The Stocklists - June 2017

Stocklists The

5 June 2017

with

Carpet&FlooringReview

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

OVER 750 RETAILERS ARE NOW STOCKING TCS CARPETS TO FIND OUT WHY, CONTACT OUR HEAD OFFICE OR TALK TO YOUR LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE

Be Inspired

VISIT US AT THE

CONTACT US TODAY AND BE PART OF THE CARPET RETAIL REVOLUTION

PLEASE CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Head H ead Office: Office: 01524 01524 840177 840177

email: info email: info@ttcsthecarpetspecialists.com csthecarpetspecialists.com web: w eb: www.tcsthecarpetspecialists.com www.tcsthecarpetspecialists.com

Unit U nit 4, 4, TCS TCS Industrial Industrial Park, Park, South South Gate, Gate, White White Lund Lund Industrial Industrial Estate, Estate, Morecambe, Morecambe, LA3 LA3 3PB 3PB

TTCS CS - Solely Solely Committed Committed to to Serving Serving Independent Independent Retailers Retailers The Complete Service Service

The Carp Carpet et Specialists

The Carp Carpet et Specialists

SSERVICE E RV I C E QUALITY Q U A L I T Y VALUE VA L U E

uupholstery pholstery dining dining bedroom bedroom carpets carpets

Stocklists

ISSUE 507 : 5 JUNE 2017

The

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

FIRST FOR FLOORING NEWS AND DATA

Advertisers

Carpet&FlooringReview starts on page 21

Monthly ‘Stocklisters’ shown in BOLD Index

Showtime in Solihull The Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show

# ABINGDON

The season’s agenda-setting show • Read our trends feature and first reviews pages 40-53

FLOORING

FC,41

CARPETS

55

01562 829966

# ASSOCIATED WEAVERS

4,5,42

01422 431100

6

01536 748700

# ADAM

43

# AxMINSTER J BALL

& YOUNG

I BGNFS

7

BRITISH WOOL

20

J CARPENTER

BC

L COLUMBIA # CORMAR

FLOORING

# EARTHWERkS

CARPETS

# FELLS I F.

Rigid core LVT makes debut page 41

Flooring One transforms POS page 49

Furlong forges ahead page 51

ONE

# FURLONG # H&V

72 10,11,51

CARPETS

# HAMMER

12

CARPETS

13

I INTERFLOOR

o kARNDEAN

DESIGNFLOORING

# KINGSMEAD # LANO

# MASTERCRAFT I MERRYFIELD I METRO

Tactile trends

All aboard for training Trending in tartan

Rita reports on the latest textures Filling the flooring skills gap page 31 page 34

Lano launches pinpoint PP plaid page 21

Cormar delivers

Firmer favourite

Brockway buys Grosvenor Wilton page 26

£15m hub boosts service page 54

Interfloor underlay adds density page 42

RUGS

GROUP

Adhesives

Buying Groups

Carpet Company Directory Carpet Trouble-shooter

Carpet Types

The industry’s knowledge-bank

55 Underlay

62 Wholesaler Distribution Directory – Wool Fibre Page

60-61 Woolsafe: the carpet care guide –

ISSN 2046-7338 © Mayville Publishing Co. Ltd. 2015. Every care is taken in compiling this magazine, but the proprietors assume no responsibility in the effects arising therefrom.

64-66

63

56-57

3

27 39

o POLYFLOR

—

J NOVOSTRAT

57

15

L SOLENT WHOLESALE

58-59

45

I NICF

I STAIRRODS

CARPET

L TCS

# THE

FLOORING SHOW

# THOMAS # VICTORIA

WITTER

CARPETS

# WHITESTONE/HUGH

01204 881234 01977 662211

01538 361633

01159 506836

0121 683 1426 01509 673974

01772 696787

07813 714498

01473 826870

01706 213131

01386 820 100 01827 831424

0800 5266 5266

4501282 694565 01422 373799 01204 393539

0115 958 3077

00353 61 339287 0161 767 1122 020 85319225

01243 774623

IFC

0787 2861547

25

01423 779967

22,24,26

01207 591176 01422 374417

17

01429 892555

19

01429 892555

18,46 MACKAY

01457 861141

16

—

# TELENZO

FlooringFactsheets

23,41 37

L RACKHAMS

Future for heritage

42

14

ENGINEERING

01274 688 666

+32 87 30 68 50

29,49

FLOORING

—

01562 745000

9

—

39

I FLOORWISE

01297 33533

0208 443 3322

55

I FLOORING

01942 825520

8

—

BALL

I FITA

Going for growth

—

40-53

# BONDWORTH

Wall-to-wall style

01274 655662

0121 559 6783

I ACG

Core sales strategy

Contact No

53

I ADP

“For choice and quality, this is a great time to be a flooring retailer. We just need consumers to hold their nerve and keep buying now!”

Page No

01562 749300

Classified advertising .......................................page 67 # carpets/rugs/tiles o woods/laminates/smooths I accessories/services/organisations fibres J underlay L wholesalers/distributors G adhesives

MERRYFIELD CARPET CUTTING MACHINERY British Manufactured Carpet Cutting Machines THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

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

Heading for a hot summer of sales Even the best of our summers are short lived. But if you’re one of the select retailers that have signed

up to our Vivendi package, it should be a scintillating time for your bottom line, right through the year.

Vivendi from Associated Weavers is one of our most

innovative luxury products. Featuring the unique

iVivo yarn which has been exclusively developed for this brand, it’s ready right now to grace your store.

The iVivo yarn is a new tenth-gauge solution-dyed

polyamide fibre representing years of industryleading work by our designers and technicians. They

have combined their talents to ensure a product

that meets every requirement of today’s daily life –

primarily, the need for versatility coupled with superior stain resistance.

Ultimate comfort for bare feet, tough and durable to withstand outdoor footwear, and a pristine appearance for years. That’s the Vivendi promise.

Vivendi is designed for any room and any lifestyle.

25 stain

year

warranty

4

25

year

wear warranty

Exclusive iVivo yarn, developed for today ’s living THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

You can rely on new Vivendi

We call Vivendi ‘the stressfree carpet’ because it

will perform faultlessly in every room in the

home. So much so that we have awarded it our best-ever double warranty assurance of 25 years for stain and wear issues. Its practicality is also

assured because widths include 2, 2.5, 3, 4 and

5m variants to make laying as economical as possible. Vivendi features our FusionBac backing

which means that, as well as being extra-warm

underfoot, it’s easy and economical to lay and is ideal with underfloor heating. It’s also bleach-

cleanable for improved durability. Our unique iVivo yarn has been formulated to resist stains in

heavy wear domestic situations, so it is also

ideally suited to contract use. Look out for Vivendi – it’s arrived in a big way and it’ll be the talking

point of 2017.

Display Vivendi with pride

We’re so convinced that Vivendi will exceed your

sales expectations that we’ve pulled out all the stops to create an excellent display scheme to match the quality of the carpet. If your merchandising

area is limited in size, we have a unique lectern for displaying the flagship ranges of Soul and

Vibes to their best effect. It’s a beautifully made piece of store furniture in mid- to dark-grained

grey wood and includes samples, accompanied by some eye-catching graphics. If you are one of our exclusive retailers, these displays will be winging

their way to you very soon. But remember, we

won’t be able to supply Vivendi unless you agree

to purchase our tailor-made lecterns. It’s an investment that will pay off – handsomely.

Look for the Buttery THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

Associated Weavers Sales: 01422 431100 Email: salesuk@awe.be 5

WIN £1,000 IN OUR CELEBRATION OF INSTALLATION!

We want to see a photo of your best fit right here!

An independent panel of judges will shortlist the very best and pick a winner. The £1,000 prize will be announced at The Flooring Show, Harrogate, in September.

Entries close 31 August 2017 Terms & conditions apply - see website for details.

T+44 (0)1536 200502 6

n al la tio

in

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WIN WITH CLOUD 9!

This is your chance to show your true professional status, no installation is too big or too small!

Perhaps it will be the new Children’s Cushion or Charleston.We shall put as many photographs of your installations in The Stocklists magazine as we can each month.

of

9

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d ou Cl

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Send a picture with brief details to bestfit@underlay.com

2017

bysales@ballandyoung.com

www.underlay.com THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

FIORI - AXMINSTER AXMINSTER ϴϬй tŽŽů ϮϬй ELJůŽŶ ϴ ZŽǁ tŽǀĞŶ džŵŝŶƐƚĞƌ ϴϬй tŽŽů ϮϬй ELJůŽŶ ϴ ZŽǁ tŽǀĞŶ džŵŝŶƐƚĞƌ ǀĂŝůĂďůĞ ϰŵ ǁŝĚĞ ǀĂŝůĂďůĞ ϰŵ ǁŝĚĞ ŝƐŝƚ Ž Ƶƌ ǁ ĞďƐŝƚĞ͕ ŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ Ɖ ůĞĂƐĞ ǀǀŝƐŝƚ &&Žƌ Žƌ ŵ ŵŽƌĞ ŽƌĞ ŝŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ ƉůĞĂƐĞ ŽƵƌ ǁĞďƐŝƚĞ͕ ǁǁǁ͘ďŽŶĚǁŽƌƚŚ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬ ǁǁǁ͘ďŽŶĚǁŽƌƚŚ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬ dŽǁŶƐŚĞŶĚ tŽƌŬƐ͕ WƵdžƚŽŶ >ĂŶĞ͕ <ŝĚĚĞƌŵŝŶƐƚĞƌ͕ dŽǁŶƐŚĞŶĚ tŽƌŬƐ͕ WƵdžƚŽŶ >ĂŶĞ͕ <ŝĚĚĞƌŵŝŶƐƚĞƌ͕ tŽƌĐĞƐƚĞƌƐŚŝƌĞ͕ zϭϭ ϱ & tŽƌĐĞƐƚĞƌƐŚŝƌĞ͕ zϭϭ ϱ & ddнϰϰ;ϬͿϭϱϲϮ ϳϰϱϬϬϬ &нϰϰ;ϬͿϭϱϲϮ ϳϯϮϴϮϳ нϰϰ;ϬͿϭϱϲϮ ϳϰϱϬϬϬ &нϰϰ;ϬͿϭϱϲϮ ϳϯϮϴϮϳ

THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

7

Columbia

Flooring plc

The Leading Country Wide Carpet & Flooring Suppliers We can supply you with virtually any make of carpet and flooring at GUARANTEED makerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s list price.......

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

Call US NOW!!!

020 8443 3322 sales@columbiaflooring.co.uk www.columbiaflooringplc.co.uk Opening Times: Monday - Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am to 12 noon Tel: 0208 443 3322 Fax: 0208 805 2346 TRAFALGAR TRADING ESTATE, JEFFREYS ROAD, ENFIELD , MIDDLESEX, EN3 7TY.

8

THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

Contact UK Free phone: 0800 689 1459 sales@earthwerks.co.uk www.earthwerks.co.uk

SETTING THE STANDARD IN ‘FASHION FOR FLOORS’…

Earthwerks ups the Tempo!

A synonym for high quality flooring, Tempo is an elegant and distinctive brand leading range that will enthuse and inspire.

Tempo is easy to install, and with the longer, wider planks and four-sided micro-bevel creating drama and impact, and emphasising completely the unique character of a real wood floor.

Cutting-edge designs and colours transform your interior ambiance, and with industry leading wear warranties, Tempo can be installed for both residential and commercial use.

In addition, Tempo is also durable, water-proof, hygienic and easy to maintain.

New Tempo is available in 14 modern colours and has a ‘Life Time’ Wear Warranty for Residential use and a ‘30-Year’ Wear Warranty for Commercial application.

With Tempo you can be guaranteed ‘great looks’ for a ‘long time’.

Curious? To arrange a full presentation please contact our UK team Free-phone 0800 689 1459 Email: sales@earthwerks.co.uk As a well established brand in high-end luxury flooring, our EarthWerks Team is committed to service the UK, from the HEART of the UK.

Your personal contacts UK Sales Managers: Steve Evans +44 (0) 7935 786705 steve@oppulant.com Andy Nobes +44 (0) 7402 746944 andy.nobes@oppulant.com Devon/Cornwall/Somerset/Dorset, South Gloucestershire, Bristol, Wiltshire: Martin Gorny - 07530 365125 info@millaneflooringagency.co.uk West Midlands, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire Shropshire and Staffs: Paul Brewer - 07798 745181 paulbrewer21@hotmail.co.uk Essex/Hertfordshire/Cambridgeshire/ Norfolk/Suffolk N/E London postcodes: Andrew Goldsmith - 07432 119220 andrew.godsmith@oppulant.com Essex, North London, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, North/east London.

Bedfordshire: Dave Marney - 07794 221443 d_marney@sky.com Northeast: Steve Korobejko - 07702 292558 smkagencies@googlemail.com Northwest (Commercial): Matt Lightbown - 07908 064050 matt@chromaflor.co.uk Northwest (Residential): Andrew Holden - 07872 694767 drewholden@me.com Scotland: James Hall - 07787 140136 jameshall195@btinternet.com Hants, West Sussex, Berks, Oxon, Wilts, Surrey (inside M25) Colin Fielder - 07970 102989 colin.fielder@gmail.com

The people who care about your business NORTH WEST

SCOTLAND

ALAN CHEETHAM GTR MANCHESTER, CHESHIRE, SOT & STAFFORD M: 07966 263571 acheetham@furlongflooring.com

ALAN CAIRNIE EAST SCOTLAND

M: 07976 311434 acairnie@furlongflooring.com

MARK DOWSON MERSEYSIDE, WIRRAL & N. WALES M: 07980 786265 mdowson@furlongflooring.com

NORMAN MacFEETERS WEST SCOTLAND

M: 07970 163372 nmacfeeters@furlongflooring.com

WALES & SOUTH WEST

YORKSHIRE & NORTH EAST RAY ANDREW PART LANCS, FLYDE COAST & CUMBRIA M: 07973 719801 randrew@furlongflooring.com

RICHARD LOCKEY NORTH EAST, EAST COAST

M: 07983 446969 rlockey@furlongflooring.com

JAMES DAVIES YORKSHIRE & EAST LANCS

M: 07968 828516 jdavies@furlongflooring.com

TIM BAILEY S.E. WALES & HEREFORDSHIRE

MARTYN MORRIS SOUTH YORKSHIRE

M: 07794 048414 tbailey@furlongflooring.com M: 07973 403450 mmorris@furlongflooring.com JASON BRIMBLE AVON & GLOUCESTERSHIRE M: 07794 041266 jbrimble@furlongflooring.com

BEN THOMAS MID & WEST WALES

M: 07794 048809 bthomas@furlongflooring.com

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

Preston Sales tel: 01772 696787 fax: 01772 311921

Gloucester Sales tel: 0845 520 0800 fax: 01452 222515

London Sales tel: 01322 628707 fax: 01322 698733 enquiries@furlongflooring.co.uk 10

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

PETER FLETCHER HAMPSHIRE & DORSET

M: 07816 217561 peterfletcher@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

PAUL LOVELL NORFOLK, SUFFOLK & CAMBS

MIDLANDS ADAM HILTON NOTTS, DERBYSHIRE & LINCS M: 07872 964685 ahilton@furlongflooring.com

WESLEY GRAHAM LEICESTER, WARWICKSHIRE M: 07968 324598 wgraham@furlongflooring.com

MIKE SHUTT BIRMINGHAM/ STAFFORDSHIRE, SHROPSHIRE M: 07970 158594 mshutt@furlongflooring.com

LONDON ALAN HESLING S.W, SOUTH, S.E. LONDON, SURREY M: 07793 244619 alanhesling@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

JACK Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;CONNOR SOUTH BUCKS, BERKSHIRE, WEST LONDON, SURREY (OUTSIDE M25) M: 07816 217550 JackOConnor@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

ANDY THOMPSON ESSEX, HERTFORDSHIRE

M: 07816 217565 athompson@furlongflooring.com

DARREN SPENDIFF KENT

M: 07816 217549

M: 07791 890861

paullovell@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

darrenspendiff@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

JOHN AIKEN EAST & WEST SUSSEX

TBC N.W, NORTH, EAST & CENTRAL LONDON

M: 07791 891024 johnaiken@furlongflooringltd.co.uk

THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

REGENCY

Affordable stain resistant carpet. wearing & easy to look after.

EASYCARE Hard

Sahara & Oasis AVAILABLE IN

AVAILABLE IN

FELT & ACTION

4&5 METRE

BACKING

WIDTHS

Easily clean up muddy marks

Messy pets - no problem

100% bleach cleanable

Seven contemporary new colours in each range. The best-seller just got better!

All set for 2017 with fresh new ranges At Regency Carpets we have launched one of our most ambitious ever programmes of product developments in 2017 to ensure you have the right carpets at the right price, when you need them.

