Interiors Monthly August 2015

Awards 2015The winners

New formatsTapi and Carpetright

F U R N I T U R E F L O O R I N G B E D S C A R P E T R U G S A C C E S S O R I E S

Interiors monthly

f i r s t f o r f u r n i t u r e , f l o o r i n g a n d a c c e s s o r i e s

Aug

ust 2

015

The Carpet SpecialistsSERVICE QUALITY VALUE

The Complete Service The Carpet Specialists

upholstery dining bedroom carpets

TCS - Solely Committed to Serving Independent Retailers

TCS - THE NEW CARPET AND FLOORING SPECIALISTS

BUY 3 GET 1 FREEOrder 3 Rolls At The Flooring Show

And Receive a 4th Roll Absolutely FREE

The InspiredHeights Collection

nspiredBeI

PLEASE CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION:Head Office: 01524 840177email: [email protected]: www.tcsthecarpetspecialists.comUnit 4, TCS Industrial Park, South Gate, White Lund Industrial Estate, Morecambe, LA3 3PB

EDITOR’S COMMENT

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk 3

New looks, new hopes

Andrew KiddEDITOR

The award winning SealyVisit: www.sealy.co.uk

Editor: Andrew KiddT: 01273 930 029 E: [email protected] advertising (South): Tim BodenT: 01732 441 130 E: [email protected] advertising (North): Jarrod BirdT: 01565 631 397 E: [email protected], flooring, lighting and accessories advertising:Joanne PaullT: 01732 441 130 E: [email protected]

Published by Interiors Media LimitedMinerva House, Kinnings Row, Bordyke, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1NPT: 01732 441 130 F: 01732 362 919E: [email protected] in England no. 6397722Print: Knockout Print Design by TSS DIGITAL © Interiors Media Limited ISSN 1756-2236

Awards 2015The winners

New formatsTapi and Carpetright

F U R N I T U R E F L O O R I N G B E D S C A R P E T R U G S A C C E S S O R I E S

Interiors monthly

f i r s t f o r f u r n i t u r e , f l o o r i n g a n d a c c e s s o r i e s

Aug

ust 2

015

I recently spent a very interesting day visitingTapi’s new Cambridge store, followed byCarpetright’s new format Clapham HighStreet branch in London. Although obviouslydifferent (see p20 onwards) the stores haveboth been designed to make shopping forflooring easier.

Tapi certainly has an interesting format, full of attractive displays and features with a relaxed atmosphere where you caneasily see the choice of products on offer. But at the heart of Martin Harris (and theother 17 directors’) proposition is customerservice.

Manufacturers’ reports on complaints areout along with pressure selling while gettingthe customer exactly what they want is in,even if it costs a little more (something it

shares with one of the Interiors MonthlyAwards winners).

Harris is hoping to have almost 50branches by the start of next year, andultimately 200 stores. The challenge will be tomaintain its philosophy as it grows.

At Carpetright, the new look isn’t asdifferent to the mainstream, but it has carpetarranged by use, rather than colour or type,so shoppers can quickly go to what theywant.

One thing the stores do share is a lack ofmanufacturers’ branding for a cleaner look.

On the topic of service, those retailers stillusing 0845 telephone numbers rather than0330, should consider switching. Customersare unlikely to be happy to discover that totalk to you they’ve been paying their mobilephone company 37p a minute, plus whateverservice charge you decide on when Ofcom’schanges come in later this month. But atleast it’s not £4.17 a minute for directoryenquiries.

Congratulations to all of the winners of thisyear’s Interiors Monthly Awards (see p31onwards). All are richly deserving winnersand again my thanks to all of you who tookthe time to vote for them.

Tapi and Carpetright’s lateststores are looking to targetbetter-end shoppers, witha focus on service andmaking shopping easier

t h e c o m p l e t e s e r v i c e

[email protected]

www.tcsimports.com

Telephone: 00353 429 351 351

SERVICE QUALITY VALUE

TCS - Solely Committed to Serving Independent Retailers

The Complete Service The Carpet Specialists upholstery dining bedroom carpets

Bedroom Studios Now Availablefor Carpet Retailers

Free Home Delivery NationwideLearn more at at the Flooring Show - Stand C33

NEW REVENUE STREAMSFOR CARPET RETAILERS

��

CONTENTS


INSIDE THIS ISSUE6 Bensons focuses on branding

10 DFS wins name battle

14 Carpetright sees sales on the up

FEATURES

20 Retail

Tapi to focus on service

26 Retail

Carpetright reveals new store format

31 Interiors Monthly Awards 2015

The winners are revealed

106 Beds and bedroom

Mammoth enjoys sales boost

108 Preview

The Flooring Show

122 Design

New Designers interiors winners

REGULARS

16 New products

18 Service

126 Opinion

NEXT ISSUE

Manchester Furniture Show review

The Flooring Show show guide

Decorex preview

The Bed Show preview

INTERIORS MONTHLY AUGUST 2015

NEWS

6 Interiors Monthly August 2015

Looking abroad: Carpetmanufacturer Brintons is to makeits debut at Maison & Objet inSeptember as it wants to increaseexports. The company will displayits HD Weave collection designedin collaboration with CristianZuzunaga, which provides theability to weave in up to 32 coloursand creates photorealistic effects. Itwill also show its new Inspirationscollection (pictured), created basedon three themes including tropical,geometric, and architectural, by ateam of in-house designers at theParis show.

Bensons set to focus onbranding rather than priceBensons Beds is the latest retailer to look to promote itsbrand rather than price.

The bed chain’s new Be Bensons advertising campaignlooks to ‘build an emotional connection with its targetaudience,’ rather than promote discounts.

The advertisement showcases a variety of everydaybedroom situations, from traditional scenarios featuring acouple having breakfast in bed on a Sunday morning, tomore comical situations where a young child squeezes in totheir parent’s bed leaving them hanging off either edge.

‘Through the wide variety of scenarios showcased, thecampaign tells a story that everyone will relate to,’ saysLynda Matthews, Bensons head of marketing.

‘We understand that for our customers, our beds offer somuch more than a place to sleep. Whether it’s having familycuddles on a Sunday morning, snuggling up with a goodbook before bedtime, or skyping a friend in Australia, ourbeds offer a hub of comfort in people’s homes. The BeBensons campaign recognises how everyone uses their bedsfor different reasons at different times and brings to lifesome of these moments in a way we hope everyone willrelate to and love.’

Its latest campaign for the Comfort Station Adaptivetechnology continues this theme but focuses on how it will

help customers achieve the most comfortable night’s sleep,whatever their needs.

An improved version of the original CSA will beintroduced to all Bensons for Beds stores over the next fewmonths. It helps two customers lying side-by-side make amattress choice by allowing them to simultaneously:experience the different firmness levels from 1-5 withoutmoving from bed to bed; see where they need support in avariety of positions (for example sleeping on the left andright side or back) and capture what they have seen, feltand preferred in snapshots and use the report to explorethe mattresses on the floor.

The campaign focuses on branding rather than price

Furniture manufacturers and thelocal authority have combined tohail Long Eaton as the ‘UK Centre ofQuality Upholstery Manufacture’.

The town is home to more than50 upholstery manufacturers andsuppliers with a combined turnoverof over £250m. They employ in

excess of 2,700 people and exportto more than 60 countries.

Funding from manufacturers andErewash Borough Council enabledLong Eaton Chamber of Trade andthe council to work together topromote the branding to become arecognised symbol of quality.

Heal’s new storelights up designHeal’s is using its new Westbourne Grove, Londonstore to focus on lighting and interior designalongside a new bespoke service.

The store, on the ground floor of the QueensBuilding, a former art deco cinema, has beendesigned and project managed by designer andformer finalist of Heal’s Discovers, Matthew Elton,who was instrumental in launching Heal’s Ambrosecollection in 2014. All the fixtures and fittings, alongwith the bespoke kitchen showcased in-store, havebeen designed and produced at the Heal’s workshopby Elton and his team.

To coincide with the new store, Heal’s is nowoffering this bespoke design service to customers.

‘It’s been a fantastic journey working with Heal’s,from the Ambrose A-Frame collection through tothe design and build of the new Heal’s store. TheQueens Building is a local landmark; the team and Iare proud of what we’ve created, and feel privilegedto be part of the Heal’s programme of change,’ saysElton.

Long Eaton centre of quality

STAND

01795 439 159

www.gallerydirect.co.uk

Hall

2

Stand

2H03-G02

180NEW PRODUCTS

U N V E I L I N G

Tough enough to take care of everyday stains

AssociatedWeavers

Sale

s:01

42

24

3110

0Em

ail:

sale

suk@

awe.

beLo

okfo

rth

eBu

tter

y

the

No.

1br

and

inca

rpet

iSense is an innovative new fibre developedby Associated Weavers that brings you bothperformance and softness. This new uniqueproduct promotes an extremely soft polyamideyarn that outperforms any other carpet whenit comes to softness and comfort.

Launched in 2014 the success of iSense hasallowed Associated Weavers to invest intomore product developments under this uniquebrand for 2015 as it expands within the retailcarpet trade. iSense adds another dimension tobroadloom carpet.

Invictus is the latest revelation that will belaunched by Associated Weavers in 2015. Thecollection comprises of four qualities offeringunbeatable softness and performance. Invictusis manufactured using our new polypropyleneIVINCI SDO Stainaway yarn and will incorporateour new fusion bac for further comfort and

performance. IVINCI SDO Stainaway yarn givesthe carpet super soft handle, lustre, high bulkand outstanding stain resistant performance.All Invictus products come with a 20 Year Stainand Wear Warranty. Supported by new eyecatching display units, Invictus is the newAssociated brand for today’s carpet market.

AN EASYCARE CARPET

E V E R Y B O D Y H A S A S O F T S I D E

StainAway 2015StainAway is the leading brand for stain resistant carpet within the UKcarpet industry. All products under the brand are known for their excellentstain resistant properties, hard wearing and long lasting appearance. Allour StainAway products come with a free StainAway Warranty and WearGuarantee lasting either 10 years, 15 years or 20 years. StainAway is themarket leader, bringing new and exciting products to Carpet retailers bycontinually investing into the brand and keeping in front of the competition.

NEWS


DFS wins Sofaworks/SofaWorkshop name battleDFS has won its legal battle with fellow upholstery chainSofaworks over its rival’s name. DFS claimed it was toosimilar to its Sofa Workshop brand.

The Intellectual Property Enterprise Court has ruled thatthe Sofaworks name infringes DFS’s Sofa Workshop brand.

‘We’re pleased that Sofa Workshop has been successful inits action against Sofaworks with regards to passing off.Sofa Workshop is a small, quality brand that has beenestablished since 1985 and we’re happy the outcome allowsthe brand name to remain protected,’ says DFS.

The Sofaworks name was acquired by CSL in 1996 andDFS bought Sofa Workshop in October 2013.

Jason Tyldesley, Sofaworks chief executive, says: ‘We have

put a stake in the ground in the last 12 months to changethe market by putting an end to endless sales, which is whatthe whole market lives and thrives on. That is what ourcompetitors like DFS fear and this case is born out of thatfear. As such it is not the name that really matters.

‘We will be there, ever present in their lives taking their market share. Whatever we do we will carry on doingwhat is right for the customer. Why would Sofaworks passoff as Sofa Workshop? I do not know how we would benefit,’he says.

Tyldesley says the company, which has spent about£500,000 on legal fees, has yet to decide if it will appeal theruling. ‘If we want to fight on principle then we will appeal.’

peo

ple

Tiles and flooring chain Topps Tiles hascontinued to lift sales. The 346-storechain saw like for like sales rise by 6.3%in the quarter to 27 June.

‘Trading in the third quarter has beenencouraging, with like for like salesgrowth at 5.9%, building on the positivetrend we reported for the first half. With

our plans to extend the appeal of theTopps brand well under way, we remainwell-positioned to continue to grow ourmarket share in the remainder of theyear,’ says Matthew Williams, Topps Tilesceo.

During the period two main and sixBoutique format stores were opened.

The January Furniture Show isto become larger, occupyingtwo-thirds of Hall 5, up fromhalf, making it the largest hallat the show.

Occupying all of it has beenruled out.

‘Confidence in the market,and in our show, has meantwe’ve already seen over 50new companies signing up tojoin the 2016 show, alongsidean 85% re-booking from lastyear,’ says Laraine Janes,January Furniture Show co-director.

‘We’ve also seen significantgrowth from existingexhibitors who saw real valuein the show and haverequested more space.

‘While we have extended

Hall 5, we’re doing it for theright reasons – and that’s toincrease the offering tovisitors and to add greatervariety,’ she explains.

The show’s first FlooringShowcase, in association withSMG, has doubled in size tomore than 500sqm and soldout.

Abingdon Flooring,Associated Weavers,Axminster Carpets, Ball &Young, Brockway, CavalierCarpets, Crown Floors, EdelTelenzo, Forbo Flooring,Furlong Flooring, Interfloor,Kenton Floors, MastercraftRugs, Think Rugs, TrinityCreations, Victoria Carpets,Westex and WhitestoneWeavers will take part.

Further growth for Topps Tiles

JFS set to get bigger

Topps Tiles hopes to open two more branchesthis quarter

Former Dixons and Apple executiveJohn Browett is to be the next ceo ofDunelm as part of a boardroomshake-up. On 1 July Browett becameceo designate and will replace WillAdderley after six months. Adderleywill revert to being deputychairman. Lovefilm.com co-founderWilliam Reeve joins as a non-executive director, while AndyHarrison succeeds Geoff Cooper asnon-executive chairman.

Interfloor has appointed MarkJennings as operations director,heading up the manufacturing andlogistics functions at its Haslingdenand Dumfries sites. He waspreviously Formica Group Europeanoperations director.

Martin Dean hasbecome Julian Bowensales manager for theSouth West,succeeding formersales agent PaulOwen.

Axminster Carpets has promoted itsregional managers to sales directors.Marc Helliwell and Ian McDermidhave been promoted to Southernand Northern sales directorsrespectively.

Wade Upholstery has named MikeGreasley as representative for theEast and West Midlands, Yorkshire,Cheshire and North Wales. Hesucceeds Anne Forster who isretiring after 17 years with thecompany. For the past 12 yearsGreasley worked for Vale Bridgecraft.

ScS has appointed its fourth non-executive director, former Kingfisherexecutive George Adams.

THE

AUTUMNFURNITURE

SHOW 2015

OPEN

HOUSE

ALLfurnitureretailerswelcome

Visit www.theautumnfurnitureshow.co.uk to register your place!

An event for ALLFurniture retailers!

WHEN &WHERE?The International Centre, Telford

Tuesday 6th October 9.00am - 5.00pmWednesday 7th October 8.30am - 4.30pm

An event from

Registered so far

www.furlongflooring.co.uk

Best FlooringManufacturer

Product of the year

T H E F U R LO N G F LO O R I N G P O R T F O L I O

Wool Collection

www.furlongflooring.co.uk I Sales: Preston - 01772 696 787 I Dartford - 01322 628 707 I Gloucester - 0845 520 0800

Cabaret A new stylish colour

palette for 2015

Stylish tones for modern living

One of our cornerstone Carefree products,

we’re proud to announce that Cabaret has

received a well deserved makeover.

With a new colour palette incorporating

subtle neutrals and tones, this range upgrade

also boasts a number of other great features.

Manufactured with our own Carefree fibre, this single ply

range is stain resistant, bleach cleanable and available in

both 4m & 5m widths – all with a FREE 5 year warranty.

So why not take a look at the new and impoved Cabaret?

To take advantage of this great range, contact us today or visit our website.

NEWS


Roll on: Shepherd zinc cast furniture castor manufacturer Kenrick hasincreased production by 10%, with output poised to top 1million units ayear. The company is celebrating 70 continuous years of Shepherd castorproduction in the UK and also produces 2.5million of its nylon twinwheel plastic castors a year. ‘The Shepherd castor is still the original andthe best and we are really proud to be the only UK manufacturer of thistype of product and it is now attracting a growing number ofinternational enquiries,’ says Steve Jones, Kenrick md.

Carpetright eyes upmarket shoppers

Carpetright is to target moreupmarket customers as it looks tomove away from price focusedmarketing.

Alongside trialling a new logo andstore format (see page 26), the chainwill move to advertising that is‘dramatically different in style andmessage from the predominantlyprice-led theme adopted historically.’

Wilf Walsh, Carpetright chiefexecutive, has introduced moreupmarket carpet suppliers such asBrintons, Ulster Carpets and Westex,expanded its laminate offer and isretesting engineered wood floors. Thechain is to follow in the footsteps ofDFS and introduce product developedin association with House Beautiful.

He says the early signs of the newapproach are positive, with like forlike sales up. UK like for like sales rose4.9% in the eight weeks to 27 June.

This follows a 8.1% like for like risein the previous six months and 6.5%

before that. Full year pro-forma salesfor the year to 2 May were up 5.4% at£396m. Operating profits jumped by athird to £14.3m.

‘Carpetright has endured a difficultperiod in the years since the onset ofthe financial crisis but retains thefundamentals of a leading retailbusiness: high brand recognition,critical mass and a market leadershipposition. Our task is to build on thesestrong foundations and modernisethe group to ensure it exploits theseadvantages to the full in the retailmarket of today,’ says Walsh.

‘We have made an encouragingstart, establishing a real momentumfor change within the business whichis invigorating. While this is just thebeginning of the journey to transformCarpetright, we have a clear directionand are already seeing positive resultsfrom a number of our initial activitieswhich gives us confidence that we areon the right path.’

Tetrad has refurbished its Prestonshowroom, creating individually styledrooms for each of its upholsterycollections.

An internal structure of retro glasswindows taken from the old Tetrad Millhave been installed at the 3,5000sqft

showroom to create separate roomsdefining the different collections.

Each collection has its own uniquethemed area, such as the Natural LooseCovers potting shed to the Harris TweedCollection set in a 1970’s disco. Newprops and furniture have been brought

in, including more than 90 retro speakersbrought in by employees from theirattics and garages to fit the quirkyContemporary themed room.

The revamp comes as Tetrad looks tobuild on a 26% sales rise in 2014-2015with forecast growth of 12% this year.

Interfloorinvests £3mUnderlay, accessories and laminateflooring group Interfloor has investedmore than £3m in improving itsmanufacturing and logistics capabilitiesacross its sites in Haslingden andDumfries.

