The Stocklists - June 2012

Stocklists The

4 June 2012

with

FlooringNews

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

RUBBER FACT: Consumers prefer go to rubber underlay because it has www. exactly what they’re looking for.

Their words say it all... “Looks and feels more valuable”, “Feels more comfortable”, “It looks traditional and hard-wearing”, “It looks and feels like real underlay should”.

The deepest ‘ahhhhh-factor’™

r e a l underlay

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Our sponge rubber underlays offer best in class performance.

Tredaire Colours Red is the best the market can get when it comes to luxury and comfort – it simply oozes with what we call the ‘ahhhhh-factor’.

Rubberiffic sellability With the widest range and vast choice of colours, depths and textures, plus different levels of comfort and performance, together with specialist applications, upselling through the range is easy.

Colours Red

Looks better, feels better and sells better!

Stocklists The

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

FIRST FOR FlOORIng newS and daTa

4 JUNE 2012

Advertisers

FlooringNews starts on page 33

Monthly ‘Stocklisters’ shown in BOLD

Celebrating Britishness

Index

Dennis Flower reports on the flooring that has made Britain ‘Great’ pages 58-61

ADORE

Showtime in Solihull

The buying groups bring out the best in UK manufacturers with a superb event review and reports on pages 48-57

The big man bows out

Golden Greendale

Lord Harris hangs up his sample book pages 62

49

01675 433075 01274 655662

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AFS

18

020 8805 8620

Sept 2011

ASSOCIATED WEAVERS

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01422 431100

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BONDWORTH

19

01562 745000

June 2011

50

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BRITISH WOOL

45

01274 688 666

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BROCKWAY

20

01562 828200

Mar 2010

CARPETS LTD.

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01282 862736

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CARPENTER

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01457 861141

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COLUMBIA

21

0208 443 3322

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CORMAR

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01204 881234

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DYNE

41

0161 877 8877

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4

01538 361633

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32

01159 506836

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FLOORING

48

0121 683 1426

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01509 673974

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22,23 01772 696787

Nov 2010

ONE

FURLONG

FLOORING

GEORGIAN

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01827 831430

GREENDALE

43

01432 852000

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HEUGA

39

01675 433070

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IFC

01706 213131

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24

01827 831427

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INTERFLOOR KINGSMEAD MANX MASTER

WEAVERS

MODULEO MOHAWK

New fees structure to boost manufacturer involvement pages 62

FlooringFactsheets Buying Groups

8 Wholesaler Distribution Directory

Carpet Company Directory

12-13 Wool Fibre Page

Carpet trouble-shooter

10-11 Woolsafe: the carpet care guide

Carpet Types

5

9 14-16 17 6-7

01562 754382

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35

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NOVOSTRAT

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00353 61 339287

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RACKHAMS

27

020 85319225

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CARPET

28

01243 774623 May/Jun 2012

STS FLOORING DISTRIBUTORS

29

0845 341000

TAT

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01422 374417

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THE

FLOORING SHOW

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01423 779967

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& E DISPLAY GROUP

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0121 585 7600

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0845 644 9090

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CARPET

WESTON

4 Underlay

01827 831 434

0115 958 3077

T

Adhesives

— 25

65

SOLENT WHOLESALE

Victoria announces move into vinyl pages 63

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26,51 01480 479830

NICF

An extra V in LVT

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BRONTË

FLOORWISE

Stronger Foundation

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BGNFS

FLOORING

Jubilee, Euros, Olympics and then.... pages 45

Price List Date

F.C.

FITA

Wool Week 2012

Contact No

ABINGDON

F.BALL

Group celebrates 50th pages 43

Page No

HAMMER

May 2012 —

Classified advertising....................................page 65-67 carpets/rugs/tiles woods/laminates/smooths accessories/services/organisations fibres underlay wholesalers/distributors adhesives

ISSN 2046-7338 © Mayville Publishing Co. Ltd. 2011 Issue: 447 Every care is taken in compiling this magazine, but the proprietors assume no responsibility in the effects arising therefrom.

UK manufactured Carpet Cutting Machines

WWW.CARPETCUTTINGMACHINES.CO.UK THE STOCKLISTS June 2012

3

Flooring Factsheet Adhesives

4

THE STOCKLISTS June 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 June 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 June 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

Easy Spots

Try 1st Try 2nd Try 3rd

Artificially coloured drinks 3

6

Bleach

3

17

C/heating radiator fluid

5

6

Coffee

4

6

16

Spot or stain

Try 1st Try 2nd Try 3rd

Blood

5

6

Felt-tip pen

7 or 11 12

Burn/scorch marks

13

14

Furniture polish

7

Butter

7

5

Glue/adhesive (plastic base)10

11

Candle wax

8

7

6

5

Chewing gum

9

5

15

6

5 15

3

Ink (fountain)

3

Ink (ballpoint pen)

12

5

7

6

Lipstick

7

Cola

3

5

6

Milk

4

Cream

7

5

Nail varnish

10

Egg

5

6

Paint (oil)

11

Rust

16

Soot

2

Tar (asphalt)

7

Urine (fresh stain)

3

5

Urine (old stain)

6

15

7

5

Fruit juice

3

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 June 2012

6

5

5

Chocolate/cocoa

Floor wax

Environmentally Aware for Superior Carpet Care www.envirodri.com

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

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

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

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

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

of the committee

•

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

www.flooringone.co.uk Contact: Glenn Harding Tel: 0121 683 1426 glenn.harding@flooringone.co.uk

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

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

www.beautifulflooring.co.uk Contact: Paul Phillips Tel: 01892 549050 paul@atbrm.com

Key benefits

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

• Ensure you understand any rules that may limit your

• 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 June 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

THE STOCKLISTS June 2012

Crumb

PU foam

www.carpenter.limited.uk

www.interfloor.com

www.interfloor.com

9

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.

10

• 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 June 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 June 2012

11

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 Bajong Carpets NV Tu Tw W Balta Industries Tu Tw W Ww

01274 655694 01562 829966 01264 335111

Bronte Carpets Ltd 0121 550 5788 01297 32244 +32 56783250 +32 56 62 2211

Bizspoke Custom Carpets Be Tw W

020 8800 0740

+32 56 23 54 10 01924 488882

0113 380 5333

12

Cavalier Carpets Ltd Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww

01254 268000

Christy Carpets Tu

Classis Carpets Tu W Ww

019078 308777

01737 830301

Dan-Floor UK W

0844 9151000

Domo Floorcovering Pr Tu Tw

+32 55 335211

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

01422 374 417

01562 745030

01675 433066 0870 020 1725 +31 38 4778911

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

01977 662211

Fetcham Furnishings Ltd Tw

020 8944 6220

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

Belvedere Carpets

Betap Tufting BV Tu Tw W

Tw W sales@brockway.co.uk

01422 431100

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

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

Brockway Carpets Ltd

Custom Carpet Company Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww

01562 745000 0800 505055

Tu Tw W info@cormarcarpets.co.uk www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

01204 881 234

800 223 6186

Craigie Carpets Be

01294 558400

Creatuft Carpets Tu W

Mohawk’s Cherbourg Check

+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

Fletco Taepper A/S Tu W

0116 284 1455 +32 56 35 4444

01484 721529

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

01772 696 787

Brockway’s Vogue

THE STOCKLISTS June 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

Master Weaver W Ww

01562 754 382

Tasibel NV Tw

Gaskell Mackay Carpets Ltd Ax Tu Tw W

01429 892525

Mayfield Carpets Tu Tw W

01706 639 866

The Grosvenor Wilton Co W Ww

01562 701456

Georgian Carpets Tu Tw W

01827 831430

MID NL Be

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 Tu John Lanham Watts Carpets Ax Tw Ww John Evans Ltd Ax Tu Tw W Joseph Hamilton & Seaton W Kingsmead Carpets Tu Tw W

Lano NV

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

0800 526696

Modulyss Be Tu Tw Pr

01924 410544

Mohawk Europe 0032 51 424 411

marinagooch@mohawkeurope.com www.mohawkinternational.com

0161 368 2563 01827 831400 01827 831 424

+32 56 65 4300

Mr Tomkinson Tw Ww

Tisca Tiara Tu Ww

+41 71 791 0111

Trendy Tuft Designs Be Tu Tw W

01274 855080 02838 334433

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

0800 78 33 712

Leigh Spinners Ltd Tw

01942 673232

Shaw Home Foundations Tu

+32 56 73 57 11 0845 652 8811 0844 5611977 01675 433 501

Signature Carpets Be Tu W

01422 845075

01388 664101

TAT Carpet

07976 607657

01827 831 434

Tapibel NV Pr Tu Tw

01623 481 221

+32 56 393 386

+31 38 385 4477

01675 433031

Sans Frontieres Ltd Be Pr Tu Tw W Ww

Manx Carpets Tw W

01827 831 450

Timzo Tufting Industry BV Tu

Ossfloor UK

Lecaflor Ltd Ax Be Pr Tu Tw W Ww

Lusotufo Tu

01480 479830 01480 471304

01937 588511

+32 05685 4747

Louis de Poortere W

+32 52 457211

+49 037 421 420

Ryalux Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W

Le Tissage d'Arcade Ax Ww

+31 38 851 8700

+32 52 499600

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

Bronte’s stand

Cormar’s Berwick

THE STOCKLISTS June 2012

13

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 p16 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 p16 Lee Floorstok Ltd Manchester - see Floorwise p16 MCA Floorwise Ltd Morecambe - see Floorwise p16 Mytton Flooring norwich - see Floorwise p16 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 p16 J J Wholesale & Distribution Ltd Birmingham 0121 765 4994 jjwholesale@gmx.com RPS Flooring Mansfield woodhouse - see Floorwise p16 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 p16

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 29 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 p16 AFS Middlesex 020 8805 8620 sales@afsenfield.co.uk See page 18 for details Ashmount Flooring Supplies Ltd Tottenham 0208 808 2158 sales@ashmountflooring.co.uk www.ashmountflooring.co.uk continued overleaf....

14

THE STOCKLISTS June 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 21 for details

Rackhams london 020 8531 9225 sales@rackhamsltd.co.uk www.rackhamsltd.co.uk See page 27 for details Salesmark lancing - see Floorwise p16

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 28 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 June 2012

STS Flooring Distributors Orpington/Croydon 0845 434 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com see page 29 for details Vanguard Carpets Redditch 0845 601 1189 customerservices.redditch@carpet andflooring.co.uk www.vanguardcarpets.co.uk

Wessex Flooring amesbury - see Floorwise p16

C. K. Davie Ltd aberdeen - see Floorwise p16

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 p16 Fitwell Flooring Ltd newton abott - see Floorwise p16 Solent Wholesale Carpet west Sussex 01243 774623 sales@solentwholesale.co.uk www.solentwholesale.co.uk See page 28 for details STS Flooring Distributors Thame (Oxford) 01844 213555 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com see page 29 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 p16

Wales Carpet & Flooring Bristol 0117 316 0555 bristol@carpetandflooring.co.uk www.carpetandflooring.co.uk Roma Flooring neath - see Floorwise p16 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 p16 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Belfast - see Floorwise p16 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd limerick - see Floorwise p16

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

15

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

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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 16

THE STOCKLISTS June 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 June 2012

17

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 18

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 THE STOCKLISTS June 2012

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

Olympus

Axminster

The Original Pub n Club Carpet 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 1-9077 Jade Mirage - End of June 2-9061 Bordeaux - Mid July 4-9058 Sahara - End of July All Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order

Precious Gems Axminster 80% wool / 20% Nylon a available vailable 3.66m Range comprises 5 Designs All items stock 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 4-7038 - Regal Garden End of June 4-7100 - Andora Mid July Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order

New Afghan Axminster 80% wool / 20% Nylon a available vailable 3.66m Range comprises 4 Designs Sul Sultan tan discontinued Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order THE STOCKLISTS June 2012

Come Back to Colour!

19

• • • • • • •

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

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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 June 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 June 2012

Tel: 0208 443 3322 Fax: 0208 805 2346 Opening Times: Monday - Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am to 12 noon 21

Covering the country...

Lighten up!

Yorkshire & North East

Our new illuminated lecterns for élegance and Satisfaction are the talk of the trade. Ask your rep for more details of our market-leading POS...