Carefree bleach cleanable fibre 4 & 5 metre widths 10 year wear & stain warranty

2-ply, heavy domestic yarn Action back Smart new sampling and POS

n. ,r itai de Br a e in t l re e k e ar ts h m e K U rp a g ca e ar kin e a W m ly d ou pr

THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

11

Introducing

BARBADOS BERNABEU BLACkPOOL BROOkLYN BROOkLYN S CAMBRIDGE CARNIVAL CUBA EMIRATES ENTREPRISE GARDA GARDA GARDA SUPREME HAVANNA ISTANBUL JUPITER kANSAS kANSAS MAINE MANHATTAN MANHATTAN SUPREME MERCURY NAPELS NEW IZMIR NEW IZMIR NEW JERSEY NEW YORk NORFOLk NOU CAMP OLD TRAFFORD OLYMPIC OPAL OPERA OxFORD PERFECTION PICASSO QUEENS RACHEL REGAL TWIST RIVA RODEO ROMA SAO PAOLO SATURNUS SYMPHONY SENSUALITY SENSUALITY DELUxE SILkY SILkY SUPREME TARTAN TELSTAR TENERIFE TORONTO TRINIDAD RANGE NAME

12

ab preco preco ab ab ab felt felt preco ab ab felt ab felt ab felt ab felt ab ab ab ab felt ab felt ab ab felt preco preco preco felt ab ab ab felt ab ab/felt ab felt heavy felt felt preco felt ab ab ab ab woven woven felt felt ab ab

100 % pp 100 % pp 100 % pp 100 % pp 100 % pp 100 % pp soft 100 % pp 100 % pp 100 % pp ZETALON 100 % pp 100 % pp North West, Midlands, 100 % pp Southern Ireland 100 % pp 100 % pp ZETALON 100 % pp 100 % pp North Wales, Cheshire ZETALON 100 % pp 100 % pp Scotland 100 % pp 100 % pp 100 % pp Yorkshire, North East England 100 % pp 100 % pp 100 % pp East Midlands 100 % pp 100 % pp 100 % pp Northern Ireland 100 % pp 100 % pp 100 % pp South West, South Wales 100 % pp soft 100 % pp 100 % pp London, Berkshire, Essex, 100 % pp Hertfordshire, South East 100 % pp 100 % pp 100 % pp 100 % pp Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire 100 % pp Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire 100 % pp 100 % pp 100 % pp ZETALON Belgium D[äXZ ZETALON 100 % PA 100 % PA 100 % pp 100 % pp 100 % pp 100 % pp 100 % pp

BACKING COMPOSITION

THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

T 01473 826870

F 01473 827274

infouk@hammercarpetsuk.com

www.hammercarpets.com

A full range of beautiful domestic carpets in 100% Wool Superior quality for lasting good looks Mothproof protected

For more information please visit our website or give us a call

The luxury of 100% pure new Wool 4 and 5 metres wide

Please contact your Representative to ask about our domestic display options

Bespoke designs service for hospitality and marine contract carpets in 80% Wool / 20% Nylon

Scandinavian quality by design Our UK Sales Team

Ron Fewery 07976 244892

Steve Acton 07957 836207

Derek Boyd 07940 320708

Steve Korobejko 07702 292558

Lee Palmer 07774 101640

Martin Gorny 07530 365125

London, Oxfordshire, Berkshire, East Anglia, Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire

Kent, Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, Dorset

Scotland

Cheshire, Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Tyneside

Channel Islands

Bristol & the West Country

THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

Stephen Binnersley 07710 618754 Midlands & South Wales

13

Kingsmead Carpets Relay Park, Relay Drive Tamworth, B77 5PR. UK

Incorporating

Tel: +44 1827 831424 Fax: +44 1827 831425 info@kingsmead-sales.co.uk www.kingsmeadcarpets.co.uk

SALES EXECUTIVES AND CONTACT DETAILS Clint Carver - 07970 888 916 (Northern Sales Manager) clint.carver@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Adrian Garner - 07947 524 633 (DE NG LE CV ST) adrian.garner@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Dave Wood - 07980 737 278 (KW IV PH PA AB DD KY FK G ML KA) dave.wood@kingsmead-sale.co.uk Joe Bradley - 07773 046 384 (HU YO HG DN LN S) joe.bradley@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Hamish Maclean- 07968 563 016 (DL EH CA DG SR NE TD DH TS) Hamish.maclean@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Chris Sheldrake - 07980 761 347 (HX HD M SK BL OL BD LS SF) Chris.sheldrake@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Mick Garner - 07796 993 913 (CM WD AL SG LU MK NN) mick.garner@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Peter Thomas - 07779 017 950 (LL CH CW WA L WN PR FY BB LA) peter.thomas@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Colin Arber - 07976 749 552 (CO CB IP NR PE) colin.arber@kingsmead-sales.co.uk

DÉCOR

Velluto is a luxurious velvet in 15 contemporary shades.

Made from 100% 6.6 Nylon Stainmaster 2 fold yarn which gives this carpet range a unique, distinctive, luxurious look and feel. This fibre technology has a tighter and smoother molecule structure which combined with the Stainmaster fibre enables it to be more resistant to staining and dirt. The mix of shades comes in a palette of greys such as Gunboat, taupes Café au lait and neutrals such as Décor, all available in 4 and 5 metre widths.

@Kingsmeadcpts

facebook.com/kingsmeadcarpets

Instagram.com/kingsmeadcarpets

linkedin.com/company/Kingsmead-carpets

pinterest.com/kingsmeadcpts

houzz.co.uk/pro/kingsmeadcarpets/kingsmead-carpets 14

Ian Shopland - 07971 914 418 (Southern Sales Manager) ian.shopland@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Craig Brooks - 07971 916 719 (SY TF WS WV DY B WR) craig.brooks@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Nathan Bachellier - 07977 112 095 (CT TN BN RH BR CR SM KT) nathan.bachellier@kingsmead-sales.co.uk David Guscott - 07773 048 574 (ME DA RM SS IG EN N E SE) david.guscott@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Stuart Leigh - 07791 890 441 (TR PL TQ EX TA DT BA BS) Stuart.leigh@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Lee Card - 07538 836 273 (SA LD NP CF HR GL) lee.card@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Neal Ford - 07968 015 578 (HP OX SL HA UB TW W NW SW) neal.ford@kingsmead-sales.co.uk Steve Bates - 07971 968 517 (PO SO BH SP RG SN GU) steve.bates@kingsmead-sales.co.uk David Posnett - 07836 650 655 (Northern Ireland) THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

PRETTY IN PINK AND READY TO SERVE! ORDER BEFORE 16:00 FOR OUR NEXT DAY SERVICE, DELIVERED FREE, DELIVERED WITH STYLE!!!

NATURAL EFFECT

TWISTS - STAIN RESIST

VINYL / SMOOTH FLOORING

Blenheim Berber Dedham Vale Gold Fields Ivory Coast 2015 London Life 4&5M Natural Habitat 4&5m Northern Lights 4 & 5m Promenade Rocca 2016 Southern Chic 4&5M

Atmosphere Carlton Club Chunky Twist Dalton Dublin Heather 2016 Dublin Twist 2015 Echo Twist 2017 4&5M Fairfield Creations 2015 Fascination 4&5M Genius 4&5M Heathertwist Supreme 40 4&5M Heathertwist Elite 50 4&5M Imagination 4&5M Kaleidoscope 4&5m Kenmare Twist 4&5M Peerless Twist Supreme 4&5m Peerless Ultra 4&5M Salisbury Twist Startwist Supreme 2016 40 4&5M Startwist Elite 2016 50 4&5M

Dura-Tex Eclipse 2016 - Elite Eclipse 2016 - Genesis High Society Luxury Comfort Luxury Life Luxury Value Starlight Techno-Safe 2017 Multi Flex

TWISTS - WOOL

CARPET TILES

SAXONY / SHAG PILE Eastern Splendour 4&5M Graceful Delight 4&5m Granada 4&5M Montana Silk 4 & 5m Pearlescent 4&5M Peerless Peerless Heathers Pure Class 4&5m Saxon King 2015 Superior Oblique 4 & 5M Super Peerless Super Peerless Heathers Turkish Delight 4&5M

ULTRA SOFT FEEL NYLONS Tender Kiss Tender Touch

CORD, NEEDLEPUNCH & ENTRANCE MATTING Bedford Gel Big Hit Canterbury Gel Hippo Mat Gala 2017 4&5m Gala Stripes Magnum Mat Magnus Mat Supacord

REVOLUTIONARY LVT FLOORING FROM CAVALIO Conceptline Projectline

ENGINEERED WOOD COLLECTION Oaken Options

Dimensions Plain/Heathers 40 Dimensions Plain/ Heathers 50 Dimensions Heathers Stripe 50 Dimensions Plain/Heathers 60 Discovery 4&5M Iconic Twist 40/50 4&5M Palace Twist 50/60 4&5M Premium Deluxe 40 4&5M Premium Deluxe 40 Stripes Premium Elite 50 4&5M Premium Finesse 60 4&4M The Berber Twist Collection 40/50 4&5M Ultimate Textures 4&5M Ultimate Berber Twist 4&5M Ultimate Luxury 4&5M

GRAPHICS / CONTRACT GELS Endurance Gel 2016 Marathon Skyline Gel

Bedford Cord Canterbury Capital City Capital Plus Output Lines Output Loop Output Micro

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Brexit-Busting Price-Stabilising Price Guide supplements our current issue!

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We also stock a complete selection of underlays, accessories and entrance matting.

We offer a Special Order Service on products from virtually every flooring manufacturer in existence! Express delivery service on Balterio and Krono laminate ranges.

Area Sales Executives Aaron Smith London postals NW,N,E & SE 07881 502506 THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

Peter Lawrence 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

15

Solent Wholesale Carpet Company Ltd CARPET, FLOORCOVERING & ACCESSORY WHOLESALE DISTRIBUTORS Telephone: 01243 774623 Fax: 01243 210105 E-mail: sales@solentwholesale.co.uk Website: www.solentwholesale.com Zola Park, Barnfield Drive, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 6UX.

CHECK STOCK, PLACE ORDERS AND MANAGE YOUR ACCOUNT 24/7 ALL THROUGH OUR WEBSITE

Oxford, Berks, Bucks, Beds, Hants, Middlesex & Herts. . . . . Ian Cardrick, i.cardrick@solentwholesale.co.uk, mobile: 07973 406329 Sussex E & W, Surrey, South London & Kent . . . . . . . . . . . . John Robson, j.robson@solentwholesale.co.uk, mobile: 07973 898453 Hants, Wilts, Dorset, Somerset, Gloucs, & I.O.W. . . . . . . . . . . . Adam Ayling, a.ayling@solentwholesale.co.uk, mobile: 07973 406799 VICTORIA Atlas Aura EasiCare Morton EasiCare Heartland First Impressions Freedom Lasting Luxury Royal Victoria Simply Heathers Collection Strathmore Collection Tudor Twist Victoria Twist LANO & BAJONG Campus X-treme Fairfield Silk Forum Genius Heather Twist Elite Heather Twist Supreme Jazz Montana Montana Twist Oblique Superior Pembridge Twist Star Twist Collection 40/50

LUSOTUFO Safi Sahara Sintra Boucle Tangier Titan & Tital Diagonal Valencia Wool Cord Wool Dream CORMAR Apollo Plus Highland Tweed Home Counties Heathers Home Counties Plains Living Naturals Malabar 2 fold Oaklands 32 Oaklands 42 Oaklands 50 Natural Berber Twist Primo Choice Super/Elite Primo Excellence Primo Plus Primo Ultra Sensation Sensation Feeling Sensation Heathers Sensation Supreme Sensation Twist Soft Focus

BALTA Big Hit Berber Trail Lothian Wool Berber Luxury Heritage Heather Gala Cord - all options in stock Grand Prix Melrose Moorland Twist More Noble More Noble Soft Noble Heathers Paramount Playground Sarabi Saxon King Scorpio Shepherd Twist Heather Shepherd Twist

IVC Isafe Apex Isafe One Isafe First - limited Presto Fusion Bingo Comfytex Atlas II Woodmark Tile Styles Ultimate Elements Classic Limestone Planet Woodland Cityscape Prisma Central

BROCKWAY Cavendish Collection Dimensions Dimensions Heathers Orion/Orion Major

Presidential Collection - Independence - limited - Freedom (4&5M) - Splendour - limited - Super Freedom (4&5M) The X collection

MOHAWK CARPETS The only distributor to offer Mohawk in the UK.

IDEAL carpets Dublin Dublin Heathers Echo Endurance - New Colours Grace Grass Collection Mars Monsoon Motor Car Pronto vinyls Athena Black-tex Emotions Galaxy Gemini Hermes - limited Orion - limted Spectrum Taurus entrance matting Alicante Heavy Tread Orotex - Ceylon Orotex - Magnum Orotex - Matrix MISCELLANEOUS BEST WOOL CARPETS Globe CAVALIER Celebrations Country Collection Hamlet Parish and Village CLASSIS CARPETS Amber Amber Plains San Diego MILLENNIUM WEAVERS Desire Ultra Twist PARAGON Toccarre Carpet Tiles TELENZO Kings Cross London Bridge

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 2017.

16

Find us on THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

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ON Y YO OU UR R

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PEA PEACE CE OF MIND ON YOUR YOUR FL FLOOR OOR SCOTLAND MARK VINTER M: 07775 902 376

YORKSHIRE ALDO BERITONNI M: 07971 173 560

SOUTH WEST/KENT/SUSSEX ROBBIE THOMSON M: 07712 937 747

NORTHERN IRELAND GARY Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;BOYLE M: 07831 220 675

NORTH WEST & CUMBRIA MARK JONES M: 07828 119 279

WEST MIDLANDS & GLOS. PETE AVERNS M: 07734 324 356

SOUTH WALES & BRISTOL DAVID MAY M: 07976 204 778

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND LARRY WHITE M: 0862 594 126

NORTH EAST BECKY GIBBONS M: 07970 491 215

EAST MIDLANDS STEVE FURNISS M: 07773 384 787

SOUTH EAST & LONDON ANDREW GOLDSMITH M: 07432 119 220

KEY ACCOUNTS NATIONAL GED AINSCOW M: 07815 806 783

SALES OFFICE

T: 01429 892567

THOMAS WITTER Support your British manufacturer

T: 0844 7252 034

Thank you for your continued support

V I E W LO G IST IC S, PA RK VIEW ROAD E AST, H ARTLEPOOL, TS25 1 HT

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Sales Executives

EVEN MORE GORGEOUS NEW RANGES FROM VICTORIA CARPETS New Natural Co-Ordinates 100% 3ply wool. Mix 'n' match your style with a stunning new palette Cord and Stripes in 100% wool.

Now available.

New Habberley A 70% wool and 30% tencel combination for strength, vibrance and brightness from these luscious loops. Now available.

New Lasting Impressions Everybody loves First Impressions so we are keeping it in the family with a fabulous 1/8th gauge, 100% Polypropylene Saxony carpet offering a lovely soft touch feel. Available from June.

Whether it’s luxury, comfort, durability or the distinct style we are known for, at Victoria Carpets we’ve got it.

BY APPOINTMENT TO HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN CARPET MANUFACTURERS VICTORIA CARPETS KIDDERMINSTER

18

Joe King National Sales Manager 07774 635354 Emma Fletcher Sales Operations Manager 07917 802315 Alan Stewart Area Sales Manager for Scotland 07774 947562 David Rockliffe Area Sales Manager for Cumbria, Lancashire, North Wales, Merseyside, Wirral, Cheshire & Isle of Man 07771 614305 Chris Lamb Area Sales Manager for North Yorkshire, North East & East Riding 07774 947568 Jim Osbourne Area Sales Manager for Manchester, South, West Yorkshire, Derbyshire & Notts area 07884 187695 Steve Gallagher Area Sales Manager for Lincs, East Anglia, Leicester & Northants 07774 947564 Mark Dearlove Area Sales Manager for West Midlands, Warwickshire, Hereford, Worcestershire, South Wales & Staffordshire 07836 519153 Barry Enever Area Sales Manager for Somerset, Devon & Cornwall, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Dorset, Isle of Wight 07850 321862 Bradley Davies Area Sales manager for Essex, North, West & East London, Hertfordshire, Middlesex 07920 747519 Daniel Alp Area Sales Manager for SE & SW London, Hampshire & Kent 07455 780336 Derek Allnutt Area Sales Manager for East & West Sussex, Channel Islands 07900 690406 Lee Wickham Area Sales Manager for Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire & Berkshire 07713 133517 Jeff Douglas Area Sales Manager for Northern Ireland 07774 712353

Tel: 01562 749600 Fax: 01562 749349 sales@victoriacarpets.com www.victoriacarpets.com Worcester Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY10 1JR THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

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NORTH WEST & NORTH WALES JOHN ROSTRON M: 07973 733 208 E: johnrostronagencies@hotmail.com

SCOTLAND GEORGE STUART M: 07860 366 092 E: gstuart@whitestone.co.uk

EAST MIDLANDS STEVE FURNISS M: 07773 384 787 E: furnissagencies@btinternet.com

YORKSHIRE JOHN ALSOP M: 07860 572 220 E: alsopagencies@yahoo.co.uk

H I G H STO C K L E V E L S

A F F O R DA B L E Q U A L I T Y W O O L

SCOTLAND JOHN STUART M: 07860 565 200 E:johnstuart@btopenworld.com

NORTH EAST & CUMBRIA BECKY GIBBONS M: 07970 491 215 E: rebann2@btinternet.com

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WEST MIDLANDS DEAN STANLEY M: 07572 758 010 E: dean189@btinternet.com LIVERPOOL MALCOLM HOYLE M: 07860 772 608 E: malcolm.hoyle@btinternet.com

OXFORDSHIRE, WILTSHIRE, HAMPSHIRE, BRISTOL, GLOUCESTERSHIRE & SOUTH WALES DAVID MAY M: 07976 204 778 E: mayatthelimes@talktalk.net SOUTH WEST BRENDAN HART M: 07850 130 221 E: ba.hart1@yahoo.com NORFOLK, SUFFOLK, CAMBS, NORTH ESSEX ROBIN SAUNDERS M: 07968 344 892 E: rsagencies2004@aol.com

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

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FLEXIBLE BESPOKE SERVICE H A S S S L E F R E E P O LY P R O P Y L E N E

SOUTH EAST & SOUTH LONDON MIKE ALP M: 07770 861 441 E: alp.michael@googlemail.com NORTH LONDON & HOME COUNTIES DAVE MARNEY M: 07794 221 443 E: d.marney@sky.com CENTRAL LONDON NICK WOOD M: 07976 945 505 E: nick@essentialflooring.co.uk

NORTHERN IRELAND GARY Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;BOYLE M: 07831 220 675 E: goboyle@ntlworld.com REPUBLIC OF IRELAND LARRY WHITE M: 03862 594 126 E: thelarwhite@hotmail.com

SALES DIRECTOR VINCE HOLDEN M: 07900 262 434 E: vince@hughmackay.co.uk

Thank you for your continued support

V I E W LO G IST IC S, PARK VIEW ROAD E AST, H ARTLEPOOL, TS25 1HT THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

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T: 01429 892555

19

A thought provoking look at trends, issues and happenings in the industry with a subtle wool twist of course!

