Suitable for internal and external areas • Fast setting - traffic from 90 minutes • Weld from 2 hours

Let F73 Plus take the strain in the most demanding environments Trust the yellow bucket

F. Ball and Co. Ltd.

GREAT BRITISH INNOVATION

01538 361 633 • mail@f-ball.co.uk • www.f-ball.co.uk 54

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Flooring factsheet Buying Groups Pick the right one How to decide whether to join a buying group – and which one…

• Evaluate all buying groups as they all work differently • Talk to the main marketing contact and/or a member of the committee

Why join?

Buying groups have been a highly successful feature of the floor retailing scene in the last decade or so, giving independents the extra edge they need to compete effectively with the retail park chains.

More than 1000 retailers are now members of one of the several buying groups which operate in our sector and the numbers are slowly, but steadily growing.

www.flooringone.co.uk Mandy Powell Tel: 0121 683 1426 mandy.powell@flooringone.co.uk

• Get a list of members and call up two or three for a ‘real-world’ view

• Establish your territorial exclusivity – where’s the next nearest member of each buying group

• Ensure you understand the financial arrangements, any fees that would relate to your membership, how the bills are paid and whether your fees are refundable if it doesn’t work out. Ask the buying group for a consultation to estimate your potential savings

While the benefits of bulk buying power are self-evident, the resistance to the buying group concept among nonmembers appears to be centred on fears of surrendering some control to a committee – and most particularly compromising long-established relationships and negotiated terms with current suppliers.

• Review all the extra benefits and services to see

The bottom line is the bottom line. A retailer selling across a broad range of products is likely to improve margins within a buying group – but you don’t need a leap of faith to join up. Ask the buying groups for answers...

flexibility to run your business the way you want

www.greendalecarpets.co.uk Contact: Rob Harding Tel: 01432 852000 Fax: 01432 852005 rharding@greendalecarpets.co.uk

what you would actually use

• Check out the product ranges offered including the own-label options and the UK/European mix

• Ensure you understand any rules that may limit your

Metro Group www.carpet1st.co.uk Contact: Jill Coward Tel: 01204 393539 jillcoward@carpet1st.co.uk

Key benefits Increase margins • Group purchases to get beneficial rates • Rebates • Exclusive higher-margin products • Special promotions ne of the key reasons to join a buying group is to O benefit from the discounts they negotiate as a bulk buyer from manufacturers. The way discounts and rebates are passed on to members varies between groups so make sure it’s absolutely clear how this will be done. You’ll need to work out how this compares with discounts you have already negotiated locally with preferred suppliers.

Access professional services • Business and financial services • IT and internet support • Training and workshops • Professional bodies Some buying groups offer an excellent range of other services which may be valuable to your business.

Financial services include invoice factoring, credit, loans and insurance. Some of the more sophisticated groups offering marketing packages, software systems to help you run your business operations and customised websites ready to use. Relationships with professional and training organisations can also offer discounts.

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Increase sales

• Best of both worlds’ proposition • Wider ranges and exclusive products • POS, displays and merchandising support

Your customers will like the proposition that you are independent but with the buying power of a group – this gives them (and you) the ‘best of both worlds’ with personal service and competitive pricing. Most groups will also offer you ‘own label’ ranges and support with pointof-sale, merchandising and displays. Central stockholding may also be on offer.

Network with other independents • Members-only exhibitions with preferred manufacturers • Regular meetings and supplier presentations • Regional workshops • Helpline A lot of retailers enjoy the buying group environment of being independent but not alone out there on the High Street. Groups hold regular meetings and some have their own trade shows, regional meetings and workshops to help you develop your business. The network gives you someone to call when you need advice on, for example, an unusual installation, a technical consumer complaint, legal issue or business dilemma.

www.smg-group.co.uk Contact: Mike Reed Tel: 0118 932 3832 info@smg-group.co.uk

Associated Carpet Group www.acgcarpets.com Contact: Richard Moore Tel: 01942 825520 richard@acgcarpets.com

www.beautifulflooring.co.uk Contact: Carl Harris Tel: 01892 549050 charris31@sky.com

55

Flooring factsheet Carpet trouble-shooter

• shedding • pulled loops

Fading on Wool

Carpets made from wool can and do fade in use. The degree of fade can vary depending on the colour chosen and the local conditions to which the carpet is subjected.

