NEC • BIRMINGHAM • JANUARY 22-25 Visit us at Interiors, Hall 2 Stand F4 The CAREFREE Zone is an area where you can be confident that all your customers’ needs are catered for and where your business can benefit from the potential for excellent margins. See our stunning range of carpets that tick all the boxes for quality, appearance, performance and price - supported by exciting, innovative point-of-sale. Stocklists with 2 January 2012 Flooring News BRITAIN’S No. 1 FLOORCOVERING MAGAZINE FOR THE RETAIL AND CONTRACT MARKET The Enter the CAREFREE Zone! • Advanced wipe-clean tecnology • 100% bleach cleanable • Afforable quality across all the price points • Innovative video POS • 10 year wear and stain warranty See page 24 for the contact details of your local representative for the full story and samples.
Transcript
NEC • BIRMINGHAM • JANUARY 22-25
Visit us at Interiors, Hall 2 Stand F4The CAREFREE Zone is an area where you can be confidentthat all your customers’ needs are catered for and where yourbusiness can benefit from the potential for excellent margins.See our stunning range of carpets that tick all the boxes forquality, appearance, performance and price - supported byexciting, innovative point-of-sale.
Stocklistswith2 January 2012 FlooringNews
BRITAIN’S No. 1 FLOORCOVERING MAGAZINE FOR THE RETAIL AND CONTRACT MARKET
The
Enter the CAREFREE Zone!
• Advanced wipe-clean tecnology
• 100% bleach cleanable
• Afforable quality across all the price points• Innovative video POS• 10 year wear and stain warranty
See page 24 for the contact details of your localrepresentative for the full story and samples.
� STS�FLOORING�DISTRIBUTORS 30 0845 341000 July 2011
� TAT CARPET 41 — —
�T�&�E�DISPLAY�GROUP� 39 0121 585 7600 —
� WESTON�HAMMER� 31 0845 644 9090 —
� WOOLS OF NEW zEALAND 48 01943 603888 —
� VORWERK 53 0870 0104484 —
AdhesivesExpertise advice from F Ball page 4
Buying GroupsChoosing the right organisation for you pages 8-9
Carpet Company DirectoryOur line-up of the leading players pages 14-15
Carpet Trouble-shooterAll about stains, spots and shading pages 12-13
Carpet TypesThe starter guide for picking a pile page 5
UnderlayUnderstanding underlay types and selection page 10
Wholesaler Distribution DirectoryNational & regional guide to distributors pages 16-18
Wool Fibre PageA checklist of natural fibre characteristics page 11
Woolsafe: the carpet care guideHow to protect and clean wool carpets pages 6-7
UK manufactured Carpet Cutting Machines
WWW.CARPETCUTTINGMACHINES.CO.UK
3THE STOCKLISTS January 2012
Published by Mayville Publishing Co Ltd., 219 West Ella Road, West Ella, Hull HU10 7SD Tel: 01482 659396 Fax: 01482 659397 www.thestocklists.comSales Director: Diane Martin. [email protected] Publication Director: David Spragg Founded by Roy Spragg in 1973. ISSN 2046-7338
Vacuum Cleaners - the Choice of Cleaning Professionals
www.sebo.co.uk
British Wool makes a BetterCarpet... Naturally
www.britishwool.org.uk
This information is provided with thesupport of WOOLSAFE members for thebenefit of all carpet retailers and fitters.
General Rules for Spot Removal• Soak up liquids with white kitchen roll, tissues, toilet
roll or clean cloth
• Scoop up or scrape off solids
• Try to identify unknown spots prior to treatment –
if unsure, use solvent first
• Always work from the edge of the spot inwards
• BLOT,�do�NOT�rub
• Use small quantities of spot remover at a time,
applied to a cloth, NOT directly to the spot; work
into the spot with a small, soft brush or sponge
• Take care with applying solvents to bitumen-backed
carpet tiles
• When using solvents always ensure there is plenty
of fresh air ventilation
• Always thoroughly rinse out water-based spotters
with clean water
• Dry the spot, if possible, with a hair dryer
Treatments1. Blot with white kitchen roll or paper tissues
2. Vacuum clean
3. Cold water
4. Warm water
5. WOOLSAFE-approved carpet shampoo solution
(diluted)
6. WOOLSAFE-approved spot remover for
water-based stains
7. WOOLSAFE-approved spot remover for
greasy/oily stains
8. Absorbent paper or paper tissue and hot iron
9. Chewing gum remover (solvent or freeze type)
10. Nail varnish remover or acetone
11. White spirit or turpentine substitute
12. Surgical spirit (ethyl alcohol or ethanol)
13. Rub with a coin
14. Rub gently with coarse sand paper
15. WOOLSAFE-approved�disinfectant�or�
deodorizer
16. Rust�remover
17. Carpet�re-colouring�kit
(Treatments used by professional carpet cleaners)
Easy SpotsSpot or stain Try 1st Try 2nd Try 3rd
Blood 5 6 3
Burn/scorch marks 13 14
Butter 7 5
Candle wax 8 7
Chewing gum 9
Chocolate/cocoa 5 7 6
Cola 3 5 6
Cream 7 5
Egg 5 6
Floor wax 7 5
Fruit juice 3 5
Gravy and sauces 5 6
Herbal tea 3 6
Metal polish 5
Mustard 5 6
Oil and grease 7 5
Paint (emulsion) 3 5
Shoe polish 7 5
Tea 3 5 6
More Difficult SpotsSpot or stain Try 1st Try 2nd Try 3rd
Artificially coloured drinks 3 6
Bleach 3 17
C/heating radiator fluid 5 6 16
Coffee 4 6
Felt-tip pen 7 or 11 12 5
Furniture polish 7 5
Glue/adhesive (plastic base)10 11
Ink (fountain) 3 6 5
Ink (ballpoint pen) 12
Lipstick 7
Milk 4 5 15
Nail varnish 10
Paint (oil) 11
Rust 16
Soot 2 6 5
Tar (asphalt) 7
Urine (fresh stain) 3 5 15
Urine (old stain) 6 15
Vomit 5 6 15
Red wine 1 6
These may require repeated attempts with stronger
spot removers. Some stains you may find impossible
to remove completely in which case the assistance of
a professional carpet cleaner is required.
Life inspired cleaning innovationswww.bissell.com
WOOLSAFE ApprovedCarpet Cleaning Products
www.prochem.co.uk
Home of the Legendary CleaningProduct - Carpet Power
www.ozkleen.co.uk
Flooring factsheet
How�to�decide�whether�to�join�a�buying
group�–�and�which�one…
• Evaluate all buying groups as they all work differently
• Talk to the main marketing contact and/or a memberof the committee
• Get a list of members and call up two or three for a‘real-world’ view
• Establish your territorial exclusivity – where’s the nextnearest member of each buying group
• Ensure you understand the financial arrangements, anyfees that would relate to your membership, how thebills are paid and whether your fees are refundable ifit doesn’t work out. Ask the buying group for aconsultation to estimate your potential savings
• Review all the extra benefits and services to see whatyou would actually use
• Check out the product ranges offered including theown-label options and the UK/European mix
• Ensure you understand any rules that may limit yourflexibility to run your business the way you want
Why join?Buying groups have been a highly successful feature of
the floor retailing scene in the last decade or so, giving
independents the extra edge they need to compete
effectively with the retail park chains.
More than 1000 retailers are now members of one of
the several buying groups which operate in our sector
and the numbers are slowly, but steadily growing.
While the benefits of bulk buying power are self-evident,
the resistance to the buying group concept among non-
members appears to be centred on fears of
surrendering some control to a committee – and most
One of the key reasons to join a buying group is tobenefit from the discounts they negotiate as a bulkbuyer from manufacturers. The way discounts andrebates are passed on to members varies betweengroups so make sure it’s absolutely clear how this will bedone. You’ll need to work out how this compares withdiscounts you have already negotiated locally withpreferred suppliers.
Increase�sales
• ‘Best of both worlds’ proposition
• Wider ranges and exclusive products
• POS, displays and merchandising support
Your customers will like the proposition that you areindependent but with the buying power of a group –this gives them (and you) the ‘best of both worlds’ withpersonal service and competitive pricing. Most groupswill also offer you ‘own label’ ranges and support withpoint-of-sale, merchandising and displays. Centralstockholding may also be on offer.
Access�professional�services
• Business services
• Financial services
• IT and internet support
•Training and workshops
• Professional bodies
Some buying groups offer an excellent range of otherservices which may be valuable to your business.Financial services include invoice factoring, credit, loansand insurance. Some of the more sophisticated groupsoffering marketing packages, software systems to helpyou run your business operations and customisedwebsites ready to use. Relationships with professionaland training organisations can also offer discounts.
Network�with�other�independents
• Members-only exhibitions with preferredmanufacturers
• Regular meetings
• Regional workshops
• Supplier presentations
• Helpline
A lot of retailers enjoy the buying group environment ofbeing independent but not alone out there on the HighStreet. Groups hold regular meetings and some havetheir own trade shows, regional meetings andworkshops to help you develop your business. Thenetwork gives you someone to call when you needadvice on, for example, an unusual installation, a technicalconsumer complaint, legal issue or business dilemma.
• Absorb the pressure of foot traffic and reduce wear
• Improve thermal insulation and warmth
• Increase sound insulation
• Smooth out sub-floor imperfections
• Last the lifetime of the carpet
Poor�or�old�underlay�will...
• Feel hard and unwelcoming
• Reduce carpet life
• Cause wrinkling and premature wear spots
• Cause carpet fibres to break down more quickly
• Not meet British Standards
How�thick?�
A maximum of 12mm is recommended (working withgripper will be difficult thereafter) but rooms with heavytraffic will need a thinner, denser pad. The combinationof thickness and density is all important as a thickunderlay with low density may not perform well.Typically, the thicker the underlay, the better quality it willneed to be – 11mm is often used for luxury installationswith 9mm and 7mm the common domestic thickness.
In a tight market for margins, underlay for carpet and
laminate flooring offers retailers one of the best
opportunities to add value to every sale – with good
profitability, trade-up potential once benefits are
understood and high satisfaction levels with customers.
But 50% of carpet is still sold without new underlay!
Retailers should create an assumption that new
underlay is always required, the only decision is which
type. It’s also a good target-setter for sales staff.
Setting up in-store demonstrations so customers can
walk on samples with different grades of underlay and
feel the difference has shown excellent results – some
manufacturers offer point-of-sale units.
Underlay
Sponge�rubber
The market’s most popular underlay is available in flat orwaffle patterns in a wide range of weights for differentapplications. It performs well for comfort and has adurable spring retention.
PU�(polyurethane)�foam
PU foam is a relative newcomer to the market, typicallymade from recycled foam offcuts. The foam providesexcellent comfort and performance levels with lots ofthickness options – and its light weight helps handling. The product can be re-cycled again after use.
Crumb�rubber
Flat and dense, crumb rubber is good for heavy footfall - offering maximum protection but a little less comfort(and very good over stair nosings).
Laminate�underlay
There’s still an opportunity to sell underlay with laminateflooring, improving the acoustic performance of the floorand helping the boards float above any imperfections inthe sub-surface.
Combination
A rubber crumb base with a felt top layer offers a goodcombination of protection, durability and comfort. It alsoallows carpet with seaming to bed into the top felt.
Underfloor�heating�underlay
Always ask if there is underfloor heating. Most manufacturersoffer specialised products. Underlay and carpet with acombined tog rating up to 2.5 can be used – which meansthe underlay would normally have a tog rating of 1.0.
Felt
This traditional (but environmentally friendly) underlay ismade from recycled fibres – wool, jute and synthetic – tocreate a firm, dense pad with excellent thermal insulation.Still a very popular choice among contractors whenstretch fitting woven carpets.
Pre-tackified�underlay
A self-adhesive single stick underlay in both needlefeltand PU. A removable system for heavy use whencomfort is desired.
Benefits
www.underlay.com
www.numa-online.co.uk
www.interfloor.com
www.interfloor.com
Specialists in pre-tacked underlays,soft fibre boards & Roberts Tools.
www.estillon.co.uk
www.carpenter.limited.uk
www.floorwise.co.uk
Types
Sponge rubber Crumb
Combination PU foam
11THE STOCKLISTS January 2012
THE�BEST�CARPET�WOOL
Wool carpets have a historic reputation for quality because as afibre it is known to withstand pressure and have excellentappearance retention properties. The best wool for carpetproduction is ‘strong’ wool and this is grown on sheep breeds foundin Britain and New Zealand. Most carpets will contain both BritishWool and New Zealand Wool because British Wool is more bulkyand resilient and offers texture and unique heathery shades tocarpet, whilst New Zealand wool is softer and whiter andparticularly good for plain, lighter shaded ranges. Combining the twowithin a blend for carpet yarn gives manufacturers the perfectqualities for carpet.
100%�wool�or�80/20�–�80/10/10�wool�richWool has yet to be matched by any man-made fibre; it has superiorstrength and does not need other fibres to improve itsperformance. However manufacturers choose to use synthetic fibreswithin the yarn blend for a number of reasons. These include fibreflexibility, dyeing, heat setting, stain resistance, durability and cost.These wool rich compositions offer industry standard carpets whichwill perform well in the home.