British Wool Flying the Flag An event that attracted leading wool industry people from all over the world came to the UK last month. The International Wool Textile Organisation’s Congress, an annual symposium that travels the world, held its 86th annual event in Harrogate - also the home of The National Flooring Show. This was first time the event had met in the UK for nearly twenty years, its last time being in Edinburgh.

Attracted to the textile heritage and glorious rural setting of Yorkshire, the Congress brought over 300 delegates to the spa town from countries as far flung as New Zealand, Australia, Argentina and Uruguay all in the name of discussing what is frequently referred to as the ‘noble’ fibre.

Naturally, British Wool played an active part in the event and created a stunning entrance for delegates with a Wool Lobby at The Old Swan Hotel featuring Alternative Flooring’s delightful Liberty partnership carpet which set the perfect backdrop for the obviously patriotic theme of red, white and blue!

Lorna Haigh, Creative Marketing Director of Alternative Flooring also spoke at the event and discussed the importance of inspiring consumers with good imagery and collaborations. Lorna impressed the importance of the skills and craft within the carpet business and how that empowered the wool industry’s product story.

Beautiful British Wool Sheep Steal the Show

Sheep were the natural celebrities of Harrogate’s Wool Congress - British Wool brought the small flock of Dalesbred rams to show the international guests British Wool growing! The flock, from a farm situated just outside Harrogate, graced the magnificent lawns of The Old Swan Hotel as if it was their very own landscape and attracted much interest - they were the photo opportunity of the event!

British Wool is grown on farms across the Uk - about 45,000 farms care for our national flock.This wool makes its way in to the textile industry and is frequently the ‘choice’ fibre for flooring. However, it is also now often used in products such as luxury mattresses. Most of the best mattress brands are now choosing British Wool - they discovered the way wool performs and have really taken to its natural story.

Across the four days of the event - the qualities of wool were analysed in great detail - speakers came from all different sectors and their reports and research scrutinised the performance attributes of the fibre. These were delivered to an audience that focuses its attention on why wool is a good choice for clothing, fabrics, furnishing and flooring.

Indoor air quality was given a lot of attention during the interiors focused programme and the subject has been quietly rising as an added-value asset of wool.While the list of performance attributes of the fibre is extensive - the ability to breathe good quality internal air is increasingly important to consumers.

As Bangor University reported, one of the best ways to filter the air in a home is to use naturally grown wool products carpet, rugs and flooring.The ability of wool fibre to absorb and change the composition of invisible contaminants in the atmosphere aids good health. This function has been well documented and is a hereditary asset from the fleece

from The 20

Stocklists

The Chairman of British Wool, Ian Buchanan, a sheep farmer from Ireland, attended the event and commented, “We have an incredibly varied wool clip in the Uk and provide variety to the textile industry.

Our flocks grow good really strong wool and it is perfect for quality carpets being naturally bulky and robust. British Wool is far superior to manmade fibres maintaining excellent appearance and of course comes with our fantastic rural heritage that consumers can really appreciate.”

20 JuneJune 2017 THE STOCKLISTS 2017

Carpet&FlooringReview Trending tartan

Lano Carpets introduces the Tartan Collection, a new addition to the popular Venice Wilton portfolio of styles, and one that bears all the design and performance hallmarks that has made this one of the high street’s most popular collections.

Showcased at this year’s Buying Groups National Flooring Show, the new and improved Venice Wilton enhances its style credentials with this latest trending design inclusion. Using Lano’s famed attention to detail, the pinpoint pattern reproduction used in Venice Tartan ensures the classic country style is captured in abundance in a range of heritage inspired patterns.

With 1,000,000 points per square metre, the exquisite range is crafted from resilient and hardwearing Lanoset polypropylene for ease of living, proving the pattern does not have to come at the expense of practicality or affordability.

Gary Alp, UK Sales Manager, Lano Carpets, explains: “ Tartan has established itself as a UK favourite in recent times, so with this in mind we have rejuvenated the Venice Wilton range and added a new option for retailers and consumer alike to consider. We believe in our new collection we have one of the most intricate plaids available and one that offers not only great looks but an abundance of practical advantages too.”

Venice Wilton carpets are available in a four-metre width, and hold impressive 15-year wear and 10-year stain warranties and is bleach cleanable, so ideal for the busy, modern-day environment.

T 00800 5266 5266 www.lano.com

The art of carpet

Inspired by natural landscapes and the abstract masterpieces of JW Turner - Ulster's latest axminster, "Watercolours" mimics washes of watercolour pigment softly blending into the paper.

Two designs "Amulet" and "Mineral" are available in five exciting colour ways which echo the natural elements. Deliberate yet whimsical brush strokes evoke feelings of sky and water as they run and blend into the surface of the canvas.

These effortless textures are layered over classic designs to give an antiqued effect - that of a textile treasured over time so that only fragments of the pattern remain.

The range is perfect for areas where the pattern does not need to be dominant, instead reflecting the colours and fabrics in the room. The subtle blend of colours creates a calming, earthy mood. Made from an 80% wool and 20% nylon composition, the range has been made for extra heavy wear usage and is available in 5 colour matching mutliwidths, making it suitable for both small and large family spaces.

T 028 38 334433 www.ulstercarpets.com

THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

21

NEWS £15m delivers on service

Cormar Carpets, is investing in a new purpose-built distribution centre in Hemel Hempstead, consolidating its regional hub network across the South of England.

Work is already underway at the £15m, 130,000 sq ft facility which will stock and distribute carpet and enable Cormar to continue to provide market-leading service to a growing network of retail customers and strengthen its distribution across the UK. Said David Judge, managing director at Cormar Carpets: "The new distribution site is a significant investment and will provide employment opportunities within the Hemel Hempstead area.

"We have now reached the first stage of completion, with the amalgamation of the Greenford Cross dock, which was moved to Hemel Hempstead at the end of April.

"The next few months will see further acceleration in activity, including the installation of new equipment and recruiting staff. This demonstrates our total commitment to prompt delivery and providing excellent customer service."

The new distribution centre will sit alongside the company's existing outbase depots, providing additional support to current facilities in the loading bay and cut lengths department at Cormar's Brookhouse Mill site in Greenmount, Bury.

Cormar run a distribution fleet of more than 60 vehicles, delivering to retailers, contractors and wholesalers throughout Great Britain and Eire, on a daily basis.

T 0161 440 8325 www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

Healthy options

New Altro Cantata, the company’s first adhesive-free flooring for areas with a low slip risk, is already demonstrating its capabilities at Warrington Hospital, providing a tough time and cost saving solution in a busy non-clinical corridor.

Lee Bushell, the hospital’s Acting Head of Capital Projects, says: “The service corridor is an area that gets an enormous amount of traffic. It’s in constant use during the day.

“After many years of this treatment, the existing vinyl flooring was really showing the strain. It looked tired, scruffy and we needed to find a hard wearing, affordable long term solution that could be laid with minimal disruption in this busy area. “ New Altro Cantata is a decorative, adhesive-free flooring that creates maximum impact with minimum downtime. Using Altro’s award-winning adhesive-free installation method, it can be welded and walked on the same day, and at the end of its life removed easily, allowing it to be reused or recycled. It can handle the traffic of busy areas and is a long-term solution that will look good for years to come.

It is ideal for busy public spaces where disruption needs to be minimal, such as hospitals, schools and general circulation areas, with the durability needed for medium to high traffic areas. Plus there are no associated adhesive odours. Altro Cantata’s 16 softlook shades, which range from subtle naturals to beautifully vivid, allows you to create just the right colour scheme or tone.

When speaking of the floor handling foot and wheeled traffic, Lee said: “It’s is standing up to the demands well with no signs of movement, bubbling or rippling, which proves it truly is a long term solution and not just a temporary fix. Very impressive.

“In terms of aesthetics, the flooring looks superb. There are some great colour choices with Altro Cantata. We selected a pale ice blue, which perfectly matches the colour scheme of the corridor.”

T +44 (0) 1462 489 516 www.altro.co.uk

22 June 2017

Carpet&FlooringReview

from The Stocklists

June 2017 23

NEWS Urban and ermine

Following the overwhelming success of their Auckland and Queenstown ranges, Ulster are boosting their offer by adding new colourways to each of these Laneve ranges.

Auckland, a clean contemporary plain rib range, will be extended with 5 new greys, from the light, silvery tone of ‘Ermine’, through the cooler neutrals of ‘Sidewalk’ and ‘Glint’ to the stronger greys of ‘Concrete’ and ‘Paraffin’. Open Spaces Queenstown, a textured 2-colour rib, is enhanced by 7 additional colourways. ‘Urban’ is a true grey, while ‘Gull’ and ‘Whale’ are warmer neutrals. ‘Delft’, ‘Cadet’ and ‘Ink’ reflect the bluer shades of grey being used in today’s interiors, and ‘Baltic’ has a delicate cool green feel.

Both ranges now boast a comprehensive colour bank which echoes current interiors trends and gives the customer the subtle variety of choice they are looking for.

Made using 100% Laneve Wool these ranges have unrivalled clarity of colour.

The wool is traceable back to individual farmers in NZ who operate using the highest standards of animal welfare and environmental management. Our unique ultra light action back does not delaminate and is almost impossible to crease.

Fitters love working with it and it performs well long term – truly a collection that ticks all the boxes.

Available in colourmatching 5m, 4m, 3m, 2m and 1m widths, Open Spaces Auckland and Queenstown are suitable for heavy residential wear. Made in Denmark by danfloor (an Ulster Group Company specialising in the manufacture of tufted products), the Auckland and Queenstown ranges utilise a dense loop pile texture to create a natural floorcovering that has both a cool, contemporary look and the warmth and softness of pure wool.

T 028 3833 4433 www.ulstercarpets.com

Making an entrance

Heckmondwike FB, is showing how the sky really is the limit with its bespoke entrance area carpet designs.

Over the past few years, Heckmondwike FB has created some truly inspirational carpet designs by integrating bespoke logos and customised colours into entrance areas, ranging from football clubs to top hotels, schools and universities.

Kat Keshmiri, Marketing Manager at Heckmondwike FB, said: “We can do pretty much anything to create a logo design or branding message as we have a wide choice of shades and can closely match corporate colours. Some really well-known brands have chosen our bespoke logos and it’s great to see the impact they make. Our bespoke entrance area carpet is also known for being very durable, which means it creates a great impression in a building for the long term.”

Heckmondwike FB offers bespoke logos and designs in its Diamond heavy contract carpet, which can be incorporated into a mat or inlaid into the floorcovering. All the customer needs to do is to decide on their design, then they can choose from 20 colour options, which can be closely matched to corporate colours and logos.

Kat Keshmiri continues: “Customers often choose subtle or neutral colours for their entrance areas, which are then incorporated with bespoke designs of logos and emblems to reflect the personality or branding of the organisation. Schools and colleges often choose ‘special’ colours or designs which have particular meaning for their organisation.”

T 01924 406161 www.heckmondwike-fb.co.uk

24 June 2017

Carpet&FlooringReview

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Image: Amtico

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from The Stocklists

June 2017 25

NEWS

Brockway’s best

Brockway’s first ‘Roy Annable Salesperson of the Year Award’ has been presented to area business manager Andy Cave.

The Award in memory of Brockway’s late president Roy Annable not only acknowledges achievement in sales, but also recognises outstanding contribution to the business over the last year.

Andy, who covers the Gloucester and South Wales area, was presented with a winner’s trophy, a bottle of champagne and a cheque for £500.

Runners up were Brockway’s area sales manager for the south, John Hale, and Richard Venn, who covers the South West. They received a bottle of champagne each.

Sales director Shaun Lewis said: “We’re very proud to present this special Award, which recognises our salespeople for their outstanding work in driving forward the Brockway business.”

Brockway has been designing and producing premium quality, hand finished carpets in Kidderminster since 1964.

The company combines British craftsmanship using the finest raw materials to ensure the sustainable manufacture of award-winning carpets, which offer great value for money for any budget and taste.

T 01562 828200

www.brockway.co.uk

Happy future for heritage

Brockway Carpets has announced the acquisition of one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious independent carpet manufacturers, The Grosvenor Wilton Company Limited, heralding a new era for the historic brand.

The deal sees Brockway purchase the trade and assets of Grosvenor Wilton, which has created the finest Wilton and bespoke carpets since 1790 for the world¹s most historic palaces, stately homes, public buildings and private residences.

Examples include exclusive projects for Buckingham Palace, Hampton Court Palace, The Mansion House, The White House and the Royal Pavilion Brighton.

The company will continue to be known as The Grosvenor Wilton Company Limited and will operate independently within the Brockway group of companies.

Importantly, the deal secures the future for the company¹s factory in Hartlebury, Worcestershire and protects the skills and craftsmanship of all the staff.

Brockway Chairman Charles Annable (pictured above left) said: “Grosvenor Wilton is one of the finest bespoke manufacturers of the highest quality woven carpets with a pedigree which is unequalled. We¹re proud and delighted to welcome the business to the Brockway Group.

Pictured (l to r): Brockway’s national sales manager Steve Glover with area sales managers John Hale, Andy Cave, Richard Venn and sales director Shaun Lewis.

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“Grosvenor Wilton’s unique heritage and tradition of innovation will further strengthen the Group¹s position as the UK’s leading manufacturer of beautiful, wool-rich carpets.”

Paul Foley (pictured above right), who continues as commercial director at Grosvenor Wilton, added: “This is an exciting event in our long history, ensuring that the principals of authenticity, classical English design and craftsmanship, that Grosvenor Wilton so famously stands for, are maintained.

“We will continue to supply the finest bespoke Wilton carpets, and we are looking forward to exploring new markets in the future.”

T 01562 824737 www.brockway.co.uk

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Since 1979 The Metro Group has helped retailers like you make more profit - call today for more information

metrogroup Metro House, 21 Chorley New Road, Bolton BL1 4QR • tel (01204) 393 539 • www.carpet1st.co.uk

from The Stocklists

June 2017 27

NEWS

Prizes on a roll

The Itec Contractor Promotion is back and in some style, offering contractors a fabulous opportunity to convert their commercial vinyl flooring purchases into a host of prizes spanning consumables, technology and home & garden products this summer season.

With an up-to-date spectrum of prizes on offer, there’s never been a better time to start purchasing your full rolls of Itec commercial vinyl, particularly with the prime development period of summer fast approaching. This season’s entry level is just 200 points, making it one of Itec’s most accessible promotions ever, whether you’re searching for decorative, safety or acoustic flooring, or a combination of the three.

David Bigland, Sales Director UK, explains: “The Itec Contractor Promotion has proved a successful concept since its inception, and with this in mind we have great expectations for the upcoming edition. Points can be earned from both two and four-metre widths, while gifts and gadgets can now be obtained following the purchase of only four full rolls. “ Over the past five years Itec has established itself as leading supplier of commercial vinyl. Our fantastic choice of acoustic, decorative and safety flooring can now be seen in numerous locations up and down the country as contractors, specifiers and end-users choose us as their manufacturer of choice. With the Itec Contractor Promotion we believe it is a is a great way to thank our loyal customer base by giving a little something back. There are no gimmicks or points caps here; you can genuinely earn on every full roll purchased, and this covers the entire Itec portfolio.” This season’s Itec Contractor Promotion will run from 1 May to 31 October.