Fading can be caused by exposure to ultra violet light which is found in daylight, but is accelerated when sunlight shines directly onto the carpet. This has the effect of lightening or “Bleaching” the colour just as exposure to sunlight will lighten human hair. Wool is after all animal hair.

Protection should be given to carpets exposed to such conditions just as you would protect other furniture or fabrics.

A complaint on fading would be considered justified if it failed to meet the required shade standard when tested to the British Standard BS1006 (1990).

Soiling

Soiling is usually the result of some local condition to which the carpet has been subjected to, or maintenance, or lack of maintenance programme. There is nothing we as manufacturers can do to prevent soiling in use. There are several types of soiling which are quite common: Spillages - Liquids such as soft drinks, cordials or any drink which contains sugar, particularly hot drinks, is likely to leave a stain. In such instances, professional help should be sought.

Colour matching Carpets are produced in batches - known as creels - and usually each batch produces between 500m2 - 3000m2 in a single width, depending on the creel size. Whilst the recipe used by the dyer remains constant, and is followed to the letter, in each separate production the colour reproduction will vary from batch to batch.

However production is matched back to the original or master sample to ensure that the colour remains ‘within a commercial tolerance’.

This process if not an exact science and a commercial tolerance is subjective but nevertheless is usually the professional judgement of the head dyer based on his/her experience.

Shampoo - if incorrectly applied, can leave sticky soap residues in the fibres which can result in the soiling reappearing quite rapidly.

Dust - which is carried on draughts can soil carpets in various ways, apart from the obvious soiled edges, at gaping skirting boards for instance, dark lines appearing on surface might suggest airborne dust vacuum-drawn through poorly fitted floorboards. Sometimes the shape of floorboards can be seen quite clearly. Air borne dust sometimes shows itself as spots on the carpet, this is due to the air carried on a draught under the carpet escaping through minute holes both in the underlay and the carpet, leaving dust deposited on the pile much like a filter action. In such installations, the use of a lining paper is essential as a preventative measure.

A greater level of tolerance is required on blended colours (Heathers etc). To ensure perfect colour matching it is advisable that a single width be used in any installation requiring exact colour matching.

It is the responsibility of the retailer to advise the consumer when the carpet is measured of any poorly fitting doors, skirtings, or floorboards and the consumers responsibility to ensure any remedial work to seal draughts, is carried out before the carpet is fitted, if a resulting complaint is to be avoided.

N.B. Carpets which are laid with the pile travelling in different directions, even though they be from the same batch will appear not to match. For further information please check with the manufacturers recommendations.

Static

Sprouting

Occasionally an odd tuft or two can work its way to the surface and stand proud of the rest of the pile. This is probably due to one end of the tuft being longer than the other i.e. J shaped tuft instead of V shaped. Remedial action merely requires that the offending tufts be scissor trimmed level with the rest of the pile. They should never be pulled out.

56

Carpets do not produce static but like other household fabrics and objects have the capacity to store it. Static is caused by the build up of static electricity upon personnel in a dry environment and is discharged when a person makes contact with an object which can conduct electricity (i.e. door handle or filing cabinets, etc).

The static charges will vary in intensity depending upon the individual, air humidity and the contact materials. Static is more usually associated with synthetic materials as they do not retain moisture very well but it can and does occur with wool in very dry room conditions.

Preventative measures include the introduction of moisture into the room or in situ carpet treatment.

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

• sprouting • shading • static • fading • pile reversal • shedding • flattening • soiling

Flattening

Flattening will occur as a result of traffic which eventually flattens the pile particularly in the main areas of use.

All pile fabrics will flatten to greater or lesser degree dependant on the amount of traffic to which it is subjected and the construction (tuft density/pile fibre/height/weight) of the product concerned.

Shading

Shading occurs because the pile of the carpet has become crushed, flattened or brushed in a different direction to the natural lie of the pile whilst in situ. This causes light reflection at differing angles resulting in the creation of light and dark patches on the carpet. This will occur on all pile fabrics but can be more noticeable on plainer carpets because the shadows created by pile pressure will not be disguised by a heavy pattern or design.