‘It’s critically important for ourcustomers that we can meet thedemands of the peak season in the UK.We’ve invested in increasing our outputand we now hold higher stock levels sothat we can maintain our high levels ofcustomer service. We’ve also opened twoadditional warehouses in Accrington,’says Gary Cowley, Interfloor salesdirector.

Tetrad refurbishes showroom as it looks for growth

Jon Massey, DFS coo, is toretire from the upholsteryretailer this autumn after 27years at the chain.

Massey, 66, will remain asadviser to the company. Hejoined in 1988 after 16 yearsat Allied Carpets.

His announcement came asDFS said sales for the 50 weekperiod to 18 July were up 7%on 2014.

Second half sales are 4%higher, reflecting strongercomparative sales and that2014 was a 53-week year.

Sofa Workshop and Dwellaccounted for about aseventh of the growth.

After the success of its trialstore in the Netherlands, itplans to open a further two inthe country in the comingyear.

Massey to step down

John Lewis will reopen the homedepartment of its Oxford Street, London,flagship store in September after a £14meight-month revamp.

It will feature 24 fully furnished rooms.The chain says it will cover 94,000sqftover two floors and offer the largestnumber of home products of any store inthe country.

Biggest home offer

AutumnLONG POINT14th-16th September 2015

www.longeatonguild.co.uk

Te l : 0 7 9 0 2 0 3 2 1 0 1

Contact Gareth PriceTel: 07974 209761

www.LynchSales.co.ukCopyright 2014 Lynch Brothers Licensing Corporation

C G h i

Let’s makeretailing fun again!Remember the fun of welcoming excited customers to your store? While times may change, one thing stays the same: customers love a sale!

After more than 100 years helping furniture retailers hold high-energy, high-impact sales events, no one is better qualified to help you usher in the good times than the Lynch Sales Company.

A Lynch Sale can produce up to 60 percent of your annual sales volume, while generating increased customer traffic.

So let’s get back to the fun and excitement of furniture retailing. Contact Gareth Price for a complete outline of our legendary Sale Plans, and our no-nonsense, one-page contract.

NEW PRODUCTS


1 In a palette of sophisticated

naturals and with grey in every

imaginable shade, the Langholm

collection from Crown Floors

defines stylish carpet. Made from

100% easy care, extra strong

polypropylene, it is stylish and

performs impeccably, bringing

more softness, better recovery and

durability with the ease of caring

offered by bleach cleanable carpet.

Visit: www.crownfloors.co.uk

2 The Dark Recycled Wood design

from Polyflor’s Expona

Commercial PUR range of LVT was

chosen for the refurbishment of

Vida Loca Tattoo studio in Bolton,

Greater Manchester recently. To

give the look of a random

patchwork of upcycled timber, the

design includes tiles in three

different widths and in various

complementary shades creating

the effect of a reclaimed wood

floor.

Visit: www.polyflor.com

3 Team 7’s Cubus home

entertainment range is hand-

crafted and highly functional

down to the smallest detail. These

include drawer units with flush-

mounted handles, touch fittings,

gently cushioned drawer and door

movements and a media centre

with an integrated cable channel

and docking station for iPhones

and iPods.

Visit: www.team7.at

4 Alivar’s Céline chair represents

the essence of formal purity and

functionality and its sinuous shape

expresses the elegance of the

good old times.

Visit: www.alivar.com

5 Leoline is introducing a semi-

custom concept for mosques.

Available in a 4m width in order to

reduce seams in the large open

spaces commonly found in

mosques, the design features a

wide stripe that gives a modern

interpretation of traditional

carpets. It is already proving

popular in the Middle East, where

its hygiene and cleanability

advantages are favoured.

Visit: www.leoline.co.uk

1

3

4

5

2

The Science™

Of Comfort

*Tested against regular memory foam

Visit www.mammothmattress.co.uk and start getting the returns you deserve.

SERVICE


Being a retailer has its problems. Notleast of these is that you are sellingproducts to consumers who have rights(and, let’s not forget, responsibilities) thatyou can’t avoid, but that may be differentto the rights you have to claim from yoursupplier.

Consumer law protects the consumerfrom unscrupulous traders and even thebest of retailers must comply. Butsuppliers have their own terms of tradingwith retailers that are not covered by thesame legislation and the two may notmatch, leaving the retailer responsiblefor obligations to their customers thatthe manufacturer will not support.

In practice, most issues are sorted outamicably, but it can get even moreconfusing when another link is put intothe chain of supply: installation. Poorinstallation and/or poor service from theinstaller can cause customerdissatisfaction, reduce the life of aproduct and even damage the productbeyond repair. Imagine these scenarios:� A laminate floor starts to swell causingthe flooring to lift and the edges of theboards to chip;� The castor of a bed breaks shortly after

The missing link Retailers must keep tabs on quality of installation

Retailers need to use an impartial person to investigate installation complaints rather than using those who did the work

it was assembled by a delivery company;� A kitchen cabinet crashes to the floor18 months after it was fitted;� A carpet comes loose and can’t berestretched because it appears to haveshrunk.

Are these manufacturing faults? Itwould be easy to jump to thatconclusion without investigating theproblem and gathering the evidence toshow exactly what has gone wrong. Whocan you use that has the right expertiseand a degree of impartiality to give youan honest appraisal?

I lost count years ago of the number oftimes a manufacturer’s report identifiedthat there was ‘no manufacturing defect’but diplomatically stopped short ofsaying the fitting was poor or theproduct was incorrectly specified. As aresult the customer’s genuine complaintwas rejected. Or the installer/fitter didthe inspection and couldn’t identify theshortcomings in their own work, again tothe detriment of the consumer and theretailer’s reputation.

If you use installers/assemblers for anyof your products, how good are they? Doyou keep a note of the customer

Richard Renouf

feedback you receive and analyse this tospot trends and identify anyshortcomings? Better still, howthoroughly do you check the quality ofwork and service before you take themon, using references or practicalassessments? And do they inspect theirown complaints? Or do you ensure thatany negative feedback is checked bysomeone else who’s got the knowledgeand experience to give you honestfeedback?

As a retailer, it’s your reputation that’sat stake. Those who provide even a partof the service that your customersreceive can make or break your future, soit’s worth taking care to ensure theyuphold your values and standardsconsistently.

When you’re in doubt, or can’t seewhat’s going wrong, an external set ofeyes can help to identify the issues andgive you the information you need to getthings sorted and protect yourreputation.Visit: www.richard-renouf.com

Richard Renouf is an independentfurnishings consultant

S I E S T A B E D SCOMFORT & QUALITY ASSURED

Est 1986

Sandringham 1,000 Quilted Pocketed Set

RETAIL


Service service serviceThat’s the mantra of Tapi which is promising a new style of flooring retailing ��

The store is bright and airy

The Cambridge store is Tapi’s fourth

GREENWOOD RETAIL LTDBritain’s Leading Experts in Retail Sales Promotion

[email protected] www.greenwoodretail.com

HUNDREDS OFRETAILERS ARE

SEEING RECORD SALES

“The Equivalent of Three Months AnnualTurnover in Three Weeks! Very Pleased!”Charles Charlton, M.D., Charltons of Torquay

“Four Months Business in 17 Days Has tobe Seen to be Believed!”

Chris Southon, Southons of Salisbury

“It’s a No-Brainer – our Fifth GreenwoodSale Smashed the Last One!”

David Carroll, M.D., Abey Furnishing Co.

SMASH ALL YOURSALES RECORDS

In recent times, Greenwood Retail’s sale strategieshave generated record breaking sales and profits

for literally hundreds of quality independentretailers based all over the UK and Ireland.

The benefits of holding a ‘Greenwood Sale’ aremany. Firstly, your sales event will be a financialsuccess in itself. Plus, you’ll generate instant cash

flow, fill your order book and clear yourredundant stock – with good margin maintained.

And, longer term benefits include increasedmarket share due to the positive publicity createdby the event. Also, it’s exciting – your team will

love to see the business doing so well.

Find Out More About Greenwood Sales. Take a look at our website or call us now on

01565 650101, or, send an e mail enquiry, and we’ll gladly contact you to discuss the exciting

possibilities we can offer you, without obligation.

BOOKING NOW - SALES FROM JANUARY 2016.CALL TODAY 01565 650101

RETAIL


The first thing you notice on enteringTapi’s Cambridge store is that it looksinteresting. It is bright, airy, spacious andthere are plenty of attractive features onthe walls to tempt you further in.

It’s not lifestyle retailing but flooringretailing for now.

Each of Tapi’s five stores: Cambridge(which opened last month), Gloucester,Great Yarmouth, Ipswich and Tooting –with Cannock scheduled to be the sixth –are different. There is a mix of high street,out of town retail parks, with andwithout other flooring stores, and towncentre retail park, with the format flexibleenough to cover the store types.Gloucester, for example at 10,000sqft hasthe same layout as the 5,000sqftCambridge store in the front and a largeroll section at the rear.

Tapi has plans for up to 200 branchesand about 40 are in the hands of lawyersand Martin Harris, Tapi md, is hopefulthey will all open by the start of nextyear. Order and timing of the openingswill depend on store availability, as didthe first five. Most of the stores are likelyto be about the size of the Cambridgeunit, with Harris saying he doesn’t need ahigh number of large stores.

Tapi uses larger than usual samples tobetter help customers imagine what itwill look like on the floor, and carpets aregrouped by type, for example, wool orsupersoft.

A small kitchen area allows staff todemonstrate the various properties ofproducts, such as their cleanability andwater resistance. The laminate display wall

There is room between displays to push a trolley

RETAIL


Two sofas form a seating area wherecustomers can consider their purchasesand children are kept busy withcolouring books. Displays provideinformation on different types of carpet,underlay and accessories.

Manufacturers’ POS is kept to aminimum to prevent visual distraction,with names on the display cards ratherthan logos. As well as describing thesuitability of a carpet, for examplemedium use in the hall but light use onthe stairs, the cards clearly state whenany promotional offer will end and pricesreturn to their normal level.

‘Customers are spending a lot longerin-store rather than a quick in and out.Many customers have been surprised atwhat products they can have. We wantthe stores to feel like a home andcustomers to understand the familyheritage; it’s really important customersfeel they are buying from specialists,’explains Harris.

Specialising in areas that needexpertise means Tapi isn’t selling rugsand won’t be selling online anytimesoon.

‘There is no service and not enoughinformation for the customer to makethe buying decision,’ he says. ��

‘I’ve designed thebusiness for thecustomer’

Large samples are used to show off the LVT

Shoppers are encouraged to try the underlay

Vinyl trends are demonstrated An extensive range of patterned carpets are available

RETAIL


‘It’s a tactile business, we believe in thesenses. I’ve designed the business for thecustomer. It’s all about the shoppingexperience. Flooring retailing is difficultwhich is why many people don’t get itright.’

But it’s not about the store or himself,according to Harris. ‘Customer service,customer service, customer service andgood value,’ is his response when askedwhat will set Tapi apart from its rivals.

‘Service will be a great differentiator.Anyone can build a store like this, but achequebook doesn’t buy service. It’s notabout me: it’s the team and what theydelivered. Integrity is very important. Forexample, the fitting is guaranteed by us;if there is a problem on a carpet we’ll sortit within a few days not wait for amanufacturer’s report or having the rightunderlay rather than one you could getaway with just to be a bit cheaper. We’renot traders – we’re specialists. We’ll pointout the cons of a product as well as thepros.’

He says staff don’t need to get anorder or a measuring appointment fromevery customer visit so they don’tpressure the customer: a very highpercentage of shoppers return to placetheir orders.

‘Everyone has the same principles.Everyone is looking at doing it right,’adds Harris.Visit: www.tapi.co.uk

‘It’s all about the shoppingexperience. Flooring retailingis difficult which is why manypeople don’t get it right’

A choice of shades is highlighted

Accessories are clearly displayedDisplay cards show when pricing will change

Tapi offers an express service

Proud to present our FABULOUS FIVE new collections.Signature wool-rich carpets featuring

Dimensions Plain and Connections in sumptuouscolours, luxurious Minerals twist and velvet, and

the very distinctive Beachcomber and Rare Breeds.

See you at Harrogate.

www.brockway.co.uk

See us on

StandC3

The FlooringShow

Harrogate

RETAIL


What’s in-store?Carpetright has a new storeconcept designed to makeshopping hassle free ��

Top: The ClaphamHigh Street storefeatures anupdated logo

Above: Carpets aredisplayed in threesections

Left: The entrancedisplay includesinspirationalroomsets and astair display. Atbigger stores thestair display is fulllength

FLOORING20-22 SEPTEMBER 2015 HARROGATESHOW

www.theflooringshow.com

Better than ever!

REGISTER NOW FREE OF CHARGE ATwww.theflooringshow.com

Join us for the biggest edition of the UK’s national flooring show for several years. The whole industry will come together for three intensive days of business activity and networking - don’t miss it!

More than

150 exhibitors

confirmed

Superb ‘Flooring retail outlet of tomorrow’

display!

RETAIL


Carpetright has introduced four newformat stores as part of its plan tobroaden its appeal ‘by placing a greateremphasis on the unrivalled breadth andquality of our product range, theexpertise of our colleagues, and the rolefloorcoverings play in transforming ourcustomers’ homes, while retaining ourwell-established value heritage,’ says WilfWalsh, Carpetright ceo.

‘Furthermore, in today’s retailenvironment, where customers place ahigh value on convenience and speed,we need to make buying floorcoverings ahassle-free experience, eliminating thoseelements of the process that can confuseor irritate the customer,’ he says.

The stores – Clapham High Street,Reigate, Tunbridge Wells and WestThurrock – have been designed to‘inspire customers and encourageexperimentation, sampling anddiscovery’.

Above: It is now mucheasier for shoppers toselect their carpet type

Right: The vinyl displayscombine samples androomset images

Below: The laminate andengineered wood offer hasbeen greatly expanded

��

[email protected] - Hotline 0800 077 3301www.crownfl oors.co.uk

Introducing LangholmIn a palette of sophisticated naturals and with grey in every imaginable shade, the new Langholm collection from Crown Floors defines stylish carpet and comes with the softness, better recoveryand excellent durability of 100% Easy Care two-ply Extra Strong polypropylene.

The Clapham store has beentransformed. Carpets are displayed byproduct use: ‘Luxurious and deep’,‘Smooth and stylish’ and ‘Textured andrugged,’ to speed customer selection byallowing them to focus on the typebefore narrowing their selection. Thedisplays now show all colour optionswithout having to sort through thesamples.

A branded area at the rear of the storefeatures Associated Weavers’ iSense,Brintons, Adam Carpets, Victoria Carpetsand Westex. The store’s LVT offer hasbeen greatly expanded and a largerlaminate and engineered wood range isfeatured.Visit: www.carpetright.co.uk

Left: The brandedarea at the rear ofthe store is the onlysection to featuremanufacturers’logos, but they areon the back of thecarpet samples

Below: The cost ofcarpeting anaverage sized roomis displayed next tothe carpet ranges

Bottom: Vinyl isalso displayed onpillars


RETAIL

La Rochelle byJulian Bowen

Interiors MonthlyAwards 2015

AWARDS


After months of voting, the winners of the Interiors Monthly Awards 2015 have beendecided. The companies listed below are among the finest retailers, manufacturers andsuppliers in the interiors industry. Over the following pages you can read more about the category winners chosen by you, and the second year of Editor’s Choice awards.Covering all aspects of the industry, they are united by their desire for excellence.Congratulations to all the 2015 winners.Best Furniture Retailer (1-2 stores): TR HayesBest Flooring Retailer (1-2 stores): Floor Coverings Best Furniture Retailer (3 plus stores): Barker & StonehouseBest Flooring Retailer (3 plus stores): John LewisBest Online Retailer: Modern RugsBest UK Furniture Manufacturer:Westbridge FurnitureBest UK Flooring Manufacturer: Adam Carpets Best Overseas Furniture Manufacturer: WiemannBest Overseas Flooring Manufacturer: Balta BroadloomBest Customer Service (Furniture): Julian BowenBest Customer Service (Flooring): Associated WeaversBest Carpet Manufacturer: Cormar Carpets Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer: NatuzziBest Laminate Manufacturer: Quick-Step Best Fabric Upholstery Manufacturer: Ashley Manor UpholsteryBest Rug Supplier: Think RugsBest Recliner Manufacturer: Himolla

Best Underlay Manufacturer: Ball & Young Best Bed Manufacturer: Sealy UKBest Solid/Engineered WoodManufacturer: Kährs (UK)Best Luxury Vinyl Supplier: AmticoBest Children’s Furniture: Gautier UKBest Vinyl Manufacturer: IVC GroupBest Accessory Supplier: Gallery DirectBest Accessory Supplier (Flooring): InterfloorBest Fabric/Soft FurnishingsManufacturer: Ross FabricsBest Bedroom Manufacturer: Kingstown FurnitureBest Home Entertainment Supplier: UK-CFBest Living Room Manufacturer: Wood BrosBest Dining Room Manufacturer: Furniture Origins Best Furniture Buying Group: AISBest Flooring Buying Group: SMGBest Furniture Wholesaler: Julian Bowen Best Flooring Wholesaler: MercadoBest Marketing Support (Furniture): EkornesBest Marketing Support (Flooring): Karndean DesignflooringBest Furniture Exhibition: ISalone

Best Flooring Exhibition: The Flooring Show Best New Exhibition: January Furniture Show Best Furniture Website: ErcolBest Flooring Website: Ulster CarpetsBest Software Supplier: Retailsystem Furniture SoftwareBest Supply Chain/Logistics Company: Andrew Porter Best Business Support (Furniture): Vale Bridgecraft Best Business Support (Flooring): Metro Group Best Furniture Protection/Repairer: ServicoProduct of the Year: Trident, Furlong Flooring Innovation of the Year:Impressive, Quick-Step

EDITOR’S CHOICEInnovation In Flooring: Aquatec Pro-Tec, Abingdon Flooring Flooring Brand 2015: BrintonsFurniture Brand 2015: Parker KnollSustainability (Flooring): Carpet Recycling UK Sustainability (Furniture): Hypnos Outstanding Performance: Silentnight

AWARDS


Since he bought Floor Coverings in 2001,owner Taro Strowgger has concentratedon offering branded, quality products atthe Dry Drayton, Cambridgeshire store.