Flooring factsheetWool�fibre
THE�BENEFITS�OF�WOOL�CARPET
PracticalStrong and Resilient – Wool carpet will provide superior performanceover many years as it can offer unique resilience and long lastingdurability. The natural crimp of wool offers valuable ‘bounce-back’ so thatpile compression is resisted and the effects of tracking and shading arereduced – maintaining good appearance over many years.
Easy care – Wool is a natural fibre that has an inbuilt resistance to soilingdue to its natural oils and its outer surface of microscopic scales and as aresult additional anti-soil treatments are not necessary. Simply vacuumingthe carpet will keep it looking good and whilst wool initially repels spills,prompt and complete blotting with white paper towels or an absorbentcloth is advised and will address many household spillages.
ComfortSoft and Warm – Wool carpet adds luxurious underfoot comfort andwarmth to the home and acts as an insulator improving heat retentionand energy efficiency.
Peace and Quiet – Wool carpet absorbs sound and cushions the homeagainst echo and room to room noise transfer.
SafetyFire Retardant – Wool is naturally fire resistant, has a slow ignition rateand tests show that it is self extinguishing within seconds. It meets manysafety regulations without additional treatments and is favoured incontract locations for this reason.
Fall Friendly – Carpet cushions and so provides a softer floor whichprotects against serious injury in falls by the very young or the elderly.
Internal�EnvironmentIndoor Environment – As a natural ‘smart’ fibre with a complex physicaland chemical structure, wool helps to create a balanced atmosphere inthe home. It breathes and absorbs humidity in the air, releasing it whenthe atmosphere becomes dry and helps improve air quality by absorbingairborne toxins in indoor air.
Anti–allergy – The minute scales on the fibre’s surface will hold fine dustuntil vacuumed which helps to reduce floating particulate in theatmosphere. Wool does not give off harmful emissions or promote thegrowth of bacteria and wool is not a food source for dust mites.
Eco/Environmental�Natural and Sustainable – Grown on sheep, which graze freely, wool isboth 100% natural and fully sustainable. As shearing is a necessary part ofanimal husbandry this means that every year there is a fresh supply ofwool available for the carpet manufacturing industry.
Energy Efficient – Wool is energy efficient in the home and also in carpetproduction.
Biodegradable – Wool fibre is biodegradable in soil and will producenitrogen, sulphur, carbon dioxide and water which are all plant nutrients.
Environmentally Assessed – Wool is an environmentally responsible fibrethat has been measured in terms of its ecological impact. A Life CycleAnalysis study carried out by Leeds University to ISO 14040 standard forBritish Wool concludes that it compares favourably when measuredagainst man-made fibres.
SAFE EASY-CAREDURABLE COMFORT
British�WoolThe�Planet�Friendly�Fibre�for�Carpet
aboutwool.com
12 THE STOCKLISTS January 2012
COLOUR�MATCHINGCarpets are produced in batches - known ascreels - and usually each batch produces between500m2 - 3000m2 in a single width, depending onthe creel size. Whilst the recipe used by the dyerremains constant, and is followed to the letter, in each separate production the colourreproduction will vary from batch to batch.However production is matched back to theoriginal or master sample to ensure that thecolour remains ‘within a commercial tolerance’.
This process if not an exact science and acommercial tolerance is subjective butnevertheless is usually the professional judgementof the head dyer based on his/her experience.
A greater level of tolerance is required onblended colours (Heathers etc). To ensure perfectcolour matching it is advisable that a single widthbe used in any installation requiring exact colourmatching.
N.B. Carpets which are laid with the pile travellingin different directions, even though they be fromthe same batch will appear not to match.
For further information please check with themanufacturers recommendations.
SAMPLESThe samples held by individual retailers may notbe from the same batch as current productionand therefore should be used as a guide and notan exact colour match.
SHEDDINGAll cut pile carpets will lose short fibre, which iscreated during production when spun yarn is cutfor tuft formation. These fibres fall onto thesurface of the pile and appear as ‘fluff ’.
The effect varies with yarn type and may beremoved without detrimental effect upon thecarpet by vacuum cleaning. This excess fibre isonly a small fraction of the total fibre contained inthe carpet.
PULLED�LOOPSPulled loops occur only in looped pile carpetwhere one or more loops in the continuous pileis pulled through the primary backing of thecarpet. This is usually due to some local condition,possibly some sharp object which has caught in aloop in situ and has resulted in a pull. Pulled loopsare easily dealt with by trimming the offendingend level with the rest of the pile. They should notbe left as this could result in further loops beingpulled and developing into a ladder.
SPROUTINGOccasionally an odd tuft or two can work its wayto the surface and stand proud of the rest of thepile. This is probably due to one end of the tuftbeing longer than the other i.e. J shaped tuftinstead of V shaped. Remedial action merelyrequires that the offending tufts be scissortrimmed level with the rest of the pile. Theyshould never be pulled out.
SHADINGShading occurs because the pile of the carpet hasbecome crushed, flattened or brushed in adifferent direction to the natural lie of the pilewhilst in situ. This causes light reflection atdiffering angles resulting in the creation of lightand dark patches on the carpet. This will occur onall pile fabrics but can be more noticeable onplainer carpets because the shadows created bypile pressure will not be disguised by a heavypattern or design.
STATICCarpets do not produce static but like otherhousehold fabrics and objects have the capacity tostore it. Static is caused by the build up of staticelectricity upon personnel in a dry environmentand is discharged when a person makes contactwith an object which can conduct electricity (i.e.door handle or filing cabinets, etc).
The static charges will vary in intensity dependingupon the individual, air humidity and the contactmaterials. Static is more usually associated withsynthetic materials as they do not retain moisturevery well but it can and does occur with wool invery dry room conditions.
Preventative measures include the introduction ofmoisture into the room or in situ carpettreatment.
FADING�ON�WOOLCarpets made from wool can and do fade in use.The degree of fade can vary depending on thecolour chosen and the local conditions to whichthe carpet is subjected.
Fading can be caused by exposure to ultra violetlight which is found in daylight, but is acceleratedwhen sunlight shines directly onto the carpet. Thishas the effect of lightening or “Bleaching” thecolour just as exposure to sunlight will lightenhuman hair. Wool is after all animal hair.
Protection should be given to carpets exposed tosuch conditions just as you would protect otherfurniture or fabrics.
A complaint on fading would be consideredjustified if it failed to meet the required shadestandard when tested to the British StandardBS1006 (1990).
Like shading, this occurs when the pile or nap ofthe carpet changes direction and thus reflects lightat different angles showing the effects of shadingwhich can become permanent. It is also describedas ‘watermarking’. This can happen to every carpetconstruction be it Axminster, Wilton, Tufted, HandWoven, Persian, Chinese, Indian or even CoirMatting. Like shading it can be more apparent onplain carpet because heavy patterns can disguisethe effects. It can occur quite quickly afterinstallation. A tremendous amount of research hasbeen carried out over many years by manyinstitutes to determine the cause of thisphenomenon but none of it has proved conclusive.There is no commonly known manufacturingprocess which can cause or cure this phenomenonand therefore it is not a manufacturing fault. Forfurther information please check with individualmanufacturers recommendations.
INDENTATIONSWhen a carpet is subjected to a heavy point load,such as under the legs of furniture, it isunreasonable to expect the carpet not to indent.Usually, the longer the load is in place, the longerwill be the time for the pile to recover. In the caseof very heavy loads in place for a considerabletime, the recovery time can be very considerable.
It must be remembered that it is not only the pileof the carpet that becomes indented. the underlaywill also indent and the backing of the carpet mayalso distort into the indentation in the underlay.Some underlay’s will recover well and some lesswell depending upon their composition, thickness,density etc.
The use of cups below furniture legs can spreadthe load and the net result is a larger area of lessdeeply indented carpet.
The ability of a carpet to recover from a heavystatic load can be measured in the laboratory, usingthe test method described in BS 4939 and manymanufacturers will have data on this aspect ofcarpet performance. In this test the carpet isloaded for 24 hours and the degree of recovery ismeasured after 1 hour and 24 hours. Since thereare so many different underlay’s however, it is veryrare for the recovery from a heavy static load tobe evaluated on carpet and underlay.
Often normal maintenance (vacuum cleaning witha rotating brush machine) will speed up recoverybut in the case of serious indentations the use ofan iron and damp cloth or a steam iron togetherwith a blunt darning needle to carefully tease upthe pile can be beneficial. Care must be take notto over wet the carpet, of course.
FLATTENINGFlattening will occur as a result of traffic whicheventually flattens the pile particularly in the mainareas of use. All pile fabrics will flatten to greateror lesser degree dependant on the amount oftraffic to which it is subjected and the construction(tuft density/pile fibre/height/weight) of theproduct concerned.
SOILINGSoiling is usually the result of some local conditionto which the carpet has been subjected to, ormaintenance, or lack of maintenance programme.There is nothing we as manufacturers can do toprevent soiling in use. There are several types ofsoiling which are quite common:
Spillages - Liquids such as soft drinks, cordials orany drink which contains sugar, particularly hotdrinks, is likely to leave a stain. In such instances,professional help should be sought.
Shampoo - if incorrectly applied, can leave stickysoap residues in the fibres which can result in thesoiling reappearing quite rapidly.
Dust - which is carried on draughts can soilcarpets in various ways, apart from the obvioussoiled edges, at gaping skirting boards for instance,dark lines appearing on surface might suggestairborne dust vacuum-drawn through poorly fittedfloorboards. Sometimes the shape of floorboardscan be seen quite clearly. Air borne dustsometimes shows itself as spots on the carpet, thisis due to the air carried on a draught under thecarpet escaping through minute holes both in theunderlay and the carpet, leaving dust deposited onthe pile much like a filter action. In suchinstallations, the use of a lining paper is essential asa preventative measure.
It is the responsibility of the retailer to advise theconsumer when the carpet is measured of anypoorly fitting doors, skirtings, or floorboards andthe consumers responsibility to ensure anyremedial work to seal draughts, is carried outbefore the carpet is fitted, if a resulting complaintis to be avoided.
INSTALLATIONSTelephone National Institute of Carpet Fitters(NICF) for further information – 0115 958 3077.
PLUS A VAST RANGE OF ACCESSORIES AND TOOLS FOR CARPETS AND LAMINATESContact our sales office or your area representative for prices on any of the above ranges. We also offer a fast service on non stock items. Phone our showroom manager for prices and samples. Our latest price list is dated July 2011.
REP DETAILS:Ashley Best Tel: 07976 916752 Surrey , Hampshire, South LondonNick Hart Tel: 07771 967609 Essex, East LondonKarl Goult Tel: 07957 685428 North London, West London, North West London, Middlesex, Herts.Zac Marsh Tel: 07828 663325 Kent, South East LondonSteve Feher Tel: 07771 616018 Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Berkshire
LOOP PILE AND CORDPINCH FELT Needle Punch CordPINCH FOAM Needle Punch ROCKY HB Loop Pile CordROCKY FB Loop Pile CordTITAN CORD Loop Pile Gel Back
CORMAR STOCKEDAPOLLO Excellon TwistBERWICK 40 80/10/10 40 oz TwistBERWICK 50 80/10/10 50 oz TwistFOREST HILLS SUPER 50/40/10 32oz TwistFOREST HILLS ELITE 50/40/10 42oz TwistHOME COUNTIES 42 oz TwistHOME COUNTIES 50 oz TwistMALABAR 100% NaturalNATURAL BERBER SUPER 80/10/10 35 oz TwistNATURAL BERBER ELITE 80/10/10 45 oz TwistNATURAL BERBER DELUXE 80/10/10 55 oz TwistNEW OAKLANDS 80/10/10 32 oz TwistNEW OAKLANDS 80/10/10 42 oz TwistNEW OAKLANDS 80/10/10 50 oz TwistPRIMO PLUS Excellon TwistPRIMO ULTRA Excellon TwistPRIMO TWEED Excellon TwistPRIMO SAXONY Excellon SaxonyWEST COUNTRY 50 80/10/10 50 oz Twist
CORMAR CARPETS 3/5 DAYS DELIVERYAVEBURY 100% Pure New WoolLINDISFARNE 100% Pure New WoolTOWN AND COUNTRY 80/10/10 60 oz TwistWEST COUNTRY 60 80/10/10 60 oz Twist
Berkeley Axminster80% wool / 20% Nylon available 3.66m & 4.57m
Range comprises 8 Designs
Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order
Variations Axminster80% wool / 20% Nylon available 3.66m
Range comprises 12 Designs1-9073- Green Valencia - End January1-9077- Jade Mirage - End January4-9079- Mikado - End of January9-9100- Khalabar - Early January1-9016-Green Khyber - End of JanuaryStocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order
Precious Gems Axminster80% wool / 20% Nylon available 3.66m
Range comprises 5 DesignsAll Items Stocked Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order
Wensleydale Axminster80% wool / 20% Nylon available 3.66m
Range comprises 8 Designs6-3528-Willowdale Corn - Early DecemberStocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order
Cornell & Stanford Axminster80% wool / 20% Nylon available 4.00m
Range comprises 7 Colourways in 2 Designs2-9301-Cornel, Venetian Red - End January3-9301-Cornel, Indigo Storm - End JanuaryStocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order
New Afghan Axminster80% wool / 20% Nylon available 3.66m
Please Refer to WorksStocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order
FOR BESPOKE CONTRACT ENQUIRIES TELEPHONE 01562 745 000
Camargue Axminster80% wool / 20% Nylon available 3.66m
Range comprises 10 DesignsAll items stock.Stocked items Delivery 14 Days from Order
BOND WORTHCONTRACT AXMINSTER
Bond Worth worked closely with ‘10 Manchester Street’ to carpet guest suites and public areas in sumptuous 11 row axminster.