T 0800 032 3970 www.itecfloors.co.uk

Big time training The Uk’s largest flooring retailer, Carpetright and trade-only kitchen specialist, Benchmarx, part of Travis Perkins PLC; have both undergone staff development programmes at the Academy for Excellence in Flooring.

With a total of over 600 stores across the country, the commitment of these companies demonstrates the importance of training in business development.

Both companies used the Academy to develop a programme that meet differing needs. Working with Carpetright’s training manager, Graham Powell, the Academy developed a programme for the retailer’s sales employees covering product and common questions encountered in an ‘ask the expert’ format. The requirements of Benchmarx, saw employees trained in practical, technical and product know-how; the aim to provide installers with the right advice on flooring selection.

Handling the heat

F. Ball and Co. Ltd.’s Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS, water-based temperature tolerant adhesive, has been used to install luxury vinyl tiles in a heavily glazed kitchen, in a residential property in Oxfordshire.

Finch Flooring of Oxfordshire, were contracted to install 35m2 of luxury vinyl tiles, in the kitchen that features floor to ceiling windows. As such the kitchen floor is subject to direct sunlight and significant temperature variations throughout the year. These conditions can cause floorcoverings to expand and contract over time, leading to problems such as gapping and tenting.

However, the unique formulation of Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS provides the perfect solution by combining high temperature tolerance, high bond strength and pressure sensitive properties to ensure that even under the most extreme temperature fluctuations, floorcoverings are held firmly in place, offering a combination of qualities not usually provided by traditional temperature tolerant adhesives.

Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS is designed for bonding vinyl tiles and sheets in areas subject to temperature fluctuations as low as -20°C and up to +60°C, such as conservatories or heavily glazed areas and is suitable for use over normal underfloor heating systems. It gives strong initial tack, has high bond strength, and offers a long open time of up to four hours.

T 01583 361 633 www.f-ball.co.uk

Response from attendees at courses on behalf of Carpetright were equally positive, as the feedback received by experienced team member Danny Lyon reveals: “I have been in the flooring industry for 15-years and still walked away with lots of extra information that can be shared with my colleagues. Being honest, I expected to learn a few new things, but thought it was going to be more of a refresher course, I couldn’t have been more wrong. Now, after the course, I have improved knowledge to better explain the variations between products and the different ways to install over several types of subfloor.”

Both Carpetright and Benchmarx, have committed to more training programmes for this year, underlining the success of bespoke courses at the Academy. www.quick-step-academy.co.uk

28 June 2017

Carpet&FlooringReview

The buying group with quality and strength

Grow your Profit Margins At Flooring One we understand the costs that go with running a business. It is your business; it is your biggest asset and our aim is to provide support and services to help you grow your SALES and PROFITS.We do not interfere in your business we support you! Not only do you have the financial strength of a 200 strong flooring group behind you, you also have access to product and buying information, offers, marketing, rebates and genuine exclusivity.AIS/Flooring One has had a name and reputation in the flooring industry for over 30 years and is renowned for the quality of its members all over the UK. If you want to be part of the best join Flooring One.

Maximum buying power, increased profits.

Our collective buying power means that major flooring manufacturers are attracted to do business with our members and on some of the best cost price and settlement terms available, often with annual rebates. Our centralised payment of accounts system guarantees regular payments to suppliers and your administration is greatly reduced. Our experienced in-house team also source exclusive products and develop own label ranges to display alongside manufacturer’s brands, precluding direct price comparison and consequential profit reductions. What’s more, our merchandising team are constantly in the field supporting your business and the superb display stands available from Flooring One.

Marketing support It’s not easy for an independent retailer to match the sheer marketing power of a national retail network. That’s why Flooring One developed an annual Member’s Marketing manual. Containing everything from an image library, templates and headlines, to complete colour advertisements for seasonal campaigns. The manual comes with easy to follow instructions and CD’s allowing members to create their own individual yet highly professional campaigns.

The Flooring Show, held annually in Solihull, is a key event, offering members a valuable opportunity to meet each other, leading manufacturers, ancillary suppliers and, of course, the Flooring One team.

If you are interested in finding out more about Flooring One and all of the other services available to members please contact Mandy Powell mandy.powell@flooringone.co.uk or Peter Karra peter.karra@flooringone.co.uk TEL: 0121 683 1426 FAX 0121 713 4451 www.flooringone.co.uk Cranmore Park, Cranmore Avenue, Shirley, Solihull, B90 4LF

from The Stocklists

June 2017 29

NEWS

Grander designs

As one of the Uk’s most established and successful interiors exhibitions, Grand Designs Live once again provided Quick-Step with the perfect platform to showcase its latest innovations, keeping visiting consumers, developers and interiors designers up-to-date with the latest trends in flooring.

Over 30,000 visitors to the nine-day event were able to witness firsthand the technical advancements and latest collections from the QuickStep stable, with all three product categories – Laminate, Hardwood and LVT – given equal footing within the impressive stand.

With a focus on big being better, reflective of today’s luxury trend, highlights included a consumer exhibition debut for Massimo engineered oak and Majestic laminate, both of which have taken the UK market by storm since their launch in 2016.

With both large format styles used within inspiring point-of-sale and on the exhibition space floor, visitors were treated to an abundance of colour, texture and technical innovations. The super-sized Majestic, with its charm and texture proved powerful in its dominating appearance, and the realism of Majestic, coupled with its HydroSeal protective layer also received significant acclaim.

Not to be outshone, Quick-Step Pulse luxury on vinyl, with revolutionary scratch and StainGuard technologies were also on show, coupled with a generous insight into the finishing products and accessories available across the portfolio. www.quick-step.co.uk

Top of the class

High performance wood effect safety flooring from Uk vinyl flooring manufacturer Polyflor was recently selected for an £8 million new build school project, Newton Leys Primary School & Nursery in Milton keynes.

Approximately 1200m² of Polysafe Wood fx PUR safety flooring was installed at the primary school by Leicester based flooring contractors Westcotes Flooring working with main contractors Willmott Dixon.

High clarity timber effect Polysafe Wood fx PUR safety flooring in the American Oak design was used throughout the school, in classrooms and around areas where spillages may occur, such as in kitchenettes and children’s sink areas.

As a hardwearing commercial safety flooring covering, the Polysafe Wood fx collection is designed to cope with the demands of busy school environments where there are high levels of foot traffic. The range includes 10 authentic wood effect designs with virtually invisible slip resistance and is enhanced by the exclusive Polysafe PUR polyurethane reinforcement for superior cleaning benefits and optimum appearance levels.

Polysafe Wood fx PUR offers sustainable wet slip slip resistance, achieving 36+ on the Pendulum Wet Test with full conformance to HSE Guidelines and the particle based safety flooring standard EN 13845. Made in the UK, this range also passes the 50,000 cycles abrasion test demonstrating the sustainability of slip resistant particles in the product.

T 0161 767 1111 www.polyflor.com

Soft touch with stripes

Soft Noble & Stripes is the latest line of Balta carpets to join the established Noble family, combining super softness with easy cleaning and trending design bank, all made possible through use of 100% Stainsafe PP fibre.

The Soft Noble & Stripes collection holds no fewer than 12 plain designs, with three striped looks also included to add to the combination possibilities available in the home. Greys and natural tones help Soft Noble & Stripes to meet core market demand, while greens and purples fulfil the requirements of those looking for a bolder look to their home, and prove a striking addition to the dedicated POS.

Geert Vanden Bossche, Marketing Director, Balta Group, explains: “The latest addition to the Noble family of carpets, Soft Noble & Stripes, champions everything that is good about the Balta brand. We’re really proud of this collection’s offering, with the ability to combine trending colourways in stripes and plains, while also providing a super soft caressing touch, easy cleaning, stain resistance and of course Balta Carpets quality assurance. There are few residential carpets on the market that can compete across so many credential categories, particularly in the ‘super soft’ sector.”

The collection’s plain carpets are available to purchase in four and five-metre widths, while the stripes are available in four-metre only. The Soft Noble & Stripes range not only looks and feels great, it also arrives with a 10-year wear and 15-year stain warranty, making it an ideal choice for busy, modern day environments where slips and spills are commonplace.

T +32 56 62 22 11 30 June 2017

www.baltagroup.com

Carpet&FlooringReview

Marketing insights

by Rita Bancroft

Carpet and Textures Texture is a great way to incorporate tactility and character into flooring in a sophisticated and understated way. Textured effects in carpets can be created using a variety of ways.

Clever use of different yarn types, colouration, construction and pattern all contribute to the overall textural look.

“Texture is something that can be overlooked when planning a room and can add an extra dimension to a room”, says Gary Bridge, Design Director of Axminster Carpets. “There are a number of ways to bring texture to a room, both visually and texturally. Visual texture and softness underfoot can be added through design such as Skimming Stones or Leapfrog from our 100% wool Award Winning Hazy Days collection.”

"Amulet" and "Mineral" are available in five exciting colour ways which echo the natural elements. Deliberate yet whimsical brush strokes evoke feelings of sky and water as they run and blend into the surface of the canvas. These effortless textures are layered over classic designs to give an antiqued effect - that of a textile treasured over time so that only fragments of the pattern remain.

Gary continues, “Or add a textural element by choosing a different weave such as the loop found in our Simply Natural Collection or one of the textures in our New Shoreditch Collection. Shoreditch Is a new collection that blends the softness of wool with a variety of weaving techniques that can add another dimension to a room. Choose from one of the floating designs over a loop pile found in the Jitterbug design or add a distressed feel with the unique crochet weave in the Duchess design. By adding texture to your floor you create an unexpected and beautiful base that innovative and interesting interiors can be built onto”.

As for textured plains, Adam Carpets iconic Kasbah Twist range has been a massive success story over the last decade. Its blend of Berber yarns with North African/Middle Eastern colouring has proved popular throughout the UK.

“Texture is something that can be overlooked when planning a room and can add an extra dimension to a room.”

Inspired by natural landscapes and the abstract masterpieces of JW Turner, Ulster's latest axminster, "Watercolours" mimics washes of watercolour pigment softly blending into the paper. Two designs

Axminster - Hazy Days, Leapfrog Coconut Milk from The Stocklists

The range is perfect for areas where the pattern does not need to be dominant, instead reflecting the colours and fabrics in the room. The subtle blend of colours creates a calming, earthy mood. Made from an 80% wool and 20% nylon composition, the range has been made for extra heavy wear usage and is available in 5 colour matching mutliwidths, making it suitable for both small and large family spaces.

These distinctive colours have been matched with an open 5/32nd gauge, rare amongst wool twists, which offers an attractive rustic feel to the carpet. The yarn is also heavily twisted giving a hard, robust texture that is durable and aesthetically pleasing at the same time.

“Kasbah Twist is a name famous throughout the industry.” said Eamonn Prescott, Sales Director. “It was ground breaking when it came out and it still carries the reputation of being one the finest and most individual of twists on the market. Often copied but never mastered, it remains a nation’s favourite.”

Adam Carpets - kasbah, kasak

Ulster - Watercolours, Amulet June 2017 31

Marketing insights Carpet and Textures continued Brintons plain carpet range is anything but ‘plain’. Their four ranges each have a different texture, from twist to velvet and in a palette of colours which can make all the difference to the look of a decorating scheme. Brintons Bell Twist has a unique depth and texture that has always helped it bounce back cheerfully from the rigours of everyday life and confidently promotes excellent performance wherever it is laid. The carpet yarn has an extra twist added to the spinning process which creates the renowned defined and textured surface. Brintons Finepoint velvet offers a lighter yarn with more rows per inch to create an affordable indulgence that doesn’t compromise on durability or comfort, True Velvet has a higher pile height and softer touch whilst Majestic is the most luxurious velvet with an increased level of twist and 12 rows per inch making it endlessly strong yet gorgeously sumptuous.

Crucial Trading - Contract Textures

Textured flooring doesn’t just appeal to the residential sector. As designers and creators of the leading residential carpets and rugs for over 30 years, the innovative floor covering company Crucial Trading has developed a hospitality collection made from 100% wool. Designed with specifiers, architects and interior designers in mind, the collection provides a diverse variety of choice, high quality materials, hard-wearing longevity and supreme comfort.

The hospitality collection consists of 40 different wool structures from single loop to more complex patterns - that can be customised in a choice of 35 different colours. An online Hospitality Builder takes clients through the process to create their bespoke floor covering. Registration for the service is quick and easy while the average turnaround time from ordering to delivery is 6 to 8 weeks.

Brintons - Bell Twist, Moonstone

“This sophisticated natural herringbone design will suit any room in the home – it’s stylish, versatile and is very much on trend” Brockway’s Natural Tweed is undyed luxury. On trend, contemporary and sublimely soft, Natural Tweed is a textured loop pile carpet collection made from 100% pure, undyed wool and woven in a striking herringbone design.

Available in eight natural tones from rich, cosy creams to light beiges and fashionable greys, this modern neutral palette gives the perfect textural interest for contemporary interior looks. Above all, Natural Tweed is hard wearing and will look good for much longer than the average carpet.

Brockway - Natural Tweed, Eriskay

32 June 2017

Thanks to its undyed 3-ply wool, it has a sublime super-soft feel underfoot.

“This sophisticated natural herringbone design will suit any room in the home – it’s stylish, versatile and is very much on trend,” said Brockway’s sales director Shaun Lewis. “It’s a great way to carpet your home in understated, elegant colours whilst being ethical and environmentally friendly.”

Carpet&FlooringReview

by Rita Bancroft Rita is Director of Bancmarketing Ltd and has over 25 years of marketing experience with a proven track record in both business to business and business to consumer multi-channel marketing.

For more information contact: Adam Carpets T: 01562 822247 www.adamcarpets.com

Axminster Carpets T: 01297 32244 www.axminster-carpets.co.uk

Brintons Carpets T: 0800 505055 www.brintons.net/quickweave Brockway Carpets T: 01562 828200 www.brockway.co.uk

Crucial Trading T: 01562 743747 www.crucial-trading.com

kingsmead Carpets T: 01827 831424 www.kingsmeadcarpets.co.uk Victoria Carpets T: 01562 749300 www.victoriacarpets.com Ulster Carpets T: 028 3833 4433 www.ulstercarpets.com

Victoria Carpets - Textures

Victoria add six new loop textures to enhance other newly relaunched products Sisal Weave, Rustic Jewels and their latest relaunch Natural Coordinates. These new chunkier loops consist of five in 100% Wool, three of which are natural undyed yarns, and one is 70% Wool 30% Tencel which gives a soft feel with brighter appearance to enhance the beauty of this product and all use a four-ply yarn. Not forgetting that all are backed with Victoria’s unique Loc-Weave backing system which gives super handle characteristics. So, if customers are looking for texture in their next carpet, they need look no further than the wide selection on offer from Victoria Carpets

“Modern colour palettes and design adds sophisticated textural interest to any room in the home”

Kingsmead under their Stoddards brand has launched a new addition to its natural loop ranges.

Templeton Designs is a contemporary high/low pinstripe, made from 50% wool, 50% polypropylene 3 ply fibres. Available in eight natural tones from Old-lace to fashionable greys like Silver-dust, this modern colour palette and design adds sophisticated textural interest to any room in the home.

The array of squares is another exciting launch for Kingsmead under their Stoddards brand Templeton formed the inspiration for this beautiful textured waffle design in 50% wool, 50% polypropylene 3-ply yarn. There are seven great plain shades in contemporary earthy tones that coordinate with a smart Brussels style low level loop design to create warmth to any decor. Available in four and five metre widths, both launches are due late May and are bound to attract high interest from retailers and interiors designers alike.

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Stoddard’s Templeton Designs

June 2017 33

Flower on Flooring Filling the flooring skills gap Investment in training is the only way to ensure that the flooring sector retains the confidence of customers in all sectors.

This was one of the main messages resulting from The Stocklists' discussions with manufacturers and suppliers of all types of flooring products.

Adhesive and floor preparation product manufacturer F. Ball and Co says it is committed to providing ongoing training to flooring installers of all skill levels via training courses at the company’s state-of-the-art training centre. These run throughout the year, covering the subjects of subfloor preparation and adhesive selection.

F.Ball training centre

During the courses, delegates gain hands-on experience of using a range of F. Ball products in the centre’s purpose-designed demonstration area. All courses are presented by experts from within the company’s technical department, who have extensive knowledge of the flooring industry, to ensure that the content remains up-to-date and includes the latest information about advances in adhesive and smoothing underlayment technology.

“During the courses, delegates gain hands-on experience of using a range of F. Ball products in the centre’s purposedesigned demonstration area.”

Altro’s purpose built facility

Karndean Designflooring managing director Paul Barratt says: “With luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring being the aspirational flooring of choice and demand continuing to grow, we have a responsibility as the market leader to help our independent retail network recruit, train and shape future talent in floor fitting.

“We’re preparing to reveal our new look karndean Academy this year.

As well as continuing our popular basic and advanced training courses, we also plan to launch our first national apprentice programme in partnership with the Uk’s number one training provider, Floortrain."

karndean will encourage and support its retail network to join its apprentice programme by taking on flooring apprentices.

"This will see us train a minimum of 25 apprentices per year.