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

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, HAMPS, MIDDX, 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:

22

quality choice availability service price

THE STOCKLISTS June 2012

CAREFREE Carpets are distributed by

. quality and service 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

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

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

Preston Sales tel: 01772 696787 fax: 01772 311921 Newport Sales tel: 01633 283959 fax: 01633 275454 London Sales tel: 01322 628707 fax: 01322 698733 enquiries@furlongflooring.co.uk THE STOCKLISTS June 2012

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

www.regencycarefree.co.uk 23

Kingsmead Carpets Relay Park, Relay Drive Tamworth, B77 5PR. UK Tel: +44 1827 831424 Fax: +44 1827 831425 info@kingsmead-sales.co.uk www.kingsmeadcarpets.co.uk

SALES EXECUTIVES AND CONTACT DETAILS Glenn Baker - 07791 890441 - (South West England) glenn.baker@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Paul Bartle - 07980 737339 - (West Midlands) paul.bartle@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Clint Carver- 07970 888916 - (North West England) clint.carver@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Colin Fielder - 07971 968517 - (South Coast & Home Counties) colin.fielder@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Adrian Garner - 07947 524633 - (East Midlands) adrian.garner@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Stewart Gillion - 07976 749552 - (East Anglia) stewart.gillion@kingsmead-sales.co.uk David Guscott - 07773 04857 - (London within M25 & Kent) david.guscott@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Dan Hemming – 07538 836273 - (South Wales & South Midlands) dan.hemming@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Mark Watkinson - 07980 737283 - (North East England) mark.watkinson@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Bill Robertson - 07980 737278 - (Scotland & Northern Ireland) bill.robertson@kingsmead-sales.co.uk

EVERLON CLEAN EASY RANGES ENJOYMENT • GENIUS • MARVEL • MIRACLE • SUPERB • VIRTUOSO

WOLLTEC RANGES FREMANTLE • SIROCCO • ZEPHYR.

WOOL TWIST RANGES ARTWORK • AYRSHIRE • GALLOWAY • GRAMPIAN • HOMESTYLE • LOTHIAN • NEW VITRONIC • TRIPLE TWIST BERBER • TRIPLE TWIST HEATHER • VITRONIC TRADITIONS • VITRONIC BERBER.

LUXURY SAXONY RANGES NOW IN 4M & 5M WIDTHS: BRECON • MALVERN • RIDGEWAY • SILK SENSATION • SILK SUPREME • SNOWDONIA. 4M WIDTH ONLY: CHEVIOT • CHEVIOT SUPREME.

OTHER PRODUCTS HIGHLANDS • LOWLANDS • MADRAS • PALOMA • HOMEMAKER.

RECENTLY DISCONTINUED ARGYLL • BORDER TWIST • CHILTERN • PENNINE • STONEY GROUND. 24

THE STOCKLISTS June 2012

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 THE STOCKLISTS June 2012

25

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

WILTON Parallel Lines Renaissance Ultimate Wilton Oakland

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.

Stop preSS – 2012 SeeS not only the london olympicS, the QueenS diamond Jubilee but it haS to be Said the moSt momentouS occaSion of the year will be the launch of the rackhamS vinyl collection for 2012! our top Selling eclipSe range iS revamped and redefined, with not one collection but two, and the high value moJo collection iS re-engineered for the ultimate Quality offer. once theSe SampleS move into the market place the orderS JuSt Start flowing in, So make Sure you reServe your SampleS with your area SaleS manager now! SampleS due thiS week! Stand by for action!!! – Stop preSS

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

27

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 Castillion Celtic Heathers Crown Twist EasiCare - Full Collection Gaelic Heathers Imperial Velvet Kelso Natural Accents Natural Companions (Sisal, Chenille, Ridge) Options 288 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 BALTA Casablanca Colorado Springs Desert Twist Deluxe Fiesta Fusion Happy Days High Flyers Highland Tweed 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 Pavillion Velvet Safi Sintra Boucle Tangier Titan & Tital Diagonal Twist Berber Unique Valencia

CORMAR Apollo Berwick 40/50 Home Counties 42/50 Living Naturals 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 Playground Portofino Prima Scorpio ITC Belgravia Concerto Consul Heritage Collection Kreta Palace TAPIBEL Cachet Melody Nevada Reeds Sysoltex Homested/Aran/Crofter Toscana

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

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.

28

THE STOCKLISTS June 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

NEW PRICE GUIDE MAY 2012 LANO STOCK CARPETS Bolero Chislehurst Fairfield Creation Fairfield Supreme Heather Twist Design Heather Twist Supreme Pembridge Twist Sapphire Scala Scala Solutions 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 June 2012

29

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

NEW TRIO IS ALL ABOUT AFFORDABLE SOPHISTICATION

Islington

OUR SALES TEAM

At last – some fabulous new images of our exciting new trio of 50% wool 50% polypropylene carpets, which are now in production, with swatches distributed to existing customers (samples for tombolas and lecterns also provided).

“There is no doubt that 50-50 mix carpets are a very attractive option in the current marketplace,” says operations manager Lesley Inman. “Since we extract our own yarn, we have excellent quality control input and can create our own unique colour palette. This collection looks really smart, will be hardwearing, and is priced to represent very good value for money.”

Islington

Not surprisingly, customer reaction to date has been overwhelmingly positive!

All three carpets are textured loop pile carpets on Actionbac backing, with a pile height of 4mm, a pile weight of 840-860g/m2 and a tog rating of 1.4. They are all Scotchgarded for optimum stain protection.

Islington is a versatile plain ribbed loop pile, in four and five metre widths and in six subtle shades of grey to beige: hessian, chalk, lead, down, smoke and mist (pictured).

Hampton Court

Hampton Court has a slightly more irregular textured high-low loop pile, also in six earthy shades and in four and five metre widths: nutmeg, cream, ash (pictured), shadow, cloud and mouse.

Highbury is a sophisticated two-tone contrasting stripe in four colours designed to co-ordinate with both Islington and Hampton Court: mother of pearl (pictured), ash grove, welsh slate and volcanic ash. It comes in four metre width only.

Chelsea

30

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 Highbury

Operations Manager: Lesley Inman M: 07703 337989 E: l.inman@edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk

THE STOCKLISTS June 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 June 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

31

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!

You can create a carpet website for your business in

5 minutes.

We’ll have it online for you within

5 days.

If you don’t like it, it will cost you

nothing.

If you do like it, it will cost you

£390 + £90/year.

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!

32

THE STOCKLISTS June 2012

4 June 2012

FlooringNews Naturally Cormar Cormar Carpets has introduced its brand new Living Naturals collection that epitomises the very best in affordable style in loop pile.

Designed to offer a natural look, at an ‘entry level’ price point, Living Naturals is made from 50% pure new wool and 50% polypropylene. It is available in three distinctive designs – simple level pinstripe; classic rib and popular basket weave; plus it comes in 12 ‘easy to live with’ colours. And with a retail price below £20 per sq m, it makes for exceptional value-for-money.

“Textured wool carpets are still a popular choice with homeowners throughout the country and the success of our two recent 50% wool launches – Glendale and Forest Hills in twist pile – tells us that priceconscious consumers are looking for the durability of a wool carpet at a budget price. So we believe that Living Naturals will enjoy the same success in the loop pile market. So far the reaction has been very good,” said David Cormack, marketing director of Cormar.

Living Naturals complements Cormar’s existing portfolio of loop pile carpets – Malabar and Avebury, which are available in Plains & Stripes. 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

www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

American all-rounder Characterised by exceptionally hardwearing carpets perfect for busy homes, the American Legacy collection from Mohawk’s EverStrand collection offers beautiful textures in a variety of colourways, so consumers are guaranteed to find the perfect match for their interior scheme.

Comprised of three different qualities, American Design, American Style and American Trend, consumers will be able to choose the design that suits their lifestyle. Able to alleviate consumer fears about carpet maintenance and care, American Legacy carpets feature the consumer recognised Scotchgard Protector Advanced Repel Technology. Offering lifetime stain, soil, pet urine and anti-static warranties, along with 10-year abrasive, texture, fade and defects warranties, American Legacy gives consumers complete peace of mind.

Carpet thicknesses range from 18 to 25mm, and feel beautifully luxurious and soft underfoot thanks to EverStrand XtraSoft carpet fibre. Eco-friendly too, EverStrand XtraSoft carpet fibre contributes to the recycling of over 3 billion plastic bottles, tapping into the mind-set of eco-conscious consumers.

“American Legacy really does have something for everyone,” explains Howard Lindsay, Vice President UK, Ireland and South Africa. “With a variety of colours and qualities and with strong practical qualities, American Legacy has been created to offer a solution to all flooring needs. This collection is the first available in the UK with the EverStrand XtraSoft fibre and we hope that customers with eco sensibilities will really identify with the range.”

American Legacy is available on its own dedicated POS unit that displays how the plastic bottle recycling process works and clearly outlines the benefits of the collection, providing retailers with a fantastic focal point sure catch shoppers’ attention.

T 01480 479830

www.mohawkinternational.com

from The Stocklists

June 2012 33

News

Trendy Zen Perfect for the busiest of homes and even suitable for contract use, Zen from Lano Carpets offers maximum durability combined with supreme luxury for complete peace of mind, allowing consumers to access carpet of the highest quality.

Crafted from 100% Invista polyamide 6.6 and available in a 1000gm/m2 pile weight, Zen feels wonderfully indulgent underfoot and has the added benefit of high durability.

Working well in hospitality, leisure and office areas, Zen is a fantastic choice for highimpact domestic zones such as hallways and lounges where endurance is important.

“Bang on trend, Zen embodies that sought-after balance between luxury and durability,” explains Birger Karlsson, Lano’s UK and Ireland Sales Manager. “The plush, indulgent feel of the carpet creates a lavish impression in the home, but crucially Zen can also withstand impact and wear. As part of the popular, luxurious Ultimo Collection, this durable but soft nylon option also reflects Lano’s commitment to provide retailers with the means to offer a wide variety of carpets that fulfil different consumer needs.”

With an array of 40 piece-dyed shades available in the standard collection across a large colour spectrum, including neutral beiges, vibrant reds and bold blue hues, customers are sure to find the perfect option that gives all the benefits of a contract carpet, such as maximum strength and ease of maintenance for ultimate reassurance.

A tufted 1/10” saxony pile and suitable for heavy domestic and heavy contract use, Zen is available in 400cm width. Lano can offer a bespoke colour service for all orders over 400 square metres for ultimate choice.

T 00800 5266 5266

www.lano.com

Freestile tile CFS Carpets is proud to introduce Freestile into their carpet tile range. This high specification 50x50cm carpet tile is Solution Dyed Nylon with a sophisticated multi directional design. Benefits include reduced waste, installation time and a 15 year guarantee.

With a commercial colour bank, this range will fit well into any contemporary room design. Freestile is available from all Carpet & Flooring branches throughout the UK. T 01527 511860

www.cfscarpets.co.uk

Summery Saxon The all-new Saxon King from Balta Broadloom is the ideal carpet for injecting vibrant colour into interior spaces. Available in a range of 14 contemporary shades including zesty summer brights, Saxon King will add a breath of fresh air to living areas.

The bold purple design fits with this summer’s trend for vivid tones and is ideal for adding a splash of colour to lounges, hallways and bedrooms. Saxon King will withstand heavy domestic use in even the busiest of areas and still remain really easy to clean and care for, dispelling any consumer worries about carpet stains and maintenance.

“The vibrant designs within the Saxon King range offer something bright and uplifting,” explains Geert Vanden Bossche, Marketing Director, Balta Broadloom. “We want to give retailers the opportunity to provide customers with a wide array of beautiful vibrant carpets that are durable and easy to care for.”

Saxon King has an updated POS unit that reflects Balta Broadloom’s desire to offer retailers the best possible display materials with which to engage consumers.

With a tufted 5/32” cutpile and 27 dB of sound insulation, Saxon King offers practical sensibilities as well as bright aesthetics. The 12.5mm pile is created from 100% Stainsafe polypropylene, so the carpet is very easy to clean and comes with a 7-year stain warranty.

Extremely durable too, Saxon King is supported by a 7-year wear warranty for ultimate peace of mind.

T +32 56 62 22 11 34 June 2012

www.baltagroup.com

FlooringNews

The UK flooring market will never be the same again 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 style-conscious customers and the most demanding of specifiers. ̶ This revolution brings LVT manufacturing back from the East, with designers and production all in one place, Moduleo can meet the 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

Fairtrade first for Kährs Kährs has launched a world-first range of floors made from FSC Fairtrade certified wood. One of the most eco-conscious and socially responsible wood floors on the global market, this stunning range has been produced as part of the first FSC-Fairtrade certified timber, small scale forestry project in Chile’s Curacautin Valley.