Pile Reversal

Like shading, this occurs when the pile or nap of the carpet changes direction and thus reflects light at different angles showing the effects of shading which can become permanent. It is also described as ‘watermarking’. This can happen to every carpet construction be it Axminster, Wilton, Tufted, Hand Woven, Persian, Chinese, Indian or even Coir Matting. Like shading it can be more apparent on plain carpet because heavy patterns can disguise the effects.

It can occur quite quickly after installation. A tremendous amount of research has been carried out over many years by many institutes to determine the cause of this phenomenon but none of it has proved conclusive.

Shedding

All cut pile carpets will lose short fibre, which is created during production when spun yarn is cut for tuft formation.

These fibres fall onto the surface of the pile and appear as ‘fluff’.

The effect varies with yarn type and may be removed without detrimental effect upon the carpet by vacuum cleaning. This excess fibre is only a small fraction of the total fibre contained in the carpet.

Indentations

When a carpet is subjected to a heavy point load, such as under the legs of furniture, it is unreasonable to expect the carpet not to indent. Usually, the longer the load is in place, the longer will be the time for the pile to recover.

In the case of very heavy loads in place for a considerable time, the recovery time can be very considerable.

It must be remembered that it is not only the pile of the carpet that becomes indented. The underlay will also indent and the backing of the carpet may also distort into the indentation in the underlay. Some underlay’s will recover well and some less well depending upon their composition, thickness, density etc. The use of cups below furniture legs can spread the load and the net result is a larger area of less deeply indented carpet.

The ability of a carpet to recover from a heavy static load can be measured in the laboratory, using the test method described in BS 4939 and many manufacturers will have data on this aspect of carpet performance. In this test the carpet is loaded for 24 hours and the degree of recovery is measured after 1 hour and 24 hours. Since there are so many different underlay’s however, it is very rare for the recovery from a heavy static load to be evaluated on carpet and underlay.

There is no commonly known manufacturing process which can cause or cure this phenomenon and therefore it is not a manufacturing fault. For further information please check with individual manufacturers recommendations.

Often normal maintenance (vacuum cleaning with a rotating brush machine) will speed up recovery but in the case of serious indentations the use of an iron and damp cloth or a steam iron together with a blunt darning needle to carefully tease up the pile can be beneficial. Care must be take not to over wet the carpet, of course.

Pulling Loops

Samples

Pulled loops occur only in looped pile carpet where one or more loops in the continuous pile is pulled through the primary backing of the carpet. This is usually due to some local condition, possibly some sharp object which has caught in a loop in situ and has resulted in a pull.

Pulled loops are easily dealt with by trimming the offending end level with the rest of the pile. They should not be left as this could result in further loops being pulled and developing into a ladder.

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

The original carpet tile

The samples held by individual retailers may not be from the same batch as current production and therefore should be used as a guide and not an exact colour match.

Installation

Telephone National Institute of Carpet Fitters (NICF) for further information – 0115 958 3077.

This information is given by responsible manufacturers to help you help your customer to make an informed choice.

57

Flooring factsheet LVT Supplier Directory

If you would like to be included in this section or upgrade your listing, please contact Diane Martin on +44 (0)1482 659396 or email diane@mayvillepublishing.co.uk

Victorian Treasure by Invictus

Van Gogh Classic Oak by Karndean Designflooring

Stones Collection by Brampton Chase

Abingdon SoftStep info@abingdonflooring.co.uk 01274 655 694 www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

Earthwerks saleseurope@earthwerks.com 0800 689 1657 www.earthwerks.eu.com

Kellars sales@kellars.co.uk 0161 443 0970

www.kellars.co.uk

Adoretouch +1.631.843.0900

Forbo Flooring info.flooring.uk@forbo.com 01773 744 121

Leoline info@leoline.co.uk 0800 032 3970

www.leoline.co.uk

Alsapan g.folkes@alsapan.com 03 88 59 29 89 Altro enquiries@altro.com 01462 489 516 Amtico info@amtico.com 0121 745 0800 Aspecta +31 (0) 88 1662500

www.adorefloors.com

www.alsapan.com

www.altro.co.uk

www.amtico.com www.aspectaflooring.com

Avenue Floors info@avenuefloors.co.uk

www.avenuefloors.co.uk Beauflor sales@beauflor.com +32 56 67 66 11

www.beauflor.com

Brampton Chase support@bramptonchase.co.uk 01604 664855 www.bramptonchase.co.uk

www.forbo.com

Furlong enquiries@furlongflooring.com 01772 316155 www.furlongflooring.co.uk Harvey Maria info@harveymaria.com 0330 330 1231