The hotel boasts a Hunters & Frankau Humidor as well as an all weather outdoor cigar smoking terrace.
A U N I Q U E L U X U RY H OT E L I N T H E H E A RT O F LO N D O N S W E S T E N D
21THE STOCKLISTS January 2012
C
UK SALES MANAGER: Steve Glover 07896 871 502
SALES TEAM: Dan Milstead 07841 565 349 Essex, Suffolk, South Cambridgeshire, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire,
Beds, Hertfordshire, North LondonJon Ormrod 07918 081 782 Lancashire, Cheshire, North Wales, Merseyside, North Staffordshire,
West Hampshire, Channel IslesSteve Perks 07968 835 205 West Midlands, Northamptonshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Mid Wales South Wales, Leicestershire, Herefordshire, South Shropshire, South StaffordshireSimon Stead 07968 835 204 Yorkshire, North Humberside, Lincolnshire, Notts, Norfolk, North CambridgeshireAndy Finch 07970 693 752 Sussex, South & South West London, Surrey, Kent, Berkshire, S.E. LondonStuart Pollock 07854 580 658 Scotland, Cumbria, North East England
This fantastic range is available for immediate delivery. Contact respective Brockway sales personnel for further detail.
U
South Wales, Leicestershire, Herefordshire, South Shropshire, South StaffordshireS Lincolnshire, Notts, Norfolk, North CambridgeshireA
• 40 colours on superb lectern
• 3 qualities – Diamond, Silver & Gold
• 80% Wool, 10% Nylon, 10% Polyester
• 4m and 5m widths
• 4 stacks of 18” x 9” samples
• 2 colour swatch books
• 9 coordinating stripes now available
22 THE STOCKLISTS January 2012
The Leading
Country Wide
Carpet & Flooring Suppliers
Trade Show Rooms Available• Specialist advice and terms available on contract enquiries •
CALL US NOW!!!020 8443 3322
We can supply you with virtually any make of carpet and flooring at
GUARANTEED maker’s list price.......
Delivered direct to business premises FREE OF CHARGE.
For a Speedy and Efficient Service
TRAFALGAR TRADING ESTATEJEFFREYS ROAD
ENFIELD MIDDLESEX
EN3 7TY
Tel: 0208 443 3322
Fax: 0208 805 2346
Opening Times:
Monday - Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm
Saturday 8.30am to 12 noon
ColumbiaFlooring plc
23THE STOCKLISTS January 2012
OUR SALES TEAMGreater London as far as N. Circularon north side of Thames and as faras M25 on south side, Surrey,Middlesex, Sussex, KentJohn A ConstableT: 01622 685397 M: 07836 734322E: [email protected] & North Lincs John AlsopT: 01904 762471 M: 07860 572220E: [email protected], Cornwall, Somerset, DorsetBrendan Hart M: 07850 130221E: [email protected], Leics, Northants, Notts, Derbyshire Jim Osborne M: 07738 642934E: [email protected], Berkshire, Bucks,OxfordshireNiall Martin M: 07866 735772 E: [email protected] Wales, Bristol,Gloucestershire, Wiltshire Andrew Jefferies M: 07831 457102E: [email protected], Cumbria & Isle of ManJohn Rostron M: 07973 733208E: [email protected] Anglia, Bedfordshire, Cambs,Essex, Herts, Norfolk, SuffolkJonathan Hart T: 01621 817992 M: 07889 264466 E: [email protected] Midlands, South Wales(Wholesalers)Paul BrewerT: 0121 4277117 M: 07798 745181E: [email protected] Manchester, Cheshire, North Wales Philip HambletonT: 01925 740050 M: 07966 397676E: [email protected] EastRebecca Gibbons M: 07970 491215E: [email protected] TindalT: 01436 671421 M: 07836 705620E: [email protected] Islands, Isle of Wight John Eastlake T: 01323 896141 M: 07885 398858E: [email protected] Ireland Gary O’Boyle M: 07831 220675E: [email protected]
YOUR HEAD OFFICETEAM CONTACTSOperations Manager: Lesley Inman M: 07703 337989 E: [email protected]
We’re very excited about the launch of our newly designed website – which, wehope you agree, is much clearer, more informative, easier to navigate andgenerally livelier and nicer to look at than the old one!We have divided our product sections simply into products most suitable fordomestic use; and those which can span a whole raft of contract applications.Brand new for the site is our Stockist Finder, so if people visiting the site like whatthey see, they can find out where their local stockist is based, with a simple postcode search function.Customers can also use the site to request up to three carpet samples and willreceive an automatic acknowledgement of thanks for their interest in our ranges.Registered stockists will also be able to access technical specifications for all theproduct ranges in a private area of the site. All stockists will be given details ofhow to access this area of the site.Please do go and have a look and tell us what you think!
HAPPY NEW YEAR We’d like to wish all our customers and colleagues very best wishes for 2012.
Our New Year’s resolution is much the same as last year’s: we’re going to stayfocussed, keep positive and continue to do our best to deliver good customer serviceand saleable products. We’re sure you’ll all be doing much the same!
OUR NEW WEBSITE IS UP AND RUNNING
Our latest new range, Paddington, isnow available in rolls and cutlengths. It’s a chunky high-low looppile in 100% three-ply wool,Scotchgarded and in six versatilecolours: cafe au lait, mink, tan,khaki, gravel and saffron.
We will also be unveiling several newpolypropylene qualities at Domotex.
Paddington in cafe au lait
Barbican
ALL CHANGE FOR PADDINGTON
SEE YOU INHANNOVER! Don’t forget to come and see us ifyou are coming to Domotex (January14-17). We’re in a brand newlocation this year in Hall 5, standC18. As always, it’s a greatopportunity to see what’s in thepipeline (come and have a properlook at our new wools, Paddingtonand Barbican; plus we’ve some newpolypropylenes), to talk to our designand marketing teams from Hollandand generally tell us what you’d likefrom us in 2012.
Seeing is believingCustomers can buy with confidencewhen they see the Carefreecleanability in action with the newvideo units for your existing RegencyPOS systems. See our rangeselection in next month’s issue...
Sandhurst RangeThe Wilton Sandhurst range is woven with 24 beautifuland modern colours. This plain twist is a great choicefor both domestic and commercial markets.
Introducing the UK’s newest weaver, now open inKidderminster with high levels of stock for rapid delivery.
Modern carpets manufactured using traditional values
Contrast RangeA cut and loop range weighing in at 47oz comes in 6modern and exclusive colours. Unique contrast patternprovides this Wilton range with a vibrant and strongpresence.
Honeycomb RangeThis cut and loop range features in 6 natural and warmcolours. Made out of 100% new wool, the bee hive typeof texture our Honeycomb range adds additionalwarmth.
Chequers RangeA loop range weighing in at 35 oz and comes in 6colours with a unique chequers board like pattern. 100% new wool ensures high quality texture feel.
Marble Planet RangeThis range is made of 80% new wool and 20% nylonand is ideal for commercial and heavy domestic use. Itfeatures 8 strong and passionate colours.
Merlin RangeOur Axminster Merlin range features 10 vibrant andlight colours and is made out of 80% New Wool and20% Nylon, ideal for commercial as well as domesticmarkets.
Baroque Cameo RangeWith the 10 strong commercial colours, the medallion patternin combination with pindots makes this range ideal forballrooms, function rooms and public areas.
Baroque Pindot RangeThe traditional pindot pattern makes this range ideal for hotelrooms and receptions. Weighing in at 40oz our Baroque Pindotrange, this Axminster range has 10 strong commercial colours.
Trellis RangeThe range features 8 soft and natural colours whichmakes it extremely pleasant and warm. Made in 80%New Wool and 20% Nylon for the commercial market.
Tartan RangeMasterWeaver AxminsterTartan range features 6 modernand vibrant colours, combining traditional Tartan designwith modern and vibrant colours.
We also stock Ball & Young Underlays,Accessories, Entrance Matting and offer aSpecial Order Service on products fromvirtually every flooring manufacturer inexistence! 48 hour Delivery Service on all
BEAULIEU carpets Adventure TwistAthena DublinDurham TwistExplorerEnduranceFashion/GalleryGrass CollectionHeavy Tread MarsMotor CarProntoSelectionsSweet HomesYucatanvinyls Arte Del Ceramic Celtic Stone - New ColoursChessComfort GripJazzSherwood Oak Studio Sonata Texalino Supreme Urban laminatesEssentials (previously Casa)Cottage
IVCComfylux Extra ExpressionsFantasyFusionMaster GripPlanet Precious MetalsPrestoUltimate OakVictoria
Website: www.solentwholesale.com Zola Park, Barnfield Drive, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 6UX.
CHECK STOCK, PLACE ORDERS AND MANAGE YOUR ACCOUNT 24/7 ALL THROUGH OUR WEBSITE
We carry other products not listed above, and can also provide a swift special order service on non stock lines. Our reps and sales office would be pleased to answer all enquiries. Our last Price List is dated January/February 2012.
We are pleased to announce the arrival ofour latest display stand showing all ourcollection on one compact unit.
If you are interested in having one of ourfree stands please contact our Sales Officeor your local Sales Agent.
Please visit our website atwww.weston-carpets.co.ukfor online cutting requests and more information on our products, or telephone 0845 644 9090 (local rate)
to speak to one of our telephone sales team
OUR UK SALES TEAMMr Ron FeweryTel: 07976 244892London, Oxfordshire, Berkshire,Buckinghamshire.Mr Steve Acton Tel: 07957 836207Kent, Sussex, Hampshire, Surrey, Dorset.Mrs Jac Hayman Tel: 07815 785801Contract Sales East Anglia.Mr Gary Foster Tel: 07515 283872East Anglia, Northamptonshire.
Mr John HinchliffeTel: 07774 990359North Wales, Cumbria, Manchester,Liverpool.Mr Derek Boyd Tel: 07940 320708Scotland.Mr Lee Palmer Tel: 07774 101640Channel Islands.Mr Jonathan Gorman Tel: 07815 121660Northern Ireland.
Mr Mark GarbettTel: 07840 664757Bristol & the West Country.Mr Steve Fletcher Tel: 07831 818989Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Tyneside. Mr Keith StevensTel: 07710 160166Midlands & South Wales.
Bespoke Design carpet fromHammer CarpetsYou may not have heard of them but Hammer Carpetsin Denmark are the worlds largest manufacturer ofColortec bespoke design carpets in the world.
Colortec is a state of the art tufting machine that usescomputer controlled technology to manufacture anydesign in a maximum of 8 colours.
This tried and tested manufacturing method is up to 10times faster than Axminster and exactly replicates theappearance, unlike a printed design carpet.
If you would like more details of this type of carpet andto find out how competitive and easy to use it can bethen please call your Sales Agent or our Sales officewho will be happy to help.
Jacs Designer tonal loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths.
Natural Lines Super luxurious 100% Wool loop pile available in 4m and 5m widths.
Tunis A heavy domestic berber loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths.
Queen Tweed A fine heavy domestic berber loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths.
Denver A stylish heavy domestic tonal loop pile in 100% Wool, available in 4m and 5m widths.
Oklahoma A heavy domestic berber loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths.
Supreme Stripe A heavy domestic tonal stripe in 100% Wool loop pile.
Supreme BoucleOur best selling level loop 100% Wool product available in 12 up tothe minute colours in both 4m and 5m widths.
Imperial Boucle A heavy domestic loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths.
Las Vegas A chunky luxurious loop pile in 100% Wool available in 4m and 5m widths.
Royal Velour A luxurious velour in 80% Wool/20% Nylon in 5m wide.
Sisal Boucle and Sisal Berber Natural fibre textured loop pile ranges in two styles.
The Stone Fibre CollectionOur unique flat woven quality in many fashion stylesand colours available in 4m and 5m widths.
Orlando A chunky loop quality with a thick latex backing for a luxurious feel.
You can create a carpet websitefor your business in 5 minutes.
Fill out a form for five minutes and we’ll have a good-looking
flooring industry website online for you within 5 days*.
Then you can update it, add to it or ignore it for ever!
Flooring stores don’t generally need anything too fancy – most of the time,
visitors are just trying to find out your phone number, your opening hours
or where they can park! Or they’re just checking if you look professional.
The Floorsites package from The Stocklists offers:
� 7 ready-made pages of flooring industry content covering the key sectorsof carpets, vinyls, laminates, etc.