Strowgger has no concerns aboutshoppers comparing prices, in fact heencourages it.

‘I tell them to get other quotes, whichwe’ll match and most of them aren’t likefor like and customers appreciate thequality of the offer when we explain thequote,’ he says.

‘We’re enjoying growth – we must bedoing something right. Roger Oates hasdone very well for us this year, KarndeanDesignflooring keeps growing – it’salready 15% up this year, and Quick-Stepparquet is doing very well.’

Carpet Foundation member Strowggeris looking to expand the 2,700sqft store

This year is the 100th anniversary of TR Hayes trading in Bath and it has beenon its London Road site since 1927.

What was The Three Crowns pub wasexpanded over the decades with thepurchase of many neighbouringproperties so that today the store covers

John Lewis enjoyed a 6.1% increase inflooring sales in the year to 31 January2015, one of the largest sales rises in itshome offer. Since then it has continuedto deliver for the chain, with weekly salesoften showing double digit growth.

The chain sells flooring at 36 of its 43department and At Home stores.Visit: www.johnlewis.com

After graduating from NorthumbriaUniversity with a degree in marketing,Ben Dale started work in web designthen decided to set up his own onlinecompany. His parents had run a flooringstore in Bishop Auckland, so using theircontacts Modern Rugs was created in2004, when Dale was 22.

Last August it moved to a 5,000sqftunit to keep up with expansion as it wasselling 25,000 rugs a year.

In December Martin Tragen, formerTimpson finance director, led a £3.2mmanagement buy-in of the company,becoming md, and Mike Seery, formerhead of corporate recovery at KPMG inthe North West, also invested, becominga non-executive director.

Dale remains the fourth-largestshareholder and is now technical andmarketing director.

The company describes itself as ‘TheUK’s biggest online rug shop’ and in theyear to end August 2014 sawshareholders’ funds rise by 48% to£1.47m.Visit: www.modern-rugs.co.uk

This year saw Barker & Stonehouse returnto its roots with the opening of its £4.5mStockton store in March, 69 years afterCharles Barker and Alex Stonehouseopened the first store in the town. Overthe decades it has risen to nine stores,with some 300,000sqft of showroomspace. Last year saw sales climb by £5mto £45.6m and pre-tax profits by 16% to£1.54m.

For decades the chain has had areputation as a destination for shoppersseeking contemporary designs, withsuppliers including B&B Italia, de Sede,Kartell, Hulsta and Ligne Roset.Visit: www.barkerandstonehouse.co.uk

Floor CoveringsBest Flooring Retailer (1-2 stores)

Barker &StonehouseBest FurnitureRetailer (3 plus stores)

TR HayesBest FurnitureRetailer (1-2 stores)

almost 50,000sqft over seven floors. In 2013 its 6,000sqft contemporary

furniture showroom opened across the road from the main store after itbought and demolished its formerflooring store.Visit: www.trhayes.co.uk

so he can ‘have something different fromother retailers’.

‘Selling rubbish doesn’t work. I want tosee my customers again. We’re notperfect: if you make a mistake hold yourhand up and fix it and customers willcome back. I have a brilliant team,’ headds.Visit: www.floor-coverings.net

James Barker, Barker & Stonehouse md, and GreatBrtish Bake Off star Mary Berry open the Stocktonstore

TR Hayes directors Margaret, Derek andRichard Hayes

John LewisBest FlooringRetailer (3 plus stores)

Modern RugsBest OnlineRetailer

AWARDS


ValeBridgecraft

Best BusinessSupport(Furniture)

Vale Bridgecraft with its 100-plus years’heritage in the upholstery industry, isdelighted to be the winner, for thesecond year running, of the Best BusinessSupport (Furniture) award.

Operating from Yorkshire with a teamof around 100 people, the brand createsluxury sofas and chairs, starting with therough-hewn timber to create a frame,right through to the upholstery usingmany exclusive fabrics and the finestfillings. The company supports most ofthe UK’s independent retailers and has 10showrooms displaying its extensiveproduct ranges.

Unusually for a manufacturer, ValeBridgecraft also boosts awareness for itsbrand with national consumeradvertising support and has just investedin a stylish new website.

‘This is a great accolade for us all hereat Vale Bridgecraft. We’re a small,experienced team with a real passion forthe art of upholstery and are determinedto maintain the high standards we’ve

provided over the years – not only withour traditionally hand-build furniture, butalso with the support we offer all ourretail partners,’ says Stuart Chadwick, ValeBridgecraft md.

‘Our unique, vertically integratedmodel, combining manufacturing andretail supply, all supported by the 10showrooms around the country, can beconfusing to some. But those of ourpartners who embrace the process find itfinancially beneficial and, given thatwe’ve won this award again, easy andpleasurable to manage.

‘Our customer support team inHebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, worksalongside our manufacturing team,micro-managing each order on itsjourney through to delivery. With theaverage “time served” for our staff beingat least 10 years – and some a lot more –we are privileged that everyone whodeals with our processes and stockistshas a huge depth of upholsteryknowledge and can help or advise.

‘But our main strength has to be ourmaintenance of personable workingrelationships. I’m a great believer that achat over the phone will clarify asituation in a friendly way rather thansubmitting a stream of emails, and mostof our customers seem to enjoy workingthis way too. So while we’re not investingin high tech management systems, we’reinvesting in our people, our products,and our business relationships, makingsure that we supply the very bestproduct in the best, most efficient way.’Visit: www.valebridgecraft.co.uk

Below: Ferrara

Bottom left: Venice

Bottom right: Roma

Made with pride,made for comfort,made in Yorkshire.At Vale Bridgecraft, we’ve been making exceptional sofas and chairs in our workshops near Hebden Bridge, Yorkshire, for over �� ears� All our furniture bene�ts from a 25 year frame and spring guarantee and is hand upholstered in a choice of beautiful fabrics. So for a unique touch of elegance and traditional quality that is perfect for your most discerning customers the Vale Bridgecraft brand is the considered choice.

An extensive range of our products can be viewed by consumers in the following locations:

For a FREE brochurecall 01422 885000or visit valebridgecraft.co.uk

Draycott 01386 700458 Gloucestershire GL56 9JU

Felsted 01371 821851 Essex CM6 3LY

Gateshead 01914 883682 Tyne & Wear NE11 9YS

Harewood 0113 8980091 West Yorkshire LS17 9LF

Hebden Bridge 01422 885000 West Yorkshire HX7 5QF

Hedge End 01489 796479 Southampton SO30 2AU

Loughborough 01509 218647 Leicestershire LE11 5GU

Surrey RH1 4EJ

South Yorkshire S9 2EH

Warrington 01925 571982 Cheshire WA5 7TN

Model shown Highgrove

HRH The Duke of Edinburgh KG, KT PATRON

HRH THE DUKE OF YORK KG KCVO CHAIRMAN OF THE TRUSTEES

AWARDS


Metro Group

Best BusinessSupport(Flooring)

Since the creation of the Metro Group in1979, the key aim for the founding andsubsequent members has been poolingbuying power to compete againstmultiple retailers.

What has been developed is a group ofindependent retailers, ranging from thesmallest one-man operation to multiple-outlet businesses. Retainingindependence is important to memberswho are given the opportunity toparticipate in group activity. This allowsmembers to use all of the best benefitsof group membership while being 100%in control of their own business.

Most members appreciate being ableto discuss the issues they encounter on aday to day basis with other like-mindedretailers. Metro holds two sets of areameetings annually where members cantalk freely about issues that affect theirbusiness and gain support and advicefrom other members who have nothingto lose and everything to gain by sharinginformation.

Since 1995 its own label – Carpet 1st –has become a huge success. Carpet 1stproducts are selected for their appeal,quality and value, then group terms arenegotiated to introduce and supportmanufacturers and products.

But Metro has become much morethan a £50m buying group. Assisting

members with marketing has been a keygoal over the years and 2014 saw theintroduction of a dedicated marketingdepartment complete with a mobilemarketing studio.

It was recognised that many carpetstores had outdated displays andsignage. As most members look tomaintain their own identity, off-the-shelfmaterial in set sizes is not ideal. So inSeptember 2014 a Citroen Relay van wasacquired and kitted out with large andsmall format printers, a scanner,computers, cutting and fitting tools andall the materials necessary for producingdisplay items.

Now almost a year later, the marketingvehicle, manned by the father and sonteam of Steve and Adam Moralee, hastravelled across the country from Perthto the Isle of Wight.

The service is backed by Metro’s four-strong marketing team which can designand produce pretty much anything thatis needed for a retail outlet. Plus, ofcourse, ideas are shared or can bebespoke.

‘It is a unique idea that allows us totransform a retailer’s showroom andvehicles,’ says Steve Moralee, who has 26years experience in retail flooringmarketing. Metro, tel: 01204 393 539

The mobile marketing studio has helpedtransform signage and displays for manybusinessess, while members also enjoy thebenefits of Carpet 1st branding

metrogroup

Each independent retailer has his

own idea of how he wants to

market his business. The Metro

Group have always respected their

member’s independence and have

taken the concept of providing

innovative marketing ideas even

further by bringing experienced

staff, materials and machinery to

their retailer’s doorstep.

carpets e l e c t c o l l e c t i o n

stMetro House, 21 Chorley New Road, Bolton BL1 4QR

tel (01204) 393 539 • fax (01204) 391 846 • www.carpet1st.co.uk

empowering independents

Our merchandising and

marketing vehicle

is equipped as a fully functional

mobile studio and printshop.

Metro have commissioned their own in-

house Marketing department capable of all

design and print applications as well as the

introduction of a fully equipped mobile

Marketing and Merchandising vehicle.

The vehicle has been completely refitted

as a mobile studio, printers and workshop

to visit retailers anywhere in the UK and

provide not only standard merchandising

material but completely bespoke solutions

for independent retailers.

No two outlets

are the same -

all in different

marketplaces

with their own

ideas and

goals. Metro

took that on

board quite

literally and are

now able to visit

a retailer, discuss, design, print, manufacture

and install.. on site, immediately.

This concept is unique, plus Metro are able

to offer retailers the benefit of over 25 years

worth of flooring marketing experience on-

site combined with the practical ability to

manufacture and install.

Being able to measure, create and visualise

designs on site means that all work can be

completed immediately.

• Price Cards

• Labels

• Iron on Labels

• Window Posters

• Hanging Displays

• Acrylic Holders

• Pavement Signs

• Roll-up Displays

• Vehicle Graphics

• Signs

• Banners

AWARDS


CormarCarpets

Best CarpetManufacturer

Flying the flag for British-made flooringfor almost 60 years, Cormar Carpets iscelebrating winning the Interiors MonthlyBest Carpet Manufacturer award for thethird consecutive year.

The award comes on the back ofCormar winning both the Flooring Oneand Metro Group’s Supplier of the Yearawards, further strengthening itsposition as one of the leadingindependent carpet makers.

‘We’d like to thank the readers ofInteriors Monthly for voting for us. To berecognised for the third year running asthe Best Carpet Manufacturer is a seal ofapproval from our customers and we aredelighted to have won this,’ says DavidCormack, Cormar marketing director.

‘The competition is strong but tocontinue to stay ahead of the game, wework hard to ensure we provide the bestquality products supported by adedicated customer service and deliveryteam.’

One of the success stories of the Britishcarpet industry, Cormar continues toproduce all its wool and polypropylenecarpet ranges from two production sitesnear Bury, Lancashire. It also has its ownfleet of 60 distribution vehicles to ensurea top class delivery service to customers,

as well as its own team of 23 salesrepresentatives throughout the UK andRepublic of Ireland.

Over the past 12 months the companyhas experienced strong sales growth andhas had a successful year with the launchof easy clean range Primo Excellence,and Bouclé Neutrals, a wool rich loop pilecarpet available in six on-trendcolourways and three designs – levelloop, textured loop and stripe.

Cormar has also invested in improvingits operation by strengthening itsdelivery fleet with 14 more DAF trucksand 10 swap body trucks, and addingfour express centres to its network ofnext day collection points, making a totalof 28 locations across the country. Thismeans the majority of retailers are nowless than a 30 minute drive away fromthe nearest collection point.

‘We do not rest on our laurels and arealways seeking ways to improve ouroffering to retailers – whether that’sthrough quality, service or reliability,’ saysCormack. ‘With more than 3,000 carpetdeliveries each week we are alwayslooking at ways to maintain our fast,reliable delivery service to retailcustomers.’Visit: www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

Cormar has 28 collection locations

www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

Thank you for votingCormar Carpets

Best British Carpet Manufacturer 2015We look forward to seeing you

on Stand A17 / A18 at The FLOORING SHOW.

AWARDS


Adam Carpets

Best UKFlooringManufacturer

Right: Adam created moodleaflets to help promote theHugo & Ella campaign

Far right: Mood boardshave proved popular withretailers

avenue of business for us. We are gettinga lot of requests from interior designersfor our products based on that particularcampaign. The interest from the trade,press and designers was quite staggeringand confirmed that we were doing theright thing. We wanted to make it atalking point for retailers and consumersand we certainly achieved that,’ saysPrescott.

The other major talking point itcreated this year was the launch of moodboard POS after trialling it at The FlooringShow.

‘We had done mood boards forinternal presentations for some time, butwe felt that the industry may also benefitfrom this approach. Harrogate definitelyopened our eyes to the possibilities andthe reaction to the finished article at theBuying Groups’ National Flooring Showin May was brilliant. We sold out of thestands on day one and have since soldout of the second order,’ says Prescott.

‘It was also on the back of these standsthat we were asked to be the carpetcontributor to the Flooring Store of theFuture at The Flooring Show this year.’Visit: www.adamcarpets.com

Adam Carpets has been making highquality carpet in Kidderminster since1860 and at its current site since 1928. Ithas become synonymous within thetrade for colour, quality and style. Thebusiness is still wholly family owned withChris Adam, md, the fourth generation ofhis family to head up the company.

‘It is fantastic to receive this award andour thanks go to all of the readers ofInteriors Monthly who voted for us,’ saysEamonn Prescott, Adam Carpets salesand marketing director. ‘Our ethos here isto make the very best carpets we can, inparticular offering variety and colour. Weback that up with industry leadingcustomer service. It is extremely pleasingto know that from the amazing attentionto detail in our production staff throughto the professionalism of our sales team,both internal and external, have beenrewarded and recognised.’

Well known for its innovation, AdamCarpets stands out from the crowd withits unique overtuft pattern ranges, hugecolour range on Fine Worcester Twist andCastlemead Twist collections, through toits inventive marketing of the recentHugo & Ella campaign.

‘Hugo & Ella opened up a whole new

This iconic range fromAdam Carpets is now availablein 10 new on-trend colours.The new colours centre on twodifferent styles, 'Cool & Urban'and 'Warm & Chic'.

Which one refl ects yourpersonality?

Fine WorcesterTwist®

Fine Worcester Twist – available from your local Adam Carpets stockist

'BEST UK FLOORING MANUFACTURER 2015'Everyone at Adam Carpets would like to thank the readers of Interiors Monthly for voting us

www.adamcarpets.co.uk

AWARDS


Wiemann

Best OverseasFurnitureManufacturer

‘We couldn’t believe it when we heardwe had won Best Overseas FurnitureManufacturer for the third year running,’says Simon Hewitt, director of Wiemann’sUK and Irish agent Litmus Furniture.‘Knowing that this is the view of ourcustomers makes it even more special. Itmakes us all feel as if our hard work haspaid off.

‘And we couldn’t do any of it withoutour experienced and well qualified salesteam, who believe in the importance ofdeveloping strong relationships withcustomers. In this business, thoserelationships still count.’

Kai Schwenke, Wiemann UK exportmanager, says: ‘We are delighted to beseen as a high quality supplier to the UK.The UK market is very important to usand we do what we can to support itsdevelopment and ongoingimprovement.’

Wiemann’s UK strategy for 2015 hasbeen to concentrate on improving

customer service asmuch as possible,focusing on qualityrather than quantity.As a result, theranges proving thestrongest for 2015are those at the topend of Wiemann’soffering: its VIP andsemi-solidcollections. In VIP,Shanghai and Loftwere this year

augmented by Scarlett; the centrallyopening sliding door wardrobecollection Westside; and Eastside, with itshinged door and drawer combinations.Meanwhile, the semi-solid oak rangesAvore and Serena are gaining increasingrecognition.

Corner units have also been one of2015’s key stories. ‘Corner units oftenlook promising, but the trouble withmost of them is that, although they givethe impression of being very fitted andstreamlined, they are actually very spaceinefficient, cutting across the corner ofthe room and leaving a large, unusedspace in the corner behind thewardrobes,’ says Hewitt.

‘Not so Wiemann’s corners. They makethe most of every inch of space available.Behind those closed doors is a veritablemini-dressing room. It’s a walk-in featurethat will get most customers prettyexcited.’

As well as its products, Wiemann’shome delivery and installation service isgoing from strength to strength andallowing retailers to focus on display andselling, rather than logistics. It’s all part ofthe service the team strives for – to bethe best it can be.

‘To say we are thrilled and delighted towin this accolade would be anunderstatement. In more than 40 years inbusiness, I’ve never experienced threeconsecutive years of an award. It makesme believe we must be doing somethingright,’ adds Peter Hewitt, Litmus md.Visit: www.wiemannuk.co.uk

Below: Loft corner unit

Bottom left: Berlin in Alpine White and Saharaglass

Bottom right: Eastside with Havanna carcaseand mirrored and Magnolia glass doors

01482 [email protected]

www.wiemannuk.co.uk

Bedrooms of distinctivestyle, quality and value

Fall in love withyour bedroom...

the way

Best Overseas Furniture Manufacturer 2015

Serena

Westside

Three Times A Winner!

AWARDS


BaltaBroadloom

Best OverseasFlooringManufacturer

For the sixth year in a row, BaltaBroadloom has been voted Best OverseasFlooring Manufacturer, which istestament to the manufacturer’s effortsat providing UK retailers with the best incarpet style, quality and value.

With the introduction of the NobleCollection, as well as innovations in itsStainSafe, hardwearing X-tron andsupersoft Sensit yarns, this year has beenexceptionally busy for Balta as it looks tocontinue to offer its retailers the idealcombination of great style andperformance from all of its collections.

The Noble Collection has beenparticularly well received, thecoordinated stripe and plain rangereaffirming the status of one of theoriginal stain-resistant carpetsintroduced to the UK.