Tile styles Guaranteed to impress with its natural look and feel, the new Tile Styles collection from Leoline Residential Floors is set make an impact on shop floors this year.

Part of the Privilege collection of luxury cushion flooring, Tile Styles features a range of designs to suit any interior space, from characterful terracotta ceramic tiles perfect for kitchen spaces to contemporary blue and green mosaic patterns that suit bathroom areas. Wood-effect styles also feature to ensure that retailers are able to offer consumers maximum product choice.

As well having beautiful aesthetic appeal, Tile Styles is sure to appeal to customers’ practical sensibilities too. Extremely hardwearing and featuring a PU SuperGuard wear layer that gives great protection against dirt, stains and scuffmarks, Tile Styles is durable and very easy to maintain for a perfect look that lasts. Ideal for use in areas such as bathrooms and kitchens that are prone to spillages and suitable for heavy domestic use, the range is ideal for high-impact areas and will suit even the busiest of homes.

“Tile Styles is a fantastic collection of realistic-looking tile designs perfect for any area of the home,” enthuses Caroline Wille, Product Manager for Leoline Residential Floors. “The broad range has been specifically designed to appeal to a wide customer base and with a total of 18 different designs, ranging from contemporary to the more traditional, there is sure to be a style that meets the visual needs of any home.”

With a 10-year guarantee for ultimate peace of mind, Tile Styles is the ideal choice for smart shoppers. Available in two, three or four metre widths, Tile Styles provides the perfect option for those customers who demand floors that offer a stunning style statement yet are simple and easy to maintain.

T 0800 032 3970

www.ivcgroup.com

Retailer skills success

Kährs collection supports not only the restoration of biodiversity in the forest, but also reduction of poverty and restoration of rights to the indigenous Mapuche and descendants of pioneer family foresters.

Made from a combination of sustainable native Rauli and Roble hardwood timber, the new range of twostrip floors features Kährs multi-layer construction and glueless Woodloc joint, which provide enhanced stability and promote a fast, precise installation.

The floor’s surface is crafted from 100% FSC-Fairtrade certified wood whilst FSC Mix certified wood is used for the core layers.

The products can also contribute to BREEAM or LEED certified project.

Forming part of Kährs World Collection, designs include: Roja – an even grained floor with a warm, red tone and lots of colour variation; Tierra - a rich, dark brown stained floor with a more even tone and subtle colour variation; Piedra - an on-trend grey toned floor for a modern, urban look and Cautin, with the boldest colour variation and warm natural hue. Each unique floor, except for the smooth-finished Cautin, is brushed and all products are finished with Kährs Nature Oil for minimal ecological impact and easy care.

T 023 9245 3045

www.kahrs.co.uk

Cormar Carpets has hosted its fourth Flooring Guild training course to give independent carpet retailer’s staff a chance to boost their sales skills.

The three-day ‘Selling Quality Carpets’ event, run by Ray Morgan from the Flooring Guild, has been held every year for the last four years to help retailers train staff that are new to the flooring trade. It is designed to provide basic product knowledge about carpets, selling techniques and how to effectively plan and estimate.

Alex Neale from Happy Feet Floors of Birmingham said: “I would definitely recommend the course. It allowed me to look at my business from the outside, rather than the day to day running.”

David Cormack, marketing director of Cormar Carpets said: “High Street retailers throughout the UK and Ireland have had a tough time throughout the recession. This course, run in conjunction with the Flooring Guild, is intended to help our independent carpet retail customers with their staff training. Every year we get really good feedback from those retailers that attend the course and I am sure that the training not only helps them in terms of sales, but benefits their customers too, because they get a better service.”

The Flooring Guild is a ‘not for profit’ organisation which was founded in 1999 to raise standards in the floorcoverings industry through training and educational programmes.

T 01204 881234 36 June 2012

www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

Held at Cormar’s Brookhouse Mill site, the carpet training course was attended by 20 carpet retailers from throughout Britain and Ireland.

FlooringNews

www.theflooringshow.com

FLOORING SHOW 2-4 SEPTEMBER 2012 HARROGATE

OPPORTUNITY • DEVELOPMENT • INNOVATION Join us in September for the 50th anniversary of the first Harrogate Flooring Show. The UK’s only dedicated flooring event will again bring together the whole industry for three intensive days of business activity and networking

e f irst since tghshow in n ri o lo f ate Harrog

THE EVENT YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO MISS! 앫 Exclusive show offers 앫 Comprehensive programme of technical and business development seminars and demonstrations 앫 All the new and innovative floor coverings from the major suppliers

If you are a retailer, specifier, manufacturer, distributor or contractor, then ‘the AGM of the flooring industry’ is not to be missed!

MORE THAN 100 EXHIBITORS ALREADY BOOKED! 앫 Top trade suppliers - major carpet & flooring brands 앫 Networking events and opportunities 앫 Improved travel and accommodation offers 앫 New partner activity programme

FREE VISITOR REGISTRATION NOW OPEN online at www.theflooringshow.com To discuss booking a stand please call Wendy Adams or Georgia Pick on 01423 779967 or email: wendy@theflooringshow.com or georgia@theflooringshow.com

News

Cracking walnut Providing a stunning natural finish, Structural American Black Walnut engineered planks from UK Flooring Direct are the perfect choice for installers and homeowners alike who want distinctive wood flooring with a modern and sleek twist.

An unusual design with a whole spectrum of colours displayed in every plank, Structural American Black Walnut features in the sophisticated Galleria range from UK Flooring Direct. With attractive markings that add depth and dimension to the planks for an exotic and unique finish, Structural American Black Walnut is ideal for those who want a modern wood floor. With small to medium knots, small amounts of sapwood and limited mineral steaks, these planks let the striking colour variations take centre stage.

“These planks truly have a beautiful appearance,” says Josh Ashby, Product Manager, UK Flooring Direct. “Finished with a durable satin lacquer that gives a subtle, even sheen, the tone of the natural walnut and the striking colour variations found in the planks are emphasised perfectly.

Meeting the growing demand for different, unusual flooring options that add a unique style to interior spaces, Structural American Black Walnut is sure to appeal to a variety of consumers who desire that all-important style statement.”

Structural American Black Walnut is finished with a durable satin lacquer that provides a protective layer for easier cleaning and maintenance.

T 0845 287 5623

www.ukflooringdirect.co.uk

Royal class Part of seven exciting new ranges in the Crown Floors collection, Meaton and Hardwick Hall are two tufted 100% pure new wool loop pile designs for customers seeking a stylish carpet inspired by nature.

Crafted from British Wool, these two designs are exclusive to Crown Floors. Offering a rustic feel, Meaton Hall comprises of a sophisticated alternate high and low level loop to add striking textural quality. In contrast, Hardwick Hall is a classic loop pile that lends an air of elegance and style to any interior.

Available in a selection of five tasteful natural colourways, from the more earthy tones of Royal Estate and the popular appeal of Antique Grey to the timeless shade of Queen’s Ivory, Meaton and Hardwick Hall are sure to appeal to customers looking for carpets with a quality feel. With a 1/4" loop, both designs have a textural quality that is visibly unusual and will add depth and character to interior spaces.

Durable and resilient, these wool carpets are in 4 or 5 metre widths and suitable for heavy domestic use in high-impact areas such as hallways and lounges and they come with a 15-year wear warranty.

“Meaton and Hardwick Hall really capture the essence of the Crown Floors range”, explains James Caldwell, Sales Coordinator, Crown Floors. “Both floors offer a sophisticated, natural design that have fantastic textural appeal and a true timeless quality. The addition of a wool loop pile in the Crown Floors range reflects our commitment to provide a wide variety of carpets that will appeal to many different customers.”

T 0800 0773301

www.crownfloors.co.uk

Witter tops ten Thomas Witter will this year celebrate 10 years as a member of the Dukefield Group.

Thomas Witter UK Limited was incorporated in May 2002 and began life based in Standish, Wigan. The business has grown significantly over the years and is now well established and operates from purpose built manufacturing and warehousing facilities in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire.

The product range includes plain and heather twist piles, in a choice of pile weights, each with a palette of modern fashionable colours, Berber twists and loops. All these ranges are manufactured on site in Dewsbury using good quality yarns in 80% wool blends and are available in both 4 metre and 5 metre widths.

Good stock levels of all ranges are maintained enabling timely deliveries to all areas of the United Kingdom. Thomas Witter supplies carpet in both full rolls and cut lengths to a cross section of market sectors which includes wholesale distribution, independent retail and house build.

Retail buying groups are now becoming an integral part of Thomas Witter’s marketing strategy and the company is extremely proud to have been presented with the Supplier of the Year Award by Greendale Carpets & Floorings. .

With the strong bond which now exists with its production partners, the availability of modern manufacturing and warehousing facilities and the financial strength of the Dukefield Group, Thomas Witter will continue to develop and produce quality carpets at competitive prices and provide good service to all of its customers.

T 01204 374170 38 June 2012

www.thomaswitter.com

FlooringNews

from The Stocklists

June 2012 39

News

Living lyrically

Offering 288 options

Part of the relaunched Fascination collection of carpets from Vorwerk, Lyrica is a beautiful carpet ideal for adding subtle style into interior spaces. Now available in a sophisticated rug design, customers can personalise Lyrica for a truly individual look.

Victoria Carpets is offering retailers and consumers alike the ultimate carpet choice with the launch of their new Options 288 range.

In an appealing colour palette, Lyrica adds warmth and style to living areas and its silky thread gives off a subtle shimmer making this carpet the luxurious choice.

This new collection of superb twist pile carpets is a mixture of both plains and heathers and in total offers 288 different combinations of carpet choices.

Not only available as standard carpet, Lyrica is now available made into bordered rugs that offer a real injection of style. In any size up to four metres wide and six metres long, and with a range of 23 different borders, customers can choose from faux leather, ribbed cotton and cotton velours in border widths of either 1.5cm or 6cm to allow a true expression of style.

“As part of the Fascination collection, Lyrica gives retailers the chance to offer something different from the usual carpets that flood the market,’ explains Ian Hammond, Vorwerk Carpets UK. “Lyrica has a lovely subtle sheen that adds depth and interest to living areas, and it is also practical and robust.”

Crafted from 100% polyamide and with a Saxony cut pile, Lyrica is very resilient, hardwearing too and easy to maintain.

T 020 7096 5090

www.vorwerkcarpets.co.uk

When it comes to choosing a carpet Victoria knows that colour is key, so Options 288 comes in a palette of 36 contemporary colours. Not only does the collection offer a mixture of ever popular warm neutral shades such as Flapjack and Cane Heather but it also boasts bright, inspiring colours such as deep Cobalt blue and rich Carmine red.

Each of the 36 colours can also be ordered in 4 different weights, starting at 32oz and moving up to 40oz, 50oz and 60oz.

This new venture for Victoria, of offering 4 weights within one range, gives the consumer more choice by allowing them to purchase a carpet in any colour at an affordable price.

Victoria has added even more choice to the collection by offering all colours and weights in both 4m and 5m widths.

T 01562 749300 www.victoriacarpets.com

Belting felt With a solid reputation for supplying high quality felt-based underlay for contract and domestic use, Floorwise has now revamped its point of sale materials to allow contractors and retailers to tap into this source of potential extra revenue, further establishing Floorwise underlays as a natural choice.

The Duet, Duet Supreme and Symphony felt underlays from Floorwise not only offer increased underfoot comfort but also have fantastic green credentials. Created from recycled materials and potentially recyclable after use, Duet and Duet Supreme are a combination of crumb rubber and wool felt, and Symphony is a wool felt composition.

With superior underfoot comfort, excellent sound absorption, insulation properties and long-lasting resilience, these underlays have a wideranging appeal. Armed with new POS materials, retailers and contractors will be able to tap into the mindsets of the growing number of end users who demand eco-sensitive products that still have fantastic performance benefits.

T 01509 673974 www.floorwise.co.uk 40 June 2012

FlooringNews

WALK ALL OVER ME! JUNE ONLY! Stick the boot in! Give it some welly!

Our Heavy Velour heavy contract carpet tile can take what’s coming to it in any high footfall area.