� Instant online editing – if you can type, you can customise these pagesyourself anytime to add latest offers and news… or leave them as they are– we put all your contact information in there anyhow.
� Choose photos from our library to make your site unique – or uploadyour own images.
� Link to Google Maps – let visitors find you quickly and see where to park
� Auto-email form to let customers contact you direct
* The site takes a bit longer to set up if you already have a website or address.
A Floorsite from The Stocklists costs £390 for the set-up and the first year – and £90 per year thereafter (exc. VAT).
Check�out�what�your�site�would�look�like�atwww.thestocklists.com/floorsites�or contact David Spragg at [email protected] or call 01845 573241.
NO OBLIGATION ‘TEST DRIVE’...We set up your site free-of-charge for a month. If you don’t like it, you don’t pay. There’s nothing to lose!
We’ll have it online for you within5 days.If you don’t like it, it will cost younothing.If you do like it, it will cost you£390 + £90/year.
32 THE STOCKLISTS January 2012
2 January 2012
Luxurious soft sell
FlooringNewsThe epitome of luxurious twist pile carpet, Wakehurst Placebrings the desirability of British wool to the Crown Floors label.
Using a wool-rich 80/10/10 construction for the ideal combinationof lasting looks and softness, Wakehurst Place manages to strike abalance between decadent comfort and great value, making it asure fire hit among homeowners looking for quality carpet thatdoesn’t cost the earth.
Available in 12 natural shades ranging from foggy grey through tomoss green and a deep rose red, Wakehurst Place is part of the10 range strong Crown Floors portfolio that provides retailerswith a highly marketable collection of carpets for the home.Suitable for use in bedroom to lounge and anywhere in between,Wakehurst Place comes in both four and five-metre widths tominimise wastage and seams. The carpet benefits from the naturaland rapidly renewable qualities of wool to make a good choicefor those looking for a more sustainable floor too.
“Sitting at the top of the Crown Floors collection, WakehurstPlace is a carpet of true regal elegance,” explains James Caldwell,sales co-ordinator, Crown Floors. “That’s why we've employed thefinest materials to make the range. Consumers will takeconfidence in the British Wool and Woolmark logos and 15 yearwear warranty, while retailers will appreciate the excellent in-storePOS and display, making Crown Floors a natural ‘go to’ brand inany store.”
T 0800 0773301 www.crownfloors.co.uk
A deep and inviting pile that consumers will want to sink their handsinto mark out Bella Villetta as a carpet of luxurious appeal and aspart of the SmartStrand collection, it is also a carpet of impeccableenvironmental credentials and performance.
Made from SmartStrand carpet fibre, which features 37% rapidlyrenewable content derived from corn, Bella Villetta also deliversoutstanding stain resistance, incredible softness and a durability tocompete with the most enduring carpets. With a Lifetime Stain, Soiland Pet Warranty, Bella Villetta is proving an irresistible choice forhomeowners and retailers:
As part of the SmartStrand collection, we’ve seen Bella Villetta go fromstrength to strength,” says Howard Lindsay, vice president for UK,Ireland and South Africa. “The collection’s reputation for style,substance and value, backed with a great environmental story, is provingitself an excellent mix in flooring retailers across the country. As ournetwork grows, Bella Villetta is marking itself out as a carpet for thoseon the hunt for a real feeling of complete unadulterated luxury.”
Thanks to the stain performance of SmartStrand even light coloursbecome less of a challenge and so the range is available in the off whiteof Contessa and a range of natural shades including sand, earth androck tones and the lavish deep plum of Winery. Available in a 3.66mwidth, Bella Villetta can be used in living and dining spaces and thebedroom and comes with a 15 year wear warranty.
The SmartStrand collection is now available on a tombola withinnovative built-in display to highlight SmartStrand’s pioneeringperformance and comfort levels.
T 01480 479830 www.themohawkgroup.com
Bellisimo broadloom
33from The Stocklists January 2012
34 FlooringNewsJanuary 2012
News
Heathertwist Design is the latest carpet from Lano Carpets’ Easy Carecollection, providing fuss and worry free performance in a striking geometrictonal design.
Using Lanoset two-ply yarn for durability, Heathertwist Design takes 10 of themost popular colours in its sister range Heathertwist Supreme to providehomeowners with a contemporary design carpet that balances perfectly withplain styles, providing freedom of choice throughout all parts of the home.
“Whether creating a more dynamic living space or using the advantages ofpattern in the hallway, homes can use Heathertwist Design to introduce a freshcontemporary twist to an otherwise plain landscape,” says Birger Karlsson, UKand Ireland Area Sales Manager, Lano Carpets.
Thanks to its 100% polypropylene Lanoset fibre, the 40oz Heathertwist Design isbleach cleanable and comes with Lano’s famous Easy Care 10-year stainresistance warranty for peace of mind. Along with a 7-year warranty against wear,Heathertwist Design meets the expectations of today’s modern consumer:
Available in a 4-metre width, the 1/8th gauge twist pile Heathertwist Design ismade specifically for the most demanding areas of the home, with enoughdurability and resilience for use as a value-driven option in hotel guestrooms.
T 00800 5266 5266 www.lano.com
Design with a twist
Kidderminster Carpet Museum has celebrated its 30thanniversary and set a date for its opening in October thisyear at the Stour Vale Mill site in the town.
On December 2, 1981, a trust was founded after carpetmanufacturer Ken Tomkinson contacted Charles Talbot andStephen Quayle with the vision of creating a museum inthe town for the industry.
The years since have seen mixed fortunes for the trust anda struggle to secure premises but that all changed in 2006when Morrison Supermarkets acquired the formerWoodward Grosvenor factory in Green Street and offeredGrade II listed Stour Vale Mill to the trust.
By September, 2010 funding of £1.97 million was securedfrom the Heritage Lottery Fund and work began on thesite in August, 2010.
The museum is set to feature two working looms - aWilton Jacquard loom and a Spool Axminster loom.
www.carpetmuseum.co.uk
Museum set to open
Currently the only commercial rated sheet vinyl available in a stunning tiledécor, Penta from Itec Contract Floors is gracing the houseplantdepartment of Syon Park Garden Centre.
Selected by contractor Trevor Wharton Carpets in Matai 698, a unique andItec-exclusive 40 x 40cm slate tile effect, Penta provides the garden centrewith an R10 slip resistant surface.
“The garden centre is built around the beautiful 16th Century stable block ofSyon Park, the London residence of the Duke of Northumberland, and so itwas vital that the floor embraced this with a style befitting of such a building,”explains Trevor Wharton, contractor responsible for the installation. “So whatcould be a better way than pay homage with a stone design installed over thebuilding’s original flagstones. Penta is the only commercially rated vinyl sheetthat could do this for us. Yet it was equally important that the floor provided asafe as well as a durable surface and with slip resistance and Class 33 wear,Penta ticked all the right boxes.”
Penta also features Superguard PUR technology that makes the floor easier to maintain, facilitating easier wash down and reducing the need forcleaning chemicals. Some 250 square metres of the floor were installed throughout the houseplant department in a two-metre width to accommodatethe complex layout of potting benches. Installed with a specialist system directly upon flagstones, Penta was hot welded at the seams to provide animpervious surface.
T 00 32 5665 3211 www.ivcgroup.com
Vinyl in bloom
36 FlooringNewsJanuary 2012
The British Wool column
Domotex is a kick start to the carpet
industry, bringing in the New Year with the
reality that only a major trade show and its
promise of new products and promotions
can do.
The British Wool Marketing Board will be
at the show and is exhibiting with the
International Wool Textile Organisation
(IWTO). Together they will be promoting
the Campaign for Wool – which is now the
industry’s unified programme for wool
promotion across the world.
The stand will continue to operate as a
meeting place for the UK textile industry
and will provide an area to hold a small
and informal meeting.
Richard Poole of the BWMB said, “We set
out to offer a space that was useful to our
wool partners at this important show
because increasingly we were seeing fewer
and fewer carpet manufacturers exhibit
here. We wanted to enable those that did
visit to have a spot to meet up and this
facility has proved good for that.”
The BWMB will also promote British Wool
and deal with enquiries about the fibre.
“This show still gets great attendance from
across the world and British manufacturers
and retailers do gain from seeing the
ranges and trends that are shown here.”
Visit the BWMB at stand D53, Hall 5.
British Woolat Domotex The land of Stars and
Stripes may be feelingthe same economicpains as the UK butSurfaces - the largestflooring show in NorthAmerica is holding updespite many industryplayers relaying thetough marketconditions – but LasVegas, where it is based- is a town where theshow always goes on.
British Wool willexhibit at the event butwill lead for the firsttime completely on the
Campaign for Wool (CfW) – showing its commitment to the USA roll-out of theprogramme.
“This year, the Prince’s campaign is at the centre of our activity because we will commence ameaningful wool promotion in America this year,” Bridgette Kelly of the CfW said.
“British Wool has spent two years building the CfW’s profile there and we now have supportfrom many of the key industry players. The reality is that the simplicity of the generic woolmessage is very attractive to them. Many feel that they would benefit from having a unitedmessage for wool carpets so that the consumer is not confused by too many selling messagesat point of sale.”
“It is of course appealing to them that we have a royal patron – it is no surprise that theylove that connection – Americans generally like the Royal family and this offers added valueto them.”
“We will promote wool in partnership with the industry and look to create events thatstimulate interest at retail level and in the press. They view this as a very exciting prospectfor their businesses.”
The US retail flooring industry is experiencing the same problems as the UK – with propertyprices having fallen in most areas and property movement largely stagnant. Retailers arehaving to focus on redecoration but many retailers have commented that wool has notsuffered as much as other floorings because people are investing more in their refits andchoosing quality to improve their living space.
British Wool attends the NorthAmerican Flooring Show
Richard Poole of the BWMB will be atDomotex to talk to visitors at the BritishWool/CfW stand.
The Campaign for Wool will exhibit on the British Wool stand atSurfaces 2012 in Las Vegas.
Industry forum gathers at Wool HouseA large group from the British flooring industry gathered at Wool House in late November tolearn about potential plans for the CfW in 2012 and to see the way that British Wool is handgraded at the BWMB’s new wool grading depot in Bradford.
The Carpet Foundation and British Wool jointly hosted the event to encourage feedback frommanufacturers and buying groups on key CfW plans and messaging/activity for promoting woolcarpets in-store.
Inevitably there was interesting opinions from the threefocus groups and POS remained a key factor for somewith window displays proving a topical discussion.
“The mixed group of manufacturers all took part in thetopics and gave their opinions openly, which is preciselywhat is needed, so we are very positive about thisconsultative process. It was a very good start to gettingthe wool carpet industry on the same page in promotingthe fibre in the most effective way,” Ian Hartley, CEO ofthe BWMB said. Further meetings will be held in thecoming months.
Members of the UK carpet industry visitedthe British Wool depot at Bradford to seewool being graded.
37from The Stocklists January 2012
The WoolSafe Organisation recently held an EducationalConference for its industrial partners, members andassociates. A fantastic turnout of WoolSafe Certifiedcarpet cleaners attended the event, along withrepresentatives from several chemical companies andrepresentation from the carpet manufacturing sector. Theconference encouraged shared learning and networkingamong members and provided a deeper understanding ofthe carpet cleaning industry for all present at the day-longevent.
The conference began with an in-depth discussion of thevarious ways that WoolSafe works with its partners to promotethe WoolSafe brand to the wider community. The sessioncovered joint marketing and promotion and social networking,stimulating lively debate among attendees.
This was followed by two sessions of an educational nature,which began with a training seminar by Chemspec Europe oninsect infestations and a newly developed control system. Thisgrowing problem requires specialist knowledge of treatmentsand training in pesticides regulations. An exam-basedcertification took place and a permit to use this new productand offer a treatment of textile insect pests service wasawarded to WoolSafe Certified cleaners who took part.
The second session took a close look at the cleaning of sisal andother cellulosic floor coverings. WoolSafe Certified Operatorand Registered Inspector, John Bryden has been very successfulin dealing with these troublesome flooring types anddemonstrated how to achieve the best cleaning result.
The conference also covered WoolSafe’s latest and ongoingresearch projects that it hopes will collectively identify theparameters for the ultimate cleaning result. Aspects such as howpH impacts dirt removal and colourfastness and how differentfibre types respond to cleaning agents generated interest fromall in attendance. The conference was concluded with a three-course banquet, providing the perfect opportunity to cementfriendships and forge new relationships with like-mindedcolleagues.
T 0800 731 5688 www.woolsafe.org
Woolsafe educatesTop retailer recognised
One of the UK’s mostdistinguished carpet and flooringretailers, T Nutt & Sons Limited,is celebrating its success afterreceiving an honour at aprestigious awards ceremony.
T Nutt & Sons Limited wascrowned Runner-Up in the BestSmall Family Business category ofthe Midlands Family BusinessAwards.
Judges recognised and praisedthe Chesterfield-based companyfor its “exceptionally strongfamily values” and for its
“outstanding service to all customers”. In addition, plaudits were bestowed onthe firm for its “loyalty to customers”.