Other highly successful newcollections include StainSafe NobleHeathers, in 10 natural colours includingstylish modern greys, and woolintroductions including Lothian WoolBerber, a 100% British wool range thatbrings coordinated stripes and plains.

‘We are delighted to have once againbeen voted as the Best Overseas FlooringManufacturer by the readers of InteriorsMonthly and would like to extend ourheartfelt thanks to all those who casttheir vote to make us number one again,’says Geert Vanden Bossche, Balta Groupmarketing director.

‘This award is highly prized byEuropean flooring manufacturers and weare pleased that our reliability as apartner to retailers has once again madea difference: it’s certainly quite somefeeling to line up all of our certificatesside by side.’

The carpet manufacturer is Europe’slargest and has forged a reputation forservice and reliability that sees it serveretailers of all sizes across the UK.Supporting independent retailers andmembers of leading buying groups,carpet from Balta has a reputation forquality.

Preparations are already under way toensure that the company will continue toprovide retailers with excellent productsthroughout 2016. Balta Broadloom, tel: 00 32 5662 2211

Below: Lothian Wool Berber

Right and below right: Noble Heathers

ONLY THE BESTCOMES FROM BALTA

With 12 on-trend and timeless colours matched to four styl ish coordinated stripes all in the

welcome familiarity of saxony, The Noble Collection is a carpet in-tune with the needs and

wants of today’s homeowners.

WWW.BALTAGROUP.COM

AWARDS


Julian Bowen

Best CustomerService(Furniture)

Right: Cayman

Below: Princess Charlotte Bed

Below right: Davenport

‘We are delighted and proud to havebeen voted Best Customer Service(Furniture) by the readers of InteriorsMonthly; this accolade is a tremendousvote of confidence for the Julian Bowenbrand and the result of all the hard workby our staff,’ says Julian Bowen, JulianBowen md.

The company is launching a number ofproducts this month.

‘La Rochelle is a white paintedbedroom range. As part of our continuedgrowth strategy in the bedroom sector,this refined classic styled design, withpanel featured drawers, finely detailedtops, shaped plinths with a silky smoothStone White painted finish, makes thiscollection la pièce de résistance in anybedroom,’ says Bowen.

Children’s furniture continues to be animportant area for the company.

‘The Princess Charlotte bed is a realeye-catcher and a perfect addition to therange for the girls. The Modena StoneWhite painted bunkbed offers

exceptional value for money and is sureto be an instant success,’ he says.

The dining range has been extendedwith the modern Cayman dining setmade from solid beech with a walnutfinish, while the sculpted high backchairs are finished with a light beigelinen-style fabric seat.

The Davenport dining set reflects thegrowing trend for a white painted finishwith a natural oak oil veneered top and atable that seats six people.

‘The Oslo and Savoy White and Oakfinish dining sets are exceptionally wellpriced and together with the Casa diningand occasional collection in white and alimed oak wash, they are set to meet thegrowing demand for these products,’Bowen adds.

The company’s Gold Direct HomeDelivery service has seen a 60% increaseover 2014 as customer demand grows,with all products available on a 7-10 day,two-man service to a room of choice.Visit: www.julian-bowen.co.uk

Julian Bowen Limited

Bentinck House, Park Lane, Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Notts NG17 9LETel: (01623) 727374 Fax: (01623) 754555 e-mail: [email protected] www.julian-bowen.co.uk

All Products are available for Direct Home Delivery

Award Winning Service from the Leaders

• No Minimum Order

• Direct Containers

• Full Truck Loads

• Multidrop Deliveries

• Direct Home Delivery with Liveried Trucks & Drivers

• Same Day Dispatch For Next Day Delivery

• Overnight Stock Reports as Required

• Assembly Service

• Courteous Skilled Staff

• £5M Furniture in Stock

• 95% “in Stock” Position Maintained

• Innovative Commercial Designs

• New Product Collections Every 6 Months

• Competitive Pricing

• Full Time at Source Quality Inspection Teams

• Full Order/Invoice EDI Capabilities

• Fit For Purpose PackagingIndustry Awards

Voted UK’sNumber 1FurnitureWholesaler

2012


2013


2014


2015

Voted UK’sNumber 1

For CustomerService2015

AWARDS


AssociatedWeavers

Best CustomerService(Flooring)

‘Associated Weavers is delighted to havewon the Interiors Monthly award for BestCustomer Service (Flooring),’ says SteveElliott, Associated Weavers md.

‘For a number of years we have beeninvesting in staff, logistics and systems toprovide the best possible service to ourcustomers. This is a fantastic honour forour staff and supporters of our businesswho have managed to give a friendlyand knowledgeable service in a verycompetitive market. The award is evenmore special when voted for by our retailcustomers,’ he says.

‘At Associated Weavers we decided anumber of years ago to invest in moresales representatives to cover smallergeographical areas but to keep the sameaccount base and not increase thenumber of retailers supporting thebutterfly brand.

‘This has resulted in more personalservice and allowed our sales force tospend more time discussing andpromoting the benefits of AssociatedWeavers’ carpet ranges. Also, because ofthe exclusivity of being an AssociatedWeavers retailer, sales have increasedboth for the company and its customers.

‘We will continue to develop the corebrands of Associated Weavers and buildon their success with continual

development of new products.’Stainaway has long been the

company’s main brand for stain resistantcarpet. All products under this brandcome with a free Stainaway Warranty andWear Guarantee, lasting either 10, 15 or20 years. This has helped Stainawaybecome the market leader in this area bycontinually investing and keeping infront of the competition. To supportStainaway, this summer sees the launchof Invictus, a brand of super soft carpetwith invincible performance,’ says Elliott.

The collection comprises four qualities, all manufactured with thecompany’s new Invinci SDO Stainawayyarn. Each range is supported by a 20-year stain and wear warranty and POSdisplay units.

iSense continues its runaway successand adds another dimension tobroadloom carpet, with its extremely softpolyamide yarn outperforming any othercarpet when it comes to softness andcomfort.

‘Achieving this award lets us know thatwe are going in the right direction andcan build on this to improve even furtherin the future. Thank you once again to allInteriors Monthly readers for theirsupport,’ adds Elliott.Visit: www.carpetyourlife.com

Associated Weavers isintroducing Invictus

AWARDS


Ashley ManorUpholstery

Best FabricUpholsteryManufacturer

‘A huge thank you to all the readers ofInteriors Monthly for voting for us, for thesecond year running, as Best FabricUpholstery Manufacturer. We are thrilledand grateful,’ says David Lee, AshleyManor Upholstery co-owner.

In celebratory mood, Ashley Manorlaunched its latest collection at theManchester Furniture Show. Mark Smith,Ashley Manor creative director, describedthe new range as ‘rare birds’ and saidhow the the industry needs to make wayfor the aptly named ladies: Bridgett,Maggie and Florence.

Beautiful Bridgett embodies all that isnew for mid-century with the designteam at AMU creating a real move on forretro styling with a current twist on aclassic design plus splashes of coolcolour.

‘Grey, described as, “The hottestneutral”, by Housebeautiful.com, is thelead base colour. The cooling tones work

well on the natural cotton/linen blendand coordinate with our trend led colourpalette for 2015/16. Chartreuse is one of these key colour players, characterful and earthy, this shade lights up a roomwith its zingy and exotic mix of yellowand green,’ he adds.

Maggie showcases Italian fabrics attheir best in colour mixes ranging fromthe darkest ebony blends to upliftingneutrals in a design described asluxurious, welcoming and warm.

‘People will fall in love with thedetailing on Maggie,’ says Steve Morgan,Ashley Manor sales director.

‘Maggie’s sister is the opulent Florence,in lavish shades from lavender tochocolate, the look is rich andsumptuous. Combining heritage patternsand soft silky textures, this sofa is elegantand sophisticated, a real statement piecein any home,’ he adds.Ashley Manor, tel: 01384 486 800

Below: Bridgett in grey linen withChartreuse accents

Bottom left: Maggie: ‘luxurious,welcoming and warm’

Bottom right: Make a statementwith Florence

Thank You!

www.ashleymanorupholstery.co.uk

AWARDS


Think Rugs

Best RugSupplier

‘At Think Rugs we pride ourselves onproviding a speedy, efficient and friendlyservice to every single one of ourcustomers. We understand thatcustomers need a quick and easy serviceto make the ordering process a simplepart of their business day,’ says SamTippett, Think Rugs buying and designmanager.

‘We are incredibly proud to have wonthe Best Rug Supplier award for the thirdyear in a row. This award means a lot tous as it shows the time and effort our

team puts into providing this service istruly appreciated within the trade.

‘We will endeavour to continue towork hard to ensure our customers arealways receiving the best possibleservice. As well as the service we providewe also believe our extensive productrange is one of the reasons we have wonthis award. We are constantly working tokeep our product ranges up to date. Withthis in mind we have decided for the firsttime to create a new product brochureevery six months meaning that we canensure the latest trends are alwaysincluded in our ranges,’ adds Tippett.

Think Rugs will introduce its 2015autumn/winter brochure at the

Autumn Fair next month.Visit: www.thinkrugs.co.uk

Right: Noble House

Bottom right: Spectrum

Below: Hong Kong

AWARDS


Gautier UK

Best Children’sFurniture

For Gautier, the UK is a major market thathas seen strong growth. ‘The past fewyears has seen exports rise by 10% withthe UK consistently delivering double-digit growth,’ says Harvey Roberts,Gautier UK md.

‘The UK is a key market with a clearstrategy for growth. While 2014 was ayear of consolidation, this year we aretargeting developing existing partnerswhile actively recruiting new retailerswho understand the complete Gautierconcept and are committed to workingwith us to grow the business.’

Marketing is going to be a major focusfor the second half of 2015 and into 2016with an increased profile for the brandwith retailers and consumers.

With a UK office to support retailers,Gautier offers weekly deliveries directfrom its three manufacturing facilities inThe Vendee, France with the capability to

offer short lead times to meet customerexpectations. It also offers DHD and aninstallation service across the country,allowing retailers to concentrate onselling without the complication offitting.

‘Over the past 50 years more than5million children and teenagers haveslept in a Gautier bed, but our range ofproduct covers much more than that:kids bedrooms, adult bedrooms andliving and dining collections, all with auniquely French style that is warm andinviting but remains highlycontemporary,’ says Roberts.

The company remains in theownership of the Soulard family, whichcontinues investing heavily in productioncapabilities, combining the latesttechnology with skills handed downfrom generation to generation.Visit: www.gautier.co.uk

Right: Urban children/teen’scollection

Below: Preface modular storagesystem

Bottom right: Premiumupholstered bed collection

Be inspired by our stylish range of kids, adult, living and dining room furniture at www.gautier.co.uk

FRENCH MANUFACTURER

DIMIXCollection

100 STORES WORLDWIDE DUBAÏ PARIS ALGIERS MADRID MOSCOW LONDON TORONTO RIYADH CASABLANCA

Discover our new collections in the 2015-2016 Catalogue - out now !

GAUTIER UK - Unit 9, Park Industrial EstateSt ALBANS - AL2 2 DR

Tel. 01727-875114 / Email: [email protected]

AWARDS


Quick-Step

Best LaminateManufacturer

Innovation ofthe Year

Known for being at the forefront ofdevelopment in new flooringtechnologies as well as the first tocapture the latest interior trends, Quick-Step is considered by many as the leader in laminate flooring,demonstrated by the development of itswaterproof Impressive laminate floor,which combines the creative inspirationof Oke Nollet, Quick-Step design director,and the technical foresight of LaurentMeersseman, Quick-Step research anddevelopment director.

‘At Quick-Step we believe that the flooris the start of something beautiful andthat’s why we invest heavily in design,looking for new ways to push thepossibilities of laminate flooring, lookingat every detail so that our floors really aretrue to nature. Our Impressive collectionis the most realistic laminate floor we’veever created,’ says Nollet.

‘We wanted our new laminate floors to

be waterproof, so we developed atechnology that presses the floor’s jointsinto the surface layer during production.A HydroSeal finish keeps out the tiniestdrop,’ explains Meersseman.

‘Pressing the floor joints into the floorsurface also adds to the realistic look.Colour variations blend into the joints,while the planks’ wood grains seamlesslymerge into the floor surface. Creating anauthentic wood-look for Impressive wasof the utmost importance to our designteam. In addition, we wanted to create aseries of realistic designs that really standout. That’s why every Impressive floorcomes with a different bevel, geared tothe unique look and feel of each floordesign,’ says Nollet.

Pinpointing the latest trends inflooring, interior design, fashion andarchitecture, Nollet and her team look forinfluences that will create classics oftomorrow. From strong design

From left: Natural Varnished OakConcrete Wood Light GreySoft Oak BeigeSoft Oak Natural

AWARDS


commonalities in local markets to tradefairs, magazines and trend analysis, thehunt reaches far and wide, capturingglobal trends while providing eachcountry with designs that work with theparticularities of consumer taste.

‘Nature is our biggest source ofinspiration. The Sandblasted Oak design,for instance, is based on the look ofdriftwood. I saw this image of sea-weathered, wind-battered wood on abeach in Thailand. On the other hand,Soft Oak draws inspiration from oakwood with a slight patina and subtlecracks and knots. In a similar vein,craftsmanship inspires us too,’ explainsNollet.

This attention to detail in design ismirrored by technical innovation, asMeersseman recalls in the developmentfor Impressive Burned Planks. ‘Thetechnology to simulate the structure ofburned wood simply didn’t exist. But we

started experimenting. We were inspiredby Japanese architecture, which usesburned pinewood to clad facades. Westarted experimenting by treating thesurface of wood planks with a woodburner and looked for a way to fixate theresulting wood structure. To scan andreplicate it on laminate, we didsomething similar to reliefography – atechnique for creating 3D art replicas.

‘It is this attention to design andtechnology, working together hand-in-hand, which allows us to develop thevery best in laminate flooring. Bypushing the boundaries of quality,design and innovation, we’ve achieved afloor that is not only beautiful in design,but 100% waterproof, tough and easy tolook after, a true innovation in flooring.’

‘The Quick-Step brand has becomesynonymous with innovation, fromUniclic to Impressive, it is at the heart ofour journey to beautiful flooring,’ says

Sophie Hautekeete, Quick-Stepinternational PR manager.

‘The floor is the start of somethingbeautiful. The impact it has on our space,on how we feel about our home, is onenot to be underestimated and so wework tirelessly to ensure that floorsbearing the Quick-Step name are asbeautiful as they can be. In the smallestof details it is possible to excel in design,bringing a floor that is truer to naturethan before. Innovation makes our floorseasier to live with, another reason whyQuick-Step floors are popular withhomeowners right across the country.

‘We are delighted to have beenawarded two prestigious accolades thisyear and would like to thank the readersof Interiors Monthly who share ourpassion for flooring and voted us BestLaminate Manufacturer and Impressive,Innovation of the Year.’Visit: www.quick-step.co.uk

LAMINATE / IMU1847

PARQUET / VAR1629

LAMINATE / LPU1505LAMINATE / IMU1855

Quick-Step offers a wide variety of qualitative

design floors in different sizes, colors and finishes.

Quick-Step design floors are true to nature, matching

the character of the floor perfectly. Whether you

choose trendy, scratch resistant laminate, warm and

authentic parquet or water-resistant, renovation

friendly LVT, Quick-Step floors are the start of

inspiring and chic interiors you’ll enjoy for many

years.

Discover your floor at www.quick-step.co.uk

The start of something beautiful

PARQUET / PAL 3096

LIVYN / REF. 40027

LIVYN / REF. 40030

AWARDS


Kährs (UK)

Best Solid/EngineeredWoodManufacturer

Kährs’ award-winning range includesmore than 140 wood floors, crafted fromsustainable timber and suitable fordomestic and commercial applications.Designs span from traditional one-stripboards – with solvent-free lacquer or oilprefinishes – to on-trend colour-staineddesigns, with tactile finishing treatments.

Floors throughout Kährs’ collectionsfeature a multi-layered construction,based on the original parquet designinvented and patented by themanufacturer in 1941. As well asproviding greater stability, andfacilitating installation over underfloorheating, the construction also usesresources in the most nature-friendlyway. During installation, Kährs’ gluelessWoodloc joint promotes speed andaccuracy, and eliminates gappingthroughout the lifetime of the floor.

New innovations for 2015 include BlocCollection: an on-trend patterned oakfloor, available in three sizes and shades.Individual Bloc staves are joined using anoak tongue to create unlimitedgeometric designs – from traditionalherringbone to modern brick – in singleor multi-colours. Bloc can also be used tocreate borders around patterned ortraditional plank floors.

‘We’re delighted to have again beenvoted Best Solid/Engineered Wood

Manufacturer by the readers of InteriorsMonthly. Our sincere thanks fornominating Kährs and supporting thebrand,’ says Harvey Booth, countrymanager, Kährs UK and Ireland.

‘This year we’re launching threecollections, including Bloc, as well as newproducts to existing ranges. Our newwebsite is live and features a virtualshowroom, and we’re exploring newmarketing initiatives to further promotethe brand and support our customers.’Visit: www.kahrs.com

Right: Smaland Oak Aspeland

Below: Bloc Nature

Below right: Bloc White

We’re proud to be recognised as the ‘Best Solid/Engineered Wood Manufacturer’ for the seventh year running.

Throughout the years, our absolute commitment to quality, efficiency and professionalism has been unwavering – as has our customers’ brand loyalty.

We thank you for voting for our wood flooring range – and we warmly welcome new brand partners.

T 023 9245 3045 E [email protected] W kahrs.com

AWARDS


Amtico

Best LuxuryVinyl Supplier

Floorcoverings have found their way tothe heart of interior design over recentyears, and never before has there beenso much flexibility and possibility.

Blazing a trail that counterparts can’tkeep up with has been LVT. Combiningtrue-to-life replications of natural timber,stone and other surface materials withunbeatable durability, installation andmaintenance characteristics, it’s littlewonder that LVT has continued to takemarket share from other flooringcategories, reckons Amtico.

For more than 50 years, Coventry-based Amtico has been at the forefrontof the LVT flooring movement thanks toits unique in-house design capabilities,continual development and preciseproduction process.

Creativity is at the core of the businessand it is this constant innovation anddedication to pushing the boundaries ofdesign, for LVT, the residential market,and the flooring industry as a whole.