Available in 12 dirt-resistant colourways, we’ve trodden down the price to just £6.72+VAT per m2 for June only.* So stroll along to Dyne and get piles more tile for your money!

FOR A FREE NEXT-DAY SAMPLE PACK CALL

0161 877 8877 We are the North West’s leading supplier of contract carpet tiles with an unbeatable range including: New York corded needlepunch, Heavy Velour velour needlepunch, Diamonds structured needlepunch, Tectonic loop pile, New Clearway structured needlepunch entrance mat tile, Astron loop pile, Mitrem loop pile, Cross Textures multi-level loop, Series 8 designer loop pile, Velveteen velvet cut pile. We also have great value range of seconds and discontinued lines - huge stocks always available. *Offer available on all orders placed and delivered in June 2012.

TO SEE THE FULL RANGE VISIT THE DYNE ONLINE SHOWROOM: www.dynecarpettile.com

News

Inspiring lino Allow consumers to experience the imposing modern beauty of architectural materials with the design-led Pierrot cushion floor from the Ultimate Minerals collection by Avenue.

Part of the Ultimate Minerals collection that is inspired by natural forms, Pierrot features visual and textural characteristics that give it an attractive linoleum look, allowing consumers to achieve an individualistic, highlystylised interior that is more usually associated with modern architectural spaces. Available in a neutral colour palette of five different shades including beige, slate and grey, consumers are sure to find an option that complements their existing interior scheme.

“Pierrot is a simply stunning design,” explains Caroline Wille, Avenue’s Product Manager. “The trend for using architectural-style designs to update interior spaces is definitely growing, and Pierrot provides an individual, modern twist on this movement wherever it is used. This is a flooring option that has fantastic visual appeal and will allow retailers to tap into the mindsets of those consumers who are demanding on-trend floor coverings that make an impact, but that still have that all-important timeless and natural quality.”

With a 15-year wear warranty, this floor will appeal to those who want that instant wow-factor in their homes but who also recognise the importance of practicality. Perfect for adding a style statement to open-plan living areas and for adding contrast and interest to smaller rooms such as home offices, customers will undoubtedly be enthralled by the realistic look of Pierrot.

T 00 32 5665 3211

www.ivcgroup.com

Mix it with Cemento

TrustMark for Academy

Contractors and specifiers looking for stunning contemporary commercial flooring should look no further than the brand new Cemento range from Itec Contract Floors.

TrustMark, the Government endorsed quality mark for tradesmen, has approved its first industry training scheme operator for flooring: the Quick-Step Academy for Excellence in Flooring. Recently opened, the Academy will be the largest flooring training centre in the UK with every approved Master Installer eligible to become a TrustMark Quick-Step registered flooring fitter.

Realistically mimicking the surface appearance of real concrete, this decorative resilient flooring fits the trend for using raw architectural materials in modern interior spaces while retaining the practical benefits of a hardwearing floor. Available in a total of eight different shades, including timeless greys that match minimalist office spaces and warmer beige and red tones, Cemento is ideal for a variety of commercial environments.

Suitable for very heavy commercial use, Cemento is durable and perfect for busy high-traffic areas. Easy to maintain, clean and comprising of a 0.7mm wear layer and treated with HyperGuard+ PUR, Cemento is extremely resilient making it the ideal flooring match for the healthcare, corporate, retail and education sectors.

“Cemento is a high-performance floor,” explains Jason Barrett of Itec.

“Durability and resilience are obviously the key factors to consider when choosing flooring for the wide spectrum of commercial areas and Cemento combines these practical qualities with a current, stylish look that is guaranteed to add modernity to interior spaces.”

Suitable for hot or cold welding and with a very good resistance to chemicals, Cemento is rated R10 slip-resistant and is available in two or four metre widths.

T 00 32 5665 3211

www.ivcgroup.com

Following completion of the course, all Quick-Step Master Installers are invited to become TrustMark registered, which will enable them to win new business and gain a competitive edge in the industry. Consumers will also be given better and more rigorous protection as Master Installers’ technical skills will be independently checked through regular on-site inspections, as well as on their trading record and financial status.

Covering all of the UK, the Manchester-based Academy will work with leading subfloor preparation suppliers, sanding and power tool manufacturers to provide courses for all skill levels.

Darren Robinson of Quick-Step said: “We welcome the opportunity to work with TrustMark as it encourages consumers to use professional tradesmen to undertake domestic repair, maintenance and improvement work. www.trustmark.org.uk

42 June 2012

FlooringNews

News feature

Greendale - 50 years young And going strong!

The only true "Buying Group" in the industry is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, but Greendale's origins began in furniture. On the 10th May 1961, a small number of quality high-street furnishers, all of whom were members of “The Good Furnishing Group,” met to discuss what was minuted as a “Swedish Furniture Buying Project.” Discussions with manufacturers went well and a few months later in the early months of 1962 a dedicated company was established to handle the administration of the bought in products.

The company, called Sworda, quickly branched out into carpet and fabric buying, and the eleven initial members became affectionately known as the “Green Group” because of the green paper used to distinguish documents from others being handled by Findlater Smith, one of the founding eleven whose staff administered group business..

In latter years, the three parts split into separate entities as the business and membership grew with the furnishings side becoming Minerva, fabrics disappearing and floor coverings continuing as the Green Group with its own membership, board and operation.

From these beginnings, the Green Group - now known as Greendale Carpets & Floorings - has grown to a multi-million pound 120 member co-operative, with its own warehouse and operational centre in Hereford. Greendale employs 14 staff covering sales ordering, accounts, customer service, merchandising and warehousing, and stocks over 2,000 rolls of carpet from all the main British and Continental manufacturers.

points and the latter more expensive specialist areas. The range covers all main product types with Tufted Twists, Velvets, Saxonies and Loops, as well as Woven ranges in wool and manmade fibres.

The group also sources its own exclusive range of UK manufactured Wool Twists which offer members outstanding value and enhanced margin opportunities.

Members are given their own areas to enable them to promote and exploit the brand and feature the ranges on a wide range of bespoke Greendale branded instore units. All supported by Greendale’s merchandising team and twice yearly visits from agents.

An annual show and dinner for members and suppliers takes place with over 250 people at last year’s event and this year’s likely to be even larger.

From Hereford, carpets are cut and shipped to members all over the UK; from the Orkney’s in the north to the Channel Islands in the south, and Northern Ireland in the west to Cromer in the east.

The members own the group which is run on a “not for profit basis” meaning that all savings negotiated are passed onto members.

Obviously by purchasing rolls these are substantial.

The group supplies over 100 ranges of carpets all renamed to colour level and marketed to members under the Greendale and Elizabeth Grieves labels with the former covering the main mass market price

from The Stocklists

Greendale has a website with details of the group and its philosophy together with consumer information on flooring types, care and maintenance, however, ranges and pricing are not shown allowing members to retail them with confidence. A wide package of other benefits include membership of BIRA (the British Independent Retail Association) which offers a range of support services for independent retailers. The group also provides members with a package of other support which is shown on the member area of the website.

With the growth of the internet, the group’s policy on membership and product rebadging is becoming even more relevant to today’s independent retailers and as the group enters its second 50 years, the future is looking bright for Greendale.

The Group welcomes interest from retailers who share its ethos.

Tel 01432 852000

www.greendalecarpets.co.uk

May 2012 43

News

Apprentices online A new website dedicated to floor laying apprenticeships has been launched by The Flooring Guild.

Detailed information on the training received, the qualification and funding can be found at www.flooring guildapprenticeships.co.uk There has never been a better time to take on a Floor Laying Apprentice. With a £1500 wage incentive available to employers taking on an apprentice and free training available for all 16-18 year olds (and subsidised training for 19+), contact The Flooring Guild via the new website T 01480 471476 apprentice@flooring-guild.co.uk

‘Amazing experience’ Matt Blackbourn, Master Fitter and FITA Council Member explains how FITA helped to make a real difference to the work of floor laying: “Throughout my school life I had helped my dad out in the holidays with the family business, as I’m sure you can guess it was a flooring shop. I left school at eighteen and had no idea what I wanted to do. So I decided to carry on helping out my dad part time and here I am six years later, obviously full time now.

“After a year of working in the domestic sector for a few months I was advised to go on a flooring course by my dad, after a few arguments and me thinking “why do I need to go on one of those…I know it all” I gave in. We had a look around and there seemed to be one place to go – FITA. I decided to attend the Intensive Basic Carpet Fitting Course.

“Over the five days I learnt and practiced a vast array of fitting techniques and knowledge in every aspect of the trade. The instructors were second to none and their advice, skills, knowledge and banter helped me to improve very quickly over the five days, something I feel would have taken me years otherwise. Also realising I didn’t know as much as I had originally thought.

“The whole experience was amazing and I enjoyed every minute, something you don’t hear many people say about work” “While I was on the course I also learnt about the NICF and what they are trying to achieve and offer me as a floor layer. I joined as a fitter in carpet and they have helped and guided me on a regular basis.

“I have always heard people talk about carpet fitter of the year, something I would have loved to have a go at. So when I saw the advert for trials at FITA for the Great Britain Flooring Team I was up for the challenge. I was very surprised to be selected as the under 25 member of the team. I knew this would be a massive challenge but I knew that if anyone could train us for this Steve was the man for the job, he had a lot of work ahead of him. Also wasn’t sure what would make me more nervous, the thousands of people watching us, the judges or Steve.

“The whole experience was amazing and I enjoyed every minute, something you don’t hear many people say about work and we would not have been able to do all of this without the NICF and FITA. “I have now been on many different courses at FITA covering all aspects of the flooring trade. Recently I have started working more on the contract side of the industry and once again FITA was there to help me with training. FITA offers an assessment to become an approved fitter for M&S which I completed, leading to more and varied installations.

Revamp for stamp of approval The WoolSafe Organisation has announced new names for WoolSafe-approved carpet cleaners. Going forward, carpet-cleaning companies vetted and approved by WoolSafe will have the status of ‘WoolSafe Approved Service Provider’, and individual technicians within approved service providers that have undergone WoolSafe training will have the title of ‘WoolSafe Approved Fibre Care Specialist’.

“The change of name reflects our desire to continue to maintain excellent working relationships with our approved companies and individuals” Responding to demand from carpet care companies for company specific accreditation, the new status of ‘WoolSafe Approved Service Provider’ allows entire companies to use the WoolSafe Approved Mark. Individuals within approved companies and solo technicians who have trained for and passed the WoolSafe exam are able to use the title of ‘Woolsafe Approved Fibre Care Specialist’ for greater clarification that the technician on the job has been trained to clean wool and other natural fibres.

“The change of name reflects our desire to continue to maintain excellent working relationships with our approved companies and individuals”, explains Steve Bakker, Marketing Manager, The WoolSafe Organisation. Companies have come to us requesting accreditation in order to convince potential customers that they are the right choice and can offer superior carpet cleaning services. It is the company that is now able to bear WoolSafe’s prestigious mark, providing greater consistency and ultimately reassuring customers that their organisation’s integrity, the skill of their technicians and the safety and effectiveness of the cleaning products they use are endorsed by WoolSafe.”

“I have made some very good friends through the NICF and FITA, some of which I get work with now and again, well I’ll be honest it doesn’t really feel like work when your with your friends. FITA and the NICF are now part of my daily working life, and I would strongly advise anyone else starting out in the trade to get in touch with them and see what they can do for you. “

WoolSafe members should not worry about changing their existing WoolSafe stationary and advertising overnight, however, as this change will be phased in over the coming months. New-style van decals are now available free of charge for all WoolSafe Approved Service Providers who have previously purchased them, reflecting the WoolSafe Organisation’s commitment to rolling out this new branding worldwide with minimum disruption to members.

T 0115 9506836

T 01943 850817

44 June 2012

www.fita.co.uk

www.woolsafe.org

FlooringNews

The British Wool column Retailing wool carpets and rugs USA style

Landry and Arcari – the carpet and rug showroom in Boston where wool leads the way.

A number of things differentiate the way that wool flooring is retailed in the USA from the UK but nothing seems to stand out more than the space of the stores. In a country where there is a lot of space, clearly it is easier but there is something to be said for giving your product room to be seen.

Landry and Arcari – is a Boston showroom which is a member of the high-end International Design Guild part of the same co-operative group as Flooring One. The visual impact as you walk in to this store is impressive – it is a stylish space with a very designer feel, this puts it on a parallel with smart furniture stores or quality kitchen showrooms and you are eased in to an understanding that here they are selling quality interior fashion.

