The Stocklists - May 2012

Stocklists The

7 May 2012

with

FlooringNews

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

We’re about to lift the curtain on the season’s hottest premiere!

On May 1, we unveil the new Satisfaction range.

Our best-selling saxony gets better still!

Make sure you are one of the first to know about the new Satisfaction range..

See pages 24-25 for the contact details of your local representative.

The

Stocklists

FIRST FOR FLOORING NEWS AND DATA

Advertisers

FlooringFactsheets

Monthly ‘Stocklisters’ shown in BOLD Page No

Contact No

ABINGDON

—

01274 655662

—

AFS

19

020 8805 8620

Sept 2011

ASSOCIATED WEAVERS

—

01422 431100

—

AXIOM

63

0161 681 1371

—

BONDWORTH

20

01562 745000

June 2011

Index

Price List Date

Adhesives Expert advice from F Ball

BGNFS

49

—

—

Buying Groups

BRITISH WOOL

60

01274 688 666

—

Choosing the right organisation for you

BROCKWAY

21

01562 828200

Mar 2010

CARPETS LTD.

BRONTË CARPENTER CLARITAS COLUMBIA

FLOORING

CORMAR F.BALL FITA FLOORING

ONE

22

01282 862736

—

BC

01457 861141

—

—

0121 428 5615

—

23

0208 443 3322

—

—

01204 881234

—

4

01538 361633

—

61

01159 506836

— —

55

021 683 1426

18

01509 673974

—

24,25

01772 696787

Nov 2010

—

01827 831430

—

INTERFLOOR

57

01706 213131

—

39

0800 0323970

—

FLOORWISE FURLONG

FLOORING

GEORGIAN

IVC GROUP

KINGSMEAD

53

01827 831427

—

LANO

43

00800 5266 5266

—

MANX

59

01827 831 434

—

MASTER METRO

WEAVERS

GROUP

MODULEO

26,27

01562 754382

—

9

01204 393539

—

Our line-up of the leading players

All about stains, spots and shading

The starter guide for picking a pile

—

— —

Underlay

NICF

63

0115 958 3077

—

Understanding underlay types and selection

NOVOSTRAT

44

00353 61 339287

—

RACKHAMS

29

020 85319225

—

TAT

47

—

—

41

01675 433074

—

SOLENT WHOLESALE CARPET

30

01243 774623

May/Jun 2012

STS FLOORING DISTRIBUTORS

31

0845 341000

—

SENSA

TAT

CARPET

TELENZO THE T

47

—

—

32

01422 374417

— —

National & regional guide to distributors featuring Floorwise distributors

FLOORING SHOW

56

01423 779967

61

0121 585 7600

—

Wool Fibre Page

33

0845 644 9090

—

A checklist of natural fibre characteristics

HAMMER

page 5

page 10

Wholesaler Distribution Directory

& E DISPLAY GROUP

WESTON

pages 12-13

Carpet Types

01480 479830

pages 14-15

Carpet Trouble-shooter

36,37

CARPET

pages 8-9

Carpet Company Directory

28,45

MOHAWK

page 4

pages 16-18 page 18

page 11

Classified advertising...........................................................................page 66,67 carpets/rugs/tiles woods/laminates/smooths fibres underlay accessories/services/organisations wholesalers/distributors adhesives

Woolsafe: the carpet care guide How to protect and clean wool carpets

pages 6-7

UK manufactured Carpet Cutting Machines

WWW.CARPETCUTTINGMACHINES.CO.UK 2

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

ISSUE 446

7 MAY 2012

Published by Mayville Publishing Co Ltd., 219 West Ella Road, West Ella, Hull HU10 7SD Tel: 01482 659396 Fax: 01482 659397 www.thestocklists.com Publication Director: David Spragg Founded by Roy Spragg in 1973. ISSN 2046-7338 Sales Director: Diane Martin. diane@mayvillepublishing.co.uk Š Mayville Publishing Co. Ltd. 2012. Every care is taken in compiling this magazine, but the proprietors assume no responsibility in the effects arising therefrom.

FlooringNews starts on page 35 Showtime in Solihull Buying Groups open up page 50-54 Flooring One showcase page 55

Ample samples?

Retailers have their say on the all-important sampling services pages 62

Cormar classics Earl Grey with brown sugar? page 42

Train to gain Dennis Flower looks at growth in skill centres page 46

Soft stones Limestone luxury page 44

Contract can be fun Snakes alive in museum page 65

Going for gold Harrogate plans smart new future as it celebrates 50 years page 56

Over 60 leading brands To apply online visit: www.bgnfs.co.uk

at the

Wednesday 16 May 8.30am - 5.30pm Cranmore Avenue, Shirley, Solihull, W Midlands, B90 4LF

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

3

Flooring Factsheet Adhesives

4

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

Flooring factsheet Carpet types TUFTED

WOVEN

With advances in manufacturing technology, 95% of all carpet produced today is tufted. It takes about an hour to make a roll of carpet that might take eight hours to weave. To make tufted carpet, hundreds of yarn-threaded needles are pushed through the primary backing fabric to form loops or tufts, which may be left as is or cut.

A heavy adhesive coating is applied to hold the tufts in place and a secondary backing is usually glued on for strength and stability.

A wide variety of styles and textures can then be created using various techniques.

Woven carpet may be in a tiny minority of today’s production but still produces some of the finest carpets which are used for prestigious installations.

Axminster • The pile of the carpet is inserted into the backing as it is woven and cut to length, creating U-shaped tufts to give a velvety surface. The process locks in the fibre to create a carpet of high durability and performance retention as well as a luxury feel.

The process allows for intricate designs and colours to be used – although modern trends mean that the traditional patterned axminster has given way to current fashion trends for plain carpets.

LOOP PILE Berber • Berber carpets look like and are named after a handmade, bulky wool carpet made by the Berber tribes of North Africa and Asia.

The loops are made from thick or bulky yarns of wool, nylon, polypropylene or a blend of these fibres to give a cushioned effect underfoot. These carpets are available in an assortment of colours and may be flecked and can be either level loop or multilevel loop.

Wilton • Wilton woven carpets are produced in a similar way to axminsters – the principal difference being that a continuous fibre is woven all the way through. The carpet can be sheared to create a range of cut and loop textured effects. The result is a high quality carpet of unrivalled durability.

Level loop • When all the loops are of the same height, a highly flexible and durable carpet is created which has a natural, casual appearance even when (commonly) it is made from synthetic fibres.

The tight loop texture tends to hide marks so it’s a good blend between luxury and practicality.

Flat weave • Manufactured in the same way as wilton, flat weave is a loop pile which allows the yarn to be woven across a wider area to created a flatter, more textured effect.

Multi-level loop • The loops vary to two or sometimes three loop heights to create informal, random textures which are very forgiving for marks and stains and therefore very suitable for high traffic areas and busy family rooms.

ends blend together which then further enhances the overall finish.

These carpets tend to ‘shade’ with heavy use. Footprints show easily and the colour looks different from place to place because fibres lying in different directions reflect the light differently. A luxury for occasional rooms.

CUT PILE Freize • Frieze (pronounced free-say) carpets are similar to saxony, but the yarns are more tightly twisted and should always be heat set.

They have a dense, low pile surface which creates a coarse, pebbly texture. Frieze carpets are very durable and hide footprints, dust and dirt, which makes them suitable for heavy traffic areas.

CUT AND LOOP When some of the pile is cut and other left as loop, a variety of surface textures and patterns can be created (in a variety of colours). The multi-level surface is excellent for hiding footprints and stains so cut and loop is good for high traffic areas and general purpose rooms in the home.

Saxony • Saxony textures are made of twisted yarns, which should be heat set. The tips remain very distinct, rather than blending together to form a very elegant finish. Saxony textures show footprints and vacuum marks so are suitable for more occasional rooms in the home.

More textured variations improve the practicality of saxonies.

Shag pile • Shag pile has varied in popularity. The pile is up to 50mm long and the texture is casual and loose but the surface flattens easily and lacks durability.

Twist • The popular twist carpet is the cut-pile standard. The yarn is tightly twisted and often heatset to retain this feature and the result is a versatile, textured finish that is ideal for plain colours.

Velvet • Velvet textures (sometimes called ‘velour’ or ‘plush’) all have a level surface pile of approx 5mm to 10mm height, which is then sheared to give a smooth finish. With very little twist in the yarn, the

BONDED Bonded carpets (sometimes called ‘fibre-bonded’ or ‘fusion bonded’) are created by firing fibres into an adhesive material – the fibres are not stitched into the backing in any way. The technique is principally used for commercial carpet tiles.

Tip Sheared

Level Loop

Velvet/Plush

Frieze

Random Sheared

Multi-Level Loop

Twist

Berber

V

Saxony

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

Sha

Shag S

5

Flooring factsheet Carpet care guide from WOOLSAFE Housekeeping Tips for Carpets and Rugs Entrance or walk-off mats The use of entrance mats at all outside entrances to the house is highly recommended, as they will significantly reduce the rate at which the carpet will soil. They should be of adequate size to allow street dirt to be removed from shoe soles and must be cleaned regularly themselves.

Services for Retailers Customer carpet care HELPLINE If you have trouble dealing with customer queries like “How do I get red wine stains out of my carpet?”

Just give them our HELPLINE 01943 850 817 and we’ll give them the correct advice. Simple.

Certified Operator Network For experienced, specialist wool carpet cleaners you can trust visit: www.woolsafe.org/find/aregistered-carpet-cleaner.

WOOLSAFE Registered Inspectors Solve disputes with customers with our independent carpet complaint Investigators. Just visit: www.woolsafe.org/find/a-registered-carpetinspector and call your nearest inspector.

WOOLSAFE Approved Products Have confidence in the cleaning product you recommend, use the WOOLSAFE Approved Products Directory it contains only safe and effective carpet cleaning products. For spot removers visit: www.woolsafe.org/spotremovers Carpet Care Leaflets We offer to help you develop custom carpet care literature and we also offer generic carpet care leaflets designed to be given away with each cut of carpet. Correct carpet maintenance should start from day one.

Web pages and Links We offer to help you develop custom carpet care pages for your website or you can link to our website’s carpet care pages for up-to-date and accurate advice.

Contact us by email, telephone or post to: The WOOLSAFE Organisation 49 Boroughgate, Otley, LS29 8NR Tel: 01943 850817 E-mail: office@woolsafe.org or visit www.woolsafe.org The WOOLSAFE Organisation – promoting quality carpet and rug care since 1991.

Europe – North America - Australia

6

Regular Maintenance Regular cleaning will extend the life of a carpet and maintain its appearance. Vacuum clean regularly and thoroughly, which removes gritty dirt that can damage the fibres.

Deal with spillages as soon as possible, preferably the moment they occur.

Beware of products claiming to be safe on all fibres, including wool. It might be true, but if it does not have the WOOLSAFE Mark, it is not endorsed by most carpet manufacturers!

Never use any detergents such as dishwashing liquids, soaps or other cleaners recommended for general household use. Although they may clean the carpet satisfactorily they will almost certainly cause problems such as rapid re-soiling, colour bleeding or other damage to the pile or backing of the carpet.

Use only WOOLSAFE approved products WOOLSAFE-approved carpet care products have been independently and scientifically tested and are safe and effective for cleaning and maintaining all types of carpets and rugs.

The Green WOOLSAFE Mark identifies those products that not only are the most suitable for wool and other quality carpets, but also have the right environmental characteristics.

Periodic Cleaning When the carpet or rug reaches a stage where it could do with a really good clean, you can either do the job yourself, or you can call in a specialist carpet cleaning company.

If you are considering cleaning the carpet or rug yourself make sure to use only WOOLSAFE approved products. Look for the WOOLSAFE Mark on the bottle or package.

It is best to engage the services of a professional carpet & upholstery cleaning company. To get a really expert job done entrust the work to a WOOLSAFE accredited carpet cleaning company.

These companies are fully trained, have been in business for a considerable length of time, are members of one or more recognised professional trade associations related to the cleaning industry and have a reputation for top quality service. And they use only WOOLSAFE-approved cleaning agents on your wool carpets and rugs!

If you have a problem with a carpet or rug that requires an independent inspector, a network of carpet complaint investigators, trained and registered

by The WOOLSAFE Organisation is available throughout the UK and Ireland.

WOOLSAFE Registered Inspectors have extensive experience in investigating the causes for carpet complaints based on their practical involvement with carpets and rugs over many years.

They are fully qualified to investigate carpet and rug complaints on-site on behalf of carpet manufacturers, retailers, cleaning companies and carpet owners. They can carry out or commission tests where required, and will provide comprehensive reports.

To contact an inspector in your area call 01943 462127, email: inspector@woolsafe.org, or visit: www.woolsafe.org / Private Householder / Registered Inspectors

WOOLSAFE The Retailer's single source solution for carpet care advice and services.

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

maintenance • cleaning • spot removal • protection • inspection

General Rules for Spot Removal

WOOLSAFE Approved Carpet Cleaning Products www.prochem.co.uk

Treatments 1.

Blot with white kitchen roll or paper tissues

2.

Vacuum clean

3.

Cold water

Home of the Legendary Cleaning Product - Carpet Power www.ozkleen.co.uk

• Soak up liquids with white kitchen roll, tissues, toilet roll or clean cloth

4.

Warm water

• Scoop up or scrape off solids

5.

• Try to identify unknown spots prior to treatment – if unsure, use solvent first

WOOLSAFE-approved carpet shampoo solution (diluted)

6.

WOOLSAFE-approved spot remover for water-based stains

7.

WOOLSAFE-approved spot remover for greasy/oily stains

• Always work from the edge of the spot inwards • BLOT, do NOT rub • Use small quantities of spot remover at a time, applied to a cloth, NOT directly to the spot; work into the spot with a small, soft brush or sponge • Take care with applying solvents to bitumen-backed carpet tiles

8.

Absorbent paper or paper tissue and hot iron

9.

Chewing gum remover (solvent or freeze type)

Life inspired cleaning innovations www.bissell.com

10. Nail varnish remover or acetone 11. White spirit or turpentine substitute 12. Surgical spirit (ethyl alcohol or ethanol)

• When using solvents always ensure there is plenty of fresh air ventilation

14. Rub gently with coarse sand paper

• Always thoroughly rinse out water-based spotters with clean water

15. WOOLSAFE-approved disinfectant or deodorizer

• Dry the spot, if possible, with a hair dryer

16. Rust remover

13. Rub with a coin

The Clean Carpet you Expect... the Service you Deserve www.servicemasterclean.co.uk

17. Carpet re-colouring kit (Treatments used by professional carpet cleaners)

More Difficult Spots Spot or stain

Try 1st Try 2nd Try 3rd

Artificially coloured drinks 3

Easy Spots Spot or stain

Try 1st Try 2nd Try 3rd

Bleach

3

17

C/heating radiator fluid

5

6

Coffee

4

6

Blood

5

6

Felt-tip pen

7 or 11 12

Burn/scorch marks

13

14

Furniture polish

7

Glue/adhesive (plastic base)10

Butter

7

5

Candle wax

8

7

Chewing gum

9

Chocolate/cocoa

5

7

Cola

3

5

Cream

7

Egg

5

Floor wax Fruit juice

7 3

Ink (fountain)

3

Ink (ballpoint pen)

12

6

Lipstick

7

6

Milk

4

5

Nail varnish

10

6

Paint (oil)

11

5

Rust

16

Soot

2

Tar (asphalt)

7

Urine (fresh stain) Urine (old stain)

5

Gravy and sauces

5

6

Herbal tea

3

6

Metal polish

5

Mustard

5

6

Oil and grease

7

5

Paint (emulsion)

3

5

Shoe polish

7

5

Tea

3

5

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

3

6

6

Environmentally Aware for Superior Carpet Care www.envirodri.com

16 5

5 11 6

5

5

15

6

5

3

5

15

6

15

Vomit

5

6

Red wine

1

6

15

These may require repeated attempts with stronger spot removers. Some stains you may find impossible to remove completely in which case the assistance of a professional carpet cleaner is required.

Vacuum Cleaners the Choice of Cleaning Professionals www.sebo.co.uk

British Wool makes a Better Carpet... Naturally www.britishwool.org.uk

This information is provided with the support of WOOLSAFE members for the benefit of all carpet retailers and fitters.

7

Flooring factsheet Buying Groups Why join? www.flooringone.co.uk Contact: Glenn Harding Tel: 0121 683 1426 glenn.harding@flooringone.co.uk

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

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.

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.

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...