Amtico Signature is the flagshipcollection for custom design flooring.With 188 premium styles that can be cutand combined in infinite ways andinstalled with ease, the designpossibilities are endless.

Encompassing a full spectrum of

wood, stone and abstract tonal trendsand a 1mm wear layer for extra longevity,this collection is for residential settingsand can be custom designed to suitindividual tastes and requirements.

Amtico Spacia is a high quality,durable and versatile collection of 96design-led products that has somethingto offer any space. Adaptable to singleuse installation or combined with otherfinishes, Amtico Spacia features a0.55mm wear layer and complete designflexibility to transform any interior.

Most recently, designs with addedtexture have been added to the woodand stone ranges while more decorativeelements and accent colours have beenintroduced to abstract design styles –offering a full spectrum of options.

Amtico offers a full suite of marketingmaterials and a swift sample serviceonline, plus technical information andproduct support is just a click or phonecall away.

Offering a quick and efficient service,with stock made in Britain or made toorder in the case of Signature, Amticogives the residential interiors market all it needs to make customers’ dreams areality.Visit: www.amtico.com

Below: Signature Cirrus Mist andCirrus Dawn

Below right: Signature Wild WalnutStrip Wood with Origami motif

To find out how Amtico can support your business and increase your sales contact our specialist sales team on: 0121 222 1706 or email: [email protected],alternatively visit amtico.com

Beautifully designed flooring

AWARDS


Wood Bros

Best LivingRoomManufacturer

‘Everyone at Wood Bros Furniture wouldlike to thank the readers of InteriorsMonthly for voting it the Best LivingRoom Manufacturer. Over the years wehave striven to manufacture high endcabinet furniture for many rooms in thehouse from home office to dining rooms,producing durable and hand-finisheddesigns. However, it is in the living roomthat the company has truly excelled.Occasional furniture has long been themost popular group from a variety oftraditional lamp tables to the ornate,limited edition games table,’ saysMalcolm Nix, Wood Bros sales andmarketing director.

In 2014 the company reintroduced anupholstery collection to complement theoccasional range and to add colour,warmth and style to retailers’ displays.

The Lavenham, Blakeney and Burnhamsofa groups were the initial designs thatenjoyed much success last year. Tofurther develop the increasing appetitefor upholstery, the Weybourne and

Hemsby were introduced this year at theJanuary Furniture Show.

All five upholstery groups areaccompanied by a large and varied fabricswatch which is considered the key to itssuccess. The diversity of fabric stylesallow both traditional and morecontemporary looks to be achieved andwork well with the cabinet ranges: OldCharm, Chatsworth and Ludlow. Plinthsand legs can be finished to match allcolours that the company offers.

For the recent Manchester FurnitureShow, Wood Bros added a leather coveroption to complement fabrics, providinga plethora of new combinations.

In addition to the strong upholsterystory, the company has also introducedanother wood colour for Old Charm:Fumed Oak. This paler and moreweathered colour provides asophisticated and contemporary feel aswell as offering the consumer a widerchoice with seven colours in total.Visit: www.oldcharm.co.uk

Right: Lavenham in new Tuscany Pewterleather and Wentworth Linen and new FumedOak colour

Bottom: The Weybourne in new Zanzibarfabric and Tuscany Tan leather combinations

Bottom right: Chatsworth

NEW FINISH AND LEATHER FROM WOOD BROS!New ‘Fumed Oak’ is a natural finish enhanced with a subtle

charcoal grain strike, that perfectly complements the soft butteryTuscany leather

Wood Bros (Furniture) Ltd, Marsh Lane, London Rd, Ware, Herts., SG12 9QH

w: www.oldcharm.co.uk t: 01920 469241

AWARDS


IVC Group

Best VinylManufacturer

IVC Group is delighted to have beenvoted Best Vinyl Manufacturer by thereaders of Interiors Monthly.

With the Avenue and Leoline cushionflooring brands and Moduleo for the LVTsector, the company is committed toproviding retailers with the best in vinylflooring.

Both Avenue and Leoline have cometo stand for excellent quality andincredible value, bringing retailerscushion flooring that can help totransform homes with high style andpractical flooring.

The cushion flooring market continuesto increase its market share.

‘We work hard to ensure that ourdesigns offer a huge amount of styles tochoose from; whether wood-looks withAvenue’s Ultimate Timber and Leoline’sWoodmark collections, tile and stonedesigns or the creativity and expressivefreedom of Avenue’s Bubblegum &Liquorice range. Here at IVC Group, weinvest heavily in developing new designs to ensure that retailers areequipped with styles that will delight inhomes of every size and shape,’ saysVictoria Hemelaer, Avenue and Leolineproduct manager.

‘Featuring the latest on-trend looksand backed with performance andbenefits that go to make floors not onlycomfortable and quiet, but durable andeasy to look after too, there is nodoubting that cushion flooring fromAvenue and Leoline is among the best inthe sector.

‘POS for both brands has been refinedto provide retailers with an attractive andconsumer-focused presence that is sureto make itself felt for all the right reasons;displaying high quality cushion flooringthat will bring homes a great valueflooring solution,’ she adds.

As part of the world’s largest flooringmanufacturer, IVC Group continues topush the envelope of what is possiblewith cushion flooring, developing newtechnologies that help to reduce relianceon resources, improve efficiencies andcreate the best cushion flooring. Visit: www.ivcgroup.com

Top: Avenue Louvre

Centre: Leoline Marbella

Bottom: Leoline Quartz

flooring with the power of IVC GroupThe IVC Group is Europe’s largest manufacturer of heterogeneous vinyl flooring bringing a complete spectrum of practical,

beautiful and easy to care for cushion flooring options for the home.

C U S H I O N V I N Y L

two great brands

one powerful manufacturer

www.leoline.co.uk I www.avenuefloors.co.uk I www.ivcgroup.com

AWARDS


Interfloor

Best AccessorySupplier(Flooring)

medium and large clips which allow awide range of floors of different levels tobe bridged.

A range of stick down metals has beenadded to Stikatak. Available in AngleEdge, Euro Coverstrip and Nosings, theyhave an integral self-adhesive strip alongthe base of the profile allowing the userto peel away the protective film and stickthe profile into position on the subfloor:no drilling or screwing is required.

The Gripperrods range of premiumcarpet gripper continues to be popularand the Tackfast and Golden Gripperproducts are strong sellers.

Interfloor has also successfullyintroduced the Meister range of laminateand engineered wood floors with a widerange of colour-matched accessoriesincluding scotias, clip system edgingsand end profiles.

‘This has been another strong year forour accessories business and the newrange of accessories for Meister hardflooring has had an incredibly favourableresponse from our customers,’ addsWoodhead.Visit: www.interfloor.com

Above: Stikatak Clip System

Right: Interfloor’s FlooringAccessories catalogue is in itssixth issue

Far right: Meister accessories

‘The whole Interfloor team is delightedto again win this award from InteriorsMonthly readers,’ says Steve Woodhead,Interfloor marketing director. ‘We’reworking hard to provide our customerswith the best solution in terms of brands,choice and customer service. We’rehonoured to get such an endorsement,and we’ll continue improving. ‘

Interfloor has experienced strong salesgrowth in flooring accessories. ‘This isdue to a combination of new productdevelopment, good customer serviceand improved POS,’ says Woodhead.

Interfloor’s Flooring Accessoriescatalogue is in its sixth issue and isproving the most popular so far withcustomers. It features the latest StikatakClip System for fitting any kind offloorcovering up to 28mm in depth. TheClip System now comes with a self-adhesive base and achoice ofsmall,

love your floor™

For a copy contact UK Sales: 01706 238 810Or download a copy from: www.interfloor.com

Take a look inside our catalogue

With over 800 Gripperrods and Stikatak products packed into ournew Flooring Accessories Catalogue you will be sure to find just what

you need to ensure a perfect flooring installation.

23Carpet Grippers

70Retail Packaged Products

38 Adhesives and Tapes

174Floor Edgings56

Fitting Tools

7Heat Seam Tapes

@interfloor101706 238 810 interfloor.com

AWARDS


Sealy UK

Best BedManufacturer

Below: Neil Robinson

Bottom: Teramo

Right: Sealy’s Which? accreditations

‘We’re going to have to get ourselvessome more wall and cabinet space,’ jokesNeil Robinson, Sealy UK marketingdirector, on learning the multi-awardwinning bed company had been votedBest Bed Manufacturer by InteriorsMonthly readers for the sixth yearrunning.

‘It’s hugely rewarding for us to win thisprestigious award. Interiors Monthlyreaders are at the sharp end of thebusiness, and to know our efforts toprovide the very best in customer serviceto retailers, trade professionals and thebuying public is appreciated, is avindication of the efforts made by all ourstaff.

‘Three years ago, when we gained acoveted Which? Best Buy accolade forbeing the highest scoring product in thepocket spring mattress category, wewere hugely pleased with ourselves. Wewere still smiling when we retained thataccolade last year, but you should haveseen the absolute pleasure on everyone’sfaces at our factory and offices inAspatria when, earlier this year, we heardwe’d retained that position for anamazing third year running.

‘Then, when we told the staff we’dgone one better and had topped the

score across all mattress types in theWhich? review in June, you could haveheard the cheers all across the LakeDistrict – I think we woke all the sheep

up. To be told our Sealy Teramo 1400was “the best mattress we’ve tested

in years” is simply incredible and a

testament to the huge amount ofresearch and testing that goes into theproduction of every new model wemanufacture.

‘All these awards are a great exampleof Sealy’s proactive development of theproduct sector. We are renowned asbeing leaders in sleep technology andthese beds are very much the modernface of pocket sprung mattresses withtheir zonal construction, Smart Fibres,and our exhaustive testing programmefor everything from flammability topressure point management and spinalsupport,’ says Robinson.

The company is gearing itself up for ahuge increase in interest and orders onthe back of these awards.

‘A Which? accreditation is recognisedby consumers as objective, trustworthyand hugely important when it comes tomaking major buying decisions and iswell known everywhere. Both theseaward winning beds will be on show atthe Sealy stand at the NBF Show atTelford in September, along with someinnovative products which will extendthe wide range of beds and mattresseswe already offer

‘Always leading from the front in thedevelopment of the best in sleeptechnology, I’m is expecting a bumpershow with huge interest from retailers insome of the new products as well as theexisting award winners,’ he adds.Visit: www.sealy.co.uk

AWARDS


UK-CF

Best HomeEntertainmentSupplier

‘This is a great vote of confidence in theUK-CF and Ultimate brands and we thankeveryone who has voted for us this year,’says Gary Naylor, UK-CF businessdevelopment manager.

UK-CF entered the UK furniture marketthree years ago with the vision ofdeveloping a new furniture brand whichoffers consumers stylish media furniturethat is designed specifically for AVtechnology.

‘The UK-CF Ultimate brand is onlyavailable through quality bricks andmortar showroom accounts and is goingfrom strength to strength. In-storedisplay packages backed up with firstclass delivery and customer service hasallowed the brand to grow with anetwork of quality retail outlets

throughout the UK. A recent move to anew 40,000sq ft distribution centreensures that we have the capacity tocope with anticipated growth,’ saysNaylor.

The company has worked hard thisyear to develop a quality network ofdealers and is now ready for the nextphase of growth.

‘This will see the launch of anotherproduct line this autumn and we arereally excited about this. Still includingour specialist AV features, the range willinclude occasional and storage solutionsthat will open up new salesopportunities and allow our retailpartners to maximise profit from arelatively small display area,’ adds Naylor.Visit: www.uk-cf.co.uk

General enquiries: +44 (0) 1282 425874Email: [email protected] � Web: www.ukcf.co.ukAWARDS 2011

WINNER

AWARDS

WINNER 2015

Thanks to all ourcustomers forvoting for us

THINKING CREATIVITYGreat style comes in different sizes

Charleston, the new collection, Loving you & your home

Protection

www.underlay.com t: 01536 200502

With lasting freshness and hygiene in textiles and polymers

www.underlay.com t: 01536 200502

Protection

AWARDS


FurnitureOrigins

Best DiningRoomManufacturer

‘Everyone at Furniture Origins isextremely pleased to accept this awardfrom Interiors Monthly readers. It onceagain proves that supplying new cuttingedge designs and trend setting finishes –such as those presented at the recentManchester Furniture Show – anddelivering these to market is recognisedby way of this award,’ says Barry Webb,Furniture Origins business developmentdirector.

‘These new diverse styles furtherenhance the already proven successfuland commercial collections fromFurniture Origins, allowing stockists todisplay complementary styles whilegiving a breadth of designs and finishesfrom one company.

‘As with all of Furniture Originscollections, these are available directfrom its factories on mixable containers,therefore giving total flexibility, and easeof order, as all ranges and items can bemixed on one container,’ he adds.

Far right: Urban rectangularpedestal table

Below: Porto

Bottom: Urban sideboardwith Blue Stone inset

Bottom right: Liberty

The direct container programme orwholesale purchases through ClassicFurniture are supported by theFurniture Origins area managers:Mike Brown: Scotland, Cumbria, NorthEast, and Yorkshire, tel: 07831 572 601Alan Endersbee: North West, NorthWales, Midlands, East Anglia, South Eastand Ireland, tel: 07809 196 019Andrew Cavaciuti: South West, Avon,Wiltshire and South/Mid Wales, tel: 07500 830 888Barry Webb, business developmentdirector, tel: 07702 603 971; email:[email protected]

dedicated

toyo

ursu

cces

s

For

enq

uiri

es,

plea

seco

nta

ctb

arry

.web

b@

furn

itur

eori

gin

s.co

.uk

orca

ll:0

77

02

60

39

71

A deep seated thank you.

We would like to give a deep seated thank you for voting Himolla best recliner manufacturer 2015.

Our exciting new recliner range should reassure you we wont be resting on our laurels

For fur ther s tock is t in format ion p lease contact in fo@himol la .com

AWARDS


Himolla

Best ReclinerManufacturer

‘Ta-Ta-Tar-Taaarrrr! Without wishing toblow our own trumpet too loud, we aredelighted to have been voted BestRecliner Manufacturer. Our thanks go tothe readers of Interiors Monthly forpresenting us with such a prestigiousaward, and also to the designers andcraftsmen who made it possible,’ saysSandra Gabler, Himolla UK & Irelandcountry manager.

Since 1948, Himolla’s staff have takenthe company’s founding philosophy of‘quality made in Bavaria’ and built it intothe present day success story. Its originalrecliners soon established its reputationfor innovative thinking, advancedtechnology and quality construction.Although the manufacturing techniques,design and materials used have evolveddramatically, that drive for ultimatequality has not changed. Himolla’s latest

Fusion Collection, for example, hasattracted worldwide acclaim.

‘At Himolla we see the Best ReclinerManufacturer award as welcomerecognition of our efforts. But there aretwo, perhaps even more satisfying,rewards for our concentration on quality.The first is the truly impressive growthrates we’re experiencing today. The otheris the testimonials and votes of thankswe receive from our customers,’ saysGabler.

‘Will history repeat itself in futureawards? I do hope so. We are takingGerman engineering in furniture to aneven more advanced level. We use thehighest quality leathers and materials,and introduce styles that continue tomatch the ever-changing designaspirations of our customers.’Visit: www.himolla.com

Right: Symphony

Below: Opus

Below right: Fantasia

AWARDS


Julian Bowen

Best FurnitureWholesaler

‘We are delighted and proud to havebeen voted the Best Furniture Wholesalerfor the fourth consecutive year, byInteriors Monthly readers, as well as BestCustomer Service (Furniture) for the firsttime,’ says Julian Bowen, Julian Bowenmd.

‘We continue to stride ahead of thecompetition and dominate the marketwith our achievements, which surelyspeaks volumes about how well theJulian Bowen brand is respected in themarketplace.

‘We have enjoyed an exceptional firsthalf year for 2015 with a 20% increase insales over 2014. These are pretty

impressive figures and a clear indicationthat the company is growing its marketshare,’ he adds.

The company is launching a number of products in August and to facilitatethis growth it will be expanding itswarehousing capacity

A new purpose built 50,000sqftwarehouse is due to be completed bythe end of the year. This will create a totalof 150,000sqft of warehousing racked tofive levels and providing the muchneeded additional space to to meet theincreasing demand for Julian Bowenproducts.Visit: www.julian-bowen.co.uk

Top: Amelia bed

Right: Casa is one of many productslaunching this month

AWARDS


Mercado

Best FlooringWholesaler

‘Everyone at Mercado is delighted toreceive this award from Interiors Monthly;it is made all the sweeter as it is voted forby our customers’, says Adrian Laffey,Mercado buying director.

‘As the UK’s largest flooring wholesalerour thanks and gratitude are sent inthree directions: first, to all our customerswho see our daily commitment to set thehighest standard in service levels,stockholding and depth of productoffering.

‘Second, to all our staff who worktirelessly to deliver such standards; theirefforts, hard work and dedication aregratefully appreciated.

‘Finally, to our supply base, withoutadvancement in product development,

new ranges and investment in POS, thebusiness would not continue to grow.

‘To this end we will be launching anadditional 12 ranges to the Troublefreecollection offering high quality carpets atexceptional value for money. Supportedby Mercado’s service levels, Troublefree isa favourite of many retailers.’

For the entry level market, anadditional 24 ranges will be marketedduring August using 12,000 POS displays.

‘Clearly these initiatives represent asignificant investment, which willcontinue to grow the Mercado businessand present additional profitopportunities for our customers,’ addsLaffey.Visit: www.mercado.co.uk

Mercado is the UK’s largest flooring wholesalerand hosted a trade day (below) in March

Bottom right: Troublefree is being expanded

Thank you to all the readers ofInteriors Monthly for voting

Best Flooring Wholesaler

AWARDS


Ulster Carpets

Best FlooringWebsite

Ulster Carpets is delighted to have beennamed Best Flooring Website 2015 bythe readers of Interiors Monthly.

The team at Ulster Carpets has workedhard to transform the Ulster website intoa clean, fresh, user-friendly experience.Following a long process, the new lookwebsite was launched in late 2014 to agreat response.

‘Since we launched, the feedback hasbeen amazing from both consumers andretailers. They find the website easy touse, great to look at and, most of all, theinformation they need is readilyaccessible. The handy free sampleordering tool is also popular,’ says Jeremy

Wilson, UlsterCarpets salesdirector.