It has 5000 square feet of display space and it is filled with wool rugs and carpets but his other store is four times the size. Jerry Arcari has over fifty years in the flooring industry – since he was a teenager – and he now stocks product from over fifty different manufacturers and from countries all over the world. The variety is amazing and he says that customers expect fresh ideas and plenty of alternatives.

Speed and customer service are critical against warehouse competition, he can supply carpet from his stock rolls of 150 rolls in less than 24 hours and he freely admits that these stock ranges drive his business.

Wool Week 2012 – Join the celebration, plan an event The Campaign for Wool (CfW) host’s its third Wool Week from 15th – 21st October and interest is still strong, according to Bridgette Kelly of the CfW. “The new in-store POS created by the Carpet Foundation offers a unique opportunity for any wool retailer to flag up their wool product ranges.

The whole point of Wool Week is to do something to celebrate wool and make it work for the business too. It could be a straight forward in-store promotion or perhaps some sheep in store would appeal to the customers – last year one leading fashion store put sheep in their shops and sold more wool coats on a hot day in September than on a cold day in winter.

The aim is to be creative and have some fun with it.

Put some sheep in your store for Wool Week.

Let us know if you are planning an event for Wool Week and we may even feature it on this page! Please e-mail pressoffice@britishwool.org.uk with your Wool Week plans.

British Wool at the Flooring One show British Wool partnered with the Campaign for Wool and the Carpet Foundation at the Flooring One show in May and found the two days at the event to be very worthwhile.

“Retailers were drawn by the new bold POS which has been created by the Carpet Foundation and funded by the Campaign for Wool. It is great to see such a big statement for wool and the retailers we talked to thought it was brilliant,” Tim Booth of the British Wool Marketing Board said.

On colour trends like the UK, Jerry says, “About 70% of everything we sell is ivory/vanilla shades but with wool, ultimately the shade and design is an aesthetic choice but because wool is natural and they are paying a luxury price – they want texture and they want choice.”

He is a wool advocate, truly understands the fibre and knows how to market it. He invests in radio advertising and has an excellent website, which he says is integral to their business. The store hosts a promotional event every month which vary from pure sales promotions to education or creative events.

The USA and UK are very different – wool is low, mid and high-end here whilst there it is high-end nevertheless there is much to learn by the way they sell the products – the website, the showroom – all create an image and its very impressive.

from The Stocklists

British Wool at the Flooring One event in May.

June 2012 45

One size sticks all

News

Modern commercial environments often require the installation of many floor coverings, and with TacFast, flooring contractors can apply the same installation method across the board.

Great outside

Based around a core technology of detachable attachment and incredibly popular across the pond, TacFast is a speedy and simple installation process that will truly revolutionise the fitting process across a range of flooring surfaces.

Stopgap 850 Exterior, a frostresistant, smoothing and resurfacing compound for outdoor areas is the first exterior floor smoothing product F. Ball has launched, and is a result of the company’s ongoing product development programme.

Non-structural, exterior grade Stopgap 850 is formulated to smooth rough or damaged external concrete or sand/cement screeds such as walkways, balconies and patios. It is ideal for preparing exterior concrete surfaces prior to the application of a non-slip coating or external covering such as artificial grass. Stopgap 850 can be laid to falls, for example on gentle slopes such as walkways.

Unaffected by rain, frost or excessively high temperatures, Stopgap 850 is a hard-wearing product that can be left as a stand-alone exterior wearing surface and can be given a textured finish to further reduce the potential for slip. It is suitable for use in areas subject to vehicular traffic such as garages and driveways. In addition, Stopgap 850 can be used as a smoothing underlayment for internal damp subfloors due to receive a Stopgap waterproof surface membrane or Stopgap Isolator Membrane.

Stopgap 850 Exterior is a self–smoothing product with a walk-on hardness time of 2 hours at 20°C. The protein free, water mix compound is supplied in 25kg bags and will cover 2.9m2 at a thickness of 5mm. The product can also be pump applied over larger areas - up to 900m2 per day - depending on manpower, thickness of application and equipment used.

Suitable for use with wood and laminate planks, carpet tiles, ceramics, natural stone and LVT, the TacFast system provides fast installation for many different types of floor. Contemporary commercial environments such as offices tend to create zonal areas with their flooring, using LVT for kitchen areas, carpet tiles for communal work spaces and wood for break out zones, and TacFast works with all of these types of floor. Ultimately saving contractors and end users time and money, TacFast provides a revolutionary installation system that will provide a perfectly installed floor more rapidly than before.

Also ideal for time-sensitive projects, TacFast eliminates the need for attaching the floorcovering to the subfloor adhesively. TacFast is a unique interlocking disc and plate system that sits above the subfloor and acts as a DPM, leveller and mechanical fixer in one.

With a hook and loop fastening system, floorcoverings can be rapidly attached without the need for glue or lengthy drying.

Eradicating the need for a complex subfloor preparation, another major benefit of the TacFast method is that the floorcovering can also be quickly removed or replaced – ideal for refurbishment periods or multi-location businesses.

T 01527 919891 www.tacfast.com

Commenting on the launch of Stopgap 850 Exterior, F. Ball’s Marketing Manager, Richard Harris, said: “F. Ball is continuously working to enhance its product range, demonstrated by launching our first exterior product.

The self-smoothing properties and frost-resistant formulation of Stopgap 850 makes it an ideal external smoothing compound or a stand-alone wearing surface.”

T 01538 361 633

www.f-ball.co.uk

Mapei takes centre stage As Mapei celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, they can look back in retrospect at their contribution to many of the world’s most prestigious projects. This includes the Grade II listed Royal Shakespeare Theatre (RST) in Stratford where Mapei played a considerable part in its £112.8m refurbishment. The award winning RST, which was designed by Bennetts Associates Architects, has been transformed to create a magnificent, interactive experience for the 1,000 seat audience.

A full system of Mapei products were utilised; from mortar repair and priming through to the adhesive. Mapei supplied products used to prepare the refurbished flooring for the heavy weight bearing and high footfall conditions characteristic of a tourist attraction.

Mapei had to take into consideration the four differing substrates throughout the building; plywood, chipboard, sand cement +75% r.h. & sand cement -75% r.h., which resulted in four systems of product being specified.

Fireclad carried out the installation of the final floor finishes throughout the dressing rooms using Ultrabond Eco VS90 adhesive to install vinyl flooring and impact rubber matting. While Loughton Contracts Plc. installed the soft flooring to the remainder of the building, including impact rubber, vinyl and carpet flooring. Impact rubber flooring was installed backstage of the theatre on an upper level ensuring noise is limited while back stage scenery is moved up and down into place. Ultrabond Eco Tack was utilised to install new carpet tiles throughout the central core areas over five floors, back of house, auditorium and seating areas. Mapei products and final flooring in these areas were all professionally installed by SDP Floor Screeds.

T 0121 508 6970 www.mapei.co.uk 46 June 2012

FlooringNews

TAT ADVERT

from The Stocklists

June 2012 47

Intelligent retailing Flooring One has a reputation for innovation in the services they offer to their members and they launched a number of exciting new initiative’s at their buying group event in Solihull last month.

Tackling two key issues for flooring stores, a new retailer-friendly web-based trading system was announced plus a scheme to win back insurance business for the independents was also unveiled – see panels for details.

In the carpet department, Flooring One has been busy too. “We have been looking hard at giving our retailers the right price points across our ranges,” says Glenn Harding who heads the Group. “This is a challenging market and our members need all the options to suit the budgets of hard pressed consumers.”

Flooring One has tackled this issue with the launch of a new entry-level PP offering, The Homemaker Collection, and a 50/50 wool range Oxford Twist.

Homemaker is one of the most ‘affordable’ luxury collection the buying group has ever introduced and comprise 4 versatile ranges – Columbia and Caress, two colourful twists; Divine, a plush Saxony; and Diversity, a stripe and textured loop. In 100% Permalon polypropylene, they are available in an assortment of 4m and 5m widths.

Five PP twists have crept into Flooring One’s top 20 best-sellers where there was only one 18 months ago. The group has recognised the need for affordable wool and responded with a 50/50 Oxford Twist and a competitive 100% wool range High Sierra.

But where there is still some spare cash, Flooring One has looked after the top end of the market with their exclusive range Oakdale Elite, a British-made eight-gauge 80/20 at 55 oz and available in 20 contemporary new colours.

Flooring One is keen on colour and their persistence has paid off as demand grows. The bright Spectrum Twist 80/20 launched two years ago is now selling strongly so more new colours have been added as they have in the Caledonian and Chester Twist ranges.

The initiatives don’t stop at carpets. A clever new combination swatch to display underlay samples easily was well received as was the new vinyl stand.

Rugs are set for a major step forward with Flooring One’s collection of 80 designs including 60 known best-sellers “to take the risk out of rug buying.”

The collection is referenced by Flooring One’s first-ever colour gallery booklet which shows retailers the full selection in categorised sections.

See the following pages for further reviews from the Solihull event.

Flooring One’s Glenn Harding with Oakdale Elite

Clever clicks

Loss adjuster

BFlooringDirect is a smart collaboration between Flooring One and the BRM buying group to create a web trading platform that works in favour of independent retailers and competes with the direct-to-consumer flooring websites active elsewhere.

The insurance industry is about as unpopular as the internet for stealing sales off retailers so Flooring One (and ACG) have teamed up with RIVAS – the Rainbow International Validation and Settlement service.

With a clean, easy interface and a quick click-through to the final sale, BFlooringDirect offers an exclusive range of floorcoverings which consumers can opt to have delivered via an independent retailer matched to their postcode or have delivered direct. Either way, that local retailer gets a commission on the sale – as well as a new customer relationship.

The membership of Flooring One and the BRM are being encouraged to sign up as soon as possible to complete the national network.

The website is at: http://www.bflooringdirect.co.uk

48 June 2012

Rainbow works for the insurance companies whose first objective is to repair or restore damaged flooring. But the RIVAS model means that if a carpet does have to be replaced, the business will go to the consumers’ local buying group member.

There will be a full report in the next issue.

FlooringNews

from The Stocklists

June 2012 49

SHOWTIME IN SOLIHULL

Austerity is the mother of invention

Solihull has become a showcase for flooring each May with the expansion of the buying group events that are now an essential date in the diary of retailers. This year’s occasion was full of innovation to tackle the demands of a hard-pressed consumer market.

The event is hosted at Cranmore Park, the modern, purpose-built exhibition centre at the headquarters of AIS, the major retail group who have Flooring One as a business.

On the second day, the invitation is extended to members of other buying groups to the Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show, in collaboration with ACG, BRM, Metro and SMG. Some 60 preferred suppliers including all the top manufacturers use the event to launch their latest products in time for the selling season and this year there were interesting initiatives in stain-resistant polypropylenes, ‘affordable’ wool products and eye-catching new rug designs.

Full reports, company-by-company, are included in the following pages with part 2 to follow in our July issue.

Market sentiment among suppliers and retailers in Solihull was surprisingly positive given the daily diet of apocalyptic news from the Eurozone. Most are having a solid second quarter’s trading with many businesses reporting increased sales over the last year.

general sense that consumers are returning to the safety of the larger independent retailers. “There is less footfall but there are more buyers amongst those who do turn up,” was another comment.

Colour is coming back to carpet according to many manufacturers – there will be a full colour trends report from Solihull in our July issue.

7 pages of exhibitor reports starts here with more next month...

Telenzo Telenzo are doing things a little differently with stripes with a more subtle, less traditional approach. The new collection has four stripes in the 50/50 Highbury range which coordinates beautifully with the smooth plains of Hampton Court and the more textured finish of Islington. The collection is at the samplers now to go out to retailers later this month.

Another take on stripes is represented in new Casablanca, a high-end synthetic in 66 nylon which has a smart textured stripe in the yarn and is available in 12 colours.

T 01422 374417 www.edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk

“The better retailers are doing better but the reverse is probably also true,” said one commentator and there is a

50 June 2012

FlooringNews

Showtime in Solihull

Axminster Retailers bracing themselves for an unpredictable summer this year due to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 London Olympics need not worry as Axminster Carpets have announced a special Royal Promotion to help increase sales over the upcoming summer months.