Collecting their trophy on the night, brothers David and Keven Nutt said theywere “thrilled” at their award. The Nutt brothers, who were accompanied bytheir wives Fran and Milena, said: “We are regularly assured of our excellentservice by our customers and well-wishers. But to be recognised by anindependent panel of judges means so much to us.”
“We treat each customer as a family member. We believe that it is the goodwillof our customers that has enabled us to win this award and we attribute thishonour to them. We pledge to continue to serve our ‘family’ customers withsincerity, loyalty and tremendous pride.”
The multi-award-winning company, based in Clay Cross, is run by David, Kevenand Patrick Nutt, and was founded in 1869 by their great grandfather, Thomas Nutt.
It employs 12 staff, of which five are part of the immediate Nutt family. The firmis a popular supplier and fitter of carpets, wooden floors, vinyls and laminates. Itscustomer base is scattered mainly across the Midlands, but has repeat clientsacross the country.
The firm’s claims to fame include their appearance on a DIY show screened bythe BBC. In addition, David and Keven Nutt were selected by the CarpetFoundation to head a specialist marketing campaign, which featured in leadingnational trade magazines, including Ideal Home and BBC Home & Antiques.
The company, which is a member of the National Institute of Carpet &Floorlayers, as well as of the Greendale Carpets & Flooring Buying Group,strongly believes in giving back to the community and displays its commitment byfrequently sponsoring local carnivals, school activities and sporting contests.
T 01246 863148 www.nutt.co.uk
38 FlooringNewsJanuary 2012
News
Liquorice allsorts
Bringing pop pinks and cool chromatics, Bubblegum and Liquorice is the latest collectionfrom Avenue. Defining urban living and a bold new generation, the collection is gearedtowards a young and vibrant audience.
Featuring decors that will spark the imagination and will get consumers to think of floors ina fresh way, Bubblegum and Liquorice includes stripes, abstract designs and realistic woodand stone decors that appeal with fizz and energy, setting a new agenda for cushion flooring.
“Cushion flooring is a great fuss free floor that naturally appeals to a young audience,” saysCaroline Wille, product manager for Avenue Floors. “That’s why we’ve decided to bringtogether some of our most energetic designs into one collection that will undoubtedlyappeal to first time buyers and shoppers looking for something a little out of the ordinary.”
Low maintenance and with great underfoot comfort, Bubblegum and Liquorice styles arebacked with Easy Clean technology that will endure everything life has to throw at it.Available in two, three and four-metre widths and with a seven-year guarantee, the collection also hits a price point that will suit a young audience.
Not only offering a striking, colourful option for kids bedrooms, Bubblegum and Liquorice is also great for use in areas prone to spills and standingwater, such as kitchens, while the Thermoback provides a level of underfoot comfort to satisfy the most comfortable of living spaces. The perfect all-round floor for anywhere in the home, Bubblegum and Liquorice is sure to become a favourite among retailers looking to capitalise on a newgeneration of buyer.
T 00 32 5665 3211 www.ivcgroup.com
Sue Carr of award sponsor V Formation, David Nutt (centre), Kevin Nutt
News
39January 2012from The Stocklists
SalesMark UK, a memberof The Floorwise Group,has strengthened itsmanagement team with theappointment of Lee Smartas Managing Director.
Lee, 44, brings 23 yearsexperience within theflooring trade, includingretailing and working onbehalf of Europeanmanufacturers to promoteand sell products within theUK. He joins SalesMarkfrom Western Cork Ltdwhere he has been salesdirector for the last threeyears.
Speaking about his appointment, Lee said 'it is time to pushSalesMark forward to the next level, gain new customers andintroduce new products that will sit well alongside their existingportfolio.
The businessman who brought The Harrogate Flooring Show back to lifein 2009 has urged the industry to show more support for the sector’sonly full trade show if it is to succeed in challenging economic times.
“The flooring industry needs one great event to maintain its commercialedge and fight for new business, “ says David Wildman. “But while we have ahuge amount of support and goodwill out there, the industry needs toinvest in its future and avoid the ‘bunker mentality’. We need to show moreconfidence if we expect any return of consumer confidence.”
David Wildman was speaking as he handed over the show, without charge,to a new company headed by Wendy Adams, the highly experienced eventsorganiser who helped David re-launch the event two years ago and securean increased audience last year.
“I was asked by the trade to re-launch a national showat Harrogate and I have delivered on that with thehelp and loyalty of a committed core of exhibitors,”said David. “Now the industry must take more of theinitiative and work with Wendy to sustain and developthe show they want and need.”
David backed the show’s re-launch at considerablepersonal risk financially and by year two, the gamblepaid off with a creative and lively event that wasapplauded across the industry and attended by morethan 3,000 visitors. He will continue to support WendyAdams informally.
Wendy Adams has run a successful Harrogate-basedevents business for the last 20 years – organisingshows in Harrogate, London and Europe for thefashion, interiors and bridal industries.
“We can build on David’s success if we get thecommitment from the companies that make up theflooring industry,” said Wendy. “2012 isn’t going to beeasy for anyone but there is business out there to bewon and events like Harrogate help find newopportunities and protect existing relationships.”
Wendy will be meeting with key exhibitors early in the New Year and wantsto give the industry more say in shaping the event to meet their needs.
The line for the event already includes many industry leaders includingAbingdon, Associated Weavers, Moduleo, Cavalio, Cormar, Crown, EdelTelenzo, Fells, Furlong, Headlam, Lano and Mastercraft Rugs.
David Cormack of Cormar Carpets commented: “The flooring trade in theUK needs an exhibition to be proud of and it should be a positive year forthe Harrogate show.
“According to my father, it is the 50th Anniversary of the HarrogateFlooring Exhibition - 1962 was the first. For us, Harrogate is not about thereturn on our investment based on one year’s experience but aboutbuilding a brand by meeting customers, new and old, over those years - 50 in fact!” he said.
The Harrogate Flooring Show takes place September 2, 3 and 4, 2012.
T 01423 779967 www.harrogateflooringshow.net Editor’s commentHarrogate is the only time the industry really getstogether and fires itself up to fight the battles on the High Street. The industry needs to unite behind one great occasionand retailers need to see what’s on offer across a highlycreative, diverse and innovative sector. A retail store isa lonely place to be in a recession, Harrogate isn’t. I defy anyone to return from the show without onenew idea to make a little extra margin – and that’swhat business is about.
DOMOTEX 2012 Hall 3 Stand C53 • Hall 5 Stand F04
DOMOTEX 2012
42 FlooringNewsJanuary 2012
The top flooring trends and fashions for the 2012/2013 season will be on show
at Domotex, the world’s foremost trade fair for carpets and floor coverings,
from 14 to 17 January 2012. “Domotex is a business platform and flooring
lifestyle show in one, a powerful mix that makes it the most important annual
event for the international carpet and floor coverings industry,” commented
Deutsche Messe Management Board member Dr. Andreas Gruchow.
“All indications are that it’s going to be a great success. The global market leaders will beout in force, plus there’s the hotly anticipated premiere of the Wood Flooring Summit, anew, improved site layout and a range of new online services. With features like these,our exhibitors and visitors know they will be in pole position for new business.”
Themed “Customized Living,” Domotex 2012 is where 1,400 exhibitors from over 60nations have chosen to exhibit their new collections and design developments. Therange is truly comprehensive, encompassing everything from hand-knotted andmachine-made carpets, parquet and laminated flooring through to textile and resilientfloor coverings.
Architects, interior designers, skilled tradespeople and wholesalers and retailers offurniture and interior furnishings can look forward to a multitude of exciting newproducts, trends and developments for both the domestic and contract furnishingsectors. They will be able to gain a complete overview of the international carpet andfloor coverings market because Domotex draws some 83 percent of its exhibitors fromoutside its host country – a level of international participation that most trade fairsaround the globe can only dream of.
Trade visitors can compare different manufacturers, products and prices, negotiatedirectly with suppliers and learn about the latest trends – all under one roof. Domotexis equally advantageous for exhibitors, who benefit from the highly internationalcomposition of the fair’s trade visitors (with 63 percent coming from beyond the hostcountry). “The international visitors who come to the fair tend to be highly motivatedbuyers, as they see Domotex as an opportunity to do all their buying for the entireseason and eliminate the expense of further business travel during the year,” Dr. Gruchow said.
“Customized Living” the keynote theme at Domotex 2012
Personalisation is one of the defining trends of the current market and has anenormous bearing on interior design. Carpets and floor coverings in particular offeralmost unlimited scope for individual design. The customer can choose from a richpalette of off-the-rack materials, colors and formats, not to mention the customizedproducts that a growing number of providers are now offering.
Dr. Gruchow commented: “Increasingly, our human desire for greater individuality andself-realisation is finding direct expression in the design of our own four walls.” Thesetrends are reflected in the lead theme chosen for Domotex 2012, “Customized Living.”The theme symbolizes the leading design trends among the carpets, textile and resilientfloor coverings and parquet and laminated flooring products that will be on display atthe fair.
Domotex 2012 will also feature highly targeted special displays, speaking events andpanel discussion on interior décor and design that will yield new ideas and insights forvisitors from the wholesale/retail sector, the skilled trades, architecture and interiordesign. For instance, the fair is continuing its Souk Deluxe partnership with renownedcarpet designer Jan Kath, and will feature the new Wood Flooring Summit with itsstrong focus on product design.
www.domotex.de
World leaders roll out for theworld’s top flooring fair
Hannover promises to be a beacon of hope in the troubled Europeanmarket as flooring shows its finest - with flair and enthusiasm
Hall 6, Stand D30Jack Thomson
+44 7860 911748
IC
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NORD 1 WEST 3
NORD 3
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NORD 2
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Hall 6, Stand C46Robert Witherington
+44 7917 100505
Show date 14 - 17 January 2012
Show venue Exhibition Grounds, 30521 Hannover, Germany
Opening hours Daily - 9am to 6pm
Highlights of Domotex 2012
Floorforum: Arranged in the display categories – Natural,Classic and Fashionable - this showcase led by leading designerUlf Moritz will offer fascinating insights into trend-settingcolours, materials and patterns.
Souk deluxe: The trend display for handcrafted rugs, SoukDeluxe, is a real eye-catcher. This special display presents abroad spectrum of handmade rugs for the benefit of visitingprofessionals.
Events program: A forum for dialogue betweenprofessionals’ - a broad range of special events, tradeassociation meetings and conferences offers you the chance tolearn more about the key issues affecting the industry today.Here you can compare notes, benefit from expert knowhowand strengthen your position in your everyday business dealings.
Diane Martin and David Spragg will beat the event on January 14 & 15 - call us on +44 (0)7595 89 5177
Hall 7 Stand A45Tony Capon (Export Director)
+44 7711 019060
DOMOTEX 2012The World of Flooring
Hall 5 Stand C18Lesley Inman
+44 7703 337989
43from The Stocklists January 2012
Avenue and Leoline will be proving their position as a force to bereckoned with in cushion flooring as they exhibit at Domotex with a range offloors designed to appeal to consumers looking for the ideal combination ofstyle, performance and value.
With Leoline presenting new innovations geared towards delivering homesfloors that deliver affordable style and Avenue bringing the latest on-trendstyles and subtle nuances, the IVC Group stand is promising to deliver visitingretailers a broad overview of cushion flooring:
“Domotex is an ideal opportunity for us to prove that both Avenue andLeoline can deliver cushion flooring that innovates and continues to deliverexcellent value,” comments Francis Debrabandere, commercial director, IVCGroup. “We can also use the show as a platform to trial new concepts and togauge feedback.”
Highlights will include product introductions for 2012 as well as various newdisplay concepts. Designed to support Avenue stockists with striking displaysremoved from the tombola style of commonly used for cushion flooring, thedisplay will be available to premium level retailers.
T +32 5665 3211 www.ivcgroup.com Hall 6 Stand C26
Mohawk Alongside the stunning EverStrand and SmartStrand® residentialcarpet ranges, Mohawk will also use Domotex as a platform to showcase itsBending Earth collection, a range of high performance modular carpet takinginspiration from science, technology and modern architecture.
Available in three stunning designs - Datum, Caliber and Sector – thecollection comes in 11 tailored colourways and will be supplied directly fromUK stocks. With UltraSete RC 35% recycled content backing, Bending Earth isCRI Green Label Plus certified and constructed from solution dyed nylon forease of maintenance and long-term appearance retention.
“With a range of solutions tailored to meet the needs of both domestic andcommercial environments, Domotex is a natural proving ground forMohawk,” comments Howard Lindsay.
Mohawk will also reveal further developments to its popular SmartStrand®collection that has taken the UK residential carpet sector by storm,introducing a new tonal cut pile collection to broaden the appeal of the Bio-PDO content range
T 01480 479830 www.mohawkflooring.com Hall 5 Stand B40
Lano Carpets is taking an environmental approach to this year’sDomotex as it builds upon the philosophy of its Green Signature,showcasing products that bring reduced impact on virgin petrochemicalresources.
With an expansion to the Bamboo collection, made in part from the fast-growing renewable resource, as well as the introduction of brand newOpera, a Brussels weave carpet made from 100% recycled Econyl100 yarn,Lano Carpets will be a destination for all visitors looking for innovativeways to reduce their environmental impact.