Importantly, our dedicated programme will follow Government guidelines and train on all common flooring types, with an enhanced karndean training focus," says Mr Barratt. karndean Designflooring Uk showroom

F. Ball states that it also offers tailored courses over one or two days for a minimum of four delegates.

Altro says formal training at the start of employment drastically shortens the time it takes to get that person up to speed and this offsets any cost involved. This is echoed by the National Apprenticeship Service, which reports nearly 60% of companies say training apprentices is more cost-effective than hiring skilled staff.

At the Altro training school, attendees can take advantage of a purpose-built facility with one-to-one attention, time and no pressure. They also benefit from a factory tour where they see solutions being made.

The extra knowledge and appreciation has a definite effect on the care they take in getting the installation right, the company states. Trainees leave the school with confidence because they have the skills to perform on-site without needing reminders and support.

"If training for your employees is an option, we’d strongly recommend it," says Altro.

34 June 2017

“We’re preparing to reveal our new look Karndean Academy this year. As well as continuing our popular basic and advanced training courses...”

Carpet&FlooringReview

by Dennis Flower

Cormar Carpets marketing director David Cormack said his company has built a reputation for providing industry-leading retailer training programmes. "We work in partnership with the Flooring Guild and run regular courses every year which are always in high demand for retailers," he says.

Choosing a carpet from a consumer perspective is a major decision but consumers do not always know what they are looking for. "So it’s up to us to understand, inspire and educate them, in terms of what’s the best solution. And to do that, training is pivotal to our success.

“Our training covers product knowledge about carpet types and production techniques through to selling skills and how to measure carpets. We also cover planning and estimating too. The training looks at carpet buying from the eyes of the consumer, how to identify and meet their specific needs and we tailor our training to suit the retailer," says Mr Cormack.

“To maximise the return on investment, training should be relevant to the job, at a level appropriate for the experience of the staff member and include a customer service element”

In 2017 the WoolSafe Academy is launching seven new courses aimed at helping professional carpet cleaners improve their skill set, expand their portfolio of services and increase their income streams.

NCCA training director Glyn Charnock says well trained, knowledgeable staff are possibly the best marketing tool a business can have. Staff are more likely to take pride in their work if properly trained, improving customer satisfaction levels and reducing complaints.

"They are better able to answer any questions in a professional manner and promote additional services, increasing the value of clients to the business, who are more likely to use the companies’ services in future and to recommend them to friends and family," he says.

"To maximise the return on investment, training should be relevant to the job, at a level appropriate for the experience of the staff member and include a customer service element. Sending experienced staff on basic courses is highly counter-productive so consulting staff on what training they need is vital," Mr Charnock concludes.

Vinyl flooring manufacturer Polyflor offers a number of training courses at its purpose-built Training School facility in Manchester to develop and improve the all-round skills of floor layers in laying vinyl flooring. Delivered by trainer Tim Green, courses include plenty of hands-on exercises mixed with a blend of technical theory about fitting vinyl flooring, subfloors, adhesives, skirting and tools.

Cormar works with the Flooring Guild

“Our training covers product knowledge about carpet types and production techniques through to selling skills and how to measure carpets. We also cover planning and estimating too.”

WoolSafe refers to the quote by novelist John Harvey: "If you think training is expensive, try ignorance" as particularly relevant for cleaning carpets and rugs, where mistakes that could easily have been avoided turn into very large claims.

The WoolSafe Academy has been running professional training events around the world, both online and classroom-based, for almost two decades including the WoolSafe Fibre Care Specialist and Carpet Complaint Investigation courses.

The former instructs trainees how to identify different carpet fibres and constructions and discusses the special considerations, chemistry and techniques required to safely and effectively clean them. There are now approximately 500 WoolSafe-approved service providers around the world with technicians trained as Fibre Care Specialists.

from The Stocklists

A range of everyday scenarios are integrated so attendees can develop a greater understanding of the situations which will be faced when laying vinyl floors. Polyflor offers three- or four-day courses (including an entire day on more complex finishing and detailing tasks) and a twoday course on luxury vinyl tiles. It also runs a one-day course on correct cleaning and maintenance techniques.

Retired consultant John Hopkins says anyone wishing to become a carpet and flooring installer will need specific training in the use of fitting tools and in-depth knowledge of the various products to be fitted and the different techniques required.

“There are several companies which offer in-house training on their own products and independent organisations such as Floorskills, who organise specialist courses for all types of floor coverings including carpets, vinyls and wood. Retailers, on the other hand, need an in depth knowledge of the various products and an understanding of estimating and planning and a basic knowledge of installation systems.

“Development is a more expansive program and focuses on a person's future progress in a company. This might involve a flooring installer considering moving into a more management role within a company.

Advantages provided by investing in training include increased profits, reduced personnel turnover and improved customer relations and service,” Mr Hopkins concludes.

For more information:

Altro Cormar Carpets F.Ball karndean

T 01462 489 516 T 01204 881234 T 01538 361633 T 01386 820100

www.altro.co.uk www.cormarcarpets.co.uk www.f-ball.co.uk www.karndean.com

June 2017 35

NEWS

Scala scales the heights

Following its latest colour update in 2016, Lano’s popular Scala Solutions contract collection continues to make a big impression on contractors, specifiers and end-users up and down the country, remaining the go-to statement floor for healthcare, education and leisure locations.

New styles were added to Lano’s flagship Scala last summer, meaning a host of new combination possibilities were now available in a range that has been at the forefront of the specification community for many years.

This resulted in a vast uptake of Scala that has continued into 2017, with the collection being used for all manner of environments thanks to the design flexibility, soil resistance and colourfastness of solution-dyed 2-ply polypropylene.

Gary Alp, UK Sales Manager, Lano Carpets, comments: “Thankfully, demand for Scala in 2017 has not only met but actually exceeded our expectations.

Adding new, trending shades to the practical properties of solution-dyed polypropylene has proved a masterful touch, demonstrating that our eye for the best in underfoot design is still as sharp as ever. All kinds of environment can benefit from the heavy commercial-rated Scala, a collection that arrives in an innovative architect’s folder for ease of presentation.”

Scala Plain and Scala Classic broadloom carpets can be specified with impervious I-Back backing for an added line of defence against sub-floor contamination, while also designed for comfort, thermal insulation and sound absorption. Specifically produced with healthcare locations in mind, this backing enhances the powers of solution-dyed polypropylene and its refreshed colour bank, standing it in good stead for the remainder of 2017.

T 00800 5266 5266 www.lano.com

Flair for flatweaves

Flair Rugs continues its drive to develop the most versatile rug offering possible, and in its tribute to flatweaves has ensured this popular style is accessible to all, with improved choice and value now available right across the brand portfolio.

“We’ve recognised for a while that flatweave rugs are big news in the UK residential market,” explains Gareth Davies, Sales & Marketing Director, Flair Rugs. “With this in mind, we’ve made it our mission to provide a spectrum of flatweave choice at a range of price points. From high-end, luxury pieces to more affordable options that champion easy cleaning and stain resistance, the Flair Rugs stable holds a flatweave for any residential space, and we have reaped the rewards of making this a priority in 2017.”

New flatweaves have found their way into the value-driven Simplicity portfolio, namely through the brand’s Florence and Verona collections.

Both help Flair to meet market demand for flatweaves, with Florence in particular offering great versatility in style. In this collection, homeowners are treated to intricate Anzio, Latina and Tivoli designs, heritage options that combine great durability with stain resistance and easy cleaning, thanks to the use of extremely hardwearing polypropylene fibre. Meanwhile, Verona’s Nardella look takes us back to basics, catering to those who seek plainer design in a flatweave construction.

Flair’s core product range is also well versed in flatweaves, with the geometric Skyline Gel championing this in its high quality polypropylene guise. Skyline Gel, while sitting right at the tip of the trend curve, also adds machine washability and non-slip backing to proceedings, making it an apt choice for almost any residential area. For customers seeking a more sustainable touch, Flair directs attentions to the Natural Living collection, with flatweave looks paying homage to the best in seagrass, jute and cotton fibres. Also available is the 100% wool of Retreat Maya, a spacedyed choice that continues the natural theme, but with a chunkier construction for an alternative flatweave effect.

T 01457 850660

www.flairrugs.com

Tasteful tartans

Crown Floors has combined its flagship Easy Clean 100% PP fibre with colourful tartan and hexagonal looks as part of the new look Glendevon collection, and with it demonstrates that the latest trends needn’t sacrifice on ease of living.

The enhanced cut-length Glendevon stable comprises no fewer than six tartan designs, from the cool greys of Pebble Heap and Woodpecker through to the bold, red-infused Black Cherry. There’s a tartan for almost any residential space, but what links these Glendevon decors together is their Easy Clean 100% PP fibre, a polypropylene choice that’s resistant to staining and ready to withstand the rigours of modern family life thanks to its woven construction.

Geert Vanden Bossche, Marketing Director, Balta Group, explains: “The tartan trend has well and truly established itself in the UK residential carpet market, but few wall-to-wall choices can compete with Glendevon when it comes to practical qualities.” Glendevon also presents the homeowner with a choice of six hexagonal designs for an altogether different effect in the home. Silver Fox, Opal Greige and Night Sky are just some of the hues on offer, the perfect accompaniment to Glendevon’s six tartans, and again making the most of Crown Floors’ Easy Clean fibre for a smart choice in residential locations.

The Glendevon collection, arriving in a four-metre width, holds 7-year wear and 10-year stain warranties, and is available to view in its entirety at the brand new Crown Floors website, www.crownfloors.co.uk. Here, homeowners are able to use an intuitive search facility, refining their carpets by fibre, colour or pattern. They can also order a selection of free samples, once inspiration has been taken from the regularly updated Crown Floors blog.

T 0800 898 282 36 June 2017

www.crownfloors.co.uk

Carpet&FlooringReview

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The X Collec tion of premium car pe t s br i ngs a lu xury edg e to classi c and conte mporary interiors.

VISIT THE TOUCH OF LUXURY

Enjoying exceptional softness and enduring quality, th e Smart St rand, nylon, bamboo a n d wool fibres found wi t h i n are luxur i ous, unique and deliver faultless performance.

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W E B S I T E AT :

AT O U C H O F L U X U R Y . E U LANO CARPETS Ve n e t i ĂŤ l a a n 3 3 , 8 5 3 0 H a re l b e ke - B e l g i u m t 00800 5266 5266 marketing@lano.be lano.com

NEWS

Ideal inspiration

karndean Designflooring partnered with Britain’s fastest growing homes magazine, Good Homes, at the Ideal Home Show in Olympia, London, to bring to life eye-catching roomsets for visitors.

Designed by interior stylist Kate McPhee and Good Homes style editor Jessica Taverner, the Good Homes Roomsets presented six inspiring living spaces, three of which featured Karndean Designflooring in the living room, bedroom and bathroom.

Karndean offered an exclusive first look of its new Kaleidoscope Apex design in the midcentury living room with a sophisticated chevron patterned floor presenting three wood look colourways from its popular Da Vinci range - Limed Linen Oak, Limed Cotton Oak and Limed Jute Oak. Karen Walker, editor of Good Homes Magazine said: “The chic design of the chevron Kaleidoscope floor is a beautiful and on-trend addition to this modern living space. It complements the mid-century-inspired furniture perfectly, and its versatile range of colours and styles makes it the perfect choice to update either a classic or contemporary space.”

The bathroom and bedroom roomsets provided visitors with an insight into the popular trends of monochrome and hygge in the home. Whilst the bathroom featured a striking checkerboard Opus Luna and Nero floor design, the Danish bedroom showcased Van Gogh White Washed Oak against neutral furnishings.

Igoe honoured

James Igoe, Chairman of F. Ball and Co. Ltd., has been awarded the prestigious Max kochmann Award by the British Adhesives and Sealants Association (BASA).The accolade, named in memory of one of BASA’s founding members and former life president, is awarded each year to an individual or company that has made an outstanding and sustained contribution to the association.

James previously held the position of BASA Chairman from 2010-2012. As Chairman, he represented the interests of the UK and Ireland adhesives and sealants industry and was responsible for setting and reviewing BASA policy, strategy and objectives with the BASA council.

BASA is one of the leading national association members of FEICA (European Adhesive and Sealant Industry). James was nominated by BASA to serve as one of the three representatives on FEICA’s European Executive Board (EEB); the governance body of FEICA which ensures an effective governance and leadership of FEICA. Over the years, James has sat on many standards committees which have been involved in consultation with government on industry matters and regulation and was Managing Director of F. Ball and Co. Ltd. for 13 years until 2016 when he took over as Chairman of the company, following the retirement of Geoffrey Ball.

James commented: “It is an honour to be awarded the Max Kochmann Award by BASA. I have been heavily involved with BASA for a number of years and have witnessed the wonderful work that BASA does to represent its members and promote the industry.”

T 01583 361 633

www.f-ball.co.uk

Pictured (l to r): Karen Walker, editor of Good Homes, Kate McPhee, interior stylist, Paul Barratt, managing director of Karndean Designflooring and Jawad Ali, director of business intelligence at Karndean Designflooring.

“We¹re thrilled to partner with Good Homes Magazine and Kate McPhee to present these remarkable roomsets and it’s especially exciting to offer a first glimpse of the new Kaleidoscope range,” says Paul Barratt, managing director of Karndean Designflooring.

He said: “All 14 new geometric Kaleidoscope designs have been cleverly created by our in-house product designers and range from very subtle to ultra-bold in appearance with intriguing shapes such as hexagons, cubes or triangles.”

Available now, Kaleidoscope by Karndean Designflooring contains 14 geometric floor designs cut from Karndean’s established wood and stone ranges into popular shapes and patterns, such as hexagons, chevrons and cubes all carefully crafted by Karndean’s inhouse product designers.

T 01386 820 100

www.karndean.com James is presented with the Max Kochmann award by Will Barclay and Mark Louch (current BASA Chairman).

38 June 2017

Carpet&FlooringReview

from The Stocklists

June 2017 39

Buying Groups

National Flooring Show

MARKET COMMENTARY

Agenda-setting in Solihull BGNFS had a bigger buzz than ever in Solihull this year with the UK’s top 60 suppliers putting on a show of style with plenty of new launches, even better exhibition stands and increased visitor numbers for this members-only event.

Innovation was strongly in evidence throughout the Buying Group National Flooring Show as manufacturers seek to secure their position in a tight market and there was a marked focus on top quality point-of-sale to make sure that their efforts don’t go unnoticed at retail level.

Most impressive is how some of the market leaders have really pulled their portfolios together in the last year or so to present comprehensive, broadly based collections with massive consumer appeal. The key examples of this are Abingdon, Associated Weavers, Cormar, Furlong, Lano and Victoria Carpets.

These are savvy companies who have all examined their business in detail to root out the dead wood and stealthily plugged any gaps in their overall offer to build complete ‘one-stop shop’ collections that are competitively balanced for retailers to make good profits with lots of trade-up opportunities.

And then there’s the creativity that has also come to the fore with companies who are prepared not just to play it safe but to add real style to the market and to risk the unexpected. The classic players in this sector such as Adam, Axminster, Brintons, Cavalier and Ulster are right at top of their games at the moment with some inspiring design. Consumers are spoilt for choice with new options from these manufacturers – and one extra… look out for Hugh Mackay’s new Moda axminsters which we think are especially attractive.

The buying group show also demonstrates how LVT is more focused

“For choice and quality, this is a great time to be a flooring retailer. We just need consumers to hold their nerve and keep buying now!”

on independent retailers than ever before. Distinctive Flooring and Furlong’s Natural Solutions business have excellent offers and karndean Designflooring go from strength to strength – their launch of korlok at the event needs to be taken notice of by retailers as it de-risks vinyl plank and tile installation for even the most cautious retailer and carpet fitter.

We suggested point-of-sale was a key theme and there are some stunning examples of new generation display in the market right now. Flooring One’s huge overhaul of its systems for its members is a class leader and Associated Weavers graphic wall displays are exceptional. Distinctive have also excelled in their latest LVT wall units. And if you can get your hands on Crucial Trading’s new mini ‘consultation table’ then you are fortunate indeed!

The stars of the show for us in the synthetic sector were AW’s new Vivendi ranges in solution-dyed nylon, Furlong’s new Essenza collection of soft-touch to take forward the success of Solitaire and Abingdon’s expansion of their popular Love Story collection. And of course, Cormar’s re-colouring of Sensation which sort of started the whole soft sector revolution.

In wool and naturals, we were very impressed by Victoria’s incredible range of options on its Natural Tombola and the lovely wool loops of kingmead’s Stoddard brand and Edel Telenzo’s Greater London collection.

For choice and quality, this is a great time to be a flooring retailer. We just need consumers to hold their nerve and keep buying now!

Read our show reviews from pages 41-53 ...and more next month!

40 June 2017

Carpet&FlooringReview

Review: Showtime in Solihull The Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show May 2017

Karndean Designflooring

Core sales strategy Hard core LVT for hard floor installations – laying planks and tiles has just got a lot easier and is better looking than ever!

Karndean Designflooring presented Korlok at the Solihull show with a live demonstration that showed retailers that the newest generation of rigid core LVT has an ease of installation not seen in the sector before with the option to lay directly over most exiting sub-floors including hard wood, parquet and ceramic.