Metro Group www.carpet1st.co.uk Contact: David Kipping Tel: 01204 393539 dek@carpet1st.co.uk

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

• Associated Carpet Group www.smartercarpets.co.uk Contact: Richard Moore Tel: 01942 825520 rjmoore65@googlemail.com rmoore@smartercarpets.com

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

• Review all the extra benefits and services to see what you would actually use

• Check out the product ranges offered including the www.beautifulflooring.co.uk Contact: Paul Phillips Tel: 01892 549050 paul@atbrm.com

8

Increase margins • Group purchases to get beneficial rates • Rebates • Exclusive higher-margin products • Special promotions One of the key reasons to join a buying group is to 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.

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 point-of-sale, merchandising and displays. Central stockholding may also be on offer.

Access professional services

Pick the right one www.smg-group.co.uk Contact: David Lewis Tel: 0118 932 3832 info@smg-group.co.uk

Key benefits

own-label options and the UK/European mix

• Ensure you understand any rules that may limit your

• Business services • 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.

Network with other independents

• Members-only exhibitions with preferred manufacturers

• Regular meetings • Regional workshops • Supplier presentations • 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.

flexibility to run your business the way you want

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

Flooring factsheet Underlay In a tight market for margins, underlay for carpet and laminate 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 satisfaction levels with customers.

www.floorwise.co.uk

But 50% of carpet is still sold without new underlay!

Retailers should create an assumption that new underlay is always required, the only decision is which type. It’s also a good target-setter for sales staff.

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.

www.numa-online.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

Sponge rubber The market’s most popular underlay is 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.

PU (polyurethane) foam PU foam is a relative newcomer to the market, typically made from recycled foam offcuts. The foam provides excellent comfort and performance levels with lots of thickness options and densities – and its light weight helps handling. The product can be re-cycled again after use.

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).

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-surface.

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.

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

Felt This traditional (but environmentally friendly) underlay 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.

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

www.carpenter.limited.uk

www.interfloor.com

www.interfloor.com

Specialists in pre-tacked underlays, soft fibre boards & Roberts Tools. www.estillon.co.uk

www.underlay.com

10

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

Flooring factsheet Wool fibre THE BEST CARPET WOOL Wool carpets have a historic reputation for quality because as a fibre it is known to withstand pressure and have excellent appearance retention properties. The best wool for carpet production is ‘strong’ wool and this is grown on sheep breeds found in Britain and New Zealand. Most carpets will contain both British Wool and New Zealand Wool because British Wool is more bulky and resilient and offers texture and unique heathery shades to carpet, whilst New Zealand wool is softer and whiter and particularly good for plain, lighter shaded ranges. Combining the two within a blend for carpet yarn gives manufacturers the perfect qualities for carpet.

100% wool or 80/20 – 80/10/10 wool rich Wool has yet to be matched by any man-made fibre; it has superior strength and does not need other fibres to improve its performance. However manufacturers choose to use synthetic fibres within the yarn blend for a number of reasons. These include fibre flexibility, dyeing, heat setting, stain resistance, durability and cost.

These wool rich compositions offer industry standard carpets which will perform well in the home.

THE BENEFITS OF WOOL CARPET Practical Strong and Resilient – Wool carpet will provide superior performance over many years as it can offer unique resilience and long lasting durability. The natural crimp of wool offers valuable ‘bounce-back’ so that pile compression is resisted and the effects of tracking and shading are reduced – maintaining good appearance over many years.

Easy care – Wool is a natural fibre that has an inbuilt resistance to soiling due to its natural oils and its outer surface of microscopic scales and as a result additional anti-soil treatments are not necessary. Simply vacuuming the carpet will keep it looking good and whilst wool initially repels spills, prompt and complete blotting with white paper towels or an absorbent cloth is advised and will address many household spillages.

SAFE

DURABLE

Comfort Soft and Warm – Wool carpet adds luxurious underfoot comfort and warmth to the home and acts as an insulator improving heat retention and energy efficiency.

Peace and Quiet – Wool carpet absorbs sound and cushions the home against echo and room to room noise transfer.

Safety Fire Retardant – Wool is naturally fire resistant, has a slow ignition rate and tests show that it is self extinguishing within seconds. It meets many safety regulations without additional treatments and is favoured in contract locations for this reason.

Fall Friendly – Carpet cushions and so provides a softer floor which protects against serious injury in falls by the very young or the elderly.

Internal Environment Indoor Environment – As a natural ‘smart’ fibre with a complex physical and chemical structure, wool helps to create a balanced atmosphere in the home. It breathes and absorbs humidity in the air, releasing it when the atmosphere becomes dry and helps improve air quality by absorbing airborne toxins in indoor air.

Anti–allergy – The minute scales on the fibre’s surface will hold fine dust until vacuumed which helps to reduce floating particulate in the atmosphere. Wool does not give off harmful emissions or promote the growth of bacteria and wool is not a food source for dust mites.

Eco/Environmental Natural and Sustainable – Grown on sheep, which graze freely, wool is both 100% natural and fully sustainable. As shearing is a necessary part of animal husbandry this means that every year there is a fresh supply of wool available for the carpet manufacturing industry.

Energy Efficient – Wool is energy efficient in the home and also in carpet production.

Biodegradable – Wool fibre is biodegradable in soil and will produce nitrogen, sulphur, carbon dioxide and water which are all plant nutrients.

Environmentally Assessed – Wool is an environmentally responsible fibre that has been measured in terms of its ecological impact. A Life Cycle Analysis study carried out by Leeds University to ISO 14040 standard for British Wool concludes that it compares favourably when measured against man-made fibres.

EASY-CARE

COMFORT

British Wool The Planet Friendly Fibre for Carpet aboutwool.com THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

11

Flooring factsheet Carpet trouble-shooter COLOUR MATCHING

SPROUTING

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’.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

SAMPLES 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.

SHEDDING The original carpet tile

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.

PULLED LOOPS

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

12

• shedding • pulled loops

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.

SHADING

STATIC 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.

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).

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

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

PILE REVERSAL

FLATTENING

(SEE SHADING)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

INSTALLATIONS 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.

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

13

The Stocklists Carpet Company Directory Abingdon Flooring Adam Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W Ww Alternative Flooring Associated Weavers Tw Tu Avena Carpets Ltd Tu Ww Axwoven Carpets Ltd Ax Be Axminster Carpets Ltd Ax Be Tw

01274 655694 01562 829966 01264 335111

Bronte Carpets Ltd 0121 550 5788 01297 32244

Balta Industries NV Tu Tw W Ww

+32 56 62 2211

Beaulieu International Group Be Pr Tu Tw +32 56 67 66 11

Belvedere Carpets

Bizspoke Custom Carpets Be Tw W

020 8800 0740

+32 56 23 54 10 01924 488882

0113 380 5333

14

Cavalier Carpets Ltd Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww

01254 268000

Christy Carpets Tu

Classis Carpets Tu W Ww

019078 308777

01562 745000 0800 505055

01737 830301

Dan-Floor UK W

0844 9151000

Domo International Be Pr Tu Tw W

+32 92 41 4511

Drury Lane Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W

01254 296829

E & WE Carpets W

01562 825952

Edel Telenzo Carpets Ltd Tu Tw W sales@edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk www.edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk Enterprise Weaving Co Be Ww

0870 020 1725

+31 38 4778911

01204 881 234

Ww cummings@btinternet.com www.fellscarpets.co.uk

01977 662211

800 223 6186

Craigie Carpets Be

01294 558400

Creatuft Carpets Tu W

Mohawk’s Cherbourg Check

Fletco Taepper A/S Tu W

0116 284 1455

+32 56 35 4444

020 8944 6220

+45 96 60 3000

Firth Carpets & Flooring Be Pr Tu Tw W Ww

Couristan Carpets Ax Tu W Ww

Creative Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W

01562 745030

Fells Carpets

Fetcham Furnishings Ltd Tw Tu Tw W info@cormarcarpets.co.uk www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

01422 374 417

01675 433066

Cormar Carpets Ltd

BMK

Edel Telenzo’s Bakerloo

01924 262525

+31 383 861 060

020 7823 3040

Brintons Ax Tu Tw W Ww

01282 862 736

Burmatex Tu

Condor Carpets BV Tu

Blenheim Carpets Ax Be Tw W Ww

Bond Worth Ltd Ax

Be Tu Tw W office@brontecarpets.co.uk www.brontecarpets.co.uk

Clarendon Carpets Tw

Belvedere Carpets

BIC Carpets Be Tw W

01562 828200 www.brockway.co.uk

01422 330261

+32 56783250

Betap Tufting BV Tu Tw W

Tw W sales@brockway.co.uk

01422 431100

Bajong Carpets NV Tu Tw W

Tu W sales@belvederecarpets.co.uk www.belvederecarpets.co.uk

Brockway Carpets Ltd

Custom Carpet Company Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww

01484 721529

Furlong Flooring Tw W enquiries@furlongcentral.co.uk www.furlongflooring.co.uk

01772 696 787

Brockway’s Vogue

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

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

Every time you see a web or email address in The Stocklists, you can click straight to it from our online edition at www.thestocklists.com

KEY TO CODES: Be: Bespoke • Pr: Printed • Tu: Tufted • Tw: Twist • W: Wool • Ww: Woven Wilton

Gaskell Wool Rich Tu Tw W

01827 831525

Manx Carpets Tw W

01827 831 434

Tasibel NV Tw

Gaskell Mackay Carpets Ltd Ax Tu Tw W

01429 892525

Master Weaver W Ww

01562 754 382

The Grosvenor Wilton Co W Ww

01562 701456

Georgian Carpets Tu Tw W

01827 831430

Mayfield Carpets Tu Tw W

01706 639 866

The Sultana Carpet Co Ax

01299 822300

The Wilton Carpet Co Ax W Ww

0845 296 8850

Thomas Witter UK Ltd Tu Tw

0870 1128318

Godfrey Hirst (GB) Ltd Tu Halbmond Teppichwerke Be Pr Tu Heckmondwike FB ITC Be Pr Tw John Lanham Watts Carpets Ax Tw Ww John Evans Ltd Ax Tu Tw W Joseph Hamilton & Seaton W Kingsmead Carpets Tu Tw W

0800 526696

Le Tissage d'Arcade Ax Ww Lecaflor Ltd Ax Be Pr Tu Tw W Ww Leigh Spinners Ltd Tw Louis de Poortere W Lusotufo Tu

+31 38 851 8700

+49 037 421 420 01924 410544

0032 51 424 411

01937 588511

0161 368 2563

01827 831400

01827 831 424

Lano NV Ax Pr Tu Tw W Ww marketing@lano.be www.lano.com

MID NL Be

+32 56 65 4300

+32 05685 4747

0800 78 33 712

01942 673232

+32 56 393 386

01388 664101

Mohawk Europe marinagooch@mohawkeurope.com www.mohawkinternational.com Mr Tomkinson Tw Ww

01480 479830 01480 471304

01827 831 450

+32 52 499600

Timzo Tufting Industry BV Tu

+31 38 385 4477

Tisca Tiara Tu Ww

+41 71 791 0111

Trendy Tuft Designs Be Tu Tw W

01274 855080 02838 334433

Ossfloor UK

01675 433031

Ulster Carpets Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww

Penthouse Carpets Tu Tw W

01706 341231

United Carpets & Beds Tw W Ww

Phoenox Textiles Pr Tu

01484 863227

Victoria Carpets Tu Tw W Ww

01562 749300

Pownall Carpets Tw W

0845 6528811

Vorwerk

08700 104484

Westex Carpets Tu

01274 861334

Roger Vanden Berghe.NV Tu Ww

+32 56 73 57 11

Ryalux Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W

0845 652 8811

Sans Frontieres Ltd Be Pr Tu Tw W Ww

0844 5611977

Shaw Home Foundations Tu

01675 433 501

Weston Hammer W Whitestone Weavers Ltd Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww Wilkies Carpets Tw Woodward Grosvenor Ax Tu Tw W Ww

Signature Carpets Be Tu W

01422 845075

TAT Carpet

07976 607657

Tapibel NV Pr Tu Tw

01623 481 221

Bronte’s stand

Wool Classics Tu Ww

01709 732 666

0845 644 9090 01429 892555 0113 307 9955 0800 526696 0207 349 1560

Woven Carpets of Kidderminster W 01299 827477

Tollgate stand

Cormar’s Berwick

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

15

Are you a Wholesaler?

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

The Stocklists Wholesale Distribution Directory National Mercado Leeds 0113 3802900 sales@mercado.co.uk www.mercado.co.uk

Fells Carpets Goole 01977 662211 sales@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk

North East Carpet & Flooring Gateshead 0191 482 7373 gateshead@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk Fells Carpets Goole

01977 662211 sales@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk Floorwise (North East) Ltd Birtley - see Floorwise p18 Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customerservices.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 help.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.woodfloorsales.com

North West A&A Carpets Manchester 01204 701188 sales@aandacarpets.co.uk www.aandacarpets.co.uk

D. M. Miller Ltd Manchester 0161 205 9949 dm.miller@btconnect.com www.dmmillerltd.spaces.lives.com Fells Carpets Goole

01977 662211 sales@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk Kellars Ltd Stockport 0161 443 0970 sales@kellars.co.uk Lee Floorstok Ltd Liverpool - see Floorwise p18 Lee Floorstok Ltd Manchester - see Floorwise p18 MCA Floorwise Ltd Morecambe - see Floorwise p18 Mytton Flooring Norwich - see Floorwise p18 Millbrook Carpets Darwen 01254 703999 millbrookcarpets@live.co.uk Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customerservices.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Carpet & Flooring Manchester 0161 786 6800 manchester@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 help.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.woodfloorsales.com

Midlands

East

Carpet & Flooring Birmingham 0121 421 9131 birmingham@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk

Beds Flooring Bedford 01234 341234 sales@bedsflooring.co.uk www.bedsflooring.co.uk

DMS Flooring Supplies Northampton 0845 643 5601 dmsnorthampton@ dmsflooringsupplies.co.uk Floorwise D & J Ltd Southam - see Floorwise p18 J J Wholesale & Distribution Ltd Birmingham 0121 765 4994 jjwholesale@gmx.com RPS Flooring Mansfield Woodhouse - see Floorwise p18 STS Flooring Distributors Watford 08454 342000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com see page 31 for details

Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customerservices.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 help.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.woodfloorsales.com Woodall Brothers Ltd Shrewsbury - see Floorwise p18

Faithfull Floorcovering Suffolk 01473 822341 sales@faithfulls.co.uk www.faithfulls.co.uk STS Flooring Distributors Ltd Cambridge Tel: 01954 781142 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com See page 31 for details Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customerservices.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 help.redditch@ carpetandflooring.co.uk www.woodfloorsales.com

South East Acorn Carpet Accessories Bromley, Kent - see Floorwise p18 AFS Middlesex 020 8805 8620 sales@afsenfield.co.uk See page 19 for details Ashmount Flooring Supplies Ltd Tottenham 0208 808 2158 sales@ashmountflooring.co.uk www.ashmountflooring.co.uk continued overleaf....

16

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

Are you a Wholesaler?