The new lookwebsite is theshop window fora change indirection forUlster Carpets. It stillmanufacturesthe heavypatternedaxminster forwhich it isrenowned andranges such asGlenavy andGlenmoy

continue to be big sellers. But, thecompany has answered consumerdemand for more contemporaryproducts, such as the bestselling OpenSpaces Collection and the BohoCollection.

‘Ulster has always had a brilliant andtalented team of designers and we havereally focused on the importance ofdesign in the past few years. We havelaunched a number of ranges recentlyincluding Braeburn, a contemporaryplaid range, the vintage-inspired BohoCollection and new additions to the100% wool Open Spaces Collection, all ofwhich have a universal appeal to boththe younger and older consumer. Wehave also added very of the momentmuted neutral tones to the York andGrange Wilton ranges which are beautifulclassic shades that work well in anyinterior style. The website showcases thecurrent product range perfectly,’ he says.

The website boasts a host of featuresincluding simple search tools, anInspiration section, as well useful AfterCare and Carpet Advice sections to helpmake flooring decisions. Consumers canorder free samples as well as browse theInspiration and Blog sections. Thewebsite is just the beginning of a newonline presence for Ulster Carpets whichis now on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitterand LinkedIn. Visit: www.ulstercarpets.com

Below: Braeburn

Bottom: York Wilton

Bottom right: The website wasrelaunched in late 2014

AWARDS


Andrew Porter

Best SupplyChain/LogisticsCompany

Not only has furniture logistics specialistAndrew Porter been voted BestSupply/Logistics Company by InteriorsMonthly readers for a third time, but thefirm is also celebrating its 20thanniversary of its furniture logisticsservices this year.

The team is hugely proud to receivethis recognition and would like to thankall of the readers and customers whotook the time to vote.

‘We have enjoyed a fantasticanniversary year so far and this is yetanother achievement we are alldelighted about,’ says Tim Aspey, AndrewPorter md.

‘It has been a busy year for us, withincreased business from existing clients,as well as new customers joining us. Our

home delivery services in particular areat an all time high.’

Andrew Porter has expanded both itsteam and its fleet, as well as restructuringdepartments at its head office to ensurea continually smooth operation.

‘Customer service is at the heart ofeverything we do and we have creatednew protocols and staff trainingprogrammes to ensure we meet orexceed customers’ expectations,’ saysAspey.

‘We now have more retailers,manufacturers and importers than evermaking use of our full-service furniturelogistics service, which compriseswarehousing, home delivery and retaildelivery,’ he adds.Visit: www.andrewporterltd.co.uk

Thank you for voting for us as the Best Supply Chain/LogisticsCompany in the industry for the third time.

AWARDS 2011

WINNER

AWARDS

WINNER 2015

• Full logistics services• Warehousing• White glove direct home delivery• Retail delivery

Contact us now on:

0800 389 1222or email

[email protected]

AWARDS


AIS

Best FurnitureBuying Group

Peter Mallinson, AIS merchandisedirector home, says he and his team aredelighted to have won this award again.Although, modesty apart, he is notsurprised because he knows how strongthe positive values of AIS membershipare and, in particular, would like to dispela negative myth about the group.

‘What many people don’t understandabout AIS is that we have no compulsorypurchases. Instead, what we do have is astable of own brands such as Stag, Ducaland Dreamworld, plus exclusive productsfrom leading brands such as Parker Knolland Duresta among others. These givemembers differentiation in themarketplace and higher marginopportunities without the need formassive upfront commitment,’ he says.

As well as providing members withexciting products and a broad supplierbase, there are many other support areasthat give added value and efficiency. Oneis TradeIslands, a comprehensivedatabase available 24 hours a day

containing contactinformation, pricedata, brochures andabout 50,000 imagesfor more than 100furniture suppliers.

‘Not only is it areference tool butthe system allowsmembers to importthis data straight into their retail and

back-office systems, saving time andmoney on manual inputting,’ says DarrellCooper, AIS partnership trading manager.

Cenpac, the central payments platformon which AIS is founded, is another keybenefit. It brings great efficiencies in theway AIS members process transactionswith suppliers. Not only is itadvantageous for members it is alsobetter for suppliers as they are secure inthe knowledge that they have a paymentguarantee for their invoices.

‘This gives us the basis on which tonegotiate improved terms and is also theplatform for supplier volume rebates dueto the combined turnover processedthrough Cenpac,’ adds Mallinson.

‘In addition to all the great work Peterand his team do with the product andbuying, throw in support from the AISprocurement division, which has savedmembers such as Stokers and Glasswellsmany thousands of pounds on areassuch as utilities and solar power, and youhave an even stronger proposition thatgoes beyond the core buying group role,’says David Standing, AIS commercialdirector.

‘Furthermore, our in-house marketingteam provides members with a variety ofmaterials that help drive their businessand is another reason to be a member.The many benefits of AIS membership faroutweigh the cost and only AIS membersare in a position to take full advantage ofthem,’ he adds.Visit: www.aistores.co.uk

Below: Exclusive products includeOakham from Parker Knoll

Bottom: Stag and Dreamworld areAIS own brands

AWARDS 2011

WINNER

AWARDS

WINNER 2015

For more information please contact:Peter Mallinson,Merchandise Director - Homet 0121 711 2200e [email protected]

great reasonsto join AIS- the leading furnitureand home buying group

10123456789

You remain independent yet gain multiple benefits

We improve members’ profitability through better buying terms,

exclusive ranges, show deals and rebates

Over £200m furniture buying throughput means AIS has considerable

influence in the industry with major suppliers and all processed efficiently

through Cenpac, our central payment system

Two of the best furniture shows every year are held at our own first class

exhibition venue in Solihull plus two separate Bed Shows

Exclusive branded and own brand ranges such as Stag, Ducal and

Dreamworld Beds give AIS members differentiation and higher margin

opportunities

We are also very strong in categories such as flooring, linens and

housewares to drive additional footfall and give new margin opportunities

Our AIS procurement division saves members £’000s on non-retail goods

and services from insurance to delivery vehicles to utility contracts

Our AIS logistics team can help with imports and have beneficial shipping

deals

We also support members with other services such as marketing,

personnel and training

10 Benefits of membershipfar exceed costs

AWARDS


SMG

Best FlooringBuying Group

‘We are delighted to have been voted theBest Flooring Buying Group by readers ofInteriors Monthly,’ says Mike Symonds,SMG head of group operations.

‘Receiving this award for the secondyear running is a tremendous accoladeand the result of a good deal of hardwork by the entire SMG team.’

SMG was conceived in 1968 to support12 retailers with better prices,promotions and rebates. Fast forward to2015 and SMG now represents morethan 370 stores throughout the UKproviding a comprehensive membershippackage that will work for any flooringretailer, big or small. The key to itssuccess has been providing support tomembers without interfering in theirbusiness operations.

‘SMG members will make the decisionsand run their businesses as they alwayshave, just more profitably,’ says Symonds.

‘Never has the phrase, “We’ve done allthe hard work so you don’t have to”, been so appropriate. SMG partners withall the key manufacturers and suppliersto the industry so extra profitability iseasier to obtain with SMG. Group pricelists and turnover based rebates providethe tangible benefits. Promotions,unitary offers and own label products areall part of the added value that isprovided,’ he says.

Also part of the SMG package is theproduct purchasing scheme, Orderlink.This gives SMG members access to

products from the entire approvedsupplier portfolio at wholesale-beatingprices.

Symonds explains: ‘When a customerwants a product that you can’t access,Orderlink is the answer. It has oftenprovided the link to many successfuldirect accounts and is unique to SMG.’

SMG has also created a strong businessservices package to provide value andsupport for its members with offers onitems such as credit card rates, energypricing, retail finance, commercialvehicles and a free business supporthelpline.

This year SMG added marketing andadvertising to its increasing list ofservices. Members benefit fromadvertising blocks and templates thatcan be used free of charge. Visit: www.smg-group.co.uk

SMG keeps members up to date andcontinues to expand its range of services, withadvertising templates introduced this year

SMG The National Furnishing Group9 The Markham Centre, Station Road, Theale, Reading, Berkshire RG7 4PETelephone 0118 932 3832 Fax 0118 930 4515 Email [email protected] Web www.smg-group.co.uk

Isn’t it time you joined the award winning Buying Group?

Voted ‘Best Flooring Buying Group’

The ONLY Groupwith access to all suppliers...

GUARANTEED!

AWARDS


KarndeanDesignflooring

Best MarketingSupport(Flooring)

‘Karndean Designflooring would like tothank the readers of Interiors Monthly forrecognising our marketing efforts tosupport retailers’ says Sarah Dixon,Karndean Designflooring head of UKmarketing.

‘Our retail partners are the cornerstoneof our business and we work hard tosupport them through variousprogrammes.

‘Marketing support for us covers lots ofdifferent things including sending retailstaff to the Karndean head office forproduct training, increasing fitters’ skillsby attending the basic or advancedfitting courses, borrowing an exhibitionkit so retailers can undertake localpromotions or even teaching them howto use social media. We want to see yousucceed,’ she says.

Over the past year KarndeanDesignflooring has worked hard to bring

its customers a scheduled deliveryservice, ensuring they know exactlywhen their order will arrive.

‘We recognise that time is money inany business and we have received greatfeedback saying how much time it hasfreed up,’ says Dixon.

Karndean has also redesigned its Finda Retailer section on its website, allowingits partners to upload pictures of theirstore and include additional informationconsumers will find useful.

‘It really helps with the consumer’sjourney. They can see where they will begoing and exactly what ranges a retailerhas available. It’s a really exciting time forthe company with two major rangerefreshes planned for the autumn andspring 2016. We always have lots ofprojects we’re working on and can’t waitto share them with our retailers.’ Visit www.karndean.com

Left: LLP108 Providence

Centre: LLP109 Stamford

Right: LLP111 Boston

AWARDS


Best FlooringExhibition

The FlooringShow

‘The team at The Flooring Show is thrilledto have won this prestigious awardagain; it’s especially pleasing as we’veworked hard over the past few years tobring back some big names to Harrogate,and to develop useful content andfeatures to make the show a much morecomplete event that properly reflects thegreat industry it serves. We’d like to thankthe readers of Interiors Monthly for theirsupport, and also all our loyal visitors andexhibitors who help make the show whatit is today,’ says Wendy Adams, TheFlooring Show event director.

Next month’s show welcomes a host ofnew and returning names including IVCGroup, Asiatic Carpets & Rugs, Uzin,Whitestone Weavers, Hugh Mackay,Windmoeller, Parquex, Jaymart andUltimate Rugs.

As well as being a platform for top-rated exhibitors, the show will continueto develop feature areas to enhance thevisitor experience:� The Wool Trends Centre launched lastyear with the British Wool MarketingBoard and the Campaign for Wool, will

return in 2015 inexpanded format,and includes AdamCarpets, Axminster,Brintons, Brockway,Bronte, Cavalier,Westex and Ulster.� This year theScarlet Opus TrendsHub team will createa flooring retail shopof the future. Therewill also be a

seminar on Sunday explaining the keypoints about the shop concept. The ideais to provide some ideas and food forthought, primarily for independentflooring retailers to make some positivechanges to their business. In anenvironment where major nationalchains have been introducing marketingand investment plans to target a widerrange of consumers, the Hub will providefeatures, ideas and examples to helpindependent retailers continue todevelop their own offerings. This projectis supported by Adam Carpets, Interfloor,Interface, Concept Handtufting, BritishCeramic Tile and Vizifloor. � The Demo Areas run by NICF, FITA andCFA will return with subfloor and tooldemos throughout the day in Hall B andfloor finishes demos in Hall M.� Seminars in the Business EnrichmentTheatre provide a great opportunity forretailers and other show attendees totake away some business improvementactions that can be implementedwithout cost, the very next day. Amongthe seminars, Houzz will be leadingdesign seminars; Vanessa Brady will talkabout how to sell to interior designcompanies; and David Abbott will talkabout best pricing. � A comedy night will again be held inthe Royal Hall on Sunday after the end ofthe opening day and networkingreception. Costing £350 for a table for 10,including supper, it will feature three topcomedians including Jamie Sutherlandand Phil Walker. All profits go to threecancer and children’s charities.Visit: www.theflooringshow.com

Proud winner of the Best Flooring Exhibition Award for another year.

Our sincere thanks to Interiors Monthly and to its readers for their votes and support.

FLOORING20-22 SEPTEMBER 2015 HARROGATE

SHOWwww.theflooringshow.com

AWARDS


Best NewExhibition

JanuaryFurniture Show

‘We are delighted that Interiors Monthlyreaders voted for us,’ says Laraine Janes,January Furniture Show co-director.‘We’ve had such support from theindustry and the positive feedback wehave received has been amazing, sothank you to everyone who voted.

‘Our main aim when we took over theslot at the NEC was to keep it focused,targeted and more relevant to furniturebuyers. And it’s worked. It remains clearthat the industry wants a January eventto showcase its products to retailers.’

More than 85% of the exhibitors fromthe 2015 event have already signed up toreturn – many with bigger and betterstands – and around 50 new exhibitorshave already signed up to join them.

Some of the names eager to bringtheir hottest new products includeParker Knoll, Skovby, ROM, Buoyant,Westbridge, Lebus, Kingstown,Sherborne, Morris Group, Alstons,Wiemann, Rauch, TCS, Willis & Gambier,

Baker Furniture, Libra, Gallery Direct,Stone the Crows and Dar Lighting.

Furniture has pride of place in theshow, which remains focused on the bestthe UK market has to offer in cabinet,upholstery and beds. For 2016 thefurniture offer will be extended toprovide greater variety with dedicatedareas for accessories, lighting, flooring,art, mirrors and fabrics. This will givebuyers the chance to use the show as aone-stop-shop to refresh or replenishtheir stores.

‘We have a strong team in place that isworking hard to make the 2016 show aneven greater success and meet visitors’and exhibitors’ requirements. For thosewho have a business in the furniture andfurnishings market, this show providesthe ideal platform to showcase productsand meet suppliers face to face – all in awell organised and easy environment,’explains Janes.Visit: www.januaryfurnitureshow.com

Right: Co-directors Teresa Raymondand Laraine Janes

The show will be expanded for 2016

AWARDS


RetailsystemFurnitureSoftware

Best SoftwareSupplier

‘We are honoured, delighted and very,very encouraged to again win the awardfor Best Software Supplier. It means thatwe must be getting something right,especially when you consider that wehave been selected to receive this awardby the people we serve, the core of theretail furniture and beds industry of thiscountry,’ says Stephen Smith,Retailsystem Furniture Software md.

‘I think we’ve earned a little time topause and reflect on what it is we offerthat keeps us at the top when it comes tosupplying software dedicated to thisindustry, so that we can make sure wecan carry on being the best. The keyword here is dedicated. We only work inand for the retail furniture industry. Weknow it well and yet we still work hard tokeep on learning more about it. All ourproducts and services are specificallydesigned for it. All our focus is on thisvertical market so that we deal with whatwe know and make absolutely sure thatour systems fit the needs of ourcustomers,’ says Smith.

The company continues to grow at ahealthy rate, currently signing up a newcompany every five days on average,with more than 430 retailers benefitingfrom the systems it has designed and setup for them.

As the economy grows and peopleseem to have more spending power, everbusier retailers are looking for reliableand proven low cost solutions to helpthem make the most of all that

additional business without losing sightof the organisational needs of the day today. That’s where the right IT systemearns its money and gives managers andowners easy access to all the informationthey need to run every aspect of thebusiness effectively and efficiently.

‘That’s where we come in. Because weprovide the right system to suit any retailfurniture or beds business, no matterwhat the size or the shape, we’vemanaged to stay at the top as the firstchoice. It doesn’t matter if you’re a smallteam running a small shop, or a majorretailer with multiple stores, our passionis to design and put in place exactly theright system to suit your needs, both fornow and for your future growth.

‘We only deal with what we know,sticking only to furniture and beds shops,which means that retailers can rely ongetting the system that helps them inthe running and monitoring of everyaspect of their furniture and bedbusiness: designed solely for theirbusiness.

‘It’s wonderful to be up here with allthe industry giants, so thank you forkeeping us at the top of the tree when itcomes to providing you with the rightsoftware solutions. And thank you forgiving us the opportunity to show youwhy we have become the obvious firstport of call for anyone in the retailfurniture and bed business who wants tobe a winner,’ adds Smith.Visit: www.retailsystem.com

As consumer confidence grows, retailers arelooking for reliable IT systems

��

��

�� ! �� " � �� !�� # ��!�� $��

%��& �'�' �� ()�( ��*��

��

+��, � ��

AWARDS


Trident –FurlongFlooring

Product of the Year

‘We were over the moon when we wonlast year’s award for Best UK FlooringManufacturer. Suffice to say we areecstatic to receive Product of the Year forTrident and thank the readers of InteriorsMonthly for their huge support,’ saysPeter Sharpe, Furlong Flooring director.

Trident was relaunched in January thisyear and expanded to 36 coloursreflecting the significant shift inconsumer demand for more neutral,natural, washed out and grey basedtones.

The collection is split into three rangeseach with their own colour signature;Trident Heathers, the original warmersubtle heather range, Trident Pastelle in

solid contemporary plain colours with asheen, and Trident Highlights, a heaviercontrast heather collection.

The company’s new productdevelopment plan has been prolific thisyear. Already eight collections have beenlaunched in 2015, with a further five tomerchandise in the marketplace beforethe autumn.

‘This has been by far our busiest yearfor range launches and it has beeninstrumental in our success. The excellentperformance of 2015 allows us to buildstrong foundations for our futuredevelopment plans. Rest assured, goinginto 2016 we have a number of surprisesup our sleeves,’ says Sharpe.

‘Our new distribution centre inGloucester is fully on stream and isunderpinning our continued drive tobecome the supplier of choice with ourcustomers. Service levels are at an all-time high with outstanding customerand retailer feedback. Our belief inticking all the boxes, offering best in classproducts from entry level through to topdrawer, coupled with our first-rateservice levels means the future is lookingvery bright for Furlong Flooring.

‘I’d like to again thank all the readerswho voted for us.’Visit: www.furlongflooring.co.uk

Above right: Trident was expandedto 36 colours in January

Right: Trident Heathers

Far right: Trident Highlights

AWARDS


Trident –FurlongFlooring

Product of the Year

‘We were over the moon when we wonlast year’s award for Best UK FlooringManufacturer. Suffice to say we areecstatic to receive Product of the Year forTrident and thank the readers of InteriorsMonthly for their huge support,’ saysPeter Sharpe, Furlong Flooring director.