Having recently been awarded a Royal Warrant for the supply of goods and services to the Royal Household, Axminster Carpets have decided to show support for Her Majesty and its retailers by offering 20% off the list price of all woven Axminster carpets. This will enable retailers to push prices down by the same percentage and entice consumers to take advantage of this fantastic offer. A variety of exciting Jubilee-themed POS material is also available to help push sales, and retailers can choose from posters, show cards and wobblers all with impactful promotional visuals.

T 01297 630650

www.axminstercarpets.co.uk

Regency Carpets The new colours of the best-selling Satisfaction range were unveiled for the first time at Solihull. “This is a brand leader,” says Neil Valentine of Furlong Flooring. “First launched in 2007 and re-coloured in 2009, these latest on-trend colours take Satisfaction to a new level.”

Furlong has followed up its success with the eye-catching illuminated lectern that was first seen with the launch of the elegance range last year. The units will now be available for Satisfaction and have proved a great hit with retailers.

Interfloor Interfloor have come up with a neat new way to encourage people to take a fresh look at underlay with a smart bound book of samples.

“This lets retailers keep a set of samples on the counter and talk to customers about the options without having to go away and drag out a selection of hanging samples,” says Jim Cross, Interfloor’s Southern Sales Manager.

The book contains a range of Tredaire and Duralay, including PU and rubber, and the company is happy to create a customised book tailored to the preferences of a particular retailer.

Neil Valentine (left) is pictured with Peter Sharpe of Furlong Flooring, “modelling” the new range!

Interfloor’s attention to detail for retailers was recognised by the Flooring One buying group with the presentation of Supplier of the Year award for smooths and accessories.

T 01772 316155

T 01706 213131

52 June 2012

www.regencycarefree.co.uk

www.interfloor.co.uk

FlooringNews

Showtime in Solihull

Crucial Trading Crucial Trading are reporting good growth with adoretouch LVT flooring now that the first range of this attractive and innovative LVT is available in the market. adore’s embossed wood decors have majored on oaks, of course in the UK market and have created a contemporary selection with some grey tones doing especially well.

There are 14 wood decors available at present with a set of mineral and ceramic designs set to follow shortly.

The easy-click technology of adoretouch has made the product as popular with fitters as it is with consumers and now a new swingarm stand has just been introduced to showcase the range with larger samples than the standard tall rack.

T 01675 433075

www.adorefloors.com

Flooring Guild

Brontë

The national apprenticeship programme from Flooring Guild is now fully launched following a highly successful regional pilot scheme last year. Apprentices undertake a 14 – 16 month course which includes four separate weeks of specialised tuition at the Guild’s training centre in Devon and supervised on-the-job experience.

The border business has proved highly resilient in the recession for custom specialists Bronte Carpets. The company designs embossed and inlaid borders which create a stunning effect for high-end residential installtions. The company has just launched a sophisticated new Fleur-de-Lys pattern in an embossed border but the striking high-contrast designs are equally popular.

For retailers, the scheme offers a great opportunity to build the skills of young people that they can select themselves or have recruited by the Guild. Better still, 16-18 year olds are fully funded by the Government during their training while the retailer also gets £1,500 on top.

T 0845 308 1400 www.flooring-guild.co.uk

“The business for borders used to fluctuate but now we find strong demand throughout the year,” says sales manager Andrew Broughton, pictured (right) with his brother Stuart who is MD. Bronte is one of the few suppliers in this sector and have benefited from greater exposure in the market for their products.

T 01282 862736 www.brontecarpets.co.uk

Thomas Witter “Colour is coming back into 80/20 wool twists!” says Robbie Thomson of Thomas Witter. “Everyone said they wanted colour but you never know if it will follow through into sales but we are seeing strong demand. Customers want something fresher.”

Thomas Witter says that 40% of its plains are now being sold in stronger colours – noticeably it is the larger cuts – say 25m2 and above – that tend towards these shades with red being among the favourites now.

T 01204 374170

www.thomaswitter.com

from The Stocklists

June 2012 53

Showtime in Solihull

Associated Weavers Associated Weavers showed a new brightly coloured stand in Solhull complemented by a couple of bright ideas that proved popular with visitors.

The strong success of Temptation, an indulgent multi-width 60oz PP saxony, when it was launched as a roll line at Harrogate prompted the company to take a closer look and they have added new contemporary colours to build a full range that is likely to increase its popularity.

In another major launch, Woodland Twist has arrived as a wool-like synthetic and it is one of the most convincing versions in the market with a very natural texture and feel.

Available in 14 colours and multi-width, the range will start going out to retailers in June.

T 01422 431100 www.associatedweavers.net

CRUK Consumer concern over end of life options for their waste carpets is prompting more retailers to offer take back and recycling services, says Carpet Recycling UK - the industry’s association for recycling and reusing carpet.

At the end of the show, CRUK Co-ordinator Jane Gardner described the response from retailers as ‘very positive’ with several reporting increased interest in recycling and end of life options from householders.

“With more than 50 enquiries over the two days, we were encouraged by this level of interest and the retailers we spoke to at our stand were keen to enhance their offering to the consumer by providing a take back service and recycling carpets.

These forward thinking retailers are the entrepreneurs of the retail world,” she said.

T 0161 440 8325

www.carpetrecyclinguk.com

Campaign for Wool New and innovative point of sale material, exclusively for the carpet industry, is set to be introduced by the Campaign for Wool. The initiative is the brainchild of the Carpet Foundation and is being project managed by them on behalf of the industry.

There are three components to the point of sale – a visually arresting free standing graphic pod (as pictured); interactive wool boxes complete with coloured wool and an A3 poster. All three put a ‘modern twist’ on the traditional benefits of wool and do so in a very striking and eye catching manner. It will be available from the middle of June and although subsidised by the Campaign for Wool, participating retailers will have to make a modest contribution. It is intended to install the materials in as many retailers as possible up and down the country.

The project is the latest part of the Campaign for Wool’s global campaign to drive consumer interest in wool.

T 01274 688666 54 June 2012

www.campaignforwool.org

FlooringNews

Showtime in Solihull

Adam Adam is re-inventing itself and rolled out the latest store displays in their modern new branding at the Solihull show.

The prototype wall units have clean, modern lines with stronger use of creative roomset photography and LED lighting. They were popular with visitors.

“Everybody knows Adam, but they don’t know much about us,” says Eamonn Prescott. “We’ve been hiding our light a little so now we have our sharp new branding and have been adding to our range substantially, we’ll be making more noise out there.”

The company has also just relaunched its website in a modern, gallery style to showcase its products.

T 01562 829966

www.adamcarpets.com

Manx

Ryalux The Ryalux flagship range V&A Twist just got a little more attractive for retailers with the launch at Solihull of a fixed width promotion – a full 25% off the trade price compared to the any-width pricing that has been standard since the range was launched in 1998.

Manx has been building up to the Solhull show with the promotion of its new Easy Living Collection which has been launched in four ranges so far under the names Ultimate Choice, Luxury Heathers, Royal Kingdon, Supreme Living – a twist in two weights and a choice of saxonies.

The two-ply yarn comes with a 10 year stain resistant and wear guarantee. Neat new lectern units which contain each of the four ranges start to go out to retailers which month.

Carl Quail of Ryalux explains: “We realised that nearly half of all sales of V&A Twist were either 4 or 5 metres and this means those cuts can be planned for less wastage. By reducing the price to retailers, we give them the opportunity to pass on a discount to consumers and we are already starting to seeing increased sales as a result.”

T 0161 762 3030 www.ryalux.com

T 01827 831434 www.manxcarpets.co.uk

from The Stocklists

June 2012 55

Showtime in Solihull

Louis de Poortere Louis de Poortere are never shy of trying something new and with their new Vintage rug range of chenille and wool they are on to a winner. The patchwork designs and the bleached, worn look are right on trend today and LDP have just added 14 new fashion colours to the mix to make Vintage a highly saleable collection.

About to arrive as a sister product range is the Pop-Art collection with similar design themes but in vibrant, edgy colours. “This design trend is very hot at them moment and we have had a tremendous response to these ranges,” said LDP’s Alan Russell.

T 07976 433269

www.louisdepoortere.be

Kingsmead

Ball & Young PU has gone all posh at Ball & Young with the highly successful launch of their British made Cloud 9 Connoisseur range – a luxury, high density product that looks the business in its ‘designer’ white livery.

“It has had an excellent response in the trade,” says B&Y’s Ann Shaw.

“Consumers are often reluctant to replace quality underlay that still looks OK but this product gives the retailer a real reason to trade up consumers to something that is distinctively different and noticeably better.”

T 01536 200502 www.underlay.com

Kingsmead has made a strong statement in the booming stain resistant market with the launch of its Clean Easy range made from its Everlon fibre, a two-ply yarn which is high fade resistant and bleach cleanable. The carpet is available in 4 and 5 metre widths and rated for heavy domestic use. The distinctive black and green branding shows off well on the compact lectern (pictured) and a four-sided tower will also be available.

Kingsmead also rolled out a creative new colour palette in their popular polyester saxony Paloma range with some strong options in reds and blues and on-trend spinach, plum and gold.

T 01827 831424 www.kingsmeadcarpets.co.uk

Stairrods An unsung hero of the Stairrods product range is Easyshim – first launched at Harrogate two years ago but attracting a growing number of supporters who have found just how useful it can be. Easyshim is a thin wooden profile for use when carpet is being installed next to hardwood, stone, marble and ceramic tiles. The ramp is available is 6, 9 and 12mm thicknesses and avoids the need and delays of using screeds to create the correct surface. Side shims are available for situations where the carpet shim protrudes into a doorway.

“Once a fitter has used Easyshim, they come back for more and tell their friends,” says Stairrods agent Quentin Morris (pictured with agent Richard Brown).

T 01207 591176 www.stairrods.co.uk

56 June 2012

FlooringNews

Showtime in Solihull

Mastercraft Mastercraft Rugs are totally committed to continuously improving their offer to retailers with innovative new ideas and by strengthening the options in their existing ranges. The result of their dedication was the Supplier of the Year award from the Flooring One buying group for the fourth time.

The sensation of the show at Solihull for Mastercraft was Genova – a distinctive multilevel creation in viscose on chenille described as ‘art silk’ which is available in 8 designs. The effect is a stunningly fashionable rug with a high perceived value at a middle market price (two of the designs are pictured right).

“We’ve moved the production of these rugs on to an 8-colour frame loom and can produce something so different,” said Mastercraft’s Robert Dickson. “People are more careful with their money now and they want to see more quality per pound. We have had a tremendous reaction to this range.”

Mastercraft are also adding designs to their popular new Isfahan range of top quality silk fringed viscose rugs and report especially strong business for their Mehari range – a thick super-soft berber style wilton rug.

Robert (right) is pictured receiving his Supplier of the Year Award for Rugs from Flooring One’s Glenn Harding.

T 01282 694565

www.mastercraftrugs.co.uk

from The Stocklists

June 2012 57

Flower on Flooring News News Flying the flag Coinciding with the Queen’s Golden Jubilee celebrations this year, the flooring industry has seized the initiative to match the mood of celebration.

Among the various companies are UK manufacturers such as Abingdon Flooring, which has launched its Made in Great Britain display stand. The company reminds customers that it is a truly “vertically integrated” polypropylene manufacturer and the only British company to produce its own yarn, quality and service, so competitiveness is guaranteed. Abingdon explains that it has added “a little diversity to the mix” to provide retailers with added sales potential. “This superb display unit takes up very little space and yet will produce very many large orders for months and months to come!” the company says.

Abingdon reinforces its UK-made credentials

and traditional styles, with typically British names such as London Bus, Village Green, Bowler Hat and Lemon Curd. Tailored to suit a discerning market, the palette has been designed to create stylish interiors with a quintessential British feel. The collection is named after Ryalux's founder, William Lomas.

Alternative Flooring has also joined in the mood of national celebration, introducing regal cheer with its British-designed London Calling. This red, white and blue wool stripe is from its Rock 'n' Roll collection and is available as carpet, rugs and runners. Lorna Haigh, marketing manager, says: “With the British flag flying high it is great that we have this original London Calling, which is in tune with the excitement of London 2012.” The company is also continuing its celebrations online through discussions on Facebook and Twitter.

Balta Broadloom states that its Funky Stripes collection features a bright new colour combination using Union Jack colours to appeal to patriotic homeowners. A bright design in red, white and blue, it is vibrant, bold and features stripes of differing thickness.