“As part of our Green Signature, we not only commit to reduce thefootprint of our operations through reduction in energy consumption andgreener energy sources such as our solar panel installation, but also toimprove the ingredients within our carpets to make them less demandingon precious and non-replenishing resources,” says Birger Karlsson, UK andIreland Sales Manager, Lano Carpets. “These new developments in ourportfolio represent a significant step towards reducing the impact of ourprocesses and we are looking forward to telling visitors to this year’s showalso how they can add value to their business.”
Bamboo has natural anti-bacterial and humidity regulating properties andwhen turned into carpet fibre it is exceptionally soft to the touch. Furtherto this, the easily harvestable crop can grow up to 60cm per day, making ita rapidly renewing resource from which to source carpet yarn.
Made entirely from post industrial and post consumer recycled polyamide,Econyl yarn is 100% sustainable without any loss in performance overvirgin polyamide. Providing a highly durable carpet with long lastingappearance retention, Econyl ensures the Opera performs as well as itcares for the environment.
Lano Carpets will also reveal new developments in its Ultimo, Easy Care,Technic and Landscape concepts, as well as details on commercialproducts under the Lano Flooring Solutions brand.
T 00800 5266 5266 www.lano.com Hall 5 Stand B18
DOMOTEX 2012
44 FlooringNewsJanuary 2012
Domotex 2012 looks set to be successful for Interfloor as it establishes new partnerships to
expand into high-growth markets around the world. The company already has customers in more
than 70 countries worldwide including China and South East Asia, and has been particularly
successful this year in the Middle East. Another successful market where Interfloor has become
the preferred underlay supplier, is in the major international hotel chains worldwide, with their
largest ever single export order of more than 150,000sqm of underlay.
“Our international success has been based on the enduring strength of our brands, product
quality, customer service and growing range,” said export director Tony Capon. Interfloor is the
largest British-owned underlay manufacturer but which also provides a complete one-stop shop of
underlay and accessory products. With a portfolio of more than 800 flooring accessory products
including carpet gripper, profiles, adhesives, tapes and fitting tools, in addition to its highly successful
underlay business, Interfloor is the only manufacturer that can offer a complete solution.
Interfloor is also the only manufacturer of carpet gripper in Europe, through its Gripperrods
product. The company has recently improved the product’s appearance and quality to maintain its
position as the leading carpet gripper in the UK.
Interfloor will be exhibiting the extended range of Stikatak adhesives at Domotex, along with its
market-leading brands of Tredaire and Duralay underlays, including the award winning Technics and
Durafit double stick underlays for the international contract market. Interfloor will also be
showcasing their new flame retardant PU underlays: Tredaire FR7 and FR9, 7mm and 9mm ultra
high density (145 kg/m3) underlays.
T. 01706 213131 www.interfloor.com Hall 7 Stand A45
F. Ball and Co. Ltd.will be showcasing the latestaddition to its productrange, new Stopgap Fast-Track 30 Rapid Set, RapidDry SmoothingUnderlayment, at Domotex2012. With a genuineworking time of 10-15minutes, Stopgap Fast-Track30 can be trafficked after just30 minutes and allows textileand resilient floorcoveringsto be installed overabsorbent subfloors afteronly 45 minutes.
Using the latest cementbinder technology, StopgapFast-Track 30 is ideal for fast-track projects as it combines
both rapid setting and rapiddrying characteristics. The product also has excellent self-levelling andself-smoothing properties.
In addition to the new product launch, F. Ball will also be revealing its2012 Recommended Adhesives Guide (RAG). The industry’s mosttrusted guide to adhesive and floorcovering compatibility, the F. BallRAG features over 5,500 adhesive recommendations for floorcoveringsfrom over 200 leading international manufacturers. As well as beingproduced as an A5 booklet, the RAG is now accessible through a rangeof digital and interactive formats, including the new smartphone app.
Commenting on Domotex, Marketing Manager at F. Ball, Richard Harris,explains: “F. Ball is continually expanding its international operations andDomotex is key to the company’s strategy to further develop itsbusiness within the global flooring market. The show allows us to meetwith existing customers and build new relationships, as well asshowcase the new additions to our comprehensive product range.”
A team from F. Ball’s sales, marketing and liaison departments will beon stand at the show to discuss the company’s latest developmentsand answer any questions.
T 01538 361633 www.f-ball.co.uk Hall 7 Stand B45
Brockway has once again teamed up with Woolsof New Zealand to produce a concept carpetshowcasing the potential of eco-friendly Laneve wool.
The carpet, called Fantasia, will be seen for the firsttime on the WNZ stand at January's Domotex show
in Hannover. It is a neo-natural tweed incorporating four colours - Raven, Buckskin,Lint and Luna - in two 3-ply 100% Laneve stipple yarns, resulting in acontemporary marled broadloom product.
Brockway has also used the yarn in combination with the four plain yarns tocreate an inspirational co-ordinating stripe.
The concept was developed at Wools of New Zealand's Centre of Excellence inIlkley, and the carpet manufactured by Brockway at its Kidderminster factory.Brockway's managing director Charles Annable believes that the collaboration ofleading-edge design with the company's British manufacturing expertise is creatinga stir with its retailers and customers.
"Since the launch of our Vogue range and Designer Collection over the past fewyears we've found a real appetite for 'carpets with an edge' - something a bitdifferent from the norm," he said.
"Our working relationship with Wools of New Zealand's Centre of Excellence hasproved incredibly successful and we're delighted to be pushing this even furtherwith another stunning concept for Domotex."
Wools of New Zealand's Joanna Ramsden, who designed the new carpet, said:"Fantasia offers the consumer a new direction for fashionable stripes andcoordinating carpet. By combining plain shades with a creative marled yarn, the stripes and stippled broadloom give a multi-textured tweed with a 'neo-natural edge'.
"The colours of Fantasia reflect the trend towards a mellowing of themonochrome look. Black remains a dramatic accent but when combined withnew shades of vintage white, a blue cast charcoal, a silver grey and a subtle herbal green makes a stunning carpet with a natural and contemporary twist for the floor.
"It's an approach that can be interpreted in many ways, not least by blending woolwith other fibres for both traditional, comforting and glamorous effects - theconcept holds lots of exciting possibilities."
T 01562 828200 www.brockway.co.uk Hall 5 Stand B12
DOMOTEX 2012The World of Flooring
45from The Stocklists January 2012
Edel Telenzo Is a stalwart at Domotex and returns for 2012 at a new,improved location – stand C18 in Hall 5, alongside other broadloom producers.The manufacturer’s strength lies in its depth of offer, with expertise in both wooland wool mix qualities and polypropylenes on gelbac, thus covering both retailand contracts markets comprehensively.
Visitors to the stand will be able to see the latest additions to the woolcollections, earmarked to be a real winner in 2012. Barbican is 100% two-plymulti-level loop pile suitable for Heavy Domestic and General Contractapplications. It’s Scotchgarded and vigorously tested for colour fastness, againstlight, wet and shampoo. It’s also insect and rot proof. The range comes in afabulous new multi-stripe design and a co-ordinating two-tone plain in sixfashionable earthy tones: Ashes, Cappuccino, Smoke (shown) Aspen, Wheat andParchment. Paddington is a chunky high-low loop pile in 100% three-ply wool,Scotchgarded and in six versatile colours: Cafe au Lait, Mink, Tan, Khaki, Graveland Saffron.
Several new polypropylenes are also in the pipeline for launch at the show.
T 01422 374417 www.edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk Hall 5 Stand C18
Wools of New Zealand will again be hosting the Wool Centre, the focalpoint of which will be Laneve, the only fully traceable carpet wool which is goingfrom strength to strength in the marketplace worldwide.
Co-exhibitors on the stand include Brockway, Westex, Bronte, Ryalux and Flockfrom the UK, as well as Angora and three international spinners. Brockway andRyalux are already Laneve partners in the UK while Flock will be showing their 12new ranges designed and developed with Wools of New Zealand which areaimed at architects and designers in the luxury market. Wissenbach will bereleasing Laneve/Rubia dyed rugs as well. In an innovative move, even the chairson the stand will be covered in innovative eco-wool fabric.
David Hammond, Market Manager, Europe and North America for Wools of NewZealand said: “Domotex is a pivotal event for Wools of New Zealand and thisyear promises to be the most exciting yet, with new partners, new products andnew marketing opportunities. Laneve has really struck a cord with the industry,designers and consumers and the new ranges from Flock and Wissenback willonly further fuel interest. These are exciting times.”
Pictured is the headquarters of the ZLTO, the Dutch farmer cooperative in whichevery element of the installation had to be sustainable and so used Laneve.
T 01943 603888 www.woolsnz.com Hall 5 Stand B12
DOMOTEX 2012
46 FlooringNewsJanuary 2012
Balta Group will be bringing its residential and commercial carpets tothe halls of Domotex with the ITC, Domo and Balta Broadloom brands,underlining its position at the forefront of the broadloom carpet sector.
ITC will present new BCreative® products made with latest Chromojettechnology, which enables digital printing on commercial rated carpet togive complete artistic freedom and adding weight to the trend for usingthe floor as a canvas of creativity. In its residential portfolio, Lakelanddelivers a beautiful optical effect in a ‘cracked ice’ pattern with a palettethat presents an elegant and timeless sensibility.
Several new carpets will join the Domo portfolio for 2012, as it introducesnew Exelto® polypropylene carpets to its collection. The chunky berberloop pile of High Flyer gives the carpet a natural quality, with rusticovertones enhanced by a beautiful nine-strong natural palette. Suitable foruse anywhere in the home, High Flyer is available in a four-metre width.
Another loop pile addition comes in Thunderbird, from the Nature’sWriting collection. Using 100% Exelto® yarn, Thunderbird mixes tight andloose loops for a heavily textured appearance in six colourways. Availablein a four-metre width, the carpet is an ideal low maintenance choice.
For Balta Broadloom, Domotex will see new launches under the Stainsafe®
brand, an update to the top of the range Woolmaster® collection, therelaunch of the famous face-to-face woven Wiltax and the introduction ofSensit®, a newly developed branded polypropylene fibre.
This fibre is extremely soft and has a silky lustre, but still retains theresilience and easy to clean bleach cleanable performance that makespolypropylene such a popular choice in the home. It will feature on threenew ranges in Trésor, Euphoria and Serenity. The new Saxony and twistintroductions to the Stainsafe® collection will come to UK shores at thebeginning of 2012 and will include Urban Legend, Saxon King andSomerset; three Saxony qualities with pile weights ranging from 625 to1,700gm/m2.
T +32 56 62 22 11 www.baltagroup.com Hall 6 Stand A30
DOMOTEX 2012The World of Flooring
47from The Stocklists January 2012
Custom made carpet manufacturerBronte Carpets are delighted toannounce that they will be co exhibiting at Domotex for the first time in their 30 year history.
Bronte will be showcasing their recentlylaunched all new 100% Wool and 80/20Twist colour pallets along with their fullrange of qualities and exciting Hand CraftedBorders. All available in any colour and anywidth upto 12m with no seams.
Sales Manager Andrew Broughton said:“These are exciting times for Brontefollowing the launch of our new ranges andthe appointment of several overseas salesagents. We are delighted to be at Domotexfor the first time in our history and also withour Wools of New Zealand partnership”
T. 01282 862736 www.brontecarpets.co.uk
Hall 5, Stand B12
48 FlooringNewsJanuary 2012
Domotex preview
Wools of New Zealand are leading theway to a Natural Future for CarpetsWools of New Zealand will have a bigger and more diverse stand at Domotex in January2012. The Wool Centre will be promoting both Laneve and Wools of New Zealandbranded yarns and carpet ranges as well as playing host to 10 co-exhibiting partners:
• Angora Carpets, Turkey (axminster and wilton producer)• Brockway Carpets, UK (tufted carpet manufacturer – including the Designer Collection and Laneve ‘Akaroa’ range)
• Brontë Carpets, UK (manufacturers of high-quality custom-made carpets)
• Chromatone, UK (international colour referencing system for wool carpets)
• Flock, UK (marketing distributor of Laneve tufted and woven carpets)
• Grentex, India (Laneve-branded spinner of woollen, worsted and semi-worsted yarns)
• Martinelli, Italy (Laneve-branded woollen spinner)• Rubia (100% natural dyes), Netherlands (Laneve)• Westex, UK (vertical manufacturer of luxury tufted carpets)
Wools of New Zealand has once again teamed up with Danspin (Denmark) and Brockway Carpets in Kidderminster to produce a
co-ordinating concept carpet collection showcasing the latest yarn styling and design trends in Laneve wool. The plain
broadloom/stripe collection called ‘Fantasia’ will be seen for the first time on the WNZ stand B12 in Hall 5. The broadloom carpet is
a neo-natural tweed incorporating 4 shades from the WNZ 2012 colour forecast – ‘raven’, ‘buckskin’, ‘lint’ and ‘luna’ – in two 3-ply
100% Laneve stipple yarns, resulting in a contemporary marled product. This tweed yarn has also been used in combination with the
4 plain yarns to create an inspirational stripe.