Richard Daniels demonstrates korlock’s ease of fitting

This new system goes over almost anything and we know retailers can struggle to find specialist fitters for LVT – now they don’t need to

“There has long been a demand for a true easy-fit LVT floor that doesn’t compromise on quality and it has taken substantial time and technology to get to that point,” says Stella Coyle retail sales manager of Karndean Designflooring. “This new system goes over almost anything and we know retailers can struggle to find specialist fitters for LVT – now they don’t need to.”

Floor fitter and lead technical support at Karndean Designflooring Richard Daniels who was demonstrating on the stand said: “This is a genius product. Laminate fitters are going to find this so easy and all installers are going to enjoy the fast, easy installation.”

After almost three years in development, the Korlok system brings a unique set of technologies together to achieve its success. The rigid ‘K-Core’ gives the plank impressive stability which combined with a built-in acoustic foam backing means it can ride out most sub-floor imperfections and significantly reduces noise transfer to rooms below without the need for an additional underlay.

The planks will snap accurately once scored with a blade and the clever 5G locking mechanism completes the story – planks are angled into one another along their length with a conventional lock strip but the short end can be dropped in vertically before locking which is a major time-saver for fitters.

Completely waterproof, phthalate-free and with a lifetime domestic guarantee, Korlok looks set to set the pace in LVT in 2017 and that’s before you’ve seen it! The range is launched with 12 highly detailed, authentic wood decors in fashionably large planks at 1420mm x 225mm. The Antique French Oak, English character Oak and Washed Swiss Pine are all winners!

T 01386 820100

Stella Coyle with the latest POS for the korlok collection

www.karndean.com

from The Stocklists

June 2017 41

Review: Showtime in Solihull The Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show May 2017

Interfloor

Firmer favourite Interfloor expect their latest underlay to be a firm favourite – firmer, in fact, than many other PU products on the market.

Their new Premium High Density (PHD) product range has been specially engineered in 180kg/m2 foam to create a firmer structure with maximum stability alongside luxurious comfort.

The flagship product in the range is the 9 mm PHD Chromium which has a high-performance Textron backing to enhance its dimensional stability as well as offering cleaner cutting during installation.

The sister products are PHD Titanium at 8mm and PHD Palladium at 10mm which have a polyethylene backing with reinforcing scrim.

Interfloor CEO John Cooper said: “The trend for increasingly luxurious and comfortable interiors means that many of our retail customers are keen to add firmer PU products to their offer.

“Consumers will love the high performance features of our new PHD underlays, while fitters can’t fail to be impressed with how easy it is to install.

We are sure the range will be first choice for professional installations in all areas of the home,” he said.

On the contract side, Interfloor has also been listening to what customers want with enhancements to the flagship Durafit stick-down system especially for the UK market.

Now the reinforced crumb rubber underlay comes with a black woven polypropylene backing that adds key benefits. It increases the dimensional stability of the underlay, the adhesive spreads more easily across the backing to ensure optimal and efficient coverage and you can check visually where the adhesive is against the dark background. The additional printing of pale green stripes on the backing adds to the ease of installation for measuring and alignment.

The Durafit underlay comes in 50mm and 65mm options and is part of a complete system with dedicated tackifier and adhesive products.

T 01706 213131 www.interfloor.com

The trend for increasingly luxurious and comfortable interiors means that many of our retail customers are keen to add firmer PU products to their offer.

Consumers will love the high performance features of our new PHD underlays, while fitters can’t fail to be impressed with how easy it is to install. We are sure the range will be first choice for professional installations in all areas of the home.

Premium High Density underlay adds to the quality offer 42 June 2017

Carpet&FlooringReview

Abingdon Flooring

Keeping the love Abingdon are lovin’ it! The romantic roll-out of their soft touch ranges has been highly successful with the company’s technical ability matched to the sophisticated marketing they have developed for the collection.

The passionate relationship with the soft-sector began with Lasting Romance, launched almost a year ago, a high performance solutiondyed deep polyester which sold strongly in rolls and was joined by a heavier weight cut-length option in Deep Feelings.

Now, to keep the love alive and even more exciting, Abingdon has launched Loving Touch which takes the same polyester yarn colours from its predecessors but mixes them in pairs to create a heathered effect. In many colourways, the same silver yarn is one of the combination colours to create a distinctive, bright finish which looks very modern.

Another new launch in this collection is Secret Affair. The secret is that this affair is more affordable, using a soft polypropylene in 10 colours to keep the price down.

These ranges in the Love Story Collection are all bleach cleanable and in Abingdon’s popular multi-width options. An attractive new feature is the extra fleece backing that makes the whole carpet feel much softer for consumers when they handle the samples and for fitters on installation.

Elsewhere on the Abingdon stand was the launch of new entry-level PP Stainfree ranges Rhapsody and it’s heavier weight sibling Tempo, both available in 4 and 5m metres and with a 10-year wear warranty.

For wool buyers, the Wilton Royal brand at Abingdon has re-launched Royal Windsor, a 100% wool berber loop with a textured waffle design. New colours in the grey and beige spectrum plus Abingdon’s multiwidth offer make this an attractive carpet – enhanced by the soft fleece backing that adds to the strong natural appeal.

T 01274 655662 www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

The passionate relationship with the soft-sector began with Lasting Romance, launched almost a year ago, a high performance solution-dyed deep polyester which sold strongly in rolls and was joined by a heavier weight cut-length option in Deep Feelings. from The Stocklists

June 2017 43

Review: Showtime in Solihull The Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show May 2017

Get the Vibes Associated Weavers There’s been a growing buzz in the carpet business since Associated Weavers revealed their ‘next big thing’ back in January – the Vivendi collection of goanywhere solution-dyed nylon ranges. Now it’s arrived in store!

The company took the market by storm in 2015 with the launch of its supersoft iSense polyamide yarn and then followed up in style in 2016 with the Invictus high-performance polypropylene soft collection.

2017 is the year of Vivendi and the buying group show introduced the first two ranges called Soul and Vibes – two weights of plains in 14 colours.

“We don’t want soft carpets to be a product that’s seen as mainly for upstairs,” says AW’s Steve Elliott. “Everyone wants soft and Vivendi gives people that choice in a go-anywhere collection that suits any type of lifestyle.”

Everyone wants soft and Vivendi gives people that choice in a go-anywhere collection that suits any type of lifestyle.

The secret is solution-dyed nylon which AW has developed as their new iVivo fibre and which will be seen in several more Vivendi ranges as the collection develops. The company’s confidence in its performance is demonstrated by its best-ever double warranty of 25 years for stand and wear. And it’s available in multi-width from 2–5m.

Steve Elliott is pictured with the impressive array of wall displays “Displays to die for” says the promotion and AW have backed up that claim with considerable investment in one of the industry’s most ambition POS programmes.

All the showroom systems has been considerably upgraded but it is the wall display which retailers will find most impressive. Installed by shopfitters, the modern, modular wall panels make an impactful, professional presentation with bright, large format graphics, furniture-quality lecterns and high-tech LED lighting.

“The AW approach sets a store apart,” says Steve Elliott.

“Smart display can make the difference between browsers and buyers in the retail environment and we believe these systems are the very best available in the flooring industry today.”

44 June 2017

The Vivendi collection is at the centre of one of the biggest roll-out programmes AW has ever launched which includes smart new merchandising – see panel.

The rest of the AW portfolio has not been forgotten of course…

Invictus is adding two new ranges. Sparkly Centaurus has a metallic thread in its yarn in silver, gold or copper which is colour-matched to the plain yarn its embedded into for a very sophisticated effect. Magnificus seeks to live up to its name as the deep, deep heavyweight of the collection with 75oz of softness in 15 colours.

T 01422 431100 www.associatedweavers.net

Carpet&FlooringReview

Mastercraft Rugs

Unconventional tradition Mastercraft Rugs has a new logo and a classy new look but the company ethos is the same. “People are always looking for the next thing that’s something a little different, something with an extra twist,” says Robert Dickson.

And the company is masterly at doing just that and came to the Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show with more than 200 new options. “Rugs are a fashion-driven sector and you have to keep up with the trends,” says Robert.

But we only add items that really enhance the collection and establish our reputation for affordability.”

Some highlights among all those new items include Vintage, a range that demonstrates Mastercraft’s approach precisely. This is a collection of 18 traditional designs but with variations of vintage, distressed effects and unusual colourways. “Traditional, but not so conventional,” says Robert.

Other attention grabbers at the show were Topaz, a heavyweight plain polyester in six colours with a slight texture, and Strata, with a short but very dense pile construction in a set of very attractive abstract designs.

Then there is an uber-shaggy – new Angora is an unbelievably soft and deep shaggy manufactured with a multi-filament polyester yarn in nine colours.

Smart Strata has a luxuriously dense construction

T 01282 694565 www.mastercraftrugs.co.uk

In the Flooring One buying group’s awards held during the show,

Mastercraft once again secured the top rug supplier of the year award, an accolade that has been theirs for several years running

Robert Dickson is pictured receiving his award from Ian Philp of Flooring One

from The Stocklists

Mastercraft once again secured the top rug supplier of the year award, an accolade that has been theirs for several years running. “We make sure we have the rugs consumers want and that we have the stock in every size that retailers need,” says Robert.

June 2017 45

Review: Showtime in Solihull The Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show May 2017

Victoria Carpets

Natural leaders What’s new at Victoria? Almost everything – and the enthusiasm at the company these days is matched by the quality and breadth of its line-up of ranges that are – or will be – among the best sellers in the business.

“We have a superb brand reputation to live up to and we don’t intend to disappoint,” says MD Phil Hartley. “Everything we do now aims to exceed expectations and the ranges in the new line-up are all potential market leaders.”

Building on existing strength, Victoria’s soft popular synthetic range First Impressions has now been upgraded two years after it’s launch, retaining the best-selling eight colours and replacing another eight with the latest shades. But it is the switch to an eight-gauge construction that may be most noticeable – giving the carpet a fashionable chunky finish.

Victoria’s new solution-dyed nylon product Lasting Luxury is now right up to speed having been rolled out to the market after its launch at the end of last year. The yarn has nylon’s performance with a lifetime warranty against pile reversal due to Victoria’s Loc Weave backing - and its bleach cleanable as the colour goes right to the core.

But if you’re looking to Victoria for wool, they have lots to talk about!

The story starts with the launch of Tudor Twist, destined to become an industry 80/20 benchmark with its superior yarn, 42-option colour bank and three weights with 6 ‘highlight’ 3 ply loop pile stripes. “We are delighted with how this has worked out,” says Phil. “It’s distinctly Victoria and we now have the flagship twist we can be proud of.”

But for choice, check out the new Natural Tombola from Victoria that’s loaded with lots of new textury ranges that are right on the mark in terms of today’s trends.

Bradley Davies (left) with MD Phil Hartley and the Natural Tombola

But for breadth of choice, check out the new Natural Tombola from Victoria that’s loaded with lots of new textury ranges that are right on the mark in terms of today’s trends.

Among 80 options on the drum is the new Rustic Jewels, a 50/50 loop in two attractive Harmony and Herringbone designs; new Natural Coordinates, a 100% wool 3-ply tenth gauge loop with real ‘go-to’ colours in two design textures; and Heightington and Honeybourne, two weights of a 100% 4 ply undyed wool loop that’s been constructed on a quarter-gauge machine to give a real chunky effect that’s quite different to anything Victoria has done before. All available in 4 & 5 metre widths.

And for those that don’t mind all their carpet ranges beginning with H there’s lots more that’s brand new on this tombola! Another chunky eighth-gauge is Huntingdon with eight colours in 4 ply 100% wool and Hurcott, a subtle 2 colour stripe in eight colours.

Everything we do now aims to exceed expectations and the ranges in the new line-up are all potential market leaders.

Hopwood is an intriguing option with a high/low offset construction in mixed colours with varying contract and Habberley is a stunning 70/30 loop construction made from wool and Tencel, a naturally occurring viscose fibre that adds a vibrant brightness to the appearance.

Add in Victoria’s Sisal collection – oh, and by the way, the relaunch of their classy, luxurious new Wilton collection – and you have a one-stop shop for just about everything!

T 01562 749300 www.victoriacarpets.com 46 June 2017

Carpet&FlooringReview

Limelight for loops Kingsmead Carpets The Stoddard brand stole the limelight on kingsmead’s stand at the show, reinforcing the company’s strength in the fashionable wool loop sector with two new launches.

Templeton Design is a 3-ply 50/50 wool loop with a smart high/low pinstripe design in eight colours at 4 and 5m. “A 50/50 blend is rare for a loop but I think we’ve got this one just right with a robust carpet with just enough texture,” says Graham Harris of Kingsmead. “We’ve had a very good reaction to it at the show.”

The re-launched mainstream Stoddard Templeton range in 100% wool is now available in eight colours with a waffle design (see inset) and a brussels loop. “We’re building on the strong position the company has as a leading supplier of wool loop,’ says Graham. “We aim to have an option for everyone.”

T 01827 831424 www.kingsmeadcarpets.co.uk

Get ready for new Sensation Cormar Carpets Back in 2012, Cormar caused a real ‘Sensation’ with the launch of the aptly named Sensation carpet. Since then, Cormar has continued to grow and lead the way with further developments and additions to the Sensations range.

Spring/Summer 2017 sees the introduction of a refreshed colour palette to reflect the very latest home interior trends. A further 10 shades have been added in two weights in 4m and 54m widths, with the most popular lines being retained, making this the strongest ever line up for Cormar’s Sensations range.

Says David Cormack marketing director at Cormar: “When Sensation first came to market it was something of a revelation. Sensation the original soft carpet tried, trusted and loved, so it deserved a makeover for 2017, to bring it bang up to date. The new colour selection is probably the widest and best in the market today and, going into the Autumn, should give retailers even greater confidence in a quality carpet range that¹s right on trend and underpinned by excellent delivery, which we know is so important to our customers.”

Easy-clean, synthetic carpets, with their tactile appearance and easy maintenance, are becoming increasingly popular so it’s easy to see why the Primo Ultra range has had new colours added to the collection too, with on-trend greys and natural heather colours becoming more prominent alongside popular plains.

With its focus on product innovation and trends, combined with a commitment to outstanding customer service, quality and first class delivery, it perhaps comes as no surprise that Cormar have again been awarded ‘Carpet Supplier Of The Year’ by the Flooring One buying group.

Cormar’s David Judge (right) receives the Best Supplier award from Ian Philp of Flooring One from The Stocklists

T 01204 881234

www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

June 2017 47

Review: Showtime in Solihull The Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show May 2017

Growing with grass Ball & Young Ball & Young’s product development team don’t let the grass grow under their feet. The latest feat is to grow their business under the grass!

Astro Cushion is described as the “number one base for artificial grass” and the thick 15mm and 10mm PU options are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor life, providing comfort and safety to artificial grass surfaces while allowing the drainage of water through the surface.

A key benefit of the underlay is that it smooths out the base surface so that grass can be laid directly onto decking without seeing the underlying structure come through. As well as residential gardens and patios, the product is attracting interest in the hospitality sector for hotels and resorts.

“We have completed all the trials and have a superb product for a market that is growing fast in the UK,” says Ann Shaw of Ball & Young, pictured right in her garden at Solihull!

T 01536 200502 www.underlay.com

Effective perfection Carpenter Striving for perfection as ever, Carpenter has come up with a smart new underlay that has taken off in the Uk since its launch in January.

Perfect Living is described as “underlay for luxurious environments” and is a premium branded domestic product using 100kg PU foam and is structured for stability. The range is available in 8, 9 and 10 mm thickness.

Pictured (lto r) are George Elphick, Peter Podesta with the Perfect Living sample and Helen Rowberry

“We have been delighted with the response of our Perfect Living,” says Carpenter’s Helen Rowberry. “Since launch, it has gone from strength to strength and is being seen as excellent value money.”

T 01457 861141 www.carpenter.ltd.uk

Hard talk Crown Floors Arguably the most talked about residential carpet launch in recent years took centre stage at the Buying Group National Floor Show, as Crown Floors, with the help of Vinnie Jones himself, ensured the Deacon Jones

by Crown Floors collection was the talk of the halls at the Solihull event.

While buying group members were treated to new additions to the Crown Floors stable, along with new point-of-sale updates and the first reveal of the new website to enhance Crown Floors’ online presence, it was the appearance of famous footballer and Hollywood hard man, Vinnie Jones, that set the scene for an exciting two day event, as Geert Vanden Bossche, Marketing Director at Balta Group, explains: “We were delighted when Vinnie accepted our invitation to this year’s Buying Group National Floor Show. While we were confident that the versatility in both performance credentials and design bank would have ensured Deacon Jones by Crown Floors was a star attraction at the show anyway, but having Vinnie attend was the icing on the cake. His presence drew significant crowds to our stand on the Tuesday afternoon and with it even more interest in the new Crown Floors addition”.