www.harveymaria.com

Lifestyle Floors info@lifestyle-floors.co.uk 01827 831448 www.lifestyle-floors.co.uk Interface interface.uk@interface.com 0800 313 4465 Invictus Info@invictus.co.uk 01422 431100

www.interface.com

www.invictus.co.uk/lvt

IVC – Moduleo + Leoline www.ivcgroup.com Karndean Designflooring 01386 820100

www.karndean.com

Moduleo salesuk@moduleo.com 01332 851500 Polyflor 0161 767 1111 info@polyflor.com

www.moduleo.co.uk

www.polyflor.com

Quick-Step 08448 118 288

www.quick-step.co.uk

Tarkett 01622 854040 communication@tarkett.com

www.tarkett.com

Victoria Design Floors (Distinctive Flooring/Universal Flooring) info@myvictoria.co.uk 01562 749300 www.myvictoria.co.uk Wineo +49 (0) 5237 6090 info@wineo.de

www.en.wineo.de

Westex 01274 861334 www.westexflooring.com info@westexflooring.co.uk

Landscape Parquet by Victoria Design Floors 58

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Flooring factsheet Vinyl Flooring Vinyl is a fast growing sector of the flooring market due to its durability at relatively low cost and huge range of designs available. Sheet vinyl and cushion floor by the roll are popular but the sector is dominated by LVT. In reality, most of the products sold today are “LVP”, Luxury Vinyl Planks, as wood decors are more popular than ceramics and stone but the term LVT is still used to cover the whole non-sheet market.

Benefits

• Huge choice in terms of decors across wood, ceramic, stone and •

geometric designs

I mpressive realism – not just in the design but infinishing techniques that allow for wood knots you can feel, tiles you can grout, etc. See appearance options.

• Excellent performance in durability for high traffic areas, scratch resistance and cleanability. Vinyl also tends to be much more nonslip than natural materials. Some products are water resistant for bathrooms and kitchens.

• Warm and soft to touch compared to ceramic and stone floors - and

Product options

• Dry back – a sheet or tile that needs to be fixed to the sub-floor using an adhesive.

• Self-adhesive – tiles with a peel-off backing paper to stick to the

sub-floor. Some tiles have adhesive overlaps to stick to each other rather than the sub-floor.

• Loose lay vinyl – tiles that simply drop onto the floor and rely on

a high friction backing to keep them in place – they demand a very sound, level sub-floor but are the easiset type of tile to lay or replace.

• Click – tiles that have a mechanical jointing system to attach to one another (like a locked tongue and groove system) and ‘float’ on the sub-floor without being glued down. There are many proprietary versions of the click system which offer fast, clean installation and stability.

a good heat insulator anyhow, and suitable for use with underfloor heating systems.

• Sound reduction – vinyl has neglible impact sound compared

to the tap/click of laminate and transmits less sound and vibration compared to solid floor.

• Considerably cheaper than the ‘real’ thing – both to buy and to fit – and tile/plank approach minimises wastage.

Installation

Installation preparation Vinyl requires a dry, sound, level subfloor as the relative thinness of vinyl and its light reflection performance will quickly reveal imperfections after installation as well as cause potential wear issues.

Exisitng wooden/MDF floors may need a plywood underlay up to 6mm thick and then the joints will need to be skimmed or taped. Non-wood sub-floors will need a self-levelling screed to be laid to ensure a suitable base for the floor. A damp-proof membrane may be required depending on sub-floor moisture levels.

www.bramptonchase.co.uk

Appearance options Vinyl tiles and planks cover a hugh variety of sizes and shapes and can be mix-and-matched to achieve an infinite number of designs. Current fashions include extra wide and long planks for wood through to very small planks for wood. Border effects can be easy to achieve in LVT. Other notable options include: Embossed – this is where the top clear layer of the tile has been embossed to create a realistic texture that matches the style of the stone of wood decor. Registered embossed is the most authentic – the texture matches the design so that, for example, a wood knot or hand-scraped element in the wood design can be felt on the surface of the flooring.

www.invictus.co.uk

www.karndean.com

•

• Grouting and grooving – vinyl tiles can be laid with grouting inlay strips or beads of vinyl for addewd realism – and there are acrylic grouts that can be applied. In wood decors, planks are available with v-grooves or bevelled edges between planks for added realism.

www.myvictoria.co.uk

However, new rigid core products are less flexible and can be laid more easily over existing floors – see Construction.