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

The Stocklists Wholesale Distribution Directory Beds Flooring Bedford 01234 341234 sales@bedsflooring.co.uk www.bedsflooring.co.uk

Faithfull Floorcovering Suffolk 01473 822341 sales@faithfulls.co.uk www.faithfulls.co.uk

Carpet & Flooring Bow 020 8525 5691 bow@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk

Kent Flooring Supplies Ltd Chatham 01634 668668 sales@kentflooring.co.uk www.kentflooring.co.uk

Carpet & Flooring Camberley 01276 672100 camberley@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk

Littner Hampton London 020 8520 8474 littnerhampton@aol.com www.littnerhamptoncarpets.co.uk

Clifford Floors Strood 01634 285900 sales@clifford.uk.com

Potts & Ward, Woodcocks Ltd Brighton 01273 557211 pwwflooring@fastnet.co.uk www.pwwflooring.co.uk

Culpeck Strood 01634 299000 sales@culpeck.uk.com Columbia Flooring Middlesex 020 8443 3322 sales@columbiaflooring.co.uk www.columbiaflooring.co.uk See page 23 for details

Rackhams London 020 8531 9225 sales@rackhamsltd.co.uk www.rackhamsltd.co.uk See page 29 for details Salesmark Lancing - see Floorwise p18

Solent Wholesale Carpet West Sussex DMS Flooring Supplies 01243 774623 Hemel Hempstead sales@solentwholesale.co.uk 0845 643 5344 www.solentwholesale.co.uk dmshemel@dmsflooringsupplies.co.uk See page 30 for details DMS Flooring Supplies Milton Keynes 0845 643 5320 dmslaser@dmsflooringsupplies.co.u Faithfulls Service Centre Kent 01322 285001 Faithfulls Service Centre Walthamstow 0208 498 3040 sales.walthamstow@faithfulls.co.uk

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

STS Flooring Distributors Orpington/Croydon 0845 434 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com see page 31 for details Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customerservices.redditch@carpet andflooring.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk

Wessex Flooring Amesbury - see Floorwise p18

C. K. Davie Ltd Aberdeen - see Floorwise p18

Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 help.redditch@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.woodfloorsales.com

C. K. Davie Ltd Dundee - see Floorwise p18

South West Carpet & Flooring Bristol 0117 316 0555 bristol@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk Fitwell Flooring Ltd Redruth - see Floorwise p18 Fitwell Flooring Ltd Newton Abott - see Floorwise p18 Solent Wholesale Carpet West Sussex 01243 774623 sales@solentwholesale.co.uk www.solentwholesale.co.uk See page 30 for details STS Flooring Distributors Thame (Oxford) 01844 213555 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com see page 31 for details Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customerservices.redditch@carpet andflooring.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 help.redditch@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.woodfloorsales.com

Scotland

Headlam Scotland North Lanarkshire 01698 831 000 sales@headlamscotland.co.uk www.headlamscotland.co.uk Neil Smith Ltd Glasgow - see Floorwise p18

Wales Carpet & Flooring Bristol 0117 316 0555 bristol@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk Roma Flooring Neath - see Floorwise p18 Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customerservices.redditch@carpet andflooring.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk Wood Floor Sales Redditch 01527 511888 help.redditch@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.woodfloorsales.com

Ireland Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Dublin - see Floorwise p18 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Belfast - see Floorwise p18 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Limerick - see Floorwise p18

Carpet & Flooring Glasgow 0141 427 8456 glasgow@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk

17

floorwise National Network of Floorwise Distributors Acorn Carpet Accessories 16 Bromley, Kent Tel: 020 8462 0422 Fax: 020 8462 0927

Neil Smith Ltd 3 Glasgow Tel: 0141 552 1141 Fax: 0141 552 0623

C. K. Davie Ltd 1 Aberdeen Tel: 01224 820077 Fax: 01224 822344

Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 4 Belfast Tel: 028 9075 3202 Fax: 028 9075 3901

C. K. Davie Ltd 2 Dundee Tel: 01382 226533 Fax: 01382 226544 Fitwell Flooring Ltd 20 Redruth, Cornwall Tel: 01209 214344 Fax: 01209 211162

Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 9 Dublin 10 Tel: 00353 (0)1 626 3913 Fax: 00353 (0)1 626 3960 LoCall: 1850 445 746 (ROI)

Fitwell Flooring Ltd 19 Newton Abbot, Devon Tel: 01626 835935 Fax: 01626 834334

Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 10 Limerick Tel: 00353 (0)61 227 100 Fax: 00353 (0)61 227 000 LoCall: 1850 445 745 (ROI)

Floorwise D & J Ltd 13 Southam, Warks Tel: 01926 814922 Fax: 01926 817899

Roma Flooring 15 Neath, West Glamorgan Tel: 01639 633001 Fax: 01639 646116

Floorwise (North East) 5 Ltd Birtley, County Durham Tel: 0191 410 7070 Fax: 0191 410 6116

RPS Flooring 11 Mansfield Woodhouse, Nottinghamshire Tel: 01623 624198 Fax: 01623 620931

Lee Floorstok Ltd 8 Liverpool Tel: 0151 708 7420 Fax: 0151 708 7241

Salesmark 17 Lancing, West Sussex Tel: 01903 750522 Fax: 01903 851111

Lee Floorstok Ltd 7 Manchester Tel: 0161 231 8080 Fax: 0161 231 8787

Wessex Flooring 18 Amesbury, Wiltshire Tel: 01980 625888 Fax: 01980 676969

MCA Floorwise Ltd 6 Morecambe, Lancashire Tel: 01524 33517 Fax: 01524 381852

Woodall Brothers Ltd 12 Shrewsbury, Shropshire Tel: 01743 441584 Fax: 01743 441629

Mytton Flooring 14 Norwich, Norfolk Tel: 01603 624387 Fax: 01603 612888

1 2 3

4 5

6 7 10

8

9

11 12 13

14

15

18 19

16 17

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HEAD OFFICE Floorwise Group Limited, Floorwise House, 22 High Street, Kegworth, Derby DE74 2DA, UK. Tel: 0044 (0)1509 673974 Fax: 0044 (0)1509 674841

Award-Winning Flooring Accessories

GRIPPER

UNDERLAY

ADHESIVES & SCREEDS

PROFILES

www.floorwise.co.uk www.floorwise.co.uk •• www.carpetunderlay.net www.carpetunderlay.net www.signaturewoodfloors.com www.signaturewoodfloors.com •• www.siennawoodfloors.com www.siennawoodfloors.com 18

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

UNDERLAYS

CARPETS NATURAL/LOOPS Pendleton

50/50 Wool Loop Roll Size Full Roll EQ* Description

SAXONY DEVOTION NOBLESQUE SUMPTUOUS SENSATIONAL

30oz PP Saxony 45oz PP Saxony 55oz Saxony 58oz Saxony

80/20 WOOL TWIST NEW KILDARE BELMONT TWIST BELMONT SUPREME

50/50 30oz Twist 80/20 40oz 80/20 50oz

PP TWIST CABARET SALT N PEPPER TRIDENT HEATHERS VIVA TWIST VANTAGE

PP Twist PP Twist PP Twist PP Twist PP Twist

LOOP PILE AND CORD DIVERSITY PINCH FELT PINCH FOAM ROCKY HB ROCKY FB CANBERRA CORD TITAN CORD VARIETY

Loop Pile Needle Punch Cord Needle Punch Loop Pile Cord Loop Pile Cord Velour Gel Back Loop Pile Gel Back Loop Pile

CORMAR STOCKED APOLLO BERWICK 40 BERWICK 50 FOREST HILLS SUPER FOREST HILLS ELITE GLENDALE HOME COUNTIES HOME COUNTIES MALABAR NATURAL BERBER SUPER NATURAL BERBER ELITE NATURAL BERBER DELUXE NEW OAKLANDS NEW OAKLANDS NEW OAKLANDS PRIMO DELIGHT PRIMO PLUS PRIMO ULTRA PRIMO TWEED

Excellon Twist 80/10/10 40 oz Twist 80/10/10 50 oz Twist 50/40/10 32oz Twist 50/40/10 42oz Twist 50/45/5 40oz Twist 42 oz Twist 50 oz Twist 100% Natural 80/10/10 35 oz Twist 80/10/10 45 oz Twist 80/10/10 55 oz Twist 80/10/10 32 oz Twist 80/10/10 42 oz Twist 80/10/10 50 oz Twist Excellon Saxony Excellon Twist Excellon Twist Excellon Twist

CORMAR CARPETS AVEBURY HEATHER CLASSICS 40 HEATHER CLASSICS 50 TOWN AND COUNTRY

3/5 DAYS DELIVERY 100% Pure New Wool 80/15/5 40oz Twist 80/15/5 50oz Twist 80/10/10 60 oz Twist

BRANDED TOP END RUBBER SPONGE RANGE Textured Rubber Underlay ELITE 11 m2 129lb Waffle Rubber Underlay MAJESTIC 11 m2 135lb Waffle Rubber Underlay COLOURS RED 11 m2 135lb 2 Waffle Rubber Underlay WILLOW GREEN 15 m 90lb Waffle Rubber Underlay CRUSADER SUPREME 15 m2 100lb Waffle Rubber Underlay SUPREME LIGHT 11 m2 101lb UNBRANDED TREDAIRE SPONGE RUBBER Rubber Underlay AFS CLASSIC GOLD 15 m2 95 lb Rubber Underlay AFS SUPER GOLD 15 m2 80lb Rubber Underlay AFS STANDARD GOLD 15 m2 60lb WOOD FLOOR UNDERLAYS BOARDWALK (Timbermate) 15 m2 3.75mm COMFORT SILVER 15 m2 2.5mm

23dB Moisture Barrier 18dB PE Foam + Foil

TREDAIRE PU UNDERLAYS SUPER 8 15 m2 SUPER 10 15 m2 BRIO 15 m2 ZEST 15 m2 SOFTWALK 15 m2 DREAMWALK 15 m2 CONTRACT 9 15 m2 SENSATION 15 m2

Tredaire PU Tredaire PU Tredaire PU Tredaire PU Tredaire PU Tredaire PU Contract PU Contract PU

8mm 10mm 8mm 10mm 9 mm 11 mm 9 mm 11 mm

DURALAY CONTRACT UNDERLAYS TREADMORE 11 m2 8.0mm SYSTEM 10 11 m2 10mm DURAFIT 650 15 m2 6.5mm DURAFIT 500 15 m2 5.0mm DEFENDER 15 m2 100lb HEATFLOW CARPET 15 m2 6.0mm HEATFLOW WOOD 15 m2 2.75mm TECHNICS 5 15 m2 5.0mm

Crumb Crumb single stick under 40m2 Double stick crumb Double stick crumb Flat sponge 0.80 TOG 0.75 TOG sponge carpet 0.35 TOG sponge laminate U/L Double stick sponge

FELT UNDERLAYS FELT 28 FELT 42 KENSINGTON DELUXE

Wool/jute felt 8mm Contract wool/jute felt 11mm Felt crumb rubber

15 m2 28oz 15 m2 42oz 11 m2 74oz

AFS Unit 4 Baird Road, Enfield, Middlesex EN1 1SJ Tel: 020 8805 8620 Fax: 020 8805 6840 Email: sales@afsenfield.co.uk

PLUS A VAST RANGE OF ACCESSORIES AND TOOLS FOR CARPETS AND LAMINATES Contact our sales office or your area representative for prices on any of the above ranges.

We also offer a fast service on non stock items. Phone our showroom manager for prices and samples. Our latest price list is dated September 2011.

REP DETAILS: Ashley Best Nick Hart Karl Goult Sales Office Eric Flowerday THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

Tel: 07976 916752 Tel: 07771 967609 Tel: 07957 685428 Tel: 020 8805 8620 Tel: 07826 649376

Surrey, South London Essex, East London North London, West London, North West London, Middlesex, Herts.

Kent, South East London Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Hampshire 19

Townshend T ownshend W Works orks Puxton Lane Kidderminster W orcestershire Worcestershire DY11 D Y11 5DF Sales: 01562 745000 Fax: F ax: 01562 732827 7

Come Back to Colour!

Berkeley Axminster 80% wool / 20% Nylon a available vailable 3.66m & 4.57m 4.57m Range comprises 8 Designs All Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order

Variations Axminster 80% wool / 20% Nylon a available vailable 3.66m Range comprises 12 Designs All Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order

Precious Gems Axminster 80% wool / 20% Nylon a available vailable 3.66m Range comprises 5 Designs 3-3555 Sapphire - Mid May Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order

Wensleydale Axminster 80% wool / 20% Nylon a available vailable 3.66m Range comprises 8 Designs All items stocked Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order

Cornell & Stanford 80% wool / 20% Nylon a available vailable 4.00m 4.00m Range comprises 3 Designs La Lawnswood, wnswood, Wild Wild Beet Beet & Indigo Indigo Storm discontinued Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order

Camargue Axminster 80% wool / 20% Nylon a available vailable 3.66m Range comprises 10 Designs Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order

New Afghan Axminster 80% wool / 20% Nylon a available vailable 3.66m

For each order invoiced from March 1st through to May 31st 2012 we will give you the chance to win up to

£100,000! &Žƌ ŵŽƌĞ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ

telephone Kim or Kirsha now. ůƚĞƌŶĂƟǀĞůLJ ƐƉĞĂŬ

to your local Bond tŽƌƚŚ ƌĞƉƌĞƐĞŶƚĂƟǀĞ

for details.

Range comprises 4 Designs Sul Sultan tan discontinued Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order 20

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

• • • • • • •

40 colours on superb lectern 3 qualities – Diamond, Silver & Gold 80% Wool, 10% Nylon, 10% Polyester 4m and 5m widths 4 stacks of 18” x 9” samples 2 colour swatch books 9 coordinating stripes now available

This fantastic range is available for immediate delivery.

Contact respective Brockway sales personnel for further detail.

C U UK S ALES MANAGER: Steve Glover 07896 871 502 SALES TE AM: Dan Milstead Jon Ormrod Clem Eccles Hogan Enterprises Richard Venn Steve Perks S Simon Stead A Andy Finch Stuart Pollock

07841 565 349

Essex, Suffolk, South Cambridgeshire, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Beds, Hertfordshire, North London 07918 081 782 Lancashire, Cheshire, North Wales, Merseyside, North Staffordshire, North Shropshire, Derbyshire 00 353 86 609 6217 Northern Ireland 00 353 16234520 Republic of Ireland 07968 835 206 Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Devon, Cornwall, Somerset & Avon, West Hampshire, Dorset, Channel Isles 07968 835 205 West Northamptonshire, Warwickshire, MidStaffordshire Wales SouthMidlands, Wales, Leicestershire, Herefordshire, SouthWorcestershire, Shropshire, South South Wales, Leicestershire, Herefordshire, South Shropshire, South Staffordshire Lincolnshire, Notts, Norfolk, North Cambridgeshire 07968 835 204 Yorkshire, North Humberside, Lincolnshire, Notts, Norfolk, North Cambridgeshire 07970 693 752 Sussex, South & South West London, Surrey, Kent, Berkshire, S.E. London 07854 580 658 Scotland, Cumbria, North East England

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

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THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

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 Columbia Flooring plc

Trade Show Rooms Available • Specialist advice and terms available on contract enquiries • TRAFALGAR TRADING ESTATE JEFFREYS ROAD ENFIELD MIDDLESEX EN3 7TY

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

Tel: 0208 443 3322 Fax: 0208 805 2346 Opening Times: Monday - Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am to 12 noon 23

We all try harder. We k Scotland

GEORGE WISELY M: 07967 148665 SCOTTISH SALES DIRECTOR george.wisely@furlongflooring.co.uk

COLIN RICHFORD M: 07970 163372 WEST SCOTLAND colin.richford@furlongflooring.co.uk

North West

ALAN CHEETHAM M: 07966 263571 GREATER MANCHESTER alan.cheetham@furlongflooring.co.uk

BOB CHRISTIE M: 07980 786264 MERSEYSIDE, WIRRAL & N. WALES bob.christie@furlongflooring.co.uk

CRAIG MELLING M: 07970 269730 CUMBRIA, CHESHIRE & FYLDE COAST craig.melling@furlongflooring.co.uk

Wales & South West

BEN THOMAS M: 07794 048809 MID & WEST WALES bthomas@furlongflooring.com

JASON BRIMBLE M: 07794 041266 AVON & GLOUCESTERSHIRE jbrimble@furlongflooring.com

TIM BAILEY M: 07794 048414 S.E. WALES & HEREFORDSHIRE tbailey@furlongflooring.com

STEWART WAITHMAN M: 07794 048413 DEVON & CORNWALL swaithman@furlongflooring.com

Wood Floor Specialist

JOHN POWERS M: 07792 477312 SALES MANAGER BEDS, BERKS, BUCKS, HAMPSHIRE, MIDDLESEX, NORTHANTS, OXON, W&S LONDON, SURREY, DORSET johnpowers@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

RICHARD RICHMAN M: 07791 891044 AREA SALES MANAGER NORFOLK, SUFFOLK, CAMBS, N&E LONDON, ESSEX, KENT, SUSSEX & HERTS richardrichman@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

The Regency range of stain-resistant carpets ticks all the boxes:

24

quality choice availability service price THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

know you have a choice!