Pictured (lto r) are Deacon Jones, Geert Vanden Bossche, Vinnie Jones and Gavin Freebairn of Crown Floors

T 0800 898 282 www.crownfloors.co.uk 48 June 2017

Carpet&FlooringReview

Flooring One

Wall-to-wall imagination Wall-to-wall style is delivered by the impressive overhaul that Flooring One has worked through its point-of-sale systems – its members now have access to some of the best-looking displays in the sector.

Flooring One has kept pace with new product development in the flooring sector and cherrypicked some of the latest star performers to update its ranges for 2017.

The solution-dyed nylon range Rossini is tipped to be the 2017 best seller. Based on the new iVivo fibre from Associated Weavers, the range has nylon’s performance – with a 25-year wear warranty – but with the bleach cleanability of a polypropylene. In 14 colours, two weights and a multi-width choice in 2, 3, 4 and 5m, Rossini offers all the options that consumers demand.

Other highlights include San Salvador, a bright, fresh zig-zag design made in 15 colours from British Wool. “It is a real stand-out product with cheerful colours and has turned out to be a star of the show,” said Peter karra.

Flooring One’s Vogue collection is its flagship wool twist range - a smart 80/20 with a refined finish that comes in 32 colours with five stripes and two weights, 40 and 50 oz. Better still, it comes with a bespoke option for any colour at any weight so you need never say no to a customer again! At the other end of the scale, a new Super Shaggy in 100% polypropylene is something to sink your toes into in eight colours.

Clean lines, bright and colourful large format graphics and state-of-the-art LED lighting create a modern sales environment as well as a sampling presentation that’s easy for consumers to use.

The new approach made its debut in the Flooring One members’ area during the Buying Group’s National Flooring Show at AIS headquarters in Solihull last month.

“We have been very ambitious in remodelling our approach to display,” says Mandy Powell of Flooring One. “We know consumers walk into a store and are sometimes underwhelmed by the sea of grey and beige that confronts them.

“We wanted to introduce imagination, light and colour while still presenting the samples in an accessible way. In short, we wanted to inspire,” says Mandy. She has succeeded and although the displays on show were essentially just prototypes, the positive reaction from members meant that most of the existing units were sold on the day and the group will go full ahead on manufacturing more.

The wall displays come in double and single bays and the edge-lit graphics are interchangeable so not only can ranges quickly be changed, but retailers can use the space for their own promotions and sales offers.

In rugs, Flooring One members benefit from the super collection that the group builds each year as a clever mix of guaranteed best-sellers for the ‘safety-conscious’ with a set of more adventurous options for the trend-setters. New for 2017 is a selection of ultra-on-trend Ted Baker rugs.

The wall units are matched to eye-catching angular lecterns in single and double configurations and there is also a trendy table-top display which takes in four ranges in style.

Finally, the latest in the group’s vinyl offer is a smart set of planks and tiles from Distinctive Flooring which comes with that company’s latest display system which is a fashion statement in its own right – displaying a new range of registered embossed decors to great effect.

T 0121 683 1426 www.flooringone.co.uk

FLOORING ONE SUPPLIER AWARDS 2017

We wanted to introduce imagination, light and colour while still presenting the samples in an accessible way. In short, we wanted to inspire...

from The Stocklists

Carpets: Rugs: Smooths:

1st, Cormar Carpets; 2nd, Ulster Carpet Mills Ltd; 3rd, Adam Carpets Ltd 1st, Mastercraft Rugs Ltd

1st, Woodpecker

June 2017 49

Review: Showtime in Solihull The Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show May 2017

Rug revolution LDP Louis de Poortere, a design leader in the production of rugs and broadloom, presented a series of revolutionary product and service updates at this year’s Buying Groups National Flooring Show.

Always an opportunity to show underfoot innovations, BGNFS proved a fantastic event for Louis de Poortere as it presented new Haute Couture broadloom to a whole new audience. Shown in its beautiful wool and cotton blends, Haute Couture holds far-reaching looks that will grab the attentions of even the seasoned design professional, and this was particularly apparent at the West Midlands event where colourful Urban Move and City Stripe looks were showcased for the very first time.

Alan Russell of Louis de Poortere, comments: “Since its inception, the Haute Couture collection has been a real success story when presented at exhibitions up and down the country. For many visitors, the Buying Groups National Flooring Show was the first chance to see Haute Couture in the flesh rather than in printed form. With a combination of magnificent looks, both traditional and contemporary, and exceptional quality assurance, reaction to the collection was just as positive as we’d expected, as were comments about the new point-of-sale box in which Haute Couture is housed. trending copper and monotone shades already proving popular among the Louis de Poortere customer base.

T 01505 615663 www.louisdepoortere.com

Fairfield facelift Lano Sticking close to tradition, Lano Carpets presented visitors with a swathe of updates made to Touchdown and x-Collection stables as well as point-of-sale and marketing materials.

Receiving a facelift to bring it in line with 2017 was Touchdown’s Fairfield Silk, an established favourite that now takes two forms: the 42oz twist pile of Fairfield Silk, and the plush 65oz Saxony style of Fairfield Heaven. Each line arrives in a spectrum of stand-out colours, available in both four and five-metre widths and also comprising Lano’s game-changing Smart Backing. What really sets the Fairfield lines apart, however, is the use of solution-dyed Eccelena Silk two-ply yarn in a fine 10th gauge construction, adding softness to durability and stain resistance.

Second for a facelift was Lano’s premium X-Collection stable, with its new point-of-sale unit guaranteed to make a statement in retail environments up and down the UK.This unit helps those retailers who are short on space, moving away from the chunky wall unit and showcasing X-Collection’s best without covering a large square metre value.

Meanwhile, new Bamboo Velvet and Bamboo Touch took centre stage with their luxury sampling style, the perfect way to present this combination of Lano’s renowned quality levels, and added sustainable touch.

T 00800 5266 5266

www.lano.com

Debut by design Flair Flair Rugs exhibited at the Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show for the very first time, setting out to demonstrate its exceptional quality standards, versatility in product design and innovative point-of-sale solutions.

A host of eye-catching updates were presented in the brand’s Simplicity and core range, although it was in TrendEdit where the stakes were really upped at the West Midlands event. The second edition of TrendEdit was released just in time for BGNFS, and what timing this proved to be with visitors wowed by a portfolio that combines bold on-trend colour and pattern, while meeting demand for this season’s must-have materials: silky viscose, stain-resistant acrylic and animal hides for a more natural touch in the home.

“TrendEdit 2, much like its first edition, allows retailers to present their customers with the very latest in rug design,” explains Gareth Davies, Sales & Marketing Director, Flair Rugs. “We’re constantly on the look-out for new trends, and in TrendEdit 2 we showcase not only a variety of high quality, stylish rugs, but also the inspirational back stories that led to its development.

“We have a dedicated trends research team responsible for bringing exclusive styles you simply won’t find anywhere else, with collections including the luxury cowhides of Marques, and silky soft Cairo viscose, inspired by the windswept landscape of Egypt.”

T 01457 850660 50 June 2017

www.flairrugs.com

Carpet&FlooringReview

Furlong Flooring

Going for growth Furlong are going for growth by extending their comprehensive offer as a market leader in all flooring types.

“We are ambitious to secure our leading position as the independent retailer’s go-to supplier and provide retailers with competitive products that they can really profit from,” says Neil Valentine.

The presentation at the Solihull show demonstrated these credentials with impressive displays across the company’s three core businesses – Regency Carpets, the Design Elements cushionfloor brand and Natural Solutions for LVT and laminates.

Furlong made a major impact with the arrival of Solitaire last September and is now building on this huge success with the launch of two additional ranges to create a new brand collection called Essenzo – set to become a key name in the soft sector. The two newcomers are Aria and Spirito which offer affordable price points for the retailer.

All the Essenzo ranges benefit from the latest, sophisticated point-of-sale and are manufactured in the UK. All the options are ready to be delivered from stock from Furlong’s three national distribution centres.

In the growing cushionfloor vinyl market, Furlong’s Design Elements brand has been developing a fresh approach to the business and launches an all-new contemporary collection of 12 ranges this June supported by smart modern displays.

New launches have also increased the appeal of the Natural Solutions offer which covers a lot of options including solid hardwood and engineered planks, a new laminate selection with ontrend wood, herringbone and concrete decors, and high performance LVT with a stylish selection of designs.

“Strong sales in the last year have allowed us to invest heavily in the future across the whole of our business – making us a true one-stop shop for independent retailers,” says Neil. “The investment has also gone into unprecedented stock levels across the country and an intelligent online ordering and logistics systems to get it all to where the retailer wants it, when he wants it.”

Commenting on the Solihull show, Neil added: “We have never had a busier show. We have been phenomenally busy and I must thank the organisers for a great event and all those buying group members who came to visit. Our reps will be following up with those who didn’t to make sure they’re not missing out on everything that is going on at Furlong!”

T 01772 696787 www.regencycarefree.co.uk

Design Elements’ striking cushionfloor display

Furlong’s Natural Solutions has a comprehensive offer in LVT and wood

from The Stocklists

We are ambitious to secure our leading position as the independent retailer’s go-to supplier and provide retailers with the competitive products that they can really profit from.

June 2017 51

Review: Showtime in Solihull The Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show May 2017

Twist and crisp Brintons Brintons were proud to showcase their extensive collection of designer carpets at the show with a large choice of stocked items for residential installations and their impressive QuickWeave series for commercial projects.

Brintons newest Bell Twist colours capture the serene beauty of nature¹s neutral palette by using pale tints such as Cotton right across to a striking shade of Slate. These organic tones were chosen specifically to complement halogen and low energy lighting which creates a fresher, crisper look.

For customers looking for a more personalised contract solution Brintons QuickWeave series is ideal. Choose from hundreds of designs in multiple colours and from 7 to 11 row specifications then your carpet is delivered within a short turnaround time of just 6 weeks.

T 01562 635580 www.brintons.co.uk

Clarity and colour Ulster Carpets The Ulster Carpets team have had a busy few days at the BGNFS with plenty of new launches on display including the recent addition of the new grey and blue tones of Auckland and Queenstown. Made using 100% Laneve Wool, these ranges have unrivalled clarity of colour, a feature which attracted many retailers who commented on the ‘clean look’ of the range.

Also previewed at the show were the six new heather additions to the popular Dubai range which is due to go to market in the coming months. The new colours bring the total colour bank to twenty, making it a versatile range covering warm neutrals to cool greys and hints of colours designed to complement any colour scheme. Continuing with the Loop theme, the show featured the debut of Ulster’s latest loop offering HΛBITÜS, also due out later this year.

The sales team also welcomed the opportunity to further showcase Watercolours and discuss the story behind the range which is inspired by natural landscapes and washes of watercolour pigment. Once again the Fusion range attracted a lot of attention from retailers.

T 028 3833 4433

www.ulstercarpets.com

The London look Edel Telenzo Edel Telenzo Carpets wowed the BGNFS visitors with Hoxton and Primrose Hill joining its Greater London carpet collection.

Shown for the very first time at this year’s exhibition, they proved favourites already amongst the visitors of the show. Hoxton and Primrose Hill are two high quality 100% 3-ply New Zealand wool loop-piles in five striking two-tone designs and one spectacular four-tone design. Hoxton and Primrose Hill reaffirm the position of Telenzo as leader in wool broadloom design.

The softness and luxury found in Hoxton and Primrose Hill allows them to sit neatly alongside existing Greater London choice, and makes them perfect candidates for use in Telenzo¹s bespoke Rugs & Runners collection which was also on show at the exhibition. Both Hoxton and Primrose Hill are available to purchase in four and five-metre widths (colour 189, 4m only) and are rated as suitable for heavy domestic use.

T 01422 374417 www.edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk

52 June 2017

Carpet&FlooringReview

Diverting interest CRUK More retailers and flooring contractors are interested in diverting waste carpet from landfill and recognising the opportunities that this can generate for their businesses, reports Carpet Recycling Uk. Speaking after exhibiting at the 2017 Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show, Solihull in May, CRUK Director Laurance Bird said: “It’s great to hear how businesses have invested in recycling carpets based on our advice and returned to our stand to thank us for cost savings achieved and sustainability advances made.”

Growing interest in diverting carpets from landfill is helping to boost CRUK’s retailer membership, which now totals more than 50. “It was rewarding to hear how communications to consumers about recycling their waste have strengthened business opportunities for them,” added Laurance.

Carpet Recycling UK supports its retail members’ recycling endeavours with Point of Sale promotional packs, membership certificates and a listing on the CRUK website, confirming their commitment to improving their environmental credentials.

Collecting, segregating and recycling of clean fitting offcuts provides a route to further reducing waste disposal costs for retailers and creates more market opportunities by keeping it out of the general ‘dirty’ mixed waste streams.

Carpet Recycling UK’s 2017 Annual one-day Conference and Awards Event sets its sights on Circular Economy goals at Aston Villa Football Club in Birmingham on June 21st, offering an inspirational programme and ample networking opportunities.

T 0161 440 8325 www.carpetrecyclinguk.com

More show reviews in next month’s issue !

of

“Need someone to manage your Point of Sale projects...

Projectwoman is here to help”

“Right I’ve got your style and branding sorted, what else to fit to this project”

“I’m off to fit your project together”

“ Now to get your Point of Sale layout and design added to the puzzle”

from The Stocklists

“And the final piece, to deliver on time and in budget, all done!”

June 2017 53

NEWS Escape to the exotic!

The desire to escape this technological jungle is growing, says the trend leaders at Quick-Step.

We want to create a place for ourselves where we can enjoy both simplicity and tranquility. Besides stepping out and finding peace in nature, we can also invite the wilderness into our homes in the form of exotic plants, tropical prints and ethnic touches. So... escape into the exotic!

It’s no secret that interior design takes its cues from the runways, and this year, we’ve seen the big fashion designers experiment with all things tropical. While exotic prints might conjure up images of loud tourists in Hawaiian shirts, they are anything but kitsch these days.

Does your interior also need a bit of brightening up? There’s no better way for your space to blossom than by welcoming nature into your home by adding plants or botanical prints. But it’s not just all about the wild and wonderful foliage of the tropics.

Add some ethnic elements to transform your house into a real ‘jungalow’, as LA-based designer and blogger Justina Blakeney calls it: striking souvenirs from far-off countries, geometrical patterns in vibrant colours or black and white, ornaments and furniture in natural materials such as rattan, bamboo or wicker and wallpapers bursting with wild cats or colourful birds. Let your imagination run free and bring this indoor-outdoor look home.

Sprouting with style Let plants weave themselves into your home with bold wallpaper.

The wide variety of patterns available can transform a plain room into a tropical paradise: from quirky, cartoon-feel pineapples to dramatic, sophisticated vegetation. Too much for you? Opt for some artwork with leaves for a subtler look. Don’t get lost in the jungle, though. By overdoing on the leaf prints, you risk creating an unimaginative, unwelcoming space.

Even more, we haven’t even touched yet on the dynamic effects that you can get by matching the colours of the jungle with ethnic prints. www.quick-step.co.uk

Balta €138m move to build growth

Belgian carpet maker Balta is planning to list on the Brussels stock exchange in the near future to raise about €138 million euros to reduce its debt and said it is ambitious for growth through mergers and acquisitions.

The company, which had revenues of €668 million in 2016, said the listing would allow it to reduce its net debt to 2.5 times core profit from 3.9 times at the end of March. Along with the initial share sale, private equity owner Lone Star would also sell a part of its shares in a secondary offering, the group added.

Tom Debusschere, CEO of Balta, said: “This is an exciting milestone in the 53-year history of the group. Our ambition is to continue our transformation into a leading global player in decorative rugs and soft flooring.

“Our listing on Euronext Brussels is a major step in the realization of our objectives as it will allow us to continue the virtuous cycle of ever faster design and innovation and will strengthen our position to further support the international growth of the company. We strongly believe that this will benefit our customers, employees and shareholders.”

In a statement to the financial markets, Balta said it sees attractive consolidation opportunities in rugs, carpets and adjacent market segments and views mergers and acquisitions as an important pillar of the company’s development strategy. Balta bought U.S. based group Bentley in March.

Hard choice

Victoria PLC has announced the non-Board appointment of Jan Debrouwere as the Group’s Director of Business Development Hard Flooring, with immediate effect, reporting directly to the Group’s CEO, Philippe Hamers.

Jan brings with him 28 years’ expertise in manufacturing, selling and marketing of all kinds of hard flooring – a product group which represents significant growth potential for Victoria.

A focused entrepreneur, with a passion for product development, design and innovation, Jan’s appointment is an important step as the Group seeks to secure customers, suppliers and acquisitions to gain market share in the growing hard flooring market.

For the last four years, Jan headed the successful turnaround of Beaulieu International Group’s (BIG) worldwide hard flooring business, a multi-product, multi-national division with a turnover of €500m, overseeing multiple production sites and sales teams in Russia, USA and Europe. In this role, he initiated and oversaw multi-million Euro greenfield start-ups to produce LVT and sheet vinyl both in Europe and the USA. He was also pivotal to the acquisition and successful integration of one of Russia’s largest flooring distributors into BIG. Prior to this role, Jan held senior management positions at IVC (part of Mohawk Industries Inc.), Domo (acquired by Balta Group in 2010) and Tarkett. Jan has a law degree from the University of Ghent, Belgium and is multilingual in Dutch, English, French and German.