Top Coating Wear Layer Decor Layer

LVT construction

Top coating – A polyurethane or aluminium oxide coating provides protection against scratches and stains and gives enhances anti-slip.

Wear layer – This is a key layer - determining the performance and resilience of the product. A 0.3mm (12 mil) wear layer is a good for heavy wear areas. Commercial installations need 0.5mm wear layers or above with 0.7mm at the top end. The wear warranties and guarantees carried by products will be based on this thickness.

Decor layer – This is the decor itself - in essence it is a paper- or filmbased photographic inkjet print. (A few LVT floors have the image printed directly to the surface of the floor but this implies less image definition and different wear characteristics.)

PVC Middle Layer(s) Fibre Glass Layer(s) PVC Base Layer

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

PVC and fibre glass layers – The construction ‘sandwich’ can vary between products but a combination of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) layers for strength and flexibility and fibre glass layers for structural stability may be used. Any click-system profile will be incorporated into these layers. Products often use a combination of recycled vinyl which is cheaper and virgin PVC which lasts longer and is more stable.

Rigid core LVT has a solid, less flexible PVC layer with maximum stability which means it can be laid over exisiting, less even flooring without showing imperfections and therefore avoiding wear problems.

Base (or backing) layer – The final high density PVC layer varies according to the installation requirement and is designed for taking adhesive or as an ‘underlay’ for loose-lay and click installations.

59

Flooring factsheet from Interfloor Best Practice Guide Fitting the Right Underlay Selecting the right underlay is not always easy. There are a lot to choose from and there are many factors to consider such as comfort, durability, suitability with underfloor heating, noise reduction, warmth and more.

Interfloor has been advocating the use of underlay with new floorcoverings since the 1940s, pioneering its “British method” worldwide and developing its market-leading brands Duralay and Tredaire to supply hundreds of customers in over 70 countries.

Here they offer advice on the key considerations for selecting the best underlay …

Our Underlay Range

Sustainability Re-use and recycling are key considerations for determining a flooring product’s green credentials.

Interfloor’s crumb rubber and PU foam underlays contain approximately 80%-90% recycled content. The crumb rubber is made from recycled car tyres and some 3 million are recycled every year to make our underlay.

We launched FSC® certified carpet gripper in 2011 and produced the first EC1 and EC2 flooring adhesives in 2008.

Impact sound With more people opting for hard floorcoverings there are major benefits to using a specialist underlay; not least, the reduction in sound impact.

Interfloor’s Duralay was the first brand to develop special noise reduction underlays for wood and laminate floors. Independent tests prove our sponge rubber Timbermate underlays, with their superior weight and density, reduce acoustic noise levels by up to 30 per cent.

Underfloor heating It’s important to make sure that the effect of underfloor heating is not reduced by the underlay. Choose a specialist underlay for use with underfloor heating and check its thermal insulation value, making sure the thermal resistance of the total installation doesn’t exceed 0.15m2 K/W. Interfloor’s high tog underlays, including Duralay Heatflow and Tredaire King and Defender, help keep rooms warm and cosy.

Quality standards With greater emphasis being placed on building products’ performance, it’s important that those used in residential and commercial environments conform to British and European quality standards.

Interfloor’s underlays and accessories are compliant with the relevant quality and safety standards, including BS 5808: 1991 / EN14499 : 2015.

They also hold the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) Green Label Plus accreditation, meaning our products conform to the CRI’s high standards for indoor air quality and low VOC emissions.

Interfloor manufactures Tredaire and Duralay, leading brands underlay market, that are recognized by customers as brands of quality, and with over 70 years of expertise, they are trusted by users throughout the world.

60

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Flooring factsheet Underlay In a tight market for margins, underlay for carpet and hard flooring offers retailers one of the best opportunities to add value to every sale – with good profitability, trade-up potential once benefits are understood and high customer satisfaction levels.

www.interfloor.com

The Carpet Foundation and its Consumer Code of Practice approved by the Trading Standards Institute (TSI) recommend that new carpet underlay is bought with every new carpet.