CAREFREE Carpets are distributed by

Yorkshire & North East

DES BEST M: 07968 828516 NORTH EAST/EAST COAST des.best@furlongflooring.co.uk

RAY ANDREW M: 07973 719801 EAST LANCS/W.YORKS ray.andrew@furlongflooring.co.uk

REG SYKES M: 07973 403450 SOUTH YORKSHIRE reg.sykes@furlongflooring.co.uk

Midlands

CHRIS ALLCOCK M: 07872 964685 NOTTS, DERBYSHIRE & LINCS chris.allcock@furlongflooring.co.uk

MIKE SHUTT M: 07970 158594 BIRMINGHAM/ STAFFORDSHIRE, SHROPSHIRE mike.shutt@furlongflooring.co.uk

MARTYN REA M: 07968 324598 LEICESTER/WARWICKSHIRE martyn.rea@furlongflooring.co.uk

London

JOHN AKIEN M: 07791 891024 S.W LONDON, SURREY (INS. M25) johnakien@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

IAN COLLACOTT M: 07816 217550 MIDDLESEX, W. LONDON, BERKSHIRE iancollacott@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

DARREN SPENDIFF M: 07791 890861 KENT darrenspendiff@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

RAYMOND SMITH M: 07816 217565 ESSEX raymondsmith@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

DAREN STEDMAN M: 07816 217548 N, N W & E LONDON, HERTFORDSHIRE darenstedman@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

South East

PAUL LOVELL M: 07816 217549 NORFOLK, SUFFOLK & CAMBS paullovell@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

IAN ROBERTSON M: 07816 217563 E & WEST SUSSEX ianrobertson@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

TONY CONWAY M: 07791 891025 BEDS, NORTHANTS, OXON & BUCKS tonyconway@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

Seeing is believing

Central contacts

Customers can buy with confidence when they see the Carefree cleanability in action with the new video units for your existing Regency POS systems. See our range selection in next month’s issue...

London Sales tel: 01322 628707 fax: 01322 698733

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

Preston Sales tel: 01772 696787 fax: 01772 311921

PETER FLETCHER M: 07816 217561 HAMPSHIRE, DORSET & SURREY (OUTSIDE M25) peterfletcher@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

Newport Sales tel: 01633 283959 fax: 01633 275454

Email: enquiries@furlongflooring.co.uk

www.regencycarefree.co.uk 25

Tel: +44 (0) 1562 754382 Fax: +44 (0) 1562 861 074 Sales: sales@masterweaver.co.uk Info: info@masterweaver.co.uk www.masterweaver.co.uk

Introducing the UK’s newest weaver, now open in Kidderminster with high levels of stock for rapid delivery.

Wilton Sandhurst

Modern carpets manufactured using traditional values

Sandhurst Range The Wilton Sandhurst range is woven with 24 beautiful and modern colours. This plain twist is a great choice for both domestic and commercial markets.

• Wilton Hardtwist Cut Pile • 80% New Wool, 20% Nylon, 1458 g/m2 • 4m • Extra Heavy Wear

Contrast Range A cut and loop range weighing in at 47oz comes in 6 modern and exclusive colours. Unique contrast pattern provides this Wilton range with a vibrant and strong presence.

• Wilton Cut & Loop Pile • 100% New Wool, 1594 g/m2 • 4m • Extra Heavy Wear/Heavy Commercial

Honeycomb Range This cut and loop range features in 6 natural and warm colours. Made out of 100% new wool, the bee hive type of texture our Honeycomb range adds additional warmth.

• Wilton Cut &Loop Pile • 100% New Wool, 1187 g/m2 • 4m • Heavy Wear/Medium Commercial

Chequers Range A loop range weighing in at 35 oz and comes in 6 colours with a unique chequers board like pattern.

100% new wool ensures high quality texture feel.

Wilton Contrast

• Wilton Loop Pile • 100% New Wool, 1187 g/m2 • 4m • Extra Heavy Wear

Marble Planet Range This range is made of 80% new wool and 20% nylon and is ideal for commercial and heavy domestic use. It features 8 strong and passionate colours.

• Axminster Cut Pile • 80% New Wool, 20% Nylon, 1255 g/m2 • 3.66m • Very HeavyWear/Medium Commercial

Merlin Range Our Axminster Merlin range features 10 vibrant and light colours and is made out of 80% New Wool and 20% Nylon, ideal for commercial as well as domestic markets.

• Axminster Cut Pile • 80% New Wool, 20% Nylon, 1187 g/m2 • 3.66m • Very HeavyWear/Medium Commercial

Baroque Cameo Range With the 10 strong commercial colours, the medallion pattern in combination with pindots makes this range ideal for ballrooms, function rooms and public areas.

Axminster Contrast

• Axminster Cut Pile • 80% New Wool, 20% Nylon, 1356 g/m2 • 3.66m • Extra Heavy Wear/Heavy Commercial

Baroque Pindot Range The traditional pindot pattern makes this range ideal for hotel rooms and receptions. Weighing in at 40oz our Baroque Pindot range, this Axminster range has 10 strong commercial colours.

• Axminster Cut Pile • 80% New Wool, 20% Nylon, 1356 g/m2 • 3.66m • Extra Heavy Wear/Heavy Commercial

Trellis Range The range features 8 soft and natural colours which makes it extremely pleasant and warm. Made in 80% New Wool and 20% Nylon for the commercial market.

• Axminster Cut Pile • 80% New Wool, 20% Nylon, 1255 g/m2 • 3.66m • Very HeavyWear/Medium Commercial

Tartan Range MasterWeaver AxminsterTartan range features 6 modern and vibrant colours, combining traditional Tartan design with modern and vibrant colours.

• Axminster Cut Pile • 80% New Wool, 20% Nylon, 1255 g/m2 • 3.66m • Very HeavyWear/Medium Commercial

Axminster Marble Planet

MasterWeaver LTD. Stourport Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DYl17QL. England 26

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

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THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

Spring is here! And it will soon be Summer! But when you deal with Rackhams, the sun is always shining!

Check out our latest price guide, check out our ‘aces moving places’ and check out our latest new products!

IT’S HOT!!!!’

GRAPHICS / CONTRACT GELS

TWISTS - STAIN RESIST

VINYL / SMOOTH FLOORING

Arena Endurance Scala Sentinel

Balmoral Briar Twist Chislehurst Clyde Desert Twist Deluxe 4&5m Dublin Twist 2011 Easy Heathers Expressions Fairfield Supreme 4&5M Heathertwist Design Heathertwist Supreme 4&5m Helmsley Moorland Twist Pembridge Twist Rhapsody Salt ‘n’ Pepa Somerset Stain-Tex Twist 4&5M Startwist / Startwist Supreme 4&5M

Blackjack Casino Royale Champion Chequers Eclipse Eclipse 2012 - Part I Eclipse 2012 - Part II Mojo Mojo 2012 Puregrip XL Suregrip XL Thunderball

NATURAL EFFECT Ancona Autumn Sunset Cashmere 4&5M Country Treasure 4&5M Challenger Berber Gold Fields Hopscotch 2012 Houndstooth Tweed Ivory Coast 2012 London Life 4&5M Promenade Rustic Treasure San Salvador 4&5M Shetland/Shetland Design 4&5M Woolweave 4&5M

CARPET TILES

TWISTS - WOOL SAXONY / SHAG PILE Chamonix Cleopatra Eminence Half Century New Century Nobility Saxon King Supreme Elegance Tennessee

CORD, NEEDLEPUNCH & ENTRANCE MATTING Bedford Gel Bolero Explorer Hippo Mat Gala Linea Magnum Mat Magnus Mat Scorpio Supacord

Citation Twist Discovery 4&5M Eden Twist 30/40/50 4&5M Iconic Twist 40/50 4&5M Palace Twist 120 40/50/55 4&5m Paramount 30/40 4&5M Rosemount Twist 4&5M Super Sixty 4&5M The Berber Twist Collection 40/50 4&5M Ultimate Textures 4&5M Ultimate Berber Twist 4&5M Ultimate Twist 40/50 4&5M Ultimate Luxury 4&5M

Bedford Cord Capital Plus Heuga 727 Magnesium Neutron Positron Proton Quark

Call now to receive a copy of our latest Spring special price guide!

VELOUR / VELVET Designers Dream We also stock Ball & Young Underlays, Accessories, Entrance Matting and offer a Special Order Service on products from virtually every flooring manufacturer in existence! 48 hour Delivery Service on all Balterio Laminate Ranges.

WILTON Parallel Lines Renaissance Ultimate Wilton Oakland

Stop preSS – ‘It’S our fIneSt hour! the moSt SplendId produCed by brItaIn’S premIer manufaCturer, Styled by the ram, the marketIng guru that even lord Sugar turnS 20 ColourS x 3 pIle weIghtS x 2 wIdthS = 120 brIng It on!! – Stop preSS

Carpet we have ever launChed IS beIng prepared. brItaIn’S top ColourISt, and marketed by ralph to for advICe! 120 optIonS of twISt pIle luxury, optIonS of qualIty!!! SampleS ready for June,

Area Sales Executives Ian Pullinger London N,W, NW & E Postals, Essex & Middx (Within M25) 07881-502506 THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

James White London SW Postals, Surrey (West of A24), Beds, Berks, Bucks, Herts (West of A1) 07881-502508

Paul Henson Essex (Outside M25) Cambs, Suffolk, Herts (East of A1) 07837-295379

Phil Wheeler London SE Postals, Kent, Surrey (East of A24) & Sussex 07881-502507

Anthony Stapleton Sales Director 07881-502505 / 020-8498-2845

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Solent Wholesale Carpet Company Ltd CARPET, FLOORCOVERING & ACCESSORY WHOLESALE DISTRIBUTORS Telephone: 01243 774623 Fax: 01243 533636 E-mail: sales@solentwholesale.co.uk Website: www.solentwholesale.com Zola Park, Barnfield Drive, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 6UX.

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, Sussex E & W, Surrey, South London & Kent. . . . . . . . . . . . John Robson, j.robson@solentwholesale.co.uk, Hants, Wilts, Dorset, Somerset, Gloucs, & I.O.W.. . . . . . . . . . . Adam Ayling, a.ayling@solentwholesale.co.uk, Accessary Sales and IT Specialist (All Areas). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Luke Crooks, luke@solentwholesale.co.uk, VICTORIA Berber Stripe Castillion Celtic Heathers Crown Twist Duchess Elite EasiCare - Full Collection Gaelic Heathers Imperial Velvet Kelso Natural Accents Natural Companions (Sisal, Chenille, Ridge) Regal Twist Rustic Jewels Tudor Twist Coll Tudor Manor LANO Bolero - New Colours Campus X-treme Chiselhurst Heather Twist Design Heather Twist Supreme Pembridge Twist - New Colours Sentinel Startwist Coll Wilton Naturals BALTA Casablanca Colorado Springs Desert Twist Deluxe Fiesta Fusion Happy Days High Flyers Gala Cord-all options in stock Moorland Twist Nobility Rosemount Saxon King Shetland Shepherd Twist Stainsafe Favourite Super Wiltax Techno Twisty LUSOTUFO Celtic Horizon Mandaly Safi Sintra Boucle Tangier Titan & Tital Diagonal Twist Berber Unique Valencia

CORMAR Apollo Berwick 40/50 Home Counties 42/50 Malabar Oaklands 32 Oaklands 42 Oaklands 50 Primo Plus - New Colours West Country BROCKWAY Amore Stripe Collection Avanti Cavendish Craftsman Elite Cresta 40/Cresta 50 Orion/Orion Major Radnor 30/Radnor 40 DOMO Absolute Luxury Auvergne Briar Twist Cabaret Festival Twist Heather Twist Mountain Peaks Legacy Playground Portofino Prima Scorpio

mobile: 07973 406329 mobile: 07973 898453 mobile: 07973 406799 mobile: 07966 664379

BEAULIEU carpets Adventure Twist Athena Dublin Durham Twist Explorer Endurance Fashion/Gallery Grass Collection Heavy Tread Mars Motor Car Pronto Selections Sweet Homes Yucatan vinyls Arte Del Ceramic Celtic Stone - New Colours Chess Comfort Grip Grandioso Jazz Sherwood Oak Studio Sonata Urban laminates Essentials (previously Casa) Cottage IVC Classic Limestone Comfylux Extra Expressions Fantasy Fusion Master Grip Planet Precious Metals Presto Tile Styles Ultimate Oak Ultimate Minerals Victoria

ITC Belgravia Concerto Consul Heritage Collection Kreta Palace

MOHAWK CARPETS Century Collection - Century - Half Century Presidential Collection - Independence - Liberty - Freedom (4&5M) - Splendor

TAPIBEL Cachet Melody Nevada Reeds Sysoltex Homested/Aran/Crofter Toscana

MISCELLANEOUS CAVALIER Country Collection Hamlet Parish and Village LEIGH SPINNERS Atlas Velour THOMAS WITTER Innovations C&H Homestyle LVT - planks and tiles PARAGON Toccarre Carpet Tiles

News Flash...

CLEARANCE SALE : SATURDAY APRIL 21ST

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 May/June 2012.

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THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

DID YOU KNOW? STS Flooring Distributors Ltd stock a large range of carpets and carpet tiles via our 5 depots ORPINGTON • CROYDON • WATFORD • CAMBRIDGE • OXFORD (THAME) 08454 341000 08454 342000

NEXT DAY DELIVERY STS GOLDLINE STOCK CARPETS Abbey Twist 30/40 Aston Twist Bernwood Design Bernwood Twist Bernwood Supreme Bernwood Heather Supreme Blenheim Twist 40 Blenheim Twist 50 Cherwell Cord Chislehurst Classic Berber Twist Fairfield Creation Fairfield Supreme Gladiator Supreme Harrier Felt Harrier Gel Harrier Supreme Gel Heathdale Medicare Multicare Classic New Valley Twist Orinoco II Ravensbury Twist 32/40/50 Scala Serenity Supersava Elite BALTA STOCK CARPETS Gala Cord New Shepherd Twist EDEL TELENZO Hercules Lawrence Lima Puma

LANO STOCK CARPETS Bolero Chislehurst Fairfield Creation Fairfield Supreme Heather Twist Design Heather Twist Supreme Pembridge Twist Sapphire Scala Startwist Startwist Supreme CORMAR STOCK CARPETS Apollo Berwick 40/50 Forest Hills Living Naturals Malabar Textures Natural Berber Twist New Oaklands 32/42/50 Primo Delight Primo Plus Primo Tweeds Primo Ultra Town & Country BEAULIEU INTERNATIONAL Dublin Elite Ranger FIBRE BONDED Ecocord Supacord

CARPET STOCK TILES Ascot Beckenham Cheltenham Clipper II Croydon Croydon Stripe Heuga 727 (Interface) Keston Latour (Gradus) Saturn Series Collection (Interface) STOCK UNDERLAYS Blue Heaven Cirrus Cloud Nine Contract Cloud Nine Super Contract Cosi 8mm & 10mm Cumulus Durafit 500 Durafit 650 Goldtred Collection Heatflow Collection Nimbus Willow Green Roma Silver Lining Tredaire Elite Treadmore

AREA MANAGERS - NORTHERN

REGIONAL MANAGER - NORTHERN

AREA MANAGERS - SOUTHERN

Dave Lowman 07500 847758

Rachel Sherwood 07801 762724

Mirka Mihulcova 07500 847566

North/East London, Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middlesex, Northants, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire

South/West London, W Sussex, Berks, Hants, Surrey

Phaedra Duncan 07738 329714

REGIONAL MANAGER - SOUTHERN

Berkshire, Oxfordshire

Dana Baldock 07801 762725

Steve Osman 07919 128401

Vicky Langley 07962 646847 Surrey, W Sussex, Hants, South/West London

Paul Jeffery 07717 218024 South/East London, Kent, E Sussex

Essex, Cambs, Suffolk, Norfolk

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

31

Tel: 01422 374417 or 01422 371226 Fax: 01422 377452 Email: sales@edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk Edel Telenzo Carpets, 2- 4 Southgate, Elland, West Yorkshire, HX5 0BW.

PUT YOUR MONEY ON OUR STAR PERFORMERS We’re putting the spotlight on two high fliers for this year’s Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show, which takes place at Cranmore Park, Solihull, on 16 May: namely Chelsea and Barbican.

Chelsea is proof, if proof be needed, that beautiful colours, great looks, demonstrable quality and certified durability will always sell, even in tough times (and will keep your feet warm in winter!). This winning number is a luxurious, Brussels Bouclé style low level loop pile in 100% wool 3 ply yarn. It has an Actionbac backing, is available in four and five metre widths, and in rolls or cut lengths. Suitable for heavy domestic or general contract applications, it’s Scotchgarded and fully tested to confirm above par credentials for being insect and rot proof; and light, wet and shampoo fast. It comes in eight irresistible colours of the moment – sea salt, driftwood, ash, graphite, cream, sand, mud and cork.

Barbican is the latest addition to our acclaimed co-ordinated stripes and two-tone options – and really hits the spot for those looking for quality that will give them performance, but at very competitive price points. It’s a 100% wool two-ply multi-level loop pile, also suitable for both heavy domestic and general contract applications. It’s Scotchgarded and vigorously tested for colour fastness, against light, wet and shampoo. It’s also insect and rot proof.