Alternative Flooring’s red, white and blue London’s Calling

The William Classics collection from Ryalux Carpets, a wool collection of twists, velvets, plain and striped loops, also celebrates British design and style. The four textures have been created to work on their own or co-ordinate with each other. The 72 William Classics colours take their inspiration from both the latest trends

58 June 2012

FlooringNews

by Dennis Flower The William Classics collection from Ryalux Carpets has a British feel

Flying the flag with Funky Stripes from Balta Broadloom

Created from 100% Stainsafe polypropylene for easy maintenance, Funky Stripes is a tufted 1/8in cutpile, available in 4m width. Tying in with The Queen’s upcoming Diamond Jubilee celebrations and the 2012 London Olympics, it is designed to appeal to consumers keen to support their country this year.

“The inclusion of the red, white and blue combination in Funky Stripes 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,” says Geert Vanden Bossche, Balta Broadloom marketing director.

As a Royal Warrant holder, Brintons is proud of its long established British heritage, which has recently added new colours across all collections. As well as working with great British brands like Laura Ashley and The Royal Horticultural Society, it also works with admired British designers from Vivienne Westwood to Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen. Brintons plains have had a complete makeover this jubilee year. Each collection has its own unique finish and appeal and all are genuine wiltons, woven in Kidderminster.

The company has some highly relevant collections to match the jubilee celebrations, such as Majestic, Brintons’ most luxurious velvet. New colours include polished silver and frosted diamond. True Velvet is elegant, graceful and quintessentially British, with new colours including custard cream and trenchcoat. continued on page 60

from The Stocklists

June 2012 59

News News You don’t get more British than Royal Warrant holder Brintons Pictured below is Majestic (top), Bell Twist (centre) and True Velvet (bottom)

Brockway’s Carnaby in Union Stripe

Finepoint is inspired by great British artists; new colours include Constable Millstone and Lowry Russet. Bell Twist has been a favourite for almost 50 years, the company states, with recent additions including Thatch and Malt.

Brockway Carpets is also flying the flag with its patriotic trio of red, white and blue themed colour carpets, including the launch of a stripe offering to its Vogue range. With its striking red, blue and white colour palettes, the company’s new Trafalgar stripe evokes a royal richness and versatility to match any room setting.

Also capturing the British spirit, Carnaby features stunning red, white and blue bold stripes, ideal for creating a unique backdrop for any room. For a classic touch, Brockway states that its Jubilee in Burgundy Stripe can be co-ordinated with several plain complementary colour carpets in the range.

Another company joining in the celebrations is Manx Carpets, which reports that its Metropolitan collection has recently been recoloured and now consists of an attractive, fashionable colour palette with 16 solid shades, including patriotic colours such as red (Ladybird), royal blue (Blueberry) and white (Snow), all complimenting hues for today's modern living.

Made from two ply 80% New Zealand wool, 10% meltbond and 10% polyester, Metropolitan is available in two qualities of 40oz and 50oz yarn in both 4m and 5m widths.

Axminster Carpets head of marketing Richard Lawrence, highlights his company’s Devonia collection as a traditional range of plain wool, Britishdesigned carpets, suitable for heavy domestic use and available in 4m and 5m widths. With 52 solid colourways and eight heathers, each shade has a very English name.

The company is additionally celebrating the award of a Royal Warrant this year, described as a “fantastic moment for us”.“Now in the third generation of the Dutfield family, Axminster is one of the few truly British carpet producers left and we still use British wool that has been spun and dyed

60 June 2012

FlooringNews

Flower on Flooring continued

by Dennis Flower in-house to create the most beautiful, resilient and luxurious products possible,” says Mr Lawrence.

Victoria Carpets is another long-established British manufacturer, gaining further recognition last year when its Imperial Velvet was chosen as the red carpet installed at Westminster Abbey for the marriage of Prince William to Catherine Middleton. Imperial Velvet is one of the company’s latest velvet finish carpets, made from 80% British wool, 15% nylon and 5% polyester, supplied by its own spinners, Westwood Yarns, in Yorkshire. It has a new weight of 45oz/sq yard and is supplied to leading independent retailers. After the wedding, the carpet was taken up by the contractors and will be reused elsewhere by the Church of England.

Manx’s Metropolitan is celebrating with red (Ladybird), white (Snow) and royal blue (Blueberry).

retailers respond to industry issues

Flying the flag Is patriotism good for your business?

Every product that can is waving the flag this month but do your customers buy British?

Do you? And does the economic crisis mean we should care where a carpet comes from – do we support UK jobs or go for the best margin wherever?

And with the football and the Olympics, there’s more to come - have you found the flag is an attraction or distraction – are you selling more red, white and blue carpets as has been reported!

Tell us what you think and join the debate...

The online survey takes less than four minutes and it’s anonymous and doesn’t need any form filling.

Please help us inform the industry.

Visit www.thestocklists.com and click on the survey banner to take part.

Flooring Forum Join our panel For more information: Abingdon T 01274 655662 www.abingdonflooring.co.uk Alternatiuve Flooring T 01264 335111 www.alternativeflooring.com Balta T +32 5662 2211 www.baltagroup.com Brintons T 0800 505055 www.brintins.et Brockway T 01562 828200 www.brockway.co.uk Manx T 01827 831434 www.manxcarpets.co.uk Ryalux T 0161 762 3030 www.ryalux.com

from The Stocklists

The Forum is the platform for retailers to respond to trade issues and inform the industry about the problems and opportunities they face on the High Street.

You can join our online survey panel and you’ll be invited every two months to contribute your views - it’s anonymous so you can say exactly what you think.

To join the panel, visit www.thestocklists.com and click on the Online sign-up button.

June 2012 61

News

PU

Foundation’s new way to pay The Carpet Foundation is set to introduce a new funding model for its retail members.

The current 1% levy on sales of all carpet made by Carpet Foundation manufacturers is set to be replaced by a flat rate fee paid on a monthly basis. A subscription of £35 a month, paid on a standing order basis, is set to be introduced from 1st August 2012. Letters notifying retailers of the proposed change have been sent out to all existing Carpet Foundation members. The change was arrived at following extensive discussions with manufacturers and retailers.

The move comes against a backdrop of a challenging economic climate and a changing world. The new system will mean that no retailer is financially disadvantaged by selling Carpet Foundation manufacturer products and equally that no manufacturer is potentially disadvantaged by being a member. It will also be a tax deductible business expense for retailers.

This is the latest in a number of changes instigated by new CF Chief Executive Andrew Stanbridge who has revitalised the Foundation since his appointment in April 2011. More manufacturers are poised to join the Foundation and it is hoped that the flat retail fee will appeal to those retail members who have been reluctant to join in the past.

Commenting on the proposals, Andrew Stanbridge said: “I am delighted to say that several manufacturers have expressed their desire to join the CF in recent months. However, under the current levy system, this could mean that some retailers would see their levy payments increase substantially.

The Carpet Foundation is not allowed to know how much each retailer pays as it is collected by an independent third party.

However, the new system will create a level playing field as each retailer will pay the same money for the same benefits. It will also enable us to plan and budget more effectively.”

The Carpet Foundation is currently preparing to undertake a digital campaign with IPC Media’s housetohome.com in the Autumn as well as playing a prominent role in the Campaign for Wool. This, allied to consistent editorial exposure for carpet in the influential home interest magazines, continues to ensure that carpet and CF members get value for money from their investment in the Foundation.

T 01562 755568

www.carpetfoundation.com

Lord Harris stands down Lord Harris, the carpet industry’s biggest personality, has finally stepped down as chief executive of Carpetright, nearly 25 years after he founded the business. He will remain as chairman.

After seven profit warnings in the last year, the troubled retailer will now be run by its finance director, Darren Shapland - a move that suprised some commentators who expected Lord Harris’ son Martin to succeed - Martin is currently commercial director.

Darren Shapland has an interesting past as a former Carpetright director who left the business in 2005 to join Sainsbury’s where his success led to expectations he would be appointed chief executive. But Darren rejoined Carpetright last year as a nonexecutive director - a move that was seen as succession planning

by Lord Harris although this was denied at the time.

Carpetright’s share price nudged up nearly 1% on the news.

Lord Harris said: “I am delighted that Darren has agreed to become Chief Executive of Carpetright. He was an outstanding Finance Director of the Group from 2002 to 2005 and knows our business well."

Its latest profit warning, in April, underlined the scale of the job ahead. The group made £16.9m in its previous financial year but now estimates underlying profits for the year to April 28 will be in the region of £3m and £4m.

Phil Harris, now 69, founded Carpetright in 1988 after the sale of Harris Queensway, a business he had built up from his acquisition of Queensway Carpets in 1977.

Lord Harris of Peckham is a colourful character who has generated mixed feelings in the trade among manufacturers with whom he has been the toughest negotiator and among independent retailers who have taken some delight in the recent decline of Carpetright’s fortunes.

The personal fortune of Lord Harris is secure, however. The Sunday Times Rich list ranks him aound 200th in the UK and has him worth about £200m but he is well known for charitable giving - estimated at more than £100m in his career with an emphasis on educational and health causes. The Harris Foundation supports many new academy schools in South London.

A good friend of David Cameron - and a major Tory party donor - Lord Harris also holds non-executive directorshps with Matalan and Arsenal Football Club.

New buying group targets doubters In such challenging economic conditions, with record numbers of retailers going to the wall, survival instincts should be leading retailers to ever more closely examine their business model, and explore ways of improving profitability, says ex-Metro Group boss David Kipping, Only around 20% of carpet retailers are members of a buying group and David, a carpet retailer for more than 25 years and former Chief Executive of Metro Group wants more retailers to benefit. He is launching a new buying group, Carpet-Force, with a completely free membership offer that aims to convince those retailers of the benefits of combining their buying power, whilst not interfering in the way they choose to run their business.

The greatest strength, and at the same time the greatest weakness of independent retailers is their independence, he says. Often carpet retailers are fiercely independent and resist any attempt to force them down a particular route. Carpet-Force will therefore offer members a menu of benefits from which they can pick and choose, with no commitments and the ability to leave at any time if they feel it isn’t working for them.

David’s passion is in helping retailers to sell better as well as buy better. “Of course buying prices are important - but they are not the whole story.” he says. “Carpet-Force will therefore provide many free resources including training in sales, customer service, and marketing to help retailers sell more profitably. It is hard to imagine why any retailer would not want to at least try something that has the potential to dramatically improve profits at no cost.” www.carpet-force.info 62 June 2012

FlooringNews

News

PU

Victoria’s big entry into LVT

Trail blaze into the zone

Victoria Carpets has made its long awaited entry into the mainstream, luxury vinyl market with a new division and a new brand, Victoria Luxury Flooring (VLF). The launch is backed by significant investment in product and marketing.

Part of the new GO2 flooring concept from Mohawk, Trail Blazer offers contractors and specifiers durable and stylish carpet tiles to suit a range of commercial environments, fast.

The initial product offer is an extensive collection of wood, stone and slate products that are available in a range of designs, sizes and surface textures. A state of the art, highly contemporary Point of Sale unit has been designed and produced, with the purpose of targeting a network of carefully selected authorised dealers across the UK. Extensive lifestyle photography has been produced, together with a consumer brochure and a dedicated website. Although the initial primary focus is the residential market, the contract market has not been ignored, with a new contract sales team recruited and branded sample folders and brochures readily available.

The four introductory ranges cover most price points of the market.

The flagship product is Mode, a collection of wood and stone designs.

Both modern and stylish, Mode is a glue free, click-fit floating floor, which is quick to install, with minimal preparation.

Victoria’s defining Signature Collection, offers a wide selection and choice of styles. Beautiful designs and textured surface finishes, from light to rich dark woods and natural looking stones and slates. Innova, is an innovative range of contemporary wood designs, with a super matt finish and a range of textures including hand scraped effect. and Essencia is a collection of wood and stone products, which are simply elegant design essentials to complete and compliment any interior scheme.

Commenting on the introduction, Robert Byrne, VLF’s marketing manager, said: “Victoria Carpets is synonymous with premium quality carpets backed up by first class service and we aim to build a similar reputation in the LVT market with the launch of our new brand Victoria Luxury Flooring. Our portfolio of products and styles are designed to provide the consumer with a wide choice of affordable luxurious and performance led flooring.”