Many consumers are now aware of the benefits of underlay but more needs to be done to provide information about the different types available and their suitability for different areas of the home.

www.floorwise.co.uk

Setting up in-store demonstrations so customers can walk on samples with different grades of underlay and feel the difference has shown excellent results. Some manufacturers offer point-of-sale units and foot testers.

www.carpenterunderlay.co.uk

Benefits

Types

Good underlay will...

• Improve underfoot comfort • Increase appearance retention, reducing flattening • Absorb the pressure of foot traffic and reduce wear • Improve thermal insulation and warmth • Increase sound insulation • Smooth out sub-floor imperfections • Last the lifetime of the carpet

PU (polyurethane) foam This is now the market’s most popular underlay and is typically made from recycled foam offcuts. The foam provides excellent comfort and performance levels with lots of thickness options and densities and provides great insulation – and its light weight helps handling.

Poor or old underlay will...

• Feel hard and unwelcoming • Reduce carpet life • Cause wrinkling and premature wear spots • Cause carpet fibres to break down more quickly • Not meet British Standards How thick?

A maximum of 12mm is recommended (working with gripper will be difficult thereafter) but rooms with heavy traffic will need a thinner, denser pad. The combination of thickness and density is all important as a thick underlay with low density may not perform well. Typically, the thicker the underlay, the better quality it will need to be – 11mm is often used for luxury installations with 9mm and 7mm the common domestic thickness.

Sponge rubber

Combination

Crumb

PU foam

Sponge rubber Introduced in the 1950s, this is a more traditionally manufactured underlay available in flat or waffle patterns in a wide range of weights for different applications. It performs well for comfort and has a durable spring retention.

Crumb rubber Flat and dense, crumb rubber is good for heavy footfall – offering maximum protection but a little less comfort (and very good over stair nosings).

www.wilsons-carpet-underlays.co.uk

Laminate underlay There’s still an opportunity to sell underlay with laminate flooring, improving the acoustic performance of the floor and helping the boards float above any imperfections in the sub-floor.

Combination A rubber crumb base with a felt top layer offers a good combination of protection, durability and comfort. It also allows carpet with seaming to bed into the top felt.

www.luxeunderlay.com

Underfloor heating underlay Always ask if there is underfloor heating. Most manufacturers offer specialised products. Underlay and carpet with a combined tog rating of 2.5 can be used – which means the underlay would normally have a tog rating of 1.0.

Felt This traditional (but environmentally friendly) undelay is made from recycled fibres – wool, jute and synthetic – to create a firm, dense pad with excellent thermal insulation.

Still a very popular choice among contractors when stretch fitting woven carpets.

Pre-tackified underlay A self-adhesive single stick underlay in both needlefelt and PU. A removable system for heavy use when comfort is desired.

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

www.underlay.com

www.qaflooringsolutions.com

www.interfloor.com

61

WoolSafe factsheet Caring for carpet the right way The WoolSafe Organisation is the UK’s leading authority for the correct care and maintenance of carpet and offers a range of services empowering retailers to build a reputation for great service and consumers to get the most out of their investment.

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Environmentally aware for superior carpet care www.cleantecinnovation.com THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

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Vacuum cleaners - the choice of cleaning professionals www.sebo.co.uk 63

The Stocklists Wholesale Distribution Directory National

North East

Fells Carpets Leeds 0113 3071900 carl.cummings@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk

Fells Carpets Leeds 0113 3071900 carl.cummings@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk

TCS “The Carpet Specialists” Morecambe 01524 840177 info@tcsthecarpetspecialists.com www.tcsthecarpetspecialists.com

Floorwise (North East)Ltd Birtley - see Floorwise page 66

Tradeco Ltd Sheffield 0114 4000120 sales@tradeco.uk www.tradeco.uk Xylo Wood Flooring London 020 8368 8122 infouk@xyloflooring.com www.xyloflooring.com