Barbican The range comes in a fabulous new multistripe design and a co-ordinating two-tone plain in six fashionable earthy tones: ashes, cappuccino, smoke (shown) aspen, wheat and parchment. Available in four and five metre widths (four metre only in the stripe).

Look out also for Balmoral – new for 2012 – an exciting addition to our in- house produced synthetic yarn collection, ideal for contract installation It’s a two tone cut pile – 8mm pile height – in 100% polypropylene with a heavy, impervious Gelbac available in 4m width and nine exciting colours: ash, cinnamon, grass, oyster, cappuccino, rose, velvet, iron and coal.

STAR BUY !

Hamilton and Sydney, our popular 100% 3 ply wool multi-level, ribbed loop piles in seven muted pastel shades.

Rolls: £8.75 per sq m Chelsea

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Cut lengths: £10.99 per sq m

New Sydney

OUR SALES TEAM Greater London as far as N. Circular on north side of Thames and as far as M25 on south side, Surrey, Middlesex, Sussex, Kent John A Constable T: 01622 685397 M: 07836 734322 E: john@jcagencies.co.uk Yorkshire & North Lincs John Alsop T: 01904 762471 M: 07860 572220 E: alsopagencies@yahoo.co.uk Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset Brendan Hart M: 07850 130221 E: a.b.hart@btinternet.com Lincs, Leics, Northants, Notts, Derbyshire Jim Osborne M: 07738 642934 E: jim.osborne@sky.com Hampshire, Berkshire, Bucks, Oxfordshire Niall Martin M: 07866 735772 E: niallmartin@msn.com South Wales, Bristol, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire Andrew Jefferies M: 07831 457102 E: adj.agencies@btinternet.com Lancashire, Cumbria & Isle of Man John Rostron M: 07973 733208 E: johnrostron@aol.com East Anglia, Bedfordshire, Cambs, Essex, Herts, Norfolk, Suffolk Jonathan Hart T: 01621 817992 M: 07889 264466 E: jonathanhart66@hotmail.co.uk West Midlands Paul Brewer T: 0121 4277117 M: 07798 745181 E: paulbrewer1@hotmail.co.uk Greater Manchester, Cheshire, North Wales Philip Hambleton T: 01925 740050 M: 07966 397676 E: carpetphil@aol.com North East Rebecca Gibbons M: 07970 491215 E: rebann2@btinternet.com Scotland Tim Tindal T: 01436 671421 M: 07836 705620 E: ttcarpetagencies@aol.com Channel Islands, Isle of Wight John Eastlake T: 01323 896141 M: 07885 398858 E: john_eastlake@hotmail.co.uk Northern Ireland Gary O’Boyle M: 07831 220675 E: goboyle@ntlworld.com

YOUR HEAD OFFICE TEAM CONTACTS Operations Manager: Lesley Inman M: 07703 337989 E: l.inman@edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

Weston Hammer UK 16/17 Byford Court Hadleigh IP7 6RD Tel: +44 (0)845 644 9090 Fax:+44 (0)845 644 9191 info@westonhammer.com www.weston-carpets.co.uk

New stands We are pleased to announce the arrival of two new in-store display stands that hold all of our collections.

If you are interested in having one of these units, please contact your local sales agent or our sales office.

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

Natural Lines Super luxurious 100% Wool loop pile available in 4m and 5m widths.

Tunis A heavy domestic berber loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths.

Queen Tweed A fine heavy domestic berber loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths.

Denver A stylish heavy domestic tonal loop pile in 100% Wool, available in 4m and 5m widths.

Oklahoma A heavy domestic berber loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths.

Supreme Stripe A heavy domestic tonal stripe in 100% Wool loop pile.

Supreme Boucle Our best selling level loop 100% Wool product available in 12 up to the minute colours in both 4m and 5m widths.

Imperial Boucle A heavy domestic loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths.

Las Vegas A chunky luxurious loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths.

Royal Velour A luxurious velour in 80% Wool/20% Nylon in 5m wide.

Sisal Boucle and Sisal Berber Natural fibre textured loop pile ranges in two styles.

The Stone Fibre Collection Our unique flat woven quality in many fashion styles and colours available in 4m and 5m widths.

Orlando A chunky loop quality with a thick latex backing for a luxurious feel.

Bespoke Design carpet from Hammer Carpets You may not have heard of them but Hammer Carpets in Denmark are the worlds largest manufacturer of Colortec bespoke design carpets in the world.

Colortec is a state of the art tufting machine that uses computer controlled technology to manufacture any design in a maximum of 8 colours.

This tried and tested manufacturing method is up to 10 times faster than Axminster and exactly replicates the appearance, unlike a printed design carpet.

If you would like more details of this type of carpet and to find out how competitive and easy to use it can be then please call your Sales Agent or our Sales office who will be happy to help.

OUR UK SALES TEAM Mr Ron Fewery Tel: 07976 244892 London, Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire.

Mr Steve Acton Tel: 07957 836207 Kent, Sussex, Hampshire, Surrey, Dorset.

Mrs Jac Hayman Tel: 07815 785801 Contract Sales East Anglia.

Mr Gary Foster Tel: 07515 283872 East Anglia, Northamptonshire.

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

Mr John Hinchliffe Tel: 07774 990359 North Wales, Cumbria, Manchester, Liverpool.

Mr Derek Boyd Tel: 07940 320708 Scotland.

Mr Lee Palmer Tel: 07774 101640 Channel Islands.

Mr Jonathan Gorman Tel: 07815 121660 Northern Ireland.

Mr Mark Garbett Tel: 07840 664757 Bristol & the West Country.

Mr Steve Fletcher Tel: 07831 818989 Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Tyneside.

Mr Keith Stevens Tel: 07710 160166 Midlands & South Wales.

Please visit our website at www.weston-carpets.co.uk for online cutting requests and more information on our products, or telephone 0845 644 9090 (local rate) to speak to one of our telephone sales team

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5 days.

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nothing.

If you do like it, it will cost you

£390 + £90/year.

Fill out a form for five minutes and we’ll have a good-looking flooring industry website online for you within 5 days*.

Then you can update it, add to it or ignore it for ever!

Flooring stores don’t generally need anything too fancy – most of the time, visitors are just trying to find out your phone number, your opening hours or where they can park! Or they’re just checking if you look professional.

The Floorsites package from The Stocklists offers:

7 ready-made pages of flooring industry content covering the key sectors of carpets, vinyls, laminates, etc.

Instant online editing – if you can type, you can customise these pages yourself anytime to add latest offers and news… or leave them as they are – we put all your contact information in there anyhow.

Choose photos from our library to make your site unique – or upload your own images.

Link to Google Maps – let visitors find you quickly and see where to park

Auto-email form to let customers contact you direct

* The site takes a bit longer to set up if you already have a website or address.

A Floorsite from The Stocklists costs £390 for the set-up and the first year – and £90 per year thereafter (exc. VAT).

Check out what your site would look like at www.thestocklists.com/floorsites or contact David Spragg at davidspragg@thestocklists.com or call 01845 573241.

NO OBLIGATION ‘TEST DRIVE’...

We set up your site free-of-charge for a month. If you don’t like it, you don’t pay. There’s nothing to lose!

34

THE STOCKLISTS May 2012

7 May 2012

FlooringNews Bamboo shoots up The Bamboo Luxe carpet from the sophisticated Ultimo collection by Lano Carpets is the ideal option for those looking for a soft, sumptuous carpet with a subtle silky thread.

Created with comfort and beauty in mind, Bamboo Luxe is an ideal choice for soft, luxurious bedroom and living spaces. The uniformly round appearance of the bamboo fibres within the yarn gives an even look that feels indulgent for the ultimate flooring experience. Available in an array of 18 beautiful colours in the finest neutral colour palette, there is a Bamboo Luxe for everyone.

Birger Karlsson, Lano Carpet’s UK and Ireland Sales Manager, feels that the luxurious aspect of the collection has contributed to its recent success. He explains, “ We have seen a very positive reaction in the market to the Ultimo Collection, and the response to Bamboo Luxe has been excellent. This carpet offers homeowners the chance to furnish their rooms in an innovative yet comfortable and luxurious way.”

The Bamboo used in this collection has been harvested from sustainably managed resources, and gives the carpet the added bonus of natural anti-bacterial properties and humidity regulation.

Available in a four-metre width in a saxony cut pile, these stylish carpets are crafted from a bamboo blend. With a total weight of 2010 g/m2 for durability and a sense of true luxury, Bamboo Luxe also benefits from a comfort backing for heightened underfoot comfort and softness.

T 00800 5266 5266

www.lano.com

A new mode from Mohawk Mohawk is launching a range of carpet tiles focused on delivering the flooring contractor excellent value, versatility and performance.

Using its growing influence within the UK retail flooring sector as a platform for expansion, the world’s largest flooring manufacturer is determined to become recognised as a major force within the commercial sector too.

Howard Lindsay, vice president UK, Ireland and South Africa, comments: “As the world’s largest flooring manufacturer we are backed by a huge portfolio that covers everything from wood and resilient flooring, though we are most known in the UK for carpet. Particularly active within the domestic sector, we are now underlining our continued commitment to the country with the launch of a range of UK-specific contractor focused carpet tiles. Of course, we have established brands such as LEES and Bigelow that are aimed at the specification market, but we understand that contractors require a different approach to product as they face a different set of challenges.”

Palettes have been carefully considered to deliver contractors a versatile colourbank that will work both together and in a broad range of environments, from schools through to small offices and other environments where performance combined with value is key. Featuring the usual hallmarks of quality at this level, the carpet tiles deliver a more stylish take than usual: “While these collections are designed to be purposeful and perform in demanding environments, we have also considered how they will work as a collective, offering contractors an opportunity to mix styles from broken stripes to plains. They are real ‘go to’ products that are on hand no matter what the situation,” continues Howard.

The products will be available nationwide from Mohawk and will come backed with a full support and sampling package.

T 01480 479830

from The Stocklists

www.themohawkgroup.com

May 2012 35

The tide is about to turn in luxury vinyl flooring Style and colour is about to surge through the UK with a fresh new approach to the LVT market from the IVC Group, world-class manufacturers of vinyl floor coverings. ̶ Designed around you and your customer, Moduleo is our latest product innovation that sets new benchmarks in design, luxury and quality of LVT flooring for residential and commercial use. ̶ Manufactured at our purpose-built state of the art eco-facility in Belgium, the Moduleo ranges use patented processes and innovative technology to deliver a product that will inspire the most style-conscious customer and satisfy the requirements of the most demanding specifier. ̶ This revolution brings LVT manufacturing back from the East, with designers and production all in one place, Moduleo can meet the exacting demands of the UK market quickly, efficiently and competitively. ̶ Best of all, Moduleo is here to support your business with an experienced sales team, a UK head office and local stock all designed to make Moduleo your first choice in LVT.

www.moduleo.co.uk

News

Quietly confident Brand new for 2012, the Axento range of acoustic contract flooring from Itec Contract Floors brings stunning style into commercial environments looking to reduce noise.

Available in two striking collections, Axento Timber and Axento Design, the range consists of a wide assortment of durable and sound resistant vinyl flooring options. With 18db impact sound insulation and made for heavy commercial acoustic use (Class 33), Axento is ideal for high-traffic areas in a large range of locations including in the hospitality, corporate, retail and education sectors.

The 16 all-new patterns in the Axento Design range offer a contrasting selection of bright acid and neutral colours with crosshatch patterns that will bring vibrancy and character to a range of commercial locations. Axento Timber consists of a variety of realistic wood-effect options in a range of colours that have been specifically designed to complement other existing Itec commercial finishes for a more optimised product selection.

T 00 32 5665 3211

www.ivcgroup.com

TacFast will get you hooked Based around a core technology that utilises detachable attachment and with a successful track record across the Atlantic, TacFast brings a new revolution in installation.

Potentially eliminating many of the problems associated with floorcovering installations in time-sensitive commercial locations, the TacFast system eradicates the need for adhering the floorcovering to the substrate, relying upon a mechanical hook and loop fastening system instead. Facilitating fast installation and easy replacement, TacFast is already being adopted by international retailers that require minimal shutdown time during refurbishment.

TacFast Systems International has over 300 building related patents to its name and now has created a system that delivers rapid installation across a wide variety of substrates for wood and laminate, carpet tiles, ceramics, natural stone and LVT and without using conventional VOC emitting adhesives. Using a unique interlocking disc and plate system, TacFast delivers a stable substrate above the subfloor, eliminating the need for complex subfloor preparation or moisture barriers. The hook and loop system then allows rapid installation of the appropriate floorcovering, creating a stable surface that can be quickly lifted for access or replacement.

T 01527 919891

www.tacfast.com

Rated rustic Loved by homeowners and installers alike, Solid European White Fumed Oak planks from the Galleria range by UK Flooring Direct have achieved a consistently high average customer rating on www.ukflooringdirect.co.uk and offer consumers a high quality finish that is great value for money.

Beautifully crafted from solid European oak, these planks are 20mm thick and 150mm wide, and come in random lengths of between 600 and 2000mm to achieve that soughtafter country feel. Complete with grain markings, mineral streaks, knots and natural colour variations, these planks are the ideal choice for a truly rustic look. Other imperfections are filled and finished to a high standard for peace of mind and to optimise aesthetics.

Prefinished with a durable HPPC oil for a fuss-free installation and a deep, warm appearance, this enhances and protects the natural grain and structure of the wood.

Remarkable value for money and of an extremely high quality, once installed the planks should not need to be sanded for up to 20 years under a normal maintenance plan and in a domestic environment.

“Our range of hardwood flooring enables homeowners and fitters to choose solid, natural wood at a very competitive price point,” says Josh Ashby, UK Flooring Direct’s Product Manager. “The popularity of the Solid European White Fumed Oak planks also demonstrates that the consumer market is still demanding natural, authentic designs with a rustic edge and investing in floors that have longevity and a timeless appeal.”

T 0845 2875623 38 May 2012

www.flooringdirect.co.uk

FlooringNews

News

Fit for a king Brand new for 2012, the Crown Wilton collection from Crown Floors comprises of a mix of four striking contemporary and traditional exclusive designs ideal for those seeking great value stylish patterned carpet.

Taking inspiration from traditional influences and recent trends, the range’s highlights include a timeless mini Fleur de Lys pattern and a striped design with a contemporary feel that draws upon the popular trend for using linear stripes. The four different designs in the collection are exclusive to Crown Floors and are available in a total of 12 different colourways for maximum choice, ensuring that this range will appeal to a wide audience.

“The Crown Wilton collection offers consumers a diverse range of patterns in different colours and reflects Crown Floors’ commitment to provide a mix of designs that work well in all areas of the home,” explains James Caldwell, Sales Coordinator for Crown Floors. “This collection allows customers to choose from contemporary or more traditional designs without compromising on style, and makes patterned carpet more accessible to the everyday consumer due to the great value of our products.”

The carpets are available in four metre width and are woven on wilton looms to provide clarity of design. Stylish and practical, the carpets are created from 100% EasyClean polypropylene for peace of mind with a 10-year stain warranty for extra protection.

T 0800 0773301

www.crownfloors.co.uk

Lotta bottle luxury XtraSoft from the EverStrand fibre collection by Mohawk demonstrates that, in actual fact, rigid plastic bottles can be transformed into super-soft, long-lasting and luxurious carpet fibre.

Transforming hard plastic bottles into indulgent carpet is no mean feat. Mohawk’s unique EverStrand technology sees the carpet giant recycling over 3 billion discarded plastic bottles each year – the equivalent of 14,000 per second. This commitment to sustainability and innovation is what places Mohawk in the minds of environmentally engaged consumers.

Not only kind to the environment but also exceptionally soft, XtraSoft offers the ultimate in comfort. This luxurious feel arises from the use of premium soft P.E.T fibre, and the absence of harsh chemicals prevents rigid strands. Outstandingly durable as well as comfortable, the carpet cushions easily underfoot and bounces back quickly after impact. Easy to clean with built-in stain resistance (using Scotchguard Protector Advanced Repel Technology), XtraSoft also comes with a lifetime texture warranty. Available in a wide range of colours to suit all interiors schemes, carpets made with XtraSoft are clearly an ideal choice.