Geoff Wilding, Chairman of Victoria PLC, commented: “Victoria is very determined to grow its existing successful hard flooring business, which we believe represents a significant opportunity for us. With almost three decades of flooring experience in Europe, we are delighted to have secured such a senior and experienced individual as Jan to run our hard flooring division. As a very driven entrepreneur who is extremely well-known in the industry, Jan will be a fabulous asset to us as we materially develop our hard flooring business across the UK and Europe.”

T 01562 749300

www.victoriacarpets.com

www.baltagroup.com.com

54 June 2017

Carpet&FlooringReview

Flooring Factsheet Adhesives

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Great British Cleaning Products

Environmentally aware for superior carpet care www.cleantecinnovation.com THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

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

Biodegradable and cruelty-free from a family run business www.astonishcleaners.com 57

Flooring factsheet from Interfloor Specialist underlays – wood & laminate flooring Interfloor’s British manufactured specialist underlays for wood and laminate flooring offer some of the best noise reducing performance in the industry. The Duralay Timbermate range includes the best-selling sponge rubber brands Timbermate Excel and Silentfloor Gold, a premium underlay with an impressive 53 SONE rating, plus the hardwearing Duratex.

Tests show in-room acoustics can worsen if inferior or lightweight underlays are used with hard flooring; putting a lightweight, air filled, cellular product under wood or laminate creates an echo chamber and more noise, whether it’s generated by scraping furniture, heavy footsteps or reverberation.

While many products on the market claim to be acoustic underlays, their impact test results just don’t compare to the low noise levels of Timbermate underlays which reduce in-room noise by up to 30 per cent. Independent tests prove the Timbermate products, with their superior weight and density, significantly reduce acoustic noise levels and all have achieved low SONE ratings.

Timbermate Excel is a 3.60mm gauge high density resilient rubber underlay; while the top end Silentfloor Gold is a 4.20mm gauge high density resilient rubber underlay.

Both underlays feature Interfloor’s VapourStop membrane, which helps prevent moisture, and branded backing to help differentiate them from inferior copycat products. For installations where moisture is not an issue, Duratex is a heavy-duty 3.60mm gauge high density resilient rubber underlay that offers great performance and excellent value.

Manufactured at Interfloor’s Haslingden site, the three products in the Timbermate range are rated highly in the LEED programme. The underlays are fully recyclable at the end of their life; contain not less than three percent pre-consumer recycled material and 5 LEED points are available if used within 500 miles from the point of production. They also meet or exceed the industry standard for indoor air quality as established by the Carpet and Rug Institute’s Green Label programme.

And for the perfect finishing touch, Interfloor’s accessories include Stikatak edgings to suit all types of floor, including the 9mm Zig Zag which gives a neat transition between laminate/hard flooring and adjacent stretch carpet installation.

For further information, please visit www.interfloor.com

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

58

THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

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

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

www.interfloor.com

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

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

Benefits

Types

Good underlay will...

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

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

Poor or old underlay will...

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

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

Sponge rubber

Crumb

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

PU foam

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

www.carpenterunderlay.co.uk

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

www.underlay.com

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

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

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

THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

www.numa-online.co.uk

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).

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

Combination

www.floorwise.co.uk

www.qaflooringsolutions.com

59

Flooring factsheet Carpet trouble-shooter

• shedding • pulled loops

Fading on Wool

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

Fading can be caused by exposure to ultra violet light which is found in daylight, but is accelerated when sunlight shines directly onto the carpet.

This has the effect of lightening or “Bleaching” the colour just as exposure to sunlight will lighten human hair. Wool is after all animal hair.

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

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

Soiling Soiling is usually the result of some local condition to which the carpet has been subjected to, or maintenance, or lack of maintenance programme. There is nothing we as manufacturers can do to prevent soiling in use. There are several types of soiling which are quite common:

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

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

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

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.

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

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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 vacuumdrawn 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.

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.

THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

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

Flattening

Shedding

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

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’.

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.

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.

Shading

Indentations

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.

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.

Pile Reversal Like shading, this occurs when the pile or nap of the carpet changes direction and thus reflects light at different angles showing the effects of shading which can become permanent. It is also described as ‘watermarking’. This can happen to every carpet construction be it Axminster, Wilton, Tufted, Hand Woven, Persian, Chinese, Indian or even Coir Matting. Like shading it can be more apparent on plain carpet because heavy patterns can disguise the effects. It can occur quite quickly after installation. A tremendous amount of research has been carried out over many years by many institutes to determine the cause of this phenomenon but none of it has proved conclusive.

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

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

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

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

Pulling Loops

Samples

Pulled loops occur only in looped pile carpet where one or more loops in the continuous pile is pulled through the primary backing of the carpet. This is usually due to some local condition, possibly some sharp object which has caught in a loop in situ and has resulted in a pull. Pulled loops are easily dealt with by trimming the offending end level with the rest of the pile. They should not be left as this could result in further loops being pulled and developing into a ladder.

The 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.

THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

The original carpet tile

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

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

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

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

Why join?

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

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

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

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

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

• Ensure you understand the financial arrangements,

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

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

• Review all the extra benefits and services to see

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

flexibility to run your business the way you want

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

what you would actually use

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

• Ensure you understand any rules that may limit your www.flooringone.co.uk Mandy Powell Tel: 0121 683 1426 mandy.powell@flooringone.co.uk

Key benefits 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.

Access professional services • Business and financial services • IT and internet support • Training and workshops • Professional bodies Some buying groups offer an excellent range of other services which may be valuable to your business. Financial services include invoice factoring, credit, loans and insurance. Some of the more sophisticated groups offering marketing packages, software systems to help you run your business operations and customised websites ready to use. Relationships with professional and training organisations can also offer discounts.

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

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

www.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

www.smg-group.co.uk Contact: Mike Reed Tel: 0118 932 3832 info@smg-group.co.uk THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

Flooring factsheet Wool fibre Benefits of Wool Carpet

SAFE

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.

DURABLE EASYCARE

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.

Comfort

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

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.

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.

100% wool or 80/20 – 80/10/10 wool rich

britishwool.org.uk campaignforwool.org THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

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.

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Are you a Wholesaler?

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

The Stocklists Wholesale Distribution Directory National

Midlands

East

Fells Carpets

Birch Distribution Sheffield - see Floorwise page 72

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

Leeds 0113 3071900 carl.cummings@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk TCS “The Carpet Specialists” Morecambe 01524 840177 info@tcsthecarpetspecialists.com www.tcsthecarpetspecialists.com Xylo Wood Flooring London 020 8368 8122 infouk@xyloflooring.com www.xyloflooring.com

North East Fells Carpets Leeds 0113 3071900 carl.cummings@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk Floorwise (North East) Ltd Birtley - see Floorwise page 72

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 0113 3071900 carl.cummings@fellscarpets.co.uk www.fellscarpets.co.uk

Birch Distribution Leeds - see Floorwise page 72 Birch Distribution Hull - see Floorwise page 72 Cornerstone Flooring Doncaster - see Floorwise page 72 Cornerstone Flooring East Midlands and Warwickshire 01159 444711 sales@cornerstoneflooring.co.uk www.cornerstoneflooring.co.uk

Salesmark Ltd St Neots - see Floorwise page 72 STS Flooring Distributors Cambridge Tel: 0345 899 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com

South West

DMS Flooring Supplies Northampton 0845 643 5601 dmsnorthampton@dmsflooringsupplies.co.uk

BL Flooring Supplies Bristol - see Floorwise page 72

Floorwise D & J Ltd Southam - see Floorwise page 72

BL Flooring Supplies Gloucester - see Floorwise page 72

J J Wholesale & Distribution Ltd Birmingham 0121 765 4994 jjwholesale@gmx.com

Fitwell Flooring Ltd Redruth - see Floorwise page 72

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

Flooring Supplies (Wessex) Amesbury 01980 625888 orders@flooringsupplieswessex.co.uk

STS Flooring Distributors Watford 0345 899 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com

Salesmark West Ltd Amesbury - see Floorwise page 72

Trade Counter Carpets Leicester 0845 604 3055 tradecountercarpets@gmail.com Woodall Brothers Ltd Shrewsbury - see Floorwise page 72

Fitwell Flooring Ltd Newton Abott - see Floorwise page 72

Solent Wholesale Carpet West Sussex 01243 774623 sales@solentwholesale.co.uk www.solentwholesale.co.uk see page 16 for details STS Flooring Distributors Thame (Oxford) 0345 899 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com

Choice Flooring Manchester - see Floorwise page 72 MCA Floorwise Ltd Morecambe - see Floorwise page 72 Millbrook Carpets Darwen 01254 703999 millbrookcarpets@live.co.uk

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THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

Are you a Wholesaler?

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

The Stocklists South East Acorn Carpet Accessories Bromley, kent - see Floorwise page 72 Ashmount Flooring Supplies Ltd Tottenham 0208 808 2158 sales@ashmountflooring.co.uk www.ashmountflooringsupplies.co.uk Beds Flooring Bedford 01234 341234 sales@bedsflooring.co.uk www.bedsflooring.co.uk Clifford Floors Strood 01634 285900 sales@clifford.uk.com Culpeck Strood 01634 299000 sales@culpeck.uk.com Columbia Flooring Middlesex 020 8443 3322 sales@columbiaflooring.co.uk www.columbiaflooring.co.uk see page 8 for details DMS Flooring Supplies Hemel Hempstead 0845 643 5344 dmshemel@dmsflooringsupplies.co.uk DMS Flooring Supplies Milton keynes 0845 643 5320 dmslaser@dmsflooringsupplies.co.uk Kent Flooring Supplies Ltd Chatham 01634 668668 sales@kentflooring.co.uk www.kentflooring.co.uk Littner Hampton London 020 8520 8474 littnerhampton@aol.com www.littnerhamptoncarpets.co.uk John Palmer Carpets Fareham 01329 221933 sales@johnpalmercarpets.uk.net Potts & Ward, Woodcocks Ltd Brighton 01273 557211 sales@pwwflooring.com www.pwwflooring.com

THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

Rackhams London 020 8531 9225 sales@rackhamsltd.co.uk www.rackhamsltd.co.uk see page 15 for details Salesmark Lancing - see Floorwise page 72 Solent Wholesale Carpet West Sussex 01243 774623 sales@solentwholesale.co.uk www.solentwholesale.co.uk see page 16 for details STS Flooring Distributors Orpington/Croydon 0345 899 1000 sales@stsflooring.co.uk www.stsflooring.com Trade Carpet London Wimbledon 0208 247 3891 sales@tradecarpet.com www.tradecarpet.com

Wales

Ireland Flanagan Flooring Distributors Belfast & Saintfield Co. Down Northern Ireland Tel: 028 9751 0932 sales@flanagan-flooring.com www.flanagan-flooring.com Flanagan Flooring Distributors Willow Business Park Dublin Tel: (01) 429 7800 sales@flanagan-flooring.com www.flanagan-flooring.com Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Dublin - see Floorwise page 72 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Belfast - see Floorwise page 72 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Limerick - see Floorwise page 72 TCS “The Carpet Specialists” Co. Louth 00353 429 351 351 info@tcsthecarpetspecialists.com www.tcsthecarpetspecialists.com

Matty’s Wholesale Carpets Birmingham 01675 433072 sales@mattys.co.uk Selected Rugs & Matting Cardiff 0844 8360650 customerservices@selectedrugs.co.uk www.selectedrugs.co.uk

Scotland Flanagan Flooring Distributors Glasgow Business Park Baillieston Tel: 0141 773 1122 sales@flanagan-flooring.com www.flanagan-flooring.com MCD Scotland Uddingston Glasgow 01698 808000 mcdscotland@mcd.co.uk www.mcdscotland.co.uk Neil Smith Ltd Glasgow - see Floorwise page 72

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wiseup to floorwise quality&value guaranteed adhesives + screeds

gripper

stair nosings

profiles

underlay

tools

national distributor network 17 Salesmark West Ltd Amesbury, Wiltshire Tel: 01980 880933 mail@salesmark-west.co.uk 18 Acorn Carpet Accessories Bromley, Kent Tel: 020 8462 0422 Fax: 020 8462 0927 acorncarpetsacc@btconnect.com 19 Salesmark Lancing, West Sussex Tel: 01903 750522 Fax: 01903 851111 sales@salesmark-floorwise.co.uk 20 Fitwell Flooring Ltd Newton Abbot, Devon Tel: 01626 835935 sales@fitwell.co.uk 21 Fitwell Flooring Ltd Redruth, Cornwall Tel: 01209 214344 sales@fitwell.co.uk 1 3

2 4

6 9 10 5 11

7 8 12

13 15 16 17

headoffice:

21

20

14 18 19

ad he +s sive cr ee s ds lam ina tes

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

ma tti ng

es tap

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9 Choice Flooring Ltd Trafford Park, Manchester T Tel: T 0161 872 8003 choice_flooring@yahoo.com 10 Cornerstone Flooring Doncaster Tel: 01302 835117 Fax: 01302 302542 cornerstonefloor@btconnect.com 11 Birch Distribution Sheffield Tel: 0114 243 1230 Fax: 0114 243 5118 n.maude@birchdistribution.co.uk 12 Woodall Brothers Ltd Shrewsbury, Shropshire Tel: 01743 441584 Fax: 01743 441629 sales@woodallbrothers.co.uk 13 Floorwise D & J Ltd Southam, Warwickshire Tel: 01926 814922 Fax: 01926 817899 sales@fwdj.co.uk 14 Salesmark Ltd St Neots, Cambridgeshire Tel: 01480 212888 Fax: 01480 218585 sales@salesmark.co.uk 15 BL Flooring Supplies Ltd Gloucester Tel: 01452 223355 Fax: 01452 371284 info@blflooring.co.uk 16 BL Flooring Supplies Ltd Bristol Tel: 0117 955 5454 Fax: 0117 955 2626 info@blflooring.co.uk

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1 Neil Smith Ltd Glasgow Tel: 0141 552 1141 sales@neilsmithltd.co.uk 2 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Belfast Tel: 028 9075 3202 Fax: 028 9075 3901 salesbelfast@pfl.ie 3 Floorwise (North East) Ltd Birtley, County Durham Tel: 0191 410 7070 Fax: 0191 410 6116 sales@floorwisene.co.uk 4 MCA Floorwise Ltd Morecambe, Lancashire Tel: 01524 33517 Fax: 01524 381852 sales@mcafloorwise.co.uk 5 Birch Distribution Hull Tel: 01482 826654 Fax: 01482 878693 d.ostler@birchdistribution.co.uk 6 Birch Distribution Leeds Tel: 0113 244 4363 Fax: 0113 244 8665 p.zanetti@birchdistribution.co.uk 7 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Dublin 10 Tel: 00353 (0)1 626 3913 Fax: 00353 (0)1 626 3960 salesdublin@pfl.ie 8 Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd Limerick Tel: 00353 (0)61 227 100 Fax: 00353 (0)61 227 000 sales@pfl.ie

THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

Stocklists Classified The

SITUATIONS VACANT

2 New Exciting Sales Opportunities

Sales Representatives

Greater Manchester / Part Cheshire Merseyside / Isle of Man Defined Sales territory will be subject to recruitment

Earnings circa £45,000 (Potential £50,000 +) Cormar Carpets is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of tufted carpets, supplying stylish, quality carpets to the retail, contract and wholesale trade throughout the UK. We are looking for enthusiastic and committed individuals with the ability to realise the full potential of these already established areas. Knowledge of the carpet trade is not essential, however previous sales experience is required as applicants must be able to demonstrate a proven successful sales record.

The ideal candidates would live on territory, although this is not essential.

As a consequence we will accept applications from those who live in close proximity to the territories shown.

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

Previous applicants may apply.

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

A JOB LIKE NO OTHER An amazing opportunity has arisen for the right candidate to join the sales team at Windmöller flooring products WFP GmbH (operating under the brand WINEO) as a Sales Agent for the following areas: East of England South West of England Manchester / Liverpool area

We are a family owned, long-established company with firm roots in the central German region of Westphalia – and run by the third generation of our founding family. Passionate about innovative, high-quality products, with a strong presence in more than 70 countries we are committed to progress, which we pursue hand in hand with people.

To apply please contact us with a CV and covering letter, briefly describing what you have to offer in contributing towards our continuing success.

Applications to: Mr. Irwo de Lange | +31 (0)6 2947 2772 | Irwo.deLange@windmoeller.de

Please send your CV and hand written covering letter summarising your relevant skills and experience for the attention of Carla Grant, HR Manager, Cormar Carpets, Brookhouse Mill, Greenmount, Bury, BL8 4HR. Close date for applications: Friday 16th June 2017

windmöller flooring products WFP GmbH | Nord-West-Ring 21 | 32832 Augustdorf

FOR SALE

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COMBINATION UNDERLAYS NEEDLEFELT UNDERLAYS For orders and further information, please ring P&R Ratcliffe (Underlays) Ltd. Burnley, Lancashire BB10 3BH Tel: 01282 421026, Fax: 01282 412321 www.foxirugtamer.co.uk

THE STOCKLISTS June 2017

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