North West A&A Carpets Manchester 01204 701188 sales@aandacarpets.co.uk www.aandacarpets.co.uk Choice Flooring Manchester - see Floorwise page 66 Fells Carpets Goole 0113 3071900 carl.cummings@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk Kellars Limited Manchester 0161 443 0970 sales@kellars.co.uk Millbrook Carpets Darwen 01254 703999 millbrookcarpets@live.co.uk Preston Underlay Centre Ltd Preston/Lancashire - see Floorwise page 66

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Kellars Limited Darlington 0161 443 0970 sales@kellars.co.uk Tradeco Ltd Sheffield 0114 4000120 sales@tradeco.uk www.tradeco.uk

Midlands Birch Distribution Sheffield - see Floorwise page 66 Birch Distribution Leeds - see Floorwise page 66 Birch Distribution Hull - see Floorwise page 66 Cornerstone Flooring Doncaster - see Floorwise page 66 Cornerstone Flooring East Midlands and Warwickshire 01159 444711 sales@cornerstoneflooring.co.uk www.cornerstoneflooring.co.uk DMS Flooring Supplies Northampton 0845 643 5601 dmsnorthampton@dmsflooringsupplies.co.uk Floorwise D & J Ltd Southam - see Floorwise page 66 Matty’s Wholesale Carpets Birmingham 01675 433072 sales@mattys.co.uk STS Flooring Distributors Watford 0345 899 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.co.uk

Trade Counter Carpets Leicester 0845 604 3055 tradecountercarpets@gmail.com Woodall Brothers Ltd Shrewsbury - see Floorwise page 66

East Beds Flooring Bedford 01234 341234 sales@bedsflooring.co.uk www.bedsflooring.co.uk Salesmark Ltd St Neots - see Floorwise page 66 STS Flooring Distributors Cambridge Tel: 0345 899 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.co.uk

South West BL Flooring Supplies Bristol - see Floorwise page 66 BL Flooring Supplies Gloucester - see Floorwise page 66 Fitwell Flooring Ltd Redruth - see Floorwise page 66 Fitwell Flooring Ltd Newton Abott - see Floorwise page 66 Flooring Supplies (Wessex) Amesbury 01980 625888 orders@flooringsupplieswessex.co.uk R & M Wholesale Bristol 01179 531222 Tiverton 01884 258266 sales@rmwholesale.co.uk Salesmark West Ltd Amesbury - see Floorwise page 66 Solent Wholesale Carpet West Sussex 01243 774623 sales@solentwholesale.co.uk www.solentwholesale.co.uk see page 20 for details

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Are you a Wholesaler?

If you’re not listed here, please call Diane Martin on 01482 659396

South East Acorn Carpet Accessories Bromley, Kent - see Floorwise page 66 Ashmount Flooring Supplies Tottenham 0208 808 2158 sales@ashmountflooring.co.uk www.ashmountflooringsupplies.co.uk Ballister London 020 8570 1668 london@ballister.co.uk www.ballister.co.uk Ballister Reading 0118 931 3535 reading@ballister.co.uk www.ballister.co.uk Beds Flooring Bedford 01234 341234 sales@bedsflooring.co.uk www.bedsflooring.co.uk Clifford Floors Strood 01634 285900 sales@clifford.uk.com Culpeck Strood 01634 299000 sales@culpeck.uk­­.com Columbia Flooring Middlesex 020 8443 3322 sales@columbiaflooring.co.uk www.columbiaflooring.co.uk see page 12 for details DMS Flooring Supplies Hemel Hempstead 0845 643 5344 dmshemel@dmsflooringsupplies.co.uk DMS Flooring Supplies Milton Keynes 0845 643 5320 dmslaser@dmsflooringsupplies.co.uk Flooring Storage UK Potters Bar 01707 245999 sales@flooringstorage.com www.flooringstorage.com

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

Littner Hampton London 020 8520 8474 littnerhampton@aol.com www.littnerhamptoncarpets.co.uk John Palmer Carpets Fareham 01329 221933 sales@johnpalmercarpets.uk.net Potts & Ward, Woodcocks Ltd Brighton 01273 557211 sales@pwwflooring.com www.pwwflooring.com Salesmark Lancing - see Floorwise page 66 Solent Wholesale Carpet West Sussex 01243 774623 sales@solentwholesale.co.uk www.solentwholesale.co.uk - see page 20 STS Flooring Distributors Basildon 0345 899 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.co.uk STS Flooring Distributors Orpington/Croydon 0345 899 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.co.uk Trade Carpet London Wimbledon 0208 247 3891 sales@tradecarpet.com www.tradecarpet.com