T 01562 749300

Available in four different colourways, Trail Blazer features contrasting abstract stripes that add interest and depth to commercial floors. With a wide colour spectrum of two different blue combinations, a grey version with black stripes and a black and purple design, Trail Blazer definitely has optimum appeal. The carpet tiles offer a tufted loop pile and are created from 100% solution dyed nylon for maximum durability and superior stain resistance. Ideal for high-impact areas, Trail Blazer is suitable for class 33 heavy contract use.

Trail Blazer can also be paired with coordinating colours in the Mountain Plains collection – the other part of the GO2 range – for an interesting and smart look that can be used to divide up the floor into zonal areas. Ideal for public buildings where space needs to be maximised, Trail Blazer can be used to demarcate break out zones, work areas and other specific locations without the need for ugly partitions.

“Trail Blazer offers contractors high quality carpet at a great price point ideal for a range of locations,” explains Howard Lindsey, Vice President UK, Ireland and South Africa. “As part of the exciting GO2 concept, commercial locations can mix up their floor coverings to create defined zonal areas, and the fantastic range of colours offered in Trail Blazer will give flooring areas an attractive looking finish that looks expensive.”

T 01480 479830

www.mohawkinternational.com

Bronte appoints Bronte Carpets have appointed Mark Viner as sales agent for East Midlands, Norfolk, Suffolk, Staffordshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire and Northampton.

www.victorialuxuryflooring.com

Get set to go to the show!

Mark will already be well known to many on the area as he brings over 20 years experience in the carpet industry to Bronte and will continue to service the middle to top end retailers throughout the area with Bronte's custom made collections manufactured to any colour and any width up to 12m wide.

Register online at: www.theflooringshow.com from The Stocklists

T 01282 862736

www.brontecarpets.co.uk June 2012 63

News

Recycling celebration Recofloor, the UK’s vinyl flooring take-back scheme, celebrated success and its vinyl flooring recycling champions at its second annual awards and seminar event in April at The Building Research Establishment Innovation Park (BRE), Watford.

Flooring companies, contractors and distributors collected trophies and certificates in six major award categories plus Gold and Silver groupings at the ‘Recofloor – Closing the Loop’, event, which also featured key speakers covering sustainability topics across the flooring and construction sectors.

In the morning seminar session, Dr Jason Leadbitter, Sustainability & Compliance Manager at INEOS ChlorVinyls explored the key sustainability credentials of PVC for use in the construction sector. Other guest speakers included Richard Catt, Chief Executive Officer at the Contract Flooring Association and Mike Falconer-Hall of WRAP on Recofloor’s contribution to the Halving Waste to Landfill initiative.

Left to right - Geoff Cleverdon (Altro), Mark Merryweather (Hull Flooring), Rebecca Pridham (Alan Parker Flooring), Jamie Wilkins (Tingdene Homes), Mark Mulchinock (The Axiom Group), Ellen Bunting (CB Contracts) and John Whitesmith (Polyflor)

Since 2009 when it was founded by leading flooring manufacturers Altro and Polyflor, Recofloor has achieved great success in working with the supply chain to divert a total 785 tonnes of vinyl flooring waste from landfill. A 137% year on year increase of waste vinyl collected between 2010 (188 tonnes) and 2011 (447 tonnes) is testament to its tremendous achievement.

The Recofloor awards have been comprised principally from 2011 results, but also take into account those collectors who have made significant contributions to the scheme that warrant recognition. The awards were presented by directors of Recofloor’s founder companies, Altro and Polyflor, Geoff Cleverdon and John Whitesmith.

T 0161 355 7618

www.recofloor.org

Online apprentices Carpet Recycling UK’s fourth Annual Conference opens in Birmingham on July 11th with a packed programme providing information and inspiration for all sectors of the carpet waste supply chain, including presentations from leading American carpet recyclers.

1000 today!

Flooring Assessments, a leading provider of training and qualifications to the flooring industry have hit their big number - 1000 assessments completed!

Simon Bell a flooring contractor from Carpetright’s Nottingham store was the lucky young man to achieve this number.

Preceding the one-day event at the city’s Institute of Engineering and Technology will be a networking dinner on July 10th. This year sponsorship is provided by Invista, manufacturers of ANTRON® Carpet Fibres.

The conference is aimed at organisations seeking outlets for their carpet waste as well as carpet manufacturers and firms interested in new recycling technologies. A new format features three parallel ‘breakout’ sessions in the afternoon allowing attendees to select the most relevant talks for them. Topics will include waste prevention/redesign, reuse, recycling and energy from waste (EfW).

Up to 100 delegates are expected at the event, which is organised by resource recovery specialists Axion Consulting.

Axion manages Carpet Recycling UK, the industrybacked association for recycling and reusing waste carpet.

CRUK Co-ordinator Jane Gardner of Axion Consulting comments: “Delegates have tremendous opportunities to learn about available and emerging technologies for carpet recycling, as well as to meet those already in the business and find outlets for their carpet waste.

To register, please call Marie Rhodes on 0161 440 8325 or email: Marie@carpetrecyclinguk.com.

T 0161 440 8325

64 June 2012

www.carpetrecyclinguk.com

Left to right: Keith Mallinson, Nottingham store manager Carpetright and Matthew Bourne, Floorskills head of training handing over the course invitation to Simon Bell for the store fitters.

Flooring Assessments and supporting company FloorSkills have offered a prize to mark the occasion. Matt & Sid Bourne, head trainers of FloorSkills presented the Carpetright Nottingham store with a free 2 day training course worth over £1600 at their training centre in Birmingham as a mark of this achievement. Simon also receives an additional prize of fitting tools.

Flooring Assessments are continuing to register and assess fitters and are now working towards the next milestone. Jon Whitfield head of Training and Development at Carpetright said: “We are delighted to be working with Flooring Assessments who have provided fantastic training and assessment support to our business and our fitting partners.”

Flooring Assessments offers NVQ assessment to all fitters, in most cases it is completely funded, the fitter may be of either employed or self employed status. The fitter is assessed on site, there is no classroom work and no need to attend college – the assessor goes to the place of work and assesses on site.

T 07515 885912

www.flooringassessments.com

FlooringNews

Stocklists Classified The

News

UNDER RUGS

FOR SALE

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SPECIAL OFFERS Shaggy Rugs 45mm Pile Height - Acrylic Yarn with Latex Back - Anti Slip

120 cms Circular 120 x 170 cms

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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

Assorted Colours - Subject Unsold Ref: SL/512

Selected Rug and Matting Ltd 020 7407 8471 - srmlondon@aol.com NICF

from The Stocklists

June 2012 65

Stocklists Classified The

SITUATIONS VACANT

Regional Sales Manager Reporting to the Managing Director, Bury.

Significant salary to reflect the responsibility.

A rare opportunity to join at a senior level Cormar Carpets the ‘UK Manufacturing’ brand leader in tufted carpets.

Over the last few years, Cormar has continued to expand and as a consequence of a retirement in its Sales team require a self-motivated, positive and enthusiastic individual to join their Management team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing and working with a team of Sales Representatives who sell to independent carpet retailers.

The role involves working with the Managing Director and two other Regional Managers to develop and implement sales and growth strategies. The applicant must have good commercial skills and a proven track record.

Applicants must have good written and spoken communication skills, the ability to get on with people and work as a team player.

Much of this role will involve motivating, supporting and developing the team. Applicants must also be able to prioritise work and respond well under pressure.

Knowledge of the carpet trade is not essential. However experience in managing and directing a sales team is vital.

If you are interested in joining a family run business in this varied and challenging role then please forward your C.V. with a hand written covering letter summarising your relevant skills and experience to Carla Grant, HR Manager, Cormar Carpets, Brookhouse Mill, Bury, BL8 4HR. Close date is June 29th

Operations Manager Bolton £Negotiable + Benefits The Metro Group is one of the UK’s leading Carpet and Floor Covering Buying Groups currently with in excess of 150 members across the UK and with well developed relationships with the leading manufacturers and suppliers.

The Group is now seeking to appoint an Operations Manager to take responsibility for the day to day operation of the Group, leading and directing the Head Office team in Bolton to ensure the highest level of service delivery to members. Reporting to the Board the person appointed will work closely with manufacturers and suppliers maintaining effective relationships and ensuring competitive deals are negotiated for members; as well as maintaining positive relationships with existing members and developing the offerings to them and striving to ensure that the Group is an attractive proposition to encourage new members.

Ideally you will have a proven track record of experience within the carpet & floor covering industry with a strong commercial and sales background.

Proven management and leadership skills with the ability to communicate across all levels are also essential requirements for this position.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with drive and enthusiasm to contribute to and to be a key player in the future growth and success of this market leading operation. Success will be rewarded by career development and chance to take a more prominent role going forward.

Please send a letter of application detailing what you are able to bring to this job and what you believe that you can contribute together with your CV to our retained consultant Bob Cox at: bob.cox@wardgoodman.co.uk or call him for more information on 01202 875900.

SALES MANAGER & SALES ASSISTANTS The Floorstore is a leading independent carpet and wood flooring company based in Leeds. We currently have a position for a sales manager and also sales assistants.

The successful candidate will be dealing with both retail and trade customers and will be able to demonstrate a proven track record in customer service and sales. Candidates must be adaptable, flexible and reliable with a willingness to learn. Experience in retail flooring is desirable but not essential, with experience in the interior design and contract market an advantage.

If you are a hard worker with enthusiasm drive, ambition and a desire to succeed, please contact Steven Walker at The Floorstore, 91 Roseville Road, Sheepscar, Leeds LS8 5DR or steve@floorstoreleeds.co.uk, for an informal chat, alternatively please send your CV to the above address.

Competitive salary package negotiable dependent on skills and experience.

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

Advertise here!

Call Diane Martin on 01482 659396 66 May 2012

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

FlooringNews

Stocklists Classified The

SITUATIONS VACANT

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

We are market leading suppliers of Floor covering, Curtains, furniture packs, lighting and Show Homes to the House Building Industry

If you want to join a forward looking Company who has rapidly expanded over the past few years and increased their turnover by 25% just in the last 12 months, then look no further.

We need staff including Managers and subcontract fitters to further our progress either to strengthen our new regions being opened or our existing regional structure.

We are nationwide based with offices and warehouses in Biggin Hill, Birmingham, Brentwood, Chesterfield, Corby, Eastleigh, Exeter, Falkirk, Newcastle-uponTyne, Newport (Gwent), Preston and Slough.

Our staff positions are full time Monday to Friday with excellent salary packages which all have the benefit of health care, life cover, staff discount and staff bonuses.

Even if the position you are looking for is not mentioned below, please still contact us.

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

GOOD QUALITY FITTERS required for our Depot’s nationally which are mentioned above; working on a sub-contract basis. Must have own van.

Plenty of work available for: • • • • •

Carpet – domestic • Amtico/Kardean Vinyl • Laminate Contract Flooring • Cap and Cove Communal areas • Curtain fitters Furniture pack installers

Interested in being a sub-contract fitter – phone 01246 854577 for details

Biggin Hill Administrator with warehouse duties You need good administration skills, computer knowledge, excellent communication skills and when necessary be able to load and unload carpets

Warehouse Operative You need to be able to load and unload carpets, book goods in and out and deal with aspects of administration

Exeter – Marsh Barton Estate Sales Manager (Excellent basic + commission + Audi A3) Must be absolutely focused on sales in order to gain new business and look after our present customers

Administrator with warehouse duties

Birmingham – Saltley

Good administration skills required, computer knowledge, excellent communication skills and able to load and unload carpets

Senior Administrator

Newport, Gwent

Must have excellent administration and supervisory experience and be very organised

Brentwood Estimator/Planner Primarily Office based - must be able to estimate, plan and price floor covering from working drawings and on site

Sales Manager (Excellent basic + commission + Audi A3) Must be absolutely focused on sales in order to gain new business and look after our present customers

Preston – Longridge Rd

Eastleigh

Administrator with warehouse duties

Operations Manager – known as Contracts Manager

You need good administration skills, computer knowledge, excellent communication skills and when necessary be able to load and unload carpets

You must be able to manage a small team, promote sales and be able to estimate, plan and price floor coverings. Be very organised, have excellent communication and IT skills and be able to drive.

Slough Area Manager (Excellent basic + commission + Audi A3) We require an Area Manager to develop our 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

Southern based Sales Manager in Design (Excellent Salary + Commission + Audi A3) Absolute focus on Show Home sales required across the South of the country. You will need to work closely with our Design team and must be able to manage close client relationships as well as having an understanding of the building industry and interior design. Must be able to drive.

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

from The Stocklists

May 2012 67