“The colours of ‘Fantasia’ reflect the trend towards a mellowing of the monochrome look. Black remains a dramatic accent but when
combined with new shades of vintage white, a blue cast charcoal, a silver grey and a subtle herbal green makes a stunning carpet with
a natural and contemporary twist for the floor. It’s an approach that can be interpreted in many ways, not least by blending wool with
other fibres for both traditional, comforting and glamorous effects – the concept holds lots of exciting possibilities”, explains Joanna
Ramsden, WNZ Creative Manager.
Other carpets also on the floor of the stand include: ‘Mariana’, the Ultimate Laneve saxony collection from Ryalux, is laid in the
Martinelli and central areas. Westex have their Ultimate Twist Collection on the floor of their area, and Brontë Carpets feature ‘Patrick’
from their luxury deep pile (2370gms) 100% wool bespoke saxony range.
The key focus for Wools of New Zealand will be the presentation of the three
Laneve carpet ranges launched into the UK retail market during 2011. Over 250
independent retail partners in the UK have signed up to the Premier Partner
membership and have Laneve lecterns and point-of-sale material in store. The
lecterns, housing Laneve-branded ranges, will be prominently displayed on the stand.
Ryalux have become the latest manufacturer to sign up to become part of the unique
Laneve collection from Wools of New Zealand.
They join Brockway and Ulster in introducing the first-ever fully traceable carpet back
to source. ‘Mariana’ a 60oz Saxony in 12 standard colours and available in any custom
colour up to 7 metres, joins ‘Akaroa’ - a twist pile from Brockway - and ‘Auckland’ and
‘Queenstown’, loop piles in 6 colours each from Ulster, to form the Laneve
Collection.
“Provenance and authenticity are key for today’s consumer. The
Laneve Collection ticks all the boxes for the environmentally
conscious carpet buyer”, says David Hammond, European Market
Manager for Wools of New Zealand.
Each carpet sold comes with a unique trace code enabling the consumer to trace its
origins back to the farm where the wool was grown.
T 01943 603888 www.woolsnz.com Hall 5 Stand B12
49from The Stocklists January 2012
50 FlooringNewsJanuary 2012
Furlong call it the Carefree Zone - their stand at Interiors where buyerscan be confident in the knowledge that the extensive Carefree range willtick all the boxes with consumers for price, quality and practicality.
The Carefree range includes all carpet styles in contemporary colours withan advanced wipe-clean technology - demonstrated to great effect on thevideo lecterns that form part of the innovative POS package.
“Carefree has had a tremendous response from the market because it offers the fullest mix of benefits with competitive pricing - the idealbusiness proposition for the current market conditions,” says Neil Valentine,Northern Sales Director of Furlong.
T 01772 696787 www.regencycarefree.co.uk Stand F4 in Hall 2
Interiors UK, the UK’s largest trade interiors event returns in 2012 with
additional investment to ensure the changing demands of both the retail and
contract buyers are met.
Interiors UK is an all encompassing event, you can not only expect the cream of the industry
under one roof, but also additional elements that will inspire, inform and create an indulgent
experience for all who attend. This year, in line with the product categorisation of the event that
has been taking place over the last few years, sub-branded areas will be named to bring to life the
different parts of the show, giving an individual identity to each area. These areas will be Fabric,
Modern Elegance, Décor, Living Lifestyle, Contemporary Design, Flooring and Lighting.
The show will lead with a British Heritage theme, with the entrance to the show and each of the
halls providing their own twist on this concept. The entrances will all provide inspiration for the
visitors, using different colour hues and a host of products from the companies you can see inside
the halls. Interiors stylist and journalist, Diana Civil, who has worked for many of the UK’s leading
interiors magazines and is famous for creating fabulous on-trend rooms, has designed all of the six
hall entrance spaces. Interiors UK is very excited to have Diana working with them to create
these wonderful areas of creativeness, design achievements and all that is British.
From traditional to modern and
contemporary interior products,
interiors UK not only offers a fantastic
buying opportunity, but as ever
comprises an increasing number of enhancing features, collaborating with some of the
best in the industry to create an improved experience around the
halls. Over 500 exhibitors will be present at the show including big
industry brands alongside the smaller independent companies and
design students. Flooring brands include Cavalio Floors, Furlong
maintenance. Lightline fulfils every design requirement with a variety of
borders, inlays and feature strips to choose from.
Conceptline is a superb
choice for housing interiors
and light commercial areas.
With a 0.3mm wear layer,
Conceptline ensures lasting
beauty and offers floors with
fascinating finishes; stone
effects from some of the
most stunning natural stone
and slate designs in the
world and beautifully grained wood effects ranging from subtle
familiar designs to innovative works of art. Both styles deliver the
utmost in authentic design and elegance and offer virtually unlimited
options for creative floor design through the use of borders, inlays
and feature strips.
The Projectline Collection
is designed specifically for
heavy commerical and
residential interiors and is
ideal for covering large
spaces with flooring that is
both durable and
extremely stylish.
Projectline offers realistic
surface textures with a
large range of stone and
wood effect finishes and
features a heavy-duty 0.55mm wear layer. An array of borders, inlays
and feature strips all provide stunning visual options to enhance any
room or space and the polyurethane (PU) coated surface treatment
assists with ongoing maintenance.
T 01782 569840 www.cavaliofloors.com Hall 2 Stand F8
Established in 2000 Stainshield are now combining theirhighly competitive range of stain protection productswith the internationally acclaimed allergy and hygieneproduct Actigard.
Safe and compatible on all fabrics and fibres Stainshieldoffer the best of protection with support from adedicated customer help line.
Quality and safety compliances include the prestigiousstandard OKO-TEXT 100 Class 1 V and BSEN 24940.
Introduced at Interiors will be a new high density waterand alcohol based stain and allergy protector, a mothproofer (concentrate) for long term protection as wellas a cure for infestations and two DIY products coveringstain protection of fabrics and rugs and allergyprotection suited to all soft furnishings and bedding.
T 01372 841467 www.stain-shield.ltd.uk
Stand 65 Hall 5
Silk to sisals
22-25 JANUARY 2012NEC BIRMINGHAM
Debut collections for Cavalio
52 FlooringNewsJanuary 2012
This was meticulously reproduced to create a technically-advanced
laminate floor. Home furnishing trends are also used for inspiration
by Parador, resulting in the creation of designs such as White Elm
and Ash Tropic, alluding to the fashion for elegant furnishings.
Alternatively, the company's brushed and rough sawn surface
designs match the trend for natural, rustic effect.
Unilin finds that its Quick-Step Classic and Go collections
continue to remain popular and states that this is because they
combine competitive pricing with ease of installation. These
attributes are further extended by constant updating that sees the
introduction of new colours and wood grains to
ensure the ranges continue to reflect the latest
fashions.
This year the Classic range was further extended with
the introduction of White Ash, Midnight Oak Natural
and Midnight Oak Dark.
The Quick-Step Go range has benefited from five new
designs, including Chocolate Oak and White Ash.
Consumers are also attracted to the company's ranges
by the variety of additional benefits that complement
its cutting edge designs.
These include a 20-year warranty for domestic use,
plus the company's Scratch Guard technology, which
makes laminate floors up
to 10 times more scratch-resistant, it states.
The company also offers matching skirting boards,
finishing and stair profiles for all floors in identical
colours and finishes. Quick and simple laying of floors
is provided by the Uniclic installation system.
Laminate flooring is combining the use of improved
technology with designer's imagination to provide
consumers with a depth of options that match the
latest trends.
While many in the UK flooring sector view it as somewhat
conservative and reluctant to embrace change, others find that
they are able to indulge their creative talents and bring something
different to the table.
While this is viewed as a brave step by some, those achieving
success with this approach find that they are able to stand apart
from the competition and enjoy less competition on price as a
result. Among those adopting this innovative attitude are
Parador, which has challenged conventional design methods with
its latest introductions.
The company's Oak Mix laminate is a relevant example, as it
utilises different widths and length of plank, as an alternative to
those using uniform sizes. Parador describes the effect as
"captivating precisely because of the irregular arrangement and
different widths or lengths of the planks". The company also
recognises the appeal of natural materials that have become worn
with age. Its Walnut Antique design originates from a chancery
floor made from engineered wood and more than 100 years old.
NewsNewsNewsFlower on FlooringFlower on Flooring
New designs for Quick-Step Go
Exploration and innovation
Parador Classic 1040 oak grey-brown
Creating something different indesign lets companies stand apart
and be more compeitive.
53from The Stocklists January 2012
Quick-Step Classic continues to be very popular
by Dennis Flower
Pergo states that it will be launching a total of 90 new products,
design features and concepts in 2012, a year which will be all
about design, says the company. Amongst the new features,
NaturalVariation and EndlessPlank are the most innovative.
The former produces up to 700 different-looking planks by
giving each a rustic look. This technique elevates laminate
flooring to a new level, says Pergo. EndlessPlank is designed to
introduce matching decors and textures that flow continuously
from the end of one plank to the start of the next, embracing
the trend for longer planks.
The company will also be introducing 39 new decors and five new
surface textures, including Embossed In Register (EIR) for a more
genuine feel, plus facette embossing for a more artistic expression.
Retailers are expecting a bumpy ride in 2012 with 42% expecting nogrowth and 39% expecting a decline in sales.
Our latest survey asked readers how bad was 2011 and was it goingto get any better in the foreseeable future – 56% of respondentsexpect no return of consumer confidence within five years.
Looking back at 2011, 44% said last year was worse than the yearbefore with 30% saying it was about the same. But 25% saw someimprovement.
On pricing, a third of our retailers said they had increased prices bymore than 10% and almost three quarters had increased prices tosome degree. 12% had marked down their goods. For most, marginsremained steady but 18% reported an improvement.
We asked about consumer behaviour overall in 2011 and 67% ofretailers said their customers were trading down and 65% agreed thatmore people were asking for discounts than in previous years. Despitethe hard times – or maybe because of them – there was less appetitefor credit among buyers.
While our respondents were split on whether higher quality saleswere holding up, 64% said wool sales had been hit by the higherprices. “I do feel although wool prices have increased, the increasespassed on to the retailers have been harsh,” said one business owner.
Retailers are bracing themselves for big price hikes by their suppliersthis year. 53% expect prices to go up more than 5% while a further34% fear rises in excess of 10%. But retailers are getting more suppliersavvy. One North East retailer commented: “There is business to behad out there and there is value if we look carefully at suppliers, ratherthan cruising on auto-pilot! We are far more selective and demandingwith suppliers now than we were a couple of years ago.”
Another commented on the current product range: “Manufacturersneed to bring out more products in a budget range to help first timebuyers and also cash strapped Britons buy the things they need.”
Asked if the Government was doing enough to encourage consumerconfidence, a massive 85% of our sample said no.
But negative media comment and internet sales came in for thegreatest criticism. “The biggest obstacle that we need to overcome isthe media - it is my belief that customers DO have money. Interestrates have been at an all time low for years now, but because of thenegative media folk are scared to spend.”
But confidence starts in the retail store: “Those businesses that saythey will have a decent year will go out and make it happen, thosewho say times are hard are probably sitting by the phone waiting for it to ring.”
Survey
39% expect sales todecline
56% expect no upturnfor five years
74% increased priceslast year
87% expect big supplierprice hikes
12% dropped prices in 2011
67% see customerstrading down
85% say Governmentisn’t doing enough
The Stocklists polled 672 retailers throughout the UKduring December 2011. Replies and comments arerecorded anonymously.Many thanks to all those who took part.
Fit for purpose?
“We are far moreselective and demanding of oursuppliers now than we were a
couple of years ago”
The banks came in for a lot of criticism with some retailers saying theycould not borrow from their banks anymore. More than 78% of ourretailers said they did not generally run an overdraft.
“After 50 years I’ve had the best out of the carpet trade, but then I’veput a lot in,” said one retailer. “But as my father once said… in thecarpet trade you will always make a good living but you'll never get rich.”
Fortune favours the brave?Retailers respond on prospectsfor business in 2012
“We need more budgetrange products to help
hard pressed Britons”“There is business tobe had out there!”
55from The Stocklists January 2012
“Because of negativemedia, folk are afraid
to spend.”
“Wool price increasespassed on to retailersby manufacturershave been harsh.”
Reasons to be cheerful
One of the anonymous comments posted to our survey site caught our attention inparticular as a valuable comment on the current situation - so we reproduce thetext here in full:
“Early in 2011, I sat in my shop feeling sorry for myself wondering when, no if, thenext customer would ever walk through the door. I had fallen into the trap ofaccepting that everyone was in the same situation and that it wasn’t just me.
“We all blamed the bankers for ruining the economy, the politicians for not doinganything about it and the media for spreading doom and gloom. I came to workone morning with the intention of closing my business down and doing somethingelse, just what I had no idea.
“After some debate, my partner and I decided to take responsibility for ourselves.We rebranded, decided exactly what sector of the market we were in and reallyconcentrated on quality and service, not price. If you want it cheap, we askedcustomers which part of our service don’t you want!!
“We haven’t looked back since. November was our 3rd best month in eight years.Business is out there. Stop devaluing the products with all these discounts andcharge the right price. Customers will pay the correct price for flooring as long as they perceive the package to be value for money. It is not all about being the cheapest.”