Trident was relaunched in January thisyear and expanded to 36 coloursreflecting the significant shift inconsumer demand for more neutral,natural, washed out and grey basedtones.

The collection is split into three rangeseach with their own colour signature;Trident Heathers, the original warmersubtle heather range, Trident Pastelle in

solid contemporary plain colours with asheen, and Trident Highlights, a heaviercontrast heather collection.

The company’s new productdevelopment plan has been prolific thisyear. Already eight collections have beenlaunched in 2015, with a further five tomerchandise in the marketplace beforethe autumn.

‘This has been by far our busiest yearfor range launches and it has beeninstrumental in our success. The excellentperformance of 2015 allows us to buildstrong foundations for our futuredevelopment plans. Rest assured, goinginto 2016 we have a number of surprisesup our sleeves,’ says Sharpe.

‘Our new distribution centre inGloucester is fully on stream and isunderpinning our continued drive tobecome the supplier of choice with ourcustomers. Service levels are at an all-time high with outstanding customerand retailer feedback. Our belief inticking all the boxes, offering best in classproducts from entry level through to topdrawer, coupled with our first-rateservice levels means the future is lookingvery bright for Furlong Flooring.

‘I’d like to again thank all the readerswho voted for us.’Visit: www.furlongflooring.co.uk

Above right: Trident was expandedto 36 colours in January

Right: Trident Heathers

Far right: Trident Highlights

www.furlongflooring.co.uk

They say success breeds success.

At Furlong Flooring we’re passionate about success

– especially for our customers and partners. So with that

in mind, we’ve relaunched our best selling twist Trident.

Available in Heathers, Highlights and Pastelle, these ranges

boast a host of contemporary features in stylish tones and colours.

Manufactured with our own Carefree Prestige fibre, these ranges are

stain resistant, bleach cleanable and available in both 4m & 5m widths.

Designed to stylishly fit together, creating a display that’s sure to bring you success.

To take advantage of this great range, contact us today or visit our website.

T H E F U R LO N G F LO O R I N G P O R T F O L I O

Wool Collection

www.furlongflooring.co.uk I Sales: Preston - 01772 696 787 I Dartford - 01322 628 707 I Gloucester - 0845 520 0800

Prestige Trident

Now there’s three ways to

enjoy product of the year

www furlongflooring co uk

success.

e

Product of the year

AWARDS


Editor’sChoiceBrintons

Flooring Brand2015

A specialist British brand for more than230 years, and Royal Warrant holder since1958, Brintons continues to maintain itsposition as a leading manufacturer ofhigh quality woven carpets. TheKidderminster based company employsaround 1,500 people across fourmanufacturing sites: two UK and oneeach in Portugal and India, plus salesoffices in the UK, USA, Australia, Dubaiand Singapore. Its high-end wovencarpets have become the standard forimpressive business and residentialproperties throughout the world.

Design is at the heart of everythingBrintons produces, it is the keyingredient to its continued successwithin the carpet industry, and 2015 hasbeen no different.

Britain’s biggest cruise ship, the £473mP&O Britannia featured more than21,000sqm of custom designedAxminster carpet from Brintons. For thestyle conscious homeowner the CityPlaids series was introduced to capitaliseon the trend for vintage, reclaimedtextiles. A subtle colour palette wascreated to give a fashionable edge to thisiconic pattern. Soft antique hues playtogether with cool blues and soft greyswere jazzed up with a hint of hot pink.The designs in the stocked range includecollaborations with Timorous Beasties

and Laura Ashley, velvet carpets and ahost of traditional and modern designs.

‘Wool is also on trend right now andhas the added bonus that it is a fantasticsustainable choice for flooring. Itinsulates your home, is easily recyclableand biodegradable, plus shearing sheepis essential for their welfare,’ says NatalieLittlehales, Brintons consumer marketingmanager.

‘The Brintons blend combines 80%wool with 20% nylon meaning that aBrintons carpet is both luxurious totouch and hard-wearing for longevity.This blend is still used today because ithas all the beauty of wool, in a muchlonger-lasting form. Brintons is the singlebiggest user of British wool with thewool from one in nine British sheepending up in a Brintons carpet, and weare proud to be associated with theCampaign for Wool and British WoolMarketing Board.

‘After a busy year we are thrilled to benamed the Flooring Brand 2015 byInteriors Monthly. Our talented teamworks hard to be the best in our field,delivering outstanding product quality,design, technical expertise and excellentcustomer service, so it is wonderful tohave these qualities recognised,’ saysLittlehales.Visit: www.brintons.co.uk

From left: City Plaids Kensington

Brintons’ collaborations have includedTimorous Beasties

More than 21,000sqm of Brintons’carpet is used on P&O’s Britannia

making the world a more beautiful place

The Padstow collection by Brintons Carpets

by design

beauty

PA

DS

TO

WCa

ndyS

pot5

/501

65

See the full collection at www.brintons.co.uk

AWARDS 2011

WINNER

A WARD

S

WINNER 2015Brintons Carpets Ltd, proud to be Best Flooring Brand of 2015

www.parkerknoll.co.uk

AWARDS

Editor’sChoiceParker Knoll

Furniture Brand2015

‘Parker Knoll is delighted to have beenchosen as Editor’s Choice Furniture Brand2015 following such a busy year,’ saysDonna Bellingham, Parker Knollcommercial director. ‘It is great to knowthat Parker Knoll is recognised as acompany which continues to design anddevelop the best of British upholstery.With the help of our prestigious team ofcraftsmen and women, we prideourselves in creating stylish and qualitycollections for the modern home.’

With some 146 years’ experiencewithin the industry the companycontinues to refresh its ranges bybringing the latest in modern classicdesign and innovation, while keeping inmind its ultimate goal of providing itsconsumers with the very best in

comfortable and stylish upholstery. ‘Over the past year we have been hard

at work following a successful JanuaryFurniture Show. This year we launchedtwo classic ranges; Seaton and Newark,alongside a new collection of fabricsincluding a selection of soft countryinspired plaids and more glamorouschenille designs for spring/summer 2015.We are very proud of our new collectionsand as we move forward into September,we will be adding further additions toour LifeStyle collection as well as afabulous new collection of fabrics forautumn/winter 2015. This exciting launchwill mean we are well equipped for whatis set to be an exciting season ahead,’adds Bellingham.Visit: www.parkerknoll.co.uk

AWARDS


Founded in 2008 by leading UK carpetmanufacturers and retailers, CarpetRecycling UK is the industry-backedassociation for recycling and reusingwaste carpet that is helping companiesto find alternative and sustainabledisposal outlets for waste carpet.

Funding comes from its core carpetmanufacturing members that activelysupport the development of carpetrecycling: Balsan, Cormar Carpets, Desso,Ege, Lifestyle Floors, Marlings, Millikenand Vorwerk.

By helping retailers, contractors andfitters to recycle or reuse their installationoffcuts, uplifted carpets and carpet tiles,CRUK is acting as a ‘catalyst forsustainable change’ within the flooringsector.

A major benefit for CRUK members is areduction in their disposal costs tolandfill, as well as the ability to enhancetheir green credentials with customers.Demonstrating to consumers that theirwaste carpet offcuts can be given asecond life in a new product, underlayfor example, helps to increase positiveperceptions among the general public,increase loyalty and win new business.

‘Winning this award is a great featherin our cap,’ says Laurance Bird, CRUKdirector. ‘As we strive to increaseawareness within the industry of theneed to recycle carpet and encouragemore carpet manufacturers and retailers

to join us, clinching this award serves toreinforce CRUK’s position as a leader forvoluntary producer responsibility.

‘We are delighted and proud that ourefforts have been recognised in this way,yet there is still so much we can docollectively to divert more and morecarpet from landfill. With more outletsand collection facilities opening upacross the UK each year, we arecommitted to making carpet recycling aconvenient and cost-saving option for asmany flooring companies as possible.’

Around 400,000 tonnes of wastecarpet is created each year in the UK.Thanks to support from its core fundersand the wider flooring sector, CRUK isdriving innovation in end-of-lifesolutions for carpets. Rather than a bulkywaste stream destined for landfill, carpetis viewed as a raw material resource thatcan be given a useful second life.

Since 2008, landfill diversion of carpetshas increased from 3% to 28% last year.CRUK’s target is 60% landfill diversion by2020. Encouraging more retailers andmanufacturers to actively engage withthe company’s initiatives is vital if themomentum is to be maintained.

‘Our vision is of a strong and diverseUK carpet recycling industry whichrecovers all carpet waste using the bestenvironmental technologies – to theultimate benefit of all,’ adds Bird.Visit: www.carpetrecyclinguk.com

Editor’sChoiceCarpetRecycling UK

Sustainability(Flooring)

Right: Neville Hinchliffe, Arighi Bianchiflooring department manager (left) receivinghis CRUK Recycling Champion memberaward from environmental creative agencyApe’s Mark Shayler at the CRUK annualconference. Hinchliffe will give a seminar atThe Flooring Show on 20 Septemberoutlining the retailer’s success in recyclingcarpets and carpet offcuts.

Below: CRUK’s core funders

AWARDS


Editor’sChoiceHypnos

Sustainability(Furniture)

‘At Hypnos we are proud to createhandmade beds and luxurious sleep, notonly with a Royal seal of approval, butwith a genuine claim to be caring, greenand responsible. This award is a doublecelebration of us after winning TheFurniture Maker’s Company SustainabilityAward earlier this year,’ says Chris Ward,Hypnos marketing director.

‘We are committed to protecting andpreserving the environment; tosustainability; to recycling and toachieving best environmental practice.Our commitment to sustainability andthe environment is clearly embeddedwithin “The Hypnos Way”, whichidentifies our vision, strategy, culture andshared values, and which ultimatelyshapes the behaviour of all of ouremployees. Indeed, we aim to ensurethat our international business activitiestoday do not have a negative impact onthe lives of future generations.’

Hypnos’s strategy includes clearobjectives and activities forenvironmental improvement basedaround a ‘lean and green’ operatingculture, carbon reduction and carbon

offsetting, and recycling and reusingwaste. Its systems comply with the PAS2060 Carbon Neutrality Standard, and itsfactories have earned FSC and PEFCchain of custody certification. Thecompany’s products are made by handand are 100% recyclable whendeconstructed at the end of their life.New product designs focus onsustainable, natural and synthetic-freematerials and its suppliers are required todemonstrate similar environmentalcommitments. Hypnos has also passedthe Sedex ethical trading audit.

‘We also provide a responsible end oflife mattress and furniture disposalsolution. To further protect theenvironment and to help reduce landfillvolumes, we established The FurnitureRecycling Company which diverts oldbeds and furniture from landfill sites toour waste disposal centre for shredding,separation and recycling. This providesnot only a zero landfill solution, but alsoa source of recycled raw materials andfuel for reuse in other industries andmanufacturing processes,’ says Ward.

Carbon offsetting initiatives include atree planting programme as well assupporting international renewableenergy projects.

‘In the UK we are helping to grow treesand minds: we plan to plant trees at localschools, where tree planting and treecare ensures active engagement withchildren, where we highlight theimportance of protecting theenvironment for future generations.

‘Our strong responsible ethos isconsidered very valuable by ourcustomers: it reinforces our marketleading position and our best of Britishstatus as demanded by our RoyalWarrant appointment.

‘Customers equally value the natural,sustainable and synthetic-freecommitment to new products, and ourgrowth reflects this. Customers also lovethe fact that our national collection,disposal and recycling service is a lowcost, green and responsible alternative tolandfill,’ adds Ward.Visit: www.hypnosbeds.com

Hypnos is committed toprotecting the environment

Best of British

The pursuit of perfection – beautiful handcrafted pocket spring beds, with a Royal Seal of Approval and

an unrivalled 10 year guarantee. Hypnos provides retailers with exquisitely tailored beds; sublime comfort;

a choice of design options; a commitment to sustainability; a strong consumer brand and excellent support.

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

T: +44 (0) 1844 348200 | E: [email protected] | www.hypnosbeds.com

Hypnos is proud to be Carbon Neutral, complying with BS PAS 2060 Standard.

AWARDS


Editor’sChoiceSilentnight

OutstandingPerformance

Silentnight Group has grown sales by14.5% to £125.1m in the year ending 31January 2015. Its two leading brands,Silentnight and Sealy, recorded growthof 21% and 13% respectively.

Steve Freeman, Silentnight md placesthe success firmly behind theestablishment of a very clear vision forthe business: to be the home of the mosttrusted sleep brands.

‘This vision has enabled us to bringgreater focus to our business across alloperating areas, with the resultantbenefit to our trading performance. Wehave established very clear strategies inthree specific areas: market leadingquality, we strive for total quality ineverything we do; first class customerservice, we aim to deliver outstandingservice at every stage of the customerjourney and continuous innovation, wewill strive to be innovative in all areas ofour business.

‘These three strategic pillars togetherhave re-established our business withinthe industry and have helped us to notonly fuel growth for the total bed andmattress market, but repositioned andstrengthened our brands and our totalbusiness. Our aim is to continue to build

upon these strategies to fuel evengreater growth for our business and thatof our trading partners.

‘It is pleasing to see some very positivesigns of growth coming back into thebed and mattress market, although thereis still some way to go until it overtakesthe highs experienced some 10 yearsago. We need to educate the consumeron the importance of sleep to theirhealth and wellbeing, with manyconsumers today sleeping on beds whichare well past their best before date andfrankly they are not getting the quality ofsleep they need or deserve. That’s whywe are passionate about ensuring a greatnight’s sleep for all.

‘This passion has been recentlyrecognised in the 2015 Which? Awardswith both our Sealy Posturepedic andSilentnight brands receiving Which? Best-buys. In fact our Sealy Posturepedicmodel was deemed “the best mattresswe’ve tested in years” is a fantasticendorsement. We plan to bring furtherunique product innovations to market in2016 and plan to unveil some of theseideas at the forthcoming industry bedshows in September.’Visit: www.silentnightgroup.co.uk

Silentnight (below left) and Sealy(below right) have both lifted sales

Visit www.silentnight.co.uk

We’re proud toannounce that ourClassics 1200 PocketDeluxe mattress hasbeen awarded a

Best Buy.

describe itas being “one of thebest-value mattresseswe’ve tested”

Our latestachievement...

BEDS AND BEDROOM


Success for the specialistMammoth Technologies is seeing increased demand for its high-end mattresses

Mattress manufacturer MammothTechnologies is celebrating another year-end success with its independent salesup 11% year on year and key nationalretail accounts up by 53%. More than1,000 units are sold to the public everymonth.

‘Since joining forces with The FoamCompany in 2011, we have seensignificant growth with our medicalgrade foam, clinically proven specialistmattresses – which shows we’re doingsomething right,’ says John Tuton,Mammoth Technologies md and founder.

‘With my background in healthcare, I’ma huge believer in innovation, researchand testing. Our mattresses have beenvigorously tested and do exactly whatthey claim to do. They are clinicallyproven to enhance sleep. We haveworked with professional organisationsto produce products which help relievepain and regulate body temperature,’ hesays.

The Mammoth brand can be found inmultiple retailers ranging from AHF toFurniture Village, as well as a number ofleading independent retailers.

There has been a huge uptake for itsPocket Hybrid collection launched at theNBF Bed Show last September, and it isnow one of its bestsellers.

‘The success of the Pocket Hybrid 2000is representative of the rise in demandfor high-end mattresses. A good night’ssleep is essential to good health andconsumers are increasingly becomingmore aware of that,’ says Tuton.

Mammoth has affiliations with varioushealth, educational and sportingauthorities. They include NorthumbriaUniversity Centre for Sleep Research, theNewcastle University Institute ofBiosciences, the British AthletesCommission, English and Irish RugbyPlayers Associations, the UK ChiropracticPatients’ Association and sleep expertProfessor Jason Ellis.

All products are made in the UK andare Class 1 registered medical deviceswith the Medicines and HealthcareProducts Regulatory Agency.Visit: www.mammothmattress.co.uk

Mammoth’s Pocket Hybrid 2000

John Tuton

Contact us today to find out more01235 529 [email protected]

tested against 50kgmemory

foam

PREVIEW


The

Flo

ori

ng

Sh

ow H

arro

gat

e 20

-22

Sep

tem

ber

Got it coveredMore than 165 companies will be taking part thisyear. Here are some of the highlights

Left: Interfloor’s MeisterElvaston

Below: Vintage andModern Rug’s Camden

Below left:Mr Tomkinson’sTomkinson Berber

��

New Tomkinson BerberMore weight, more colours

Come and visit us at:The Flooring Show

HarrogateStand A29

Wool Trends atThe Flooring Show

by The Campaign for Wool and British Wool

Wool Trends returns to The Flooring Show for a second year and

brings the wool carpet industry’s leading names together around

an inspirational wool centrepiece showing the upcoming trends

in wool carpet. Styled in association with Homes & Gardens

magazine and Sanderson and Zoffany fabrics. Come and be

inspired and collect your free ‘Wool in the Home’ brochure.

What to See... in Hall C

British WoolVisit British Wool for information and education! Here you can sign up for our latest initiatives, collect brochures and register for POS. British Wool is owned by the sheep farmers of the United Kingdom and sells the strongest and most robust wool for carpet in the world. Come and talk to the experts and enter our woolly stand competition!

Wool SeminarsWe are on Wool Education all the way this year! Catch up with our new WoolRetailer.com seminars during the show and learn all about the amazing story of naturally grown, super strong, seriously long-lasting wool carpet and we promise a few surprise prizes for those that attend and sign up!

Understanding WoolFibre for CarpetsStronger... Smarter... SaferWe are launching our new Wool iBook at Harrogate this year and we want to share it with you - it’s free and full of all the incredible benefits and science of real wool for carpet. Register for this fantastic retail asset at Wool Trends!

Our exciting new website for wool carpet retailers and consumers will offer everything your store needs to create a top class retail experience and be the new website for promoting real wool to consumers. Come along, find out all about it and sign up!

NEW

NEW

#ChooseWool

Wool Trends with leading Wool Carpet Brands

We are delighted to host Wool Trends in association with qualityUK carpet manufacturers.