“EverStrand XtraSoft proves our commitment to offering customers high-quality, luxurious carpet with reduced detriment to the environment,” explains Howard Lindsay, Vice President of the UK, Ireland and South Africa. “XtraSoft feels luxurious and indulgent underfoot and is sure to appeal to the growing number of shoppers who are concerned about the environment but also do not want to compromise on comfort. The excellent value and extraordinary soft feel of XtraSoft will also ensure that this carpet has widespread appeal.”

T 01480 479830

www.themohawkgroup.com

Domotex shows its colours DOMOTEX

Now boasting a new look and feel, Domotex in Hannover, Germany aims to further consolidate its status as the most important international trade fair for the carpet and floor covering sector. “The new purple brand color and the new-look logo give Domotex a modern and dynamic corporate image”, says Susanne Klaproth, Project Manager of Domotex at Deutsche Messe. “The new look will help us strengthen the international reputation already enjoyed

by Domotex as a center of competence and a global platform as it emphasizes the role of design and creativity within the global carpet and floor covering industry. Domotex offers an abundance of product colors, materials and designs. The focus on design, which is so important to this sector, is now also reflected in our branding.”

The new color is a strong, vibrant purple and appears in the logo as well as in all advertising and the Domotex website, and evokes a modern and stylish image. Klaproth argues: “Purple symbolizes creativity and personality, is uplifting, inspiring and confident. In other words, it is the perfect choice of color for a trade fair known world-wide as the most important event for carpets and floor coverings.” The new Domotex logo – a purple square with the Domotex name in white letters – is sophisticated and modern. In this sense it is the ideal expression of a trade event which year after year sees some 1,400 exhibitors from every corner of the world showcasing their latest products.` Domotex will also be launching a new campaign in 2012. The core idea behind the campaign is to show how floors can create an ambience using specific room settings.

This is realized in an advertisement showing an open-plan loft in which the floor is the dominant design element, providing the room with a creative touch and an extremely individual flair. The new brand look and logo has been developed by the Hamburg-based agency BBS (Bartel, Brömmel, Struck).

40 May 2012

FlooringNews

Natural Prestige

Urban Loft

Traditional Vintage

For superb laminate, it makes perfect Sensa.

Sensa laminate is such a pushover to choose and install – it could help you really click with customers. Our unique Sensaloc system simply pushes down, then clicks and locks. It comes in 9 distinct ranges and 70 superb styles to offer everything from a 7mm Action option with a 10-year warranty, to a 10mm 4-sided bevel luxury option with a 20-year warranty. There really is no easier way to suit every room or pocket.

To find out more about the extensive Sensa range call 01675 433074.

Sensaloc simply pushes down, then clicks and locks.

News

Glam flock Pierrot, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen’s latest “noir sur blanc” carpet creation is both dramatic and plush.

This beautiful large scale filigree design captures the essence of old school glamour, yet oozes contemporary style with on-trend colour treatments using tones of inky black with subtle shades of greys and opal whites.

Here’s what Laurence has to say about the latest edition to his eclectic carpet collection

by Brintons: “I’ve always adored the glamorous decorative potential and easy going practicality of patterned carpet, so for me Pierrot is a win win. Inspired by the curvaceous indulgence of 18th century with more than a hint of Aubrey Beardsley I think Pierrot will be equally at home in both traditional and modern interiors.”

Brintons see the proliferation of pewter shine continuing through 2012. Sharp black and whites have evolved, to subtle contrasts of iridescent colour which allows jet and ebony to sit alongside pewter, chrome, platinum and chalk.

Brintons’ plain and patterned carpets work beautifully together, allowing ultimate interior design flexibility.

Laurence has picked some of his favourite plain carpets to go with each of his four designs.

T 0800 505055

www.brintons.net/residential

Success through service

Earl Grey with brown sugar?

Designer Contracts – one of Britain’s largest floorcovering contractors to the new build industry – achieved record sales in 2011.

The rapidly expanding company, which has a national network of 11 regional offices and a showhome design division, saw a 25% increase in turnover to £21.5 million for the twelve months to the end of October 2011 compared to the same period in the previous year.

Peter Kelsey, managing director of Designer Contracts said: “We are delighted with our performance, especially at a time when market conditions remain turbulent, floorcovering manufacturers continue to raise their prices but our customers are unable to accept increases.”

“We put this success down to making our customers our number one priority and ensuring they receive the very best possible service. Also, our national buying power enables us to supply product at fantastic prices and we work with customers on a one-to-one basis through our growing regional network of offices.”

In the past year Designer Contracts has opened a brand–new regional centre in the Thames Valley and has plans to open in Thames Medway shortly. As well as opening new premises, the company has relocated and expanded its Scottish and North East divisions, acquired the contracts division of Cornwall based Premier Carpets and expanded its Head Office. Designer Contracts employs over 150 people.

T 01246 854577

www.designercontracts.com

Leading UK tufted carpet manufacturer, Cormar Carpets has expanded its portfolio of wool twist products with the introduction of Heather Classics.

Made from 80% pure new wool, 15% polypropylene and 5% tuftbound, Heather Classics is 1/8th gauge twist pile, tufted in both 40oz and 50oz weights.

Hardwearing and easy to care for, it is a tailored collection of 12 top-selling neutral heather shades including the most popular beiges, as well as ‘up and coming’ neutrals such as ‘Earl Grey’, and ‘Brown Sugar’. It is available in 4m and 5m and will retail between £25 £28 per sq metre.

David Cormack, marketing director at Cormar Carpets said: “There is still a big market for 80% wool twist. More often it is still the preferred choice to many consumers. Wool has a host of benefits to carpet buyers. It is practical, comfortable, luxurious underfoot and hard wearing.”

“However because price points are such an important consideration for consumers these days, we have engineered Heather Classics to retail at very competitive price levels - so it stacks up not only in terms of durability and looks, but also from a price perspective too.”

All Cormar’s wool twist, wool loop and easy clean polypropylene ranges are produced on site at its Lancashire mills and distributed in the UK and Eire via its own delivery fleet.

T 01204 881234

42 May 2012

www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

FlooringNews

Just Create Create stunning and perfectly matched feature spaces.

'HYHORSHG IURP WKH EHVW VHOOLQJ )DLUรฐ HOG )DLUรฐ HOG Creations from the Easy Care Collection by Lano Carpets combines four stripe designs with eight matching plain carpets. Easy to install thanks to a 25cm stripe repeat DQG ZLWK D \HDU VWDLQ UHVLVWDQFH ZDUUDQW\ )DLUรฐ HOG Creations brings worry-free style to the home.

00800 5266 5266 marketing@lano.com www.lano.com

News

Snakes alive!

Heckmondwike’s popular Supacord carpet has been used to put the fun back into floorcovering in the form of an eye-catching carpet design at a museum in Colchester. Hollytrees Museum now boasts a brightly coloured Snakes and Ladders design which leads visitors round a range of exhibits and demonstrates the tremendous possibilities offered by Heckmondwike’s Supacord fibre bonded carpet.

Goodweave goes Euro GoodWeave, the international, not-for-profit organisation that combats child exploitation in the rug industry, has announced the expansion of its ethical labelling scheme across Europe.

To be coordinated from the UK with a country office in Germany, the announcement reflects the growing concern in the West about the exploitation of children in the third world and increasing interest amongst designers and consumers for more ethically produced, sustainable and environmentally friendly produced products for the home.

Samantha Towle, Executive Director of GoodWeave: “GoodWeave has over 250 different companies working with it in 16 different countries, has recently celebrated its tenth anniversary in the UK and receives excellent support for its ethical labelling scheme from the designer rug sector.

“The brief called for a colorful design made from carpet that was readily available, but which could withstand the demanding environment and the high degree of foot traffic," comments Heckmondwike’s Sales Area Manager Jim Hodges.

“The Supacord carpet was recommended and installed for this project

by Four Star Flooring Contracts of Wickford, Essex. They have used Heckmondwike products on many previous projects and so knew that they could specify Supacord with complete confidence, despite the fact that it would be laid in such a high traffic area.”

With a 30-year track record of success to its credit, Heckmondwike’s Supacord carpet delivers outstanding durability and performance. It features a fibre bonded narrow-rib construction which allows it to be cut and laid without the danger of fraying. “This enabled Four Star to hand-cut the Supacord with great precision and create the Snakes and Ladders design for the Museum,” adds Jim Hodges.

The British-made Supacord range has recently been updated with a refreshed and extended range of colourways which allow it to provide the sort of outstanding design flexibility illustrated by this project. A choice of 2m and 4m wide carpets, plus a carpet tile option, further extend the versatility which Supacord can bring to a wide range of school, college, retail and office accommodation projects.

A new Supacord sample card is now available to help architects, designers and contractors in the specification process.

T +44 [0] 1924 406161 www.heckmondwike-fb.co.uk

44 May 2012

Given the international nature of the rug industry and the increasing publicity surrounding the abuse of children in the manufacture of goods for western consumption, the time is right to expand the scheme across Europe”. There are already five European licensees including the German chain store Otto, and GoodWeave is looking to increase this number threefold in the coming year in both the designer and volume rug sectors.

Two new GoodWeave licensees have recently joined the organisation in the UK: Land Rugs, which has launched a collection of Nepalese, hand-knotted rugs featuring the work of Modernist artist Pip Benveniste (19212010) and Naja Utzon Popov, the London based Danish sculptor, textile designer and ceramicist, who promotes her rug collection through Selfridges and Chaplins Furniture in London.

Obituary: Roy McBride Auld aquintances of Roy Mc Bride, who previously served both Grays and Woodward Grosvenor Carpets as their London Sales Manager will be saddened to learn that Roy passed away at Ayr hospital on 29zth March 2012. Always a professional, this Scottish gentleman of the carpet industry shall be fondly remembered by all of the people that Roy had previously served and worked with.

FlooringNews

Flower on Flooring News News Train to gain

A Karndean course can give fitters the edge over competition

The urgent need to address the skills gap is being addressed by dedicated training establishments and industry suppliers alike, but more effort is required, our respondents state.

F. Ball and Co says the lack of formal flooring training schemes has led to inconsistent skills levels in the industry, which can be overcome by investing in on-the-job and HVQ training for floorlayers. The range of courses provided by manufacturers, including F Ball, includes free, practical training sessions throughout the year. Its own courses are held at the company's purpose-designed facility in Staffordshire, with small groups given technical guidance on issues including moisture-testing and selecting the correct floor smoothing underlayments and adhesives.

F. Ball believes that its longstanding commitment to training promotes best practice and reduces the risk of installation failure, avoiding expensive remedial work. It also helps contractors to refresh their skills and keep up-to-date with new products and the latest advances in flooring installation product technology, the company states.

F. Ball's Training Centre aims to improve standards within the industry

The shortage of skilled tradesmen is also highlighted by Karndean, stating the ‘skills gap’ is created by two problems - the minimum wage for apprentices can be derisory and employers, in uncertain times, look for experience rather than young talent when recruiting. Although unable to address the first issue, the company states it helps prospective fitters appear more attractive to potential employers by offering three day training courses at basic and advanced level, run by its renowned technical consultant, Neil Andrew. "It’s all about risk reduction," says Liz Hadfield, Karndean marketing manager. "Explaining you have been on a Karndean fitting course and showing your certificate, whether it is to a customer or potential employer, could give you the edge over the competition."

Polyflor is also providing a range of options to develop and improve skills with a range of floor laying courses. The three and four-day sessions cover all aspects of subfloor preparation, adhesives, fitting, skirting, staircases and specialist tools, while the four-day course allows extra time on participants' specialist areas.

A two-day LVT course is also offered. Delivered by Polyflor’s installation and maintenance specialist, Eddie Pannett, the courses include practical exercises as well as back-up technical theory. The courses include all materials, tools, supporting literature and lunch at the company's purpose-built training school in Whitefield, Manchester. “As the UK’s leading commercial vinyl flooring manufacturer, we are well placed to offer guidance and technical expertise,” says Mr Pannett. “These courses are designed to improve the all-round skills of floor layers with varying levels of experience.”

Established in 2005 in Burton on Trent, the UK Flooring Academy states it has certified more than 700 shops and fitters around the UK, while also delivering in-house training and additionally conducting courses for 14 to 16 year olds in two Kidderminster schools. It is currently assisting the Flooring Guild in the delivery of Government-sponsored apprenticeships. The programme is supported by Construction Skills, City & Guilds and the Construction Awards Alliance. Full funding is available to all prospective and existing staff between the ages of 16 to 18, with substantial funding also available for those aged 19 to 24. continued on page 48

46 May 2012

FlooringNews

Flower on Flooring continued continued from page 46

The UK Flooring Academy has certified over 700 shops and fitters

The UKFA also delivers three, five and seven day courses, based on BSI Standard 5325 ‘The installation of Textile Floor Coverings’, suitable for either beginners or experienced fitters. Working with several national and regional development agencies, UKFA courses are sponsored by a number of flooring manufacturers and distributors.

Mike Blakeley, The Flooring Guild Apprenticeships (FGA) programme director, says colleges and training providers are the logical starting points to address the skills gap, which should include a three-stage process. The first is specialist manufacturer training, such as the courses developed by Altro and Ardex in conjunction with FGA, tailored to new entrants. The second stage is to ensure employers adopt high quality apprenticeships into their business. Numbers of apprentices are now rising, with skills also being transferred to others in the industry.Finally, the industry has to move on from believing NVQs solve all problems, says Mr Blakeley. If the standards of fitting are low but take up of NVQs is high, without training they are practically useless. Future focus should be on employers and suppliers providing high standards of apprenticeship programmes, he says.

The National Carpet Cleaners Association (NCCA) states that it provides impartial training on the complete spectrum of carpet cleaning techniques and equipment currently available within the industry. Its course is aimed at both newcomers and experienced professionals, wishing to extend or update technical skills, or perhaps complementing the training provided by equipment manufacturers. The association also offers a two-day course dedicated to hard floor cleaning, including practical hands-on training and covering the cleaning and care of resilient, wood,

Polyflor offers practical exercises and technical theory

ceramic and natural stone, delivered by Keith Robertson, NCCA director and hard flooring expert.

The WoolSafe Organisation says the milder weather has seen calls about beetle and moth infestations on the rise, so now could be the time for retailers, manufacturers and carpet cleaners to attend its Control and Treatment of Textile Insect Pests course. The oneday course covers a broad syllabus, providing a good understanding of pests and the appropriate method for their removal. Steve Bakker, WoolSafe marketing manager, says: “Carpet technicians are coming across the destruction caused by carpet beetles and moths on an increasingly frequent basis. Thanks to this new course by WoolSafe, members can rid homes and commercial properties of these damaging pests, as well as improve customer service and maximise potential revenue.”

Over the past six years, Floortrain has been providing government-funded training to remove the skills gap within the flooring industry. "We have so far provided City & Guilds accredited qualifications to over 3,000 floorlayers and currently have over 100 flooring apprentices on the programme," says Dominic Ormondroyd, centre manager. "We currently have large amounts of funding available to supply training and accreditation to the flooring industry. Floortrain have been supported in doing this by the flooring industries leading manufacturers such as Amtico, F. Ball and Interfloor as they all feel the need to minimise the skills gap within the industry."

For more information: F. Ball Karndean UK Flooring Academy Polyflor

48 May 2012

T T T T

01538 361633 01386 820130 0845 3081400 0161 7671111

www.f-ball.co.uk www.karndean.co.uk apprentice@flooring-guild.co.uk www.polyflor.com

FlooringNews

from The Stocklists

May 2012 49

SHOWTIME IN SOLIHULL For the first time, a unique event in Solihull this month is rolling out the red carpet to ALL retailers who are members of any of the main buying groups.

The BGNFS - the Buying Groups’ National Flooring show - is an innovative concept launched two years ago which is quickly building on its success.

In previous years, the event has been restricted to certain buying groups but this year the doors will be open to members of any affiliated, established group - subject to prior registration online.

Virtually all the preferred suppliers of the UK buying groups will be on site - more than 60 exhibitors - on Wednesday, May 16.

The venue is Cranmore Park, Solihull - a 2,500 square metre showroom with purpose built restaurants, dedicated catering team, private reception and free on site car parking.

Chris Moffat, Executive Chairman of SMG, said “Attendance is a must for all forward-thinking buying group aligned members.

There is no other exhibition in the UK that allows retailers to see virtually every approved supplier under one roof in a perfect geographically positioned venue.

“I firmly believe that visiting trade shows should be part of every retailer’s ongoing business development and educational programme to enable them to keep up with new trends, products and industry intitiatives. We’ve taken the hassle out of staying ahead,” he said.