Scotland Flanagan Flooring Distributors Glasgow Business Park Baillieston Tel: 0141 773 1122 sales@flanagan-flooring.com www.flanagan-flooring.com Kellars Limited Glasgow 0141 647 7685 sales@kellars.co.uk MCD Scotland Uddingston Glasgow 01698 808000 mcdscotland@mcd.co.uk www.mcdscotland.co.uk Neil Smith Ltd Glasgow - see Floorwise page 66

Ireland Flanagan Flooring Distributors Belfast & Saintfield Co. Down Northern Ireland Tel: 028 9751 0932 sales@flanagan-flooring.com www.flanagan-flooring.com Flanagan Flooring Distributors Willow Business Park Dublin Tel: (01) 429 7800 sales@flanagan-flooring.com www.flanagan-flooring.com Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Dublin - see Floorwise page 66

Wales Matty’s Wholesale Carpets Birmingham 01675 433072 sales@mattys.co.uk

Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Belfast - see Floorwise page 66 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Limerick - see Floorwise page 66 TCS “The Carpet Specialists” Co. Louth 00353 429 351 351 info@tcsthecarpetspecialists.com www.tcsthecarpetspecialists.com

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wiseup to floorwise quality&value guaranteed

gripper

underlay

stair nosings

profiles

tools

adhesives + screeds

national distributor network

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Floorwise Group Ltd. Floorwise House, 22 High Street, Kegworth, Derby, DE74 2DA, UK Tel: +44 (0)1509 673974 Fax: +44 (0)1509 674841

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16 Salesmark West Ltd Amesbury, Wiltshire Tel: 01980 880933 mail@salesmark-west.co.uk 17 Acorn Carpet Accessories Bromley, Kent Tel: 020 8462 0422 Fax: 020 8462 0927 sales@acorncarpetsacc.co.uk 18 Salesmark Lancing, West Sussex Tel: 01903 750522 Fax: 01903 851111 sales@salesmark-floorwise.co.uk 19 Fitwell Flooring Ltd Newton Abbot, Devon Tel: 01626 835935 sales@fitwell.co.uk 20 Fitwell Flooring Ltd Redruth, Cornwall Tel: 01209 214344 1 sales@fitwell.co.uk

ad

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

THEâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;STOCKLISTS December 2020

StocklistsClassified The

FOR SALE

SITUATIONS VACANT

RESIDENTIAL SALES EXECUTIVES – 2 VACANCIES

Super Plus The Rug Tamer! Keeps Rugs In Their Place COMBINATION UNDERLAYS NEEDLEFELT UNDERLAYS For orders and further information, please ring P&R Ratcliffe (Underlays) Ltd. Burnley, Lancashire BB10 3BH Tel: 01282 421026, Fax: 01282 412321 www.foxirugtamer.co.uk

Ulster Carpets is one of the world’s largest and most progressive carpet manufacturers, servicing global retail and contract markets. Due to retirement we have 2 vacancies within our Residential Sales team.

The successful applicants will have responsibility for developing sales through our Independent retail accounts covering the following areas: 1) Lancashire, Cumbria, Dumfries & Galloway, Halifax & Huddersfield 2) West & South Yorkshire, North Derbyshire, North Lincolnshire, Humberside We offer a competitive salary, company car, medical cover, contributory pension scheme and profit related pay, along with good development and progression opportunities.

To apply send your tailored CV and a covering letter detailing which position you are interested in and how you meet the following criteria: 1) S ales experience ‘on the road’ as a manufacturer’s representative (ideally a minimum of 2 years); 2) T he ability to achieve sales targets, provide details of results and achievements;

3) T he motivation and enthusiasm to grow and increase sales in the territory.

Applications should be emailed by Monday 4 January 2021 at 12 noon to recruit@ulstercarpets.com, or by post to The Monitoring Officer, Ulster Carpets, Castleisland Factory, Portadown, Co Armagh, BT62 1EE. To speak with a member of our team telephone 028 38334433.

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer

In an independent survey which asked 450 retailers which of the nine trade titles they actually read, our magazine came top of the pile.

Thank you!

THE STOCKLISTS December 2020

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