There is an alternative to thedownward price spiral...
“If customers asked forcheap, we asked whichpart of our service they
didn’t want!”
56 FlooringNewsJanuary 2012
Business News
The volatility of the UK flooring sector was demonstrated by polarisedresults from key players at opposite ends of the market - Victoria doubledits profits while Carpetright finally slid into a loss.
Victoria Carpets reported first half profits doubled in 2011 to £1.27million on global sales which had risen 17 per cent to £39 million. UK saleswere up almost 11 per cent to £13.8 million, turning a £0.5m loss in theprevious year into a profit of £0.16m.
“Against a backdrop of ongoing and extremely challenging economic andmarket conditions, the group has delivered a solid and satisfying increase inboth revenue and profitability across all of its operations,” said chairmanNikki Beckett.
Group MD Alan Bullock added: “The markets are going to continue to bevery difficult. We are continuing with investment into new ranges andchannels into the market, which is a measure of our confidence.”
Victoria announced it had completed the closure of its trading business inIreland during the first quarter, with businesses and brands in Ireland ofMunster and Navan Carpets reported upon as part of its UK operation.
Carpetright plc reported it’s worst first half trading performance onrecord after a year of profits warnings by the listed company. The UK’slargest floor-coverings retailer dropped from a £9.8m first-half pre-tax profitlast year to a £800,000 loss in the 26 weeks to October 29, on revenuedown 3.9 per cent to £238.4m.
Profit margins fell by 4.3 percentage points as it put on more promotionsamid "volatile" trading conditions but UK like-for-like sales still declined 2.4%.
Although it said the conditions would remain "challenging", Carpetright said itwas optimistic that its trading performance would improve in its second halfafter a recent increase in mortgage approvals, which traditionally drives sales.The company is reducing its property portfolio of 503 stores with 36closures in the first half and a further 93 sites under review.
Carpetright is focussed on improving its beds and laminates business in 2012as well as strengthening its online position.
Mixed fortunes in UK market
Internet sensation UK Flooring Direct has once again featured in The SundayTimes Fast Track 100 that lists Britain’s fastest growing private companies.
For the second year running the internet retailer has joined brands such as JackWills, Cath Kidston and Go Outdoors as one of fastest growing companies in theUK and still remains the only flooring retailer to appear on the list.
With sales growth of 50% a year, from £2.7m in 2008 to £9m in 2011, UKFlooring Direct has maintained consistent growth through online sales of wood,laminate, bamboo and cork floors. 2011 has seen the highest growth levels inthe company’s history and with plans for expansion of the retailing model intonew sectors, UK Flooring Direct is establishing itself among the topflight ofinteriors-related retailers.
“To appear in the Fast Track 100 for two years in a row proves that our model isheading in the right direction,” says Jason Ashby, managing director, UK FlooringDirect. “Despite very difficult trading conditions, which have seen overall flooringsales drop, we have increased our sales and continue to grow year on year. Weare delighted once again to be joining some of the most recognised brands andsome of the most innovative companies in the UK.”
The Sunday Times Virgin Fast Track 100, published annually since 1997, measuressales growth over three years and considers privately owned companies with salesin excess of £250,000 and employee numbers of 10 or more.
T 0845 287 5623 www.ukflooringdirect.co.uk
UK flooring’s top spot
Retailing in a recession
Fear and greed are two of life's great motivators, and in thecurrent economic climate, the former is winning handsdown, says an new report on the interiors sector.
For an industry that - for the most part - is all about sellingdiscretionary items such as furniture and homeware, thevictory of fear over greed is not terribly comforting. Butdemand, though pent-up, remains. Consumers need a reason,and the confidence, to part with their money. 2012 willpresent many opportunities, say analysts for businessintelligence service furnishingreport.
Unlike other consumer oriented industries, furniture remainsone of those trades driven by demographics and theproperty market, with every man, woman and child needing abed to lie and a sofa to sit on.
To be successful, all four components of the marketing mixwill have to be just right. We can expect some of themultiples to focus, as ever, on place, promotion and price, aswe've seen in the past year with heavy discounting and areluctance to open new stores unless they are sure thelocation is right.
But single store independents will remain reliant on product,and making the right choices when it comes to January's keybuying season will be crucial in ascertaining the true winnersand losers of 2012.
Fortunately, furniture stores still have an advantage overindependents in other industries. The depth of supply in thefurniture trade is paralleled perhaps only by the food sector,making product differentiation easier for retailers.
Consumers will be ever more discerning in 2012: keen forvalue, and parting with money only if they are sure theproduct is right for them. But retailers hold the trump card. Itis they who decide the look, feel and balance of the productflooring in their stores.
www.furnishingreport.com
57from The Stocklists January 2012
Chris LathamDirector J2 Flooring
Voice of the Trade
“ “How price sensitive is LVT now?Well we’re in a recession, everyone wants a bargain, something off forcash, something to make them feel better about the transaction, a freeupgrade etc. There’s nothing new in that, it’s just cropping up more oftenwhen budgets are stretched. Discerning customers still know what theywant and as the difference in price for a majority of LVT’s is less than thecost of floor preparation and installation few sales are lost solely on price.
Do consumers know enough about the products to pay apremium for better quality?No, not really. They have heard of the major players from the sheervolume of advertising spend – the reality is they will like a particular stylegenerally irrespective of price. Most consumers appreciate the time takento explain about the wear layer, importance of correct installation etc.Switch selling in the LVT market is relatively simple compared to carpet.
What do retailers like least about the established bigplayers in your sector?So many complain about poor customer service, dictation of terms,different divisions – retail, contract, housing sector, all from the sameplayer – you can’t have a retail account but you can have a contractaccount – if you sell it on the internet you must do x or y or not dothis or that. Having to supply consumers details to manufacturers canrankle and therefore crops up from time to time as an issue.
Are there more opportunities for smaller, service-oriented companies in this difficult market?Very much so. What small companies lack in marketing muscle, theymore than compensate for with personal service. The fact that J2 can beprofessionally “own branded” to make it exclusive to a retailer andtherefore not able to be “googled” easily makes it very appealing. Above all, price flexibility – no area managers, regional directors,marketing support - all have a cost that impacts on the price.
Do you think there are too many people making LVTproducts now?The answer is no….. and yes. How many people actually make LVT?!!Are we counting in the UK – if so I believe the answer is 1! In the fareast there are many. Selecting the right ones, with designs for theEuropean market can be quite daunting. Separating the good from thebad is a tricky exercise.
Are retailers too carpet-oriented to sell vinyl benefits aswell as possible?Many retailers have embraced the LVT concept, some may have had abad experience and walked away. Working with the new, smallercompanies like us, I believe retailers should re-consider as there issome excellent profit potential to be had for minimal outlay.
Are wood decors getting darker or lighter?I would say darker woods are edging into the market, but you stillcannot beat a traditional mid shade English oak.
Is the UK ever going to move away from oak as itsfavourite floor colour?Who knows, I think we value oak as one of our intrinsic traditionalwoods, we may not be as patriotic as some counties, but core valuesand traditions still stir within us. Oak is here to stay.
Would you ever have a real, natural wood floor in anyroom in your house instead of a luxury vinyl?Not now! Anyone who has ever experienced solid timber versus wivesand daughters with high heels and grandchildren with stones in the ribsof their trainers, knows the damage these things can cause and whowants to put up with the hassle of sanding and re-sealing when LVT’scan be replaced fairly easily.
Has the recession made the flooring industry ‘smarter’?Yes, the wealth of new products specifically from the major adhesive andscreed manufacturers, that can solve sub-floor problems have beenembraced by those companies who want to be enlightened, even thetraditional hard line “if it isn’t in a yellow bucket” brigade are starting toappreciate the benefits that these new products bring and the problemsthey can solve.
How is 2012 looking, compared to 2011?Optimistic, look after the customers, keep the prices fair, keep asking thecustomers what they want, thank them for their custom. Help them grow.
What’s the next big thing – in terms of design, colour ortexture?“This time next year Rodney we’ll be millionaires” – if we knew theanswer to that one. There are those getting excited about LVT Clicksystems but the lack of ability to use design elements will limit their appeal.
If you could ask retailers to change one thing, what wouldit be?Listen – we all get unsolicited phone calls about phone systems,insurance etc… we all get cheesed off by it! BUT just occasionallysomeone Comes along with an offer you could benefit from - justLISTEN. None of us knows it all.
Which product or product type is past its sell-by datenow do you think?Some cushioned vinyl, the flexibility and prices of LVT’s are such thatthey can rival the more expensive sheet vinyls.
In your time in the trade, what has most surprised you? The fact that I sold a 50% wool twist pile carpet in 1974 for £7.99 sqyard and if I really shop around or buy some clearance – I can still do itfor the same price – we must be barmy!
And most disappointed you?The laws on insolvency… protecting those who shouldn’t be protected(sometimes serially)!
What’s been your biggest business mistake?Assuming everyone is honest and reasonable and not being more ruthless!
If you didn’t work in this industry, what would have beenyour second choice career? (Should it have been!?) Difficult question…. I’ve loved this industry and for all its frustrations it’sbeen kind to me. I’ve always been fascinated with the Foreign Exchangemarkets – the opportunities to make (or lose!) fortunes, so a trader inforeign exchange would have been my second choice – and no, itshouldn’t have been!
“…look after the customers, keep theprices fair, keep asking the customerswhat they want, thank them for theircustom. Help them grow.“
Almost 6,000 tonnes of carpet waste was diverted from landfill byseven UK-based manufacturing members of Carpet Recycling UKduring 2011 – representing a diversion rate of 85% and a 50% increaseon 2010.
These manufacturers prevented 5,983 tonnes of waste carpet offcutsgoing into landfill – with a record-breaking amount of 4,948 tonnes beingrecycled to recover valuable fibres. The balance of 1,035 tonnes was usedfor energy recovery; the high calorific value embedded in carpets makesoffcuts ideal for energy generation.
“It’s a tremendous leap forward and a great achievement for the group,”said Laurance Bird, Director of CRUK, an association of companies with12 core funders that actively support the development of carpetrecycling.
“Several of these companies will achieve zero waste to landfill by the endof this year and all of them will reach that goal during 2012 with theinfrastructure investments they have in place.”
Managed by Axion Consulting, CRUK was set up by industry leaders todevelop viable solutions to the nearly half a million tonnes of carpet waste landfilled in the UK each year. CRUK targets include 25% landfill diversionby 2015.
Laurance observed that UK landfill sites, with only seven years average capacity left, will feel the benefit of this diversion, saying: “Alternative sustainabledevelopments in the reuse of this bulky waste now mean much less of it has to be disposed of in the ground. Recovery of fibres such as wool,polypropylene and nylon are creating new opportunities for their reuse in a wide range of end uses from equestrian surfaces to textile felts andplastics.
“Continued research by Carpet Recycling UK on behalf of its members is expanding outlets for fibre recovery and we will see several new productslaunching in 2012 to take advantage of new recycling technologies,” added Laurance.
The seven manufacturers are Abingdon Flooring, Brintons, Cormar Carpets, Forbo, Miliken, Brockway and Penthouse Carpets. Mike Collins, TechnicalManager at Abingdon Flooring said: “We achieved zero waste to landfill several years ago with yarn from offcuts going into new furniture and beddingproducts. As a valued income stream for us, it not only helps reduce our disposal costs but is also a sustainable reuse of materials.”
Robert Barker, Finance Director at Cormar Carpets commented: “Since being a member of CRUK we have focussed on carpet waste streams fromour manufacturing processes. What we originally classified as waste can now be considered a valued raw material for other products and processes.As the carpet waste market develops with the active work of CRUK, we expect to see more value and our customers will be able to realise similarbenefits in their businesses too.”
T 0161 440 8325 www.carpetrecyclinguk.com
Recycling record
58 FlooringNewsJanuary 2012
News
Staff at a United Carpets store have helped charity workers come up with a novel wayto bring Christmas cheer to children on the other side of the world – with a bit ofrecycling.
The staff at United Carpets in Chatham Road saved up the protective polythene wrappersfrom carpet rolls and gave them to local helpers for the charity Samaritan’s Purse. The helpers then turned them into the backing for home-made games of draughts andsnakes and ladders.
Store franchisee Andy McLeod said: “The games have gone into shoeboxes full of giftswhich the charity collects all over the country to send to needy children overseas whootherwise wouldn’t get a Christmas present. We acted as a collection point for shoeboxes,and took in 34 out of a local total of 574.”
Susan Parker, Samaritan’s Purse link for Northfield Baptist Church, sent staff at UnitedCarpets a thank-you letter for their festive help.
“These shoeboxes are small, but they prove to disadvantaged children in Eastern Europeand Africa that there is love in the world and they are not beyond its warm reach,” she wrote.
Samaritan’s Purse (www.samaritanspurse.uk.com) is a national charity that collects andsends thousands of shoeboxes full of small gifts to boys and girls ever year.
Andy said he and his staff were glad to help: “United Carpets is a big company, but we arelocally-run, and we think it’s important to do our bit to help the community,” he said.
T 0121 476 6770 www.unitedcarpetsandbeds.com
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