The event is organised with the full support of ACG, AIS/Flooring One, BRM, Metro and SMG and members of other affiliated groups will be very welcome providing they register at www.bgnfs.co.uk

The Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show May 16, 2012 Cranmore Park Cranmore Avenue, Shirley, Solihull, West Midlands, B90 4LF www.bgnfs.co.uk

50 May 2012

FlooringNews

Preview: Showtime in Solihull

Interfloor 2012 has started well for Interfloor with confirmation that their leading underlay brands, Tredaire and Duralay, are still the most popular with consumers – and by a long way. The independent survey found that Duralay has the highest awareness with 31%, Tredaire was second with 27%, followed by Cloud 9 at 7% and Carpenter at 5%.

Steve Woodhead, marketing director at Interfloor, commented, “Consumers rely on strong brands because they are a guarantee of quality.

Tredaire and Duralay have an excellent reputation and this enables buying group members to sell them with confidence. Demand continues to be strong for comfortable Tredaire underlays like Dreamwalk, Softwalk and Colours Red; and hard wearing and specialist Duralay products like Treadmore, System 10 and Timbermate Excel.”

T 01706 213131 www.interfloor.co.uk

Mohawk Visitors to BGNFS will be able to witness first-hand two of the most talked about products to hit the UK flooring market in recent years.

On show will be Mohawk’s EverStrand and SmartStrand collections containing high-performing carpet fibres that offer soft, luxurious underfoot comfort combined with eco-friendly credentials. With EverStrand fibres created from recycled plastic bottles and SmartStrand fibre from corn, the portfolio of styles in these collections will be sure to catch the imaginations of retailers and consumers alike.

The most recent addition to the Mohawk Family is the American Legacy collection, a range of super-soft carpets in different styles and designs that will be on display.

Featuring three different qualities, American Design, American Trend and American Style, the American Legacy display will feature carpets made from the latest super-smooth incarnation of EverStrand fibre, EverStrand XtraSoft.

T 01480 479830 www.themohawkgroup.com

Kingsmead At the BGNFS Kingsmead will launch 6 new ranges under the livery of “Everlon Clean Easy”. All ranges will be backed by a lifetime warranty against food and drink stains and carry wear resistance guarantees.

In addition prominence will be given to its now established ranges in “Wolltec” which replicate the look of wool with a lifetime stain warranty.

The 80/20 selection will be flagshipped by Artwork and Artwork Stripe, the hugely successful colour dominated range designed by Joanna Ramsden from Wools of New Zealand.

Kenton Floors Kenton Floors will be taking the opportunity of exhibiting the totally new Vusta Luxury Vinyl Floor display unit which integrates an “On Line” room designer console where customers can upload a photograph of their own room and insert the floor of their choice into it before making the final decision to purchase.

This is an exceptional sales tool for every retailer and Kenton Floors believe this will revolutionise the way in which consumers will want to buy. It also gives added strength to the retailer to retain their customers.

It will be Kingsmead’s first time at this show and they are looking forward to meeting many new faces.

Kenton Floors will also be showing the new range of modular displays which will feature the well known Woodpecker range of wood flooring products

T 01827 831424

T 02920 888 223

from The Stocklists

www.kingsmeadcarpets.co.uk

www.woodpeckerflooring.co.uk May 2012 51

Preview: Showtime in Solihull

Carpet Recycling Retailers can find out about sustainable disposal alternatives for post-consumer and clean installation carpet waste from Carpet Recycling UK - the industry’s association for recycling and reusing carpet - at the 2012 Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show in this month.

With more than 30 specialist recyclers in the UK processing carpet waste for new uses, opportunities for clean installation waste take back schemes are expanding and offer many advantages for retailers, such as improved customer service and reduced waste collections.

“Other benefits include enhancing your environmental credentials as you help to divert carpet and underlay waste from landfill, which will differentiate your business from competitors. As consumers generally want to see their waste carpet put to a better use, this is an added positive selling point,” explained CRUK Co-ordinator Jane Gardner.

New outlets have developed in the past year for bitumen-backed and PVC-backed tiles, while post-manufacture waste and clean installation off cuts can be reprocessed into non-woven products, such as underlay and mattress pads.

Working across the supply chain, CRUK is diverting more of the UK’s annual 400,000 tonnes of carpet waste from landfill. Its target is 25% diversion from landfill by 2015; the rate increased from 10% in 2010 to 16.5% in 2011.

T 0161 440 8325

www.carpetrecyclinguk.com

Carpenter Carpenter, one of the world’s largest producers of underlay, exhibits its comprehensive portfolio of PU underlays at Solihull on May 16.

Since entering the UK market just six years ago, the company has become a significant player in the underlay sector and now offers a range of 10 different products for the domestic and contract markets.

Wools of New Zealand

Light and durable, Carpenter underlays are made from recycled foam which is fully recyclable and can be used for stretch fit or doublestick applications. It is also backed with high performance polyethylene which aids recycling more effectively than paper backing.

Wools of New Zealand will be showcasing their Laneve collection of branded carpets for the environmentally aware consumer.

The company’s latest product is Magic, a new, no-frills 9mm 85kg/m3 density, unbranded line that allows stockists to market the underlay as their own.

T 01457 861141

www.carpenterconsumer.co.uk

There are over a dozen products currently in the collection including – Mariana from Ryalux, a 60oz Saxony in 12 standard colours and available in any custom colour up to 7m; Akaroa, a twist pile from Brockway also available custom coloured and Auckland & Queenstown, loop piles in six colours each from Ulster. Also a stunning range of lifestyle products by Flock Natural Luxury will be showing for the first time.

Made from 100 per cent ethically produced wool, the carpets are the most sustainable and environmentally friendly on the market and the wool used is fully traceable back to identifiable farmers at source.

What is more, the farmers concerned adhere to strict codes of practice covering animal welfare, land management, farming practices, social responsibility and environmental standards, all of which are independently authenticated.

Each carpet sold comes with a unique trace code enabling the consumer to trace its origins back to the farm where the wool was grown.

Wools of New Zealand have targeted an initial distribution of 250 independent retail outlets who will become Premier Partners.

Participating retailers receive an attractive, and innovative, point of sale unit comprising four lecterns that can be arranged as an island or wall unit. Premier Partner membership gives exclusive access to the Laneve Collection; certificates of authenticity for consumers; preferential pricing of Laneve branded products; exclusive promotions and a listing on the Wools of New Zealand ‘where to buy’ website.

T 01943 603888

52 May 2012

www.woolsnz.com

FlooringNews

Stocklists The

Preview: Showtime in Solihull

7 May 2012

BRITAIN’S No. 1 FLOORCOV

with

ERING MAGA ZINE

FlooringNews

FOR THE RETA IL AND CONT RACT MARK ET

We’re about to lift the curtain on the season’s ho ttest premiere!

Regency Carpets As featured on the front cover of this month’s magazine, Regency Carpets has a major initiative to unveil at the BGNFS event and visitors will be amongst the first to see the new Satisfaction range.

Innovative new point-of-sale and a clever new colour combination are promised for a range that is already among the market’s most popular carpets and the best-selling saxony for Regency distributors Furlong Flooring.

“One of the best is getting better still,” says Furlong’s Neil Valentine. “This launch has been eagerly anticipated by our retailers who have had great success with this saxony since we launched it in 2008.

The new approach, alongside all the benefits of our Carefree collection, will ensure it stays as a top choice for consumers.”

T 01772 316155

On May 1, we unv eil the new Sat isfa Our best-sellin g saxony gets bet ction range. ter still!

Make sure you are one of the first to know about the new Satisf action range..

See pages 24-25 for the contact detai ls of your local repre sentative.

www.regencycarefree.co.uk

Vorwerk Visitors to the Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show this May won’t be able to keep their hands off the brand new design-led additions to the Fascination carpet collection from Vorwerk.

On display will be an array of stunning new creations within Vorwerk’s Fascination collection, a range defined by inspirational residential styles that have widespread appeal. Highlights include a retro-inspired wave design in mustard yellow and a bold striped pattern with a modern edge that are sure to excite both retailers and consumers alike.

Also on show will be two new designs that form part of the innovative Scale Living collection that falls under the Fascination umbrella. An exciting, interactive textile concept featuring flexible carpet tiles that have specially coated self-adhesive backing, the tiles can be rearranged time and time again to create unique patterns and styles that adapt to your lifestyle.

Encouraging consumers to engage and play with their carpet, these new additions reflect Vorwerk’s commitment to providing cutting-edge and inventive flooring designs.

Vorwerk’s stand is sure to attract those who appreciate design-focused products, and with interactive displays and a wide variety of brand new products on show, including the striking Selected Rugs collection, it is destined to be a busy day.

T 020 7096 5090 www.vorwerkcarpets.co.uk.

Adam Carpets Adam Carpets will be at the show and kicking off celebrations for Fine Worcester Twist and its 21st Birthday.

On the stand they will be announcing details of a fun promotion for all retailers to help them join in the celebration of one of the most iconic names within the industry. They will also be showing how Fine Worcester Twist and other Adam Carpet ranges differ in manufacture from others within the market.

New style wall units will also be displayed for the first time, along with their new logo and more details on the new website.

T 01562 829966

54 May 2012

www.adamcarpets.com

FlooringNews

F1 event races ahead

Once again Solihull becomes the showcase for members of Flooring One/AIS buying group this month with the event that has become an essential opportunity to see the new season range launches and POS display innovation from 64 key manufacturers and suppliers.

Cranmore Park is the venue – next to the headquarters of the AIS retail buying organisation of which Flooring One is part.

The building has a sophisticated, purpose-built exhibition centre across 30,000 square feet which has attracted great acclaim for its quality environment and professionalism. Flooring One’s long-established event for its own members and suppliers opens there on Tuesday, May 15th.

“Manufacturers have always been strong supporters of this event but this year is going to be absolutely superb,” says Flooring One head Glenn Harding, ”Many suppliers have plans for larger specially built stands, and they are all making a great effort to present their latest products in a highly professional, stimulating and exciting way.”

The list of exhibitors includes all the main industry players such as Abingdon, Amtico, Associated Weavers, Axminster, Brockway, Cormar, Interfloor, Mohawk, Pergo, Regency, Ryalux, Edel Telenzo, Ulster,Victoria and leading UK rug distributors.

from The Stocklists

At the show Flooring One present their ‘own label’ ranges and new initiatives to re-energise their members with the scale and mix of the full collection and marketing available to them. “Last year we had a lot of success with adding colour back into ranges,” says Glenn. “Colour continues to be a key theme with many introductions into our ‘Core collection’ and many others recoloured and re-launched. Spectrum mentioned in last year’s article has proved an excellent seller and this year we are proud to debut a heavier 55oz version Oakdale Elite”.

In January of this year Cranmore Park opened up a fantastic second showroom ‘The Diamond Suite’ situated on the ground floor with an additional 5,000 sq feet lifting the number of manufacturers that can exhibit. This and a revised layout to improve foot flow in the original ‘Platinum Suite’ is another step forward in giving our members the best ever trade show!

“Manufacturers have always well supported this event but this year is going to be absolutely superb,” says Flooring One head Glenn Harding (above).

Flooring One Show is on Tuesday, May 15th (members only).

There will be a full report in next month’s The Stocklists.

May 2012 55

News feature

Harrogate - 50 years young ‘Former glory’ with a focus on the future, say organisers The plans for Harrogate are hotting up with more than 100 exhibitors getting set for the September show and a host of new ideas that aim to re-invigorate the event into a showcase for the industry 50 years since the original 1962 opening in the Yorkshire spa town.

“Launched in 1962 as the Northern Floor Coverings Fair, the Harrogate event has proved its durability by outlasting a number of competitors in venues as diverse as Blackpool, Brighton, Earls Court and Birmingham,” said Wendy Adams, the show’s Event Director.

“With a host of new features and developments and backed by a new management team, we intend to make 2012 a very special year,” she said. “The Harrogate show is regarded by many as ‘the AGM of the flooring industry’ and will more than ever this year focus on The 1962 show catalogue, product innovation, business (courtesy David Cormack, opportunities and market trends.

Cormar Carpets) Add to this the attractions of Harrogate in the late summer and you have an unmissable event for your calendars.”

The programme for 2012 has some interesting new highlights: Design Platform A special gallery area is to be designated to display the latest innovations and trends from the more design-led flooring suppliers with input from some of the industry’s creative leaders.

British Pavilion In a year of flag-waving, Harrogate hopes to maximise the involvement of UK manufacturers in the event, there will be a special showcase of the ‘Best of British’ in flooring - a suitably patriotic follow-up to the Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics!

Enhanced Seminar Programme The organisers are aiming to provide a greatly enhanced seminar program, bringing the expertise out of the conference rooms of previous years and onto the floor of the exhibition halls. This will include CPD-qualifying streams relevant to the contract market; plus a retailer stream designed to help store owners maximise the potential of their businesses in tough times.

Free exhibition centre parking For the first time, on-site parking at the exhibition centre itself will be free for exhibitors and visitors.

There will also be more promotion of the attractions of Harrogate town to encourage attendees to make a weekend of their visit following the success of last year’s Sunday opening.

Paul Stott, of the Media Generation Group, who is organising the event with Wendy Adams, has made clear their commitment to the show: “We are investing in the event and are in this for the long term, to build the Harrogate show back to its former glory over the next few years.

“But we’re looking forward, not back - we have been talking extensively to the trade and especially to retailers to establish what is most relevant for the future in these aggressive market conditions.”

The Flooring Show at Harrogate takes place from Sunday, September 2 to Tuesday, September 4.

September 2 - 4, 2012 Register online at: www.theflooringshow.com 56 May 2012

FlooringNews

News

Funky flag waving The Funky Stripes collection by Balta Broadloom gets a style injection with three bright new colour combinations, including a rather apt Union Jack inspired pattern sure to be a hit this summer.

A topical and bright design in red, white and blue, this carpet is vibrant, bold and features stripes of differing thickness for a textured and interesting look. Tying in perfectly with The Queen’s upcoming Diamond Jubilee celebrations and the 2012 London Olympics, it is sure to tap into the mind-set of those consumers who are keen to support their country this year and is ideal for kids rooms and playrooms.

The other new colours include blue and green-based combinations that are just as vivid and exciting.

“The new additions to the Funky Stripes collection add even more colour to an already vibrant collection of designs,” explains Geert Vanden Bossche, Marketing Director, Balta Broadloom. “These fresh new carpets provide consumers with more choice, and we wanted to inject even more fun and creativity into the range. The inclusion of the red, white and blue combination offers retailers the chance to offer a product that is very now and that provides a great focal point that resonates with the current patriotic national conscience.”

The three new colourways replace three existing ones, so there is still a wide choice of 8 different options in the Funky Stripes collection. Created from 100% Stainsafe polypropylene for easy maintenance and peace of mind, Funky Stripes carpets are practical as well as stylish. With a tufted 1/8” cutpile and 28 db of sound insulation, the carpets in the collection are available in 400cm width and are bleach resistant for ultimate durability.

An established collection of carpets in vertical stripes, the brand new additions to Funky Stripes are sure to be a hit with consumers who value both style and functionality.

T +32 56 62 22 11

www.broadloom@baltagroup.com

Regional Wholesalers’ Directory Your local service guide - see pages 16-18

Wholesalers: To list your wholesale business for a nominal monthly charge, telephone 01482 659396 or email diane@mayvillepublishing.co.uk and we’ll send you all the details.

Stocklists The

58 May 2012

FlooringNews

from The Stocklists

May 2012 59

The British Wool column Prince hosts event at Highgrove for interiors sector HRH The Prince of Wales hosted an event at Highgrove for interiors representatives.

A small gathering of the interiors sector was welcomed to Highgrove, the Prince of Wales’ country home at the end of March. Both UK and American representatives met with the Prince to discuss their support of the Campaign for Wool. The group were first given a tour of the famous Highgrove Gardens before being introduced to the Prince on the Terrace.

The Campaign for Wool (CfW) has continued to spread its wings and now has incredible support and activity across the world. Wool Week in the UK – this year to be held between 17th October and 21st October – has offered the industry at manufacturing and retail level an opportunity to fly the Wool flag. This will be mirrored at an international level this year as more countries come on board the CfW. “It really was a tremendous event at Highgrove, a good mix of interiors partners from carpet, rug and cloth sectors plus retail representatives too. The Prince is very proactive in his support of this campaign and our guests genuinely see that it makes a difference having him as a Patron for the wool business,”

Town and Country Collection by Cormar Carpets David Cormack says: “Fit to grace the most modern urban abode or the rustic country retreat is Town & Country, our heavy weight 60oz flagship wool twist collection.