Adam Carpets, Axminster Carpets, Brintons, Brockway Carpets,Bronte Carpets, Cavalier Carpets, Ulster Carpets and Westex will all besituated around our inspirational showcase. Nearby we have Kingsmead,Hugh Mackay and Whitestone Weavers.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Bronte Carpets

Ulster Carpets

Brintons CarpetAdam Carpets

britishwool.org.uk#britishwool

campaignforwool.org#choosewool

PREVIEW


The

Flo

ori

ng

Sh

ow H

arro

gat

e 20

-22

Sep

tem

ber

Avenue will promote its UltimateElements, Bubblegum & Liquorice andUltimate Timber collections.

Axminster Carpets is showing its newonline carpet selector and App, allowingconsumers to see how carpets look indifferent rooms.

Crown Floors will have on display forthe first time Avondale, Langholm, KentHouse, Greystoke, Lauderdale andNewhaven, alongside a new tombola andupdates to its wall unit.

ETF highlights its range of inspecting,

cutting, rolling, wrapping, roll transport,sorting and bespoke machines.

Exposervice is debuting its Swing LVTwith a round edge bevel and SwingDesign with a Tatami design.

Fells Carpets will showcase many of its latest Wilton collections, launchingthe soft touch Serendipity and Jubilantcollections alongside new POS.

Floorwise is showing exclusivelaminate ranges from Balterio andKronospan alongside the latest POS for carpet ranges and details

of its Christmas promotion.FN Neuhofer Holz adds to its

accessories collection, including a newLED profile. The profile gives an indirectlight that can highlight the features ofthe floor and is also dimmable. AnyNeuhofer profile with a height of up to90mm and a clip nut attachment can beadded. It is also possible to lay either LEDstrips of various wattages or light coloursor cables into the shaft. The aluminiumstructure makes it easy for any heat thatis created to leave the system.

Left: Crown Floors’Avondale

Below left: Victoria’sVictoria Twist in Pecanand Heart Throbstripe

Below: Avenue’sSagres

��

FOLLOW US@home_london

REGISTER FOR YOURCOMPLIMENTARY TICKETHOME-LONDON.NET

KITCHEN/DINING/INTERIOR ACCESSORIES/SOFT FURNISHINGS/LIGHTING/SMALL & OCCASIONAL FURNITURE/GARDEN ACCESSORIES

Bronte/Linum/Terrace & Garden/Au Maison/Bloomingville/Grand Illusions/Parlane/LSA International/Alessi/Authentics/Makers & Merchants/MAKE International /Grunwerg/Haus/Iris Hantwerk/Ethnicraft /black + blum/Whitbread Wilkinson/PR Home/Unikia/Gilberts /Atomic Soda/Di Classe/And many more

THE DEFINITIVEHOMEWARES ANDACCESSORIES EVENT

AUTUMN/WINTER13—15 SEPTEMBER 2015OLYMPIA, LONDON

The buying event for discerning retailers

PREVIEW


The

Flo

ori

ng

Sh

ow H

arro

gat

e 20

-22

Sep

tem

ber

Pro-flex skirting board is made fromplastic foam that forms to any curve andit can also be attached around a 90deginner or outer corner if necessary. Theboard is attached with adhesive andpainted for a matching surface with noneed for screwing or nailing.

The Clik-fix 23 fixing rail has flexiblesoft lips attached to the back of themounting bar for tolerancecompensation in wood, MDF or crookedwalls. When cables are fitted behind theprofile it is no longer possible for cables

to slip into the expansion joint and besubjected to the swelling of the floor: itcan simply be laid on to the horizontalfixing arm.

FN Water-pro is a waterproof skirtingboard designed for applications thatrequire moisture resistance, for exampleon LVT or vinyl flooring.

Gaskell Wool Rich will feature the Faroerange, which won Product Innovation ofthe Year at the Wools of New Zealandstand at Domotex this year. There willalso be new colours for the Hadleigh

range and a new quality, Marble Arch.Gooch Oriental is introducing the

Indian made 100% wool Portofino andSorrento ranges.

Interfloor will show its new TredaireTitanium underlay alongside itsexpanded range of Meister engineeredwood floors.

After making its debut last year,Kenburn returns with its carpet crusherdesigned to help retailers divert theirrecyclable carpet waste from landfill.

Kingsmead Carpets will show its

Top left: Stairrods’ Premier rampedge, Premier two-way ramp, G9gripper, Premier floating cover;Premier little nose and Premierlittle

Top right: Exposervice’s Swing LVT

Above: Ultimate Rug Co’s Uniquecollection

Left: ETF will highlight its latestmachinery

��

01404 851152 • [email protected]

Come and see ourSheepskin and Cowhide

ranges atTThe Flooring Show

Stand C19

22-23 SEPTEMBER 2015INTERNATIONAL CENTRE

TELFORDRegister now at www.bedshow.co.uk

PREVIEW


The

Flo

ori

ng

Sh

ow H

arro

gat

e 20

-22

Sep

tem

ber

latest modular wall units in threecategories: Wool Loop, Wool Twist andClean Easy alongside Fantastic, a twoweight, two-ply plain and heather CleanEasy twist and Roxburgh, a three weight80/20 twist.

Lano Carpets is expanding its supersoft Eccelena yarn carpets under theSoftness by Excellence collection whilebringing together its SmartStrand,SmartStrand Silk and Ultimo rangesunder the A Taste of Luxury branding,

presented in two POS concepts.Leoline will highlight its Woodmark

and Tile Styles collections as it celebratesits 18th anniversary.

Manx Carpets debuts three-ply, 50%wool/50% polypropylene tufted loop pileNatural Tones in 10 natural tones. The50oz, 80/20 Ashworth Heathers has 15colours in two-ply yarn. Its latest wallunits feature sample cassettes of thefeatured carpet range with large feelersamples on lectern beds.

Mr Tomkinson will focus on the newTomkinson Berber range. This is beingincreased in weight, from 32oz and 40ozto 40oz and 50oz respectively, whilemaintaining prices. More colours havealso been introduced.

Packexe’s latest floor protection film,The Edge, is designed to solve theproblem of how to apply protection filmright to the edges of floors and surfacesor in smaller, hard to reach areas withoutcompromising the time-saving attributes

Right: Lano’s BellaDonna

Below: Itec’s Populo

Below right: FNNeuhofer Holz’s LEDprofile

PREVIEW


The Flo

orin

g Sh

ow H

arrog

ate 20-22 Septem

ber


and protection offered by the existingproducts.

Stairrods UK will launch 11 Premiertrims for laminate, engineered wood andLVT, a stair nosing and the G9 9mmgripper designed for use with thickerunderlays and which can save doublebanking in cases.

TCS will show its 12 Inspired carpetcollections, each with 10 colours.

The Campaign for Wool and BritishWool return for a second year to The

Flooring Show with Wool Trends, thecentre for wool carpet.

This stylish and vibrant showpiece willhost Adam Carpets, Axminster Carpets,Brintons, Brockway Carpets, BronteCarpets, Cavalier Carpets, Ulster Carpetsand Westex in the Wool Trends area.

Central to the carpet manufacturers isthe Wool Trends installation whichhighlights forthcoming wool carpetcolours and styles. This is done inassociation with Homes & Gardens

magazine and there will be a free Woolfor the Home brochure for visitors to thestand.

The show also sees the launch of theWool iBook, a tablet-based tool forretailers, which focuses on the manybenefits of real wool for carpets. It takesa modern and reader-friendly look at thescience of wool and explains theperformance strengths of natural woolfor carpet.

The WoolRetailer.com website

Left: Kenburn will beshowing its carpetcrusher

Below left: Leoline’sToronto

Below: Ulster’s Grange

��

��

will also be unveiled, designed to be akey destination for consumers searchingfor quality wool products. British Woolwill be recruiting retailers for the websiteat the show. British Wool will also beoffering free POS, brochures and advice.

The Ultimate Rug Co is using its returnto the show to debut new developmentsin both product and marketing strategy.Having acquired the Hand Made Carpetname and number of new suppliersearlier in the year, it will regroup all of its

ranges into specifically targeted brands.Ulster Carpets has added six shades to

York Wilton and Grange, while the Bohocollection has been expanded withHamilton featuring five vintage-inspiredcolours.

Victoria Carpets adds three rangesreplacing existing collections. VictoriaTwist will replace Options, with 36colours augmented by six coordinatingstripes. It has 40oz, 50oz and 60ozweights.

The 50oz 80/20 Atlas Berber willreplace Simply Heathers, with 16 colours.

The 45oz 80% wool/20% nylon two-plytwist Debonair will replace Radiance in20 colours including heathers and solids.

First Impressions will see the additionof four more colours.

Vintage and Modern Rug Companyintroduces Camden Stripe in four sizesand two runners, and Graduation withthree designs and four sizes.Visit: www.theflooringshow.com

Left: Axminster’sKensington

Below left: Floorwise’sPerformance underlay

Below: British Woolwill debut the WooliBook

The

Flo

ori

ng

Sh

ow H

arro

gat

e 20

-22

Sep

tem

ber


PREVIEW

��

London

��

PREVIEW


The

Flo

ori

ng

Sh

ow H

arro

gat

e 20

-22

Sep

tem

ber

Brockway Carpets will parade five new collections for 2015 atThe Flooring Show.

The ranges feature new colours and textures with Brockway’ssignature wool-rich carpets for both domestic and contractmarkets.

They include contemporary collections in twist and velvetyarns, pure wool saxony, wool twist and undyed wool from rarebreeds of sheep, as well as wool loop additions.

Brockway’s latest ‘hero’ carpet range called Dimensions Plainin 80% wool, 10% nylon, 10% polyester melt-bond comes in 32neutral colours in three weights, alongside a lighter weightversion called Connections for the starter homes market.

The distinctively natural Beachcomber and Rare Breedscollections in 100% pure undyed new wool, come in loop pileand velvet yarns respectively.

Finally, there is the Minerals collection woven in a twist andvelvet yarn with strata and diamond designs.

The latest portfolio marks a new era for Brockway, accordingto Charles Annable, Brockway chairman. ‘We’re both very proudand excited to be showing our new portfolio for 2015. This isthe culmination of a major product development programmeto position Brockway as the UK’s premier manufacturer ofbeautiful, wool-rich carpets.’

Brockway has been designing and producing hand-finished

carpets in Kidderminster since 1964. ‘We believe strongly inBritish craftsmanship using the finest raw materials to ensurethe sustainable manufacture of award-winning carpets, whichoffer great value for money, whatever your budget or taste,’adds Annable.Visit: www.brockway.co.uk

Five starsLaunches will mark a new era

Above: Rare Breeds Black Welsh

Left: Dimensions Periwinkle

Below: Minerals strata

DESIGN


ChampionsFor 30 years, New Designers has recognisedthe best of the country’s design graduates.Here are this year’s interiors winners. Visit: www.newdesigners.com

New Designers HarlequinAwardWinner: Callum Wilson, University ofDundee, abstract screen printed fabrics.The judges praised its ‘bold and dramaticdesigns for the home, great use of colourand cloth – a perfectly executed collection.’Prize: £1,000 and a two-week workplacement in the Harlequin design studio.Email: [email protected]

New Designers Sanderson AwardWinner: Chloe Gregory, Bath Spa University,Large scale florals. ‘Chloe’s magnificent designs have evolvedfrom her beautiful drawing and carefullyobserved colour studies to create a verydistinctive work,’ said the judges.Prize: £1,000 and a four-week paid placementin the Sanderson studio. Visit: https://chloegregorytextiles.wordpress.com

New DesignersBCFA AwardWinner: JacobUnderwood, Bucks NewUniversity, Fierostacking chair.‘Good contemporaryinterpretation oftraditional Ercol valuesfor modern living. Wewere impressed by theconsideration given toevery detail,’ said thejudges. Prize: A four-weekplacement at NovaInteriors.Visit: www.jacobdu.com

��

New Designers One Year On AwardWinner: Robyn Hinchcliffe, textiles. ‘Exquisite colour and patterns; great mastery of her techniques.Robyn’s display was excellent, very well styled, and she has aproactive approach to developing her practice,’ said the judges.Prize: £500 from New Designers, £200 from The Design Trust, ayear’s membership of Design Nation with coaching programmeand the opportunity to exhibit at The National Centre for Craftand Design. Visit: www.robynhinchcliffe.com

New Designers John Lewis Award for Designand InnovationWinner: Juwon Seo, Bucks New University, Work Nest desk.‘Juwon demonstrated a sensitive and considered approach in allof her design work. Her Work Nest desk addressed homeworking for all ages with a thoughtful use of materials, playfulfamiliarity and beautiful detailing,’ said the judges. Prize: £1,000 and opportunity to meet the John Lewis team.Email: [email protected]

New Designers 100% Design AwardWinner: Mu Hau Kao, Camberwell College of Arts, Ply stool.‘Ply stood out as an example of determination to succeed againstthe advice of manufacturers. By experiment and commitment, asimple, practical and commercially primed product emerged,’said the judges. Prize: Space at 100% Design’s Emerging Brands area.Visit: www.arts.ac.uk/camberwell


DESIGN

Territory Manager

Location West Midlands/South Wales

Salary Competitive Package

Do you have what it takes to be successful?Distinctive Flooring is looking for the right person to

take on the challenge of seeking out new business,

forging good relationships and driving sales of

it’s superb collection of Design Flooring, Carpet Tiles

and Cushion Vinyls.

As an integral part of Abingdon Flooring, the successful

applicant can feel secure in the knowledge that product

and presentation will always be paramount.

With the right amount of hard work, honesty and

application the candidate will earn a very competitive

salary/package.

If you have the appetite and better still, the experience,please email your CV and covering letter to

[email protected]

Please send your c.v. toRichard Richman at:[email protected]

Wood/laminate AreaSales RepresentativeNorth West / North East & Yorkshire

A rare opportunity has arisen to join thedynamic sales team of one of the UK’s leading flooring companies.

Furlong Flooring is ambitious to continue itsgrowth thoughout 2015 and beyond andneeds a skilled, experienced sales person.

An excellent package is available to the right candidate.

furlong flooring

National Sales Manager

Sales Agents - Two posts- London and South East- North East and YorkshireHigh earnings potential

Highgrove is one of the UK’s fastest growing bed brands and will shortly be expanding its operation with a move to a new 250,000 sq ft manufacturing plant.

To help us continue our growth, we are looking to strengthen our sales team with appointments to the following positions;

National Sales Manager

In addition to providing excellent service to our existing customers, the successful applicant will be self-motivated and be responsible for identifying and developing new business opportunities throughout the UK.

Exceptional sales and customer relationship building skills are required, along with the drive and enthusiasm to help us meet our challenging sales targets.

Experience in a similar role within the bed industry would be preferred.

Sales Agents or full-time Area Sales Managers,two posts in:- London and the South East- North East and Yorkshire

Ideally, you will already be calling on the major bed and furniture retailers in these areas, however, applications from experienced retail bed or furniture sales people looking to develop their careers will also be considered.

With a wide range of products, unrivalled deliveryservice and increasing Advertising & Marketingsupport, this is an excellent opportunity to maximiseyour earnings potential.

If you would like to be considered forthese positions, please send your CV to

[email protected]

OPINION


The customer has always been king (orqueen) to retailers, but with the growth ofecommerce and digital media we aresometimes overwhelmed with customerdata. It is not only information on whatcustomers have bought or spent but whatthey are thinking and feeling, and how theyare living their lives.

It is vital for retailers to focus on what allthis data actually means for them and tothink about why customers behave in theway they do and how retailers can influencethis behaviour. It’s about getting to whatmarketers call insights; key informationabout customers you can use to shape youroffer and gain competitive advantagewhatever channels you sell through.

A key trend most retailers have spotted isthat customers are more demanding, theInternet has speeded everything up, theywant more newness and have a shorterattention span, one seasonal range isn’tgoing to excite them. They can pricecompare instantly online so it’s better tohave exclusive product or an added valueshopping experience and a strong brandreputation that customers trust.

Customer segmentation can be a reallyuseful tool to help you understand customertypes, who is buying what, which segment iscommercially more valuable and whichsegment is growing. Make sure your rangereflects the segments but importantly nottoo many segments or the offer will look toofragmented and your brand will lack focus.Sometimes deciding who your customer isn’tis as important as deciding who it is.

Customers are increasingly savvy aboutpromotions and special offers, the recessionhas taught them to wait for the discountswhich now are more frequent and less likelyto be twice yearly big sales. Instead, BlackFriday has become the most anticipatedretail event of the year which has made bothcustomers and retailers rethink the cruciallead up to Christmas.

Having a clear point of view is crucial to

Think customer first Retailers need to be aware of what their shoppers want

creating a strong brand and building arelationship with customers. It also gives youa framework within which to develop yourrange. Some retailers can rely on suppliers todo all the work and come up with a constantstream of new ideas. But you need to beaware of what’s going on around you, knowthat the popularity of the Great British Bake Off and the growing interest ingardening and knitting means thatalongside technology there is a consumer

trend more about authentic, home-spun,tactile activities and relaxation andwellbeing – treat times are a welcome relieffrom an increasingly frenetic, connectedworld. It’s about being aware of what’shappening outside your business, it’s all tooeasy to be inwardly focused particularly for asmall business with little resource.

For retailers able to source in the UK thiscan be a competitive advantage withprovenance and quality cues givingcustomers a value rather than price message.Agility also calls for closer supplierpartnerships with a joint trading mentalityand greater vigilance to ensure quality andethical standards don’t slip.

Pressure on margins and seasons meansfewer big sale events and more tacticalpromotions all year, whether calendar eventswith special buys or targeted discounts. And,of course, Black Friday needs to be plannedfor, not just with product buys andpromotions but with agile customer serviceinfrastructure to ensure that sudden largesales volumes don’t cause systems to crash.

Stella Hartley

‘It’s all too easy to be inwardlyfocusedparticularly for asmall business’

Stella Hartley is a multi-channelmarketing consultant withextensive retail experienceincluding roles at The WhiteCompany, Hamleys and RiverIsland. She specialises inworking with small to mediumbusinesses to drive growththrough marketing strategy andbrand development. Email: [email protected]

��

��

We’ve just won another Interiors MonthlyAward. At Sealy, we seem to be collectingso many awards and accreditations wejust don’t have room to display them all.

Safe to say that we cover all the bases,from safety and recycleability to qualityand service. Scout’s honour.

www.sealy.co.uk

Documents

Interiors Monthly August 2015