“Made with 80% British wool, 10% nylon and 10% tuftbond, Town & Country contains both plain and heather shades and includes strong fashionable colours such as Plum, Cayenne and Norwegian Grey. It is available in both four and five metre widths. Double tip sheared, it is produced using fine 10th gauge machinery which in conjunction with the 60oz pile weight offers an unbeatable high density, hard wearing carpet.”

British Wool says: “Cormar have produced comfort and quality at an affordable price with this popular Collection. The colourbank is both trend-led and classic neutrals, ensuring that this range remains up to date with interior styles. And of course it offers that stylish, understated backdrop that many consumers want.”

Best of British British carpets continue to offer the very best quality in the world, the heritage story of British made is picking up a lot of interest this year. Matched with British Wool, which is so good at offering long lasting appearance and you have a perfect consumer story in this Jubilee year!

Country House Collection by Ulster Carpets Jeremy Wilson, Ulster’s Residential Sales Director, says: “Ulster Carpets Country House Collection is a sumptuous collection of beautiful woven axminster designs offered in a sophisticated co-ordinating palette of classic colours. This luxurious collection encompasses traditional elegance and is composed of three classic, complementary designs – Melrose, Beaumont and Kazan.

“Including the recently launched Balmoral Red, Turtle Dove, Brindle and Chalk Downs colourways the Country House Beaumont range now comprises of eight stunning plaids. Each of these colourways helps create a sophisticated ontrend statement and a lasting impression in any home.”

British Wool says: “This is a classy, traditional range with great mix and match style; it takes the heritage look and brings it right up to date. Good quality – it is an investment purchase but it will add masses of style and luxury to the home.”

Manufacturers in the UK are very familiar with using blends of different wools to achieve the right look and level of performance.

But British Wool has unique strength and robust resilience on its side, softness though is not sacrificed as it still offers the luxury quality that we all love.

This month we asked Tracy Braziel of Ulster to tell us about their beautiful Country House Collection and David Cormack of Cormar Carpets to talk about their ever popular Town and Country Collection.

60 May 2012

FlooringNews

from The Stocklists

May 2012 61

Survey

Ample samples Manufacturers take note! It’s not often our retailers ask to incur extra charges but on the key issue of sampling, many reckon that a routine fee for sampling would be the best way forward to improve service, increase margins and discriminate against cowboys.

Sampling is so important, we would pay to make it better!

88% say samples are of key importance

Our Flooring Forum survey last month provoked a lively response from retailers around the UK – an indication of the value placed on this often overlooked essential of our business.

42% said sampling services were good

More than 88% of our respondents described sampling as an ‘extremely important’ part of the sales process. “Samples are so precious, the tools of our trade – when they look good, we look good said one Essex retailer.

74% say sampling influences supplier choice

The vast majority of respondents said more than three-quarters of their customers go home with samples and 61% said they let customers take home pattern books very often – 32% said fairly often. The good news is that only 9% said they often didn’t get the books back.

48% want only sampling to be trade only

Overall, 42% our readers said they thought manufacturers offer a good service and 55% said the service was ‘OK’. Cormar was singled out for its good approach and a couple of respondents mentioned AW’s new postal sample service as a good idea that should be adopted more widely.

20% said samples should be bigger

A key shortcoming identified elsewhere was speed – more than half our respondents said samples for new ranges were not received quickly enough – and availability – more than a third complained they don’t get enough sampling for popular ranges.

The Stocklists polled 1020 retailers throughout the UK during February 2012 . Replies and comments are recorded anonymously.

Many thanks to all those who took part.

Those issues are important to manufacturers as a resounding 74% said that sampling was a key influence in deciding which manufacturers to do business with.

“Why, why, why, can't suppliers (especially wholesalers) keep a library of samples?” said a retailer in Northumberland. When a range is new, every rep under the sun drops off samples or swatches. Three months later, we ask if we can get a spare book or sample; not a chance, they're rare as hens teeth!”

Size matters – more than 20% said that samples should be bigger, especially for more expensive ranges, “if a customer is looking to spend £50-£70 a sqm they generally want to see a larger sample with better design and finish than somebody buying a budget plain range,” said a Newcastle retailer.“

And they went on to say:” Why don't we help our hard pressed suppliers out by contributing a regular amount each month? Would we really miss, say £25 a month? If you don't pay, you don't get sampling.”

A more contentious issue is whether manufacturers should send samples direct to the public. 55% said well controlled direct sampling with the retailers own details was good but 39% was happier if samples came to their store first.

This sentinent was, perhaps surprisingly, echoed by many people. A comment from Warwickshire: “If manufacturers and wholesalers ALL started to make a charge for sampling (as the curtain industry), retailers would take more care of sampling, the intrinsic value of the product would increase along with margins, and the garage/van based outfits would reduce in numbers. Currently sampling has no real value in the trade.”

Online sampling services caused more controversy, of course. 48% said they should be trade only compared to 45% who felt the internet service was OK provided the consumer gets details of local retailers. Only 6% were in favour of unlimited public access.

A dissenting voice came from South Wales: “Retailers don’t charge for displaying manufacturers products! There should be no charge for samples – add a few pence to each sq metre if necessary.”

A typical comment, from Lincolnshire in this case, was: “Manufacturers should be aware that as retailers we are not happy they sample direct unless we specifically ask them to do so. We spend a lot of money buying their stands and employing staff to sell their products, so give us the right to sample to the customers not them.”

The availability of samples to all and sundry is a recurring theme: “Manufacturers and wholesalers should not supply fitters who do not have proper trading premises. They should only supply proper retail outlets,” said a response from Doncaster.

And finally a plea from a Scottish retailer: “I think a way to store samples neatly next to stock rolls needs to be considered. Frequently we cut off a long strip when new stock comes in because we haven’t received samples and have to make up our own.”

“Send samples only to proper retailers” “Not happy about direct sampling”

62 May 2012

“Small samples are no good”

“Sampling service varies considerably”

“3 months after a launch, samples are like hen’s teeth!”

FlooringNews

0161 681 1371 Design and manufacture of display units for your brand.

• • • • •

Creative design Outstanding value Exceptional quality Dependable full service Delivery & installation service

Axiom Displays Ltd Mersey Road North, Failsworth, Manchester M35 9LT. UK

from The Stocklists

E. info@axiom-displays.co.uk W. www.axiom-displays.co.uk

May 2012 63

News

Step up to academy The brand new Quick-Step Academy officially opened its doors on the 17th April to flooring fitters from across the country looking to hone their laminate and wood flooring installation skills. The short courses on offer also provide fitters with the unrivalled business benefits of becoming a Quick-Step Master Installer.

Aiming to facilitate the professional development of flooring installers, the academy is one of the largest of its kind in the world. Spanning 6,880 ft2, the Quick-Step Academy offers a variety of dedicated floor training courses delivered by expert staff that provide fitters with official Quick-Step accreditation. Every aspect of floor preparation, installation, finishing and maintenance is covered, giving fitters the chance to enhance and develop their existing skills. A 20m2 sanding area is also available to provide re-finishing and sanding training for engineered and solid wood floors.

The courses on offer include a basic foundation course suitable for beginner flooring installers or those looking to start a new career in flooring, the Master Installer course for highly experienced individuals, a wood sanding and finishing course and an Apprenticeship program. Defined by lively discussion, practical installations in dedicated 12m2 training bays and one-to-one mentoring, the courses will appeal to a wide range of installers at different experience levels.

The courses also offer the business benefits of becoming a Quick-Step Master Installer. Darren Robinson, Training, Learning and Development Manager for the academy explains, “Quick-Step want to create a lasting business partnership with the floor fitters and retailers who come through the academy’s doors and support their businesses in the long-term. Fitters or retailers who complete our courses will be able to offer their customers a free 2 year installation warranty and also have a listing on the ‘find an installer’ section of our website, proving our commitment to our partners.” Other benefits also include an ID card, discount on tools, access to clothing and van stickers as well as POS and marketing support for retailers.

This marks an exciting time for Quick-Step. As Darren Robinson explains further, “The opening of the Quick-Step academy marks a new stage in the training, development and business support of floor fitters from across the country. The academy aims to fulfil the industry’s training and development needs through implementing comprehensive courses that lead to certified accreditation backed by the manufacturer, ultimately allowing consumers to choose Quick-Step endorsed fitters that they know they can trust.” www.quick-step-academy.co.uk

Ultratop training

Safe partner

Mapei have extended their training offer portfolio with the addition of a new course dedicated to the Ultratop System. The one day course covers a comprehensive induction to the cementitious, self-smoothing floor topping which is seeing increased popularity in specification in the UK market.

Further establishing The WoolSafe Organisation’s reputation as the leading source of information on carpet maintenance, the body now has a large number of leading carpet manufacturers who endorse WoolSafe approved methods of carpet care.

Ultratop is a hard wearing yet highly aesthetic flooring system, which can be finished to a multitude of effects and is available in 6 colours. It can also be enhanced with the use of coloured aggregates.

The free of charge course incorporates a balance of theoretical data and practical demonstrations and focuses on the specification of the Ultratop system, substrate preparation prior to installation, the actual application including mixing, pumping and levelling and finishing options.

5 one day courses are planned for 2012 which will be held at Mapei’s stateof-the-art production facility in Halesowen on the 18th April, 3rd May, 5th July, 30th August and 20th September. Lunch, information pack and certificate of attendance is provided along with the opportunity to experience a tour of Mapei’s UK manufacturing site and offices.

T 0121 508 6970

www.uktraining@mapei.co.uk

Carpet suppliers and manufacturers can protect themselves by specifying that only products that have been rigorously tested and approved by The WoolSafe Organisation are suitable for the maintenance of their carpets. The range of companies that recommend cleaning products and services approved by The WoolSafe Organisation in their maintenance advice include Axminster, Adam Carpets, Brinton’s, Couristan, Edel Telenzo, Wools of Cumbria, Brontë Carpets, Ulster, Whitestone Weavers, Calderdale Carpets, Woodward Grosvenor and Tai Ping, proving that WoolSafe is still the preferred partner for a wide variety of carpet manufacturers.

The WoolSafe Organisation prides itself on offering consumers, retailers and suppliers alike certified advice on the care of all kinds of carpets. Providing a large network of accredited carpet cleaning companies and registered carpet inspectors, as well as the testing and accreditation of carpet cleaning and maintenance products, the WoolSafe Seal of Approval is a sought-after mark.

With handy tips and advice also available on www.woolsafe.org, the organisation is committed to providing fuss-free, simple solutions for commonplace and more complex carpet issues.

T 01943 850817

64 May 2012

www.woolsafe.org

FlooringNews

News Insulation in the home

Softer stones The elemental form of stone is the inspiration behind the new Classic Limestone collection from Avenue, resulting in a stunning array of natural effect cushion flooring that offers the ultimate in style and luxury.

The collection offers a range of spectacular limestone effect flooring that truly reflects stone in its earthly state. Designled consumers will no doubt be impressed by the genuine look and feel of the collection that has been achieved by the use of mechanical embossing technology, providing that sought-after realistic effect but with all the benefits of a cushion floor, including supreme comfort underfoot. With excellent acoustic properties including 19db sound reduction for improved in-house living quality and slip-resistant (R10) technology, Classic Limestone is the ideal choice.

introducing

graphite

carpet underlay

The different designs in the range have been thoughtfully created to appeal to a wide range of consumers. Highlights include Toucan, a mix of small and larger shapes that align to create a rustic look ideal for stylish neutral bathroom interiors. The designs across the range are ideal for chic kitchen, dining, bathing and wider living spaces.

“The Classic Limestone collection offers consumers the luxury of natural-look limestone flooring in a range of exciting styles,” says Caroline Wille, Avenue’s Product Manager. “This collection has been finished to an extremely high specification and offers top-performance flooring that we believe is unrivalled in its genuine look. This range will appeal to design-conscious shoppers who appreciate a touch of luxury and we can envisage this collection working equally well in large, open-plan spaces and smaller interiors by adding depth and character.”

T 00 32 5665 3211

www.ivcgroup.com

When what you really really want is a strong selling good all-round domestic underlay which delivers a healthy margin Graphite is the way to go!.

Graphite is a fine, robust, utility underlay representing superb value for money and which is already a firm favourite with many Retailers and Distributors throughout UK and Ireland.

FULLY RECYCLABLE SIMPLE, QUICK AND EASY TO LAY DESIGNED FOR GENERAL DOMESTIC USE EXCELLENT SOUND REDUCTION PERFORMANCE LIGHTWEIGHT ROLLS EXCEED H&S EXPECTATIONS IDEAL FOR USE WITH UNDERFLOOR HEATING SYSTEMS

Graphite is part of the Novostrat range of polyethylene foam based underlays for wood, laminate and carpeted floors.

Underlays for every application - from the highest performance to utility – and to suit every budget.

tel: 00353 61-339287 www.novostrat-insulation.com info@novostrat.com from The Stocklists

May 2012 65

Stocklists Classified The

SITUATIONS VACANT

SALES AGENTS REQUIRED CREATEX is a dynamic Belgian based company with proven success in the carpet and rug business.

CREATEX will now be launching into the UK new exciting Wilton collections together with a new ‘made to measure’ rug concept destined for carpet and furniture retail stores.

This is why CREATEX is looking for professional sales agents in all areas who want to join our team and be part of the success story.

CREATEX offers professional support with a motivating commission package.

Interested? Please send an e-mail to our UK Sales Manager, Mr. Andrew Poole ajpooleflooring@aol.com or sales@createx.be and we will contact you soon.

FOR SALE

AGENTS REQUIRED Simply Rugs have been supplying Carpet and Furniture Retailers for 20 years. We require successful agents to promote our range of heatset and wool rugs in territories nationwide, including Home Counties, London, East/West Midlands, North East and other areas. We offer high rates of commission.

For more info, please contact Nick Clinch on 01264 352218 or email simply.rugs@btconnect.com

Floorsites

Plug-in an ‘instant’ flooring industry website branded for your store or business for just £390 set-up + £90 per year

Check out our dummy site at www.thestocklists.com/floorsites Contact David for more details: davidspragg@thestocklists.com UNDER RUGS

FOXISuper Plus SERVICES

OVERWORKED? OVERSTOCKED? Let John Lanham Watts Carpets Ltd CUT & WRAP SERVICE take the strain.

Your stock will be looked after by experienced carpet people.

Cut and dispatched by specialists. Don’t let your premises dictate the size of your business.

Grow with JLW.

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

www.jlwcarpets.com

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!

66 May 2012

FlooringNews

Stocklists Classified The

SITUATIONS VACANT

Designer Contracts www.designercontracts.com Email: recruitment@designercontracts.com

Market Leading suppliers of floor covering to the House Building Industry.

Due to expansion and development as well as a 25% increase in turnover last year new opportunities are being created either to complement our existing regional structure or for new Regions being opened.

Our two new regions are based in Slough and Biggin Hill.

Our positions are full time Monday to Friday and our SALARY PACKAGE is EXCELLENT; they all have the benefit of an Audi A3 car as well as health care, life cover and staff discount.

All positions require highly motivated, confident, successful individuals who are keen to succeed.

They must have excellent communication, management and IT skills and be able to demonstrate an excellent track record in obtaining and developing new sales leads and be able to look after existing clients.

Area Manager - Thames Valley based in Slough We require an Area Manager to develop the new region and run our operations on a day to day basis which will involve managing a small team, looking after existing customers and bringing in new ones

AGENTS REQUIRED Selected Rug & Matting Ltd are looking for successful Agents to sell our popular & repeating ranges of modern rugs to carpet & furniture outlets.

Excellent support & commission given by long established importers with large stocks & prompt service.

Areas available :SOUTH WALES, SOUTH WEST

Manager of Operations - Thames Medway based in Biggin Hill Known as Senior Contracts Manager and reporting to the South East Regional Controller, you will help to develop the new region and run our operations on a day to day basis, which will involve managing a small team, looking after existing customers and bringing in new ones. An understanding of the flooring industry is essential

2 Sales Managers required one based in Newport, Gwent and one in Exeter Must be absolutely focused on sales in order to gain new business and look after our present customers

Please write OR email to :Simon Eisenberg, Managing Director.

Selected Rug & Matting Ltd. 74 Long Lane, London SE1 4AU. Email: srmlondon@aol.com

Advertise here!

Call Diane Martin on 01482 659396

from The Stocklists

Interested? Send letter and CV to recruitment@DesignerContracts.com or post CV to HR Manager, Designer Contracts, 5 Freshwaters, Park Road, Chesterfield S42 5UY.

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